Please give a big "Thank you" to Amateraszu, Wildstar93, and SaoirseParisa for reviewing the previous chapter. I'm very glad to hear that you still feel my Korra story is realistic, staying true to both canon while developing new traits to the characters. Things are going to pick up in this chapter, especially with some of Korra's new challenges. And believe it or not, I'll be using a song in this chapter, from a band that I frequently use in my stories. On that note, let's begin.

Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko own the Legend of Korra.

Asami quietly thanked the housekeeper of the Varrick household before slipping through the main hall. She knew that both Varrick and Zhu Li were at work, but since Korra took a few days off, Asami figured she would be home. "Korra, are you here?" she called, marching through the living room and heading for the kitchen. There was not a single response, with only Asami's voice echoing off the walls. It gave Asami the chills, as she wondered what happened to Korra.

Asami turned the corner and entered the kitchen, just in time to see Korra carrying a small box in her hands. "Hey Asami, were you looking for me?" Korra greeted her friend with an inquisitive look on her face, "It is three o'clock, and that means I get my afternoon snack of seal jerky, courtesy of Auntie Ashuna's Seal Jerky from the Southern Water Tribe." Korra held the box up proudly, letting Asami take a good look at the branding.

Asami leaned her head in closer, seeing the box with the face of an elderly woman dressed in a blue parka. "I heard she was a friend of your water bending teacher Katara, is that right?" Asami inquired, "You told me about her quite a few times. I'm impressed at how long her company has lasted through so many years."

"It was eighty-six years and seven months ago, to be exact. Katara was seven years old at the time, and she tried her first piece of seal jerky from Ashuna," Korra recited the details like a poem in her school books, "Katara said when she first tried it, she almost broke her tooth. So it goes to show how far it's come to sell this well for so many years. Anyway, it's time for my snack. Why don't we take this to my room before we chat further?"

Asami cracked a smile, following the water bender up to the latter's room. Korra had a strict routine when it came to certain things, and one of those was when she had her afternoon snack. It was always at three o'clock, and it was always Auntie Ashuna's seal jerky. Asami recalled that Korra kept a huge box of it in her office at the warehouse, and when it got to three o'clock, she would literally drop everything and head straight for her office. She would stay in there and finish eating her seal jerky before she headed back out. It took Opal, Toza, Bolin, and the others a while to get used to, but once they realized the routine, they accommodated it.

Asami followed Korra up the stairs, past the second-floor railings, and into a room at the end of the hall. Korra pushed the door open and gestured Asami to enter. The engineer had been here plenty of times, and as usual, she was greeted by a large white dog. "Hello, Naga," Asami greeted the Great Pyrenees, "Have you been keeping Korra company?"

Naga barked a couple of times, trotting over to Asami before Korra intervened. "Settle down, girl," she ordered the dog, to which Naga obeyed by standing down. Korra flopped onto her bed and opened her box of seal jerky, reaching in and pulling one out. "Naga's been really good at keeping my spirits up during this time. She's pretty much the only one other than Zhu Li or Shiro Shinobi who I can hold a conversation with right now," she commented, examining her piece of seal jerky a bit before taking a small bite.

Asami looked glum. She knew how upset Korra was at Varrick for getting everyone into trouble with his poor decision. However, Asami was more concerned at how bad Korra felt about her own actions. "I haven't gone to work for three days now, and other than Zhu Li, I wasn't really in the mood to talk to anybody," Korra stated after swallowing her piece of seal jerky, "Shiro called me yesterday and we spoke for fourteen minutes. I told him about what happened and how bad I felt when I got Toza's family in trouble. He had to cut the call short because he had to prepare for a pro-bending match that night, but he told me to just hang in there." Korra popped the rest of the seal jerky in her mouth, chewing it thoughtfully while digging her hand into the box for another piece. "I'm just glad he's so supportive of me, you know?" she added.

"But Korra, Shiro's not the only one supportive of you," Asami responded. She pulled out Korra's chair from her desk and slowly eased herself into it. "Varrick supports you, despite the mistake he made. Zhu Li certainly does, and Katara's whole family does too. And even though you haven't known them for long, I'm sure Mako, Bolin, Kai, and their foster parents do too. And did you happen to forget my family, given how long we've been friends?"

Korra nodded. "Twenty years now," she recalled, "You were six years old and I was five years old. And I still remember the tantrum I threw when I first met you, but then Varrick had me diagnosed with autism and they worked on my social interactions. I'm glad we can become friends, and you've been really patient in trying to work things out with me."

Asami smiled. "When you're a little kid, and you learn that your best friend is a little different, it can be shocking. But when you realize that your friendship with that person is too important to lose due to those differences, you learn to adapt," Asami explained, slightly leaning back on the chair in her reminiscence, "And I think I can help you through this right now. Haven't I always been the one to make sure that you'll be alright?"

Korra raised an eyebrow before cracking into a grin of her own. "Did you just quote one of our favourite songs?" Korra replied with a chuckle. When Asami grabbed her cellphone and flipped through the music section, Korra's grin only broke wider. "Asami, that song was released as a single seventeen years ago, from a CD that was released eighteen years ago. We were still in elementary school back then, with you one grade higher than me."

