AVATAR: THE LEGEND OF KORRA
SYNOPSIS:
SHIRO SHINOBI (V.O.)
Aiko has been kidnapped! After
reuniting the little girl with her
sister, Sumi, Mako befriended the
two of them only to have Aiko
abducted by a gang known as the
Sword Riders with Mako and Sumi hot
on their trail. Meanwhile, Bolin
was offered a task by Fire Lord
Izumi to train earthbenders to
lavabend. After considering
hesitantly, he accepted the job,
but will he be able to teach these
recruits?
BOOK FIVE: PEACE
CHAPTER EIGHT: EARTHEN FIRE
EXT. TRAIL - DAY
Mako and Sumi are riding through quickly on Naga. They come across some skid marks on the ground.
They stop and Mako dismounts and looks at the ground.
MAKO
They've definitely been through
here. We might be getting close.
He stand up and looks across at a town far off in the distance.
MAKO (CONT'D)
They might have gone through that
town over there. Let's go over and
look around.
EXT. TOWN - DAY
They walk into the town on Naga who sniffs around as she walks.
MAKO
I think we should stock up before
moving on.
They head up to a shopping area and dismount.
SUMI
Do you really think we'll be able
to catch up to them and save Aiko?
MAKO
We will. I've handled many cases of
kidnappings and missing persons.
This should be no problem for us.
They star walking and looking around.
MAKO (CONT'D)
Once we find out where their
hideout is, we'll sneak in and take
Aiko back without causing any
trouble. If they notice us coming
in, we'll need to use force and
fight them off by any means
necessary.
SUMI
Wait, fight them off?
MAKO
Of course. We're both expert
firebenders, I think we can take on
these guys if we need to.
Sumi stops walking and holding her arms nervously.
SUMI
(hesitantly)
I-I don't think I can do that.
Mako stops and turns to look at her.
MAKO
Why not?
SUMI
Well, it's just... I've never used
my firebending to hurt people... I
don't think I could fight these
guys.
MAKO
Sumi, you have to. These people
stole your sister. You have to do
whatever you can to get her back.
SUMI
I know, but the thing is... I don't
know how to fight... and I don't
think I want to. While I hate
Shou-Jin and those guys for
everything they've done to me, I
would never use my power
forcefully, even against them.
Mako pauses and considers.
MAKO
I understand where your coming
from, and I know you would never
want to oppress anyone, but this
isn't about getting revenge. It's
about protecting the ones you love.
As firebenders, we need to use our
ability wisely and for self
protection, not just for offense.
When we get close to them, I will
teach you how to fight.
Sumi looks up at him hopefully.
INT. ACADEMY - DAY
Izumi leads Bolin and Opal up to an open classroom room with cushions as seats.
IZUMI
(to Bolin)
This will be your classroom. Your
students will be arriving within a
couple of hours. You can use that
time to prepare for your methods of
instructions. Does everything seem
suitable for you?
BOLIN
(nervously)
Uh... yeah. No problem.
IZUMI
Very good.
She holds out her hand and points to the floor other side of the room.
IZUMI (CONT'D)
This floor was specially designed
to have an open area of soil for
you to earthbend. You can use that
to demonstrate your lavabending. I
wish you well.
He bows to her and she walks off. He looks around and chatters his teeth nervously.
Opal moves up next to him.
OPAL
So, you think you can teach them?
BOLIN
(sighing)
I don't know. I've never had to
teach a whole group of people
before. What do I say to them? What
if I screw up? How do I teach them?
OPAL
Relax, you've got this. These are
very experienced and well trained
earthbenders. Teaching them should
be no problem for you.
BOLIN
Do you think you could help me know
what to do?
OPAL
Sure. Let's start with the basics.
First off, what is it you do in
order to trigger your lavabending.
BOLIN
Well, the thing is... I tense up my
arms to melt the earth, like I'm
getting angry... only I'm not! So
basically, it's like I get angry
without actually being angry.
OPAL
Well that's it, then. Just tell
them how to do that, and they'll
get it just fine.
BOLIN
(relieved)
Really? Oh, thanks, Opal. Will you
be my assistant for this?
OPAL
Sure. I'd love to.
EXT. HILLS - DAY
Naga runs across the hills for some time. At a certain point she slows down to stop and starts panting.
SUMI
What's wrong? What's the matter
with Naga?
MAKO
Nothing. She just needs to rest for
a bit. We should take a break for
now. We'll get going soon.
They both dismount and walk over to the open field.
MAKO (CONT'D)
So, this looks like a good place to
practice. How about I show you how
to fight?
SUMI
Right now? Um... okay.
They stand a couple of meters from each other.
MAKO
Okay, in order to be a fighter, you
need to be precise and evasive. You
have to be able to direct your
attacks at just the points you want
to target, but you also want to be
quick enough to dodge your
opponents attacks.
He turns to the side and throws two quick fire punches and a side kick of fire.
MAKO
Let's start off with that. Try to
do some basic firebending attacks.
Sumi breathes in and out.
SUMI
Okay...
She holds her fist back for a moment charging in, but then she lets go and her arms go down.
SUMI (CONT'D)
No, I can't do it.
MAKO
Why not?
SUMI
It just doesn't feel right. It's
not like me.
MAKO
It doesn't matter. You don't have
to be too aggressive. Just show me
a simple punch.
She gets in a stance, holds her fist back, and lunges forward. A small bit of a flame bursts from her fist. She looks up at Mako embarrassed.
SUMI
So... how was that?
MAKO
Uh... it's... something, I guess.
Let's try that again, but a little
stronger this time.
She continues punching forward with small flames.
INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
Bolin and Opal are standing at the end off the room.
BOLIN
Okay, I actually think I'll be able
to do this.
The doors at the entrance slide open and some young men in red and green outfits walk in.
OPAL
Oh look. Here they are.
Bolin turns over to the recruits and holds out his hand in the direction of the mats.
BOLIN
Hello, students! Greetings! Please,
take your seats!
The men walk up and sit on the mats. Opal holds his side.
OPAL
I'll be sitting in the back if you
need me.
She quickly kisses his lips.
OPAL (CONT'D)
Good luck.
