Asami's heart clenched when the familiar clang of the iron door slammed in her ears. Her father, staring at her with such bitterness in his eyes as the metal key clanked the lock. Her lips trembled in silent terror. The Raven's Bode. A prison. Her prison, built before she was even born in basement of the manor. It was a deep dome-like cavern with stagnant, pungent water at the bottom and the human-sized birdcage hung by black chains on a pulley system which had seen better days but still worked just fine to Asami's dismay. Hiroshi held a torch, the only light Asami will see until he returns to relieve her.
"I am so disappointed in you," he said. Asami's hands clung onto the bars of the birdcage cell, eyes squeezing out stubborn tears, biting red smeared lips in a feeble attempt to withhold from crying. "Ensure that you clean up this attitude by the time you are crowned."
"If you think you will have power over me when I am queen…" Asami's eyes opened with anger. "You are sorely mis-"
"I wouldn't go there if I were you," Hiroshi cut her off. His eyes bore into her with a stern dominance, noting that any more backtalk would be met with more consequence.
Asami sucked in her breath and shoved off the cage door, turning away and burying her face in her hands. Hiroshi didn't say anything more, he didn't need to. He treaded off the platform and to the lever switch near the door, yanking on the handle. Cogs squealed as the mechanism turned, cranking and coiling the chains of the pulley system. The birdcage structure lifted, carrying it's inmate along with it into the air until it stopped in place, hovering above the black water of the cavern. When the outside door croaked shut, Asami was left in the darkness.
Pitch black darkness. Shaky hands felt around, grabbing onto the iron bars in blindness and sunk down onto the cage floor. Her father had put her here many times before with no food, water or light for a couple of days at a time. But to Asami, it always felt like weeks. She did not fear the lack of substance nor the solitary time she spent here. The true horror lied in the dark.
Flapping wings. Screeching beaks. Screams of slaughter.
She whimpered, her hands clutched over her ears but it did nothing to quiet the sounds in the blackness. Usually it would take longer for them to appear, but this time it was almost instant. Her mind twisted in the inky void until the nightmares of her subconsciousness contorted into visions before her. Her mother being stabbed through the stomach by a raider's sword in the middle of the courtyard. Blood gushing out of her mouth as she coughed out her last breath - turning to her little girl with a faint smile on her lips. Tears streamed down Asami's face as she watched it happen, again and again.
No! Mother, please don't leave me!
The pain she had suffered from losing her mother was the most traumatic experience she had in her life. Screaming against the vivid memory racking her brain, Asami willed it desperately to stop. She needed to try to distract herself with something that didn't pain her. Focused on Korra's smiling face, how she smelled and the way her arms wrapped around her, fingers running through her hair in gentle soothing. Then she recalled what had happened not too long ago, when she asked her to be her first. Driven mostly by desire, Asami had obliged but the moment that her fingers entered inside her, she found something else lined in wake of pleasure. She could see it in Korra's eyes as she drove her to orgasm. She could feel it in her soul as both of their energies wrapped around each other in the throws of ecstasy. It felt so right even though it was so very, very wrong. How is it that something so wrong could feel so right? It was a bittersweet sensation… and it gave her the courage to face the things that she fear the most.
She was so tired of being scared, so tired of wearing her mask to hide her vulnerability. So tired of everything that she felt herself slip away into indifference, into the numbness of not caring what happened to her anymore.
Let them come! She challenged the darkness. Whatever happens, whatever visions come before her she was prepared this time. As if rising to the challenge, the darkness fluctuated dramatically, stabbing the depths of her mind with her own personal fears.
Amon's fangs pierced her neck, gulping at her essence with each frantic beat of her heart, growling as his hips slapped into her mercilessly stealing her virtue that she tirelessly had been protecting for her wedding night. Next came her father… Hiroshi has always been a living nightmare for her and it continues in the darkness with his hands clenched around her neck, never letting his grasp go even after her last dying breath. Finally, was Korra. Standing there in front of her, extending her hand out to her with a warm smile on her face. Asami ran, she was running as hard as she could as fast as she could but no matter how determined she was, she couldn't reach out to touch her housecarl's fingers.
Hot tears rolled down pale cheeks as her heart suddenly broke into a thousand pieces. It's just a vision, she repeated to herself. It's not real, Korra is right here, holding me. Her aura fluttered to keep herself calm but it was extremely difficult against the onslaught of horrors. Hallucinations continued to loop before her many times which continued to chip away at her slowly in the dark. Asami trembled into a crumple heap on the cage floor but fought to keep her mind from fully breaking. Inhale. Exhale. Inhale. Exhale. Her barely clothed skin prickled against the cold air, breath ghosting in the bitter brisk as she fought against her own horrors in the dark. The terror she felt in the pit of her stomach twisted into anger as the images in her head started to mute down with her feeble attempt to harden against the torture.
Father…. I will show you what you have made of me. I won't let you do this to me anymore.
.
.
.
