Title: Korrasami 85

Fandom: Avatar: The Legend of Korra

Pairing: Korra / Asami Sato

Rating: PG-13

Notes: Happy March everyone! I'm back in action. Thank you for waiting. Lot of different story beats coming together. Hope you can keep up. Happy reading and I'm still working on publishing faster. Thank you to those who have donated. More to come. Shout out to Volchise for keeping me inspired. and (Raava Academy by Silkarc (AO3) for "Hair")

XX

Trucks and cars speed past the Avatar as she stands on the sidewalk in front of Asami's building. Her head starts to throb signaling the very beginning of a headache. The bustling noise of the city was overwhelming. Toph had warned her but she didn't realize it would be so intense. On top of that Asami's words vibrated through her mind. "Why would you do that? Why would you think that was okay?" Asami had said.

Korra closes her eyes and holds her breath using the skills Toph drilled into her. The noise around her shuts off like a switch had been flipped. Silence and darkness fill her mind giving her a few moments of peace and quiet.

She needed time to think. Asami was definitely angry with her, but it wasn't for the reason she was expecting. The heiress was worried about Wy. She hadn't expected that.

Suddenly the sound of a small ever-quickening heartbeat pierces the void of Korra's mind. She exhales slowly then stomps her foot hard against the ground. She shakes her head and smiles while making her way toward the source of the sound. "Seriously? Again?"

Korra hides behind a large box behind Narook's Noodles, in Little Water Tribe and watches her and Asami's adopted daughter preparing to rob the fruit stand again. "Rangi, you cabbage head. Can't you see he's learned your tricks already?"

A strong authoritative yet strangely eager voice rises in Korra's mind. "Where is she? Where is Rangi?"

The Avatar furrows her brow, cocks her head, and squints her eyes. She recognized that voice. "Uhh, Ava…tar…Kyoshi?"

"Yes! Now, where is she? Where is Rangi?" The Earthbending Avatar almost yells.

Korra scratches her head then sits down against the wall. "How are you talking to me right now? I'm not in the Avatar State."

Kyoshi is silent for a moment. "Look just tell me where Rangi is."

Korra inhales softly then peeks out from behind the boxes. "She's across the street."

"I don't see her." Kyoshi says.

"The kid with the black hair that's about to get caught stealing." Korra says. She hears a soft relieved sigh within her mind followed by sniffles. "Kyoshi? Are you…are you crying? What's going on?"

The Earthbending Avatar takes in a heavy breath. "Is she a firebender?"

Korra's brow creases again. "Yeah. How did you know that?" Just then she hears the vender yelling and redirects her attention back to her daughter. Korra rolls her eyes and runs across the street.

The man tightens his grip on Rangi's arm as the little one tries to pull away from him. She bites his hand and is rewarded with a smack to the back of the head. "You little urchin. Keep that up and I'll…"

"Hey, that's enough!" Korra says grabbing his wrist as he prepares to hit Rangi again. "I'll take care of her."

"Like you did last time?" The man shoves the little girl into the Avatar. "If I see that kid near my stand again I'm taking her to the cops. You hear me?"

"Yeah." Korra says looking down at her. "Let's go Rangi. I need to talk to you about somethings."

The amber eyed little girl looks up at her. "How do you know my name?" She asks.

Korra thinks for a moment then holds out her hand. If this Rangi was like the others she couldn't reveal herself to her right away. "That's what I want to talk to you about. You hungry?"

Rangi hesitates initially. "Yeah." They walk hand in hand down the street. Rangi keeps her eyes lowered. "Where's the lady with the hair?" She asks remembering Asami.

The Inuit smirks. "Hair." She thinks to herself. That was Rangi's nickname for Asami when they were at home together. "She's at work. Would you rather have lunch with her?"

Rangi averts her eyes but remains silent examining their surroundings. She didn't think Korra would hurt her but there was always a chance. Securing an escape route was her first priority.

Korra releases her hand then opens the door to Narook's noodles. "After you." The amber-eyed girl furrows her brow then shakes her head no. "What's wrong?"

Rangi peeks inside for a second. She'd never eaten in a restaurant before. She also only saw one door that looked like it led to the kitchen. This was dangerous.

Korra closes the door then kneels down. "How about I order you something then we'll go eat it in the park." Rangi nods shyly with a half-smile. This woman was weird. Why was she being so nice to her? "Okay. Just wait right here and don't steal anything while I'm gone." Korra gives her a playful jab on the arm.

Rangi chuckles. The only thing out there was the restaurant sign. How was she supposed to steal something bigger than she was?

Inside the restaurant, Korra has a talk with Kyoshi while she waits on their food. "Alright, let's hear it. Kyoshi? You there?" The Avatar is greeted with a long silence. "Kyoshi?"

