Hello all Storm here with a new chapter! Here we'll be seeing some bonding moments between Naruto, Korra, Jinora, Toph, and Ty Lee, along with them all making a plan to attack the Erasers. Along with Katara finding out about Korra's secret training. So, without further ado.
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Ty Lee smiled in excitement as she jumped and flipped through the trees, along spinning on the web lines that Naruto had made. With the whiskered blonde watching the display from his spot on a tree branch, having created a makeshift course with his webs. And so far, he's been amazed at how quickly Ty Lee had gotten back into the role of an acrobat.
Sure, there had been a few slip ups in the beginning, as she was still getting used to doing such things after so many years. But the brunette soon began getting back into the groove of things, flipping and spinning in the air like she used to. With her excitement and happiness growing with each successful trick, happy to once again be doing something she always loved.
Though Ty Lee soon ended it by flipping and spinning high into the air before catching herself on two web lines, spreading them apart and performing a perfect splits. With Naruto clapping and smiling at the performance.
"Okay, I gotta admit, you are definitely way better at that than me." Naruto stated, knowing that Ty Lee had him beat in acrobatics, simply because she was just that skilled and talented, while he was only as skilled thanks to Xiě and the abilities he's gained from the blood he's drank.
With the brunette giggling before flipping into the air again and landing right beside Naruto, smiling at him.
"Thanks, I had forgotten how much fun it was, to jump and spin through the air, it's always so exciting! And my aura, it's been so dark and broody lately, but now it's really starting to feel so much pinker!" Replied Ty Lee with a bright tone and smile, feeling much better than she has in years.
"I'm glad I was able to help. You're a real natural out there, you must have trained a lot growing up." Said Naruto, with Ty Lee nodding in response.
"Yeah, acrobats has always been my thing, so I made sure that I was always the best at it." Ty Lee said, making Naruto look at her curiously.
"Your thing?" Naruto asked, wondering what she meant by that.
"Yeah. I grew up as one of seven sisters, all of us being exactly identical, to the point that no one could tell us apart. It took away from our own individuality, so we all chose a skill or hobby to specialize in to feel more like our own people, rather than a giant matching set. I chose acrobatics, though my sisters were also skilled in it, but I had been the best at it." Explained Ty Lee, while brushing her fingers through her braid as Naruto nodded, feeling intrigued to learn more about the brunette.
"Well, I can definitely say you're the best acrobatic I've ever seen and that you'd be able to stand out, no matter how many lookalikes are with you. Though one other thing I'm curious about, is how did you meet Azula and Mai? I don't know the full story, only that you three worked together to hunt down Zuko and his uncle, after they were labeled as fugitives, as well as the original Team Avatar to capture Aang. But how exactly did you three meet?" Questioned Naruto, wondering how the three worked together, especially with how different their personalities are.
Ty Lee being happy and bubbly all the time, Mai being stoic and barely showing any emotions, while Azula was rather volatile.
"We'd all attended the Royal Fire Academy for Girls, where we eventually met and became friends. And I was happy, I finally had friends that saw me as Ty Lee rather than as one part of a matching set, even if Azula could be mean at times and Mai was always moody, it was still great to have friends. But eventually, I couldn't take being just another one of the Ty Sisters anymore and I ran away to join the circus, where I was finally able to be one-of-a-kind. For once, I had finally been happy and at peace with who I was." Ty Lee replied while smiling, with Naruto smiling as well at seeing that she must have liked it, but also knew how it must have ended.
"I'm guessing that ended when Azula showed up." Stated Naruto, with the brunette sighing and nodding.
"Yes. Given my skill in Chi Blocking, along with my flexibility and acrobatics, I would have been useful in taking down any enemy benders that she came across. Especially since back then, Chi Blocking wasn't as used as it is now, so no one would have really expected to suddenly lose their bending. At first, I didn't want to help Azula, since I was content with my life, but I'm sure you've seen that Azula usually gets what she wants." Said Ty Lee, with the whiskered blonde nodding in agreement, given from what he's seen of Azula, she doesn't seem like the kind of person who wouldn't stop until she got what she wanted.
"After that, we went and recruited Mai in Omashu, which had been taken over by the Fire Nation at the time, where we first encountered Team Avatar and began hunting them soon after. But we usually ended up failing, even during the plan to attack Ba Sing Se with a giant drill. That had been a very filthy day." Ty Lee said while shivering in disgust at the getting stuck in the drill's waste pipeline.
"And then you three infiltrated Ba Sing Se as the Kyoshi Warriors, taking control of the Dai Li, and later control of the city." Naruto summarized, with Ty Lee nodding, knowing that's basically what had happened.
"So, how did you go from being the best friend of the Fire Nation Princess, to her enemy and joining the Kyoshi Warriors?" Naruto asked.
"That actually goes back to when Zuko left the Fire Nation and joined Team Avatar to take down Ozai. When he and Sokka infiltrated the Boiling Rock, an old maximum security prison that Zuko had shutdown after becoming Fire Lord, with Zuko having been caught as part of their plan to escape. Me, Azula, and Mai had gone there, mostly so Mai could get some payback on Zuko for dumping her, when he left. But after they succeeded in escaping, Mai attacked the guards helping them, since she still cared about Zuko. And I incapacitated Azula, knowing what would happen to Mai, and I suppose that…I just finally got tired of Azula bossing us both around and didn't want to obey her anymore. Though we were both imprisoned, which is where we met the Kyoshi Warriors again and I trained them in Chi Blocking, establishing a friendship between us. Then when the war ended and we were released, I joined them since I believed the world was broken and wanted to do my part to help fix it. And I suppose, I wanted to make up for my part in what happened." Explained Ty Lee, while smiling since she had been able to finally do some good in the world after joining the Kyoshi Warriors, only to sigh sadly at what's happening now.
