Chapter 44: The Underminers

It wasn't often that Jasmine found herself furious, much less with someone she was putting herself at great risk to talk to, much less help. Pointing to her chest plate in the moonlight, accentuating the drop of blood in the center as she spoke to the heavily pregnant woman in front of her, she said, "I'm risking a lot by even talking to you, you know. My 'boss' has no qualms with using his awful gift, and I've seen you harass guards with your bloodbending in broad daylight before, out of sight." Smiling she said as she placed a hand on Sura's shoulder, "I've also noticed you only use it to stop beatings, never using your power to defend yourself."

Jasmine felt like she could just float away, she was so happy when Sura said, her blue eyes glimmering, "I guess I should be less hesitant – you're right. I do love helping others. I hope my unborn daughter and son can live to see a brighter future - one free from the tyrant you 'serve'." Jasmine laughed, saying, "Me too. The only reason I'm here, right now, with this awful armor on, is I figured with my unique talent, I could do more good from the inside." Jasmine smiled, remembering how even Jinshu Kuangmai couldn't tell when she was lying, giving off no signs of her duplicity. And she did it a lot, for purposes more noble than that monster's idol Azula ever did. Jasmine said, aloud, "The truth will certainly not set everyone in this camp free," feeling tingles run up her spine afterwards.

You have no idea how true that is, Jasmine.

Jasmine looked around, saying with a hushed voice, "I… I think I may have been spotted. Quick, look like you're cowering before me, something!"

Oh come on, Raava - you can do better than that! At least introduce yourself. Recognizing the second voice from radio broadcasts, Jasmine thought, "Uh… hello, Avatar Korra. Do I need to go somewhere?"

That won't be necessary, Jasmine - no one can hear this but you. The woman you're helping, Sura - I … saw her in a vision earlier, and this camp. I need to know, right now - is Jinshu Kuangmai planning on killing the inmates of the camp?

Figuring that Sura and her husband, Amaguq, could benefit from some reinforcement, Jasmine said aloud, "I've managed to convince Jinshu Kuangmai that everyone in the camp is needed for the war effort." With pride, she added, "It was hard, but I convinced him that instead of killing or torturing the firebenders, they were needed for work in Omashu."

Are there any other prisoners, other than firebenders and waterbenders? Specifically, people you have no clue why they are coming?

Jasmine sighed bitterly, saying, "That… was my one failing. I couldn't convince him that who you want to screw means nothing." Sobbing, she added, "Some... some of the inbound 'sexual criminal' prisoners are his own soldiers, having gone on a lie-detecting spree after the disaster that was the conference, enraged that a 'sexual deviant' had managed to best him." Sura gave her a funny look, saying, "We're both missing half the conversation. Are you sure there's no where else we could… talk, if you can call it that?" Jasmine started to answer, saying, "I'm sorry. Only I can hear what must be the Avatar and Raava right now, someho - "

The next thing Jasmine knew, she was standing somewhere else entirely, looking around in wonder. She heard a loud gasp, what she recognized as Sura's voice saying, "We… we must be in the Spirit World? But where?"

"That's much better. No, Raava, I'm not showing them your sword! Ugh! I thought you were supposed to be, like, fifteen now!"

Jasmine turned around, seeing figures she had never dreamed of seeing. Avatar Aang, Avatar Kyoshi, Avatar Korra, Asami Sato… and another person she didn't recognize. Distracted by Avatar Korra's bizarre tattoos, Jasmine listened as Avatar Korra cursed in a foreign, barking tongue, Jasmine only managing to decipher the word "Noatak" before the man's eyes widened, vanishing at the same time another humanoid figure appeared.

Having paid attention to the press release following the conference, Jasmine figured out why Avatar Korra looked so upset, clearly incensed that Raava had come out without permission. Avatar Korra spoke more in the same, strange language, what must have been Raava, Asami Sato and the other Avatars conversing in it as well. Jasmine jumped back slightly when she saw a large mechasuit appear around Asami Sato, the enraged nonbender cursing loudly in words Jasmine didn't know. Jasmine was pretty sure what the word that sounded like "thuck" meant, given how long blades protruded from Asami Sato's mechasuit as she said it, finishing by saying the curse again, this time on Jinshu Kuangmai.

The new humanoid figure turned around, Jasmine gasping in surprise as it said, "I'm Raava. You might recognize the form on my armor better than this new human form, Jasmine. Just give me a minute." Jasmine groaned as what must have been Raava turned around, speaking the unintelligible. Feeling slightly offended, Jasmine said, "If you dorks want my help in liberating that camp, and making sure the shipment of 'sexual criminals' don't get executed, either start talking normally or teach us this language you're speaking! You'll get a chance to 'thuck' Jinshu Kuangmai up if you wish, Asami Sato – but not now." Avatar Korra sighed, saying as she gestured with her right hand, Jasmine admiring the symbol for Water, "Raava, it's only a matter of time before English seeps out, and it could make a very good language to communicate in with the military and secret operatives, like I think Jasmine wants to be."

The bizarre form that proclaimed itself to be Raava sighed, holding up a large, intimidating yet re-assuring sword as she spoke in another language. Raava's mouth moving much as it had before, Jasmine could find herself able to understand as Raava said, "You should now have 'knowledge of the English'." Jasmine laughed, not sure why she found the poor grammar funny, saying, "Back to business. I don't know how much you heard, Avatar Korra, but I am in charge of the camps… program. 'Chief Containment Officer,' though I hate the title, and the armor I am wearing." Avatar Korra said, "You can just call me Korra. We can't talk for too long, or someone might find your bodies. I'll cut to the chase - where is the camp you run located, and when are the 'sexual criminals' arriving?"

Not afraid to talk over Asami Sato, Jasmine said, "You can save your righteous anger for tomorrow, Asami Sato. The camp is located alongside a major railway hub near Omashu. There are many other camps throughout the Earth Empire, and I make sure that when I can, I appoint a foreman with a conscience." Finding an odd sense of relief in Jinshu Kuangmai's efficiency, she finished, "Those camps do not hold benders, or 'sexual criminals' - only the other kinds of prisoners. Thieves, political criminals, rebels and people who need a 're-education.' Jinshu Kuangmai wants to keep a close eye on the benders, and I believe he wants to… see the 'sexual criminals' to their next lives personally." Jasmine started crying, saying as she looked at Asami, "You're lucky you had a tolerant father. There are fates far worse than being repressed - if I remember right, Jinshu Kuangmai wants to kill them, all at once, in a show of power. Slowly. Tomorrow, for… dinner, he's going to have a big 'event' at my camp. The prisoners arrive early in the morning, so I hope we can do something before his sick little party. If you don't help me in an intelligent manner, I'm afraid even Sura's bloodbending combined with a last ditch effort on my part to stop the slaughter will not work." Sighing deeply, Jasmine added, "There are more guards excited about tomorrow than I would like – even some of the bending prisoners want to watch. Most of the ones that know why the Spirit Civil War started…"

At first, Asami Sato looked like she might just try and slice her in two, finally saying with great rage, "As far as I am concerned, those 'excited' prisoners are as good as dead – as bad as any Earth Empire soldier. As soon as we're done here, I'm going in, Jang Hui kelp tea style. Just tell me where this camp is, and I'll slaughter anyone who doesn't stand down. I won't watch and see a miniature Holocaust happen!" The form that Jasmine was still having trouble getting acclimated to said, holding out the strange two-handed sword, "No. That sounds like something the corrupt, amoral Arthas would do, and you know where the inspiration for this sword is from, though you don't know its story. We will cooperate, and there will be no wanton killing." Asami Sato turned to Raava, saying hotly as flame poured from an extended metal-clad arm, "NO! I am sick and tired of standing idly by as others fight! I've finally got a great equalizer – Asami's Reach!" Jasmine heard a strange set of ominous sounds emanate from the mechasuit's chest, noticing Raava looked rather panicked, muttering, "I… what are you… what's wrong with your suit, Asami?" Jasmine recoiled slightly, noticing that the wires on the arms of Asami Sato's suit were glowing a weak red. Asami Sato said, "Nothing is wrong with my suit! Those people - they're evil - beyond redemption! Nazis! To be purged! Jinshu Kuangmai wants blood - I'll give him blood!" As she spoke, the red color on the suit's grooves and its twin blade's wiring intensified as Jasmine heard two muffled "voices" say "UHHUHHH" and "VRM. VRMMM!", Raava shouting, "What's going on here?! Impetuous Vine and Impatient Leaf should be incorruptible!"

Jasmine noticed Korra staring off into the distance, Korra crying slightly as she said, "Hatred's power… No… You're not welcome here! Get away!" Raava ran over, knocking Asami over, saying, "Stop it, idiot! You're causing Korra all sorts of problems! Not to mention your suit's red lines! What did you do to those tuber-vines, Asami, you hot tempered imbecile?!" Asami Sato looked like she wanted to continue speaking angrily anyways, but was interrupted by Sura, who said, ignoring the bizarre exchange, "Calm down, Asami Sato! No one is totally beyond redemption. There are plenty of guards there who are decent human beings, and I think even the ones obsessed with Jinshu Kuangmai's little event tomorrow can be made to think. Imagine - a camp full of waterbenders, firebenders and 'sexual criminals' escaping Jinshu Kuangmai's iron grasp, along with some of his elite metalbenders." Jasmine smiled broadly, saying as she looked at Sura, "I hope you listened, Asami Sato. Sura is right. Jinshu Kuangmai was absolutely livid about the idealists defecting, and breaking away more people would be a major triumph, one sure to shore up the legitimacy of the United Earth Republic."

When Jasmine looked to see what Asami Sato's response was, she saw Raava removing her hands from both Asami and Korra's foreheads, saying, "Given Asami's behavior, it should be obvious why Arthas's tale was relevant. Better to suffer now than let hate grow, Asami. Especially considering Korra's little terror spell. One, I might add, you aided, indirectly, Asami." With disgust, Raava added, "Your extreme emotions somehow even managed to temporarily corrupt the spirits of the tuber-vines that power your suit. I'll need to conduct a little experiment after this, and cheat to design a failsafe. I don't want tuber-vines turning in the hands of out-of-control soldiers…" Sighing, Korra said with a hint of anger, "I want to know exactly just what happened to Impetuous Vine and Impatient Leaf as well. And the other thing. The sooner we help the good Arthas, the better. I'm sick to death of this cross plane crap. 'I may not be welcome in you, but it appears your lover has other ideas – she's already corrupting beings, and you know the power of blood…' I hope that wretch was lying." Asami Sato looked down at the ground, sullen as she said, "I'm afraid the necklace had nothing to do with the tuber-vines turning. It was my own hatred. They have minds of their own, and both thought my bloodlust was justified." Sighing, Asami mumbled, "Any equipment that uses them will need a failsafe – even my own mechasuit, apparently." Breaking down, Asami said, "What you showed me, Raava… I thought my father's sullying of Future Industry's name was bad. That plane is worse than Earth."

Looking at Jasmine directly, Asami Sato said, "You can just call me Asami, Jasmine. I'm sorry about that - especially you, Korra." Turning away from Jasmine, Asami kissed Korra, the normal-looking suit vanishing, saying, "I promise I won't make you my Jaina. Ever." Jasmine tapped her foot impatiently, saying, "Whatever that means, and all this babble about planes. I see nothing wrong with a name that means 'good character'. Let's try and set something up for tomorrow, before someone discovers my body." Jasmine laughed when she heard what must have been Avatar Aang admonish Asami, "I don't know where that came from, but it can stay there. Seems to me like you could use a talk with my granddaughter, Jinora." Asami sighed, saying, "You know what Raava showed me. That won't be necessary. The only thing necessary will be coming up with a way to ensure tuber-vines aren't swayed by the emotions of their 'master'…" After a slight pause, Asami added, "If and when we do interact more directly with that conflicted soul, Arthas, we should act as though we know nothing about him, unless he acts otherwise." Raava nodded, saying, "I agree. Enough with this cross-plane crap, as Korra said - I'm vaguely considering re-forming this sword. He can get help from his own plane!"

Asami did a double-take, saying, "Atokara says no. Very emphatically, I'll add. She wants to talk to him." Korra groaned, saying, "Oh, great - my daughter's witnessed life being snuffed out on one planet, and some of the worst corruption I've ever seen on another, and she's not even been born yet!" Asami smiled, saying, "Atokara says - wait. Why don't you just come on out, Atokara?" Jasmine saw a flash of light, turning away when she saw what must have been Korra and Asami's child was wearing – or rather, wasn't. Jasmine heard a young voice laugh, saying, "I don't like clothes! But if you want me to, I'll put something on." Jasmine peeked, saying with wonder, "I had heard that your daughter was unique, Korra, but… nothing could prepare me for this. She's not even a week old, technically, but she seems like she's… four, given her size and dress?" Jasmine was slightly flustered when Korra said, "When I see you tomorrow, I can explain more. A lot has happened, even since the press conference you obviously paid attention to."

Getting an uneasy feeling, Jasmine said, "To recap – the event is at 6:30 PM tomorrow, at the big rail hub outside Omashu. The newer prisoners should be arriving in about six hours – 8:00 AM. I recommend you make all haste possible, and bring plenty of transportation." Feeling the unease intensify, Jasmine turned around, barking, "Who's there? What do you want?"

Jasmine shook her head, hearing surprised gasps from behind her, unable to believe her eyes. Avatar Aang ran over to the unlikely figure, yelling, "Bumi! I haven't seen you in ages! Where have you been?" The ancient looking former ruler of Omashu snickered, saying, "Living a new life, though I don't know who I am. Not that I always knew all the time anyways." Giving Raava a squint, he added, "I appreciated your offer of spirit immortality, but life's too fun to stop forever. I'm sure I'm having all sorts of wacky adventures." Avatar Aang laughed, saying, "I'm sure you are. But why are you here?" King Bumi laughed wildly, asking, "Do you remember the time Sokka helped evacuate Omashu?" Avatar Aang nodded, saying, "Yes, I do, and if what Raava told me is true, it sounds like Omashu is under a different tyrant's thumb right now."

Realizing what King Bumi had in mind, Jasmine said, "No – you've got to be crazy, Avatar Aang! I know King Bumi is, but evacuating all of Omashu? How?" Avatar Aang laughed, saying, "You can stop with all the formal titles, Jasmine." Smiling broadly, Aang continued with a more serious face, "Before we decide on what we're going to do with Omashu, I need you to tell me – what kind of fortifications does it have?" Jasmine said evenly, "The city is much different from your time, Aang. It has a lot of industrial capacity – it's even expanded physically, especially since Kuvira took control, the most modern equipment on the city's expanded outskirts. The mesa the city sits on top of has been reinforced with steel, platinum - coated bridges linking is to its surroundings." Seeing Bumi looking rather disgusted, Jasmine added, "The historical buildings remain intact, Omashu thankfully spared the treatment Zaofu and the Fire Nation capitol got." Smiling broadly as she saw Kyoshi's eyes light up, apparently glad that Omashu had not been spoiled, Jasmine finished, "There are plenty of fortifications, but not enough manpower to defend them. For every elite metalbender on the walls and manning a spirit cannon turret, there are 49 militiamen. Who, I might add, are quite devious themselves. Everyone in Omashu who can bend has taken the metalbending training program initiated by Kuvira and then Jinshu Kuangmai's troops with enthusiasm, professing false loyalty much as I have. Kuvira even stationed one of her actual schools inside the city, residents encouraged to learn many disciplines." Pausing for breath, Jasmine finished for what she though was for real this time, "Also, I've managed to get contact with a resistance leader inside." Remembering who the resistance leader was, Jasmine continued, saying, "A pregnant airbender."

After the gasps had died down, Jasmine said, "Omashu has many secrets. For years, they have hidden their own new airbenders – first from Earth Queen Hou-Ting, then Kuvira, now Jinshu Kuangmai. I had to appear in Omashu personally before the rebel leader on the pretenses of talking out terms of surrender before learning the city's best kept secret." Korra said passionately, "If we can convince Omashu to revolt, and join our side, we could use it as a forward base! Forget Long Yumao – crush Jinshu Kuangmai first!" Jasmine nodded, seeing everyone else agreeing. Or so she thought. Bumi said, coughing lightly, "No. Omashu was founded because of a war getting out of control. I don't want it destroyed by one." Getting blank stares, Bumi said irately, "What, are you all stupid? Jinshu Kuangmai could easily just use earthbenders to topple the land it sits on. A crack here, a fissure there…" After Kyoshi said with disgust, "I will support nothing that could lead to a city as culturally significant as Omashu being toppled!" Korra whistled, another mechasuit appearing at her side as Jasmine heard her say, pointing at wires that closely resembled those on the blades of Asami's mechasuit, "He can't topple the city if we put spiritwire on top of metal around the base." Jasmine groaned, saying, "I don't mean to insult your intelligence, Korra, but unless you can coat the entire mesa and basin the city is precariously positioned upon with your miracle metal and wire in an instant, Jinshu Kuangmai would just undermine the city's foundation – the bedrock. He may care somewhat about old Earth kingdom greatness, but he's not above destroying the whole city if it rebels."