The earthbending Avatar huffs then inhales slowly. "She was my firebending teacher, my bodyguard, my friend, and…my first love. I spent years trying to find her spirit after she died. I'd heard about our partners having their own reincarnation cycles. But…she was just…nowhere. She's one of the reasons I lived so long. If it weren't for my drive to find her I never would have met Chuugi."

Korra exhales. "Two hundred and thirty years. Wow." There was still so much that she didn't know about herself let alone her past selves.

"Did you need something Avatar Korra?" The man asks from behind the counter.

"Huh? Oh, no sorry. It's just the food here is really good. Master Katara loves it." Korra didn't realize she was speaking out loud.

The man nods and smiles. "Thanks."

Kyoshi seems agitated within her. "Even if she's not…my Rangi, that name isn't common. There is a chance she's someone's reincarnation."

Korra lowers her eyes. "So how do we find out who she is?"

Kyoshi is silent for a moment as she thinks through what she'd been experiencing. "I…think she might be Rangi. You asked me how I was able to talk to you outside of the Avatar state." Kyoshi inhales. "Do you remember when Aang had to stand trial for killing emperor Chin?" Korra nods. "Well, they used things that were familiar to me in order to call on my spirit. Aang wasn't actually in the Avatar state."

The water tribe woman sighs and looks out the window. Rangi was still sitting on the curb. "So, what am I supposed to do if it's her?"

"Do exactly what you did before." Kyoshi says.

Korra shakes her head. "But, I don't remember ever introducing her to you."

"But you did tell her that you're the Avatar, right?" Kyoshi says.

Korra nods. "Yeah."

"And your vision of the future only goes so far, right?" Kyoshi says.

Korra nods again before closing her eyes. Her headaches were starting up again, but something was different this time. Something or someone was calling to her. Korra gets up from her seat. "Hey, keep that food warmed up I'll be right back. And can you do me a favor…" She says to the server who leans over the counter.

Korra runs outside and takes a knee next to Rangi. She knew from experience that this kid was smart. And she could tell a lie from a mile away. That meant being honest. "Hey, I'll be right back. I just need to check on something. The man inside has our food. If you want to eat before I get back just knock on the window and he'll bring it out to you. Okay?"

Rangi looks at her timidly. "Why are you being nice to me?"

Korra can't help but smirk. "Because I can tell that you're a special kid. I can talk to you more about that a little later though. Would you mind staying here until I get back?" Rangi inhales slowly and gives her a nod. "Great, I won't be long."

Rangi sits back down on the curb. Her eyes widen as she watches Korra create an air scooter and speed away. She had no idea that lady was an airbender. She smiles to herself. Maybe Korra could teach her airbending.

Korra holds the temple of her head. The throbbing got stronger the closer she got to the park. It was like something was drawing her there. She reaches the edge of the park just in time to see Chelse emerge from the spirit portal with an unconscious Lin and Kya in her arms. "Miss Chelse!" She shouts.

The Fire Essence immediately sets the whole area on fire. "Stay back Korra!" She yells. The Inuit prepares to go into the Avatar state. "Go back to Future Industries. I'll be by in a few hours to explain. For now, just stay away." Chelse sees Korra bend some of the flames. "Please, Avatar…Korra. I promise there's a good reason for this. I need you to trust me. Leave, please. And don't tell Asami."

She couldn't see Chelse clearly through the flames but the sincerity in her voice was unmistakable. The problem was that Lin and Kya were completely limp in her arms. "Are they okay?" Korra asks.

Chelse lays the two women on the ground with a small smile. "Yeah. I'll explain later."

"Fine, We'll see you tonight." Korra says walking away. She stops when she reaches the street. "Azula, I know you're there. Come on out." The future Fire Lord clears her throat as she makes her way out of the tree line. "What are you doing here?"

Azula looks toward the still-burning flames covering the park. "The Mothers' energy is changing. I felt it the moment they returned."

Korra furrows her brow. "I don't understand. What's the problem?"

Azula's jaw clenches. "Their energy is stable. It's the most stable thing in existence. It always has been. But for whatever reason, it's not like it was during our time on the dimensional passageways. It also shifted when you showed up here a few minutes ago."

Korra squints her eyes still not quite understanding what Azula was trying to say. "Okay?"

Amber eyes roll with annoyance. "Would you find it odd if the entire universe started to shake and you felt it?" Korra nods. "Exactly. Because it's not supposed to shake, right? So, you see the issue I'm having."

Korra lowers her gaze. "Well, Asami and I are talking to Chelse tonight."

"Good, I'll join you." Azula says as Korra prepares to interject. "This isn't up for discussion Avatar. I'm still a guardian, don't forget that."

Korra jumps on an air scooter. "See you at 7." This was too much for one day. If there was ever a time she needed guidance this was it. "Kyoshi, you there? Do you know anything about the Mothers? I mean can you see into my memories and find something I might have missed. Kyoshi?" The Inuit rolls her eyes not getting a response. "Figures." Maybe her predecessor was right about being in proximity with something connected to her.

