Hey, guys, I'm back! Took a little break but I felt like writing again so here is the first chapter to Book 2. I'm really looking forward to this Book, it's gonna be a lot of fun. I hope you guys enjoy the chapter.


Chapter 1: Rebel Spirit


Rain came pouring down onto the little ship. The night was dark and cold. Strong southern waves lifted the ship up and down. A young man stood on the deck, looking out into the blackness. An older man, his superior, came up behind him, holding a lantern.

"This your first watch?" He asked.

The young man nodded. "Mmm hmm."

"Well then, you'd better keep your eyes peeled, laddie." The old man took on a mysterious expression. "You never know what creatures lurk in the murky depths."

The young man gasped and strained his eyes to see as far as he could. The old man walked away, chuckling quietly to himself. The young man frowned. There was an unnatural purple glow beneath the ship.

He narrowed his eyes and glimpsed a squid-like creature. Except it was far bigger and more evil looking than a normal squid.

"Uh, s-sir?"

"What?"

Suddenly the squid shot out a tentacle and gripped the old man, flinging him into the sea.

"Man overboard! Man overboard!"

More tentacles gripped the ship and began pulling it down, beneath the dark waves.


The Pro-Bending Arena was shining like a perpetual beacon; it's lights on full power. The commentator gripped his microphone.

"It's pro-bending night in Republic City and have we got a doozy for you. Fan favourites, the Fire Ferrets are about to take on hot newcomers, the Rhino-Lions."

Bolin stood with his hands clasped behind his back. He was dressed in his Ferret uniform and Pabu was sitting on a railing beside him.

"Now we all know that our last match was garbage," Bolin said, "Terrible! Even Pabu could have done a better job. But that's in the past. Because when you back a Fire Ferret in the corner, well mister, he comes back fighting!"

Pabu hissed in agreement. Bolin pointed to the fighting area. "So, let's get out there and bend like there's no tomorrow! Are you with me?"

His two partners, a snotty-nosed waterbending boy and a nerdy-looking firebending girl nodded reluctantly. Bolin sighed.

The two teams lined up and the bell rang to signal the beginning of the match. In the space of a second, all three Ferrets were sent into the drink.

"Ooh! The Fire Ferrets are knocked into the water and right into the record books for the fastest knockout in pro-bending history."

Bolin groaned as he hauled himself out of the water. "Where's Mako when I need him?"


Mako accelerated quickly, the sirens on his motorcycle blaring. The thieves were some ways ahead of him, riding in a big van. Mako zipped through traffic and turned sharp corners, easily gaining on them.

The back door to the van opened and two thieves stood there. The shorter one pulled out some water and the big one clapped his hands together, turning the water to mist.

Mako didn't hesitate and plunged straight into it. The thieves then bent some water onto the road and froze it. Mako gasped and skidded on the ice. He held out his hand and used fire to steady himself.

The van smashed through some bars and out of an intersection. A truck coming horizontal to Mako appeared in front of him. The firebender quickly veered away and blasted fire from his hands, propelling himself and the bike over the truck and right above the van.

Then he fired into the van's engine. It blew up and the van crashed on its side. Mako stopped the bike and took off his helmet. His spiky black hair came into view and he dusted off his police uniform.

The thieves tumbled out the van in a heap. Mako smiled and removed his goggles.

"Looks like you had some car trouble. Good thing the police are here."

Suddenly the van's side was thrust open and a big lumbering earthbender stepped out. He clenched his fists and a huge rock came out of the ground. He grunted and hurled it at Mako.

Then something flashed and the rock split into halves and fell on either side of Mako. The big earthbender then cried out as something slammed into his gut.

He keeled over onto his knees and collapsed as something hit the back of his neck. Mako grimaced as he saw the familiar shock of orange hair.

"Ichigo."

The Soul Reaper smirked and glanced at Mako. "You know that had to be the cheesiest one-liner I've ever heard."

Mako scowled. "Hey, I worked all night on that one!"

"My point exactly."

Mako grumbled and crossed his arms. "You know I told you to stop interfering with police business. I had these guys."

Ichigo nodded. "I know you did. I just wanted a share of the fun."

Mako sighed. "Ichigo, crime fighting isn't about fun. It's serious. Why won't you realize that?"

"I do. Last night, I busted a drugs warehouse, stopped a rape and had a little fight with some Triple Threats."

"You what? Ichigo, that's police work. You're not an officer. I am. You can't just go around being a vigilante."

Ichigo looked at him. "Why not? I got nothing better to do."

Mako pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance. "Look, just stop. Stop doing this. Or join the force. I don't care. Just stop being a vigilante."

"I prefer anarchist."

"Whatever."

Ichigo chuckled and Mako rolled his eyes. Ichigo mock saluted with two fingers.

"See you at the Island." He shunpoed away.

Mako glared at where he had been standing.

"Show off."


The bi-plane came into landing on the long runway. The pilot jumped out and removed her helmet, revealing the face of Asami.

A Future Industries worker strode up to her.

"I think these planes are ready to ship." Asami said.

