It was a new day in Republic City. The sun's rays streamed through the window, hitting the Avatar's face. With a small groan, she sat up in bed and as she opened her eyes, she smiled as she saw the gang around her.
After what she experienced last night, she was glad to have friends like them who supported her at all times despite what happened earlier.
"Wake up, kids. It's morning already." said Korra shaking Littlefoot and Cera a little, who let out a groan as they opened their eyes, as did the others.
"Good morning, Korra." said Littlefoot.
"Did you have a scary sleepstory with Amon again?" asked Ducky.
"No and it was thanks to you." said Korra petting the head of Spike who licked the Avatar's face in response, causing her to giggle a little.
"Does that mean you're not afraid of him anymore?" asked Chomper.
"I'm still afraid of him, but with you by my side, I know I can handle it." said Korra with a smile.
"Of course you will. Because the best way to overcome fears is to be with friends who will help you overcome that fear." said Ruby.
"But still Amon could come back." said Petrie.
"Let him try. We already made him run once and we'll do it again." said Cera.
"Don't push your luck, Cera. You were lucky because he didn't expect non-human creatures to have the ability to bend. The next time we encounter him, he will be more prepared." said Korra.
"In that case, we'll have to get stronger." said Littlefoot.
"I agree. Well, let's get some breakfast, I have to go train for the next pro-bending match." said Korra getting out of bed.
"I thought you were meeting with Tarrlok's task force." said Chomper.
"In fact, I had thought about quitting. I don't think I like being in a group like this, without you. Besides I'm a Fire Ferret and I have responsibilities as such." said Korra.
"And how will Tarrlok take it when you tell him?" asked Littlefoot.
"We'll soon find out." said Korra.
"Hehe. I can't wait to see his face when you tell him." said Cera.
After that, they all went to have a nice breakfast and when they finished, they went to the pro-bending arena for the Fire Ferrets training session.
Weeks have passed since that and just as Korra said, she officially resigned from Tarrlok's task force, much to the surprise and frustration of the waterbender councilman.
He tried to get her to reconsider her decision, but she declared that she would no longer work with him.
After that, Korra focused all her attention on the approaching pro-bending tournament, so she had to train hard to make up for the time she had been absent.
In the pro-bending arena gym, Korra threw two water drops at Bolin who used an earth disk to block one while Mako used a fire kick to neutralize the other before throwing two fireballs at his brother who blocked them with earth disks.
The three of them happened to be in a triangular position so they could launch attacks together and defend themselves.
Korra threw a water jet at Mako which he dodged with a leap before throwing two fireballs at Korra and Bolin which they blocked with their respective elements. Mako then threw Bolin a curved fireball that he couldn't block in time and ended up getting knocked down just before he could throw an earth disc that hit Korra, who had just thrown Mako a water jet, knocking her down in the process and since Mako was distracted, he couldn't stop the water jet from hitting him and knocking him down.
In the end, all three ended up knocked down and lying on the ground, but then they sat up and laughed.
"What a good workout." said Littlefoot.
"Yeah. Maybe we could try something like that too." said Chomper.
"That would be fun. Yep, yep, yep." said Ducky.
Mako stood up as he took off his helmet.
"It's been great having you at so many back-to-back practices, Korra." said Mako as the rest of them stood up and took off their helmets.
"Feels good to be back, although Tarrlok isn't too happy about my leave of absence." said Korra.
"Hey, you joined the Fire Ferrets before you joined his task force." said Bolin.
"That's true. One thing comes before the other, and this comes before that." said Ruby.
"Okay, come on, team huddle time!" said Mako as the three of them huddled together with their heads touching each other. Bolin smiled at Korra who was flustered by that before smiling the same way at Mako who was confused by that. "It's our first match of the tournament tonight. I know the three of us haven't been a team for very long, but even so, the Fire Ferrets have never been this good. Are we ready?"
"We're ready!" said Korra and Bolin in unison.
"Not quite." said Asami who had arrived at the gym with a new shirt. "You'll need these."
"Hey, Asami." said Mako breaking away from the team to go to her.
"Good morning, sweetie." said Asami.
"Hey, Asami. You came." said Chomper.
"Sure, I had to give them the new uniforms." said Asami.
"New uniforms?" asked Petrie.
"If Future Industries are going to sponsor the team, they'll need better attire." said Asami.
"These new uniforms look great!" said Mako looking at the new uniform.
"You look great, champ!" said Asami before they both rubbed noses (an Eskimo kiss).
Korra pouted at their affection as the gang watched the moment curiously.
"Well, teammates." began Mako causing Korra to act normal again. "I'll see you before the match tonight. Asami and I have a lunch date." said Mako before leaving with Asami.
"Okay, we'll check you guys later, you know, we'll see you when we see ya." said Bolin saying goodbye.
Korra and the gang were about to leave as well when suddenly, Bolin slid in next to Korra.
"So, Korra. There they go." said Bolin.
"Yeah, we just watched them leave." said Ruby.
"Here we are, all alone in the gym, just you and me, two alone people. Together. Alone." said Bolin.
"Hello? We're here, you know?" asked Cera feeling ignored.
"What's happening to Bolin?" asked Ducky.
"It'll be that thing Ruby said about teenage stuff." said Littlefoot.
Unfortunately, Korra understood what Bolin was implying.
"Ah, I gotta head back to the air temple to train with Tenzin and the kids. See ya!" said Korra hurrying off with the gang, leaving the earthbender sad.
Later, Mako and Bolin were in their apartment, with the older brother preparing food while the younger brother tried to give Pabu a bath in a bucket full of water, which the animal didn't like.
"Work with me here, Pabu! You wanna look spic and span in your new uniform, don't you?" said Bolin trying to get Pabu into the bucket of water, but he kept resisting until finally, Bolin got him into the water, much to his disgrace. "So, what do you think of Korra, in a 'girlfriend' sort of way?" asked Bolin.
"She's great! But I think it makes more sense for me to go for Asami." said Mako.
"I was talking about a girlfriend for me! Leave some ladies for the rest of us!" said Bolin.
"I know, that's what I thought you meant." said Mako lying slightly.
"Well…?" asked Bolin.
"I don't know, Bo. It doesn't seem like a good idea for you to date Korra." said Mako.
