Shinobi Country: Konoha, Morning…
Tsunade was doing paperwork within her office when Shizune arrived with a paper in her hands. "Lady Tsunade, a message from Kakashi has arrived for you."
"Let me see." Tsunade took the note and read it. "So, Sasuke has decided he's happier in the Elemental Nations than this village."
"Do you think he won't want to return?" Shizune asked.
"What he wants should not matter." A voice answered from the doorway.
"Wait, aren't you…" Tsunade stated.
An old warhawk stood in her door. "It's been a long time…Princess Tsunade."
"Danzo Shimura." Tsunade greeted.
"What must be done is clear." Danzo strolled into the room. "An asset of Konoha lies across the sea, and a team is there. Regardless of his wants, retrieval is the only course."
"That would be unwise." Tsunade retorted. "Sasuke is happy in the Elemental Nations, so he would not come willingly. He is seen as a hero, and if that is not enough to get people mobilizing, his bond with the Avatar is. The Avatar is someone no village should take lightly.
If we secured Sasuke Uchiha and fended off whatever came for him, there would be casualties. I will not risk multiple Shinobi for one Genin, no matter how valuable they appear. As things stand, he's not with Orochimaru, and that is enough. I'll be sending a message to abort mission."
…
"Very well." Danzo stated simply, before turning and leaving.
Tsunade had a feeling. No matter how easy it seemed to deter Danzo, she knew better. The old warhawk wasn't as accepting of her decision as he seemed.
Elemental Nations: Republic City
Varrick's ship docked while Lin Beifong watched Water Tribe criminals being arrested.
"Hey, Lin." Sasuke greeted.
Lin nodded. "Sasuke, welcome home." She then saw Kakashi, Sakura, Kiba, Shikamaru, Lee, and Neji disembarking from the yacht. "Who are they?"
"Former comrades from Konoha." Sasuke responded.
"That again?" Kiba muttered.
"Kakashi Hatake." Kakashi greeted. "You must be Chief Beifong."
"Yes, I am." Lin then saw Korra and Mako. "Welcome home, Avatar. Thanks for starting a war."
"It's more complicated than you're making it seem." Korra argued.
"Mako, I want you back on the beat." Lin stated. "There's going to be a Southern Water Tribe peace march tonight, and I need you there to make sure things don't get out of hand."
"I'm all yours." Mako said.
"I'll go too." Korra declared. "The people of the South need to know the Avatar is on their side in the fight against the Northern invaders."
"Great, that should calm them down." Lin said sarcastically before leaving.
"Nice person." Shikamaru commented sarcastically.
Sasuke shrugged. "She's not that bad once you get to know her."
"Korra, maybe you should sit this one out." Mako voiced.
"What?" Korra asked.
"I just think having you there, blatantly supporting one side, will only make things worse." Mako reasoned. "You could at least try to seem neutral."
"Being neutral is the same as supporting the North." Kora argued firmly. "It's exactly what happened while we were in the Southern Water Tribe and plays exactly into what Unalaq wants."
"Korra, I agree you can't necessarily be neutral; however, there is still a good point to be had here." Sasuke stated. "You shouldn't blame the entire North for blindly following Unalaq. Non-Benders were following Amon, yet you didn't blame them."
"Sasuke's right." Utakata nodded. "Unalaq is the source of all this."
"Look, I promise I will do everything to help your father, but the last thing you should do is let your anger cloud your judgement." Sasuke reasoned. "I understand you want to correct your mistake, but you need to cool off. Come at this from another angel."
"Ugh, just like Amon." Korra groaned. "You know I can't argue with your logic when you talk like this. I always agree with what you say since you're the smart one."
"Hey, what about me?" Shikamaru asked.
"You're lazy and complain about everything." Korra argued.
"Right now, we should get somewhere we can talk this through." Sasuke voiced.
"You guys stopped Amon by exposing him." Sakura remined. "Maybe you should do the same to Unalaq and get the North to see he's nothing more than a terrible person. Perhaps that's something you can do during that protest tonight."
"Hm, that's actually not a bad idea." Sasuke admitted genuinely.
"You really mean it?" Sakura asked hopefully.
"Don't push your luck." Sasuke stated blankly, making Sakura hang her head again.
"That could work, but the people of the Water Tribe can be proud." Korra voiced. "Changing their minds won't be easy."
"Like the Non-Benders were easy to convince?" Sasuke remined.
"You're not wrong." Korra nodded. "It's worth a try."
"As for what happens next, Zhu Li's already scheduled a meeting for us with President Raiko tomorrow." Varrick declared. "We'll get him on board."
"Whatever, I got to get to work." Mako said while walking away.
"I better go check on my factory." Asami said while walking away.
"Let's head to Mako and Bolin's apartment." Sasuke said. "It's closer to the island and as good a place as any to figure out what we're going to do."
Korra nodded as they left.
"I am dying for a pedicure." Varrick declared before walking away.
"So, um, what should I do?" Bolin asked.
"I don't know Bolin, figure something out." Mako called back.
"Say kid, have you seen Republic City at night?" Varrick asked.
"Sure. I live here." Bolin said.
"Have you REALLY seen it?" Varrick asked.
"Uh, no?" Bolin questioned uncertainly.
"That's what I thought." Varrick took the Earthbender. "C'mon."
Southern Water Tribe: Palace, War Room
Unalaq was listening to his general, who wore white Chakra Armor. "Tonraq and the rebels are holed up here in the hills outside of town."
"Leave them." Unalaq ordered. "My brother is no threat to us up there. Increase security around the spirit portal. Keeping it safe is our number one priority."
The general saluted. "Yes, sir!"
He then left while Desna and a deranged Eska, both now in the same Chakra Armor, entered the room to see their father.
"I need you two to go after the Avatar." Unalaq ordered. "She's the only one who can open the Northern spirit portal."
"Father, you told Korra…" Desna began.