"And the lyrics of that song were true of us back then, just like they are true of us now," Asami added, finally finding the song in her music library. She set her phone down and pushed the volume to the maximum. "You were having trouble at school with interacting with others, and I helped you out. At the same time, you encouraged me to get involved in things that most girls in our classes wouldn't even think of getting into, like engineering and machinery. So to an extent, we both helped each other out for a lot longer than we imagined."

A familiar guitar riff soon filled the room, with Asami turning to Korra and mouthing, "I'll be the one." When that occurred, Korra knew Asami was about to lead off an impromptu music session. Placing down her seal jerky, she turned towards Asami and paid close attention.

I guess you were lost, when I met you.
Still there were tears in your eyes.
So out of trust, and I knew,
No more than mysteries and lies.

When Asami sang those words in accordance with the singer in the song, Korra really felt they were directed at her. Due to her autism, Korra always felt lost in this world, and certainly she had her fair share of tears and frustration. Since she could not interact properly with people, she found it hard to trust people. That was, until Asami came along. Heading into the next verse, Korra took over from Asami and belted the words out loud.

There you are, wild and free,
Reaching out like you needed me.
A helping hand, to make it right,
I am holding you all through the night.

It brought Korra back to her elementary school days, when Asami was the only one in the entire school willing to spend time with Korra. Being a rich, high-society girl, Asami was free to do anything she wanted. Yet she reached out to Korra, and sometimes asked Korra for advice as well. It was through this that both sides offered a helping hand to each other, and through each other things were made right. As the chorus approached, the twosome entered into a duet.

I'll be the one, I'll be the one,
Who will make all your sorrows undone.
I'll be the light, I'll be the light,
When you feel like there's nowhere to run.

I'll be the one, to hold you,
And make sure that you'll be alright.
Because my fear is gone, and I want to,
Take you from darkness to light.

The chorus rang true for both Korra and Asami, and as that went through, Korra could see it in Asami's eyes. Clearly the message was reciprocated by both sides, where they both eased each other's fears. Korra became more confident as she grew older with Asami's words of encouragement, and Asami's achievement of reaching management level at Future Industries was partially due to Korra. They brought each other to their current positions, and knowing how things would go in the future, they would continue to inspire each other.

There you are, wild and free,
Reaching out like you needed me.
A helping hand, to make it right,
I am holding you all through the night.

I'll be the one, I'll be the one,
Who will make all your sorrows undone.
I'll be the light, I'll be the light,
When you feel like there's nowhere to run.

I'll be the one, to hold you,
And make sure that you'll be alright.

As the second chorus went by, Asami and Korra were well into the rhythm of the song. They also realized how this current problem was the same as their previous problems, where they must rely on each other to make things right. Asami had to repair the reputation of Future Industries, while Korra had to make amends with Toza's family. Korra did speak with Toza after his release, and she found out a bit about the nature of the relationship between Mako and Bolin. Knowing the strain this caused on the brothers, Korra knew that she had to rely on her friends and family again, and once more they would have to dig deep to find a solution.

You need me, like I need you.
We can share our dreams coming true.
I can show you what true love means.
Just take my hand, baby please!

I'll be the one, I'll be the light,
Where you can run to make it right.
I'll be the one, I'll be the light.
Where you can run…

By now, Korra knew what she had to do. Just like how Asami had been her light through her life, Korra now had to be the light for Bolin and his friends. Unlike Korra and Asami, Bolin did not have the privileged upbringing that they did. While Mako made it as a police officer, Bolin was still struggling his way through life. With Toza being arrested, it put a strain on his family, not to mention affecting the breadwinner. While Korra believed Bolin could run the warehouse one day, she knew she could do more to help him. Even if it meant doing something small, like rekindling the brotherly bond, Korra was willing to do it.

I'll be the one, I'll be the one,
Who will make all your sorrows undone.
I'll be the light, I'll be the light,
When you feel like there's nowhere to run.

I'll be the one, I'll be the light,
Where you can run to make it right.
I'll be the one, I'll be the light.
Where you can run to make it right.

I'll be the one, to hold you,
And make sure that you'll be alright.
I'll be the one.

When the song ended, both ladies had huge smiles on their faces. They knew they had to be "the one" to fix the problems, whether for themselves or others. Many people were affected by what they had to do, and that meant they had to be selfless and courageous. Asami put Korra before herself when they were young, and Korra reciprocated that as they grew up. Now, they had to do that for several others, in hopes that things would be better. "I think I know what to do now," Korra stated with conviction, "I'll find a way to make Bolin and Mako sit down together, and I'll help them hash it out. If need be, I'll invite Kai as well."

"Just do what you can, Korra," Asami reminded her, reaching out and holding onto Korra's hand, "These things are often out of your control, so the most you can do is adapt to the changes along the way. But then again, being a water bender, isn't that how your element works? Water is the element of change, and you bend based on adapting to change."

