A/N: Hello beautiful people, it's been a while. Sorry for the long wait. Some of you know that my wife recently left for basic training and that it's been pretty hard on me, but I have bounced back in some fashion and am ready to put out some chapters. It also takes me a while, because I want everything to make sense and not just happen. I'm not a fan of plot holes, and want the narrative to flow accordingly. My writing has definitely improved over the course of this fic and I thank you all for sticking with me. Switching from predominantly academic papers to works of fiction was a pretty big change for me. I also wanted to inform everyone that I will be writing from Asami's POV more often than originally planned. I really love writing from her perspective, and we don't see many works from her POV (especially not in the show). Asami is a layered character with strength and resiliency that wasn't touched on nearly enough. I just love giving her depth. Anyway, I'm finished rambling. Please enjoy Chapter 6! We're going to circle back to some characters.
XXX
Approximately three months had transpired since Korra's rescue from the underground caverns. Since then, she had been subjected to long hours of surgery, rehabilitation, heavy medication, and some much needed bed rest in the hospital. Republic Nations Medical Hospital to be exact; and it soon became knowledge that an unknown source had agreed to pay for the young Water Tribe native's hospital bills. Something that Korra was extremely grateful for, but also felt a little uncomfortable accepting. She didn't like receiving help from anyone, regardless of what form it took. So, when it was revealed that it came in the form of over 500,000 yuans from an anonymous wealthy contributor, Korra felt particularly unnerved. Also, since her time back no one had told her much of what happened when it pertained to her rescue. She only knew bits and pieces of the story; for example, she knew that her Aunt Kya and Lin managed to find her and rescue her. She wasn't given exact details or anything, just that she was found and the police were called immediately after. Another fact she knew was that Asami's father, Hiroshi Sato, owned the property that the chambers were located beneath and that he fled the country the same night she was found. Korra thought the whole thing sounded strange, but found it particularly odd when her inquiries about Asami's whereabouts and her wellbeing were answered in a strained, yet dismissive fashion. She could tell that key details were being kept from her, but didn't know why or to what extent. All she did know was that it made her incredibly frustrated.
Two and a half weeks ago, Korra was discharged from the hospital and released into the care of Kya. Everything in her new home was pretty much the same, aside from a railing added alongside the staircase, and a ramp located at both front and back entrances of the house. When the recovering teen inquired about how they were able to pay for the installments, Kya responded with her trademark dismissive wave and told her niece to not worry about it. She had even tried talking to Officer Lin Beifong about filling in some of the details whenever the decorated officer come over to check on her wellbeing and discuss business with Kya. Her tight-lipped response always left Korra in such a foul mood that she often wondered outside to go on a quick ride through the neighborhood on Naga. That afternoon was no different as the Water Tribe native left with her companion yet again. The bit of fresh air always calmed her mood and cleared her mind. Upon her arrival back home, she noticed a unfamiliar Sato Mobile parked alongside their house, right behind the officer's usual spot. Korra gave Naga a light tap on her shoulder, and the large polar bear dog gently lowered herself to the ground and waited patiently as Korra dismounted. Naga made sure to walk behind her as Korra carefully made her way up the ramp and through the front door. Weeks of rehabilitation had made it so she no longer needed the aid of a walker to get around, but she still moved at a much slower pace than she normally would; and it was for that very reason that Naga stayed by her side during her recovery. As Korra crossed the living room, she heard an unfamiliar voice coming from the kitchen.
"I was thinking of inviting her to stay with Bataar and I, while we were getting things settled, but I never cared for someone else's—"
Silence rose and all eyes fell upon the confused teen, as she entered the kitchen to put a face to the unfamiliar voice. The woman had vivid lime green eyes and short jet black hair with a silver streak bleeding down the long curvy bang that framed the right side of her face. Korra assumed that she was from out of town by her modern Earth Kingdom robes and golden flats. The woman was casually leaning against their marbled counter with a drink gripped loosely in her manicured hands. A look of surprise curved into a smile on the woman's lips as she removed her weight from the counter.
"Ah, Korra you're finally back. I'd like you to meet Lin's younger sister—uh. I'm sorry I actually forgot your name," Kya said, a faint apologetic smile pulling on her lips.
"No worries," the woman said with a playful wink. "I'm Suyin Beifong. It's a pleasure to finally meet you Korra. Kudos for your heroism at Jade Park. A lot of people were able to walk away with their lives thanks to you." She gave a respective nod in the teen's direction, before bringing up her glass for controlled sip.
Korra just stared blankly at the other woman. It took her a few moments to recall what she was even talking about. The incident at Jade Park felt like an eternity ago. She could barely remember what happened leading up to her losing consciousness, let alone what happened earlier that day. Everything felt fuzzy, which only made her feel more anxious. What she could remember was that she and Asami had ended up in the woods together after a race with Mako, and something about a man dressed in dark clothing and a bomb. It was a bomb right? Some explosive device—but why was I there? Korra could feel her mind wavering, and was suddenly brought back by a sharp voice.
"You alright, kiddo?" Lin asked, her tone edged with concern. She looked up to the officer, then back to the younger woman blinking harshly. Kya walked over to her and attempted to console her with light circular motions on her back.
"Y-Yeah, I'm just fine," she gasped. "It's nice meeting you, too." Suyin offered another smile, then downed the rest of the liquid in her drink with a slight toss of her head. Lin glared at the woman, who responded with a nonchalant shrug. Her aunt drew her attention by pulling her into a comforting hug.
"Hey, what's going on? Do you need to go lie down, sweetheart?" Kya's voice was low and soothing. Something that Korra picked up on as a child was her aunt's low tone that she used when she was trying to mask her concern. It made the high school student feel worse for putting her in that position, even though she knew it wasn't entirely her fault. It didn't give her any peace of mind, though. She responded with a slight nod of her head, and Kya started to guide her out of the kitchen. "Hey, I'm going to take Korra upstairs for bed. I'll be back in a bit," she said with a quick glance back.
"Rest easy, kid," Lin called out.
"It was nice meeting you, Korra. Get some shut eye."
After she was changed and in bed, Korra called her aunt in to say goodnight. A routine that established itself, at her aunt's behest, since her first night at the hospital. Kya has been an emotional mess since her return, so in order to give herself some peace of mind the older woman insisted on checking in on Korra every night to make sure she's safe. The older woman entered quietly with a remorseful smile pulling at her lips. Korra felt her heart clench while she watched as the woman tucked her in, place a soft kiss on her forehead, before sitting at the edge of her bed and folded her hands delicately in her lap.