"You just said she was great two seconds ago." said Bolin.
"Yeah, Korra is a great athlete and the Avatar and stuff, but I don't know if she's really 'girlfriend material'. She's more like a pal." said Mako.
"Bro, you're nuts! Korra and I are perfect for each other: she's strong, I'm strong; she's fun, I'm fun; she's beautiful, I'm gorgeous! Besides, I get along with the gang and that's a big plus for me. Okay, I don't care what you think, I'm gonna ask Korra out." said Bolin with a confident smile.
"Look, it just isn't smart to date a teammate, especially during the tournament. Keep your head out of the clouds and your priorities straight, okay?" asked Mako acting like a big brother.
"Yeah, yeah, I know, gah." said Bolin reluctantly accepting his brother's advice. "You know what I'm talking about, Pabu, I'm talking about real love."
Meanwhile, on Air Temple Island, with snow falling at night, Korra, Jinora, Ikki and the gang were busy placing food in a cage for the flying lemurs. Although Korra, who was the one on a ladder to drop off the fruit, grabbed a couple of them to give to Spike, who ate them very glad.
"So, how's it going with the tall, dreamy firebender boy? You've been spending a lot of time together lately." said Jinora as Korra came down the ladder.
"Oooh, yeah! Tell us all about the magical romance." said Ikki.
"What? Haha. Listen to you two, I-I'm not interested in Mako or any romantic stuff. *cough* Besides he's all into that prissy, beautiful, elegant, rich girl…" said Korra.
"But you still act a little weird when you're around Mako." said Littlefoot.
"And you look at him funny." said Chomper.
"You interested in Mako." said Petrie.
"In fact, you act just like my dad did when he met Tria." said Cera.
"Not to mention you look annoying when he's with Asami." said Ruby.
"Which I don't understand because Asami isn't a bad person. No, no, no." said Ducky.
"Okay, guys, I get it. But let's just pretend for a second I am interested in him. What would I do?" asked Korra.
"My dad once told me that threehorns duel and the strongest, wins." said Cera.
"My mother told me that they express what they feel with a very loud squeak." said Ducky as Spike nodded.
"Ooh! I just read a historical saga where the heroine fell in love with the enemy general's son, who's supposed to marry the princess. You should do what she did!" said Jinora.
"Tell me!" said Korra.
"She rode a dragon into battle and burned down the entire country. Then she jumped into a volcano. It was so romantic!" said Jinora.
"I don't know what's romantic about that because there's nothing romantic about it." said Ruby.
"Yeah, that's crazy." said Chomper.
"No, no, no! The best way to win a boy's heart is to brew a love potion of rainbows and sunsets that makes true lovers sprout wings and fly into a magical castle in the sky, where they get married and eat clouds with spoons and use stars as ice cubes in their moonlight punch. Forever and ever and ever!" said Ikki before jumping up while using the airbending to spin in mid-jump.
"That very weird and confusing." said Petrie.
"You're telling me." said Littlefoot as Spike let out a groan of confusion.
"I'm starting to prefer Cera's idea." said Korra.
Ikki
Republic City, the city of lovers
is glowing this evening.
True, that's because it's on fire
but still, there's 'l'amour'.
Somewhere out there in the night
his heart is also alight.
And I know the girl he just might be burning for.
A girl like you.
He's never known, kid.
A girl like you
a guy does not
meet every day.
You've got a look
That's all your own, kid
Could there be two...?
Jinora
Like you?
Jinora and Ikki
No way!
Ikki
Those other girls
that he could dangle.
All look the same
from every boring.
Point of view
you're a surprise.
From every angle
Mon Dieu above.
He's gotta love
a girl like you.
Jinora
A girl like you
gets extra credit
because it's true.
You've got a certain something more.
You see that face.
You don't forget it.
Want something new?
Ikki
That's you
Jinora and Ikki
for sure!
Jinora
We all have gaped
at some Adonis.
But then we crave a meal
more nourishing
to chew.
Ikki
And since you're shaped
like a croissant is.
Jinora and Ikki
No question of
he's gotta love
a girl like you!
Ikki
Call me a hopeless romantic
but Korra, I feel it.
Jinora
He wants you so, any moment
he'll walk through that door.
Jinora and Ikki
For
a girl so swell.
Ikki
A girl like you.
I tell you Korra.
With all you bring him
there never was
another, was he?
A fool could tell
it's why he fell.
From king to serf
to the bourgeoisie
For you-know-who.
We notice every string there.
Jinora e Ikki
You ring the bell.
You're the bell ringer!
When he wants ooh-la-la.
Then he wants you-la-la.
He will discover, girl.
You're one heck of a girl.
Who wouldn't love a girl
like...
you?
Ikki
You got a lot
the rest have not.
So he's gotta love
a girl like you!
As the song ended, someone could be heard laughing. Everyone turned to the side to see Pema nearby.
"Oh, hey Pema. Uh, how long were you standing there?" asked Korra.
"Long enough to see my daughters' musical talent. But trust me, I know what you're going through. Years ago I was in the exact the same situation, with Tenzin." said Pema moving closer.
"You mean you weren't Tenzin's first mate?" asked Chomper.
"Daddy was in love with someone else before you?" asked Ikki.
"That's right." said Pema.
"So what did you do?" asked Korra rather curiously.
"Well, for the longest time, I did nothing. I was so shy and scared of rejection, but watching my soulmate spend his life with the wrong woman became too painful." said Pema recounting events from the past.
"What happened next?" asked Littlefoot.
"That I hung my chin out there and I confessed my love to Tenzin. And the rest is history." said Pema.
"Wooow!" said the girls in unison, though Cera pouted.
Korra looked away thinking about Pema's story and smiled as she made up her mind.
Later in the evening, many people gathered at the pro-bending arena for the match.
"Folks, after a year of waiting the Pro-Bending Championship Tournament is finally here. Tonight is the first set of matches in our single elimination sixteen team bracket. And I gotta tell ya, these are the most tenacious and talented bending trios this arena has ever seen." said Shiro as the platform moved the Fire Ferrets onto the field.
Meanwhile, the gang was watching from the box.
"Come on, guys! You're the best! Yep, yep, yep!" shouted Ducky cheering the team on.
"Hey, what that about elimination bracket?" asked Petrie.