Master Tenzin held his head high, confident and in complete control as he waded down the Grand Hall of the Republic Castle. His ward, however was timidly toting behind with her nerves rattling her bones.
"I've changed my mind!" Korra squeaked to a halt and attempted to escape. Tenzin grappled her arm, spinning her back to his side.
"Korra." Her name rolled off his tongue as a parent scolding his disobedient child. "You need diplomatic immunity. It's time to come clean."
"What if Unalaq finds out where I am?!" She whined. "He could bring his whole army here!"
"He would be a fool to do so. King Raiko has the entire United Nation Forces at his disposal, not to mention the entire Fire Nation Army for support. We are going to get your name off that list when he hears the entire story." As reassuring Tenzin's words were, Korra still had her doubts until she felt Raava stir inside her belly.
Trust his guidance, Korra.
"If you say so…" Korra drew in a deep breath when the grand doors of the throne room drew open by the guards. Large pillars of ivy marbled guided them down the red carpet to the king who stood below the steps to his throne, conversing with his advisors. His shoulders was as broad as his eyebrows was thick with a mustache to match his muted black hair. Rolling his icy blue eyes in their direction, he waved his advisors away to greet the guests who entered the throne room.
"Master Tenzin." Outstretching his palms with welcome, the king barely made any other expression of joy. "The council meeting isn't for another two days…" Korra ducked a little behind the master when Raiko's eyes fell upon her. "What business do you bring?"
Tenzin took a dutiful bow to the king before him, twisting his body to the side with a hand out towards the woman with him. "King Raiko, may I present… Princess Korra of the Southern Tundra."
"Princess?!" With expanding eyes, Raiko watched as the woman in subject fell to a knee, bowing her head in dutiful respect. "Tenzin… Are you sure? Tonraq didn't report having an heir…"
"My father kept my name out of the public records, your Highness," Korra explained as she lifted her head. "He wanted to make sure I had a relatively normal childhood."
"And I can assure you that she is his heir," Tenzin beamed. "I personally taught Korra how to read and write during my travels. And now, she is starting her training in the magical arts. It seems she has a unique talent that I believe can benefit the Republic Kingdom. She's already have faced Amon in battle and saved Captain Beifong from his clutches."
"Well that is impressive!" Raiko's eyebrows rose in genuine astonishment. "We could use valuable warriors in these times."
"There is a slight problem, my King," Tenzin noted. "King Unalaq has conquered the South without notifying the United National Council. He attempted to force the Princess in a marriage contract with him to produce heirs of more potent royal blood in exchange for freeing her father from a life in prison. He has also sent bounty hunters after her to retrieve her, including General Kuvira. I hope that you can help her in this plight. In exchange, Korra will pledge her loyalty to your crown and protect your people from harm."
"Hmmm," Raiko hummed with a rub of his chiseled chin. "I shall grant her diplomatic immunity, but as far as King Unalaq goes... I'd rather not meddle in the affairs of other nations."
"I understand, your Highness," Tenzin bowed. "We should send a motion for this discussion in the next council meeting. I'm very intrigued by what Lord Tarrlok will say in this matter."
"It shall be done," Raiko waved his hand, beckoning his personal chancellor. "Make it to be known to everyone in the land that Princess Korra is protected under the crown." With affirmation, the chancellor went off with his task and the King moved back to approach the dark woman. "Princess, I am pleased to have you on my service. The Harvest Festival Gala will commence tomorrow night. I trust that you will grant me your presence at the event to celebrate Hallow's Eve."
"O-of course, your Highness." Korra swallowed dryly as she erected, sweat beading on her brow in nervousness. It has been a long time since Korra had participated in elite celebrations. "If you need anything from me I'll be at the monastery with Master Tenzin or at the Sato Estate."
"Sato Estate?" The King rang with more surprise. "What business do you have there?"
"I've been working as Lady Asami's housecarl. It's where I have been staying for a while now." Korra was startled at the sudden burst of laughter from the King's lips.
"Well! That's jolly good!" He bellowed. "If anyone who can jostle a princess to do her bidding it would be Lady Asami. I bet she has you wrapped around her dainty fingers!"
Korra's face filled with color at how true that permonition was… in more ways than one. "Sh-She's certainly a handle, your Highness… But nothing that I can't manage. Besides, she doesn't know about my status… yet."
"You don't need to tote around as a housecarl anymore, Princess Korra," he proclaimed. "I'm sure Tenzin would have you focused on your training as much as possible."
"Lady Asami needs all the protection she can get," Tenzin chimed in. "I think relocating her to the monastery with Jinora would be wise. Korra can still protect her and all the young women there while she continues her training. But I agree, Korra. You don't need to wait hand and foot on Lady Asami any longer. In fact, I don't think the Lady would want you to after finding out you are royalty."
"Very well," the King nodded. "I will notify Hiroshi on this decision. We certainly can't have the future of the Fire Nation in danger's path."
