Hey, everyone! Sorry that it's been a little while since the last chapter. I got a little busy and I just needed to take a small break as well. But trust me, this is nowhere near as long as some of the other waits have been between chapters on this story haha. As of yet, this is easily the longest chapter so far and it's always a very different chapter than the rest. As always, I hope you guys enjoy the read.
Chapter 5: Peacekeepers
Ichigo sat in his cabin against the wall. His eyes were closed and his expression was peaceful. He spread out his reiatsu, feeling the respective energies of those on board Varrick's ship.
Korra wasn't hard to find. Her abnormal Avatar spiritual powers were like a perpetual beacon to anyone trained to sense energy. Mako wasn't too slouchy either; his energies were among the strongest Ichigo had felt in terms of Firebenders.
Bolin was more reserved. But Ichigo could feel something, a dormant power hidden deep inside him. He couldn't place it, but it was strong. Next, he searched for Asami. His heart felt warm as he located her. Despite everything that had happened, he was truly happy about his relationship with her. It was probably the best thing that has happened to him in this world.
Ichigo's eyes narrowed slightly. This world, he thought, it's so weird to be saying that now. It never really occurred to me that I was from a different world or that there was more than one world in the first place. I'm not really sure how I'm supposed to deal with this. Like I'm happy here, I'm settled. I have a girlfriend and everything. I'm becoming some kind of hero as well. I have a lot to live for here. All the same, I can't deny that I feel drawn to my own world. There is something inside me that makes me want to return there. I'm conflicted. I don't want to think about it right now.
There was a knock at his door and Asami poked her head in. Ichigo looked up and smiled slightly, his thoughts forgotten.
"Hey, Prissy."
Asami rolled her eyes. "Do you always have to call me that?"
"Yes."
She laughed lightly. "Can I come in, Ichigo?"
"Yeah."
She moved forward and sat down beside him, shutting the door behind her as she went.
"We'll be arriving in Republic City soon." She said.
"Okay. That's good."
Asami leaned back against the wall. "What will you be doing as Korra tries to get help?"
"I dunno, Prissy. I hate politics so I won't help her in that aspect. But Varrick gave me an idea of being an example to the Southern people. Maybe I can do that for the citizens in Republic City."
"What, like a hero?"
"Yeah. Sort of."
"Some people won't like that."
Ichigo frowned. "Why not?"
"Well, people might call you a vigilante. Or even a terrorist. The authorities don't like it when people operate outside the law."
"I guess you're right. I still want to do it though."
"Why?" She asked.
He stared at his feet. "Maybe because I'm stupid. Or it could be that I want to help people. I accepted that role a long time ago. I vowed to help everyone; not just the people close to me."
Asami smiled. "Then go for it. I'm with you whole-heartedly."
Ichigo smiled back. "Thanks. That means a lot."
She raised an eyebrow playfully. "How much?"
He leaned forward until their noses were almost touching.
"More than you know. God, that was cheesy."
Asami laughed. "I don't care. We are cheesy."
Ichigo put his hand gently on her waist and slowly locked his lips with hers. He closed his eyes as she kissed him back. I don't want to think about anything right now. I don't want to think about the possibility of losing her. But I can't get my world out of my mind. I want to see my family. I want to see Ru-
His thoughts were interrupted as Asami wrapped her arms around him and began to pull roughly at his clothes. His world receded to the back of his mind and he lost himself in her embrace.
Varrick's ship docked at Republic City the next morning. The sun was shining brilliantly and the birds were singing. Lin Beifong was standing at the pier, overseeing an arrest. She glanced behind her as Varrick and Team Avatar strode down the gangplank.
Mako had his arm around Korra and Lin smirked slightly. Then she saw Ichigo and Asami. Their clothes and hair were dishevelled and they looked like they didn't get much sleep. Lin raised an eyebrow.
Korra and Mako walked forward and she strode up to them.
"Welcome home, Avatar," Lin said, "Thanks for starting a war."
"I didn't start a war," Korra protested.
"Yeah, you did." Ichigo cut in.
Korra pushed him away. "It's more complicated than that."
Lin turned to the scarf-wearing firebender.
"Mako, I want you back on the beat. There's going to be a Southern Water Tribe peace march tonight. I need you there to make sure things don't get out of hand."
"I'm all yours." Mako replied.
"I'll go too." Korra said. "The people of the South need to see that the Avatar is on their side in the fight against the Northern invaders."
"Great," Lin said sarcastically, "That should calm them down."
"Maybe you should sit this out." Mako suggested.
"What?"
"I just think having you there blatantly supporting one side will only make things worse. You could at least try to be neutral."
"I'm not neutral." Korra retorted hotly. "The North invaded my home. The only reason I'm here is to get the Republic to send troops to help the South."
"Zhu-Li's already scheduled a meeting for us with President Raiko tomorrow." Varrick said. "We'll get him on board."
Mako put up his hands. "Whatever. I gotta go to work."
Korra turned to Ichigo. "Ichigo, I think you should be at the peace march tonight. You've inspired a lot of people. They'd like to see you."
Ichigo shook his head. "No. I'm not a public figure like you, Korra. The people need to see the Avatar. I'll be there for the fighting in this civil war; not for the propaganda."
Korra hesitated then nodded slowly. "Okay."
Asami came up and took Ichigo's hand.
"I better go check on my factory." She said. "Coming, Ichigo?"
He nodded. "Yeah, Prissy, I'm comin'."
Korra looked at the pair as they walked off with a slight bit of jealousy.
Why can't Mako and I act casual like that? She thought.
Then she averted her eyes from them. "I'm going to find out about this peace march," she said.
"And I am dying for a pedicure!" Varrick declared. He turned around and poked Zhu-Li on the nose. Then he pranced off.
"So, uh, what should I be doing?" Bolin asked.
"I don't know, Bolin." Mako replied. "Figure something out."
Varrick glanced back and sidled up to Bolin.
"Say, kid, have you ever seen Republic City at night?"
"Sure, I live here."
"Have you really seen it?"
"Y- no?"
Varrick chuckled. "That's what I thought. Come on!"
Unalaq was analyzing a map with one of his generals. The general pointed to a spot.
"Tonraq and the rebels are holed up here in the hills outside of town."
"Leave them." Unalaq instructed. "My brother poses no threat to us up there. Increase security around the Spirit Portal. Keeping it safe is our number one priority."
The general placed his fist to his chest. "Yes, sir."
He went to the door and opened it to reveal Eska and Desna. Eska was dressed in a horrific marriage outfit and her make up was smeared across her face. The general quickly skipped past them, not wanting to get involved.
The two twins strode forward and Unalaq addressed them.
"I need you two to go after the Avatar. She's the only one who can open the Northern Spirit Portal."
Desna was confused. "But Father, you told Korra-"
"I told Korra what I thought she needed to hear."
"I'll find her." Eska said determinedly. "She stole my husband."
"I need her alive." Unalaq said.
Eska sighed. "Fine."
At the Southern Air Temple, Meelo was sitting in front of a hairy little lemur who stared at him intently.
"Watch me, Poki." Meelo said. "You lay down and roll over. Roll over."
Meelo did so as an example. Tenzin was sitting a few feet away, pretending to read a scroll. He was actually watching his son intently and now he muttered to himself.
"No, no, no, you can't just demonstrate it. That never works."
Poki cooed and lay down. Meelo smiled and gave him some food.
"Good."
Tenzin rolled his eyes. "Ugh. Classic over-rewarding."
A bird screeched in the distance and Poki flew off to the sound.
"Poki, where you goin'?" Meelo asked.
"Command respect." Tenzin said then he grumbled and put down the scroll. He went over to his son who was looking up at Poki as the lemur sat in a tree.
"Having some trouble, son?"
"Poki isn't very good at learning."