"I hate to mention the elephant-rhino in the room but since your father was thrown in prison, no company will work with us. We're nearly bankrupt." The worker replied.

Asami smiled. "Don't worry. I'm going to the South Pole to meet with someone who can put Future Industries back on top."

She walked past him, not allowing the worker to see her troubled expression.


On Air Temple Island, Korra, Jinora, Ikki and Meelo were racing on air-scooters. They shot down corners and blew past Pema who nearly dropped Rohan. Ikki was in the lead with Korra not far behind. Jinora and Meelo followed them closely.

They flew around the training area and off a ledge. The finish line was up ahead. Tenzin's older brother Bumi was standing there with the flag.

Korra began to nearly be level with Ikki. She grinned mischievously and her eyes turned white, signalling that she was in the Avatar State. Korra blasted forward, easily taking first place.

Bumi coughed from all the dust. "The Avatar is the winner!"

Ikki stomped up to Korra as the older girl looked down at her smugly.

"No fair!" Ikki said. "You can't go into the Avatar State to win!"

Korra stuck out her tongue and blew a raspberry.

"You did what?!"

Korra cringed as she heard Tenzin's voice. The airbending master came walking up to them. "The Avatar State is not to be used a booster rocket. You are toying with a dangerous power that you obviously do not appreciate!"

"It's the Avatar State and I'm the Avatar. Who appreciates it more than me?" Korra defended herself.

Tenzin wasn't budging. "Clearly, you need more training to grasp the depths of your spiritual connections. Not to mention that you're still a long way from mastering airbending."

Korra scoffed. "I have mastered airbending!"

She turned around and shot several blasts of air in rapid succession. "Punch! Punch! Punch!" She turned back. "See? Mastered."

Bumi nodded. "Looks good to me!"

Tenzin sighed. "Is it too late for you to un-retire from the United Forces?"

Bumi grabbed Tenzin's face. "The paperwork's gone through, little brother. From now on, it's 24/7 BUMI time!"

Tenzin slapped his hands away and went to Korra.

"You've mastered Korra-style airbending. Now you need to master real airbending." He pulled out a map. "Hopefully our visit to all the Air Temples will give you the inspiration you need to delve more deeply into your studies."

Korra inwardly groaned. Tenzin's kids shot to his side.

"Can we see where Grandpa Aang was born?" Jinora asked.

"How many lemurs can I have?" Meelo demanded.

"I want to get tattoos! But instead of arrows, I want lightning bolts." Ikki declared.

"You can't get lightning bolts. That doesn't make any sense." Jinora argued.

"You don't make any sense!"

The two girls bumped their heads together like Korra and Ichigo used and still do.

"Fight! Fight! Fight!" Meelo yelled.

Tenzin pulled his daughters apart.

"No one's fighting! We're going to have a wonderful time." He groaned and quieted down. "Now that the President is in office and I'm not needed on the Council, I can finally relax with my family and give Korra the attention she needs."

Korra crossed her arms. "Great. More attention." She said sarcastically.

Bumi laughed and nudged his brother.

"Relax? I'd pay money to see that. Maybe I'll tag along just to see 'Vacation Tenzin'."

"You're not invited." Tenzin said firmly.

Korra bent down and smiled at the kids. "Before we go on your dad's study trip, we're gonna have some real fun in my hometown for the Glacier Spirits Festival. They've got rides, games and all kinds of fried food on sticks."

The kids all cheered and Tenzin grimaced. Bumi grinned and threw an arm around Tenzin's shoulders.

"Yep. There's Vacation Tenzin! And you can't stop me from coming to the festival. Mom already invited me."

Tenzin groaned.

Ichigo, having heard the yelling, appeared around the corner.

"Festival, huh?" He smirked at Korra. "Guess you'll be spending some quality time with Mako, am I right?"

Korra didn't miss a beat. "Yes, and I do hope you won't leave poor Asami all alone."

Ichigo scowled. "Tch. Shut up."

Korra laughed. "It's always so easy to get you, Ichigo. By the way, where have you been going at night?"

Ichigo found a sudden interest in his shoe. "Around."

Korra put her hands on her hips. "Ichigo, you haven't been sneaking some time out with Asami, have you?"

"Of course not!" Ichigo spluttered. "And it's none of your business anyway. Just go and make out with emo-brat or whatever. It's the norm now, isn't it?"

Korra blushed furiously. "Shut up, Ichigo!"


On the long boat ride to the South Pole, Korra and Mako were sitting alone together in the cargo hold, leaning against Naga.

Mako chuckled. "So, I go out and say, 'Looks like you had some car trouble. Good thing the police are here'."

Korra laughed. "Did you write that beforehand?"

"Yeah. I had a few others." He reached into his coat and pulled out a folded sheet of paper. "Let's see. 'Looks like you guys should put more try in triad'. Or 'When you get to jail, tell 'em Mako sent ya'."

"Ooh. I like that one."

Mako smiled. "Okay. I'll use that next time. Beifong say if I keep this up, I'll make Detective soon."

Korra smiled back. "Oh, that sounds so fun. All I do is train all day. It's like Tenzin's totally forgotten how I beat Amon."

