AVATAR
THE LEGEND OF KORRA
SYNOPSIS:
SHIRO SHINOBI (V.O)
Since Bolin met Opal, the new
airbender, they both were smitten
and became quite the couple.
However, because of the Kuvira
crisis, their relationship was
shaken and called into question.
After Bolin helped to save the
Beifong family from Kuvira, he was
redeemed in Opal's eyes and the two
are back together again. But after
all this drama, is their
relationship truly one that is
meant to last?
BOOK FIVE: PEACE
CHAPTER THREE: PRO-AIRBENDING
EXT. AIR TEMPLE ISLAND - DAY
Kai and Jinora are laying on the grass looking up at the clouds.
KAI
... so then we all had a race down
across the Great Divide before we
got to the village on the other
side. It took us only a couple of
hours. You have no idea how fun it
is to drop down this huge canyon,
then swoop back up with such speed!
JINORA
Wow! That sounds so cool! Did you
win the race?
KAI
Eh, I wish I could say I did, but I
came in a close third.
JINORA
Did you know the Great Divide spans
over 400 kilometers in length?
KAI
Really? Huh. It felt shorter than
that.
Jinora laughs playfully.
JINORA
You have such fun adventures. I
wish I did more stuff like that.
Kai sits up and looks down at her.
KAI
You should go out into the world
more often. Why haven't you been on
more adventures?
JINORA
I don't know, my life has never
been very open to exploring.
Jinora sits up next to him.
JINORA (CONT'D)
Since my siblings and I used to be
the last airbenders, our dad didn't
let us go out by ourselves that
much in order to protect us... and
I guess now... I just simply spend
more of my time with the spirits
and in the Spirit World.
KAI
You know what? We should go out
sometime and do something fun
together; something like an
adventure.
She nuzzles up to his arm.
JINORA
(softly)
I'd really like that.
As the two of them cuddle together, Tenzin watches them from far behind next to the temple. Pema walks up to him looking at Kai and Jinora.
PEMA
Aw! They're so perfectly romantic
together!
TENZIN
I suppose, but it could be their
relationship won't last that long.
Think about how Jinora will feel at
that point.
PEMA
(teasingly)
Oh, Tenzin! You don't always have
to be so super-serious about
everything.
TENZIN
Well, I'm just concerned about our
daughter's well being.
PEMA
Don't worry so much about it. Her
love life probably won't end up
being as complicated as yours was.
TENZIN
It's not just that. Kai has had a
very deceptive background. It could
possibly come back to-
PEMA
Have you ever considered the
possibility that Kai has changed?
They're both fine. They're quite
mature for their age. I've never
seen anyone so in love since...
well... since we were first in
love.
She wraps her arms around Tenzin and he smiles.
PEMA
Even if they don't end up together
in the end, maybe they're just not
thinking that far ahead. They
should just have fun together in
the moment.
She kisses him briefly.
PEMA (CONT'D)
Just take it easy on them.
She lets go and walks off.
TENZIN
All right.
He inhales and exhales as he walks over and approaches Kai and Jinora.
TENZIN
Good day, Jinora. Kai.
The two of them turn around. Jinora has a look of concern.
JINORA
(embarrassed)
Oh... hey Dad...
KAI
(brightly)
Good day, Master Tenzin. Is there
anything you need?
TENZIN
Jinora, may I have a word with Kai?
Jinora turns around and pouts with her arms crossed.
JINORA
(irritated)
Fine.
Kai gets up and he and Tenzin walk over to the courtyard.
EXT. AIR TEMPLE ISLAND - COURTYARD
KAI
So what's up, Sir. Did I do
something wrong?
TENZIN
(uneasy and stammering)
Oh no, no, not at all... I just,
uh... wanted to know how things
have been with you and Jinora.
KAI
Oh, uh, we've been doing great. Our
relationship has been just fine.
TENZIN
It has then? Well, that's- that's
good to know... I can never really
tell with you kids, but it's good
that you're doing well...
He looks off and strokes his beard as they enter a brief awkward silence.
KAI
(concerned)
Look, Sir, I know you're probably
concerned that I might end up
hurting Jinora, and I completely
understand why you feel that way. I
just want you to know that I really
care about her and I wouldn't want
anything bad to happen to her.
Tenzin grins at Kai.
TENZIN
You're a very smart boy, Kai... not
to mention you're one of my best
students. Pretty soon, you may just
earn your own tattoos.
He bows respectfully to him.
KAI
Thank you, Sir.
He runs back over to the field.
EXT. AIR TEMPLE ISLAND - FIELD
Kai sits down next to Jinora.
JINORA
(bothered)
What did my dad tell you? Does he
have a problem with our
relationship?
KAI
Actually, everything's fine. He
just wanted to know how we were
doing, and he has no problem with
us.
JINORA
Well, okay. If you say so...
KAI
Hey, I actually have a fun idea for
a date we could do. I heard that
they are now having airbenders in
pro-bending matches, and the first
match is tonight. You wanna go?
They both stand up.
JINORA
Really, they have airbenders now?
She considers for a moment.
JINORA (CONT'D)
I guess I could go, though I've
never seen a real pro-bending match
before.
KAI
Then this one should be a perfect
first for you.
Ikki and Meelo jump out from the bushes they were hiding in and run up to Kai and Jinora.
IKKI
Ooh! Ooh! They have airbenders now?
I wanna go too!
MEELO
Me too! I wanna be a pro-bender!
Kai seems cool about it, but Jinora gets annoyed.
KAI
Actually, that'd be great if we
all-
JINORA
No guys! This is just for me and
Kai! You can't come with us!
IKKI
That's no fair! How come whenever
you do something fun with your
boyfriend, we can't come too?!
JINORA
Because that's what couples DO when
they date!
Kai holds her arm and turns her around to him.
KAI
(reassuring)
Jinora, it's okay. They can come
too. It'll be fun!
