Hello all Storm here with a new chapter! Here we'll be seeing a couple more changes to canon, nothing much at the moment. Along with seeing Naruto and Korra confronting their feelings for each other, with no unneeded drama causing problems. So, without further ado.
I own nothing
Two weeks have passed since the gala and Tarrlok's failed attempt to manipulate Korra into joining his task force, along with Naruto revealing the fact that Tarrlok is a Bloodbender. With Tenzin having informed Lin of this the next day, but told her it'd be best not to make a move against Tarrlok, until they had actual proof of him being a Bloodbender. Something the police chief didn't like, not wanting another threat running around Republic City. Even more so, with Tarrlok's task force going around, arresting the remnants of the Equalists or anyone suspected of supporting them.
But Lin also understood the need for secrecy, given the fragile state that the city is in, at the moment. With not only the Equalists Remnants and the factions that were born from them, still running around. But the amount people that are fearful of Carnage, as well. Though she did assign some trusted officers to follow Tarrlok covertly, and without his knowledge. But if they were discovered, then they had the cover story of acting as "protection" for the councilman, against any Equalists that might try attacking him.
Though there was another problem after the gala, with the city becoming divided on Korra's decision to not join the task force. With some supporting her decision to not drive a bigger wedge between benders and non-benders. And those that didn't support it, believing that the Avatar wasn't doing anything to help them. While Korra began realizing and accepting that not everyone would be happy with the choices she makes, but refused to let anyone change her mind.
She's the Avatar, and she'll do what she believes is the right choice, no matter what anyone else thinks.
Currently, Naruto and Korra were outside on Air Temple Island, continuing the latter's Bloodbending training. With Korra having made good progress in listening to multiple heartbeats at once, without being overwhelmed by them. Unfortunately, she's still having trouble with being able to tell what a person is feeling, or if they're lying, from the way their heartbeats.
"You're getting frustrated." Naruto stated, without opening his eyes, while the Avatar opened hers and gave him an annoyed look.
"Of course I'm getting frustrated! Seriously, how hard can this be?! I thought it'd be easy to be able to tell if a person is lying!" Said Korra, having thought it'd be easy to tell if a person is lying, from their heartbeat.
"There are different ways a person's heart can react to certain situations, that'd make it seem like they're lying. An example, could be when someone is being interrogated. They could be completely innocent of any crimes, but would still be nervous at being questioned in such a way. Or someone like Meelo, who's always bouncing around. Their heartbeat would always be beating rapidly, from all the movements. And then there are people who can remain completely calm under stress, and their heartbeat wouldn't even so much as flutter. It's not just about listening to their heartbeat. You also need to observe the person themselves, and search for signs or reactions that may give off. Along with being capable of catching them off guard, as well." Naruto explained, with Korra calming down and listening to his words, while nodding slowly in understanding.
"That…makes sense, I guess. Hey, how'd you get so good at this anyway, if you usually avoid being around people?" Asked Korra, wondering how Naruto got so good at listening to heartbeats, if he isolated himself.
"Carnage likes to play with his food. And I can still hear what's happening, while he's in control." Naruto said tersely, with the Avatar gulping at that, since she had a feeling that she didn't want to know how Xiě "plays with his food", but she could guess.
"The full moon is in a couple days. Are you ready?" Asked Naruto, pulling Korra from her thoughts, while reminding her that the full moon would be coming soon.
And with it, her first actual Bloodbending lesson.
"Y-yeah, as ready as I can be." Korra replied, willing to admit that the upcoming full moon was part of her frustration.
While she knew it was her choice to learn Bloodbending. It still made Korra nervous, that soon, she'd have the power to control another living being in such a way. Though she was relieved to learn that Naruto wasn't going to have her Bloodbend anything alive. Instead, they would be using special mannequins filled with some of the blood from the shipments that Tenzin's been getting, to keep Carnage sated. But knew that eventually, she'll have to practice on living things, as well.
The Avatar was pulled from her thoughts, when she felt Naruto's hand on her shoulder.
"I know it won't be easy. But I promise, I won't have you do anything you're too uncomfortable with, and we'll do it whenever you're ready." Said Naruto, not wanting to force Korra to do something, she didn't want to do.
While he was fully expecting her to Bloodbend living creatures, when she got to that point, Naruto also won't force Korra to do it too quickly. Knowing that'd only make her more scared and more susceptible to Xiě's influence. The more afraid she is of the power, the easier it'll be for the Dark Spirit to get inside her head.
"I know, and thank you. But this was my choice, and I'm sticking to it." Korra replied, smiling at the whiskered blonde, who nodded and smiled as well, before they resumed their positions and listened to the heartbeats around the island.
Though partway through, Korra opened her eyes again, as something Naruto said reminded her of something she'd been meaning to ask.
"Hey, I also wanted to ask. What's with that blood suit that Xiě put you in at the rally? Is that just to scare people?" Korra asked, wondering if the suit was just a means to scare people, or if it served some other purpose.
"Partly. Yes, it is good for terrifying people, something Carnage enjoys, since it gives him entertainment in chasing people. Rather than if they fought back against, who they thought was just a normal person. But it's also to hide my identity, as despite what he likes claiming, we're not invincible-"
"Yet."