"Actually Korra, Ichigo beat Amon."

"Whatever."

"Tenzin's just trying to help make you be the best Avatar you can be."

"Of course you take his side." Korra got up.

"I'm not taking his side. I'm just-"

"I'm gonna take a walk."

Mako sighed and looked at Naga. "Why is it so much easier to bust Triads than to get through one conversation with my girlfriend?"


Ichigo and Asami stood on the deck beside each other, looking out at the waves.

"So, I go out and say, 'That had to be the cheesiest one-liner I've ever heard'." Ichigo said.

Asami laughed. "Oh, Mako. He never learns, does he?"

Ichigo smirked. "No. Guess not."

Asami looked closely at him. "So, how's the memory thing going?"

He shrugged. "It's okay. I don't remember everything, of course. But I do remember my family and friends."

"Well that's good, isn't it?"

"I guess." Ichigo looked wistfully into the water. Asami noticed the wooden Soul Reaper badge hanging from his belt.

"Have you mastered that badge thing?"

Ichigo took the badge and held it in his right hand. "Yeah. I'm used to it now."

"What happens when you use it?"

"I place it on my chest and the robes and sword appear. I don't know why, but I seem to remember that something else was supposed to happen. But whatever, it's fine like this."

He glanced at her. "How's Future Industries going?"

Asami sighed. "Not too good, I'm afraid."

"What do you mean?"

"Because my father is in prison, other companies won't work with us. Future Industries is nearly bankrupt."

Ichigo looked concernedly at her. "That's not fair. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"I don't know. Just be there for me? Please?"

He nodded. "Of course."

A tear went down Asami's face and she cried into his shoulder. Ichigo blushed involuntarily and Asami pulled away.

"I'm sorry. I just feel so helpless. So alone."

Ichigo took her hand. "No, you're not alone. I promise, I will be there to help you with anything."

She smiled. "Thank you, Ichigo."

"Don't worry about it, Prissy. I got your back. Always." She leaned into him and he put his arm around her as the sounds of the waves filled their ears.


The ship docked at the Southern Water Tribe capital after a few days and everyone got off the boat. There was a group of everyone's family and friends waiting for them. The kids ran to Katara.

"Gran-Gran!" They all cried.

She smiled as she hugged them. "Oh, you've all gotten so big."

Another lady was standing with her. She was quite tall with greying hair and a cheerful smile. The kids hugged her next.

"We missed you, Aunt Kya."

She smiled. "Oh, I missed you too. Your father doesn't bring you to visit nearly enough."

Tenzin, Bumi and Pema stepped out of the boat next. Kya hit Tenzin on the arm. "He's probably scared I'll beat him up like when we were kids."

"I'm not scared of you! Anymore." He rubbed the spot where she hit him.

Korra went to go hug her parents. Mako went with her. Korra smiled at her dad.

"You remember Mako."

Mako put out his hand for a handshake. "Sir."

Korra's father Tonraq crossed his arms and looked at Mako sternly.

"I hope you're not getting my daughter into any more trouble up in the city."

Mako stuttered. "Uh, no. Um. Uh, n-no."

Korra looked knowingly at her father. "Knock it off, Dad."

Tonraq chuckled and gripped Mako's hand in a firm handshake.

"I know someone like you wouldn't do that. He would though."

He looked pointedly at Ichigo. The Soul Reaper smirked and shook hands with Tonraq.

"Nice to see you again, sir."

Tonraq smiled. "Likewise, Strawberry. Likewise."

Ichigo scowled. "I told you not to call me that. But since you're the father of this stubborn ass girl, I guess it's no surprise."

Korra rolled her eyes. Her mother, Senna smiled and embraced Ichigo. He was like a son to her.

"It's so good to see you, Ichigo."

He smiled. "Yeah. Good to see you too, Senna."

Bolin looked in awe at all the gathered people. There was a large crowd waiting along the shore.

"Wow! Look at all the people who came out to greet us."

Korra shook her head. "Uh, no. They came to greet them."

A large, grand white ship was coming into dock. It was adorned with the symbol of the Water Tribe. The crowd began cheering and applauding.

Tonraq scowled. "The great Chief of the Northern Water Tribe comes to grace us with his presence. Hurray."

Senna put a hand on his arm. "Just relax, Tonraq. He'll be gone soon enough."

Ichigo narrowed his eyes in anticipation as the ship docked. Two honorary guards strode out of it first. Behind them came the Chief and two strange-looking twins.

The Chief was tall, with long, brown hair and a stern, slightly wrinkled face. He was dressed in royal Water Tribe garb. The twins behind him were absolutely identical.

They both wore the same clothes, had the same haircut and even the same facial expressions and likeness. The only difference is that one of them wore purple eye makeup.

Bolin nudged Korra. "Whoa. Who are the lovely ladies?"

"That's Eska and Desna, the Chief's children. Desna's a guy."

Bolin laughed nervously. "Oh, no, sure. I knew that. So… which one's Desna?"

Ichigo glanced at the Chief. He had a tendency to be suspicious of everyone but this man was different. There was something about him that seemed oddly familiar. It was just a feeling, however.

