Hey, everyone! Hope everyone's having a great August. It's a little late but I was still able to get a chapter out this month haha. Enjoy!
Chapter 5: The Metal Clan
Ichigo squeezed his eyes shut as he felt himself falling. He braced for impact and then crashed down powerfully into the chilling water. Below the waves, he opened his eyes to gaze upon the surprisingly deep river and the bright sun shining brilliantly above him. Eventually, he pushed himself back to the surface and shook his long hair out while rubbing his eyes.
"Come on, guys, what are you waiting for?" he called out loudly.
Above him, Asami and Bolin were standing on a small cliff that overlooked the river. The airship was parked next to him on the shoreline where Korra and Naga were playing fetch and Beifong looked on with annoyance. They'd been flying for some time but had glimpsed a little, secret valley hidden in the mountains of the Earth Kingdom.
It was gorgeous and incredibly green, contrasted against the cold grey of the stone rock formations around it that led up to snow-capped peaks. Asami looked over the edge and Ichigo beckoned to her. Holding her nose, she jumped off and landed beside him daintily, splashing him in the face.
She shot up instantly, rubbing her arms. "The water's freezing!"
"Well, yeah," he laughed. "We're in the mountains."
"Hold me. I think I'm getting hypothermia."
"No, you're not, Prissy," he drawled.
"Hold me!"
"Okay, okay."
"Look out below!"
Bolin leapt over them in a cannonball and hurtled into the river, his impact pushed Ichigo and Asami forcefully towards the shore. Ichigo laughed as Asami's teeth started chattering. Bolin raised his hands in the air. "Woohoo! That was awesome! I'm gonna do that again."
"Get me out of the water now," Asami stuttered.
"Alright, I've got you," Ichigo replied. They swam the remaining distance to the shoreline and then he lifted her up, carrying her out of the water and onto dry land. "Hey, Korra," he called. "Mind drying us off?"
Naga placed the ball at her feet. "Can't you see I'm busy?" Using airbending, she hurled the ball into the distance, with the polar bear-dog chasing off after it.
"Come on, Asami's freezing here."
"Okay, set her down there."
Korra bent the water off of Asami and then used it to throw Ichigo back into the river with a yelp. The two girls laughed and Korra tossed Asami a towel. "He was asking for that."
Ichigo stalked out of the water. "I hate you so much," he said with a wry smile.
Beifong crossed her arms with a scowl. "While you're swimming and playing fetch, four of the most dangerous criminals in the world are hunting you down. Not to mention the group of assassins doing the same thing. We should get moving."
"Relax, we just got here," Korra said. "Besides, no one knows where we are right now except us."
Ichigo grabbed another towel and quickly dried himself off. Beifong gave him a sidelong glance.
"For someone who cares so much about protecting his friends, you're being awful chill about the assassins who want to execute you."
He scowled. "That's a low blow, Beifong. Can't I just have fun with my friends? Like Korra said, no one knows we're here."
Naga, who had retrieved the ball, laid it gently at Beifong's feet. She looked down at it but did nothing.
"I think she wants you to throw it for her," Korra prompted.
"I'll pass, thanks," Beifong replied.
Behind them, Mako and Uryu exited the airship. Uryu gave Ichigo a slightly disappointed look as he slung the towel over his shoulder and put his arm around Asami's waist. Ichigo noticed but looked away glumly.
"We just got a call on the radio about another airbender," Uryu said.
"Finally," Korra exclaimed. "Where are they?"
"A city called Zaofu," Mako replied. "The home of the Metal Clan."
"You know the place?" Korra said to Beifong.
"Uh, never been," Beifong said hurriedly. "But I don't want you going there. I'd rest a lot easier if you were back safe in Republic City."
"Sorry, but if there's an airbender in Zaofu, then that's where we're going next. Come on, everybody, let's go."
"Hold on!" Bolin called from the river. "One more cliff jump!"
"You sure swimming is the best way to prepare for Soi Fon?" Uryu said to Ichigo sarcastically.
"We'll talk about it later, man."
"We'd better."
Naga nudged the ball towards Beifong one last time. The chief of police looked down and then slashed the ball angrily with a metal cord. Naga whined and lowered her head in sadness as Beifong walked off.
They took off again and soon neared their destination. Descending through the clouds, they beheld a lush and beautiful valley, not unlike the small area they'd just stopped at. A thick, powerful river flowed through the valley and then split into two, travelling around the outskirts of a shining, metal city.
It gleamed like perfect silver in the sunlight, huge spires and towers stretching into the sky amongst smaller structures. Surrounding the main city were four smaller places and each of them were connected by what looked to be a rail system. Each city was shaped like a flower, with metal petals stretching out sharply away in all directions.
Everyone gathered in front of the main window of the airship, gazing out in awe at the city's beauty. Ichigo stared in amazement, his mouth hanging wide open in disbelief. Even Uryu was wide-eyed and speechless.
"Wow wow wow!" Bolin exclaimed. "An entire city made of metal! You should be right at home, Beifong."
The police chief had not joined them at the window. Instead she sat at the back of the room with her arms crossed. "Hmm," she replied.
One of the surrounding four structures was an airship landing area where they set down and were secured by thick, metal cables. Guards below them erected a flight of stairs for them to walk down. Everyone except Beifong and the animals filed out in excitement.
"Aren't you coming?" Asami asked Beifong.
"What's there to see? It's metal. Big whoop. Just find the airbender and let's get moving. And don't tell anyone I'm here."
"Why not?" asked Korra.
"I don't need to explain myself to you. Just do what I say!"
"Fine. You got it, Chief Cranky Pants."
"She always like this?" Uryu asked as they descended down the steps
"Most of the time," Mako admitted.
"All of the time," Ichigo muttered.
Waiting for them on the platform were two guards and a finely dressed older man. The top of his head was bald but white hair grew around the sides. His tanned skin was bereft of many wrinkles and he had a sharp, white beard. Also, a small golden chain hung from his ear to his nose. He bowed low.
"Avatar Korra, it is an honor to meet you. My name is Aiwei."
Korra bowed back. "Pleased to meet you."
"Is this everyone?"
"Yup. Just us," she lied. "So, can I meet the new airbender?"
Aiwei smiled. "Of course. Right this way."
"And this is the Air Acolyte dining hall where everyone eats and this is Daw," Ikki explained. She and Meelo were showing a few new airbender recruits around Air Temple Island. "He's a new airbender too, like you guys."
Daw jumped to his feet hurriedly. "It's so nice to meet you. How exciting. New friends!"
"Excuse me. Hello?" said a voice coming from their side. A door creaked open and a stocky man strode through it politely. He was middle-aged with a freshly shaven head and beige-green robes. His expression appeared kind and unassuming. But a scar was prominent on his head and he gave off an air of confidence and knowledge. It was Zaheer. "My name is Yoru," Zaheer said. "I heard this was the place to come if you're a new airbender."
"You got that right, stranger," Meelo replied.
"Well, a couple of weeks ago, I woke up and suddenly I could do this." He held out his hand and a controlled tornado of air started swirling on his palm.
"Mom! Aunt Kya! We got another one!" Ikki shouted.
Zaheer smiled.
Yumi brushed off some dirt from her coat and straightened her roughed up clothes. Soi Fon watched her curiously as she did so. Two of the three gangsters around them were unconscious and the third just lay on the ground, defeated. Hanataro went to the one whose finger had been sliced off by Soi Fon and started to bandage it up, his natural state as a healer taking over.
"What did these thugs want with you?" Soi Fon asked.
"Oh, you know," Yumi replied nonchalantly. "They saw a pretty girl and thought they could have their way with her. Like all the other scumbags on these streets."
