He'd been trying, ok? But Su's guidance had ultimately led him nowhere and when is came to metalbending, poor Bolin was still at square one.
The twins offered to spar him and Korra. She jumped at the opportunity. Bolin hadn't had the heart to turn down Wei and his cute, impish smile. And that's how he ended up awkwardly standing in front of Wei, whos enthusiasm had quickly given way boredom. Bolin hated to disappoint, hated how Wei's eyes lost that charming zest and lustre.
Meanwhile, Korra and Wing were having the time of their lives, as she dodged and weaved between his cables. She tried to retaliate, but was knocked to the ground. Wing was practically buzzing with exitement. -I can't believe I'm sparring with the Avatar!- he yelled, gleefully.
-I can't believe I'm stuck with her friend.- Bolin heard Wei grumble. Well that hurt, but Bolin could understand his frustration. Maybe he could try again, just for Wei.
-Hang on, I think I got it. Let me just try this.- the traitorous meteorite fell out of his hands. -Nope, okay maybe...- the two slabs of metal Bolin stood on suddenly smashed into him. They did more to startle him than hurt, but he still shrieked.
Bolin shot a dirty look towards Wei, who responded with a devilish smile. -Trial by fire. It's the best way to learn metalbending.-
Wei bent a meteorite his way, and Bolin struggled to dodge.
Okay, that's how it's going to be, huh?
Well, two could play at that game.
Bolin fired a pebble at Wei, and it hit him right in the forhead.
-Agh!- Wei hissed, pressing one hand to the sore spot. - cheater! - he gasped, with a disbelieving huff of laughter. Bolin winked and Wei dropped into a fighting stance, playful quirk to his lips. -Fine-
Wei propelled himself into the air with a rock pillar, while Bolin fired a couple of rocks, which ended up being defected. He narrowly avoided a meteorite flying past him. Wei landed on an empty pedestal.
They both stilled for a moment, panting.
- You're good...- Wei commented, jovial smile betraying his good humour.
- I could say the same about you!- Bolin gasped and they both giggled.
- ...but you're totally going down.- there was an arch to Wei's voice and a dangerous glint in his eyes. Bolin was not one to back down from a challenge. He roared with laughter.
- Come and get me then!-
The Beifong fired wires from the holster on his left hip. Bolin dodged and it anchored to the ground behind him. He earthbended a trail towards the pedestal. Before it could crumble, Wei leapt off, the wires from his other holster shooting out and wrapping around Bolin's arm. Bolin managed to hit his opponent with his next attack. Wei fell to the ground, but not before his wires ensnared Bolin's other arm, immobilising him. Wei stood up, a triumphant smile on his a last ditch effort, Bolin tightly gripped the wires and pulled, tipping them both off balance.
Bolin hit the ground and then something hit him, as Wei, pulled along by his own wires, landed on top of him. The two of them were now face to face.
- Hi- breathed Wei, mossy eyes sparkling in the sunlight.
- Hi to you too.- muttered Bolin, cheeks heating up a little. They both laughed, though he wasn't sure about what. It was nice, lying in the soft grass with Wei.
-Whoa. Nice catch, Bolin!- he heard Mako's teasing chuckle. Bolin tilted his head to see Mako and Asami approaching. His brother arched an eyebrow at the two earthbenders, splayed out on the ground as they were. -But I thought you were supposed to be practicing metalbending, not earthbending.-
Oh. Bolin felt the frustration return. He'd been having so much fun just sparring he almost forgot why he was even in the garden to begin with. Wei sat up, still in Bolin's lap, giving his arm a playful jab. -Yeah, cheater.- he admonished, a soft smile on his face. Bolin's annoyance dissipated for a moment. Chuckling, he sat up, returning the jab.
Bolin turned back to his brother.-Mako, metalbending is extremely difficult. No one gets it right away, if they can get it at all! It's not normal!- as if the universe just loved proving him wrong, they heard Korra's laughter, as she managed to knock Wing down.
-Woo-hoo!- she cheered, throwing her hands into the air. -Metalbending champion!-
Bolin groaned, the jealousy back in full force. -Oh sure. She's the Avatar.- he tried to excuse his own shortcomings.
-Guys, it's time to get cleaned up.- honestly, they'd all probably have been long dead without Asami's occasional nagging- Tonight is Opal's farewell dinner.- The reminder only made his dismay grow.
-Oh, now I have to say bye to Opal?- he dropped his head back onto the soft, soft grass. -This is the worst day ever!-
With a sigh, Wei reeled his wires back in and got up, quickly walking off. Wing quickly followed him, waving to them, and Bolin wondered if he had done something wrong.
Opal's farewell dinner was a pleasant, casual affair. The Beifong family, Team Avatar, Varrick, Zhu Li and Aiwei were all seated at the table, a buzz with conversations. Bolin was grateful to be sat next to Opal, as she spoke to the chef.
