Book 5: Humanity

by Freedom0153

Korra wanted peace after defeating Kuvira. Then life happened. During her Spirit World vacation, an unlikely gift from an old friend caused a great rift between many spirits and humans. Even conflict with the Earth Empire wasn't over, Kuvira's surrender opening a vacuum. To restore balance, Korra needs any allies she can get, finding her growing love for Asami giving Korra peace.

57. Chapter 57: A Model Citizen: Part 2

Chapter 57: A Model Citizen: Part 2

Having been in Chang and his family's apartment all of a minute at most, her belongings aside from the food she had brought on the floor beside her chair Ursa felt surprisingly comfortable. Ursa smiled when she saw a woman enter the room who she had never seen before, introducing herself quickly as Chang talked with Karpok a little, Ursa saying, "Hello - I'm Ursa. Your son may have mentioned me before, from four years ago - Amon's attack on Republic City. I assume you must be Chang's mother, and… Huanhato's husband, was it?" The woman gave her a slightly funny look, saying, "You look, act… different than the way Chang described you," blushing slightly as she extended a hand, saying, "I'm sorry - I forgot my manners. I'm Sesi - Huanhato's wife," adding, "Uh - just curious. Given you're the only one who got that medal… can I see it?"

Ursa nodded, saying, "Sure - it's got something on the inside too," adding as she remembered something from the note, "What it says on the inside - I think the same's true of your husband and son. I remember - my dad and Huanhato being two of the last one to go down, back then… Chang fighting a bit longer than I did, too."

Chang's mother Sesi busy looking at the medal, Ursa turned her attention to the three people who had just sat down at the table, Huanhato saying, "Hello, Ursa. My son had hoped you'd come sooner than four years later - but better late than never, I guess." Looking concerned, he continued, "But everything since that day in the evacuee camp… I heard rumors about some scuffle involving a corrupt police officer and two firebenders. From what Chang's told me about you, you were probably a part of that." Ursa nodded, Huanhato looking very angry as he continued, "We were busy ourselves back then, me, my son and my wife - Karpok here just randomly flitted close to where we were staying. Claimed she was just passing through on the way back to where she was coming from - disoriented by the tents. Just seeing how she carried herself, how sad she looked - I'm no truthsenser, but I could tell she was lying."

Karpok now crying heavily, Ursa listening as Huanhato continued, making a fist, "After Chang asked her what was wrong, she broke down, crumbling like a Pro-Bending disk - managing to tell us she was really on the run from her family, though she wouldn't say why at the time. A few minutes later, that was when her family caught up with her - the father claiming she was just lost like she had said earlier." Frowning deeply, a metal spoon on the table nearby scrunching up into a ball after he clenched his fist, Huanhato continued, "When I told him to get lost, and let me listen to what she had to say, he got aggressive, claiming she was his daughter - that I had no business with internal family affairs," laughing bitterly as he finished, "Claimed she was a problem child - even though Karpok couldn't even properly bend her own element aside from healing at the time. Fighting something I'd later learn her father had prohibited her from doing."

Huanhato by now too livid to continue, standing up and walking to the door as though he expected someone to come, Chang continued, giving Karpok a quick re-assuring hug, saying, "Karpok might not want to talk about it right now, just telling me this all seems like a dream to her still, wanting to deal with it the way she had been for many years… but at our tent, something in her snapped - telling us about how her father had sexually abused her from a young age." Chang looked like he wanted to continue, but stopped when Karpok took a deep breath, saying tentatively, "I… I wanna talk to Ursa. Or try…"

Karpok at a loss for words at first, she looked to one of the bags Ursa had brought, saying, "Comfort. You said it earlier. M-maybe… what's in those, again?" Feeling torn, realizing that whatever Karpok had been though Ursa couldn't possibly understand what the other poor girl was feeling, Ursa took out a Big Hug Cake, saying, "I don't know if I ever told you, but my mom's a cook. For her job. She made these up trying to make herself feel better. She was sad earlier - my dad went with the reinforcements, possibly going up against spirit weapons… and her workplace was inside the crater, so she was down and depressed. Just like you must be - I can't even begin to imagine what it was like, until you got away." Karpok by now sullen-looking again, Ursa said, pointing to herself with one hand, holding out a Big Hug Cake with sweet filling with the other, "Hey - it's okay. I used to be a lot heavier than this… relatively, that is. When I was depressed five, six years ago. Something helped me realize all that was a crutch - to help me through my depression, thinking I should kill myself."

Karpok's eyes widened after the last part, saying, "I… I've tried that once or twice. Couldn't go through with it. Waah - such a fat, miserable failure! So weak…" Ursa recoiled in horror, Chang looking too shocked to speak, Ursa saying as she tossed the Big Hug Cake so that it landed near Karpok, "NO, you're not! Killing yourself is the ultimate surrender - my father's grandmother did it, and it affected his father deeply. I'll never know what it was like, to go through what you have - but you're still here! Alive - fighting. Even if food has been one of your 'weapons' for a long time…"

Ignoring the Big Hug Cake, Karpok began crying again, saying, "It… it wasn't just for something that felt good." Burying her face in her hands, not a thought about either one's pudginess crossing Ursa's mind, she didn't judge at all when Karpok took a deep breath, taking the first bite of the Big Hug Cake, mumbling, "Thi-this is good. Wow…"

Karpok finished it, Ursa glad to see she could enjoy something so simple at least, smiling broadly when she had a similar reaction to Chang kissing her on the mouth and caressing her slightly, Karpok saying after he withdrew, sounding bittersweet, "It… it will take a long time, maybe forever… for something like that to not bring up awful memories… But I liked that better than that cake, Chang - even with the hip grab." Chang blushed slightly, saying, "Wh - uh, glad you liked it," Karpok turning to her, asking, "Are… are you busy, Ursa? Can you stay a while? I… I've never had anything but just food. To feel good, try and shield me with weight against my father…" saying after a slight pause, "If you've got to go - those things are just as good. I've got Chang to help…"

Ursa shook her head, saying, "Nope. And while I hope you don't need them, there's more bags of these things where that came from." Karpok shaking her head slightly, she let out a deep sigh when Chang asked her, "You… you said you tried to kill yourself 'once or twice'. How many times was it really…?" Karpok simply shook her head, saying, "I… I don't want to say," adding as she looked sullen, "Mom… can I have some milk, and Ursa, give me another… what's the look for, Ursa?" sobbing, "Don't tell me you've been judging this whole time!"

Ursa shook her head in horror, saying honestly, "Wh - no! I know I never talked to you much in school, but I already told you - I used to be bigger, used food as medicine for a crushing depression." Noticing Chang looked a bit uncomfortable, Ursa suggested, "Chang, Huanhato - why don't you go somewhere else for a little. Leave us girls alone." Chang nodded, saying, "Whatever she needs," Karpok looking terrified as both he and his father left, crying once they had left the room, "Wh… what if he comes back?"

Ursa frowned, saying, "So what if he does? You're a waterbender, I'm a firebender - and from what I've heard so far, your father doesn't sound like he deserves the chance to do to others what he's done to you." Karpok broke down completely at this point, bawling and ignoring the milk and Big Hug Cake in front of her, "It… I always thought it was about sex. The good feelings he felt while doing it… but… it wasn't. I was always eating for more reasons than pleasure - food one of the few good things in my life aside from the reprieve school provided. I guess… I tried making myself as unattractive as I could, intentionally eating - build a wall of fat against him."

Looking up, having a bit of blue steel in her eyes, Karpok said, "That was all until… until I came home from school before the evacuation - saw him with my mother. Doing the same thing he did to me with her - even though she's skinny, beautiful." Her eyes flaring, Karpok said, "It was all about POWER, not sex! All along!" Noticing Karpok was now reaching for the milk and Big Hug Cake, sobbing and moaning, "It's hopeless! Ch-Chang likes me the way I am… can have him and food, to, to heal", Ursa said delicately, hoping her inner light would give her the right words, "Stop. Don't eat - fight. Talk. By doing that, giving up and eating for yourself instead of fighting, you're just giving your father power - even when he's likely half a city away." Noticing she had Karpok's attention, Ursa said, "You've made the breakthrough - seeing it was about power, not sex. Next time he comes around, bothers you - I'm sure your new mom Sesi will have trained you how to fight with your bending."

Seeing Karpok still went through with her earlier motions, even reaching out and grabbing more from the bag, Ursa doing her best to not frown when Karpok asked her, "Look at me!... You just said… what I'm doing is bad!... Eating! Aren't you going to… say anything?... Judge me?"

Feeling a bizarre sensation, as though her earlier request for help speaking had been granted, Ursa said, not even truly being in line with her own words just yet, "No. I am not going to say anything. Instead, I'm going to get my things and leave - including the Big Hug Cakes - and come back some other day. When you're willing to fight for yourself, and not be consumed by the bitterness you've felt for most of your life. Face your problems like you did earlier instead of trying to stuff them away. Talk to me with an empty mouth, not a full and bitter one. Daddy's gone from the outside - but he's not gone from the inside. That's something you will have to work on, and fix - food as a crutch, not panacea. I do not know what you dreamed of last night, but I had my own dream - where I saw what would happen to myself if I simply gave up on self-control totally, mired in food and misery like you seem to want to be. That road may not kill you right away, but from what I saw, it is a slow death - deliberate or inadvertent suicide by food. For you, given you've been stuffing yourself madly this whole time, I'll never know the answer. Given I have struggled with weight and darkness intertwined myself and Chang has not, only Chang can help you."

Karpok stopped mid-reach for another Big Hug Cake, Ursa withdrawing the bag of Big Hug Cakes as Karpok broke down again, oblivious to the world but no longer eating, Ursa saying, "Uh - Sesi - you might want to go join everyone else. Things are about to get real freaky - something only two big girls would really understand. I'll whistle when you can come back in." Sesi looked at Karpok reaching out towards the place where the bags had been in anguish, Sesi saying without hesitation, "Yes - definitely!" leaving the room shortly after.

Coughing, Ursa seeing she had Karpok's undivided attention after saying, "Want any more of that, you're going to have to listen. After I'd done… you'll probably not want anymore anyways," wishing she could infobend like Avatar Korra, Ursa explained the relevant portion of the dream to Karpok - including the portrayal of Karpok as a bad influence, and all the chakras.

Karpok obviously had a problem with all of them, especially fear of her father, the very first chakra - the Earth Chakra. Without such inner imbalance, Karpok wouldn't have been substantially heavier than Ursa…

Ursa had expected her to whine about being a bad influence, moan for more food - Ursa feeling like she was her light half watching herself make unexpected strides earlier when Karpok stood up, saying as she moved her hands about in an apparent attempt to bend, "If… I had my own odd dream - someone close to me, more than my own family. A teacher from school talking to me last night, telling me I needed to keep fighting, that if I ever got a break I needed to make the most out of it - the only person I ever told about what happened to me…"

Karpok finally managing to perform the bending move she was trying, the other big girl smiled broadly, saying as she took the water she had drawn from the apartment's air and bent it over her various chakra points, "I did it! I already know how to heal - and you mentioned the chakras in these places… I saw the medal you earned earlier, the Avatar Aang Medal of Mettle, I remember from the papers four years ago. You don't need any help with the Earth Chakra, fear - but I obviously do." Ursa blushed slightly, Karpok smiling a little, saying, "I… wasn't just a stalker on the playground. Whatever - that's history. The now… I'll start from the beginning, on fear - just like you suggested. I'm going to try and fix those things the right way - not with food, like you tried in the 'inner dream world'. Half a ton… knowing I've been gaining ever since school let out, I might have ended up like you 'did', unless you talked as frankly as you did with me… Th-thank you." Looking ashamed of herself, Karpok said, "What you said about how you 'got there'. Guess… I really would have been a bad influence, huh."

Ursa didn't know what to say or do at first, finding herself shaking her head, speaking from the heart without input from shame or her brain, Karpok blushing deeper as she continued, "Maybe - but maybe not. Remember - that was a version of me that stuffed depression with food, and didn't fight back like I did at the same time. If I had filled it with something else instead, something much more powerful, except permanently… I remember you looking at me out of something other than envy… attraction. It appears you may feel the same thing to Chang," adding with a smile, "Had you been more open, had I known your inner sorrow - maybe you would have had it with me as well, a lot earlier. I have a lot more in common with you than Lee-Lee, after all."

Ursa herself now blushing deeply, placing her hand over her mouth, laughing nervously, she was very glad when Karpok came over, saying as she opened big arms wide, "That would have been really nice, but… the past is past. How… how about friends instead? We've both struggled with food… maybe we can help each other out of it."

Ursa nodded, embracing Karpok, finding she did feel slightly aroused to hug another girl so deeply, saying with a slight laugh, "You first, though. Triage." Karpok actually laughed, saying, "Duh - I'm a lot closer to 'Food Drunk' than you are. Love that phrase, by the way… a whole lot better than 'morbidly obese' or 'fatass'."

Seeing a certain determination in Karpok's eyes that was the total opposite of determination to eat more food, Ursa broke the hug, whistling and then saying, "We're done!" adding quickly before Chang and his mother and father came back in, "Don't share that dream unless you really want to - it's… kind of embarrassing. There was a reason I asked your… new mom to leave." Karpok nodded, saying, "Of course - just Chang, if anyone at all."

After a short pause, Chang the first back in the room, Karpok said, hand patting her stomach lightly, "What you told me about this chakra - the Fire Chakra… maybe that isn't the right decision." Nodding weakly, Ursa sighed, getting a confused look from Chang and his parents, Ursa saying, "Deals with willpower… blocked by shame. And you were on that path I talked about…" Receiving an unexpected pat on the back, Ursa guessing it was Huanhato given the size of the pat, she was proven right when he said in his deep voice, "I don't know what you're talking about, Ursa," continuing after Sesi gave Ursa her medal back, "But this house is open, friendly - nothing like the schoolyard, or the family we helped Karpok escape." Huanhato finished by removing his big hand, Ursa hearing what sounded like a fist striking a particularly large palm after, Huanhato proclaiming, "That monster of a man shows his face around here, gets aggressive… I'll do a lot more than tell him off while holding up a really big rock."

Sesi nodded, saying, "Whatever you two were talking about, it seemed private in nature to me," turning to Karpok and asking, "I'm not going to put words in your mouth - especially since this is the first time since we picked you up you haven't been sobbing, or had food in hand. What do you want to do?"

Managing a weak waterbending form, much to Sesi and the rest of her family's surprise, Karpok said, "Train. I want to be able to bend, fight. And maybe if my family comes around again… we can get my mom and siblings out of that too, together," crying as she told her "new" family apparently for the first time aside from Sesi, "My… my dad did it to my mom too. I… walked in on it. That was the last straw. That told me I needed to try and get away when I could. My mom's not been a nice person… but maybe I know part of the reason now."

Noticing Karpok was looking at one of the forbidden food bags again, Ursa smiled broadly when Karpok closed her eyes and let out a conflicted sigh after Chang gave her a Big Hug all of his own, looking at Chang and his father closer now, seeing the resemblance. Both men were strong yet stocky-looking, finding herself reminded of both the "ancient" bully Xin Fu from nine years ago and Bolin the famous Pro-Bender at the same time. Bolin was the right weight for him but not sleek like his brother Mako... likely physically stronger than his brother, even ignoring the difference between their bending types.

Ursa had a gut feeling that if she ever did lose weight, she'd end up looking a lot like a female version of Chang and his father - not like someone else.

Remembering how she had no "inner strength" while in her "dream" body earlier while asleep, having thought it was just a mess-up on her dark half's part, Ursa realized it was no accident. The illusion her dark half had given her had no truth, that "normal" Ursa not having the real Ursa's inner strength. By wanting to be something she would never be, Asami Sato, the 22-year old having a much different base body build than herself, part of who she was had withered and shriveled temporarily, only restored when she had shown what she had lost against her dark half.

The inner strength and courage that had earned her the long-ignored Avatar Aang Medal of Mettle in the first place.

Hearing some tinny voice over a radio gradually build in volume, not caring for now, Ursa closed her eyes. She envisioned herself at a lower weight but with her features and body build, this skinnier version of herself not looking much different aside from more obvious muscle tone and smaller overall size. Nothing like Asami Sato. Seeing this version of herself was still hefty, nowhere near even Avatar Korra's build, some part of her still wishing to look more "ladylike" like the Avatar, Ursa thought as she resisted the pull to be someone else she was not and never would be, "Wishing to be something I can never be makes me weak. I may want to look like this 'Warrior Ursa' someday, or at least lose weight, strongly - but not at the cost of who I am."

Half having expected to see the image react as a different one had earlier with her eyes shut, Ursa was surprised when nothing happened, a stray thought passing through her mind: "Keep the fire steady and slow," then another that seemed more her own: "It is not the strength of the dog in the fight, but the strength of the fight in the dog that matters. And I'm pretty strong anyways - physically. Emotionally, in relation to myself and not others… not just yet. One thing at a time."

Seeing the image of "Warrior Ursa" finally move, it pointed to its chest after shifting to Ursa's current comparatively shabby state, saying nothing as it pointed to a medal on its chest - smiling proudly.

The vision fading, seeing nothing but blackness, Ursa opened her eyes, smiling slightly at the compliment after hearing Chang say, "Hey, Avatar Heart. URSA! You awake? You might want to come listen to this - radio announcer says President Raiko's giving out some sort of update, and… he's not addressing it to just Republic City this time, believe it or not." Having just re-witnessed Raiko at his worst four years ago, Ursa had a hard time believing what Chang had said, joining the rest of Karpok's new family near the radio - waiting to see what President Raiko had to say for himself, the name bringing to mind what Ursa thought was Noatak had told her, and evidence of what he said being true…

The corrupt cop and Kyoretsuna, the hungry people in the evacuee camp, the protesters around City Hall, her own mother pointing out that they'd still have the heart of their city intact if the Avatar had let the Universe take its course and let karma catch up with Kuvira instead, the supposedly wise Tenzin's unilateral decision along with President Raiko on rebuilding.

Inequalities in the world would never go away entirely - but would grow like a tumor if left unchecked. And, the way things were set up now… President Raiko might not have been a tumor, but he was certainly unchecked, Ursa wondering when they'd get a government more like the new United Earth Republic's.

It still might be based on elections, glorified popularity contests, but at least the three ruling body, three leader system checked itself in theory - Ursa very curious to see how it worked in practice, especially having heard an addendum about the whole thing, that she loved.

People could not campaign for themselves, only others, and if they were selected, no matter if they were as reluctant as the page turned Temporary Councilman Supika had been to wield power, they had to serve.

Finally hearing President Raiko's voice, Ursa was surprised when he opened up by saying, "Hello, citizens of the United Republic Nations - and beyond, if anyone in the United Earth Republic or Earth Empire happen to be listening to this broadcast, Earth Empire operative or repressed citizen alike. I am sure you are all wondering why I chose to leave with the reinforcements headed towards the prison camp and Omashu," Ursa finding herself laughing slightly when President Raiko continued, "And given some of the accusations citizens leveled at me when I first chose to leave our capital city, many thinking I was looking for an excuse to get away from Republic City's current problems and controversies, I am sure you all have a multitude of answers of your own."

