A/N: I sincerely apologize for how late this chapter is. I have been swamped with classwork, and dealing with the in-delicacies offered by life. I thought I could take on my course load and write for you guys, but it didn't pan out that way. I'm glad to say that I've finally finished my undergrad! My wife and I moved, and we rescued a cute American Bulldog puppy and named him Jasper (from Steven Universe lol). But I digress, this chapter has a lot going on lol. It's two chapters in one (over 10,000 words). Anyway, please enjoy. Also, thank you to those who have left comments! It definitely inspires me to keep this up. :D
A/N/N: iahfy (Instagram) does fantastic fan artwork of Korra. I love the way she draws her and always picture her work as I write. If you guys are like me and like to reference pictures as you read, definitely check out her work. (I don't reference the canon art of Korra, because I think they gave her a generic face).
—beanie
Disclaimer: I do not own The Legend of Korra, but I do own a copy of Turf Wars part one and two. :D
XXX
Chapter 4: Trepidation
It had been few days, but Korra had finally completed her after-school duties that Tenzin had assigned to her. There was nothing that the young teen looked forward to more than being able to head straight home after school, cuddle up with her danger-ball of fuzzy love, Naga, and casually help out her Aunt Kya around the house. Ever since being forced to flee the Southern Water Tribe as a child, Korra never really enjoyed being around people; she preferred the company of animals to humans and the pleasant hum of nature over the cacophony of jumbled noise the city offered. It was also this exact reason that she was pleasantly shocked to discover that Republic City had a massive metropolitan park that practically encompassed the entire city. Upon discovering this Korra never rode the bus again and decided to walk to and from school everyday, just so she could stumble upon more hidden gems the city had to offer. That afternoon had been no different, either. The young Southern Water Tribe native took a different route home that would consequently guide her through a different area of the metropolitan park. It was absolutely breathtaking, the sidewalk was parallel to a lush forest of Fire Oaks which is well known for their variations of stature and color. Korra couldn't help but be transfixed by their alluring beauty. She kept walking alongside the tree line, until she passed a clearing that revealed a pretty sizeable lake in the center of trees with a small jade bridge that led across. Woah, I've never seen this before, Korra thought as her body led her into the clearing compelling her to explore more of the metropolitan oasis.
"Fuck…" the wind was practically knocked out of almond teen as she took in the sight around her.
The clearing amid the Fire Oaks was pretty immense; there were a few statues of what Korra assumed to be the former Avatar Aang posed in various fighting styles, along with three marked paths that led to three different hiking trails on the southern end of the clearing. Everything was gorgeous, but what Korra loved most was the way the lake shimmered under the tangerine pink sky as the sun began to set. She felt like she could stay there forever, but decided she should probably head back home. As Korra started towards the exit, she took one more glance at the shimmering lake, and noticed a dark figure leaning against the jade railing. Nothing about the figure really stood out to her aside the fact that it wasn't there when she entered the clearing only a few minutes ago. But, the training she endured in the Southern Water Tribe encouraged the young native not to break her glance just in case. Every muscle in Korra flexed as she focused her breathing and let her training guide her actions. Advancing towards the bridge she got a better look at the figure; it was a male. He wore an eggshell white mask with the only distinguishing features being two slits where the eyes would be. A chill bolted throughout her body as she remembered what Jinora had told her about a "creepy guy" in a mask stalking people throughout the city. Fuck. It's guy Jinora warned me about. Korra drew in a sharp breath as her pace quickened. Her presence seemed to capture his attention as she calmly walked passed trying to appear as nonchalant as possible. She averted her eyes and lowered her gaze, but still felt his icy stare baring into soul. Korra practically stumbled as she exited the park, then broke into a light jog the moment she cleared the trees. Looks like I'm taking the long way home.
Upon opening the front the door Korra was tackled to the ground by a large white polar bear dog that began littering her face with warm licks and gleeful snorts. The young teen laughed as she embraced her lifelong companion and best friend.
"I missed you, too, girl," Korra hummed as she nuzzled herself against Naga's soft fur. A small yelp emitted from Naga as she placed a solid paw on Korra's back and licked her few more times before happily trotting into the living room to bring Korra one of her toys.
"Hey, Korra, come on back! I'm in the kitchen," Kya yelled over the music emitting from the record player.
"Alright, auntie," she chimed as she tossed her backpack on the couch. Naga nozzled her arm happily displaying the stuffed turtle she chose to share with her. Korra leaned over hugged her face and tossed the stuffed animal into the next room. Naga panted gleefully as she bolted after the turtle leaving a thin trail of drool behind her. Korra couldn't help but chuckle at Naga's unbridled energy. She felt daggers boring into her head as she spun around and saw Kya standing in the doorway shaking her head with disapproval; her smile dropped.
"Korra, what did I tell you about not getting Naga all riled up in the house?"
No response.
"Korra what did I say?"
"...We have a backyard,"she sighed in a mumbled whisper.
"What?" Kya exaggerated, cupping her ear expantantly.
Korra rolled her eyes, "We have a backyard, Aunt Kya. Geez," she groaned dramatically as she gave her aunt a warm hug. "You know how Naga gets with her toys. I can't just turn her down auntie."
"Yeah, Yeah," the older woman lightly kissed Korra's forehead, causing salted locks to brush against her cheek. She then smiled and shooed Korra away with a playful grin and returned to the kitchen. "You and that beast are going to end up tearing this house down if y'all don't take that mess outside."
"Mhmm, so what's for dinner auntie?" Korra looked around the kitchen expecting to see or smell something edible, but she was only greeted the dragon's blood incense that wafted through the house. She looked back at Kya who just shrugged. "Auntie, seriously? We've talked about this," the young teen groaned as she theatrically flattened her body against the marbled counter.
Kya's brow furrowed, "You know I don't know how to cook like that, Korra." The younger native arched her brow knowingly. "If you're going to be like that I can throw something together and we can pray to the Great Divine that we don't get food poisoning, but if I'm being transparent here I haven't gone grocery shopping in whi—"
"Okay, okay, you win. Let's just order take out," Korra rolled her eyes playfully.
"That's my girl," Kya gave her niece a playful wink as she pulled out her phone. Sharp knocking on front door emits through the house. Kya shoots the young teen a look, "Are you expecting any company?" Korra responds with a deadpan expression, "Just kidding. I know you don't have any friends right now," Kya chuckles as she glides to the front door and checks the peephole.
"Who is it?"
"I don't know. It's some woman in a police uniform" Kya paused, "wait, didn't you get in trouble for fighting a girl at school?"
"Yeah, but it was self defense. Plus, I already did my punishment, so it should be fine now."
Kya hummed in agreement. The incessant knocking continued as Kya opened the door with an artificial smile, "Good evening, officer. What can I do for you?"
"Good evening, ma'am. Are you Kya Enook the guardian of Korra Armruck?"
Kya's eyes narrowed in annoyance, "It's pronounced Armaruq. And, yes, I'm Korra's aunt. What can I do for you Ms…?"
"My apologies ma'am, I'm Officer Lin Beifong and I would like to discuss somethings with you and Korra if you don't mind," the woman's pale green eyes quickly glanced towards the bay window Korra was peering from.
Kya glanced over at the window and shooed Korra away before redirecting her attention to the stoic woman, "Would this be about the fight Korra got into at school? That was already taken care of, and it was officially ruled that Korra only got into the fight because she had to defend herself. So, I don't see what the problem is."
"All that is true, Mrs. Enook, but did the school inform you that the student in question, Kuvira Anand, is pressing charges against your niece?"