JINORA
(quietly)
But Kai, I don't want them to.
They'll just ruin everything and be
annoying.
Pema walks in to settle everything.
PEMA
Look kids, this is something really
special for Jinora and Kai. Just
let them go alone tonight and I
promise your dad and I will take
you to another match soon.
Ikki's arms drop in disappointment and she walks away.
IKKI
(politely)
Yes, Mom.
Pema looks down at Meelo.
PEMA
Now, Meelo, go off and play with
your little brother.
He crosses his arms and pouts.
MEELO
(grumbling)
But I don't want to play with him.
He's not even an airbender.
PEMA
(angrily)
Meelo! Don't you ever talk about
your brother like that! You go play
with him now!
She angrily points to the side. Meelo groans and runs off.
INT. PRO-BENDING ARENA - NIGHT
SHIRO SHINOBI
IIIttt's Pro-Bending Night in
Republic City for the beginning of
the new season! And for the first
time ever, the teams will play with
their new airbending team members!
I gotta tell you, it looks like our
first match is going to be quite
the breeze of a competition!
Kai and Jinora are seated at the edge of the front row. Both are quite excited. Jinora shows her enthusiasm while sitting politely and Kai holds up his fists with excitement.
SHIRO SHINOBI
With a boasting four player roster
for each team on the newly rebuilt
playing field, I think it's safe to
say that these games will be unlike
any other in history. The opposing
teams will now enter the field.
The long platforms on both ends of the stadium extend to the field. The two teams walk on from the platforms.
ANNOUNCER
INTRODUCING OUR FIRST TEAM! THE
EMBER ISLAND EEL HOUNDS!
The four Eel Hounds are dressed in orange uniforms with brown lines. They wave all around to the audience.
ANNOUNCER
AND THEIR OPPONENTS, THE CAPITAL
CITY CATGATORS!
The Catgators uniforms are light blue with red stripes. The team members simply walk and pose with stern faces.
Kai leans over to Jinora.
KAI
I wonder which players are which
element.
JINORA
Each of the players are color coded
based on their element. So the
airbenders should be the ones with
the yellow sashes and helmets.
The two teams line up against the border line in the center.
SHIRO SHINOBI
With both teams hailing from the
Fire Nation, their long lasting
rivalry will make for a heated
first match.
Jinora looks between the two teams.
JINORA
Which team do you think we should
root for?
KAI
I'm not sure. Let's just see how
they play against each other and
decide from there.
The bell rings and all eight players unleash their attacks. Each of the different elemental groups face of each other.
SHIRO SHINOBI
The match starts out with a chaotic
launch as each element faces off
with the other. It looks like both
airbenders are showing of their
great speed and agility with their
rapid attacks and evasions. Neither
one has landed a single hit.
The Catgator airbender ducks and uppercuts the wind on the Eel Hound knocking his head up. He steps back a bit right as the Catgator waterbender curves a stream into him causing him to tumble backwards into the zone behind him. The Eel Hound waterbender blasts at the opposing waterbender. He recoils and is knocked back.
SHIRO SHINOBI
Ooh! Looks like Jin finally strikes
Oran with a surprise uppercut!
Juran splashes him over to Zone Two
but leaves himself open for an
offense from Kiro.
The earthbender and firebender on the Catgators throw rock disks and fire punches at the opponents slowly moving them back.
SHIRO SHINOBI
The Catgators are taking advantage
of the Eel Hounds' missteps and
becoming more aggressive. They're
moving them step by step into Zone
Two!
The Eel Hound airbender and waterbender hide behind the earthbender and firebender who use defense and the former two curve attacks knocking the Catgators progressively to the middle.
SHIRO SHINOBI
What's this? The Eel hounds are
using Kahn and Soran as a shield!
They're knocking the Catgators into
place with wind and water!
The four Eel Hounds get into formation and all attack the Catgators repeatedly. They are thrown back to Zone Two and Three.
SHIRO SHINOBI
The Eel Hounds are blasting all
they got to pound the Catgators
into place. They go to Zone Two...
now to Zone Three!
The Eel Hounds unleash all four elements at once and throw the Catgators off the back of the ring and into the water.
SHIRO SHINOBI
IT'S A KNOCKOUT! The Eel Hounds
make a fantastic start off on the
first match of the season!
The crowds cheer and Kai and Jinora cheer excitedly along with them.
MONTAGE - PRO-BENDING MATCHES
Kai and Jinora watch several different matches showcasing each of the different elements.
EXT. PRO-BENDING ARENA / ENTRANCE - NIGHT
Kai and Jinora walk through the main lobby with excitement.
KAI
Wow! That was amazing! I've never
seen bending like that before.
JINORA
I know! That was so cool!
KAI
Yeah! I've gotta try that out!
He walks up to the man at the front admissions desk.
KAI
Excuse me. Is there a place that
teaches pro-bending lessons?
CLERK
Lessons? Well, I'm not sure about
that, but if you're interested in
try-outs, here's a pamphlet for all
the try-out dates at the gym.
He hands a pamphlet to Kai who walks back to Jinora.
KAI
Look! There's gonna be a try-out in
a couple of days. I gotta check
that out!
JINORA
Are you sure? You're not actually
thinking about joining a
pro-bending team, are you?
KAI
Of course not. I just want to see
how good I am at it.
INT. MAKO AND BOLIN'S APARTMENT
A knock comes from the door and Bolin opens to see Kai.
KAI
Hey, Bolin!
Bolin rubs his eyes looking a bit tired.
BOLIN
(yawning)
Kai, hey. What brings you here...
so early in the morning?
KAI
I wanted to see if you could teach
me pro-bending.
BOLIN
(confused)
Wait, pro-bending?
KAI
Yeah. They have a new system that
lets airbenders into teams, and
Korra told me that you were an
expert pro-bender. Is it possible
that you could at least show me
some of your moves?
Bolin pauses for a moment considering with his eyebrows raised. He rubs his hand against his chin. Then he immediately holds up his finger.