She walks over to the back corner to the left side of the classroom.
Korra enters the room and walks up to the front.
KORRA
Hey, Bolin! Ready to teach your
class?
BOLIN
(confused)
Korra? What are you doing here?
KORRA
(enthusiastically)
I'm one of your students! I want to
learn how to lavabend from you!
BOLIN
You are? Uh, okay. That's good.
Just take a seat.
Korra sits down on a mat and Bolin turns to the side.
BOLIN
(to himself)
Okay, so I have to teach a bunch of
students and the Avatar... I think
I can handle this.
All of the men finish sitting down.
BOLIN
All right, students. If you can
make yourself comfortable, we are
about to begin our class.
He looks at Opal and holds his hand out facing her.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
May my lovely assistant Opal
please close the doors.
Opal smiles and nods her head.
OPAL
(politely)
Why certainly, Bolin.
She walks over to slide the doors closed and moves back to sit in the corner.
Bolin holds up his hands.
BOLIN
Welcome, class! You are now about
to learn the great and powerful
technique... of lavabending!
He pauses and looks around. Korra, Opal, and the rest of the
recruits look at him in anticipation.
Bolin stands up straight and clears his throat.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
(epically)
So, as you know, lavabending is a
great art form... that has passed
down from several generations!
(informally)
Well, okay, that's technically not
true. I actually learned it from
this crazy guy from the Red Lotus
when he... completely destroyed
the... Northern Air Temple...
He freezes and looks across at everyone who look questionably at him. A cough is heard from somewhere in the back.
He gets back into his mode and holds up his finger.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
(firmly)
But regardless! That is why you are
going to learn it today! To learn
how to make lava from earth, and
to... uh... to learn how to...
uh...
He slows down and begins to look nervous. He looks at Opal who looks at him with worry and concern. He drops his arms and sighs.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
(under his breath)
Okay, let me try this again.
He stand up straight and takes a breath.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
(sincerely)
To be honest, lavabending is very
dangerous, and it's easy to be
careless with it and hurt people. I
actually once hurt someone I love
because of it.
Opal looks down sadly.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
But the thing is, I want to teach
you all how to lavabend because I
don't want you to make the same
mistake that I did. I want you to
learn how to control it responsibly
and to use it to help the world.
(toughening up)
With this power, we can be one of
the greatest bending teams in the
world and show what we're made of!
He holds his fist up in the air.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
(pumped up)
Do you all have what it takes to be
LAVABENDERS?!
All the recruits cheer and hold up their fists excitedly.
BOLIN
All right! Let's start training.
(standing up straight)
So, let me give a demonstration and
each of you will take turns to do
it yourself.
He earthbends a large rock from the ground and levitates it between his hands.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Okay, your goal is to try and melt
this rock. Observe...
He has his left hand underneath the rock and his right hand above it. He tenses up his hands and the rock slowly starts to turn into lava. Once the entire rock becomes orange, he starts spinning it around as a disk.
The entire room applauds and Bolin hardens the lava back into a spherical rock.
BOLIN
(to Korra)
Korra, as the Avatar, will you be
first to try?
Korra gets up happily and walks next to him.
KORRA
With pleasure.
He tosses the rock to her and she levitates it between her hands.
BOLIN
Okay, so to do this, you need to
tense up your arms and get heated
up, like you're getting angry, but
not really.
KORRA
So... like this?
She tenses her hands and spins the rock into lava. Everyone applauds.
BOLIN
Yes! Very good! Thank you, Korra!
He points to one of the recruits in the front row.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
You in the front. You're next.
The young teenage recruit stands up nervously.
RECRUIT #1
Uh, sir, I'm not sure if I'm good
at lavabending. I've never been
able to figure it out.
BOLIN
(enthusiastically)
That's okay. No problem. That's
exactly why I'm here. You know, a
wise woman named Su Beifong told me
once that the only thing that
limits you... is your attitude.
Opal smiles excitedly.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
I believe that ANY earthbender can
lavabend! So what do you say? Let's
give it a shot.
The recruit walks next to Bolin, he hands him over the rock and he tries to rotate it. As it is moving, grunts clenching his hands. As a bit of time passes by, it starts to heat up and melt.
RECRUIT #1
(surprised)
Ha! I'm doing it!
BOLIN
YES! Ha-HA! Way to go, recruit!
Now... who's next?!
All of the other recruits raise their hands.
EXT. HILLS - DAY
MAKO
Okay, let's try it one more time.
Give me everything you've got.
Sumi charges for a punch and lunges forward, but only makes a slightly bigger flame than before.
SUMI
Ugh! I can't do it! I'm not getting
anywhere!
MAKO
No, you have been improving...
just... not by much.
SUMI
(sighing)
I'm so sorry, Makoto. I don't know
what's wrong with me. I'm not
normally this bad at firebending.
MAKO
It's okay. You just need to get
past this block. You need to
connect with your inner fire. You
desperately want to save Aiko,
right?
SUMI
More than anything. The problem is,
it doesn't feel natural to me. I'm
sorry, but I just don't feel like
I'm meant to be a fighter.
MAKO
You know what? It's okay. If you
can't do this, we can still find
another way. We just need to find
these guys and call the police
force to raid their hideout and
save Aiko.
Naga moves up to Mako and nudges him and he pets her.
MAKO (CONT'D)
It looks like Naga is ready to go.
We'll resume your training later.
If you still can't do it, it's no
big deal. Okay?
SUMI
(disappointed)
Well, okay.
They both get onto Naga and they set off through the valley.
EXT. MOUNTAIN SIDE - DAY
Bolin, Opal, Korra, and the recruits are standing between a mountain tip on one side and a deep crater on the other side.
Kai and Jinora fly up onto an edge nearby, retract their gliders, and watch from a distance.
BOLIN
All right, recruits! For your next
exercise, you will liquefy this
mountain top into this crater
WITHOUT collapsing it too quickly
and causing a landslide.
Korra leans over to Opal.
KORRA
Are you guys sure we're allowed to
do this here?
OPAL
Fire Lord Izumi gave them special
permission to practice in this
area. It's completely legal.
Bolin walks a few steps up standing straight with his arms folded behind him.
