I want to thank SaoirseParisa and Wildstar93 for their reviews and undying support for this story. I'm glad you guys noticed that things are starting to get resolved, although we still have a ways to go before this story reaches its conclusion. But I can tell you that the connections between characters and events are becoming clearer, and you will see more revelations being revealed in this chapter.

Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko own the Legend of Korra.

"Look Mako, now is not the best time," Bolin whispered into his cellphone, his eyes darting around the café where the crowd gathered. This usually open and friendly place was anything but to Bolin, who huddled in the corner while keeping an eye at the front lobby. The earth bender felt so awkward avoiding the incredulous stares of patrons strolling past his corner and to their seats. "Can I call you back later on?" Bolin asked.

"Call me back later on?" Mako exclaimed, causing Bolin to wince and lift the phone away from his ear. The fire bending brother was really letting Bolin have it, and Bolin knew he would be in Mako's doghouse for the next little while. "We're going to the police station today to give evidence to Chief Bei Fong. Korra and Opal are both here, and you should be too just to show support. What's so important that you have to be away?"

Bolin glanced at the front lobby again, where his target now stood up from the front bench. The woman in blue approached a shorter individual in a suit, shaking their hand before bringing them into the café. "I really have to go. Tell Korra and Opal that I'm sorry I can't make it," he announced, "And tell Kai to cover everything for me. Kai and I appeared at the same time to save Opal, so whatever he says is pretty much the same as my testimony."

Against Mako's howls of protest, Bolin ended the call. To ensure there were no further distractions, he turned the phone to silent. Slipping the phone back into his pocket, Bolin took several deep breaths before stepping back into the dining area. He tried to block out all the sound from the other customers he passed by, keeping to tunnel vision as he came closer to the table in question. Everything was a blur to him until he finally took a seat next to the woman in blue, who was speaking with a grey-haired man in a suit. "Oh, so you finally came," Ginger remarked.

Bolin weakly waved as Ginger made the introduction. He was so anxious that he barely heard the redhead, but made out various words here and there. The older man before him was an assistant of Tarrlok's and corresponded frequently between Tarrlok and the president. "And since Tarrlok has his taskforce, it means he'll have to work even closer with the administration," Ginger concluded, glancing back at Bolin, whose blank look only caused Ginger to frown further. "Were you even paying attention to what I said? Some impression you're making!"

Bolin glanced back at the ministerial assistant, who merely took some notes and did not say a word. Raising a shaking hand, Bolin placed it against his forehead while closing his eyes for a few seconds. Just the fact that Bolin was here instead of at the police station already ate at him, but to not let anyone know he was even here grated on him some more. From beside him, Ginger continued her pitch to the aide. "Boar-Q-Pine Logistics has always been a good player in the field, and the fact that they own the warehouse at Firewood Bay only makes things better. I know they work with Future Industries, but other clients can still ship through there."

The aide scribbled a few more notes, not replying much to Ginger. It got the former actress narrowing her eyes, before nudging Bolin with her elbow. "You realize that I even brought along one of the staff at the warehouse," she added, tilting her stare at Bolin, "He can tell you firsthand all the successes the warehouse had in shipping all sorts of goods."

Bolin whipped his head at Ginger, his eyes wider than the plates on the table. The grey-haired assistant now placed his pen down and stared right at Bolin, his expression neither angry nor excited. Feeling the heat of Ginger's stare, Bolin eked out a nervous grin and rubbed the back of his head. "Oh, you know, we just import things like technology and mechanical goods," he explained, suddenly at a loss of words, "We've got really good security, and our staff will take good care of your things. Don't you worry, because your goods are in good hands!"

The aide cleared his throat, glancing back down as his notes. "I'm not so sure about that, given some of the stories Minister Yakone told me about," he commented, his eyes never lifting to look at Bolin, "Didn't some counterfeit goods get imported once? And what about when some military goods were broken into? Can you explain that to me?"

Bolin stuttered, just realizing that Tarrlok's assistant knew every single spat Tarrlok had with their warehouse. Realizing the trap he stepped into, Bolin wracked his brain for a way out of it. "Well, the counterfeit goods thing was all a mistake, right?" he described, recalling the scary time when Mako had to arrest Toza, "And the military goods situation, our old friend Korra saved the day. She recalled all the details perfectly and Asami helped us too!"

"And I recall Minister Yakone telling me how rude he found Korra to be," the aide replied while scribbling more notes, "I also want to mention that Korra's foster parents, along with Asami's father Hiroshi, are currently being investigated. How will the warehouse function now that the two major players are affected?"

This time, Ginger elbowed Bolin to silence him. Bolin almost withered under the dark look Ginger shot him, but when the ministerial aide looked up, Ginger was flashing him the largest grin she could muster. "Korra is no longer working at the warehouse," Ginger assured the older man, "She was terminated a while back, and now that her foster parents are not involved any further, we have a new management. We deal with plenty of goods from around the world, including those from the Northern Water Tribe, where Minister Yakone is from…"

By now, Bolin was ready to slink away in shame. Both Ginger's words and the tone she used to speak them shredded Bolin's heart and ripped out the chunks in front of him. Bolin only agreed to this meeting because he felt Tarrlok's assistant might get him more clients for the warehouse, but never had he imagined the insults against Korra and Asami. It felt more like Ginger was trying to wipe clean Korra's history with the warehouse. Bolin also had to contend with Kuvira, who took a lot of convincing before she agreed to help. And with Bolin skipping Korra's police station visit for this, it was like Bolin stabbed Korra in the back twice in one shot.