"For what?" Kya's eyes widened with disbelief.
"Well, as it turns out Korra broke Kuvira's zygomatic bone. That's her cheek bone—"
"I know what a zygomatic bone is. What is your point?"
"Yeah, well based off witness testimonies from multiple sources and the fact that Korra is a trained professional in mixed-martial arts, the amount of force she used against Kuvira to protect herself is actually illegal."
"Are you fucking serious?"
"Yeah—"
"Are you fucking serious?!" Korra yelled from the roof. She met her Aunt Kya's glare as she stared down, but brushed it off. Korra knew her aunt was going to chastise her for eavesdropping, but she didn't care. Instead, she dexterously gripped the piping along the side of roof, slid down the side of the house and landed quietly on the soft earth. Korra shot an accusatory glare at the uniformed woman, and stomped over to her with a furrowed brow and puffed out chest; Korra was pissed. The older woman simply looked away uninterested, "Why the hell am I getting charges pressed against?! She started the fucking fight; I should be pressing charges against her! That bitch sucker-punched me—"
"Hey kid, watch your mouth. Where are your manners, huh? Also, from the looks of your unscathed face, she didn't punch you that hard did she? Unlike you and your freakish regenerative cells, her face is bruised and swollen."
Korra pointed objectively at Lin, twisting her mouth into a frown preparing to retort, until Kya silenced her with a simple gesture. The young teen's arm dropped to her side, but she maintained her hateful glare fixed on the officer in front of her.
"I got this Korra," Kya opened, "Lin—"
"Officer Beifong."
"Whatever," she waved a bengaled arm dismissing the woman. The officer cut her eyes, Kya reciprocated,"I don't give a foggy damn who you are, but you won't talk to my kid like that. Korra has manners where it counts, but she has every right to be angry right now. What the hell kind of law says that a combat expert can't defend themselves to the best of their ability?"
"The jurisdiction under the United Republic of Nations says just that, in case you didn't know," Lin flexed an eyebrow pointedly before continuing, "Well, I'm actually not surprised that you didn't know, since you just recently moved to Republic City from the South Pole. Just a word of advice, the law here is not the same as back home. Adjust accordingly."
Kya reminded silent as her frosted cerulean eyes slatted in expression. Korra could tell that she was livid, so she spoke up, "I hear what you're saying, officer, but I still think this is total bullshit, um, sorry—this is total crap, because all I did was punch her twice in one fluid movement. If she knew better she would have blocked, ducked, or played dead. Hell, she honestly should have stopped running her mouth, so she didn't have to get put in her place. Even the fricking principal excused me. Did you even talk to him before you came here harassing us?"
Lin just stared expressionlessly at the azure eyed teen, before rubbing her brow with a heavy sigh. "Not yet. I have an appointment to meet with Principal Cheng in a few days."
"Wow," Kya interjected, "You seriously have some nerve lady."
"Excuse me?"
"You come here harassing me and my kid about something that you don't even have all of the information on? Are you fucking serious? Get the hell off my property, 'officer,' before I report your ass." Her iced eyes narrowed even further as she gestured the officer towards her cruiser. Lin's jaw clenched, as she firmly turned and walked to her vehicle. "Next time focus on real police work, huh?" Kya huffed. Lin grimaced before taking off down the street.
Korra glanced up, concern lining her face, "Um are you okay, auntie?"
Kya ran a hand through dark tresses before giving Korra a sincere smile, "Of course, kiddo. I just hate when people like her come into our lives just to create a mess. But, don't worry about that, sweetheart; I'll take care of it." She placed a gentle hand on Korra's back and guided her towards the house, "Come on, let's order that take out."
The next day, Korra's first period class with Ms. Castillo started fifteen minutes later than usual. The young teen noted how her history teacher looked paler than she should; her eyes were encompassed by dark circles, and her energetic personality seemed deflated. Aside from her small crush on her instructor, Korra really liked Ms. Castillo and seeing her like this seriously concerned her. Class seemed to drag on longer than usual, and when the lesson finally ended Korra leaned over to get the class rep's attention.
"Hey Jinora," the younger girl looked up from her notes and give Korra a gentle smile.
"Hey, Korra. What's up?"
"Why does Ms. Castillo look like she almost died?" The young native's deep cerulean eyes burned with a stern intensity that made Jinora laugh uncontrollably. Korra simply stared at her, "Jinora, what the hell is so funny?"
"Nothing, Korra, you're just hilarious sometimes," Jinora's chuckles faded, while Korra continued staring at her expectantly. Her eyes softened, "Korra, Ms. Castillo is just a little under the weather. She gets like this sometimes, and it eventually passes. Don't let it get you down, okay?"
"Yeah," Korra replied solemnly. They quietly gathered their belongings and entered the hallway.
Jinora gently nudged Korra's arm, "Hey, the Paranormal Club is meeting after school today, do you want to come check it out? I think you'll really like it," Korra shrugged unenthusiastically as her classmate continued, "Come on, I think it'll help get your mind of Ms. Castillo being sick. Also, remember yesterday when I told you that my dad might cut you some slack if you join my club?"
Korra give Jinora a side glance with a suspicious smirk, "Are you bribing me, Jinora?" Her classmate revealed a wide grin, rolling her eyes playfully, "Well, it's working. What time should I be there?"
"Just head up after last bell," Jinora replied smugly before she and Korra parted ways.
After her third period class, Korra was making her way towards the stairwell when she accidentally collided shoulders with someone. Fuck, not again, Korra thought as she spun around to meet the tangerine gaze of the oldest Nakamura.
"Oh, hey, Mako. How's it going?"
"H-hey...Korra. I'm doing life—er, I mean I'm doing fine in life. How are you?"
"I'm doing alright. Just heading to class."
Mako averts his eyes and gives a shy smile, "Um where are you headed? I can walk with you."
"Um…I'm about to head to fourth period, like i just said. You can join me if you want it's just upstairs," Korra readjusts the backpack on her shoulder with a slight bounce before gesturing for him to follow. Mako quickly shuffled to the stairwell door to hold it open. He gave the small almond beauty a nervous smile as she passed beneath his towering form. Korra glanced over her shoulder as she ascended the steps in pairs with an effortless hop, "Aren't you going to fourth period, too? You seem to not be in a hurry for anything in particular."
Mako made sure to not follow too closely behind Korra as he lightly jogged up the stairs behind her. He cleared his throat before responding, "Yeah, I'm actually taking a little time for myself this period. It's last period, school's about to be out...you know how it is." Mako reaches the next landing and rushes to catch the door just in time to hold it for Korra as she enters the hallway.
"So, let me get this straight. You're skipping class, because you are...lazy? Is that what you're telling me?" The young azure native quickly turns around to give the older Nakamura an incredulous look before returning her gaze forward taking care to not accidentally bump into any students. "I honestly pegged you to be a little more disciplined than that, lug nut," she scoffed under her breath, "but when personal-guy-time calls, I guess it would be rude to not answer."
Mako practically tripped another student keeping up with Korra's pace, "Hey," his tangerine eyes peered into her azure crystals burning with defiance, "I don't skip class because I'm lazy, alright? I have some pretty intense training to do at the gym today and I can't afford to be tired before I start."
"Is that so?"
The young native's response dripped with sarcasm, to which she soon realized wasn't detected by Mako when his response was to puff out his chest and give a smug, yet discrete smirk. He gave an exaggerated roll of his shoulder, "Yeah, training is a pretty big part of my daily routine. I honestly don't know what I'd do if I couldn't train any more."