The Avatar's eyes widen not seeing Rangi sitting outside the noodle shop. "No, no, no, no, no…" She releases the air scooter and puts her hands on her head as she turns in circles looking around. She can't concentrate. Static fills her vision. If Rangi left it would be that much harder to gain her trust again. Abandonment was the last thing the kid needed. "Rangi! Rangi" Korra yells. A knock on Narook's window gets her attention. Korra takes a deep breath in an attempt to stabilize her eyes. She turns to see the attendant motioning for her to come inside. The door is propped open.

The attendant smiles as Korra approaches him. "She wouldn't eat unless I left the doors open. Come on, she's back here."

Korra exhales a sigh of relief seeing her future daughter slurping noodles at the alley door of the shop. "Hey, that looks tasty. I took a long time, huh."

Rangi mumbles with a mouth full of food.

The Avatar giggles. "I'm sorry I didn't catch that."

The little girl slurps another noodle then wipes her mouth with the back of her hand. "The man said it'd be cold if I waited. It's good." She holds out her bowl to Korra. "You wanna try?"

The Avatar shakes her head no while fighting back tears. In the immortal world, it took months for Rangi to share her food. "No, I'm good but thanks."

A delivery carriage makes its way down the alley. Rangi's eyes widen. She takes a deep breath and shouts. "Horse!"

The Avatar immediately jumps into a fighting stance as a fearful tremble rips through her body. She holds her chest almost in a panic. Rangi points to the ostrich horses outside. "Horse! Horse!" Rangi says grabbing her hand and pulling her out the door.

Korra gulps and laughs nervously. "Oh, okay. Let's go check them out."

She hears Kyoshi speaking with a strangely soft giggle within her mind. "Sorry about that. Rangi spent years torturing me with the horse stance as part of my martial arts training. I couldn't forget it even if I wanted to. Korra…I think this little girl might…"

"How do we find out who she is?" Korra asks.

Kyoshi doesn't speak right away. "I…I don't think I would be able to talk with you if she weren't connected to me somehow."

"That's not what I'm asking." Korra retorts.

"I don't know." Kyoshi says somberly. "I wish I knew. I spent 200 years trying to find the answer to that question. All I had to go on back then was my gut. And I can tell you beyond the shadow of a doubt that I haven't felt Rangi like this before. I don't know why it took her so long to reincarnate but…"

"Don't put that on my daughter, Kyoshi. She's a kid. I plan to let her be a kid." Korra says forcefully as she watches Rangi play with the ostrich-horses.

"Aren't you getting a little ahead of yourself? I'm not asking for marriage. I'm asking for acknowledgment. I just want to know that she's free and safe. And while we're on the topic…" Kyoshi says. "Doesn't your wife have some say in this decision? For all you know Asami doesn't want another child."

Korra looks at Rangi. "I'll figure something out." The Avatar realized at that moment that this was a different reality than the ones she'd seen in her visions. What if Asami wasn't willing to adopt? She was already having trouble anticipating her partner's moods. What if Kyoshi was right? Asami totally blew up over her meeting with Wy. She couldn't suddenly drop a kid on their doorstep and expect Asami to be okay with it.

"I'll take Rangi to Air Temple Island for now. She'll have food, clothes, and a warm bed while I talk things over with Asami. I want her to be safe too. I really do." Korra says to her predecessor.

Kyoshi can sense fear coming from the young Avatar. "Good that's all I ask. But it sounds like you're worried about something else."

Korra lowers her gaze. "I need to talk with you and the others about what's happening with the Mothers."

"We know what you know Avatar Korra." Kyoshi says.

"Then help me figure out what that is exactly. Because right now there's so much going on that I can't keep up with it. Not to mention that I'm technically still blind and have to work overtime to see clearly. I need…" Korra is silenced by the little person tugging her hand for attention.

"You okay?" Rangi asks.

Korra half-smiles then takes a knee. "Yeah, I'm okay. How about you? Are you full?" Rangi nods. "How would you like a warm, safe place to sleep tonight?"

The little one furrows her brow. She needed to be careful. If she pushed her luck she'd end up dead. People who were too nice always had something to hide. "Where?"

"I have some friends who are airbenders. They like to take people in and help them out." Korra says. She can already see Rangi's mind hard at work trying to figure out what she was up to. "I don't think it's a good idea to keep stealing from people when you need something. If you stay with my friends you won't have to steal."

Hazel gold eyes dart back and forth in thought. "So, you're an airbender?" Rangi asks.

Korra thinks for a moment. "Yeah, I am."

"Are your friends nice too?" The little one asks genuinely. Korra nods. She'd never met an Airbender before maybe they were different from other benders. "Can I meet them first?"

The Avatar nods again. "Sure, I'll go call and have them meet us here. Is that okay?"