When Tenzin and Korra made their leave with their thanks, Korra couldn't help but worry. It was only a matter of time before Asami would figure out who she really was. Part of her wish she wasn't such a coward about telling her in the first place but maybe it was better this way. Soon, announcers will tell everyone that a princess had taken refuge in their city, if they haven't started already. Korra will be a local celebrity and would be expected to act accordingly, mingling with the elite at social parties on top of continuing doing her duty to the city as a warrior. What would Asami think of her now? She prayed to the spirits that things between them wouldn't change but part of her knew better. This will change everything. She wondered when she will see her again. It's been nearly five days since the night Kuvira attacked her and Asami still hasn't sent for her nor did she visit the monastery. Riddled with concern, she even asked Jinora about her but the only information she could give her is that the lady was immersed in her work and hasn't asked for her. At the very least, Asami was okay by her knowledge.
Before they left the castle grounds, Tenzin provided Korra her paper of diplomatic immunity from the King's secretary. She folded it carefully and tucked it in her tunic. "Thanks for everything, Tenzin," Korra said with a line of concern in her voice.
"Everything will be alright, Korra. You don't have to worry about Kuvira any longer," he assured.
"Yeah… I suppose so," She answered in discontent. Kuvira was the least of her worries at this point.
.
.
.
Asami groaned. Her fingers rolled against the temples of her aching head while leaning over a mountain of financial reports. Although she was relieved when her father left that morning for a business consolation to the Fire Nation, Asami was annoyed by all the unfinished paperwork he left for her to rummage through. Fifthteen out of twentyseven farm owners have neglected to pay back their gratuities as promise for using Sato Mills. The reason, of course, was because of the recent vampire attacks upon the herds of livestock. Hiroshi had expressed that she should send collectors to retrieve their dues, however Asami knew that would generate little result. The farms of the Republic are struggling. And she was worried that food prices would be too expensive for poorer families.
This needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
With the way things are going, the city could starve before the blood moon rises on the winter solstice. She decided the next course of action would be to squeeze her way into the next council meeting. She just prayed that the men would listen to her with reasoning. Last time she addressed the council they weren't so keen on even paying a single lick of attention to her. All because she lacked the proper equipment between her thighs. While lost in the distaste for the male driven hierarchy of her culture, her thoughts were interrupted by a sharp knocking on the study's door.
"Enter!" the heiress growled as the pounding on the door stabbed further into her headache. The door swung open as Mako entered with a look of horror on his face. His eyes were practically bulging out of his head, mouth agape as his words were caught in his throat. The lady glared back at him, waiting for the damn fool to articulate something, anything. Her patience thinned quickly. "What is it?!" Her voice clearly indicated her angry urgency.
"Ummmm…." He stuttered, not knowing exactly what to say. "There is news from the King…"
"Okay…?" Asami curved an eyebrow while her lips pursed with silent rage at his hesitation. "Well?"
"The heir of the Southern Tundra's throne is in Republic Capital seeking refuge against the tyrannical oppression of the Northern invasion…"
Asami straightened in her chair, folding her arms with a huff. "You interrupted me for that? Why do you look so shocked? Kings invade lands all the time…"
"It's Korra… Princess Korra."
"..."
Mako stood there, gripping the handle of the study's door. Asami sat there, frozen. Unable to move, unable to respond, unable to fucking breathe.
"Lady Asami?"
"G-get out…" she choked quietly. Mako didn't need to be told twice. He moved like lightning, practically slamming the door back shut into place. In the solitude of her father's study, Asami couldn't even think. Her face grew hot. Sweat quickly perspiring in a sheen of glisten on her pale skin. Her hands moved slowly to grip at the arms of the chair she sat in, leather screaming against the grip of her clawing nails. Green eyes widening by the second as the neurons in her brain short circuited for a hot second then fired all at once.
"I…" she panted out. "...deflowered the heir to the Southern Tundra's throne…" Upon her personal confession, Asami gasped out a sharp laugh in disbelief. "I fucked… a princess?" Her laughter grew as the horrid comprehension slammed upon her. This has to be a dream. She must have fell asleep at her desk to nurse her headache. But she wasn't asleep. Cutting off the laughter in her chest, Asami sucked in a gasp. "Oh my Spirits…" Shooting up from her seat, her heart slammed into the back of her throat.
No.. no no no no!
It can't be real. This can't be happening. Korra, the savage, her housecarl… a royal. How was that possible? There was no record of an heir for the Southern Tundra, she was sure of it. But… it did explain a lot of things. How Tenzin knew her, how familiar she was with Lady Katara… Asami had only just assumed that maybe she was a general of the Southern army at least...
Wait… King Unalaq is her…
Suddenly, Asami choked back a flush of bile that threatened the back of her throat, then came a pang of guilt stabbed into her chest. All this time, Korra had been running from being a broodmare for her uncle. And the noblewoman's actions to enslave her in her service almost have lead to her capture. She felt mortified, embarrassed and sorely disgusted with herself.