BOLIN
Everyone get into position!
The recruits split into two groups that form two lines making a path between the mountain top and the crater. Korra is in front on the left group.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Okay, let's clear a path!
The two groups face each other and thrust their hands downward making a wide trench on the path.
Bolin holds up his fist forward.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
LAVABENDERS! LET'S SLIDE!
All the lavabenders hold there hands forward in claws as they melt the edge of the mountain into lava. They begin pulling it downward and it trails through the trench. The lava crawls past them and they continue to bend by pulling their fists down at an angle and then holding them up and pulling down in a repeated cycle. The lava slowly flows into the crater.
BOLIN
Steady! Keep it coming!
As they continue to take from the mountain top, they walk up step by step to make sure the edges of the formation are held. They move in more from the peak and the crater fills up more than halfway.
OPAL
(worried)
It's getting too full. Maybe you
should stop.
BOLIN
No, we've got this, just a little
more.
He looks at the crater being filled up.
The lavabenders get the last bit of the peak and the lava gets closer to the brim of the crater.
BOLIN
Come on. Just... a little bit
more...
Right as they finish filling right up to the edge. The crater is completely filled.
BOLIN
YES! HA-HAA! Great job,
lavabenders! Let's finish it off!
Korra and all the recruits circle around the lava and hold their fists back hardening the lava making a flat solid circular area.
Kai and Jinora smile excitedly while watching them.
KAI
Wow! That was cool!
All of the recruits gather around Bolin.
BOLIN
Great work, team! Now, who's ready
for lunch?!
Everyone cheers and heads down the hill.
EXT. CLIFFSIDE - DAY
They ride up to a cliff-side and see a town next to the ocean and Naga barks loudly.
MAKO
Is this it girl? Are we close.
Naga barks in affirmation.
MAKO (CONT'D)
(to Sumi)
Sumi! I think we might be getting
close to them.
SUMI
Yes! Finally!
They ride off to the town.
EXT. TOWN - DAY
They ride into the town. Naga slows down and starts to sniff the ground to find a trail. She goes around and they eventually come across a dockside. She walks to the edge of the dock, looks up and stops. She lets off a disappointed whine.
MAKO
What's wrong, Naga?
Mako and Sumi look out over the water. They look concerned. He dismounts and she follows.
MAKO
They must have taken her across the
sea.
SUMI
No. How are we going to get to her
now?
They run back to the deck where the dock keeper is leaning behind a counter.
MAKO
Excuse me, sir. I'm Detective Mako
of the Republic City Police. Did
you happen to see a gang of
motorcycle riders come by and take
some boats off to sea.
MANAGER
Oh yeah, that gang of rough riders.
They parked their boats at this
dock a week ago and they just left
this morning.
MAKO
They did?! Where are they now?!
MANAGER
Can't say. They just came and left.
I have no idea who they are or
where they went.
Mako pauses and contemplates.
MAKO
Okay, thank you for your help.
He looks over at Sumi.
MAKO
We need to find some clue as to
where they headed off to. Let's ask
some people around town.
Mako walks back to the town and Sumi and Naga follow.
INT. TAVERN - DAY
Mako and Sumi are seated in the middle of the tavern where there are many rowdy people talking at their own tables.
MAKO
Okay. We at least know they went to
the sea. They couldn't have gone
far, so we need to find out if
anyone has any information about
them. You said they're called the
Sword Riders. Are they well known?
SUMI
Sort of. Any crime organization in
the Fire Nation knows about them,
but they haven't been convicted for
any crimes yet. So if any
authorities know about them, they
don't necessarily see them as
outlaws.
Mako steps up from his seat and starts to walk off.
MAKO
I'm gonna go ask if they were here.
He approaches the bar and leans against the counter with his elbow on the surface.
BARTENDER
What can I do for you, son?
MAKO
I need your help with identifying
someone. I'm a detective and I'm
hot on the trail for some thugs.
You wouldn't have happened to see
some guys with swords come in
recently? Their leader has short
hair and tattoos on his arms.
BARTENDER
Oh yeah. Those pesky Sword Riders.
They come to this place often.
Caused a lot of bar fights and
messes in the past. If you could
get rid of them, I'd be much
obliged.
MAKO
Do you know where they're from or
anyone who knows them?
A large man walks up from the left of the counter.
LARGE MAN
Hey, I know about them. I'm willing
to spill some info... for a price.
Mako looks over at the man and frowns.
MAKO
I don't bribe for information. I
need to you to tell me anything you
know about them.
LARGE MAN
(rudely)
What, my info isn't good enough for
you?! You should accept my terms
and pay up, bub!
He throws his fist at Mako. He grabs his arm and slams him against the bar. The noise startles everyone. The guys head is on the bar's surface and Mako holds him down with one arm and holds a fire dagger near his face with the other.
MAKO
(menacingly)
Look, I've been having a rough day
and I might just snap! If you don't
want to get stuck in my crossfire,
you'll give me the information I
need right now! I have no time to
waste with your garbage deal!
LARGE MAN
(stammering)
Look, a-all I know is that they
hide out on some deserted island
with large cliffs! That's it!
Mako's eyes widen in realization.
MAKO
Black Cliffs Island?!
BARTENDER
Hey! No bending in here!
Mako lets his fist go and the fire goes away.
MAKO
My apologies, sir. This was just a
brief interrogation.
He lets go of the man and stands him up.
MAKO (CONT'D)
(to the man)
Thank you for your cooperation.
He walks past Sumi.
MAKO (CONT'D)
Let's get out of here, I think I
know where they are.
She gets up and follows him out of the tavern.
INT. EATERY - DAY
Bolin, Opal, Korra, Jinora, and Kai are sitting at a table in the midst of the other recruits at their own tables.
KORRA
I'm impressed, Bolin. You're really
a great instructor.
BOLIN
(excitedly)
I know! This has been the coolest
job ever! I just say, "LAVABENDERS,
LET'S SLIDE!" and they do exactly
what I tell them to. I've had a lot
of jobs in the past, but I think
this is the most fun job I've had.
OPAL
I'm glad for you, and you know how
to do it well. You're serious
enough to take responsibility, but
you also know when to take things
easy.