"It's a system where the winning team of one match will face the winning team of another match and so on until there are only 2 teams left of which one will come out on top." said Ruby.
"Which means that if Korra and the others want to win they have to beat all the opposing teams." said Littlefoot.
"That sounds a little difficult." said Chomper.
"They'll be able to handle it. They're tougher than they look." said Cera.
"Introducing our first team, the Future Industries Fire Ferrets! And their opponents, the Red Sands Rabaroos!" announced the announcer as the opposing all-girl team was led into the ring.
The two teams got into position with a serious and determined look on their faces. Soon after, the starting bell rang, but as soon as it rang, everyone threw their respective element into the same place, causing an explosion that sent them all tumbling backwards.
"What an explosive opening volley." said Shiro as the opposing team launched their respective elements while the Ferrets defended, though Korra had to duck to the side to dodge a fireball. "Both teams quickly recover and unleash a barrage of bending. I am astonished with the level of improvement displayed here by the Fire Ferrets."
Bolin threw an earthen disc at an opponent who was distracted blocking a stream of water, which caused the disc to hit her and send her into the back zone.
"No wonder the Avatar has been absent from the papers lately." said Shiro as the Ferrets advanced one zone.
"She's obviously had her nose to the grindstone in the gym." said Shiro as the two teams continued to launch attacks on each other and defend against opposing attacks.
"The Ferrets advance into Rabaroo territory and are holding nothing back." said Shiro just as Bolin threw a ground disc and a jet of water knocked down an opponent. "Nice sprawl there by Mako." Shiro said when the disc hit an opponent, pushing her backwards until she collided colliding with her partner before a fireball and an earth disc hit both, knocking them both down.
"Bolin strikes, Ula dodges, and all three Rabaroos are down. The Fire Ferrets easily take round one!" said Shiro as the final bell rang.
"Round two!" shouted the announcer just before the opening bell rang.
The second later, one of the opponents squirted a stream of water directly at Bolin.
"The Rabaroos are looking for payback and they go straight after Bolin." said Shiro as Bolin lifted an earthen disc to block another water jet.
"Korra comes to his defense and she water-whacks Umi back into zone two!" said Shiro as Korra jumped in front of Bolin and launched a jet of water that hit the waterbender, sending her rolling into the back area.
The firebender threw fireballs that Bolin dodged as Mako destroyed an incoming earth disc before jumping to dodge another while throwing a kicking fireball. He then ducked to dodge a water jet before launching more fireballs.
"The Ferrets are on fire tonight and they win round two." said Shiro.
"Round three!" shouted the announcer before the starting bell rang once more.
"With the Rabaroos down two rounds they'll need a knockout to win, and with the way the Fire Ferrets are playing I don't see that happening." said Shiro as one of the opponents was hit by a ground disc while Bolin dodged a water jet, stepping in front of Mako.
Bolin threw an earth disc and then ducked to allow Mako to throw a horizontal fire wave in mid-jump that hit an opponent, who was sent to the back area just like her partner.
"These Ferrets are working together like a well-oiled bending machine." said Shiro as Korra and Bolin continuously launched attacks from their respective elements.
One of the discs thrown by Bolin managed to hit another opponent, sending her into the back zone.
"Bolin passes Adi back into zone two and the Ferrets get the green light to advance." said Shiro as the Ferrets advanced forward.
The opposing team was overwhelmed by the continued attacks, unable to defend or counterattack.
"The Rabaroos are just fighting to stay at their feet at this point." said Shiro as the opposing team members were pushed back to the edge. "Out goes Adi, and Ula, and Umi!"
"All three rounds go to the Future Industries Fire Ferrets to win the opening match of the tournament!" said the announcer.
"Woohoo!" shouted Korra jumping for joy.
"Nice!" said Mako.
"That's what I'm talking about!" said Bolin before the three gathered in a group hug.
"Yeah, they done it!" said Petrie.
"They crushed 'em but good!" said Cera.
"That's because they've trained hard and they're great friends! Yep, yep, yep!" said Ducky.
As Bolin stayed behind to thank the spectators, Mako and Korra returned to the balcony as they removed their helmets.
"Wow, we were really connecting out there in that ring." said Mako.
"Yeah! You know, I feel like the two of us have been connecting really well out of the ring, too." said Korra a bit flushed.
The gang, understanding what she was planning to do, decided to stay away so as not to disturb them.
"Uh, sure." said Mako.
"So, I was thinking we should spend some time together." said Korra a little nervously.
"Oh, we've been spending lots of time together." said Mako.
"I mean outside of the gym, and not while searching for kidnapped family members or fighting chi blockers." said Korra still blushing.
"I don't know. Asami and I have..." said Mako thinking he knew what the Avatar was talking about.
"Look, I really like you and I think we are meant for each other!" said Korra quickly, confessing her feelings.
Mako turned around with a sad face as Korra quickly turned around and hid her face that had a blush of embarrassment.
"Korra, I'm really sorry, but I just don't feel the same way about you." began Mako.
"Forget I ever said anything." said Korra still blushing with embarrassment as she walked away a little.
Just then, Asami entered the room, as did Bolin.
"Congratulations, guys! You were so amazing out there." said Asami going to Mako's side and giving him a kiss.
Mako and Korra looked at each other sadly before the Avatar looked away and Mako smiled at his girlfriend before the two left.
The gang stood all the while watching the recent events and needless to say, they were quite surprised and at the same time confused.
"I don't understand humans." said Cera.
"Neither do I." said Ducky as Spike shook his head.
At that moment, Bolin approached Korra sporting a gallant smile.
"So, Korra, I was thinking, you and me, we could get some dinner together, sort of a date situation." said Bolin.
"Oh, that's really sweet, but I don't think so. I don't feel very date-worthy." said Korra.
"Are you kidding me? You're the smartest, funniest, toughest, buffest, talentedest, incrediblest girl in the world!" said Bolin causing the Avatar to blush and chuckle.
"You really feel that way about me?" asked Korra with a smile.
"I felt that way since the moment I saw you! Trust me, I know we're gonna have so much fun together." said Bolin.
"You know what? I could use some fun. Okay, sure!" said Korra feeling more encouraged.