The third gangster spat on the ground. "You know damn well that's not true," he growled. "Equalist whore. You've been getting a little too bold for our tastes. Hijacking our supply lines, stealing our territory, you needed to be reminded not to mess with the Triple Threat Triad. We run these streets."
Yumi bent over him. "Money runs these streets. And you're losing it by the hour. I've made sure of that."
The man laughed bitterly. "You think you're so clever. Did you really think my boys hadn't mapped out your entire operation? It was only a matter of time before we snuffed you out and left the ashes in the ocean."
She gripped the lapels of his jacket and held him close. "I'd like to see you try snuffing me out. You wouldn't stand a chance."
He laughed again. "Oh, that's right. Rumour on the streets is that you're an airbender now. Ain't that just rich? A former Equalist becoming blessed with the power of bending. You can't write this shit!"
Yumi belted him across the jaw, knocking him out cold.
"Hey," Soi Fon said. "I wanted to ask him some questions."
"Feel free to wait till he wakes up. I'm gone."
Soi Fon gripped her arm. "Hold on. Maybe you can answer my questions."
"Yeah, good one. Let me go. I don't want to have to hurt you."
She tightened her grip painfully. "Yeah, you're the one who's going to get hurt."
"Captain Soi Fon!" Hanataro cried.
A blinding light suddenly shone in their face.
"Police! What's going on here?" a gruff voice demanded. Two policemen were standing on either side of their vehicle which had it's high beams pinned on the alleyway and the three bodies strewn on the ground. Soi Fon turned to them and let her hand drop causally to the sword at her waist.
"Stop panicking, Hanataro. There's only two of them."
Up above, a police airship appearance and at least a dozen or more officers jumped down, swinging on metal cables to land on the rooftops surrounding them.
"Do. Not. Move." their captain ordered.
Yumi cursed. "No, no. I don't have time for this!" She started to run further into the alley but two metal cords wrapped themselves around her tightly, causing her to stumble and fall to the ground in a heap. The police jumped down to her and placed handcuffs on her wrists.
"You're not getting away this time, Equalist."
The other officers moved in and checked on Soi Fon and Hanataro.
"Are you two alright?"
"Looks like you got caught in the crossfire here, huh?"
"Yeah!" Hanataro replied immediately. "Thank goodness you officers were here to save us."
"Today you were lucky. Tomorrow you might not be. Run along, kids, and stay out of this part of town. You'll keep out of trouble that way."
Hanataro nodded and began leading a reluctant Soi Fon away.
"Wait!" Yumi called. "I'll answer all your questions! Just don't let them take me!"
Soi Fon turned to face her. "Do I have your word?"
"Yes!"
"Don't be a fool, young lady." The captain said.
Soi Fon narrowed her eyes. What we need now is information, not a confrontation with the police. And as much as I'd love to fight them all, the mission is more important.
"Hanataro," she said quietly. "Hold onto my arm."
"Huh?"
"Just do it."
She gripped his shirt and he clung onto her forearm tightly. The police watched her with wary eyes. With a sudden burst of incredible speed, Soi Fon used Shunpo to dash through the alley, grab Yumi with her other arm and rip up the side of the building away from the officers. Leaping from rooftop to rooftop, she increased the distance between them and eventually stopped on a building looking out over an overgrown forest of vines in the city.
Tearing the cords that restrained Yumi, she set the other girl down and bent down beside her. Yumi panted for breath. Her body was shaking violently and she curled over onto the roof and shuddered.
"I kept my end of the deal," Soi Fon said. "Now you answer my questions."
Yumi looked at her with fright. "What the- what the hell are you?"
"None of your concern. Now tell me, what do you know about the Reaper?"
"The- the Reaper? Not much. He's a vigilante, he's friends with the Avatar. No one really knows who he is or how his powers work. We've never seen anything like him before."
Soi Fon smoldered. "Is that all you can tell me?"
Yumi looked down. "I know his girlfriend."
"Ichigo has a girlfriend?" Hanataro exclaimed.
"We can use that," Soi Fon said with a smile. "And he's not in Republic City right now?"
"No, he, the Avatar and their whole group left a few days ago. Apparently the President kicked them out of the city. Probably because of all the vines that sprouted up a few weeks back."
"These vines weren't here already?"
"Of course not! The Avatar was fighting some kind of giant spirit monster who made all these vines come out of the water. How have you not heard about this?"
"Where is the Reaper now?"
"I don't know. I heard that they're looking for all the new airbenders in the Earth Kingdom. They could be anywhere."
Soi Fon sighed.
"Why are you looking for him?"
"That's none of your business."
Yumi shrugged. "Whatever. I kept my end of the deal. Unless you have any more questions, we're done here."
"Wait. If we could find out where the Reaper is, could you get us to him?"
"That seems like an awful lot of work. What's in it for me?"
"Name it and we'll see."
Yumi smiled. "I can work with that."
Team Avatar stepped onto a small train at the bottom of the landing platform. It travelled on two rails which were interconnected between the five different structures of Zaofu. Before heading to the airbender, Aiwei decided to give them a small tour of the main city. The buildings were tall and beautiful, like glistening pillars of silver and steel.
Ichigo looked down at the pristine streets, the perfectly kept vegetation and the well-dressed citizens. The city was remarkable. It almost felt too perfect, like a utopia of sorts with it's sleek and grand design. Aiwei pointed out a huge, magnificent statue of a woman holding up the symbol of the Earth Kingdom.
"That statue honors the first metalbender: Toph Beifong, who expanded the possibilities of what benders were capable of. Here, everyone is encouraged to reach his or her highest potential."
"I'm rarely awed by anything," Uryu said quietly to Ichigo, "but this city is extraordinary. I can see why you decided to stay here in this world."
"The architecture had nothing to do with it," Ichigo replied. "But it's a nice bonus."
"Does Toph live here?" Bolin asked excitedly. "Are we gonna get to meet her?"
"I'm afraid not," Aiwei answered. "She used to visit from time to time but years ago she left to wander the world in search of enlightenment. No one has seen her since."
"Hmm," Korra said. "That doesn't sound like the Toph I heard about."
"People change. And so do their priorities. Personally, I believe there is no greater purpose than the search for enlightenment. It is a long and arduous journey, with a priceless reward."
"Enlightenment…" said Uryu, "but at what cost?"
"That is dependent on the individual. Some costs might be greater than others."
Leaving the city, they headed toward the furthest of the five structures. Nestled close to the nearby mountains, it sat at the end of the valley and consisted of beautiful vistas, green plateaus and a wide, expansive mansion at it's highest level. The train reached the end of the line and they headed towards the mansion.
Ichigo nudged Asami. "This place bigger than your mansion?"
"Maybe," she replied. "Surprised my father didn't try to buy the whole city."
"Maybe he did."
Korra whistled. "Wow. This is where the airbender lives?"
"Yes," Aiwei said. "But first, her mother wants to meet you."
He led them into a side building with an immensely tall entrance and ceiling that opened up into a well-lit room where eight metal benders were standing atop the same amount of metal flower petals, performing some kind of intricate dance.
"Metalbending training?"
"Not exactly. They are rehearsing for a dance premier next month."
Ichigo frowned. "Okay, I've been singing this city's praises for a while now but seriously, what the hell is this…"
Mako snorted. "Clearly you have no appreciation for art, buddy."
"Neither do you, street rat."
Asami slapped him lightly on the arm. "Apologize for that, Ichigo."
"No."
The dance finished with six of the benders unveiling the closed flowers and revealing two female benders inside. They bowed to one another and then one lady clapped her hands.
"That's it for today, everyone," she said. Making her way towards Team Avatar, they could see that despite her age, she was a very attractive woman. Her eyes were a brilliant green and few if any wrinkles could be spotted on her clear skin.