KAI
Yeah, it's like it's a tough job,
but you also know how to make it
fun for all of them.
BOLIN
(relaxed)
Yeah, it's pretty great.
He looks at all the recruits oddly.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
But you know what? I don't think
I'm feeling these red and green
outfits.
(brightens up)
Ooh! I know! Maybe we could give
them all outfits that have orange!
You know, because lava is orange!
JINORA
That sounds like a good idea. Maybe
you should talk to the fire lord
about it.
BOLIN
Wait, really? I can do that?
JINORA
Of course. Just suggest the idea
and she might be able to make
arrangements.
BOLIN
(skeptically)
Uh, Jinora, you do realize this is
the FIRE LORD we're talking about,
right? I mean, what if she like- I
don't know- blows up at me for
inconveniencing her?
KORRA
Relax, Bolin. She's cooled down
since we first got here, and I
think she would be happy to help
you out. I mean, it's worth a shot
at least.
He considers for a moment, breathes out and puffs up his chest.
BOLIN
You know what? I should! I'll go
ask her right now!
He gets up and walks out of the area.
INT. POLICE OFFICE - DAY
Mako and Sumi head up to a desk where an officer is seated. He takes out his badge and shows it.
MAKO
Sir, I'm a detective from the
Republic City Police. There's an
organization of mercenaries that
has abducted a young girl and is
possibly hiding on Black Cliffs
Island. We need to send a rescue
unit to investigate and save this
girl.
OFFICER
(nonchalant)
Wait, Black Cliffs Island? Isn't
that place deserted?
MAKO
Normally it's uninhabited, but it
is probably the hideout of the
Sword Riders.
OFFICER
Well, gee, I don't know if we can
really do that.
MAKO
What?! Why not?!
OFFICER
It's just, this island is far off
out of the bounds of our area. We
can't just have some units sail
over. And also, are you even sure
that's where these "Sword Riders"
are?
MAKO
Not entirely, but could you at
least send a search party over to
investigate?
OFFICER
Uh, no... sorry but we're not
capable of doing that kind of
procedure.
Mako slams his hands on the desk.
MAKO
(yelling)
Not capable?! The safety of a
little girl is in jeopardy, and
your just going to let these
criminals get away with it?! What
kind of police force are you?!
OFFICER
Look, I'm sorry, mister, but this
is just a local police force. We're
not the Capital City Police.
Mako sighs in frustration. He stands up straight and turns around.
MAKO
Okay, I understand. Thank you for
your time.
Both Mako and Sumi exit the building.
EXT. POLICE STATION - DAY
Mako and Sumi stand outside in the front.
SUMI
So, what are we going to do now?
Are we going to contact the Capital
City Police?
MAKO
I don't know. It might take too
long before they get to the island,
and we're still not sure if the
the gang is actually there or not.
He looks up at Sumi looking concerned.
MAKO (CONT'D)
I think we're gonna have to do this
on our own.
INT. FIRE LORD'S PALACE / HALLWAY
As Fire Lord Izumi is walking through, Bolin skeptically walks out through a corner behind her. He gulps and clears his throat.
BOLIN
Um, excuse me... Mrs. Fire Lord...
Ma'am...?
Izumi looks back at Bolin. He flinches. She walks over to him.
IZUMI
Bolin, good to see you. How has
your training gone with the
recruits.
BOLIN
Uh, it- it's been going well. It's
just that I wanted to make a minor
request... for you- I mean- if you
can't do it that- that's fine...
that's fine...
IZUMI
Certainly. What can I do for you?
BOLIN
Well it's just with the outfits- I
mean, don't get me wrong, there's
nothing wrong with them. I just
think the colors of their outfits
should be more... fitting for their
element. So, you wouldn't happen to
have any orange and brown uniforms
in store, would you? I just want to
give them a good feel for what they
stand for as lavabenders.
Izumi ponders with her hand at her chin.
IZUMI
Hmm... Well, I could arrange for
the production of new uniforms, but
it will take a couple of weeks to
produce and distribute them. Right
now, all we have are some brown
construction uniforms with orange
patches. Will that suffice?
BOLIN
You know what- Actually, that's
perfect! They can use those outfits
as practice, and then they can get
the real ones later!... I mean...
if that's okay with you.
IZUMI
Of course. I will have them given
right away. Glad to be of
assistance.
He bows to her.
BOLIN
Thank you, your honor.
IZUMI
Your welcome. By the way, I was
just about to send you and your
team a message. There is an active
volcano near a village outside of
the city. I need you and your
recruits to be relocated to that
town to aid in the possible
emergency of an eruption. Do you
feel as though you are all capable
of handling this task?
BOLIN
We get to work on a volcano?!
That's awesome! I mean, uh...
He clears his throat and stands up straight.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
(dignified)
My lavabenders and I have been
learning swiftly, and we would be
honored to take on such an
honorable task, your honor.
INT. EATERY - SUNSET
Bolin enters the area among all the recruits.
BOLIN
(shouting)
Excuse me, recruits! May I have
your attention!
They all stop talking and stand up.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Now, I have been very impressed
with your progression. You have all
gained control of lavabending and
all within one day. You are some of
the most competent workers I have
had the honor of working with.
Recently, the fire lord has given
us the opportunity to manage an
active volcano outside of the city.
The train for the village takes off
tonight. You are expected to leave
tonight and you will be given new
uniforms. Now, are you all ready
for this task?!
All of the recruits cheer.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Great! Now let's get moving!
Everyone starts to exit the room.
Bolin turns toward the exit, but is approached by a young teenage recruit.
RECRUIT #1
Excuse me, sir. May I have
permission to speak?
BOLIN
Certainly, my young student. What
can I do for you?
RECRUIT #1
Well, I just want to say that I've
been a great admirer of yours. I
heard about all of your adventures
with the Avatar, and it's an honor
to work with you.
BOLIN
It is? Well, thank you very much. I
appreciate it.
Korra walks up to Bolin excitedly.
KORRA
So, we get to stop a volcano from
destroying a village. This'll be
fun!
A guard walks into the room.
GUARD
Excuse me, I have a message for the
Avatar. Detective Mako is on the
telephone line nearby.