"Yes! Who's the luckiest guy in the world? Right here, Bolin!" said Bolin walking out of the room with Korra, though she paused for a moment.
"Mind if you go off by yourselves?" asked Korra to the gang.
"Not at all. Go have some fun." said Cera.
"I'm sure you'll have a great time. Yep, yep, yep." said Ducky as Spike nodded.
"Thanks, kids." said Korra before leaving with Bolin.
Mako stood for a while looking away from Asami to turn his head a little and listen to the conversation between the two. When they left Asami put her hand on his cheek to turn his gaze back to her. They both looked into each other's eyes affectionately before Asami rested her head with her eyes closed on his shoulder, but after that, Mako turned his narrowed gaze back to the exit where Korra and his brother went.
Meanwhile, the gang decided to head back to the island.
"What just happened? Me not understand." said Petrie.
"Honestly, this teenage stuff is a lot more complicated than I thought this stuff was." said Ruby.
"Yeah, I hope this doesn't happen to us when we get to be one." said Chomper.
"What worries me most is how this will end." said Littlefoot.
Later in the evening, Korra and Bolin were at a restaurant having a quiet dinner, with Naga sleeping near the entrance.
"So, how do you like it?" asked Bolin as he ate a bowl of noodles.
"Hmm, it's delicious and totally authentic! I didn't realize how much I missed Water Tribe grub. I should take the kids here sometime to try it." said Korra as she ate her meal.
"That's great, 'cause this is my favorite joint. See? You love Water Tribe food, I love Water Tribe food, just another reason we are so great together." said Bolin as Korra slurped down more noodles.
"They are good noodles!" said Korra before realizing something. "Hey, who's that creepy guy over there who keeps glaring at us?" asked Korra referring to a boy who was walking with two other boys and three girls, all of them looking at them.
"That's Tahno and the Wolfbats, the reigning champs, three years running. Don't make eye contact." said Bolin warningly, but Korra narrowed her gaze at him.
Soon after, Tahno stood up and with a wave of his arms, the rest of his group proceeded to follow him to where they were.
"Uh-oh, here he comes. Now don't mess with this guy, he's a nasty dude." said Bolin nervously and when he saw that they were very close, he set about continuing to eat his plate while Korra continued to scowl at them.
"Well, well, well." said Tahno as he approached the table they were at with their group. "If it isn't the Fire Ferrets. Pro-bending's saddest excuse for a team. Tell me, how did a couple of amateurs like you luck your way into the tournament? Especially you, Uh-vatar." said Tahno, receiving a snort of annoyance from the Avatar before moving a little closer to her. "You know, if you'd like to learn how a real pro bends, I could give you some private lessons."
"You wanna go toe-to-toe with me, pretty boy?" asked Korra a bit annoyed and annoyed as she stood up with her face very close to Tahno's.
"Go for it. I'll give you the first shot." said Tahno provoking the Avatar.
"Korra, don't. He's just trying to bait you. If you hit him, we're out of the tournament." whispered Bolin trying to keep his friend from doing something crazy.
Tahno would smile superiorly, hoping the Avatar would fall for the trap, which it looked like she would when Korra raised her hand, but then, she used her hand to let out a hiss and Naga appeared through the nearest window to let out a mighty roar at Tahno, who screamed in dread as he backed up a bit.
"And for the record she's been kind. I have friends who could bite you in the butt if you annoy them enough." said Korra.
Tahno put up his hair that had been tousled by the roar and smiled again before raising his arms to signal to his group that they were done and then, off they went.
When they were far enough away, the two burst out laughing loudly.
"Whoa, ho, ho, I've never seen someone harass Tahno like that. You are one of a kind, Korra." said Bolin with a smile that Korra returned.
Later, the two were at another restaurant having a couple of milkshakes. Bolin let out a small burp and then covered his mouth in embarrassment. Korra, however, smiled before letting out a burp of her own.
Seeing it now as a game of dare, Bolin let out a burp louder than the previous one and then, Korra let out a burp so powerful that it made Bolin's hair flip in the wind. The two looked at each other for a moment before bursting out laughing, though it wasn't the same for the other patrons in the room who looked on in shock and horror.
Then, in an illuminated tower (which resembled the Eiffel Tower), Korra and Bolin stood at the top enjoying the view. While Korra was in awe of the view, Bolin was happy to spend some fun time with the girl he had romantic feelings for.
The next night, Mako was sitting on the stairs at the entrance of the pro-bending arena and stood up when he saw Korra walking towards the entrance.
"What kind of game are you playing?" asked Mako.
"Uh… Pro-bending? We've got the quarterfinal match." said Korra not understanding the firebender's question.
"No, I mean with Bolin. You've got him all in a tizzy and I know you're only using him to get back at me." said Mako.
"I am not, we're just having fun together. What do you care, anyway?" asked Korra.
"I'm looking out for my little brother. I don't want to see his heart get broken." said Mako.
"Wait a second… you're not worried about him, you're jealous! You do have feelings for me!" said Korra with an amused smile.
"What? Jealous? Don't be ridiculous." said Mako.
"Admit it! You like me." said Korra.
"No. I'm with Asami." said Mako.
"Yeah, but when you're with her you're thinking about me, aren't you?" asked Korra.
"Get over yourself!" said Mako.
"I'm just being honest." said Korra.
"You're crazy!" shouted Mako.
"You're a liar!" shouted Korra.
They both scowled at each other before turning away and walking towards different entrances.
When Korra and Mako arrived at the balcony to put on their equipment, Bolin and the gang were there.
"Hey, guys, are you excited for the game tonight?" asked Bolin excitedly.
"Not now, Bolin!" replied the two in unison still angry about the earlier conversation.
Needless to say, both Bolin and the gang were confused by how the two were doing.
"What could have happened to them?" asked Chomper.
"Must be match nerves." said Bolin with a shrug.
"Well, they'd better calm down if they want to win." said Cera.
"Don't worry, Cera. They'll make it." said Littlefoot.
"That's true. If they keep up the same pace as the last game, they'll win this game the same way they won the last game." said Ruby.
Once they were in full uniform, the team went to the ring.
"Eight teams have been eliminated and eight advance into the quarter finals, which get underway tonight." said Shiro with the two teams in position for the bout. "The rookies are about to take on the former and longest-reigning champs, the Boar-q-pines. Youth clashes against experience in a battle for the ages, or rather of the ages."