"Allow me to introduce the matriarch of the Metal Clan: Suyin," Aiwei said.
"Please, call me Su," she said with a smile. "Great to finally meet you, Avatar Korra. And this must be Ichigo, Mako, Bolin, Asami, and… oh, I'm afraid I don't know your name."
"It's Uryu," Uryu answered. "I'm new."
She beamed. "Pleasure to meet you."
"You've certainly done your research," Mako said.
"I make it my business to know who's visiting my city. Besides, your names are about as famous as they get these days. Ichigo, the Reaper. Mako and Bolin, the Fire Ferrets, not to mention Bolin the mover star. Loved those, by the way, you were brilliant. And of course Asami, the heir to the Sato empire."
"Ichigo was in the movers too!" Bolin said with a grin.
Ichigo moaned. "Don't remind me. One of the worst experiences of my life."
"Oh, don't be silly," Suyin chided. "I thought you were excellent."
"Really? Would've thought someone who lived in such a perfect city would be a better judge of excellence."
Suyin smiled wryly. "Excellence can be found in many places. Whether it's in the architecture of Zaofu or the sarcasm and banter of a conversation."
Ichigo gave a smile back. "You've lost me."
"I know."
"So, you're a dancer," Korra said, changing the subject.
"Dancer, leader, wife, mother, collector of rare meteorites. You'll find people here have many skills and interests." Aiwei bent down to whisper something in her ear and her eyes narrowed. "Korra, why did you lie when Aiwei asked if there was anyone else with you?"
"What? I- I didn't- I mean…"
Ichigo mentally facepalmed. "Classic," he muttered. "Should've let Uryu be the liar."
"How did you know I was lying?"
"I am a truth-seer," Aiwei answered. "When people lie, their heart rate and breathing increase. I can sense the most subtle of changes."
"Thanks to Aiwei, there are no secrets in our city," Suyin said.
Uryu's eyes darkened. This place isn't sounding too utopian now, is it, he thought.
Korra looked down. "We came with Republic City's Chief of Police. She didn't want anyone to know she was here. I'm sorry I didn't tell you."
Suyin's face brightened. "Lin's here? Well, I would love to say hello."
"Wait, you two know each other?"
"You're joking, right?" She sighed sadly. "Lin never told you about me."
"No? Why would she?"
"I'm Lin's sister."
They headed back to the airship where Lin was waiting. She stared out the window at the beautiful metropolis but her expression was angry and she finally looked away, almost ashamed at herself for staring so long.
"I found out why you were so against coming here," Korra announced as they re-entered the airship with Suyin. "Why didn't you ever tell me you had a sister?"
"Half-sister," Lin answered coldly.
"Same mom, different dads," Suyin said. "So what? We're blood, Lin, and after thirty years the least you could do is say hello."
"I have nothing to say to you."
"Oh, boy," Ichigo said quietly. "This is about to get awkward."
"You two haven't spoken in thirty years?" Korra exclaimed. "How come?"
"Ask her," Suyin defended. "I've tried."
"Oh, don't put that on me," Lin replied. "You're the one who tore our family apart."
"And you've done a bang up job keeping it that way."
"You haven't changed one bit, have you?"
"Look, we can stand here arguing about the past all day but that's not the reason the Avatar came here. My daughter is thrilled to meet you, Korra."
Korra grinned. "Lin, your niece is the new airbender! Isn't that amazing?"
"Yeah. Terrific."
"Come along, everyone," Suyin beckoned. "I'll introduce you to the family."
"I have a question," Uryu said suddenly. "Ichigo and I have some security concerns."
"Oh? What kind of security concerns?"
"The dangerous kind. This city, despite it's beauty seems very unprotected. Can you reassure everyone here of their safety?"
"Oh, of course. Believe me, Zaofu is the safest city in the world. Notice those metal flower petals around each structure? They close up every night, protecting the city from any external threats. And internal threats are dealt with by Aiwe and Kuvira, the captain of the guard. Rest assured, you are all perfectly safe."
Lin crossed her arms. "I'll believe it when I see it."
"I may not be able to impress my sister, but I hope you're satisfied, Uryu."
He pushed up his glasses. "I'm in the same boat. I'll believe it when I see it."
"Very well. Follow me, everyone."
On the train ride over, Lin sat next to Uryu, as far away from Suyin as she could.
"I appreciate you asking about security," she said. "I was too emotional to bear it much thought."
"Sometimes it feels like you and I are the only ones who care that two groups of people are coming to kill us," he replied dryly.
"Hmm. Funny that."
Back at the mansion, they descended a few levels until they came to an open area where a large pit had been created. The floor and walls of the pit were smooth metal and three small columns had been erected at different points on the floor. Two nets were at either end where two teenage boys were shooting a metal discs back and forth at each other ricocheting off the walls and the columns.
Wow, Ichigo thought. Karin would love this. Soccer with bending, who would've guessed?
"Those are my two youngest, Wei and Wing." Suyin said. "They're playing a game called Power Disc. They invented it all on their own. Oh, nice power, Wei!"
Wei had launched the disc off two columns and the wall into his twin brother's net. "Hah!" he called. "Wing goes down!"
"I'm so proud of those two," Suyin gushed. She led them to another area on a higher level that looked out over the stunning valley view. The floor was solid marble and placed in nearly every open space was a bizarre, metal creation. A young man with long black hair, shaved sides and a brooding look on his face was articulately shaping his newest design; slowing lowering the metal arm on one side and curling the other up ever so slightly on the other side.
He stood back to study it with his hand resting on his chin.
"Huan, I want you to meet the Avatar and her friends, and your Aunt Lin."
"Nice to meet you," Korra said.
"Hey," he said blandly.
"Wow," Bolin said, "that's a really nice… banana? Yes, very, very lifelike."
Huan sighed and whirled around in annoyance. "It's not a banana! It was inspired by Harmonic Convergence. It represents the dawning of a new age. Obviously."
"Oh, yeah, no. I could- I could totally see that. Let me stand this way, yes, I can totally see that now, yes. Thank you. Banana," he whispered.
The others began to head away but Uryu stepped closer. "These are brilliant," he breathed. "This one here, does it represent the slow passage of time?"
Huan's face exploded in happiness. "Yes- yes, it does! My God, you understand! What's your name?"
"Uryu."
"Wonderful to meet you! I'm Huan."
"Yes, I know."
"Tell me, what art pieces do you have back home?"
"Well, I can't bend but I do a lot of thread and needle work. I create tapestries and carpets when I'm inspired."
"That's amazing. I'd love to see some of them."
Ichigo coughed. "What Uryu really means is he sews flowers on our clothes when they get ripped. That's literally all he does."
"You shut your mouth, Kurosaki. A moron like you can't understand the intricacies of my work."
Suyin led them to a third area where a tiny waterfall had been built into a wall and bubbling water flowed past a dirt pathway dotted by small pillars holding meteorites and precious metals like trophies. A gorgeous, young girl was sitting by herself next to the waterfall reading a book.
"And this is my daughter, Opal," Suyin said proudly.
Opal turned to face them with a bright smile. "Wow. Avatar Korra, I can't believe you're really here. You are so amazing."
Korra smiled. "It's great to meet you, Opal."
Bolin had edged his way to the front. "Opal," he said, "that's a beautiful name."
She blushed. "Thanks."
"I'm Bolin."
"Opal. But you already knew that," she said with an awkward giggle.
Lin turned away. "Great. We've found the airbender. Now let's take her back to the airship and get out of here."
"And the woman apparently trying to abduct you is your Aunt Lin," Suyin said.
"Really? I've always wanted to meet you! My mom has told me so many stories about you."
Lin crossed her arms and avoided eye contact. "I'm sure she has."