"Yeah, that's...something," Korra stopped in front of her classroom giving her escort a rushed smile, "Well, this is my class thank you for walking with me. Um, the gym you live at sounds pretty cool, actually, but I gotta go to class now. Maybe I'll see you around?"
Mako's eyes widened, "Wait. Um, did you want to come by the gym with me after school today? Just by looking at you I can tell that you like to train and stay in shape, too. So, I was wondering if you wanted to...train...together…sometime…?"
The young beauty simply stared at her tangerine eyed counterpart, she couldn't believe what was happening. Is Mako hitting on me? But, he has a girlfriend! He's dating Asami, right? Anyone dating that girl should have literally no interest in anyone 's so beautiful— Korra caught herself mid thought. Wait, what the hell am I even saying? She slightly shook her head and blinked a few times to orient her thoughts. Mako stood towering over her with concern lining his expression.
She released a heavy sigh, "Mako, I actually have plans after school. I'm staying after to check out the Paranormal Club. So I'm going to have to take a rain check."
Mako combed fingers through his thick dark hair, "The Paranormal Club, huh? Yeah, that's cool. Well, um, if you decide that you do want to come by the gym sometime feel free to stop by any time. It's called Elements...if Toza gives you a hard time just say you know me or Bolin….yeah," the older Nakamura turned and began walking back towards the stairwell. Korra just stood next to her classroom utterly perplexed. Did this guy really just blow me off, because I wouldn't go to the gym with him? What the hell is his problem? The young native simply rolled her eyes and continued into class.
The rest of the period carried on as usual, and after class Korra decided to just head straight to the club room. She noticed how all the supplies she had placed in the club room were neatly organized and tastefully displayed. At least all my hard work wasn't for nothing, she thought as she casually took off her backpack and sat in the first chair she saw. After about five minutes Jinora entered the club room, giving the young native a knowing grin.
"If it isn't Korra Armaruq," Jinora gave an exaggerated bow to which Korra dramatically rolled her eyes. The young class representative laughed, "I'm glad you took time out of your busy schedule to come check out the Paranormal Club. You want my father off your back that much, huh?"
Korra played along, "Honestly, I don't know if I'm getting a fair trade here. Getting your dad off my back just to have you suction on next seems kinda like a loss more than anything."
Jinora feigned offense and threw her hands up in the air defensively, "Well fuck you, too, madam."
Korra practically fell out of her chair she was laughing so hard. "I didn't know you were capable of such language. Damn, I have no response to that."
"They never do," the young class rep concluded with a smirk.
People began drifting into the club room after about ten minutes, and after more bodies filled the room Jinora began. The meeting opened with Jinora bringing up how the energy in the city has felt off over the past couple of weeks and if anyone else has picked up on something similar. Korra instantly thinks back to the man she saw at the park, but decides against bringing it up because she honestly didn't have all the facts the declare that the man from the park was the creep stalking people. After all he was just some guy at the park. Korra has yet to adjust to the metropolitan life here in Republic City; as far as she's concerned all the people here are weird.
"Today I've invited someone to come share their own personal experience with the negative energy that seems to be permeating this city, but unfortunately she isn't here yet," Jinora briefly paused and scanned the room before continuing, "Anyway, would anyone like to share any paranormal experiences you've recently encountered?"
A few hands went up. The young brunette picked a student up front who stood up and began recounting events to the rest of the club members. Korra automatically tuned her out; her mind was focused on something else, rather, someone else. Did she mean Asami? The azure teen couldn't quite place it, but even though she was only around Asami during her first day at Republic City High, she couldn't rid herself of the straying thoughts that would randomly permeate her mind. It's probably because her boyfriend has a crush on me, she rationalized. That has to be it. As if on cue, the charcoal haired beauty entered the room with Bolin in toe. Korra's throat instantly dried up as emerald pearls meet her cerulean gaze. Before the young native could even remind herself to breathe, Bolin's youthful mint green eyes and incessant giggles broke her trance. 'Korra…!' He mouthed excitedly, to which she responded with a wave and a gentle smile. The pair sat in the front row several seats down from Korra. She and Asami meet each other's eyes once more, before Asami scoffed and directed her attention to the student recounting their story. What the hell was that? Korra's jaw clenched with frustration. Just what the hell is her problem with me? The young native angrily looked up just in time to see Asami quickly averting her eyes. Korra scoffed under her breath and rolled her eyes. Well fuck you, too.
Before Jinora called on another student to share their story, she quickly stood up and gestured towards Asami, "Ah, there she is. Asami, would you mind sharing with everyone else what you told me the other day?"
Emerald eyes nervously scanned the room briefly hovering over Korra's figure, before returning to face Jinora, hesitation apparent in her voice, "Jinora, um, I'm sorry, but after really unpacking what I thought happened...I came to the conclusion that it was most likely the result of me being exhausted. My sleep schedule has been off for quite some time, so I think I imagined it…"
"...Um, okay," the young brunette gave her senior a concerned look before continuing, "let's just move onto the next item on our agenda."
For the reminder of the meeting Asami never did look back in Korra's direction. Following the meeting, after saying goodbye to Jinora the young native headed for the exit, but was stopped by Bolin. He excitedly invited her to join him, Mako, and Asami for lunch tomorrow. She almost turned down the invitation, but let her kindness get the better of her and agreed. After stopping by her locker to grab a few items Korra made her way home.
Without even meaning to, the young native found herself at the same park she stumbled upon yesterday. Since, I'm here I might as well enjoy it again, she convinced herself as she took in the vibrant earthy hues. While admiring the elegant tree line, Korra noticed a dark figure emerging from the forest. She couldn't quite make out what they wore, but could tell by their body language that they were searching for someone or something. The figure slowly began walking the length of the tree line before stopping abruptly. Its head quickly snaped towards her and before she could even think her body dropped to the moist earth. Without wasting any time, Korra low crawled to the bush only a few feet from her position and observed the figure. Upon closer inspection, she realized that the person was wearing the exact same mask as the man from the day before. Fuck, there really is something going on. At that very moment Korra heard a sharp intake of breath coming from directly behind her. Not a second thought crossed her mind as she scraped to her feet and sprinted out of the park without a second glance. In the heat of the moment, she decided to take an alternate route home by cutting through backyards, scaling various fences, and taking side alleys. Her lungs burned with each heaving gasp by the time she reached home. No one could have followed me back here. Not after all those fucking back roads. Korra practically collapsed through the door as she pushed it open. Luckily her furry guardian, Naga, was there to break her fall as she greeted her happily with wet sloppy kisses accompanied by excessive amounts of drool.
"Yeah, I missed you too, Naga," Korra grunted as she pulled herself upright with the support of a nearby coat rack. Naga barked and began chasing her tail happily, before darting into the next room to bring her lifelong friend another stuffed toy. The young native crossed the living room and ascended the stairs to her bedroom. She lifted an arm to sniff her armpit and was greeted by the unsavory tangy musk that spent the last twenty minutes building itself up during her desperate trek home. Korra winced. I need a shower, she thought as she looked down and noticed the mud stains that covered her clothes.
"Is that my favorite niece?" A familiar voice chimed.
Korra paused at her bedroom door and turned around, "Hey auntie," she sighed.
Kya stood in her doorway giving her niece's dirt stained figure a once over. Her pleasant smile turning quizzical, "Korra, honey, why do you look like that?" Her bengals clinked slightly as she gestured towards Korra's messy clothes.
"Um—I fell into some mud while being chased by some, uh, raccoon-hound dogs…?"