Rangi smiles. "Thank you." It felt so odd having an adult talk to her like she was a real person.

About 10 minutes later Rangi ducks behind Korra when she hears a loud animal roaring from the sky. "Hey its okay, that's an air bison. His name is Oogi." Korra waves at them. "Ikki, Jinora, its good to see you two. This is the new friend I told you about." Korra rubs Rangi's back. "Do you want to say hi and introduce yourself?"

The little girl swallows hard taking a brave step from behind Korra. "I'm Rangi." She says while still holding Korra's pantleg.

Ikki holds out her hand. "I'm Ikki and this is my sister Jinora. Korra said you might need a place to stay. Do you want to check out where we live? You can ride Oogi and meet my little brothers."

Rangi's eyes light up with excitement. "I can ride that?"

It took a bit more encouraging but Korra finally convinced the little girl to go with them. Of course, she promised to check on her later that night. It did the Avatar's heart good knowing that Rangi was safe. It also confirmed her identity. Kyoshi's presence disappeared when Rangi was far enough away. The Earthbending Avatar assured Korra that this was indeed her reincarnated partner. As she had already been in touch with Chuugi, their son, and his relative's spirits over the years.

Korra sits in the park in the Avatar state. "Fine, fine, I get it. I believe you. But it doesn't explain why she chose to reincarnate now." Korra says.

"I believe now is the only time she could have come back. According to the Mothers this is the time they chose to take physical forms in our world. Think about all the strange things that have happened over the past 4 years. This all started with the harmonic convergence." Avatar Kyoshi says. "It's like they've been laying the groundwork for their arrival all this time."

6:00 PM

Little Water Tribe

Chelse sits at Kya and Lin's bedside. She holds Lin's hand. "Come on you two. Wake up...please. You said you'd only be out for a few minutes once I brought you back." Chelse lifts her eyebrows when Lin takes a deep breath and Kya starts blinking. "Thank goodness."

Lin slowly opens her eyes. "What happened? Where are we?"

Kya turns over on her side to face her fiancé. "It looks like we're home." She peaks over Lin's shoulder. "You're Chelse, right? The Fire Essence?"

Chelse nods with a small smirk. "Yeah, that's right. I brought you two back from the spirit world." She swallows hard. "You, uh, you passed out after we left the library. Do you remember going to the library?"

Lin nods. "We went into some kind of special room, right?"

Kya furrows her brow. "The…room…of…or story of…something. What was it?"

"Creation." Chelse says. She lowers her gaze. "Well now that you're awake, I've got to get going."

"Wait." Lin says. "Tell us what happened. I feel like we're forgetting something. Weren't we supposed to be learning about our powers?"

Chelse swallows hard. "You did. It'll just take you awhile to process everything. Just give it time."

Kya smiles. "So, we'll be able to control our abilities soon?"

Chelse nods. "That's right. But for now just get some rest. You've been gone for a few days so you'll have a little bit of catching up to do once you're feeling up to it."

Lin takes her hand as she gets up to leave. "Thank you for your help."

"No problem." The Fire Essence releases a cautious breath as she closes their bedroom door. So far everything was happening just as the Mothers told her they would, but there was no telling how Asami was going to react. She swallows hard. "Just stick to the plan Seika, you got this." She says to herself before disappearing into a flame pillar.

Back at the park

Avatar Wan rolls his eyes. "Look it's not a big deal. You just need more training. We've seen your memories. Using the Mothers' energy shouldn't be too much different than the Avatar state. And fortunately for you it's already been unlocked so you know what it feels like."

"If it were that easy I would have restored my sight already. I'm trying to figure out why I'm having these headaches. It's not just because of the city noise. It's like I have to move when I feel it or I'll explode." Korra says. "I felt it when I finished my training with Toph. It led me back to Asami." Just then the Avatar hears a muffled voice calling out to her.

"Avatar Korra, Avatar, snap out of it." The voice says.

The water tribe woman furrows her brow. "I'll be right back everyone." She deactivates the Avatar state and sees Azula standing in front of her.

"It's almost 7 o'clock what are you still doing here?" The princess says.

"Oh seriously, thanks for…"

"Let's go." Azula says interrupting her.

Future Industries

Asami massages the temples of her head for the umpteenth time. It had been an especially difficult day for her. Mostly because she couldn't get Korra off of her mind. She hadn't meant to yell at her partner. She understood what Korra meant to do but it still annoyed her. What if Wy decided not to work with them? Asami shakes her head. "Geez, babe what were you thinking?" There is a soft knock on her door. She couldn't help the small smile that appeared on her lips. Korra must have come back to talk. "Come in babe."

"You and Korra must be doing pretty good." Chelse says sweetly.

Asami's eyes widen. She was out of her seat before she could even think. "Chelse! Oh my goodness!" She throws her arms around her assistant. "Where have you been?"