Ursa smiled during a pause, Chang saying, "This doesn't sound like the President I know," his father nodding and saying, "Almost seems 'human-y' to me." Hearing President Raiko cough, they listened at greater length as the President said through the radio, "On my decision to leave - I know you have not heard me say such things openly much before… but I am not entirely sure myself why I chose to go with the reinforcements. The only thing I am sure of is that I seemed to be needed as something more than a city-bound politician to ensure everything worked out in the end. Most of the Air Nation numerically, civilians from Republic City, the United Republic Army - General Iroh II reminded me earlier is also known as the United Forces. All three groups joined by defectors from the Earth Empire after a heartfelt, powerful speech from the overseer of the camp we all intend to help evacuate, Jasmine. Before that, joined by people I would have feared meant Revolution if they had appeared under any other circumstances - Equalists. It has been a bumpy, tense road to where we are now - even with help from two of history's greatest heroes' spirits, Iroh and Sokka, providing us with present advice, despite having died long ago. With a lot of help from Tenzin's youngest daughter Ikki, possibly even my presence as well, this… unlikely group's stuck together - even deciding before I gave this current speech we should continue south after Avatar Korra made known via projection something I hope remains only a concern."

Taking a deep breath, President Raiko continued, "While I have the utmost confidence in her work around the Spirit Portals that connect our planet to the Spirit World, Avatar Korra's ingenious caps holding back a tide of Dark Spirits for almost a week now… she does not. The Avatar fears that the barriers will weaken over time, eventually breaking - letting Dark Spirits bent on humanity's enslavement pour out into the former heart of Republic City, and the two Water Tribes. Her concern is the reason why we came to the decision to be better safe than sorry. As I speak, both the Fire Nation and the Northern Water Tribe are making preparations to come to Republic City and serve as a temporary garrison until the… Battle of Omashu has reached its conclusion, both the prison camp and ancient city evacuated, liberated. We currently plan on the two forces leaving for home once we return to Republic City, the North having a nearby capped Spirit Portal as well to be wary of, but a powerful, once-human spirit ally to help protect them - Yue."

During a slight pause, Ursa remembered something hazily from her dream - one of Koh's faceless monkey minions paying her a visit… pretty sure it had something to do with the portal barrier now.

Coughing, President Raiko continued, "I am hopeful that the Avatar's fears are unfounded, and the temporary cooperative garrison will end up doing nothing other than helping maintain order - and getting Republic City back on its feet again," Ursa laughing slightly when he said, "Make note: bring up supply, public order and relief issue to Izumi, the twins and Avatar," lowly - as though telling someone to make a note. Apparently, someone had pointed this out to President Raiko in the background, the President sounding sheepish as he continued, "My apologies - that is probably something we should have thought of before just now. We were distracted by other, much more sensitive developments," Ursa wondering if she were dreaming when he continued, "We are only human, after all - though some of us, myself included, may not have acted that way in the past. Regardless of what you think of me, of our nation's leaders - I ask you to do your best to help in any way you can."

Not entirely sure when he would be done, Ursa's eyes widened slightly out of surprise when he continued, "The Avatar herself has requested something, of everyone even remotely near a Spirit Portal, especially Republic City citizens. Be observant, look for any sign of the barriers weakening - no report or observation is too 'insignificant' to overlook," eyes still wide when he continued, "That is the Avatar's request of the citizens of Republic City - and the Equalist's current leader the Lieutenant has another request, too busy himself with technical things to relay it. I am more than glad to speak for him, for I share the sentiment. Republic City may have been left in a poor state, citizens still living in tents or crowding into apartments beyond capacity, abandoned unexpectedly in the middle of the night, everyone with official responsibility run off into other nations, much like the Avatar herself. Both of us nonbenders, though I have never been betrayed by a bender as directly as he has, our request is the same nonetheless - please, show yourself to be civilized. Protest in the streets, obstruct traffic if you like - but no lawlessness or looting, or violent protests of two of my more controversial decisions I was a part of, Kuvira's 'light' sentence and expanding the city outward, not inward. If you need something, beg, do not steal or loot abandoned stores - you might just get what you need instead of jailtime."

President Raiko sounding particularly angry, he continued, "Even without the Spirit Civil War, any such violent behavior would be dealt with harshly by Temporary Police Chief Saikhan anyways. We are no police state, at least not now, but I cannot imagine ordinary citizens would put up with the type of behavior the Earth Kingdom showed after Hou-Ting's death. You might have just been under citizen's arrest, acting like they did three years ago in Ba Sing Se. But if the Avatar is correct, and the barriers are weakening, as a direct result of 'humans acting badly' - any such behavior would only empower an enemy that seeks to enslave all of humanity forever, possibly letting Long Yumao finally get his claws on the Physical World once again after breaking through with extra power." Pausing for breath, President Raiko said, "A spirit who started his war against humanity, simply because Raava gave someone who could not normally have children the gift of a future family, and another gift which not much has been disclosed about, aside from their existence - 'tuber-vines'. I can disclose safely they were intended to give humanity practically limitless power for peaceful uses, and have another ability beyond serving as greatly empowered spirit vines. Much like Avatar Korra can with Raava's help, they can judge the character and worth of a person - something which only 'gut feel' has been able to do before, and not as accurately. So I ask you - if any of you spot an odd-looking 'spirit vine' in Republic City, try picking it up, and see how it reacts. If it is a 'tuber-vine', it will react, perhaps attempt to talk through motions. Just like Raava's other gift, they are alive - beings in their own right."

Ursa continued listening as President Raiko wrapped up his speech, fascinated to hear more about these mysterious tuber-vines she had been told more intimately were also for war in her earlier dream, wondering if some sort of leak had happened. They had been so… tight-lipped about the things before, and now President Raiko was telling almost everything about them! Not having remembered Long Yumao as anything other than a long serpent, Ursa wondered if the reference to claws was another slipup like earlier when President Raiko continued, "The world is in turmoil overall right now, something the likes of which we have never seen before raging in the Spirit World - which you should most definitely not meditate into right now for a vacation, aside from if you focus on Avatar Korra's energy - and a genocidal madman running on the loose. The 'sexual prisoners' he wanted dead may not number as many as the Air Nomads once did, but any killing of a group of people for who they are is tragic, regardless of size. I have taken a personal risk to ensure these reinforcements stay together as one - near the front line despite having neither bending like many of the citizens and soldiers do, nor technological or fighting prowess like that of Baatar Jr. inside a mechasuit or the Equalists with older technology. I simply ask that to the best of your ability, citizens of the United Republic of Nations, you stay together as one as well. To anyone listening in from the United Earth Republic - I was simply speaking the truth, and hope whoever your 'leader' is now, Minister Wong seeming unavailable earlier, that they, he or she embraces a similar path - and that you follow, instead of throwing an 'anarchy party' as you did three years ago. The 'day zero' revolt against Earth Empire rule was impressive - and I promise to do my best to make sure you have no legitimate reason to revolt again. To any listening in from the Earth Empire - spy or citizen - just know that the other nations are united in their opposition of your twisted leader, Jinshu Kuangmai - and that anyone who wishes to can take the path of Kuvira, no matter how grave their crimes. That is all - now, I have some official business beyond speaking to attend to, and anyone listening does as well. I consider any citizen's attempt to help others in their shared home or nation just as much 'business' as helping draft a new form of government. Both help our nation and the world be a better place. Goodbye - make Avatar Aang and Lord Zuko proud of their greatest legacy, the United Republic of Nations!"

With that, the speech ended - Ursa surprised at how relatively short and succinct it had been, and… how much sense it had made. Pinching herself as she did earlier before entering Chang's apartment, still not sure if she was dreaming or not, Ursa rubbed the spot as Huanhato asked, "What's the matter?" Ursa shrugged, saying, "Just had a hard time believing that was President Raiko," Huanhato nodding slightly, still saying, "While that is funny… he's not that bad. My wife thinks differently, being from the South and all, but I think his recent apology for not getting involved in the Civil War back then was off base, given what we knew at the time. He was off base with his treatment of Avatar Korra following the vines 'joining the family' in Republic City - not sure what I think about his decision to evacuate and later surrender, given what we did four years ago against Amon."

Ursa frowning slightly, remembering how her father's superior Commander Raionhato had resigned in disgust over what she had seen as President Raiko's cowardice, Ursa found herself nodding when someone unexpected spoke after, Karpok saying, "No - given my personal life… I think that was the right decision. He picked his battles - knew when he couldn't win. That Colossus… My dad's a master level waterbender - I had to 'pick my battle' by running away in the camp," sobbing as she continued, "Sexual abu-abuse. People… people have a hard time believing you. I tried talking to more than just the teacher I mentioned to you, Ursa - the other one. She just didn't believe me. My dad kept up a nice exterior - while being a monster at home." Taking a few deep breaths, Ursa wondering what it had to do with President Raiko's order to evacuate and stand down, Ursa nodded again when Karpok said, "What we heard after the battle - the United Forces were like me, Kuvira like my father. No hope - until the right circumstances came along… People like you and Chang might be willing to fight against insane odds - but not everyone's like that. I'm doing good just, just to talk instead of eat."

Karpok finishing by saying, "I... maybe I still am a failure," Ursa glad when Chang said immediately, "No, you aren't. Different folks have to deal with different things - I… I don't know how I would have or could have handled what you went through. Just because you're an emotional and personal survivor and not a physical fighter doesn't make you less than me, or anybody."

Karpok starting to break down again after Chang gave her a deep hug, Ursa heard a chime, turning around and opening the door - surprised to see someone with what appeared to be takeout standing at the door. The annoyed-looking woman said, "Sushi and other lunch stuff before seven in the morning? I thought my boss was crazy when he told me about this order - guess not," giving her another look and adding, "Whatever. Your yuans are pink, they've got Avatar Aang's picture on them - not here to make comments." Ursa seeing a funny look on the woman's face as she handed over the bags of food after paying without thinking, noticing the bags were quite heavy and did feel cold, she took everything, frowning slightly when the woman gave her a scornful look and ran off.

Part of Ursa feeling like trying her hand at lightning generation through the mouth - if that were even possible - on the woman, she set everything down on the table, Karpok saying as Huanhato fished out the appropriate number of yuans to compensate Ursa, "Uh - wow. Looking at all that, remembering what you told me, how I wanted that earlier, before, well, you know… I was wrong earlier. I wasn't almost Food Drunk - I was." Karpok looking down at her stomach, and then back to the bags of food, Ursa nodded when she said, "And still am. You might want to stay around, talk to me - but probably the best thing you can do is take all that… yummy looking stuff away before my will fails me," frowning when Karpok finished, "Give it to someone who needs it. Not me. All too much of me as is. I saw some actual hungry people near City Hall yesterday - maybe all their comments were right about me…"

Chang gave Karpok a quick hug, saying, "No. They had no idea what you'd been through," finishing after his father gave Ursa the same amount of yuans she had accidentally spent of her own money, "Karpok - I'm not going anywhere. Who knows - if you pick up on waterbending with my mom's help, maybe that will help." Karpok nodded, saying, "Yeah - in more ways than one. You guys can't be my bodyguard forever - and I want to go back out… if for nothing else than to have room to burn off this 'medication', all the extra me that accumulated over the years…"

Remembering her own wake-up call four years ago, Ursa remembered with a slight bitterness in her mouth that she had hoped physical training would have helped her drop more pounds than it had. Thinking about it briefly, Ursa finally connected her mother's earlier comment about being "distracted by life" for most of Ursa's childhood and teenage years to her own experiences, saying, "That sounds great - but do it for its own sake, and making sure you can handle yourself better. Right after Amon's failed revolution, I started training physically with sword and shield, hitting the firebending hard," shrugging and smiling weakly as she said with self-consciousness and a matter of fact tone, pointing to herself, "I hate to admit it, but… I don't look a whole ton different after having started that four years ago. What really matters is that I got stronger physically, got better at bending - and healthier, even if I could never spare the will to ignore my stomach's… training-caused increased requests." Seeing Karpok looked horrified, Ursa looked at her, saying, "I was trying to make big changes - you're going to be trying to make even bigger ones. I don't know where I got the phrase, just popped into my head earlier, but I really like it, being a firebender: 'Keep the fire steady and slow.' Just focus on the most important things at first."

Seeing Karpok still looked slightly unsure, Ursa thought how the advice might apply to herself - realizing with a bitter taste in her mouth that if she were "busy with life" helping others following President Raiko's call to arms… her own internal progress might be slowed down.

Qualifying her words, knowing she probably looked disturbed slightly, Ursa used herself as an example anyways, saying, "You remember that dream I shared with you, right Karpok? Well… there was a whole lot more than even that. I won't go into the details, but basically it revolved around me learning… learning to love myself, something which is probably going to be just as hard for me as what you have to deal with is for you. Ag-again, for reasons I won't go into." Holding up a hand quickly to prevent interruption, wanting to finish her thoughts, Ursa spoke as a tear rolled down her face, saying, "I… I had hoped I could focus on that, and… and nothing else, but I've got a gut feeling it can't take all my attention - because I want to go help other people who are worse off than I am get back on their feet, do anything else I feel like I need to. I want one thing… but feel like I need to do two. So, just like I might not be able to make the progress for me that I want - you might not get everything you want while healing mentally."

Karpok seemed to understand, saying, "I… I think I get it, even though you didn't say everything perfectly. So you're saying… first priority is starting to heal my own, old and deep wounds, second priority is getting to the point where I can bend and handle myself and general health… and any weight I lose is just icing on the ca- ugh! Probably shouldn't use that phrase…" Ursa laughed, saying, "Use whatever phrase and help you feel like you need - you know you a lot better than I do," adding as she picked up her bags, feeling a temporary lightness, "I'm sure you're in good hands - Chang's looked like he wanted to talk for quite a while, and Sesi's already got some water for you to train with. I'll be going now."

The whole mixed family bowing, Ursa picked the food back up, breathing in deeply as she did so. Smelling everything, some part of her tempted to go out into the hall and have some food herself, she thought gently yet sternly, "No. Let me get fulfillment from what I just did - and what I am going to do."

Feeling a brief series of electrical pulses in her head, Ursa smiled slightly as she lugged the bags into the elevator, thinking as she got the final one in, "Maybe I can do two things at once…"

While she was thinking about what she was going to do with everything, how she could be of help next, Ursa smiled broadly after an errant quote flitted through her mind: "When you give to others, you are really giving to yourself. In the same way, when you love others, the love within you grows as well."

Thinking about the man who had said that, former Grand Lotus Iroh having been long dead and only recently re-joined the world, Ursa frowned slightly when she pressed the buttons for her floor, saying, "I hear he's with dad. Probably would have been better if he stayed here and reformed the White Lotus than gone off to be an 'advisor'. Surprised… Avatar Korra hasn't done anything to those pinheads yet, after her childhood."

Lugging everything out of the elevator, having used her sword to keep the Open Door button pressed while loading and unloading, wondering what she'd do beyond get her mom's help to get all of this food to City Hall, another stray thought flitted through her mind. Not from Iroh - from someone she had much less sympathy with… that is, before last night. Fittingly, it was simple - just like how she had remembered the man to speak in public.

This thought was a much more recent quote from a man she had once fought against, the thought even seeming to be in Noatak's voice: "Do whatever you'd do."

Taking another deep breath, moving all her luggage having winded Ursa slightly, she smelled the food again, knocking on the door and saying, "Mom, Nana, little sis - come help me!" adding after another breath and whiff of food, "I - uh - you guys get this food ready to go to City Hall!"

The door opening, all three family members present - though Buniq's clothes were missing in action just as before - Ursa quickly explained what happened, finishing after Buniq pouted about needing clothes, "Little sis, go get some clothes on. You want to go help people, right?" Buniq nodded, saying, "Yeah - but why can't wear no clothe while help! Give someone clothe I don't want." Nana laughed deeply, saying, "As much as I bet you'd love to donate all your clothes, I'm afraid not, sweetie. There's certain rules we have to follow," adding after Buniq gave her a slight glare, "Plus, clothes help protect you. Now go!"

Little sister gone to go get dressed, Ursa nodded when her mother said, "Forget just this stuff - maybe I should set up shop near City Hall with cooking equipment. I don't know where we'll get all the stuff to cook, though," saying with a smile, "I'll find a metalbender neighbor to help with this - maybe I can even try and find my boss and get him in on it." Her mother Panik chuckled lightly, saying as she patted her own merely plump stomach, "I love my work - and so does Gurume," frowning slightly when she said, "Last I talked to him, he was just devastated about losing the business and the land - the only thing left of Gurume's Choice my equipment. Both of us - it wasn't just a job. It was a passion. Just like me, he loves cooking itself - the food too. I wouldn't be half surprised if he picks up the phone with a mouthful of food like I might have, had you not stopped me and he had called." Panik's eyes widened, saying, "Guess I should go phone him right now, huh," Ursa nodding in agreement to remember that Gurume was very enthusiastic about his work, and it showed - to be polite.

Ursa temporarily staging the food in the living room, she helped Nana with packing the equipment while her mother yakked with Gurume, noticing herself sniffing deeply on occasion. Giving the pile of food a quick glance, wishing she had some sort of "real or fake" hunger meter to go by, Ursa remembered her earlier treat from her mother, asking Nana, "Hey - I keep smelling that stuff, not sure if my response of 'just one Big Hug' is genuine or not. Can… can I have some chilled water instead?" Nana nodded, saying, "Sure - you should be able to finish with this. You helped with it at the evacuee camp - but I'll be just a second anyways."

Nana returning with some water at the same time Buniq finally came back out, Ursa able to hear her mother wrapping up conversation with Gurume, Nana said as Ursa chugged the water, "There's plenty more outside in the air." Finding herself not hungry, merely wanting liquids, Ursa asked for more - all the activity had gotten her sweaty and thirsty, pretty sure she had associated the smell of Big Hug Cakes with milk. Liquid… Given this, Ursa was very glad when her mother came in, wearing something more respectable than her earlier greased and powdered T-shirt, Panik saying, "Just got off the phone with Gurume a while ago - he was making something just like I was! He sounded crushed at first - and took to the idea of doing some pseudo-charity work like a fish to water. Said he was going to try and contact his other employees, wanted 'customers' who could pay to do so. For the new restaurant he wants to build, to… to replace the old one." Ursa was not sure what to do when her mother finished, "It might be a while. I got off the phone with him five minutes ago, talked to some other people about help getting there, and supplies for everything."

After a pause, her mother said, smiling slightly as she pointed at the door, Nana busy trying to get a rebellious Buniq back into her clothes as Panik said, "You already went to see Chang - normally you'd just roll your eyes at me, but… might I suggest some 'social networking', Ursa? Catch up with some other people you sort of… ignored at the time?" Ursa nodded, saying, "Yes - sounds like a good idea. But… how will I know when it's time to go?" Panik smiled, saying, "I talked to more than just my boss. A family friend and someone you ignored more recently has offered to help with transport - air transport. You'll know." Ursa looked down at the floor slightly, saying, "That doesn't really narrow it down - there were a lot of people I ignored at the evacuee camp while helping them," her mother frowning deeply and saying, "Then you didn't really ignore them, then did you? Cheer up - part of the whole thing is going there by Republic City Police airship, though Gurume doesn't know yet. It's Officer Renshi and Jin - now Officer Jin, I might add, thanks in large part to you."