The older Southern Water Tribe native simply shook her head and threw her hands up dismissively, "You're a sharp kid, Korra. I honestly don't care what you do as long as it doesn't bring that 'Officer Beifong' woman back here," Kya said, emphasizing Lin's name in a mocking tone, "I don't know what it is, but that woman irks the hell out of me."
A sly smirk laced itself on Korra's lips as she lifted an inquiring brow, "Would that be because you think Officer Beifong is cute despite the fact that she's rude, or because regardless of the circumstance a woman in uniform undeniably shucks your corn and butters your bread?"
After a short pause, the older woman waved a dismissive hand, "Shut up and take a shower. You smell like ass," she added with a scoff before closing the door. Korra chuckled as she entered her room. Whatever you say, lady.
The next day Korra waited at the entrance of the school cafeteria for Bolin. She couldn't help but feel like she over dressed herself, but since attending Republic City High she only ate lunch by herself or with a random classmate that called her over to join their table. Asami briefly flashed across her mind. Maybe she felt compelled to dress up, because of Asami's impeccable fashion sense and she didn't want to feel like she was being judged by someone with such style. She nervously ran her palms along her thighs second guessing the navy denim leggings she decided to go with that morning. She fidgeted with the sleeves of her checkered button-down blouse by rolling them up even higher than she had them, stopping once she reached her elbows. Why am I overthinking this so much? Korra released a heavy sigh as she combed her fingers through chestnut tendrils. The younger Nakamura finally showed up after a few minutes. He greeted Korra with an animated wave and escorted her outside of the northeast entrance. When he noticed Korra's confused expression when she realized they weren't going to the cafeteria, he reassured her by saying that they wouldn't be eating lunch at the school, but rather going out to eat at a nearby restaurant.
"Uh, are we allowed to eat lunch off school property?" The young native inquired hesitantly. As they stepped outside, she placed a hand above her brow to blockout the sun's harsh rays.
"Of course we are!" Bolin said boastfully, slight blush powdering his cheeks. Once they descended the steps leading to the student parking lot, Korra noticed Asami and Mako conversing idly as she and Bolin approached. The younger Nakamura proudly extended his solid arm towards Korra as he beamed at the young couple, "Guys, Korra's here and she's ready for lunch!"
Korra gave a shy wave to which Mako responded with an awkward, yet stern nod.
"Hey, Korra," Asami said with a gentle smile on her lips.
"H-hey," Korra mumbled barely above a whisper. Her azure crystals met shimmering emerald jewels.
"So…" Bolin exchanged glances with the young women before placing a solid arm around his brother's neck, "who's riding with who? Before anyone answers, I call Mako, since I enjoy life and am afraid of dying a horrible death on the back of that flying metal death trap Asami calls a bike." The younger brother paused momentarily, "I honestly shouldn't have asked, since none of you had a choice in the first place. Asami, you know where we're headed. Mako, let's ride."
Mako detangles himself from Bolin's grip, "Come on bro, that's not fair. Let Korra decide who she wants to ride with." Asami rolled her eyes, before directing her attention to the chestnut beauty.
"Why can't we all ride in the same vehicle?" Korra inquired as she nervously placed sweaty palms in her front denim pockets.
Mako quickly spoke up, "Oh, my Sato Firebird only has two seats, because it's a sports car. Ah—it's totally safe though, so you wouldn't have to worry about anything concerning your...safety."
"Wait, Sato? Isn't your last name 'Sato,' Asami?" Korra faced the taller girl with a quizzical expression.
"Yeah, my father, Hiroshi Sato, is the founder and CEO of Future Industries. All the motorized vehicles and a great portion of the city's infrastructure are the product of my father's company," Korra noted how hesitant Asami was to answer. She paused before continuing, "So, yeah. My father is pretty rich."
"Rich?" Bolin blurted out, "More like friggin' loaded! Korra, this chick's mansion is huuuggeee. And don't even get me started on all the accommodations—and the swimming pool?!" The barrel chested teen put his hand up to his ear like a phone, "'Hello is this paradise?' 'Yes, it is! Literally die right now and get your handsome-self up here, Bolin!' 'Okay, I'm on my way!'" Bolin hung up the mock phone and stared at Korra with excitement beaming from his mint green eyes, "Korra, you have to visit. Asami's place is insaaannee!"
"Yeah, it sounds pretty insane," Korra chuckled. She gave Asami an amused smile who reciprocated with a playful shrug. Mako groaned loudly.
"Bolin, if you're done shouting for no reason, I'd like to get something to eat."
Asami glared at her boyfriend, "As much as I hate to admit it, Bo Bo, Mako's right. We have a finite amount of time to eat."
"Yeah, alright."
Korra watched Asami walk over to her bike, and her mouth practically fell open. That's so fucking cool! Asami's motorcycle was matte black with red accents along the trimming. It's aero dynamic shape and overall appeal gave Korra a rush of excitement she hasn't felt since she mastered the ancient art of the Northern Shoalin style that was once practiced by firebenders centuries ago.
She ran up to the taller girl's side with eyes larger than walnut-raisins, "Asami can I please ride with you on this!? I've never seen one of these things in person before. It's—it's perfect," Korra's mouth was agape as she squatted down admiring the trim and leathered seating. When Asami didn't respond, she looked up.
"Um...sure…" Asami replied hesitantly, her eyes avoiding Korra's.
So that's how it is? Korra thought, whatever I'm not playing this game. She rose to her feet and straightened her leggings, "Actually it's fine. I'll just ride with Mako."
Before Asami had a chance to respond, she had already walked over to Bolin and told him their riding arrangements. Mako's beet red face twitched as Bolin made a big display of hugging his older brother and telling them to never forget him once he passes on. Mako squirmed, but was eventually subdued by Bolin tightening his hold. He began whispering something inaudible in Mako's ear and placed a wet kiss on his cheek that set the older brother ablaze. Mako broke free of his brother's grip and open palm slapped him across the face, looking justifiably offiended.
"Bolin, what the fuck is wrong with you?!" he screeched ferociously, his mouth twisting with disgust.
The younger Nakamura feigned sorrow and began weeping dramatically. He reached out toward the azure beauty, but was met with the icy blast of rejection from her cold shoulder as she cut her eyes and leaned against the car. Noticeably irritated, Asami stomped over to the barrel-chested teen, and dragged him over to her bike. Bolin opened his mouth to protest, but before he could even get a syllable out, Asami forcefully shoved a matte black helmet in his slightly winced at the force, but complied by fastening the helmet. Korra couldn't hear what Bolin said to his flustered companion, but she saw the stoic nod that Asami gave in response. The younger Nakamura securely wrapped his arms around Asami's waist, before she kick-started the engine and sped out of the parking lot. This is going to be a long ass day, Korra concluded as they pulled out behind Asami.
After a ten minute drive, they pull up to a restaurant with "Glacial Cuisine" lit up in aqua blue neon lights. Korra thought the restaurant felt oddly familiar, until it had finally dawned on her.
"Is this a restaurant that specializes in Water Tribe cuisine?!" the young native gasped with excitement.
Rather than responding, Mako simply cleared his throat and nodded. Korra quickly glanced over to him and saw that his face was once again flushed. Dammit, she groaned inwardly, I forgot he has a crush on me. Korra gazed out the window momentarily, before looking back to Mako.
"Hey," she nervously bit her lower lip, "would you mind just letting me out, before you park? I am just so excited to see an authentic Water Tribe cuisine restaurant, uh, that I actually can't wait any longer," a coerced chuckle escaped her lips as she desperately looked everywhere else to avoid her companion's heated gaze.