"-so the suit is to hide my identity and make it impossible for me to be connected to any of his attacks. Allowing me to continue moving around, without worry of being hunted down or labeled as a criminal. The suit also has other purposes, like making me stronger and faster than any normal bender. More than I usually am, given how I can gain more elements and strengthen my ability to bend them by drinking the blood of a bender. Along with being able to stick to walls. But its most dangerous ability, is that because the suit is made entirely from my blood, it can be shaped and molded into any weapon Carnage can think of, turning my entire body into a weapon. And as you saw the night we fought, I'm practically indestructible like that, since I would just regenerate or reform from any damage that was dealt to me." Naruto explained, as Korra looked at him in surprise, not thinking the blood suit would come with that kind of power.
It actually made her grateful that Carnage seemed to have been holding back against her, likely to taunt her that he didn't even need to try, in order to beat her.
"Wow. You know, if it wasn't for the fact that it was made by Carnage, I'd really want a suit like that." Said Korra, admitting how awesome it'd be to have a suit that'd give her that kind of power, in addition to her bending.
Plus, Korra would secretly admit, despite looking terrifying, it was also really badass.
"Yeah, it is useful. I…I've actually been considering recreating it." Naruto revealed, surprising Korra once again.
"You can still make the suit? But isn't Xiě sealed away by that talisman?" Said Korra, with Naruto nodding in confirmation.
"Yeah, he is. But I still have access to all the powers that being his host grants me, he just can't take control of my body. And I've been thinking of recreating the suit, as a way to keep my identity hidden. Should I ever need to bend multiple elements, or use some other abilities that aren't normal. But I haven't been able to think of how it should look, since I don't want to just use Carnage's version of it." Naruto said, not wanting to look like Carnage, when he does use the suit.
"Huh, well if you want, I could help you think of some ideas for what the suit could look like." Offered Korra, figuring it could be fun, helping Naruto design his new suit.
"I'd appreciate the help. But don't think this'll get you out of your training." Naruto said, smirking, which Korra returned, while also being glad to see he was being more expressive, as compared to his usual stoicism.
"Wouldn't dream of it." Replied Korra, before the two resumed her training.
*Timeskip-Three Days*
Naruto sighed as he sat outside, looking over the drawings of the designs and ideas, he and Korra had come up with a few days ago for his suit. While they were good, he still felt that something was missing from it.
"What're you doing?" Asked Jinora from behind Naruto, surprising the blonde that he didn't hear her footsteps or her heartbeat.
'Guess I was deeper in thought, than originally I believed.' Naruto thought, as Jinora looked over his shoulder at the drawings.
"Wow, those are really good, I didn't know you could draw Naruto. But what are they for?" Jinora asked, wondering what the designs were for.
"It's actually a suit that Korra is helping me design. So I can hide my identity, should I ever need to use the abilities that I can use, due to the Spirit inside of me. Or if it ever takes control and causes any problems, so no trouble is drawn to me, Korra, or your family for letting me stay here." Answered Naruto, with Jinora looking at the designs with renewed interest.
"Well, they definitely look pretty cool. Like from some of the books I read. Oh! Like the books about Lord Zuko's time as the Blue Spirit, when he saved Grandpa Aang, when he was captured by the Fire Nation. Or when he and his Uncle Iroh went into hiding!" Jinora said, always eager to talk about the books she's read, especially about the adventures that her grandparents and their friends went on, during the Hundred Year War.
"Blue Spirit?" Asked Naruto, raising a brow, while Jinora nodded with a smile.
"Yeah, it was the name Lord Zuko was given, when he was disguised. He first created the guise after Grandpa Aang was captured by Admiral Zhao. As at the time, it was Zuko's mission to capture the Avatar and regain his lost honor, so he can return home. But he couldn't directly free the Avatar, or he would be branded a traitor. So, he created the persona of the Blue Spirit, where he was dressed all in black and wielded a set of dao blades, so he wouldn't reveal his Firebending. With him being named the Blue Spirit, due to the blue mask he wore. He freed Aang and the two escaped, but Zuko was knocked out by an archer, with Aang learning who he was. But despite them being enemies and the times Zuko's tried capturing him, Aang still saved him. After that, Zuko only use the Blue Spirit disguise during the time he and his Uncle Iroh were being chased by his sister, Azula, and stole in order for them to survive. But when they went to Ba Sing Se to start a new life and remain hidden, Zuko gave up the Blue Spirit identity after freeing Aang's sky bison, Appa." Jinora explained, having heard the story from her grandmother, and even Zuko, whenever he visited the island.
While Naruto was surprised to hear this, having only ever heard the basic details of the adventures of Aang and his friends. Nothing about the details in between him mastering the elements and defeating the Fire Lord. So it was interesting to hear such a story, about the former banished prince turned Fire Lord.
"I guess you really like stories, huh." Naruto stated in amusement, while Jinora blushed in embarrassment, realizing she probably was rambling again, something she tended to do whenever talking about books and stories.
"Yeah, sorry if I rambled or bothered you." Said Jinora, only for Naruto to chuckle and wave it off.
"It's fine. There's nothing wrong with enjoying books and stories, it's actually a good thing for you to do. As it helps you learn new things and grow from knowing about the experiences of others. Plus, you never know when something you read will come in handy." Naruto replied, making the young Airbender smile and nod.
"So, you got any ideas for the suit?" Questioned Naruto, showing Jinora the design again, wondering if she might have some ideas.
"Hmm, how about an emblem or something unique. Each of the Four Nations have their own emblem, with the city of Zaofu having created their own unique emblem from the Earth Kingdoms. You could add one to your suit, to show that it's yours, something you created." Jinora suggested, with Naruto looking at the design, while humming in thought at the suggestion.
"That could be a good idea. Thanks Jinora." Said Naruto, while smiling at the girl, which she returned.