"I told Korra what I thought she needed to hear." Unalaq interrupted.
"I'll find her." Eska declared angrily. "She stole my husband."
"I need her ALIVE." Unalaq declared firmly.
Eska sighed unhappily. "Fine."
"What about Sasuke Uchiha?" Desna asked. "He's always around Korra and will protect her."
"I have no need for that worthless brat." Unalaq stated. "He should have died along with his pathetic clan. You can redeem Itachi's mistake and kill him for sport. Then, bring Korra to me."
"At least I can hurt somebody." Eska said.
Southern Air Temple
Meelo was training Poki while Tenzin read a scroll in the shade. "Watch me, Poki. You lie down and roll over." He demonstrated. "Roll over."
"No, no. You can't just demonstrate it." Tenzin muttered. "That never works."
Poki curled himself into a ball and started sleeping.
"Good!" Meelo declared while giving a treat.
"Ugh, classic over-rewarding." Tenzin muttered.
Meelo then used a treat to play with Poki before a noise saw the lemur flying off. "Poki, where are you going?"
"Command respect." Tenzin muttered before approaching his son. "Having some trouble, son?"
"Poki isn't very good at learning." Meelo responded.
"Believe me, I know that feeling." Tenzin assured. "Maybe I can help. How would you like your old dad to teach you how to be a master trainer?"
"Yeah!" Meelo cheered.
Republic City: Mako & Bolin's Apartment
Before Mako headed out to help the police give order to the coming peace march that night, he allowed Sasuke and Korra into the apartment.
"We need to figure out how we're going to convince the North and South that Unalaq is not what he appears." Sasuke said.
"But how?" Korra asked.
Just then, Sakura arrived with a bag. "I got something."
"What?" Sasuke asked.
"There was hesitation in Korra leading the South in the peace march because that would cause disharmony." Sakura set the bag on the table. "With these added into the march, we can help remind people how you two once fought for unity between Benders and Non-Benders."
The bag contained white roses.
"Roses?" Sasuke asked.
"Why?" Korra asked.
"I've heard white roses symbolizes humanity and loyalty." Sakura stated. "What we should do is give every member of the South one of these to hold and pass them out as they march."
"I don't think this will work entirely." Sasuke said.
"Every moment we waste talking is another minute my family could be wiped out." Korra reminded. "I let my father down once, I can't do it again."
"Well, Sakura's plan is at least decent." Sasuke admitted. "Maybe if we add in the explanation on what really happened, they might be more convinced."
"It's worth a try." Korra said.
Southern Water Tribe Cultural Center: Night…
Police were controlling the crowd. Korra and Sasuke were on Naga, leading the Southerners through the street. Every Southerner held candles on paper lotuses in one hand and a white rose in the other. Sakura moved through the streets passing out white roses to Northerners.
"Tensions are running high outside of the Southern Water Tribe Cultural Center. The Avatar is leading a group of Southerners in a peaceful protest against Chief Unalaq, but the Northerners have come out in droves in support of their leader." A reporter said.
"I think it's working." Sakura came up alongside Naga. "I've given some of the roses to the Northerners, and they seemed to like it."
She was then hit by a rose.
"Keep your stupid weeds!" One of the Northerners yelled.
"Why you…" Sakura growled.
"Don't, Sakura." Sasuke warned.
"Maybe they'll be more accepting once they've heard us out." Korra offered.
Mako, Kakashi, Shikamaru, and Lee were keeping an eye on things.
"Well, Sakura's plan didn't work." Shikamaru noted.
"So much for trying to make true unity." Lee lamented.
"They have to keep trying." Mako voiced. "If there's one thing I know about Korra
and Sasuke, it's that they never give up."
Just then, two men wearing trench coats were sneaking their way out of the cultural center's back door, but one of them stepped on a can, alerting the four of them.
"Who's there!?" Lee asked.
"Hey! Stop! Republic City Police!" Mako yelled.
The four of them began to chase after the men, but one of them pressed a button on a remote resulting in the building exploding. Mako bent away the flames that came their way, protecting the four of them before they then continued their pursuit.
All but one man had climbed into a waiting car. Before he could enter, Mako Firebent at him, but the man utilized his own Firebending to defend. Lee blitzed forward as the man was attempting to get inside the vehicle.
The Genin lept and spun at him. "Leaf Hurricane!"
He kicked the man, knocking him down the street, and the remote fell out of his pocket. The car peeled down the road and one of the men managed to nab their comrade as they drove by. Shikamaru threw kunai to take out the vehicle's tires, but the driver managed a sharp right.
As they sped away, Mako spotted theremote and picked it up. "The suspects are gone, but they left this behind."
"What is that?" Lee asked.
"A remote." Mako responded. "This was used to detonate the bombs, causing the explosion."
"A civil war starts and criminals who use explosions?" Shikamaru sighed. "This whole thing's a drag already."
"Welcome to my world." Mako said.
The four of them went around to the front. Sakura was standing back while Korra Waterbent and Sasuke unleash Water Style Ninjutsu at the fire.
"I can't believe the North would go this far." Korra said.
"We all saw a Firebender running away from the scene." Mako corrected.
"It's true." Kakashi collaborated. "One of them Firebent."
"Given who Unalaq is, I don't think he would or would have his men hire Firebenders to do this." Sasuke stated. "The North can't be behind this."
"If the North isn't behind this, then who is?" Sakura asked.
Just then, a fire truck arrived.
"We'll talk about this later." Korra stated.
She went for the truck while Sasuke got back to using his Water Style.
"I doubt those guys acted on their own." Mako reasoned. "Whatever is going on here, I feel this whole thing is about more than the war."
Pro-Bending Arena
Zhu Li opened the door of a limo to let Bolin and Varrick out. There were photographers taking pictures as the latter waved.
"Wow." Bolin was amazed. "Usually, when I see flashing lights like this, it's because I got hit in the head with a rock."