Ursa's eyes wide by now, her mother said, "I'm going to try and figure out how to handle my boss' request for everything to be 'pay if you can,' much less how he's going to pay for the supplies if he's trying to watch money. If someone can pay or not - maybe a metalbender cop with truthsense can tell. Heard those 'tuber-vine' things can judge somebody - but we don't know where they are. Or maybe it should all just be free - whatever." Pausing and looking at Buniq, who was not happy about having even a small shirt on, Panik said, "Tell you what - take your little sister with you on an apartment 'tour'. She loves meeting people - and I can get her in some clothes, and out of my hair for a - BUNIQ, no water splashing mommy! That water was for Ursa!"

Her mother getting the water out of her clothes completely, looking like she had purified it partially, Ursa was polite and said, "I'll still drink it - better that than milk," rolling her eyes for the first time since the concierge man's rudeness when her mother said, "You still sound sort of like you did in the camp! If you need something… eat it or drink it," blushing slightly out of anger, knowing her mother was right when she said, "Oh, no - don't you roll your eyes at me about that. I thought you said you were done with diets anyways! You must have heard Raiko over the radio, know there's a possibility you'll be burning those Big Hug Cakes and then some - and you're still sixteen anyways! Body's mostly done growing - but your mind isn't!" Panik took a deep breath, continuing in a more normal voice, "I… realize that the women in our family don't exactly have good hunger gauging, but if you're going to be running around town all day, goodness forbid fighting… you're just going to have to trust your body on what it needs." When Ursa didn't immediately reply, her mother added, "Look - I know that dream's likely unsettled you, a lot, but don't go to the other extreme, Ursa."

Closing her eyes for a moment, seeing a brief image of her skin and bones dark half, still having difficulty making sense of what had seemed so clear while asleep, Ursa opened her eyes again, giving her mother a big hug when Panik told her, "Ursa - nobody ever really knows exactly what to do perfectly, between what their parents say, what the world tells them, other things... Buniq told me a little bit of what you said earlier, about the bits and pieces of 'bad' you pick up… you know a lot more than you think you do."

Tightening her own "Big Hug", Ursa felt a deep peace when her mother stopped talking, returning the hug, saying after a peck on the cheek, "You're doing good, Ursa. I still don't really know everything that went on… maybe you should take some drawing stuff with you." Giving her mother a confused look, saying, "More hug, less talk," her mother laughed lightly, saying, "Draw out whatever good happened to you when you get some downtime," Ursa simply responding, "Already planned on it, mom."

Breaking the hug, Ursa was still slightly annoyed with her mother when she gestured at her backpack, saying, "I saw what's in there. Take those stupid heavy clothes out of there, you could fit a ton of drawing stuff in your backpack," nodding after her mother said, "Someone near City Hall could likely use them anyways," laughing when Buniq interjected, "Baggy clothe only use. Is be own meanie, big sis! Give away!" Remembering there was some concern about the portal barrier's integrity, Ursa decided to follow their advice partially and pack some basic drawing supplies and ditch everything except the obscuring top, not having gotten a good look at the barrier since it went up, what with the evacuee camp and other issues.

Trying to think who was likely closest to her and least likely to mind Buniq, remembering how Buniq had played so well with the hungry combustionbender Kyoretsuna's kids, Ursa asked her mom, "Mom - do you know where Kyoretsuna is?" Her mother shook her head, saying, "I don't really know," adding with a smile after a pause, "Though, I bet she's with Grand Lotus Atinnuaq, given Officer Jin didn't say anything about her." Ursa realizing that was one person she'd have to wait to catch up with, she thought of other things from her life review, smiling slightly as she remembered there was someone on her floor she'd "seen" while asleep - Jingqiao. Pretty sure the timid woman would have stayed behind, Ursa wanted to check at the concierge desk just to make sure, the man at the desk seeming to know who was and was not in the apartment complex. Remembering something about a cat named Fluffykins, Ursa told her little sister, "Buniq- HEY! Quit messing with my sword - you might get hurt." Buniq just chuckled lightly, starting to fuss when Ursa's mother picked her up, saying, "Ursa - wherever you're going next, take your weapons with you and keep that thing away from her," Ursa responding, "Will do - just be glad she hasn't asked for her own yet. I'm going to go see if our neighbor Jingqiao is still around," her mother laughing dryly when Buniq said, "I want poke thing!" Shaking her head, Ursa thinking it was just in annoyance at her sister at first, she grumbled slightly when her mother said, "Buniq, no. Ursa was twelve when she helped her father forge the first sword! And Ursa - do you not remember me talking to Jingqiao yesterday? You spend all this time learning things about the whole wide world - know more about Avatars than some of your own neighbors!"

About to protest, "You know the reason why, mom," Ursa stopped, saying, "Know what? You're right… just because some kids and adults are mean to me doesn't mean I should do nothing with others…" Her mother nodded, saying to her as though Ursa were three like Buniq, "Very good. Now why don't you go say hi to Jingqiao?" this time looking at Buniq when she finished, "Big sis might take you to see the nice lady and her cat - but you have to get dressed, and STAY dressed!" Ursa laughed when Buniq did not immediately respond, her mother joining her when Buniq said with reluctance, "Okay, guess. But after - when home. Go back no clothe! Run around - maybe go near fridge for cold!" Panik lamented with a sigh, "Got one daughter who still wants to hide herself in public - and a full blown exhibitionist. Ursa - I'd really prefer it if you didn't take any of your 'baggy clothe' with you. Buniq - big sis is sixteen. You're three, so I'm your boss still. And it's about time you started getting used to the rules - you're in school next autumn, and 'bare Buniq' won't fly there. You ARE going to start wearing clothes more, and it's not nego - BUNIQ! Don't make that awful face at me, or no getting to see Fluffykins!"

Ursa's sister looked more amenable to the idea, saying, "Pet kitty! Not pet kitty for a long time!" with enthusiasm. Buniq now in her mother's arms, Panik smiled, saying, "Now, to do my part of this whole thing," taking Buniq off to her room before Ursa could get a word in edgewise about the clothes…

Letting out a deep sigh of her own, Ursa set about fixing her backpack - tossing out every piece of baggy clothing at first, putting the top back in after remembering the judging look she had gotten from the food delivery lady, even if she hadn't been the one the food had been intended for. Going to her room and grabbing basic drawing supplies, noticing that Buniq had not followed, she pressed her ear against the wall between her room and the outside - pretty sure she heard Buniq getting a small lecture. Looking at her backpack, some part of her reminding her that she had technically disobeyed as well, she ended up leaving the top in it out of stubbornness, thinking, "Whatever. I'm going to be busy - and like it or not, regardless of the changes… comments will distract me. It's day zero for crying out loud - and I'm not a three year old!" saying aloud after she remembered her snark back to the rude skinny man at the concierge desk, "Plus, I don't really want to invite those comments if I can avoid it. Too tempting to 'hit back'…"

Back in the part living room, part kitchen that dominated most of their apartment, Ursa was glad to see her little sister was not crying when she entered the room, her mother looking very proud as she said, "It finally stuck. I told her that clothes are for adults, as usual - and she finally got it," Ursa laughing and blushing slightly when her mother finished, "Same example I used with you, asking if you wanted to see everyone without clothes." Buniq shook her head, saying, "No - no want. Mom not say right. I said… people might not need clothe - but Fluffykins need fur! Remember Nana say clothe like people fur." Shaking her head, Ursa said, "Whatever - I need to get out of here, before one of those Big Hug Cakes attaches itself to my butt. Come on, little sis," sighing deeply after Buniq said, "Be meanie yourself!" not feeling like explaining to her headstrong little sister the intricacies of having to be careful around food…

Arriving at Jingqiao's apartment without incident, Ursa's sword and shield both under her watchful eye, knowing Buniq might try and sneak the yanmaodao out of its sheathe for a look if she weren't careful, Ursa looked up when Jingqiao finally opened the door.

Noticing that the earthbender was holding her pet cat Fluffykins with one arm, swearing her other manicured hand was performing a bending motion, Ursa said, "Hello, Jingqiao. I know my little sister sees you quite a bit, but… I haven't exactly been too friendly over the years, and - "

Jingqiao held up a hand, saying with a smile, "Shhh - enough with the talking yourself down," continuing, "I'm just glad to see you wearing that medal you earned four years ago finally," Ursa blushing slightly when she finished, "Buniq's told me all about you already," wondering just what her little sister had said, getting the sense from Buniq's grin Ursa wasn't going to hear it either. After putting Fluffykins on the floor, Ursa swearing the white pet cat's name tag had a United Republic symbol shape, Jingqiao said as Buniq incorrectly played with the… tolerant white cat, "Hah - she certainly puts up better with your little sister than she did those Equalists! Meanie Amon locked a poor innocent kitty up, didn't he?"

Looking at her own chest, three-inch medal prominent, Ursa looked back to the now-mewing Fluffykins - some gut feeling telling her that the name collar wasn't an accident…

The mewing apparently a signal of some sort, Jingqiao spun around, Ursa hardly able to believe it as a nearby cabinet with metal handles opened without touch, Jingqiao saying as she moved her hands as though bending, "Oh - that's right! I forgot you needed your food - here, let me get you some." The can of cat food now on the counter, what Ursa had assumed to be an unassuming woman finally noticed her expression of shock, Jingqiao saying, "What, your little sister never told you? Guess it runs in the family - no matter. Yes, I can metalbend now - quit looking at me like that!"

Memories from the "past" past flooding back, Ursa said, "I… I had a dream where I saw Amon talking. Mentioned something about… 'neutralizing' the people tossing those makeshift bombs from up high, taking a… cat prisoner," asking incredulously as she looked at Fluffykin's "name tag", "That… have anything to do with the story?" Jingqiao smiled broadly, saying as Buniq shifted her attention from pet cat to owner, "Yes, it does - I had a weird dream last night too." Jingqiao laughing coquettishly to see Ursa's obvious annoyance with her, saying, "Just messing with you," saying as she manipulated the empty can of cat food into a trashcan, "Yes - back then, with Ryoshin's help… had a few metalbenders in my apartment, tossing the home-made 'boom bags' at the Equalists below. I was just an earthbender - until someone knocked down my door and Fluffykins went berserk on the Equalists who were coming in." Jingqiao started to cry, Fluffykins rubbing white fur against her leg, saying as she smudged her makeup slightly, "I… when she got zapped by those masked goons, I thought they had killed her. I… I don't like to remember the terror, horror - but something in me snapped. Before, I could barely bend earth - then, bam, I could bend metal, focus on the earth within, wanting to make them pay."

Jingqiao still looking shaken up, Ursa able to tell she was a lot like Karpok in a way, averse to conflict instead of drawn to it as a moth to a flame like herself, she gave the woman a big hug, saying, "It's okay - it all turned out all right," Jingqiao unexpectedly sobbing, "F-Fluffykins. Had her since she was a kitten… when I was still seeing the love of my life, before some, some lying prettier piece of trash stole him away. She… she said I was as flat as a washboard in a nasty letter later…" Buniq looking confused, as though even she had never heard this before, Ursa said after breaking the hug, "You look just fine to me. If all he cared about was looks… Maybe it was for the best," Buniq saying, "Yeah! Someone who not like lady. Who like animals bad!"

Jingqiao sighed, saying as she turned around and bent some conjoined metal picture frames closer, "Maybe you're right - both of you…" saying, "Time to move on," after a picture of herself and a man Ursa had never met before broke away from the other metal frames, Ursa seeing there was a photo of Fluffykins in one. Noticing the same odd nametag, seeing Jingqiao looked down even after turning her ex into a ball of metal, the glass formed into a small transparent teardrop shape, Ursa took Fluffykins off the floor, saying after the cat sniffed her and started purring in her arms, "Here - we both have medals we'd like to see," finishing after a confused look from Jingqiao, "Why don't you show me yours - and Fluffykins, apparently - and if you want, you can take a closer look at mine."

Jingqiao fishing out her own medal from a nearby drawer, Ursa noticing it appeared to have seen little use similar to her own, at first Ursa was slightly panicked when Jingqiao took her own medal and held it aloft with bending, smiling after her neighbor said, "Looks like we have more in common than either of us thought - I hid my medal, not wanting to remember the negative, and given the dust on yours, it sat in a drawer too. I'll clean it up." As Ursa inspected Jingqiao's "stock" United Republic symbol medal's back, Jingqiao said, "You started wearing yours, for whatever reason - I think I'll start wearing mine."

Jingqiao appearing lost in thought as she examined the Avatar Aang Medal of Mettle, Ursa remembering what Karpok had told her about some people being fighters and others not, Ursa flipped over the symbol for the United Republic she was holding in her hand - smiling broadly to see that General Iroh II really had made all the medals partially customized, seeing a picture of an airbison on the back, the text reading, "For Jingqiao - I am sure Avatar Aang would approve of your bond with your 'spirit animal', Fluffykins."

Getting to the medal she was most curious about, handing off Jingqiao's medal to an equally curious Buniq, Ursa inspected Fluffykin's nametag, the white cat purring contentedly as Ursa looked at the back, smiling when she saw a picture of the much more famous airbison Appa and a small inset of a white cat, the text reading, "Bisonheart" on the back. Ursa smiled, thinking, "A medal for a cat, even if it did deserve it - no wonder the old Raiko was so mad," adding out loud after remembering the radio address, "Wonder what President Raiko would think of these things now."

Jingqiao laughed, saying with a hint of bitterness in her voice, "Not sure - not sure if I'd care, anyways. My old workplace was in that crater," crying slightly as she returned the medal, saying, "So much was… I… I wonder how I'm going to pay my bills."

Ursa about to say something about her father still having a job, she felt her stomach sink as well - realizing that unless they managed a miracle near City Hall and helped her mother's boss Gurume get more money for a new place… her family had just lost around half its income as well. Relaying her concerns after telling Buniq to go play with Fluffykins, loathe to let the purring cat go, Jingqiao nodded, saying with a sigh, "Yeah. Raiko certainly did leave behind a fine mess, didn't he."

Buniq by now aware that the "adults" were talking without her, Ursa smiled broadly when her little sister came back into the room, carrying Fluffykins in a most uncomfortable way and the cat not protesting at all. As though she had gotten an idea and finished forming an old one fully, Jingqiao bent the small glass teardrop from her ex's frame onto the choker her own medal was on, saying, "Well, he pretty much told us, even if I'm used to it being the other way around most of the time - time for Republic City's citizens to fix the mess. Just like we 'fixed' the spirit vines while the Avatar was away… you already mentioned the sort-of charity food drive. Hmmm…"

Fluffykins mewing, Jingqiao picked her up, saying, "My baby's fed - but what about all the other pets in Republic City? Oh, no - THE ZOO! I know the popular exhibits were supposed to be evacuated and taken care of by the time Kuvira came, but… even the badgermoles only barely got out." Eyes now wide, Jingqiao said, "I… I know a lot of other animal lovers. After checking to see who left with the reinforcements that I know here, I'll try seeing how many of their phone numbers still work - see if those animals need our help at all. I remember hearing about the badgermoles helping Prince Wu - we need to help them back!"

Ursa glad that Jingqiao was going to do something rather than stay in her apartment, much less than Jingqiao had come up with the idea herself, Ursa laughed when Jingqiao attempted to put a metal leash on Fluffykins, surprised when the cat put up with it, saying, "If I hadn't heard former Grand Lotus Iroh was immortal and walking the earth, no less, I'd be half tempted to say your cat was his current life." Jingqiao blushing deeply, she said, "Uh - she is nice, but… I don't know about that…" finishing, "Sounds like we've both got our work cut out for us. I'll see you around, Ursa," adding apparently as a last thought, "I already knew you, from before, and through Buniq. I know this doesn't fit you, but… don't be afraid to throw your parent's names around, even that medal around to get what you need. Not just your dad - your mom's boss's restaurant was no small unknown place either. Everyone I'll be talking to already knows me - some angry protesters and you, though, all they might recognize is that medal, if at all, given we both… hid ours away for so many years. This is a big city, after all - but all that might help some."

Jingqiao looking much better than she had before, she turned out the lights in her apartment, Ursa got the sense Jingqiao wanted to go to the concierge's desk right now and check before sending out phone calls. Ursa took her little sister back to their apartment - noticing the medal around her neck did look shinier, Jingqiao having apparently cleaned off the dust and dirt with earthbending. Briefly explaining what had happened to her mother, including the concern about half their income having vanished, her mother eyed the bags of Big Hug Cakes, saying with a weird mix between frown and a smile, "Thanks for pointing that out - but I already thought of it. All those were made with stuff I can get at the store for relatively cheap," smiling broadly as she continued, "Figure if what we do today falls through but people like them as much as we did… we'll manage. Even if I have to start selling clothes - we're a strong family! It sounds like you've been as busy as I have, talking with her - never knew that about her boyfriend." Pausing, seemingly trying to remember something, she finished, "She really is like you - that worried and crushed about love lost, not even that old yet. All of 26 and sounding so down… completely ignoring the fact she managed to get into her old workplace so young anyways."

Looking a bit exhausted, her mother said, "Helping Gurume deal with so many people, helping Temporary Chief Saikhan - yes, it's now pretty official, Ursa - coordinate the police with us, the logistics of getting the food to City Hall safely without people skimming when a police officer's not looking… so draining. We're just about ready to move out, after all that work. Now I don't know about you, but I feel like I need something other than water. And shortly, those Big Hug Cakes and all the rest we make today will be going to someone else - you can do whatever you want. I'm going to listen to my body - even if it is telling me to be bad and have one."

Hoping her reservations were visible on her face, Ursa felt her own resolve waver slightly when Nana said, "I don't know what you told her earlier that's making you so reluctant - but look at it this way. You feel like being bad now, have one - end up not eating any later. Decide not to have one now - you betcha cooking a bunch for other people's going to be hard, or resisting having two or more HOT ones instead later!"

Ursa simply shook her head, saying, "Wh - no. Nana, this isn't like raiding the fridge at midnight - I'm awake now! I feel thirsty more than anything else," adding when she saw her mom looking at the bags a little guiltily, Nana looking cross for now, "It was good advice, Nana - I just need to see if I'm hungry or thirsty. Mom - I'm the kid, you're the parent - but remember what I talked to you about earlier. And how many of those things you've had already…" Nana looking only slightly less cross, mumbling, "I hope if you need more than water that you take care of your body - even if your mom was right earlier, about hunger gauges being off. Still don't know what this mystery disturbing dream you talked about is." Ursa simply said, "Let's just say the dream wasn't fully pleasant, and that I still appreciate any advice you have for me. Even with the dream's… influence. I guess, in a way, part of it agreed with what you were saying. My mom and I talked about it earlier, but you knowing would be a big help too. Know some of the most immediate stuff about it… I'll explain it to you 'when my successor is absent'," hoping Buniq wouldn't pick up on the obfuscation. Ursa smiled when Nana nodded, Buniq none the wiser.

Very glad when her mom chose to come over to her and give her a big hug instead of eat anything, Ursa laughed slightly when her mom said, "Probably should have waited for you to take off the shield - metal hugs… only Jinshu Kuangmai would like that," her mom finishing, "Let's pack plenty of water - 'ice barrels' should be good enough for now, and the police officers said they were making some metal drums from scrap, a lot of the salvage gathered ending up stuck on the reinforcement's equipment. Anyway - water… we're not the only thirsty ones." Her mother bowed, saying, "Thank you for looking out for me again. And maybe Nana needs to hear sooner rather than later. The next days could be rough," Nana adding, "Sounds good to me. Hmmm - Buniq, why don't you go play with your water-core dolls." Nana laughed when Buniq protested, "Not dolls - action figures! Make Ozai fight Aang with waterbending! Ozai lose!" Nana smiled when Buniq was out of the room, saying, "Okay, Ursa - explain away while me and your mom get water from the tap, and outside if that's off again. We're going to need it if people are going to get a really balanced meal. You can sterilize after talking. Let's go."