The Chief bowed slightly to Korra. "Good to see you again, Avatar Korra."

Korra bowed back. "Good to see you too."

The Chief's eyes passed over Ichigo and his eyes widened for a split second. Then they went back to normal and he turned to Tonraq.

"Tonraq."

"Brother."


Later on, the Glacier Spirits Festival was just getting started. Korra, Ichigo, Tonraq, Tenzin and the Chief all walked together. Mako and Bolin were there too but they kept a respectful distance from the Chief. Ichigo of course, didn't. Asami unfortunately couldn't make it.

"It's a shame the Southerners have abandoned all connections to the Spirits. Even during the most hallowed times." The Chief said.

"I've always loved the Glacier Spirits Festival. It's fun." Korra said.

The Chief's voice took on a slightly angry tone. "This festival used to be a solemn time of fasting and meditation. Now it's just a chance to watch some rube try to stick an entire arctic hen in his mouth."

Everyone glanced obviously at Bolin. His mouth was stuffed full of a whole arctic hen.

He shrugged. "What? It's so good."

"Traditions change." Tonraq said. "It's not the end of the world."

The Chief turned to face his brother. "Tell that to the sailors who are being attacked by angry spirits in southern waters. Some traditions have purpose."

"Wait. Spirits are attacking ships?" Korra asked.

Ichigo looked at Tenzin. "Why didn't we hear about this?"

The Chief nodded. "Indeed. I'm surprised the Avatar doesn't know about such matters. Apparently, you haven't been given all the information you need. It would be my honour to instruct you in the spiritual ways of the Water Tribe."

"I wouldn't mind learning about fighting spirits." Korra said. "Airbending is getting pretty boring."

Tonraq looked firmly at his brother. "Tenzin is Korra's instructor. He can give her all the training she needs."

"So you've said." The Chief replied.

Ichigo narrowed his eyes. Yeah, he definitely didn't trust this guy.


That afternoon, Asami, Ichigo and Bolin strode up to a giant yacht. Asami smiled at the two boys.

"I'm glad you two came with me to this meeting. Varrick is one of the richest men in the world and he controls the entire global shipping business. So, you're my assistant, Bolin. Just stand there and don't say anything."

"No problem. Pabu and I are natural assistants." Bolin replied.

Asami smiled. "Ichigo, you're my bodyguard. Stand close behind me and look intimidating. We have to make this seem official."

"Sure, sure. Look intimidating. How do I do that?"

Bolin raised his hand. "Ooh! Ooh! Just scowl. That always freaks me out."

"You mean like this?"

Ichigo scowled and Bolin cowered behind Pabu.

"Yeah- yeah that's good. Please stop now."

He complied and the three of them went into the ship. Bolin eyed the yacht with impressed eyes. "Man, this is nice. I gotta get into this whole 'business' thing."

They stepped inside the main room. There were several people inside, sitting on cushions. Varrick himself was seated cross-legged at the far end of the room. He had his eyes closed and two fingers from each hand on his temples.

After a while, he stopped, opened his eyes and grinned.

"Did you see that? Levitation! I was a foot off the ground! Is that incredible or what?"

Everyone in the room began clapping, including Asami. Bolin rubbed the back of his head.

"It looked like you were just sitting on a pillow."

Asami gasped and Ichigo facepalmed. Everyone in the room gasped as well. Varrick glared at Bolin and stalked over to him. He got right in his face, forcing Bolin to lean back.

"Are you saying I wasn't levitating?"

Bolin gulped. "Uh… no?"

Varrick glowered at him then turned around to face everyone.

"Well, why didn't anyone tell me? Now I look like an idiot! Swami, you're fired!"

An older man looked up in surprise and walked out of the room backwards in shame. Varrick threw his arm across Bolin's shoulder.

"I like you, kid. You're a real straight-shooter. Just like me. Miss Sato, he and orange-head are with you?" He pointed straight at her face.

She nodded wordlessly.

"Oh, so you brought your tiger-shark to do business, huh? Now that's moxie! And you brought a scowling bodyguard. Not bad. Ha, ha!"

Varrick grabbed Bolin and pulled him over to some cushions. A woman, Varrick's assistant from the looks of it, hustled the already seated people out of the way and Varrick plopped Bolin down on a now vacant cushion.

"Get over here and pop a squat!" He pointed at his assistant. "Zhu Li, get some tea for my guests."

Zhu Li nodded and got the tea ready.

"Thank you for meeting with me." Asami said. "As you know, Future Industries is looking for a partner to handle our shipping. And-"

Varrick pointed in her face again. "Sure! But first, you gotta check out my new venture: moving pictures."

Ichigo raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything.

"Zhu Li, do the thing!"

Zhu Li quickly shoved the tea tray into Bolin's hands and unveiled a strange contraption that looked somewhat like a camera. There was a screen across the room and Varrick guided Asami's eyes to it. "You're gonna love this!"

On the screen appeared a weird animal moving quite slowly. Ichigo wrinkled his nose. He didn't know why, but it seemed so outdated.