Just then, the starting bell rang.
In the next instant, the two teams proceeded to launch elemental attacks at each other while defending themselves. Korra flipped to the side with a somersault to dodge several attacks.
"Korra dodges and..." began Shiro when suddenly, Korra, while dodging, ended up colliding with Mako. "Ooh, slams right into her teammate!" said Shiro as the opposing team managed to hit them all, sending them to the back area. "Down goes Mako and Bolin and Korra!"
"Round one goes to the Boar-q-pines!" said the announcer before the end bell rang.
"You were supposed to defend while I attacked!" said Mako.
"I had an opening so I took it!" said Korra.
"What is up with you two? All right, whatever, just pull together, guys." said Bolin.
"Me not understand. Why they not act like previous match?" asked Petrie.
"Surely something must have happened." said Littlefoot.
"Yes, but what?" asked Ducky.
"I don't know, but I hope they can get over it." said Littlefoot.
Soon after, the bell rang for the start of the second round and the Fire Ferrets began to throw their respective elements.
"The Ferrets looking to mount some offense here in round two." said Shiro as Bolin threw an earth disc that hit one of the opponents.
The waterbender threw a jet of water that hit Mako while another was hit by an earthen disc. Meanwhile, Bolin threw earth discs continuously while dodging enemy attacks.
"Bolin lets fly a flurry of attacks, he's a one-man bending battalion." said Shiro as Bolin continued to throw earth discs while dodging.
One of his discs managed to hit an opponent that he sent to the back area just as the end bell rang.
"The Ferrets are having a rough time finding their rhythm tonight, but thanks to Bolin, they narrowly notch round two." said Shiro making the earthbender smile.
Then the bell rang for the start of the third round.
Both teams again launched attacks on each other, but the ones who got the worst of it were the Ferrets.
"Not sure what's eating them, but this is not the same team who took out the Rabaroos." said Shiro as the Ferrets team was constantly being beaten up.
Finally the final bell rang.
"Round three is a tie! We go to a tie-breaker to decide the match." said the announcer.
"Tie-breaker?" asked Cera.
"Mako explained that to me. It consists of a certain team choosing an element, then benders of that element from each team stand on a platform that is raised a little higher. The wrestler who is left on it wins." said Littlefoot.
"Oh, me very nervous." said Petrie.
"I hope whoever they're going to pick wins." said Ruby.
The referee flipped up a coin with one red and one blue side. When the coin landed on his hand, everyone saw the red side of the coin.
"The Fire Ferrets win the coin toss! Which element do you choose?" asked the referee.
"I got this." said Mako.
"I know you usually handle these, but frankly, your head's not in the game. I'm gonna take this one." said Bolin before taking a few steps ahead of his team. "We choose earth."
"They've chosen Bolin." said Chomper.
"Bolin is very good, I'm sure he'll win. Yep, yep, yep." said Ducky as Spike nodded.
Bolin and the other team's earthbender stood in the center of the ring while the others stood back. Afterwards, the area where both masters stood began to rise a little.
"Looks like the earthbenders will collide in the tie-breaker face-off." said Shiro as Bolin and his opponent positioned themselves to fight.
Soon after the opening bell rang, the two began to throw a pair of earth disks at each other which destroyed each other. The earthbender leaped toward Bolin to knee him along with an earth disk, but Bolin rolled on the ground to dodge it.
Before the earthbender reacted, Bolin lunged towards him and grabbed him by the waist as he tried to push him away, but he stepped heavily on the ground to avoid being dragged.
"Bolin goes in for the grapple." said Shiro as the earthbender grabbed Bolin by the waist to then throw him through the air. "Chang reverses."
While in the air, Bolin attracted a disc of earth which he threw at his opponent, hitting him and pushing him back.
"Bolin strikes from midair, knocking Chang to the edge of the circle." said Shiro as Bolin landed before throwing a pair of ground discs, hitting him, and throwing him out of the ring and out of the ring. "Another strike from Bolin, and Chang is in the drink!"
After that, the bell rang for the finish.
"The Future Industries Fire Ferrets win their quarterfinal match!" said the announcer as Bolin celebrated the victory and Korra and Mako sighed in relief, though then looked away from each other with a frown.
"Oh, that was a close one folks! Youth trumps experience tonight." said Shiro.
"Just as well, I thought they were going to lose." said Ruby.
"For a moment, I thought the same thing." said Cera.
"I wonder what's happening to Korra and Mako. They're not their usual selves. No, no, no." said Ducky.
"This teenage stuff is really complicated." said Littlefoot.
After the game, Korra stood under a gazebo outside the stadium, looking out at the scenery relaxedly.
"We need to talk." said Mako approaching her. "Look, sometimes you can be so infuriating. But I..."
"Save your breath." said Korra interrupting the firebender. "You've already made it clear how you feel about me."
"No, I haven't. What I'm trying to say is: as much as you drive me crazy, I also think you're pretty amazing." said Mako surprising the Avatar.
"So you do like me?" asked Korra turning to look at him.
"Yeah, but... *sigh* I like Asami, too. I don't know, things are complicated. I've been feeling really confused and..." began Mako before suddenly Korra lunged towards him and kissed him on the lips.
At first he was surprised at such an act, but then he began to return the kiss with pleasure. The two parted and everything was beautiful until suddenly Korra saw something behind Mako that made her lower her head in sadness.
Mako turned around to see Bolin, who had Pabu over his shoulder, a bouquet of flowers, and was in shock at what he had seen. He was paralyzed for a few seconds until he began to burst into tears and shed tears and snot.
"Bolin, this isn't what you think!" said Mako trying to explain himself, but Bolin ran off as he continued to cry, knocking over the bouquet in the process. "Great, look at what you did!" said Mako to Korra.
"You're blaming me?" asked Korra.
"You kissed me." said Mako.
"You kissed me back!" said Korra.
"Ugh!" groaned Mako very frustrated at the situation before running off to find his brother, leaving the Avatar alone.
"Well played, Korra." said Korra frowning sadly.
Later in the evening, Korra returned to Air Temple Island where she saw the gang resting in their room.
"Korra, you're back." said Littlefoot before noticing his friend's sad expression. "What happened to you?"