BOLIN
See... that is EXACTLY... why I
adopted you as my little brother.
He hugs Kai on one side and holds out his right hand forward.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Kai, I'm going to make you the best
pro-bending airbender out there!
He ponders for a moment.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
... or... pro-airbender!... Yeah,
that's right.
Both of them smile hardily at each other.
INT. PRO-BENDING ARENA / GYM - DAY
Both Kai and Bolin are wearing protective suits and headgear. They are in a fighting stance with their fists up standing a couple of meters away.
BOLIN
Okay, in order for you to be a
pro-bender, you need to be light on
your feet at all times. Use some
quick jabs to attack, and always be
ready to dodge or block attacks.
You think you got that.
KAI
(quickly)
Light on feet, quick jabs, evade
attacks, got it!
BOLIN
Okay! Let's give it a shot!
Right as Bolin lifts a rock disk up from the stack, Kai throws two quick punches of air at Bolin. As he is hit, he grunts and drops the disk in recoil.
BOLIN
Hey! Not yet! It takes a bit longer
for us earthbenders to get our
guard up!
KAI
Sorry! My bad.
BOLIN
No problem. Let's start again on my
mark.
They get back in their stance and Bolin lifts two rock disks.
BOLIN
Okay... GO!
Bolin launches the two disks at Kai who knocks them out of the way with some air strikes. As Bolin throws another disk, Kai ducks underneath it and thrusts forward hitting Bolin and making him land on his back.
BOLIN
Agh! First Opal, now you! Why are
you airbenders so hard to work
with?!
Bolin gets back on his feet.
KAI
I'm sorry. Did I do it wrong?
BOLIN
No, no. Actually you're doing
great. You getting the hang of
it... So... Wait, why do you need
my help again?
KAI
I just wanted to know if you
thought I was doing well.
BOLIN
You are indeed, little brother...
It looks like you're ready for the
try-outs!
INT. PRO-BENDING ARENA / GYM - NIGHT
Several benders including Kai are working out at the different physical exams like weight lifting, bar swinging, etc.
The gymnast walks in and blows a whistle. Everyone stops their actions and moves to the center.
GYMNAST
All right, benders, for the next
part of the examination, you will
each face off in a one on one match
with a trainee of your respective
element. The one who knocks the
other on their feet wins.
Eight of the trainees stand a distance in front of each other and hold their pose up. Kai's opponent is a fifteen year old guy.
GYMNAST
On my mark!
He blows his whistle and each of the four elements attack.
Kai ducks and kicks a gust at the opposing airbender. The airbender makes a curved strike with his hands knocking the gust out of the way. Kai throws a couple of punches, but the airbender stands his ground punches the blasts to the side. He punches with two fists forward.
As the strong blast hits Kai, he holds his arms up crossed and blocks the attack while being budged slight to the back. Another blast approaches Kai and he twists around to the left and dodges it. As he is turning around, he throws some air around and hits the airbender on his right. Kai does a combo by kicking left around to the airbender's left side and knocks him over.
The gymnast blows his whistle as each of the group has a player who is on the ground.
GYMNAST
All right! We have our winners!
INT. PRO-BENDING ARENA / HALLWAY
As the benders exit the gym. Kai runs up to the airbender he was facing.
KAI
Hey, I just wanted to say that you
did great, even if you're not going
to make it to a team.
JUN
Thanks, and it's okay. I'm not
really doing it to get in. It's
just for fun.
KAI
Same here. What's your name?
JUN
My name is Jun. What's your's?
KAI
Kai. I live on Air Temple Island
with the other nomads.
JUN
Really? You're an Air Nomad? So you
must be an expert airbender!
KAI
I guess. Maybe you should come over
to the temple to join with us.
JUN
Nah, I'm good. I just don't think
being an Air Nomad is my life.
KAI
Okay. That's fine.
JUN
But you know what? I'm actually
with my own group of airbenders who
fight for fun. We fight every
morning in the city.
KAI
Really? That sounds cool! Is it
possible I could check it out?
JUN
Sure. Any local airbender is
welcome.
He hands him over a card with a map of the city. There is a red dot on one location.
JUN (CONT'D)
Just be at this location at 5:30
tomorrow morning. I hope you're an
early squirrel bird!
KAI
I'll be there! Thanks, Jun!
He runs off excitedly.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY / ALLEY WAY - EARLY MORNING
It is only barely daylight outside. Several kids and teenagers circle around and area.
Kai is facing off with a kid about thirteen years old. The kid thrashes wildly at Kai, who dodges and blocks the constant whips of air while being light on his feet. The kid screams and runs toward Kai. He leaps and claws some air at his area. Kai leaps out of the way to the right, doing a somersault. He rolls onto his feet, does an uppercut and curves a punch throwing the kid against the wall. He impacts and collapses on the ground.
All of the surrounding kids rave and cheer as Kai looks around smiling.
JUN
The winner is Kai!
Jun lifts up Kai's arm as the kids continue to cheer.
Moments later as the daylight is coming through, Jun walks up to Kai and hands him a stack of cash.
JUN
Here's the yuans for your winnings.
KAI
Really? I actually won this?
JUN
Of course. Several kids bet on you.
It's your division of the prize
money.
He holds his money happily.
KAI
This is great! Thanks!
JUN
No problem. Come back any time you
want to face off again.
He walks away in one direction with the other kids. Kai puts the money in his bag, picks up his glider, takes it out, and flies off in the other direction.
EXT. AIR TEMPLE ISLAND - COURTYARD
Kai flies in over to Jinora who is walking by. He lands next to her.
KAI
(excitedly)
Jinora! Check out what I got.
He reaches into his bag and shows the stack of cash. Jinora looks surprised and concerned.
JINORA
Wait. Where did you get all that
money?
KAI
I got it from these airbending
matches with some kids in the city.