"Being famous is like getting hit with a rock ALL the time." Varrick informed.
Varrick and Bolin were sat within a VIP booth where one of the spectators immediately noticed him. "Look! It's Bolin!"
The audience cheered the Earthbender's name, so he waved before flexing for them.
"Folks, that cheer you're hearing is for local favorite Bolin, of the Fire Ferrets." Shiro informed. "Let's see if we can get a quick interview. Bolin!" Bolin ended up joining him while Varrick stood back. "Bolin, The Fire Ferrets are out for the season. How have you been spending your time lately?"
"Well, I took a trip to the South for the Glacier Spirits Festival and was briefly engaged to a princess." Bolin responded. "Then, I went through a rough breakup there and was accidentally involved in a civil war…" He noticed how uninterested the crowd was. "But there's nowhere I'd rather be than Pro-Bending night in Republic City! Am I right, people? Republic City!"
The crowd cheered.
"Do you miss being in the ring?" Shiro asked.
"Well, I definitely don't miss getting hit with things all the time, and the humiliating loses." Bolin replied. "I mean, that gets old. You know, sometimes, I actually cry myself to sleep." Again, the crowd was uninterested. "I guess what I miss most are these FANS! They're the greatest fans in the world!" The crowd cheered. "Give it up for the fans!"
"Look at how these people love you, kid!" Varrick exclaimed as the Earthbender joined him. "They're eating that cornball spiel right out of your hands."
"The trick is, whenever I get confused, I just say 'Republic City' or 'fans', and then everyone cheers." Bolin explained.
"I think I just figured out your true calling." Varrick noted.
Streets
In the process of taking care of the fire, the streets around the cultural center had been cleared of almost everyone. Said building was clearly fire damaged while white roses laid scattered on the street. Korra and Sasuke were there to note all of this.
"Well, our plan to help the North and South see the truth failed." Sasuke sighed. "Now, it seems the South is even angrier."
"Do you really think the North wasn't responsible for this?" Korra asked.
"Mako and Kakashi said Firebenders were responsible, and I don't see Unalaq paying people to do anything which might see the Republic intervene on behalf of the South." Sasuke responded. "That's just plain dumb, and Unalaq's shown he's anything but."
"Avatar Korra!" A voice called.
They turned to see a boy wearing purple clothing.
"He must be from the North." Sasuke muttered.
"What are you doing here?" Korra asked.
"I wanted to say I hope you can try and help end the fighting." The boy stated. "My mommy and daddy have family down in the South, and things are not going good there. People are saying Chief Unalaq is imprisoning people who defy him."
"I promise, I'll do whatever I can to bring peace between the tribes." Korra declared.
The boy smiled. "Thank you, Avatar!"
He then ran off.
"Guess we ended up reaching someone." Sasuke commented.
"We have a lot to do to pay off that faith." Korra said.
City Hall: Day…
Korra and Sasuke were making their way through city hall with Varrick.
"I hope President Raiko listens to us." Korra said.
"Don't worry, I was a big contributor to his election campaign." Varrick assured. "Him and the other guy. Gotta hedge your bets."
"Just remember to keep your cool and focus on our goal." Sasuke noted to the Avatar.
Korra nodded. "Right." They soon met with the president who was a tan skinned, middle-aged man wearing spectacles and a blue suit. "Hello, Mr. President." They shook hands. "Sir, the Southern Water Tribe…"
"Just a second. Keep smiling." Raiko turned to a camera, confusing Korra before Varrick poked her in the back, and she smiled awkwardly as the cameras flashed. "This way please." He then led the three to his office. "Now, how can I help the Avatar and my most generous supporter?"
"I'm sure you're aware Chief Unalaq's troops have invaded the Southern Water Tribe." Korra voiced. "So, we need you to send the United Forces to help."
"I'm very concerned by what's happening down there, but I don't think it's the Republic's place to interfere with Water Tribe matters." Raiko retorted.
"Unalaq isn't even the rightful ruler of the Water Tribe." Korra argued. "He lied his way onto the Northern throne by tricking my father and getting him banished."
"Not to mention he rigged a trial to then frame Tonraq in an attempt to get the Avatar on his side." Sasuke added.
"The older people are talking." Raiko retorted to him.
The Uchiha growled at that before Korra calmed him down. "Mister President, with all due respect, I've seen first-hand how Chief Unalaq is not the kind of man we should negotiate with. He's manipulative and will do anything to get his way.
"Besides, the Republic is already involved in this conflict." Varrick added. "The North attacked our Cultural Center last night."
"Mako and Kakashi said it was a Firebender." Korra argued.
"How do we know the Firebender wasn't paid off by the North?" Varrick asked.
"For all the things Unalaq has stooped to, the one thing he wouldn't do is unnecessarily hire people outside his nation for a job that would coerce help for the South." Sasuke crossed his arms. "Unalaq is a lot of things but dumb isn't one of them."
"Whoever is responsible, believe me when I say we are doing everything possible to bring them to justice." Raiko declared.
"You don't understand." Korra argued. "With Unalaq in charge, the North will crush the South. Now, Sasuke came up with an idea that might benefit us all. Instead of attacking, we use the United Nation's submarines to sneak troops into Southern borders.
They can meet with my father and the rebels to formulate a strategy on how to dethrone Unalaq from the inside. With safety in numbers, we'd have a better chance against the soldiers and stop the war before it escalates."
"Hmm, that's a well thought out plan." Raiko admitted. "Still, sending troops is something we cannot do at this time. I promise I will work with Unalaq and the South to find a diplomatic solution."
"Haven't you been listening?" Korra was starting to lose her patience. "Unalaq is not the diplomatic type. I know what he's capable of."
"I understand, when you're young, it's hard to keep perspective…" Raiko began.
"You're the one who's lost perspective." Korra interrupted. "I was hoping you'd agree to help put a stop to this war before it gets out of hand."