"Believe me, I know the feeling. Maybe I can help. How would you like your old dad to teach you how to become a master trainer?"
Meelo's eyes sparkled. "Yeah!"
Korra sat alone on a bench in the park. She had found out all the details about the peace march and knew that she would be leading it. For some reason, she couldn't get Ichigo out of her mind. She was concerned for him. She was concerned for their friendship. She didn't feel as close to him anymore. That might be because of Asami but also might be something else. He had seemed distant lately. Even when they'd made up after their fight in the South, he still felt distant.
"I need to talk to him at some point," Korra said aloud. "I hope our friendship is all right."
She got up and began walking again, resolve in mind.
"Here, Ichigo. Let me drive."
"You always drive, Prissy. Let me have a turn."
"You'll crash."
"No, I won't."
The two teens were standing in front of a Future Industries Sato-mobile. Ichigo was trying to grab the keys from her, but Asami kept them away by darting left and right.
"You'd crash and cause an accident, Ichigo. Seriously, let me drive."
"Come on, Prissy. Just let me have them."
"Nuh uh. Go to the passenger seat and sit down."
"Make me, Prissy."
Asami raised an eyebrow and held up her Equalist glove. He instantly complied and sat down. She smirked and took her seat beside him.
"What's wrong? Scared of a little electricity?"
He crossed his arms and looked away. "Of course not."
Asami smiled and drove off.
"So where are we going?" He asked.
"The main Future Industries factory." Asami replied. "We get to visit a building dedicated to those Sato-mobiles you love so much."
Ichigo rolled his eyes. "Oh, great. How fun."
She frowned slightly. "This is important, Ichigo."
"I know. That's why I'm coming." He said seriously.
The drive was swift and they soon arrived at the warehouse. It was a very large building filled with assortments of inventions large and small. Ichigo looked around with wide eyes.
Asami smiled at his reaction. "Impressed?"
"Actually, yeah. I am impressed. Your old man may have been crazy, but he sure was smart."
She kept silent for a few seconds then grabbed his hand.
"Come on. I'll show you around."
They took a small tour with Asami displaying everything to him on a grand scale. He marvelled at the intricacy and attention to detail put into every invention. Together they moved through the whole factory in the space of several hours.
Workers smiled at them as they went, pleased that Asami had found someone. Finally, they reached the end. Asami spread her arms.
"So what do you think?"
Ichigo whistled with admiration. "I think it's pretty amazing."
She smiled. "I knew you would. I could teach you stuff, you know? I'm an inventor too."
"I know," Ichigo said with a chuckle. "I don't think I'm smart enough to understand any of this technology. I got good grades in school but this is different."
"Well, since the creation of Republic City and the discovery of metalbending, technology has boomed across the Four Nations. It doesn't mean all that much now, but a while ago I was really proud to be a Sato. My father was an incredible and influential inventor. Before him, my family had done nothing of significance." She sighed. "I only wish that the Sato name could be redeemed."
"Who says it can't?" Ichigo asked. "I'm sure that you're a much better inventor than your father. The people still like you, Asami, they always have. You just need to prove that you can be better than your father was."
Asami nodded. "Yeah. You're not going to the peace march tonight, are you?"
"No."
"Korra doesn't need your help?"
"I'm sure Korra can handle walking down a street with a bunch of Southerners."
"Any other reasons?" Asami asked hopefully.
He shrugged. "Honestly, I just want to relax and spend time with you. I've been doing a lot lately and I'm kinda tired. I think I just need to unwind."
She grinned. "I could help you with that."
"How so?"
Asami switched to a devious smile.
"Oh, you'll see."
That night at the town square, a large group of Southerners moved through the streets in a peaceful protest against Unalaq. Each one of them either held a lit candle or small protest signs. They walked slowly in silence down a large street heading towards the Southern Water Tribe Cultural Center. On either side of the street, the police had put up blockades so that people could not jump into the parade and disrupt it.
Korra rode on Naga at the front of the troupe. She was trying her best to ignore the Northerners who had grouped up along the sides and were hurling insults at her. At the far side of the square, Mako stood watching over a large alleyway.
Mixed in amongst the protest signs and candles were a few signs with a skull and a large sword. Korra had asked the people what it meant. The people said it meant the Reaper. They didn't know what he looked like; only that he carried a sword.
"What's the skull for then?" Korra asked.
"It seems appropriate," they replied.
Korra's face was set in stone now. She knew that she had to remain strong for her people. This wasn't about being the Avatar anymore. This was about being a Southerner.
Behind Mako, two men crept out a door and began running quietly to a parked vehicle. One of them stepped on a can and Mako whirled around at the noise.
"Hey! Stop! Republic City Police!"
One of the men turned round and pulled out a peculiar object from his jacket. He pressed something and Mako heard a strange mechanical humming sound. Then the building next to him exploded. Mako quickly nullified the flames that were close to him.
All around the square, buildings exploded in flaming plumes. Korra and all the people stared in shock. Lin cursed loudly and started barking orders. The two men ran to their car and Mako dashed after them, firing as he went.
He hit one guy and knocked the object from his hand. Then they got away. Mako swore and picked up the object. It was a strange, remote control device that fit easily into the palm of his hand.
Waterbenders began trying to extinguish the fires as Mako ran up to Korra.
She scowled. "The Northern Water Tribe is out of control."
Mako shook his head. "I saw a firebender running away from the blast. The North might not be responsible for this."
"Of course they're responsible. Who else could it be?"
The fire was spreading and Korra went to go help put it out. Mako stared after her and then narrowed his eyes.
At the Pro-Bending Arena, a large crowd of paparazzi were bunched up and waiting to greet some special guests. A large limo pulled up to the red carpet and out stepped Varrick and Bolin.
Both were done up in fancy clothes and all the reporters were snapping as many pictures as they could. Varrick waved slightly to the crowd. Bolin looked in awe.
"Wow. Usually, whenever I see flashing lights like this, it's because I've been hit in the head with a rock."
"Being famous is like getting hit with a rock all the time." Varrick replied.
They went inside and another car pulled up behind them. The chauffeur opened the back door and Asami stepped into the light. She reached behind her and grabbed a very reluctant Ichigo, pulling him out by his ear.
"Ow! Ow! Stop! Asami!"
Finally, he was out and he held his hand in front of his eyes to shield them from the cameras.
"How exactly is this relaxing?" He hissed.
Asami laughed. "It is relaxing. I love it."
"Well, I don't."
One of the reporters shoved a mic at Asami.
"Miss Sato, who's the guy?"
"Is he your boyfriend?"
Ichigo was quite perturbed and he stepped slightly behind Asami as the paparazzi crowded in.
"Talk to us, Asami!"
She smiled wide. "Yep. This here's Kurosaki Ichigo. He's my boyfriend."
Ichigo's jaw fell open. "Prissy!"
Asami ignored him and continued. "He's a real-life hero too! This here is the Reaper! A lot of you probably know him, he's a warrior in the South and he also helped Avatar Korra defeat Amon!
The reporters were by now wetting themselves. Ichigo looked around for an escape and whispered in her ear.
"Asami, what are you doing?"
She turned back and winked. "You said you wanted to be a hero, right? I just boosted your social status. Once you show them what you can do, they'll beg you to protect them."
"That doesn't make any sense!" He ran his hands through his orange hair with frustration. "Man, Prissy. This isn't how I wanted it to go."
She smirked. "Too bad. Now, come on. Let's get inside."
Asami dragged him through the doors and sat him down in the V.I.P. section of the arena.
Bolin and Varrick also took their seats. A random fan in the crowd pointed frantically.
"Look! It's Bolin!"
The whole crowd began chanting his name. Ichigo raised his eyebrows and smirked.
"Didn't know Bolin was such a celebrity."
Asami smiled. "There's a lot of things you don't know about Republic City. And it's my responsibility to teach you."