JINORA
(shocked)
What? You were fighting in
underground matches? That's
illegal!
KAI
This isn't like that. It's just
some friendly competition. Nothing
more.
Jinora pauses then looks up at Kai seriously.
JINORA
Kai, you need to return the money.
He looks at her questionably.
KAI
Why? What's the problem?
JINORA
You shouldn't be fighting for
something that people gamble, and
who knows where they got it from
originally.
KAI
(reassuring)
Jinora, it's fine. I'm not hurting
anyone. I got this cash fair and
square.
JINORA
Look, I know that you have the best
of intentions, but you have to
understand that as an Air Nomad,
you can't just be involved in any
underground activities... Also, we
can't hold on to worldly
possessions. I think it's best if
you take the money back or give it
to someone else who needs it.
Kai contemplates and has an apologetic expression.
KAI
You know what... you're right. I
shouldn't be doing this. I'm just
letting my past self get to me.
Jinora holds up her hand worriedly.
JINORA
(nervously)
Wait, no, Kai, I'm sorry. I didn't
mean that-
KAI
It's okay. There's some part of my
old life that has never completely
left me. I chose to become an Air
Nomad because I wanted to change my
life so I could learn to help
people, not to take away from them.
He opens up his glider.
KAI
I'm going to return this back to
them.
She smiles warmly.
JINORA
Thanks, Kai.
He smiles back.
KAI
No... thank you... for guiding me
in the right direction.
He jumps on his glider and flies back to the city.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY / STREETS - DAY
Kai heads over and lands on a rail next to a subway entrance. He crouches over and looks around. Across the street, he sees Jun walk to away behind a building.
KAI
Hey! Jun! Wait up!
He take out his glider and flies over the street to land on the sidewalk across. He runs over to behind the building. He sees Jun walk to the right into an alley way. He follows him up, but then hears voices. He stops at the side of the building corner next to the alley way entrance. His head peers a bit out. Jun is speaking with two men.
THUG #1
Did you set up the distraction?
JUN
Yes. The area should be open when
we get there.
THUG #2
Good! We'll get in and steal as
much cash as we can, if we run out
of time, just drop the rest and
make a run for it.
Kai is shocked as he hears this information. He moves back behind the wall as the three of them walk up to the entrance. They look to the left and right seeing that the coast is clear, and they run to the right.
Kai is hanging from a window high up as they run away. He frowns when looking at Jun in the distance. He leaps up on top of the buildings to follow them.
EXT. AIR TEMPLE ISLAND - COURTYARD
Jinora is leaning on the side of a rail as Poki flies up next to her.
JINORA
Hey, Poki. I wonder what's taking
Kai so long.
Poki chirps in response.
JINORA (CONT'D)
Maybe I should check on him.
She closes her eyes and puts her fists together. Her spirit warps across into the city. She sees Kai jumping across the buildings following the thugs.
Immediately, she wakes up.
JINORA
Oh no! Who is he following? I have
to go after him!
She frantically picks up her glider and flies off.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY / STREETS - DAY
Kai stops at one building to look at the back of a bank. Jun and some other thugs walk out with full bags.
JUN
Hurry! We have to get out!
As Kai is watching them, a kid calls out to him.
KID (O.S.)
Hey! Who are you?!
Kai looks over at the kid on the other building surprised, then jumps down the building away from the kid.
KID
SPY! WE HAVE A SPY!
The thugs look up and see Kai leaping down.
JUN
SHOOT! Let's get out, NOW!
The group runs faster and Kai lands on the ground following them in pursuit.
KAI
Stop! Stop right now!
As they get to the sidewalk, the use airbending to boost their running speed. As Kai gets out, he is surprised as they run away. He immediately gets on his glider.
As he is flying after them, Jinora swoops in and flies next to him.
JINORA
Kai! What's going on?!
KAI
Some airbenders were robbing the
bank! We have to stop them!
They speed up their flight. The criminals leap across the street into another alley. Kai and Jinora turn to fly across the street and retract their gliders to follow them through the alley.
The criminals vault around and over several trash bins and boxes. As Kai and Jinora run up, one of the criminals airbends the mess all over to get in the way. Kai and Jinora jump across against the walls to pursue them.
Both of them are catching up with Jun.
KAI
Jun! You have to stop this!
Jun briefly stops and low kicks and them. The wind trips them over. Then several airbenders leap down from above as they get up. They land next to Kai and physically hit specific points on his arms and legs. He then collapses.
JINORA
KAI!
As Jinora watches, some others appear from behind her and hits her pressure points, causing her to fall down as well.
As they lay on the ground, Jinora and Kai look up at each other as everything fades to black.
INT. HIDEOUT
The hideout is dark and made of wood. The only outside lights that come through are from the small rectangular lights at the top corners of the area. They are to small for anyone to see outside
Kai and Jinora wake up next to each other. They look around and see that the criminals are surrounding them. They quickly get up and and hold their hands up on guard as they stand back to back. A mid temp slightly gruff voice calls to them.
GORONZO (O.S.)
Relax, there's no use fighting.
You're bending is blocked.
Both of them look to the side to see a man in his thirties with stubble sitting in a chair. Jun is standing right next to him. They both let down their guard and glare at him angrily.
JINORA
Who are you?! Why do you have
airbenders as criminals?!
GORONZO
My name is Goronzo, and this is my
gang. Allow me to explain our
origin, Jinora of the Air Nomads.
He stands up from his chair.
GORONZO (CONT'D)
Before Harmonic Convergence, I was
part of Amon and the Equalists. I
sought to rid the world of benders,
before he was revealed as a
hypocrite bloodbender. I was
imprisoned over the next year. Then
I became an airbender, and I truly
realized the greatness of bending.
He lifts his arms to point around at the gang.
GORONZO (CONT'D)
So I sought out to find rebel
airbenders like myself. Together,
we have started the first
airbending criminal organization.
The Sky Triad!