Varrick grinned. "Mind-blowing, right?"

"Yeah!" Bolin said.

Varrick shook his head. "Now, forget that! That's the past! Shut it off, Zhu Li!"

It certainly is the past, Ichigo thought.

Zhu Li quickly turned off the machine. Varrick beckoned to someone. "Imagine watching this. Ginger, get over here and do your poses."

Bolin gasped. Ginger was a tall lady with, well, ginger-coloured hair and way too much makeup. She began making poses and by the end, Bolin was drooling. Ichigo held the bridge of his nose in annoyance.

"Spectacular!" Varrick cried. He stepped in front of Bolin, obscuring his vision of Ginger. "And, we tell a story. There's romance, action, some funny animal stuff for the kids. You know, whatever. Thanks, Ginger! Go rest your gams." Varrick threw himself into a seated position between Bolin and Asami.

"How about that, Tiger-Shark?" He wrapped an arm around Bolin. "We're gonna do big business with these 'movers' as I call 'em."

"Okay… But I'm just concentrating on getting Future Industries back on track." Asami said. "If we could hammer out a deal-"

Varrick raised his hand. "Stop." He drew in close so that their foreheads and noses were touching. "Look me in the eye." They stared at each other for several seconds then Varrick grinned. "We got a deal!"

Everyone cheered. Ichigo sweatdropped furiously. Varrick gripped Asami's hand in a handshake. "We can hammer out the details at the Royal Feast tonight. Now! Who wants a rocket-boat ride?"

Everyone cheered again and followed Varrick out the door. Bolin stared after them in confusion.

"Is that how business usually goes?"

Asami suddenly hugged him and ruffled his hair. "You are a natural assistant." She turned and kissed Ichigo on the cheek. "And you're the best bodyguard a lady could have!"

Ichigo turned away from her to hide his blushing. "Whatever. I'm hungry. Let's go eat."


That night, in the royal banqueting hall, all the important people and dignitaries sat around tables, eating. Korra was sitting with the Chief, Tonraq, Senna and the twins, Eska and Desna at a long table at the head of the room.

Ichigo sat with Mako, Asami and Bolin at one of the normal tables in the room while Tenzin sat with his mother Katara and his siblings Kya and Bumi.

"This is a wonderful feast in your honour, Uncle." Korra said.

"This is nothing." He replied. "When this festival was founded, the Tribal Elders would commune with the Spirits. People would watch the brilliant displays of light as spirits danced in the sky."

"Wow. I've never seen that." Korra said a little wistfully.

Her uncle turned to look at her. "And that is a shame. Since the Avatar is the bridge between the material world and the Spirits. That is why I want so badly to teach you, to help you fulfil your destiny."

Tonraq leaned over. "I thought I had made it clear that Tenzin is teaching her."

The Chief ignored him. "Every Avatar before you travelled the world to learn. It was Tenzin and your father that kept you secluded at the South Pole."

"I thought Aang ordered the White Lotus to keep me down here?" Korra said.

Tonraq looked her in the eye. "We all did what we thought was best for you."

Korra crossed her arms. "Who I train with should be my decision, Dad. Not yours. Or Tenzin's."

Tenzin and his siblings were watching the exchange. Bumi leaned over.

"Looks like someone's trying to take your place as the Avatar's stick-in-the-mud mentor."

"Bumi," Kya said chastisingly, "Don't pick on Tenzin. You know he's always been sensitive."

"I'm not sensitive!" Tenzin retorted with some heat. His siblings laughed and began poking him. From across the table, Katara looked sadly at her three children.

Bolin gobbled down his food. Ichigo, Asami and Mako were more reserved, as usual.

"So, what do you think of Korra's uncle, Ichigo?" Asami asked.

"I don't trust him." Ichigo replied.

Mako rolled his eyes. "You don't trust anyone."

Ichigo ignored him. "He just gives me a weird feeling. And his kids are freakin' creepy, as well."

Bolin swallowed a bite. "What are you talking about? Eska's so hot!"

Ichigo glanced at Mako. "Mako, did Bolin ever hit his head as a child? Or was he born this way?"

Mako shrugged. "Could be a bit of both."

The Chief rose to his feet to make a speech. He cleared his throat and began.

"As your Chief, it is my honour to speak at this festival, which was founded to bring our tribes together and to restore the ancient balance between our world and that of the Spirits. But I am saddened to see what it has become: a cheap carnival that celebrates greedy and trivial humans. I fear the time is fast approaching when the North can no longer stand idly by, while our Southern brothers slip into total spiritual decay."

Tonraq glanced at his brother, his expression betraying nothing.

The Chief continued. "Angry spirits are already attacking ships in your waters. I only hope we are not too late to change course."

He sat back down and the crowd began muttering and murmuring amongst themselves. Ichigo narrowed his eyes as he contemplated what the Chief had said. Asami put her hand on his arm.

"Hey, you okay?" She asked.

He nodded. "Fine. Just fine."

Varrick got to his feet and addressed everyone with a grin. "Chief Unalaq, everybody. Always great to have him in town. Now! Let's have some fun with Wacky Wushu's Dancing Otter-Penguins!"