He groaned. "Please no."
Bolin glanced around and began waving and flexing. The commentator took his chance to butt in.
"Folks, that cheer you're hearing is for local favourite Bolin of the Fire Ferrets. Let's see if we can get a quick interview. Bolin!" He beckoned.
Ichigo leaned forward in his seat. "This'll be great."
Bolin sat down next to the commentator and Varrick leaned against the back wall to watch.
"Bolin, the Fire Ferrets are out for the season. How have you been spending your time recently?" The commentator asked.
"Well," Bolin replied, "I took a trip down south for the Glacier Spirits Festival, was briefly engaged to a princess, then went through kind of a tough break up there, was accidentally involved in a civil war…" He trailed off as he saw the crowd in complete silence.
Someone coughed and Bolin had to improvise. He grabbed the mic and jumped to his feet.
"But there's nowhere I'd rather be than Pro-Bending night in Republic City! Am I right, people?! Republic City!"
The crowd instantly erupted into cheers.
Ichigo facepalmed. "Oh my God, people are so stupid."
"Ichigo," Asami chided, "let Bolin work his charm. You'll see."
Ichigo snorted. "Heh. He already is."
"Do you miss being in the ring?" The commentator asked his next question.
Bolin sat back down. "Well, I certainly don't miss being hit with things all the time. And the humiliating losing, that gets pretty old. You know, sometimes I even cry myself to sleep…" Once again, he stopped, as the crowd was silent. He gripped the mic again.
"But I guess what I miss the most are these fans! They're the greatest fans in the world! Give it up for the fans!"
The crowd screamed their pleasure. Ichigo sat back.
"Told you, Prissy. Stupid."
She sighed but didn't reply.
The interview over, Bolin went back to Varrick. The businessman slapped him on the shoulder.
"Look at how these people love you, kid. They were eating that crap right outta your hands."
"The trick is," Bolin said quietly, "when I get confused, I just say 'Republic City' or 'fans' and then everyone cheers."
Varrick raised a thoughtful eyebrow.
"I think I just discovered your true calling."
Ichigo got up.
"I'm gonna go see Bolin. Wanna come?"
Asami shrugged. "Sure, why not?"
The two of them walked together down the back halls until they reached Varrick's V.I.P. section. Ichigo opened the door. Bolin looked back.
"Hey, you guys! Did you see my interview?"
Asami nodded. "Yeah, you did great."
"You really think so?"
"Of course I do, Bolin."
He grinned wide. "I feel so proud."
"Hey, Varrick. When are you going with Korra to meet Raiko?" Ichigo asked.
Varrick glanced at his secretary. "Zhu-Li, I need the reminder notebook."
She nodded. "Yes, sir." Zhu-Li pulled out a small notebook and handed it to Varrick. He began flipping through the pages, muttering to himself.
"Ah! Here it is!"
Varrick pointed to a spot. "Right here. Go with the Avatar and meet Raiko. Tomorrow morning."
Ichigo nodded. "All right. I'll come with you."
Varrick smiled slightly. "An excellent idea."
"When can we finalize our deal, Varrick?" Asami inquired. "Future Industries is nearly bankrupt. We need your support."
Varrick held up his hand. "Stop. Now, I said we had a deal, right? Then we have a deal. We can finalize it in the coming days. Right now, let's watch some pro-bending."
Suddenly, Ichigo jumped up, startled. He'd heard something. It sounded like an explosion.
"Ichigo? What is it?" Asami asked.
"An explosion. I'm sorry, Asami. I have to go."
She nodded. "Okay. I'll see you later. Go be a hero."
He kissed her on the cheek. "You're the best."
She kissed him back. "I know."
Ichigo ran out of the booth and into the hallway, pulling off his tie as he went. He made his way outside and into a hidden area. Then he pulled out his Combat Pass and placed it on his chest. Zangetsu and his shihakusho materialized. Ichigo sniffed. There was a smell of fire in the air. Using Shunpo, he dashed off to where he saw a large plume of smoke. It was the Southern Water Tribe Cultural Center.
He could see Korra attempting to put out the fire from the street below. The fire was spreading to the apartments around the centre. Fire trucks had arrived and men were working hard to evacuate the people living in them. Ichigo touched down on a rooftop overlooking the street and surveyed the carnage.
His eyes roamed over the apartments, darting from window to window. He squinted. There was something on the top floor. He gasped. A young child was hanging from a windowsill as fire blazed over her head. Her hands were slipping and the fire fighters weren't aware of her presence.
Ichigo leapt off the building and flew quickly into the flames on the side of the building. Holding onto a windowsill, Ichigo coughed loudly and covered his mouth. He located the child and made his way over to her. Suddenly there was an explosion of fire right next to him that scalded his face. He cried out with pain and was knocked off the building.
Looking back at the child, he saw that she was about to fall.
"No!" Ichigo flung himself towards her and caught her as she fell. He landed hard on the ground but he cushioned her fall.
"Rena!" The girl's parents ran over to them. Ichigo, coughing still, passed the girl into their arms and they embraced her tightly.
A little boy tugged at the mother's shirt; he was obviously Rena's brother.
"Mommy, look," he said, "Mommy, it's the Reaper!"
The woman look up at Ichigo with gratitude. "Thank you. Thank you for saving our daughter."
Ichigo nodded awkwardly. A crowd of people began to form around him.
"Reaper!"
"It's the Reaper!"
"You're a hero, kid!"
Korra had now succeeded in putting out the fire. She looked over at all the commotion and saw Ichigo. He glanced at her. Their eyes met. He seemed uncertain, perhaps a little scared. Then he swallowed deeply and looked back at her one more time. Then he shunpoed away.
The people gasped in awe and excitement. Soon, this story would be circulating across the city. Korra looked down. A hero, huh?
The man in front of him, Kuchiki Byakuya stared with slight anger and confusion.
"What did you say?" He asked.
Ichigo was standing in a large crater, blood pouring from multiple wounds.
"Don't ask me again," He replied, "You heard me. Or is it that you just can't believe it? I won't say it two or three times. Even if you can't believe my words, you can believe your own eyes, can't you Kuchiki Byakuya?!"
Byakuya stayed silent. Ichigo threw his sword arm back and planted his feet. He yelled ferociously and raised his reiatsu. Wind began to swirl fiercely around him. His reiatsu exploded into a giant beam of blue light that shot into the sky.
Byakuya continued to watch. "Bankai, he says… Impossible… Why does he exude such powerful reiatsu?! It is almost as if…"
Ichigo smirked. "Yeah."
He held his arm forward now and the bindings around his sword handle began wrapping around his arm.
Ichigo gritted his teeth.
"Bankai!"
Ichigo groaned as he awoke. He rubbed his eyes.
What was that dream? A memory? But it was so vivid. Much more than any flashbacks I've had before. Damn. I have to meet Rukia soon!
He sat up on his bed. During the six months after Amon's defeat, Team Avatar, besides Asami, had all bought small apartments in the city that were close to each other. Ichigo and Korra still stayed on Air Temple Island sometimes but Ichigo appreciated his independence and preferred his apartment.
Well, I'm getting my name out there now I suppose. I just don't know what I want. I have so many conflicting motivations right now. I want to help Korra and the South. I really want to spend as much time with Asami as possible. But at the same time, I want to find out about my world and my home. When I came here, I spent so much time trying to remember my past. Now that I have a real life here, I feel like I've pushed that quest aside. Where do my responsibilities lie?
Ichigo's door opened wide and Korra stepped through.
"Good, you're awake." She said gruffly.
Ichigo looked up at her. "Good morning to you too. Why do you always have to barge into my room in the morning?"
"I haven't done this in weeks, Ichigo. I don't want to come in here and find you and Asami making out or something."