"Ginger, I will give everything you said some serious thought," the assistant stated, snapping Bolin back to attention. The earth bender glanced at the table and saw the aide now organizing his notes before putting them back into the folder. "It will be up to the minister to decide what the best course of action is. I can't see him making a decision anytime soon, due to the current events. But I will say that there are opportunities with the Northern Water Tribe. If the minister sees it fit to import more goods from them, you will be one of the choices."

The ministerial aide shook Ginger's hand, followed by Bolin's, before he trotted off. Bolin barely had time to digest what happened before Ginger tore into him. "Did you forget that Tarrlok and Korra did not get along? Why would you even mention Korra in front of him? Are you trying to lose this opportunity?" Ginger snapped.

Bolin's mouth opened and closed several times, but no words came out. Meanwhile, Ginger snatched her purse from the table and slung it over her shoulder. "I laid the foundation of what should be a good start for you, and the last thing you should do is mess this up," Ginger berated Bolin, "Next time, just follow my lead and don't say a word. I don't know what Varrick and Korra saw in you." With that, she stormed off in a huff, leaving Bolin standing there alone.

Bolin slowly eased himself down into the seat, still trying to grasp what happened. But before he could get comfortable, a fierce buzzing emitted from his pants. Reaching into the pocket, Bolin pulled out his cellphone. One look at the caller ID and his face went pale. It was Mako again, and Bolin knew that his brother would be all over him for this. Gently clicking the connect button, Bolin realized that he might be deeper into trouble than he ever imagined before.

Mako gruffly shoved his cellphone back into his pants pocket before marching back up the steps to the central police station. He would never expect Bolin to stand them up. Not only that, he also acted real coy when asked where he was and what he was doing. "Let's just forget about him and do this on our own," Mako suggested to Toza.

At the front lobby, Mako's colleague Song tried to calm Kai and Yung, who kept demanding that they be allowed in. "This is evidence for a big case. This can make your entire career," Yung insisted, stabbing his finger at the desktop, "Why can't you just let us in?"

"You already have a terrorist attack with the Red Lotus and that riot a couple of weeks back with the Triple Threats. We can give information on that, not to mention our friend was attacked in the riot," Kai added, "So let us talk to Chief Bei Fong right now!"

Song waved his hands to calm Kai and Yung, his eyebrows creasing more and more in frustration. "Look, the chief won't let anyone in without reason. Unless this is a very important and urgent situation, I can't just let you march in unannounced," Song reiterated.

Toza shook his head in disgust. Marching up to the group, he demanded to see a superior officer. "Surely there's someone here who can take charge, because this is turning into a gong show," he spat, "Let me talk to whichever supervisor is available today."

While Toza and Yung continued arguing with Song, Mako tapped Kai on the shoulder. They moved to the side where Korra and Opal were seated on a bench. Korra massaged her temples while her body swayed slightly, all the while Opal rubbed Korra's shoulders. "I know they're loud, but Aunt Lin should come out any minute now," Opal stated soothingly.

Korra winced, taking a quick glance at Song now speaking agitatedly on the phone. "As long as they don't talk all at once and raise their voices, I should be fine," Korra responded, slowly lowering her hands. She turned to Opal and gauged the air bender's facial expression. "What about you? This time you have to explain in detail the Triple Threats attack. I know you're still not comfortable talking about it fully, but will you be okay in there?"

"This is so stupid!" Kai exclaimed, causing Korra to flinch, "Bolin should be here to help us. He and I got to Opal in time, and all three of us saw who those Triple Threats are. Why isn't he here to give his testimony, or at least support Opal in this?"

Before anyone could respond, a deep voice interrupted their thoughts. "Mako, what are you doing here?" the voice demanded. The group looked up to see Saikhan, Mako's unit captain, come towards them with a frown on his face. "Song called me out here to deal with some people causing a scene, and I see you in the middle of all this. Didn't you know that the chief suspended you for a month? What are you doing here with two more weeks to go?"

Mako stuttered, glancing sideways to see Korra tense up and avoid Saikhan's eyes. Taking a deep breath, Mako explained to his supervisor. "Captain, this isn't what it looks like. I really want to rejoin the force after my suspension, so what makes you think I'm here to cause trouble?" He signalled to Korra and Opal beside him. "My friends want to give some information regarding the riots, and so does my foster father. This is very important, so please let us in."

Saikhan cast a nonchalant glance at Korra and Opal before turning an unimpressed look at his subordinate. "You realize that the chief has orders from the government to focus solely on the Red Lotus attacks for now," Saikhan announced, apathetically crossing his arms, "If this is really helpful, then maybe I'll get a rookie or two on it. But this is not high priority now."

"Captain, will you at least let me talk to my aunt?" Opal pleaded, slowly standing up from her seat, "Just tell her I have something personal to talk to her about, and I won't take up much of her time. If she still thinks it's not a priority, then we can come back later on."

"What's going on here?" a gruff female voice called. Every set of eyes turned to the back, where the familiar figure of Lin Bei Fong stood. "Don't you know that the vice president is here to check our Red Lotus case? Why are we letting people in here causing a disturbance like this?"

