letters
Korra sat in front of the toddler, little blocks held aloft. Her expression was hopeful as she watched the letters form and falter on the child's lips. "Come on Katia. Wa-Ter. W-A-T-E-R. Water." She set down two of the blocks she held and touched the neckline of her shirt. "Water."
The little girls lips pursed, preparing to echo her mother.
She let out a little huff, coughing up flames. Katia giggled and sneezed. She clapped delightedly at the flames. When they dissipated her lip quivered. Korra sensed tears.
The Avatar sprung into action, abandoning the lettered blocks and scooping the child into her arms. "Come here, my little fire bender." She cooed, brushing Katia's black hair from her face and shushing her gently. "I don't know whether or not I should be proud that you're already fire bending or if I should be concerned that your speaking skills are limited to a chittering fire ferret." Korra smiled, pressing a kiss to her daughter's temple.
Katia tugged on the strands of hair on either side of Korra's face. "Mama."
"Yes, we covered that one. Your father and I are very proud." Korra snapped her fingers, a flame dancing in front of her daughter's eyes. It was the easiest way to cheer up the child and keep her occupied for any span of time. "Fire, Katia. F-I-R-E." Korra sighed. She didn't expect much of a response from the squirming child but she couldn't say she hadn't tried.
"Fire." Katia cried, reaching out instinctively for the flame.
Korra's eyes lit up and the flame disappeared. Katia didn't have much time to dwell on it's absence before she was being thrown in the air, giggling all the way. "That's my girl!"