Korra's eyes were closed. Her breathing was calm. She had been fighting this entire time to make sure that she didn't lose herself to the nothingness that surrounded her. Then a sensation filled her body. Rays of light began to engulf her. When she opened her eyes she saw that her fingertips had light flying out of them. Shortly, the rest of her body began to emit light in the empty darkness. She was not scared, or even worried. Something about the sensation felt familiar. Then it clicked. It was the same feeling rushing through her body, the same feeling she felt when she closed and opened the spirit portals. Eventually light filled the entire room. Familiar words came across her mind. You will find that if you look for the light, that you can often find it. But if you look for the dark that is all you will ever see.
Asami had been waiting at the Portal site for a few hours. She was bundled up against Naga, trying to keep warm. Although the temperature was higher in the forest, it was still around -30 degrees, and not very suitable for her. Asami was worried for Korra, but she also had much confidence that she would return, but she did not know when. It was getting darker, which meant that she had been waiting for about twelve hours for Korra's return. She did not pay any mind, but it still came back to her thoughts.
Asami was setting up a tent that she and Naga would lay in, at least until Korra's return. It was not as warm as they needed it to be, but it did shelter them from the wind that began to pick up. Once the fire was going Asami felt more comfortable but not enough to take off a layer or two. The sun falling westward and evening came. If it turned into night, Asami wouldn't know how she would sleep without getting hypothermia. The only say she could make sure she would stay warm was if she stayed awake and kept moving.
It was eight pm. The sun was down completely, and Asami was really beginning to feel the cold. Asami and Naga were pressed up against each other. Thankfully Naga had many layers of fat and fur to keep her warm, but Asami wasn't as lucky. Her teeth began to chatter. Her body began to shake. The cold was finally getting to her. It was during this time she began contemplating whether or not she should go through the portal and finally have some warmth; but even if she had, there was still the chance that she would've gotten stuck in the 'in between'. It was not worth the risk.
It was ten pm. They made a larger fire in attempts to keep them warm, but no matter how close they got, it would not quell the cold outside of them. Asami was beginning to think that they would have to brace the rest of the chill night without Korra and her warmth. She wished that Korra never took down that dome; at least the rock would've been able to separate them more than the thin tent.
It was midnight. Asami couldn't hold out any longer. She was exhausted and fell asleep not long ago. Naga was awake and did her best to keep her friend warm, but even she felt like it wasn't enough.
The Portal began to flare out. There were lights flashing brighter than normal. A few spirits came out and began wandering the South Pole once more. There were also no dark spirits among them. Asami was asleep and did not get to see this light show, however, Naga did and it got her very excited.
Then a person of light began to appear in the center of the portal. Their hands were above their head and it seemed as if they were bending. When it was done, the person came walking forward, the first thing Naga noticed was the scent. It was Korra! Naga got up from under Asami and sprinted towards her owner, tackling her down into the snow. A giant tongue filled with saliva and love got all over Korra's face. She didn't mind, she was so incredibly happy. It felt like months since she had been back in the physical world. Korra also didn't know how much time had passed for them, and she was worried to ask.
"Atta girl! I missed you so much!" She said as she rubbed Naga behind her ears and all her favorite spots.
Naga let out a loud bark to show her how much she missed her too.
Korra looked around and saw a tent, inside was her girlfriend, shivering, but asleep.
"Come on Naga; let's get you both in a nice warm spot."
Korra packed all their things and strapped them on Naga's sides. It was midnight and freezing, but Korra made sure to exert all the body heat she could in order to keep Asami warm. She had carried her in her arms, almost like a child. When they reached the outside of the forest Korra had to Earthbend a shelter for them. Once they were all inside, Korra unloaded all of their things from Naga and set up a nice warm fire. Asami had been feeling the movement and warmth during this development, but she didn't have the energy to wake up. Korra then began to take off some of Asami's thermal jackets; she wouldn't need them right now. When she laid out the bed Korra was ready to rest, and for some odd reason she did not feel hungry either. Korra was lying on her back, with her arm out. Asami had been positioned to lie on Korra's arm like a pillow. It was peaceful for her and she soon fell to a deep sleep.
In the morning Korra was the first to wake up. She had found herself in the same position that she was the night before, which was a rare occurrence, mostly because Korra had a habit of moving around a lot in her sleep. Asami was on the verge of waking up, and Korra knew this. She had decided it would be a good time to make her some breakfast in bed.
She had gotten a skillet from their packs and a few eggs. She cracked three and put some chopped meat into them, with a bit of cheese sprinkled on stop. I hope she likes scrambled because I really cannot flip an egg… When she was done cooking it, she sprinkled a bit of salt to bring out the flavor. After that she headed to get some fresh water from outside, it would do Asami good, especially since it was probably spirit water. When she came inside she saw that Asami had been stirring around in bed, most likely because Korra moved. This made Korra smile, she knew she was missed.