Indeed, standing behind Lin was Tenzin, so recognizable with the bald head decorated with the bright blue tattoo. But what everyone did not expect was a shorter figure also sporting a blue tattoo standing next to him. For some reason, Jinora was present with her father, her eyes tilting between Lin and the crowd at the door. Sensing an opportunity, Kai slipped away from the bench and trotted straight for Jinora. "Hey, it's me," he called out to his friend. "Why are you here? I thought it's your dad taking over the investigation for now."

Jinora turned to face Kai, greeting him with a small smile. "I was going to have lunch with my dad, but his police meeting ran late," she responded quietly, slinking away from her father who was now arguing with Kai's foster father, "What about you? Why are you here?"

Kai quickly explained everything, including suggestions that Korra remembered all the details of the Triple Threats and their theory that the Red Lotus might have directed the riots. "We have to get inside to give a testimony, but those cops want to toss us out," Kai spat, shooting a dark look at Saikhan and Lin, "Can you get your dad to convince them to let us in?"

Jinora winced. Taking a quick peek at her father, she rubbed the spot where the blue arrow ended on her forehead. She really wanted to help Kai, and she knew Korra well enough to believe Korra's memory skills. Pursing her lips, Jinora approached her father and tapped him on the elbow. "Dad, I really think you should take a look at this," she proposed. It got Tenzin's attention enough for Jinora to wave Kai in. "Remember the friend I kept mentioning about? Well, this is Kai, and he's here with his family and his friends, which includes Korra."

Kai nervously extended his hand, to which Tenzin shook absentmindedly. "It's nice to meet you, Kai. Jinora did tell me a bit about you, but now is not the best time," Tenzin responded, "I have to follow up with the Red Lotus investigation and, even though it's not top priority at the moment, I also want to check in on the riots. Maybe we should chat later?"

"Mr. Vice President, here's the thing. Korra, Opal, and I are all here to talk about those riots. Opal was attacked by Triple Threats, and she could have been burned if Bolin and I didn't save her. Korra then saw more Triple Threats around, and we want to give the police all these details. Will you please ask the chief to let us in?" Kai begged.

Surprised at the extra information, Tenzin turned to Lin, who looked like she was about to toss people out. Steeling his body, the vice president approached the police chief and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Lin, with all due respect, maybe you should hear them out," he advised, "The police have to serve the public, and that includes assessing all information brought in by the public. Besides, with Korra's condition and memory, maybe this will be of assistance."

Lin whipped her head around, just in time to see Jinora and Kai with their pleading looks. Sensing the chief soften her expression, the two younger air benders pumped their fists when Lin finally allowed the group in for a testimony. "Thank you so much, Jinora," Kai stated, "Let's meet up after I give my testimony. Text me where you want to go and I'll be there."

Korra sat at the table inside the interrogation room, her clasped hands placed on the table in front of her. Lin and Saikhan both had suspicious looks on their faces, which added to the discomfort this plain and dull room caused to her. Had it not been for Tenzin, Korra doubted that she could give her testimony right now. "Why are we put into different rooms?" Korra asked.

"We're separating you all in order to save time, and potentially get your friends out quicker," Lin grumpily responded, leaning on the table with one arm, "Even though the vice president said we should give this a shot, I still think it's a bad idea. Mako is already suspended, and the last thing we want is for you to be caught up in this ridiculous mess."

"Chief, I won't be here if I'm not telling the truth. I did see Triple Threats people on the streets during the riots, and some of them even incited them before running away. If you show me a bunch of Triple Threats members' photos, I can point out who they are and how they involved themselves," Korra explained, her eyes tilting between Lin and Saikhan, but never fully and directly staring at them, "Just let me explain, and if the interrogation goes past three o'clock, then let me call the housekeeper to have her bring me my seal jerky."

Lin fumed as Korra's eyes continued to key in on the photos Saikhan put before her. "Korra, now is not the time for snacks. If there are no grounds for what you're saying, then we're wasting our time when we should be going after known terrorists," Lin snapped. While she knew that she had to be sensitive to Korra's mannerisms, this was not how she anticipated this to go. "What can you tell me about the riots that my police officers don't already know?"

"I'm the supervisor for your friend Mako, and I didn't see any Triple Threats," Saikhan added, gesturing at the mugshots of Triple Threats that were in and out of the system, "If you see anyone here that you recognize, please enlighten us on what you saw that concerned you."

Korra glanced over the photos, partially intimidated by the fierce men that stared back at her. Usually she would avoid them at all costs, but she was forced into it when they attacked. "I first saw these two people at the pro-bending arena," Korra pointed out, jabbing her finger at two photographs on the top row, "They're a fire bender and an earth bender, and they threatened us by claiming the cinema was overcharging. Shiro Shinobi was also there, and the earth bender ended up attacking him. I threw sewage water at them both, and the crowd subsided afterwards."

Lin and Saikhan leaned into the photos, confirming that those two were indeed Triple Threats. "Make sure to get Shiro Shinobi in here for a testimony, just to confirm what Korra had said," Lin suggested. Turning to Korra, she asked, "Did he report the incident to the police? Surely someone who got hit in the chest by a boulder should have reported it."