I'm a…
Selfish… spoiled… stubborn imperial. Asami's body became weak as the world came crashing down upon her with the weight of a million minecarts. Out of all the things that are currently happening, she really didn't need this. Now, Asami had come to realise that she will need to do something with this new information. The most humiliating thing must be brought into action by her hands. She needed to apologize. Lady Asami does not apologize to anyone except her father. And now she will need to do it… to a princess. Spirits, a fucking princess! Asami barely still could believe that Korra was one. That rough, rude, wild savage was a royal of all things. She felt stupid for not putting it together in the first place. All the clues, all the hints that Korra was someone of great importance. When Korra had assured that she wasn't a noble, she didn't expect her to pass Asami in the aristocratic ranking. She paused her racing thoughts with a question.
Just how the hell am I going to apologize? I don't even think I can face her.
Her face was still burning with embarrassment and it deepened into a darker shade by the thought of bowing to her and pleading her for forgiveness for treating her so badly. Her pride, her ego was being smashed down into a bloody pulp. Hanging her head in defeat, the heiress sucked in a jagged gasp only to be expelled with a sob of disdain. She had found great pleasure in her control over Korra. Control was the only glory Asami could feel in the limitations her life was allowed. Since that pleasure was no longer an option for her, it only made her angry with a sour taste in her mouth. Korra was her favorite plaything and she was upset like a toddler who's toy was taken away. In her anger, she started to reject the idea of apologizing all together. Why would she? Korra started this whole mess in the first place.
I really am spoiled… Asami laughed at herself again, sighing as the truth in Korra's proclamation washed over her. The humor of it all eased her emotions slightly and she was able to finally gain some ground on herself. With a new breath of courage, she moved to exit the study and make her way briskly down the grand hall with Mako nearly trotting behind her.
"So… what happens now?" He asked, sweating profusely at what her reaction she would have.
Completely ignoring him, Asami steered towards his brother instead, who was frantically pacing back and forth, ranting on about how crazy it was that he was friends with a princess. "Bolin!" the lady snapped at the burly man, watching him startle at her sharp calling only to obey her summons immediately. "I want you to go through this entire manor and gather everything that is silver. I want all cutlery, chalices, vases, everything! In fact…" Asami produced a key and slapped it into his large palm, totally disregarding his furrowed brow of confusion. "Take all the silver coins from the treasury room as well. Get it all on a cart, heavily guarded, and send it to the smiths. I want it all smelted down and made into swords…. Arrowheads too. Tell my head smith that this is top priority and notify me when the task is done." Bolin nodded and ran off to start the task as strange as it was.
"Uh…" Mako hesitated for a moment with high brows. "May I ask why… Lady Asami?"
"Vampires, Mako!" she rolled her eyes. "We need it. I won't risk economic downfall by draining the city's silver resources. It's already starting to whittle with the farm attacks. We need to keep as much coin circulating as possible to keep our people fed."
"What about Lord Hiroshi… wouldn't he be upset about this?" His voice was of genuine concern. Although Mako didn't know the extent of her father's abuse, he knew Hiroshi was harsh on her. It was not his intention to directly question the lady's actions but he didn't want to see her get into anymore trouble.
"If he if all people can't understand this situation then he is a disgrace to the Sato Estate. I don't care what he says anymore. We need to attack Amon's forces as soon as possible. The Guard Force has been loosing a lot of men over this. I will lend every aid I can offer to see this through. Even by the edge of my own sword!" Asami's eyes remained hardened with ambition which brought a soft smile to her personal guard's face.
"I'm with you, Lady Asami!" he said bringing a fist over his chest proudly. "I'll follow you into battle against Amon." His lady couldn't help but curve her lips into a smile. Her eyes then drifted over to Jinora who excitedly graced herself to her lady's presence.
"Pardon me, Lady Asami," she bowed her head with a dainty shifting of her feet. "We should set off to the dressmaker. Your costume for the gala is ready for fitting."
"Ah," Asami nodded in agreement. "Let us go then."
.
.
.
"So I guess the cat is officially out of the bag now…" Korra mumbled as she rode Naga down the street following Tenzin back to the docks. Onlookers gasped in wonder, sending waves in her direction. The crowds of people parted for them to make way. If it wasn't for the royal guards at each flank, the most excited citizens would be upon her as they begged for her attention. Hoping for coin or a token from the princess that had made refuge in the city.
'Well I am just glad I don't have to stay in that depressing kennel anymore,' Naga huffed to her master. '...right?'
"Yeah… I guess…" Korra sighed. "I wonder when Asami will move over to the monastery… if she ever can be convinced to do so."
'I think she will…' Naga panted. 'She fancies you.' Korra's eyebrows rose as her blue eyes fell down to the top of her direwolf's head.
"What makes you say that?" Korra asked. "I mean sure… there is an attraction but…"
"She told me herself,' Naga informed. 'If she could understand me like you do… I would tell her that she picked the wrong throne to marry in.'