-Thanks for making my favorite meal.-
-I'm really going to miss you, Opal.- the burly, tattoed man seemed almost near tears -No one appreciates my raw veggie wraps like you do.- the man walked away
-Every time I eat raw kale, I'm going to think of you.- Bolin tried to be romantic, he really did. Thankfully Opal appreciated the sentiment
-You're so sweet.- she laughed, but that just made him think about the missed opportunity even more
-This stinks! We were just starting to get to know each other, and now you're off to the Northern Air Temple.- he felt a little bad about being such a downer. Opal was clearly very excited about seeing the world outside Zaofu.
-We'll be together soon. You guys are coming up after finding more airbenders, right?-
-Yeah, but that's ... in the future.- he groaned, pouting at the universe. - Ugh, I hate the future!- he hated just about anything at right then.
Opal held up a piece of kale in front of him and he bit it. It didn't taste very well. -Until then, we'll always have kale.- she promised and turned back to her food.
Someone put a hand on his shoulder and Bolin jumped as Varrick invaded his personal space. - Kid, can I give you some relationship advice?-
With how oblivious Varrick was tu Zhu Li's feelings for him, Bolin decided against the offer. -Umm, no.-
The man shrugged -Well, your loss.- he turned and started pestering Asami and Korra about some device he invented.
Next to Opal, Suyin stood up and lifted her glass, as she gave a toast. -Everyone, if I could have your attention please? Tonight, my beautiful little girl leaves for the Northern Air Temple. - she put a hand on her daughter's shoulder -Opal, none of us could be more proud of you. You're an incredible daughter, sister, friend, and soon to be airbending master.- she kissed the top of Opal's head. Through the corner of his eye, Bolin saw Wei wipe a tear. Su continued her speech. -Here's to Opal. May she help lead us into the new era!-
They all raised their glasses as Opal hugged her parents.
They all walked Opal to her airship and waved, until they couldn't see her in the window anymore. The metal plates of the city began closing, and Lin remarked that they'd leave first thing in the morning. Korra tried to comfort him as best she could, along with Naga, who was finally allowed into the city. Bolin had a sneaking suspicion thay the twins had something to do with that.
Speak of the devil, they were approached by Wei, who looked at Korra, asking quietly. - You're sure Opal'll be safe at the Air Temple? -
The Avatar smiled, putting a hand on his shoulder. - Don't you worry, she's with Tenzin, and he'd rather die than let anything happen to the new generation of airbenders.-
The three of them began walking back towards the mansion. In the dim light of the lanterns, Bolin thought he saw dried tears on Wei's cheeks. He put an arm around the younger boy, who leant into the embrace. - Where are you guys going next in your search for airbenders? - Wei changed the subject, looking at Korra.
- Fire Nation, and I'm hoping Firelord Izumi is less of a bitch than the Earth Queen- Korra answered and Wei chuckled.
- My mother has said only good things about her, and they grew up together.- he assured -Plus, almost anyone's better than the Earth Queen-
They kept light conversation, until Wei had to split off towards the mansion. Korra, Bolin and Naga walked to the guest house in comfortable silence.
The quiet night and Bolin's pleasant dream about kale was suddenly filled with an annoying and all too familiar chittering.
-What?- Bolin sat up, trying to get his sleep addled brain to work -What's going on?- he saw the source of the noise, Pabu, pawing at the empty window squeaking exitedly. Bolin fell back down, into the comfy, soft, comfy bed. -Pabu, sleep!- he was so very, very tired. Pabu seemed to have calmed down and finally Bolin, could relax again.
The blissful peace lasted a total of a couple minutes, as Pabu began his late night concert yet again, this time even jumping onto Bolin's bed, startling him awake for a second time. -Huh? What? Oh, Pabu. -The fire ferret rushed to the window, again. -It's not play time right now.- Bolin tried to explain. There was nothing he could see through the window. What could have Pabu so riled up? -Okay, we are seriously going to have to have a talk..-
A group of people passed by the window and Pabu shrieked loudly. They didn't look anything like the guards he'd seen posted around the city. -What the heck?!- one of them had someone slung over his shoulder and Bolin quickly recognised that someone to be Korra. Horror gripped his throat. -They've got Korra.- the voice almost died in his lungs. He tried again, this time successful in waking up Mako -They've got Korra!-
The two of them rushed outside, Mako immediately blasting fire at the kidnappers, screaming- Let her go!- A boulder followed his attack, courtesy of Bolin. The woman with a strange tattoo on her head deflected Mako's fire, while another woman, a waterbender with no arms somehow stopped the rock.
These clearly were no ordinary bandits.
Tattoo Lady and a bald guy with airbending forced the brothers behind a pillar. Thankfully, the guards got involved, activating spotlights from their towers. An alarm started blaring and even more guards joined in. Tattoo Lady fired an explosion at each spotlight. Bolin has never seen such a manner of bending before. A third blast came out of nowhere, barely missing him and Mako, but it still had enough force to send them flying.
Asami ran out of a door behind them, helping Bolin stand. -We can't let them take her- Mako grunted, trying to get up.