"I know, but I'll do the best I can. And same for you too," Korra replied, turning her body so she now faced Asami directly, "I'm more than willing to give you any support too, so if you ever want anything, just let me know. I'll always be there for you." With that, Korra pulled Asami into a hug, something that the heiress returned. Things might be a mess right now, but deep down they knew they were going to make things right.

"Well, Jinora? Have you decided on where you want to go?" Pema asked her eldest daughter. It was a typical evening at the residence of the vice president, where the entire family gathered around the living room. It was another usual dinner at first, with Ikki and Meelo arguing with one another, Tenzin unwinding after a long day, and Pema trying to juggle all the children's needs. But a twist occurred when Jinora announced that she was ready to decide which university she would attend next year, making the whole family anxious to hear her final choice.

"Maybe it's a school that does well in the arts program, where you can paint and sculpt and mix colours all day long," Ikki declared, her grin stretching across her entire face, "It doesn't have to be just Air Nomad arts, but any type of arts. That's the only type of school that counts."

Jinora smiled and nodded. "If it makes you feel better, my interest in Air Nomad history and culture does include the arts, so I may take an arts class in my major," she pointed out, flipping over some pages in her notebook, "But to assure Dad, I did consider all the possible factors, including location, residence, relevance to major, career development, and reputation."

Tenzin beamed with pride. He always knew that Jinora was responsible and thorough, meaning not a single stone was left unturned in her search. Turning to his other three children, he reminded them to consider the same factors when they chose schools. "Ikki will be next in line, followed by Meelo," Tenzin stated, "Rohan still has some time, but at least he'll have three good examples before him."

"I already know what school I'll attend. I'll go to a military academy, just like Uncle Bumi did," Meelo exclaimed, puffing out his chest in pride, "Just wait until I develop an air bender army. That will strike fear into everyone around!"

"Meelo, Air Nomads never had armies, and I doubt they will in the future," Jinora replied with a groan. That got a big pout out of Meelo, which in turn caused laughter among the entire crowd. Shaking her head, Jinora focused back on her notes. "In the end, I narrowed it down to just one possible choice, which is pretty hard, since I like so many of the schools I visited."

The entire room stayed in absolute silence, with every set of eyes keying in on Jinora. It was just like her tattoo ceremony, where the entire Air Temple was filled with her family and friends, all of whom waited for Tenzin to lift back her hood. That was the biggest moment of Jinora's life, being made the youngest air bending master in history. Now a similar moment was about to be unveiled, with Jinora reaching the milestone of adulthood with this move. While she was a bundle of nerves, Jinora also could not help but feel proud at this moment.

Taking a deep breath, Jinora revealed her choice. "I've decided that next year, for where I will attend university, I will go to…" she announced, but paused midway to create some drama. Her entire family leaned forward, their bodies tensing and their expressions strained. With a flourish, Jinora concluded with, "Republic City University."

Tenzin and Pema had huge smiles on their faces, but Ikki and Meelo could only frown at Jinora. "Are you serious? Of all the places you choose to go, you want to stay right here?" Ikki asked incredulously, "And I thought you had a sense of adventure."

Jinora shrugged. "There's nothing wrong with our local university. It's an ethnically diverse university within an ethnically diverse city. It is relatively newer than most of the others but still it has a good reputation. I don't see anything wrong with that," Jinora pointed out, citing the points right off of her notes, "Besides, Air Nomads are supposed to cherish all life, and that means accepting different races. Just because their beliefs are different doesn't mean their lives are less worthy, so maybe studying at such a multiethnic school and developing Air Nomad culture by intermingling with all these different cultures is a good thing."

Pema nodded. "It's certainly a different way of thinking about Air Nomad culture, but I can see where that might come in handy," she commented, "And Republic City University does have a good reputation, so I can't fault you for choosing it."

"Boo, and I thought you were choosing somewhere far," Meelo complained, "You should study Air Nomad combat or battling, just so you can beat people up if they challenge you."

"Air Nomads don't just beat people up, so could you knock it off?" Ikki snapped, glaring daggers into Meelo, "I still say Jinora should learn more about Air Nomad arts. I think that'll let her and me get together and paint until there's no tomorrow."

"Who cares about your art? She should learn how to fight!" Meelo retorted, staring back at Ikki. Despite the usual teasing nature of their rivalry, there were times that Ikki and Meelo got out of hand with their arguing, to the point where they had to be physically separated.

Luckily, Tenzin was cognizant of the way the argument was leading, and proceeded to restraining them both. "I think we've had a little too much excitement for the day, so you two should go back to your rooms and get ready for bed," he suggested. He signalled to the nearby housekeeper, who trotted over to escort Ikki and Meelo away. Rohan soon followed, leaving Tenzin and Pema alone with Jinora. Turning to the other air bending master in the room, Tenzin stared at her in pride once more. "I can't say it enough times, but I'm very happy at the decision you made. Although the way you described Air Nomad culture is a lot different than what a lot of traditional historians will say. How did you come up with that definition?"

Jinora tilted her eyes sideways, not quite sure how to explain it to her father. The memory of her breaking up the fight between Kai and Skoochy was still fresh in her mind, not to mention the derisive laugh Kai launched at her when she asked about his air bending. "I just ran into an air bender around my age the other day. I asked him a bit about himself, and I ended up getting a huge wakeup call," she murmured, rubbing her arms nervously.