"So I've set all of you up in the guest houses while Korra trains Opal," Suyin announced brightly.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Korra said. "But I was hoping she could train with the rest of the airbenders at the Northern Temple."
"That sounds amazing!" said Opal.
"Nonsense, this is where Opal's home and family are. You can train her here."
"I guess I could help her get started," Korra compromised.
"Absolutely not," Lin said. "We're leaving."
"She's just a little worried because there are a bunch of crazy criminals and assassins coming after me and Ichigo."
"Oh, is that what the security concern was about?" Suyin put her hands on her hips. "If you're concerned about security, don't be. Like I said before, this is the safest city in the world. I'll get Kuvira to show you to the guest houses and help you get settled in then I'll see you all at dinner. My chef will blow your taste buds right out of your mouth. Kuvira, honey? Can you come down, please?"
From a level above them, a stern, but attractive woman strode confidently down a staircase to join them. Her dark hair was half braided, and the other half hung loose. Well-muscled, with keen eyes and a firm stance, she had the look of a soldier. The smile she gave them was one that looked like it was used to getting what it wanted.
"Kuvira, can you please show the Avatar and her friends to the guest houses? I wasn't planning for Uryu but just give him another bedroom. The other rooms have already been prepared."
Kuvira nodded. "Of course." She turned to Team Avatar and bowed slightly. "It is a pleasure to meet all of you."
They bowed in response and fell in behind her but she lingered back and walked next to Ichigo. At first glance, he could tell she was someone who demanded respect but he could also sense a fierceness about her. Like someone who could both lead a country and destroy it with no remorse.
"It's an honor to meet the Reaper," she said eventually. "I've admired your work for a while."
"Call me Ichigo," he answered. "I'm not the biggest fan of that title."
"No? I think it suits you. And your abilities."
"Thanks, I guess."
Asami drifted by and took his arm firmly. "If the guest rooms are as nice as the rest of this place, I think we'll have done very well for ourselves this trip. Not an uncomfortable bed yet."
"You're very subtle," he replied jokingly.
Mako smirked as Bolin kept looking over his shoulder back at Opal as they moved further away from her. Korra had fallen in beside Lin.
"Why do you have such a problem with your sister?" she asked. "Come on. We can stay a little while."
Lin growled but said nothing in response.
"Guys, come on! Let's go explore." Bolin said loudly.
Everyone had gotten settled in nicely to their rooms and Kuvira had left them alone till evening. But before anyone had had a chance to really relax, Bolin had dragged them all out again.
"What is there left to see, Bo?" Mako said in slight annoyance.
"So much! Like… like-"
"Buddy," Ichigo interrupted. "The only thing left to see more of is Opal. We all know you just wanna happen to coincidentally run into her."
"That is… not true!"
"Okay, Bolin."
"I'm serious! Ugh, whatever, man. Just come on."
"I don't mind walking around some more," Korra admitted. "This place is amazing."
"The architecture is stunning," said Uryu.
"You think so, huh? Why don't you go hang out with the emo art guy, then? You both can work on his… what was it again?"
"A banana," Bolin said helpfully.
"That's right, his banana."
Uryu blanched. "If you want to get rid of me, you can just say so. I understand that I'm new and don't exactly enhance or fit the group dynamic."
"No, no, no!" Korra defended. "That's not what I meant at all. I just thought you'd have more fun with him than with us."
"Just because you can't hold a sophisticated conversation doesn't mean he should leave," Ichigo said dryly.
"Hey!"
"Guys, come on," Mako groaned. "You're gonna make me go back to my room. Let's just go hang out and have fun."
"I'm with Mako on this one," Asami said. "Stop making this awkward."
"I'm not making it awkward!" Korra protested.
"You kind of are. You pretty much told Uryu to buzz off."
"No, I didn't. Uryu, you know that's not what I mean- oh he's gone."
Uryu was walking off by himself. "I solved the awkwardness for you," he threw over his shoulder.
"God's sake," Ichigo muttered. "Hold up!" He jogged after his friend. "Sorry about that. I know Korra said yesterday welcome to Team Avatar and everything, but she still sucks at interacting with people she doesn't vibe with."
"Don't apologise," Uryu replied. "I'm not great at fitting into groups either."
"You did back home. I thought we were a good group at least."
"Home, huh? Think you'll ever go back?"
"I mean I don't think I can. The Spirit Portals are open but Harmonic Convergence is over. I'm stuck here."
"By that logic, I'm stuck here as well."
"Yeah, I guess you are. But if Soi Fon came here to capture or kill us, surely she must have a plan to get back."
"Bingo. I've been thinking about that for days. There is a way to go back, there must be. Unless she's just a crazed maniac who doesn't care whether she gets back as long as she kills you."
"Which she isn't. Unless Yoruichi's around, she's actually pretty intelligent."
"Agreed. Which makes her all the more dangerous because nearly all your friends here are stupid."
"Hey."
"You know it's true. Korra is an loud-mouthed idiot, Bolin is a clown, Mako's dumber than he thinks he is and Asami-"
"Is smart as hell. She runs a massive company, she's smart. Trust me."
"Alright but that's one smart person out of four. The worst part is that none of them seem to care we're being chased by criminals and killers. Even you've been complacent, Kurosaki. Don't try and deny it."
"Okay, you've got a point. I'm just having a lot of fun that's all. I spent months and months stuck between staying here and going home. The year before that I was just struggling to remember who I was and who I wanted to be. And after all that I ended up being responsible for thousands of deaths. My time here hasn't been easy. I want to enjoy myself, at least for a little while. Isn't that fair?"
"It's fair. But is it right? Listen, I get that you've been through hard times and I appreciate that you're trying to get your new friends to accept me. But you don't have to. I'm not here to make friends. I came here with a mission to inform you of what's coming and to save you if I can. That's what I promised Rukia I'd do. There are bigger things out there than just having fun."
"Obviously, I know that," Ichigo snapped back with annoyance. "But Suyin said it herself, we're in the safest city in the world." He sighed. "But that won't stop Soi Fon."
"No. No, it won't."
He stopped walking and gazed out over the view. The sun was on it's way behind the mountains and it had bathed the valley in an ethereal golden glow. The metal of the city shimmered in its light and reflected it brilliantly. A flow of birds cawed overhead and Ichigo took a deep breath of the fresh, late afternoon air.
"Wouldn't be such a bad place to settle down," he said wistfully. "Forget about your problems, forget about wars or assassins and just live in peace." Ichigo shook his head. "Sorry. That was cheesy. Not like me at all."
"It's alright. I don't care enough to make fun of you for it."
Ichigo chuckled then paused again. "If I really think about it, I don't want to leave this world. I have everything I want here. A home, good friends, an amazing girlfriend, opportunities to do great things… but then I remember. There's people back home who need me. My sisters… Rukia. How can I be so complacent and say that I want to have fun or settle down while Rukia's in a jail cell? Like am I serious? What the hell, man?" He gritted his teeth. "Damn it. Now I'm torn again. But I can't help her. I have no idea how to get back." Ichigo yelled in frustration.
Uryu put his hand on his shoulder. "She's not alone in Soul Society. There are people there who won't let her die, you know that. Her wish was for you to be safe. That's what she cares about. I think you should honour that wish."
Ichigo nodded. "You're right. She's not alone. And it's not just me who wants to save her. I… I trust them. Renji, Byakuya, Yoruichi, anyone else who's on our side."
Uryu gave a small smile. "You've grown, Kurosaki, you know that? Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. The choice to trust others takes a lot of courage. This world has matured you."
Ichigo chuckled slightly. "Well, I have been here for ten thousand years so I sure hope it has."