"But I guess I didn't do enough, and this is karma finally coming for me." Ty Lee said while feeling that what's happening with Neji, it was karma for her part in the Hundred Year War.
"Hey, don't think that." Said Naruto as he put a hand on Ty Lee's shoulder, getting her attention.
"You aren't at fault for what happened, the only reason you got involved was because of Azula, and like you said, she wouldn't take no for an answer. Along with how she had been your friend at the time, and there's nothing wrong with wanting to help your friend, even if she basically forced you to join her. What's happening now is Neji's fault and only his fault. And remember what I said about "what ifs", thinking about them won't change anything, all that matters is what you do going forward." Naruto said, with Ty Lee still looking unsure.
"Still-eep!" Said Ty Lee, only to flinch when Naruto flicked her forehead.
"Nope. No "still", "but", or anything, you need to stop blaming yourself. You did everything you could have to try and get through to him, but he refused. He's made himself a criminal through his own actions, you didn't make him and neither did anyone else. And believe me, I know about blaming yourself for stuff and you, Ty Lee, have absolutely nothing to blame yourself for." Said Naruto, as the brunette rubbed her forehead and looked at him.
"Besides, you looked amazing when out there earlier, jumping and flipping through the air, you were laughing and smiling. Don't get all sad now unless you want me to end up beating you this time." Naruto said while smirking teasingly at the girl, making Ty Lee giggle lightly.
"Hehehe, you wish! Now that I'm getting back into things, there's no way you could beat me!" Retorted Ty Lee before she flipped off the branch and back into the air.
Only to cry out in shock and excitement, when Naruto jumped down after her, with his suit forming around him. With the masked blonde wrapping an arm around her waist and shooting a web, with Ty Lee wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Maybe I can't beat you, but that doesn't mean I can't catch you!" Stated Naruto.
"No, that's cheating, so I win by default!" Ty Lee said, smiling as they swung through the air before Naruto lowered them down to the ground.
Though not a moment later, Naruto hurriedly stepped back as his suit receded.
"S-sorry! I um…I didn't mean to overstep by doing that all of a sudden, I just wanted to help cheer you up, nothing inappropriate or anything like that, I swear!" Naruto said quickly, not wanting to overstep his boundaries, as while Korra may have said it was alright if he was with other girls, that didn't mean they'd be alright with it.
Only to relax when Ty Lee simply laughed and smiled at him.
"It's fine really, and it did help cheer me up. And don't worry, you don't have to worry about anyone getting jealous by spending time with me." Ty Lee said teasingly, making Naruto wince.
"Oh, I'm sorry for your loss." Said Naruto, figuring that meant her husband likely died, only for Ty Lee to raise a brow.
"What're you talking about? I was talking about Korra, since she seemed alright with you spending time with me." Said Ty Lee, while Naruto blinked in confusion.
"O-oh. I thought you meant that…" Naruto trailed off, since he didn't want to make things more awkward than he already did.
"Wait…did you think I was married?" Ty Lee asked in amusement, with the whiskered blondes eyes shifting back and forth.
"Well uh…aren't you?" Said Naruto slowly, assuming Ty Lee is or was married, only to be surprised when the brunette shook her head.
"I was never married, I dated a few guys, but they never really went far. The only one that got somewhat far with, was my daughter's father. But that didn't last much longer, either." Ty Lee revealed while looking away, since it'd always been a sore spot for her at never having a long-standing relationship.
Something she and Toph had ironically, and unfortunately, bonded over since they both seem to have terrible luck with men.
"Really? But you're…." Naruto said while motioning to Ty Lee, with the girl smiling with a sad edge.
"Yeah, well when you look like this, guys usually only care about one thing. While others would be intimidated to be with a girl that could more than likely put them on their back, and not in the way they'd like." Ty Lee said, having had to deal with the former type of guys on Ember Island, when they only paid attention to the way she looked, and then they began seeing that she was stronger than she looked.
"Then they're just a bunch of assholes and idiots." Naruto stated, making Ty Lee look at him in surprise.
"What?" Asked Ty Lee, not expecting him to say that.
"If they only cared about your looks or were scared of you being stronger than them, then they weren't even worth your time. I think you being strong is really awesome, since it means you can take care of yourself and don't need someone to come save you, if you get into trouble. Not that that's a bad thing, just that you could be the one to do the saving instead, like when you helped Mai at the Boiling Rock. And personally, I think your personality and caring nature are more attractive than your appearance. Not that I'm saying you aren't pretty, you are, in a completely normal way!" Said Naruto before adding the last part quickly, while Ty Lee smiled at him touched by his words.
"Thank you, Naruto, that really means a lot to hear. Korra is definitely a lucky girl to have a guy like you." Ty Lee said, knowing the Avatar was lucky to be dating Naruto.
Along with a small part of herself starting to feel slightly jealous of Korra as well.
"Believe me, I'm the one who's lucky." Replied Naruto, thankful for the chance Korra gave him.
"Hmmm. Well, we should probably head back soon, before it gets any later." Said Ty Lee, with Naruto nodding in agreement as the two made their way back to base.
*Timeskip-One Day*
"Remind me again, why you need my help doing this?" Naruto asked as he looked at Toph, as the two were currently several hundred feet below the ground, using Earthbending to dig a massive tunnel straight towards Republic City, as part of the plan for when they attack the Erasers.
With the de-aged Beifong having dragged him along to help her, which baffled Naruto given how strong Toph is herself. Leading to him asking again why she needed his help in the first place.