"You've been acting weird since I got back from my walk, Aunt Kya. Is there something going on?" She said with apprehension lacing her tone. Right after saying it, Korra regretted speaking up at all. Of course there's something wrong with her. Why wouldn't there be? she internally began chastising herself between furrowed brows. Another recently established routine.
"It's just," Kya sat silently for a few moments, salted tendrils fell in her face as she leaned forward and framed either side of her face with cupped palms. She then sat up and combed the hair back with her fingers. "It's just— I'm a bit nervous about you starting your classes back up tomorrow. If it's too much for you, we can wait another month. I want you to be comfortable," Her gaze was fixed ahead on nothing in particular, but was brought back to Korra by a soft nudge on her back with a covered foot.
"I know you're not ready, but I'm ready to go back, Aunt Kya. I'll be fine," when the older woman didn't respond, Korra propped herself up on her pillows. "Look at me, auntie. I'm alright." Kya didn't say anything for a several moments. She just looked at the teenage girl she has been raising as her own since she was a little girl and a gentle smile graced her countenance.
"Okay," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Korra could see the emotion building in the woman's eyes, but decided not to comment on it. Kya didn't like displaying her emotions in front of people, and Korra always did her best to respect her boundaries by not bringing it up. Instead, she opted for another hug from the woman who has been her home since she was a child. After placing another kiss on her forehead, the woman was out of her room and back downstairs to her guests. Korra stayed up for a while after that, trying to imagine what it would be like finally being back in school after everything. Her memories still neglected to reveal to her what happened during her time being held captive, and it left a rotating sensation in the pit of her stomach. Her extended stay at the hospital was evidence enough of the horrible things she had gone through, but what really got to her was the permanent change in Kya's once bright cerulean chip eyes that were now overcast with guilt and sadness. Korra willed herself to turn over in the sheets, but could barely coax herself to sleep while her heart pounded away in her chest making her even more anxious. She didn't want her aunt feeling guilty for her own inability to protect herself. It was in that moment of self-reflection that Korra came to the conclusion of training more. No more fooling around, she thought. Determination fixed in her gaze. And no more relying on friends to protect me. Her thoughts traveled to those soft emerald jewels that always brought a smile to her face— but not this time. I can't have people risking their lives for me. A tear escaped from closed lid, as she flipped over again to try and ease her mind. If Asami knew about what happened, I don't know what I'd do. Minutes later Korra finally drifted off, with thoughts of a new routine fresh in her mind.
The next day, the young Southern Water Tribe native was met with praise, hugs, and a few tears when she arrived at her first period class. To her pleasant surprise, Ms. Castillo embraced Korra in a tight, yet chaste hug after properly welcoming her back in front of the class; which was unsurprisingly accompanied by an accelerated heartbeat and nerve induced armpit sweat. But, aside from the multiple stares and probing questions from her classmates, Korra's first period went by as it usually did and it felt nice. Ms. Castillo summoned she and Jinora after the lecture, and arranged for the young class representative to give Korra all of the notes she missed and help her catch up with the rest of the class. After another chaste hug and unwelcomed armpit sweating, Korra was in the halls and headed to her next period with Jinora updating her on recent events.
"Overcrowding?"
"Yeah," Jinora stated, her brows laced together in thought. "Republic City has been facing concerns with overcrowding for the last couple of years now, but it was officially declared as an issue a little of a month ago by the mayor." The pair passed through the breezeway and entered the Aang Cheng building. Korra felt nostalgia wash over her, as she took in the vermillion brick walls and aged oak doors. This was where she first met Asami. Korra almost drifted away in her thoughts, until a familiar name brought her back. "This woman, Suyin Beifong, apparently has another city underway about 330 KM away and there has been talk about a lot of people moving over there."
Korra almost couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Wait, Suyin Beifong? As in Officer Lin Beifong's younger sister is creating another city just because?" She couldn't control the derisive bite in her tone. Of everything she picked up from that woman after one meeting, the last thing she expected was that she owned an entire city. Whether she wanted to admit it or not, the jaded teen was impressed.
Jinora nodded her head with a chuckle, as she stopped at a nearby water fountain for quick drink. "Yup, the very same. I didn't know you knew her, though. She's almost never in town from what I hear from my father." Korra waved her hand dismissively at the statement.
"She appeared at my place last night after I took Naga around the neighborhood. When I got back home, she was talking with my Aunt Kya and Lin about some girl. But, I don't know. She came off as almost too carefree by the way she was holding that drink in her hand," the blue eyed native punctuated her thoughts with an arched brow. Her eyes were drawn to her shorter companion's incredulous expression. "What is it?"
"I wonder if your Aunt Kya knows my Auntie Kya," she responded with a jesting grin.
"You have an Aunt Kya, too, eh?" a bemused smile reached her eyes. "I bet my Aunt Kya is better," she taunted playfully.
"You might be right about that. I have yet to meet the woman," Jinora looked down momentarily, a glint of sadness briefly flickering in her eyes, before being replaced by a broad grin. "Wouldn't it be something if we had the same aunt? You'd be stuck with me forever, and once that happens I'm demanding joint ownership of Naga. I'll be damned if you parade riding her around in my face one more time." The short brunette held a sterned expression with her taller friend. The only accompanying sound being their hurried steps echoing down the hallway. Her lips thinned into a line behind straining cheeks, until laughter leaked out and filled the narrow stairwell they entered.
"You're an idiot," Korra laughed. "You better stay the hell away from my fluffy snowball, you short weirdo,," the pair broke out in laughter. They entered the third floor in high spirits, making failed attempts to suppress the sounds of their enjoyment. Korra couldn't remember the last time she genuinely laughed that much, but then the memory of wavy charcoal hair flowing through the wind and a bright painted smile flashed across her mind. The image that followed left her completely shook. Asami's bruised face twisted with grief and wet from tears. Then, as quickly as it had appeared, it was gone. Suddenly, Korra felt nauseous. She stopped in her tracks, hunching over to hold her stomach. When Jinora noticed that something was wrong, she doubled back to her side, genuine concern embedded in her bright amber eyes.
"Oh no, K-Korra are you alright?" The brunette stammered helplessly.
Korra wanted to move, but she couldn't. Her body felt as if it was rooted into the ground by hardened clay. Every nerve in her body shouted in pain, while her brain went into overdrive riddling her mind with a toxic blend of fear, anxiety, and depression. She couldn't move, and as far as she knew she couldn't breath, either. She fell to one knee clutched at her chest, stretching the fabric of her graphic T-shirt. Jinora was beside herself with worry, although she did know what to do in similar situations, her face lining with concern for her friend caused her to seize with panic.