"I'm not sure. I got a text message from Asami after that and left the pro-bending arena," Korra responded, pulling out her cellphone. She clicked the text message section and scrolled to the message in question. "I got this and immediately I went to Future Industries. That's when I ran into Bolin and the others on the street. Do you have a map of that neighbourhood?"

Lin stared exasperatedly at Saikhan before stepping out of the room, which allowed Korra to glance at her cellphone. It was close to her lunch time, and she wanted some food before continuing. She quickly made that request of Saikhan, who only frowned in response. It made Korra shrivel in her chair, wondering what she did wrong when she agreed to assist the police. "We're trying to solve a big case, not to have an all-you-can-eat buffet here," the captain retorted. Despite his curt tone, Saikhan leaned out the door and waved a junior officer over.

Taking a nervous glance around, Korra tried to locate something that could calm her down. Ten years ago, Korra would have water-whipped someone or yelled out about wanting to leave. While her skills in managing unfamiliar environments improved since she was a child, Korra still had times when she felt like a breakdown was at hand, and this was one such example.

"Why can't she just grab lunch at the cafeteria then?" Lin's harsh tone snapped Korra to attention. Lin struggled with the maps under her arm before gruffly shoving them onto the table. "Look, Korra," Lin stated, planting her fists on her hips. The dark look on the police chief's face was enough to make Korra feel like the walls were caving in on her. "I don't want to throw you out for wasting police resources, but you're really pushing it right now."

Korra rubbed her forehead, trying hard not to lash out at Lin. She gnashed her teeth while her upper arms tightened, still recalling what happened at the Sato mansion. It was when Mako arrested Toza over the defective goods debacle, and Korra could still picture how she lit into Lin for her actions. Looking back on it, Korra had a sour taste in her mouth over her actions, and she was certain that Lin was not impressed with it either. She tilted her eyes back at Lin, and finally she saw something that could help her. "May I have a pen and notepad?" she gently asked.

Lin was about to complain again, but caught herself just in time. She knew Korra long enough to realize her mind only worked a certain way, and Korra's request was probably the best option for now. Leaning her head to Saikhan, she whispered into his ear before sending him out. While the captain hustled out of the room, Lin turned back to Korra. Taking a deep breath to calm herself down, she offered to let Korra continue her testimony.

Korra turned back to the map and allowed her fingers to float across the top. "I left the subway station at this block, and moved down this street towards Future Industries," she pointed out, her finger mapping out the route she took, "I saw Bolin and Opal coming out from this way, and Opal looked really scared. Bolin was holding her real close, and then he started talking on his cellphone to Mako. Kai started explaining what happened, and then Toza said he saw the police push out a bunch of water cannons. They were all lined up right here."

Lin leaned her head closer to the map to confirm the locations Korra pointed out. Even though this was difficult to do, Lin was very impressed at Korra's testimony. Everything she stated seemed to match the police reports exactly. As Saikhan slipped back into the room with a notepad and pen for Korra, Lin queried the water bender further. "Where in all this did you see more Triple Threats? Were they around this area at the time when the water cannons were out?"

Korra took the notepad and pen and immediately scribbled a bunch of notes. "There were a couple people trying to incite the crowd further," she described. Her eyes were fully on her page and not on Lin or Saikhan, while her body swayed slightly like it was dodging the probes Lin and Saikhan sent at her brain. "They kept challenging the police, but then they slipped to an alley on the side." Korra turned back to the map and pointed out exactly which alley they went into. "Just then, the hoses were turned on and everyone got soaked. Had I not stopped that with my water bending and healed the injured afterwards, they would be hospitalized."

"Let's check the security cameras of that area, if any cameras exist there," Lin suggested to Saikhan, who promptly noted that. Turning back to Korra, Lin asked if she could recognize those members from the photos. "Which ones are on here?"

Korra's eyes scanned the photos before settling on two at the right edge. "And as for your question about security cameras, I know there are at least three at the entrance of the pro-bending arena," she pointed out, scribbling another set of notes on the locations on the security cameras, "I'm not sure about the street I was on with the water cannons, but Bolin and the rest of the guys can support my claim. Speaking of which, are they still being questioned?"

Lin was about to respond, but a knock on the door caught her attention. The junior officer from earlier brought in a boxed lunch for Korra, bringing a smile to the water bender's face. "If it's okay with you, can we continue after I finish eating?" Korra requested, "It's just that I'm used to separating my lunch break from my work, so it's best I finish this before we go further."

"Thanks for meeting up with me, Jinora," Kai stated, stepping into the passenger seat of Jinora's vehicle. He had been in the police station for half the morning and most of the afternoon as well, just rehashing all the details he recalled from the riots. While he, Yung, and Toza all got out early, Opal and Korra were still inside. "Yung said I can head off first, and he'll meet me at home. Since I saw you earlier today, I thought we should spend the afternoon together."

Jinora nodded, making sure Kai was buckled in before she drove off. "So, where do you want to head to?" Kai asked, "Do you want to go have coffee or something?"

The air bending master shook her head. "I thought we should do something different," she insisted, turning the vehicle onto a side ramp, "I got to know more about you and your friends, especially since Opal is dating Bolin. But I want you to know more about me. That's why I'm taking you to the vice presidential mansion to meet my parents."