At first, Korra looked defeated, saying, "I guess you're right, Jasmine," as Kyoshi cursed. A sudden light appearing in her eyes, Korra said, "The Spirit Portal seals!" Jasmine said, impressed, "I had forgotten about that. Raava, what do you think? Pump your energy into the city and its foundation?" Raava mulled it over for a while, finally saying, much to everyone but the dead centenarian's shock, "No. I saw what tuber-vines can do to Korranium earlier – instantly separate the go boom stuff from the dense stuff." Too confused to speak, Jasmine listened to Sura ask, "What's Korranium, and how could it make fortifications useless?" Raava sighed, saying, "Let's just say it is a metal with the potential to be used as a weapon that would obliterate Omashu, even with my energy protecting it. Omashu is close enough to Zaofu that Jinshu Kuangmai could fire a Korranium warhead from a railway gun, much like the one Kuvira used as a test bed for her initial spirit cannon test."

Korra stamped her feet angrily, cursing in English, Jasmine now fully understanding what the "thuck" she was talking about. Once Korra had calmed down, she said, frowning, "Great. We've got to choose between saving the prisoners, and liberating Omashu. I can't decide which." Asami smiled, saying, "Why don't we use the airships I am sure are stationed near the prison camp to help evacuate? And Korra, you can project to President Raiko and whoever is in charge of the Southern Water Tribe in your parent's absence – 'We're gonna need a bigger boat.' Wan Shi Tong, I didn't know you had such a good sense of humor, nor why I find that funny."

Jasmine could hardly believe her ears and eyes, stammering, "B-b-but I thought Wan Shi Tong hated humans? What are you doing here?" The odd-looking owl chuckled, blue-lined feathers pulsing slightly as he did so, finally saying as he stared at Jasmine with blue eyes, "Helping plan a very impromptu evacuation. You need to tell me exactly what kind of forces are stationed around the camp and Omashu before we proceed, Jasmine."

As Jasmine explained, she saw Wan Shi Tong whip out a detailed map, handing it to Asami, who asked, while drawing on the troop positions outside the city, "Can I take this map with me out of the Spirit World?" Jasmine had just finished explaining when she felt unease permeate her being, saying, "I've got a bad feeling – and something tells me this is physically caused."

Her eyes opening, Jasmine felt her heart stop momentarily, now looking at a very angry and suspicious guard. Completely ignoring Sura and Amaguq behind him, he advanced closer, armblade extended as he said, "I always thought there was something off about you, 'Chief Containment Officer' Jasmine. I know what that pose means – you were in the Spirit World, likely with these two pieces of Water Tribe filth." Smiling broadly, he said, "I'll be taking your title, traitor, after I take your life."

The blade jerked away from her throat, cutting her face deeply instead, Jasmine gnashing in pain. The irate guard was now levitated off the ground, jerking violently, managing to sputter, "YOU – you're a psychic bloodbender, aren't you?" Amaguq laughed, saying, "Typical Earth Empire arrogance. Any skilled waterbender can bloodbend under a full moon, and my wife made sure I knew how, in case the need ever arose. Like right now." The guard managed to yell loudly, "HELP!" Jasmine cursed in English, telling Sura in the same tongue, "Let's hope your psychic bloodbending is empowered by the moon like regular waterbending is. Quick, patch my face up – I'm going to need to make a little speech." Sighing, she said, "And you two will need to help me make sure no guards contact Jinshu Kuangmai. Even if you have to kill. I've got to go – I have control over all the radios in this camp, but I've got to get there first."

After Sura assured her she was willing to kill, saying with tears as she healed, "I want to make sure they have a chance to surrender first, though," Jasmine ran off, not finding the final gasps of the guard disturbing in the least. She was no idealist, and when she was honest with herself, she thought Asami had a point – Jinshu Kuangmai deserved death, after all.

Just do your job. I'm going to help you out – this is Korra. I have a little agreement with Jinshu Kuangmai's good side – he has to give me permission to take… Jinshu Kuangmai's life.

Finally reaching the radio room in the center of camp, Jasmine thought, "Thank goodness I'm the first here. Now, to de-activate all the radios…" Jasmine unplugged the transmitter to the outside world, cursing when she heard a voice yell "Jasmine is a traitor!" seemingly to a radio outside regardless.

I hope you're as smooth a talker as Azula.

Not speaking, Jasmine made sure the spy's death was quick – both for practical and moral reasons. Ignoring his dead gaze from the ground, she pushed his body further away from his head, picking up the radio he had been holding before he came down with a fatal case of disconnected head. Speaking, she said, "Jinshu Kuangmai, your little spy is dead."

Time to give him our conditions – we'll take the sexual prisoners off his hands. Raava suggested it – she hopes he just wants them gone from his territory, like someone from one of those planes we were talking about did at first with a different group of "undesirables".

Jinshu Kuangmai hated being woken up violently. Glad he slept in his armor, he jumped up, pushing away the covers as he yelled, red and black metal blade extended, "This better be good, Jang! If it were anyone but you, you'd be sporting a nice gash right now!" Jang sighed, saying, "It appears our Chief Containment Officer is not who we thought she was. We just received a transmission from the camp outside Omashu, one of our spies… only managing to radio in 'Jasmine is a traitor!' before I heard a wet slash over the radio, followed by an audible crumpling." Holding the communicator in question, Jang said, "Jasmine is demanding to speak to you. Apparently, the Avatar has a rather unorthodox method of communicating now, and is feeding Jasmine conditions."

What in the name of the Earth Empire is going on here?!

Jinshu Kuangmai growled angrily, taking the radio as he asked, "What do you possibly have to offer me, you… you liar! How could you have…" Jinshu Kuangmai almost crushed the receiver as he heard Jasmine laugh, taunting, "Even though I really think of Azula as an evil monster, I share one thing in common with her. I can lie like there's no tomorrow. My body betrays nothing." Finally roused from sleep, wishing his night had ended with the vision of Vaatu changing into a humanoid form, he said, "THERE IS NO TOMORROW FOR YOU! I will not negotiate with traitors and unnatural wretches! Jang, wake up our elites, and set half of all Zaofu's war balloons for that camp, the other half for the sexual deviant railcars! And bring spirit vines, and sling smaller spirit cannons underneath each one – there will be nothing left but ashes!" Snarling, Jinshu Kuangmai added, "And the other prisoners, the not-yet arrived sexual deviants – they're as good as dead!"

Jinshu Kuangmai heard Jasmine curse in a strange language he had never heard before, beginning to speak normally, the traitor saying, "You forget the Avatar has spirit allies, you arrogant fool. There's one in particular who will take great pleasure in dispatching the monsters you have assigned to guarding the railcars." Jinshu Kuangmai laughed, saying, "The nearest Spirit Portal is ages away. I fail to see how any of the Avatar's weak little spirit friends will arrive in time."

Jinshu Kuangmai was rather puzzled at how Jasmine responded, "Let's say someone is willing to push the envelope of what is, and is not allowed. You won't know what hit you."

With that, the radio fell silent, Jinshu Kuangmai telling Jang as he hurried to the new underground airship hangar, "I want some spirit cannons directly slapped on these ships! Scratch that – I want to do it myself!"

The time passed in a blur, not even bothering to think as he modified one airship personally, testing his idea. When the ship was airborne, he pressed the firing switch, immensely satisfied with how the airship lurched forward rapidly under the moonlight. Remembering the limitations of his current technology, he began to yell for more spirit vines for his new spirit engines.

"Avatar bad. No able talk to Vaatu. Me help Jinshu Kuangmai. Biiig help."

Jinshu Kuangmai turned around, saying incredulously, "Pfft – you're so tiny! How can you help me?" The small spirit swelled in size, saying as its yellow eyes flared, "Human hate energy of Jinshu Kuangmai make strong. Show you how I help now." Jinshu Kuangmai watched in disbelief as the globular spirit extended a shadow-sheathed black and red tendril towards a group of terrified-looking soldiers, touching a spirit-vine casing. Somehow reaching inside, the spirit let out a loud screech as dark energy he found mesmerizing pulsed through the extended tendril, more tendrils reaching out and touching other spirit vine containers.

What – the spirit vine! Black! And it's got red lines – and it's pulsing!

Jinshu Kuangmai watched as the spirit placed this new type of vine in front of him, saying, "Changed by human hatred. Yours. And your soldiers. Power inside cannot be deplete, unless your hatred of enemy runs out." Jinshu Kuangmai cackled, bragging loudly, "My hatred will never run out! Soldiers – this new unconventional ally. You are to treat him with the same respect and fear you give Jang."

The spirit morphed, taking on a form Jinshu Kuangmai found most pleasing, barely able to stop from blubbering like a fool. The spirit said, with a female voice he thought he would never hear, "Respect and fear – good. Getting closer to you, I know who you admire, Jinshu Kuangmai. I can see I made the right choice, assuming Azula's form. A shame I can't bend… but I can do this." Jinshu Kuangmai heard a shattering sound, seeing that the spirit vine had outgrown its container. Remembering his vision of Vaatu morphing, he explained what he thought may have happened to Vaatu as the soldiers hooked up the spirit vine to a new housing, noting with pleasure that only a few soldiers around him looked uneasy. One said, "I won't feel comfortable with this until we see what else this spirit does for us". Jinshu Kuangmai smiled when he saw the other reluctant soldiers nod in agreement, not sure if he was happier that people took to the idea of Vaatu as a kindred spirit so eagerly or that the spirit vine had grown.

Apparently, the spirit now had common sense that matched Azula's, saying, "You and Jang go do whatever you need to do. I'll be converting spirit vines while you're busy. I'm going to need some help – something tells me you don't have that many large spirit vine containers. You should be able to slice pieces off, the missing piece regenerating as long as there is sufficient hatred around it." Deciding the helpful spirit needed a proper name, Jinshu Kuangmai said with a smile, "Sure thing, Vaazula." The spirit laughed, saying, "I like that name. Death to Team Avatar! To Team Hate!"

After connecting the new powersource to the engines and a smaller repeating spirit cannon mounted on the prow, Jinshu Kuangmai climbed into the airship with Jang, along with a platoon of soldiers who busied themselves talking about what Vaatu's possible changed nature meant for the war effort. He idly thought, After this, I won't be completely furious if the Avatar saves those reprobates or not. Limitless spirit vine energy… I'll swamp those fools with spirit vine weaponry!

Jinshu Kuangmai laughed as he gunned the new engines, condenser rings opening wide as he heard his annoying half say from within, "Not caring about your little pet project… Maybe I can win after all."

Hah! I'll still be furious. Maybe Vaazula and Jang can help me with some pest control after this…

Jinshu Kuangmai smiled broadly, both at how his weaker self was weeping, and the speed with which they were approaching the outbound train that carried the prisoners. Squinting, he saw the train was moving, even though it was supposed to stay stationary.

Wait – what are those blue...? What… bending?

As Jinshu Kuangmai stared at the scene before him, for the first time in his life, he felt fear. Slamming his fist down, he screamed, "You aren't supposed to cheat, you lousy little wimp!" Jinshu Kuangmai clenched his fist in anger as a teenage female voice laughed, intoning, Not cheating – pushing the envelope. The Spirit World and the physical world are more closely linked than ever. And I've grown in power, thanks to the power of humanity. The good side, that is.

Grinning broadly, Jinshu Kuangmai thought, You must be Raava. I'm not the only one with new spirit allies. Vaazula will serve me well, and I know what I "did" to Vaatu now.

Fear fled his being, reveling in how he had made a being of light curse and swear like a sailor.

One minute, Wan Shi Tong was idly looking at his curious feathers in the Spirit World, waiting to see what Raava had in mind, and the next, he was near a massive train, wondering how he would be of any real use in helping break the prisoners free, feeling an odd energy suffuse his being.

Let's just say the big envelope push wasn't teleportation.

Not having any time for Raava's cryptic answer, his form shifted, assuming his more capable and intimidating self, using his elongated neck to look around for the spirit allies Raava had promised. Not immediately seeing anyone, Wan Shi Tong flapped massive wings to take off towards the accelerating railcars, noticing that his flight was stronger than normal, wondering aloud, "Wait – how can I even fly in this big form? Most strange…"

Just wait and see.

Feeling something rather alien, Wan Shi Tong hooted in annoyance as he thought, "Now I know what it's like to be Korra. Answer me, annoying teenage twerp!"

No. I want it to be a surprise. I hope you like it just as much as the Plane: Earth wing.

Wan Shi Tong spotted what appeared to be a junction of sorts, realizing as the first railcar changed direction that it was a smaller rail hub, the train must have now been heading towards "Jasmine's" camp. Remembering images from Earth of cattle cars loaded with Jews, he felt rage take over, rapidly making his way to the junction. He saw a large, hulking form already near the junction, recognizing Hei Bai's Dark Spirit form, noticing with his quick glance that he now sported blue claws that vaguely reminded him of those of a badgermole on his larger arms.

Landing behind Hei Bai, Wan Shi Tong used his beak to tear into vulnerable parts of the railway, unleashing torrents of energy from his beak at stubborn sections. The train stopped and his rage fading, he shook his head, saying, "I don't remember being able to project energy like that. Is that the gift, Raava?"

Look at Hei Bai again, specifically his extra hands, and you'll see.

Wan Shi Tong flapped beside Hei Bai, noticing that the smaller hands were moving in a pattern he recognized… but from humans. He'd never seen a spirit try to earthbend before. Looking at the railcar as Hei Bai roared in fury, Wan Shi Tong realized with shock that the metal around many key parts was warped and twisted slightly, certain sections occasionally splitting open to reveal human soldiers, some fighting each other, the metal closing back up as Hei Bai roared in anger once more. The train was completely stopped, apparently by Hei Bai's wrath.

Wan Shi Tong suppressed his urge to study Hei Bai's apparent bending, instead trying his own wing at whipping up an obscuring dust cloud around a group of what appeared to be the prisoners who needed rescue. A large dust vortex formed, Wan Shi Tong trying to direct it towards a group of soldiers who were running with purpose at the group of prisoners.

Stop! I'll illuminate friendly targets – Jasmine is doing her job very well. And don't steal anyone's breath!

Wan Shi Tong noticed that his vision had shifted slightly, seeing blue and red overlays over humans nearby, directing his actions towards knocking over a group of soldiers he didn't need the overlay to tell were still loyal to Jinshu Kuangmai, given how they were yelling. After buffeting them back and forth with his massive wings and puzzling new power, he noticed that other groups of hostile soldiers were incapacitated, one group encased in ice and another looking as though they had been roasted or fried, all laying on the ground in an undignified mass death pile.

"Fine, fine! I won't kill any more soldiers if I can help it, Raava! But don't expect me to stay my claws often!"

Wan Shi Tong turned to see Aye-zul pouting near the group of dead soldiers, suppressing what Raava might have called a "snicker" of a hoot when he heard the Painted Lady say hotly, "Don't pick on Aye-zul, Raava – I'm a protector, and those soldiers were lit up bright red! Murder in their hearts!"

Sorry. Asami's earlier… antics put me on edge. We only just now figured out the full implications of the tuber-vines having free will – I'll have to talk with each and every one, or just wipe their personalities. Be careful!

Wan Shi Tong heard a loud trilling, noticing that Bumju had arrived, and given how he was rapidly knocking down soldiers with swathes of air, he must have gained bending as well. Seeing that soldiers were now either cowering in fear or listening to a tinny speech over the radio intently, Wan Shi Tong "asked" Raava, "How were you able to give us bending?"

After my promotion, I managed to find the spirits of the original lion turtles by accident, getting their assistance for this gift. There are still limitations, however – immortalized human spirits cannot receive bending, and in order to bend, you must be fully physical. Be cautious – I don't want anyone getting hurt by spirit weaponry.