"Glad I could help." Jinora stated.
"You know, you're pretty smart and mature for a kid." Naruto said, smirking, while the Airbender looked offended.
"Hey, I'm not a kid! I'm almost eleven, and have learned everything my dad has to teach about Airbending!" Stated Jinora, while crossing her arms, not liking to be called a kid, especially since she's the most mature and intelligent out of her siblings, despite Ikki's claims of her being "mean and bossy".
"Sure, sure. Whatever you say…kid." Said Naruto, with his smirk widening as Jinora blew a gust of wind at him in response.
Though their attention then turned, when they heard footsteps approaching and saw Tenzin walking towards them.
"Jinora, there you are, I was looking for you." Tenzin said, with Jinora standing up and facing her father.
"Did you need something dad?" Asked Jinora, with the Airbending Master shaking his head.
"No, I just wanted to tell you, your grandmother has arrived. And the others should already be meeting her at the docks" Answered Tenzin, making his daughter smile brightly.
"Gran-Gran is here?!" Jinora said, before running off to go meet Katara, with Tenzin smiling at her retreating figure, before sighing while Naruto stood up.
"I'm guessing Katara knows about me." Stated Naruto as he pocketed his drawings, while Tenzin nodded.
"Yes, I had tried keeping your presence here a secret. But after she learned about what was happening in the city, along with the appearance of Carnage, my mother contacted me. And it was difficult keeping your presence here a secret, along with you being Xiě's host." Tenzin revealed, while being relieved that he was at least able to keep Korra's Bloodbending training a secret, knowing exactly how his mother would react to such news.
"But, if there's one thing my mother kept in her age, it's her stubbornness and refusal to give up on finding out what's going on. Eventually, she learned about you being here, and combined with Carnage's appearance at the rally. It wasn't long, before she pieced together what was happening and decided to come here, herself." Said Tenzin, with Naruto nodding, while knowing things will be tense with Katara being here, and her stance on Bloodbending.
"Oh, what a shame, she chose to reject my gift. She had such talent as a Child of Blood, such rage and hatred within her against the Fire Nation and especially the man who killed her mother. She could have been powerful, but instead chose to reject my gift. I'll take a special enjoyment in killing her!" Carnage said, despising any Waterbenders that receive his gift and refuse to use it.
"Well, then it'd be best to get this over with." Said Naruto, ignoring Carnage's threats of what he'll do to Katara, as he and Tenzin went down to the docks to greet Katara.
When they arrived, they saw that Tenzin's family was already there, with his children crowding around Katara. Before she caught sight of her son, and smiled.
"Tenzin, it's so good to see you again." Katara said, while hugging her son.
"It's good to see you as well, mother, and you're just in time. Pema should be expecting, any day now." Tenzin said, wrapping an arm around his wife, as Pema smiled and rubbed her stomach.
"I'm sure the newest addition will be eager to meet their grandmother, just like their siblings." Said Pema, with Katara smiling and nodding, glad for the chance to be here for the birth of her newest grandchild.
Though her attention then turned to Naruto, who Katara regarded with a guarded and wary expression. Though despite knowing he's a Bloodbender and the host of the Spirit of Blood, himself. Katara was at least willing to try and be formal with him. Though she will also be ready, should he or Xiě try something. As while she is old, that didn't mean her skills have diminished.
"And you must be Naruto, it's…nice to meet you as well. Tenzin's told me a lot about you." Katara said, with Naruto not needing to listen to her heart to tell she's lying.
"I'm sure he has. It's honor to meet a Waterbending Master of your renowned status." Said Naruto with a slight bow, knowing that while things were tense, there's no denying that Katara is one of the greatest Waterbenders and Healers in the world.
Everyone's attention then turned to the dock as another boat arrived, with Korra and Naga getting off. The Avatar had just returned from the Pro-Bending Arena, after practicing with her teammates. Though when Korra saw Katara, she was momentarily surprised, before smiling and went over to her.
"Katara! It's so great to see you again." Korra said, while bowing to her Waterbending master, with Katara smiling and hugging her student.
"You as well Korra, you as well." Replied Katara.
*Later*
"It must be great for you to be back here." Korra said as she and Katara walked around Air Temple Island.
"It is. I remember when Aang had finally finished building it all. He was so happy, and so was I at seeing the home, where we'd get to raise our family together." Said Katara, smiling as she looked around, remembering all the times she spent here with her family.
"So…I'm guessing you're here because of Naruto." Stated Korra, having seen the way her former master looked at Naruto, the same wary look she's seen everyone else, that's in the know, gave him.
"Yes. After learning what happened here, and who he has within him, I felt it was necessary to come here myself. Now I know you are more than capable of taking care of yourself. But Korra, I think it might be best that you be careful around Naruto." Katara said, with the Avatar frowning in annoyance, feeling like she always hears the same thing when talking to someone about Naruto.
"Naruto isn't a threat; he wasn't in control of himself and only a puppet for Xiě to use. And he has a talisman, that keeps him from being controlled." Said Korra, with Katara nodding, having learned about the seal keeping Xiě from controlling Naruto.
"Perhaps, but I still believe you should be careful and on guard, should something ever happen to break that seal. I just don't wish to see you get hurt by letting your feelings cloud your judgement, Korra." Katara said.
"I'm not letting anything cloud my judgement! I know Naruto isn't some monster, everyone's making him out to be!" Retorted Korra, while storming off before she said something she would regret, with the girl having enough of everyone telling her to be careful around Naruto, or that he was dangerous.