Asami put a steadying hand on his shoulder - I don't think they're going to get far. Look!-
Despite overpowering a couple guards, the kidnappers' escape was foiled by Lin bending some metal slabs, blocking the way out. To the side, Bolin saw Suyin, Wei and Wing already adding panels to the barricade, until the bad guys were completely caged in. A woman, who Bolin recognised as the captain of the guard spoke through a megaphone.- We have you surrounded. It's over. Release the Avatar!-
Slowly, the grass underneath the cage began to burn away, the earth cracked and gave way to... lava? The magma forced the captain, Lin and a couple other guards have to leap out of the way of it's spread. The makeshift cage started to fall apart, metal slabs sinking into the hot liquid rock. The source of the lava appeared to be a bearded man with long black hair and tattoos.
For a moment, Bolin lost himself in shock and exitement. -No way! That guy is lavabending! That's awesome - he remembered their situation -...ly not good for us.-
Both groups seemed to have hit a stalemate, the kidnappers trapped and the Metal Clan unable to neutralise the threat. The bald airbender stood and tried to bend the smoke that came off the lava, but some guards managed to pull him over to them. Bolin, Mako, Lin, and Asami hid behind one of the metal slabs, the brothers launching some of their shots at the kidnappers, none hitting, unfortunately.
Tattoo Lady discharged another explosion towards them, and it arched, flying straight towards Bolin, nothing between it and him. For a moment he thought that would be the end of him, but another metal slab quickly moved to shield him. The projectile combusted rather harmlessly on the other side of the 's saviours turned out to be Su and the twins. The trio of Beifongs, rushed towards team Avatar, joining them behind the barricade. Wei greeted Bolin by giving his shoulder reassuring squeeze. Bolin gripped the other boy's hand, hoping to provide the same comfort.
Lin snapped at her sister -How did they get in here?-
Another explosion.
Su answered, visibly frustrated. -I don't know, but we're not letting them escape!-
A couple guards tried and failed to get over the lava by building a bridge. Thankfully, they all seemed to survive. Asami voiced everyone's thoughts. -There's no way to cross that moat.-
-We don't need to cross it.- Su declared, to everyone's surprise.- Lin and I can drop in from the dome on cables.
-That's a great idea.- no hour in the night was to early for Lin Beifong's sarcasm -Except we'll get blown up the second that third-eyed freak sees us.-
As if to prove her point, a blast went off right above them. They all ducked, Wei pressing into Bolin's back. Su gave Tattoo Lady a once over.
-She's a combustionbender.- she ruled, turning to team Avatar- If one of you can stun her, her powers will be knocked out temporarily.-
Just then the darndest thing happened. -Bolin can land a shot.- Mako announced, to Bolin's absolute shock -I can?- he blurted out.
- Yes, you can!- behind him, Wei was of the same mind as Mako -You hit me no problem this morning.-
- Yes, but you're not a 7 ft tall combustion lady- protested Bolin. Wei patted him on the shoulder with that sweet smile that made all Bolin's problems seem leagues away.
-You'll be fine.- the Beifong assured -just pretend she's me!-
Su looked at Mako, who nodded, then at Wei's smiling face and finally at Bolin. -You have to take her out right before we drop down.- she commanded, before she and her family rushed off.
Bolin was still in disbelief.
-I do?-
The walkie-talkie near them crackled to life, and Wing's voice could be heard, though Bolin wasn't sure how he knew it wasn't Wei. -We're in position.-
-Copy that. - Mako responded, before turning to his brother-It's Bolin time.-
-All right. Bolin time.- he said and then repeated the phrase once more, just to give himself at least a tiny amount of confidence -Bolin time!-
Bolin threw a boulder at the combustionbender, but she ducked with surprising agility. Her companions immediately came to her aid. Water, fire, lava and rocks were exchanged, and Bolin was forced to take cover behind the metal baricade. -I can't get a clean shot!-
-You have to!- Mako insisted.
Wing's voice came over the discarded walkie-talkie -Are we a go?-
-No go!- Mako responded, barely audible over the sound of the fight.
-Copy that, we're a go.- Bolin's heart droped.
-I said no!- Mako yelled -Wait! -
But Su and Lin were already dropping towards their deaths.
As the combustionbender looked up, time seemed to slow. Bolin barely heard Mako's voice. -Bolin, take the shot!-
The combustionbender tilted her head, preparing to fire. Bolin leapt to his feet.
Korra and Mako would loose Lin.
Wei and Opal would loose their mother.
Bolin had to do something. He wouldn't let this happen.
Suddenly, he was back in the gardens that morning, and Wei was cockily grinning at him.
In a smooth, practiced move Bolin launched the pebble, shattering that illusion.
Bullseye!
The pebble struck her directly into her third-eye tattoo, causing her projectile to explode prematurely. She and her companions were knocked down. The world sped up again as Su and Lin landed, the chief of police lifting Korra to safety.