Ichigo yawned and laid back down in his bed. "Now that's a little unfair, isn't it? Wouldn't I find the same thing if I came into your room?"
"Okay, fair point," she conceded.
"So uh, what are you doing in my room?"
"I think you and I need to have a talk," she said sternly.
"That sounds ominous. I thought we were going to see the President this morning."
"We are. But not for a while. I wanna talk to you, Ichigo, like really talk to you. It's been so long since we actually talked."
Ichigo shrugged. "Yeah, well we're both seeing people and we've both got different responsibilities."
Korra frowned slightly. "Your attitude is annoying right now."
"What?"
"You think because you're dating the richest girl in town and because the people think you're some kind of hero that you can act all arrogant and aloof like that?"
"What are you talking about? I meant that things are different for us now."
Korra sat down on his bed beside him. "Yeah, you're right. I just feel like we're not as close as we used to be. You know we had that big fight but then we made up and I thought everything was going to be good but it isn't. You're more distant than ever, all you do is hang out with Asami and stuff. You're never with me anymore. I don't see Mako half as much as you see Asami."
Ichigo sighed and sat up to sit beside her. "Well I-I…" he stuttered and sighed. "I guess I have been distant."
"You have been! We used to be so close and now I feel like I don't even know what's going on in your life. We were always together, Ichigo, you know? We were best friends. At least I thought we were."
"No, we were," Ichigo reassured her, "I just… things change, you know? I'm a lot different now. So many of my memories have returned I don't feel as connected to this world as I used to."
"What do you mean this world?"
Ichigo hesitated. "Never mind. But you know what I mean, right? Stuff happens. I'm just really close with Asami right now."
Korra looked down with a sad expression. "I wish things could go back to how they were."
"Aren't you happy, though? I mean besides all the shit with Unalaq and the civil war and everything, aren't you happy with Mako? All you wanted was to date him and now you are."
"I am happy but I miss you, Ichigo. I miss spending time with you every day. I even miss arguing and bickering with you."
Ichigo knitted his eyebrows. "But Korra, things can't stay the same. There's a civil war going on! The North just blew up the cultural center. I'm closer to who I used to be now. Before you found me in the ice."
Korra took his hands and looked in his eyes. "I want our friendship to go back to the way it used to be. Don't you?"
Ichigo looked sadly at her. How can I tell her, he thought, how conflicted I am? I don't want to lie to her. She's right; we're not as close as we used to be. I-I miss her too. But I- I don't want to be held captive to this world. I can't let my feelings get in the way! I want to help her, I really do. But I-I… I want to go home.
Before he knew it, a small tear snaked down his face. Korra stared at it as Ichigo stared blankly at the wall past her head. She hugged him tightly but his arms remained limp at his sides.
"I'm here, Ichigo. I'm here for you." She rubbed his back comfortingly. Pulling back, she gently cupped his cheeks with her hands.
"What's going on, Ichigo? Why are you acting like this?"
He looked at her. "I'm conflicted," he said eventually.
"Conflicted about what?" He turned away again. "Ichigo? Ichigo, talk to me. Come on… you could always talk to me."
He shook his head. "Not right now." He got to his feet. "We need to meet Raiko, right? Let's get going."
Korra stayed sitting on his bed as Ichigo changed into some casual clothes. He clipped his Combat Pass to his belt. Korra still sat there.
"Come on, Korra, we're gonna be late. Maybe I'll tell you what's up with me later but right now we need to focus on helping your people."
Korra nodded. "You're right. I'm sorry."
"No, I'm sorry. I didn't know that you felt that way. I miss you too."
He held out his hand and helped Korra to her feet. "Maybe one day things can go back to the way they were. Right now, let's just do what we can."
"Yeah."
Naga was waiting for them outside. Korra rode swiftly away from the apartment. Ichigo drifted into his thoughts again. I hate this. I hate pushing away people that I care about. But Rukia's waiting for me. She's waiting. I don't know if I should let anything else get in the way.
Kuchiki Rukia strode confidently towards the Squad 12 Headquarters in the Soul Society. She had promised Ichigo that she would find out about how he could get home. The only place that she could think of that would have information on the other world was the Soul Reaper Research and Development Institute inside Squad 12.
Stepping inside, she moved swiftly to the main area and emerged into the black laboratories that all these scientists called home. The captain of Squad 12, Kurotsuchi Mayuri, was standing with his back to her and was speaking with his Lieutenant, Kurotsuchi Nemu. Sensing Rukia's presence, he turned to face her.
"And what, pray are you, Kuchiki Rukia, Lieutenant of Squad 13 doing in my division?" He asked in his usual chilling manner.
"I need information."
"Oh? What kind of information?"
Rukia hesitated. "I would rather not say. It's for a friend."
Mayuri smiled thinly. "Mmm. No doubt it has to do with the disappearance of the Substitute Soul Reaper, am I wrong?"
Rukia didn't reply. Mayuri's smile turned to a frown. "Get out," he said dismissively.
Nemu stepped forward quickly. "Captain," she said, "Perhaps it would be best if I escort Kuchiki Rukia through the facility to aid her in uncovering the information she seeks. I know that you dislike having non-members of Squad 12 here. This way she won't even need to touch anything and I'll keep an eye on her."
"Hmm…" Mayuri studied Rukia intently with narrowed eyes then finally he answered. "Very well, Nemu." He walked slowly away, warily keeping an eye on Rukia as he did.
Nemu indicated Rukia to follow her and the two women exited the main room and went down an adjoining hallway.
"Thank you, Nemu," Rukia said with a short bow. "You saved me back there."
"You're welcome," Nemu replied curtly. "The captain may not think so but Kurosaki Ichigo is a hero of Soul Society and I would like to help him if I can. What information do you need?"
"I need information on the other world." Rukia said bluntly.
"You mean the human world? Or Hueco Mundo?"
"No. The other world."
"Oh. That one. Wait. Is that where Kurosaki is?"
Rukia nodded. "Yes."
"You're probably seeking information on how to bring him back, aren't you?"
"Yes, he's going to be contacting me soon from a place called a Spirit Portal."
"Alright. Do you have anything else to go off of?"
"Yeah. Do you have anything here on planetary alignment? Or maybe even the history of that other world?"
Nemu nodded. "Right this way."
Korra and Ichigo soon arrived at City Hall. Varrick was waiting for them outside. They dismounted off Naga and went up to him.
"What if Raiko doesn't listen to us?" Ichigo asked.
"Then I'll punch his brains out and make him listen," Korra replied curtly.
"Ah. Typical."
"Don't worry," Varrick reassured, "There won't be any need to punch anyone. I was a big contributor to Raiko's election campaign. Him and the other guy. Gotta hedge your bets."
Varrick turned to Ichigo. "You should probably wait out here. President Raiko doesn't know you as an influential figure. Yet."
"Then why did you say it was a good idea for me to come?"
"Just be patient, Reaper! You'll get your moment soon enough."
"Actually, Varrick," Korra interrupted, "I want Ichigo to come in."
"Alright, then."
Korra offered Ichigo a small smile which he returned as he followed Korra and Varrick inside the President's office. Ichigo stepped to the side and simply watched as Korra and Varrick approached the desk.
Raiko was a lean, well-dressed man. His hair and moustache were cropped short and he had a firm, slightly wrinkled face. He stood up as they entered and stepped out from behind his desk.
"Hello, Mr. President." Korra said and shook his hand. "Sir, the Southern Water Tribe-"
"Just a second." Raiko interrupted. "Keep smiling." He turned towards a camera. Korra frowned and Varrick nudged her and she smiled reluctantly.
Picture done, Raiko glanced at Ichigo. "Who's your friend?"
"This is Kurosaki Ichigo," Varrick said proudly. "Although you may know him as the Reaper, the people's hero."
Raiko studied Ichigo with a frown. "Hmm. My intelligence sources claim him to be more of a vigilante than a hero."