With Korra soon finding herself at the meditation pavilion, as she sighed before sitting down in a meditative position, wanting to try and clear her mind and calm down.
'Seriously, why can't people see that Naruto isn't cruel or bloodthirsty, like Xiě? He doesn't want to hurt anyone, and even tried to get rid of his bending to do so. But they just see him as dangerous, or like he's going to start killing people. While I seem to be the only one, really making an effort to get to know Naruto, and help him. I just wish someone else would encourage me to help him, rather than tell me to be careful. That I am doing the right thing.' Korra thought, knowing that while she's becoming more assure of herself and her decisions, it still felt good to get some encouragement, every now and then
"You are doing the right thing, Korra."
The sudden voice made Korra's eyes snap open, before they widened in shock at who she saw sitting right in front of her. He looked older and had a beard along his jawline, but otherwise, he looked exactly same as his statue in the bay.
"Aang?" Korra muttered in shock and awe, while Aang smiled at his successor.
"You're finally in touch with your spiritual self." Stated Aang, as Korra's shock soon turned into excitement.
"I…I can't believe it! You're here, you're actually here, I'm really talking to you and contacting you!" Korra said, excited that she's actually managed to contact her past life, even if she didn't intend to, it still made her excited at finally making progress in her spiritual training.
"I am and you are. And you have your friend to thank for it, while he may not like it, he's very spiritually connected as well. Along with helping you become more confident in who you are, both as a person and as the Avatar." Said Aang, with Korra's excitement calming slightly, while thinking over his words, realizing he meant Naruto.
"Yeah, he's really helped me a lot." Korra said, while smiling slightly, knowing Naruto's been a great help to her since they met.
"Aang, do you really think I'm doing the right thing in helping Naruto? Even with everything Xiě has forced him to do?" Korra asked, with Aang nodding.
"I do. As despite what's happened, Naruto himself isn't a bad person, the only thing he's guilty of is being human. When he allowed Xiě to enter his body, he did so at a time when he didn't care who it was. Only that they offered him the power he desired for revenge, while having no one there to help him. While she may not like it, Katara could have easily been in the same place as Naruto, if not for her family and friends being there for her. So never doubt what you're doing, Korra. As you may not know it, but you simply being there for Naruto is helping him, greatly. And never give up in pursuing him, no matter how much he pushes you away." Replied Aang, emphasizing with Korra in her pursuit of Naruto, like his own pursuit of Katara.
Granted she wasn't possessed by a Dark Spirit, but he still never gave up and was happy when they could finally be together.
And if he were still alive, he would no doubtfully do the same thing as Korra and try to help Naruto, rather than condemn him or be cautious of him.
Korra looked at Aang in surprise at his words, though looked away when he mentioned her pursuing Naruto, feeling there was another meaning behind his words.
"In fact, I'd say that Naruto and Xiě, are quite similar to yourself, Korra." Aang added, making the girl look at him in confusion.
"What do you mean? How are we similar?" Korra asked, only to get a chuckle from her past life.
"You'll learn in time. Just believe in yourself and your decisions, Korra. The best thing any Avatar can do, is always remain true to themselves." Said Aang, making Korra smile and nod, before bowing her head.
"Thank you for the advice, it really means a lot to me." Korra said, with Aang nodding before he began vanishing.
"Of course. And don't forget, we'll always be here, whenever you need help." Said Aang, before he fully vanished, leaving Korra alone to think over his words.
Feeling better than she was before, Korra got up and went to find Naruto and talk with him. Only to find him walking around the training area.
"Hey, I was just looking for you." Korra said, glad that he was already nearby.
"Yeah, I was just taking a walk around the island. Figured it'd be better, if I avoided being around Katara for a while." Said Naruto, with Korra wincing at his words, but understood his reasoning.
"Yeah, but don't worry, I'm sure things will get better in time. And no matter what, I'm here if you need anything, or want to talk." Replied Korra as she smiled at him, while being glad when she saw him relax slightly and return the smile.
"Thank you, Korra." Naruto said, feeling better at hearing her words, having felt a little worried that with Katara being here, she'd try to make sure Korra didn't spend time around him.
Not to mention, if she found out about him teaching her Bloodbending
"Don't mention it, we're friends. Also I've been meaning to say, that if you want, I can help you improve your Waterbending, Earthbending and Firebending. Since I doubt you have a lot of time to practice or learn actual bending techniques. And I figure it's only fair that if you're training me, that I can train you as well." Said Korra, with Naruto thinking it over and knew that while he was a powerful bender, he also didn't really have any actual technique and mostly just did it on instinct, rather than with any actual skill.
"Yeah, that'd be great." Naruto replied with a small smile, which Korra returned.
"Great! But fair warning, I've never been known to hold back." Said Korra, while flashing Naruto a smirk.
"I'd be insulted if you did." Naruto stated with a smirk of his own, before the two got into their own stances, ready to start training right now.
*Timeskip-Three Days*
Korra held a blob of water in her hands, while looking at Mako and Bolin with a determined look. Quickly, she split the water blobs in two, and rapidly launches each smaller water bullet at Mako and Bolin.
Bolin raised his right arm in front of him, with an earth disk following the motion and hovering in front of his face. As the water blob Korra launched at him strikes the disk, he was shoved back a little by the impact. Meanwhile, Mako moved back and twisted around, vaporizing the incoming blob with an arc of fire, before immediately retaliating with two fire punches
Bolin's earth disk was destroyed by Mako's fire attack. While Korra aimed another water blast at Mako, with the Firebender jumping over it. While Bolin launches an earth disk at Korra, forcing her to shield herself with water from a nearby tank. Mako then fired a blast at each of his teammates, which both of them block with their respective element.
