outside
Asami often felt that she was looking in from the outside. Like she didn't quite belong.
"Come on! You can do better than that!" Mako laughed, his fists held in front of his face. Korra stood across from him, sweat decorating her brow. They, along with Bolin, were dressed in training gear. Another season. Another pro-bending match. It was all very circular.
Asami sat with Bolin in the bleachers, watching the two benders spar. Bolin had already been squaring off with the Avatar and had taken his seat next to Asami for a short breather.
"So, Asami. In your professional opinion, how do you think we're looking for the new bending season?" Bo leaned back on his elbows, looking over at Asami with his trademark suave smile. It wasn't so suave as it was adorable, but no one really had the heart to tell him otherwise.
Asami shrugged. She didn't feel like feigning a good mood, though she couldn't deny she loved a good probending match. But she would never be a part of one. "I'm not sure my opinion qualifies as professional."
Bolin startled, shaking his head and sitting up straight. "What are you talking about? You've been watching probending, what, you're entire life? Don't think you can hide that trading card collection—" Asami paled, her hands going up to cover up her face. "You, Asami Sato, are a closeted sports geek. I think it's safe to say you know the ins and outs of the sport. So, I'm gonna ask you again. How do you think we will fair in this years championship?"
Asami tried to stifle a giggle. Really, she did. But Bolin was just an infectious person. It was hard to angst around him. He prevented it from being humanly possible.
It was things like that they made it impossible for Asami to hate benders the way her father had. Bending was just like any other talent. She may not have been a bender, but Asami did have a few special talents of her own.
"Pretty well if I decide to buy the referees." She giggled at Bolin's expression. Mako, having heard the tail end of the conversation, paused mid-stance.
"What was that?" He asked, shock and awe coloring his speech. He, unfortunately, didn't notice the Avatar's final swoop and was abruptly barreled to the floor by a stream of water.
"Ha, chump." Korra announced, removing her helmet with a smile.