Explaining her relevant dream in more detail to Nana while Ursa fiddled with her personal affects, unable to bend the water her mother and grandmother were working on, Ursa found herself explaining more than she had thought initially, given Nana's sympathetic reactions. Ursa finishing explaining everything that had to do with weight and self-image by the time they were done getting the water ready, Ursa let out a weak laugh when Nana said, apparently fully aware of the irony of what she said next with a slight smile, saying, "I think I can hear Buniq coming back out. Given I think you were right to not tell your little sister about all that, even your mom having trouble with the 'dark half' part… I'm afraid you're just going to have to go with your gut feel for now about all that. Oh - there she is, now. If you want to talk, let's do it later."

Ursa nodded, thanking her grandmother for the offer, saying after Nana smiled broadly, "You and mom are done - now let's make sure nobody gets sick from this water," adding as she looked at one of the "ice barrels" holding liquid, "Not sure if I trust the tap water fully myself just yet. One of the sub-city purifying stations got blown up - I hope benders really can do the same thing it did." Nana smiled, saying, "I heard tales in my youth about a factory near Yu Dao - had two lines. One using benders, one using machines - and the benders outperformed the machines for a long time. If I remember correctly, the only reason the bender line went down was the machines didn't need to be paid, while the benders did. Given most of the people doing it are volunteers, like what we want to do with food, I'm sure the temporary bending replacement will be more than fine." Wondering how they were going to get benders to fill in for long enough for a 24-hour job until new equipment could be made, idly realizing that Republic City's water supply and filtration system as-is provided water better quality than anything she had heard of in Ba Sing Se's Lower Rings, at least before Kuvira took over, Ursa helped by sterilizing the water with fire. Ursa felt disappointed she had yet to reproduce the blue fire from her dream, something dawning on her while messing with a water globule her mother was holding in place for her to boil.

She may have already produced blue fire in the real world, years ago - the blue cores of her flames, when she thought about her anger over other's suffering…

About to try the same thing, focusing on her anger at what fate had done to Republic City's center, Ursa remembered at the last minute that Avatar Korra had said in the press conference that this "new" flame may have even based on righteous anger and love - but that it was very hard to control. Not feeling like burning down the entire apartment, she decided to save it for later - half wondering if she'd be able to produce the flame, dream world performance or not.

Certainly hoping that she wouldn't need to use it to fight with…

Snapping back to the present, she heard her mom say, "Um, Ursa? That fire's nowhere near the blob now - you off chasing snakes again? Thinking about last night?" Ursa shook her head, saying, "No," realizing she'd likely need to keep things as simple as possible - not bite off more than she could chew, so to speak.

Re-focusing on her task, Ursa thought, "If I see any spirit with red lines on it, I'll try to give him a very warm welcome," a mental image of Long Yumao as last described officially popping to mind. Her mind wandering slightly, idly pondering how she'd feel if the loathsome serpent popped out of the barrier at some point and attacked Republic City, putting her family in mortal danger, Ursa smiled slightly to see what her mind's wandering had done.

She saw a little bit of blue in the center of the fire she was using to sterilize water drawn from the outside air, glad when her mother didn't notice nonetheless.

Realizing that at some point she'd need to tell, draw, or write out her experiences, Ursa noticed they were on the last "ice barrel" to be sterilized, finding only enough time to briefly describe the surreal experience of talking with Noatak, Buniq looking at her like she was crazy when finished, protesting, "Wh - but bad guy dead! He spirit no live forever… like Iroh, Sokka or sword guy! Only for good people! You talk to dead people, big sis? That what dream I can't hear about… was about?"

Realizing her little sister had some idea that the "adults" were talking around her, Ursa let out a frustrated groan when Buniq said, "I want know!" feeling relieved when her mother said, wagging her finger, "Uh-uh. You won't hear about that for a very long time," Nana looking surprised when Panik added, "I'd rather explain 'the birds and the bees' to you right now than that. Let's just say all of big sis' dream wasn't nice." Buniq nodded defeatedly, saying as Ursa sterilized the last blob of water, "Okay. Fine - I three. Too young to know. Everything interesting," Ursa laughing when her mother rolled her eyes after Buniq crossed her arms, saying, "Treat me like dumb dishwaters."

Hearing a knock at the door, very glad Buniq had managed to stay fully dressed the whole time, Ursa opened it and greeted Jingqiao after realizing she wouldn't be of much further help with the ice barrels. Jingqiao bowing politely, she smiled, saying, "Looks like you've been busy as well. Never seen the inside of your apartment… anyways, I just wanted to come by and say hello before going off to the Zoo. I've got two things for your family, actually…" Ursa not seeing the other woman's pet cat initially, she was surprised when she heard a mewing from behind her, what looked for all the world like embossed-metal cat sized luggage next to Fluffykins, even more surprised when Jingqiao said self-conciously, "We don't really know how things are at the Republic City Zoo at the moment… but I can imagine people here who are hungry wouldn't see people helping animals before humans too kindly. I can bend - unlike a badgermole, Fluffykins can't... I - I don't want her getting hurt…"

Hearing Nana before sensing her presence, Jingqiao's face lit up when Nana said, "Rubbish. Buniq told me what she told you about people who don't like animals," continuing after patting Ursa on the shoulder, "Guess she was right - you and Ursa are a lot more alike than you think. So cynical… take it from someone who used to be a real refugee, when my family came to this area over seven decades ago: the world as a whole can be rather cruel at times… but you'd be surprised at how often people can be nice. If people were nasty more often than they were nice… Republic City would be far worse than even during Amon's time, the police state against nonbenders..." After a slight pause, Nana added, "No - I'm trying to cheer you up, not depress you. Some things… I don't want to talk about. Just know whatever you learned in school wasn't the whole truth - Republic City's made a lot of progress over the years. Tried to tell my own daughter the same thing, to have some faith in people and their honesty with the whole 'pay if you can' system - she still insisted people would try and be cheap. Lie to get all the free food they want instead of being decent…"

By this time Jingqiao looking more than a bit confused, Nana finished, "What I was trying to say is, I'm sure Fluffykins will be fine with you, even if you are at the Zoo. Even if people are nasty or try and rough you up… a metalbender who stood up to Amon can handle a few hoodlums, especially with other people like you around you, and your guard cat Fluffykins." Jingqiao nodded and smiled slightly, still looking a bit down when she said, "Oh… duh! I'm so stupid sometimes, an airhead… you're all going to City Hall, aren't you? I was going to ask Buniq to look after Fluffykins, but… if that's the sort of crowd you'll be near, maybe she's better off with a tigerdillo." Cocking her head, feeling slightly uneasy, Ursa asked, "Just… who else did you talk with, and what's wrong with the crowd at City Hall? They seemed somewhat reasonable last I saw - and what about President Raiko's speech? Did they not listen…?"

Jingqiao shook her head slightly, saying, "I'm not sure. It's just when I talked with the Equalist turncoat from four years ago, Ryoshin… she said things weren't looking as good as they had at City Hall." Ursa's eyes wide, she listened as Jingqiao said, "She said she saw all sorts of symbols and things getting put up near different soapboxes from her apartment and went to have a brief look. Oddly enough, the people near the Equalist banners seemed the most civil - just distributing leaflets and encouraging people to… 'fight for Equality and Common Sense through the ballot,' I think it was. Ryoshin wasn't so sure about some of the other groups, only mentioning one other in detail - a bunch of shady-looking characters promising easy jobs and money. Though from what she said, the Republic City Police have a closer watch on them than the Equalists. Sound like gangsters to me…"

Jingqiao looking a little nervous, she added as she held out a sheet of paper, "Here - her phone number. Didn't know if you knew it… she did mention one other guy, though - totally ignored, unlike the other groups, talking about the Spirit Civil War 'finally coming to the Physical World'. Ryoshin didn't want to talk about anything else he said… Normally, I'd just think he was nuts… not so sure after what President Raiko said." Taking a deep breath, as though to calm herself down, Jingqiao said as she made preparations to leave, "I'll be going now," saying with a slight smile after Ursa offered to help, "Thank you, but I got everything here in the first place," expression looking more alive when she said with a final air, "Feels good, to bend - gives me confidence. I'm probably not going to see you again until tonight." Buniq shouted, "Bye, pretty lady! Want to play with Fluffykins tonight!" Ursa chuckled slightly when Jingqiao said, "Sure - so sweet. Maybe you need a pet of your own," her mother groaning slightly from behind her as she had expected.

Turning around, snickering to see her mother shaking her head at Buniq already, Ursa said, "My little sis is a waterbender - maybe getting her to help with the 'ice barrels' will help distract her from the idea of having a pet of our own." Her mother sighed, saying as she tussled Buniq's brown, straight hair, "Good idea, Ursa. Buniq, sweetie, we already have a 'pet' - spirit buddy Warmwings. One that doesn't need food or water, and is a lot smarter than a cat," Ursa feeling sad herself when her sister protested, "Bunny spirit get funny color, then. Leave us to go fight big serpent in spirit place! Not around - cat no leave to go fight bad guys! Fluffykins stay in nice lady Jingqiao's apartment. Warmwings didn't in ours!"

Ursa able to tell the next sigh from her mother wasn't entirely at Buniq, Panik said, "That she did - but for the same reason daddy left last night. She's fighting a different war than daddy is…" Looking at a momentary loss for words, even after their telephone rang, Ursa's mother went to pick the telephone up after two rings delay, Panik likely distracted by the same thing she had been trying to eat away earlier.

Hideki's absence, and the uncertain nature of his mission.

Now lost in thought herself, Ursa hardly reacted when she felt a tap on her shoulder, only paying attention when she heard her mother say in a much less defeated tone, "Ursa - that was… was Temporary Chief Saikhan, believe it or not. He said this whole thing's starting to attract attention - but in a good way. Come on - let's get everything ready. It needs to be on the bottom floor in the street given how he, Officer Jin and Officer Renshi are coming - unless you want to have a big hole in the wall of your bedroom, that is."

Ursa nodding, realizing her earlier anxieties had been dulled by busying herself with work, she focused on the task at hand, her mother Panik began making idle conversation, able to talk well while bending as opposed to carrying fully-frozen ice barrels by hand like Ursa had to. Feeling a certain rush Ursa knew was associated with exercise or strenuous work like that she was doing, she listened with half an ear as her mother said, "I talked to Officer - blegh, we know them both, may as well just say their names… Both Jin and Renshi. Jin was being tight-lipped about something to do with Republic City Police Headquarters. Even though we've known him for a long time, the only thing I was able to get out of Renshi about it was that he hoped the City Hall situation wouldn't require too many metalbender cops, then slipped up about something other than the reinforcements stressing their manpower. Next thing I knew, Saikhan was on the phone, saying, 'Sorry - that's all for now. I'm just glad your husband's in the military, and… odd Equalist sympathizing sentiments four years ago ignored, I don't think you're going to betray anybody.' Then he shouted something about Triple Threat Triad recruiters near City Hall, needing to, 'Get people fed before they decide to turn to crime,' and the phone line went dead. I think he wanted me to believe that was the issue, City Hall… but I have this gut feeling it's something else."

Ursa's interest piqued, she remembered her own little "secret" and being trusted with something - seeing Avatar Korra's odd dual-bladed vambrace weapon come to life with plasma in her dream earlier. Trying to remember what kind of criminals were held where, Ursa said after sitting down an ice barrel near the door, "Republic City Police Headquarters… not anything to do with Zaheer or the Red Lotus, I know that much. They never did catch everybody… still have a hard time believing someone bent pure mercury into Avatar Korra, or that Suyin Beifong managed to get most of it out." Her mother coughed, saying, "I don't know either - I've heard rumors she visited Zaheer once in some undisclosed secure location. Might have helped her with her block on almost dying, but… doubt he'd volunteer anything about the Red Lotus, even on pain of death." Realizing who might have still been under lockdown after four years aside from the recently passed Hiroshi Sato, not noticing they were not alone anymore, Ursa interjected, "Hmmm - taxed manpower. I bet you anything that slipup has something to do with the various gangsters who got their bending stripped," continuing even after someone coughed loudly who didn't sound familiar, "What in the blazes do they need to guard 'newly nonbender' gangsters who've been under lockup for four years for? Hah - I bet some of the Equalists who stayed behind would be more than glad to help with that, rather than handing out pamphlets! Zap them if they get rowdy - just like the bully Lightning Bolt Zolt did!"

Hearing another cough, turning around to see its source, the color drained from Ursa's face when she saw a grizzled-looking Temporary Chief Saikhan staring at her, saying once Ursa was staring for long enough, "Hello, Ursa. I can see your mother was correct, saying you were sharp." Looking back and forth, apparently checking to see if anyone other than himself, Ursa and Panik were around, he continued, "To be honest, the order to guard the former benders, still criminals - I have no idea either. President Raiko did not explain the reason - only that it needed to be done." Ursa still frozen partially, she felt herself thaw when her mother said pointedly, "Very well. I remember what you did for former Councilman Tarrlok four years ago - and I hope you handle City Hall a lot better than that disgrace. It was a wonder any nonbender wasn't wearing an Equalist mask after that!"

Temporary Chief Saikhan sighed, saying earnestly, "I see your family's opinions withstand the test of time. Just under a week ago, I was playing in the band at Varrick and Zhu Li's wedding along with another person you probably don't like - Tahno. Booted out of the force for my actions once President Raiko took office four years ago… Ever since that last gig, Chief Lin's been practically absent ever since, and one very… impromptu action by President Raiko later, I'm back on the force, 'Temporary Chief' and all. Not quite sure what I've done in the meantime to deserve it, but here I am - though I did get the impression I was going to be under watchful eyes the whole time. Something about getting judged by a plant at some point? Whatever. Now let's get to work."

Looking stern again, Temporary Chief Saikhan got out a radio, barking, "Republic City Police Officers - well, those of you that are left - I want you to let all your subordinates know I will be busy for a while, but available for contact. Officer Jin and Officer Renshi - if you're done modifying those airships to be more like the ones that left Republic City, I want you at my location, stat. Over and out."

Coking her head slightly, wondering what was wrong with the Republic City Police airships, Temporary Chief Saikhan smiled slightly, saying, "Yes - so much like that Asami Sato. Curious - even when she was in lockup. To answer your 'question'… let's just say something her father designed is still better than what we have, all these years later." Scratching her head slightly, Ursa remembered something from her dream, saying, "I - four years ago, we tried taking out Equalist airship engines with stone and steel… nothing happened, Temporary Chief Saikhan." Temporary Chief Saikhan nodded, saying, "Yes - and from what I've heard from the night shift, the Lieutenant came out with two airships with the fuel line weakness fixed." Ursa's eyes widening slightly, he said, "I may not totally understand your world view - but I certainly know of your work. For what little my opinion mattered back then, I pushed for those medals - glad to finally see one. You can just call me Saikhan if you want - been called that for four years, after all…"

Saikhan obviously carrying some sort of very justified chip on his shoulder about his past and being given the responsibility, apparently without even a tuber-vine judging him, Ursa shrugged mentally, saying internally, "Eh - whatever. He seems like he's sorry and wants to make up - just like Kuvira, though with less blood on his hands. Don't need spirity judging when you've got… gut feel." Apparently, Saikhan himself was fairly observant, saying as Ursa heard the sounds of an approaching airship, "Probably thinking about how I don't deserve this - or maybe that I do, knowing your 'quirky' opinion from four years ago. All I know is that the only way I was made Temporary Chief, from what I remember of the short… 'discussion' at five thirty in the morning over the matter, was that the only reason President Raiko chose me was after some voice I did not recognize said, 'If I had a tuber-vine seventy-four years ago in Ba Sing Se… it wouldn't have been of any use anyways. My nephew's betrayal there seemed spur of the moment, and nothing could have…' Wait a minute. I though President Raiko was nuts for saying he had a very 'human-y' spirit advisor. That was Iroh, of the Fire Nation!"

Saikhan now having bugeyes from surprise, he rubbed his head, saying, "Wow. I've never been a spiritual person - as I showed four years ago, following Tarrlok… but this new spirit stuff makes my head hurt even more," finishing as a Republic City Police airship hovered out of sight, Ursa barely able to hear him over the sound of zipping cables from above, "If that was even possible. I hope you know someone who can make sense of it." His radio letting out a racket, Ursa's eyes widened when she heard a police officer say, "10-4, Unit Seven. Unit Nine, Temporary Chief Saikhan, sir - spirits. I… don't have a code for this one. Maybe we should make one, if what President Raiko said about the barriers bursting ever happens. Anyways - it's not Long Yumao. Nothing to be too alarmed about. We've got a heated argument between two… spirits spooking Unit Seven as she's making her way towards City Hall. Both of them - little bird things stuck on her grill, the one with blue lines and white spots apparently trying to get away from the 'normal one' to touch spirit vines. Said she knocked the spirit away from a vine it was trying to touch, the other one appearing from a vine after she stopped out of concern- but are still fussing with one another on her grill. Where they've been ever since she tried driving away, the pushy one getting in her way. She did say the 'normal' one made motions like it wanted to enter her engine anytime she was sympathetic with the insistent blue lined one..."

Saikhan groaned deeply, grumbling into the radio, "Damn it - not what I'm qualified for! Unit Nine, tell Unit Seven to take a detour, drop both spirits off at the edge of town far away from spirit vines and tell them… I don't know. We'll lock them up for rowdy behavior if the blue lined one tries to touch spirit vines, and the other if it enters Unit Seven's engine? Whatever - at any rate, we don't want the nutjob yammering on about spirits ending the world to see two fighting on the front of a police car, even if from what little I know neither one sounds like it's aligned with his favorite one - Long Yumao! Temporary Chief Saikhan, over and out."

Gesturing at the radio, Ursa stammered, seeing her mother had begun helping get food and water into the out-of sight airship, "Uh - um - a HUMAN, liking Long Yumao? What… I can't even!" Saikhan laughed dryly, saying deadpan, "I had the same reaction four years ago when I learned there were benders like yourself that had slight Equalist sympathies," saying with more self-consciousness, "Though, I wasn't exactly in the right back then either, and only later did I learn the key qualifier that some benders were okay with the Equalists - as long as they left bending alone, and only took down people like me and Tarrlok... From what I've heard of this 'Long Yumao', he's not leaving anyone alone." Seeing her mother working in the background, shuffling ice barrels into actual barrels before they vanished from sight, Ursa made to go and help her, stopped by a hand from Saikhan, saying, "Wait. Before you go help your mother - and I want you to be totally honest with me - do you know anyone who might have a clue on this first and hopefully last spirit issue? Or in general about the whole thing - because the Avatar's thousands of miles away, almost all of the airbenders left in the middle of the night… and whatever this 'blue versus normal' is, I wouldn't expect either side to be totally reasonable."

Insecurities still strong, layered on top of the other reason she hadn't worn her medal until today, humility, Ursa was loathe to respond at first, not even remembering her faceless monkey visitor in the dream world. Saying, "Just a minute, let me think," she closed her eyes - seeing an image of Warmwings fighting with some dreadful-looking spirit.

Sighing, Ursa pointed to herself, intending to briefly explain her "qualifications," Saikhan raising his hands halfway through, smiling slightly before saying, "I've heard all I need to, Ursa. Spirit friend fighting behind that barrier, know the names of Avatars I've never even heard of… If I need you, I'll - you wouldn't happen to have a radio, would you?"