A second fire blast hit Bolin square in the stomach, throwing him back. But not one to go down easily, Bolin threw his fist, launching one last earth disk. While Korra launched a water blob straight at Mako, but was knocked back with a grunt as the earth disk slammed into her stomach. With Mako grunting, when Korra's water attack hits him straight in the face, flinging him to the ground several meters from where he was standing.
'They're pretty good.' Naruto thought, having accompanied Korra to her practice to see how the three fought, having gotten a good feel for Korra's own abilities during their training.
Now he wanted to see how she was, when restricted by the rules of Pro-Bending, along with wanting to see how good Mako and Bolin were, and he could see they were really great.
Not a moment later, all three Fire Ferrets sat up laughing, before getting to their feet.
"That was really great. Keep this up and we'll have a spot in the tournament, in no time." Said Mako, taking off his helmet, glad for how great they've been doing in training.
"I feel like a winner already." Korra stated, while smirking.
"We've got this in the bag!" Said Bolin, eager for the chance to show off their skills in the tournament.
"Okay, come on, team huddle time! It's our first match of the tournament, tomorrow night. 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?" Mako asked, with Korra and Bolin nodding in determination.
"We're ready!" Korra and Bolin replied.
"Not quite, since you'll be needing these." Said Asami as she entered the gym, carrying a bag, with Mako smiling at seeing her.
"Hey, Asami." Mako greeted.
"Good morning, sweetie." Replied Asami, smiling, while handing them the Future Industries uniforms.
"These new uniforms look great!" Mako said as he looked over the uniforms, glad to see how they turned out.
"You look great, champ!" Stated Asami, before they did an "Eskimo Kiss".
"Do they do this all the time?" Naruto asked, wondering if it was normal for couples to have such displays in front of others.
"Yes." Stated Bolin with a deadpan expression.
"Uh-hu." Korra replied, before glancing at Naruto, who looked at her as well, both of them silently contemplating their own feelings for each other.
"Oh, Naruto, I didn't see you there for a moment." Said Asami a little embarrassed at seeing Naruto was here and after the display of affection, between her and Mako.
"Well, teammates and Naruto, I'll see you guys later. Asami and I have a lunch date." Mako said as Asami grabbed his arm, before the couple left, with the three waving at them.
"Okay, we'll check you guys later. You know, we'll see you when we see ya." Said Bolin, while Korra went over and grabbed her bag.
"See ya Bolin, Naruto and I gotta get back to the island so I can train with Tenzin." Korra said, while waving at the Earthbender as she and Naruto left.
*Later*
After training with Tenzin and Naruto, Korra had gone off with Ikki and Jinora to fill up the feeders for the lemurs.
"So, how's it going with you and Naruto? You've been spending a lot of time together, lately." Jinora said, having noticed how Naruto and Korra seemed to be spending more time together, than usual.
"Oooh, yeah! Tell us all about the magical romance." Said Ikki, eager to hear the details, while Korra blushed brightly at their words.
"What are you two talking about? Th-there's nothing going on between me and Naruto." Korra denied, only for the two to roll their eyes.
"But let's just pretend for a second I am interested in him. What would I do?" Asked Korra, wondering if she could get some advice on how to approach Naruto with her feelings.
"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!" Jinora said in excitement.
"Tell me!" Korra said, eager to hear what she had to say.
"She rode a dragon into battle and burned down the entire country. Then she jumped into a volcano. It was so romantic!" Said Jinora, swooning at how "romantic" it was, while Korra's excitement began fading at the unrealistic idea, not to mention how counterproductive it'd be.
'Well I'm sure Carnage would appreciate the first part. Naruto, not so much' Korra thought dryly.
"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!" Ikki said, before Airbending herself into the air.
"The volcano is starting to make more sense to me now." Muttered Korra, starting to wonder what else she should have expected from the two little girls, before they heard laughing and saw Pema and Katara walking towards them.
"Oh, hey Pema, Katara. Uh, how long were you standing there?" Korra asked, as the two women smiled.
"Long enough. But trust me, I know what you're going through." Said Pema, with Katara nodding in agreement.
"Indeed. I had the same problem with Aang, we both cared greatly for each other. But he was the Avatar, and the war was still going on. He had to master the elements and defeat Ozai, and I didn't wish to distract him, along with needing to sort out my own feelings." Katara said, understanding what Korra was going through.
Though while she didn't like the idea of Korra pursuing a relationship with Naruto, Katara also wasn't going to stop her from being with the one she wants.
"So what did you both do?" Korra asked.
"Well, for the longest time, I did nothing. I was so shy and was scared of rejection, but eventually it became too painful to do nothing. So I hung my chin out there and I confessed my love to Tenzin. And the rest is history." Pema answered, glad she had taken a chance and had been able to get the one she loved, and now had an amazing family.
"Wow." The three said, amazed at the touching story, before Katara walked up to Korra.
"Korra, if there's one thing I've learned in my life. It's that sometimes, you have to take a leap of faith." Said Katara, with Korra looking off to the side, before smiling.
"A leap of faith." Korra muttered.
*With Naruto*
Meanwhile, Naruto sat on the cliffside, looking up at the sky as snow descended around him, contemplating his own feelings for Korra. He knew he liked her, really liked her, but Naruto wasn't sure if he should take a chance and pursue her. Knowing anyone around him was bound to get hurt, and the last thing he wanted to do was hurt Korra.