"Because Webhead, as awesome as I am, even I need help making a tunnel this big and long. And you're the only other Earthbender strong enough to help since Twinkle Toes is practicing her Airbending with Twinkle Toes Jr. at the moment. Plus, with your ability to hear heartbeats along with our Seismic Sensing, even if you're still somewhat of a novice with it, we'll be able to hear if anything or anyone is getting too close. So, you get the honor of helping me, you can thank me later." Replied Toph as she grinned at Naruto, who gave her a deadpan look.
"Gee, how ever shall I repay you, oh great one." Naruto said sarcastically, only to regret it when the blind girl laughed slyly.
"Careful Spidey, saying that to a girl could give them all sorts of ideas." Toph said, making Naruto sigh as they soon stopped digging deeper and instead began pushing towards Republic City.
"Hey Toph, back in the Swamp, after you all were turned young again, you mentioned not only the Police Chief, but also someone named Su. Who's that?" Naruto asked, since while he could understand Toph wanting to "see" Lin's expression, given how she's her daughter, he wasn't sure who this Su person is.
"Suyin, she's my younger daughter." Replied Toph, surprising Naruto at hearing Toph had another daughter.
"You have two daughters? Why haven't we seen her around the city?" Asked Naruto, figuring both of Toph's daughters would live in Republic City.
"Su hasn't been to Republic City for years, not since she was a teenager. And that's…that's mostly my fault." Toph answered while sighing, which only confused Naruto further.
"How's it your fault?" Naruto said as they momentarily stopped digging the tunnel and sat on the ground.
"I was born blind, which lead to my parents sheltering me from the world, with people not even knowing the Beifongs had a daughter. They treated me like a glass doll, believing that I'd crack and shatter at the slightest pressure, and that I wasn't able to look after myself. But they also expected me to act like a perfect lady from a wealthy Earth Kingdom family. Something I disagreed with, but kept to myself, which also made me resent my parents. One day, I ran away and hid in caves inhabited by badgermoles, the first Earthbenders, and who I felt I could connect with since we were both blind. It was from them that I learned how to Earthbend and how to see with it, but I had to hide it from my parents, knowing they'd only take further precautions to keep me hidden away. But I found ways to sneak out, becoming a master Earthbender and champion of the underground tournament Earth Rumble, taking on the name the Blind Bandit. Until I met Twinkle Toes and the others, before joining them as his teacher and getting the chance to have some real freedom for once." Toph explained, amazing Naruto at how she learned Earthbending, and at such a young age.
"That's really something, and it's amazing that you mastered Earthbending when you were that young. But what does it have to do with your daughters?" Naruto asked before flinching slightly when Toph shifted her foot a little, causing a section of rock to pop out and hit his head.
"Don't interrupt, and I was getting to that. It was because of my upbringing that I gave Lin and Su all the freedom they wanted, something I didn't get. With Lin joining the police force, while Su became a lot like me when I was younger. Doing what she wanted, when she wanted, while not caring for the consequences, even getting mixed up with the Terra Triad." Said Toph, sighing as she knocked her head against the wall.
"I wasn't a very good mother, I never really disciplined them or made sure they didn't do anything stupid. Something that resulted in Su acting as the getaway driver during a robbery when she was sixteen, one that Lin ended up stopping. When Lin tried arresting her, Su cut her cable, which is how she got those scars on her face. When the situation was brought to me, I tore up the report and sent Su away from the city to stay with her grandparents, my parents, since I couldn't being myself to send my own daughter to jail. I then retired as Chief of Police the next year, which I'm sure Lin thinks was because of shame. But honestly, I planned to retire soon anyway. What happened had just pushed it forward, since for once, I really saw just how bad of a parent I had been." Toph said while pinching the bridge of her nose, knowing she had really messed up in raising her daughters.
"What about their father, that Kanto guy? Wasn't he around?" Asked Naruto, only for Toph to snort.
"Fathers actually, Lin and Su are half-sisters. And my relationship with Su's dad was even shorter than with Lin's. As for being around, they never really made the attempt. And I'm sure you heard from Pinkie, but what guy would want to date someone who could likely send them flying halfway across the Earth Kingdom, while already having two daughters, or bragging rights that they were with the tough Chief of Police. Who also happened to be friends with the Avatar, Fire Lord, a council member, and the strongest Waterbender in the world." Replied Toph, as Naruto nodded with a frown.
"Where's Suyin now?" Naruto asked.
"After she left her grandparents, Su traveled the world to find her own path, eventually buying a plot of land, before hiring a skilled architect that's now her husband, and built the city of Zaofu. After I retired, I went there and we were able to make amends, and I got to meet my grandchildren. I had hoped to make amends with Lin as well, but she never visited and stayed in Republic City. I never went to see her either, since I figured by then, she already decided she wanted nothing to do with me anymore." Toph answered, while leaning her head against the wall.
"But you wanna know something, while I wasn't the best parent, I at least managed to raise two great girls." Said Toph, smiling since while she didn't show it, she's proud of what her daughters have done and how they've grown.
Though she looked at Naruto when he placed a hand on her knee.
"You did the best that you could, especially given your own childhood and your duty of being the Police Chief. And while I hardly know Beifong and never met Suyin, I'm sure both of them still care about you. Since no child, no matter who they are, could hate their mother or want nothing to do with them. And besides, given who their mother is, it makes sense both of them can be as stubborn as her." Naruto said, smirking, while the blind Earthbender let out a short laugh.
"I say after this is over, why don't you just try sitting down and talking with her. And between us, someone should really pull that giant stick out of her ass." Said Naruto, as Toph snorted before she began laughing loudly.
"AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Yeah Lin, never did know how to relax, always being so serious!" Toph laughed before she calmed down after a few moments and smiled at Naruto.
"Thanks for that, I guess I just need someone to be honest with me from time to time, to help get things through my own thick skull." Said Toph, with Naruto returning the smile.
"Glad I could help, and I'm here if you ever need anything." Naruto said, only to sigh when the Earthbender laughed slyly again.
"There you go again, offering me anything I need. Careful, otherwise I won't be held accountable for what happens. And believe me, no matter how far down we are, everyone above ground will hear the screaming and every other sound." Said Toph grinning, as Naruto sighed in resignation before they resumed making the tunnel.
*Later*
Naruto and Toph had soon succeeded in creating the tunnel to Republic City, with the two returning to the base to tell everyone this. With the whiskered blonde having headed to the surface to relax and rest, since it had taken several hours to get the tunnel finished. And making sure it wouldn't be found or detected by the Erasers.
With Naruto currently sitting against a tree, enjoying the peace and quiet, before he heard a familiar heartbeat coming towards him. The Bloodbender looking and saw Jinora coming towards him, with a nervous expression on her face.
"Hey Jinora. Is something wrong?" Naruto asked.
"Uh no, but I just got off the radio with my mom, letting her know what I did, along with apologizing for worrying her when I vanished, and she really wasn't happy about me sneaking away." Replied Jinora, knowing when this over, she was going to be in a lot of trouble.
"I can imagine since you just disappeared like that. Especially with not only the Erasers running around, but now Hama and Azula out there as well." Stated Naruto, making the Airbender wince, knowing that's true.
"Yeah, I know. But I just-" Jinora said to defend her actions, only for Naruto to stop her.
"I'm not trying to scold you Jinora, just making sure you know of all the threats out there. And those are just the ones we know about, you can't just rush into situations, even if it's the right thing to do. As don't forget, your family will always be worried when you go into dangerous situations like this." Naruto said before smiling at Jinora.
"But it also makes you very brave, to want to fight for your home and help protect your friends and family. And think of it this way, use this as a means to grow stronger, to improve yourself. To make sure that the next time something like this happens, you can tell your family without any doubt, that they don't have to worry and that you'll come back safely." Said Naruto, as the girl looked at him in surprise.
"And like you said back in the Swamp, I'll be there to catch you when you fall, and so will everyone else who cares about you." Naruto added, making Jinora smile and nod.
"Yeah! And I will grow stronger, to prove to my family that I can take care of myself." Said Jinora determined to show her parents that they don't have to worry about her, that she'll help save their home and will be safe.
"I know you will…but you'll still be a kid." Naruto stated as his expression shifted into a smirk, causing Jinora to lose her smile and glare at him in annoyance.
"I am not a-" Said Jinora, before stopping and took a deep breath before smiling sweetly at Naruto.
"One day. One day I will get you back for that. It might not be today, tomorrow, or even this year, but you will know, one day, it will happen when you least expect it." Jinora said ominously, as Naruto looked at her warily and even feeling a little nervous.
"Bye Naruto!" Said Jinora as she smiled at him before heading back into the base, passing Korra as she did, with the Avatar going over to her boyfriend.
"Hey, what did Jinora want?" Korra asked, pulling Naruto from his thoughts.
"Oh nothing, we just talked for a little while. What about you?" Said Naruto as Korra sat beside him.
"Just wanted to get some air. I also saw Toph looked cheerier after you guys got back from digging the tunnel, along with Ty Lee when you got back last night. Now with Jinora." Said Korra as jealously started to seep into her tone, making Naruto look at her in worry before grabbing her hand in his.
"Korra, if it bothers you; I'll stop right now and tell them all that we could only be friends. If it makes you uncomfortable or upset, then it won't happen." Naruto said, with Korra smiling at him and giving a light kiss.
"I know, and I know that it was my idea. But…I guess it'll really take time getting used to the idea of you dating other girls. That I'll have to share." Korra said while fidgeting slightly.
"Like I said, if you don't like it, then we can stop it right now. I'm more than happy just being with you, and I refuse to do anything that makes you upset or would hurt you in anyway." Replied Naruto, not caring about dating other girls, not if it would hurt Korra, with the Avatar smiling at her boyfriend again.
"Which is why I want you to still do this. It'll take time, but I know I'll accept it. Besides Ty Lee, Toph, and Jinora deserve their own chances at happiness, and if that's with you, then I'm not going to be the one to stop them." Said Korra, knowing she'll stop getting jealous eventually and fully accept Naruto dating other girls.
With Naruto wrapping an arm around her shoulder, making Korra lean her head against his shoulder contently, as they enjoyed the moment of peace.
*Timeskip-Four Days*
Two days after Naruto and Toph built the tunnel, the whiskered blonde and Avatar had resumed their training. Training their Firebending and Lightningbending under Zuko, the latter of which the former Fire Lord had learned after the end of the war. Where he was finally able to resolve the conflict within himself and generate lightning along with being able to redirect it. Not to mention having trained more in it, to be able to use lightning as if it was an entirely new bending style. Rather than just shooting blasts of it at a target.
They also trained with Tenzin and Jinora in Airbending and their Spiritual Sides. Though in Naruto's case, he only learned the stances and principles of Airbending, which helped in him in developing and refining his Smokebending. While sharing what he's learned and discovered of the Bending Art that he accidentally created, with Korra, Zuko, and Iroh. With Zuko and Iroh being intrigued to learn a newly discovered Specialized Bending Technique of Firebending.