An awkward 'um, sure' fumbled from Mako, giving Korra the greenlight to make her swift exit. She gave a polite bow as Mako pulled off. A sigh of relief escaped once her suitor passed, but her breath was hitched once again as she saw Asami dismounting her motorcycle in what appeared to be slow-motion. With a slight toss of her head, charcoal tendrils softly rippled down Asami's back to which she guided effortlessly over her right shoulder in a fluid motion. The young almond beauty watched in awe, as her fair-skinned counterpart readjusted the hem of her leather jacket, and smoothed out foreign creases on her jeans. Asami casually placed the helmet on her hip, holding it in place with a single arm, and stopped momentarily to meet Korra's gaze before walking inside. Korra almost forgot how to walk herself, until Bolin called her over with an overly enthused, yet friendly wave. Once inside warm nostalgia washed over the young native's soul, as she was gently reminded of her homeland through each one of her senses. As far as Korra was concerned, in that instance, she was back at home in the Southern Water Tribe listening to one of the tales from her mother's childhood while her father cooked dinner chiming in with his own version of things whenever Senna over exaggerated. Her chest tightened at the fleeting thought, but the moment was shattered as Bolin's broad clumsy shoulders crashed into her side as he slid into the same booth as her.
"What the hell, Bolin?" she growled as azure crystals cut into soft mint green orbs. The solid teen lowered his gaze apologetically and moved over to give her some space. A fragmented apology fell on deaf ears, as Asami occupied the space directly across from her. Mako sat next to her, but left a noticeable space between them. What's been going on with these two? Korra gave the porcelain teen a concerned look, but she was infuriated and, let's be honest— a little hurt, when Asami quickly averted her eyes and fixed her gaze out the window. Korra just about flipped the table when Mako gave her the same response. In lieu of an irrational outburst of anger, Korra excused herself to the restroom to cool her temper.
With cupped palms, she ran cool water over her face a few times before she was able to calm down. Man, what is going on with me lately? The young native stared at her reflection, worry lining her face. I have a pretty good idea about what Mako's deal is, but I don't understand why Asami keeps getting under my skin? Calloused hands tighten into a fist. What the hell is her problem with me? I never even did anything to her. Hell, even if I wanted to I've been so busy that I can barely keep up with my own stuff. A forehead presses against the cool glass. Jaw clenched. No, fuck her. I bet a prissy girl like her only likes so many people. I'm sure I'm not even girly enough to even be considered as someone she might want be friends with— Lips part. Wait, friend? Since when did I want to be friends with someone like her? Korra slowly backed away from the sink, not breaking focus from her reflection. She carefully looked over her features. I'm a girl, aren't I? Shouldn't that be enough? Her cerulean eyes shimmered like precious jewels under the gas lamps. As beautiful and sculpturesque as she was, Korra couldn't see anything but a kid playing pretend in the mirror. After all, why would a woman want to be friends with a child?
Only a few minutes had passed when Korra was in the restroom, and by the time she had returned Asami and Bolin were discussing yesterday's Paranormal Club meeting.
"What the heck do you think that demonic presence was, Asami?" The younger Nakamura inquired. This was the most focused Korra had ever seen him. His posture reflected his pensive expression in the way his head rested on his elbows.
"I honestly have no way to describe what that feeling was, Bo Bo." Asami wetted her bottom lip as she thoughtfully stared into the pale yellow mug resting between her palms. She looked up at him before continuing, "It felt like all the air was being sucked out of the room, and it was replaced by...emptiness. I felt like...I felt like I was going to die…" Asami's emerald gaze was on Korra as she finished speaking. Why do her eyes look like that? Their eyes remained transfixed, until Mako released an exaggerated groan.
"You felt like you were going to die? At school? Come on, Asami, that sounds a bit far-fetched," he released a self-assured chuckle, "Seriously, school is one of the safest places for anyone to be. That story sounds like a load—"
"Do you even pay attention to anything outside of yourself or those ridiculous eyebrows?!" Korra shocked herself with the passionate outburst, but ignored the anxiety welling within and continued, "If you've been watching the news, then you'd know about the awful school shootings that have been plaguing Ba Sing Se for the last few years. No one is safe anywhere!"
Silence fell upon the group. Mako clenched his jaw with his eyes downcast. Korra felt Bolin's worried gaze on her profile. She lifted her eyes to meet Asami's; her brow furrowed with concern as she leaned toward the almond teen.
"Korra," she breathed, barely above a whisper.
"No one is safe anywhere," Korra repeated. Her eyes left Asami's and fell on the pale yellow mug in front of her. Silence fell once more. The young Southern Watertribe native wetted her lips, before sharing what she experienced at the park in full detail with her classmates. Once she finished, Asami and the Nakamura brothers remained quiet, pensively exchanging glances. Mako broke the silence.
"It sounds like you're blowing something small way out of proportion. I mean, come on Korra, there's not a conspiracy going on in this city. We're safe here… that just sounds a bit too far fetched." Mako punctuated his conclusion by waving over the server.
Korra furrowed her brow in disbelief. This asshole must think he's the smartest guy on the fucking planet. She shifted in her seat and began to object, "I'm not—"
"How shitty can you be right now?" Asami hissed, giving her boyfriend a solid shove. He tipped over, but caught himself before falling out of the booth. He snapped towards her glaring angrily, but was subdued by the venomous emerald daggers shooting towards him.
"What the hell, Asami?"
"'What the hell?'" She mocked his tone with a frown, "No, what the fuck, Mako? How can you be so unyielding all of the time?! If someone says something that you don't agree with or don't have the creative capacity to fathom it into possible existence, it's automatically wrong and that person is an idiot for bringing it up. You. Don't. Know. Everything." The couple glared at each other.
"Um, I take it you guys aren't ready to order?" Everyone turned to see the server awkwardly standing before them with a notepad and pen tucked behind his ear.
"If they're not, I certainly am." Mako responded, speaking an octave lower than usual. The server nodded, readying his pen.
"Like hell you are; you haven't even looked at the menu. You're impossible to deal with." Asami exchanged glances from Mako to the server, "He's not ready."
The server simply responded with another nod, before looking to Korra and Bolin expectantly, "Are you guys ready to order?"
"Um, let's see here," Korra laughed nervously as she grabbed a menu from the center of the table and anxiously began flipping through it. The server pursed his lips.
Bolin glanced at the server's name tag and spoke up, "Wei, could we please just have the large appetizer sampler for the table and a fresh pot of ginger tea?"
Wei quickly scribbled down the order and politely asked if they needed anything else, when the table declined he bowed before heading down the aisle to check on neighboring tables.
Once he was out of sight Mako spoke up, "You need to control yourself, Asami. You're projecting all of your bullshit on me, again," he snarled.
"Well, it's not projecting if you literally do the same thing to everyone, Mako," she hissed.
"Go to hell, Asami."
"Already there, bud."
"Guys, come on," Bolin chimed, concern reflecting in his mint green eyes, "We came here to have fun and connect with Korra. I know you both have a lot to sort through in your relationship, but can you put that on hold and just enjoy being here? This is a really nice restaurant, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is to die for. I've noticed that you all have been really tense since we met up in the parking lot, I'm not sure what's going on, but can't we just relax for the time being?" He scanned each of their faces before continuing, "Korra, what you said about that guy at the park is seriously alarming and I think we need to check that out."
"Really?" She met his soft gaze.
"Yeah, really," he looked at Mako, "dude, what you said to Korra was messed up. You weren't there and you have no idea what goes in every part of the city. I'm not trying to put you on the spot, but come on, man. Anyway, I really think we should really look into the Jade Park when we can."