Oh, and one of Korra's older spirit friends should be arriving shortly. Korra just re-connected with her a short while ago. I didn't get a chance to give her bending, however, so make sure to protect her. She will likely only show up when the situation is under control anyways. I have something special in mind for her – something I'll need help with. Human help.

Wan Shi Tong scanned the skies, only seeing a large approaching war balloon. Shaking his head, he said, "Wait – that ship. It looks like it has engines, like what the braintrust designed!" Realizing who must be inside, Wan Shi Tong said loudly, "Bumju, come with me and help hold Jinshu Kuangmai back. Aye-zul, Painted Lady, and Hei Bai, help get the prisoners protected and organized!" Wan Shi Tong was surprised to hear a man yell loudly, "I'll help – I was the conductor of that train, Jinshu Kuangmai thinking it ironic to have a 'sexual criminal' conduct the train under threat of death. As soon as the guards started fighting over what Jasmine was saying, I put the train into full throttle, knowing I needed to get as far away from Zaofu as I could." The man barked, "Everyone who can bend, fix the tracks – given what I heard Jasmine say, it sounds like we have a new, nicer reason to go to her camp! Hurry up!" The last thing Wan Shi Tong heard before the flapping of his wings drowned out speech was Aye-zul saying, "I'll try and help – maybe I can melt metal together. I never thought I'd be a firebender! Talk about irony!"

I'll let everyone know the change in plans. I hope that train is loaded with equipment and supplies – talk to the conductor after.

Flapping his wings, Wan Shi Tong made for the airship, beginning to form an energy blast, forced to dodge aside by an incoming blast of spirit energy. Noticing that the energy looked different than normal, Wan Shi Tong flew in for a closer look, shrinking in size to present a smaller target and shifting to become incorporeal, noticing that flight was no easier now, even with his changed form.

As Bumju harassed the front of the war balloon, trilling happily as he playfully buffeted the massive craft, Wan Shi Tong slipped inside the war balloon, impervious to any assault while in spectral form. Laughing, he stuck out his raspy avian tongue at a group of frustrated elite metalbenders, saying as he felt another new, pleasant feeling he had read of, "Nanny-nanny-boo-boo! You can't get me!" The soldiers now apoplectic, Wan Shi Tong inspected a large container hooked to many thick wires in the middle of the ship, realizing with mute horror that there was what appeared to be a large corrupted spirit vine inside what must have been the ship's new power source. Like the blast of spirit energy he had dodged earlier, the vine was black and red, red lines pulsing stronger as he heard a voice say loudly with fury, "Unless you get that damn owl off my ship, you're all going to re-education camps, lost soldiers to Jasmine's backstabbing or not! Speaking of which – Jang, I want a personnel damage report as soon as possible!"

Having gotten the information he wanted, Wan Shi Tong left, re-assuming a larger and physical form once he was on the outside, for some reason taking pity on the soldiers, not wishing "re-education" on anyone, especially not after seeing Earth's gulags. Getting an idea, Wan Shi Tong decided to play some psychological warfare of his own, not wanting to leave everything to Jasmine, assuming a spectral form in front of the war balloon as he taunted Jinshu Kuangmai. Bumju's air blasts passed harmlessly through him, keeping the ship occupied. He found himself relying heavily on tricks from the Plane: Earth wing of his library, taking great delight in calling Toph's wayward son names Jinshu Kuangmai didn't understand, speaking in German and Russian at times, mixing Jinshu Kuangmai's personality with that of Hitler and Stalin as appropriate.

Wan Shi Tong would have smiled if he had anything but a beak as he heard an exasperated male voice yell over loudspeakers, "Screw this stupid owl and rabbit! I can't even understand what that accursed bird is saying! The prisoners are lost – we can't handle five bending spirits by ourselves! Jang, turn every airship around – we need to cut that piece of traitorous filth off!"

As he felt a flow of information not much different from Korra's own infobending, Wan Shi Tong made to chase the retreating war balloon.

No. We're going to have enough trouble with just evacuating the prisoners and Omashu, and those new spirit weapons you discovered would tear you to pieces. It looks like Jinshu Kuangmai just pulled a Long Yumao on us – we gain a little, the enemy gains more.

Wan Shi Tong couldn't help but wonder if the new corrupt spirit vines could regenerate or grow larger, shivering slightly as he landed, knowing the answer. The spirit vine inside the main compartment looked as though it had been hastily hooked up – as if it had outgrown its previous container.

Turning to the source of a gentle squawk, Wan Shi Tong stared at the dragon bird spirit he was looking over his back at, thinking to himself, "So this must be Korra's friend." Watching the dragon bird land gracefully and prisoners flock to climb on her back, the great bird obviously offering to carry her maximum weight limit selflessly, he idly wondered if spirits were actually inferior to humans. He found himself frustrated, unable to appreciate the beauty of the dragon bird in the way a human male might have a human female's form. He admired her massive body nonetheless, seeing her form appeared to have changed in color similar to his own change.

That's… something for later. I still can't make sense of my feelings for Wan, and I've been exposed to humans directly for ten thousand years. Wan Shi Tong heard a different female voice interject quickly, Love isn't supposed to make sense! I'd love to see fire owlets, recognizing Korra's voice after the fact. Rolling his eyes slightly, he thought, "All I want to do is be able to appreciate this spirit work of art, not have owlets with her. I've barely started feeling human emotions! Talk about a huge leap…"

Wan Shi Tong busied himself by talking to the conductor, glad to learn the train was carrying a huge stockpile of food. From what he knew of Earth concentration camps, the prisoners would likely need every bite.

Having finished communicating with Jinshu Kuangmai, Jasmine cleaned the blood off her armblade, saying with disgust, "I knew he spied on everybody." Laughing, she thought, "Except his precious Jang. Sometimes, I half wonder if he's gay for him…"

This is the last communication I can give you for now, Jasmine – I don't think so. I doubt if he could love anyone, no matter what Korra thinks. Now go give your speech!

Vaguely disappointed she wouldn't find out what Raava's little trick was until later, she told a firebender who was staring at her in fear, "I'm on your side. Why don't you dispose of this vermin's corpse quickly, and go help the other prisoners fight the other guards off for long enough." The man nodded, saying, "Sure thing, Chief Containment Officer Jasmine." Jasmine gave him a look of disgust, saying, "And tell everyone to never call me that again!" The man nodded, saying enthusiastically, "Fine by me."

Jasmine ran off to the radio controls again, smiling as she got an interesting idea. Knowing the game was up, she set broadcast to almost Empire wide, saying, "This is former Chief Containment Officer Jasmine speaking, as just Jasmine. I have a special message, for anyone with a conscience." After letting the confused responses die down, taking a few minutes for people to stop yelling about being woken up at 2:00 AM, she continued, "Officers – look to your subordinates. Guards – look at your prisoners. Stay your hand if you are beating someone, and silence your hatred for those Jinshu Kuangmai deems undesirable for long enough to think." As silence grew, Jasmine said, "I want you to ask yourselves – are you happy with what you've done over the past three years? Moreover, are you happy that you've chosen to keep fighting for the Earth Empire, even after Kuvira, its founder, has seen the error of her ways?" After a false pause, she continued, "I know many of you hate the Fire Nation after the indignities the Earth Kingdom suffered during the 100 Year's War. I know one thing the old Fire Nation shared with the new Earth Empire – hatred." Practically yelling into the microphone, she said, "AND, if 'we' carry out Jinshu Kuangmai's vision for the Fire Nation – turn the island nation to ash – we will be no better than Sozin, who attempted to wipe out the Air Nomads, and failed! Furthermore, I am sure each and every one of you knows someone who was caught up in Jinshu Kuangmai's little 'sexual deviants' purge, even if only remotely. Do you really want to live in a world where young women and men are killed for something they can't help, much less comrades who served beside you, trying to restore order to the Earth Kingdom?"

Jasmine wasn't sure what to make of the maelstrom of noises coming from each camp's feed, much less the feeds from major cities like Zaofu and Omashu. She heard all sorts of reactions – crying, fighting, people insulting her honor, some insinuating incorrectly that she wanted to get down and dirty with another woman – but the reaction she loved the most came from the large speaker she knew was coupled to the railcar. Leaning closer, she heard many human voices, some repeating, "NO!" over and over on top of the sounds of fighting. Jasmine had a pretty good idea what Raava had done, given she heard decidedly non-human voices as well, hearing roars intermittently.

Knowing the spirit allies could handle themselves, especially if they were getting help from the prisoners and, apparently, some of the guards, Jasmine finished by saying, "I can see there are some among you with souls! And to those that still fight, for Jinshu Kuangmai's sickening banner, and its gleaming drop of blood, I want you to look at your fellow soldier or officer in the eye as you kill them. For their crime of humanity. And know, your crime against humanity will not go unpunished. You will die for your crimes, should you resist surrender, when the Avatar can bring all her might to bear upon the inhuman Earth Empire." Hearing some scattered insults, Jasmine scoffed, saying, "You can call me all the names you like, but that won't stop me from wondering how many times your mother dropped you on your head when you were a baby, or why your father abused you so. Your amorality is your loss – no one will mourn the passing of murderers. Do you feel sorry that Avatar Aang took poor little Firelord Ozai's bending away? Or the death of three of the insane people who tossed the Earth Kingdom into chaos in the first place – P'li, Ghazan, and Ming-Hua?" Jasmine actually started crying, she was so happy when she heard some of the recalcitrant Earth Empire goons say things like, "Do… do I really want to be like Zaheer? All that death from the anarchy – it's no different than the death I've wrought!"

Now would be the time to say something nice.

Suppressing laughter, Jasmine heeded Korra's advice, saying, "Remember – even Kuvira was forgiven. There is no such thing as unforgiveable sin. Remember this, when you look your family in the eye, explaining what mommy or daddy does at work." Jasmine broke into a laughing fit when she heard Jinshu Kuangmai's voice yell over the central, ornate feed, "Screw this stupid owl and rabbit! I can't even understand what that accursed bird is saying! The prisoners are lost – we can't handle five bending spirits by ourselves! Jang, turn every airship around – we need to cut that piece of traitorous filth off! Vaazula's going to have 'her' work cut out for her, and not just converting spir – ah, damn it all! I'm such a moron!" With that, the feed let out static, Jasmine imagining with pleasure that Jinshu Kuangmai had just crushed yet another expensive piece of equipment.

Wait – Vaazula? Oh, no… the little spirit that got away earlier at Sharktar's oasis! It found Jinshu Kuangmai! It sounds like … she's able to do something to the spirit vines, if what Raava relayed what Wan Shi Tong just told her about the airship he was fighting is right.

Jasmine's face drained of color, running outside to try and contain the chaos she was sure would greet her. Looking out in the moonlight, she smiled broadly, noticing that there were less than two dozen bodies lying on the ground, most in Earth Empire uniforms. Everyone not taking a permanent earth nap in Earth Empire uniform was crying or approaching her with hesitation. One, who she recognized as Chun, the airship commander for the base, said, "Something tells me we'll need these airships for more than just rescuing the… sexually interesting."

Jasmine laughed deeply, hearing Korra say internally, I love that turn of phrase. Sexually interesting pride! Remembering the plan for Omashu, she told Chun, "Yes – we have another target. Omashu."

Hang on – think of the resistance leader for me, Jasmine. Good. Now let me see if we can take Omashu in one strike as well.

Remembering that the feed from Omashu had unusual activity, Jasmine told Chun to follow her, yelling into the radio feed that connected to Omashu, "Does King Bumi reign supreme?"

"Yes. Yes, he does. And with all the chaos you caused outside the city, the Earth Empire suspects nothing. We executed our job perfectly. What are your orders – are we to make the city into a fortress, with all these defector's help, or sabotage and abandon?" Jasmine wanted so badly to tell the resistance leader, who she did not know the name of, "Yes – make Omashu a fortress!" but she remembered the babble about Korranium bombs.

It's no babble. I saw a whole world destroyed by those weapons.

Order them to hold until help arrives, gutting industrial buildings as they wait. Make the rendezvous point Hei Bai's forest, inside the United Republic of Nations. I have already contacted President Raiko. Two warships will be in the nearby sea and a multi-national force will be there in roughly six hours.

Chun had noticed the delay, asking incredulously, "Who's talking to you?" Jasmine laughed, saying before she gave the marching orders, "Avatar Korra, though I don't know exactly how."

Still in the Spirit World. Every living being is connected, Jasmine – even… Tonga Beifong, also known as Jinshu Kuangmai, is connected to me.

Jasmine's mouth fell open of its own, barely managing to give the patient resistance leader her orders. The woman said once Jasmine had finished, "The name is Yangchen, by the way. My parents were deeply curious about Air Nomad culture, and I'm sure it's why I ended up becoming an airbender three years ago." Jasmine heard a somewhat familiar voice interrupt, saying, "Surely, you don't want us to just destroy all this wonderful industrial equipment, Jasmine? Or the bridges? There's a lot of platinum coating them." Getting a devious idea she was sure a merciful Korra would disapprove of, Jasmine said, "No. Do you have any explosives?" Jasmine heard Yangchen laugh, saying, "Of course! No resistance leader worthy of the title would be without." Jasmine smiled, saying, "Good. I want you to rig the bridges to explode when enough weight is over the center, if possible, and rig the most valuable industrial equipment with booby traps. Knowing Jinshu Kuangmai, he'll be too stupid and greedy to resist ordering production to resume."

I like the bridge idea, but leave the industrial equipment alone. No booby traps there. The only people who would die are innocent workers, most likely.

Jasmine smiled, saying, "Yes to the bridges, no to the – what in the blazes do you mean you can pack up all the factories, Korra?" Jasmine saw a vision of a tired, tattoo-free Avatar synthesizing a whole factory from only raw materials, Jasmine saying in disbelief, "How… how do you expect to haul all that metal and equipment, Korra?"

Omashu is very defensible, so we can come back later in the day and strip everything of use, using a man-made dust storm as cover. We'll be leaving a line of hollowed out industrial buildings around the city's edge, to entice Jinshu Kuangmai in. Hearing laughter in her head, Korra finished, This little trap is nothing compared to another one that has yet to be triggered.

After Jasmine finished explaining the plan, Yangchen said, "I'll order the charges placed, but hopefully they won't be necessary. We've got a little trick or two of our own. Over and out," the radio feed dying. Jasmine smiled, saying to Chun, "Avatar Korra isn't who I thought she was. When I met her in the Spirit World earlier, I figured her for the soft, sentimental type. But she can think like a killer when she needs to." Hearing a familiar female voice, Jasmine turned to see Sura say, "You can kill, and still retain your soul, as long as it's for the right reason. As much as I hated doing it, one of those dead guards met his end by my hands. He was about to run his blade through a firebender protecting his daughter…"

Sura's right. Asami's over her anger now, indirectly hearing about your little stunt. I'll explain more later. Good luck, Jasmine. See you tomorrow. I've got some other business to deal with.

Korra found herself vaguely disappointed, having just met the dragon bird she helped what seemed like many lifetimes ago, only to see her go again, Wan Shi Tong apparently not interested in becoming any more human than he absolutely had to. Sighing, she said, "It's only a temporary separation," telling Raava, "Tell Hei Bai and the metalbenders to tear up the train track as they go, using the metal to fortify the camp, holding there. I don't want them bumping into the army outside Omashu. I remember the map Asami drew. All those soldiers…" Reneging on an earlier promise, Korra said with a toothy grin, "I think I'm going to make everyone's suits anyways, even Kuvira's, with what we'll be facing, trying to cover the evacuation. I hope Varrick and Zhu Li have figured out how to make Lipowder work properly. It sounds like a whole army is stationed outside Omashu, and I imagine Jinshu Kuangmai will send reinforcements. I wonder what Jinshu Kuangmai was planning, before our little impulsive invasion?" Raava had a predatory grin, saying, "I'm sure I could help speed along the gunp - "

Remembering with a start that they were still in the Spirit World and people would likely be worried about their safety, Korra held up a hand, saying, "Hold that thought. Raava, why don't you try your hand at infobending with that new sword of yours that's caused us such grief, and I'll try to contact Yangchen." Korra heard an older female voice say calmly, "I'm right here," Korra wheeling around and giving the dead past life Yangchen a funny look as she said, "You know what I meant. Now let's go."