Along with continuing their training in Earthbending and Seismic Sensing with Toph. Who also helped Naruto in refining, and even combining the latter with his other sensor-based abilities.
While Katara helped them advance their Waterbending and Healing, now being able to teach more of what she knew, now that she was younger again. And what she knew of the Swampbenders style, until Hashirama and Tobirama arrive to continue teaching them.
Finally, they worked on non-bending combat, such as weapons, hand-to-hand combat, and Chi Blocking, with Zuko, Ty Lee, and Mai. Allowing them to grow more proficient with their respective swords and using their bending in collaboration with them.
Currently though, a meeting was being held in the War Room, with Naruto, Korra, Tenzin, Bumi, Iroh, Desna, Eska, Zuko, Mai, Ty Lee, Toph, Katara, and Lin being those that were present. All of them standing around a table with a map of Republic City and the surrounding areas.
"We know that the Erasers have an airfield in the canyons northwest of the city, where their planes go to refuel and be repaired. If we can take it, or destroy it, then we can take out their air assaults, along with being able to capture some of their planes to take down the airships they have patrolling the skies." Iroh said, pointing to where the airfield was.
"Then there's the factory under the Sato Manor, where the Mecha Tanks are being stored and built. We'll need to destroy that, along with the Mecha Tanks inside, to prevent more from being released." Said Zuko.
"They've also begun building bases on the remains of Air Temple Island and Avatar Aang Memorial Island. Likely as a means to try and make their owns ships to control the land, air, and sea." Lin added.
"And lastly, City Hall. Where Neji himself is staying, guarded by dozens of Erasers and Mecha Tanks, along with who knows what else is inside. While it's unlikely taking him down will end this, it'll at least be a major blow to their morale to see their leader defeated. But we'll need to draw away the patrols to get to him." Concluded Bumi.
"For the airfield, Me, Asami, Bolin, Mako, and Bumi will go, I've flown them and showed Bumi how to pilot the planes as well. While Asami should be able to figure it out, given her father made them. While Mako and Bolin are support for any Erasers we encounter." Said Iroh.
"Desna, Eska, Toph, and I will go to the factory, Desna and Eska already have experience taking them down, and I'll be able to shoot their lightning weapons back at them. While platinum can't be Metalbent, Toph can still knock them down or have them fall into the ground with Earthbending." Zuko said.
"Ty Lee, Mai, and I can go to Air Temple Island and Avatar Aang Memorial Island to take care of the Erasers there." Said Katara, knowing those will be the easiest ones to deal with.
"The rest of us, along with my officers and the Unite Forces soldiers, then will stage attacks around the city to spread the Erasers thin and hopefully draw Neji out into the open, where we can deal with him." Lin concluded, looking around and seeing everyone nod in agreement with the plan.
"I don't believe we need to stress enough how serious this is going to be. There can be no room for error or mistakes, we need to stop the Erasers and stop them soon before all of Republic City is destroyed." Said Tenzin, getting more nods as they all knew what was at stake.
They went over some more details of the plan, making sure everyone was aware of their objective and what to do. With the meeting soon ending, once they had planned out everything they needed to do.
"Okay, since that's done and over with, am I the only one who's noticed that Zuko and Iroh sound exactly the same?" Naruto asked, now that the important stuff was done, with Zuko and Iroh looking at him with raised brows.
"What're you talking about?" Said the two, only to look at each other in surprise, with everyone else looking at them in surprise at hearing they did sound similar.
"Huh, we actually do sound the same." Iroh said, with Zuko nodding in agreement.
"Yeah, I guess we never noticed. Since it's been a while since I heard my voice when I was this age, and you were busy with the United Forces." Stated Zuko.
"And we never did have an extended conversation before, either." Iroh said.
"It seems kind of lazy and awkward, now that it's been brought up." Said Zuko as he expression shifted into a frown, as Mai gave him a dry look.
"You think it's awkward? My grandson and my husband have the same voice. How do you think Jin and I will feel?" Mai said, knowing that'll definitely make it strange.
"Huh, thinking about it, Su's voice actually sounded similar to mine when she was younger." Muttered Toph, realizing Suyin's voice sounded similar to her own now that she thought about it.
"Well, with how many voices there are in the world, some are bound to similar. It's just pure coincidence, that Zuko and Toph share similar voices with their grandson and daughter, respectively." Tenzin said, with everyone nodding in agreement.
*Timeskip-One Day*
Korra headed back to her room after finishing up another training session with Tenzin, glad at the progress she's made with her Airbending and getting more in touch with her Spiritual Side. With the Avatar now looking forward to getting some rest, knowing she'll need her energy for when they attack the Erasers.
Though Korra stopped when she saw Katara in her room, with the Waterbending Master having a very displeased look on her face. With Korra's eyes widening when she saw the mannequins, she's used for her Bloodbending training were out in the open. Having hidden them away, so no one would find out about her training, but apparently Katara had managed to find them.
"Do not even try lying Korra, I can clearly see what these things are for! And I thought I had made it clear during your training, that you weren't to go anywhere near Bloodbending!" Katara said, angry that Korra had actually started learning that art, when she had expressly forbidden it.
"Yeah, when I was a kid and didn't know about it! Now I do know more about it and know what I'm doing!" Korra retorted with a frown, since while she would have preferred Katara not finding out, she wasn't about to let her talk down to her like she's still a kid.
"Clearly you don't know! Bloodbending is illegal for a reason Korra! Look at what Amon did with it, look at what Hama could have done if she hadn't been out of practice! And look at everything Carnage has done! You wanted to learn Bloodbending, fine you learned it, but it stops now!" Katara said, refusing to let Korra learn more about Bloodbending than she already has.