Bolin heard Mako cheering. -Haha, nice job, little bro!-
The brothers managed to divert the attention of the armless waterbender and lavabender, keeping their attention while Su and Lin made of with Korra. The airbender flew towards the sisters, but Su damaged his glider, forcing him to land. Furiously, the man summoned a huge cloud of smoke, and when it disappeared, the four attackers were gone, leaving only a swathe of igneous rock behind them.
Korra was carried to Su's office and laid on the couch as Aiwei tended to her. Mako and Asami sat beside her, the latter holding Korra's hand.
Wing and Wei looked out through the window, at the cooled magma. At the damages done to their home. Bolin walked over to them and tapped Wei's shoulder, getting both their attention. Wing turned and offered a small nod of acknowledgement, walking towards his mother and aunt. Wei quickly turned towards Bolin, practically surrounded by a soft glow.
- You did it!- he simpered, poking Bolin's chest-I told you you could do it.- they both laughed. Wei's expression softened, and he looked up, moss green eyes locking onto Bolin's -I knew you could do it.- he said, more solemnly. Bolin was suddenly very aware of Wei's hand still on his chest, and the fact that he very much wanted to hold it. He opened his mouth to speak...
-This should neutralize the shirshu toxins.- Wei and Bolin all but leapt apart. Aiwei's monotone voice should not have been as startling as it was, but somehow Bolin almost jumped out of his skin, very aware of his cheeks burning for some strange reason. The truth seer poured the contents of a small bottle into Korra's mouth. For a moment the room was silent. As Korra lifted a finger they all sighed in relief.
Lin rounded on Su -How could you let this happen?! You assured me this was one of the most secure places in the world.- She fumed, as Asami and Mako helped Korra sit up.
-It is. I don't know how this happened.- Suyin retaliated, crossing her arms and frowning pensively. -Obviously this was a well-planned operation, so don't blame me.-
The door opened, and the captain of the guard walked in. She couldn't have been much older than Korra. -We searched the entire estate.- she reported bluntly.-There's no sign of them.-
-Well, keep looking!- Lin practically snarled. The girl gave a bow and left.
Aiwei stood, clearing his throat. -It would seem they had some inside knowledge of Zaofu. They must've been working with someone.-
Korra spoke up from where she was leaning against Asami -The...- she groaned and sat up on her own -the guards. It had to be one of them.-
-I agree.- Aiwei noded grimly.
-Question them all!- in her anger, Su very much reminded him of Lin- Whoever betrayed my city will suffer the consequences!-
Wei was no stranger to his father fretting over one thing or another, but this was getting ridiculous. Baatar Sr stressed about many things, his family and home being attacked by lavabending escaped convicts was only one if them, but currently at the forefront of his mind.
- Papa, you're pacing.- sighed Baatar Jr. As Suyin interrogated the guards about last night, the men of the family had been banished to Baatar Sr's office. The twins had been forced to sleep on the sofa there, and Wing was just waking up, his head in Huan's lap, much to their brother's displeasure.
- Ugh! I'm tiiiiredd.- Wing wailed, finally awakening. Wei could not help but be satisfied to see his twin was in as bad a shape as he was after their eventful night. Wing groaned again and Huan lightly shoved his little brother's head off his lap.
- That's what you get for fighting terrorists in the middle of the night.- the artist reproached, leaning back on the couch -Papa, when can we leave? I have things to do.- he said louder, annoyance evident in his tone.
Their father rubbed his temples. -Just as soon as your mother finds out who let those awful criminals into the city.- He sat in one of the armchairs, already worn out, despite it only being early morning.
As if the Spirits themselves sent her, Kuvira opened the door and stepped inside. Her adopted brothers immediately crowded her, all asking questions.
- Kuvira, are you alright?- asked Baatar Jr.
- Did you figure out who was the traitor? Did you arrest them?- questioned the twins in unison.
- Can we finally leave- deadpanned Huan.
- Boys, please!- Baatar Sr placed a hand on Kuvira's shoulder - give your sister some space.- he guided her to sit on the sofa. She sighed.
- You will be pleased to know that we have apprehended a suspect- she started slowly.
- Who?- Wing blurted out.
- A young guard, Hong Li- Kuvira answered - 18, born and raised here, seemingly no motive- she frowned -though evidence was found in his apartment.-
- You don't believe it?- Bataar Jr sensed her skepticism.
- I don't...- she hesitated. - Aiwei has never been wrong before. We will find a motive as the investigation proceeds.- Huan pointedly cleared his throat, causing Kuvira to roll her eyes. -Yes, you're all free to go.-
The artist dashed for the door with almost inhuman speed. Wei and Wing went to follow, stopped by their father laying a hand on both their shoulders -Now, you two make sure to have plenty of rest today, alright?- he requested gently.- And yes, that means no power disc. Take it easy, please.-
-Yes, papa- The twins groaned as they left. The second the door closed, Wing grabbed his brother's wrist and pulled him behind a corner.