"I understand your frustration, but it wasn't easy stopping Amon's revolution, correct?" Raiko asked.
"Well, no, but…" Korra began.
"And he showed no mercy for you or that boy you're with, did he not?" Raiko asked.
"He didn't, but…" Korra tried.
"I appreciate your youthful idealism, but we settle things maturely rather than relying on violence." Raiko said.
"You're not going to try?" Korra asked in disbelief. "My people need help, and you're just taking pictures. I made a promise to my father that I would get him all the help he needs, and I will NOT break this promise! There's more at stake than you know!"
"What are you talking about?" Raiko asked.
"Sasuke had no conclusive evidence, yet he was right every step of the way when it came to my uncle." Korra explained. "Lately, he's been thinking there's more than just the Civil War at play here. Look, if we don't stop Unalaq, things will only get worse."
"You sit there and disrespect me before going onto talk about the hunch of some child?" Raiko scoffed. "You've been spending too much time with him to share such juvenile ideals."
"Juvenile?" Korra asked. "I'm telling the truth."
"Enough!" Raiko yelled. "This meeting is over!"
"My family is going to be wiped out, and it will be on your head for doing nothing about it!" Korra shouted before she, Sasuke, and Varrick left.
Outside Mako & Bolin's Apartment: Later…
Sasuke was outside the apartment as Kakashi, Utakata, and Sakura arrived.
"How did the meeting go?" Kakashi asked.
"The president is just as useless as those other three council members who always followed whatever Tarrlok wanted." Sasuke scoffed. "He's not sending troops to help the South, and thinks Korra's been corrupted by my juvenile thoughts."
"Without any help, how will the South prevail?" Sakura asked.
"I don't know!" Sasuke snapped, causing Sakura to step back.
"Sasuke, it'll be okay." Utakata rested a hand on his head. "I'm sure you and Korra will figure this out."
Inside
"I can't believe the president is doing nothing." Korra was talking to Mako. "Beyond admitting Sasuke had a good plan, he was dismissive of him, and it seems as though he doesn't even care about the South."
"It's not like he can tell his people to fight a battle that has nothing to do with them." Mako reasoned.
"Nothing to do with them?" Korra asked in disbelief. "This war affects us all! Sasuke has not been wrong this whole time, so when he says this is about more than unity of the tribes and balance between spirits, I'm inclined to believe it."
"Look, you didn't have any evidence." Mako argued. "We know Sasuke's a smart guy with good instincts, but you can't expect someone who doesn't know him to believe that."
"I can't believe you're agreeing with Raiko!" Korra snapped.
"I'm not trying to work against you here." Mako retorted.
"Well, you're not helping me right now." Korra retorted. "I'm trying to get troops to the South. What're YOU doing?"
Mako stood. "I'm doing MY job!"
"EXCUSE ME, officer!" Korra shouted. "Don't let me stand in the way of you writing tickets. I'm trying to save the world!"
"You wouldn't have to save the world if you didn't mess it up!" Mako yelled.
"You think I have no idea what I've done!?" Korra gripped her head. "I know I made mistakes, but at least I'm trying to set things right!"
"Well, maybe you should do it without biting people's heads off!" Mako yelled.
"Gah, I can't talk to you like this." Korra dismissed as she stormed out.
"YOU'RE the one who's like this!" Mako yelled through the closed door before plopping down angrily on the couch.
Outside
Korra found Sasuke, Kakashi, Utakata, and Sakura outside the apartment.
"You two had an interesting conversation." Sasuke noted.
"Sorry you had to hear that." Korra sighed. "I don't know what's wrong with me. I've never been this terrified and angry in my life."
"Clearly, reasoning with the Northerners didn't help while Raiko's made his decision" Sasuke returned. "With those two avenues closed off to us, we'll open a third."
"Let's see." Utakata voiced. "The South needs troops and Unalaq will do whatever it takes to have complete control."
"Our only option is to get the troops without being detected." Sasuke reasoned.
"But how?" Sakura asked.
"There's one person we can go to…" Korra alluded.
Harbor
Asami was walking through, holding papers, when Korra, Sasuke, Utakata, Kakashi, and Sakura suddenly walked in front of her. "Hey, in a hurry?"
"Sorry, we have to talk to Varrick." Korra responded.
"Yeah, me too." Asami said.
Varrick's Yacht
They all entered the yacht before an arrow suddenly came their way and would have nailed Asami had Utakata not pulled her back. They turned to Varrick who was blindfolded and holding a bow. Bolin, Kiba, Lee. Shikamaru, Neji, and Zhu Li all stood around him.
"Oh, hello!" Varrick had lifted his blindfold before turning to Bolin. "See, told you I could do it."
"Sorry I ever doubted you." Bolin said.
"Real great." Shikamaru crossed his arms and shook his head. "You almost killed Asami."
"Sorry to interrupt your bromance, but we need your help." Sasuke said bluntly.
"We can't wait for the president to act." Korra declared. "We need those troops now."
"And my company is about to go under." Asami added. "I have to find a way to make some sales."
"Right, okay." Varrick smiled. "Ideastorm time! Zhu Li, get the supplies. You kids are about to get an inside look at how Varrick Global Industries stays at the forefront of imagination innovation or 'imagivation'! That's trademark."
"Can you get to the point?" Sasuke asked.
"Brain work requires increased circulation." Varrick ate a chili pepper, and his face turned red. "Let's do this!"
"This guy has problems." Neji muttered.
Shikamaru nodded. "Agreed."
Varrick hung upside down on a pole. "Okay, here comes some ideas. Fast and furious. Pink mint lemon tea. Radio for pets. Uh, hand shoes!"
"But none of that helps with their problems." Lee pointed out.
"Hold a tic." It was coming to Varrick. "We don't need the president to go to the South. We just need the troops! Let's go straight to them! If there's one thing I know about troops, it's that they love fighting."