The whiskered blonde was then pulled from his thoughts, when he heard an approaching heartbeat, before looking to see Tenzin.
"You seem to come out here a lot, usually whenever you seem deep in thought." Tenzin stated, having noticed how Naruto came here, whenever he was in thought.
"Guess I'm getting predictable; I'll be sure to change it up." Said Naruto, making the Airbending Master chuckle.
"I'm guessing it's about Korra." Tenzin said knowingly.
"Yeah. I know what I feel for her, which I probably shouldn't, given my situation. But…I've never met anyone like her." Said Naruto, knowing that Korra is special, and not just because she's the Avatar, with Tenzin nodding in agreement.
"Yes, she's certainly a remarkable young woman." Tenzin said, having seen her grow from a child, always shouting that she's the Avatar, into someone that he's sure his father would be proud to call his successor.
"Naruto, let me give you some advice, from someone who was once where you are. Don't worry about "what ifs" or about your situation. Sometimes, you simply need to take a chance to see where things will take you, rather than wonder what could have been." Said Tenzin, given his past relationship with Lin before realizing Pema was the one for him.
Naruto looked at Tenzin, before looking out over the bay, and thinking over his words for a few moments, until finally he nodded.
"Yeah, you're right." Naruto said smiling, not wanting to lose a chance to be with Korra, while planning to ask her out after her Pro-Bending match.
*Later*
At the Pro-Bending Arena, the crowd was getting excited for the start of the match. While the announcer, Shiro Shinobi, began commentating.
"Folks, after a year of waiting, the Pro-Bending Championship 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 crowd cheered.
"Introducing our first team, the Future Industries Fire Ferrets! And their opponents, the Red Sands Rabaroos!" The Ring Announcer said, as both teams stood on the extending bridges soon, before stepping onto the arena.
The two teams stood across from each other, before they each launched attacks that collided against each other, the moment the bell rang. With the collisions cancelling out the attacks, while forcing the teams to step away to avoid being thrown back.
With all three Rabaroos launching a barrage of attacks at Korra, with the Avatar flipping out of the way, with Mako blasting an earth disc, that was launched at Korra. Before she and Bolin launched attacks at the Firebending Rabaroo, sending them back to the second zone. Followed by managing to launch the other two back as well. With it not being long, before all three of them were down, winning them the first round.
When the second round started, Bolin was put on the defensive until Korra came to his defense, as they launched one of the Rabaroos back to zone two. Eventually ending in all three of the being taken down again, winning them the second round as well.
Before the Fire Ferrets soon took the third round as well, after pushing all the Rabaroos back to the third zone, winning the round and the match.
"All three rounds go to the Future Industries Fire Ferrets, winning them the opening match of the tournament!" Declared the Announcer.
"That's what I'm talking about!" Bolin cheered, before addressing their fans, while Korra and Mako returned.
"Wow, we were really connecting out there in that ring." Mako said, amazed at how well they worked together.
"Yeah! There's no way we can lose!" Said Korra, feeling pumped up from not just the tournament, but also telling Naruto how she feels.
"Well you seem pumped up. Did something interesting happen?" Mako asked, making Korra blush.
"Oh well, uh, nothing happened…yet." Said Korra, while muttering the last part to herself.
"What was tha-" Said Mako, only to be interrupted when the changing area door opened, revealing Naruto and Asami with Pabu on her shoulder.
"Congratulations, guys! You were so amazing out there." Asami said, while smiling and kissing Mako's cheek.
"You were really great out there, Korra." Said Naruto, while smiling at the Avatar, which she returned.
"Yeah, I just…got some good advice that really helped me with some stuff, I was thinking about." Korra replied.
"Huh, the same for me. And listen, I was wondering if…maybe you, wanted to…go out tonight?" Naruto asked nervously, with Korra looking at him in surprise, not expecting him to actually ask her out.
"Uh…y-yeah, yes! I'd love to! Just let me get changed!" Korra said, smiling in excitement, with Naruto smiling as well, along with being relieved that she said yes.
"G-great! Then let's go." Said Naruto as the two exited the room with neither of them noticing Bolin frozen in place, before he lowered his head and sat down on the bench, saddened at losing his chance to ask Korra out, himself.
With Mako looking at his brother with a frown, before going over and putting a hand on his shoulder.
"Don't worry bro, there are plenty of girls out there." Mako said, with Bolin sighing and nodding.
"Yeah, but…I was really looking forward to seeing if Korra and I could work." Said Bolin, having felt that something was going on between Naruto and Korra, but had hoped that he'd have a chance to try first.
"You gonna be alright?" Asked Mako, with Bolin nodding once again.
"Yeah, I will be. I just…need some time right now." Bolin replied, before exiting the room.
*Later-With Naruto and Korra*
After Korra got changed, she and Naruto had headed out to a restaurant that Naruto had found, called Narook's Seaweed Noodlery. With the two having gone inside, while Naga rested outside.
"So, how do you like it?" Naruto asked as they ate their noodles.
"Hmm, it's delicious and totally authentic! I didn't realize how much I missed Water Tribe grub." Replied Korra, surprised at how authentic the food was to Water Tribe food back home.
"Great, I'm glad you like it. I asked around for any places that served Water Tribe food, and was pointed here. And it's really great." Naruto said, with Korra nodding in agreement.