Tenzin and Pema shuffled to the sides of the couch they say on, allowing Jinora to take a seat in the middle. The younger air bender scurried to the sofa, slowly easing herself onto the seat. "After I talked with that guy, I realize that maybe I should change the way I view Air Nomad culture," Jinora added, rubbing the spot where the blue arrow ended on her forehead.

Upon some prodding from Tenzin and Pema, Jinora described the whole event. From Kai's background as an orphan, to him growing up in the most unsavoury way, to how he was now trying to break out of the cycle of poverty, only to have Tarrlok's police operation put him back in danger. "It just made me feel that instead of looking at Air Nomads as one group, we have to look at how Air Nomads relate to all humanity," Jinora explained, "If we can't help one of our own, like Kai, then how can we make our mark on the world?"

Tenzin tapped his bearded chin. "You certainly raised a good point, Jinora," he remarked, his grey eyes thoughtful but uncertain, "All my life I've been trying to focus on the traditional definitions of our culture, but I guess I neglected to look into how culture can change. And if Kai represents a part of Air Nomad culture that we neglected, the need to help out our fellow human beings, then I can see how helping him will go towards building this new society."

Pema tilted her eyes between her husband and her daughter. Her social work background allowed her to encounter many children like Kai, and it would not surprise her if one of her previous colleagues might have come across Kai. "But he is in foster care, based on what you said. Yung, one of the warehouse owners, took Kai in, right?" Pema asked, "If that's the case, then maybe you can visit him when you go see Korra. You can get a chance to meet Yung as well, and maybe with Yung you can see how to help Kai."

Jinora nodded with determination. "I really want to help him, mainly because how much it would mean to both of us," she assertively decided, "I want to lead the next line of thought for air benders, and I know Kai wants to get out of this situation. Plus, I think deep down, Kai just wants a friend. He wants someone to understand him and to know that someone will always be there for him. If that's what he requires to get back on his feet, then I'll be the one to do that."

Tenzin rubbed his chin once more. While he did his best as vice president to work with the Minister of Finance and the Treasury to make financial policies that put more money back in the pocket of hardworking citizens, he always felt there was more to be done. While Tenzin did not regret not running for the presidency in the New Year, he did want to have a candidate that addressed these issues. "That's why I didn't hesitate to endorse Tonraq Arnook for president, as he has that everyman touch that allows him to understand issues like the ones Kai faces," the older air bender described, "I'm glad you're reaching out to Kai, Jinora. But remember, it's best to start slow. Get a chance to know each other better first, before you dive too far into it."

Jinora chuckled. "Don't worry, Dad. I think I know what to do," she stated. While she was happy to befriend Kai, she doubted there was anything more to it than that. However crazy was Tenzin to make it sound like she was falling head over heels for Kai?

"You realize that this is a disaster, right? Your plan to open Republic City to Northern Water Tribe goods just went up in smoke, and whatever advantage you claim our tribe will get has now become a disadvantage," Unalaq scolded Tarrlok over the phone. The past few days had been nothing more than damage control for Tarrlok, who had to explain to the public why the raid on Boar-Q-Pine Logistics ended in failure. Not only did the public side with their esteemed police chief over him, but Tarrlok also failed to put his homeland at an economic advantage. "How do you expect things to work out between our nations in the future?"

"Look, I didn't expect that to fall apart. It's obvious the Southern Water Tribe folks have something going on, especially with Iknik Blackstone Varrick, but I didn't expect some mentally challenged girl will beat us," Tarrlok sputtered. The whole plan was ruined because Korra, the same little spitfire he ran into at the pro-bending arena, threw Future Industries' entire record book at them. It completely exonerated them from criminal responsibility, and with the recall underway, Future Industries was in the clear. "What do you suggest we do now?"

"What I suggest you do is give up this whole white knight on a steed act and be more productive for once in your useless life!" Unalaq snapped without remorse. Tarrlok had to wince at the harshness and bitterness in the chief's tone, uncharacteristic on both ends. Unalaq always had a way of being intimidating without angry, and Tarrlok's career as a politician allowed him to stay cool under all circumstances. Sensing the temperature rise, the Minister of National Defence realized what a predicament he was in. "I say no more looking good to score points in the next election," Unalaq continued, "My contacts are getting involved, period."

"Hold on, do you realize what this could cause? If they found out that I'm involved with you, and your contacts are now active, that will ruin my election chances. If I don't get in, then your brother gets in, and your rival tribe just got a leg up," Tarrlok warned Unalaq. He glanced at the door to his office, which was still shut at the time. The evening sun now cast shadows into the office once more, shrouding it and Tarrlok himself in a mix of light and darkness. "Do you still want to win this civil war once and for all, or are you prepared to wave the white flag?"