Instead of answering, Korra walked over to her bed and plopped down on it, face in her pillow.
"I've committed the stupidest stupidity in stupidities' history." said Korra.
"We've done a lot of stupid things too, but they're not stupid enough to go down in the history of stupid things." said Ruby.
"What exactly did you do?" asked Petrie.
"I kissed Mako and Bolin saw it." said Korra lifting her face off the pillow a little.
That left the gang wide-eyed and mouthed in surprise.
"Yeah, that was definitely the stupidest thing I've ever heard." said Cera.
"You're not helping anything, Cera!" said Korra burying her face in the pillow again.
"Come on, it can't be that bad." said Chomper trying to cheer her up.
"No, it's worse. I knew Bolin had feelings for me, but instead of telling him the truth, I just played along and now I've broken his heart. On top of that, I don't think Mako will ever speak to me again after what I did. I'm afraid our friendship is broken forever." said Korra.
"I don't think so. Friendship can't be something that is so easily broken." said Littlefoot.
"Yep, yep, yep. I'm sure, if you two talk it out, you can make up and be friends again." said Ducky.
"You think so?" asked Korra with a bit of hope.
"Well... Yes, but... I'm not sure how you teenage humans will react." said Ducky.
Spike shook his head in a sign that he didn't know either.
"There's certainly no one who understands you." said Cera.
"No matter what I got to go through with Mako and Bolin. We'll always be with you." said Littlefoot.
That managed to cheer the Avatar up a bit seeing that she could always count on friends like them, but she was still worried about how things would go the next time she saw Mako and Bolin. Especially with the match the next day. She just hoped that, just by talking it out, they could work it all out.
Since that event, Mako had spent the whole night looking for his brother, he looked in many places, but he wasn't in any of them.
Already in the morning, Mako decided to try the restaurant where he and Korra had their 'date'.
"Morning, Narook. My brother here?" asked Mako to the restaurant manager who pointed to a nearby table where Mako could see his brother lying on the table that had several empty food bowls, with Pabu sleeping on one of them. "Thanks." said Mako before walking over to his brother and putting his hand on his back.
"Come on. Wake up. Taking you home, bro." said Mako before Bolin lifted his head to look at him, showing that he had dark circles under his eyes from being up all night and crying, plus a noodle in his nostril that he absorbed from sniffing.
"Don't call me that. You're not my brother! You're a brother betrayer! The only ones I can trust anymore are Pabu and the dino children. They love me." said Bolin dramatically and still sad.
"You're a mess, and we've got the biggest match of our lives tonight. Let's go." said Mako approaching his brother, but he pushed him away with a sweep of his arm.
"No! I'm not going anywhere with you, you traitor!" said Bolin.
"Guess we'll have to do this the hard way." said Mako lifting his brother up and putting him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes.
"Why?" asked Bolin kicking like a small child.
"I told you dating a teammate was a bad idea." said Mako.
"You're a bad idea! Put me down! Put me down!" said Bolin as Mako paid Narook for Bolin's meal and left the restaurant with his brother on top of him as he kicked and cried.
While Pabu tried to follow them, but because he was bloated from all the food he scarfed down, he ended up crawling on the floor like a snake with legs.
That same night, the match that would decide whether the Fire Ferrets would go to the tournament final was to be held. The only problem was the great tension among its members. Korra and the gang headed to the balcony and on the way, Korra was hoping they could patch things up between them, though part of her wished Mako and Bolin had talked it over earlier so she could help her out a bit.
But when she walked in, she saw Bolin sitting on the bench looking very sad, which implied that they hadn't. Now even she didn't know how to talk to him. So for the time being, all she could do was get ready and focus on the match and leave the conversation for later.
The gang was sad how such a friendly and lively group became so depressing. If they knew of any way to cheer them up, they would, but as they said before, they didn't understand teenage humans, so they could only stand to the side and hope that everything would work out before things got worse.
Later, both the Fire Ferrets and the opposing team were in the center circle of the ring, waiting for the moment of the start.
"You can't find two teams more evenly matched in age, size, and strength than the Fire Ferrets and the Buzzard Wasps. Believe me, I've looked! This should be a pulse-pounding semifinal, folks!" said Shiro just as the starting bell rang.
The next instant, the opposing team began to launch elemental attacks as the Ferrets defended and dodged.
"The Buzzard Wasps open with a flawlessly executed combo." said Shiro as Mako was hit by a fireball.
Korra managed to block a jet of water with her own jet of water, but a disc of dirt hit her and sent her into the back area.
"All three Ferrets take an early visit to zone two." said Shiro as Mako fell back into zone two and Bolin was sent into the same zone by a fireball, but soon after, Mako was hit by a water jet that sent him into zone three.
"And Mako is knocked all the way back into zone three! The Fire Ferrets have been struggling to stay alive since the opening bell." said Shiro as Bolin threw a ground disc to block an incoming ground disc.
"All three players are totally out of sync tonight." said Shiro as a ground disc hit Bolin hard in the stomach, pushing him into zone three and making him groan in pain as he tried to keep his mouth shut.
Needless to say, the gang winced at that.
"That's got to hurt. Yep, yep, yep." said Ducky as Spike nodded.
Suddenly, Bolin, stepped to the edge of the ring, took off his helmet and threw up to everyone's disgust.
"Yuck! That gross." said Cera.
"What has he been eating to throw up that?" asked Chomper.
"Me not know, but me not wanna taste it." said Petrie.
"And Bolin loses his noodles! Literally. Which reminds me, this match is brought to you by our sponsor, Flamey-O Instant Noodles! Noodliest noodles in the United Republic." said Shiro.
The waterbender threw a jet of water at Korra which she dodged by jumping as she spun to throw a jet of water with a kick, but while she was in the air, a disc of dirt hit her in the chest and sent her into zone three.
"The Buzzard Wasps fly deeper into Ferret territory." said Shiro as the opposing team advanced one more zone.
The Ferrets began to launch elemental attacks, but their opponents were able to defend themselves as they countered. Mako used a fist wrapped in fire to neutralize a jet of water before beginning to dodge a pair of fire and earth attacks, but then, a disc of earth hit him and threw him out of the ring.
"And Mako plunges into the pool!" said Shiro.