"I know General Iroh." Korra informed. "He might be willing to help."
"He serves the president." Kakashi stated. "Having him go without Raiko's say-so won't end well."
"Raiko's left us little choice but to try this." Utakata noted.
"A man on the inside. Perfect!" Varrick turned to Asami. "And you need to sell some mecha tanks. I know some people who need them. We'll ship 'em South."
"That's actually perfect." Korra declared. "You'll be making money for your company and helping defeat Unalaq."
"It's true." Varrick agreed. "If you can't make money during a war, you flat-out cannot make money."
"It's dangerous on the seas right now, but I'm willing to try anything." Asami said.
"It'll be a crazy risky, but I LOVE crazy risky!" Varrick declared.
"Makes sense because that's what you are." Neji said.
"Thank you." Varrick flipped back to his feet. "Zhu Li, get those other ideas to research and development. I want the prototypes next week."
"Varrick, I need to tell you something important." Korra said.
"I'm all ears." Varrick said.
"I've been thinking lately. and while I'm still angry the Northerners invaded; I know they're not all to blame for Unalaq's choice." Korra responded. "So, we won't attack until we meet up with the rebels. From there, the mecha tanks will be used if necessary."
"Are you sure?" Asami asked.
"Yes." Korra nodded. "Once we remove Unalaq from the throne, and get him to confess everything, the Northerners will have to surrender."
"That's actually smart!" Varrick declared. "I bet your brooding friend told ya?"
"Well, he did help me reach this conclusion, but that's just always been Sasuke." Korra ruffled the Uchiha's hair. "He always comes up with something smart and keeps the team grounded when we need it."
"Yeah, he really is a smart guy." Bolin agreed.
"Alright, you got it." Varrick said.
"But there's still the president." Kakashi pointed out. "You know he won't allow his troops to leave without his say-so."
"I'm already working on that." Varrick moved over his mover machine. "Once people see this, they'll be lining up to fight Unalaq. Zhu Li, do the thing."
Zhu Li started the film, showing the South Pole and Northern troops marching.
"Don't freak out. It's not real." Bolin whispered before the scene shifted to Eska, making him scream in terror. "Sorry, I keep doing that."
"We'll cut this footage together with scenes we shoot of Bolin here playing a Southern Water Tribe hero who battles the evil Unalaq." Varrick declared. "No one will root for the North after they see 'The Adventures of Nuktuk: Hero of the South'."
"I'M Nuktuk! What do ya think?" Bolin asked.
"I think I just lost half of my IQ." Shikamaru muttered bluntly.
"Can I be in your mover?" Lee asked excitedly.
"Of course you can!" Varrick declared. "You can be Nuktuk's faithful sidekick, Kang!"
"I LOVE IT!" Lee cheered while crying with joy.
"Of course, you would." Neji sighed annoyed.
"I want to be in it too!" Kiba declared while Akamaru barked in agreement.
"Done!" Varrick agreed. "You can be Tak, and your dog can be Snowy!"
"Alright!" Kiba cheered and Akamaru barked happily.
"Can I design costumes?" Sakura asked.
"You're hired!" Varrick stated.
"Sasuke, I get to work in a mover!" Sakura shouted.
Sasuke rolled his eyes. "Good for you."
Mako & Bolin's Apartment
Mako was looking through a book ofcriminals' faces as Bolin entered."Man, you should've seen Varrick today. That guy's a genius."
"Uh-huh." Mako said, not paying attention.
"He's going to help Asami sell her mecha tank to the South, and he came up with this great idea for Korra to get General Iroh to fight Unalaq without President Raiko knowing." Bolin informed.
"What?" That got the Firebender's attention. "That's a terrible idea."
"And he's putting me in the movers as this hero, Nuktuk!" Bolin continued. "He's a man of action, but he's got a heart of gold. He was born in the tundra."
"Look, I'm trying to do something important here." Mako declared.
"Oh, sorry." Bolin voiced. "What is it?"
"Something doesn't make sense about this bombing." Mako replied. "I just don't buy the Northern Water Tribe being behind it."
"Well yeah, Sasuke already agreed as such, and Korra's seen things his way." Bolin stated.
"At least she listens to someone, but that's still not me, meaning I got to take this into my own hands." Mako voiced.
"Did you expect her to help you with this when the Southern Water Tribe is in peril?" Bolin asked incredulously. "I get this is your job, but we're talking a whole nation here. I mean, Sasuke got a plan to sneak troops through the borders to meet with her dad."
"Sending troops without the president knowing is not a smart move." Mako voiced.
"I don't know about that." Bolin flipped the page. "Sasuke's a smart guy."
"Hold on!" Mako recognized the guy. "That's him! That's the guy that attacked the center! I must get this to Beifong!"
The Firebender left while Bolin just sighed and shook his head.
Southern Air Temple
Tenzin was helping his son train Poki. "Alright Meelo, the first thing you need to do as a trainer is establish dominance. You are in charge. Never forget that. Now call Poki."
"Poki, come here!" Meelo declared firmly, yet Poki stayed put. "Poki!" Poki flew to the youngest Airbender and started tickling him, making the boy laugh. "Poki, no!"
"Meelo…you're rewarding him for bad behavior." Tenzin said.
"But he's tickling me." Meelo defended, and his father shook his head.
Later…
It was time for Meelo's nap and Poki was about to sleep in the same bed.
"You can't let him nap in the bed with you." Tenzin informed. "You are the alpha lemur. He has to sleep on the floor." Meelo reluctantly placed his lemur down. "I know it's hard, but it's for the best."
Poki jumped back on the bed.
"No, Poki! This is my bed." Meelo put the lemur back down. "You sleep on the floor!" Poki did lay down, though he looked up to the Airbender sadly. "Being alpha lemur is lonely."
"I know." Tenzin said.
Republic City: Outside Mako and Bolin's Apartment
Mako left his apartment, only to see Kakashi standing outside.