"How about this Friday?" Asami inquired.
"I'm not doing anything," Korra added.
"Whatever," Mako sighed.
Bolin beamed, as a wide grin covered his face, "Then it's settled! Friday after school let's head to Jade Park to see what evil is afoot!"
Korra and Asami chuckled, while Mako smiled to himself. By the time time the food had arrived, everyone was once again at peace and was able to enjoy the rest of their lunch together.
Friday rolled around faster than expected, and before Korra knew it it was the end of the school day. Since attending the Paranormal Club, the young native and class representative fell into the habit of packing up together before leaving for home. Even though she didn't want to admit it outloud, Korra was really enjoying the club meetings and meeting new people. Aside from Jinora and a few other classmates, Korra didn't know anyone that well, and it felt nice to finally see familiar faces and form new bonds. She and Jinora grew especially close, who knew they would have so much common? Their friendship had been solidified a few days prior, when they had exchanged numbers after a club meeting. Now, if only I can be friends with Asami, Korra thought pensively. The thought was over once Jinora waved her over and the pair went outside to say their final farewells.
"Enjoy your weekend, Korra! I'll be texting you," her classmate said with a playful grin.
"You better!" Korra responded with a laugh.
She headed down to the area in the student parking lot where she had met Asami, Bolin, and Mako earlier. When she finally arrived, the trio were sharing a laugh. Korra smiled and approached the group.
"Hey guys, what's so funny?"
"Asami thinks she can beat me in a race," Mako responded smugly.
Asami scoffed dismissively with a lifted brow, "Please. I know I can beat you," her painted lips curved upward into a impish grin, "Wanna bet?"
Mako folded his arms with a defiant chuckle, "Bet what, princess? Whoever wins pays for the next date?"
She dismissed him with a wave of her manicured hand, "Screw that. I want cold hard cash, pretty boy," she closed the distance between them. Their eye contact unfaltering.
"How much we talkin'?" Mako stepped closer, but was denied with a manicured palm pressed firmly against his chest. He looked at the hand, then back at her. His eyes darkened as he wet his lips. Korra looked between the couple, I guess they made up. For some reason, though, she couldn't shake the growing irritation that radiated throughout her body in slow pulsating throbs. Maybe it's because I know he wants to be with me while he's with her. What a creep, she concluded.
The tall beauty shook her head with a snide chuckle, "Not a step closer, my man. We are talking business. I want 1,000 yuans in cash. Non-sequential. Unmarked bills, please," she punctuated her demands with a solid poke to Mako's chest.
He took a noticeable step back, rubbing the dark peach fuzz that lined his solid jaw before responding, "Okay, princess. You have a deal. Who's riding with me?"
"I am!" Bolin lunged forward with cheap grin, "Not sure how many times I have to say it before it sinks in, but I do not want to die on that metal spindle with wheels," the younger Nakamura briefly paused, placing a hand over his heart, "Asami, Korra, I wish you two the best of luck. Mako, let's ride." With that he exuberantly got into the passenger seat of Mako's car, fastened his seatbelt, and stared at his brother expectantly.
Korra exchanged blanked glances with Bolin, before looking at Asami. Their last conversation concerning her riding with Asami fresh on her mind. She met the taller girl's gaze, "Um, I actually don't mind walking if you prefer to ride alone—"
Asami sternly shook her head before interrupting, "I'm sorry if you got that impression before, Korra. I...I was having a really rough day, and I took it out on you...and I'm sorry for that," she walked over to her motorcycle and came back with a spare helmet, "I would appreciate it if you rode with me while I wiped that stupid buttholish smirk off Mako's face. I think we would both enjoy that."
Korra saw that the smile that donned Asami's lips was in fact genuine. She took the helmet and grinned back, "Alright, let's do this," she responded with an enthusiastic fist-bump. The tall beauty laughed as she returned the bump. Korra then felt all the blood in her face drain, as she watched Asami mount the bike. Emerald eyes looked over to her expectantly as the young teen nervously followed behind. The natural dip in the leathered seat caused Korra's body to meet with the woman ahead of her. Korra practically choked as her heart rate accelerated. Sweaty palms followed suit, as her shaky hands fastened the helmet strap around her chin. Stop freaking out, you've just never been on a motorcycle before, it's nothing like riding on Nagaaa…. her thoughts trailed as Asami placed a hand on Korra's and guided her arm around her waist.
"You have to hold on, Korra, so you don't accidentally fly off," Asami said with a soft grin. She secured the goggles on her face and kickstarted the engine.
Korra was frozen. Sure, her arms were wrapped around Asami's waist, but no pressure was added to them. Korra had no idea why she felt so panicked in this very moment. She kept trying to rationalize it as nervous jitters from riding her first motorcycle. Perhaps this means that Asami and I can be friends? She seems to enjoy my company...yeah that's probably it, Korra concluded with a smile. Nervous about friendship.
"Are you ready to win this thing, Korra?" Asami shouted over the engine, "That tall idiot won't know what hit 'em!"
"Y-yeah!" Korra responded, she leaned further into Asami's leathered torso and tightened her grip. Her entire face burned as she clenched bit her bottom lip in anticipation. I'm just nervous, she reminded herself.
Asami slipped on a pair of black rubber padded gloves, then looked over to Mako and gave him a firm nod. He returned with a thumbs up out the window. "After you!" Asami shouted with a courteous wave of her hand. Her boyfriend gave a confident smirk, before peeling down the parking lot. "Hold on tight!" Asami shouted to Korra as she revved the engine and took off.
Korra had no idea how fast they were going, the only thing she knew was that every time she opened her eyes the world around them seemed to blur into a streamline of colors.
"Watch this!" Asami shouted. Korra glanced up as Asami dexterously veered onto a gravelly path that forked off the main road. She caught a glance at the speedometer: 95 mph. Korra's eyes widened with excitement. Her grip around Asami's waist tightened as a smile appeared across her lips. The race felt more like an adventure, as they weaved through trees and cut through narrow allies. A few times Korra swore that they were going to crash, but was pleasantly surprised when Asami cut every corner with precision. It felt like they had just started driving when Asami called out, "We're almost there! I just need to make this jump!" Jump?
Korra's face twisted with confusion, "What jump?" She yelled. A gloved finger pointed up ahead to reveal an old abandoned building with boarded windows. I don't get it, Korra thought, until she saw a hole on the side of the building and felt the bike accelerate. No, Korra's eyes widened, there's no way we're going in there.
"H-hey! Wait a minute—!"
Asami's gloved hand gave Korra's a gentle squeeze as they physically drove into the building. Korra held her breath as they weaved past old furniture, broken glass, and rotting pillars. From the looks of it, all of the walls had been eviscerated long ago and what remained was the husk of the building. It might as well have been a great hall that extended for what looked like a block. When Korra felt them pick up speed she looked ahead to see a ramp angled upward out of a large window. A fucking wooden ramp. No, no, no. Fuck no. Nononono—
"Nonono! Asami! No! We can't make it! Are you even listening—?!"
"It's okay!" Asami shouted back.
I'm dead, Korra thought as she felt her entire body become weightless. Against her better judgement she squinted an eye open just in time to see the street below them. She saw Mako coming in close behind, a peek through his windshield displayed a face of utter disbelief as his mouth physically fell open the moment he made eye contact with Korra. Her eyes sealed themselves tight as she felt them slam into the ground and skirt to a rough halt. Asami pulled off her helmet in a fluid motion and turned to Korra with a beaming smile. Korra wanted to smile back, but her body responded with unbridled panic, as her eyes sank and her breathing hitched. A concerned hand touched the small of her back.