JINORA
You can't use them like this!
Airbending is a sacred art!
KAI
Yeah! How could do something like
this?!
Goronzo only smirks.
GORONZO
Why, it's only natural, my boy.
Every people group and culture of
benders in the world have their own
underground organization. It only
makes sense that we complete that
tradition.
JINORA
You won't get away with this! The
police will find us!
GORONZO
That's unlikely. We are currently
in a hideout far away from Republic
City. They won't find you any time
soon. As it stands, we will keep
you two as our prisoners...
unless...
Kai and Jinora's expressions turn to questioning.
GORONZO (CONT'D)
We are willing to not keep you as
hostages... if you join our triad
and become part of us. We will give
you and the other airbenders the
freedom to be who you want to be;
the freedom from your former
restrictive order.
JINORA
(angrily)
We will NEVER join you! How can
you possibly think we'd-
Kai holds up his hand to Jinora and interrupts her.
KAI
Jinora, wait! Let's think about
this...
JINORA
(confused)
What?
Kai looks at the ground and ponders, then he looks up at Goronzo.
KAI
So what you're saying is... if we
join your triad, we can be free to
do what we want?
GORONZO
Exactly.
Kai closes his eyes and pauses intensely. He looks back up at him.
KAI
... I want in.
Jinora's eyes widen in shock.
JINORA
(worried)
Kai! What are you doing?!
KAI
I grew up as a thief and joined the
Air Nomads for a new life, but
recently, I've realized that it's
become nothing more than a prison.
I never wanted to admit it until
now. I'm tired of it, and I want to
be free again.
JINORA
(horrified)
Kai! You can't be serious!
Kai looks back at Jinora with a serious look.
KAI
Jinora, you know as well as I do
that we can't be together unless we
break free. Think about it. You
know that your dad doesn't approve
of our relationship. He thinks we
aren't right for each other. This
is the only way we can truly be
together.
She starts to tear up. Then he winks at her.
She gasps silently in realization at what he is doing. He holds out his hand to her.
KAI (CONT'D)
Trust me, the only way we can be
happy is if you go along with me.
Jinora pauses and contemplates.
JINORA
(skeptically)
You know what... you're right...
Goronzo raises his eyebrows in intrigue.
JINORA (CONT'D)
For too long, I've had to deal with
our rigid customs. My dad doesn't
trust us. He doesn't understand
I've grown up and thinks I'm still
just a little girl. I can't
understand why he still thinks that
way.
GORONZO
So, what's your decision?
Jinora steps up next to Kai. She takes off her sash from her waist and ties it around her forehead, covering her arrow tattoo. She looks up at him with a intense expression.
JINORA
I want to join the Sky Triad.
Goronzo smiles lifts up his hands lightheartedly.
GORONZO
See? Now that was easy, wasn't it?
Boys, I want to welcome the newest
members of our group!
The benders around them cheer. As the area floods with the crowd, Jinora looks saddened.
INT. HIDEOUT / LUNCH ROOM
Kai and Jinora sit at a table at the corner of the room amidst several other tables with people. They are now dressed in brown clothes and Jinora is still wearing her headband.
He has a full plate and she has an empty one. They keep their voices low when talking.
JINORA
I'm so glad you're not really
changing sides.
KAI
Thanks for playing along with me.
JINORA
So why exactly are we doing this? I
can still contact the outside and
get help.
Kai scans around at the other people.
KAI
Right now, I just want to figure
out what this gang is up to and how
far they're spread out. Also, I
don't want us to get locked in
cages again like we were with the
bison rustlers.
JINORA
Yeah, it was pretty uncomfortable
that time.
One guy is walking up to them and Kai notices.
KAI
(whispering)
Quick! Act normal!
The just look at their plates as the stocky looking teenager walks up to them.
TEENAGER
(stuck up)
So, you guys find everything okay?
JINORA
Uh, yeah. Everything's good.
KAI
Hey, I was wondering. Since we're
part of the gang, do we get to
learn any chi blocking?
TEENAGER
(yelling)
No! Goronzo doesn't want you
messing around! Only high members
can block chi.
KAI
Okay, just wondering.
TEENAGER
Just to let you know, we still
don't entirely trust you. So be
aware, we're keeping an eye on you
two.
He gestures with his hand pointing at his eyes and at them.
Then he walks away.
Jinora's stomach start growling. She groans and clenches her stomach.
JINORA
Ugh. I'm so hungry.
KAI
Jinora, you have to eat the food here.
JINORA
(groaning)
But I can't! All they have here is
meat! It's disgusting!
KAI
Look, in order for us to make our
plan tomorrow, you have to be ready
and in shape.
He holds his plate over her's and moves half of his food onto her plate.
KAI (CONT'D)
You just have to do it this once,
and I promise you'll never have to
eat meat again.
She looks at her food squeamishly. She takes a piece with her fork and slowly puts it in her mouth. As she chews on it, she looks disgusted and acts a bit nauseous.
KAI
So how is it?
She struggles to swallow the piece and tries to smile.
JINORA
It's... um... not bad?
She tries to compose herself.
JINORA (CONT'D)
So what's the plan.
KAI
Okay, when we're in bed, you'll
send a message to Mako telling
about everything after you look
outside and find out where we are.
I'm going to sneak in and find a
map of where more of the triad is
spread out. If we're gonna stop
these guys, I want to stop them
once and for all.
INT. HIDEOUT / BEDROOM - NIGHT
The two of them are in a room of their own. On the bunk bed, Kai is laying on the top bunk and Jinora laying is on the bottom bunk.
Kai looks over and leaps off the bed descending quietly.
KAI
(quietly)
Okay, I'm going to sneak into
Goronzo's room to find anything.
You try and contact Mako.
JINORA
(quietly)
Kai, are you sure you can do this.
He smiles and holds a thumbs up.
KAI
Positive. I'm good at this sort of
thing.