Korra approaches the guard.
KORRA
Great, take me to the phone.
INT. FIRE LORD'S PALACE - SUNSET
Korra sits at a table and picks up a radio speaker.
KORRA
Mako? Are you all right? How is
everything?
MAKO
(radio)
I'm fine. Sorry I can't be in
Capital City, but there's been an
emergency. Aiko was kidnapped by a
gang, and her sister and I are
chasing them down.
KORRA
Oh no. That's awful. Are you
getting close to them?
MAKO
(radio)
I think so. I found a source that
says they're on Black Cliffs
Island. Is it possible for you and
the rest of the team to fly over
and help us out.
KORRA
Well, we would, except we're kinda
busy with a job given by the fire
lord. However, we could send Kai
and Jinora to fly over to you and
help out.
EXT. POLICE STATION - SUNSET
MAKO
Great, I sent over a telegram of
the coordinates of our location.
They should be able to find us from
that.
KORRA
(radio)
All right. I'll tell them to meet
you at that point and they'll be
over there tonight.
MAKO
Okay. Thanks, Korra.
KORRA
(radio)
No problem.
Mako hangs up the phone and he turns to Sumi.
MAKO
Okay, so we should have two
airbenders to fly us over and sneak
in. In the meantime, we should work
on your firebending.
SUMI
All right. Let's do it.
EXT. FIELD - TWILIGHT
Both of them are standing a few meters away.
MAKO
All right. We need to figure out
how to trigger your firebending to
use it in combat.
SUMI
But how do we do that? I can't make
fire strong enough to fight.
MAKO
What about when you're dancing? You
have no problem firebending that
way.
SUMI
Well sure. When I dance, I feel
like I can express myself in a way
I can't normally.
MAKO
So maybe we could channel the drive
you have when dancing and use it
for fighting. What was it that
originally made you want to be a
dancer?
SUMI
My mother. She was a flame dancer
in the same way I am. I always
wanted to be as great as she was.
So I guess... whenever I dance...
it's like she isn't gone anymore...
like she's right there with me.
MAKO
Then that's it. Maybe you should
use your firebending as if you were
doing it for your mother. If she
saw you now, she would be proud.
SUMI
Well, I guess that would work.
MAKO
Let's try it. How about you start
by just dancing and you use your
firebending that way.
Mako walks a couple of steps back to give her some space.
Sumi starts by slowly waving her hands around. She creates some flames and circles them around her. She spins around and makes it go move faster.
MAKO
All right. That's great... now
unleash it!
She spins her arms forward and throws in across an open area with great power as a horizontal vortex. She finishes as the fire disintegrates.
Mako looks at it with excitement and pumps his arms.
MAKO
YES! You did it!
She looks back at him beaming.
SUMI
(ecstatic)
Really?! I can't believe it! I
did it!
MAKO
Okay, let's keep working on it!
EXT. TRAIN - NIGHT
A train speeds across the Fire Nation plateau. Opal is flying on Juicy following alongside the train.
INT. TRAIN - NIGHT
All of the recruits are seated and wearing the orange and brown construction outfits. Asami, Korra, and Bolin are seated in the left row at the front. Bolin at the window seat, Korra in the middle, and Asami at the other end.
Bolin grips his fists excitedly.
BOLIN
Wow! This is so exciting! We get
to work on an actual volcano
tomorrow!
KORRA
I'm glad you're excited about this
job.
ASAMI
So... you think you might just have
this as a permanent job?
Bolin starts to look more pondering.
BOLIN
You know what?... I've been
thinking a lot about that. I've
done so many different careers, and
I always did them just to figure
out who I am...
He looks ahead sadly.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Now that I've found out what I'm
great at, I feel more confident
than ever... but if I take on this
role for good, I'll have to stay
here and leave my home. I'll leave
Republic City and the Earth
Kingdom... for good.
He looks over at Korra and Asami earnestly.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
What do you girls think I should
do?
KORRA
Well, you don't have to make the
decision right away. Remember,
we're still on vacation. You can
still come back home afterwords and
come to a decision later.
ASAMI
Yeah, and after you get everything
together, you can come back to be
the leader of this group.
Bolin sadly looks down.
BOLIN
But what about Opal? I'll have to
leave her too, right?
KORRA
(laughing)
Bolin! She's an Air Nomad! She can
just come along with you!
Bolin brightens up at Korra.
BOLIN
Wait, seriously?! Do you really
think she would?!
KORRA
Absolutely! She loves you! She'd be
willing to go to the ends of the
earth with you!
He looks at the window to his left and sees Opal fly next to the window. She turns over to him and smiles waving. He smiles back.
She puts her hand on the window glass and he puts his hand on as well so both of their hands are flat against each other.
Opal takes her hand off and blows him a kiss. He blushes and blows a kiss right back at her.
EXT. FIELD - NIGHT
Sumi continues her training and does several complex techniques with some fire whips. She lashes them around making large waves of attacks.
Mako hears a bison growl and looks back above to see Kai and Jinora fly in on Lefty. He walks up to Sumi as she finishes a technique.
MAKO
Okay, you're training is done. Kai
and Jinora are here to pick us up.
You've been doing great.
Lefty lands right next to them. Kai and Jinora leap off and descend slowly landing right in front of them.
MAKO (CONT'D)
Hey guys. Thanks for helping us
out.
KAI
No problem. Any time.
(to Sumi)
Don't worry. We'll be sure to get
your sister back safely.
JINORA
I checked on Black Cliffs Island on
the way over here, and you're
right. The gang is hiding out over
there. When we head over to the
island, I'll use my astral
projection to find a route to get
in.
MAKO
(nodding)
Right! Let's move!
EXT. FIRE NATION TOWN - NIGHT
The train stops in at a station and all of the recruits exit along with Bolin, Korra, and Asami. Opal flies over on Juicy, lands next to them and descends off next to them.
The town is in a square area nearby a volcano. They all look across at the scenery.
KORRA
So this is the town we're going to
help out.
OPAL
Great. So we'll head over to our
apartments and get started
tomorrow.
Suddenly, and giant explosion and rumbling happen.
BOLIN
AHH! WHAT WAS THAT?!