Korra stepped in. "I can vouch for him, Mr. President. He's my friend."
"Alright. I suppose I'll take your word for it. Have you got anything to say, Kurosaki? Or are you just going to stand there scowling?"
Ichigo's eyes hardened. "I believe all the speaking has been done for me, sir," he said coldly.
Raiko raised a mocking eyebrow and then sat down. "Now, how can I help the Avatar and my most generous supporter?"
"Unalaq's forces have invaded the South. We need you to send the United Forces to help." Korra said.
"I'm very concerned by what's happening down there," Raiko admitted. "But I don't think it's the Republic's place to interfere with internal Water Tribe matters."
"Unalaq isn't even the rightful ruler of the Water Tribe!" Korra protested. "He lied his way onto the Northern throne."
"Mr. President," Varrick said, "the Republic is already involved in the conflict. The North attacked our cultural centre last night."
"Believe me," Raiko said, "we are doing everything we can to bring the people responsible to justice."
"The people responsible'?" Korra scoffed. "Who else could it be but the Northerners?"
"Now I know that when you're young, it's hard to keep perspective-"
Korra jumped to her feet. "You're the one who's lost perspective. I'm trying to save my tribe and you're taking pictures."
Raiko sighed. "Sending troops is not something I can do at this time. But I promise I will work with Unalaq and the South for a diplomatic solution. Now I'm sorry, but my mind is made up. This meeting is over."
Korra glared at him. "My family is going to be wiped out and it'll be on your head for doing nothing about it."
She got up and stormed out of the room. Varrick and Ichigo followed suit.
"Don't worry about it, Korra," Varrick said reassuringly. "We'll figure something out."
"I know the bending council was disbanded for a reason but did they really have to elect that pretentious asshole?" Korra said loudly.
Ichigo winced as the others in the room all heard her. He put his hands on her back and slowly led her out of the building.
"Let's just go home," he said.
They waked outside to see Asami waiting, leaning against a Sato-mobile. She glanced at their expressions.
"I take it the meeting didn't go well."
In his small apartment, Mako was sitting on a couch listening as Korra ranted.
"I can't believe the President is doing nothing. He- he doesn't even care."
"I'm sure he cares," Mako reasoned, "but he can't just ask his people to go fight a battle at the South Pole that doesn't concern them."
Korra whirled round. "How could you take his side?"
"What's with you and sides? Why do you always think I'm working against you?"
"Well, you're not helping me. I'm trying to get troops to the South. What are you doing?"
He stood up. "I'm doing my job."
Korra laughed scornfully. "Well, excuse me, officer, don't let me stand in the way of you writing tickets. I'm just trying to save the world."
"Well, you wouldn't have to if you'd stop messing it up!" He retorted angrily.
She stormed off. "I can't talk to you when you're like this."
The door slammed and he sat down with his arms crossed.
"You're the one who's like this!" He yelled after her.
Ichigo sat staring out the window of the Sato-mobile as Asami drove. They were downtown heading towards the docks. I want to go home. I guess I've concluded with that. I just don't know how to go about it. Do I tell Asami? Do I tell anyone? Or do I just live a lie until I leave? I told Tonraq that I would return and help him fight. Am I going to throw that away? No matter what, all I know now is that I need to get to the North Pole and meet with Rukia. Then I'll decide.
He was roused out of his thoughts by Asami's hand waving in front of his face.
"Helloooo? Earth to Ichigo?"
He yawned tiredly. "Mmm, I'm here," he drawled.
"You spacing out on me?"
"Huh? Naaaaah…"
Asami rolled her eyes. "Buddy, you need sleep. I don't like you in that little apartment you've got. You should come stay with me at the mansion."
Ichigo laughed. "No way! Not for me. Too rich, too classy. My house back home is literally in the same building as a clinic. You should come to my apartment."
She pursed her lips considering it. "Yeah maybe."
They pulled up to the docks and got out of the car. Asami took his hand and smiled widely at him. He smiled back.
All of a sudden, Korra strode purposefully past them. Asami started.
"Hey, in a hurry much?"
"Sorry." Korra said breathlessly. "I need to see Varrick."
"Me too." Asami said.
The two women walked off. Ichigo looked after them.
"I guess I'll just follow them."
The three of them went inside Varrick's ship and ascended a flight of stairs. Arrows were strewn and planted all over the place. Asami went forward and an arrow streaked towards her face.
Ichigo quickly dashed forward and caught the projectile. Asami gasped.
"Wow. Thanks, Ichigo."
He tossed the arrow away. "Don't mention it."
Several feet away, Varrick was standing, blindfolded with a bow and arrow in hand across from a large target. He removed the blindfold and smiled.
"Oh, hello." He nudged Bolin beside him. "See? I told you I could do it." He indicated the solitary arrow that had hit the target.
Bolin smiled easily. "Sorry I ever doubted you."
Korra went forward. "We can't wait for the President to act. We need those troops now."
"And my company is about to go under." Asami added. "I have to find a way to make some sales."
Varrick handed the bow to Zhu-Li. "Right. Okay. Got it. Idea storm! Get the supplies."
Zhu-Li slid away. "You're about to get an inside look at how Varrick Global Industries stays at the forefront of Imagination Innovation. Or, Imagivation! That's trademarked, pal!"
Zhu-Li held out a bowl of red peppers. Ichigo squinted his eyes and watched from behind Asami as he rested his chin on her shoulder. She patted his head lightly.
Varrick took a pepper and explained, "Brain work requires increased circulation." He ate the pepper and his face went blood red. "Let's do this!"
Placing two clasps on his shins, Varrick attached the clasps to a metal bar. Then Zhu-Li swung the bar up until he was suspended upside down. Varrick crossed his arms and took a deep breath. Zhu-Li withdrew a pen and paper.
"Okay. Here come the ideas. Fast and furious. Pink. Mint. Lemon. Tea. Radio. For. Pets. Uh, hand shoes. Hold on a tic. We don't need the President to go to the South. We just need the troops! Let's go straight to them! If there's one thing I know about troops, it's that they love fighting."
Korra smiled with hope. "I know General Iroh. He might be willing to help us."
"A man on the inside. Perfect. And you need to sell some mecha-tanks, Miss Sato. I know some people who need them. We'll ship 'em south."
"That's perfect." Korra said. "You'll be making money for your company and you'll be helping defeat Unalaq."
"It's true." Varrick agreed. "If you can't make money during a war, you just flat out cannot make money."
"It's dangerous on the seas right now." Asami said. "But I'm willing to try if you are."
"It'll be crazy risky. But I love crazy risky! End storm!"
With that, Varrick flipped himself over the bar and landed with a graceful bow. "Zhu-Li, get those other ideas to research and development. I want prototypes by next week."
Ichigo nudged Korra. "Are you sure you can get Iroh on board? I know he's helped us before but he is a soldier. And soldiers follow orders."
Korra nodded. "It's okay. I trust him. I just don't understand why it's so hard to get the Republic to support the South."
Varrick moved towards a projector screen. "Don't worry. I'm already working on that. As soon as people see this, they'll be lining up to fight Unalaq. Zhu-Li, do the, uh… the thing."
She pressed a button on the projector and a small video was displayed on the screen. It showed several Northern soldiers and what they did to the South.
"Don't freak out. It's not real." Bolin whispered.
"I had a film crew documenting the entire Northern invasion." Varrick said.
Suddenly, Eska appeared on the screen. Bolin cried out in terror and Pabu squealed. "Sorry, I keep doing that," Bolin said awkwardly.
Ichigo studied the screen. Then his eyes widened. He grabbed Varrick.
"What is that?" He pointed at the film. The current image was of him fighting the Northern soldiers with Zangetsu. Varrick shrugged.
"I said they filmed the entire thing, didn't I? I had to catch a little rebel action."