- Okay- Wing whispered, lowered voice conspiratory. -18, born and raised in Zaofu, seemingly no motive at all- he quoted Kuvira - doesn't that seem even a bit suspicious?-
Wei rolled his eyes - You've been reading too many of those detective novels.- he fired back, he was no stranger to his twin's troublesome need to meddle in everything around him - besides, which part of 'take it easy' didn't you get?- he added, just to be petty.
- No, maybe you've been reading too little of those detective novels.- Wing tried to convince his twin, making his signature puppy eyes - maybe then you would know a setup when one slapped you across the face.-
- And who do you suggest set that guard up? Aiwei?-
- No, but it wouldn't hurt to investigate. -
- Dad said...-
- Dad doesn't have to know.-
- I think the sleep deprivation is starting to get to you.-
- Maybe. But I'm still right and you're wrong.-
- Look...- Wei sighed, relenting. Truth be told, Wing wasn't the only one to feel something was not right with that verdict. -Maybe you should take a nap, and if you still feel like investigating, we'll do it.-
Wing yawned -Okay, but just because I'm tired.-
Mako was making, what Bolin liked to call, his detective face. -I don't understand why we're not talking to that guard right now. Every minute we waste here, those guys get further away. I mean, how does a random guard get involved with a group of super criminals anyway?-
-What do you mean?- Asami prompted and Mako was more than happy to explain.
-That guard is only eighteen years old and has lived in Zaofu his entire life. Zaheer and his gang have been in prison for more than thirteen years.-
Korra walked up to them with Naga, who had refused to leave her mistress's side since the attack -I don't know, but we all saw the evidence.- she scratched Naga's head -It's pretty overwhelming.-
A new voice joined the conversation -Maybe a little too overwhelming?- Varrick came out of nowhere, as Varrick does. At this point Bolin should probably be used to it.
-Hey, Varrick. What are you doing here?-
The man laughed, waving a rock -Collecting pumice stones with Zhu Li. That lavabender did a lot of damage, but he makes a nice exfoliating rock, and when you got callouses like mine, you take all the pumice stones you can get your hands on. Or in my case, feet.- of course it would be something weird like that. Bolin looked away from the rather disturbing image of Zhu Li rubbing the rocks against her boss's feet.
Mako tried to get the conversation back on track-What were you saying about the evidence?-
-I was saying that I can smell a conspiracy when I see one.- Varrick explained, as if he were talking to a very small child.- Look, if I was trying to set someone up, I would tell everyone he's guilty and then plant the evidence in his apartment as proof.-
-Oh, you mean exactly like what you did to me?- Mako asked, bitterly. And Varrick roared with laughter, as if Mako had just said the funniest joke in the world.
-Yes, just like that! Remember how great that worked? Well, not for you.-
-You're right.- At this point, Mako was in full detective mode, too far gone to hold any offence for getting framed for a crime. -All the evidence points to this guard, but maybe he's just the fallback.-
-But for who?- Bolin asked, increasingly confused.
-For the only person who can truly keep a secret in this city- his brother continued to detective -Aiwei.-
- That does make sense- Asami nodded -But how do we interrogate him without him getting suspicious? It's not like we can lie to him. He'd probably also sense any ulterior motives.-
- We can always beat the truth out of him.- Korra raised a fist.
- Or we can... not.- Asami caught and lowered her friend's balled hand.
-All this deliberation, when you guys already have a secret weapon!- Varrick muttered.
Mako looked at him sceptically. -What secret weapon?-
- Bolin!- the man exclaimed, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
Bolin himself had reached a whole new level of confused. -Me? What can I do?-
- Easy!- Varrick came closer, explaining further, in a comically, overly dramatic whisper - I happen to know for a fact that Suyin Beifong's children have devised a way to fool the ol' truth seer. I also happen to know that a certain Wei Beifong has a sweet spot for our Bolin.- Bolin's heart strangely fluttered at the mention of Wei. He liked to think that they had a good relationship, but having it confirmed, by Varrick of all people, sent odd tingles down his spine and warmth into his cheeks.
- Sweet spot?- Asami seemed confused, but Mako interjected.
-so what you're saying is, thay Bolin could get Wei to tell us how to lie to Aiwei? - as Varrick noded, the firebender turned to his brother -think you can do that?-
- I don't know... it feels so mean to just use our friendship like that...- Bolin answered, truthfully -It wouldn't feel right.-
- Bo, you're making a mountain out of a mole hill.- Mako sighed, visibly exhasperated.
- Think of it this way- Asami rested a hand on his shoulder, trying the good cop approach - if Aiwei really is working with those criminals, you'd be potentially saving Wei from danger. Im sure he'd understand.- she made a good point.
-Fine.-
- Splendid!- cheered Varrick, definitely getting way into this than he should. -Alright, the plan is, Bolin, you go into full Nuktuk costume, hair AND make up. You seduce the young Beifong with your manly wiles and skillful imitation of wolfbat mating calls...-
- How about you don't do any of that.- Mako cut Varrick off, frowning disapprovingly.