Remembering her father took his personal radio before leaving with the reinforcements, Ursa shook her head, surprised when Saikhan said, "I'll get you a good one at City Hall then," laughing when he added, "No matter how much you want to, no Long Yumao adherent flambé, though. The law's still the law. From what I got, you're pretty up to speed on everything… and passionate. I know he's a scumbag, but please… don't torch the guy yammering about Long Yumao when we get there. An assault's still an assault - even if it is on scum. There's plenty more other similarly sympathetic groups City Hall." Smiling slightly, Saikhan said with a final air, "Maybe if you and your mother help her boss feed people, nobody will pay anyone except the Equalists and their pamphlets any attention. Let's go."

Following Saikhan out into the morning sunlight, seeing the nearby Republic City Police airship, Ursa's jaw dropped. The additions did look somewhat hastily made, but they were impressive regardless, wondering how the airship supported the weight of the new rear cargo bay, noticing that certain other parts of the ship looked removed, Ursa swearing she saw something dangling from the ship… and a hole in its belly? Saikhan said as they approached, "I could hardly believe what they were telling me at six in the morning for the briefing either, all the changes they made - and I'm impressed that Officer Jin and Officer Renshi managed to reproduce the relevant work so fast, even if they don't look pretty. I don't know if you'd be interested in the technicalities I was briefed on - but I do know that is something I am not permitted to disclose, or even who did what. You and your mother knowing about the increased security for the old criminals is pushing it as is - something you figured out yourself based off minimal information."

Ursa suppressed a snicker, remembering her light half had shown her the Avatar's own weapon, finding the whole thing rather ironic - especially considering she was going to be seeing the inside of the modified airship soon anyways. Saikhan led her towards a large metal plate on the pavement, saying once they arrived, assuming a bending pose, "Still surprised this idea works without the machinery he had… time to get aboard. Steady yourself."

Now beneath the airship and looking up, curious as to why she could see her mother standing near cargo on the same large metal plate Saikhan had led her to, Ursa felt sort of dumb when she realized the large piece of metal fit into the underbelly of the cargo bay. There were even industrial strength cables connecting from the airship to the plate at circular hardpoints around the steel slab's edges, and some sort of sliding doors on the underbelly.

Hearing the groaning of cables rubbing against metal, noticing her mother didn't seem too awed by it, likely having seen it before already, Ursa watched with interest as the airship grew larger over time, hearing some people grunting from effort from above as the cables went upward slowly. Not remembering any such system existing before, Ursa looked at one of the heavy cables being metalbent shorter and shorter into some sort of just-now visible spool, saying as she pointed at the drum, "Ingenious - metalbending-powered heavy lifting equipment. And you said something about this working 'without the machinery he had'."

Now inside the cargo bay, Ursa laughed when he mother ribbed a dour-looking Saikhan, saying, "What, he didn't say much of anything? The people I've been helping have been all sorts of chatty," Saikhan letting out a low sigh when he mother finished, "Buniq pestering them about everything and Nana reminded them where your father is probably helped a lot." Rubbing his forehead again, Saikhan said as Ursa heard the sound of a door closing beneath them, "Hmmph - you mentioned something about trying to knock out an Equalist airship by hitting its engines four years ago with those 'Pro-Bending' disks… and I seem to remember you were the one who came up with the idea." Ursa giving him a funny look, wondering why someone who was even Temporary Chief would know so much about her aloud, he frowned slightly, saying, "It's not like I'm a big name myself, after what I did four years ago. I'll let you in on some of the less sensitive stuff while we're in transit over the crater," adding with a slight smile, "Maybe you'll have an idea of your own. Certain parts are a bit unreliable still… given we were adapting other people's technology."

As Saikhan began explaining what he knew, Ursa listened intently - suddenly realizing she hadn't talked to Lee-Lee yet as she listened to Saikhan talk about the new cargo system had been adapted by Baatar Jr. to use metalbending instead of the heavy machinery the Lieutenant had wanted to use to power it. Saikhan seemingly done, Ursa sure Lee-Lee would have been fascinated to hear all of this, she asked, "How do you get the power needed to get these heavier airships off the ground - and would you let me talk to my friend about it when I see him? Lee-Lee's fascinated by technology - especially given he can't bend like you or I can."

At first, Saikhan had yet another dour look on his face, appearing to mull it over, saying with a slight smile after, "Maybe. I remember I was supposed to get judged by something called a 'tuber-vine' at some point - if you find your friend and he passes that 'test', sure. Same for you - maybe tell you more than I already have, what your mother likely knows already…" Looking a little koala-sheepish, he asked, "What… what color should one of those thing flash if it's satisfied with me? You seem to know a lot about spirits… and a lot of other things, given how you followed what I said fairly well." Never having seen a tuber-vine, Ursa shrugged, saying, "I'm not sure - I just know blue and white are associated with Raava, red and black - Vaatu. From what I remember of the press conference, spirits themselves are a bit odd - blue lines and white denotes allegiance to Raava, obviously - but if you see a spirit with red lines, that's one that follows Long Yumao. Have no clue if there are any following Vaatu - I hope not. That was bad enough last time…" Saikhan nodded, saying as Ursa spotted her family in the back of the cargo bay, "I hope so as well. I suppose I'll need to start paying a lot more attention - perhaps Grand Lotus Atinnuaq knows more than I do. Still have no clue what to make of the rumors of information relay, 'infobending', spirit communication… Thank you for the information nonetheless - I guess that spirit causing trouble earlier was actually 'friendly'."

Now it was Ursa's turn to rub her head, saying aloud, "So… what was the spirit trying to do exactly?" Thinking back to the press conference, the Great Banyan tree's healing following the Restoration, the fact that Varrick took the original vines from Republic City and Kuvira harvested spirit vine material from the once-again Great Banyan tree, Ursa lost herself in thought, thinking, "What did 'they' say it looked like after? What was the description they gave of the whole thing…?"

Feeling a slight lurch physically, something shifted into place mentally, Ursa saying, "That's it! The spirit must have been trying to make the spirit vine more like the Great Banyan tree." Getting a blank look from both Saikhan and her mother at first, she explained, "The new Great Banyan tree - I heard at the press conference that it was hit by some ray of Raava's energy from Avatar Korra's chest at the end of the Restoration. Just like her connection to her past lives, the whole thing healed - and it's supposed to have a lot more power inside now. Maybe the little bird spirit was trying to make our vines like the Great Banyan tree, white colors and all."

Saikhan nodded, saying, "Good - then I suppose I need to tell Unit Seven to let the blue and white spirit do as it pleases. A lot of Republic City's firebenders left, and we don't have enough coal and fuel forever to keep the electricity back on. If we get it running, spirit vine power could be a very good thing." Remembering how an apparently neutral spirit had attacked the Raava aligned-one as though it was defending its home, from what Ursa got of the radio call, she had a bad feeling about the idea, saying, "Then again - maybe not. That other spirit sounded like it was fighting desperately against the 'good' spirit - and upsetting the neutral spirits that are left might weaken the barrier. You know - the one keeping Long Yumao from attacking us."

Looking slightly exasperated, Saikhan shook his head, saying, "Ugh! So many things going on at once… and after seeing how our military stood up to a spirit weapon - or rather, didn't - and it was the Avatar's allies who ended up helping save Republic City then, and they're not here… I don't think power is more important than that barrier." Taking a deep breath, Saikhan finished, "I'm glad you spoke up earlier - and just now again. Even though I'm just Temporary Chief, there are some Officers who wouldn't have spoken up. Speaking of which - thank you for what you did with that combustionbender. I remember newly Officer Jin talking about how she was afraid to tattle on the corrupt Officer Jiaohua lest he make up some phony charges against anyone in his unit… Anyways - spirits. I'll put out a bulletin saying nobody is to touch the spirit vines - including 'friendly' spirits."

Remembering some things that came out three years ago about Dark Spirits and what the police officer had said about female officer "Unit Seven's" engine, Ursa pointed out, "Saikhan, sir - spirits can ghost through engine blocks. The neutral one even seemed to be threatening to do just that to the female officer's engine! I don't see how you'd be able to keep them shackled," Saikhan groaning, "You're right. It was bad enough Avatar Korra 'forgot' to come home after the conference I've only heard about - then my commander in chief goes off on something too! Apparently, from that radio address earlier, same for Firelord Izumi and the twin Chiefs of the Northern Water Tribe - leaders leaving home on official business…" Eyes glazing over momentarily, as though remembering something, Saikhan said with a frown, "As much as I want to tell both my President and Avatar 'Just do your job first,' wondering what exactly they've been doing since Kuvira's fall… I can't exactly say 'Just do your job', though - not after four years ago. You do have to think independently and on your feet - for better or worse. That sure seems to be what all the real world leaders are doing. 'You can't rebuild into the crater' - that order still standing, even after spirits are mad at us just for existing! Kuvira's 'sentence,' what amounts to community service after all she's done… bleugh. Talk about a slap on the wrist… but that's not what I'm here to do." Smiling slightly, Saikhan finished, "I got a slap on the wrist too, four years ago. Hope nobody decides to try and bend my uniform… let's go do something a lot simpler - feed people, get you that radio I promised."

Ursa glad to know she wasn't the only one with reservations about what "important" people were doing, much less that one of those "sort-of" important people shared sentiments with her even if he was puzzled by her attitude towards Equalists, she nodded, smiling when Nana said loudly from the back, "Sounds like a wonderful idea! My mother always told me a picture was worth a thousand words, and that even small works and actions were made of thousands of pictures." Not having heard that axiom since she was much younger, one of the few times Nana had given Ursa a scolding just over what she had said, Ursa nodded. Ursa sighed, frowning as she looked out the window, "Guess there's one good thing about this crater - we don't have to worry about using that cargo unloading system. Just touch down near the edge near City Hall… take everything from there. Land on spirit vines..."

Ursa hadn't intended to sour anyone's mood, but that she did, not trying to talk to any of the police officers on board after seeing their faces - most of them looking ashen, a few stoic… and a few crying slightly. The only one on board who didn't look affected was Buniq, even Nana looking a bit morose, Ursa seeing her idly running her fingers over the betrothal necklace Ursa's deceased grandfather had given her many years ago…

Finally getting all the cooking equipment, water and raw ingredients unloaded, able to get the prepared food herself, Ursa wondered just where the ingredients had come from as she exited the airship's cargo bay. Ursa's eyes widened slightly when Saikhan responded, Ursa not aware she had spoken out loud, "The money - people like Tahno and the White Falls Wolfbats, that's who. A lot of Republic City's Pro-Benders left with the reinforcements - both former, and current. Even Toza, I hear. I radioed President Raiko about it a while back, after the address - managed to get to talk to my bandmate Tahno when he was telling people about working as a team to fight 'dirty'. Tahno talked to other Pro-Benders, both current and former - a lot of them, including him, said they'd pay for everything, no debts."

Giving Saikhan a surprised, blank stare, Ursa had a million questions about how someone like Tahno could have changed so much from the days of stealing victory from the Future Industries Fireferrets, getting the eerie feeling Saikhan could read her like a book just as her light half earlier had except without the supernatural element when he said, "That look again. Probably wondering why he'd do such a thing - let's just say I'm not the only one in the 'White Falls Police' who wants to make good. More money than I have, especially since he still plays Pro-Bending occasionally except not dirty anymore. He's already done more than I have - but that's something for another time. Like your grandmother said - work, not words."

A part of Ursa wanting to know everything, right now, she squelched it, idly thinking as she made to do exactly what Saikhan had said, "Want to know, know, know… guess I am a lot like Lee-Lee, except poking a machine with sticks is less dangerous than poking internal snakes." Remembering one day her friend had come to school with quite a few bandages, and that his eyebrows weren't the same for a while after, she shook her head, thinking as she heaved an ice barrel, "Then again… maybe not."

Plonking the ice barrel down, so lost in thought she didn't notice it moved right after, she turned around to see the "new" Republic City Police airship design again, saying as she pointed at vaguely familiar cylinders on its sides and the slightly off-looking engines, "Saikhan… are those… things on the airship's side from Earth Empire mechasuits? For power?" Ursa smiled slightly when she heard a frustrated groan, Saikhan saying, "Eugh… yes, they are, Ursa. Now if you want to know more, like how those engines can lift the extra load, ask me in my 'office', or City Hall itself. I was informed that Jinshu Kuangmai managed to get a spy into the Ember Island Conference itself, not to mention what everyone knows about Shiro Shinobi. That was in the heart of the Fire Nation - we're a lot closer to the Earth 'Empire' here. Your father is a military man - I am sure you understand the need for security."

Getting a certain uneasy feeling, as though she were being watched, Ursa nodded, saying quietly, "I understand. Sorry." After a pause and quick look at City Hall, noticing someone suspicious looking at her for a brief second before they looked away again, she pointed at the person who had been investigating her as she said, "Just who is around City Hall, anyways? I got a bad feeling about that person over there - turned around, they looked away, and… I don't feel like I'm being watched anymore." Saikhan grumbled, saying as Ursa took in her surroundings and City Hall in the distance better, "If I could make arrests like I did under Councilman Tarrlok, half these people would be gone, some of them under lockup - including mister Long Yumao adherent who was just staring at you, and those idiots arguing philosophy passionately over Pai Sho tables. They seem like shady characters to me as well, just like the Triple Threat Triad recruiters. But I'm following the law both legal and moral now - and not just because I'd likely get run out of town if I didn't. I need proof to arrest someone - and given even I don't know if I believe this whole 'tuber-vine' judging thing, I doubt people will be blindly accepting the testimony of a plant, if we ever find one of the things. You can explore later - let's go."

Tempted to go looking around, curiosity gnawing at Ursa, any desire to do so vanished when she noticed her mother working with a vaguely familiar figure halfway between where they were now and City Hall itself.

Running as best as she could over to her mother Panik and her boss Gurume, not wanting to try firebending flight with so many people around, Ursa smiled coyly when her mother asked her, "Where have you been? Didn't you hear what Nana said?" frowning slightly and groaning when she said, "Knowing you, probably asking more questions. You know what they say - curiosity killed the fireferret… and the cat." Glad her mother was feeling up enough to make weird comments, Ursa laughed lightly when she heard Buniq's voice say, "No - no kill cat! Like Fluffykins! Bad mommy!" from nearby. Finally looking at Gurume, quelling the thought of, "Food Drunk Boss!" to see him up close and personal after so long, Ursa smiled when he said, gesturing to a chef's hat with a Gurume's Choice logo stitched into it, "Hello, Ursa. Good to see you wearing something nice - your mother talks about your other 'clothes' with much disdain, and rightfully so." Ursa nodded, saying as she heard the sounds of heating grease and other cooking equipment being prepared, metal clanging as she said, "Though, given we're going to be cooking shortly, I might want to… protect these prettier clothes with something."

Gurume whistled two times, saying as someone came over with a large apron, "Then you'll want to wear this," Ursa having gotten out her own top by the time the man came over, taking the apron as she said, "Sure - but… I still want to wear the other thing as well. Underneath. To, uh, protect my medal better." Both her mother and Gurume giving her two different levels of stinkeye, her mother's the worst, knowing she was lying mostly and not partially about her reasons, Gurume smiled slightly, saying as he patted his stomach, "I think I understand. When I was younger, I too was self-conscious - though more so at being a 'girly cook' and not about my size, though that was an issue as well. I am sure you'll come to accept yourself as I have with time." Ursa raising an eyebrow slightly, not sure if she wanted to be that accepting of weight, Gurume chuckled, "To be frank, you seem smaller than I was back then - but I am not a teenage girl, and I know self-image is more important for women, so I will not try to assume I understand your struggle fully. I've already gotten a comment or two about my stomach from newly homeless people who've become bitter - but I don't care. The 'price' of my work - and passion. And I want to help them, even if they were rude. Now let's see if we can spread the 'wealth' around and get these hungry folks some good food - even the rude ones." Ursa smiling slightly, having forgotten how Gurume reminded her of her father in some ways except much bigger, she nodded when he finished, "Let's see just how well this 'pay if you can' works out. Thanks to the Pro-Benders' generosity and all these volunteers, anything we make can go towards a replacement restaurant, instead of costs."

After helping hand out the relatively small amount of food they already had from the family cooking binge earlier and what Karpok had ordered and no longer wanted, Ursa felt light - glad not only to see the people's gratitude and that they had some people overpay for the food, but above all glad that she could appreciate her work. Gurume realizing that no one but her mother and Ursa had experience cooking the Big Hug Cakes, having gotten comments that even the cold ones were better than VarriCakes, Ursa was guided into helping make more Big Hug Cakes.

At first, she had been mortified by the decision, worrying that her will would fail her and eat some. "Slaving" away at the stove for she wasn't sure how long, more people interested in Big Hug Cakes than "real" food, the heat of the oil started to get to even a firebender like herself, Ursa started to feel a bit hungry and above all, thirsty. Not sure if she could handle cooking Big Hug Cakes and giving them to someone else any longer, wondering if Nana had been right earlier after all, Ursa asked Panik, "Hey, mom - can you try and see if someone can take over for me for a bit?" Noticing that her current Big Hug Cake batch needed attention, she missed her mom's response, focusing on it until it was done and instantly bought up for twice the "asking" price Gurume had hoped for, even poor-looking people paying for them, Ursa frowning slightly when one refused it being free.

The middle-aged woman smiled, saying, "No - I will pay what I can, sweet girl. Please - I want to. I can pay, you've worked hard on this 'Big Hug Cake' - so I'll pay… As I have heard a very wise man once said - 'There is a simple honor in poverty - it is nothing to be ashamed of.'" Ursa already smiling at the Grand Lotus Iroh quote, she was even more surprised when the woman said before taking a bite, "Something my grandmother told me once from an old White Lotus master. It doesn't matter if the White Lotus itself has changed - the original spirit lives on, in people like you, or those civilians brave enough to volunteer to go south." Taking a bite, the woman smiled broadly, saying, "Mmmm - wow. Worth every yuan. I love the - " Interrupting herself, the middle-aged woman paused, saying as she bent down slightly to see a small child who had just come up, "Oh - hello there! I was just talking to the nice girl, but I'll get out of your way. Goodbye."

The middle-aged woman bowing and leaving, Ursa saw a vaguely familiar face appear at the counter, the child looking malnourished and downtrodden but still happy. Not entirely sure how much time had passed, initially wanting a replacement, Ursa felt like she could keep on working when the vaguely familiar small boy asked, "I hungry. Hungry in stummy. Lady say nice. Can you fill… Ursa? Even no money? Mom talk about someone big lots. Who have black hair and brown skins like you. Bend fire like mommy, but not same. Not know what I bend yet."

Smiling broadly, realizing this was one of Kyoretsuna's children, Ursa nodded, saying, "Sure - no problem, little guy. Tell your mom I said hi," starting another batch of Big Hug Cakes while asking the little boy, "Who are you, again?" Ursa began laughing so hard when he said, "I hungry! Already said!" she almost botched the first step, some odd, warm feeling and instinct driving her onwards after what was likely Kyoretsuna's youngest watched her in amazement as she finished. The young boy devoured the first Big Hug Cake and grabbed another off the platter, Ursa surprised when he tried to shove it upwards, the little boy saying adorably as he tried to get it to her, "These good. You have one! Before I have more."