"You caught that on film?" Ichigo asked in wonder.
Varrick nodded with a grin. "Yep. That's you. Leading a glorious rebellion. Now, listen up. We're gonna cut this footage together with scenes we shoot with our superstar Bolin here, playing a Southern Water Tribe hero, battling the evil Unalaq. Along the way, he'll meet the Reaper, a real-life soldier who leads the main rebellion. No one will root for the North after they see The Adventures of Nuktuk: Hero of the South!"
Bolin flexed his muscles and grinned. "I'm Nuktuk! What do you think?"
Korra and Asami both looked reluctant to voice their thoughts. Ichigo stroked his chin in thought and then nodded.
"Yeah. I like this. But do I really have to be in the film?"
"Of course!" Varrick replied. "We have to bring some semblance of authenticity to this thing! Ichigo, the people know you. They like you. And they love Bolin. Throw you two together and for sure these movers will be a rousing success!"
"Yeah, that's true but like… I can't act."
Varrick crossed his arms and smirked. "Or can you?"
"Huh?"
"You're never been directed by the most skilled filmmaker across the Four Nations: Me. Don't you worry, young man. I'm going to turn you into a star."
Back at his apartment, Mako was sitting on the couch, leafing through a book full of various criminals' identities and likenesses. His eyes were narrowed in concentration. Bolin stepped through the door.
"Oh, man, you should've seen Varrick today. That guy is a genius!"
"Uh-huh." Mako grunted.
"He's gonna help Asami sell her mecha-tanks to the South, and he came up with this great idea for Korra to get General Iroh to fight Unalaq without President Raiko ever even knowing."
Mako looked up. "What? That's a terrible idea."
"And he's gonna put me in the movers as this hero, Nuktuk. He's a man of action, but he's got a heart of gold. And then he's gonna meet Ichigo, who plays this rebel leader called the Reaper. Chilling, isn't it? Ooh, and let me tell you about-"
"Look I'm trying to do something that's actually important here." Mako interrupted with irritation.
"Oh. Oh, sorry. Uh, sure. What is it?"
Mako put the book on a table and Bolin took a seat next to him.
"Something doesn't make sense about this bombing," Mako explained. "I just don't buy that the Northern Water Tribe was behind it." He glanced at the page Bolin flipped to and his eyes widened. "Wait a second! That's him! That's the guy who attacked the centre! I gotta go show this to Beifong." He hurried off.
Bolin grinned and waved. "Glad I could help! Nuktuk saves the day again!"
At the Southern Air Temple, Meelo and Tenzin were standing together in front of Poki, the lemur.
"All right, Meelo," Tenzin began, "The first thing you need to do as a trainer is establish dominance. You are in charge. Never forget that. Now call Poki."
Meelo pointed to his feet and order in a strong voice, "Poki, come here."
Poki cooed and scratched his head. Meelo walked forward. "Poki."
The lemur jumped on him and Meelo began laughing and Poki crawled all over him, causing him to fall to the ground. "Poki, no!"
Tenzin sighed chastisingly. "Meelo. You're rewarding him for bad behaviour."
"But he's tickling me." Meelo protested.
Later on, Meelo was getting ready for a nap. He got under the covers and smiled as Poki joined him. Tenzin shook his head.
"You can't let him nap in the bed with you. You are the alpha lemur. He has to sleep on the floor."
Meelo sadly placed his pet beside his bed.
"I know it's hard," Tenzin said, "But it's for the best."
Poki jumped back on the bed and Meelo pushed him down again.
"No, Poki. This is my bed. You sleep on the floor."
Poki whined mournfully. Meelo curled up and frowned sorrowfully.
"Being alpha lemur is lonely."
Tenzin smiled slightly at his son. He had had to go through the same experience with Aang. Training lemurs was difficult, but it was well worth it in the end.
"I know, son."
The Reaper.
Ichigo sighed as he lay on his bed. He'd tried to convince Varrick to leave him out of it and just use his battle scenes but the businessman wasn't having any of it and eventually Ichigo had agreed. Sure, he'd only be in a few scenes, but Varrick insisted that having a genuine rebel in the project would make it all the more realistic and more helpful to the rebel cause.
And Asami had asked him to as well. There was that too. Besides, wasn't this what he wanted? Didn't he aspire to become the hero of Republic City?
Ichigo laughed quietly. What a stupid dream. I should be focusing on getting home, not saving the Water Tribes.
He winced. Did I really just think that? It's not like I want to abandon Korra or the South, I just… I miss my home. I miss my family. I miss my friends.
There was a knock on his door.
"Come in," he called.
It was Korra. She poked her head around the door.
"Hey, Ichigo."
"Hey."
"I'm going to see Iroh. Do you want to walk with me?"
Ichigo nodded. "Sure."
He got up and followed her down to the street. They fell into stride beside each other.
"I've been thinking," Korra said. "I think you and Asami are really good together."
"Oh, thanks," Ichigo said with surprise. "It's nice to hear you say that."
"To be honest," Korra said with a laugh. "I'm a little jealous of you guys. It seems like my relationship with Mako isn't as strong as yours is with Asami."
"Oh, how come?"
"I don't know. We argue a lot. We had a bit of a fight this morning. I can't help but feel like he's always against me. I feel like he's not on my side."
"You really care a lot about sides, don't you?"
Korra sighed. "I guess so. I just want people to support me, especially my friends."
"He supports you, Korra. We all do."
"Just wish you guys would show it more."
"Oh, come on. You can't expect anything more out of us, especially Mako. Like are you serious?"
"I'm sorry. That was a stupid thing to say, you're right."
"You need to relax," Ichigo said. "You've got too much pressure and responsibility on your head. I told you to share it with me, remember?"
"Yeah, and then you got all distant on me. This isn't your responsibility, Ichigo. I'm the Avatar. This is just part of my job."
"You know what? You're right. Maybe at the end of the day I can never understand the pressure on your shoulders. Even where I come from, I don't have that much responsibility. All I ever did was fight to protect my friends. Nothing more. Nothing less. I'm not like you. I don't want to be like you."
"I thought you wanted to be a hero. Heroes have responsibility."
Ichigo hesitated. "I'm not sure what I want. There's a part of me that just wants to live a normal life. Without all the pain and suffering that seems to be around every corner for me. But at the same time, I'm drawn to it. I'm drawn to battle and conflict. I start conflict."
Korra stopped walking and turned to him. "I want you at my side, Ichigo. You're my friend and I really value you. You and I are similar in some ways. We both have tempers, we both start conflict. But if you ever wanted to live a normal life and leave all this behind, I would totally respect that. You've earned that. It's just not something that I can do as the Avatar."
They stared at each other and Ichigo swallowed. "Why do I feel like you're releasing me in some way?" He asked.
"Oh, I am not releasing you. Like I said, I want you with me. You were honestly my first human friend. That sounds pretty lame but I never had a friend until I found you that day. But you don't have to stick with me if you don't want to. I'd understand if you wanted to leave. You deserve every chance at a normal life. Okay?"
"Okay."
"But that doesn't mean I'm letting you go just yet!"
"No, of course not." Ichigo said with a laugh. He smiled at her. "I'm here for the long haul."
Korra winked at him. "I know you are. Now come on! We gotta meet up with Iroh."
She walked ahead. Ichigo stayed standing still. What the hell am I doing? She literally releases me to go home and then I say I'm here for the long haul? Ugh! I'm so damn stupid! I seriously need to get my priorities straight and then actually prioritize them. I'm just gonna be stagnant as I am now. I have to continue on this path, at least until I meet with Rukia. Even if I have to do something I'll regret. Everything right now… is for her.
"You coming, Ichigo?" Korra called.
"Yep!"
There was a meeting happening at the Police Station in Republic City. President Raiko was speaking with Chief Beifong about the bombing.