Korra couldn't wait any longer, or else the eggs would be cold. She headed towards Asami with a breakfast tray. "Good morning Asami", Korra said in a soft voice.
Asami got up and let out a yawn, when she saw who was in front of her she was in shock and gave her a huge hug. Little did Asami know, she also almost dropped her breakfast, and spilt her drink. "I missed you so much!"
"I know, I missed you too Asami" Korra placed the tray down, "I hope you like eggs!" she said with a smile.
"I do! Are they scrambled?"
"Yes actually" Korra showed her they tray with food, "I only know how to make scrambled" she said laughing.
"They look delicious" Asami kissed Korra's cheek.
"Asami, how much time has passed?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well, when I was in the void, it had felt like months had gone by, but you seem like you haven't been here longer than a week."
"It was only a day Korra. I'm so sorry it felt that long to you though, you must have felt so lonely…" Asami's voice grew quiet.
"I was, very much… But I'm back now okay?" She placed a hand on Asami's shoulder.
"Are we going to set out home today?"
"Yea, I'm expecting we should get there within a day."
"What why?"
"Well because ever since I fixed The Rip the spirits have been much calmer. Not to mention the Everstorm stopped. Without those delays we should arrive home before nightfall."
"Well then let's get going!"
Korra was right, they did return to the Water tribe before nightfall. Korra's parents welcomed them with open arms. That night they held a large celebration in honor of the two girls for stopping the spirits from destroying the tribe. Of course, both of the girls were tired out.
It was an outdoor festival, much like the one held before the Civil War between Water tribes. There were colorful banners and even game booths. It really did help when you were the Avatar and your father was chief of the tribe. Sadly, Korra's friends could not attend. Korra knew that Mako was still in Republic City stopping crime. Tenzien was traveling the world, trying to bring balance in the Earth kingdom. Bolin had been working for Kuvira who was also trying to bring the Earth Kingdom in order. Each one of her friends was busy moving on in their lives, and their paths had been separated. However, Korra did know that it would not always be like this.
On the first day of this festival both Korra and Asami wanted to stay indoors and rest. Their journey had tired them out. However they were often in each other's rooms behind closed doors. Korra's parents were busy running the events and usually were not found in the house. They had their intimate moments during this time, and they were always uninterrupted.
By the second day, they both knew the village wanted to see them. So they would have to be dressed for the occasion. Korra woke up that morning and saw a sight she had not seen for a while. Her crutches were leaning on her dresser. When she saw them, she felt this rush of emotion. Korra overcame most of her physical boundaries, and many of her spiritual. She did not need those crutches anymore, and she felt a sense of accomplishment. The progress she had been making was because her best friend had dropped everything in her life and came to her when she was needed. Nothing would ever give her more happiness, and she wouldn't trust anyone as much as she trusted Asami.
When she got out of bed she heard a knock on the door. It was Asami; she came over from the next room to help Korra pick out an outfit for the occasion. Asami, she had a long red dress on, with jewelry of every kind on. When she walked into the room, Korra felt her heart beat incredibly fast. There was plenty of changing in and out of clothes and trying things on. Luckily for them, most of Korra's outfits were blue and that always helped with the matching. Their themes would be opposite, scarlet red and cerulean blue. Asami wanted to put Korra's hair down for once, she always talked about how beautiful Korra's hair was (although Korra was prone to argue that Asami's hair was more beautiful).
In the end, they decided to have her hair half up and half down. Korra's bangs would hug her face. The hair that would normally drape over, would be braided up together in the back (there were four braids that connected down the middle)(in case anyone was wondering, it's just like Dany Targaryen's from Game of Thrones). Korra looked stunning and even found it hard to believe that she looked so nice (Miss Sato had worked magic). There was hardly any make up, just some gloss to make her lips sparkle. She did have earrings and a bracelet. Once they were all set, they went outside.
Tonraq gave an introduction for the ladies and their 'coming out'.
"Today we're gathered for a celebration. My daughter, Avatar Korra, and her friend, Asami Sato, have saved the Water tribe from destruction. The spirits were unbalanced and in chaos, but it is because of their hard work that we can be in peace. Thank you two, you are both honored in this tribe till the end of your days."
The crowd roared and both of them felt humbled. Many people believed that the Avatar was fully healed now and would soon begin her duties once more. However, it was Korra, Asami, and Korra's family who know that she needed more time to heal properly.