Unalaq chuckled over the phone, the tone of which was laced with sarcasm. Tarrlok lifted the receiver from his ear, wondering if Unalaq was serious or just mocking him. "Right now, if we follow your plan, we'll be waving the white flag for sure. Your entire strategy of being the good leader and trying to win hearts and minds over is based on one fatal premise, which is that you stand a chance of getting elected," Unalaq smugly pointed out, "Don't forget that despite your claim to being a white knight, you have some skeletons in your closet too, right?"

Tarrlok stuttered, his mouth dropping and closing several times. He was too shocked to even speak when Unalaq pointed out Tarrlok's own brother. "Noatak, or should I say Amon, is your older brother, isn't he? In fact, he was a triad leader of sorts. He led a group of thugs called the Equalists. They're basically the non-bending version of your other gangs, like the Triple Threats," Unalaq listed out, "How would you like your people to know that you are related to someone that reviled in the republic, Minister Yakone?"

Shaking his head a few times, Tarrlok launched into his defence. "That name no longer has any meaning to me, especially when he's already dead!" he spat. Tarrlok could still recall how his brother lost a battle against a combination of local police and the republic's military. It was Tenzin's own brother Bumi who led a battalion against Amon, ultimately beating his gang. Amon lost his life in the process, and while Tarrlok was bitter and angry about it, he also felt it was a saving grace. "It put me on the path to undoing a lot of the damage that he caused, so it's not like all was lost. Don't think you can drag me through the mud," he charged.

"And there's where you fail as a leader, Tarrlok. Your inability to connect different people through common goals is what will lead to your downfall. My connections and I may have different reasons for wanting to do what we do, but as long as there is a common goal, we can throw aside our differences into getting what we want. And if it means eliminating some people along the way, we'll do whatever it takes," Unalaq explained. Tarrlok could only fume at that comment, along with Unalaq's melodramatic remark about getting late in the day. "I have more important things to do, so I'll leave the small potatoes to you," he stated.

Before Tarrlok could even retort, Unalaq hung up the phone, leaving the Minister of National Defence appalled. Tarrlok clenched his hand against the phone before placing it down harder than he wanted. He never expected Unalaq to bring up Amon, which was a part of Tarrlok's life that Tarrlok tried hard to shield from public view. If this was leaked out, it would create a permanent stain on his reputation. He had to avoid this at all costs if he wanted any shot at the election, now that the raid was a complete failure.

Tarrlok rubbed his hands over his face, leaning back on his chair and closing his eyes in thought. It threw his body back into the dimming light, courtesy of the windows behind him. He was still loyal to the Northern Water Tribe, since he grew up there and was still connected with the ruling family, namely Unalaq. Even in the dispute with the Southern Water Tribe, Tarrlok sided with the Northern Water Tribe more. It made Tonraq, his colleague and fellow cabinet member, his main rival. He had to give his own tribe the advantage, even if it meant stacking trade with the Republic in favour of the Northern Water Tribe.

But one thing Unalaq told Tarrlok that did not sit well with him was the presence of the connections, particularly in the context of his previous meeting with Unalaq. Tarrlok knew that Unalaq had connections with some unique benders, and he also mentioned being careful with some Southern Water Tribe members. He had no idea what Unalaq wanted to do with these special benders, but somehow Tarrlok kept thinking back of the incident with Korra. The way she unloaded on him at the pro-bending arena was a scene Tarrlok would not forget, but how did she connect with Unalaq's point? "Whatever the case, I will find that out," he muttered, "And I'll be the one to rid these threats to my ability to become president once and for all."

"Table for four, reserved under Korra Arnook, please," Korra informed the waiter, who guided her party into the dining room. As promised, Korra invited Mako, Bolin, and Kai to dinner at Kwong's Cuisine. While they were happy to attend, Korra could see that Mako and Bolin still avoided eye contact. They stood slightly apart from each other and barely spoke a word to each other. All these told Korra that things were still not alright between the siblings.

The waiter soon brought them to a long rectangular table, which Korra saw could fit six people. Sensing the atmosphere, Korra took the initiative and sat at the head of the table. She could see Bolin ease into the seat directly to her left, while Mako went to the seat directly to her right. Kai took the seat next to Bolin, making him the furthest away from her. As the menus were laid out before them, Korra decided to break the ice. "First off, I just want to say that, despite how everything turned out okay in the end, I'm very sorry for the mistake I made," she stated, "I can't excuse what happened, and I hope you guys can forgive Varrick and I for that. We will change our policies so that this won't happen ever again."

Bolin slowly eased his head up. His eyes wavered and his back was still slightly hunched, but Korra could tell the earth bender wanted to respond. From across the table, Mako was his usual emotionless self, his arms crossed and his eyes narrowing. Korra could even see Kai, who was at the end of the table, tilt his eyes uneasily between the two brothers. With the way this went, Korra was not sure when they would even start acknowledging each other's presence.

Taking a deep breath, Korra calmed her nerves before she started again. "I wasn't there when Toza got arrested, but I heard about it from Yung afterwards," she added, her eyes tilting between Mako and Bolin to catch any reactions, "Bolin, I know you were devastated, and I know how you feel. But Mako is doing his job as a police officer, and he can't disobey orders from his bosses. You do realize that, right?"