Kai's jaw nearly hit the floor, his arms gripping the side bars just to avoid fainting. He saw Tenzin earlier today at the police station, but he never expected it to be more than a passing greeting. Now not only could Kai meet him in person, but to meet him at the vice presidential mansion? This was too much to take for the young man!

But Jinora remained undaunted, continuing the journey towards her home. It allowed Kai to reflect upon his own life, where he was the former street urchin always worried about getting his next meal or where to stay for the night. Kai now lived comfortably with Yung and worked with Bolin at the warehouse. He was still disappointed that he could not go to university in the next two months due to the family finances. But overall, Kai was mainly grateful at his turn of events. He hoped every single day that he would never have to return to where he used to be.

At the same time, Kai recalled when Jinora first reached out to him. Kai snapped at her back then, even though she had everything he wanted, including mastery of air bending. Maybe Kai just felt too insecure that she was the vice president's daughter and didn't want others to pity him. But given she never judged him for his lack of wealth, maybe Kai should open himself up more. After all, Kai did see their friendship building, so why not take it further?

Finally, Jinora turned in the entrance of a large estate, and Kai could not help but stare in awe. The front driveway alone was longer than his home, and the mansion itself was at least half the size of the warehouse. Kai as so mesmerized that he could not even see Jinora wave her hand in front of his face. It was only after she tapped his shoulder that Kai snapped to attention. "The security guard would like to check you," she pointed out, gesturing at the man before the car. Kai hesitantly stepped out and allowed the uniformed man to approach. "It's standard procedure."

Kai glanced at the security guard waving the metal detection wand around his body, finally given a pass when the security guard found nothing. Hopping back into the car, he sat quietly as Jinora pulled up to the front. Not even bothering to use the garage, Jinora shut off the engine and stepped out. She led Kai up the steps and to the front doors, flashing a grin at Kai before she unlocked and opened them with a flourish.

The interior only surprised Kai more, with the high ceiling adorned by a chandelier and a wide staircase leading to the upper floor. Jinora waved him over to the right, to which Kai only absentmindedly followed. The wide corridors had photos of various past political leaders, and some frames glistened brightly at him. Kai knew the vice presidential mansion was luxurious, but this was beyond his imagination. "This is definitely a nice place," he muttered.

Jinora chuckled. "Hey, I didn't bring you here to enjoy the mansion. There are more important things to admire than some fancy decorations," she pointed out. Marching up to Kai, she linked her right elbow through his left and hauled him into the dining room. By the time Kai stumbled through the doors, he could see several people seated around the table all staring at him. The only one he could recognize was Ikki, but the others were all new faces. "Everyone, I want you to meet my friend Kai," Jinora introduced him to her family.

A petite, unassuming woman with green eyes and a wide smile strolled up to him. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Kai. I'm Pema, Jinora's mother," she greeted Kai, sticking out her hand to him. Kai finally composed himself in time to reach back out to shake Pema's hand. "Jinora told me quite a bit about you. I'm glad to finally meet you in person."

"It's nice to meet you too," Kai responded, a smile creeping across his own face. Pema and Jinora made him feel like he was one of them, which eased his tension significantly. "I've actually met Ikki before, so I guess I'm not a total stranger," he eked out.

Ikki gulped down the rest of her water in one shot before turning to Kai. "Yeah, we were at the beach with Jinora and I wanted to play in the water. You and Jinora just sat there and did nothing, so I had to surf the waves all on my own," Ikki stated, narrowing her grey eyes at Kai, "I thought Jinora was a killjoy, but you're one too. Is that why you're friends with her?"

Kai was about to respond, but a boy with a buzzcut stomped right up to him. "I'm Meelo, and I only care how much you know about Air Nomad battling techniques," he demanded, his tone borderline militarist while his balled fists were planted firmly against his hips, "What will it be, soldier? Are you ready to show me your skills, or are you just scared to challenge me?"

Everybody in the room giggled at Meelo's antics. "Meelo, he's not here to beat anyone up," Jinora chided her brother while she sat next to Rohan, who remained silent at the table the entire time. From what Jinora told Kai, Rohan was a fairly quiet person who had little to say, but he was more observant than was usually credited. Was Rohan autistic, like Korra?

Kai could only rub his head nervously as Meelo padded back to the table. Approaching an empty seat right across from Jinora, Kai sat himself down and glanced around the group. Oddly enough, the vice president himself was not present. "Is your father joining us?" Kai asked Jinora, "We saw him talking to Chief Bei Fong earlier, so is he still meeting with her?"

Before anyone could answer, the dining room door suddenly opened. The tall bald figure that was Tenzin lumbered into the room. He took a glance around the table and his eyes fell on Kai. "Hello, Kai. It's nice for you to join us," he declared with a handshake, "I know I told Jinora that I wanted to know you better, but I'm afraid now isn't the best time. Not only do we have the Red Lotus to deal with, but we might have an international incident on our hands."

The entire group looked on in worry as Tenzin explained the latest developments. "Our reports show that a fleet of Northern Water Tribe battleships are on their way to the South Pole. We're not sure why they're going, but we believe this may lead to a re-escalation of the civil war. We believe Unalaq Arnook, the chief of the Northern Water Tribe, is onboard, but we haven't established contact so far. I'm holding an emergency meeting tonight with Tonraq's deputy minister and support staff to see how we respond. I'm afraid I'll have to chat with Kai another time, so you guys can enjoy yourselves without me."