Later on that night, the carnival was in full swing. There were rides, snacks and all sorts of things Ichigo didn't care about. He, Korra, Mako, Asami and Bolin were walking together.

Mako and Korra were feeding each other cotton candy while Bolin watched them enviously. Even Ichigo was sharing some food with Asami, though begrudgingly so. She had persuaded him with rich girl puppy dog eyes that reminded him of Rukia.

Bolin looked around and eyed Eska and Desna, Unalaq's children, standing alone together in the middle of the street. He nudged Mako and cleared his throat noisily.

"Wish me luck. I'm making my move. Whee!" He pranced off in their direction.

"Good luck." Mako said half-heartedly.

"Those two have always creeped me out." Korra said. "They smell like a grandma's attic."

Ichigo smirked. "Maybe you just smell like a pigsty."

"What'd you say?!"

Mako and Asami stood off them as they bickered.

Bolin approached the twins.

"Hey, I'm Bolin. I'm a friend of Korra. You're Eska, right? Wow! I am loving these robes."

Eska hissed at him. Bolin cleared his throat and tried again. "So, you're from the North, right? Cool. That's like- you know- that's like my favourite direction."

Desna studied him for a few seconds then turned to his sister.

"I think he is trying to establish some kind of bond with you based on your geographic point of origin."

"Perhaps it would be interesting to spend time with someone who's ways are so rough and uncultured." Eska replied and smiled devilishly at Bolin. "You amuse me. I will make you mine."

Bolin was confused. "You mean like a boyfriend? Or like- or like a slave?"

She stepped forward and grabbed his collar. "Yes. Win me prizes."

Bolin laughed nervously as she dragged him off.

Mako and Korra were playing one of the carnival games. You had to shoot water at a wooden sculpture of Aang, get the water into his mouth and raise the bar to win your prize.

"Unalaq offered to train me. He says he'd teach me about the Spirits and my connection to them." Korra said.

"Sounds good. What does Tenzin think?" Mako asked.

"Tenzin thinks I'm his prisoner. Or one of his kids." She pouted. "I'll never finish training with him in charge!" She increased the water output and instantly the bar was raised to the top.

"We have a winner!"

The prize was a stuffed animal version of Appa, Aang's flying bison. "I mean, you heard what Unalaq said. The South is spiritually unbalanced and it's the Avatar's job to fix it. But my dad won't even let me think about Unalaq teaching me. Well?"

"Well what?" Mako asked.

"What do you think I should do?"

"I guess you should do what you think is right. I support whatever decision you make."

"Oh, thanks. That's a big help." Korra said sarcastically.

"I thought you wanted me to be supportive. Now you what me to tell you what I think? Make up your mind."

"Just forget it." Korra shoved the stuffed Appa in Mako's face and stalked off.

Ichigo yawned as he and Asami strode through the carnival with Asami forcing him to hold her hand. She glanced over at him. In the six months since Amon's defeat, they had both grown and Ichigo was now a centimetre or two taller that her.

"You tired already, Ichigo? It's not even 11:00 yet."

He shook his head. "No. I'm just bored."

"Ichigo, it's a carnival. How can you be bored?"

"I'd rather be fighting."

"Well, go fight someone, then."

He looked at her with hope. "You serious?"

"No."

Ichigo groaned. "Figures."

"Besides," Asami said, "You're here with me at a festival, how can you be bored?"

He looked at her and smiled. "You're right. What should we do?"

Asami looked around. "Um… Oh!" She pointed over at a frozen pond where couples and families were skating together. "Let's go ice skating!"

"Sure!"

The two of them ran over and rented two pairs of skates. They went up to the pond and Ichigo stepped onto it. It felt like ages since he had last went skating. A rush of feelings came back. He could picture himself on a skating rink in Karakura Town skating with his family as a kid and even skating once with Rukia.

He glided out onto the pond, expecting Asami to follow him. When he noticed that she wasn't he turned back to look at her. She was hesitantly treading on the ice, awkwardly sliding forward trying to keep her balance.

"Asami!" Ichigo called. "What are you doing?"

She stared at the ice, twirling her arms every so often to stay on her feet.

"I don't know how to skate, okay! I've never been before."

"What? But you're the one who wanted to do it!"

"I know! I wanted to try, can you come help me?"

Ichigo sighed with a chuckle and skated over to her. He took her hand and began slowly heading out towards the middle of the pond again. When they had been going for a little while, Ichigo felt she was ready to try on her own.

"Okay," he said, "Letting go."

"Wha- hey! Not so fast, whoa!" Asami whirled her arms and then caught her balance. She looked around and saw that she was doing it. She laughed. "Wow, how about that?" Then suddenly she slipped and fell. Ichigo reached out quickly and caught her before she hit the ice.

"Thanks," she said with a laugh.

Ichigo laughed back and held her close as they slowly moved around the pond. They smiled at each other.

"This is nice," Ichigo said.

"Yeah."

"It's been so peaceful. I'd forgotten how much I enjoy it."

"Yeah, it's been great. There's still problems but honestly I live for these moments."