At the festival there were traditional Water tribe dances and performances. Many that Asami had never seen before. It was a wonderful experience to her, learning the Water tribe's culture. The men and women dancing had feathers and wolf furs on them, they used Waterbending to show fantastical images that told the story of their tribe. Asami was always at the edge of her seat. All the while, Korra had been watching Asami, seeing her excited and happy made Korra feel at peace.
When the traditional dances were over, the girls were held a feast in their honor. Men and women of all important positions were there. Senna had talked to Korra about the last time that they held a special dinner. Korra blushed in embarrassment while Senna fondly remembered simpler times. Asami on the other hand talked a lot with Tonraq. They both wanted to modernize the South Pole and keep up with the rest of the world. Many of the other Water tribe leaders listened in and gave food for thought.
"I'm very glad my daughter has made a friend like you. With your company I believe we can help push this land forward."
"It would by my pleasure Chief Tonraq. And, it's honestly wonderful being friends with your daughter, the Avatar, too. Without her, I would've never had the opportunity to keep my company afloat."
Senna and Korra joined in the conversation when they heard this.
"Asami when do you think you'll be returning to Republic City?" Senna inquired.
"Honestly, I'm planning to leave a day after the festivals are over." Asami looked over to Korra and saw her trying to hide her upset feelings.
"Hopefully, I'll be heading to Republic City soon…"
"But Korra, are you sure you'll be ready?" Tonraq had a concerned look on his face.
"Well I've made a lot of progress, so being back with my friends would be the best decision. Plus, I'll have Tenzien there to speed up my pace."
"If you truly think it'll help, we'll support you honey" Senna said while placing her hand on Korra's.
When Asami saw how supportive Korra's parents were of her, a sad thought came to mind. She remembered her family. How her father destroyed their relationship, how her mother died. There was no relative left and she was alone.
"Asami, do you think you'll be able to come and bring me back to Republic City? I want you to be the first one to see me in Republic City."
Asami's train of thought was stopped. She had Korra, and even her family had treated her life family. "I wouldn't have it any other way Korra." She gave her a sincere smile.
After the three course feast, the two girls headed down towards the festival. There had been rides and booths for them to explore.
"The last time I was at a festival, I was with Mako, and needless to say it blew up into an argument. But, I'm really happy I'm with you now…"
"I could just kiss you Korra, although, I think we should wait on that."
"Hah, yea, But… Asami, as soon as I come back we'll be an open couple, I promise. It won't be too long."
"I trust you." Asami said as she grabbed Korra's hand, that was the least that they could do.
They went for the games and won each other prizes. Korra was particularly excited for the "Test Your Strength" game. In front of her in line was a big brawny man who looked as if he could break the machine, or at least his long beard could. As he swung down with plenty of force, the hammer only reached about half way, at the section labeled "Wimpy".
It was Korra's turn. She spit into her hands and she turned around to wink at Asami. When she gripped it, she felt as if the hammer was way too light, and it seemed to be different than the man in front of her had.
"Uh excuse me, I want the heaviest hammer you got." Korra's tone was irritated, she hated being underestimated.
"Alright alright" the person running the booth gave her the heaviest one, "I doubt she can even pick it up" he murmured to himself.
Korra gripped the hammer tightly and without flinching she brought it down with incredible force. She hit down on the pressure plate so hard that the ball that was sent flying banged into the bell and broke it. Asami was shocked and very impressed. When Korra saw her face she gave her a playful grin.
The man running the booth was in awe and finally realized who she was.
"Y-You're the Avatar! I'm so so so sorry, here, choose from our top prizes."
"Hey Asami, which stuffed toy do you want?"
There were fluffy Appas, Momos, Aangs, but then there was one on the tip top. It was a stuffed toy Korra. It had button eyes and her signature hairdo, but her favorite part was the big smile that it had, whoever created it definitely did their research.
"Mmmm, that one!" Asami said pointing to the Korra stuffed toy.
When the man brought it down Korra was a bit surprised. "Wow, scary accurate."
"It's so cute, but not as cute as the real one. Thank you"
"It's nothing" Korra said dreamily as she was blushing.
The two girls played with various games and in fact they had won a few goldfish (which still are in Korra's house to this day). But the one place they were excited to go, was the Ferris wheel. The line was long and filled with couples, but it wasn't like they were any different. It was definitely worth the wait. Each seat was made for two and was covered in a way that the people behind them could not see them. Both Asami and Korra knew what was on their minds, but both playfully vaguely brought it up.
When it was their turn to get on, they chatted about meager things that seemed insignificant. But Korra put her arm around Asami, and Asami gave Korra a look that melted her right out of her seat. Korra gulped in nervousness but was still excited. When they reached the top the Wheel stopped, it was a technical thing, but neither of them minded. They were so high up that no one below could tell it was them, and still the people behind couldn't tell it was them either. They briefly enjoyed the view but both them knew what they really wanted. The seat was filled with lust and love and they couldn't deny it.