He walks out of the door opening and closing it carefully. Jinora turns back into her bed and closes her eyes.
INT. REPUBLIC CITY / POLICE HEADQUARTERS - NIGHT
Mako is asleep on his desk as Jinora's projection appears next to him.
JINORA
Mako. Wake up.
Mako slowly lifts his head up grunting and sees Jinora's spirit on his left. His eyes wide and he sits up immediately.
MAKO
Jinora! What's wrong?!
JINORA
Kai and I were captured by an
airbender named Goronzo and his
gang called the Sky Triad. We need
you to rally the police force to
get us out.
MAKO
Got it! I'll get right to it.
He takes out a map of the United Republic.
MAKO (CONT'D)
Can you pin point your location?
Jinora points over to the west of Republic City.
JINORA
We're right in this mountain range
far outside of the city. The
hideout is underneath this lone
cottage at this point. You gotta
hurry!
MAKO
Right! I'm on it!
He picks up the phone and Jinora's spirit disappears.
INT. HIDEOUT / GORONZO'S OFFICE
Kai is sidling against the wall and peers into Goronzo's room through the entrance. Goronzo is sleeping at his desk and snoring.
Kai tip toes in a looks at the desk. Then he looks through the cabinet. on one table he sees a stack of paper and picks it up, only to find them all blank.
KAI
(whispering)
No! This can't be!
He places the stack down.
KAI (CONT'D)
Is there any map at all?
Goronzo budges and grunts. Kai freaks out for a moment and softly leaps over to the doorway and hides behind the wall. Goronzo mumbles and puts his head back down. Kai sighs with relief and sneaks out.
INT. HIDEOUT / BEDROOM
Kai heads back in quietly and onto his bed.
JINORA
Did you find anything?
KAI
No, there's no record of any
locations. I tried looking in the
other rooms, but I couldn't find
anything there either.
JINORA
Well, it was worth a try. The
police should be over here at some
point. Let's just get some sleep.
Both of them close their eyes.
EXT. MOUNTAIN RANGE - MORNING
The police ride in on the road with Mako leading on his motorcycle. They see a small cottage nearby and the stop next to it. The run out and up to the house.
INT. HIDEOUT
The police knock down the cellar door and swarm inside. They see some people in their beds frantically getting out.
MAKO
POLICE! GET DOWN ON THE GROUND!
The airbenders try to blast at them, but the metalbenders block with their shields. They move them over and some of the officers shoot their cables and electrocute them. Another airbender runs in and blasts some air, but Mako runs in and lunges his fists forward making a constant flamethrower which counters the attack. The airbender lets his guard down and Mako punches some fire at him knocking over.
MAKO
Search the entire area for them!
The officer break down the doors finding many empty bedrooms.
OFFICER
They're not here, Sir!
Mako walks up to the stocky teenager he was fighting and picks him up by his collar.
MAKO
You! Where are Kai and Jinora?!
Where's Goronzo?!
TEENAGER
(terrified)
I-I don't know! I mean, they left
for Republic City a couple of hours
ago!
MAKO
Shoot!
He drops him and looks up at the officers.
MAKO (CONT'D)
Have one division secure these
suspects! The rest of us need to
get back to Republic City,
immediately!
OFFICER
Yes Sir!
Mako and some officers run out.
INT. TRUCK - DAY
Kai and Jinora wake up sitting next to each other. They look around surprised and look at Jun and the other triad members.
KAI
(anxiously)
Wait, where are we? Why aren't we
at the hideout?
JUN
We brought you in here while you
were asleep.
JINORA
What? Why did you do that?
JUN
You're new members. Sorry, but we
can't let you know where our
hideout is yet. Anyway, Goronzo
wants us to go on a mission in the
city to show what you've got as
triad members.
Jinora and Kai look at each other worried.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY - DAY
The truck parks right next to a short building and Goronzo exits the driving seat and opens the back.
GORONZO
All right! This is your first test
to see if you fit in with the gang.
Just come with me.
They walk out to him right next to the building. He leaps up five stories and grabs onto a window ledge.
GORONZO (CONT'D)
Be sure you can keep up!
He continues leaping up and grabbing onto ledges as the others follow him.
As they reach the top, they leap across the buildings and reach a tall building with a roof structure next to it. They land on this roof Goronzo walks up to the wall. He turns to the others.
GORONZO
Okay, once we're inside, you just
follow Jun to the floor where
you'll take the weapons.
He turns over to the wall and starts airbending. He creates a large wind sphere in his hands. His right hand is on top of the sphere and his left is on the bottom. He slowly moves his hands closer together and the sphere becomes smaller and more compressed. The wind speed and pitch become higher and faster.
He then has a fast small wind sphere in his right hand. He holds it back, lunges his hand forward, and rams it against the wall. It smashes the concrete wall and wind blasts out from the sides. As everything calms down, an opening with rubble surrounding it is revealed. Kai and Jinora are speechless at the sheer power of his airbending.
GORONZO
All right! Head inside! I'll meet
up with you later.
He runs to the side and leaps off the building. All of the others walk into the opening.
INT. STAIRWAY
The group walks down a square stairway. Jun leads the way as Kai and Jinora follow from the end with two other airbenders in front. Jinora whispers next to Kai.
JINORA
(quietly)
Kai, we have to get out of here. We
can't be caught in this criminal
act.
KAI
(quietly)
Don't worry, I'll get us out.
They walk on one floor and head through the door into a hall. They move up to the the end and at the next door which leads to another room. Jun holds up his hand to the others.
JUN
Wait here. I'm gonna make sure it's
safe.
He walks in and closes the door. The two guys are right next to Kai. He looks at both of them. Suddenly, he kicks the one on his right against the wall and quickly airbends the other one against the adjacent wall.
KAI
Come on! Let's get out!
He grabs Jinora's hand and they run through the hallway.
JINORA
So what's the plan?!
KAI
We get outside and try to make a
run for the police headquarters!