Ichigo opened the door to his and Asami's room to find Korra sprawled out on the bed while Asami sat in front of a mirror, adding the final touches to her makeup before dinner. The two of them were talking and laughing so loudly that they didn't even notice him coming in. He rapped his hand on the door sarcastically and cleared his throat.
"Am I interrupting girl time?"
"Oh, hey, he's finally back!" Korra said.
"Hey, babe," said Asami, "I want you to help me pick out an outfit for tonight. And how's my makeup?"
"Yeah, Ichigo, we wanna hear your thoughts."
"Guys, come on," he complained. "Leave me alone for a second." He pulled off his coat and tossed it over a chair. "Why are you even on the bed anyway…"
"Because it's comfy!"
"Yeah, but that's our bed."
"So what?" Asami said. Done with her makeup, she jumped onto the bed next to Korra who laughed and put her arm around her. "We can share."
"You guys are so weird." Ichigo rolled his eyes and sat down on a couch facing away from them. The two girls continued laughing and whispering to each other. He did his best to ignore them and crossed his arms grumpily.
"Hey, Ichigo," Korra said playfully. "You better get over here before I steal your girl."
"Shut up," he replied. "Aren't you supposed to be training Opal?"
"Oh, right."
"Yeah, exactly." He got up, went to the side of the bed and grabbed her arm, pulling her roughly to her feet. "Now get out of here and go do your job."
"Alright, alright, I'll leave," she giggled. At the door, she turned and waved. "Bye Asami, bye Ichigo. I'll be back before you know it."
"You better not be."
"See y'all at dinner!"
Ichigo let loose a small sigh of relief as she shut the door behind her. Asami snickered cutely.
"Aw, why'd you have to ruin our fun?" she joked.
"Your 'fun' was just you guys teasing me," he complained.
"That's not true. Okay, maybe a little bit. You're an easy target, babe."
"Okay, Prissy."
She tossed a pillow at him. "Oh, lighten up! We might as well have a good time here while we can."
"I am lightened up. Actually, I've been way too lightened up. We need to start taking the threats coming after us more seriously."
"Has Uryu been talking to you?"
"What's that got to do with it?"
"So, he has."
"Yes."
"Ichigo, he's only here because of the threat, and it's all he'll ever talk about. If you listen to him, you'll talk like him too."
"You don't know these people like I do, Asami."
She got off the bed. "No, but I know you. And I know you are more than a match for any threat that comes after us."
He looked down. "I wasn't against Vaatu."
Asami sighed slightly and caressed his cheek. "But you will be now. Come on, let's get ready for dinner. I have a few outfits I want you to judge, okay?"
Ichigo nodded and smiled. "Okay."
It was a gorgeous evening In Zaofu as the sun set, bathing the stone mountains in a glorious golden and orange glow. Off to the side of the mansion was a large garden strip that surrounded two grassy areas which straddled a stone walkway. At the end of the walkway was a quiet waterfall that flowed into the rivers of the valley below.
Korra and Opal were standing on the walkway where Korra was going to give her first lesson.
"Okay," she said, hands on her hips. "Let's see what you got."
"I'm not very good," said Opal meekly.
"That's okay. I've never been a teacher before, so, we're in the same boat." She demonstrated a stance. "You want to keep your elbows in, torso straight, feet just skimming the ground. Why don't you try it with me?"
Opal nodded and the two of them began pacing around each other in a circle, keeping their arms up and moving in elegant, smooth motions. Slowly, they began to bend, swirling the air around them gently and gracefully like a dance.
"Wow," said Korra, "you're a natural."
"You really think so? Thanks," Opal smiled.
"I do. Believe me, I couldn't airbend for years and even with Tenzin training me, it took me losing my connection to the other elements for me to finally unlock my airbending."
"Really? That's encouraging, I guess, if even you struggled to learn at first. How did you lose your connection to the other elements? That sounds so frightening!"
"It was," Korra admitted. "But that's a long story. I'll tell you another time. Now, let's run that sequence again."
Back at Air Temple Island, Ikki and Meelo were taking the new airbenders through some familiar exercises. A group of tall, flat, wooden, boards were stood randomly on small rotating pedestals within a circle. With a burst of air, the boards began to spin and the object of the exercise was to make your way through the boards without hitting a single one, like a leaf.
Safe to say, none of their new recruits were having any luck.
"You call yourself an airbender?" Mello demanded as the latest trainee was knocked out of the circle onto her backside. "Disgraceful!" He pointed at Daw, indicating it was his turn. The jittery man lasted about two seconds. "Be the leaf!" Meelo shouted.
"But I don't know what that means!" Daw protested.
Zaheer walked by the two of them and entered the circle, spinning and flipping his way through the gates and out the other side with ease. Impressed, Kya took notice and moved over with interest.
Meelo grinned. "Now that man's a leaf."
Zaheer smiled and bowed. "A student is only as good as his master."
"Great news!" Kya announced. "I just got a message from Tenzin. He's with a whole group of other airbenders at the Northern Temple and he wants all of you to join them! We leave first thing in the morning."
"And the Avatar is with them?" Zaheer asked, a little too eagerly.
"No, apparently she had to split off from Tenzin."
"That's unfortunate. I was really looking forward to meeting her."
"So, if that guy wasn't lying, the Avatar lives on that island over there," Izuru said.
"Yeah," said Iba. "What'd he call it? Air Tent Island?"
"Air Temple Island, I think," Omaeda replied. "Say, this is a nice arena, isn't it?"
"Yeah, this must be where all the fun happens in this city."
"Let's stay on task," Izuru instructed. "The docks are over there. Let's get a boat and get to the island. Doesn't look like anyone's watching them; we can just steal one."
The three of them hopped into a little rowboat and Omaeda powered them across the waves with the oars. The island began to loom closer and closer and the Soul Reapers began to look around to see if anyone was going to stop them. They were wide out in the open water. But then they noticed an abundance of boats moored against the island's docks. Evidently, it was a popular place at the moment.
They rocked up against the docks and tied the boat securely. Then, taking care to be as quiet as possible, they stole onto the island and into the foliage, alongside the main path. Two men dressed in white robes walked right past them to the docks followed by a woman in blue. The Soul Reapers kept their keen eyes on the three and listened in intently.
"What did you call us down here for, Lady Kya?" One of the men asked.
"It's that new airbender. I don't trust him and he's rubbing me the wrong way. I want you to keep an eye on him," she replied.
"What about him bothers you?"
"He's… like a hawk. Intense, strangely skilled at airbending and I can tell there's something devious behind his smile. I can see it in his eyes. He perked up quite a bit when I mentioned the Avatar. If I'm being honest, I don't think it's a bad thing she was kicked out of the city."
"Hmm. We'll watch out for him. Where is the Avatar now, anyway? Still in Ba Sing Se?"
"No. They left Ba Sing Se not too long ago. They're in Zaofu now," Kya sighed. "I sure hope this journey's been good for Ichigo. Hopefully it's taken his mind off of what happened back in his world."
"The Reaper?"
"Yeah."
"I swear I'll never understand that guy."
Kya smiled. "He's an enigma. That's for sure. But he's a damn good kid. I don't want to see this bring him down."
The three of them headed up the path, leaving the Soul Reapers in the bushes. They looked at each other buy kept silent until they were fully alone.
"Zaofu," said Izuru. "We have a location."
Omaeda grinned. "Let's get this news to the captain!"
With the sun now set, and the moon in full view of the city, the metal shields of Zaofu closed up on the five main areas, encasing them entirely and protecting them from any foreign attacks. Inside the mansion, everyone had gathered in the dining hall and sat round an enormous table shaped like a "U".
Korra, Suyin, and Lin sat at the head of the table, Lin clearly not wanting to be there. On the right wing of the table sat Ichigo, Asami, Uryu and Huan. At the other wing was Mako, Bolin, Opal, and the twins, Wing and Wei. The chef of the household clasped his hands together with a proud smile as he announced their menu.