Korra's face turned beet red and found herself stammering with her words with a hushed panic so Tenzin couldn't overhear. "Th-that is not even p-possible! Two women can't get married…"
'How is it two humans of the same sex can not be mates? It's not that unheard of among animals.'
"Because…" Korra paused to find the right words for her wolf to understand. "It goes against certain moral codes… Alpha families need to ensure strong offspring to carry on their blood in future generations. Two women can not procreate on their own… Besides, you must have heard wrong. I'm pretty sure she finds me detestable… with all her overbearing bitterness she throws in my direction. She so mean most of the time… I myself don't understand why I even like her."
'She isn't always mean…' Naga chimed. 'She came to visit me frequently with meat and fat trimmings from the kitchen while you slept.'
Korra chuckled lightly with a few hardy pats at the wolf's side. "No wonder you gained a few pounds. And here I thought I wasn't exercising you enough." The wolf rider's breast swelled with warmth upon hearing that Asami was kind to her best friend. Maybe now that Korra's status was known, Asami could show more kindness to her in the future, even if it was just out of obligation. She was looking forward it actually. It was time that the lady can show her some respect for once instead of driving her mad with overwhelming dominance. Maybe Korra would show her some dominance of her own. The thought alone made her heart race just a little with excitement. I'm gonna show a thing or two if she thinks she can still whip me around. Stroking that side of her ego triggered more immoral ideas to swim in her head. She could have the lady melting against her fingers while growling against her pale neck. Inwardly groaning, Korra wondered if she would have the opportunity to finish what the two of them had started after her deflowering.
When they finally reached the shores of Air Spirit Island, Korra was greeted by all of Tenzin's children with excitement. In just a few short days, Meelo, Ikki and Rohan took to her as their new favorite playmate. Ikki was the oldest aside from Jinora at twelve, Meelo at ten and Rohan was just teetering on the edge of five. All three younglings piled on top of her expelling the wind out of her lungs as her back smacked on the ground.
"Korra! Korra!" Meelo beamed at his archery trainer with a sticky hand mashing on her cheek. "I hit a bullseye today!"
"Well I made your favorite dumplings all by myself!" Ikki shot competitively with a glare at her youngest brother who pulled at one of her two buns of her dark brown hair.
"Nuh-ugh!" Meelo sang as his bushy brows furrowed with irritation. "Mother boiled them! All you did was roll them up!"
"That's most of the work, Meelo!" Ikki stuck her tongue out at him. "Mother says I'm not old enough to use the stove yet!"
"Hey!" Korra jetted in the bickering siblings as she pushed them off gently to dust herself off. "Let's stop fighting, now! I have plenty of time for all of you. How about we play a game of hide and seek?"
"We can't," Ikki whined. "We need to finish our costumes! Korra, you promised to help me with mine!"
"And mine!" Meelo grumbled.
"Me too!" Rohan bounced while clutching onto Korra's pany leg looking up at her with hopeful asparagus green eyes.
"You are coming to the festival with us, aren't you, Korra?" Ikki asked.
"I'm sorry guys," Korra sighed. "I have to go to some snooty gala at the castle instead." All three kids moaned with disappointment, making her feel really bad at not being able to spend Hallow's Eve with them.
"Children leave the poor girl alone," Pema sighed from the entryway. Despite the groans of defeat, all the kids scattered off to work on their personal disguises for the impending holiday. Pema approached Korra with a long-suffering look of empathy. "So I guess it's back to being a royal now, huh?"
"Yeah," Korra rubbed the back of her neck. "I don't even know if I remember how to be a princess anymore from wandering around all this time. Feels like I'm slipping into some weird dream…"
"At least we can work on making you look like one," Pema rang with a smile. "I'm not going to let you go to the gala wearing your housecarl uniform." Korra's cheeks dusted with color but nodded all the same.
"I think I have just the thing for you," Pema said. "Kya left some tribal gowns here. I think she's your size. We will have to hem one though because she's rather taller."
"I haven't worn a dress in years," Korra confessed with her blush deepening while following the her to a dressing room.
.
.
.
Asami stood as patiently as she could, grunting a little as the dressmaker tightened the corset around her waistline. Mentally rearing herself for the vast amount or aristocratic socializing that would follow the next night, she sucked in a gasp as she was jerked with the final squeeze that pressed her breasts together. "Who should I be aware of on the guest list?" she demanded to Jinora who quickly shuffled the stack of papers.
"The King and Queen, obviously… um, Lord Tarrlok is attending this year as far as we know, Captain Beifong, General Kuvira, Lady Opal, Prince Wu…" Jinora noted the groan that escaped Asami's mouth at the last name.
"Spirits that man is annoying… Continue," the lady egged on.
"Firelord Zuko was invited but didn't RSVP so we don't know if he will be attending," Jinora mentioned.
I certainly hope not. Asami was not in the mood to entertain the former King of the Fire Nation. She didn't know if she had the capacity to handle it since she has made an effort to keep her betrothal out of her mind for the time being until the vampire issue is handled.