They run to the stairway and Kai vaults over the rail and hangs onto the edge. He leaps down to the lower rail on the other side and Jinora follows him with the same actions. They keep jumping off from one rail to the other until Kai stops on one floor. He leaps over and goes through the door with Jinora still following him.
They head to the window ahead. Kai opens it and they jump out three stories to the floor.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY / ALLEYWAY - DAY
Kai and Jinora land on their feet and look at each other.
KAI
Okay, we made it. Let's head to the
police.
They run forward through the alleyway.
GORONZO (O.S.)
I don't think so.
They stop and see Goronzo and the other airbenders appear in front of them. Jun drops down from above and joins them.
JINORA
No! How did you know we were here?!
GORONZO
This whole operation was merely a
test for you to prove your trust
and loyalty to us. It appears you
have failed that test.
Kai and Jinora hold their stances fiercely.
GORONZO (CONT'D)
You honestly think I actually
believed your stories and thought
you changed sides? I wouldn't
expect the daughter of Tenzin to be
so gullible.
KAI
You won't get away! The police will
be here soon!
GORONZO
Not if I can help it. You two will
pay for betraying-
He is interrupted when Kai spins a low kick airbending wave knocking them all off their feet. Kai and Jinora run to the side.
KAI
RUN!
The triad quickly gets up on their feet.
GORONZO
GET THEM!
The airbenders chase after them.
Kai and Jinora leap onto one wall then across onto the side buildings roof. They run along the edge where some airbenders appear in front of them. They stop and then see some other airbenders behind them. Kai is facing one direction and Jinora is facing the other side.
KAI
I think we have to take them on.
JINORA
Right. Make sure they don't get
near us or they'll block our
bending.
KAI
Got it!
They quickly switch sides and blast against the airbenders. The benders jump and throw attacks at them. Kai and Jinora counter them and continue to knock air at them. In a coordinated move. Jinora side flips over Kai and He moves underneath her and they thrust at their directions with both hands. Both groups are blown off.
They run to the across the roof and leap across the buildings. They look to the side as they are flying through and see the airbenders leaping across. The right group on Jinora's side blasts at them in mid-air. While jumping across, Jinora spin kicks twice at them and deflects the attack. The group on Kai's side attacks him, but he throws his arms back and boosts behind him speeding out of the way of their attack.
Some more airbenders appear chasing them from behind. In the distance, Kai sees several vehicles driving up on the other side of the nearby bridge.
KAI
Look! That's gotta be Mako! We have
to get over to that bridge!
The two of them curve off toward the bridge.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY / BRIDGE - DAY
Mako rides his motorcycle heading the police trucks as they ride onto the bridge. He is surprised to see the airbenders leaping across the city far off. He turns on his radio device.
MAKO
They're approaching the bridge! All
units head to the end of the bridge
and secure the perimeter!
They speed up across the bridge.
Kai and Jinora continue to evade the airbenders' attacks. At one moment, and airbender leaps right at Jinora and attempts to hit her arm. She quickly twists to dodge and blows him to the side.
When the two come near the seaside. They jump right off one building and land with somersaults. The airbenders jump
after them and continue to chase them on foot.
JINORA
We're almost there!
As they run up to the bridge, the police drive up and stop as Kai and Jinora leap over them.
The gang members stop as Mako and the police force exit and get off their vehicles.
MAKO
Members of the Sky Triad! You are
under arrest for kidnap and theft!
Jun and the others freak out.
JUN
No! It's the cops! Run!
They immediately run the other way, but the officers throw their cables out and latch onto them tripping them over and electrocuting them.
Kai and Jinora sigh in relief, but then Kai sees Goronzo running straight toward them from the side.
KAI
Goronzo!
At that moment, Goronzo leaps in and blasts at everyone knocking them all over except for Kai who blocks. Goronzo jumps onto the left bridge cable and runs up. Kai runs after him.
KAI
Stop! Get back here!
Kai jumps on the cable and runs up after him. After a bit of time catching up, Kai throws some air at Goronzo, but he leaps up onto the tower section. He grabs onto the side and jumps up grabbing on until he reaches the top. Kai pursues him with the same actions until they are both on top of the tower. Goronzo runs to the other side and stops. Kai holds up his stance.
KAI
Give up, Goronzo! You have no where
to run!
Goronzo slowly turns to Kai.
GORONZO
So, it's going to be like this. All
right! It's just you and me, boy!
He gets into his fighting stance and the two face off over the platform made of crossing rails.
Goronzo thrusts forward with both hands and Kai jumps to the right over a hole. He lands on the rail to the side and throws a curved attack at him. Goronzo jumps to miss it and makes a blast on the ground causing a shock wave of wind. Kai holds his ground and puts puts his hands forward in a triangle making the wind blow to the side of him.
He throws several jabs at Goronzo who jumps across the rails to the middle of the area. He dodges and blocks the attacks. In one moment, he creates an air sphere and quickly compresses it into the small power sphere. He leaps forward to Kai trying to hit him with the sphere. Kai quickly backs up on his rail and Goronzo's punch misses. But he still has the sphere in his hands.
He throws punches at Kai still with the sphere, but he dodges with every movement. Kai hits him in the center and he flips farther back on the rail. As he lands, he rockets over to Kai with extreme speed. Right as the sphere approaches Kai, he airbends with his hands and redirects the sphere to the ground. When it hits the rail, it explodes and Kai is thrown all the way to the other end of the tower. He is about to fall off but grabs onto the edge and throws himself back up, only to be hit from the side with Goronzo's curved attack.
He falls on one rail and Goronzo approaches him making another air sphere in his hands. He holds it up above Kai about to throw it down at him. A gust from behind hits his hand directly and the sphere explodes blowing him behind. As he gains his footing, he looks behind and sees Jinora glaring at him viciously. Kai gets up and both of them hold their stance against Goronzo on both side. Goronzo just
smiles.