"Korra!" She shouted again. Although the halls were filled with students heading to and from class, no one interjected to help them. Instead, Korra was probed with side glances and concerned murmurs. But, one passerby decided to stop and check in on the two younger women. Korra's breathing was shallow, her eyes fixed on the faded wood panels. The warmth of Jinora's hand on her shoulder suddenly disappeared, causing Korra to glance up in time to see a pair of black vans standing ahead of her. She lifted her head even further and met the gaze of an unusual familiar face.
"Is everything alright here?" Kuvira asked in an even tone. Her long dark hair was tied back in a loose bun, a few loose strands hung down, framing her face. Korra just stared at the other girl. She didn't have the strength to say anything, and honestly she didn't want to. Kuvira had left a bad taste in her mouth.
"We're f-fine," the class representative said hesitantly. Her hands were back along the sides of Korra's waist to help steady her balance. Even though she wasn't very tall or heavy to begin with, Jinora still struggled to keep them upright with her small frame. As Korra attempted to push herself up, they staggered backwards. A hand reached out to grab Korra's arm in order to keep them from falling over.
"You guys don't seem fine," Kuvira replied, as she pulled the shorter teen's arm over her shoulder and shifted her stance to accompany the added weight. Rather than protest, Korra just stood vacantly unable to do much but internally berate herself for putting herself in this predicament.
"Kuvira, thank you—but, why are you helping us? Korra, more specifically," the brunette's words fumbled clumsily from her mouth. She paused to regain her composure, then continued. "What I'm trying to say is there is no reason—"
She slowly scanned the students walking past them showing little to no interest, then back at the short brunette. "Well, no one else seemed to be in a rush to help out," Kuvira murmured in a detached tone. Although she was riddled with concern, Jinora meekly nodded and told her ailing friend to text her the moment she arrived at the nurse's office. Korra responded with a weak smile, and soon after she and Kuvira headed back towards the main building.
SIlence accompanied the pair while in transit. Jade stones would occasionally glance in the shorter girl's direction, and she would often look up in turn but that was it. They finally reached the nurse's office, and Korra was almost taken aback when the steel eyed teen helped her settle into a chair and left to go speak with the nurse. She occasionally looked back in her direction while she was speaking with her. Despite the slatted tint casted in her eyes, Kuvira's mannerisms mirrored genuine concern. Korra snorted under her breath in disbelief. She almost allowed herself to forget how much she despised her, regardless of how pretty she was. I need to really stop basing people's personalities on appearance, she groaned internally. A thick-browed tangerine gaze flickered across her mind. She shuttered. The last thing she wanted in her life was to be compared with her womanizing friend. The world already had enough of those. Soon after arriving, Korra was able to leave with nothing more than a note explaining her absence from class, and a few tablets of magnesium to stave off fatigue and clear up the fogginess in her head. She walked idly along the wall, glanced back and almost tripped when she noticed Kuvira a little ways back just staring at her. Korra felt all the blood rushing to her head, she could feel herself becoming upset.
"If you were waiting for an opening to exact your revenge, this is probably the best opportunity you'll ever get," she said in a tired huff, eyes fixed ahead. She was more concerned with getting to her next class than the olive toned beauty stalking behind her. Kuvira didn't answer for a few moments. Korra felt her loose grip on the brick wall strain against her hand, as she came to a halt and snapped around. "Seriously, Kuvira, what the hell do you want from me? Do you wanna fight? Because I'm always ready to take you on again," Korra said unevenly. She had already expended too much energy, and now she was exhausted again, although she did her best to conceal her trembling legs and clenched sweating palms.
Kuvira continued progressing towards her, until she was barely an arm's length between them, never breaking eye contact. Korra's breathing picked up. She eyed her tall adversary suspiciously. Following a pause, she extended her hand catching her completely off guard.
"I'm not here to fight you, or do anything underhanded," she said. Her eyes appeared genuine, but Korra just stared at her hand with an upturned frown. "I'm serious, Korra."
"Why should I ever believe you? I mean, seriously, who just sucker punches someone after starting the damn fight? A fucking coward, that's who," she said wryly. Kuvira dropped her hand and brought it to her temple, a deep sigh escaping her lips.
"Look, the last thing I want to do right now is attack the person that saved my folks."
Korra's eyes widened.
"Wh-What?"
Her tall companion looked down, her tone dropping in tandem. "My parents were at Jade Park the day you were kidnapped, and that bomb went off. If," her jaw clenched slightly. "If you hadn't convinced your friends to go there that day they—something else could have happened," Kuvira's gaze remained on the ground. Korra just looked at her, mouth agape. "So, I'm sorry for causing you trouble, and I-I'm sorry for bothering you now. I'll just," she stopped speaking and just clenched her jaw again, before starting to walk off.
"Wait," Korra practically blurted out, catching the taller girl's slender wrist. Moistened jade stones turned back. She was going to cry…? Her eyes softened. "I'm—I'm sorry. It's my first day back and it's hard. But, I shouldn't have been that cruel to someone who just volunteered to take me to the nurse's office." Even though Kuvira's eyes were distant, she could tell that she was listening. "Honestly, once I start training again I'll be in a much better mood," an awkward chuckle filled the space between them.
"Same," Kuvira said after a while with the remnants of a smile. Korra released her grip and looked at Kuvira as if it was the first time she truly saw her. She couldn't even stop the request that seemed to pull itself from her.
"Do you want to train together?" Now it was the other girl's turn to look surprised. Korra was right there with her; she had no idea where the question came from or what compelled her to voice it so boldly.
"Y-Yeah," Kuvira said with a tone that was more apprehensive than declarative in nature.
"Okay," Korra replied, more in response to her conflicting thoughts. "Let's meet here after school." Kuvira just smiled and she had reciprocated without a second thought.
When the day began, Korra was teeming with anxiety and her newly discovered compulsive need to bounce her foot or needlessly fidget with whatever she was holding at the moment. But by the end of the school day, she was in much higher spirits. Or, at least as high as they have been since Kya and Lin discovered her motionless body in an underground bunker. But, she didn't want to think about that right now—or possibly ever. At that moment, all she wanted to focus on was being able to train again. Happy thoughts; light thoughts. The southern cadence of her therapist's voice echoed throughout her mind. Korra had only been seeing him for a couple of months, but she felt comfortable enough to repeat some of the lessons to herself. Though she'd never tell him that. Even before therapy, she knew that she had a hard time opening up with people she felt close to. Hell, she was almost relieved that she didn't run into Asami at all during the day. Almost. Korra didn't even know why she felt overwhelmed with regret and the fleeting sensation of serenity every time she thought of her dark haired friend. Regardless of the reason, she had no intention of confronting that part of mind. At least not yet.