Chelse hugs her tightly. "Sorry for the wait. I…"

"I'm so glad you're here. Are you alright?" Asami says finally pulling back and looking into her eyes.

Chelse sighs and nods. "Yeah, I'm okay. But we have a lot to talk about."

Asami furrows her brow and cocks her head. She then inhales deeply through her nose. "You, you smell different."

The essence nods again. "Yeah." The CEO sits down on the couch and pats the spot next to her. Chelse sits down beside her. "That's part of what I need to talk to you about. First you have to promise to let me explain without interruption." Asami nods. "I've been with the Mothers for a while. They had a lot to say." She goes silent.

Asami raises her eyebrows. "I'm listening."

"I need you and Korra to stay away from Lin and Kya until the kids are born." Chelse says. Asami furrows her brow. "They…made some changes in preparation for the birth and…the comets."

Asami swallows. "Okay?"

Chelse rolls her eyes. "If all four of you are together your memories will return along with your abilities. If that happens before the kids are born our world will be sucked into their dimensional space. So, you need to stay away from them. Can you do that?"

Asami blinks slowly then rests her arms on her knees. "Yeah…"

Chelse continues. "They don't have any memory of what happened while we were on the dimensional highway. But they told me what to do in the meantime." Asami nods. Chelse gulps. "I…I'll be in charge of training your oldest daughter and my…son."

"W-what?" Asami says. There is a knock on the door.

Korra comes in with Azula. Chelse stands to her feet. "Hey, you made it." She furrows her brow. "What's she doing here?"

Azula clears her throat. "I am a guardian. I need to know what happened so I can protect them from any potential threats."

Chelse lowers her eyes for a moment remembering what the Mothers said about Azula. "I understand. Please have a seat." Korra sits next to Asami and takes her hand. Azula remains standing. "Azula, please." She motions to the chair next to the couch. The princess huffs then sits down. Chelse rubs her face then takes a steadying breath. "So, as I was saying. I'll be training your oldest daughter."

Korra's eyes widen. "How do you know about her?"

Asami furrows her brow. "Okay seriously, what?"

The Avatar half smiles. "I, uh…."

Chelse exhales. "Everyone just relax and let me explain." She rolls her eyes. "The Mothers are preparing for the birth. Korra, you and Asami need to stay away from Lin and Kya until the kids are ready to be born."

"What? Why?" Korra asks.

Asami speaks up. "Because we'll get our memories and powers back if we're all together, but if that happens before the birth our world will be sucked into their void."

Everyone goes silent. Korra swallows. "Oh."

"Chelse, please continue." Asami says with lowered eyes.

The essence half smiles. "Thanks." She exhales through puckered lips. "Lin and Kya have placed blocks on their memories but they'll naturally know not to meet up with you two. They can still see you one at a time though." She looks at the Avatar. "Your head was hurting earlier because you were too close to them. They said it's called resonance. So, stay away until I tell you it's okay." Korra nods.

"Also the Mothers opened my womb so I can get pregnant. They said that our kids will need each other to maintain the balance. Your oldest daughter…"

Korra interrupts her. "What does she have to do with this? She's just a kid. She doesn't even know I'm the Avatar yet."

"Korra just let her finish, please." Asami's hands are trembling. The Avatar sits back against the couch. She motions to Chelse to continue.

"Look I know this is a lot but they said that it has to happen like this. Apparently, this is the first time they've released the last essence in any dimension. Once it happens it will affect every other dimension and things will need to be in place to hold the balance. Your oldest daughter and my son will be paired when they are old enough to understand. That's all I can tell you for now."

Asami looks up at her. "There's more." Chelse nods. "How much more?"

Chelse scratches the back of her head. "I…I can't say until things are further along. They placed a bind on my…"

Asami lays her head back against the couch. "So, we're right back where we started."

Chelse shakes her head. "Not exactly."

Asami stands up. "I need some air." She walks out the door. Korra follows her.

Chelse sighs. "Well, that went better than I expected."

Azula frowns. "You're hiding something. The Mothers could have given me that information as well. Why did they send me away?"

Chelse swallows then moves to close the door. "Because you're a danger to Korra and their oldest daughter."

"Preposterous. I would never…" Azula says.

"Once the kids are born the Mothers' powers will lapse for a moment. In that split second your memories will return." Chelse says. Azula lowers her eyes. "And because you're a guardian I've been instructed to imprison you before the birth and…to keep you there until the Mother of Faces restores your mind."

Azula swallows recognizing the gravity of the situation. For the first time in her life she was scared. "H-how long will that take?"

"It depends on Asami." Chelse watches Azula for a moment. She can see her eyes beginning to water. She pulls Azula into her arms. "It'll be okay."

The princess cries silently. "I don't want those memories. I don't want that life. What about my family, my duties…my mind?"

Chelse pulls back while holding onto Azula's arms. "Are you my mother's guardian?" The princess nods timidly. "I asked you a question Azula. Who are you?"