"How did this attack on the Cultural Centre happen right under your nose?" Raiko demanded, "And why haven't you arrested the Northerners responsible?"
"We're working on it, sir." Lin replied curtly.
"Well, work harder. If you don't get me results soon, I'm going to find someone who can."
Mako rushed into the room outside Beifong's office. There were several desks set up where detectives studied paperwork and occasionally took bites out of their donuts.
He went up to two such detectives. One was tall and bulky with thinning brown hair and an ugly face. The second was short and fat with a black afro. Both of them had long, drooping moustaches.
"I made a break in the bombing case." Mako declared. "I I.D.'d the guy I saw at the scene."
"That's great, Mayko," The fat one said, pronouncing his name wrong on purpose.
"Yeah," agreed the other, "You'd better run that in to Beifong right now."
"You think?" Mako asked eagerly.
The fat one spread his arms and smiled. "Sure, you're gonna be a hero."
Mako nodded determinedly and opened the door into Lin's meeting.
The two detectives laughed silently as they heard Beifong's response.
"What makes a rookie beat cop think he can interrupt my meeting with the President?"
"I-I'm sorry. I just, um, I found something out about the bombing."
"Well give it to Lu and Gong, you moron. Now get out!"
The fat one spiked up his afro to look like Mako's hair and the other laughed boisterously. Mako walked back over to them.
"This is the man I saw sneaking out of the building right before the explosion. He's a member of the Agni-Kais. Someone must have hired him to make it look like Northerners attacked the cultural centre."
The lean one studied the photo and put in a drawer.
"Did you learn anything about that remote control I found at the scene?" Mako asked. "That's gotta be the key to finding out who's responsible."
The fat one rolled his eyes. "Listen, kid, it was the Northern Water Tribe, okay?"
"Yeah, give it a rest, super cop." The lean one agreed.
Mako strode away and sat down at his desk. He glanced up as the door to Beifong's office opened and Raiko left the room. Mako stood to his feet and Raiko smiled slightly at him.
"I've heard good things about you. You've made some big triad busts for a rookie."
"Thank you, sir."
"And you're dating the Avatar, right?"
"Yes, sir."
"I'm concerned that she might be getting some bad advice from Varrick. You wouldn't happen to know if they're plotting anything that might compromise the security of Republic City, would you, officer?"
Mako hesitated. Raiko looked at him sternly. "Let me remind you that you've sworn an oath. You're a man of the law before anything else."
"Yes, sir."
"Well, keep up the good work."
Raiko began walking away. Mako sighed.
"Wait. There's something you should know."
Ichigo and Korra strode quickly down the docks, in search of General Iroh's flagship. Sea birds were calling and the sun was high in the sky.
"Hopefully this works out," Korra said.
"Yeah."
"I trust my father and the rebels but there's only so many of them down there against an army of Northerners. They're going to need our help.
Soon, they found Iroh's ship. They boarded and found him on the main deck. He smiled when he saw them.
"Avatar Korra, Kurosaki Ichigo, it's a pleasure to see you again."
"Same here," Ichigo replied.
"Thank you for meeting with us, General Iroh," Korra said.
"What can I do?" He asked.
"The South needs military support before Unalaq wipes them out completely, but the President is refusing to give the order. So, I decided to come to you directly."
Iroh took a thoughtful stance. "Hmm. I see. Well, suppose I was to take the fleet South on some routine training manoeuvres. And let's say we were to accidently run into a hostile Northern blockade. We'd have no choice but to defend ourselves, wouldn't we?"
Korra smiled brightly. "I guess you wouldn't. Thank you."
Ichigo cursed. "Watch out, Raiko's coming."
The President approached them. "Swapping old war stories?"
Iroh saluted. "Mr. President."
Raiko looked at him in the eye. "I hope you're not planning on taking any military action without an order from your Commander-in-Chief."
"Of course not, sir." Iroh replied quickly.
"Good. Because if a single vessel leaves this harbour without my say-so, you'll be court-martialled. Am I clear?"
"Crystal, sir."
Raiko nodded and turned to Korra whilst crossing his arms. "Your activities here are bordering on insurrection. The Avatar does not command the military of the Republic. Don't go behind my back again." He turned to leave. "As you were, General Iroh."
Raiko began walking away but he bumped shoulders with Ichigo.
"Hey, old man. Watch where you're going."
The President turned back to face him. "Do not take that tone with me, young man. I am the President of the United Republic. Hero of the people or not, I will not tolerate your lack of respect.
Ichigo scowled. "Don't patronize me or I'll break your face." He was angry all of a sudden. Really angry.
Raiko stepped back, appalled. "How dare you speak to me in that manner?"
Ichigo got right in his face. "How dare you sit back while innocents are being killed by Northern invaders?"
The two men glared at each other. "I have already made my stance very clear," Raiko said. "I feel for the innocents that suffer but it is not in the Republic's direct interests to intervene at this certain time. Not all of us are vigilantes like you, boy. There are rules to be followed. Laws that keep order. People like you get off on disrupting that order." The President straightened himself. "If I catch you making trouble again, you'll be arrested. Understand?"
Ichigo said nothing. Raiko nodded to them all and then left.
Korra seethed. "I hate that guy!"
Iroh sighed sadly. "I'm sorry. My hands are officially tied."
Korra nodded. "I understand. Thanks anyway."
Iroh smiled. "But you should talk to the Fire Lord. My mother and grandfather have always been good friends to the Avatar and the Southern Water Tribe. Especially my grandfather. I'm sure they'll be willing to help."
Korra smiled too. "Thank you, General."
Varrick held up his fingers in the shape of a camera as he admired Bolin's Nuktuk costume. It consisted of large, fur pants that barely went halfway down his thighs, blue, fur boots, and a small fur scarf-like thing going around his neck. He held a club in his right hand and pretty much his entire chest was bare.
"Wouldn't I be cold, wearing this outfit in the snow?" Bolin asked.
Varrick waved him off. "Ah, Nuktuk is never cold."
Ginger, dressed in a similar outfit walked past. Bolin eyed her every move with eagerness. "Ooh. Hey, Ginger."
She patted her curled hair and Varrick grinned.
"How 'bout that, huh? It's my latest product in my Varri-manageable hair line: Varri-dye! We get some shots of her using it before Unalaq kidnaps her, I guarantee we sell a million cases in a week."
Korra and Ichigo came riding in on Naga. Korra ran up to Bolin.
"Bolin, I need you to keep an eye on Naga for me while I'm gone."
"Where you going?"
"The Fire Nation. I'm going to try to get the Fire Lord to help the South." She turned to Varrick. "I need a boat."
"What happened with General Iroh?" He asked.
"He was going to help. But then President Raiko showed up. Someone must have tipped him off. But I can't figure it out. No one knew about it except for us and Asami."
"And Mako." Bolin said.
"Mako?"
She turned to face Bolin and looked at him seriously.
"What? There's no way Mako would have told. Right?" Bolin said uncertainly.
Korra hurried out the door. Varrick glanced after her then put his arm around Ichigo's shoulder.
"Ichigo, my man. It's good to see ya. Now, listen. I've got a few scenes planned out for the first episode. So I need you to change into your robe outfit and report to the makeup chair."
Ichigo sighed. "Whatever."
Everyone stood watching as Meelo demonstrated his control over his pet lemur. Meelo pointed straight at him.
"Poki, sit."
Poki complied.
"Roll over."
He did so.
"Good boy." Meelo handed him a nut. Tenzin smiled at his son.
"Well done, Meelo. I knew you could learn to train Poki."
"Not just Poki." Meelo said. "I trained all the lemurs. Watch."
He blew a whistle. Instantly, hundreds of lemurs flew into the sky in perfect formation. Meelo blew some patterns and gestured and the lemurs flew in every direction he wished. Everyone looked on in awe.