Kyoretsuna's young son now looking at her with puppy-dog eyes, Ursa took it from him, smiling broadly when he took another from the plate, apparently waiting on her. Not wanting to upset a small and likely shaken child, wondering if any of his older siblings had left with the reinforcements, Ursa ate the Big Hug Cake slowly. Even with savoring every bite, Ursa found watching the young toddler happily devour the one in his hand and the next one he picked up much more pleasurable than anything she was feeling herself, saying as she rubbed her stomach without self-conciousness, "Mmmm - thank you. That was good. How about I cook a few more batches for your family, and you?"

The toddler nodded, saying, "Please. Name Teinei." Ursa's little fan watching every step of the way, Ursa making more meat-filled than sweet filled, knowing they likely needed the protein, she cooked a total of at least four dozen Big Hug Cakes for him without feeling tired at all, noticing by the time she was done he had been joined by his mother. Kyorestsuna looked at the four plates, four batches of Big Hug Cakes with disbelief, saying, "W-wow. I… don't know how to thank you." Ursa simply smiled, saying, "It was my pleasure," Kyoretsuna blushing when Ursa said, "Seeing Teinei enjoy his three cakes was its own reward," finishing even though Kyoretsuna had already picked up as many of the plates as she could, "Here - take these." Kyoretsuna began crying slightly, saying, "I - thank you. Two of my oldest went with the reinforcements last night, even though I asked them not to… there's enough here for the White Lotus people who were visiting me, and my family - and that's saying something."

Kyoretsuna looking around for a second, still holding three plates and Teinei his one, she said softly, "I know from your mother you love to know stuff - so I figure I should tell you something for all this. The Grand Lotus says he'll have me taken care of when most of the Order comes here," adding quickly as though she had spotted someone coming, "They want me to help guard Zaheer. Some order from President Raiko… gotta go."

Kyoretsuna walking off, son in tow, the same middle-aged woman as before approached Ursa's station again, saying softly, "Hello again, Ursa. I won't ask you to tell me what she said - there's only one thing she could have said. But I can trust you won't tell anyone. Can we talk off to the side for a moment?" Ursa gave the woman a funny look, nodding when she produced a Pai Sho gamepiece, saying softly, "The Lotus piece…" The woman smiled, saying, "Come with me nearer City Hall. I'll tell you just the things I can there."

Telling her mother goodbye, not sure how long this would take, Ursa followed the undercover White Lotus operative, the woman saying once they were behind a ruined building near a large spirit vine, "I cannot tell you my name. The only reason I am talking to you is because of Kyoretsuna's slipup - and your involvement in finding her. All I can tell you is that I've been watching City Hall on the Grand Lotus' orders - and some of the groups are concerning. Put your hand down! No, not him, the Long Yumao bobblehead - the ones that aren't so obvious. I can't get close to any of them, at least two of the groups having figured out who I work for long before now," Ursa laughing lightly when the woman quipped, "Ever since they showed up after the Lieutenant left Republic City, the Equalists have been more than happy to give me their pamphlets, though." Looking serious again, the woman finished as she pointed at an Equalist banner, "Some of the stuff they are putting in those pamphlets makes a lot of sense, things Grand Lotus Iroh might have agreed with - and I hope the Grand Lotus can enact his as yet unannounced reform plan for the Order smoothly." Sighing deeply, as though remembering something last-minute, Ursa was surprised when the woman admitted, "I've already told you a lot, so I may as well… Aside from Kyoretsuna… the White Lotus has no one of 'special ability', unfortunately. Even despite attempts over the years to recruit individuals like the members of the Red Lotus, except not crazy anarchists. We've… made a few contacts, only for someone else to swoop in unnoticed and take them in." Speaking in an even more hushed tone, she said with a final air, "All we know about it is that they seem to be going someplace completely unknown, the individuals unlikely to have joined the Red Lotus given we avoided any anarchists in the first place - and that that place may have a feeler here in Republic City. Goodbye."

The woman walking off into the inside of City Hall, Ursa noticing from a distance that some people acted differently in her presence, she realized what the agent might have wanted her to do - go chat the groups up and find out more about what they stood for, who they were…

Social interaction let alone spycraft not really her thing, idly thinking, "Hah - me, sneaky? I'm big!" Ursa made to head back to the cooking line - remembering that she had business in City Hall herself, Saikhan having told her she needed a radio. Smiling broadly and closing her eyes for a moment, part of her excited to be "important" seemingly, even if she wasn't sure entirely how, the color drained from Ursa's face when she heard a familiar mean voice say, "Hah - yes," her dark half continuing as Ursa saw a faint red skeletal outline in the darkness of her closed eyes, "Think you're 'important' - only to see that all are leaves on the wind later. The Avatar had issues of self-worth, feeling useless after losing her bending - and you cannot hope to do anything that matters, without attaching your worth to the doing!" Her dark half actually appeared, saying with a final air before eerie red-lit form vanished, "Importance and power are temporary. When they fade, you will be nothing but a fat failure - the very act of mattering hindering your insipid quest to have default self-worth. 'Self-love'. Good luck…"

Opening her eyes, part of Ursa felt like crying, what her dark half had said ringing true to her - cursing slightly after thinking she needed to talk with someone else about the whole thing, feeling a strong electrical internal "resistance" pulse through her scalp. Far stronger than any she had felt in a long time…

Knowing only she'd talk about it once her earlier struggles were out in the open fully, what she had told Panik and Nana the tip of the iceberg compared to the dream's full length, Ursa headed towards City Hall again, a random thought flitting through her mind as she knocked on the closed door: "Sometimes, when light is coming, darkness interferes - the dying gasp."

The door opening after a few knocks, she was greeted by a metalbender cop, saying as the man appeared to want her out before she even said a word, "Uhm - hello. I was told by Temporary Chief Saikhan to come here for a radio, so he could contact me if needed, and vice versa." The cop scowled, saying, "Tell me your name first. Ugh - still can't believe he got even Temporary Chief after what he did under Councilman Tarrlok." Hearing the man's voice, Ursa felt like she was dreaming again, noticing he had one more United Republic symbol than normal on his chest as she asked, "Wait a minute. You - I remember your voice. Amon, four years ago - the guy who said his family got caught in the dragnet." The cop looked at her like she was crazy, saying, "Yes," anyways, saying, "I knew you looked familiar. Whatever - take your radio and go," adding bitterly, "Only reason I didn't shut this door in your face was you seemed familiar - in a good way."

Doing just that anyways, Ursa wondering why someone was so testy with her, the door opened again a short time later, the now-even grumpier cop standing by Saikhan's side, Saikhan handing her a radio and saying, "Sorry about that. Perhaps we need some sort of 'Citizen's Hall' constructed - where interruptions by people are welcome instead of potentially security-compromising. This isn't the first time, so I've heard… Here, Ursa. Go back to the food line and talk to Officer Jin or Officer Renshi about codes and my frequency. That thing is its own powerful transmitter as well - don't abuse it. When I was Chief - I so hated the random harassment calls after the dragnet. One in the morning… that's the past. And Officer… sorry, don't know your name yet - don't be so grouchy! She couldn't have possibly known a meeting was going on in here before knocking - and I am not proud of what I did four years ago. Goodbye for now, Ursa."

The door closing more gently this time, Ursa managed a glimpse of what was going on inside, only recognizing the female Order of the White Lotus agent and Kyoretsuna in time before they shut, musing to herself after turning around and seeing who all was around City Hall, "If the agent didn't want to get spotted… maybe she should have had a hood on like some of these people do?"

Putting the radio in her backpack as she walked away from the door, Ursa overheard some indistinct argument from a nearby Pai Sho table. The table on the way back to the cooking equipment and her family, not really in the mood for anything social that would be stressful let alone trying to chat people up as the White Lotus agent had wanted her to do, Ursa made her way back to where she wanted to be… finding herself snared into two of the Pai Sho players' agruments anyways in the end. Overhearing one say in hushed tones to the other, "The only true way to freedom is without government," Ursa cursed under her breath when the other one got her involved, saying more loudly, "Hey - fellow citizen. Help me silence this fool. Turn around - tell this idiot what anarchy got the Earth Kingdom three years ago, and what governed consent got Republic City!"

Turning to face the two, noticing their Pai Sho game appeared just about complete anyways, Ursa never sure if she'd seen a draw so perfect before, she raised an eyebrow, saying, "I'm not sure why I'm bothering, both of you seeming pretty set on… whatever, but here goes. I'd rather have the new 'Earth Kingdom's' government - even if President Raiko's ending up not so horrible after all, our government's a glorified popularity contest." The other man smiled broadly, asking, "And are you willing to use force to tear it down?" Despite her sentiments four years ago, Ursa shook her head, saying as she pointed at one of the many visible Equalist banners, "No - the Equalists have the right idea. Now, at least - change through the ballot box, not breaking heads," adding as an afterthought, "Only if the government's as bad as it was four years ago is force justified."

Seeing both of them looked an odd blend of smug and confused, as though what she had said had somehow satisfied and displeased them at the same time, she was left scratching her head when the apparent pro-anarchist laughed, saying as the other looked sullen, "Force is sometimes justified, says her. See? Hah! Just like the rest of your friends - both of you still wrong. The Foggy Swamp Tribe gets along just fine without a government - that is, until Kuvira quashed them. Now why don't you go run to that symbol of repression City Hall and go kissy-kissy with them instead of wasting my time. Let me debate someone with a real head on their shoulders."

Ursa gave both a glare before walking off, saying, "Not like either of you are doing anything productive, arguing politics over a tied Pai Sho game. If you'll excuse me, I'll be going back to where I was earlier - helping feed people, instead of words words words." Ursa heard the argument resume as she turned around, still hearing some of the last part, one man saying, "Yeah - feed people! How you expect to do that with banditry the law of the land, exactly?" the other retorting loudly enough that some of the people in front of Ursa turned to where she had been to look as he yelled, "Like electing bandits or having bloodline dynasties of thieves are any better! Only recently did it dawn on those twin Chiefs up north to lower taxes - and how do you expect this precious new United Earth Republic to get on its feet without bleeding the people dry, or defend itself without pressing people into military service?! Just like a leech, governments require blood!"

Wondering how both men knew so much, having heard nothing of Northern Water Tribe tax rates in the news, Ursa tried her best to ignore the insane ramblings of the Long Yumao adherent, frowning slightly when she still heard him say, "Repent! Prophecies from all four mortal nations of old come true! 'Hei Feng's' - the true name being Xiuhcoatl's - 'feathered serpent' has arrived, to bathe the world in fire! Lay low arrogant man! Accomplish what Unalaq could not, being a mere mortal!" Ursa glad when his voice faded, briskly walking by some shady-looking characters shuffling stacks of yuans, feeling disgusted instead of flattered when she heard one whistle suggestively. She was pretty sure they were gangster recruiters, as eager to listen to them as she had been the Long Yumao mouthpiece in human form, she found herself near an Equalist banner, actually stopping to pick up a pamphlet. Ursa blushed slightly when a vaguely familiar irritating voice proclaimed gratingly, "See? Brothers and sisters, look - the firebender girl from four years ago who stood against Amon before we knew of his hypocrisy is interested in what we have to say, just as she was back then to a degree. Ursa has dismissed the idle chatter of the Pai Sho fools, the ramblings of the man who would have spirits as tyrants and oppressors and the false promises of those gangsters as the garbage all of it is!"

Hearing the screech of an out-of-tune megaphone, Ursa turned towards the source of the noise, laughing when she saw who it was, saying, "Wh - you, with the pamphlets again, after four years? Aren't you the guy the Avatar roughed up?" The man nodded, saying, "Yes, I am, Ursa - take a look. See how we want to 'rough up' things in our city through the ballot!" Glancing down at the pamphlet, Ursa's eyes widened to see points that were close to what she thought, the only ones different from the umbrella statements under "United Earth Republic Government For the United Republic of Nations!" all revolving around wealth re-distribution. Pointing to the cooking line in the distance, Ursa noticing there were even more people there than before, recalling a little of her unusual dream, she said, "I'm all for 'Equality' between different groups - as long as it isn't government enforced like you want, or removing things from people like the Equalists under Amon wanted. And, apparently, still want - this time, money and not bending. Bullying by the ballot's no different than the last time around, except less people die. I've heard the 'utopia' blather before - from Amon himself, before he took my bending! Look over at that cooking line - all volunteers, free food - people who don't have a lot of money paying for it anyways even though they don't have to. It's not perfect, but it's more realistic than the 'unreality' of hoping for a perfect world. People take care of each other - no need for wealth re-distribution." The Equalist propagandist looking flustered by now, she added, "Forced re-distribution. Isn't that part of what Kuvira wanted to do? I remember people saying she claimed Zaofu had been 'hoarding riches and technology for too long', and that she wanted to use force to re-distribute everything 'fairly' throughout the nation, for 'equality'… and then used the domes' metal to build a massive war machine to attack US!"

Ursa smiled when the Equalist propagandist looked completely stumped, Ursa finding herself stumped when he said, "That's the past - the Avatar herself has explained things to the world that will change everything, though not in full detail, only President Raiko disclosing more early this morning in his address. Not much - but just enough. As our current unworthy moneyed President said, that the second 'gift' to humanity can do much more than just power a house. They can judge a person's worth!" Wondering what one would do to the Equalist propagandist, knowing things that he did not, wondering if a tuber-vine would react more violently to attack than even the original spirit vines had when Avatar Korra attempted to clear them, she listened as he continued, "Yes! It is true - brothers and sisters with the reinforcements have confirmed this from our leader, the Lieutenant! Kuvira was obviously power-hungry - something we can catch now, thanks to Raava's more useful gift! With tuber-vines and their ability to judge people, any leader would never be able to do what she did - character and actions constantly judged by the spirit of light and order herself! Did you not see that added point underneath the re-distribution - or did you just ignore it!"

Still finding the whole idea of re-distribution odious, not to mention "spiritocracy", Ursa turned around, saying before she left, "Stealing's still stealing, no matter how you dress it up. On the tuber-vine thing… May as well just make Raava ruler of everything doing that," thoroughly displeased when she heard a voice say, "Yeah - she's got to know everything! Forget the Avatar - all we need is Raava! Both Vaatu and Long Yumao want to rule everything, pure chaos or pure tyranny by spirits - why not her?! She's even human-y, or so I've heard."

Having barely cleared hearing range of the Equalist propagandist, Ursa nearly had a heart attack when she heard the sound of whooshing air followed by someone physically blocking her path on top of an air scooter, the figure's robes flapping slowly from his own airbending. Unable to tell if the person was male or female for the obscuring robes and hood, Ursa tried going around - cursing when the person just tailed her, a male voice saying, "All I want is a minute of your time," after her third attempt to bypass him. Stopping as the man stayed aloft on his air scooter in front of her, Ursa having thought Zaheer was in lockup and almost all the other airbenders had gone with the reinforcements, Ursa groused, "Yeah - same as everyone else I ran into. Those two idiots at the Pai Sho tables were the worst of them all - at least the Equalist was handing out pamphlets and the Long Yumao nutjob was talking about prophecies! All they were doing was arguing."

The man grumbling himself now, he simply said, hand holding small object outstretched as he said, "I know of your meeting with the White Lotus agent and other related activities, though I will not say how. The world is entering a new age, even before more recent events - and to make the transition as smooth as possible, the way must be pathed by more people than those currently wielding power and influence. Recent events moved forward the timetables, with raised stakes for errors made by women and men. New voices must be heard - and from what I know of you and your family, Ursa, your voice is a unique one. Unique as any special talent or ability… The President's words may have been nice - but that alone is not enough. For the brightest future, old established orders must change. The old Order must change its nature completely or fall. This is all you need - only if you are worthy will you find the meaning and truth within."

The tile jumped up into the air, moving around with unbelievable precision and control - Ursa noticing it was tracing the shape of a lotus, even though the man's hands were hardly moving, their movement more closely resembling that of an earthbender than an airbender. Or a mix of the two styles, if that were even possible... Yet, the strange thin coating of apparently bent air on the tile, the seemingly impossible control he exerted over the tile with a simple coating of rapidly moving air…

The man dropped the small object into Ursa's outstretched hand with this same manipulated coating of air that nearly conformed to the object's dimensions perfectly. Not sure if she had seen that move before or if her eyes were playing tricks on her, Ursa flipped it over, noticing out loud it looked just like a regular Lotus Pai Sho piece - except half the lotus petals were a light blue, almost a cyan color, instead of white like the other petals and part of the center…

She heard the man's voice say, "The white and the faint blue. Cyan, even. Good - you are observant. Perhaps you will unlock the secret after all, Ursa - I will only give one hint. That which you need to focus on is within. If you do unlock the secret, she will know. If we do not see you soon, I will check on you from time to time - though you will not see me. Goodbye…"

Looking up, Ursa was deeply curious about what exactly he meant by "Order", world order or the Order of the White Lotus, who this "she" was, or how she could prove herself "worthy", not entirely sure if she wanted to do so or not given how little the man had said and the mention of him "checking in" on her…

Considering all this, Ursa found herself cursing to see the man had vanished instead of glad as she might have been earlier. She wanted to know more! Looking at this second Pai Sho piece again, remembering that the Red Lotus symbol had been much more complex and involved red and black, the Pai Sho piece in her hand sporting the colors of Raava and not Vaatu as a Red Lotus tile might have, Ursa smiled slightly. Even not having a clue as to who the man was working for, she was pretty sure whatever their goal was that it was a noble and not nefarious one.

Otherwise, why would they be using Raava's colors? And she was pretty sure who one of the two groups camping out near City Hall that concerned the White Lotus was - or at the very least, that this "Order of the White and Blue Lotus" existed, though not what they stood for exactly. Walking back towards her family, letting her mind wander, Ursa connected the White Lotus' agent's comment about seeking people of "unusual ability" like Kyoretsuna and someone else snapping them up to the man's strange airbending. The man must have been one of them… but Ursa still had a hard time believing what she had seen.

She had never heard of the ability to control air to such a precise degree before, the way the air itself seemed to be picking up such a small object so precisely at the man's command - almost more like using waterbending to pick up an object than traditional airbending. The air itself, not flowing freely - commanded, almost like… earth. The hand movements…

Maybe she had been seeing things - the control shown over the piece was above that of even a Master Airbender, but… it was unlikely that the man had a special talent, given airbending's history. Special abilities seemed to be hereditary. Aside from the Tenzin family… all the world's airbenders were "new", no lineage to draw from… and aside from flight and spirit projection, no other special airbending abilities were known, both learnable and not hereditary.

Finally arriving back at the cooking line after trying and failing to open the tile as though it were a locket, wondering if there was a sort of bending lock on it, Ursa decided to keep the latest affair to herself - for now. She wanted to try and figure out this thing's inner secret first! Stowing it away with the other Lotus tile, wondering what the White Lotus agent had meant by a reformation of their Order, Ursa tried her best to not seem distracted.

Ursa noticed that some of the cooking staff at an apparent addition to the cooking line were wearing… unexpected clothes underneath their aprons, to put it mildly, Ursa not having expected to see anyone in the White Lotus nearby. A paranoid part of her wondered if it had to do with the mysterious man or if she was "wanted" by the White Lotus now, feeling relieved when she spotted someone unexpected coming from a nearby Satomobile. The person she recognized as Grand Lotus Atinnuaq announced with a slight smile, "Good news - I have just finished talking with other high-ranking members of the Order of the White Lotus and the Republic City Chief of Police, setting up a relief effort more long-term than one dependent on Pro-Bender's donations. Not only that, but I have called on the Order's manpower to come to Republic City to assist in other ways, especially cooperation with the Republic City Police force to set up temporary earthen shelters on the town's outskirts."