The all look over at the volcano which starts bursting out lava. They gaze at it in shock.
KORRA
No! It's erupting already?!
ASAMI
Looks like we came just in time!
All of the people in the town start screaming and running around. Bolin toughens up and runs up nearby holding up his hands.
BOLIN
(calling out)
People of the town! Fear not! My
lavabenders and I have come to save
you! We will have this situation
under control!
He looks back at the recruits and holds his his hand strait forward.
BOLIN
LAVABENDERS! LET'S HEAD OVER TO THE
VOLCANO!
All of them charge off across the town.
EXT. BLACK CLIFFS ISLAND - NIGHT
The Island has gang members stationed all around the borders. Lefty silently flies in next to a large cliff side on the island near a forest area.
Jinora finishes drawing a map on a piece of paper and hands it to Mako.
JINORA
These points are where the gang
members are. If you cut through
these trees, you'll find Aiko
chained up next to the weaponry.
Mako scans the map and puts it in his pocket.
MAKO
All right. Thanks, Jinora.
JINORA
You head on in. We'll come in for
back up if anything goes wrong.
Mako and Sumi walk on the cliff and run into the forest.
Later, they peer through the trees to see some thugs walk by. They wait for them to pass and walk across the path to the other trees.
They enter in one area where Aiko is chained up to a tree looking down miserably. Mako and Sumi walk up next to her.
MAKO
(whispering)
Psst. Aiko. We're getting you out
of here. Just be quiet.
She looks to the side and sees both of them. She smiles with relief.
AIKO
(quietly)
Makoto! Sumi! You came to rescue
me!
MAKO
That's right. Just a moment.
He makes fire from his two fingers and slowly breaks the chain. He takes off the chain from Aiko's hands and she runs over to Sumi where they hug warmly.
AIKO
Sister!
SUMI
It's okay, Baby. You're safe now.
Mako looks around at the weapons stacked. He sees one sword with a black metal blade. His eyes widen and he walks over to pick up the black sword.
MAKO
Wait... Isn't this...?
SHOU-JIN (O.S.)
I didn't figure you'd be this
relentless, firebender!
Mako turns around suddenly and the three of them see they're surrounded by thugs with swords appearing from the trees. He runs over next to Sumi and Aiko who look at them fearfully. Mako snarls and holds up a fire dagger with one hand and the
sword in the other.
Shou-Jin appears next to the thugs. He grins with his teeth.
SHOU-JIN
(sly)
You both should have come during
the day... when you're firebending
is at it's best.
MAKO
Let us out, Shou-Jin! You shouldn't
have abducted Aiko! What reason do
you have for taking her?!
SHOU-JIN
That's none of your business! Just
give us the girl and get out of
here before we cut you to pieces!
Sumi waves her hands and brings out some fire streams. She holds them in her hands.
SUMI
(angrily)
Never! You're not getting to her!
I've had it with you taking
advantage of me! I'm not afraid to
attack all of you!
Shou-Jin holds out his sword.
SHOU-JIN
RIDERS! ATTACK!
The thugs all charge for them with their swords.
As Mako and Sumi prepare to attack, Aiko runs up in front of them.
AIKO
NO!
She thrashes her arms out and blasts a huge wave of wind knocking all of the thugs off their feet. Mako and Sumi look down at Aiko shocked.
SUMI
Aiko! What did you...?
Aiko looks back at Sumi tearing up.
AIKO
Sister! I'm so sorry!
MAKO
You're an airbender?!
Shou-Jin gets back on his feet.
SHOU-JIN
Are you honestly telling me that
you guys didn't know? When we saw
that she had airbending, we figured
we would take her in and raise her
in the gang. Airbenders are a
valuable asset!
MAKO
So that's why you took her!
All of the other thugs get up.
SHOU-JIN
Whatever! We can still take on you
anyway!
Just then, Lefty flies in, and Jinora and Kai jump on the ground to blast at the thugs with airbending. Both Kai and Jinora hold their guard up fiercely.
JINORA
You don't realize this yet, but
you're all completely out-matched!
KAI
Yeah! If it's airbenders you want,
it's airbenders you'll get!
The fight is on. The two airbenders and two firebenders face off against all of the Sword Riders.
EXT. VOLCANO BASE - NIGHT
Bolin, Korra, Opal, and the other lavabenders run up and stop at a point looking up at the volcano's eruption. Several magmatic meteors fly everywhere. Some of them fly straight toward the group.
Korra and Opal run in front and throw their arms up making a giant wind shield from above blocking the meteors and causing them to harden and fall to the side.
After they all flinch, Bolin looks out at the approaching lava flow and turns back to the recruits.
BOLIN
EVERYONE! WE NEED TO REDIRECT THE
LAVA AWAY FROM THE TOWN! WE'LL
FORM A GIANT TRENCH AND HAVE TWO
TEAMS MAKE A TRAIL ON BOTH SIDES
MAKING IT FLOW TO THE OUTSIDE!
LET'S MOVE, PEOPLE!
He gets in front and several recruits line up beside him. They trust their arms downward and burst a wide slope and trench. The two teams on the right and left sides of Bolin continue forming the trench by walking along their respective directions and dragging with their fists. As the two divisions move out, Bolin, Korra, and another division focus their strength on the ground they're standing on and elevate it up to make a larger wall adjacent to the trench.
As they lift their ground up, a blast of the approaching lava splashes and flies straight at them. Three lavabenders run up from behind and throw their fists up and stop the incoming lava sparks. They harden them into rocks and they drop into the trench.
Bolin, Korra, and the others finish lifting their wall and observe the progress. The wall is now several meters up.
BOLIN
OKAY! IT LOOKS LIKE THAT SHOULD BE
ENOUGH FOR NOW!
They look ahead as the lava flow comes crashing in. All the lavabenders get in a side stance holding their hands back in preparation. The lava impacts and splashes upward against the curve of the trench making a giant wall in front of them. Right before the lava falls on them, the lavabenders throw their hands up and slow down the movements of the lava wall. They move it back and the lava starts to progress in a reverse movement.
They channel the lava to flow down the trench on either sides. After they move it with their arms. They stand up straight.