Happy thoughts; light thoughts.
She entered the stairwell and carefully descended to the ground floor. Backpack in hand, Korra rushed past nameless students in the halls and breezeway before finding herself nearing the nurse's office. Is this a bad idea? Korra thought vaguely, as she met the fern green gaze of her new training partner. A faint smile traced across the young woman's lips as she approached the bright eyed sophomore. Korra couldn't help but feel a bit overwhelmed by the whole situation. In less than half a day, the awkward duo went from bitter rivals to formidable training partners. I guess this is a nice change of pace, Korra thought as she offered a nod in response. Bull-headed or not, she knew that her school life would be much easier with fewer enemies.
"Where to?" Kuvira asked with a slight raise of her manicured brows, though her stance indicated that their training had already begun. Korra instantly thought of Jade Park, but quickly thought against it after a chilling reminder coursed through her veins. She hesitated, with a look of discomfort creasing the corners of her mouth. Her new ally seemed to pick up on it and responded accordingly. "How about up on Fire Oak Blvd? There's a nice clear space up there to practice, and it's a spot that's familiar to us both," she said in a pointed tone.
Korra's eyes grew wide. "Fire Oak Blvd—that's Jade Park, isn't it?" Sweat beaded her brow and moistened her hands. "I-I don't want to be up there right now," her voice trembled, as white noise filled the back of her mind. "It's—It's too soon," she said breathlessly, more to herself than anything.
"Is it," Kuvira stated rhetorically. Her countenance was unreadable. She only stood with her arms loosely locked around her abdomen.
Korra didn't know how to react in a way that didn't make her seem less frightened at the idea than she actually was. She could feel how desperate her eyes must have looked, but she couldn't help it. That place might as well have been in the very bowels of the most unholy caverns of the underworld. The Water Tribe native might not have remembered much of what happened after Jade Park, but she didn't need to.
"I'm not going back there," her voice dripped with anguish. It consumed her now, but she didn't care. "Kuvira, I-I don't care how that makes me look, but I would rather be sucker-punched by you a hundred times over than return to Jade Park." She lowered her gaze to the faded sneakers that adorned her feet, the way they complimented the ashen hardwood floor beneath them. A nostriled chuckle brought her attention back to the girl standing before her.
"How do you expect to ever be ready if you keep running from what haunts you, Korra?"
"I'm not running away from anything!" She shouted. A few of the students passing them only glanced at them momentarily before heading outside. Their past encounter that sparked school intrigue, now only the blip of a forgotten memory.
"Are you sure about that?" The slatted teen responded. A smirk revealing a perfect set of teeth in their wake.
Korra knew that the girl was now egging her on, trying to call her out and she was falling for it. Her chest tightened as she could hear her own heart pounding away in her ear drums. The sweat that hugged the corner of her jaw fell lifelessly to the ground and erupted on impact. The students that filed in and out of the main building were akin to a thunderous herd of animals. Suddenly everything was loud. Why was everything so loud? Korra pinched her eyes shut, causing the bridge of her nose to crinkle. She wanted it all to stop. It was too loud. White noise bled into an achromatic static against the canvas of her mind. Her limbs seized. Her anxiety attacks were never this bad. Arms wrapped around her shoulders into a comforting grip. The noise settled.
"I was taught that the best way to deal with trauma was to face it head on—but," she paused, lowering her head against the shorter girl's head. "I didn't think that it would trigger you like this. I'm sorry—please forgive me."
The noise faded away, only leaving Korra and her thoughts. She suddenly became very aware of her current predicament, and felt all the blood in her body rush to her head. Embarrassment wouldn't be the word to describe how it felt being cradled by your former nemesis.
"It's-It's fine, Kuvira. Just," she shrugged her shoulders uncomfortably with a concise clearing of her throat.
"S-Sorry," Kuvira repeated, dropping her arms. Korra moved to reassure her, when she noticed the eldest Nakamura brother staring at her, mouth agape, eyes daring to finally free themselves from beneath those bushy tarps he called eyebrows. Of all the times to run into Mako, it had to be after Korra's most recently relieved arch rival was cradling her to offset her very own debilitating anxiety attack. Miracles really do come true, she chided to herself.
"K-Korra…?"
"Hey, Mako," she replied flatly. Kuvira still standing directly behind her with an aloof demeanor. If anymore blood circulated through her head at the rate it was, Korra was almost certain that should would die. Although, anything seemed more attractive than the ungainly situation she managed to bumble her way into. Again.
"Um, I—didn't know you were back," fumbled from his mouth. She noticed the flush in his cheeks and on the tips of his ears. Same old Mako.
"Today was my first day back," was all she could manage. Korra didn't know how she would react once she encountered one of her friends after her disappearance, but now that she was standing before (although below would be a more apt description) the towering form of her friend she didn't feel much of anything aside from embarrassment from the awkward encounter. "It's good to see you, Mako," she finally said.
"You, too," a crooked smile broke across his face. His eyes fell behind her. "And you're here with Ku-vira?" The way he said her name made Korra visibly cringe.
Why is this happening to me now?
"Yup," the girl behind her replied succinctly. Korra noticed the chilling edge of her tone. "And who are you, exactly? Mae-koh?"
"Mako."
Kuvira hummed in response. "Did you know that in an archaic Germanic language the name 'Mako' means 'strength,' but in modern Japanese it means 'child of light?'" His brows creased as she stared him down (or rather, up). "Perhaps you're more characteristically inclined to the ladder rather than the former?"
"What are you getting at?" He asked bitterly, his voice coming off as more of a low growl.
The olive beauty chuckled coldly, then pointed at his flushed face in a downward motion. "Your face is very honest," she mused.
Oh, shit. That's funny. Korra had to physically choke down her laughter, which resulted in a poorly timed snort that forced its way from her throat. Mako looked between them with a look of indignance. Korra didn't know if it was possible, but his face became even more flushed, as it evolved from a light wine blush to a deep shade of scarlet.
The towering junior released a harsh scoff, before turning on his heel. "Glad to see you're making new friends, 'avatar,'" he tossed over his shoulder in a biting tone. All she could do was blink.