Grand Lotus Atinnuaq receiving much applause, Ursa smiled slightly as she remembered what Kyoretsuna had said about being asked to guard Zaheer, ending up wondering if the relief effort was a cover - or genuinely meant and heartfelt. The Grand Lotus taking a deep breath, he continued, "The Order will also attempt to provide moral and emotional support as best it can, drawing heavily on the teachings and sayings of one of the greats, former Grand Lotus Iroh of the Fire Nation. Many people in Republic City have lost their homes," finishing as a single tear rolled down his cheek, "Just as I did… years ago to the Red Lotus, a few have lost something far more precious than a workplace or apartment. Loved ones or a family member - everyone affected by the… the wiping out of a military outpost at the hands of Kuvira's Colossus spirit weapon over a week ago. I am afraid that the former Grand Lotus Iroh himself is not present… so you will have to make do with me." Ursa never having heard of this side of the Grand Lotus before, he finished after a sigh, "I know I am no Iroh - not after Avatar Korra's childhood. When I return after a little more business, I hope I can be of assistance nonetheless."

The Grand Lotus leaving quickly to catch a waiting Satomobile, the driver visibly antsy even from this distance, Ursa re-focused, returning to her family, holding out the radio Saikhan had given her, saying, "I'll be right back - Saikhan told me to talk to Jin or Renshi about the police codes," adding when Buniq gave her a dirty look, assuming her sister didn't want her to leave again, "Little sis - I know how to work a radio, but not anything about the police channels. I'll be back." Buniq smiled, asking, "Tell what happen while gone? Please?"

Ursa smiled slightly, saying, "Yes - after this," adding, "Saikhan might ask big sis to do some stuff, though, so I might not be around for long." Spotting Jin and Renshi talking with one another near a large pile of supplies, Ursa walked over, stopped by Buniq, her little sister saying, "You sweaty. Water? From me!" Ursa nodded, curious to see if her little sister really could draw water from the air - surprised when she did, not having remembered Buniq being taught the skill or concept. Nana said as Buniq worked, "She learned watching us earlier, in the apartment and while you were gone off at City Hall. Back in my day, it took master-level benders to draw water from the air or generate lightning… guess she is a lot like her 'big sis' after all." Ursa's mother nodded, saying, "Forget the cynics, the grouches - the world's a better place than it was in the past. Whether they like it or not, time marches on. What used to be an extreme show of skill's commonplace now. People get better at things. Just look at Pro-Benders - they probably haven't ever really used the 'form' my mother did while learning bending. Not sure if that's a good or bad thing… From what I remember of my Fire Nation history from Hideki, Azula didn't master lightning generation until she was in her teens despite being a prodigy, and my own daughter did it at the age of nine, not to mention how many firebenders work generating power in the city's powerplants now. On my own element back then… Katara didn't really come into her own until she trained with 'Master' Pakku, even then Hama needing to teach her how to draw water from the air." Buniq by now totally focused on her work, her mother finished simply, "I guess that's the thing about the world - we all stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. Things that are easy now were hard back then - thanks to the work the people before us put in."

Ursa laughed along with her mother and Nana when Buniq asserted, "I could figure out by self!" Ursa about to contradict her - remembering that Avatar Korra had bent fire and earth without any instruction from the Order of the White Lotus' Master Benders… Feeling something cold pressing against her arm, Ursa snapped out of her thoughts, taking the sizeable ice cup with surprise, Ursa drinking the contents after Buniq chirped, "Try it - did something new!" Noticing the water was less water, more an icy slush as she drank, she genuinely said, "I loved that - very cool and refreshing. Thank you." Buniq smiled, saying after a pause, "Wait here - idea!"

While Buniq was off messing with something in the food supplies, Ursa inspected her radio idly - noticing the frequency needed to "call" many different officers and some other people was on a piece of paper glued to the back, Saikhan having apparently forgotten to remove it after giving it to her. Not sure if it was a mistake, Ursa tested it out as she watched Jin and Renshi help Buniq find something - Renshi jumping slightly when she called him, Ursa saying, "Test. This is Ursa - can you hear me, Renshi? Nevermind - I saw you jump. Um… over?" Ursa listened to the response over the radio, Renshi's still slightly panicked voice saying, "Sorry. I was hoping I wouldn't hear anything over anything near that band. We're almost done helping your sister - I'll want to tell you more in private. Figure if Saikhan's given you one of those radios, he trusts you."

Buniq returning a short time later, carrying one big funny-looking "ice cup" with what Ursa swore were colored contents, Jin and Renshi carrying five more between the two of them close behind Buniq, Ursa asked her little sister, "What do you have there?" Buniq grinned, saying, "Cool Hug! Try!" Holding out the slightly dripping ice cup, Ursa feeling too thirsty to question why its contents were yellow and slushy, she drank the slushy drink as best she could - surprised to taste lemons and sugar. Noticing the cup itself looked "off" in color as well, and felt a little sticky for pure water, Ursa crunched the ice as Buniq "explained" as best she could. Everyone else tried their "Cool Hug" as Buniq talked, "Water to drink boring. Wanted it to be tasty! Use lemon juice and sugar or other. Yum things in water. And frozen tasty. Do you like?"

Ursa nodded her head, her mother saying, "Good idea, Buniq. Might just start selling or giving these away too." Smiling, Panik continued, looking at Buniq as she inhaled her own Cool Hug, "It's one way to get kids to stay hydrated and drink water, even if it is sweet. I'll see about making a 'sweet meat Big Hug Cake' equivalent - try and sneak some good stuff in too." Ursa laughed when Buniq said, face sticky-looking, "No - my idea! No put anything but sweet in!" adding as she pointed at a laughing Renshi, "Get him make growing sweet rock cups!" Ursa's mother sighed, saying, "Sorry, Buniq - I don't think we have any jennamite," Panik groaning slightly when Jin interjected, "I hear there's a bunch of nice people from Omashu coming soon, cutie - maybe you'll get your wish then if someone brings some."

Buniq seeming happy for now, Ursa asked Renshi, "Can you tell me more about the code system? I think I have all the frequencies I need here," Renshi smiling slightly before saying, "Unless you really want to learn the code, you don't need it," no longer smiling when he finished, "I was… jumpy when I got a message through that frequency earlier because it's really close to the one Saikhan told us to use if there's trouble in Republic City Jail. I remember some recent order from Saikhan about keeping people and spirits away from the spirit vines… you wouldn't happen to know how to throw a spirit in 'jail', would you? I remember you had a spirit friend, so…"

Ursa shook her head, saying, "Unfortunately, no. They could just 'ghost' right through the wall if they wanted to," finishing as she took off her apron and gave it to some other volunteer, "I can't remember exactly what I promised Saikhan - but I want to go check out that barrier. Maybe looking at it will 'help' some - it's supposed to have the energy of Korra's past lives in it, from what she told everyone at the press conference." Renshi nodded, saying, "Jin and I will keep an eye on the 'human-y' stuff with your family. Everything's been going well so far - I'm just glad none of the loudmouths have shown up yet. Let's just hope those protesters act more civilly after President Raiko's speech." Part of Ursa curious to know how the money for a new Gurume's Choice restaurant to replace the old one was going, she was more curious about these protesters, Renshi saying after she asked about both, "They're sort of… interlinked, in a way. One of the groups, at least - though I guess the other as well... Sorry - thinking while I talk. Your mom's old workplace was inside the crater, the new, much bigger and flatter 'Spirit Wild' - and one of the two groups of protesters is mad about Tenzin and President Raiko's decision to not expand back into it and rebuild downtown. Weirdly enough, that's the more disagreeable and confrontational group - the other one's displeased with how light a sentence Kuvira got for everything she did, her weapon gutting our home included."

Remembering how down the officers and people around her had been when Ursa talked about the crater and mentioning it, Renshi shrugged, saying, "Easy for me to say when my home wasn't incinerated, but… what is, is. Being depressed about it is only going to sap your energy - and we're going to need a lot of energy to get Republic City back on its feet. It may have been blown up, but downtown's not the only place that got hit by Kuvira's weapon - given what it did to a lot of other buildings, I'd hate to know what would have happened if Avatar Korra hadn't saved Kuvira." Cocking her head in confusion, following Renshi's logic about as well as Saikhan understood her world view four years ago, Renshi said, "From what I've heard in recent briefings about spirit weapons, to prepare us in case criminals ever figure them out or the Earth Empire ever makes it back to Republic City in force again, the weapons need a power source, the vine gradually vanishing over time like gasoline when it's burned." Looking disquieted, Renshi continued, "But, if you get a big enough bunch, it can go seemingly forever - the Colossus itself was driven by a huge bundle of the things, and the former Spirit Wilds was basically that times ten or twenty. Maybe more. A huge tangled mess of fuel, waiting to power the cannon that ran amok - I'm just glad there wasn't a chain reaction of explosions like the one that hit downtown, and the weapon stopped firing. Republic City's got a lot of greenery left - I can't even tell what's a 'real' tree or a spirit vine anymore. Just look at City Hall - overgrown by the things."

Looking at City Hall at the same time Renshi did, it seemed more… cluttered than before, if that was even possible, Renshi sighing and saying, "Great. More people - and I think I see a few signs in there, too." Not really wanting to be around when a bunch of angry people were protesting, Ursa wondering if she'd get more or less nasty calls from a large crowd upset with things powerful people had done, she decided to leave her baggy top on and see if she could get some of the same good feeling from working that she had earlier.

Seeing the distant crowd stop and settle, as though temporarily, Ursa still wanted to go run around the barrier while giving it a casual inspection. Even Buniq in her childish innocence was coming up with things Ursa and little sister alike probably shouldn't indulge in too much. Staying near the food lines was probably not a good idea, Ursa wondering just how hard she'd need to exercise to run off the admittedly refreshing but still sweet and sugary "Cool Hug" Buniq had given her unexpectedly.

Leaving after asking Buniq for an unflavored icy drink, Buniq not understanding why big sis didn't want something that tasted good, Ursa headed towards the crater, idly wondering when her mother would try to introduce the concept of watching weight to her little sister. Given Ursa's own struggles with people at the school yard, her parents had always stressed to Buniq that she was beautiful no matter what anyone said, and that the inside was what mattered the most.

Ursa just hoped Buniq wouldn't have to struggle with depression like she did, or end up at the same weight Ursa had been while fighting off depression… and keep going because no one ever had a frank talk with her about food and weight.

Feeling depressed, both by the fact that where she was finally approaching had once been city and concern for Buniq, Ursa sat down on the edge on a sturdy-seeming spirit vine. Looking around, hoping to see spirits cavorting as they had in the older, much more… vertical Spirit Wilds and the rumors she had heard about spirits here before the Spirit Civil War, Ursa saw nothing but the blue sky and white clouds.

Her head naturally sinking downwards, Ursa saw the portal barrier - and began sobbing lightly as realization struck her.

No spirits, what amounted to the much smaller and much glow-ier equivalent of the walls of Ba Sing Se around the new Spirit Portal… No one but the Avatar or the spirits fighting in it may have really seen it so far, but there really was an unseen war going on on the other side of the massive cap Avatar Korra had created to protect Republic City.

Not having a clue in the slightest what a transformed spirit vine would really do, Ursa wished she knew the answer. Remembering three years ago better, even without the help of an earlier life review, how General Iroh II's fleet had been helpless against the fusion of Unalaq and Vaatu, having no idea of Long Yumao's relative power, Ursa felt all-too familiar feelings return. Ursa said out loud, laying her hand on the spirit vine, "That barrier goes down… we'd be helpless, if that serpent's even a fraction of Vaatu's strength," feeling tempted to start crying out of defeat and despair…

Feeling something else well up within her, burning and crisping that which was growing within, Ursa faced up again and let out what she thought was going to be a scream - surprised to see a large billow of fire spring up and away from her, noticing with wide eyes that the uncontrolled flame had a very large inner blue core.

Breathing heavily, feeling slightly drained, thoughts raced through her mind, speaking one aloud: "The heart of an Avatar."

Fishing out her medal from beneath her outer baggy top, Ursa flipped it open, staring at the picture of Avatar Aang in the Avatar State, angry-looking and determined for a while, tracing the color image on cool metal with her finger, saying, "The heart of an Avatar," once.

Remembering what she had left her family to do, Ursa stood up and found a place to firebend herself into the air without torching the temperamental vines. Not immediately finding a spot, Ursa climbed out of the crater, stowing the medal again before takeoff. Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath through her nose, feeling the sun on every inch of her skin, not a thought in her mind that there was too much of it, and drawing on her "big" breath and ocean of chi without self-consciousness, she let loose, hearing a loud crackling immediately after.

Opening her eyes and looking down, Ursa smiled broadly to see there was now a consistent blue core to her flame, a sense of peace washing over her.

It might not have been all blue - but it was a start. And the feeling mattered more anyways…

Getting a sudden bad gut feeling, Ursa snapped back to attention - seeing she was on a collision course with the barrier! Instinct kicking in, not knowing or caring what color her flame was or what she hit with the fire, Ursa managed to avoid collision with the barrier, jumping up and over it with a burst of flame. Awareness returning and adrenaline fading, Ursa found herself in a holding position over the barrier's top, doing a double-take when she noticed the green and yellow helix coming out of the Spirit Portal was literally passing through her.

Gently landing near the barrier's edge, noticing there was a small amount of white lines on the spirit vines directly touching the earthen defense, Ursa felt exhilarated and confused at the same time. Recalling how her flight had been while chasing Kyoretsuna and her husband a few days prior and how she had just flown now, something seemed off - but in a good way...

Curious to see what she could do, deciding to risk angering these possibly partially transformed spirit vines, Ursa took off again - this time, trying to use only jets from her feet as she had while stopping Kyoretsuna from hocking the bereaved mother's keepsakes to feed her own hungry family.

Finding herself much more maneuverable than even a few days ago, Ursa tried something risky, pushing the envelope by attempting to stay aloft and generate lightning - while moving, as she had heard some firebenders could.

Surprised when she saw the spirit vine covered ground beneath her moving while making sure she watched her lightning generation form, Ursa allowed the positive and negative energies she had separated to collide, providing release as she might have released a long-held burden, guidance as she might have given to Buniq…

The resulting lightning more intense and widespread than any she had ever produced before, Ursa stopped moving, landing after a few self-satisfied deep breaths, saying once she had landed, "I had always heard Grand Lotus Iroh told his nephew it was the emotional imbalance inside that stopped him from creating lightning, and I know Mako had plenty of similar problems yet still made lightning. If I can do that after partially addressing my own issues… I'd love to see what Mako could do now, or Zuko himself if he tried…"

Leaning against the barrier, at first the peace Ursa felt intensified, coming in contact with the most definitely Avatar and Raava-energy imbued rock - getting the uneasy feeling she was now being watched from within. After a small clattering and clacking, Ursa thinking it far too low to be a major spirit, chills ran down her spine nonetheless when a hostile voice said, "Whoever you are, mortal… Vaatu wishes the younger of the two firebenders you just mentioned dead. I know not what round medal you hide means or even its inscriptions, but it could mean you should be a target as well, for a different spirit. The only sensible one. Perhaps it is time Long Yumao begins looking at 'insects'…" After another pause, the voice snickered, "Though, physically, you are not exactly a small insect, from what little I can see, away from the wall... perhaps I am wrong. One as big and lumbering as yourself could easily not be a threat."

Never having been insulted by a spirit before, Ursa pushed away from the wall, a mix of indignation and shame never to make it onto her face lest the spirit actually be Koh the Face Stealer. Her tormentor apparently drawing closer, it was all Ursa could do to not smile or laugh when she saw the deep white lines on the rock pulse momentarily, hearing a pained hiss, the voice saying, "BAH! Stupid rock - I have better things to do than harass a fat girl when there's a fight to be had. I'm sure other humans will be more than glad to do that for me. Probably say much worse things, the beasts that you are. Goodbye."

Hearing an odd hum from within the barrier, as though the spirit had just left, Ursa tugged at her concealing top self-consciously, remembering a thought that had crossed her mind before: "Long Yumao. Maybe humanity does deserve enslavement… or some of them, anyways." Shaking her head much as before, still feeling a bit deflated and remembering that technically nothing she had done so far could be counted as exercise, Ursa decided to go take a "run" as best she could through areas not too overgrown with spirit vines.

Feeling better about herself or not, she still needed to burn off most of what she'd eaten and drank today. Did not want to end up any bigger…

Beginning her "run", "run" being charitable between the vines she needed to overstep and her own physique hindering her speed, Ursa decided to make it of some use, inspecting each of the barrier's faces whenever she needed a break.

After the third or fourth time around, Ursa's breaks at the four elementally themed faces longer with each lap, she was about to try to start a fifth after remembering just how many Big Hug Cakes she had earlier when an innocent-sounding voice asked, "Human - why are you running when you can fly with fire? And why do you have a heavy coat on in warm weather?" In her exhaustion wondering if it was another Long Yumao spirit trying to harass her, she turned to its source, shaking her fist - blushing when she realized who it was aligned with after looking at it.

The bean-shaped spirit cocked its cute head, asking as it stayed aloft with two green leaves with prominent white veins, "And why are you blushing at me and shaking your fist?" Ursa sighed, saying, "Sorry," the spirit fluttering closer, insisting, "No - I want to know why. If Raava's becoming more 'human-y', then I want to know." Raising an eyebrow, unsure where Warmwings was and if she could spare a moment to explain Ursa's life so Ursa could do something else, like get some WATER, Ursa said, "I've got a spirit buddy who knows me a lot better than you do. Probably inside, fighting with spirits like the one that just remotely taunted me. Name's Warmwings - at least, that's what I call her," adding a question of her own, "My name's Ursa - what's yours?"

The bean spirit looked vaguely shocked, saying, "Huh. That's weird. I've helped Avatar Korra multiple times, and she's never asked me that… the name's Patta, for what it matters. Identify as the same sex as your spirit friend does." Brushing up against Ursa, Patta asked as she tugged on Ursa's heavy obscuring top, "Do you wear this for fashion, like Avatar Korra sometimes wears heavy clothes in warm weather? Her 'pants'?" Looking at the spirit's innocent expression and reminded slightly of her little sister Buniq, yet getting the sense the spirit wasn't stupid, or fully naïve like Buniq was either, Ursa answered honestly, saying, "No. Your friend, the Avatar, might wear heavy pants because that's what she likes, or liked, at least. This… is more to block people from seeing all of me, to obscure."

The spirit still innocent, Ursa said, "Because people make fun of my body, and the fact that I'm fat," Ursa's eyes widening to see the white on the spirit's leaves flash red temporarily, a slightly bigger Patta saying fiercely with a slightly deeper voice, "Wh- ugh! What is with humans and judging! Maybe everyone should be blind and have earthsense like Toph…" Seeing the leaves no longer had any hint of red on them, the spirit appearing normal size again, Ursa asked the spirit about it, Patta admitting, "I… am not entirely sure why my leaves did that. I do know any spirit can be light or dark, and that humans show their emotions on their face. Perhaps it is something like you blushing in anger…"

After a slight pause, Patta continued, "You still didn't answer my question - and if your baggy clothes are for that, take it off! Is all that water on you supposed to be there?" Patting herself, groaning deeply to find herself soaked as well as overheated, Ursa took off the top, using it to wipe sweat from her brow as Patta asked, "Why would you hide that? Both the top, and the medal!"