Korra was utterly baffled by how both Aang and Raava were looking at her with great unease at the mention of infobending. Putting something together that Korra hadn't Asami said hotly, "Wait – you two! Aang – you talked about some orders for the White Lotus in that vision, and given how you said 'All of them', there must have been more left behind than just 'Protect the next Avatar!'" Korra saw Kyoshi and Yangchen disappear as she said, feeling some sort of block lifted, "Wait – were you screwing with my mind earlier, Raava? I remember wanting to ask something about the Grand Lotus' comments about family and Red Lotus activity, but the question vanished from my mind. And I think I know who did it. YOU."

Raava sighed deeply, saying, "This is a matter best discussed with your parents. If you don't mind, I'd like you to hurry up and contact the other Yangchen and just… show everything relevant with infobending." Feeling angry in a way she hadn't in years, Korra pointed a shaking hand at Raava, saying with fury, "No! This is something that sounds very personal, and I'd like to talk it out! This issue is after only talking to Yangchen in priority. We can drink some Jang Hui kelp tea if needed to stay awake."

Raava began crying while Aang backed away, looking guilty as Raava said, "O…okay. I think that should be fine, as long as everyone eats and drinks." Only angrier with Raava's attempted deflection, Korra felt like she wanted to freeze Raava inside an iceblock, Korra took a few deep breaths, saying, "Calm… cool… like ice." Korra lost it, encasing a nervously grinning Raava in ice when she heard Asami say, "No. Sometimes, anger is justified, and it seems to me like you aren't the only one hurt by whatever lie this was. If my hunch is correct, it sounds like the Grand Lotus lost family to the Red Lotus before you were discovered, Korra. Which would explain a lot – why he was so over-protective." Raava nodded, saying from her ice cube, "Yes, you have a right to be angry, Korra, and I suppose the Grand Lotus does too, in a way. Had he not gotten such strict orders from Aang through proxy of Tenzin, he might have talked to you about his personal loss. You might have even liked him – Grand Lotus Ataninnuaq, another father, as Aang had originally hoped, instead of just annoying White Lotus leader."

Korra's eyes widened, saying hotly, "I'll be right back! Asami, see if you can get anything out of these two, about the – ugh! I don't want to talk right now!"

Korra had never tried to contact someone while angry before, focusing on Yangchen's energy. She saw the pretty woman turn around after Korra said, "Uh, hi. Got a little change in plan." Yangchen laughed, saying, "Just now remembered the army outside Omashu, huh? From what Jasmine has been able to pry from a somewhat cooperative captured officer, it was to be a first diversionary strike against Republic City from the south, drawing volunteers from Omashu. Hah! As if… Jinshu Kuangmai wanted to strike while you and other world leaders were distracted by the Spirit Civil War." Korra's eyes thinned, saying, "I bet that wasn't the only reason he wanted to go there. The Republic City Spirit Portal… maybe he thought if he got close enough to it, he could contact Vaatu again. Typical – forgetting the Spirit Portal walls…" Yangchen gave her a quizzical look, saying, "Everyone else, out of my room! Yes, you too, sweetie. And you too, handsome." Korra saw a small boy run with unnatural speed in front of Yangchen, a slight wind buffeting her. What must have been her husband followed, panting on top of a sloppy air scooter, "Even with airbending, I can barely keep up with Gyatso! I'm gonna getcha!" Korra smiled, feeling her anger start to fade as she heard the sounds of laughter, frowning slightly when she realized she would likely never hear her own child laugh like that, given Gyatso appeared to be about two years old.

Sighing, Korra said frankly, "I'm a little jealous. Atokara will never be a normal child – aged four, from time of birth, growing to eight soon after somehow..." Yangchen gave her a withering look, saying, "You're complaining? He might look cute now, but he can be a real pest when he wants to be. I hate it when he makes little tornadoes on 'accident' in our hiding space." Imagining Atokara using a weaker version of her metal-slicing water jet form on Korra's Spirit or Asami's Reach accidentally, Korra said, "Okay, you have a point. I still wish I could raise Atokara normally, but I guess with her, she is as normal as she can be, having two mommies. One of whom didn't have a real good childhood, and the other who lost her mother at the age of six. But I didn't come here to talk kids or personal woe – I came to talk war." Looking around the room, Korra saw a more detailed map of the forces outside Omashu, noticing that two out of the three main army battalions were labeled "Conscripts", though the central army battalion labeled "Elites" had a note: "Fanatical". Pointing a spectral blue finger at the map, Korra asked, "Can you try and see what's going on outside the city? Something tells me those conscripts might be fighting their officers, after Jasmine's little speech." Yangchen sighed, saying, "You underestimate the power of fear, Korra. The only radio chatter from that camp we've heard was a single broadcast – 'I'm Chief Military Officer 'Wuqing', and don't you forget it! Merciless is the only name the likes of you need to know! If anyone ELSE wants to die today, be my guest, traitors – I don't care about lowly conscripts, even if my second in command does!' We heard this voice admonish someone named 'Chin' after a loud slap and a hot interjection of, 'I consider my soldiers family, and you'll have to explain to Jinshu Kuangmai why your bloodlust cost you two battalions of conscripts – and your second in command!' We heard the same voice brag about his knack for innovation, the accidental broadcast ending in static after the sound of metal crumpling and a punch being thrown."

Korra sighed, having a hard time believing someone could have a conscience, listen to what Jasmine had said, and still fight under Jinshu Kuangmai's banner. Remembering how Jinshu Kuangmai had come up with the idea of spirit engines himself, Korra said, "I don't know if I hope the commander dies, or the second in command does. We don't need any geniuses helping Jinshu Kuangmai." Yangchen nodded, saying, "Back to the reason you're here. I assume you want us to blow the bridges now, to prevent the army from marching in." Korra nodded, saying, "Yes." Yangchen pointed to a different wall, flicking a light switch so that Korra could see in greater detail. Korra's eyes widened, saying, "It… that looks totally novel. How does it work?" Pointing at a large, javelin-like schematic, Yangchen said, "This is a little improvisation we came up with. An earthbender takes a hollow metal pipe and forms it into a throwing javelin, and a contact charge is placed in the pointed tip, the rest of the tube filled with explosives and shrapnel. Using these with hit and run tactics, we should be able to shred the infantry that come across the bridge, using explosives on the few tanks that can cross at a time. Remember, we've got spirit vine weaponry of our own, a good portion of the officers surrendering, then cooperating when they remembered what Jinshu Kuangmai would do to Omashu." Laughing, Yangchen added, "Apparently, blood and culture runs deeper than loyalty to madmen than they would like." Korra found the weapon horrifying, remembering that two thirds of the army was conscripts, saying, "Is there any other way? That weapon looks like it would inflict horrible wounds. Bleed out…" Yangchen slammed the table, saying, "I thought you were supposed to be tough! It's either this, or we fall! Unless you have a mode of transport that can get here before the army wakes back up and sees what has happened, and you're willing to fight on almost no sleep, this weapon is our only option!"

Korra started crying lightly, saying, "Just a minute, Yangchen – I need to talk to someone." Yangchen gave her a slightly dirty look, saying, "No. Decide, now – take down the bridges, and ensure that Jinshu Kuangmai will fracture Omashu's base, or leave them up, and hold them with these explosive shrapnel javelins. We've got some that should be effective against tanks as well, but not many. Yet." Cradling her jade betrothal necklace, Korra waited for an answer, getting nothing, though Raava was not the one she wanted to talk to.

Korra felt a flow of information suffuse her, the images and sounds she saw and heard seeming more crystal clear than anything Wan Shi Tong could have hoped to give her about Earth. She saw a line of soldiers in ridiculous red uniforms with long weapons over their shoulders, one soldier she somehow knew to be an officer riding on a strange four-legged animal. As they entered a thick wood, the soldiers maintained formation on a wide path, a single crack ringing out from the trees. The fancily dressed officer keeled over, clearly dead. One of the soldiers yelled in an odd form of English, "No – Archibald! Damn you rebel cowards! Come out and fight honorably, like Englishmen! Line on line – quit hiding in the trees like a bunch of red-skinned savages!" She heard laughter from the trees, a hidden man saying with a thick drawl, "I ain't fighting like no honourable lobsterback fool, all lined up and ready to die! See you round, you king-kissin' tyrants! Tread lightly - these woods are alive!"

The scene fading, Korra saw an image of a famous rebel from her own plane, Jet, remembering how he had to fight "dirty" against the Fire Nation, remembering bitterly his attempt to manipulate Katara and Aang into wiping out innocents. Realizing that she had gotten her answer after all, Korra said, "Very well. I want Jinshu Kuangmai to think he can take Omashu back, not realize he can't and order it destroyed. Do not blow the bridges, and use these explosive javelins if you must, but only if needed. I will not condone their use by any of our militaries, however." Yangchen smiled, saying, "Good. I should probably order all explosive javelins destroyed and the blueprints burned after we win, or if we lose, lest Jinshu Kuangmai get his hands on them." Looking rather nervous, Yangchen said with a final air, "Do try and hurry, though. Something tells me that Jinshu Kuangmai is going to try and send reinforcements." Korra smiled, asking, "Can you project? If you can, contact me and let me know if you need spirit help." Yangchen nodded, saying, "I can try. I have an idea…"

Yangchen closed her eyes, apparently focusing on another's energy. Yangchen smiled slightly, opening her eyes after a few minutes and saying, "Yes, I can, and I just managed to convince that officer named Chin that I… I was the spirit of his dead wife. I don't know where it came from, the idea, but he bought it, promising to not let Omashu be razed if he could prevent it. I managed to get a sneak peek on goodwill, under the pretense of trying to see his three children. Apparently, his commander has a nasty temper. Remember how the broadcast cut to static randomly? His superior wrecked all the high-powered radio equipment in a fit of rage, meaning they're cut off from the outside world completely. On the way to Chin's tent, I also noticed they didn't have any war balloons present, meaning the only way they have in to Omashu is over the bridges. Said something about sending them to Omashu for retrofitting them with 'fire earth' weapons he wanted to show off to Jinshu Kuangmai. The irony is delicious – we have control of them now, I believe." Korra smiled, saying, "Good. I'd hate to see 'fire earth' weapons in Jinshu Kuangmai's hands – we haven't even made our own version a reality yet, being busy with other things. I'll tell you about Lipowder later." Remembering the other portion of what Yangchen had said, Korra added, "I think you might have gotten some help. Asami saw her parents in the Spirit World earlier – both of them." Yangchen's eyes widened, saying, "Wow. Forget Lipowder, whatever it is - I can't wait to see the catalyst for all this change in person, Raava, and meet you." Korra was about to say goodbye, but she lingered, remembering to say, "You too. I've got the feeling your child will be a good person. Have good character." Yangchen's eyes lit up, saying, "That's it! I had wanted to name the child Jinora if it is a girl, but Jaina sounds even better, and more unique." Wincing slightly, Yangchen added, "I hope the child decides to wait until after the battle to join the living." Korra smiled, saying, "So do I," for reasons she wasn't about to heap on Yangchen. Korra was pretty sure where a certain lost little boy was meant to be, if he could earn his soul back completely.

Korra smiled broadly, waving goodbye as she remembered Arthas' love interest, musing to Raava, Aang and Asami when she opened her eyes again, "It sounds like our little inter-planar traveler might find a home here after all." Seeing the blank stares she was getting, and that Aang looked as though he had been crying, Korra said, "Let's go talk about this outside. I've got a lot to infobend out." With a wink, she added, "Let's just save the White Lotus stuff for another time. Omashu could be in trouble." Korra was perplexed by how Aang nodded, yet said, "No. That's the first thing we're going to do, and I think Grand Lotus Ataninnuaq would appreciate it. Greatly," before he vanished.

Before exiting the Spirit World, something occurred to Korra that made her slap her forehead, congratulating a confused Asami, "I just now realized that you must have meditated in here all by yourself! I wasn't touching you at all. Good job!" Asami's jade green eyes widened, saying, "Wow. You're right – though, I did get some help from this wonderful betrothal necklace." Smiling broadly, Korra said, "There's nothing wrong with a little help," Asami blushing slightly in a way that made Korra want to go to sleep and find out what their inner shared world had in store for them.

Raava laughed, saying, "Playtime, in due time. You can get some sleep on the way to Omashu inside your transport." While Korra did not feel physically tired, due to her odd sleep habits lately, she felt emotionally drained, saying, "Sleep sounds good. Just a minute." Korra recalled a surprised Raava, using the Avatar State to swathe herself and Asami in water from Korra's own seventh chakra pool, pushing the twin pools up onto a shared pedestal after, inscribing "For anyone who needs help" in both English and normal characters beneath the pedestal. Feeling rejuvenated, Korra told an eager-looking Asami, "Last one out's a rotten egg!" in English, Asami laughing freely, looking for a split second as though she had eaten one. Asami hesitated, Korra beating her out, the last Korra heard was "Atokara, just be patient! I'll eat soon!"

When she opened her eyes, she saw that the room where her physical body was packed, noticing that the room was brightly lit, her body still on the table. Taking in everyone's expression, Korra stood up with a little effort, saying, "I'm sure you'd all love to know why I was 'gone' so long, but we have a situation that demands our immediate attention." Korra was about to explain what they needed to do in Omashu and the forces they would be up against, but she never got the chance, feeling a surge of energy, noticing the tattoo on her right hand did in fact glow temporarily during the energy surge. After calming everyone down about Raava's new appearance, Korra let Raava speak, Raava saying, "There's something a little more personal both Aang and I want to come clean on first."

Raava walked over to Korra's parents, both looking confused as Raava said, "Aang has a confession to make. Tenzin, get over here as well – you were the one who… carried out the orders." Korra watched a slightly sleepy looking Tenzin walk over, shoulders slightly slumped as he said, "I thought this would come out some day. Tonraq, remember our agreement on Korra needing to be protected after the White Lotus attacks?" Her father nodded, saying, "Yes, I do, and I remember having my reservations as to why you and the Grand Lotus stressed we weren't to be allowed to live with our five-year old daughter. Visiting never satisfied my desire to be with my daughter fully. I know your father wasn't the best family man, but I never figured out why you, of all people, would throw your lot in with that cold, controlling man. Care to explain what this has to do with Raava's little dirty secret?"

Seeing Tenzin looking like a particularly nervous Bolin, idly strumming his finger together, Korra projected Aang out, saying when she saw how he manifested, "Aang, appearing as an adult isn't going to smooth over whatever happened. Especially considering it sounds like these orders were given by an adult Aang, and not the fun-loving kid everyone prefers to remember." Aang laughed, shifting as he said, "You're right, though I already talked with Asami about this while you were contacting Yangchen." Tenzin gave Aang a funny look, asking, "What does Avatar Yangchen have to do with anything? What, is she the one who gave you the original ideas?" Aang chuckled nervously, saying, "Nope. I own the orders completely now, Asami having convinced me that I was trying my best, and that's all that matters." Aang added, looking guilty as he said, "I should have listened to Katara, and not hidden everything but the first, basic idea of a mixed childhood from her." Korra saw Katara with "that look" on her face on the periphery of her vision, and Korra's father was becoming increasingly angry, saying, "Explain, Aang, why I missed half my daughter's life and most of her childhood, and quickly!" Senna nodded, saying, "I want to know as well. I know you weren't the best of fathers, Aang, and I will be very disappointed if I learn your poor parenting skills affected your next life from beyond the grave." Aang began sobbing, saying, "I'm so sorry - I was just naïve, and I thought my orders would be carried out better than they were. I wanted the White Lotus to be like a second set of parents, closer to what Korra would have experienced as an Air Nomad. I… I even gave Tenzin the instructions on what to do if Korra was ever… abducted."

Tonraq turned angrily to Tenzin, looking like he wanted to deck him in the face as he said, "Wait - so you mean to tell me Aang came up with that half-baked idea about half Water Tribe family, half Air Nomad White Lotus standins that ended up being more like… oh, I don't know. Old men with more interest in my daughter as the Avatar than as a person, interacting more with her than her own PARENTS?!" Tenzin stepped forward, saying, "If you want, you can hit me, if you think that will make you feel better. You can't hit Aang, after all. I just want to move forward. I'm not proud of what happened, and - what are you doing?" Korra's father had formed a small, tight band of ice around Tenzin's forehead, saying, "Here - feel how cold my daughter's upbringing was, thanks to you and your father! Aang, you might have been a good Avatar, but as a parent - a disgrace! The old Air Nomad ways are outdated, and were in your time as well!" Korra slapped her forehead as Jinora piled on, saying, "Maybe Kya and Bumi are right about you, grandpa! The new codes on family will be much different than your bumbling," Aang crying bitterly as Katara attempted to console the sobbing blue image.