Bolin glanced up with a cat deer in the headlights look, which Korra quickly noted before she turned to Mako. "Mako, I haven't known you for very long, but I do feel you sometimes act like you don't care about your family," she observed, "It's one thing to keep in all your emotions and focus hard on work, but sometimes your family wants to hear you tell them how much you care about them. Part of the reason this thing got blown out of proportion is because it threw out a bunch of dirty laundry that's been inside the closet for the past who knows how many years. That's why today, I want you guys to start talking whether you like it or not."

Bolin slightly shuffled in his seat, while Mako rubbed his hands across his cheeks. Kai and Korra could only look on, hoping one of them would break the ice. "If you don't talk, then I won't order anything for you to eat," Korra threatened, albeit only half-jokingly.

Mako moistened his lips before offering to begin. Korra always found it difficult to read Mako, and sometimes she was intimidated by his stern expressions. Here was her first chance to really get to know the fire bender. "There are no excuses for what I did," he described, "I know I was doing my job, but I should have explained to you what happened. I wasn't happy that Toza was arrested, but I was between a rock and a hard place. I should have handled it better, and I'm sorry if I put my work ahead of my family."

Bolin winced. He certainly did not expect a full apology from Mako, but it also reflected to Bolin how important Mako had been all his life. "We are family, and I know you supported me for as long as you did. But personally, I get frustrated because I feel like I don't know you sometimes," Bolin replied, his hands clutching at the napkin now on his lap, "I know you're providing for the family, along with Toza, and not a day goes by without me feeling thankful for that. But sometimes, I just feel like you're putting your work ahead of us."

"But at the same time, I don't want to stop now, not when there's a huge opportunity for me. Chief Bei Fong has said in the last few months that when there's a new detective opening, I will be first in line for the job," Mako added, articulating his every word with crisp hand gestures on the table, "It's a higher pay grade, I can bring home more, and potentially get you through college again. I don't want to excuse myself for it, but there is the pressure that I put on myself, so that I do get to where I want us all to be at. I apologize if what I did put a gulf between us, but I can only do what I feel is best, so it can put us all in the best position right now."

"If it is okay with you, I'd like to say a few things here," Kai interjected. All eyes turned to the young air bender at the end of the table, who aired out his own words with great difficulty. "When it comes to what Mako said about sacrificing, putting others before him, and putting us all in a better position, I completely agree with that. But to me, it is a two-way street, and we can't just forget who we are just because we're going to places."

Kai rubbed his forehead in frustration, deeply inhaling and exhaling before continuing, "Not long ago, I confronted Skoochy again, and I nearly beat the tar out of him. I was angry, I didn't want to hear him make his excuses, and I was so close to sending him through a wall. Then Jinora, the vice president's daughter who we met the other day, stopped me and told me to calm down. I kind of blew her off and told her she had rich people problems, but now I realize how wrong that was. I forgot who I was and why Air Nomad philosophy is so important to Yung and me. Even today I haven't told Yung what I did because I'm afraid of his reaction. So to lose who you are and where you're from, that's scary and I don't want that to happen to you."

Bolin sighed, his forehead creasing into at least half a dozen folds. "I just want things to be better again, you know? I just want the Mako I know and love to be back, and I know there's a way to bring that Mako back," he murmured, his tone shaky and weak, "I don't want you to lose your career because I'm selfish, and I know how much you want me to do well too. And I'm sorry about calling you a brother betrayer, and ignoring you for all those days. But if there's a way we can balance these issues, then I think things will be better for all of us in the long run."

Just then, Mako reached across the table and grabbed Bolin by the hand. "I promise you I'll make it happen, but don't give up on yourself either," he reminded Bolin, "We can all get through this, and I'll be the one to help you go places just like I did, okay?"

With that, the two brothers leaned over and embraced. Kai and Korra could only smile, with a tear threatening to roll out of Korra's eye. All her life Korra was told that her interaction skills were below average, and it would take her extra effort just to get things right. But now, to see how she brought two feuding brothers together, Korra was very proud, both of her own efforts and of the strong bond between Mako and Bolin. "Anyway, with that out of the way, why don't we order dinner?" she offered, flipping the menu open.

Before long, the group was immersed in their dinner. From the appetizer to the main course, there was no sign of further strife. In the process, Korra learned a lot more about Mako, Bolin, and. For example, Korra found out that Mako and Bolin had always wanted to be a pro-bending team, but never got a chance to do so. But had they pursued it, a water bender named Hasook would have joined them. "We never got any air benders involved, partially because a lot of air benders believe pro-bending isn't in line with their traditions," Mako explained as he cut into his steak, "I know things are a bit more open now, but even as recently as ten years ago, the idea of an air bender doing pro-bending would have been frowned upon."

"I think it also depends on the type of air bender too, because our vice president is really strict about tradition. But his brother Bumi, who is in the military, is a lot looser with it," Kai pointed out before taking a sip of water, "I know Yung and I are more along Bumi's lines of thinking, even though we still eat vegetarian and such."

Just then, Bolin slowly got up. "If you excuse me, I just have to use the bathroom," he announced, "Don't order dessert without me, because I saw some stuff in there that I like."