"And who the hell are you to tell me what I can and can't learn?! If I want to keep practicing Bloodbending, then I'm going to, and you can't stop me!" Korra shouted while glaring at Katara.
"The hell I can't! I'm your Waterbending master, and I already told you that you would not be learning Bloodbending! But clearly the message didn't stick hard enough, if you blatantly disobeyed it at the first chance to learn it!" Retorted Katara, before speaking again when Korra went to speak some more.
"And as of this moment, I'm forbidding you from seeing Naruto, since clearly he's the reason you've started learning this. And once the Erasers are dealt with, I will be making sure he leaves Republic City before he corrupts you anymore than he and Xiě already have." Katara said, believing that Naruto was now just using Korra to get the Avatar under Xiě's control as a Child of Blood, something she refused to let happen.
Only for her eyes to widen when Korra stomped towards her, with the ground shaking as she did so.
"Excuse you?! Who the fuck are you to get off on telling me, who I can't see?! No, don't even try to answer that because I'm sure the answer will just piss me off even more!" Shouted Korra, while cutting off Katara when she tried speaking.
"Let me make this perfectly clear, I am an adult, I am the Avatar, and I decide who I date! Not you! You are not my mother, you are not my guardian, and I sure as hell am not some little girl you can boss around or tell what to do! Naruto is my boyfriend and I'm gonna see him as long as I damn well please! If you don't like that, then by all means, try and order me around again and we'll see just how much power you think you have over me!" Korra yelled as she narrowed her eyes at the de-aged Waterbender.
Along with internally feeling that someone was suddenly inexplicably proud of her.
While Katara looked at Korra in shock, as this was the first time Korra has ever talked back to her and defied her. Not knowing that Korra wasn't as intimidated of her as she was before, now that the Waterbending Master was the same age as her, even with the boost in power she got from her restored age. Along with Korra having become more independent and sure of herself, as well as her choices.
Though Katara soon snapped out of her shock and gave Korra a warning look
"He is a bad influence on you, and this ends now." Stated Katara before storming out of the room, with Korra scowling and going after her, refusing to let Katara do whatever she's planning.
With the two Waterbenders passing Toph on their way out, making the Earthbender facepalm and groan when she saw the look on Katara's face.
"She's on a warpath again. Meaning the secret's out." Muttered Toph, having learned about Korra's Bloodbending training thanks to her Seismic Sensing, before she went to go find Tenzin to see if he could stop his mother from doing anything reckless.
Knowing even with her maturity, Katara did always tend to think more with her heart than her head.
Meanwhile, Katara had searched for Naruto, before eventually finding him outside with Jinora. With the sight only heightening her anger. Before she bent a large amount of water from the river and launched it at Naruto, who wasn't expecting the sudden attack as he was knocked back into a tree. Hard enough that he heard several things break before they began knitting themselves back together.
"Stay away from my granddaughter!" Katara shouted, with Jinora being shocked and horrified at the sudden attack from her grandmother.
"Naruto!" Said Jinora before rushing to his side and checking on him, while Katara bent more water around her.
"Get away from him now, Jinora!" Said Katara, not wanting her granddaughter anywhere near him.
Only to recoil in surprise when Jinora glared at her.
"No! Why did you attack Naruto?!" Demanded Jinora, her anger over the boy she loved being attacked, overriding how she normally wouldn't yell at her grandmother that way.
With Korra soon running outside, before going to Naruto's side and looked him over.
"The secrets out." Korra answered, making their eyes widen as they understood what she meant.
"Shit." Muttered Naruto as he stood up, feeling his body was healed, knowing this was trouble they didn't need at the moment.
"You knew?!" Katara said in disbelief to Jinora, not believing her granddaughter actually knew Korra was learning Bloodbending and didn't tell her.
"I knew as well mother." Said Tenzin as he and Toph arrived, making Katara look at them.
"So did I Princess." Toph added, surprising Naruto and Korra that they knew.
"You all knew?" Questioned Katara in shock, along with feeling a little betrayed they didn't tell her.
"Yes, and this is the reason I didn't tell you, knowing how you would react, when I overheard Korra convince Naruto to teach her Bloodbending." Tenzin replied, shocking Katara further.
"Tenzin's right, I basically blackmailed Naruto to teach me, by telling him that he could either teach me or I'd learn it myself. But you were there Tenzin?" Korra asked as she and Naruto were shocked that Tenzin overheard them.
"Yes, I had gone for a walk when I saw you two and when I heard you ask about Bloodbending, I stayed and listened in. Though how were you not able to sense me Naruto? Given how you can hear heartbeats." Questioned Tenzin, with Korra also looking at her boyfriend in confusion.
"I also said I tend to block out heartbeats, so I don't have the urge to eat them. And given how Korra's heartbeat helps keep me calm, I had been focused on hers at the time. Which must've given me tunnel vision, so I didn't hear yours." Answered Naruto.
"Aaaah, that's so romantic. The sound of your love's heart being the only thing that helps you control the beast within you." Jinora said as she sighed at the confession, while giving the couple a teasing grin, along with not feeling jealous like she used to now that she had Korra's okay to pursue Naruto.
"What, do you also watch her sleep Webhead? To see her looking so at peace, so cute, so…defenseless?" Said Toph teasingly, with their words having the desired affect at embarrassing Naruto and Korra.
"I-I-I swear, I-I d-do-don't wa-watch y-yo-you sl-sleep!" Naruto stuttered while looking at Korra.
"I-I kn-know." Replied Korra.
Thankfully, they didn't tease them further, as they looked back at Katara.