"Yes." Azula says strongly. "I am a guardian of the Mother of Faces, the most powerful entity in existence."

"That's right. Don't question your ability to survive this. Consider it a test of your resolve. This will be your opportunity to prove which Azula is the strongest, some teenager incapable of accepting love or a guardian of the cosmic mothers." Chelse says.

Azula nods. "I am the strongest."

"Then be ready to prove it when the time comes." Chelse says.

Outside Future Industries

"Asami, Asami…" Korra calls out to her partner. The heiress stops walking. "You okay?"

"No Korra, I'm not." She shakes her head then punches a hole into the side of her building. The Avatar gulps and takes a step back. Steam wafts from the heiress's mouth. "I'm so tired of them keeping secrets. They treat us like children. They have to be in control of everything." She shakes her head again. "They even managed to rope Seika into it." She quickly turns to Korra. "And what was she talking about in there? When did we have a daughter?"

The Inuit swallows and half-smiles. "Do you remember the kid we ran into a few months ago? We were hanging out with Mako and Bolin."

Asami lowers her eyes and sighs. "The kid from your visions." Korra nods. "How old is she?"

"She just turned five and her name is Rangi. I actually ran into her earlier." Korra averts her eyes and scratches the back of her neck. "She was…trying to get some food (stealing) so I helped her." She peaks up at Asami. "I also convinced her to stay on Air Temple Island for a while. And…"

Asami raises her eyebrows. "And?"

"She might be the reincarnation of Avatar Kyoshi's first…partner." Korra says cautiously.

Asami rolls her eyes. "Of course she is. Why not? So, tell me about her."

The Inuit furrows her brow. "Uh, are you okay?"

"No babe, I'm not. I'm still not happy about your fight with Wy either, but right now I'd rather talk about something that I actually have some control over. So, let's hear it." Asami tugs Korra's hand and they begin walking down the street. "Tell me about Rangi Sato."

The next day

Little Water Tribe

"I'll see you for lunch." The Chief of Police says walking out the front door.

"Sounds good. Have a good day at work, honey." Kya says from the top of the stairs. She felt strangely light today. Like a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. She smiles to herself. "Maybe my powers are starting to kick in. I wouldn't think a universal creator would have too much to worry about." Blue eyes scan the room. "The world looks fine to me."

She makes some toast and jam. "I should invite Asami over soon. I wonder if Korra is back yet. Come to think of it, how long were we gone?" She picks up the phone and calls her brother. "Bumi, hey how have you been?" She furrows her brow. "A week! Are you serious? How's mom? I'll be right over." She hangs up the phone and shakes her head. "We've been passed out for a week? That can't be right."

Four Elements Hotel

Mako and Ty La pace back and forth outside Azula's meditation room. Mako bangs on the door again. "Azula, whatever this is you need to talk to us about it. We can take it. You've been in there since yesterday."

"That's right." Ty La says. "And we care about you. Please don't shut us out. I mean you can shut Mako out, but not me." Mako smacks her shoulder with the back of his hand.

Azula approaches the door and leans her forehead against it. Her voice is softer than it had ever been. "W-what would you do…if I became the old Azula."

Mako inhales slowly. "I've never met the old Azula. You're the one I love. So whoever you become will have to get used to me."

Ty La places her hand against the door. "Zu-zu, I love you no matter who you are. Now please come out of there and talk to us."

After a few more minutes of pleading she finally emerges from her self-isolation. She does her best to explain the situation to her partners.

Mako is noticeably shaken. "That's not fair. Haven't you been through enough."

"It's because I'm human. Guardians are usually spirit forms or multidimensional entities." Azula says.

"No that's not what I mean. If these Mothers control everything, then they knew about your situation. They should have a better way to handle it. They are leaving you out to dry. They don't know how to do their jobs. Who knows when Asami will be able to bring you back?" Mako says with anger in his voice.

"Yeah, he's right." Ty La says.

Azula is up in a flash with a vice grip on both of their mouths. She lifts them off the ground.

Azula grits her teeth while tightening the grip she has on them. "Don't…ever…. demean them again. The Mothers control everything. You wouldn't exist without them. Do you hear me?" They both nod fearfully. She drops Mako to the floor and throws Ty La into a chair.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Mako shouts.

"Imagine what a crazed Azula could do with my abilities. And you say you'll love me no matter what. You're both fools." She goes back into her meditation room and slams the door.

Air Temple Island

Korra holds Rangi in her arms as they walk over to Asami. "She's adorable. Look at her little robes." Avatar Kyoshi whispers.

Korra rolls her eyes. "Kyoshi don't make this weird, please."

She puts Rangi down. Asami kneels to look into her eyes. "Hi."

"Hi." Rangi says with a shy smile.

"My name is Asami. What's yours?" The heiress says.