"Hey, where's the fire?" Kakashi asked.
"Very funny, Kakashi." Mako retorted bluntly. "Look, I have to get to Beifong because I think I'mclose to cracking this case."
"That's great, but Korra asked me to…" Kakashi tried.
"I wish I could chat more, but I got to go." Mako interrupted before rushing to his motorcycle.
Kakashi sighed.
Police Station
Lin was in her office with Raiko.
"How did this Cultural Center attack happen right under your nose?" Raiko asked. "Why haven't you arrested the Northerners responsible?"
"We're working on it, sir." Lin said.
"Well, work harder!" Raiko retorted. "If you don't get results soon, I'll find someone who can."
Just outside the office, there was a room with multiple desks.
Mako arrived and found two middle-aged men with mustaches. "I got a break in the bombing case. I I.D.'d the guy I saw at the scene."
"That's great, Mako." Lu said.
"Yeah, you should run it in to Beifong right now." Gang added.
"You think?" Mako asked.
"Sure. You'll be a hero." Lu replied.
The Firebender made his way into Lin's office while the two older men smirked and high fived.
"What makes a ROOKIE cop think he can interrupt MY meeting with the president!?" Lin demanded.
Lu and Gang started laughing.
"I'm sorry. I just…found something out about the bombing." Mako responded.
"Well, give it out to Lu and Gang, you idiot!" Lin yelled. "Now, get out!"
Mako did as he was told.
"Sorry. Was she busy?" Lu asked.
"This is the guy I saw sneaking out of the building before the explosion." Mako informed. "He's a member of the Agni Kais. Someone must've hired him to make it looked like the Northerns did the deed." Gang put the picture in a drawer. "Did you learn anything about the remote? That must be the key to finding out who's really responsible."
"Listen kid, it was the Northern Water Tribe." Lu said.
"Yeah, give it a rest." Gang said.
Mako was annoyed as he went to his desk.
Raiko then ended up leaving Lin's office and went up to Mako. "I've heard good things about you. You've made some big triad busts for a rookie."
Mako saluted. "Thank you, sir."
"And you're dating the Avatar, right?" Raiko asked.
"Yes, sir." Mako said.
"I'm concerned she might be getting some bad advice from Varrick." Raiko broached. "You wouldn't happen to know if they're plotting something that might compromise the security of Republic City, would you officer?" Mako looked away. "Let me remind you, you've sworn
an oath. You're a man of the law before anything else."
"Yes, sir." Mako said.
"Well, keep up the good work." Raiko said, walking away.
Mako sighed. "Wait, there's something you should know."
The president stopped to hear what he has to say.
Narook's Seaweed Noodlery
Korra was waiting for Mako, but Kakashi arrived. "What did Mako say?"
"He left in a rush." Kakashi said.
"Oh…" Korra said sadly.
"I'm sorry." Kakashi returned genuinely.
United Forced Harbor: Later…
Korra, Sasuke, Utakata, and Kakashi arrived at the main ship of the United Forces where they were almost immediately shown to General Iroh.
"Thank you for meeting with me, General Iroh." Korra said.
"Of course." Iroh nodded. "What can I do for you?"
"The South needs military support before Unalaq wipes them out completely, but the president is refusing to give the order." Korra voiced. "I decided to come to you directly."
"I see." Iroh held his chin. "Well, suppose I were to take the fleet South on some routine training maneuvers, and let's say we were to accidentally run into a hostile Northern blockade. We'd have no choice but to defend ourselves."
"That is certainly an option; however, Sasuke here was thinking you could try to sneak some of your people through the border without detection." Utakata informed.
"If the Northern troops are distracted fighting us, they'll be oblivious to whoever sneaks past." Iroh reasoned.
Sasuke nodded. "Smart."
"I think that would suffice." Kakashi added.
"Thank you!" Korra smiled. "You have no idea how grateful I am. Once the troops arrive…"
"Swapping old war stories?" Raiko interrupted as he came aboard.
Iroh saluted. "Mister President."
"I hope you're not planning to take military action without an order from your commander-in-chief?" Raiko asked.
"Of course not, sir." Iroh responded.
"Good, because if a single vessel leaves this harbor without my say so, you'll be court-martialed." Raiko declared. "Am I clear?"
"Crystal, sir." Iroh said.
"Your activities here are bordering on insurrection." Raiko addressed Korra. "The Avatar does not command the military of the Republic. Don't go behind my back again."
"What could you possibly do to her?" Sasuke challenged.
"Excuse me?" Raiko asked.
"She's the Avatar with control over the Avatar State." Sasuke declared. "That means even if you had a Blood Bender, you couldn't hold her like Tarrlok once did."
Kakashi rested a hand on his shoulder, "Sasuke, I'm not sure now is the time."
The Uchiha shrugged him off. "I get she shouldn't have gone behind your back, but you left her no other options because you just refuse to lift even a finger in defense of the South."
"You're on mighty thin ice." Raiko warned.
Before Sasuke could retort, Utakata rested a hand on each of his student's shoulders. Raiko looked to him to discipline the boy, but the former Jonin gave a look, with a little killer intent, that essentially told him not to push his luck.
Raiko took a deep breath before turning to Iroh. "As you were, General Iroh."
The president then walked off.
"I hate that guy." Sasuke and Korra declared at the same time, irritated.
"So much for that plan." Kakashi voiced.
"I'm sorry, but my hands are officially tied." Iroh said regretfully.
"I understand." Korra stated sadly. "Thanks anyway."
"You should talk to the Fire Lord." Iroh offered. "My mother and grandfather have always been good friends with the Avatar and Southern Water Tribe. I'm sure they'd be willing to help."
"That's not a bad idea." Utakata noted.
"The best part is, that blowhard has no form of influence over what another nation does." Sasuke declared.
Korra smiled. "Thank you, general."