"Lord Lau Gan-Lan of Cabbage Capital…" Jinora paused for a moment, scanning over the names of the elitists that weren't of importance to her lady. "My father and I as well…"
"What about…" Asami swallowed on the title she was trying to say as it stuck to the back of her mouth. Jinora looked up at her as the black gown was strapped over her form, catching the faint blush on the noblewoman's high cheekbones.
"Princess Korra should be attending too. If the King haven't already invited her, my father would insist she came as his guest. Everyone is excited to meet her."
"As expected…" Asami turned to inspect herself in the mirror. "That's all everyone is shouting about out in the streets." Twisting from side to side to get a better angle, her head tilted to the side. "Can we do without the corset? I would like to have this cut down in the back."
The dressmaker's weathered face squinted with confusion. "How much lower do you want it?" Asami bit her lip with a grin, twisting her arm back and pressed just above the swell of her hips. "A lady shouldn't show so much skin!" the seamstress gasped with shock at such a request.
"It's Hallow's Eve, is it not?" Asami soldered a stare at her. "Costumes should give a sense of fright. Besides, most of it will be covered by the feathers right? A glimpse won't hurt anyone." When Asami gauge that the dressmaker still seemed hesitant she insisted to pay more for less. Money always talks louder than words in most cases and it worked this time.
Leaving the dressmaker to finish on the alterations, Asami and Jinora hitched a carriage ride back to the Sato Estate. Asami remained silent, keeping her gaze out the window, catching the steeple of the monastery of Air Spirit Island in the distance.
"Lady Asami…" Jinora called her attention. "I don't mean to pry… but I can't help but notice something different about your aura. Did something happen to you recently? ...with another person?"
Asami's eyes scanned Jinora's face but remained expressionless in doing so. "What do you mean?"
"Well…" Jinora shrugged with a slight blush. "I'm sensitive to these things as you know. I won't tell anyone if you are worried about that… I couldn't help but notice that your aura is displaying signs of a bonding."
"Bonding?" Asami repeated, crossing her legs and folding her arms in a sense of defense.
"It happens very rarely," Jinora started to explain with a sense of restraint among details. "Sometimes… two different auras will intertwine when…" She paused. "A physical act of consummation is performed between the two vessels that carry them." Asami's face immediately flushed with a deep color. She swallowed the lump in her throat, darting her eyes back out the window.
"I know you couldn't help it," Jinora sighed. "What I said before about making the choice whether or not to act upon your desires… I had no idea that it involved something that spiritually deep, I just assumed it was physical."
"It is just physical!" Asami almost snapped at her with doubt flushing through her body at her words. "But… I didn't get the chance to go all the way…" She groaned with a rub on her blushing face. "It's a good thing we got interrupted... I was willing to risk everything just to feel that again. I've spent most of my life feeling nothing but anger and fear for the longest time… and now. Well… I'm just angry… it doesn't matter anyways… it can't happen. I've made my decision to stay on the path before me."
"A wise decision, I'm sure…" Jinora gazed down at her own hands with a saddened expression. "But… you know I wouldn't judge you if made a different decision. I won't tell anyone either."
"I know, Jinora," Asami frowned. "I trust you more than anyone. In fact… I'm honored to call you one of my dearest friends." Jinora's face brightened at that. "Enough about me… any progress with Kai?"
"We kissed once…" Jinora blushed, darting her gaze away bashfully. "Nothing too scandalous. I intend to save myself for marriage as well."
"You know, Master Tenzin is a very kind man. I trust he is very gentle with you as a father. Would it be too much to ask him about marrying someone you love? I can't imagine him objecting to that."
"Maybe…" Jinora said. "When I'm a bit older though. I'm not ready for marriage just yet. I have a lot things I want to do before then. I plan on going on a pilgrimage to the Spirit Vale to seek enlightenment."
"Traveling sounds nice," the noblewoman sighed with longing. "When do you think you would go?"
"Probably after the wedding," Jinora confessed. "I trust that you will have plenty of ladies to help you in the Fire Nation."
"Oh… right." She sighed. "I didn't think about you not coming with me… Of course you wouldn't… your life and family is here. I suppose same goes with everyone else." Asami felt a wave of depression swarm over her.
"I will sure to visit you as often as I can. And you can do the same too. It's not like you would be chained to the throne."
"I suppose, but still." Asami smiled. "I enjoy your company." Jinora returned her smile softly. In the back of the spiritual acolyte's mind she was tempted to inform her lady the extent of what makes a spirit bonding so rare, but given the circumstances she decided not to for Asami's sake. She'd hate to cause her lady more grief, however… Soulmating is an extremely difficult thing to avoid when it happens.
.
.
.