- But I was just getting to the good part- the businessman exclaimed indignantly. He looked so dissapointed, that Bolin almost felt bad.
- Sorry, Varrick, but I don't have my Nuktuk costume with me anyway. - he excused himself -plus, I don't really think I would be able to seduce Wei...- the word 'seduce' burned Bolin's tongue as if it were lava. The very thought of it seemed... tantalising?
- Awww, no seduction?- Korra elbowed Bolin playfully -C'mon, Bolin, you're gonna heve to use those manly wiles of yours one day...- she joked, that wolfish grin of hers on full display. Beside her Asami chortled. Most unladylike.
Mako sighed, pinching the bridge if his nose. -We definitely won't be needing seduction...-
- Okay, could everyone stop saying 'seduction', please?- Bolin begged, face as red as a tomato at this point.
- You just need to ask him about it casually.- Mako ruffled his younger brother's hair. - He likes you. And he trusts you. He'll talk.-
-Why, oh why did I let myself get talked into this?- Bolin wailed, while Mako dragged him towards the dance studio.
- Because you want to root out a potential traitor- Asami smiled sweetly. Next to her. Korra laughed and whispered 'wolfbat mating calls'.
They reached the doorway and Mako turned to his brother. - okay, Bo, you'll be fine. Just go in, ask him about Aiwei and go out.-
- Ah yes, that's the charm Asami and I fell for- Korra mocked, linking arms with Asami.
Mako's face turned red. -You know what? Just do your own thing.- He all but shoved Bolin into the studio.-
This time it was only Wei in the studio, hanging from the rafters by his wires, preforming a complicated aerial routine for an empty room. Flittering high above the floor, his jewellery twinkling in the soft sunshine, the Beifong looked more like a Spirit than a human of flesh and blood. Landing on the ground with a twirl, Wei faced Bolin and bowed elegantly. This time, Bolin clapped. Hell, he even whistled, much to Wei's amusement.
- I've said it before and I'll say it again. I think you're an amazing dancer.- Bolin exclaimed, walking towards Wei, who gathered up his wires.
- Thanks, but I'd much rather be playing power disc.-
- Then why not do that?-
- Wing's asleep, plus our father told us to rest today. He worries. - Wei sighed.
- Ah, about that...- Bolin struggled to remember why he was even there, under the gaze of those spellbinding, mossy eyes. -HaveyoueverliedtoAiwei?- he blurted out.
- ...What?- Wei asked, rightfully taken aback.
Frick. But at this point Bolin was knee deep in this swamp, might as well keep going. -I said, have you ever lied to Aiwei?-
- Maybe~ Wei drawled, a sly smile creeping onto his features. -Why do you want to know?-
Bolin could feel sweat running down his spine. - Oh, you know..- dammit, focus! -You know, umm, just curious. I'm, uh, I'm...-
- Up to no good?- asked Wei.
- Who, me? Nah!- Bolin tried to protest.
- Because...- continued Wei, leaning in and lowering his voice- ...if i knew someone, who was up to no good, I definitely could give them a couple pointers.-
Bolin also bent forward, and now their foreheads were almost touching . -Well, then mabye I am up to no good.- he confessed, and Wei giggled.
-Yeah, I gathered.-
- Okay, it's pretty easy, all things considered. The one big rule is that you have to believe that you can actually lie to Aiwei. Half of his success is the fact people belive that he's some sort of psychic, but he actually just uses seismic sense to feel your heartbeat. All you need to do is regulate your heartbeat.- Wei explained, and Bolin was suddenly very aware of how hard his own heart was beating.
-How... uh, how do I regulate my heartbeat?-
- Try to imagine you're somewhere relaxing and pleasant, like a forest or something. Anything that makes you feel comfortable. Not anything too fun or exciting though, that would pick your heartbeat back up again.- Wei stretched his arms, with a sigh - That's about it. It's not rocket science or anything. Good luck.-
- Thanks for the advice. - Bolin felt like hugging Wei, but ruled against it.
- No problem. Now, excuse me, I think I need to go talk to Wing.- he almost dashed away, but right as he reached the door he turned for a moment. - And, Bolin?- Bolin's heart fluttered like a bird in a cage. - Be careful.- for some reason, that was disappointing, but what exactly that reason was, Bolin didn't know for sure.
- Always.- he smiled, which was a lie. His track record actually pointed to the opposite.
But Wei didn't have to know that.
Aiwei's house was seemingly empty.
-He's not home. Or he's hiding in there.- Bolin announced, looking through the window -Or he's invisible.- he gasped. They didn't know what Aiwei was capable of, though everyone else seemed skeptical. -Probably just not home.-
-We have to get in there and find some evidence that links Aiwei to Zaheer.- Mako, ever the detective, instructed his friends -otherwise Su won't believe us. -
Aiwei's house looked like just a regular old house. There were plenty of books laying around. Asami flipped through one of them. -It's just an empty book.-
Bolin decided to investigate the bookshelf, and saw a cool little jar, full of sand. He grabbed it for inspection. -Hmm, it's like a desert in a jar.-
-Bolin, put that back!- snapped Mako from behind him-We don't want Aiwei to know we were in here if we can't find anything. -
Fine, he'll just pu the jar back where it... was. Oh, dear.