"Tonight," he began, "for your dining pleasure, I present a seared, wild Kyoshi elephant-koi, paired with a ginger-infused pea tendril, and hibiscuses root salad."
"Stunning," said Suyin.
Ichigo looked at it quizzically. "Sounds rich," he mumbled.
Asami smirked. "You'll get used to it one day."
An older man appeared in the door frame with a younger man behind him. "Sorry, dear," he said, "I'm going to have to take dinner in my office. I just had a major breakthrough on the tram station remodel."
"Well, don't let me stand in the way of inspiration," Suyin smiled.
"You're the best!"
"That was my brilliant architect of a husband, Bataar, and our oldest son. He engineers all my husband's projects."
"Five kids, what a nightmare," Lin muttered.
"No, my children are a blessing."
"Yeah, Mom used to say that too but she never meant it."
Bolin took a large bite of his food. "Mmm, I have to admit, I was pretty skeptical when he said, 'pea tendril', but this is delicious!"
Opal laughed. "I know, right? I don't think I've ever had a bad meal in my life."
"Oh, I had plenty when Mako and I were living on the streets. I mean you'd be surprised how bad food from a dumpster can be."
"I'm sorry, I didn't know."
"No, no, it's okay, it's okay. That's all in the past; things are great now. I got to be a pro-bender, fought against a dangerous revolution, became a mover star, and now I'm helping the Avatar rebuild a whole nation!"
"Wow. Your life sounds so exciting," she gushed.
Asami nudged Ichigo. "Those two are cute."
He glanced up. "Hmm? Oh. I guess so, yeah." Glancing to his left, he saw Uryu was in deep conversation with Huan, most likely about their art. Well, at least he made one friend here, he thought to himself. Hopefully it'll allow him to relax a little bit. At least until Soi Fon eventually finds us.
"How's your search for the new airbenders going?" Suyin asked Korra.
"Honestly, not great," Korra admitted. "We had to rescue a whole group of them from the Earth Queen."
"Oh, she's horrible!" Suyin exclaimed. "She thinks she can just do whatever she wants."
"Sounds familiar," Lin remarked sarcastically.
"What?"
"Nothing."
"I mean the idea of even having a Queen is so outdated. Don't you agree, Korra?"
"I… I haven't really thought about it too much," Korra said.
"Well, you should start. The world is evolving and the Earth Queen can evolve with it. Step aside."
"And who would replace her?" Ichigo questioned. "One bad ruler doesn't mean the whole system should come crashing down."
"It's not about who, it's about what. You saw what happened in Republic City after the Equalist Revolution. The Bending Council was disbanded in favour of a new, democratically elected President. Besides Tenzin, the council was incompetent. From what I've heard, they all just listened to Tarrlok and went along with whatever he said. And we all know how that turned out."
"Okay, but Republic City isn't exactly any better than it used to be. The Equalist Revolution failed because we put a stop to it and exposed Amon as a bender himself, not because a non-bending President was put in place by the United Republic. Besides, Raiko is a complete tool. Everybody knows that."
"I didn't say that the change in system would be an instant success," Suyin defended. "But it's an step in the right direction. It's progressive."
"Hey, everyone," Lin said mockingly, "my little sister is an expert on world affairs now."
Suyin scowled. "You want to talk about what's really bugging you because I'm right here!"
Lin glowered but didn't say anything.
"Sorry we're late, everyone!" a loud voice said from behind.
Bolin spat out his drink. "Varrick!"
The enigmatic business mogul flashed a toothy grin and sat down comfortably next to Asami while his ever-present assistant Zhu-Li stood by the door. Team Avatar all looked shocked but Varrick spread his arms in greeting as if he hadn't been in prison the last time they'd seen him.
"What are you doing here?" asked Asami.
"Great question, Asami!" He said. "I mean… what are any of us doing here? Wow. Food for thought. Anywho, how's our company doing?"
"You mean my company? Future Industries reverted back to me after you plotted to abduct the President."
"Allegedly plotted to abduct the President. Never convicted!"
"Uh, that's because you escaped prison," Mako threw in.
"No, the universe decided to set me free. At first, I figured the police would be hot on my tail; or even the Reaper himself. Looking depressed as usual, Ichigo, good to see ya, buddy. You're still my star guy. Besides Bolin, of course. Anyways, nobody came after me so I looked up my old friend Suyin here, pitched her a few ideas, and BAM! We're in business together!"
"Varrick's heading up my new technology division," said Suyin.
"I've seen the future. And the future is… magnets. I'm working on a high-speed rail that'll revolutionize transportation and shipping as we know it. But that's not all, I'm-"
"Alright, enough!" Lin shouted, getting up from her seat. "I'm trying to keep the Avatar safe and you're harbouring a criminal?!"
"Ease up, Lin," Suyin defended. "Sure, Varrick's made a few mistakes in his past but that doesn't mean he should pay for it the rest of his life. My chef was a pirate, but now he's a culinary master. People change."
"You haven't!" Lin tossed aside her chair and stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind as she went.
Inside their guest house, Mako and Bolin were in the bathroom, brushing their teeth and freshening themselves up for the evening.
"So," Mako said, "you and Opal seemed to hit it off at dinner. I think she's really into you."
"Yeah, you know, she's sweet and pretty and super nice," Bolin acknowledged. "Too bad she's not my type."
"Right, I forgot," Mako chuckled. "Your type is dumb mover star or psycho ice princess."
Bolin spit out his toothpaste. "You know, that hurts a little bit. Right here." He eyed himself in the mirror and ran his hand through his hair. "Maybe you're right, bro. Maybe Opal is Bolin material. Thanks." He winked at himself. "Yeah!"
Ichigo and Asami headed down away from the main mansion to the guest houses. It was a cool, dark evening, especially under the metal covering that blocked out the sky. Asami was tired so he had decided to walk her back down to the house so she could get some rest.
"Suyin was right," Asami remarked. "This feels like the safest place in the world. We're in a valley, surrounded by mountains and the city closes up every night. No one gets in or out."
"There's always a way," Ichigo replied. "Where there's a will, there's a way."
"You think Soi Fon could get in here if she wanted to?"
"Absolutely. But then she'd be met with all the guards which wouldn't be fun and by then we'd be gone so overall, this place isn't so bad. Better than Republic City that's for sure. I can't understand why Beifong thinks she can protect Korra there."
"Yeah, everything's wide open there, especially Air Temple Island."
"She needs to resolve her family issues, first off. She's making things awkward and unenjoyable for everyone else."
Asami shrugged. "Those things take time. I think you and me know that more than most."
"Yeah, maybe. You ever think about your Dad?"
"I try not to," she admitted. "It just makes me lose focus, gets me emotional. I'm far happier now that he's out of my life, even happier than before I knew he was an Equalist. But that's because of you, of course. And our other friends."
He smiled. "I'm glad you're happy."
"What about you? Ever think about your Dad?"
Ichigo nodded. "Sometimes. Sometimes I wonder what really happened, why he really sent me here. He sent me on a mission but I don't know what it is. He got so angry when I told him that. It obviously was important."
"Maybe it's better you don't remember. Maybe you've actually completed the mission, but don't know it yet."
"Wouldn't that be convenient."
They arrived at the guest house and Asami opened the door. "You coming in?" she asked.
He shook his head. "I think I'm gonna walk around for a bit longer. You get some rest, Asami."
"Okay." She gave a faint smile. "Good night."
"Night."
She shut the door quietly and he turned away to walk down to the very edge of the platform and examine the metal covering. Sliding his hand along it, he could tell it was impressively strong, and thick. How will she come for us, he thought. How will she even find us? I've lived in this world for well over a year now and I'd never heard of this place. But I guess word travels fast when you're with the Avatar.