GORONZO
What is it with you kids always
wanting to be the heroes?! Why
don't you just leave it to the
adults!
He thrusts both his hands out on either side and both kids block him. He jumps back farther to the side of the tower and Kai and Jinora throw attacks at him. As they approach him, Kai attacks him head on. As he blocks, Jinora, throws him to the side and hits him to budge over to his left. They get him over to the edge of the bridge. He looks down at the street below where the police are, then he sees some blimps flying in slowly from the city. Kai and Jinora stop attacking and hold their guard up at him.
JINORA
Surrender, Goronzo! And we won't
blast you off of this bridge!
Goronzo looks back at the kids, then he bends the air from behind Jinora launching her straight toward him. She screams and he stops her. As she lands on the rail. He hits he with his fingers at several points on her arms and legs, blocking her chi.
KAI
NO! JINORA!
Kai attacks directly at Goronzo who blocks him.
He then holds up Jinora by her neck over the ravine. She struggles to loosen his grip.
GORONZO
Stop now! You're girlfriend has no
airbending! If you attack me again,
I let her go and she dies!
Kai growls angrily at him.
JINORA
KAI! HELP ME!
Kai looks at the surrounding area, at the police on the ground and at the blimps. He looks back at Goronzo and grins.
KAI
I guess you underestimate me.
He hits him forward directly without him blocking. Goronzo is thrown forward and he drops Jinora.
Jinora falls and screams. Kai runs off and dives downward at her. He speeds up with airbending and catches her. As they fall together, Kai bends a sphere around them and they land on the street somewhat softly.
As Goronzo is thrown forward, he bends underneath himself and land on the street tumbling over. At that moment, the metalbenders surround him and electrocute him with their cables.
Kai and Jinora slowly get up from the ground.
JINORA
Kai. You saved me.
KAI
Of course I did. Are you okay?
She lightly throws her hand forward with no effect.
JINORA
My bending is blocked, but I think
I'm going to be okay.
She hugs him happily and he hugs back.
EXT. REPUBLIC CITY / BRIDGE - SUNSET
Later in the day, the police vans are in the center of the bridge with officers taking the criminals inside. Tenzin runs up to the kids and hugs Jinora.
TENZIN
(relieved)
Jinora! Thank goodness you're all
right! We were so worried! We
didn't know what happened to you!
JINORA
(happily)
I'm all right, Dad. Kai saved me.
He's the one who stopped the
criminals.
Tenzin looks over at Kai.
TENZIN
Thank you, Kai. I'm very proud of
what you did.
Mako walks up to Kai.
MAKO
Yeah, what can I say. You've really
pulled through since we first found
you as a thief.
Kai rubs the back of his head modestly.
KAI
Hey, I was just catching the bad
guys. I'm used to that.
Lin Beifong walks up to them.
LIN
Looks like you've really made quite
a catch, kid. I never thought that
we'd have to deal with a former
equalist like this.
Goronzo calls out as he's hand-cuffed and being dragged to the van.
GORONZO
This isn't over, airbender boy! You
may have captured us, but the Sky
Triad still lives across the world!
It's only the beginning!
He air kicks at the two guards around him tripping them and he runs in the opposite direction.
Lin throws a cable at him grabbing him then throws him straight into the van. The officers quickly close the door and lock him up.
LIN
Well, that ought to shut him up!
MAKO
But if what he says is true, we
need to start looking across the
world for more of the Sky Triad.
LIN
Right. We'll send a message to the
Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation. The
Sky Triad is still at large.
Mako and Lin begin to walk away, but Kai runs up to Lin.
KAI
Excuse me, Chief Beifong, is it
possible I could talk to one of the
criminals?
Jun is sitting inside one of the vans as the doors open to let Kai in.
JUN
(worried)
Kai!
KAI
Why did you join this gang? You
have this incredible power, and you
use it to cause people harm?!
JUN
Please, Kai! Save me! I'm sorry! I
was just helping Goronzo because I
had no where else to go. I want to
come to with you to the Air Temple.
Please! Have mercy!
Kai closes his eyes and considers. He looks down at Jun.
KAI
All right. I'll help you out only
if you promise to change and become
an Air Nomad.
JUN
Yes, yes! I promise!
Kai walks out of the van and up to Lin.
KAI
He's a friend of mine and he wants
to change and join us and come to
the Air Temple. Is it possible you
could release him?
LIN
I'm afraid not. He still needs to
answer for his crimes back at HQ.
TENZIN
(to Lin)
I will deal with this negotiation.
You just bring him to headquarters
and I will deal with the terms of
his release. I trust Kai's
judgment. I will train the boy.
KAI
Thank you, Master Tenzin. If he is
freed, make sure you keep a good
eye on him.
(looking over at Jun)
He's been in a rough place and he
has a lot to learn.
EXT. AIR TEMPLE ISLAND / COURTYARD - NIGHT
Jinora is leaning on the rail looking at the stars. Kai walks up to her casually and leans on the rail next to her.
KAI
Hey, you doing any better?
JINORA
Yeah, I'm fine. My bending is back.
These have been a crazy couple of
days. I feel like I just went on a
whole adventure.
KAI
Well, mission accomplished. I got
to take you out on an adventure.
Both of them laugh. She smiles at him warmly.
JINORA
Thank you so much, Kai... for
everything...
She looks down with concern.
JINORA (CONT'D)
When we were in the hideout... when
you said that this life was a
prison... and that you were tired
of it... you didn't really mean
that... did you?
KAI
Of course I didn't. That was just
acting. Besides, I don't ever want
to leave. You guys saved me from a
terrible lifestyle as a thief and
made me a new person. You all have
become like family to me.
Jinora blushes and holds his hand.
JINORA
Well, I'm glad you are part of our
family. You're the best thief I
know.
She kisses him on the cheek and he blushes. Both of them lean next to each other and look off at the sky and the city.
WRITTEN BY: BENJAMIN WEAVER