Hallow's Eve. A night of frights and fun for the little ones, but also was a night of spiritual importance. The veil that separated the spiritual and physical world thins charging the planes of metaphysical energy. The tradition of costumes started as a way to fool dark spirits from harming the living while they crept around in the darkness. In the heart of the city, the great festival commenced with booths of games and food for all those to participate. Pumpkins were made into lanterns and burlap sacks to hay stuffed ghosts. Fiddles and lutes echoed their melodies into the alley ways of the streets encouraging young little monsters to dance and play games. Korra's eyes filled with envy while watching the festivities fly by her in the carriage ride to the castle. Her fingers fidgeted nervously over her navy blue cloak. Being so lost in the stress of the evening, she didn't realize Tenzin was talking to her until her mind slipped to the last segment of words.
"...on your best behavior." Korra snapped her head over to him.
"What? Sorry…" She sheepishly rubbed the back of her neck as the master stared at her with disgruntlement.
"I said…" Clearing his throat, Tenzin repeated. "General Kuvira will be at the gala, but she will not cause you any trouble. And I expect you to be on your best behavior as well."
"As long as she stays away from me, everything will be fine." Korra grumbled as her eyes drifted back to the festivities outside. "I just hope I don't embarrass myself… Even back at home, Father never hosted events like this… feasts and festivals were always his thing… as is mine."
"Just leave the talking to me," Tenzin suggested. "If someone you don't know talks to you just try to keep the conversation brief. And don't talk about the political situation of the South. Try not to get carried away with the beverages. You need a clear head to keep your wits about you."
"Right…" Korra sighed. If anything would calm her nerves it would be a few goblets of wine, but he was right. "What about dancing? I don't know how to dance." She turned over to him with general concern on her features, but Tenzin just met her gaze with a soft smile.
"It is expected to dance if you are asked to," His statement earned a heart groan from his ward. "Just follow your partner's lead and you will be fine."
"One more question…" Korra swallowed nervously. "...Will the Satos be there?"
"Lady Asami is attending, Hiroshi is away at business for the week." Korra moaned with disdain, slapping a hand over her face. "Great." Korra really wanted to see Asami, but not like this. She was hoping to slip away to the Sato Estate earlier that day to talk to her. Clear the air about everything and hope to salvage what little relationship she had with her. Now she is going to be stuck at a party, acting like a royal in front of her, schmoozing with other aristocrats while dressed so… Korra could feel her face heat up against her hand.
"Stop that," Tenzin scolded. "You're going to smear the make up Pema had worked hard to perfect."
.
.
.
Asami forced a laugh threw her red lips at a joke some unknown nobleman made at her. She was inwardly grimacing at the drag of his eyes over her form but she quickly excused herself from his presence to freshen her drink. While picking up a fresh glass of white wine, she turned to face the ballroom scanning her eyes over the guests musing with conversation and high spirits. A flash of red caught the corner of her eye and when she turned she was met with a figure dressed in a fire general uniform approaching her. Her green eyes widened with surprise followed by a genuine laugh.
"Is that you, Kuvira?!" Asami's shocked face was met with a smirk on the general's lips. Kuvira's hair was pulled back into a tight braid with the top parted at the side in a manly fashion. The general gave her a bow and took the lady's hand to kiss at her knuckles.
"Prince Iroh, at your service… my betrothed." Kuvira grinned at her.
"You've got to be kidding me," Asami mumbled with a blush. "Why are you costuming as the Fire Prince?"
"I figured you needed a good laugh," Kuvira moved to pluck a glass of wine for herself and joined Asami in watching the mingling aristocrats. "And an apology… I did ruin the flooring of your foyer after all."
"And you tried to take my housecarl away from me," Asami's voice deepened. "But I don't think I'm the one you should be apologizing to…"
"I was just doing my duty, I shouldn't have to apologize for that," Kuvira jabbed while pressing the wineglass to her lips, dragging her dark green eyes ever so slightly at Asami's dress. The black flowing fabric hugged her curves lovingly with large black plumed feathers pinned at the edges of the back. Asami also wore arm length gloves with stiff feathers patterned like scales to further complete the look. "What are you supposed to be? A crow?"
"Raven." Asami smirked. "I was hoping my father would see this dress… it's sort of like an inside joke between us." She took a hearty gulp from her wine. "Unfortunately he is away on business.."
"Well, you look ravishing," Kuvira turned to her and offered a hand. "Care to dance, my Lady?"
"You're kidding right?" Asami didn't look amused at the offer. "You're a woman…"
"Tonight, I am a man… your man." Kuvira grinned flirtatiously. "It's Hallow's Eve, I've already danced with a few ladies and no one seems to care." Asami stood there in slight hesitation, staring at the extended hand of the handsome woman before her. She downed the rest of her wine, placing the empty glass on the refreshment table.
"Sure, what the hell? It's not like I'm having fun just yet." Slipping her gloved hand into the general's, Asami allowed herself to be lead to the middle of the dancefloor. The orchestra was playing a light waltz with playful notes. Kuvira slipped a hand on the noblewoman's waist and began to lead her into the dance. Asami couldn't help but giggle at the smirk she was receiving from the confident general as the spun around the ballroom.
"You lead quite well, your Majesty," Asami mused at her partner.