"They are good noodles!" Said Korra, with her mouth full, before swallowing, and taking notice of someone looking at them.
"Hey, who's that creepy guy over there, who keeps glaring at us?" Korra asked, confused at who the stranger that was glaring at them is, with Naruto looking and frowning when he saw who it was.
"Oh, ignore them. From what I've heard, the guy with the hair is Tahno and the White Falls Wolfbats. A Pro-Bending team, that's won the tournament three years in a row." Naruto said, not seeing what the big deal with them was, with Korra narrowing her eyes at them, leading to Tahno standing up and walking over to them with his entourage.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the Avatar of the Fire Ferrets. Pro-bending's saddest excuse for a team. Along with some nobody. Or is he another one of those loser ferrets. Tell me, how did a couple of amateurs like you, luck your way into the tournament? Especially you, Avatar. You know, if you'd like to learn how a real pro bends, I could give you some private lessons." Tahno said, while leaning in closely to Korra, much to her annoyance as Naruto's eyes briefly flashed red.
"You wanna go toe-to-toe with me, pretty boy?" Demanded Korra, standing up and glaring at Tahno, who smirked.
"Go for it. I'll give you the first shot." Tahno taunted, knowing if she hit him, they're out of the tournament.
"Wow, you must be a terrible bender." Stated Naruto, making everyone look at him, with Tahno glaring at him.
"What'd you say blondie?" Demanded Tahno, with Naruto smirking at him.
"That you must be a terrible bender. After all, if you have to resort to getting your opponents disqualified. Then I think that says a lot about your own skills, or lack thereof." Naruto said, angering the Waterbender.
"Or maybe you just enjoy making fun of people to stroke your pea-sized ego. Because you're really nothing but a third-rate bender, that couldn't hope to bend even a puddle." Added Naruto, with Korra suppressing her laughter, as Tahno's face turned an interesting shade of red.
"Come to think of it, what even are you? I honestly can't tell if you're a guy or a girl, since it really doesn't look like you have anything between your legs. Or are you just so small, that it's practically non-existent." Naruto taunted.
Now officially having enough, Tahno shouted in anger before bending a blast of water straight at Naruto. Much to his and Korra's horror, when they saw the blast was heading straight for the talisman. Thankfully, they managed to redirect the blast in time, before it could hit Naruto. With Korra then whistling, making Naga's head burst through the window, with the polar bear dog roaring in Tahno's face. Making him stumble back, with a scream. Though he managed to regain his composure, acting like nothing happened, before walking away.
"Well that's truly a shame. Here I am, so close to getting free, and you just have to ruin it. Admit it, you wanted me to come out and rip that sorry excuse for a Waterbender apart." Said Xiě, with Naruto grunting and ignoring the Spirit.
"You okay?" Korra asked, with Naruto nodding in response.
"Yeah, just Xiě being an asshole, nothing new. Let's just have fun." Said Naruto, not wanting the night to be ruined, with Korra nodding in agreement.
After they finished their food, the two had gone for a walk around the city. Going through the park and seeing the fireflies, along with the moon shining on the lake. Before they eventually went to the top of Harmony Tower, getting a view of the entire city.
"Wow, the view up here is amazing." Korra said, having not seen the city from this high up, with it being better with all the lights.
"Yeah, though I actually have another reason for bringing us up here." Said Naruto, before looking around, glad to see no one else up here with them.
"What do you mean?" Korra asked, as Naruto stepped back.
"Just watch." Replied Naruto, before he began focusing, before grunting as blood began emerging from his arms and legs.
Then to Korra's amazement, it began covering his body and taking shape into a suit one similar to Carnage's, but less monstrous and more smooth. Being a red bodysuit with black kneepads, a black chest that went down the center of his stomach, and stretched down over his outer arms to his fingers, leaving the rest a crimson red color. Along with a red mask covering his head with smooth white eyes, and a black hood with a red interior.
While on his chest, was a large spider emblem in red, with a matching black emblem on his back.
"What do you think?" Naruto said, as Korra looked at him in amazement.
"That is so…awesome!" Korra said, grinning in excitement at seeing Naruto's suit.
"You think so?" Asked Naruto, smiling under his mask as Korra nodded.
"Definitely! It looks even better, than seeing it as just a drawing." Korra said, while looking Naruto over, admiring the suit and how it clung to him.
"Well that's not even the best part, yet." Naruto said.
"There's more?" Korra asked, excited at the chance to see more.
"Yeah. But first, I need to ask, do you trust me?" Naruto questioned, confusing Korra at the question.
"Of course I trust you." Replied Korra, only to yelp in surprise, when Naruto wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close.
"Then hold on tight and don't freak out." Naruto said.
Then without warning, Naruto jumped right off the ledge of the tower, with Korra screaming in shock, before forcing herself to calm down and wrap her arms around his neck. With Naruto holding out his arm and firing a web-like extension from the back of his hand, that attached to a building, before they began swinging through the air.
Looking around, Korra watched in amazement as they swung throughout the entire city.
"This…I don't even know what to say." Said Korra, smiling in awe as she looked around, watching everything fly past them, feeling like they were flying through the air.
"Yeah, it's a feeling you never forget." Naruto said, knowing if there's one good thing about being Xiě's host, it's being able to swing through the air like this.
Naruto swung them through the entire city, before eventually making his way to Air Temple Island. Where he launched them high into the air, towards the island, while managing to land on it. Though they stumbled slightly, when they touched the ground, while Naruto's suit receded back inside him.
"That was…thank you for that Naruto, it was amazing." Korra said, smiling at him, which Naruto returned.