Korra was sick of this, just wanting to know where the hell her childhood had gone, and most importantly, why. Korra broke the ice around Tenzin's head, saying, "I want to know where my childhood went, and this isn't helping anything! If you can't act civilized, maybe I'll have to separate you - forcefully!" Remembering Asami had already talked with Aang about his supposed crimes against Korra, Korra said, "After Asami explains what happened, I want to use infobending on Aang, then Tenzin and my parents, so my mom and dad might understand what happened better."

Korra gave Asami an expectant look, Asami saying strongly, "Enough violence! Korra and I will never have a normal experience with raising Atokara, courtesy of her unique nature and Raava's energy, and I fail to see how lost time due to Aang's orders are any different! If no one else wants to talk openly about it, I will. Apparently, Korra, shortly before Aang passed away, he left a set of secret orders for the White Lotus and Tenzin, Tenzin learning of the orders directly from Aang, writing them down on a scroll he keeps hidden in the artifact room." Tenzin took a deep breath, "Thank you, Asami. I think I can explain from here. Calmly, and fully. Aang wanted the next Avatar to grow up in a mixed environment, the best of Water Tribe love and family strength blended with the spirituality of the Air Nomads. The White Lotus and Grand Lotus Ataninnuaq were to hopefully act as a set of second parents, as well as protectors and teachers." With a deep sigh, Tenzin said, "That was before the first Red Lotus attack. And not the kidnapping. While searching for you, Zaheer led an attack on some of the White Lotus' leaders' families, hoping to distract them from their search for long enough to find the Avatar himself, before the world knew what happened, or who you were." A tear streaking down his face, Tenzin continued, "The Red Lotus escaped, and Ataninnuaq lost his whole family – his wife and young son. He ordered the attack covered up, not wanting the White Lotus to look weak, only informing me because of another order, related to the Avatar's safety. But I think the real reason he covered it up was he still mourned the loss of his wife, Sakari, and their son, Siku, and didn't want to be reminded of their passing." Korra felt a deep sadness, hearing her father say, "Tenzin, I am so sorry for my abominable behavior just now. Asami is right about lost time - quantity doesn't matter as much as quality, and Korra turned out fine, regardless. As I am sure Atokara will." Korra blushed, saying, "Thanks, dad. I bet you'll love something I'll show you later." Her father continued, weakly stating, "I just hope I can accept what has happened as well as you do now. You have to show us what happened inside the Spirit World, when you get the time." Tonraq cried slightly, saying, "That personal loss of family… that explains why Ataninnuaq was so overbearing and protective. Korra, I think… I think he looked at you as a replacement for his dead son. It would certainly explain his reluctance to let you get into danger, and why he tried so hard to get you to be more spiritual." Korra winced slightly as Raava said the obvious, stating, "He always did try and steer you away from purely physical bending. I believe he may have seen a bit of Zaheer's violent nature in you, Korra. You did pass your firebending test rather… aggressively. Not to mention what you would've done to Tarrlok, had he not bloodbended you."

Korra felt a surge of guilt rise in her, saying, "I… I never treated him right. I didn't even call him by his name! I don't know why he never told me any of this." Aang grinned nervously, Tenzin attempting to rib his father's blue image as he said, "You also have Aang to thank for that. He told me he wanted the next Avatar's childhood to be as care-free as possible, remembering the shock of being told he was the Avatar at the age of 12. As long as it did not interfere with his or her safety, the next Avatar was to be trained in a warm environment, when he or she felt ready. No talk of death, or loss. I suppose that's the reason Ataninnuaq never told you about the Red Lotus killing his family – even after Zaheer tried to kidnap you." Laughing weakly, he added, "Plans on a 'warm environment' changed a lot after Zaheer tried to kidnap you, obviously, your parents not housed in the compound due to security concerns, from both myself and Ataninnuaq. You know, some friend of the family might betray them and let hostiles in under a false pretense." Korra was glad to see no ice ring forming around Tenzin's head, her mother saying, "I'm glad you're calm again, honey. I'd hate to think what would have happened had Zaheer taken Korra."

Korra saw Raava begin to raise her sword, stopping at the last moment when Aang said, "Not now, you dolt! You've got to give it context! And I thought you locked that memory up!" Korra laughed as her father gave Aang a withering look, asking, "What, Aang, more hiding?" Aang frowned, saying sternly, "I just stopped Raava from showing you a very bleak alternate involving your daughter and Zaheer." Her father said, "Oh," pausing long enough to let Tenzin cut in, sighing as he said, "Speaking of Zaheer - at the time of the attack, we did not know anything of the Red Lotus, fearing they had an army of adherents. Aang hoped his order to seclude the Avatar would never have to be carried out." Korra heard Raava sigh, saying, "I wonder if he wiped your memory for his sake, or what he thought would be in your best interests, considering Aang's orders." Tenzin said with a slight smile, "Probably the latter. He did go above and beyond to ensure your safety, and that the Red Lotus were imprisoned properly, even if he didn't let Korra visit with her parents as much as Aang would have liked."

Korra was ready to try and contact Ataninnuaq, but Raava held up a hand, saying, "In a second. My part in this whole deception was stealing thoughts from your mind about how Aang, being a terrible liar, kept talking about his orders over the past few days, often going beyond what was already known - that he ordered you protected. He wasn't SUPPOSED TO even vaguely let on anything beyond that." Aang grinned nervously, Tenzin groaning, "It's too bad you never took lessons on lying from a reformed Azula. I wonder where she is now…" Raava's eyes widened temporarily, saying with an even tone, "Keeping Admiral Zhao company, I'm afraid." Aang sighed, saying in his best Uncle Iroh impression, "It's just so sad…"

"Yes, it is, and I think I can help Korra with Grand Lotus Ataninnuaq. If I am needed, that is."

Korra shook her head, saying, "I didn't think human spirits could teleport!" Uncle Iroh laughed, saying, "I didn't. Both betrothal necklaces now have universal energy imbued into them, letting me appear here." Smiling, he turned to Katara, asking, "Would you like to see Sokka?" Raava laughed, saying, "See you, Korra and Uncle Iroh. Since you're so well protected right now, I'll be temporarily taking your waterbending and seeing what I can do with this new form." Korra felt an eerie energy enter and then leave her, feeling as though "Amon" had just taken her bending away - permanently. Realizing she'd need to draw on her spirit to project, she focused on the energy of a man she wouldn't have given the time of day to ten minutes before. She ended up rather shocked at what happened, keeping silent, observing.

Ataninnuaq was in the middle of a wonderful dream, one in which he was somehow talking to and interacting with his dead son, Siku, and his departed wife, Sakari, directly. He was crying slightly, having gotten a negative reaction from his wife when he explained how he channeled his grief, protecting the Avatar in what he realized was more than a slightly overzealous manner. Seeing her reaction, he realized that telling her of the memory wipe would be a very bad idea. She sighed, saying, "I know you had good intentions, honey. It's just too bad that Avatar Korra was too much a rebel, even at the age of four, to see what you were trying to do. That is, not to say you were without fault - not letting her parents live in the compound. That just… why?"

He sighed deeply, feeling unworthy of the title of Grand Lotus as he said, "We thought the Red Lotus had all sorts of operatives! Some even thought they would come with an army, like what Amon ended up doing to Republic City! They were complete unknowns. If we had known it was just four crazies we had under lockup and scheming Unalaq, we would have gone with the original plan, after deposing Unalaq - a more normal childhood for Avatar Korra. I… had great hopes myself, that the blend of Air Nomad and Water Tribe style parenting would work wonderfully. A spiritually and humanity-connected Avatar, the likes of which the world had never seen. I thought Tenzin was mad, saying that his mother, Katara, had reservations about the setup his father came up with." Looking down at the ground dejectedly, he said, "But she was right - it turned out horribly wrong, Korra never able to be a child, or even herself! Not the Avatar - her! What I did is something that I will regret until the end of my days. I'm probably one of the biggest reasons she ended up so… conflicted. I am sure that if she had lived with her parents normally, she might have even been more spiritual - love is a more powerful teacher than any book or scroll, and both Senna and Tonraq are good people. I haven't talked to her since telling her Republic City was too dangerous for her. I just didn't want to see her die…"

"Hello, Grand Lotus Ataninnuaq. I hope you don't mind me dropping in on your shared inner space dream, or sharing what you've said with everyone gathered around my physical body."

Ataninnuaq turned around, saying, "Who are you? 'Light Korra'? And what is that scandalous thing you're wearing? I've listened to the radio, but I don't remember anything about airbender tatt - wait, what's that on your forehead?" The strange looking facsimile of Avatar Korra laughed, saying, "You can just call me Korra. After all these years, Aang and Tenzin finally spilled the secret orders and story about your dead family, once I saw you wipe my memory on accident." Ataninnuaq panicked, saying, "Please, forgive me, Sakari! I thought it was the best thing to do!" as he heard his wife yell, "WHAT?" He saw Korra's eyes widen as she said, "Uh-oh. Looks like Sakari is having some… issues." Ataninnuaq turned around, noticing that his wife looked different somehow as she said, "You wiped the Avatar's memory? How could you? Would you have wiped our son's memory?!" As he stammered, Ataninnuaq noticed with horror that Sakari's more spectral form was taking on a darker hue. He heard another female voice yell, "NO! I have forgiven your husband - forgive him, before it poisons your soul more! You may be dead, but if you become corrupted, your current life might go insane!" His wife looked torn, hesitating for long enough for Korra to run over, placing a hand on Sakari's forehead as she said, "I am only showing you this so you can see what would have happened, had my childhood not been so protected. Know that this evil work was prevented by your husband's vigilance."

Ataninnuaq watched in fascination as he saw apparent infobending firsthand, Korra gritting her teeth as his wife began to cry, saying, "I… I forgive you. Korra, show him that - I know it must pain you to relive it, but I think my husband could do with seeing what he helped prevent."

Deeply curious, Ataninnuaq said, "Sure. What could be so horrible?" A single tear ran off Korra's face onto her partially exposed chest as she said, "Dark Avatar Korra. And… the death of the Avatar Spirit, at the hands of a partially righteous Amon. I was to be a monster, under Zaheer. The emotional issues your missteps caused in me are nothing compared… to this." Ataninnuaq stood still, taking in what Korra labeled "Zaheer Kidnapping Alternate" with horror, surprised he found himself rooting for Amon by the end. Partially.

"I was rooting for him too by the end, now that the memory block has been lifted, aside from the whole one totalitarian world government thing. You know, just a minor detail." Ataninnuaq did a slight double-take, saying, "I didn't hear any sound, yet you spoke, then I heard you laugh! What is this infobending, Korra?" Retracting her hand, Korra said with a smile, "I guess it's my new trademark, like energybending was for Aang. Before you ask, no, I'm never energybending someone's bending away - too much risk. I'd rather use the technique that Noatak showed me earlier." Ataninnuaq Gave Korra a dirty look, saying, "What's someone like you doing traipsing around with the likes of Amon? Is he still alive?" Korra laughed, saying, "No, he's dead, about to live again. And I know just in who, and where, as well. Which brings me to the next part…" Smiling, she said as she placed the same, strange tattoed hand on his forehead, "You may as well be caught up on current events more fully. When I first saw you wipe my memory, I wanted Uncle Iroh to take over the White Lotus again and your name blackened, but I don't think that will be necessary. I will give, as well as take. I want my parents, Tenzin, and Aang to see what you experienced first-hand"

Even though the amount of information was vast, he absorbed it in an instant, saying as information left him for the Avatar, "Who in the blazes is Arthas? And why are you looking at me like I'm crazy, honey?" His wife shook her head, saying, "I can't understand you." Placing her hands on her exposed hips, Korra said with a smile, "You now have 'knowledge of the English.' And I have two more requests for you - I want you to bring Baatar Jr. from Air Temple Island to merge with the forces bound for the Great Bannyan tree, and I want you to prepare for a meeting with Zaheer, though certainly not tomorrow. As soon as I explain Vaatu's changed nature and the fact that he now throws his weight behind human tyrants, our former foe may be willing to help us more directly than assisting me in the Spirit World." Ataninnuaq nodded, saying, "Of course! Any other orders?" The Avatar placed her left hand to her chin, Ataninnuaq noticing it bore the symbol for Air as Korra said, "Yes. Tell President Raiko to redirect the troops and airships being sent to Hei Bai's Forest to this location." Korra stamped her foot, noticing that there was a large red X near the Swamp as Korra continued, "And tell them to bring plenty of saws, metalbenders, and as much equipment from Varrick Industries and Future Industries as they can manage. The Great Banyan tree - it's a trap for Jinshu Kuangmai, and a resource for us. Should he be so inclined, I need Baatar Jr. to help outfit the allied militaries with spirit vine weaponry. I can only hope Ikki helped him overcome his personal 'demons'. Don't worry - as long as the people doing the cutting are pure of heart, no one will die, and the tree will easily regenerate. You may even find some spirit allies flocking to you - I have been so consumed with other things, I barely know what is happening in the Spirit Civil War. Now if you'll excuse me, Raava's begging me for help - something about tuber-vines."

With that, Korra was gone, leaving more questions behind than answers. Ataninnuaq woke up immediately after hearing a raspy voice say, "Remember what I told Asami about visiting the dead!"

Ataninnuaq nodded, setting about his work, no longer feeling intense, constant grief over the loss of his wife and son as he remembered what Korra had told a morose Shiro Shinobi. They weren't gone, and never would be. He had the feeling both Sakari and Siku would visit him often, in this shared inner space dreaming Korra had shown him. Laughing, he realized he might even get to have relations with his wife again, given what Raava had told Korra about the… other uses for shared inner space.

As Raava exited the room, glad to see Katara so happy as she talked to a young Sokka, she idly looked around in the moonlight, noticing that Ember Factory Island seemed more crowded than the last time she saw it. Thinking, "Asami, please come out here, and help me make sense of this mess!" Raava ran over to one of the biggest piles, noticing all sorts of insects swarming around it in the moonlight. Wondering if she could smell, she took a big whiff, cursing in multiple Earth languages afterwards, wondering aloud, "Who brought a bunch of bird crap to Ember Factory Island, and why?!"

"Isn't it obvious? Explosives!"

Raava turned around, seeing Varrick and Zhu Li running behind Asami at a pace that must have meant they had been drinking Jang Hui kelp tea. Varrick pointed at the dung heap with wide eyes, saying, "Go on - we've got plenty of metal and other ingredients! See if you can bend, and synthesize us some explosives! Jinshu Kuangmai - ka-pow! Dead!" Raava hesitated, not sure how that would mesh with various rules, hearing Korra's voice say, "Just do it! You already 'cheated' once!" Raava shook her head, thinking, "Did you just talk to me, Korra?" She heard a gentle laughter followed by "No, she who has been promoted," blushing as she realized who had just talked to her.

Holding out Life's Gift, Raava said, "Before I do this, you have to show me that you know how to - oh, wait, never mind. You blew up your own building once, after all." Varrick laughed, saying, "And don't forget the charcoal, volcano yellow, and the stuff. I want lots of Lipowder mixed as well. Maybe even throw some of the bird crap in to the Lipowder - see what happens." Raava laughed, saying, "Good to see you know at least one name, and you did already come up with high explosives yourself, so I'll just fudge a little. Let's call the others sulfur and saltpeter, okay?" Remembering someone other than herself had use for this island, a human who could definitely not synthesize, Raava said, "For this and anything else, I'll go ahead and make the equipment you'd use to make it yourself - less of a breach of the rules, and Firelord Izumi can use them when we're done." Varrick nodded, grumbling, "Doesn't get me any money, but whatever. You gotta do it first!"

Her first attempt at synthesizing was a failure, barely able to manipulate the wet mass in front of her. Sighing, Raava said, "Seems to me like I'll need to practice bending." After running over to a clear portion of the island near the sea, Raava took a deep breath, moving Life's Gift in slow, calm movements, remembering bitterly how natural Wan was at his first tries. She saw a small stream of water form, saying, "YES!" causing the water to fall back down, splashing. On a whim, she tried to enter the "Avatar" State, noticing nothing happened. Raava realized she needed Korra as much as Raava needed her, trying a different power source. At first, she thought of her love for the universe and life, but found her mind constantly wandering towards Wan, stamping her foot in frustration as she said, "Gah! If I had known becoming human-y would make me get a crush on Wan, I might have had second thoughts!"