Sighing deeply, catching a whiff of her sweat, Ursa said, "Hey - no more new questions. Ugh - might need to take a bath… To answer why I'm all sweaty, 'running' instead of firejetting around - I need to burn off some stuff my mom and sister gave me, and if a person eats too much and then doesn't burn it off," Ursa squeezing her sweaty top and the stomach beneath before saying, "Or else it gets 'stored' like this. If I 'store' too much, then I'll get even bigger. Too big, it's not just about looks anymore - then it's a health problem." Looking sympathetic as a bean could, Patta said, "Wh… that sounds like it sucks. Spirits don't have to eat," adding after Ursa saw the white lines flash blue for a second, "But… you appear to have overexerted yourself. And why did you eat and drink those things if you felt like you'd have to burn them off later?"

Ursa groaned slightly, Buniq seeming like an expert on human affairs and Saikhan as knowledgeable about spirits as Unalaq was compared to this spirit's knowledge of human affairs, saying as she finally started catching her breath and finished mopping up - literally: "I drank the 'Cool Hug' lemonade sugary thing because my little sister made it for me as a gift. And I ate all the 'Big Hug Cakes' my mom made me this morning because of the same reason. It's rude to refuse a gift." Patta seemed to understand, bringing in something unexpected, saying, "I think I understand. If humans had refused Raava's tuber-vines, or if Asami Sato and Avatar Korra had refused that more personal gift… I imagine Raava might have been mad." Poking the spirit in the belly, Patta laughing at first, Ursa said, "Tuber-vines - yeah. Giving someone a kid with another woman who both just BARELY admitted they had feelings for one another and then getting mad when the gift's refused… that'd be dumb." Patta no longer laughing, looking somewhat sour, Ursa finished, "Did Raava think to, I don't know… ASK before doing something that major? Maybe she should've taken some 'human-y' lessons BEFORE giving Asami Sato… Atokara, was it?"

Patta spluttered slightly, leaf veins pulsing between red, blue, and purple, finally saying as blue color faded, "Uh… no. And another spirit did suggest they could just adopt kids…" Patta's leaves appearing slightly spotted, the white lines greyed, Ursa got the impression the spirit was depressed, telling her, "Whatever - it doesn't matter. The past's gone," Patta perking up after Ursa asked, pointing at a nearby spirit vine with a few white lines in its form, "Mind telling me what these 'transformed' spirit vines do? Or if that's fully transformed?"

Patta making to touch one of the nearby partially transformed vines, Ursa so overwhelmed by curiosity she forgot all about the moratorium on spirits like Patta touching spirit vines, Ursa said nothing - baffled when a very cross voice said from behind before Patta's stub could touch the slightly pulsing vine, "Oh, no - not another inch, bean spirit thing! Don't touch that - even if it is partially turned by the portal's barrier! Shoo! I'll attack if you don't! Avatar Korra tried to rid the city of spirit vines years ago - seems she's sent one of her friends to do what she did to the Great Banyan tree! Make everything 'hers'!"

Patta stopping, Ursa turned around, producing fire, noticing it was pure blue briefly, saying, "Don't attack - you'll be sorry! How'd you get out here, you serpent-loving - "

Finding herself staring at a large hedgehog spirit, not a single red line on his body, she dismissed the flame, the spirit saying irately, "Blue fire, huh? Hmmph. At least the Avatar didn't threaten to toast me." The spirit looking like it had something else to say, Ursa caught a glimpse of Patta making a move, Ursa stopping the smaller spirit from touching the vine, remembering Saikhan's order as she said, "Patta, no. Let's hear what this spirit has to say - and what Saikhan has to say about it. We don't need power enough to turn this… apparently neutral spirit to the other side." Fluttering towards the unnamed spirit, Patta said, apparently inspecting it, "Huh. No sign of red 'Long Yumao' lines, Dark Spirit transformation or corruption that'd denote Vaatu-aligned, or blue 'Raava' lines anywhere… I want to hear what you have to say, mister neutral spirit."

The spirit gave Patta a dirty look when the smaller spirit drew closer to him, holding out two of her four stubby arms, the hedgehog spirit said, "Don't you touch ME either! All I have to say is that humans weren't the only ones who lost their homes in the blast," continuing after Ursa felt an odd brief sense of peace, the spirit looking behind her as it said, "And at the rate that energy-infused barrier is turning spirit vines in this crater… you won't need to touch any spirit vines to get what you want. Our remaining home, aside from patches in the city, paltry compared to what used to be here, everything else fragmented by human's homes - gone. Even the Spirit World itself not a safe haven for neutral spirits, war raging within. A war started by an innocuous gift from Raava for her Avatar. And a gift to humanity meant for war as much as peace - the worst one…"

The spirit took a deep breath, Ursa seeing the hints of reds and purples begin to appear on what appeared to be fruit that made up his scales, she held up a hand, saying, "Wait - no! Don't - I remember from the press conference, red and purple - bad signs." The spread stopping for a moment, the spirit asked snidely, spread resuming, "What do you care about spirits, human? The Avatar herself took the information about us and the vines being as one as an invitation to try and 'cleanse' the vines, and by extension, us, from the city three years ago," adding, one eye now glowing yellow slightly, "Humans can be greedy - there is no reason to think the spirits that want to be 'human-y' would not be as well. Once this new Spirit Wild is turned… they'll both want MORE! Perhaps there is no point in remaining neutral - perhaps that power-hungry hypocrite Long Yumao is right… turning on me with blue fire! Not caring that I just said our last big home's being eaten up!"

Looking down at her feet as she made to fish out her sword, in case this spirit decided to attack, Ursa noticed that the vines looked different than before - the white lines were spreading, out from the portal, into what sounded like one of neutral spirit's last true homes, the vines within the city not good enough, for reasons Ursa didn't understand. But then again, the people who wanted to rebuild inside the crater thought what they had wasn't good enough, wanted to have what was lost back instead of expanding outwards - and the old Spirit Wilds was a lot more impressive than this. What was around her, an evacuee camp, slums, compared to the old thicket and giant trees, two-dimensional and not particularly alive looking comparatively. No spirits - just an expanse of vines... The old Spirit Wilds was probably the equivalent of a fancy but high-capacity apartment district to the spirits, just like some of the old human buildings that were blown up downtown. And even without the Spirit Civil War, the spirits that called this area home needed to be respected. Even if she couldn't see them…

And apparently, they didn't want Raava's energy around.

Stepping back, producing another blue flame, Ursa pointed at the vines near the portal's base, saying, "It sounds like this is one of your last good homes - this flatter Spirit Wilds, near this portal… and 'Raava' vines are bad for you, not a good thing. And even then, you don't seem too happy with it - maybe even want what used to be here back, just like the humans who want to rebuild into the crater…" The alarming colors no longer spreading on the larger spirit, it demanded, "Either get to the point, or do whatever you're going to do with that fire - neither of us have all day!" adding with a snarl, "They better not expand back into here!" About to explain what she wanted to do, and if the spirit was okay with it, Patta interrupted, saying, "I don't understand why you're so angry. Raava stands for light, order, freedom, balance - aren't those all good things?"

Hearing the other spirit snarl, swearing the various fruit "scales" on its back were shifting to be more angular, Ursa followed through - shooting fire at the untransformed spirit vines near the barrier's edge, saying quickly, "Don't! Here - I'll stop the spread!" The spirit taking another deep breath, it said in a deeper voice, "Explain precisely what you are doing before you try and torch another spirit vine!"

Ursa took a deep breath, saying after she explained her thoughts about this new "Spirit Wilds" and why she believed this spirit to be unhappy with it, "I learned from books that in people and animals, if you cut out an infection, you can 'save' the body. And I can see that Raava's energy is like an infection to you, changing this flatter Spirit Wilds slowly, sickening your home somehow - if you calm down, reverse your 'Long Yumao-itis' maybe you can help me cut out the 'bad spot'. The 'bad' vines spreading from the barrier." Noticing the spirit's demeanor changing, it halted the reversion of corruption when Patta said, "But… you're going to leave the bit around the portal alone, right Ursa? I never got to tell you about what these vines can do!"

Sneering again, Ursa feared the other spirit was going to change its mind - relieved when it said, colors returning to normal, "Say your piece, 'Patta' - tell me why we should leave any at all, even what is visible. After what Raava did to the Swamp, every single vine and tree in Republic City counts." Fluttering down to the barrier's edge, Ursa noticing some odd hairline cracks in it she hadn't while actively looking for interesting things, Patta said, the other spirit growling in annoyance when she touched a spirit vine, "From what I can get from Raava right now, this far away, this vine is fully changed. That's why I touched it, and not another one. It's 'done'. I'm not going to run you out of your home, mister fruithog spirit." The hedgehog spirit scratched its head in confusion when Patta explained something Ursa had not known before, saying as the vine moved slightly, white pulsing, "When a spirit vine is touched by something with Raava's energy - be it this barrier, a spirit like me, or Raava or Avatar Korra herself - it changes into this. More powerful, doesn't run out of 'juice' like an untransformed spirit vine when drawn on for human technology, and more importantly for you - they will actively attack any hostile spirit or human who comes close. Able to very crudely judge character and allegiance, and defend itself better than the old Great Banyan tree did against Kuvira chopping it up."

Fluttering away from the barrier's base, sounding for all the world like a used Satomobile salesman, Patta offered, "If you don't mind losing a bigger swathe of spirit vines than this to my 'boss's' energy, I can make a ring around the barrier and crater rim - vines that will help protect your remaining home in the crater, in case spirits from within the barrier want to do you harm, or people from outside. Maybe even hot-headed Raava-aligned spirits... not that there's any nearby. People and spirits on Raava's side will ask before doing something most of the time and respect your neutrality - those siding with Vaatu and Long Yumao won't. Ursa's said she's willing to torch spirit vines around the barrier to stop the spread. I can't imagine Jinshu Kuangmai and his little spirit friend Vaazula would be as courteous, let alone Long Yumao," adding as she cocked her head, "What's your name, by the way, mister fruithog?"

The other spirit stayed silent for a while, mulling it over, finally saying, "Hedgebetter. I have seen many conflicts come and go from within the Spirit World - and the closest I have ever come to choosing a side in any of them, human or spirit, is just now." Ursa hopeful the spirit would agree to the dual ring of transformed spirit vines, remembering her own worries about what might happen if Long Yumao got through the barrier somehow, she frowned deeply when Hedgebetter proclaimed, "Unless you can show me a very good reason to do otherwise, or show humans have concern for spirits beyond what side they are fighting on in their own squabbles and the Spirit Civil War, no more of these Raava vines in Republic City. Long Yumao is not the only hypocrite in the Spirit Civil War - Raava as well. What did she expect for a reaction, giving humans what amount to 'war spirits'? In the brief time I have spent in the Spirit World, attempting to get other neutral spirits to come out before it is too late, I spotted two vile plantlike spirits floating around - one claiming it came from when Raava split one of your 'war spirits', tuber-vines, proclaiming allegiance to Vaatu and Jinshu Kuangmai."

Taking a deep breath, Hedgebetter stamped his yellow foot into the ground a few times, Ursa noticing the spirit vines beneath looked sick somehow before he said, "There. I have weakened the spirit vines close to the barrier enough such that you can incinerate them - stop the infection from spreading. A sacrifice, but worth it. I am glad you told me this mortal knowledge about infections - all the vines are interconnected, and with enough time, everything in Republic City would have been uninhabitable by neutral spirits. The Great Banyan tree is - or rather, was - connected to Republic City as well. The only reason the 'Restoration' did not affect our homes in Republic City was that Kuvira severed those connections in her ravenous appetite for spirit vines for war…" After another pause, Hedgebetter touching a partially transformed vine carefully, he scowled, saying with great annoyance, "It appears that the connection is slowly coming back, thanks to this barrier. When I touched that vine, I could see the Great Banyan tree - something I couldn't before. If the connection had been made, without trying to cut out the 'infection'… I might not have a home." Looking around Hedgebetter, seeing a ring of weakened vines that went out of sight, Ursa asked, "Wh - all those vines, a few stomps? Knowing all this, seeing the tree…? Who… who are you?"

Hedgebetter smiled slightly, saying, "Before Kuvira attacked our shared home, before any spirit or human knew of Long Yumao's designs, he was selected to speak on behalf of spirits - telling the Avatar she would not get spirits for war, using flimsy pretexts to start one with humanity shortly after. He was more outraged by the innocuous gift of life Raava gave, than the 'tuber-vines' that were intended in many ways to subvert spirits being unwilling to fight for Avatar Korra in the first place." Gesturing to himself, he said with a final air, "I intend to do what he failed - remain neutral, and speak for the neutral spirits. My first true test was with you - one I came out stronger for. Now, I have spirit evacuees to help guide. You may not see them, like the human refugees Raava's spirits mention at times that will be coming to Republic City, but they will be here, waiting within the vines of this crater and the rest of Republic City. A city that's supposed to embody neutrality - all four human nations -according to you humans, and those that founded it. I am not expecting much on humans respecting spirits staying neutral, given it took the better part of three years for them to get used to the idea that us and the vines are here to stay. Let alone caring that our 'best' home was wrecked by the blast too, not a single spirit vine tree in this crater, the nearest one stuck in City Hall - something that definitively is not ours, just as spirit vines are not human's to do with as they please. But you seem different… even sympathetic-sounding. Hopefully, I won't see that fish-man spirit 'Wipfis' again, trying to lure spirits to Jinshu Kuangmai's side with promises of power…"

The spirit gone, something finally registered in Ursa's brain, drawing on her anger as she followed the line of weakened spirit vines, incinerating them without resistance, yelling, "Crap! Jinshu Kuangmai… so he DOES have spirits!" Remembering the name of one spirit Patta mentioned, Vaazula, Ursa asked Patta if she knew anything more recent during a pause in "curing" the link between the "infecting" barrier and the greater crater's spirit vines, Patta admitting, "No. Right now, I can't really even talk to Raava - I'll be doing good if I can get even a simple message to her. I do know these things that I can say safely - the spirit's a she, and looks like his favorite firebender. Azula, of Fire Nation infamy…"

Patta looking slightly depressed, Ursa shivered - the man running the Earth Empire admiring Azula was a bad sign indeed…

Finishing her work, trying to see if the blue fire would persist for a task other than helping keep neutral spirit's "home" safe, Ursa frowned at first to see the fire was not fully blue, smiling slightly after the thought, "It does look like there's more blue in there than before, though, not to mention it might be here to stay," crossed her mind. Blue fire still bringing to mind Azula, Azula now bringing to mind Jinshu Kuangmai, Ursa checked out the elemental face of the barrier where she had started with a critical eye.

Looking at the odd hairline cracks she had seen before, swearing they looked slightly different somehow, Ursa's eyes widened when she discerned a distinct pattern - knowing there was no way random chance and natural degradation of the barrier alone could have produced such a thing…

She had only heard of the Earth Empire's sick new symbol underneath Jinshu Kuangmai, but she was staring right at a faint version of it, drop of gleaming blood in the center and all.

Noticing the whole thing was closer to the elemental symbol for Fire on the next face rather than Water, Ursa tried examining it closer, cursing slightly when she was unable to make much out about the hairline fractures surrounding the symbol. All she could tell was that there were five distinct areas near it that seemed separate, one of the areas much larger than the other four…

Unable to remember exactly what she had brought with her, she fished around in her backpack - grumbling a bit when she banged her hand against something hard in trying to find a magnifying glass, vaguely remembering from the spring before having stuffed one in her backpack for a science class where it proved very useful.

Feeling around a bit more, knocking her knuckle against the same object, she slapped her forehead, laughing, "Glass is hard - duh," as she took the magnifying glass out. Using it to examine the biggest hairline fractured area, Ursa stared and stared - crossing her eyes slightly to try and see if unfocusing would help.

Ursa yelped, saying as she examined it more closely, "What in the blazes… it's a face! All the scribble around… him, it must be the start of writing!" Not able to tell who it was or what was written, Ursa's head started to hurt from all the squinting, saying, "It's too bright out here - I need artificial lighting. Use some charcoal, transfer these lines to paper by 'charcoal tracing', look at it in my room," adding, "Less chance of someone sneaking up on me when I'm focused too." Having initially thought just about the "safety" of her personal effects, money, and above all her weapons, Ursa's stomach churned when she remember the earlier catcall by a gangster, wondering if it had been something more than just some creep thinking she looked pretty. Or what he might have done, catching her by surprise from behind…

Ursa knew first-hand from Karpok that rape wasn't about sex. It was about power…

Wondering for a moment how many Earth Empire soldiers had committed the same crime, or if Jinshu Kuangmai had ever used his sick ability to rape someone himself, Ursa yelped again when the stone began to glow red, pulsing once. Stone glowing intense red now, reminding her all too much of how her dark half's skin had looked, existing hairline cracks grew deeper and more distinct as more hairline fractures appeared slowly. Tiny black lines traced out characters beneath the man's face, Ursa trying her best to follow the black lines. Disappointed when she was unable to decipher what the slowly moving black lines had traced and that the deepening of the existing cracks did nothing to improve readability at a casual glance, her eyes widened when the red coloration on the stone vanished except for in the new "writing". Beneath the man's face, slowly fading red characters said, "Manipulative and cold son, soul of steel," the man's temporarily outlined head and face seeming as that of a stranger, yet somehow familiar.

Looking at the man's features, only getting a relatively brief look, Ursa remarked out loud, finding what she was saying absurd, "What the? The eyes, the nose, overall facial shape, practically everything but the square jaw and hate in the eyes… Looks like Suyin Beinfong's long-lost embittered brother or something." Hearing Patta let out an "Eep!", Ursa turned to the spirit, turned back to the fading image with an odd gut feeling, looking at Patta with thinned eyes, saying, "What was that eep for? I was just making a joke, and you react like that. If you know something, tell me."

Patta silent, looking conflicted, Ursa remembered aloud what the text had said, finishing, "From what I remember about Avatar Korra's close call from the press conference with Jinshu Kuangmai, he was pure metal - just like Kuvira's dark half was, except he was the metal monster. 'Jinshu Kuangmai'… no parent would name their kid that. It sounds more like a name he gave himself. A soul of steel - this man on the rock is Jinshu Kuangmai! 'Metal veins'… and a 'soul of steel'." Patta looking a little guilty, she said as Ursa thought about how the tyrant's image could have appeared on this rock thousands of miles away from Zaofu, "Well, you did just avert a pretty big disaster, if all Republic City's neutral spirits had turned, the fighting in the Spirit World would be even worse than it was when I was last there. And know more than you 'should' know already…"

Something clicking, noticing that the whole "Earth Empire" section was slightly sunken in, as though the rock itself had been whittled away for it, seeing that there were more than five areas of "scribbles" by far now, swearing she saw faint lines leading to both the Water and Fire faces, Ursa realized what she was witnessing.

The barrier was weakening right before her eyes… as the result of the actions of men. Men like Jinshu Kuangmai, his face and those under him literally eating into what had likely been a smooth barrier when Avatar Korra had erected it.

Just as the Avatar had feared - even if for now they were just "small" cracks and hairline fractures.

But Ursa had a bad gut feeling this weakening wasn't done yet.