The lemurs all landed obediently at Meelo's feet.
"I've created a monster." Tenzin said in a hushed tone. "Uh, maybe we should forget about all this training discipline for now. Why don't you and Poki just have fun and play?"
Meelo yawned. "Thanks, Dad. Training makes me tired. Come on, Poki."
Korra kicked open the door to the police station.
"You ratted me out to the President?" She demanded.
Mako looked up. "Korra, let me explain."
Korra looked down at his seated position. "Explain why my boyfriend stabbed me in the back?"
"Look, the President of the Republic asked me a direct question. What was I supposed to do?"
"You betrayed me! And my family!"
Korra kicked his desk away and it went flying across the room. The other detectives looked on in fear.
"Enough!" Mako yelled. "Look, I have a job to do. I can't constantly be worrying about keeping you from making another huge mistake."
Korra glared fiercely. "Well, I have a job to do, too. Only it seems like you're always standing in the way of me getting it done!"
"Well, I guess if we're both putting our jobs first, maybe there's no room for our relationship!"
There was silence in the room. Korra stared sadly at him. "So, what? Are you breaking up with me?"
Mako looked down. "Yeah. I guess I am."
Tears started building up in Korra's eyes and she ran off.
Lin opened the door and looked in surprise. "What the flamey-o happened here?"
"I broke up with the Avatar." Mako said matter-of-factly.
Lin smirked. "You got off easy. You should have seen Air Temple Island after Tenzin broke up with me."
"And… action!"
Bolin, dressed as Nuktuk ran up to Ichigo. He bowed.
"Oh, fair rebel leader, I, Nuktuk, require your assistance!"
"Of course, young warrior. I-" Ichigo cursed and fumbled in his robe for his script. He coughed and started again. "Of course, young warrior. I, the Reaper shall offer my power and facilitate your mission. I also will- Ah screw this! Varrick!" Ichigo shoved the script at the businessman. "I can't say this crap! I'd never talk like this!"
Varrick tutted him and slowly handed the script back. "Faster, more intense. I need some emotion from you, Ichigo. Always remember, you are the fearless rebel leader. You are the face of all that is righteous and holy."
Ichigo gestured to Bolin. "I thought Nuktuk here was the goody-two-shoes."
Varrick ignored him and clapped his hands. "Okay, let's go for Take 4!"
Ichigo sighed. "This is gonna be a loooong waste of time."
Korra ran away from the police station and towards Varrick's film set. She couldn't stop the tears from falling. She didn't know what to think. She was all broken up inside and she didn't know how to cope with it. The film set was around the corner. Before going in, she stopped herself.
"No," she said aloud. "I can't push more of my problems on them. This is on me. I need to go." She was about to leave but then Ichigo came out of the entrance of the studio and she stopped. He noticed her.
"Korra? Why haven't you left yet?"
The tears welled up again and Korra ran up to him and began crying into his shoulder. "Hey, what's wrong? What the hell happened?"
"Mako broke up with me," she blubbered.
"Aw, what? Why?"
"He ratted me out to Raiko. That's why he found us with Iroh. He betrayed us! He betrayed me. I confronted him and then he broke up with me."
Ichigo sighed. "Korra, you can't let this stop you. Your people need you. Okay? You have to go. Now."
Korra looked at him and put her hand on his chest. "Come with me," she said quietly.
Ichigo stared down at her. Her eyes were big and puffy. She looked at him like a child. She was begging him to come. He couldn't bear to see those eyes anymore. He looked away.
"I'm sorry… but I can't."
"What?" Korra sniffled. "Why?"
"There's stuff I need to do here. I'm sorry. I can't come with you."
Korra pulled away from him. "Why are you like this? Why are you all like this? None of you ever have my side! You're always against me!"
"Oh God, Korra, that's not true!"
"And I thought- I thought that at the very least you, Ichigo, my oldest and best friend would support me but you don't. What is so important to you that you'd abandon me like this? Ichigo, this is the time when I need you the most!"
Ichigo looked down. "Korra… I'm not from this world. I don't belong here. I never did. I can't afford to be involved with you anymore. I'm sorry."
Korra stepped away sadly. "Ichigo, the fact that you think that that would change things is the worst part for me. Did you really think our friendship would change because you're not from this world? We've been together from the beginning. I don't care if you're different, I don't care if you're weird, I don't care if you're from another world. You belong here. You belong with me, with Asami, with Mako, with Bolin, with Tenzin, you belong with all of us, Ichigo."
Ichigo looked at her miserably. "I believed that too once."
Korra shook her head and began to cry again. "I can't believe you. I thought you were in for the long haul." With that, she ran. She ran and she ran and she ran. She ran all the way to the docks and jumped into a speedboat. She headed out onto the water towards the Fire Nation.
The speedboat moved quickly through the waves. Korra stood dejectedly at the wheel. She made no sound but tears were streaming across her face. Her hand moved to wipe them away but suddenly the boat was rocked violently.
Chunks of ice began falling all round her. Korra weaved and dodged, desperately trying to avoid the attacks. She took a look behind her and glimpsed Eska and Desna, riding on skidoos and chasing her.
Eska's face was still showing the remains of the wedding make up and her mascara was strewn across her cheeks.
"You ruined my wedding!" She yelled while blasting water at Korra.
The Avatar dodged and knocked over their skidoos. The twins didn't miss a beat and quickly gained ground by sliding along the water. They came up alongside Korra's boat.
"No one steals my Bolin!"
Eska cleaved through her boat and she went under. Korra came up on a cyclone of water and began fired flame shots at them. Desna sliced through her cyclone and Korra had to steady herself with air.
She expanded the cyclone and forced the twins back. As they struggled, Eska looked down beneath the waves and glimpsed a giant Dark Spirit. She exchanged glances with her brother and they pulled away.
Korra began lowering herself to the waves but then the spirit blew through the surface and roared as it towered above her. It was huge, with blue fish-like skin and multiple neon green eyes.
It lashed out and struck Korra, causing her to fall beneath the water. Korra went into the Avatar State and ascended slowly. She began using Unalaq's purifying technique.
The tendrils circled round the spirit and it began to turn gold. It was just about to leave when it suddenly reared up and roared ferociously. The spirit opened its mouth and charged down. Korra grunted and sent a huge blast of fire.
But the spirit could not be stopped and it swallowed Korra and swam off beneath the waves.
Eska and Desna watched for a few seconds more then turned to leave and report to their father of what had transpired.
Ichigo stood there alone by the studio. He'd pushed her away. Completely. He didn't know when he'd come to the decision to do it. It just happened. His desire to return home overcame his desire to help his friends and he began the process to cut his ties.
He walked over to the wall and faced it, leaning his forehead against its cold surface. "I am a terrible person," he said aloud. "I just pushed away my closest friend for a promise that might not even come true. Who knows if Rukia can even find a way for me to get home? I'm such a fool."
Suddenly Zangetsu's voice filled his head. "One down, three to go, eh, King?"
What?
Zangetsu laughed. "One by one you will push them away until you have no more ties to this world and then you will return. I have to say, King, you surprise me. I've never seen this side of you before. You were always a very loyal person. You've thought a lot about this but I don't think you ever believed you'd go this far, this soon. I love it, King!"
Get the hell out of my head, you bastard.
Zangetsu left. Is this my path now? To sever all my friendships for the sake of returning to my world? How do I live with that? Can I really push Asami away? Can I do that? Should I do that?
Ichigo held out his Combat Pass in his hand and looked down at it.
"What more do I have to lose?"
And yeah, that's the end of the chapter. So yeah at least for me that was a really different chapter to write. But I enjoyed it all the same and I hope you guys enjoyed reading it. Tell me your thoughts! Thanks for reading and hopefully I'll see you guys soon with the next chapter.