After she heard loud laughter from behind her, she threw Life's Gift on the ground with disgust, saying seriously, "Maybe this whole thing with humanity was a bad idea. I never thought you'd laugh at me like this. Love's not funny!" Raava looked on in horror as the sword began to shift slightly, Asami saying, "Sometimes, people laugh when they are uncomfortable, not meaning any harm. Take that comment back, right now! You and I both know where that sword's inspiration came from! Wait - that skull! Quick!" After a slight moment's hesitation, Raava envisioned herself hugging Wan in a borderline nonplatonic way, noticing that the signature ram's skull of the Scourge had been replaced by her form once more. Small bits of blue and white energy now danced over her likeness on the sword's base, much as souls might have over Frostmourne's tip. Letting some initially unwelcome emotion take control, she felt as though she were now actually kissing Wan as the image shifted appropriately, relishing Wan's blush.

Looking at the sword again, Raava noticed it now had what appeared to be plasma dancing across the blade's edge. Still thinking of Wan, she picked it up and let out a surprised yelp, turning around to hide the unexpected… engraving that had been revealed underneath her spirit form. Chuckling, she said, "Well, looks like I get to know what human loves feels like directly anyways." As Zhu Li and Asami both said "Awww" Varrick gave her a dubious look, saying, "I still think that's borderline incest, just plain creepy, but whatever. Now let's make some stuff to blow Earth Empire goons up - something tells me we'll need a lot of ammunition, and soon!"

Remembering what Korra had said about wanting to make everyone's suits, Raava said, "Varrick, bring me Mr. Tuber-Vine, and Asami, bring me Asami's Reach. I have an idea to get us more tuber-vines, right now."

Mr. Tuber-Vine was the first, the "plant" knowing what Raava planned to do. Not caring that the little secret compartment was open, Raava brought down her sword cleanly down the middle of Mr. Tuber-Vine, ignoring the horrified reactions she received. Raava smiled broadly as she saw Mr. Tuber-Vine regrow his missing half, bumping up against what she assumed to be Mrs. Tuber-Vine. Raava said, pointing at the pair, "I'll need to do this a lot more if we want to power three more suits. Kuvira's getting one, whether she likes it or not, and I think she would be better used to direct all these Earth Empire defectors and Omashu rebels than running around, feeling all guilty."

"I'll decide what I, and don't, do, Raava. It will take a lot of convincing to get me to use Kuvira's Remorse early. Nice… locket, by the way. Maybe Mako will pose for me like that some time."

Raava found herself laughing deeply as she heard Vaatu grumble from his teapot, "Eww, now you wanna have a human relationship with Wan? Geh! Jinshu Kuangmai would never be held back by romantic relations!" Raava grinned widely, saying, "Why thank you for the idea, Vaatu." Successfully bending her breastplate on her first try, Raava stuffed the teapot inside the metal covering, saying, "Let's see someone sneak off with your prison now, Vaatu!" Raava cursed when Vaatu said loudly, "Yes, yes - delay the end of the Spirit Civil War! Let Jinshu Kuangmai grow in strength again and again!" Sighing, Raava said, "He sort of does have a point, you know." Wanting to cheer herself up, she formed an ice mirror, adjusting her armor to be more feminine, managing to form a piece of armor to protect her more exposed chest using a synthesized material from another plane with sentient life more advanced than even Earth's. Laughing at how Kuvira was pointing at Raava's chest, she said, "Can… can I have something like that?" Raava shook her head, saying, "No. Even Earth doesn't have the technology to make transparent, strong armor, and I'm not about to spread it around. I'm calling supreme spirit privilege here."

Wanting to test her other idea, Raava pointed her sword at Mr. and Mrs. Tuber-Vine as everyone around her laughed, saying, "LOVE GROWS!" Raava was rather taken aback by how much it did grow, both tuber-vines now glowing white and blue, pulsing as they seemingly embraced. Feeling the energy being emitted, Raava said proudly, "You probably only need one tuber-vine per suit with that kind of power. You can replace the void left behind with whatever radio weaponry I'm sure Shiro came up with." Kuvira nodded, saying, "We'll need to modify Asami's Reach and Korra's Spirit - Shiro came up with a miniaturized version of Varrick's EMP generator with Varrick's help. Our equipment should remain unaffected, running on spirit energy." Raava nodded, truly noticing how sharp Asami was for the first time when she said, "But what about the regular mechasuits, and mechatanks?" Raava said, not really caring about the slight cheat, given how Shiro and Varrick had managed to make a miniature EMP generator, "There's a way to shield wiring against electromagnetic pulses. Given how the little EMP generator is unlike anything on Earth, I see no problem with 'borrowing' that tech. What the Russians or Chinese would give for spirit vines. How are the EMP generators powered, anyways?"

Varrick smiled, picking up Mr. Tuber-Vine with effort as he said, sounding like he had over-estimated his strength, "Tuber-vines, of course." Looking at Impetuous Vine and Impatient Leaf, Raava said, "Let's see if they can split after getting a power-up." Pointing Life's Gift at an eager-looking Impatient Leaf, Raava said, "LOVE GROWS!" When the tuber-vine began glowing blue and white much as its other two compatriots did, Raava asked, "Asami, do you mind me trying to split him in two?" Asami shook her head, saying, "No, I don't mind - but be careful. Anything could happen - remember how he was easily swayed by my hatred earlier. Mr. Tuber-Vine could just be a really, really nice tuber-vine."

Wanting to see what would happen, Raava brought the sword down, jumping backwards when she heard an ominous rustling. Much like Mr. Tuber-Vine, Impatient Leaf split into two.

But one was Impatient Leaf, a tuber-vine, and one was… something else. Eyes widening in terror, Raava yelled something she never thought she would yell, watching what looked like an Earth bromeliad shift ominously, making a dry rustling sound.

"KORRA, I NEED YOU! This is NOT a tuber-vine!"

Korra ran out of the large room, knocking over a tattooed Kai as she did so, saying, "Sorry!" as she ran as fast as she could. She saw Raava holding Life's Gift out, as though ready to kill something. Korra tried to form a ball of acid, seeing how panicked Raava looked as she cursed at something she called a "dark bromeliad", but found she couldn't, Raava having temporarily taken her waterbending. Korra tapped Raava's shoulder lightly, saying, "If you can borrow my waterbending, I can borrow your sword. Fair's fair." Raava looked at Korra angrily, saying in English, "Hell no! But I don't want to put the sword away either! Ugh! Look at this… thing!"

Korra took a better look, certain what this plant was the counterpart of. Sighing, Korra asked as she dodged the plant's first attack of razor-sharp red and black leaves wielded on the ends of red whips, "Just what did you do to create this thing, Raava?" Raava blushed as Asami said, "Used her sword to empower Impatient Leaf then split him in two in an experiment. I tried to warn her." Korra laughed, saying as she grabbed Life's Gift, "Seems like someone doesn't know everything. Let me try something, Raava." Raava sighed, saying, "I know what you want to do, Korra, but be careful - there's a lot of malevolent energy in that plant."

Taking a deep breath, Korra drew on her spirit as she handled the sword in much the same way a corrupted Arthas might have, saying, "Illuminate the light in the dark!" strongly, watching as blue and white energy danced around the sword in a spiral. The strange plant hissed, speaking in a strange but hateful sounding language Korra had heard her dark half speaking in before dragging out her prisoners earlier. Korra saw a very small blue and white energy pulse near the base of the red "flower". Finding this small orb of energy responded to the blade's movements, Korra lifted the sword towards the moonlit sky, gasping in surprise when she saw what appeared to be a small blue and white seed. Flicking the seed off to the side, Korra drew the sword back, saying, "Get lost!" as she ran Life's Gift into the plant, recoiling when she heard the plant speak, saying, "Hate me more - that's it!" in a familiar raspy voice, noticing the plant's inner flower pool was now filled with blood. Changing her tact, she thought of Asami and Atokara as she said out loud, "Troubled spirit, leave in peace."

The plant shrieked much as Dark Korra might have, Korra withdrawing the sword as she watched it convulse and shudder, red and black erratically coursing over its form. At first, it looked as though the plant was still alive, but it suddenly turned to ash. Examining the ash, Korra poked it with Raava's loan, pleasantly surprised to see a small shoot growing from the ashes. What appeared to be a razor-leafed tuber-vine grew rapidly, a hybrid between tuber-vine and dark bromeliad. Korra poked it with the sword, saying, "Anyone in there?" After the alien script on the sword momentarily glowed red, a small globule of red and black energy formed above the shifting plant, the energy saying once it had assumed a vaguely plant-like form, "Yes. But not for long." The plant spirit made to extend a tendril of dark energy towards the new tuber-vine, but Korra used the flat of the sword to whack the spirit away, saying, "Okay, now you can get lost!" The plant spirit shifted slightly, saying, "I may as well go meet Jinshu Kuangmai now."

Korra heard Raava yell, "Oh no you don't!" Korra automatically threw Raava the sword, wondering what Raava would do. Raava managed to somehow flare the plasma dancing around the blade, using it to kill the spirit before it could react as she spoke in a familiar, reassuring language. Raava said, now sounding resolute, "That spirit's not dead – just imprisoned in the spirit world! Splitting tuber-vines - I'm not doing that again!"

"UHHUHHH!"

Korra looked at Impetuous Vine in disbelief, saying, "What, you want the same treatment? Are you crazy?" Korra laughed when she heard the tuber-vine intone, "UHUH". Raava sighed, saying, "Okay, but only because I want to test something else as well. Korra, I can't bend for 'bupkis' - look at this weak attempt to bend water!" Korra watched the massive ball of water that formed with curiosity, saying, "That looks pretty good to me. Wait - what's that little latch on your sword?" Raava blushed, saying, "None of your business!" Korra smiled, saying, "None of my business, sure, but I'm sure Wan will want to know why he's in a speedo on your sword. And quit blushing!" Korra suppressed a laugh when Raava nodded, saying, "Yes, ma'am!" though unfortunately Varrick did not have the same self-control. Raava turned to him, saying calmly, "Keep this up, and something tells me Zhu Li might not give you any Thing tonight." Varrick looked around with wide eyes, saying, "I hope not. This Jang Hui kelp tea would be amazing for the Thing!" Zhu Li finally spoke, saying, "I talked with Kuvira earlier, and she convinced me using denial of the Thing as a control was a bad idea. Now come on, and let's make some explosive and Lipowder. The bird guano should be right - what is that thing? I've never seen a tree like that before."

Korra turned to the direction Zhu Li was pointing, seeing a half crystalline, half living tree growing, its size increasing as the size of the bird poo pile shrank. The center trunk was half blue and white crystal, half deep green flesh that resembled that of the new Great Banyan tree. Once the pile had completely vanished, it still kept growing, Korra noticing that what appeared to be a fair number of small tuber-vines were sprouting near the tree's multicolor crystal roots. Korra noted sourly, though, that there were still less than a dozen total. Walking closer, Korra touched one of four hanging crystals, feeling the crystal begin to pulse as she did so. Raava joined her side, saying, "I think I need to do something. Korra, I need to do something rather unorthodox."

Korra felt a large surge of energy enter her, hearing Raava intone, Now just let me assume full control, Korra. Like Aang inadvertently let Kyoshi take over a lifetime ago. Korra did so without hesitation, laughing hysterically, though she now had no mouth, when she realized what had happened.

Raava felt fully physical, idly wondering if she could go have kids of her own, right now, listening to Korra's laughter.

No! Just stick to giving people unconventional presents, like you gave me and Asami.

Raava shook her head, saying, "Korra? Did we swap places, or something?" Raava groaned when she heard Korra "say", Ehhh, not quite. But I have access to lots of information now! Now do whatever you wanted to do to this tree, so I can go look at the Plane: Earth wing unimpeded.

Raava sighed, saying, "Kuvira, go get Mako. I need you two for something special after this." Kuvira nodded, saying cheekily, "I'm sure Korra will love the Earth 'computer' section. Maybe she can get some… information for me." Raava's eyes widened, thinking, "HEY! Stay away from there!"

Quit your whining. You disobeyed me plenty, and I'm too busy trying to find a certain television show Aang mentioned - "Avatar: The Last Airbender." Ouch! Wan Shi Tong, where'd you come from, and why'd you peck me? Aren't you supposed to be helping Jasmine?

Raava laughed hysterically as she heard Wan Shi Tong say clearly, Those cartoon television shows are most definitely for later! I'm the librarian! Why don't you go read some Earth spiritual texts instead? Raava groaned, not sure what prospect she found worse - Korra watching "The Last Airbender" and "The Legend of Korra" alone, or reading certain… sections of the monotheistic religions' shared texts.

What sections? Raava, is there something else horrible about Earth you haven't told me?

Tiring of this exchange, Raava thought finally, "Listen to Wan Shi Tong when he tells you what portions are acceptable to read, or are true. Let's just say, even more than here, you can't believe everything you read, holy book or not. Humans wrote them, after all."

Oh, good! Now maybe I can see what Luke 9:60 is. Raava smiled, thinking before shutting Korra off, "That portion doesn't contain much questionable content. Now leave me be!" Thinking to herself, Raava "asked", "Wan Shi Tong, what's the status on the prisoners, and the camp?"

Raava heard a decidedly directional voice say, "Both are secure, and fortifications are underway. The train had a large stockpile of hidden weapons as well. I want to watch you interact with this tree, and any weapon synthesis afterwards."

Raava laughed when she heard Varrick say hotly, "Forget the stupid tree - where'd all the bird guano go? We worked a long time to collect it from the Ember Island seabird colonies!" Raava smiled, saying, "After I am done with this tree, you won't need conventional explosives. Think spirit bombs." Varrick sighed, pointing out something Raava hadn't thought of when he said, "Okay, that's good and all, but what if Jinshu Kuangmai comes up with a way to counter spirit weaponry, like our own spirit wire energy absorption? Still need conventional explosives, and I can't make the rarest part myself! What I needed was in the crap!" Wan Shi Tong buffeted Varrick slightly, laughing as he said, "You don't need the bird guano for explosives. Not when you can get someone to generate lightning for you. Though, Raava might want to go ahead and make your equivalent of the 'Haber process' equipment right now - you can't make everything you need without 'your' equivalent Varrick process." Seeing Varrick's confused expression, Raava explained, "When lightning strikes, it fixes a… different kind of element into a changed form, the one used in fertilizer and explosives. Given you made explosives in the first place, and your mover film, one you've likely already dealt with in multiple forms. After I fix this tree up and give… Alysrazor her gift, I'll - "

Hey! Cross plane stealing foul! I thought I told you, no more! And that name is associated with corruption anyways - hardly appropriate for the symbol of Kuvira's growing love for Mako!

Raava sighed, saying, "Apparently, Aang finds a problem with my new name for the dragon bird. Asami, any idea what to call a - uh, nevermind. I'll let Mako and Kuvira name her." Raava laughed when she heard a sleepy male groan, "What do you want with me, Raava - I just want to go to sleep, even if Kuvira's all hopped up on Jang Hui tea. She's been working on her 'Kuviracomputers' nonstop…" Turning around, Raava said, "Just watch this first, help me, then you can go be sleepy all you want. Though, you'll miss the explanation for where Korra currently is, and what happened in the Spirit World." Mako yawned sleepily, saying, "Gimme! Uh, please," as he pointed to a partially filled cup of tea in Kuvira's hand. Raava shook her head, asking, "Where are your handcuffs?" Kuvira laughed, saying, "We were busy while waiting on whatever happened in the Spirit World to end, and they got in the way. With so many tattoo artists and a full moon, the tattoo process didn't take long."

Raava, frustrated to not know what had gone on in her absence, finally began her work, but not before idly testing something else. Taking a deep breath, she faced towards the sky, attempting to project energy with her mind. Given the surprised yelps she heard, she was able to combustionbend successfully. Raava felt somewhat safe in the knowledge that combustionbending was mainly hereditary, and had extremely low penetrance.

I wanna try that! I don't care what you say about genetics - I'm going to try it the first chance I get.

Raava groaned, saying, "No, Korra. I don't care if you have a forehead tattoo like P'li, you are not going to - oh hush with that alternate already! I thought I wiped it from your mind."

Let's say I showed it to the Grand Lotus to make him feel better.

Raava sighed, distracting herself by forming an acid ball of water, barely managing to avoid letting both it and the ball of base fall down when Zhu Li squealed, "Oooh, you can acidbend too? That will be great for chemicals and industry! I hope Senna is comfortable with acidbending on a large scale!" Raava laughed, saying, "Yes, I can. Now stand back - I want to make a little lavabending- fueled addition to the island."