Jinora and Kai could only stare at each other with wide eyes and dropped jaws. Around them, Pema was just as concerned, while the usually rowdy Ikki and Meelo both grew quiet. So not only was there a terrorist group active, there was also a brewing civil war at the South Pole? Given the representation the tribes had in the city, could this get filtered through to here?

"The good news is that the police will pay more attention to the Triple Threats, now that you guys gave your testimonies," Asami announced to the group gathered at the warehouse. It was nearly a week since the group went en masse to the police station. The police spoke with more witnesses that confirmed most of what the group had said. "Since Korra remembered the exact locations the security cameras were installed, it didn't take long before the footage was retrieved to support our claims," Asami remarked.

Korra beamed back at Asami, showing a genuine smile for the first time in months. "I'm just glad they interviewed Shiro," the water bender added, "With Shiro's injuries at that time, I was more concerned about how badly he was hurt. We didn't even think about the police."

Asami nodded in gratitude. "The police also arrested people associated with the Triple Threats. According to Mako, some of those are already well known," Asami stated, turning to the tall fire bender beside her, "Mako, do you have any news from the force?"

"I do indeed," Mako replied, pulling out his set of notes. Even though there were still a few days to go for his suspension, Mako was back on talking terms with Saikhan and Lin. Both superior officers now believed that Mako had it right all along, and were willing to allow him to rejoin their investigation once his suspension was over. "One of those arrested was Two-Toed Ping, and I've dealt with him in the past. If he makes any mention of the Red Lotus, we'll jump all over him like there's no tomorrow."

Opal giggled. "Don't jump so hard, because we want him in good shape so he can point out which Red Lotus member he worked with," the air bender countered. She also flipped the pages on her clipboard before settling on one interesting tidbit. "Aunt Lin said that Interpol has been contacted, and there's already an international manhunt for the Red Lotus. Hopefully that will lead us somewhere, because I'm not sure if the leading figures are still in the city."

While the group commented on the issues, Kuvira stood at the back, merely nodding to everything that was said. Even though she had reservations about Korra from the beginning, Kuvira could not help but be impressed at Korra's effort. Korra's mannerisms did not stop her from identifying Triple Threats members or recalling what happened during the riots. Perhaps she did judge Korra a bit prematurely? Whatever the case, they now had a common goal to stop the Red Lotus. If it meant putting up with Korra a bit more, Kuvira would remain civil.

But Kuvira was most surprised about Bolin. When Mako confronted Bolin on why he didn't go to the police, Bolin just said he has some personal stuff to deal with and told Kai to cover for him. Even now, Bolin was absent, making Kuvira wonder just what Bolin was up to.

"In other good news, I've done my fair share of research into the accounting records for both Future Industries and Varrick Industries," Asami explained, gesturing at the two large mounds of papers on the table before them, "Varrick Industries did not have any funds going out to any suspicious group from its accounts, and none of Varrick's authorizations went towards terrorist groups, Red Lotus and Equalists included. We will be giving these to Chief Bei Fong and asking her to bring them to the attention of Minister Yakone."

That got a cheer out of the group, but none louder than Korra's. "Does this mean both Varrick and Zhu Li will be freed?" she asked eagerly, bouncing on the balls of her feet.

"That's what it looks like," Mako supplemented, flipping past another page of his notes, "I read the rules again, and the indefinite detaining is only allowed while the investigation is still on. But if there is even one piece of evidence to show, on its face, that no terrorist link can be found, then the detainees have to be released. Assuming Tarrlok doesn't play some political game by delaying the investigation, Varrick and Zhu Li should be allowed to go."

While the group chattered happily amongst themselves, there was still the issue of Hiroshi. "What about your dad, Asami?" Opal asked, rubbing her upper arms nervously, "Did you find anything in the records to show that he didn't have a terrorist link?"

Asami pursed her lips, not sure what to think. Her father would be harder to bail out mainly because he confessed to doing all those things. While she was sure there was a way to make a plea bargain, she also knew her options were limited, mainly because Tarrlok was sure to not cooperate with them. "Given how Tarrlok has antagonized my family for years, now is his best chance to make a statement and make his campaign even stronger," Asami murmured.

"Oh, speaking of campaign, does anyone know how the president and Minister Arnook are doing?" Yung inquired, "It seems like they're still in comas with absolutely no updates. I hope it's not a situation where the longer they're out cold, the harder it'll be to wake them up."

It was Kai who answered his foster father's question. "I've been texting and calling Jinora back and forth, and nothing has progressed. The president, the minister, and both their wives are still in comas, and we're not sure when they'll be taken out," the younger air bender described, "I also know that there's concerns about the civil wars escalating, because Jinora's father was busy in meetings when she invited me over last week. I'm sure you saw the news?"

The entire group nodded solemnly. The Northern Water Tribe's naval fleet closed in on the Southern Water Tribe, and in the past few days had started some type of military exercise. While no shots were fired and no Southern Water Tribe civilians were harmed, it made for a tense situation. "Tarrlok is from the north, while Tonraq is from the south," Toza recalled, tapping his chin thoughtfully, "If Tarrlok gets in all because Tonraq is in a coma, what will that mean? Don't tell me he'll get the United Republic involved by siding with the north!"

Just then, Bolin hustled into the room. "Hey everyone, sorry for being late!" he exclaimed breathlessly, "I got Asami's message to meet here. Did I miss any updates?"