An explosion happens and they flinch as yet another massive eruption occurs at the volcano.
BOLIN
THERE'S GOING TO BE TOO MUCH! WE
WON'T BE ABLE TO STOP IT!
Korra walks up in front looking determined.
KORRA
YOU AND THE OTHERS KEEP WORKING
HERE! I'M GOING UP CLOSE!
She leaps up with airbending across the lava. She blasts a section of lava below her to cool it down and makes a platform to land on. She leaps up again even farther.
OPAL
I'M GOING WITH HER!
As she is about to run up, Bolin grabs her hand stopping her.
BOLIN
OPAL, NO! IT'S TOO DANGEROUS!
She looks back at him.
OPAL
I HAVE TO HELP KORRA! LET ME GO!
BOLIN
NO! I'M NOT LETTING YOU GET HURT
AGAIN!
OPAL
BOLIN, I'LL BE FINE! I KNOW WHAT
I'M DOING! TRUST ME! I'LL BE OKAY!
He looks at her worried, then lets go of her hand and nods skeptically. Opal leaps up across on the platforms that Korra made.
EXT. BLACK CLIFFS ISLAND - NIGHT
In the middle of an open space, Sumi spins her flames around at her several opponents knocking most of them over. Two remaining fighters take out their shields from their backs and hold up blocking her next attacks. She vertically swipes at one guy knocking him over and does a horizontal swipe to the side of the other guy.
As she knocks them over, Shou-Jin charges at her from behind and swipes his sword at her. She turns and dodges his attack. She swings a flame at him, but he ducks and knocks her with his arms and she falls over. He holds his sword up and swings down, but Mako hits him from the side and he tumbles over. He rolls onto his feet and Mako kicks a barrage of fire attacks while holding the black sword. Shou-Jin moves back and forth to evade the attacks. He charges at Mako and swipes, but Mako holds his sword up to block the attack and pushes Shou-Jin back.
SHOU-JIN
What are you doing with my sword?!
Give it back!
MAKO
This sword belonged to Sokka of the
Water Tribe! Where did you find
it?!
SHOU-JIN
I got it from a merchant who found
it in the Wulong Forest! You
shouldn't be taking my things!
MAKO
Funny! I could say the same about
you stealing a little girl!
Shou-Jin charges at him.
Over at a different area, Jinora holds up her stance while effortlessly evading sword attacks from a thug. Every direction he swings, she dodges in the exact right direction.
Another thug runs at Jinora from the other side and she flips over behind him as he swings down. He unintentionally knocks the sword out of the other guys hands and Jinora blasts forward at both of them blowing them away.
Kai is nearby facing another thug who lunges at him but keeps missing. Kai simply sways from side to side while smiling. He swoops underneath him and springs up behind. The thug frantically looks around while Kai keeps hiding behind his back. He lifts him with a sudden breeze and flip kicks him away.
Kai and Jinora group together as several thugs run at them. They blast at them from different directions knocking all of them over. Aiko watches them in nearby and is in awe of their airbending techniques.
At that moment, another thug runs up to Aiko. She screams and thrusts her arms forward airbending him against a tree. Aiko looks at her hands surprised by her own actions.
Mako is fighting off Shou-Jin who dodges his fire blasts. He charges at Mako with a several swipes. Mako deflects them with his sword and knocks him away for a moment.
Mako holds up his sword and grips it harder causing fire to ignite around the blade. He spins it and swings a horizontal wave at Shou-Jin who takes his shield from his back to defend against it.
Right as he is move back another fire swipe comes him from the side against him. Sumi comes in next to Mako and both of them strike at Shou-Jin's shield until he is cornered against a wall. They both fire blast at him simultaneously and he slams at the wall falling over. He groans and collapses.
Mako and Sumi stand over him grinning victoriously.
MAKO
Shou-Jin... you and your gang...
are under arrest.
EXT. VOLCANO HILL - NIGHT
Korra lands on a patch of land near to the large funnel of the volcano. As a wave of lava rushes right at her. She thrashes her arms right and left redirecting the wave to both sides of her.
Opal catches up and lands right next to Korra. They both look up at the volcano top.
OPAL
WHAT SHOULD WE DO?!
KORRA
FOCUS ON COOLING DOWN THIS AREA!
I'M GONNA USE MY POWER TO STOP THE
VOLCANO!
Korra leaps up and bends the lava up to make a curved incline. She lands on the slope, hardens the section she is standing on, and bends the lava while riding it all the way up the volcano.
Opal spins her arms above her several times and blasts air to the right all the way across the lava. It splashes a wall up right as it hardens. Then she does another blast to the left. Afterword, she looks behind her at the lava all around. She takes a deep breath, holds her arms back, and blows wind out of her mouth while simultaneously thrusting her arms forward. The wind blows all across the lava immediately hardening it all.
Korra rides up the lava slope right up to the level of the volcano mouth. She holds still right next to it still standing on the slope. She pounds one fist into her hand a glows her eyes into the Avatar state.
The volcano makes another gigantic eruption right in front of her. At that moment, she throws her arms up and catches the lava from the eruption. She grips it intensely and slowly moves it all back inside. When it all is moved in the volcano, she claws her hands downwards and grips it very hard. The lava from the top hardens and the constant rumbling noises slowly fade away.
Everything becomes quiet and Korra exits the Avatar state looking down at top of the volcano.
Farther down, Bolin and the other lavabenders start cheering triumphantly.
EXT. FIRE NATION TOWN - DAY
The lavabender recruits are scattered across the town greeting all of the excited civilians who are meeting them.
Bolin and Korra are looking across at the crowds as Fire Lord Izumi approaches with four guards on either side of her.
IZUMI
Congratulations, Bolin. You and
your recruits have done a fine job
at stopping the volcano and saving
this town.
BOLIN
(disappointed)
Yeah, but we weren't able to save
them by ourselves. If it wasn't for
the Avatar, we wouldn't have been
able to stop the volcano. Our force
wasn't enough. We would have
failed.
Korra smiles and puts her hand on Bolin's shoulder.
KORRA
(reassuring)
Hey, don't get yourself down. You
can't expect to do things perfectly
within the team's first day of
lavabending. Besides, you handled
the situation very well. You kept
your head up and you showed great
leadership.