Raava swept her sword out towards the endless sea, smiling to see how easily the water began to boil, admiring the broken red glow of magma rising from beneath. Realizing that Ember Factory Island had no airstrip, Raava formed a flat surface on the new addition, surprised to hear Varrick say, "You don't need to make it any longer. Meelo came up with a major change to our aircraft earlier." Finishing by adding multiple mooring points made of earth for war balloons, Raava turned around, curiosity starting to eat away at her.

Rushing her next job, she just lightly smacked the fully-grown tree with the hilt of her blade, saying, "Love matures!" as she did so, the tree groaning slightly as it shifted, white-striped spirit vines growing around the tree's bare branches, surprised to see blue and white flowers appear. What she knew to be four elemental crystals assumed their mature form, and the tuber-vines around the tree's roots began to grow to full size. Still puzzled by their presence, Raava idly wondered where they had come from.

I think that and the flowers might have been the work of your new "appreciation" of Wan. He's been bugging me nonstop while I try to read.

Raava blushed slightly, distracting herself by calling for the dragon bird to come, admiring the mix of light and dark blue feathers that covered her body, still resembling her older form. Ignoring surprised gasps around her, she told Kuvira and Mako to come towards her, explaining, "Initially, this dragon bird wanted to be Korra's 'spirit animal', but she refused, her attachment to Naga overriding this bird's ability to fly. I tried to think of who could use a companion, and then it hit me - Mako, you have something to remind you of Kuvira, but she doesn't have anything similar." Kuvira nodded, saying, "Yeah, but I don't see what that has to do with a dragon bird. Which sounds like it 'belongs' to Korra anyways…"

Raava smiled, saying, "I want to try something even more radical than giving bending to spirit allies, but I think I will need human help. Specifically, you and Mako's help." Raava picked up Life's Gift, saying, "I need you two to think of each other, Kuvira holding my hand as she holds Mako's. Our dragon bird friend here already knows and approves of what I plan to do, being a phoenix and all. I don't think I could do what I am about to on any other spirit, unless they transform in a nonphysical way."

Once she was holding Kuvira's hand, Raava held out her sword, saying as she plunged it into the dragon bird's chest, "LOVE GROWS!" Raava kept steady as energy channeled itself through her into the sword, and into the surprisingly quiet dragon bird. As soon as she removed her sword, the great bird turned to ash, the pile shifting slightly. Raava was about to placate a mortified Asami when she noticed that ash pile begin to re-form more rapidly than she had ever hoped, realizing why she heard Mako say, "The way they approved… Even your parents were there somehow… I... I don't know if I want to wait, Kuvira. Not after that." Kuvira giggled, saying, "Wow - Baatar Jr. never kissed me like that, much less grabbed my chest!" With this last word, a small form appeared in the ash pile, rapidly growing to full size.

Raava stared at the reborn dragon bird, noticing that it now had steel over parts of its enlarged wings, three clawed fingers and a thumb spike on the end of each wing. Apparently, the wings were load-bearing now with the added steel and primitive-looking hands, given how the dragon bird walked forward, Raava admiring the dancing multicolor fire and pulsing blue steel yin yang symbol in the center of its shining metallic chest.

"Hello! Are you my mom and dad? What's my name?"

Raava shook her head, hardly able to believe her ears, saying, "Just what did you think of each other doing earlier, Mako and Kuvira? I never expected her to… talk!" Raava turned around, seeing Kuvira say with a smile, "We thought of our parents meeting each other for the first time, and… it actually seemed like they did, for a split second." Raava said, eyes widening, "I guess it's not just shared inner dream space then."

Speaking of which - lemme out! I want to go to sleep as soon as possible! I'm tired of reading - most of this supposedly revolutionary stuff just seems blindingly obvious to me. I guess people on Earth were even more stupid 2,000-3,000 years ago than they are now. Though, from reading different sources, it sounds like the great thinkers thought the same of their contemporaries. I like this Jesus Christ fellow - he had quite the acid tongue.

Raava smiled, saying, "Sounds to me like someone wants to swap places again." As she gave control back to Korra, she thought of Wan, hugging him tightly once the swap was finished, saying, "I… I think I love you." Wan returned the hug, saying tentatively at first, "But what about what Varrick said abo - oof!" Raava sighed, saying as she hugged him tighter, "If Asami has taught me anything, it's that what other people think doesn't matter. I'm sure I'm pissing off all kinds of spirits right now, but I honestly don't care." Wan blushed, saying, "Never mind. As odd as it sounds, even to myself, I… love you too. Ten thousand years is an awfully long time to wait to confess. For both of us." Wan laughed, saying, "Technically, you've already been inside me, at my insistence, I may add." Raava laughed hysterically, saying, "Yes. Yes, I have. But we've got all the time in the world, so let's go slow." Wan snickered, saying, "I didn't mean it like that - I meant you were inside my heart."

Raava sighed deeply, feeling a sense of oneness she had never felt before, saying, "I never would have thrown Life's Gift away had I know what this felt like." Raava felt herself shifting slightly, now closer to Wan's face than before, saying in a human voice that almost matched that of her outdated form, "I can't wait to see what happens when Korra goes to sleep."

Korra was about to project Raava out to give the sword back, not wanting to accidentally misuse Life's Gift, but stopped, somehow privy to a very private interaction between Raava and Wan.

I trust you with that sword, but do be careful with it. Given I'm no longer holding it, it should have less power.

Korra picked up the sword, explaining what had just happened. Varrick laughed, saying, "Ehhh… I guess it's not so weird, considering what Wan said about Raava being inside him. Does give me a funny image, tho - ouch! I thought you weren't going to hit me anymore, Zhu Li, much less with a rock!" Rubbing his head, Varrick said, "And it felt really hot too… What's going on here?! Don't tell me you can lavabend now, honey."

Zhu Li stammered, pointing off to the side as she said, "I… Kuvira, I think your new spirit friend is rather special." Korra turned around, eyes widening in shock when she saw the dragon-bird crying, saying, "Sorry, Varrick. I don't know my own power - I just wanted to hit you with a small pebble." Korra shook her head, saying incredulously, "Wait - don't tell me you can bend both earth and fire." The dragon-bird nodded, saying, "That's why Raava needed Mako and Kuvira's help. Raava wanted me to remind Kuvira of Mako, but still be connected to Kuvira."

Kuvira gave her new ally a confused look, saying, "I thought only the Avatar, Korra, could bend more than one element?" The dragon bird cocked its head to the side, saying through a metallic beak, "Raava can bend more than one element, and she put some of her energy inside me, as well as what you feel for Mako." Korra's eyes widened in panic, saying, "Oh, great am I going to have a miniature Avatar for a daughter?" Korra felt an energy surge beside her, turning to see Raava holding Wan's oddly corporeal hand as she said, "No, Korra, your daughter will not be able to multi-bend. I'm pushing the envelope of what is, and is not allowed as is, only able to grant this spirit two forms of bending with human assistance."

Korra examined the sword she was holding, realizing she could give it back to its rightful owner, curious as to why the sword still looked much the same as it had before, plasma and all. Korra nodded, saying, "Catch!" as she tossed Life's Gift to Raava. Raava caught the sword, handing it back as she said, "Not just yet. I want you to see if you can give Impetuous Vine the same treatment that I did to Mr. Tuber-Vine and Impatient Leaf, hopefully this time without corruption." Korra took the sword and prepared to strike reluctantly, stopping at the last minute, holding her jade betrothal necklace as she pointed the sword at the shivering tuber-vine.

Impetuous Vine erupted in a riot of colors, Korra hearing a nasty voice say internally, "You'll never get me out! Glory to hate! Go on - split this fool in two so I can go talk to Jinshu Kuangmai!" Korra took a deep breath, deliberately envisioning a plant-shaped Dark Spirit interacting with "Jinshu Kuangmai". Or rather, the real Jinshu Kuangmai, and not the sad monster of a man that lived, while Tonga Beifong languished. Impetuous Vine thrashed violently, as though he were fighting with himself. When Korra saw that he was gradually growing darker, she took a deep breath, putting down the sword and placing a hand on the being's main body as she said, "Cease struggle, and yield to purifying light."

Korra smiled broadly as she heard Impetuous Vine loudly hum "VRMMM VRMMM" as his colors shifted, rubbing her forehead after he spit a small seed out at her. Picking up the seed, she realized what it was for - another one of the odd trees. Raava said, picking the sword back up and successfully splitting Impetuous Vine in two after, "The tree here should serve as protection for Ember Factory Island, as well as a ready source of spirit material." Remembering her private house she shared with Asami, Korra said, handing the seed to Asami, "I know just the place to plant this seed, after we liberate Omashu and smash the Earth Empire armies gathered outside." Remembering that more than half the army was made of conscripts, she added, "I hope to take out the elites and get everyone else to surrender. If we can take out their heartless commander, that man named Chin will be the new Chief Military Officer. I don't think he'll turn on Jinshu Kuangmai anytime soon, but given what I know of him, I'd be shocked if he didn't cut his losses at some point and order a retreat." Staring directly at Raava, Korra added, "And if he does so, I want the army to be left alone."

Raava frowned, saying hotly, "Korra, now is not the time for mercy at every turn - those conscripts will likely fight just as hard for Chin as the elites fight for their current commander, who only goes by the moniker 'Merciless'." Korra held Life's Gift tightly as she said, "Maybe I won't give this sword back to you!" Raava apoplectic, Wan held out a hand, saying, "No. You have changed a lot over the years, Korra, from hotheaded warrior to merciful lover. Just pretend that the Earth Empire is a suffering beast that needs to be put down." Korra sighed, saying, "I know that. Those elites - they deserve whatever happens, but if an offer of surrender is made, I AM going to let everyone else go." Smiling, Korra said, "Who knows - an act of mercy tomorrow may plant the seeds of doubt in this Chin's mind."

Korra saw Raava smile, saying sheepishly, "I guess this is where I learn from you. Again. You're right, Korra. Perhaps it would be best if Chin got promoted - Jinshu Kuangmai might be consumed by hatred, but so far he has shown remarkable restraint and common sense compared to the likes of Hitler, and might be slightly less vile with Chin directly advising him." Korra nodded, laughing as Varrick said, "I want to know everything that happened, now! This talk of Omashu and other stuff is making me really annoyed - I have not a clue what's going on!" Walking over, Raava took Life's Gift from Korra as she said, "In due time. There's one last modification I'd like to make to the two existing mechasuits, before explanations - see the plasma on this blade's edge?" Getting an idea with what Raava wanted to do, Korra said, "Yes - and you want to see if we can make our own, tuber-vine powered version." Raava smiled broadly, saying, "Yes. I'll let you, Asami, Varrick, Zhu Li and Kuvira work on it while I help Mako come up with a name for Kuvira's new friend." Attempting to form some fire to see better by, Korra told Raava with a smile, "I want you - need you - inside me." Wan and Raava laughed hysterically before both vanished, Korra now holding a ball of blue flame in her hand, glad to finally have her bending back.

Korra started to make a comment about her relief, but stopped, remembering more than half her current company couldn't bend. Her face must have betrayed her, given how Asami innocently asked, "Why are you smiling so broadly, Korra?" Giving Asami a nervous glance, Korra lied,
"That, uh, Wan and Raava like each other!" Korra saw the flame turn red, fessing up her true feelings, glad to see neither Zhu Li nor Asami took offense. Asami just laughed it off, saying, "After we perfect Asami's Reach, Iron Varrick and Zhu Li's Thing, we'll all be more powerful and well-protected than any bender aside from you, Korra. Technology has done what 'Amon' could never have dreamed of doing. Speaking of anger and resentment, Varrick - mind getting over your indignation for long enough to tell us if you brought the mockups to Ember Factory Island?" Varrick nodded his head, saying, "Yes, we did bring the mockups here." Stroking his mustache in the moonlight, he said, "Say, I have an idea! Mako. We have a useless mockup of Asami's Reach, given Korra already made the real thing. How'd you like it if Korra used the mockup as a base for a suit of your own? Kuvira's got one, after all." Mako blushed slightly, saying, "Uhhhh" tentatively. Kuvira let out an odd guffaw, saying, "I don't know if you're uncomfortable with the idea of using a suit based on your ex-girlfriend's body, or your other ex-girlfriend giving you a gift to put your body in." Korra laughed, sensing Mako was lying when he said, "No - it's just not fair to Bolin, Opal, Jinora or Kai! Not to mention the 'adults'!" Snickering, Korra said, I can tell you're lying, Mako. Whatever - that's something for another time. Let's do our experiments on my suit and Asami's to get the plasma working, make Varrick some replacement… nitrate, Wan Shi Tong calls it, the go-boom stuff in the vanished bird poop - what is it, Kuvira?"

Kuvira had interrupted Korra, pointing to the patient dragon bird as she said, "Can we give her a name first? Please?" Remembering her gift of language to Jasmine, Sura and Amaguq, Korra held out Life's Gift, initially planning on giving English to just those in front of her, slamming it down into the ground at the last minute, imparting the strange language to everyone on the island. Korra heard a distance young male voice scream, "HAH! That's what ass means? Wait a minute - forget what my mom told me, I'm not calling Korra 'Miss' anymore! Pet nicknames are for married people, or ones that wish they were married, like Korra and Asami!" Shortly after, Korra heard a female voice demand faintly, "When are you going to give me a nickname like that, Tenzin? And Meelo, that's fine - I don't even really know why I told you and Ikki to start calling people Miss or Mister anyways." Korra scratched her head, sure she'd never fully understand people, remembering her muted puzzlement at Ikki and Meelo's sudden politeness.

Welcome to the club.

Korra suppressed her laughter at Raava's comment, saying, "That give you any ideas for a name, Mako and Kuvira?" Kuvira nodded, saying, "This English - it has all sorts of weird rules, but I like it. Dragon bird, I think I'll call you… ugh, this is hard." Not sure why Kuvira was giving her a withering look, Korra figured out who the look was intended for when Kuvira said, "I'll name her Alyssralove. I don't care what Aang says. Mr. Serious Aang can go screw himself. " Korra laughed as she heard Raava intone, Yeah, Aang. Quit being so serious - who are you, Lin? Wanting to see the look on Aang's face after Kuvira had just told him to go screw himself, everyone laughed when a sullen-looking Aang said with an initially angry tone, "Hey! I was busy talking with Sokka and Katara! I guess it's okay, given you changed the name, and Alyssa is another English name anyways. Like the love part." Korra was surprised to hear Alyssralove chirp like the dragon bird chick Korra accidentally knocked over years ago, the spirit saying, "Okay! I think I can help with the lightning part Wan Shi Tong talked about. Watch this!"

Alyssralove flew over the airfield and war balloon mooring island, Korra noticing that her flight was augmented by concentrated jets of blue flame on her down strokes, coming from long angular metal organic-looking "engines" Korra swore had just appeared underneath the massive spirit's wings. Alyssralove opened her metallic beak wide, taking a deep breath, her chest expanding as the flame jets intensified. Somehow able to stay aloft using only the jets of flame, Korra watched in wonder as the spirit began generating ball lightning with its delicate yet savage-looking metallic talons and thumb spike. Once the light from the lighting was blinding, Alyssralove brought her digits upward, a strange basin rising from the sea near Korra. On the spirit's request, Korra cleared the basin of mud and oceanic debris, Alyssralove unleashing the ball lightning at the basin once Korra was finished. Having seen this spirit in action, Korra vaguely regretted not taking Alyssralove's earlier offer to be her companion, given how Naga couldn't even bend.

June's shirshu caused Aang plenty of trouble, and she couldn't fly. Alyssralove has a terrible sense of smell, being a bird spirit and all.

As Alyssralove flew back over, Korra smiled as she heard Mako stammer, "Ma… maybe I could use a suit after all. I can't make ball lightning like that! That was amazing, Alyssralove. When Kuvira goes on tour, she'll be safe with your protection, that's for sure." Alyssralove chirped, cocking her head as she asked, "Why does Kuvira need to do that, again?" Kuvira sighed with slight irritation, saying, "Because that's what we agreed my punishment would be, I want to, and plus… I'm hoping to find that orphan I saw in my vision, and adopt her." Korra wondered if she had made a mistake in lovers for a split second, seeing how Mako ran over and hugged Kuvira so passionately. Any such notion of mistakes vanished when she felt Asami hug her deeply, barely able to hear Asami say, "I'm so glad everything turned out good for everyone," over the sounds of a weeping Varrick. Korra saw Kuvira break the hug, the former enemy saying bitterly, "Well… not everyone. Poor Baatar Jr... I hope he's okay. I hope I didn't ask Ataninnuaq to ship out a crazy person…"

Korra saw a sudden image of Baatar Jr. alone in a wooden cell, sweating profusely, beginning to smile gradually. At first, Korra thought this was a vision of Baatar Jr. going insane, but given how she heard a familiar young female voice say, "Come on, Baatar! You can do it! I know you can!" Korra knew everything was going to be fine, or was already fine.