"It's perfectly safe," a voice behind him said.
Ichigo turned. It was the captain of the guard, Kuvira. She stood on a flight of steps above him and slowly made her way down.
"Doesn't hurt to make sure," he replied.
"What are you scared of?" she asked.
"Nothing. But there are two groups of assassins coming after us. Can't be too careful."
"This city's never been attacked, much less conquered."
"Assassins don't conquer things. They don't need to. By the time the war starts, they're already gone, their business already dealt with."
Kuvira chuckled and sat down on the bottom step. "They're cowards then. They flee with the first chance they get."
"Oh, I don't think they see it that way."
"Of course they don't. A coward has always got an excuse."
"Soi Fon is no coward," he said darkly. "She's a soldier at heart. And a damn good one too."
"You defend the person coming to kill you?"
He looked down. "We were allies once."
"Oh? Tell me more."
"Nah. You wouldn't find it interesting."
She spread her hands. "Try me."
"Maybe another time." He strode past her up the steps. "Have a good evening, Captain."
Inside Suyin's luxurious study room, there was a small-scale replica of the city of Zaofu upon her coffee table. Korra stared down at it in amazement. Every pristine surface, every minor detail, had been etched to perfection into this model. On every shelf, every desk and surface area around the study there was a souvenir or memento of some kind, items from all over the world.
Suyin smiled at her and sat down on a couch. "You know, before I built this city, there was nothing here," she said. "I wanted to make my mark on the world."
"It's amazing," Korra replied genuinely. "Thank you for being so welcoming. And I'm sorry for how Lin's been acting. Can I ask what happened with you two?"
"It's complicated," Suyin said, sounding tired as she rolled back the years in her mind. "We didn't have a normal childhood. Neither of us knew our fathers and Toph was always busy being Chief of Police. Because Mom grew up in such a strict household, she gave us all the freedom in the world, hoping we'd figure out our own paths."
"That sounds like a good thing."
"And in a way, it was. But we both ended up fighting for Mom's attention. Lin followed in her footsteps and became a cop. I was… more of a rebel. Mom wasn't too happy with how either of us turned out. When I was sixteen, I left home to explore the world. I sailed the seas on a pirate ship, joined a travelling circus for a while, and lived in a sandbender commune in the desert. It took me a while but, I finally realized what I was looking for was a family. So I bought this plot of land, found a brilliant architect who later became my husband and created a place I could truly call home."
"It sounds like you've created the perfect life here."
"Almost. I've always wanted Lin to be a part of it but I gave up hope long ago of her ever coming around."
Despite the metal covering of the city, it was not totally dark. Dim lights attached to the top of the covering illuminated the mansion and it's surrounding areas. Beneath a sleek, metal gazebo, Opal was practicing her airbending. Keeping her mind focused on what Korra taught her, she went through the movements, almost allowing the air to become an extension of herself.
"Hey, little lady," said a voice from behind her. It was Bolin. With an obnoxiously sultry look in his eyes, he leaned against the edge of the gazebo. "Wow. You're really blowing me away with your airbending…" he made a bunch of wooshing noises to prove his point.
Opal frowned in annoyance. "Why are you acting weird?"
"Why are you acting weird?"
"I don't like how you're talking to me." She turned and walked away.
Act dropped, Bolin hurried after her and used his normal voice. "Look, I'm sorry. I just get really self-conscious when I know a girl likes me and I end up acting stupid."
"Who said I liked you?"
"Oh no! But I thought- Mako said!"
Opal giggled. "Just kidding. But do me a favour and stop trying. Well, don't stop trying but stop trying so much. Just be yourself."
"Huh. Be myself… Yeah, I guess I could give that a shot!"
The two of them stared in each other's eyes until Korra approached them and cleared her throat.
Opal gasped. "Oh, hey, Korra," she fumbled.
"Can I steal you away from Bolin for a minute? I need your help with something."
Late that night, on Air Temple Island, Zaheer crept quietly throughout the house. Mostly everyone was asleep so he had no problem sneaking out of the sleeping quarters. Staying light on his toes, he entered what appeared to be Tenzin's study room or personal meditation room.
To his left was a little fountain where water trickled in and out through the small creek outside the house. To his right was a small shrine where a golden statue was sat next to some incense. At the foot of the statue was a golden locket. Zaheer picked it up and read out some kind of mantra or proverb written inside.
"Let go your earthly tether. Enter the void. Empty, and become wind."
"What are you doing?" Zaheer turned to see Ikki looking concerned. "No one's allowed in Daddy's study, except Daddy."
He bent down in front of her. "I'm sorry. I couldn't sleep."
"What were you reading?"
"A poem by Guru Laghima: the wisest Airbender who ever lived."
"Ikki," Kya said, entering the room, "you should be in bed."
Ikki nodded. "Good night."
"Good night," Zaheer replied.
Kya eyed him with suspicion. "You seem to know an awful lot about Airbender history for someone who just got airbending."
"I've always admired the culture."
"And you moved through those gates like a natural."
"Maybe I am a natural."
"Right. Where did you say you were from again?"
"A small village up north. You've probably never heard of it."
Kya narrowed her eyes. "Wait… Zaheer!"
Instantly, she drew water from the fountain and attacked but Zaheer was even faster, flipping away just in time. She spun the water around her like a hula hoop, firing blocks of ice at her enemy. Zaheer rolled to the side and grabbed a spare staff from the shrine. Striking through her attacks with it, he maneuvered his way to the nearest window and launched himself out of it onto the rooftops.
Kya gave chase. "I need some help!" she called.
Zaheer opened the staff to reveal a glider and quickly flew off to escape but Kya caught hold of him with an arm of water and flung him powerfully back down into the creek, knocking the glider out of his hands.
Jumping away from her ice, Zaheer got out of the water and dove for the glider but she forced it away. He leapt back as Kya cannoned forward and caught her with an airkick to the gut, winding her painfully. Making another move for the glider, he was stopped by two White Lotus guards who entered the fray, flinging plumes of fire at him.
Zaheer rolled away and pulled the glider towards himself with airbending before nullifying their combined attacks and sending them both hurtling into a wall. Kya, back on her feet, tore a huge wave out of the creek and swirled it around her in two diagonal circles.
The two of them faced off and Kya moved first, combining the circles into one, dynamic attack that would have felled any normal bender. But Zaheer, light on his feet as always, stepped away from it and unleashed a blast of air from the staff that blew Kya back through a wall into the house.
"Sorry I won't be joining you at the Northern Air Temple," he snarled. "I'm afraid I have other plans." With that, he opened the glider again and flew off into the night.
"Zaofu," Soi Fon said slowly.
Having met up with the other Soul Reapers, they'd informed her of what they'd learned at Air Temple Island. All of them, including Yumi were standing at the docks where they'd agreed to meet up at the dead of night. For the most part, the docks were quiet; the only real noise came from the arena on the other side of the bay.
"Did you get any other information?" she continued.
Iba shook his head. "No. They were suspicious of someone on the island and were concerned about Ichigo and his mental state or something."
Soi Fon scoffed. "Mental state? He committed genocide and they're concerned about that?"
"Maybe that's why he fits in here," Omaeda said. "The people here don't have real emotions like we do so he gets a pass even when he does horrible things."
"I don't think it's that simple," Izuru mused.
Yumi crossed her arms. "So you don't think I have emotions, huh?"
Omaeda blushed. "Oh, sorry. I forgot you were from here."
"You just met me…"
"Sorry…"
"Focus!" Soi Fon snapped. "Yumi, can you get us there?"