"Oh, no!" said Littlefoot in horror.
"This is going from bad to worse." said Ruby.
"Can the Fire Ferrets hold on?" asked Shiro as Korra and Bolin tried to fend off the continued attacks from their opponents who kept pushing them to the edge of the ring.
"The Wasps have the Ferrets backed up to the edge now." said Shiro just as the bell rang for the finish.
"And the Ferrets are bailed out by the bell! They had better pull themselves together folks for round two, otherwise they can kiss the finals goodbye." said Shiro as Korra and Bolin gasped a little from exhaustion and Mako climbed up the ascending platform to get back in the ring.
"Come on, guys! You can do it!" shouted Ducky cheering the team on.
"What's wrong with them? They were really good before and now they're really bad." said Cera.
"I don't know, but I hope they can figure it out before the match is over." said Littlefoot.
"Yes, because if not, they will lose and all the effort they put in to get here will have been an effort they put in for nothing." said Ruby.
Shortly thereafter, the bell rang for the start of the second round.
The Ferrets launched their elemental attacks, but their opponents were able to dodge or block them before proceeding to attack. A pair of earthen disks struck Mako, sending him backwards.
Suddenly, Mako launched a fireball directly at Bolin, causing him to fall to the ground.
"Hey! Watch it!" shouted Bolin turning his back to the enemy.
A big mistake, because they took advantage of that to hit him with a stream of water that rolled him out of the ring.
"The Wasps take advantage of Mako's unforced error and Bolin is in the pool!" said Shiro.
"Bolin!" shouted Chomper worried about his friend.
"It bad! It very bad!" said Petrie.
Korra dodged a couple of jets of water before throwing one, but instead of hitting her opponent, she grabbed her by the leg and tripped her before causing the water underneath a breathy one below her to jump like a geyser several times, sending the opponent bouncing away.
"Ooh, and a blatant hold by the Avatar!" said Shiro just as the referee blew the whistle.
"Unnecessary roughness! Move back one zone!" said the referee.
"I'll unnecessarily rough you up!" said Korra angrily as she stepped back and splashed some water at the referee who pulled out a yellow fan.
"And the Avatar is slapped with the yellow fan. The Ferrets are their own worst enemy right now. It's just sad to watch." said Shiro.
"Grrr. If they don't do something right away, I'll come down and talk some sense into them." said Cera angry at how things were going.
"It weird, but me agree." said Petrie.
"Me too." said Chomper.
"With the Buzzard Wasps leading two rounds to zilch, the Ferrets' only hope of winning is with a knockout." said Shiro as the Ferrets gathered to decide what to do next.
"Well, I guess there's always next year." said Mako with his head down and eyes closed, accepting that they were going to lose.
"Come on! We still have a chance, even if it is a slim one!" said Korra trying to give them hope.
"The way we're playing, we don't even deserve to be in the finals." said Bolin in the same situation as his older brother.
"Look, if we don't pull together and work as a team, we'll never forgive ourselves." said Korra trying to cheer them up, but to no avail.
"Let's just get this over with." Mako said.
"The sooner, the better." said Bolin as the three of them got into position.
But while the two brothers accepted defeat easily, Korra wasn't willing to give up so easily. She was going to keep fighting for her team and for her friends. Besides, she knew the gang was in the balcony, watching them and cheering them on to go on to win and she couldn't let them down after all they did for her.
Just then, the starting bell rang.
At that moment, the starting bell rang.
In the next instant, the Buzzard Wasps began to launch elemental attacks.
Mako was hit by a water jet before dodging another water jet and an earth disk. He then launched a fireball, but suddenly, an enemy fireball hit him from the side.
Meanwhile, Bolin managed to block a water jet with a ground disc, but another ground disc and another water jet pushed him down into the back zone.
"Bolin's knocked into zone two." said Shiro as Mako was hit by a ground disc that pushed him until his foot stepped on the zone boundary line. "Followed quickly by his brother!"
The earthbender threw a pair of earth disks at Bolin. One veered off course, much to the earthbender's confusion, but that distracted him long enough for the other earth disk to hit him squarely in the shoulder, making him scream in pain.
"And Bolin takes a zinger to the shoulder!" said Shiro as Bolin sat on the ground while clutching his shoulder. "Looks like it's a clean hit."
"That shouldn't be clean! No, no, no!" said Ducky as Spike shook his head with a frown.
"More like cheating!" said Chomper.
"Ow!" groaned Bolin from the pain in his shoulder.
"Bolin!" yelled Mako worried for his brother, which was a small mistake because a fireball ended up hitting and throwing him out of the ring.
"Mako's in the drink and out of the match." said Shiro as Bolin tried to get up and keep throwing ground discs. "And Bolin keeps playing with one good arm! I gotta hand it to him, this kid's got grit! But how long can he keep it up?" asked Shiro just as a ground disc hit Bolin's legs, causing him to be airborne and a spray of water sent him out of the ring.
"Apparently, not very long." said Shiro as Korra threw a jet of water before starting to dodge elemental attacks. "The Ferrets' dream of making it to the finals now rests in the Avatar's hands. But with three on one, I don't like her odds."
"Well, Mako was in a similar situation and won despite being in a similar situation." Ruby said.
"Yes, but that time they beginners. Now they pros." said Petrie.
"But Korra is the Avatar. Surely she can win." said Littlefoot trusting his friend.
"She better or I'll remind her forever." said Cera.
Meanwhile, Bolin leaned on the platform while gasping for air after falling into the water. Mako offered him a helping hand with a smile and Bolin accepted it, managing to pull himself onto the platform.
"Are you okay? How's your shoulder?" asked Mako worriedly.
"Ahh, it's messed up pretty bad. But I think I'll be all right." said Bolin holding the injured shoulder before the two went to the ascending platform.
As they made their way up, they decided to talk about the subject of the night before.
"Are we gonna be all right?" asked Bolin.
"Of course we are. We're brothers. We'll get through this mess. I'm sorry." said Mako who stood with his arms crossed.
"Me too! Girls." said Bolin.
"Seriously." said Mako.
When they both got high enough, they could see Korra move nimbly to dodge the attacks as she took every opportunity she had to squirt a stream of water.