Korra chuckled as she watched Bolin march off. The earth bender slipped into a side aisle, going past some VIP rooms with private tables before nearing the men's bathroom. The women's bathroom was one door before, where two ladies came out just as Bolin made the final turn. One such lady had flame red hair and a bright blue dress, something that stuck out like a lighthouse in the fog. She also had a distinctive birthmark on the left side of her face, and wore white pearl earrings that glistened in the light. Bolin could not put his finger on it, but something about that woman seemed awfully familiar to him. "Where did I see her before?" he murmured, gently pushing the men's room door ajar while craning his neck to watch the redhead.

Outside, in the dining hall, the same sense of déjà vu occurred with Korra. Just when the water bender was about to give Kai Jinora's phone number, the woman clad in blue strolled past Korra's table. Korra lifted her head just in time, and immediately she was taken aback. She tried to get Kai's attention, but the younger boy was too busy typing in Jinora's number into his phone to see. "That woman looks really familiar to me," Korra commented.

Varrick stared at the board of directors seated before him at the large, oval-shaped boardroom table. The last time he was here, he was royally chewed out for his oversight. His error led to the police investigation against Future Industries regarding counterfeit goods, and that led to a blemish in the company's reputation. There was the massive goods recall and a public apology given by him personally, and right now he had to make things right again.

But this time, Varrick came prepared. To boost the company's image, he brought a guest with him. She had on a white shirt covered by an unbuttoned light blue suit jacket. The bottom piece of her outfit was a dark blue skirt that ended at around her knees. But the most distinguishing feature was her hair, which was bright red. She glanced at her audience, her expression somewhat disinterested, almost like Varrick had forced her to be here. Why did she have to attend this meeting with these old blowhards who think they owned the industry?

Nonetheless, Varrick began his introduction. "Thank you all for coming today. I know it's not orthodox for me to call a board meeting over this, but given the recent developments for Future Industries, I thought I'd run this idea past you first," he stated, rubbing his hands together in glee. The board members stared at Varrick's grinning face wearily, wondering how he would mess this up once more. What was this strange man up to?

Varrick turned to the woman to his side in a flourish. The guest stepped forward and stood at the head of the boardroom table, plastering a fake smile on her face. Whatever negative thoughts she had about being here was gone as Varrick declared, "This is Ginger. She's one of my connections from the Southern Water Tribe. I'm asking her to do some marketing for Future Industries. Ginger, these are the board members of Future Industries."

The board members stared back, seemingly unimpressed by Varrick's companion. Hiroshi, who sat at the front, cleared his throat louder than usual. "Varrick, why don't we let Ginger introduced herself?" he suggested, waving his hand at the red-haired woman, "Ginger, can you tell us about yourself? What was your line of work before joining Varrick here?"

Ginger nodded at Hiroshi, her fake smile never leaving her face for a second. "I do have some experience with marketing. I've appeared in many promotional ads and videos for various companies," she explained, her voice bordering between haughty and defensive, "I know about introducing products to audiences, working the crowd and the public, and even gave my input into those ads. So I think Varrick couldn't have chosen a better person for the job."

"When you say you gave input, what exactly do you mean?" Yasuko, who was invited to the meeting as Hiroshi's guest queried. The caned woman sat to Hiroshi's left, and she too had reservations about Ginger. "Future Industries is a large company, and we sell a lot of products to different people. Is there any department or target in particular that you feel you cater better to?"

Ginger turned her creepy face to Yasuko, this time her expression showing a tinge of irritation. "I think the most important thing is to attract all clients, not just certain groups," she responded, spitting out her answer like the question was not even worthy of being asked, "I can easily build chemistry with all who I work with. If I can get that chemistry, then the company will get that chemistry, which means more clients for you. Do you see where I'm getting at?"

"But what strategy or approach are you suggesting to get those clients? And what about all the old clients who are ticked off at us for the mess Varrick created?" a different board member, a balding man with a thin moustache seated at the back of the table, challenged, "I'm not trying to point fingers here, but Varrick's mistake caused both Future Industries and the subsidiary, Varrick's own Varrick Industries, to lose standing with the public. Shouldn't we try to regain their confidence first? And what plans do you have to do that, Miss Ginger?"

Ginger smirked at the board member, which in turn got the rest of the board frowning in disgust. "If it's a defective or counterfeit item that they're worried about, then we're making it as real as it gets," she declared, leaning a palm against the table while planting her free hand against her waist, "Nothing gets realer than bringing things back to their roots, don't you all agree?"

Sensing some tension in the room, Varrick clapped his hands together and adjourned the meeting. "I'm glad we got a chance to meet Ginger, and as she continues to work with us, we'll have even more chances to meet her," he declared, placing a hand on the redhead's shoulder, "She'll be working directly under me. I will supervise her marketing and advertising for us. I'll let you know once our proposals for marketing are developed."

As the board members closed their notebooks and prepared to exit, Hiroshi managed to catch Varrick by the arm before the eccentric man headed out. He signalled Varrick into the corner, while leaving Ginger waiting outside the boardroom. "Are you sure about this, Varrick? I don't know if that's such a good idea," he murmured, "I just have a bad feeling about Ginger."