Ichigo brushed a strand of hair from her face. "It'll all get better," he said in reply. "Everything is gonna be just fine."

Suddenly he sniffed the air and turned around. The reiatsu around him was shifting slightly. There was something was here that shouldn't be. It felt cold and foreign, but not altogether unfamiliar.

Asami noticed his expression. "What is it?"

He frowned. "I don't know. I just feel weird."

She raised an eyebrow. "How so?"

Ichigo concentrated but the feeling was gone. "It was probably nothing."


The night was now full. Everyone was asleep in their homes. The bells outside Korra's house began to chime with the wind.

Inside, she was asleep against Naga. The polar bear-dog stirred and got up.

Korra groaned. "Naga, what are you doing?"

Naga ran outside and began to howl. "Naga, hush!"

She had run out to the cliff face overlooking the carnival. She wouldn't stop howling. Korra went out after her and rubbed her. "Quiet, Naga. You'll wake everyone up."

Naga licked her face and continued to howl. Bolin yawned and stepped out of his house.

"What's going on?"

Mako went outside too. Ichigo was still asleep and he cried out suddenly. He shot up from his bed and things in the house were pushed back by his reiatsu.

He heard Naga's howling, sensed the cause and looked out the door.

"A Hollow."

Korra heard something and squinted, trying to see past the falling snow. In the distance, a strange figure emerged from the ground. It was large and purple and looked like it was made of translucent goo.

"What is that?"

It suddenly charged her with unnatural speed and knocked her back up the hill. Then it slammed her into a rock, gripped her wrists and looked deep into her eyes.

Ichigo hurriedly grabbed his Combat Pass and hit it against his chest. Instantly, his Soul Reaper robes appeared and he gripped Zangetsu in his hand.

Mako blasted fire at the monster and got it away from Korra. He and Bolin advanced. Bolin brought up the ground as a wall, shielding Korra and arcing to hit the monster.

"Got it!"

The monster dodged and hit the two of them down a hill.

"Don't got it!"

Tonraq and Tenzin came to help. Korra got to her feet and attacked the monster. It avoided all her shots and she barely rolled away as it smashed the ground where she had been standing.

"Korra!"

Tonraq rode to her defence on an ice board. He brought up walls of ice around the monster, encasing it completely. Then two tentacles thrust out of the top, grabbing Tonraq and hurling him into a house. Then they gripped Korra and launched her down the cliff.

The monster broke out of the ice walls and Tenzin ran up to it.

"Spirit, why are you angry with us? What have we done to offend you?"

The spirit simply punched him.

"Getsuga Tenshou!"

A blue line of energy cleaved through the spirit's arm and shot down the cliff, destroying most of the carnival. Ichigo raised his sword and studied the spirit.

"You're no Hollow. What are you?"

It turned to face him and a brief look of recognition crossed its face.

In a raspy voice, it spoke back. "A Soul Reaper? I would have never expected one of your kind to be here. Do not group me with those pathetic creatures you call Hollows. I am a Spirit!"

Ichigo hefted his sword over his shoulder. "Sure, sure. What do you know about Soul Reapers?"

The spirit chuckled. "What do I know? Not much. Just that frankly, you're a little out of place here."

Ichigo narrowed his eyes. "What are you talking about?"

It smiled. "My lips are sealed."

Ichigo grinned. "Then I'll just have to beat it out of you!"

He yelled and charged, swinging his sword. The spirit avoided the attack and slapped him hard. Ichigo managed to block the blow and cut off one of its fingers. It didn't flinch and merely kicked him back down into the carnival remains.

It laughed. "If you think you can challenge me in your present state, then you've got another thing coming. Haven't you heard? Only a Soul Reaper wielding a Bankai could ever hope to defeat the likes of me."

Bankai? What the hell is a Bankai? Ichigo thought.

Korra cursed and stood up. She punched her fist into her palm and went into the Avatar State. The spirit charged her. Korra rose up on a cyclone of air and easily dodged its attack, sending the spirit tumbling into the carnival.

Next, she unleashed several powerful blasts of fire at it. At first it looked like she'd won then the spirit launched a tentacle that grabbed onto Korra and swung her through the carnival, smashing through everything in her path. Then it flung her into a wall.

Ichigo was shocked. "You gotta be kidding me! She was in the freaking Avatar State!"

He struggled to his feet, using Zangetsu to support him. But he wouldn't be in time. The spirit raised its fist to crush Korra. Suddenly, strange tendrils of water began surrounding it in weird patterns.

Unalaq was there, weaving the tendrils round the spirit. Korra and Ichigo looked in wonder as the water began to glow and emanate an ethereal, golden colour. The spirit began to turn gold as well. It and the water shone brightly, illuminating the night.

The spirit turned and began walking away. It faded into spirit particles and was gone.

"Go in peace." Unalaq said.

Korra and Ichigo ran up to Unalaq, followed by Tenzin and Tonraq.

"Korra! Are you all right?" Tonraq asked.

"How were you able to control that spirit when no one else could?" Korra asked, ignoring her father's question.