"What?"
"Not that it matters, but that's all Bolin has been calling you since the park," he paused, briefly looking down. "He thinks that we're officially Team Avatar, you know, since we saved people," he trailed off, eyes still remaining down. "Anyway, I'm sure we'll catch up later, Korra."
"—Wait! Mako, hold on," she blurted out. Kuvira arched an imperceivable brow at the sudden outburst. Korra bit her lower lip, unsure of how to properly phrase herself without coming off as desperate. "Have you—How-How is Asami doing?" Korra saw as his shoulders rose and fell as he chuckled humorlessly.
"So, no one has told you, huh?" She could almost see the thin smirk he had pasted across his lips. She clenched her fists.
"Told me what?"
"I guess nothing," he said conclusively, as he disappeared into the flooding students.
She moved to follow him in a blind rage, but was held back by a light, but firm grip on her arm. Kuvira gave her a look that implied genuine concern. Korra shrugged off the gesture.
"Are you still in the mood to train?" She asked in almost a mechanic manner. Her tinted companion was a little more serious that she had initially assumed.
"Yeah," Korra responded absently. "Let's go."
"Where to exactly?"
"Well, where do you normally go?"
Kuvira just responded with a faint upturn of her lips, and led her shorter companion outside. After about a thirty minute walk in a nearby forest, they emerged at the head of massive lake located amidst the wooded area. Korra didn't shake off the instant sensation of unrelenting tranquility that washed over her entire existence. She could almost feel the stress and tension from the day lift from her shoulders, and evaporate above her as purified energy. A warm smile found its way on her lips.
"What is this place?" She asked quietly, turning to her stoic eyed accomplice.
"Peace manifested," Kuvira responded after a few moments of silence. Narrowed jade stones glanced over to her, before overlooking the large body of water. "This is where I go when I need to spiritually detox."
"What about training?" Korra said in a manner that could almost be taken as sarcasm. The taller girl chuckled under her breath.
"You can't expect to get very far by only training the body and neglecting the soul," she replied coolly.
Korra's gaze broke away from the lake momentarily to meet the gaze of her training companion. An incredulous smile on her lips. "To be honest, I've never really felt a connection to the spiritual energy in this world. But, I do know it's there I just haven't got anything from it, you know? Like, when I was a kid I think it was fine, but then something—something happened and," she trailed off solemnly. "And, I don't want to finish talking about this anymore," a nervous chuckle punctured the sky.
"We don't need to talk at all if you want," Kuvira said soothingly. "We can just take in the atmosphere."
She set down her backpack and stepped out of her shoes. Korra followed suit, and for the next couple of hours they did just that as they sat along the cliff overlooking the lake. Their feet hanging over, swinging idly. She hadn't experienced internal peace such as this in while, probably not since she was a child. Korra's eyes broke from the vibrant treeline and lowered to the shimmering lake. Unlike the small body of water at Jade Park, this lake was so clear that she could visibly see the white sand in the shallow water, until it dipped off into its crystal ultramarine depths. She was suddenly met with flashes of a glacial waterfront kissing a twilight horizon. The sound of a woman crying drew her attention behind her in enough time to see the woman she knew as her mother falling into the white crunchy snow. Her feet moved on their own accord, as she desperately tried to reach the woman. But, she wasn't fast enough. It was then when she looked past her mother to see an alarming amount of smoke rising from the village. Never had she seen so much smoke in her life. Her feet moved faster—
A hand rested atop hers with a light squeezed. Korra was jolted from her thoughts and met the phantom smile of her new accomplice, her light green eyes casted with concern. She shifted uncomfortably and cleared her throat, removing her hand in the process. Weird wouldn't be word she used to describe Kuvira holding her hand. The chestnut haired teen knew that she meant well, but all of it was something that she needed to get used, before she could think of the other girl as anything relating to that of a friend. She noticed how Kuvira flinched at the rejection.
"Sorry," Korra said awkwardly.
"Don't be," she said quietly. "I should be the one apologizing to you. After the way I treated you when we first met, it's no wonder that you don't want to open up. I'm honestly surprised that you came out here with me, considering everything that you've been through." She chewed on her bottom lip, as she leaned forward to gaze over the cliff's edge and into the magnificent shimmering water. When her shorter companion didn't respond she continued. "That day you disappeared, my parents and I got into this heated argument over something stupid. It was so pointless that I can't even remember what it was about now, but I do remember that it was my fault." She paused contemplatively. "Anyway, they responded by threatening to throw me out of the house, you know? My behaviour had been so awful up to that point, where they didn't see any alternative solution that involved me staying. I was an awful fucking daughter," a wry chuckle emitted from her lips. For the first time, Korra looked over to her as she spoke and noticed the pain in her eyes as she sat staring into the lake. "So, I told them that I wasn't leaving and to go kill themselves," she paused again. Looking down at her feet, as another harsh chuckle made its way out. The bright sun accentuated the moisture forming in her eyes. She suddenly looked back up sniffing crisply. "So, they left. I've never seen them look so betrayed in my entire life, and I knew how much I had hurt them. But, I was being petty and didn't care. After they left I decided to watch some TV, you know? And about an hour into my show, it gets interrupted by this 'Breaking News' disclaimer and, uh, says that an explosion went off at Jade Park leaving many injured."
She stopped to turn towards Korra between deeply furrowed brows and she saw the fresh tears streaming down her face. "At that very moment, I was just overwhelmed with this awful feeling that something had happened to them. And not a second later do I see my father being placed in an ambulance mobile on a fucking stretcher, and my mother crying over his body—-" She was interrupted by the deluge of tears that poured down her face. Her eyes were clenched in agony, as she sat silently weeping into the hand propped up on her lap.
The blue eyed native just stared at her green eyed counterpart, unsure of what to do in this particular situation. She moved to place a reassuring arm on the young woman's back, but decided against it at the last moment. She opted for another method, instead.
"I don't remember it clearly, but I'm pretty sure Asami's life was ruined because she tried rescuing me that day." She released a heavy sigh. "No one will tell me what's going on with her at all. Just that somehow her father was involved. But, everytime I bring it up to my Aunt Kya she just gives me this look of guilt, like, there's something she wants to tell me but can't. And I can't shake the feeling that she's hurt and that it's my fault, because I couldn't protect myself," she bit her lower lip in a futile attempt to ward off incoming tears.