Asami made the first move, she whispered softly into Korra's ear as Korra was looking at the stars in the distance.
"We haven't been alone in a while." Her voice was incredibly seductive.
Korra didn't need to reply, she already knew. She moved closed to Asami and gave her a soft kiss at first. The both of them felt butterflies that many new couples feel. Asami's hand touched the back of Korra's hands and she ran her fingers through the soft brown hair. Korra touched Asami's neck and then traced her body down to her breasts and fondled them softly, which made Asami let out a quiet moan. Asami wanted to go deeper into Korra's mouth and Korra easily let her. It was exciting for the both of them. To be so high up and try not to get caught by the people around them. Even though they made out, it still felt like the first time.
Korra's hand went even lower; it reached down into Asami's dress. Nothing made her happier than making Asami feel good. Asami bit her own lip, it was because Korra handled herself so well down there. They wouldn't go all the way in such an unusual place, but they were both ready too as soon as they were alone.
Out of nowhere, the Ferris wheel began moving again. The both of them were a tad bit disappointed, but they were both very happy as to what happened at them top. While they were getting off, the people running the ride apologized to each of the passengers for the inconvenience (but it wasn't an inconvenience for them). Afterwards, they headed to the dance floor.
Although Korra and Asami knew they wouldn't be able to slow dance together, they did enjoy themselves for the faster songs. Asami did most of the twirling Korra around, mostly because she was taller. Korra showed Asami a few traditional Water tribe dances. Senna had tried putting Korra in dance classes before they knew she was the Avatar, some of them stuck.
By the time they finished the both of them were tired out. Asami was thankful for Korra telling her to wear comfortable shoes. They walked off together to a secluded place. It was a Gazebo, probably placed there because of the Festival. Surrounding it like a peninsula was a small pond. Around the perimeter of the pond were white limestone rocks. Hanging all around the Gazebo's roof and even the trees nearby, were white lights, not to bright and not too dim. In the pond were arctic turtle ducks, they were swimming, following their mother. It was the perfect spot for them to be alone.
Korra led Asami there by her hand and they leaned on the edge of the railing. There was soft music playing in the background from the main dancefloor. The moonlight reflected off the pond so perfectly, it made their skin practically shine. Korra turned to face Asami and held out her small brown hand.
"May I have this dance?"
"Yes you may", Asami said with a smile.
Korra placed her hands on Asami's waist, and Asami placed her hands around Korra's neck. Their bodies were hugging each other and they both wanted this moment to last as long as it could.
"Asami, there's been something I've been dying to say…"
"What is it?"
"I know I'll never be completely better. I'll always be sort of… broken. But…" She looked into Asami's eyes with determination, "I love you, and I hope that you'll love me too".
"Korra, you're not broken, we're both hurt, but we're not broken" Asami placed her hand on Korra's cheek, "I love you too, Korra"
Their bodies swayed and moved along with the music in the distance. It was as if they perfectly fitted into each other. There were a couple spins here and there, but Korra was happy to lead. They were breaking all the dance rules but neither of them cared. When they were done they leaned once again on the railing of the Gazebo. Korra touched Asami's chin and brought it towards her for a soft and meaningful kiss. Asami reached for Korra's hand and held it, as if to say that she would always be there for her.
"Korra, when you do go back to Republic City, do you think things will be like normal?"
"No, I doubt they'll ever be. We're not the same people we once were."
"You're right… But, I don't feel too upset about that. I guess we can consider it a new chapter in our lives."
"It will be. I'll come back, bring back order to the Earth Kingdom; then we can live in Republic City together. Eventually I'll heal and we'll have a new 'normal'. Our friends will accept us, I know it. We'll be happy together, sure we'll have bumps, but we'll be happy."
"You make me feel so safe Korra", Asami leaned in for a warm hug.
"How many more days do you have left here?"
"Two… I'm leaving in the evening the day after tomorrow."
"I'm sure your employees will be happy to have you back."
"It won't be forever Korra… I trust that you'll come back within a few months."
"I'll try okay?"
"Okay."
After a while, they headed back to Korra's house. Tonraq and Senna were getting older and fell asleep quite early. So while they entered the house they had to make sure they were quiet. Korra wished Asami a goodnight and headed off into her own room. She had a surprise for Asami to plan. She could hardly sleep with all the excitement.
I'm going to be trying to wrap up this story as much as I can before Finals start. Because once that happens, it'll be much harder to update. I'm aiming for 12 chapters so I'm almost done with my story.
Thanks for the support!