"I had been travelling with them for a while Gran-Gran, so it made sense that I was told about Korra learning Bloodbending." Said Jinora.
"And you know it's nearly impossible to keep a secret from me." Toph added, as Katara looked around at them in disbelief before settling on Korra.
"Why? Korra, why would you want to learn Bloodbending, even after I told you what it does to people?" Katara asked, hurt that her student would go behind her back like that, even after she warned her.
"Because Bloodbending isn't just about controlling people Katara. Naruto told me more about what it can do, like how it lets someone hear heartbeats and know what a person is feeling. That you could sense anomalies in a person's blood, like poisons and venoms, while being able to isolate them somewhere to remove them. You could even resist another person's Bloodbending Grip. And all of that is just what Naruto told me, who knows what else it can do, just look at Hama and the fact that she kept herself alive with it!" Korra explained, certain that there were so many other abilities that Bloodbending could give its users, that Naruto didn't tell her.
"Of course I didn't tell you everything, not because I don't trust you Korra. I just told you enough, so you wouldn't judge me, should I ever feel the need to use Bloodbending. I didn't think it'd be enough to get you interested in it, but I guess in hindsight, learning that you'd be able to resist the Bloodbending Grip of others had been what got you." Said Naruto, knowing he'd have to use Bloodbending when he needed to, and didn't want Korra to judge him when he did.
"They're both right, Princess. While you don't like it, Bloodbending isn't something Twinkle Toes can ignore." Toph stated, with Jinora and Tenzin nodding in agreement.
"Gran-Gran, I know you don't like Bloodbending and that it is dangerous, but Korra is stronger than you think. She won't be corrupted by it." Said Jinora, confident that Korra won't let the power corrupt her.
"They're right, mother. And if there's anyone that can resist the corruption that Bloodbending brings, it's the Avatar. And aside from you, Naruto is the only Bloodbender who hasn't been twisted by its power." Tenzin added, with Katara looking at them all stubbornly.
"Well you seem to already be able to hear heartbeats Korra and have started learning Seismic Sensing from Toph. You can remove poisons and venom with Healing, and Aang had been able to resist Bloodbending Grips and he wasn't a Bloodbender." Argued Katara.
"Only when he was in the Avatar State. And maybe, but the poisons could still spread through a person's body while it's being removed, and there'd be no guarantee it'd all be taken out." Korra retorted.
"And Seismic Sensing isn't foolproof. Remember Azula during the eclipse? She was able to lie, despite it, and others could as well." Added Toph.
"There's also the chance of other Bloodbenders being out there, like Amon, who could target Korra. And even if she entered the Avatar State, she'll also be at her most her vulnerable. Since if she is killed while in it, it would mean the end of the Avatar Cycle." Jinora said.
"Mother, I know you don't like it. But Korra is becoming an adult, and it is her decision to make. Just like when you and Uncle Sokka decided to go with dad to fight the Fire Nation." Said Tenzin, as Katara squeezed her eyes shut as they kept talking and trying to convince her to change mind.
"Alright! Alright, fine! Korra…Korra can continue her Bloodbending training." Katara said reluctantly as she caved into their demands.
"Thank you, Kat-" Said Korra, only for Katara to hold up her hand.
"On the condition that I am there during your lessons to make sure no funny business happens." Said Katara sternly, not wanting to agree, but knew if she couldn't stop it, then she could at least make sure nothing funny happens.
"You honestly think I'd let anything happen to Korra?! I'd never do anything to hurt her!" Naruto said, feeling insulted that she believed he'd do anything to intentionally hurt his girlfriend.
"That remains to be seen." Retorted Katara while crossing her arms.
"No, that's a fact. And here's another fact, you aren't going to be some supervisor. I agreed to teach Korra Bloodbending, not have you breathing down our necks when I do. You don't like that, then tough Princess." Said Naruto, much to everyone's shock at seeing him stand up to Katara, something that none of them have ever seen anyone do before.
With the exception of Toph, given how the Earthbender had a tendency of butting heads with Katara. All while de-aged Waterbender was the most shocked by this.
Given how Sokka, Aang, and even Zuko, always had a tendency to cave to her. And yet here was Naruto, who wasn't caving like them or any of the other guy she's ever met.
"Yo-you…" Katara said.
"M-me…what? Never had anyone talk back to you before, Princess. Well get used to it, I've had a Spirit with serious anger management issues inside me, since I was a kid. If I didn't give into him, then don't think I'll give into you." Said Naruto, as Katara could only look at him in disbelief at how he's talking back to her.
'No one's ever talked back to me, outside of Toph! I could get my brother, the Avatar, and even the Fire Lord to cave to me! And yet he's not caving, like them! That's…that's…that's…actually kind of attractive.' Katara thought, unable to deny that she actually found that rather attractive, only to quickly shake that away and mentally curse the hormones from her de-aged body.
Before she shook it off and glared at Naruto.
"And I had to deal with my brother, who once had an ego the size of the Earth Kingdom; Aang, who always seemed to get into trouble whenever my back was turned; Zuko chasing us all over the planet, before his crazy sister and her friends decided to take over that role! As well as her, for an entire year!" Said Katara while pointing at Toph at the end.
"Love you too Sugar Queen." Toph deadpanned.
"So if you think that pile of blood and anger inside you is a problem, you haven't seen anything yet, you arrogant dick!" Katara said.
"Bring it on, you spoiled princess!" Retorted Naruto glaring right back at her.
"Insane dumbass!"
"Whiny bitch!"
"Asshole!"
"Sow!"
"Bastard!"
"I will drown you!"
"I'll bury you!"