"You know, Sato didn't show up to school for weeks after you went missing. Yeah, no one had any idea where she had gone off to. It wasn't until later that she showed back up, but it was infrequent, you know? Before everything at Jade Park, I usually saw her before my Calculus class, but now I randomly see her at odd hours throughout the day. Sometimes she's with that government teacher—-the one at the main building. I think her name was Castiglo or something."
"Castillo," Korra retorted absentmindedly. Her direct gaze implied how intently she was listening.
"Yeah, Castillo, but I don't see her as often as I used to."
Their conversation lasted well after the sun setted, and after the pair emerged from the forest and preparing to part ways, she recognized a Sato Police Cruiser parked in the distance sitting idle in the parking lot. She almost choked at the rate her heart accelerated and began pumping adrenaline through her veins. A faintly mumble "shit," was the only audible cue she gave before breaking out into a hobbled sprint across the low plain clearing to the school. Kuvira frantically followed close behind, unsure of what triggered such a panicked response from her short companion. She even tried communicating with her between heaving breaths to get some sort of clarity, but was met with silence until they reached their destination. Korra instantly moved to check inside the cruiser, but found it to be empty even though it was still running. They must have just gotten here, she concluded, trying to downplay the severity of the situation but it wasn't working. It never works.
"Korra!?" A voice cried from the distance. The teen saw the illumination from a torch light coming from around the main building.
"I'm here!" She responded breathlessly.
The torch light then began moving frantically from side to side, as two silhouetted figures approached them at alarming speeds. Kuvira stood a little closer to her, bracing for the encounter. As they approached, the faces of a distraught Kya and a concerned Lin were illuminated by the headlights of the cruiser. Kya was out of breath, but it stemmed from her being tormented by not knowing the whereabouts of her niece rather than from the run over. Without any verbal cues, Kya enveloped her into a smothering embrace. Korra almost protested, as she felt her own air supply constrict but returned the embrace when she felt a warm liquid drip down her forehead. Lin watched the pair warmly, until she noticed the girl standing behind them.
"Hey, aren't you that kid that pressed charges a little while ago?" She flashed the torch light directly at the teen, causing Kuvira to wince and shield her eyes. "What the hell are even doing here? Up to no good?" The overbearing beam of light remained fixed on her.
"Yes, I'm her. And, no I'm not here to cause trouble. I just—-I just" she tried to look up, but the intensity of the beam forced her eyes shut. "Could you please get that light out of my damn face, please?" Kuvira's tone edged on irritation, but the decorated officer wouldn't let up. Instead, she remained fixed, but turned to speak to the short teen who was still tangled in the older woman's embrace.
"Korra, does this delinquent check out?"
"Yeah, Ms. Lin. Kuvira's cool," she said and carefully pried herself from crushing arms. "I'm fine, auntie, I was actually with Kuvira all after school. We were down by the lake in the woods, so everything's cool."
The salted medic looked down at her niece with soft eyes, and gently placed a hand atop her head, began rubbing it gingerly. She then shot a glare at the girl who was still at the mercy of Lin Beifong's blinding torch light. She walked over to the woman, motioning for her to put it down, approached Kuvira, and snatched her up by her collar with such speed that neither of them had time to process the encounter. Although Kya only had an inch on her, she had Kuvira standing on the balls of her feet. Ice chip daggers peered into soft jade for several moments before releasing the grip on her collar in a chillingly calm manner. Korra assumed that something had to have been said, because Kuvira was left aghast. It wouldn't be far off to assume that the girl had just met her match with a demon by the way she was trembling. The preceding car ride was a silent one, and once her new partner was dropped off Kya and Lin picked up in the middle of a conversation they must have previously had, and all the while Korra fell asleep listening contently, finally happy to be home.
Throughout the rest of the week, Korra didn't see Asami or hear of her whereabouts, but school went on as usual, not to mention the aforementioned training sessions that she and Kuvira had agreed upon. She almost didn't want to admit it, but training with the person who randomly attacked at school wasn't all that bad. Aside from their first brash encounter, Kuvira was a little more mild-mannered and draconian than she would have pegged her to be. Maybe it was treating her parents horribly before their almost untimely death that triggered this behaviour, but all she knew was that she preferred this Kuvira to the other one. Gradually, their training sessions became intense with each passing day, with times ranging from one to three hours a day. And during that short period of time, Korra went from barely being able to defend herself against her partner's attacks, to being about to counter and strike with moderate precision and force. Hell, since she began meeting with Kuvira after school her nightmares have reduced dramatically now that she was occupying her time with something productive. There were times where she would feel overwhelmed with regret and be seized by one of her many anxiety attacks, but they didn't last as long as they used to and weren't as debilitating. She wasn't back to her old self, yet, but things were certainly looking up.
During a break between classes, Korra casually made her way to the restroom with a faint smile teasing her lips, as she went over defensive maneuvers she had recently learned in her head. But, that's when her illusion shattered and her eyes fell upon a young woman with wavy raven hair that dipped to the middle of her back, she leaned over a nearby sink meticulously washing her hands. Korra didn't know whether she was simply unable to move, or didn't remember how to as she just stared there barely moving; barely breathing.
Asami.
She couldn't say it outloud since that day at the lake, but that's the only word that filtered through her mind. The sound of the facet squeaking off gathered her attention, she watched laggardly as Asami paused over the sink to give herself a once over in the mirror, before pivoting leave. Then for the first time in what seemed like forever—-their eyes met. Korra wasn't sure if she mirrored the same expression of astonishment and fear, but it would be a lie to say that she didn't feel it. Another student entering from behind Korra to use the lavatory, broke their temporal trance. Asami moved first, parting her lips to speak, but emitting no sound.
"Korra," she finally said, breathlessly. The corners of her eyes twitched involuntarily; she couldn't help but notice the overwhelming sorrow that radiated from them. But, she couldn't speak up. She forgot how to. "I-I," she began. All Korra could do was stare at her. Afraid to move; afraid that if she did, she may wake up and realize that it wasn't real. That would break her. But, why would it break her? Did it matter? "I like your hair," Asami finally managed. A smile making its way across her face, but falling short of consuming the sadness in her eyes.
Something like a chuckle came from chestnut haired sophomore, and once that happened she couldn't suppress the large smile that followed. "I like your hair, too," she said warmly. Asami reciprocated by closing the distance between them pulling Korra into a sincere hug. Regardless of what the reason was, Korra broke down in the older teen's arm. Audible sniffs and convoluted breaths accompanied the torrential fall of tears that streamed down her face and was promptly absorbed by the upperclassman's satin white blouse. Soft warm palms were placed at the back of her head and neck as she cried. The sudden act of affection made her very aware of her embarrassing behaviour. She pulled back abruptly, eyeing the watermarked stain on the white blouse. Her face burned with embarrassment.