Nobody in the entire room showed a friendly look to Bolin, but Mako and Opal were particularly incensed. "What's with you missing all our important meetings?" Mako snapped, marching straight up to his brother and lighting into him with a harsh tone, "We already got an investigation started, some Triple Threats people were taken in, and now we're linking them to the Red Lotus. Aren't you the least bit concerned about this?"

"Not only that, we're also trying to free Varrick and Zhu Li from jail," Opal added, narrowing her eyes and planting her fists on her hips, "I thought you'd at least support your own family and friends, but apparently you have better things to do. What is it that you're running off for that's so important that you're willing to ditch us?"

Bolin stuttered, blinking several times rapidly before planting a palm on his forehead. "Oh, so Varrick and Zhu Li are getting released? That's good news, I guess," he stammered, looking around nervously. Every set of eyes now keyed in on him, including Korra, who had discomfort with eye contact. Right now, Bolin felt like what Opal must have felt when the Triple Threats cornered her. "I mean, of course it is good news!" he tried pathetically to correct himself.

Unfortunately, Bolin's attempted save did not erase the faux pas against him. The earth bender's eyes landed on Korra, who turned away while clenching a fist at her side. Knowing he touched a nerve while the entire group became suspicious of him, Bolin exhaled in surrender. He was clearly being suspected, and it was doubtful they would forgive him soon.

"Let's reduce the barbiturates a bit more. We should be at the point where they're close to regaining consciousness," Kya ordered, writing a note to the nurse standing before her. The past few weeks had been nothing short of hectic for Kya, who had four special patients to take care of. While Raiko and Tonraq were still comatose, Buttercup and Senna were faring better, to the point where steps were already taken to wake them from their induced comas.

"And make sure to keep an eye on the two patients, since it'll be hard to predict when they'll wake up. If it happens in the next day or two, then we must be ready," Kya reminded the nurse before allowing her to take off. It left Kya alone outside the room housing Buttercup and Senna, glancing at her notes while scribbling some more observations on the page.

"Tough night, Kya?" an elderly female voice called. Kya glanced up in time to see Katara approaching her, with Bumi following just behind. Seeing her mother's visit brought a smile to Kya's face, as not long ago it was Katara in the same spot. "I just thought I'd drop by to see if you and Bumi can join me for dinner tonight, since Tenzin won't have free time."

Kya smiled at Katara, who placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "I just have to get a few things reported first, then I can join you two," Kya explained, flipping to the next set of notes, "You probably see some officials from Tarrlok's department around here. Ever since those VIP's have been hospitalized, they've posted extra security on this floor."

Kya and Bumi turned, and indeed there were uniformed individuals all over the place. "I think some are ex-military, having served when I was still there," Bumi commented, gesturing at a couple of men at the unit entrance, "At least it wasn't as hectic as it was when the president first got in. Boy, the tension was so tight that night, I'm just glad I managed to keep the peace."

Katara nodded. She was absent when the altercation took place in the hospital, but Tenzin told her about it subsequently. "I'm very surprised Tenzin went at it with Tarrlok, since he's the calmest of the three of you," Katara observed, "But still, I'm glad you stopped it before it got worse, Bumi. I can't imagine what will happen to the patients if it did."

Bumi chuckled, rubbing the back of his head nervously. "You know, maybe Kya and I were a little harsh on Tenzin when we were younger, but there's no way I'm letting that sick man push my little brother around," the air bender replied, his tone relaxed but still showing a slight edge, "I'm also concerned that Tarrlok will use this for political gain. You guys are aware of his special taskforce that can lock people up indefinitely, right?"

Both water benders nodded, and it was Katara who commented first. "Your father, if he's still alive, will tell everyone how important it is not to go to extremes," she commented, "Aang discussed at great length the ideas of political moderation, not favouring extreme things like the death penalty or corporal punishments. If he's still alive today and he sees the Red Lotus with their extremism and Minister Yakone with his extreme response, he'll be disappointed."

"Speaking of family, I'm surprised not more members of their next of kin were informed of this," Kya remarked, flipping the notes back to the front. She slid the clipboard under her arm and strolled to the front desk, to which Bumi and Katara followed. "I know the president and his wife have no children, so mainly their extended families are notified. But other than Unalaq from the Northern Water Tribe, what other relatives do Tonraq and Senna have?"

Katara pursed her lips, almost like she didn't want to comment. Her demeanor was not unnoticed by Bumi, who leaned over his mother's shoulder to ask what was wrong. "I know Minister Arnook and his brother don't have the best of ties, given he moved to the Southern Water Tribe when he was younger," Bumi pointed out, "And now that his brother is the leader of the Northern Water Tribe, and they're doing some crazy navy exercises in the south, this isn't going to end well. Since you're from the south, shouldn't we do something about it?"

Katara glanced at Bumi with a sad smile. "Unfortunately, my time to do any of that is gone. Instead, I'm leaving that to the next generation, mainly your brother," she responded, placing a hand on Bumi's elbow, "I saw the news as well, and I know Tenzin already sent diplomats to the South Pole to meet with Unalaq. We're still not sure what Unalaq's motives are, but at least violence hasn't erupted. I trust Tenzin's judgment, and we should all support him."