Mako groaned. -You forgot where it goes, didn't you?- snaching the jar from Bolin's hand, his brother haphazardly put it back on its shelf. Mako then looked down at the floor and frowned. -These look like scuff marks. I think this bookshelf slides open.-
It did, and it revealed a cellar.
-What do you think is down there?- Korra asked, already prepared to investigate.
Bolin decided not to jump to conclusions -Could be a storage cellar.-
Mako decided to jump to conclusions -Or it could be how Zaheer got in and out.-
Asami's voice, full of urgency came from where she was posted as lookout. - Aiwei's coming back! Quick.-
Sliding the bookshelf back into its place, the three of them rushed to join her and tried to look as innocent as possible while blatantly trespassing.
The door opened and Aiwei walked in, followed by Wing and Wei, who looked equally surprised to see team Avatar as team Avatar was to see them. Aiwei, on the other hand, looked furious. -What are doing in my house?- he hissed, the friendly, mild-mannered man from this morning having completely disappeared. -You are trespassing on the property of one of the highest-ranked officials in the city. You'd better have a good explanation.-
-We do. We do. - Bolin rushed to find an explanation. His mind drew a blank, whatever lying knowledge Wei had instilled in him lost completely. -We actually knocked on your front door and we thought we heard you say, 'Come in, I'm in the bathroom!'- for a moment everyone was silent, though the twins' were clearly trying to hold in laughter and Aiwei looked like he was about to burst a vein. -I don't even know why I'm saying that.- Bolin gave up the useless little performance he'd been putting on. - You know I'm lying, and you don't even sound like that.-
- That is enough. I will make sure Suyin knows her guests think that they can break into her friends houses.- Aiwei turned to storm out the door, but Wei stood in front of him.
- I know this looks bad, but I'm sure the Avatar and her friends have an explanation for this.- he spoke quickly, and Wing nodded. Aiwei sighed, looking towards Korra, who slowly explained, blurring the lines between truth and lies.
-We came here because things weren't adding up, and we thought you might have some answers.-
Aiwei sighed again, as if the entire world was resting upon his shoulders. - Wei and Wing had come over with similar concerns.- he gestured to his couch - Sit. All of you. If you want to talk, let's talk over some tea.- Bolin, Asami and the twins complied and sat. The couch was slightly to small and Bolin was hyper aware of Wei's shoulder pressing into him. The younger man seemed more tense than Bolin gad ever seen him before, even during battle. A small part of him wanted to offer a hug, a touch, any kind of comfort, but then Aiwei once again began speaking.
-Now, what is not 'adding up' exactly?- he clearly sounded frustrated, as he poured tea into a few cups -Hong Li was clearly lying and we found evidence in his apartment.-
-But don't you think it's weird how young he is?- Wing asked, eyes trained on the cup of tea in his hands. -He's just eighteen, younger than Huan and Junior and neither of them have ever been outside Zaofu in their lives.-
-How did he ever get mixed up with this group?- Mako added, standing behind the couch. Next to him, Korra crossed her arms, intensely watching Aiwei as he waked towards his bookshelf.
- Perhaps through a relative, or maybe he was bribed. We will find out those answers in time. - Aiwei's eyes roamed the bookshelf searchingly -But if it wasn't him, who do you think it was?-
Asami cleared her throat, lying with surpring ease. Much better than Bolin, most definetly. -We don't know.-
Aiwei reached up, and moved the Sand Jar a couple inches to the left. Frick. -You don't think I had something to do with this, do you?-
Bolin felt a chill go down his spine. Next to him, Asami fiddled with the straps of her glove behind her back. Korra spoke, cooly -We're just looking for answers.-
-And you think you've found something, don't you?- he looked down at the ground beneath the bookshelf, and his voice became menacing -You have no idea what is coming for you, Avatar.-
Throwing his hands into the air, Aiwei bent a wall out of his floor. Korra tried to get through it, barely creating a dent, much to Mako's frustration. -Come on, he's getting away!-
-I'm still a little new at this,- Korra responded angrily. -so back off!-
The twins sprung into action, deepening the dent until Korra and Mako could get through it. Bolin and the twins chased after them, Asami hot on their heels. Bolin burst into the cellar. He barely registered Mako yell -BOMB!-, giving him just about enough time to turn around, shielding whoever ran into the room after him. /p
It went off.
Korra managed to somehow airbend to protect them from the explosion, but the force of it still was enough to send them all tumbling to the ground and trash the entire cellar.
- Everyone ok? - Korra's voice cut through the dust filled room. Bolin groaned. His head hurt, his ears were ringing and he had a mouthful of plaster bits. A large amount of debris had fallen on them, but Bolin's landing was surprisingly soft. Perhaps that's because the explosion shoved him straight onto Wei, who held his head, making little pained noises.