"I'm-I'm sorry for that," she stammered, she couldn't move her eyes from the wet stain. "And, I'm sorry about your shirt," she added. Embarrassment can't be the word; mortified, perhaps?
"Don't ever be sorry for something like that. Ever," Asami said in a stern, yet soothing tone. She then smiled warmly. "Your hair is longer," Korra gave a shy nod and looked away nervously. A soft hand touched her arm lightly. "It's beautiful," she said. Although her eyes beamed with warmth, they still held a note of remorse in them. This reminded Korra of the awful nightmares she had been plagued with since her rescue.
"What happened to you after I went—-after I left?" It took everything in her to get those words out, so she wasn't surprised when it left her feeling emotionally drained. Asami moistened her lips contemplatively and looked over to the corner of the room briefly before returning her gaze. The sound of a stall creaking open next to them, caused them both to physically jump in surprise. A rather unenthused student stared them down, before skipping the sink and leaving them in silence. Asami drew and audible breath to calm her nerves.
"Turns out my father was somehow linked in with your disappearance and, uh, left the country the very same night you were found. He's now a person of interest in your case, and even has an outstanding warrant for his arrest throughout the Earth Kingdom and Republic Nations." The small teen just listened intently. "I'm just—-you know trying to put the pieces together and see how this factors in with Future Industries. I'm now stuck trying to save the very same monopoly that ruined my life. Figures," she added bitinginly. Her demeanor softened, as she cleared her throat. "I heard that when they found you," she paused and Korra could see the emotion building in her eyes. "You were covered in blood and unconscious. H-How have you been recovering? Do-Do you remember anything?"
"I've been recovering fine," she answered. "And, no, I don't remember much of anything after Jade Park." Korra hesitated momentarily, before looking up to meet emerald jewels. "I was told that you tried rescuing me at the park. Thank you so much for that," she said breathlessly. She couldn't control the tear that escaped and rolled off her cheek. She saw the other girl's arm twitch before remaining still.
"Always," Asami whispered. The intrusive ring of a bell over the intercom indicating the start of their next period, pierced their ears causing both to once again visibly jump. "I can't fucking stand that thing," she said lightly, a serene smile on her lips.
"Yeah, I should probably get to back to class," Korra said mildly. "I also need to," a shy finger pointed over to one of the stalls and Asami waved her through with a gallant gesture which emitted a small laugh.
"Of course," she chuckled. "I also have something to—-um, I guess I'll see you around, then?"
"Definitely," Korra responded. "Let's keep in touch."
And with that, both of the young women went their separate ways.
Later that day, Korra and Kuvira were out training by the lakeside. Which she later discovered was aptly named Bismuth lake for the array of colorful minerals, including bismuth, that littered the bed of the lake and decorated the surrounding pale sand. The pair always took to removing their shoes and engaging in hand-to-hand combat on the warm earth. After their first official training session, she surprisingly realized how much more therapeutic it was than being at the gym. A discovery she knew not to share with either of the Nakamura brothers, knowing they both have lived above a gym for the better part of their adolescent lives. Almost an hour into their first match, and neither knows who will come out victor. Since they have begun training, Kuvira had always came out victorious, but Korra could feel how much more powerful she had become since they started out. A miscalculated placement of her foot led to the shorter teen being swept off the ground in a fluid motion and crashing into the moist sandy earth.
"You seem distracted," her partner panted unevenly, quickly wiping the sweat from her brow before reaching down to help a very tired Korra. The shorter girl swatted at the kind gesture and opted to just lie flat against the ground with her limbs splayed out and eyes closed, her chest rose and fell with each breath. They both were exhausted. "Are we finished then?" Kuvira wheezed impatiently.
"Just—-Just shut up for second," she held up a sweaty hand momentarily, before letting it flop back at her side. Kuvira rolled her eyes in an exaggerated fashion, but humored her companion's latest dramatic feat: feigning death. Again.
"This is getting really old really fucking fast, Korra," Kuvira griped. A hand shot up to wave dismissively at the comment before flopping back down to her side.
"Just shhh—-"
Her stoic companion kicked the side of her leg in defiance, but ultimately remained quiet. After several moments, Korra spoke up.
"In my last block, I was invited to go to a party this weekend at some sort of secret bar that's pretending to be a library or something?"
"Speakeasy," the older teen offered.
"Hey, speaking is hard right now," she retorted breathlessly. Kuvira silently stared down at her, disappointment evident in her piercing gaze. "Don't start that shit with me right now, Kuvira. I'm trying to invite you out socially. Keep the act up, and I'll take—-I'll take," she trailed off gesturing lazily in the air.
"Naga?" she offered again, with a sarcastic bite.
"You're damn skippy, I'd invite Naga. No shame there."
"I think there is," Kuvira said knowingly. With all the time they've spent together training, Korra could now discern whether or not amusement was implicit with each biting remark. She figured it was the ladder and smiled broadly.
"Yeah, yeah. Just meet me there no later than nightfall." Her partner responded wh a firm tug on the wrist to prop her up, and with that the two resumed their training.
Friday was upon them in no time at all, and after their training concluded, Korra was only given less than two hours to shower and put on something appropriate enough for a party. So what I normally wear, but kicked up a notch, she deduced while perusing through her sparse clothing selection. Hangers clanked in bunched pairs, as she pushed through her entire wardrobe for the fourth time. Surprisingly, even more disappointed with each cursory inspection. Why the fuck do I only have button downs and graphic tees? She couldn't contain the growl that registered through the room, nor the unceremonious display of knocking several hangars off the rack of her armoire. It wasn't a minute later when she heard light knocking at her door.
"Not now, auntie. I'm busy," she called out inattentively, staring at the pile of clothes that fell at her feet.
"Not Kya. Open up, twerp," replied the uniformed cadence of her Aunt Kya's officer friend. They've become a little too unbearable as of late, though. Korra just figured that her aunt needed the insurance of her safety after she was kidnapped. She involuntarily rolled her eyes and made her way across the room to the door. Sucking her mouth into a thin line upon meeting the pale green gaze of the officer. But, something seemed off.