He can show you tomorrow, after we crush Jinshu Kuangmai. Come on, let's move - we've got a lot to do to prepare for battle tomorrow. Bumju just went on a recon mission over Zaofu in his small spectral form, and it looks like Jinshu Kuangmai is creating all sorts of new equipment. It is time for us to do the same.

After Asami had re-inserted Impetuous Vine into her mechasuit, Varrick and Zhu Li picked up Mr. Tuber-Vine and Mrs. Tuber-Vine, respectively, saying in unison, "Suits, please!" Korra laughed, saying, "Not just yet - I want to make plasma blades a reality. I hope you kept making spiritwire while I was 'gone' - we're going to need a lot for the equipment we'll need."

"Jinshu…. Kuangmai making… new spirit… weaponry. Will be… delayed. Prepare… well. Wait - no! He's… Hope that tree… protects my mother... from…"

Korra's eyes widened in terror, realizing who had just spoken to her, and why Jinshu Kuangmai might have an "interest" in his estranged mother. Explaining what had just happened, Korra said, "I'm projecting Raava out, and she can do the synthesis. Make Varrick, Zhu Li, Mako, Jinora, Kai, Kuvira, Bolin and Opal suits, prioritizing the nonbenders first, and see if anyone else wants military equipment made. Better to over-prepare than under-prepare. Sounds like Jinshu Kuangmai is 'coming loaded for bear'." Korra added, "Just call everyone out here - I know I promised Lin and Su something, and I saw Bumi working on an odd-looking tank blueprint. And at least make some protection for everyone else, even including Wu and Pema. We'll need their help evacuating the prison and Omashu, respectively - I hope Wu can… woo some badgermoles to help us with a prison break." As everyone groaned at her terrible English pun, Korra continued, after booting a peeved-looking Raava out, "Raava, keep all the bending - you're going to need it. I won't need bending for this next part - just my spirit." Korra figured out why Raava looked mad, saying, "You can do whatever you were doing with Wan later. Take your sword, and see if you can make the blades on Asami's Reach and Korra's Spirit have plasma cutting edge capabilities, like your sword, then move on to everyone else's equipment. And all of the blades, if possible - including the detachable leg blades on my suit." Raava blushed, saying, "We were just hugging! I thought I had a dirty mind… but I'll try and see if I can make it so you can bend from those blades as well, even if they are far away from you. Good luck convincing Toph that she needs to run away from the Swamp, Korra."

Taking a deep breath as she sat down in the moonlight, Korra focused on Toph's energy, saying under her breath, "Don't be stubborn - please!"

"Don't be stubborn what? 'Cause that's awfully unspecific, Twinkletoes."

Korra laughed, glad that Toph couldn't see her new tattoos as Korra said, "Well hello to you too, Toph. I have a request - go to a root of the Great Banyan tree with me. I have something to show you," Korra intending to use the tree to show just how far gone Toph's son was, and why she needed to flee, maybe throwing in a little family guilt for good measure. Toph groaned, flicking a hand to open a moonlight in the roof for Korra's benefit, getting up as she said crankily, "I thought I told you, no more spirit mumbo jumbo!" Korra frowned, wishing Toph could see her expression as she said mournfully, "It's about your wayward son, Tonga, Toph. I think he might be coming for you. And not for hugs."

Crossing her arms, Toph said, "Even if I am old, I can handle him! Plus, shouldn't the tree help protect me?" Korra sighed, explaining how her own mechasuit and new technologies would hopefully work, stressing that Jinshu Kuangmai could soon have similar capabilities, possibly including spirit energy absorption. Toph yawned, saying, "And I should be concerned why? Frankly, if I go down fighting, it's fine with me - I'm old. Beyond battle, and I just want to be left alone. By ALL my family, and you too. I'm satisfied with how good I've left things, especially with Lin, and don't really want to muck anything up. Again." Korra began crying, saying, "How can you say that? Any of it? Don't you want to live to see your new family? Muck ups or not, they'd much rather you be cranky alongside them than be dead!" Toph laughed, saying, "See my family? Oh, yeah? How? I'm blind! And don't bring up that infobending garbage - the only infobending I want you to do on me is to erase what everyone looks like. Ruined my fun, warped internal 'visual' view of the world. I just want to fade away, peacefully, living the last years of my life much as I have up to this point, since I left Republic City. In solitude. It's time for the younger generation to take over." Korra cursed in English, yelling loud enough to make Toph jump, "YEAH - the Jinshu Kuangmai 'generation' just might take over, not to mention the Spirit Civil War, and you don't want to do anything about it - not even act as moral support for your family! Yes, you are blind - in more ways than one. Maybe Lin was right about you abandoning Jinshu Kuangmai at the age of four… you're a brave warrior, but an emotional coward."

After apparently using her hearing to figure out where Korra's projection was, Toph shot a large rock at Korra's projection, saying, "You have no idea what I went through with him, or what my life has been like!" Korra sighed, saying, "In a way, you are right, but enough!" Raising her voice again, Korra said sternly, "You need to get out of here, before it's too late." Toph smiled, saying, "I'm staying put. You're just wasting your time here." Wishing she could just bloodbend the stubborn earthbender, Korra said, "There are more people in this world than just you, you know, Toph. You may have smoothed things over with your family, but that doesn't mean your 'job' as mother and grandmother ends there. You might even live to become a great-grandmother, if Bolin would hurry up with Opal. I can see what no one else can, in themselves - the hole left by missing mother or grandmother Toph. You need to stop being so selfish. You may think you can't help, but you can. Even if spirit Amon magically took your bending away, you and your love would be much appreciated, for its own sake." Toph crossed her arms in a huff, saying, "You sound just like Katara. 'Pull your weight, Toph! Not like that – help carry our weight too!' I carry no one else's burdens but mine. The way it should be." Korra began crying, saying, "Toph, from what I know of you, you never learned that helping to carry someone else's burden can feel good." Korra began grasping at straws when Toph stuck her tongue out at her, Korra saying, "What would Uncle Iroh think you should do?"

The way Toph was laughing after the sound of a tapping foot, Uncle Iroh might have just appeared beside her. An old, exasperated male voice said, "I think you should leave this place, Toph, or at least move to the northeastern portion of the Swamp. Friendly forces will be there relatively soon, and you can have more protection. Also, even if you don't want to now, I think you will find re-joining the world and your family a very positive experience." Toph quaked, saying as cracks appeared beneath her feet, "I am NOT helpless! I don't need protection! And I'm done with the world! When will everyone get that through their thick skulls?" Korra was tiring of Toph's stubbornness, saying with a harsh tone, "You haven't changed a bit over the years, have you. I want you to look deep inside, Toph, and stare what you're running from straight in the face instead of fleeing like a little scared girl. Stand your ground. Tell me with truth that you don't care about your grandchildren's lives." Toph appeared to crack slightly, saying, "Quit lecturing me! I need to go back to sleep - I've had enough!" Toph laid down on her earthen bed, saying, "Just go away! I need… peace."

Toph closed her eyes, though they immediately re-opened wide, the stubborn earthbender saying nothing. Korra recognized what was happening, thinking, "Raava, help her! I don't know what's eating at her, but it can't be good!"

Your words are eating at her, Korra. Do not be alarmed - this is a good thing. I'm letting others handle this - her family, all of it, when she decides to touch the tree she hides near.

Korra watched Toph begin to breathe heavily, Uncle Iroh saying, "I am unsure why Raava is barring me from helping." Korra shrugged, saying as she stared at her blue hand, "Same here."

After what seemed like an eternity, Toph sat up, seemingly sleep-walking out towards the door, mumbling slightly about family. Korra noticed with a queasy feeling that spirit vines were encircling the house, as though protecting the old earthbender. Toph touched one of the vines, the white lines pulsing intensely as she began to cry, finally speaking clearly, saying, "I… I am so sorry. For so long, I thought being weak, especially emotionally, was a bad thing. But it's not. With people you love, it's a good thing. I'm coming - all of you! Even you, Tonga Beifong."

Korra floated through the vines, sensing that Toph was somehow connecting to all of her family through the tree's vines, even Su's adopted children, indirect "family" like Bolin and Jinora included. Korra saw a male figure in the far distance of the scene fighting with itself, crying out when she heard an enraged voice say, "ENOUGH! I want nothing to do with you, or your insipid family. I will not be softened like Kuvira!" The vision vanished, Korra seeing the spirit vines begin to coil up like snakes, one letting out a large groan as razor-sharp edges appeared along its length. This strange vine lashed out at an unseen target, Korra wincing as she heard the sound of a female cry and tearing flesh.

"What was that?! I'm… bleeding! Badly! Can… can spirits die, Jinshu Kuangmai? I feel something fading… I've only known you for a few hours, but… I don't want to leave you! And not just because I want to help so much… more…"

Korra shifted her projection, focusing on a different Beifong. She saw a familiar large man alongside a smaller male metalbender, shocked to see Jinshu Kuangmai crying slightly as he and who Korra assumed was Jang trying to fend off a multitude of vines.

The Great Banyan tree is ready to end all three of these abomination's lives - Jinshu Kuangmai, Vaazula, and Jang. All it needs is your permission, Korra. Actually, let Vaazula bleed – we need to see if spirits can truly die when struck in their physical form. What she said about fading… our spirit allies may need to be very careful.

Korra said, noticing that the vines obeyed, "Vines, squeeze hard, but not fatally! I want Toph to see what happened to her wayward son before he is turned to ash." Korra didn't even bother to give instruction on Vaazula, content to let the spirit possibly die as per Raava's instruction, if that was possible.

Directing a vine to touch a skeptical-looking Toph's forehead, the Great Banyan tree fed Korra's former earthbending teacher everything it could. Korra felt a reverse flow, eyes widening as she saw Jinshu Kuangmai's unseen earlier interactions with Vaazula, hardly able to believe she saw them… hugging, en route to the swamp on a modified airship.

No! Could it be…? Painted Lady, Alyssralove, go to the Swamp, now! I find Vaazula vile, but if she can elicit emotions Jinshu Kuangmai has never felt before… make sure she doesn't "die"!

Korra saw the vines unfurl, Jinshu Kuangmai and Jang somehow knowing why they had been spared. Jang laughed, saying, "Seriously? Both of you - Korra, for being so weak as to give your sworn enemy mercy, and Jinshu Kuangmai for - hurk!" Tears streaming down his face, Jinshu Kuangmai barked, "One more word, and you're swamp rat food, Jang. Asphyxiated. I never figured you for stupid - I see nothing wrong with loving another 'person' as much as power, especially when that 'person' shares your world view." Jang's eyes began to water as Jinshu Kuangmai said, "You're just jealous I found someone, even if they are a spirit, who loves me for who I am, not running away because they think I'm misguided." Turning around, Jang falling to the ground blubbering after Jinshu Kuangmai's hand ceased moving, Jinshu Kuangmai said, "That's not to say I will ever forgive you, mother. You are an emotional coward." Toph stamped her foot angrily, saying, "WAS! Maybe if I had stayed with your father, raised you like my parents did me, I could have gotten you under control. I just hope your special little talent wasn't passed on to Su after all." Jang got up, saying, "Wait - what? You told me we were coming here to take an important hostage from near a helpless tree, not have a family reunion!" Jang whipped out a radio, saying hotly, "You - you've been lying this whole time!" The radio warped as Jang lifted off the ground, Jinshu Kuangmai looking ready to kill Jang for this implied threat.

"Don't kill him – he still has his uses. And you, Jang. What of the lie, moron? Would my human namesake have done any differently? How'd you like to be third in command, behind a 'female' spirit?"

Korra turned around, surprised to see Vaazula walking normally in front of a smiling Painted Lady. Korra smiled, temporarily souring when she realized she hadn't managed to get a favor out of Jinshu Kuangmai in exchange for the little healing.

Tomorrow. We may end up needing it then, not now.

And given how much trouble the Painted Lady had in saving her, even under a full moon, helping her is its own reward. The Painted Lady told me it seemed Vaazula was gradually losing her physical form, likely stuck in a spectral form – permanently. We now know that spirits in a physical form can be wounded gravely even in the physical world, if they are taken by surprise and the right energy and force is used. I knew that Kuruk, being the Avatar, was capable of killing Koh in the Spirit World, had he wished to do so, but this… is totally new.

Turning around, Korra searched for Alyssralove. Korra saw flashes of blue flame coming from the trees, seeing the vegetation give way to Alyssralove's massive form. Slamming a metal thumb-spike into the ground, Alyssralove launched Toph onto her back, saying as a metal shield formed around Toph, "I'm heading out now, Korra, as is the Painted Lady." Vaazula said loudly, "Stop! Big bird! Can you… do what I think you can do? Whatever you are?"

A brilliant idea occurred to Korra, saying, "Yes, Vaazula, Alyssralove can bend two elements at once. As a spirit. There are limitations." Jinshu Kuangmai took the bait, saying, "I have a deal to make." Korra nodded, saying with false reluctance, "What, you want more, after the Painted Lady just saved your lady spirit friend? From what Raava is telling me right now, had she 'died' she would have been stuck inside the Spirit World, blocked off from you just like Vaatu is." Jinshu Kuangmai laughed, saying, "Of course I want more! In exchange for saving Vaazula and then somehow giving her dual bending tomorrow - fire and earth - I will refrain from turning the prison camp to ash with one strike, fighting as fairly as I feel comfortable doing. Which isn't much." Korra was puzzled, saying, "How do you plan to do that?" Grinning, Jang said, "We've come up with a way to project a large spirit vine bomb at a very high speed using a railway gun. If you try to destroy it, the gun will be fired at the prison camp, and at Omashu, should it fall." Jinshu Kuangmai walked over calmly, slapping Jang as he said, "Okay, that does it. You're officially third in command now, and if Chin manages to keep his bloodthirsty commander from destroying Omashu, he'll outrank you as well. Wait – SILENCE! You dare call me merciful? SHUT UP, before I show my 'mercy' on you! I am not being soft - pragmatism knows no allegiance. Omashu is more valuable intact than a pile of ash, unlike that prison camp. Azula's father didn't level the old city when his forces took over, after all."

Korra smiled, saying, "Very well. The exchange will take place after the outcome of the battle, regardless of victor. If we win, we will allow your forces to retreat, and if you win, you are to allow our forces and the civilians to retreat." Korra was pleasantly surprised when Jinshu Kuangmai nodded, saying, "Agreed," cursing in English once he continued, "All spirits aligned with Vaatu are connected, and Vaazula got a good look around Ember Factory Island through that short-lived corrupted 'tuber-vine'. Those two mechasuits intrigue me, and I am sure Chin will be more than glad to help me replicate them. Don't think we didn't notice Bumju snooping around Zaofu either."

Wanting Jinshu Kuangmai to think he had come out ahead, Korra cursed in words he understood, saying, "Toph, get out of here, on Alyssralove's back! Painted Lady, go tend to the sick in the prison camp. I'm done here. Damn spies…"

Korra deliberately appeared to have vanished, watching from behind a shielding vine with a smile as she heard Toph say, "You know, son, if you keep this up, you might just end up surrendering like Kuvira did. You both had very bad experiences with family, after all…" Jinshu Kuangmai just laughed, saying, "Vaazula won't soften me - she'll harden me! To Team Hate! No - Team Vaatu! He approves of humans dominating one another now, if I had my best guess." Throwing Toph's son a bone, Korra had a vine etch "Yes" into the ground in front of Toph's son, the vine shaking in fake fear afterwards.

Before breaking the connection, Toph long gone and the vines refraining from attack, Korra thought to herself, "Oh, yes, Vaazula will. Raava's giving her a whole lot more than dual bending… She has to have a 'transformative experience' to get dual bending anyways!"

I hope this ploy works. And if it doesn't eh, no big deal - she'll be a one trick polar bear-dog. And Jinshu Kuangmai won't wipe the prison camp off the map.