"Korra are you okay?" Asami's emerald eyes flickered with worry.
Korra unbuckled her chin strap and cautiously removed the helmet. Her body was shaking, but a smile curved on her lips, "Yeah, I'm okay. That was just…"
"I'm sorry if I scared you, Korra."
"No, that was fantastic!" The young native practically fell off the bike from excitement alone. Asami couldn't help but laugh.
"Was it now?"
"Yes! I—fuck, there are no words! I was scared shitless, yes, but I had fun the entire time." Korra walked up to Asami and gave her a playful jab in the arm, "I had you pegged wrong, Asami. I thought you were this prissy rich girl who was too pretty to get dirty, but what you did just now was awesome! You're awesome. I'm sorry I ever doubted you."
A gentle smile appeared on Asami's face as her emerald gaze flashed from the red earth to Korra's deep cerulean eyes, "Yeah, don't worry about it. I get that a lot," she chuckled.
Korra could have sworn she noticed Asami blush, but was distracted by Bolin's childish gaffs emitting from the entrance of the park. They both ran towards the entrance and greeted a very irritated Mako. He practically slammed the door shut as he stepped out.
As if on cue, Asami smugly leaned against the sports car breathing coolly on her gloved nails and wiping them on her jacket. She playfully inspected each gloved nail, "It would seem that a certain someone owes me 1,000 yuan—"
"Non-sequential," Korra added.
Asami leaned forward enthusiastically, "Yes! Thank you, Korra! That's right, non-sequential, and in unmarked bills. Please," The taller girl placed an casual arm around the shoulder of her shorter companion, and both stuck out their hands towards Mako with expantant smiles.
His tangerine eyes exchanging between the two, "Since when did you guys get so buddy-buddy?" He muttered. They stared at each other and shrugged.
"Since when did you become such a sore loser?" Asami retorted, as she and Korra exchanged rewarding glances.
"Ooh, burn!" Bolin echoed from behind the car. The trio laughed and headed into the park, as Mako trailed behind grumbling to himself.
Asami paused and looked back with a cocky smile, "Don't worry, honey! You can pay me at school first thing Monday morning!" Bolin and Korra erupted with laughter, rewarding the raven beauty with weighted high fives.
"Okay, I get it. I lost. Whatever," Mako groaned from behind them, "Now, aren't we here to investigate the alleged evil 'masked-man' Korra saw last week?"
Asami's laughter fades, "Mako, the fact that we're getting back on task doesn't mean that we're going to forget that you lost to mwah," she looks to Korra who begins giggling uncontrollably. The younger Nakamura tried to stifle his laughter in order to properly console his older brother.
After exchanging a few words he called out, "Hey Korra, where did you see the masked guy?" Korra's eyes practically popped from her head as she frantically gestured for Bolin to walk over. "Why didn't you just answer my question?" He asked expectantly.
Korra's eyes widened with annoyance, "Bolin, if we are here on a mission to investigate possible evil shit, don't you think it might be a bad idea to yell out that fact when we don't know who is up to the evil shit?"
"Yeah, Bolin," Asami added, to which Korra rewarded with a stern nod and a fist-bump.
"...Yes?" Bolin replied apprehensively.
"Is that your final answer?" Korra asked, while Asami stared at him expectantly.
"Yes." He nodded firmly.
"'Yes' is the correct answer, Bolin. Good job," Asami rewarded Bolin with a fist-bump, "You too, Asami. Now, we seriously need to get to work here. I saw the first guy on the Jade Bridge looking like he was waiting for someone, and the second figure I saw them over in the tree line behind us. It was around this time of day, too. I think we should break up into teams of two and investigate the area around here, and the tree line."
Bolin raised a solid hand.
Asami sighed and rubbed her temples, "Bo Bo, you don't need to raise your hand, sweetheart. What do you need?"
"Since I don't like being in the woods, I suggest Mako and I stay out here and investigate. Also, since Mako's ego is currently on the mend I think it's best if I pair up with him."
Asami stared at him, "Bolin, that wasn't a question. Why did you even raise your hand?"
"I didn't want to interrupt Korra's flow."
"I appreciate it, Bolin. Now, I think we should break and meet up by the entrance in an hour. Everyone good?"
Bolin raised his hand again.
"You better have a question this time," Asami continued staring at him.
"I do! Can we have a team name or something?" Bolin had the most innocent smile Korra had ever seen in her life. I can't deny him this, she thought with sigh.
"Sure, Bolin," she agreed, "what did you have in mind?"
He giggled with excitement, "Well, since the metropolitan park was installed to honor Avatar Aang and also since we are here to wipe out evil just like Avatar Aang….I think we should be: Team Avatar!"
"What?"
"Seriously, think about it! We're doing all of the stuff that Aang did, so that kinda makes Korra like the Avatar, right?" He scanned their faces for approval.
Asami looked at Korra then back to Bolin, "That's a great idea, Bo Bo. We are Team Avatar. Now, let's please split up so we can get this investigation underway, huh?"
Bolin agreed happily and headed back to his brother, while Korra and Asami headed towards the tree line.
"That guy has energy for days," Korra chuckled.
Before Asami could respond they both heard something coming from further in the forest. They both exchanged nods as they headed in deeper. The noise ceased in an instant, causing the pair to halt. Asami motioned to the Fire Oak above them, and they both scaled its branches to hideout amid its thick leaves. Not ten minutes past when they hear rustling coming from several meters ahead. A masculine figure emerged from the brush in all black clothing wearing a pale almond teen felt a rush of adrenaline course through her with anticipation of a possible encounter. Asami leaned over inquiring if it was the same person from last week. Korra shrugged in response, but confirmed that they were wearing similar clothing. They quietly observed the man pull out a phone and began whispering into it. 'What is he saying?' Korra mouthed, but Asami responded with a simple shrug. 'I'm going down there,' the teen mouthed again with her trained cerulean eyes fixed on her target. Asami's eyes widen with horror, and she began vigorously motioning for Korra to stop, but was only given a 'it's okay' as Korra quietly scaled down the tree, dropped onto the soft earth below, and broke to the nearest bush that was only a few meters away. Korra was surprisingly quiet, and internally credited this to her rigorous training she received throughout her life. The man was only a few feet ahead, and Korra could hear him clearly as he spoke into the headset.
"...Affirmative. Two males. Probably in their late teens." Silence. "Yes, sir. They appear to be loitering around the bridge." Silence. "Sir, the civilian we have out there says that they're looking for someone in a mask." Silence.
He's talking about Bolin and fucking Mako! Those idiots did the exact OPPOSITE of what I told them to do! What the fuckalkdfucklv;2ieojnkfuckyfuck—Korra screamed internally. She couldn't even frantically signal to Asami, because she would make too much noise. She decided to continue listening.
"...It isn't known if they are aware Operation: Jade Dragon, sir, but should I move forward with the plan or have the civilian move them?" Silence. "Affirmative, sir. Yes, the IEDs are in place, sir. I'll execute now." Silence. "Roger that, sir. Red Zulu, over and out."