"Why are you red?" Korra asked indignantly. She noticed Lin's flushed cheeks and languid gaze that surprisingly were even more authoritative and puritanical, leaving Korra to wonder if the woman was even capable to physically relax. Realization suddenly struck. "By my beard, is the Officer Lin Beifong really drunk in my house? At this hour? But, what about protecting the people and doing push-ups?" She feigned offense by placing a theatrical hand over her chest and smiling incredulously. Lin rolled her eyes in the most drawn out way Korra ever knew was even possible.Yep, that answer's that.
"Listen, kid. When you finally are old enough to take on everyone's shit without being a little twerp maybe I'll give you a little hit, huh?"
"Um, I'm not even sure what that means, nor how to respond to that," her response tentative in nature, brows wrinkled slightly. "Wait, are you insulting me—-?"
"They never do," the officer quipped, cutting her off entirely. "Why the hell were you making so much noise up here anyway." The older women with the more or less permanent scowl pushed her way into the teenager's bedroom and looked around, an acute grimace etched on her contenance.
"I can't find anything to wear to this party," she responded warily, carefully watching the woman inspect her room. "Why hell are you looking at my room like that—"
"Watch your damn mouth, Korra. I raised you better," Kya chimed in, suddenly appearing in the doorway. Her voice matched the look of disgust apparent on the officer's face. "Yuck, Korrs. Why is your room like this?" She quickly scanned the bed with an upturned frown.
"What party are you talking about, kid? I don't remember being told anything about one," Lin said in a raised voice, competing over the other woman. Korra moved to answer, but was interrupted again, unexpectedly.
"Ooh, who's going to a party? I love myself a good party," an overly enthused voice barked from the hallway.
The chestnut haired teen squinted in confusion. "Wh-Who even is that?" she shouted skeptically, her entire body gesturing towards the door. The gold flat that appeared in the door frame behind Kya was almost a dead giveaway, until she moved behind the woman poking her head over her shoulders with a wide grin. "Ms. Beifong, what are you—-when did you get here? There was no evidence of you being here—-"
"Hey, Korra! Good to see you, again, honey bunch!" The woman said happily, her incandescent grin shining brilliantly. Kya playfully shooed her away, and both women shared a laugh. Lin glared at them from across the room, imitating disinterest. Korra just stood watching vacantly, entirely unsure of where her control of the situation went in such a short period of time. She cleared her throat loudly, but her attempts to gain their attention was futile. Lin now stood laughing with the other women from across the room. Korra grimaced.
"Why are you crazy drunk people in my room?" She inquiredly loudly. The women grew silent and stared at the short teen, shocked by the sudden outburst, but waiting for her to finish. When there was no immediate response, Korra just sighed and dragged a hand across her brow. "Can I just have help finding something to wear please?"
"Well, why didn't you just say that before, kiddo?" Kya mused with a warm smile. And with that, Suyin went with Kya to grab something from her bedroom down the hall, and Lin wound up straying back downstairs to relax on the couch. In the time that it took for the older women to return to her with a matte black dress adorned with a mini buckle at the waist, Korra had styled her hair up into high bun and put on some studded earrings. A heartfelt smile appeared on Kya's lips as she moved to hand her niece the outfit they picked out. She slightly cupped her face. "You're so beautiful, Korra," she cooed, pressing an affectionate kiss on her forehead.
"She has good genes," Suyin chuckled with a knowing wink, playfully nudging Kya's arm. Normally in situations like this, the seasoned combat medic would comment on their unshared genealogy, but emphasize the importance of her role in Korra's life despite their kinship. Something in the area. Not to be abrasive, but just upfront. Unabashed transparency was always her motto. Uncharacteristically, though, the older woman just offered a smile and reciprocated the playful act.
"What is happening?" She blurted out. Both of the women were wrapped up in their conversation, and too busy laughing to pay her any mind.
"Show us the final result when you're done, sweetheart!" Kya called out between laughs. Suyin's echos followed, as they left the room.
Rather than labour over the extreme possibility that her aunt may become romantically involved with one of the two sisters, Korra decided to slip on the black dress and give it a test run for the night to see how it made it feel. She vividly remembered the time that Asami had worn a black and sangria red mini dress to school one day, and remembered how beautiful it had looked on her. Maybe it will have the same effect on me, she thought with a tiny smile. In lieu of heels, she wore a pair of low cut all black chucks. Before heading downstairs to show the inebriated women that gained occupancy of the entire ground floor, she gave herself a once over in the mirror. Satisfied with her look, she grabbed her backpack and went down to the living room. She met the distant gaze of the officer, who sat alone on the family-sized couch watching a documentary about the presence weaponized atheism in authoritarian states. The cerulean eyed teen just stared between the older woman and the TV screen, unsure how to exist in the moment. Naga sat between them both, happily napping at the officer's feet. Korra would have smiled at the sight, but felt uncomfortable doing so, as Lin's pale green eyes looked back up at her.
"You look good, kiddo," she said evenly, her face softened to reveal a faint smile on her lips. Korra returned the smile and crossed into the kitchen.
"Aunt Kya, Ms. Beifong, I'm about to head out," she said hurriedly. "Oh, and someone please go out there and take the remote from Ms. Lin. I don't know what the hell she's watching out there, but it made me sad," she added looking gravely concerned.
"I swear that fool is iron-clad," Suyin laughed, as passed Korra into the living room, and gave her a quick wink when they met eyes. "Have fun at the thing, Korra," she called back with a jovial wave of her hand, and moved to sit with her sister on the couch.
Korra turned to face her, the look of confusion occupying the distinct ripple of her brow. "Why is she like that?" She wanted to appear concerned, but didn't know if she had the energy to properly display it.
"That woman is just a big ol' kid at heart, honey. Don't even think about that. I want you to focus on having fun tonight!" Kya said lovingly and pulled her niece into another smothering embrace.
"Thanks, auntie," she gasped.
Korra offered farewells one last time to Lin and Suyin, before heading out into the crisp late afternoon. The sun would be setting within the hour, so she promptly began to walk over to this 'spick-queasy' she had been hearing about all week from classmates. Twenty minutes later and a few blocks down from her destination, Korra's phone chimed indicating an incoming text. As she flipped it open to read the message a light smile teased the corners of her mouth:
Kuvira: I'm already here. Everything good on your end?
'Yeah, buddy,' she typed out, a light chuckle passing her lips. 'Just down the street.'
A/N: I actually finished this at 4 am and uploaded it immediately after. I'm never doing that again. Smh. But, this chapter is much lighter, because a shit storm is coming. AKA teen angst. Maybe Asami shouldn't have lied about being there?