"Rangi." She lowers her eyes. "Thank you for paying for my food."

Asami furrows her brow. "What food?"

The little girl rubs the back of her arm. "The bread shop."

Asami raises her eyebrows remembering the encounter. "Oh, well you're welcome. Have you had breakfast yet?" Rangi shakes her head no. "Great let's go get a bite to eat."

Rangi smiles. "Can we ride Oogi?"

Asami smirks. "I've got something a little better." Rangi is in awe seeing the mini airship. Asami gets in the driver seat and pats her lap. "Come here. I'll show you how to fly it."

Rangi turns to Korra for permission. The Avatar smiles and nods. "Go ahead." She gets in the passenger seat. "Just get us there in one piece please."

To their surprise Rangi is knocked out after a few minutes of flying. "Oh sorry." Asami says. "I didn't factor in the air pressure."

"Well there's that and she was up all night playing with Ikki and Meelo. So…what do you think?" Korra asks while she holds Rangi in her arms.

Asami exhales. "Korra this isn't like what you experienced on those other worlds. She's a different child. 'WE' chose her together in those realities. Do you understand that?"

"Of course I do. I don't expect you to fall in love with her overnight or anything. I just wanted you to meet her. I can't help how I feel. I've literally had lifetimes with her. And I'll be in her life no matter what we decide." Korra says. Asami's eyes water. Korra notices. "What is it? What's wrong?"

The raven haired beauty wipes her eyes and shakes her head. "Thank you…for not forcing her on me."

"Asami I would never…" Korra says.

"Babe, you heard what Chelse said. All of this is destined. We don't have any choice." Asami says.

"Of course we do. Did you forget who we are? I mean we might not have our memories right now, but we're in charge of all of this. So what, if Lin and Kya gave Chelse a game plan. They don't have control over what we do. I went to help Rangi because I wanted to, not because of some cosmic plan." The Avatar says confidently.

Asami smirks. "Somebody has their big girl trunks on today, huh."

Korra giggles. "You know what I mean. We're in this together. And we're strong enough." She says taking Asami's hand.

The heiress kisses her hand. "I love you."

"And I love you, now where are we eating?" Korra says.

Republic City Police Station

Mako walks in rubbing his jaw. Lin notices. "What in the flameo happened to you?"

Mako's eyes widen. "Chief? Where have you been?"

Lin looks at a huge stack of paperwork. "Out apparently. Why has so much work accumulated? Can this place not operate without me for a few days?"

Mako takes a seat in front of her desk. "No, its like things went crazy the moment you left. And your deputy police chief over there was acting like it was his first day." He says pointing to the stressed-out officer at the corner desk.

"So, who's been running things?" Lin asks. Mako flips his collar revealing the temporary deputy badge. "Humph, well at least the building is still intact."

Mako shakes his head. "Aw, come on Chief…"

"Not bad, kid. But don't let it go to your head. Give me a debrief so I can see how much of a mess we've got." Lin says before looking him over again. "And go to the bathroom. That bruise on your face is bleeding. Clean it up."

Mako nods and grabs a handkerchief.

Afternoon

Future Industries

Asami walks in from her morning with Korra and Rangi. Chelse stands to her feet. Asami looks into her eyes then walks past her to her office. "Any messages?"

The executive assistant smiles. "Yes, Miss Sato."

Asami lifts her hand as she sits down at her desk. "Before you start, don't think that everything is okay between us. As far as I'm concerned you're just a tool the Mothers are using to keep us in check."

Chelse inhales through her nose and lowers her eyes. "Miss Sato, that's not fair. You know who you are to me."

Asami stands up. "Then let me remove the bind and you can show me everything they told you."

Chelse keeps her eyes lowers. "I would if you had the ability to."

"What do you mean?" Asami asks.

"You can't remove this bind without your powers as a Mother. I'm sorry." The Fire Essence says.

Asami sits back down. "Fine, just give me my messages so we can get to work. And I may be pissed with you but I really am happy to have you back. Running this place without your help has been tough." Chelse opens her mouth to speak. "Which is why I want you to start looking for replacements you can train."

"What? You don't need any replacements. I'm here now." Chelse almost yells.

"Except when you're not. How about when you get pregnant and have a child at home? What if the Mothers decide they need to take you away again?" Asami asks.

Chelse shakes her head. "No, this will all be done after the..." She immediately covers her mouth.

"After the what?" Asami asks. Chelse shakes her head again. "Whatever, I still need backup, so find me at least three suitable interns."

"Miss Sato it will take at least six people to do my job." Chelse says.

"Then find six Chelse. Now, what are the messages?" Asami says sternly.

Chelse rolls her eyes then begins reading them off.

Air Temple Island

Rangi and Korra sit on the ground with their backs against an air bison. "Did you have fun today?" Korra asks.

Rangi nods. "Yeah, I did. And Asami is nice."