IEDs? What are IEDs again? Korra racks her brain trying to remember, before it finally clicks causing her eyes to bulge in terror. Explosives?! Mako and Bolin are in danger! Korra's vision blurred as her veins overflowed with adrenaline. She could barely contain herself. At that very moment, the man paced toward the bush and removed a device from his trouser's pocket. That has to be the detonator! Using nothing but the raw strength of legs, Korra sprung directly into the air, flipped her body forward, then snapped her legs outward, kicking the man in the back of the calves. She crashed into the bushes, as he howled in pain falling forward. Korra quickly realized that she wasn't the only one with combat training, as the man pivoted on his hand, stumbling back to his feet. At least I slowed his movements, she thought rolling from the bushes. She then heard the awful sound of the earth splitting from where she just was moments ago. Korra snapped her attention to the bush and saw that he had fired an arrow at her. What? Where was he keeping that? She then heard him grunt in agony as he fell to the ground. Korra leaned forward in time to see the slender figure of Asami wrestling with the man along the forest floor, before locking him in position with a bow thrusting upward into his neck. The man's face distorted with agony, as he began to choke on a mixture of his own saliva and blood. To even the score, Korra rushed over and crushed his nose with a swift downward thrust of her elbow, incapacitating him on impact.
"Fuck you," she growled, watching as the blood pool around his crooked nose.
Asami released the man with sigh, picked up the device, and began to carefully examined it. After a few moments she looked in frantic horror, "Korra, where is the IED planted? It's set to go off in less than 60 seconds!"
Korra's eyes grew wide, "The Jade Bridge. B-but it can't detonate without the guy, right?!"
Asami instantly broke for the tree line, "That doesn't matter," she shouted back, swiftly ducking past branches and leaping over dead tree husks, "It's set to go off regardless!"
Korra's frantic footsteps in suit with Asami's was response enough. They shouted desperately for Bolin and Mako to run from the bridge. Korra felt bile build in her chest as her voice grew hoarse from yelling. Then suddenly, a sharp throbbing pain appeared in her left thigh. Her body weighed itself down to a stop, as her legs gave out beneath her causing her body to scrap along the jagged surface. Her eyes lazily travel to her left leg to see what caused her to fall. An arrow?—Korra's eyes rolled back rendering her unconscious. The last thing she would remember is the explosion going off as her body fell limply to the ground.
Asami sprinted through the Fire Oaks getting scrapped by leaves and branches in her desperate pursuit to reach Mako and Bolin before it was too late. I have to make it! I have to make it! I have to make it. I have to make it. IhavetomakeitIhavetomakeitihavetomakeit—-tunnel vision. Nothing in that moment mattered, but for her to simply break the tree line to save the people she cared about. It felt like hours had past while she frantically scrambled through the forest. Did I make it in time? If not, then why didn't the IED detonate? Was it a dud? Fuck what if I just didn't hear it? Asami's mind drowned with worry, as she ran hopelessly. Every muscle in her body ached and burn with a fierce intensity she hasn't experienced in years. She's not in shape like she used to be. Why am I never in shape when it matters? Something ahead caught her attention. Is that—? Yes, it was the edge of the tree line. As if given a second wind of energy, Asami pushed herself through the foliage shouting, practically screaming.
"Mako! Bolin! Move away from the bridge!"
Her work paid off, because at that moment Mako snatched Bolin by the collar and sprinted in the opposite direction with the rest of the fleeing civilians. Not a second later did the IED release a series of beeps before erupting in an immense spiral of flame. Anyone within three meters of the explosion would have been torn apart by impact alone, and those within 8-10 meters would get their eardrums punctured and suffer minor injuries from the falling debris and blast radius. Asami was placed in the latter, the impact caused her eardrums to feel as if they were bursting in unison as she was forced back into a large boulder. The wind was knocked out of her on impact. Large pieces of jade, chunks of fish, and stone fell from the sky in a scattered fashion. Asami took refuge by an old Fire Oak until the downfall ceased. Stating that she was utterly exhausted would be an understatement. Asami felt as if she died twice, only to reach the Spirit World to be mugged and die a horrible death again: she was very, very, very, very tired... to say the least. The unholy scent of sulfur and burnt flesh wafting through the air caressed the battered teen's naval cavity causing her to drop on bloodied knees and vomit in dry, painful heaves. She removed any remaining bile with a swipe of her sleeve, then struggled to pull herself up. As she steadied herself on a nearby oak, a thought occurred—Where is Korra? Emerald pearls scanned the surrounding area in frantic sweeps.
"Korra?"
It hurt to speak. No response.
"Korra!?" Her vocal chords scrapped along her throat.
No response.
Asami's fatigue waned as she went back into the forest, frantically calling for her friend. Her eyes zeroing in on every minute detail, anything could lead to the small almond beauty. Asami is at the point of hyperventilation when she noticed a small pool of fresh blood a few meters into her search. The droplets are going westward. Korra… Emeralds glaze over and Asami's mind goes numb. Her body lurched forward, breaking out into sprint toward the direction of the blood. Korra…! While in pursuit, Asami noticed leaves falling in an unnatural pattern just ahead. The trees. She looked up to the canopy ahead and saw dark clothed figures darting through the trees at inhuman speeds. It was almost too fast for her follow—almost. The lithe teen felt her stomach drop, as she spotted Korra's limp slender form slumped over the shoulder of one of the dark figures. Asami accelerated her speed, using the kinetic force of her own body to propel herself into the air by leaping from an upward angled log. But, it wasn't high enough to get her into the canopy. She used the incoming vine tangled around a branch to gather more energy and swing herself through the leaves. The moment the heel of her boots hit the surface, she gained enough speed to keep up with the figures darting around her. But, something was wrong. Asami had been trained by the best martial artists in the world since she was a child, her speed and agility was nearly unrivaled. How were these people able to move so fast? Asami was barely able to keep up—barely. Her brain did not register the overwhelming muscle failure her body was experiencing at that moment; she was working at triple capacity. All she knew was that she had to get Korra back. It's the only thing that matters. Asami glided from connecting limbs with expert precision as she progressed through the figures. The raven teen knew they were up to no good at all by their actions alone. Why aren't they trying to stop me? The all seem to be focused on getting out of the forest. Then Asami saw it; Korra's limp form up ahead. I'm coming, Korra! She leaned a gloved hand down to pick a colossal pine cone from one of the Fire Oaks and launched it directly toward the figure, but their body leaped into the air and vanished. Asami's breath hitched, as she noticed all the other figures leaping over the massive cavity that severed the connecting oaks. The jump was humanly impossible, but the figures were making the jumps, and landing on the opposite end with no problem. She didn't think twice when the cavity was before her. Using the kinetic force of her body along with the branch beneath her, Asami launched herself into the air snapping it on impact. She didn't gain enough leverage to make the jump, but she was able use her weight to swing from oaks that were scattered throughout the cavity. Asami had built up enough energy to swing to the other end of the canopy. Her finger tips grazed the branch ahead of her. I am going to make it! At that moment she felt a swift blow of pain against the back of her head. Asami tried to grip passing branches and old vines as she fell, but in the end she was unable to. The lithe teen felt her ribs shatter on impact as she slammed against the red earth. A guttural groan escaped Asami's throat as she retracted in pain. Her eyes overflowed with tears as she weeped silently on the forest floor.
"Korra…" her voice cracked.
Gloved hands tore at the red earth beneath in anguish. Asami pulled herself upright on her knees. Warm blood dripped from her nose and mouth. The taste of iron burning her tongue. She fell forward, clenching at the earth desperately. A deep guttural cry escaping her lungs. Her hands clenched, before restoring lifelessly at her slide.
"Korra...I'm so sorry."
A/N: That's the end of chapter 4! Don't worry, chapter 5 is in the works right now. I have so much more free time now to write, so it won't be long at all until the next chapter is released. Chapter 5 will be intense guys, prepare your tissues. Also, I have a tumblr account. Please contact me on there if you have specific questions or requests. The account is pretty dry right now, but it might look better in the future:
that1-gay-joke
—-beanie