Studio
Filming of the mover was about to start with Bolin, Lee, and Kiba in front of a wintery background. The three of them wore revealing Water Tribe outfits while Akamaru had a hat on.
"Wouldn't we be cold wearing these outfits in the snow?" Bolin asked.
"Nuktuk is never cold." Varrick declared. "Same for Kang and Tak."
"Okay, I got the best costumes I can make and…" Sakura cut herself off as she sees the outfits. "What are you three wearing?"
"Great, right?" Varrick asked.
"I thought I was the one designing the outfits." Sakura said.
"Yeah…about that, we've already got ourselves a fashion designer." Varrick voiced before pointing at a skinny looking man making costumes.
"But…" Sakura tired.
"Nothing personal, kid. It's business." Varrick stated. "Sorry, but you're fired."
"Awww…" Sakura said sadly.
"Don't feel bad, Sakura." Lee declared. "I'm sure your costumes would have been wonderful."
That did make Sakura feel a little better. "Thanks, Lee."
Just then, Neji and Shikamaru arrived.
Neji sighed upon seeing his fellow Shinobi in those costumes. "I have no comment."
"Same here." Shikamaru agreed.
"Hey, you didn't have to come." Kiba argued.
Bolin then noticed the actress as she approached. "Hey, Ginger."
"How about that, huh?" Varrick referred to her hair. "It's the finest and latest product in my Varrimanageable Hairline: Varri-dye! We get some shots of her using it before Unalaq kidnaps her, and I guarantee we sell a million cases week one."
Korra, Sasuke, Utakata, and Kakashi arrived.
"Bolin, I need you to watch Naga while Sasuke and I are gone." Korra said.
"Where are you going?" Sakura asked.
"The Fire Nation." Sasuke replied. "We're going to ask the Fire Lord for help with the South. Varrick, we need a boat."
"Done!" Varrick declared.
"I thought this General Iroh was going to help." Neji said.
"He was going to, but President Raiko showed up." Korra informed. "Someone must have tipped him off."
"Who could have done it?" Sakura asked.
"The only people who knew about it are in this room, yet I don't even think any of you from Konoha would be low enough to rat on us to Raiko." Sasuke noted. "Asami isn't here, but I know her well. She wouldn't have done this either."
"Oh, you're forgetting about Mako." Bolin said.
"I'm sorry, Bolin." Sasuke voiced irritated since he knew the Firebender was dead set on his career. "I must have wax in my ears. Who else knew?"
"Uh…" Bolin trailed off.
"You TOLD Mako!?" Korra demanded.
"Oh, c'mon." Bolin waved it off. "There's no way Mako would've told."
Sasuke and Korra stormed out of the room.
"They're about to kill him." Shikamaru said.
Neji nodded "Yeah."
That got Kakashi and Utakata following the pair.
Southern Air Temple
Everyone gathered around to see Meelo's progress with his lemur.
"Poki, sit!" Meelo commanded, and the lemur sat. "Roll over!" Poki rolled over. "Good boy."
He threw a treat to Poki.
"Well done, Meelo." Tenzin praised. "I knew you could learn to train Poki."
"Not just Poki." Meelo informed. "I trained all the lemurs. Watch!"
Meelo blew a whistle making Poki run and fly as more lemurs flew along with him. The rest of the family was stunned. Meelo blew another whistle commanding the lemurs to fly towards the direction he pointed. He blew his whistle again and pointed to make them land.
"I've created a monster." Tenzin lamented. "Uh, maybe we should forget about all this training for now. Why don't you and Poki…just have fun and play?"
"Thanks, Dad." Meelo stated gratefully. "Training makes me tired. Come on, Poki."
He rushed off, with Poki joining him, before blowing the whistle to make the rest of the lemurs fly off.
Police Station
Korra kicked open the door and made her way for Mako's desk. "You ratted me out to the president!?"
"Korra, let me explain…" Mako tried.
"Explain why my boyfriend stabbed me in the back!?" Korra demanded.
"The President of the Republic asked me a direct question." Mako replied. "What was I supposed to do?" He saw Sasuke enter after her. "Sasuke, back me up here."
"No!" Korra declared firmly. "This is between us! Why did you tell him!? You could've talked to me about it!"
"You wouldn't have listened!" Mako yelled back.
"It's not what you think!" Korra defended.
"Well, I think you've made it clear before!" Mako argued.
"Do you have any idea what you've done!?" Korra clenched her fists. "You betrayed me!"
She delivered an Airbending kick which sent Mako's desk flying.
"Enough!" Mako stood. "Look, I have a job to do. I can't constantly worry about you making another huge mistake!"
"Well, I have a job to do too!" Korra yelled. "Lately, it seems like you've been standing in the way of me getting it done!"
"I guess if we're both putting our jobs first, maybe there's no room for our relationship!" Mako yelled.
It was deathly silent as the other officers and Sasuke were stunned.
…
"So, what?" Korra asked fearfully. "Are you…breaking up with me?"
"Yeah…I am." Mako said regretfully.
Korra was saddened to hear that.
Just then, Lin left her office. "What happened here?" She then saw the Avatar. "Korra, what did…"
The chief stopped upon seeing her current state.
Sasuke approached the Avatar and rested a hand on her arm. "Korra, we should get going."
Korra ran off without a word.
"Korra!" Mako called, but she was gone.
"Why?" Sasuke asked.
"I'm sorry, but I had to." Mako defended. "You know, just because you're her bonded brother, it doesn't mean you have to take on the burden of her mistakes."
"You're right." Sasuke admitted. "I'm not responsible for her mistakes, and it's true you had a job to do…"
"I knew you'd understand." Mako stated relieved.
"You didn't let me finish." Sasuke stated firmly. "While I don't need to take on the burden of her mistakes, I want to be there for her. I can't simply stand by when she's doing her best to fix her mistakes. She needed her friends now more than ever.