"How about I freeze you and see how long it takes until you wake up!"
"Maybe after we see you survive a fall in a volcano!"
"I never thought I'd live to see the day." Tenzin muttered, as while he would normally be upset at someone talking to his mother that way, he would be lying if he didn't see Naruto as somewhat of a god, right now.
Given how he, Kya and Bumi had their fair share of experiences of being the focal-point of Katara's temper, resulting in them caving to her as well. So to see someone, who's name isn't Toph Beifong, manage to stand up to Katara and talk back to her. It was nothing short of a miracle, in his book.
'Who knew that mother had such a mouth on her, as well' Tenzin thought as he sweatdropped at the sight, given all the times that Katara has washed his, Bumi's, Kya's mouth out with soap.
And he was sure that Korra had gotten the same treatment from her, as well.
"Dad, what does…" Jinora said, only to be cut off when her father immediately grabbed her by the hand and began dragging her away.
"I-I'll tell you when you're older. Also, don't say any of what you just heard to your mother, okay?" Tenzin muttered with a pale and fearful face, knowing that he will be the one that Pema blames for this, given how there's no way she would believe that Jinora would have learned such language from her normally kind and motherly grandmother.
"Okay, then what about.." Jinora was about to ask, only to get cut off again.
"When you're way older!" Tenzin exclaimed as he cried a waterfall of tears, knowing that Pema will kill him when she finds out about Jinora's new colorful vocabulary.
At least she won't have pregnancy hormones and mood-swings on-top of her temper, this time around.
"Alright, enough!" Korra shouted as she got between Naruto and Katara, before pushing them away from each other.
"Naruto, I know you don't like it, but Katara will have to be there during our training. I trust you won't do anything to hurt me, but it also doesn't hurt to have some in case things get bad. Alright?" Korra said while looking at her boyfriend, who grumbled before reluctantly nodding.
"Fine, she can come, but only to observe." Said Naruto, with Korra looking at Katara, who nodded.
"Fine, only to observe." Katara agreed.
With that the couple took their leave, though not before Naruto and Katara gave each other the "I'm watching you" look/sign. Though Naruto smirked as he also flipped Katara the bird, making her growl and would have attacked him, if not for Toph holding her back.
"And suddenly, Whiskers went from a ten to a twelve.' Toph thought with a grin, liking anyone that was able to stand up to Katara of all people.
Now she just hoped they didn't end up killing each other.
*With Hashirama and Tobirama*
Meanwhile, Hashirama, Tobirama, and the Swampbenders were fighting off the Earth Queen's forces, while having some difficulty, due to how many there were. Even more so, when they learned that several Dai Li agents were also among the army as Commanding Officers. Making it extra difficult, due to their stone gloves being fast and unexpected, allowing them to restrain some of the Swampbenders. Luckily, the brothers were able to hold off the Dai Li and prevent them from capturing any of the Swampbenders. But they knew they'd need some help soon, or else they could very well be overrun.
Thankfully however, help soon arrived when several massive fireballs came crashing down from the sky, on top of the Earth Queen's army. Making those that were killed by the sudden attack, scatter and look on in shock at the sudden attack. Before they were pushed further back by a wall of black flames and blasts if lightning.
Looking to see who had come to help them, Hashirama smiled happily, while Tobirama frowned in annoyance at who they saw. Several Firebenders, with three standing at the front and being the ones who launched the attack at the Earthbenders. With the brothers recognizing Madara Uchiha, along with his nephew Itachi Uchiha, as well as his niece and Itachi's little sister, Satsuki Uchiha.
All of them being part of the Nomadic Uchiha Clan, a clan of Firebenders that travelled all over the nations. With Madara being one of the most powerful Firebenders in the world, as well as Itachi. With the siblings possessing unique black flames, while Satsuki was starting to make a name for herself, with her special talent and affinity for Lightningbending.
"Take them down!" Madara ordered as the other Uchiha rushed to help the Swampbenders deal with the Earthbenders.
"Madara! It's good to see you, and just in the nick of time." Hashirama said as the two shook hands.
"After hearing about what's been happening in Republic City, I had my suspicions that the Earth Queen would try something like this. And while I'd prefer the Uchiha Clan to remain out of the business of the Four Nations and United Republic. I'd also prefer it, if that corrupt hag didn't instigate another Great War, in a bid to gain any more power than she already has. Now, let's deal with the rest of these fools." Said Madara, much to Hashirama's joy and Tobirama's annoyance, but knew the help was needed.
With that, the three went to help the Swampbenders and Uchiha deal with the Earth Queen's army.
So, what did you think, good. Yep we see Naruto's learned more about Ty Lee and Toph, along with offering his own advise to them with their problems, along with some bonding with Korra and Jinora. Then we learn about what training they've been doing since arriving at base, before we see them working on a plan to against the Erasers. Next we see Katara confronting Korra about learning Bloodbending, leading to an argument between the two, only for Korra to shut Katara down by shouting at her, in a way that Kushina would be proud of her future daughter-in-law. Only for Katara to go confront Naruto, attacking him when she sees him with Jinora, only to be stopped at learning Jinora, Tenzin, and Toph were all aware of her training and didn't tell her. With them all managing to convince her to let Korra continue her training, on the condition she's there to watch it, leading to an argument between her and Naruto, which also leads to some…tension starting to build between them (if any of you don't like to bad, it's happening) before Korra breaks them up and gets Naruto to agree. Finally we see the Swampbenders fighting the Earth Queen's army, getting some assistance in the form of the Nomadic Uchiha Clan, including Madara, Itachi, and Satsuki. So, review if you liked go away if you didn't.
Storm out