"Only because we are so meant for each other," Kuvira joked back with a grin. "I can't wait until our wedding night." Asami quirked an eyebrow before rolling her eyes at her but then Kuvira yanked on her waist, hard. A shocked gasp escaped from red lips as their bodies pressed against each other firmly. Then Asami noticed something. Something hard pressing against her belly.
"Is that a dagger in your belt…" The noblewoman's lips pressed together with widening eyes. "Or are you… happy to see me?"
"Very happy." Kuvira pressed in, further confusing the woman in her grasp. Asami stopped the dance immediately, pulling back and looking down with furrowed brows.
"How is that possible?" she asked.
"A little something I made… hardly little though." Kuvira said with a mumble but was delighted at how curious Asami was about the… completion of her costume. After a few minutes of calculation, the heiress rose her eyes to the general's face with a look of intrigue.
"Show it to me," she demanded slipping a hand underneath Kuvira's red jacket. Her hand was ceased immediately by the general's strong grasp.
"Not here…" Kuvira grumbled while darting her eyes around the room before leaning in to whisper. "I thought you would slap me… are you really that interested?"
"Yes," Asami declared but then noticed the raised brow of the general. "Spirits, Kuvira not like that! I want to see how it's attached… and what material did you use? Is it… usable?" The wheels in Asami's inventor brain turned with curiosity.
"Come with me." Kuvira pulled the noblewoman away by the arm. Away from the party, out of the ball room and into a vacant hallway. She opened the red jacket which allowed Asami's hands to pull at her waistband. Dipping her head forward, Asami grinned at the metallic phallus in the general's pants secured with leather straps.
"Have you used it?" Asami asked, letting the waistband snap back against Kuvira's waste.
"Yes…" Kuvira quirked her head with a faint dusting of color on her cheeks. "It's satisfactory to my partner…"
"Hmmm…" Asami rubbed at her chin. "I can't imagine you getting much stimulation that way. Maybe that can be improved with a spirit stone at the base against the clitoris."
"Lady Asami!" Kuvira reared back with shock. "W-what are you talking about?"
"Ugh," Asami rolled her eyes. "Really, Kuvira… As long as you've known me you should expect me to make improvements to anything I come across. I'm a blacksmith after all. I'll send you a prototype to Zaofu when it's completed. Take it as thanks for bringing me the branches. Besides I'm sure that your partner would like it that you could feel… just as good when using it… by the way… who in the world are you plowing?"
"I refuse to answer that," Kuvira glared. "You don't need to do that… Besides I would rather you tell me the truth about those instead. Just what exactly is so special about that spirit tree?"
"Well… spirit vines have a lot of spiritual power that I believe can be used as a source of energy. A fellow inventor mentioned the concept to me and it got me thinking. Imagine grain mills and other machines being powered without water. I want to test one of the branches out with a hammering machine for my shop. The other branch is intended as a gift like I mentioned before." Asami turned away with Kuvira in tow as they slaughtered back towards the party side by side.
"If you are able to do that. Well that would change everything about the way we live," Kuvira mentioned with the lady nodding in agreement.
"True, although it won't be a wise idea to harvest too many vines. The Spirits could retaliate with anger… but I also have had another idea with spirit stones and conductive materials that would be powerful enough to turn a mechanism. It's all just on paper though. I haven't had a chance to fully explore that yet."
"We could preserve the vines for more… powerful devices. It should be used for defenses in military operations." Asami stopped in her tracks at the ballroom doors.
"Absolutely not!" She bellowed. "That type of use of spiritual power shouldn't even be thought of. If other nations caught wind of something like that you will certainly find war at your front gate."
Kuvira rolled her shoulders with a frown. "I see it the other way around, Lady Asami… Armies will think twice about messing with the Earth Empire. It would a a security of peace and order… you will understand when you take the throne of the Fire Nation."
Asami all but glared at the general sourly, squaring her shoulders. "I assure you, General… if you pursue this when I am queen I will keep a close eye on…" her voice trailed off into silence as a flicker of energy started to pull on her being. She hitched a breath as her eyes dragged over to the gala.
Across the other side of the ballroom, Korra entered in the other doorway of the hall. Wrapped up in a dark navy cloak with white fur lining, she unlinked the broach and let it slide off her shoulders to place it in the hands of a dutiful castle servant for safe keeping. White… shimmering snowy fabric was wrapped beautifully over her strong, curvy figure with bell sleeves dangling off her bare shoulders. Dark brown furs hugged her hips over the pleated skirt of her gown which barely touched the floor as she walked. Asami's heart slammed into her ribcage as she watched her nervously smile at approaching guests.
"...grand importance to national security." Kuvira's voice tugged at her for attention but Asami was lost. Lost at how the sight of the princess left her breathless and incredibly warm. "Are you listening?" The general's voice was laced with annoyance but she was ignored. Asami rudely walked away from her, skimming cautiously through the crowd of people towards the guest of the evening. Whatever lack of courage she felt before to face her again was completely dismissed out the window, because her aura was dragging her forward with such sweet beckoning.