Look, we both know she's stubborn and infuriating at times; however, she's grown to never turn her back on her friends. She wanted to apologize to you, for that argument you two had, but you didn't give her a chance!"
"Was that why Kakashi came to see me?" Mako asked.
"Yes." Sasuke voiced. "Mako, I thought you'd learned better by now, but it seems I was wrong. Hey, you get to keep your job; all it cost you was your girlfriend…and a brother."
With his piece said, The Uchiha left.
"Sasuke!" Mako called out, but Sasuke was gone.
The Firebender looked to the busted doors where he saw Kakashi and Utakata standing there. Utakata shot him quite the angry look while Kakashi merely closed his eye. Both walked away while the officer hung his head low.
"Would someone mind telling me what's going on?" Lin asked.
"I just broke up with the Avatar." Mako responded sadly.
"You got off easy." Lin took a second glance around the office before crossing her arms. "I destroyed Air Temple Island when Tenzin broke up with me."
Harbor
Sasuke arrived at the harbor and found the Avatar just staring out over the water.
"I'm sorry." Sasuke stated sincerely.
"Don't be." Korra said.
"You know I'm always here for you." Sasuke said.
"Thanks." Korra nodded. "I'll be fine. Let's just focus on getting to the Fire Nation. The Fire Lord's our only hope now. Then, we'll go find Tenzin for help."
"Sounds good." Sasuke agreed.
"So, you're going?" Kakashi voiced as he and Utakata arrived.
"Yes." Korra nodded. "We must get help from the Fire Nation."
"Good luck and be careful you two." Utakata nodded firmly. "I'll hold down the city for you."
"Thank you." Korra stated sincerely.
"Sasuke!" Sakura called out as she arrived.
"Sakura, stay here." Sasuke ordered.
"But…" Sakura tried.
"I need you and the others to help Utakata keep an eye on the city for me." Sasuke informed. "Watch over my home for me."
"Just promise you'll come back in one piece." Sakura said.
"I'll be fine." Sasuke returned.
Ocean: Later…
Korra and Sasuke got the speedboat from Varrick and were off on the water, heading towards the Fire Nation. Korra had been driving them along for a while when the boat was suddenly bumped by something.
"Now what?" Korra asked.
Both turned to see Desna and Eska following them on jet skis as they used Waterbending to attack them.
"Great, it's the Doom and Gloom twins again." Sasuke said annoyed.
"You ruined my wedding!" Eska yelled, throwing a stream of water at the boat.
Korra dodged before bending two whips of water back at them. She nailed their skies, but the pair used Waterbending to glide along the water after them.
"This is annoying." Sasuke stood. "Korra, I'll deal with them while you keep going."
"I'm not leaving you." Korra stated firmly.
"Don't worry, I'll be along shortly." Sasuke activated his Sharingan and lept from the boat. "Just go on, full speed ahead!"
He applied Chakra Control to stand there as the twins drew close. Korra looked back before reluctantly closing her eyes and doing as Sasuke requested.
Said Uchiha then rushed in to confront the twins. "If you want Korra, you'll need to get through me!"
"Gladly." Desna stated. "Our father ordered us to kill you anyways."
They bent water whips at the Uchiha, but he dodged while charging lightning to his hand. "Chidori!"
He thrust his hand into the water, sending the electricity forward. While the twin's armor did do a great deal to protect from Ninjutsu itself, the fact that the water conducted the lightning did the pair no favors. They were electrocuted, screamed in pain, before submerging below the waves.
"Losers." Sasuke scoffed.
He knew for a fact the papers had spoken about his various abilities, so if they'd done their research, they'd know being on the water with a guy capable of utilizing lighting was just a disaster waiting to happen.
"Now, if I run at top speed, I should…" Sasuke's thought process was almost immediately cut off.
He cast his gaze down as familiar, bright green energy suddenly spread out underneath him. All he got was that momentary look before he fell into the energy and was taken away.
With Korra
Korra was worried about Sasuke, but that quickly went away as she noticed a fast moving, green glow underneath her speedboat. Suddenly, dark blue tentacles slammed into the boat, throwing the Avatar into the water.
Korra emerged and bent up a water spout just as a huge dark spirit did the same. It whipped her stream and followed up with another at her, sending the Avatar into the water again. The Avatar activated her Avatar State and resurfaced to confront the dark spirit.
She started moving her arms swiftly to utilize Unalaq's Spiritbending. To her credit, the spirit started glowing the same bright yellow and began to calm. It fought back and lunged maw first at her. Korra exited the Avatar State and fire blasted up. She was ultimately devoured.
With Desna and Eska
Desna and Eska emerged from the water, attempting to see if they could figure out where Korra or Sasuke went. Ultimately, catching them coming from Republic City had been their best bet. With no real leads, the pair water dashed off.
On my profile is a question which will determine the future of this story. As things stand, I see nothing changing that will impact what the Red Lotsu does to the Earth Queen. This means, no matter how Book 3 pans out in the end for the characters, the Earth Kingdom will still be put in disarray. As such, the following question is yours to answer on my profile.
In Legend of the Uchiha & Avatar, who should potentially be the one to restore the Earth Kingdom?
1. Kuvira: 0
2. Sasuke: 0
Be forewarned, whoever you pick to restore the Earth Kingdom will naturally impact the plot after Book 3.
Ultimately, Korra and Mako do break up, but what will this mean for the future? Does Mako finally learn his lesson come the rekindling of his relationship with Asami, or will he be doomed to failure again? Well, that remains to be seen. Moving on from the relationship angle, Korra and Sasuke end up separated at sea.
In the orginal story, they both end up on the island with the Fire Sages. Ultimately, Sasuke doesn't really achieve anything by being there. As such, I've got an idea that will hint at something to come in Book 3. Beyond that, I'm still figuring out everything to do with what Sasuke will be going through in his chapter. Regardless, I got some inital plans for him already.