"What an unbelievable effort here by Korra! She's dodging every element the Wasps throw at her!" said Shiro just as Korra launched a water jet that pushed one of the opponents into zone three before the other two opponents launched water and ground attacks at her that she dodged.
"The Avatar finally gains some ground." said Shiro as she launched a water jet that hit another opponent. "But with only ten seconds remaining, it might be too little too late!"
But suddenly, Korra created around her a ring of water before shooting the water from the ring as a single jet that hit the three opponents in a row, sending them all out of the ring.
"It's the big kibosh! What a knockout!" said Shiro before the end bell rang and the crowd erupted in cheers, as did the gang and the two brothers.
"Yes, she did it!" said Cera.
"I knew she could do it!" said Littlefoot.
"Yep, yep, yep! Korra certainly is the best!" said Ducky.
Korra stood at that moment, waving to the crowd cheering her victory.
"It didn't seem possible, folks, but the Fire Ferrets are headed to the finals!" said Shiro.
Mako was so happy to hear that that he hugged his brother, who groaned in pain from his injured shoulder.
"Ha, ha! Shoulder! Shoulder!" said Bolin getting his brother to release him as he realized what he was doing.
"Sorry." said Mako just as Korra reached the balcony.
"Korra!" shouted the gang as a whole running towards her.
Spike pounced on her, knocking her to the ground and starting to lick her face, causing her to laugh.
"Haha. Okay, okay. Knock it off, Spike." said Korra managing to push him off of her and get up.
"He's just so happy about your victory." said Ducky.
"That was the most amazing thing I've ever seen." said Chomper.
"The way you behaved, we thought you were going to lose, but you stopped behaving like that and ended up winning." said Ruby.
"And it's all because of you, Korra." said Littlefoot.
Korra gave the longneck a smile before patting his head in thanks.
"You're right. Thanks for not giving up on us. We never would have made it this far without you. I owe you. Big time." said Mako with a smile.
"You're welcome." said Korra before deciding to settle the matter she wanted to talk to them about from the beginning. "So… I know things are confusing right now, but I hope we can still be friends." said Korra.
"Definitely." said Mako.
"Good, all friends again." said Petrie glad things were resolved.
"They could have done it sooner though." said Cera.
But then, through the doorway came the Wolfbats and their leader, Tahno, who still wore the same smile as the first time they saw him. As he walked, Tahno sniffed the air with an inhale.
"Ooh, oof." groaned Tahno stopping and waving his hand in front of his face to push the smell away. "You boys smell something in here?" asked Tahno walking again, but with his nose plugged, which he then released. "Wait, I know what that is; yeah, that's the scent of losers." said Tahno as he walked past the Ferrets and the gang, to whom he turned his gaze. "And their pets."
The gang frowned at him, for after that, they knew that guy was no good at all.
"I hope we see you in the finals. Then we'll see who the losers really are." said Korra.
"Yeah, I'm peeing my pants over here." said Tahno sarcastically as he and his team went to the ring.
"And now, the defending champs, the White Falls Wolfbats!" said the announcer.
"Grrr." growled Korra frustrated by Tahno's behavior.
"Who is that guy?" asked Littlefoot.
"That's Tahno, leader of the Wolfbats who have been champions for three years in a row." said Korra.
"Well, I don't like that guy. If I could, I'd knock him with a rock." said Cera.
"I thought the same thing." said Korra bumping fists with the threehorn.
"But if they champions for three years, then they very strong." said Petrie.
"Then we'll have to be stronger than them if we want to beat them." said Mako taking off his helmet.
"That's the attitude." said Ruby.
"Great job!" said Asami suddenly appearing to hug Mako before turning her gaze to the Avatar. "What a comeback, Korra. I've never seen a hat trick like that."
"Thanks! But, if it hadn't been for you and your father, we wouldn't have had the chance to play. So thank you." said Korra.
"Yeah, you're certainly a good person for helping them so much." said Chomper.
"You're welcome." said Asami blushing a little at the sharptooth's words.
"Uh, if everyone's done with the little 'thank you' party, need some medical attention over here." said Bolin holding up the injured shoulder that was now in plain sight, with no clothes on and a small bruise.
"Oh, no. Are you okay, Bolin?" asked Ducky with concern.
"Yeah, take it easy. It doesn't hurt much." said Bolin.
"Ooh, let me help!" Korra said placing her hands on the earthbender's wound, causing him to cry out in pain.
"Owww! Gah! Haven't you hurt me enough, woman?" asked Bolin with a frown.
"Relax, I'm a healer! I learned from Katara, the best there is." said Katara as she scooped a large drop of water from a nearby water bucket.
Suddenly, to the amazement of the gang, the drop of water began to glow before Korra placed it on Bolin's shoulder who became a little nervous.
"No, no, oh… Ooh!" expressed Bolin as the pain began to fade. "That's the stuff!" said Bolin as Korra sat up to focus on the shimmering water.
"What is that?" asked Littlefoot with wonder and curiosity.
"It's called healing. It's a technique of waterbenders to heal some injuries and illnesses." said Korra.
"Does that mean Ducky and I could learn how to heal people with that technique to heal people?" asked Ruby.
"Oh, I would love to learn it. Yep, yep, yep." said Ducky excited to learn a new technique.
"Hehe. Okay, I'll teach it to you, but it'll be a little tricky to learn." said Korra before focusing on Bolin. "Bolin, I'm sorry I hurt your feelings. I didn't mean to let things get so out of hand."
"Ahh, I'll be all right. But we had fun together, didn't we?" asked Bolin with a smile.
"I had a great time, honestly! You are one of a kind, Bolin." said Korra with a smile.
"Please, go on. I enjoy praise." said Bolin.
Suddenly, the final bell rang, much to the surprise of Bolin, the gang and Korra, who dropped the water she was using to heal Bolin.
"Your winners, the Wolfbats!" shouted the game announcer.
"What? How is it over already?" asked Korra quickly getting up to go watch it as did Bolin and the gang.
"With a brutal round one knockout, the defending champs secure their spot in the finals." said Shiro as medics carried the opposing team members away on stretchers. "I hope the Fire Ferrets know a good doctor, because they're gonna need one!"
Korra, Mako, Bolin and the gang stared at the team they were about to face in the finals with a mixture of shock, fear, and concern, as they seemed to be really good.