"I'm glad you had fun Korra, and that you said yes." Said Naruto, glad he took a chance and asked her out.
"Well, since you showed me your suit, and let me experience swinging through the air. It's only fair, that I give you something." Said Korra, knowing exactly what to give him.
"Korra, you don't have to give me anything, as long as you're happy, that's all I-" Naruto said, only to be cutoff and surprised, when Korra pressed her lips against his.
While surprised at the kiss, Naruto soon returned it, much to Korra's happiness. Before they soon separated and smiled at each other.
"I think I can accept that." Said Naruto, making Korra giggle.
"Goodnight Naruto." Korra said, before heading to back to her room.
"Goodnight…Korra." Replied Naruto, while feeling a sense of peace, he hasn't felt before.
*Next Day*
The next day, the Fire Ferrets went against the Boar-q-Pines. Though not without having some difficultly, as Bolin was still feeling off about losing his chance with Korra. But the three eventually managed to pull out the win in the end, earning them a place in the semifinals. With Naruto and Asami congratulating their respective partners, though Naruto and Korra weren't as affectionate as Mako and Asami. Given they only just entered in a relationship and wanted to try and take things slow.
"Hey, uh, Naruto, could I talk to you for a minute?" Bolin asked, with Naruto looking at the Earthbender and nodded, before they went over to a corner of the changing room.
"What did you want to talk about?" Said Naruto, with Bolin sighing and rubbing the back of his head.
"Look, I don't wanna cause any problems, but I really like Korra. I think she's a really great person and a better friend. But I guess I wasn't fast enough, so all I'm asking is…take care of her. She's someone special, and not just from being the Avatar." Bolin said, with Naruto looking at him for moment, before nodding as he looked at Korra.
"Yeah, she really is. And you have nothing to worry about Bolin, I'll always be there for Korra, no matter what, and will do everything I can to keep her safe. And I'm sure that somewhere out there, there's a girl perfect for you." Said Naruto, while patting him on the back, with Bolin nodding and smiling.
"Yeah, you're probably right." Bolin said, knowing that while he lost his chance with Korra, like Mako said, there are other girls and maybe he'll find the one meant for him.
*Next Day*
The following day the Fire Ferrets went against the Buzzard Wasps, with all three of them having much better teamwork again, and defeated the Buzzard Wasps, earning them a place in the finals.
"And the Fire Ferrets take the win, and are heading for the finals!" Shiro declared as the crowd cheered loudly.
"Alright, we did it!" Said Bolin, while throwing his fist the air.
"Yeah, we did! We'll be ready for anything the other finalists throw at us!" Mako said, feeling pumped and ready to face off against their opponents in the finals.
Korra didn't say anything, as she was focused on only Naruto, when he and Asami entered the changing room. With the Avatar's excitement at winning the match and getting into the finals, combined with the happiness she felt at being with Naruto getting the better of her.
Leading to her running across the bridge, with Naruto being forced to catch and when she jumped towards him. And before he could say anything, Korra pulled him into a make-out session, seeing it as the only way to convey her current feelings. With Naruto being surprised at the suddenness of it, before he happily began kissing her back.
Though when they heard the cheering crowd, the two remembered exactly where they were. Making them quickly pull away, while blushing in embarrassment at having just made-out in front of a crowd. Even more so, when Asami smiled brightly at them.
"Oh congratulations you two! I thought you both seemed more affectionate yesterday, but I wasn't too sure. But I'm really happy to see you two together, since I did feel like there was something going on between you both." Asami said teasingly, making their blushes intensify.
"Hey, we could even go on a double date sometime, now. The two of you, with me and Mako." Suggested Asami, like the idea of the four of them going out together, embarrassing them even more, along with Mako.
"Uh, Asami, maybe we should hold off on a double date, since we're all still new to being in relationships." Mako said, with the heiress simply smirking and grabbing his arm.
"Your winners, the Wolfbats!"
Hearing the sudden announcement made everyone's eyes widen, as they could have sworn the match started not even two minutes ago. But when they looked, they were further shocked to see the Wolfbats opponents being carried away by paramedics.
The Fire Ferrets trading uneasy looks, now realizing that they were in for the fight of their lives, when the finals roll around.
So, what did you think, good. Yep we see Naruto and Korra continuing the latter's Bloodbending training, seeing while she's making progress Korra still has a long way to go, along with learning Naruto's trying to recreate his blood suit with his own style. Then we see some bonding between Naruto and Jinora, getting some help for his suit design, before we learn Katara has arrived, having learned about what's happening in Republic City and about Naruto's presence and status as Xiě's host. Then we see something surprising, as Korra is able to contact Aang much earlier, thanks to Naruto's influence on her, with the former Avatar giving her some advice and encouragement, before Korra goes off to find Naruto and offers him training as well. Afterwards we see a training session for the Fire Ferrets before Korra and Naruto get some advice on what to do about their feelings for each other, leading to Naruto asking Korra out. With Naruto then showing off his new suit, based mostly on Kaine's Scarlet Spider suit with some changes and additions, before he takes Korra swinging around the city, ending on Air Temple Island where they share a kiss. Finally, it's the final matches with the Fire Ferrets not having any problems in defeating their opponents, thanks to no unnecessary drama between them, with Korra's happiness leading her to make-out with Naruto in front of the crowd, revealing the Avatar had a boyfriend. Before they then see the Wolfbats brutalized opponents being carried out. So, review if you liked go away if you didn't.
Storm out