She hesitated and then nodded eventually. "Yeah. I used to work for some corporate heavy hitters. I know all the trade routes these big cities use. Zaofu is very secluded but even they have an import-export system. They wouldn't be able to survive without it. Most of these trades routes are between Republic City, Ba Sing Se and Omashu but a select few of them go to Zaofu as well. I've been using these routes both legally and illegally for years. I can smuggle you into Zaofu. In return, you help me wipe out the Triads in Republic City."
Soi Fon nodded. "Deal."
They headed away from the docks to Yumi's holdout underground where they planned to stay the night and work on the task of getting to Zaofu in the morning. The streets were quiet. It appeared that with the onset of the vines and also the recent attack from Vaatu, the people of Republic City were hesitant to go out in fear of the unknown.
Yumi led them to a sewer drainage area where rainwater would run down a slope and then through a large grate into the city sewers. To their surprise a dark, imposing truck was parked right next to the grate. It didn't look like anyone was using it but the only windows were the windscreen, and the driver and passenger ones. The back of the truck was totally covered up.
"This wasn't here when I left this morning," Yumi muttered.
Omaeda went over to it and looked inside. "There's no one here," he said.
"Just leave it," Izuru said. "It doesn't matter."
"My, my, what do we have here?"
Everyone whirled around at the voice. An immensely tall woman was standing at the entrance to the drainage area with her hands on her hips, her long shadow casting an intimidating figure on the ground beside them. The back doors to the truck swung open revealing a scruffy, long-haired man and a sullen-looking woman with stubs for arms.
"P'Li," the man growled. "You're supposed to be on watch duty so we can sleep. What were you doing?"
She shrugged. "Taking a walk around downtown. It's been so long since I've been here, you know. Had to see the sights."
"Right, because a seven-foot woman walking around Republic City isn't going to draw attention, you idiot."
"I'm not seven feet!"
"Whatever!" he turned to Soi Fon and the others. "Sorry, guys, y'all were probably just curious about the truck."
"But you should probably leave us be. Right now." The other woman said darkly.
"What should we do, Captain?" Iba asked.
The tall woman scoffed. "Captain? That shrimp? That's your captain?"
"P'Li…" the man warned. "Don't cause a scene."
Soi Fon smiled. In an instant, she had P'Li on the ground with her sword pointed straight at her neck. The larger woman looked shell-shocked. She hadn't even seen Soi Fon move much less realized she'd been punched in the stomach and then had her legs taken out from under her.
The man and woman moved to help their ally but then Soi Fon sheathed her sword. "Let's go, everyone," she said. One by one, they filed out of the sewer drainage and back out onto the street.
"Hey!" the man yelled. "Who are you people?"
"Now who's the curious one?" Soi Fon threw back.
"You sure we shouldn't just deal with them, Captain?" Omaeda asked.
"Don't fret, Lieutenant. I'm sure we'll see them again."
Knock, knock, knock!
Lin put down her newspaper at the sound coming from her door. Her lips were screwed in an unhappy expression. She didn't like being disturbed, especially late at night.
"Who is it?" she asked gruffly.
The door opened, revealing Korra and Opal.
"Hey," Korra ventured, "I brought someone who wants to talk to you."
Lin folded up the newspaper and put it down on the coffee table. "You want to talk? Then talk."
"I'm sorry being here has been so hard for you," Opal said. "When you showed up, I was so excited to get to know you. I'd heard so many great things about you from Mom and Grandma Toph. So I guess I was kind of sad that you didn't want to get to know me. Believe me, I know my family can be a little crazy and overwhelming sometimes, but I would love it so much if you would be a part of it," she finished gently.
Lin wouldn't make eye contact. "Get out."
Opal started in surprise. "Sorry. Did I say something wrong?"
"Get out!" Lin repeated angrily.
Opal burst into tears and ran out of the room.
"What the hell is your problem?" Korra demanded. "Don't get mad at Opal. I asked her to talk to you because I thought it would help you snap out of whatever funk you're in. I guess I was wrong."
Lin got up. "Why don't you focus on fixing the world, and stop trying to fix my family!"
"Su's right. You're never going to change. You're always going to be a bitter, lonely woman."
Korra turned and left, leaving Lin to put her head in her hands and cry.
Ichigo and Uryu sat together quietly atop the roof of one of the guest houses looking up at the metal coverings and the dim lights far above them. The city and mansion were quiet; mostly everyone had already gone to bed. There must've been air filtration from outside because the air inside was still fresh and not stuffy at all despite them being in a closed area.
Below them, they saw Opal leaving one of the guest houses in tears and Korra followed quickly to console her and lead her back into the main mansion. Ichigo sighed deeply.
Uryu glanced over. "You going to see what's up?"
Ichigo shook his head. "Nah. Looks like Korra's taking care of it." He lolled his head back and looked straight up. "Ever since you mentioned how complacent I've been, I can't shake this feeling. It's like… I'm in a limbo of sorts. I can't really describe it. You know, for two weeks I was obsessed with my guilt over killing all those people. I meditated for hours every day to try and remember what happened and try to work through it in my mind."
"You don't seem to be hung up on that anymore," Uryu commented.
"I'm not sure. Everyone's advice was for me to find some kind of purpose. They all thought that would help me."
"And have you found it?"
"I'm not sure about that either. I've found my place, I know that. My place is here with my friends, and with Asami. I don't think I can afford to be split between two worlds again. That almost ruined everything."
"But you haven't found your purpose."
"…No. I don't think so."
"That limbo you mentioned, I feel it too. I think it's the calm before the storm. The city's pretty safe, most of us are having a good time, but it won't last. And even in paradise, there are imperfections," he nodded in the direction of where the weeping Opal had gone inside.
"Strife," Ichigo agreed. "Strife and unforgiveness."
"We can't let those internal issues distract us from the real threat."
"Yeah. But you, me and Korra can beat Soi Fon in a straight up fight. I don't care how rusty I may be."
"I'm not too sure this will be a straight up fight. They're assassins, after all. Whatever the case, we must be ready for them and expect them at any time."
"We will be. I'm sure of it."
And that's the end! A bit more of a quieter chapter this time, the calm before the storm as they said. Tell me your thoughts! School is starting up again for me next month but I'll continue to do my best to get a chapter out every month. Thanks for reading!
Comment from Lucifer's assassin: wonderful chapter its nice to hear that the schedule is working for you
Reply: Thanks!
Comment from Raximus: Yumi just begs for Soi Fon to use torture to get information doesn't she, lol.
Love, how Uryuu is the voice of sense and intelligence at how he points that the queen does not enlist the airbenders.
Reply: Yeah haha, Uryu's seen all this before he knows how things work
Comment from anoyak111: The earth queen is ruthless. Finally got to see some of the fallout with isshin, so that was nice. Overall this chapter was great. I'm really excited for team avatar to fight soi fon. At this point ichigo and asami should be away from bolin. Always ruining the moment.
Reply: Thanks! Ahaha Bolin will always find them wherever they go
Comment from thestormwriter123: The chapter was really great, but Isshins charectarisation has been a little off , considering his actually personality. He would never give up on any member of his family. It's will probably be explained when the full back story is revealed I guess. Apart from that though, the chapter was spot on.
Reply: Yeah I understand your point, from day 1 I've been writing Isshin's characterization differently but it hasn't been fully revealed yet why he's so afraid and why he sent Ichigo there
Comment from IrishKatana: I see Kyotaku and Ukitake joining the rebels
Reply: You never know…
Comment AbyssDragonslayer777: IchiKorrSami. Hope it happens and can't wait for next chapter.
Reply: I mean there was kind of a IchiKorrSami scene in this chapter, just a little one
Comment from Uchiha Arashi: Ichigo... so weak
Reply: Okay haha