Unalaq gestured to Tonraq. "As your father could tell you, I've spent my life studying the Spirits and learning their ways. Though I am surprised a Soul Reaper would not know of this technique, nor that you would not have the means to defeat such a creature."

Ichigo's eyes widened. "You know about Soul Reapers?"

Unalaq nodded. "Of course. As I said, I have spent my life learning about all spiritual matters. All of this knowledge is lost in the South. I could teach you, both of you, everything I know."

"Chief Unalaq," Tenzin interrupted, "Clearly you are very knowledgeable. But Korra still has much to learn about Airbending and I hope that by going to the Air Temples, she will be able to connect with the past Avatars. And Ichigo is definitely not the spiritual type. His powers are a mystery but that is up to him to discover."

"That is of no concern. He is a Soul Reaper. Therefore, he must possess knowledge about the Spirits in order to battle them. I can provide him with that knowledge. But the Air Temples will teach the Avatar nothing. Only I can give her the training she needs to be a complete Avatar."

"I've told you that will not happen!" Tonraq raised his voice.

Korra pushed in between the two brothers.

"Hey! I'm right here! Anyone want to ask me what I think?"

"Korra, please. Listen." Tenzin pleaded.

"I'm tired of listening to you- both of you! You keep me locked up, telling me you know what's best but both of you were powerless against the spirit attack! I think it's time I had a new teacher."

Ichigo took her hand. "Korra, wait. Think about this."

She shook her head. "I don't need to think. I've made up my mind. You're welcome to join me. You could learn a lot too."

Ichigo gave an exasperated sigh.

Tonraq looked at his daughter. "Now, Korra-"

"Unalaq has proven that he knows what I need to learn. I have to go with him."

Tenzin tried one more time. "Please. I know you're angry. But we've come so far together."

She turned away. "I'm sorry, Tenzin. But this is as far as we go."

He nodded sadly and bowed. "It has been a pleasure serving you, Avatar Korra."

He walked off. Ichigo stared after him helplessly. Unalaq smiled.

"You made the right decision, Avatar Korra. I look forward to instructing you and your friend in the ways of the Spirits."

Ichigo grabbed his arm. "Now wait just a minute. The only reason I'll stay is if you give me your word that you won't do anything to endanger Korra."

Unalaq nodded. "I guarantee it."


The next morning, Tenzin was packing his bags. His wife and kids were already loaded on Oogie. He placed some extra clothes in a bag and sighed with remorse.

Ichigo came up to him. "Tenzin, I'm sorry."

The older man gave a weak smile. "It's all right, Ichigo. I know your place is with Korra."

Ichigo looked down. "It's just- ugh."

"What is it?"

"I…" For a second Ichigo considered sharing what the spirit had said to him about being out of place. But he stopped himself. "I worry about her. She's too headstrong and arrogant."

Tenzin raised an eyebrow for an attempt at humour. "And you aren't?"

Ichigo smiled slightly. "Perhaps."

Tenzin put his hand on Ichigo's shoulder. "Ichigo, I trust you. I trust that you can help Korra. I believe in you. And I believe that your memories will return and that you will discover who you were and that will only make you stronger."

Ichigo looked deep into the Airbender's eyes and saw a fatherly love that he had missed.

"Thank you."

He stretched out his hand. "Be careful, Tenzin."

Tenzin shook it solidly. "You too, Ichigo."

Ichigo smiled one last time and walked away. Tenzin sighed and slung his bag over his shoulder.

"I think you forgot a couple of things."

He looked up at the voice to see Katara, Bumi and Kya standing there, smiling at him. Tenzin turned away.

"Mother, I think I need some time alone with my family right now."

Katara laughed quietly. "This is your family, Tenzin. When you get to be my age, you'll be thankful for the time you had with your siblings. Besides, I think it's important that you all visit your father's home together."

Bumi grinned and hit his little brother on the arm. "Come on. It'll be fun."

Kya smiled with expectation. "I'm dying to see that laid-back 'Vacation Tenzin' I've been hearing so much about."

Tenzin gave in. "Oh, all right. Hop on."

He went forward and embraced his mother. "I love you, Mom. We'll see you soon."

He glanced back to see Bumi struggling to climb into Oogie's saddle. Tenzin groaned and booted his brother up with an airkick. When they were all ready, Tenzin took off into the sky.


Korra, Ichigo and Mako watched them go.

"Do you think I did the right thing?" Korra asked.

Mako sighed. "I don't know. I'm sorry, but I'm not very good at this 'Avatar counselling' thing. But I know your heart is in the right place. You'll just have to trust it."

Ichigo nodded. "Whatever your reasoning is, Korra, I believe that it'll turn out for the better. And we'll be here with you all the way, no matter what."

She smiled at her two closest friends and they smiled back. Unalaq came up to them and put his hand on her shoulder.

"I know this was a hard decision, Korra. But it was the right one. Now it is time to put it behind you and begin your new training. I can teach you and Ichigo many things." He smiled. "I have great plans for you both."


And that's the end of chapter 1. Tell me your thoughts! I'm hoping that the next chapter will be out soon. Until then, thanks for reading and I'll see you all next time.