Asami, the least affected by the blast, quickly did a headcount - I don't see any injuries.- she answered Korra, helping the Avatar up.-
Mako rose, looking for Aiwei -He's gone.- he croaked, shaking some debris out of his hair. Beneath Bolin, Wei sat up, so suddenly their heads almost collided.
-Aiwei... he tried to kill us.- Wei stood, legs shaking. He looked shocked and confused. Eyes wide and a bit glassy, jaw slightly slack. Bolin almost feared he'd fall right back down.
- I'm sorry...- Asami started, but Wei's face suddenly hardened.
- He tried to kill us!- he repeated, this time angrily. -My mother named me after him and he tried to blow us up!- he seethed, pulling a stunned Wing to his feet.
-Look, he must've escaped through there!- Korra called, examining a small opening in the wall, covered by the rubble. -Help me clear it out.- With Bolin's help, she revealed a tunnel.
Wei stood at the entrance to it and placed a hand on the ground, clearly focusing. - I can't sense much.- he murmured, standing. - He must've collapsed the tunnel behind him.-
A clanking of armour heralded the captain of the guard as she rushed in. - We heard an explosion. Is everyone alright? Wei? Wing?- she asked eyes darting between the twins, before taking in the room's state. Wing turned to her with an expression not unlike Su's when she gave orders.
- Aiwei was the one who let the criminals into the city.- Wing explained and motioned to the tunnel. -He got out through here.-
- Find out where it leads to and keep the guards on high alert.- Wei added. The captain nodded and immediately ran out of the tunnel, yelling something into her walkie talkie.
Wing groaned. - We need to speak to mother. She'll be crushed.-
Su was indeed crushed. -I... trusted him.- she whispered sadly, when they finished their story.
They were all once again in Su's study, this time joined by Baatar Sr. who gently put a hand around his wife. Team Avatar had been seated on one sofa, the twins on the other. All of them still covered in dust and rubble and despite the gravity of the situation, Bolin still felt like a child caught doing something naughty.
Lin was furious. - What were you thinking?- she yelled at Korra.
- And what were you thinking?- she continued, rounding on her nephews, who jumped, clearly unused to her outbursts.
- Well, I was thinking that one of our most trusted family friends might be a dangerous terrorist, who assisted in the attempted kidnapping of the Avatar.- Wing fired back, angry expression perfectly mirroring Lin's. Wow, they really were family. - And then I thought 'huh, mabye we should investigate this'-
- In which case, you should have talked to your mother or I.- Baatar Sr gently said, embracing Su.
- You and mom wouldn't have believed us!- huffed Wei, hugging an embroidered cushion.
The captain of the guard rushed through the door. Lin was quick to interrogate her. -What did you find?-
-We located the end of the tunnel, but there's no sign of him.- she reported- Just some fresh tire tracks.-
- Thank you, Kuvira- Su nodded- you may leave. Get some rest- she added gently and the young woman left.
As the door closed, Mako opened his mouth. -He had an escape plan all ready to go.-
-I trusted him with my life.- Su shook her head, sorrowful -I thought we were family, but it was all a lie.- She sat on the sofa and her sons embraced her.
Mako continued with his investigation. -Whoever these guys are, they're more powerful than we thought, and more dangerous.- -That's why we have to find them.- Korra was, as usual, up for a fight, even after nearly being blown up. -We're going to hold off our search for airbenders and hunt down Aiwei. Naga can track his scent.-
-And I bet if we find Aiwei, we'll find Zaheer.- Asami backed her up, much to Lin's chagrin.
-No! We're not hunting this group.- the chief of police insisted. -There could be other secret agents in other parts of the world looking for you right now! I'm taking you back to Republic City, where I can protect you.-
Korra and Lin quickly fell into an argument.
-If I wasn't safe here, then I'm not safe anywhere. I have to stop them!-
-It's too dangerous! You are not going!-
-Stop trying to protect me! I'm the Avatar. This is my job!-
-Don't lecture me about jobs!-
-Enough!- It was Su who intervened. - Korra, listen to Lin.-
-But ... they ...- Korra faltered, caught off guard.
-Please. Lin's only looking out for you.- Bolin's eyes drifted towards Wei and he noticed that the Beifong was as surprised by his mother's opinion as everyone else. -I promise you, Aiwei and everyone he's working with will be brought to justice.-
-Fine- Korra deflated- if you really think it's best.-
-I do.-
-Thank you, Su.- Lin squeezed her sister's shoulder. Wei caught Bolin's eye and lightly shook his head.
-Everyone should get some rest tonight.- Su proposed -I'll have my people prep your airship and you can leave first thing in the morning. As for you two, -she turned to Wing and Wei, who tried to do anything they could to avoid her reproachful gaze. -I assure you, your father and I will have a talk about today.-
As her husband nodded gravely, the twins groaned.
Bolin couldn't help but chuckle at Wei's dejected face as they left the room.