"Same here," Yasuko added, hobbling over on her cane, "I have a feeling that I might have seen her before. She looks very similar to someone who has nothing to do with advertising. Are you sure you're bringing in the right person for the job?"

Varrick sighed and placed his hands up in assurance. "Look, I know you guys lost faith in me after that last fiasco, but believe me when I say that this can work," Varrick insisted, "She has some experience with television and modelling. I think those skills are transferrable into marketing for us. Just give her a shot, okay? You won't hesitate if it was Asami, will you?"

Before Hiroshi and Yasuko could ask another question, Varrick whisked Ginger into the lobby and headed straight for the first open elevator. Varrick was still stunned at how little faith they had in his abilities, despite his many years working in this field. Ever since his company, Varrick Industries, joined forces with Future Industries and became the latter's subsidiary, he contributed to the company in countless ways. Why could the board not see that he was trying hard to redeem himself? "Don't worry, Ginger," he reassured the redhead beside him, "I'll be the one to make sure you'll have plenty of chances to succeed."

Just as the elevator doors opened, Varrick and Ginger almost ran into two individuals entering. "Oh, Korra," he stuttered, trying to avoid the water bender as he and Ginger made their way out, "Have you met Ginger? She'll be doing some marketing for our company. Ginger, this is my foster daughter, Korra Arnook," he introduced the two ladies to each other.

Korra glanced at Ginger, and immediately a blank expression descended onto her face. She avoided the redhead's eye contact, not even bother to shake her hand. Sensing the annoyance from Ginger, Asami tried to intervene. "You'll have to excuse Korra. She's a bit uncomfortable around strangers," she explained. Instead, Asami took Ginger's hand and shook it confidently. "My name is Asami, and I'm the daughter of Hiroshi and Yasuko, the owners of this company."

Ginger cast a condescending glance at the twosome before marching off with Varrick, leaving Korra and Asami to enter the elevator alone. "Are you okay, Korra?" Asami asked, placing a hand on Korra's lower back, "You weren't intimidated by her, are you?"

Korra did not look at Asami, opting to keep her eyes to the ground. Her body swayed left and right, almost like waves lapping the Firewood Bay pier, their next destination. All Asami could hear from Korra was the repeated line, "She looks familiar, so where did I see her before?"

Here is my usual little list at the end of each chapter to describe my inspirations:

1.) The song used in this story is "The One" by the Backstreet Boys. It is from their "Millennium" CD, released in 1999, while the single itself is released in 2000. So when Korra stated that the CD was released 18 years ago and the single was released 17 years ago, it's both a play on her photographic memory and the real CD itself. The chorus ("I'll be the one") is a play on this chapter's title and the dialogue, where every scene included this line at least once. It is also the fourth story where I've used a Backstreet Boys song, and the fourth Backstreet Boys song that I used in my stories. Let's just say the Backstreet Boys are showing up more often than I anticipated in my stories!

2.) The way Amon/Noatak is addressed is slightly modified from the original canon. Canon has Aang defeating Yakone and Korra defeating Amon, but since things are different here I want someone else to defeat Amon. I decided to pick Bumi because he didn't get enough a role in canon or this story, and while I'll leave it to interpretation whether or not Bumi struck the finishing blow, all I'll say is that it stays within the Avatar family/reincarnations where Yakone's dirty work ends. It keeps Tarrlok and his "white knight" image intact, consistent with canon, but also explains an extra layer between Tarrlok's long and fierce rivalry with Tenzin.

3.) I want to give SaoirseParisa a lot of credit for the restaurant scene. She and I worked on how we can get Korra to get Mako and Bolin talking again, all the while being mindful of the complicated relationship between the brothers. I kind of put all the tension the brothers had in the show, particularly in Book 2, into one small scene here. We also decided that Korra should talk minimally, just to give the brothers a chance to work things out on their own. It also boosts Korra's self-esteem, as her autism makes her social interaction skills below average. So to see her being able to make a difference, both SaoirseParisa and I only see that as a good thing.

4.) Korra's munching of Auntie Ashuna's seal jerky, which she claimed Katara also enjoyed, is from the comic series "North and South" where Katara mentioned eating the same thing. Korra and Asami growing closer together, and later on relying on each other through tough times, is from Korra's recovery from mercury poisoning in late Book 3 and early Book 4. Tenzin realizing he may be too traditional and letting the new ideas of bending flourish is from when he allowed Korra to pro-bend in Book 1. And Jinora leading the next generation of Air Nomads is from her anointment at the end of Book 3.

I may be going on a short break in the next month. I have some personal projects to finish, plus I'm getting busier at work. I'll still try to post the next chapter in a month, but if things get busy I may make it 2 months instead. No guarantees for now, so we'll just play it by ear. But until then, what does everyone think will happen next? Who are the mysterious connections Unalaq mentioned? Will Tarrlok get another chance to needle Korra? And why does Korra get such a strange reaction out of Ginger? Did Varrick just get himself in trouble again? If you want to find out, don't miss the next chapter of this story!