"I guess that's all we can do for now, but it makes us feel so helpless," Kya commented, handing the clipboard to the unit clerk, "I mean, I'm trying to fix those in comas right now. Bumi is probably working closely with Iroh, even though Bumi's no longer in the military. I just think there's more we can do, you know."

"Yeah, especially when Uncle Sokka was the chief of the Southern Water Tribe for the longest time," Bumi added, crossing his arms and creasing his eyebrows in frustration, "But after Uncle Sokka passed on, no one really took up the leadership, since him and Aunt Suki never had children. If someone did take the lead, then maybe Unalaq over there can't push us around."

Katara shook her head. "It's not that straightforward, you two," she admonished her grown children, "There are a lot of things interconnected in this world, and your father will tell you that separating the four elements is an illusion. And don't forget that Tonraq himself is from the Southern Water Tribe, and I think he's done a good job representing our interests here in the United Republic. He and Iknik Blackstone Varrick are two of our most well-known members."

"Oh yeah, that's right," Kya recalled with a snap of her fingers, "Tarrlok used that special taskforce of his to lock up Varrick and Zhu Li, and now Korra's all alone. I called her a few days ago and she said she's coming up with evidence to free him. Do you think that might make a difference in what happens? Even if nothing changes politically, at least Korra has someone to stay with. It can't be easy being all alone with her condition."

"Korra is a very strong person for doing this, especially when her goal is so pure," Katara responded. Bumi and Kya now stared into Katara's eyes, those steely blues that hardened with determination when she was younger. Even though her age softened her up, Bumi and Kya both knew what it was like when Katara was adamant on doing something. "All she wants to do is save her foster parents and protect her friends, and I'm so proud to call her my student."

Katara placed a hand on each of her children before guiding them out of the unit. "If Korra does end up freeing Varrick and Zhu Li, I'd like to meet up with them," Katara proposed, "Varrick and Tonraq are long-time friends, and I think Varrick and Zhu Li might want to know what happened here. Maybe Korra can reach out to Tonraq and Senna herself, given her long history with them. Whatever the case, it'll be an interesting upcoming few days."

As Katara led Bumi and Kya out, no one paid attention to the room holding Buttercup and Senna. Little did they know it, but strange events happened inside that room. Buttercup's hands were placed to her either side, with her long fingers pressed against the bed. Her right index finger suddenly tapped the bed, first just one time. But after a few seconds, it did so again.

And on the other bed, the one closer to the window, Senna's closed eyes twitched slightly. While the eyelids remained clamped shut, they tried their hardest to lift, fighting against what felt like boulders placed on Senna's eyes. It was like this was the only chance for Senna to live again, and there was no way she would miss it, no matter how hard she had to fight for it.

And of course, no chapter is complete without my usual list of inspirations and acknowledgements:

1.) SaoirseParisa gets a lot of credit for editing the scene of Korra's interrogation. The sequence is based on the debut episode, when Korra entered Republic City and caused a lot of mayhem. The police arrested her and Lin did a number on her, which has led to their current infamous love-hate relationship. However, things are different in that Korra is reporting the mayhem outside, but is creating mayhem in the station with her autism. SaoirseParisa recommended that I make Korra stick to routines, all the while feeling uncomfortable at Lin and Saikhan challenging her. The notepad and note scribbling is also a recommendation, because it's what I referred to with Korra's mannerisms from earlier (she likes to write things out more than saying them). So lots of thanks to SaoirseParisa for the design of that scene.

2.) Kelev gets a lot of credit for all the information she gave me about comas when we worked on "Avatar: the Journey of Life." Those in comas, even medically induced ones, do not just get up out of bed and regain functions instantly. They have a long recovery period because their brains have been inactive for so long, meaning they essentially have to relearn everything. At the end we saw Senna and Buttercup showing signs of awakening, but it won't be for at least a few weeks before they can function normally. Since I put Gyatso in a coma in the previous story, I'm recycling all of the information Kelev gave me for that story into this one, and I once again thank my good friend for all her input.

3.) I once again borrowed from the original series with 2 references regarding Aang. Katara's comment that Aang wants moderation and is against things like the death penalty or corporal punishment is from the series finale, where Aang had troubles killing Ozai. Even though Ozai terrorized the world and everyone, including Zuko, wanted Ozai dead, Aang could not do it due to his beliefs. Katara's other comment about the different nations being separated is from when Aang visited Guru Pathik, who informed Aang that the separation of nations and elements is an illusion. I just felt that Aang did not have enough of a role in this story, and as such I'm taking liberties by making his presence felt.

4.) Tenzin convincing Lin and Saikhan to give Korra a chance is a modification of the scene from "Welcome to Republic City" where Tenzin asked Lin to give Korra a chance by releasing Korra even though Korra destroyed a city block chasing Triple Threats. Lin and Saikhan admitting that they were wrong about Mako is from "Night of a Thousand Stars" where she admitted that she was wrong to doubt Mako's suspicions on Varrick. And Katara suggesting that she was leaving everything to the next generation because her time has gone is from "Operation Beifong" when Toph said something similar on why she and Katara no longer got involved in world affairs.

Once again, thank you for dropping by this chapter and I hope you will be here for my next update. I might take a bit longer this time, as I have some personal stuff to deal with. Either way, this story remains very much alive, and I will strive to finish this whenever I can!