IZUMI
(to Bolin)
Indeed. I'm quite sure that in
time, your lavabenders will be one
of the finest forces in the Fire
Nation as well as the world.
Bolin looks up at Izumi and smiles brightly.
Izumi walks up to Korra.
IZUMI
Korra, I have to thank you as well
for your assistance. You have
proven yourself to me as a true
ally. From now on, you are welcome
into my palace, and if there is
ever a time where you need my aid,
I will be happy to provide it.
Korra nods smiling.
EXT. CAPITAL CITY - DAY
In the middle of an open area, the lavabenders are standing in a formation with Bolin standing in front looking at them. Korra, Asami, and Opal watch from behind.
BOLIN
(dramatically)
Fellow lavabenders, regrettably...
I must part ways with you all.
Though our escapades have led to
triumph, I must temporarily step
down as your leader and resume my
vacation with my fellow comrades
and return... to Republic City.
(holds up his finger)
But fear not, for I am not entirely
abandoning you. I am merely taking
a leave of absence. In the
meantime, I hope that you will hone
your skills and aid the Fire Nation
as well as the rest of the world in
whatever matters they need you for.
And when the time comes... I shall
return.
He walks up to a tall sturdy recruit in front.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
You sir... What is your name?
The recruit holds his chin up.
RONIN
Ronin, sir.
Bolin nods importantly.
BOLIN
Ronin, you have been one of my most
enduring students, and you have
progressed faster than any other
recruit.
He puts his hand on Ronin's shoulder.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
I would like for you... to be my
second in command. In my leave of
absence... you... are the leader of
this group.
Ronin smiles and nods.
Bolin steps back and looks at all of them.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
From now on... all of you shall be
known as... the Earthen Fire Squad!
All of them cheer and gather around Ronin as they all walk off.
BOLIN (CONT'D)
Not to be mistaken for the Earthen
Fire Refinery! Which I learned also
exists!
Up above a Bison flies in. Korra and the others walk up in front.
KORRA
It's Mako and the others! They're
back!
Lefty lands near them and Naga leaps off from the saddle running up to Korra excitedly licking her.
Jinora and Kai leap off to the others. Mako, Sumi, and Aiko climb off Lefty and walk up to Korra.
KORRA
Mako! Did you stop the gang?
MAKO
We did. We apprehended them and I
called the Capital City Police
Force to take them into custody.
Sumi walks up next to Mako.
SUMI
Avatar Korra, pleased to meet you.
My name is Sumi.
KORRA
Nice to meet you, Sumi.
SUMI
I would never be with my sister
again if it wasn't for Makoto.
Korra and Bolin look at Mako strangely.
KORRA
Wait... Makoto?
BOLIN
(suspiciously)
Uh, bro... why is she calling you
by your real name?
Mako looks embarrassed and stammers.
MAKO
Uh- I- well, um...
(clears his throat)
Anyway, we also discovered that
Aiko is an airbender.
Korra looks over to Sumi and Aiko. She smiles at Aiko.
KORRA
Really! Wow! That's great!
Aiko shies back and looks down nervously. Sumi turns to her and crouches in front of her.
SUMI
Aiko? What's the matter?
Aiko begins to tear up.
AIKO
I'm so sorry, Sumi...
SUMI
(kindly)
For what? You're an airbender!
Why didn't you tell me this before?
Aiko sniffles and starts to cry.
AIKO
Because... I didn't want you to be
disappointed that I'm not a
firebender like you.
Sumi holds Aiko's arms.
SUMI
Aiko, I'm not disappointed. I'm
happy! You have an amazing ability!
You have a power I can never know!
Opal, Kai, and Jinora walk up in front of them.
OPAL
If you want, you can come with us
to learn airbending. There are many
other airbenders just like you from
the Fire Nation at the Western Air
Temple, and they'd be happy to
teach you.
Aiko looks up at them hopefully.
AIKO
You mean... I can be just as good
at airbending as you guys?
Opal crouches in front of her.
OPAL
The choice is yours. Only if you
want to.
Aiko looks back at Sumi who smiles.
SUMI
I think it's a great idea.
Aiko considers, then nods optimistically.
The three airbenders smile and look at each other.
EXT. CAPITAL CITY BEACH - DAY.
The group is gathered on the beach near the trail to Capital City. Opal is packing up some things on Juicy.
Nearby, Aiko and Sumi both hug each other and tear up.
AIKO
I'll miss you, Sister.
SUMI
I'll miss you too, Baby. Don't
worry, I promise we'll see each
other again.
Opal picks up Aiko and leaps onto Juicy's saddle. She gets in front and looks back at the others.
OPAL
I'll take her to the Western Air
Temple. I'll meet up with you guys
later. Yip-yip!
Juicy flies off and the group watches them go as Aiko waves at them and Sumi waves back.
Mako steps up to Sumi.
MAKO
Are you gonna be okay?
SUMI
Yeah... I'll just... have to get
used to living without her... and
being alone...
She begins to cry.
Mako looks around hesitantly, then to Sumi.
MAKO
(hesitantly)
Uh... Sumi?
She looks back at him with tears in her eyes.
MAKO (CONT'D)
You know... you don't have to... be
alone... maybe you could... come
with us to Republic City?- I mean-
not to impose or anything, but...
i-if you'd like to...
She smiles brightly and gasps ecstatically.
SUMI
Really?! I could?! Thank you so
much, Makoto! Thank you!
She hugs him excitedly. He smiles warmly and hugs her back.
MAKO
I know the Fire Nation is your
home, and it'd be hard for you to
leave...
SUMI
It's okay. There's not much left
for me here. I'd love to come with
you all to start a new life in
Republic City.
Sumi looks over to Korra.
SUMI (CONT'D)
Would be okay if I joined you?
KORRA
Absolutely. We just need to finish
our vacation first.
SUMI
Sure. A vacation would be fun.
KORRA
(excitedly)
Okay then! Let's get on with the
vacation! And then back to Republic
City!
All of them climb onto the two other bison and fly over to Capital City.
WRITTEN BY: BENJAMIN WEAVER