Korra giggles. "You use that word a lot. Do you know any other good words like kind or sweet or friendly?"

Rangi nods. "Yeah, I know a lot of words but nice fits."

Korra smirks. "Okay."

"Meelo says you're the Avatar." Rangi says.

Korra shuts her eyes and face palms. She forgot to tell them to talk to Meelo about keeping her secret. "Uh, yeah, I am. Is that okay?'

The golden-eyed girl smiles. "Yeah, that's why you're so nice. The Avatar helps people. And you and Asami are married. So that's why she's nice too."

"What?" Korra is in shock. "I mean how do you know that?'

"I watch people a lot. And you are 'very' nice to each other." Rangi says confidently.

Korra's cheeks turn dark red. She laughs nervously. "Uh right, so what do you think of Asami? Do you think you can be friends with her?"

Rangi nods. "I said she's nice didn't I?"

"Okay, so that means you can be friends with nice people?" Korra asks.

"Uh huh." Rangi replies. Just then Rangi furrows her brow and squints her eyes. She points up to the sky. "What's that?

"That's a Fire Nation airship. Rangi, go inside and stay with Ikki and Jinora for a few minutes." Korra says.

A ladder drops from the airship. Azula climbs down. "There's no need for that Avatar. I came to see you and your daughter. We need to talk."

Korra looks down at a wide-eyed Rangi.

Azula jumps down to the ground and motions to the airship to give her a few minutes. She looks down at the child. "So you're the one I'm supposed to kill."

Korra moves Rangi behind her then lunges forward grabbing Azula by the collar. "Azula, what's wrong with you!"

The princess wipes watery eyes. "You should put me out of my misery before it starts."

"What?" Korra releases her then runs back over to Rangi. She swallows hard. "Listen honey, I need you to go inside okay." Rangi shakes her head no then tries to walk over to Azula. "Rangi, no don't."

The little one looks back at her. "It's okay. She's nice too. I can tell, but she's hurting."

"What?" Korra says.

"Let her go, Korra." Kyoshi says.

"No, if Azula hurts her, I…I don't know what I'll do. I don't…." Korra says in her mind. Then she involuntarily goes into the Avatar state and speaks as Kyoshi. "Go ahead Rangi, I've got your back."

Rangi smiles then walks over to a frowning Azula. "Hi, I'm Rangi."

"I don't care what your name is. Stay away from me." Azula says. "Didn't you hear what I said earlier. I'm supposed to kill you. You should be afraid of me."

Rangi kneels down next to her and nods. "You said I'm the Avatar's daughter. That means she's my mom. And you're her friend. The Avatar's friends are nice. But you're not being nice because you're hurt."

"How do you know I'm hurt, child?" Azula growls.

"Because you're crying." Rangi says.

Azula swallows and wipes her eyes then gets to her feet. "You're naïve." She looks at the Avatar. "I meant what I said Korra. Kill me before it's too late. I'll meet you at the edge of Wulong Forest a month from today." She whistles for her airship.

Korra gulps as the Avatar state deactivates. She speaks within herself. "Kyoshi if you ever do that again, I will find your spirit and…"

"Mommy!" Rangi shouts jumping into Korra's arms.

Korra half-smiles. "Not so fast there. My friend wasn't feeling well when she said all that. I need to go and talk to her to find out what's going on."

Rangi just smiles then looks into Korra's eyes. "Okay mommy I understand. I can't be your daughter yet but I will be."

Korra just furrows her brow and pulls her into a hug. "Go inside with Ikki and the others. I'll come back later to check on you."

She hops on an air bison and quickly catches up with Azula's ship. She jumps aboard. "Azula, Azula!"

A door swings open. "I told you to meet me in a month. Why are you here?" Azula hiccups.

"Oh I don't know, maybe because you showed up and told a child that you were going to kill her. What is going on with you? Are you drunk?" Korra says.

"When your children are born the power of the Mothers will lapse and I will regain my memories. And yes I have been drinking." Azula says.

"What?"

"The Fire Essence will be charged with imprisoning me until my master can restore my mind." Azula continues. "Apparently when my memories return I will put you and your daughter in danger."

"Miss Chelse told you this?" Korra asks.

"Of course Avatar, who else could give me that kind of information." Azula says. "That's why I want you to end me before this happens. I don't know that I'm strong enough to have those memories back and not succumb to them. Though the Fire Essence seems to think otherwise."

"Why didn't she tell us?" The Avatar asks.

"Probably because she couldn't. The Mothers put a bind on her." Azula slumps down in a chair. "Just leave already. You're safe until your brats are born."

Korra inhales. "I'll take care of this, okay? Don't leave. Just give me some time to talk to Miss Chelse and Asami. Promise me that you won't leave." The princess is silent. "Azula!"

"Fine! Fine. I won't leave until you get back and tell me what I already know. Now get off my ship." The irate firebender says.

TBC…