Air Temple Island: Morning…
It's been two days since Sasuke arrived in Republic City, met Avatar Korra, was found again by Utakata, and started staying on Air Temple Island. So far, he's been adjusting well enough. Right now, he was outside practicing fighting styles.
"I feel as though doing this is familiar, yet I still don't know where I learned it from." Sasuke pondered. "If I'm going to stand a chance in this place, I must prepare for the worst, especially with Korra involved.
I found the one Yun wants, yet not even Utakata has a way to contact him. Whatever. I'll just stay with Korra until I figure something out." Suddenly, his stomach started to growl. "I guess I'll get something to eat. Don't care what provided I can get back to my training sooner."
Sasuke moved to where the Air Acolytes were gathering to eat.
As he arrived, he heard a familiar voice. "And in the final round, the Buzzard-Wasps won in a decisive knock out!"
"Korra?" Sasuke asked as he finds her reading a newspaper.
"Hey, Sasuke." Korra nodded. "How'd you sleep?"
"Not well." Sasuke informed. "Every time I try to sleep, my head hurts, so I go outside to train."
"Oh, sorry." Korra voiced. "Does it have to do with your memory struggle?"
"I don't know." Sasuke responded. "Whenever my head hurts, I keep getting flashes of
things that are familiar to me. For example, there's this boy with blond spiky hair who's usually grinning stupidly."
"Perhaps you know him." Utakata voiced as he joined them.
"Not sure I want to remember an idiot like him." Sasuke snorted before looking at the newspaper Korra held. "What's that?"
"I'm just reading the latest Pro-Bending match." Korra informed. "Speaking of which Tenzin, what do you say we go to the arena tonight? Catch a few Pro-bending matches?"
"What's pro-bending?" Sasuke asked.
"Pro-bending is…" Korra was cut off.
"A sport which is a mockery to the noble tradition of bending!" Tenzin declared with a disapproving tone.
"Come on, Tenzin." Korra begged. "I've dreamed of seeing a pro-bending match since I was a kid, and now I'm just a ferry ride away from the arena."
She pointed at a golden arena just across the bay.
"Korra, you're not here to watch that drivel." Tenzin retorted. "You're here to finish your Avatar training. As such, for the time being, I want you to remain on the island."
"Master and student." Utakata thought bitterly. "What a lousy concept. Unlike others, I'm not foolish enough to be called as such."
He was not here to speak his mind on such concepts. If they wanted to buy into it, that was their business. Besides, if this was all he had to really contend with staying here, then Utakata could bear it. Still, the bond between master and student was nothing to put one's faith in.
Flashback…
Back when Utakata was a member of Kirigakure, he'd been chained within a sealing formula which allowed someone access to his tailed beast, the Six Tails. His own master attempted to reach into his body and remove his tailed beast, even as he pleaded for him not to.
Air Temple Island: Present…
Without question, Utakata sacrificed for Kirigakure innumerable times. He trusted his master and always did as he said. In return, he was betrayed and would have died had his master succeeded. How could he ever trust anyone. Utakata took a deep breath to compose himself.
"Is that why you're keeping the White Lotus sentries around, to watch my every move?" Korra asked, unamused, as she pointed at various sentries around the room.
"Yes." Tenzin answered. "To learn Airbending, I believe you require a calm, quiet environment free from distraction."
"Well, what about Sasuke and Utakata?" Korra asked. "If I can't go, maybe they can. I'm at least sure Sasuke would love it."
"Well, I…" Sasuke began.
"No, both of them will stay here." Tenzin voiced. "They're still new to the city. Once things calm down, Utakata will be free to come and go; however, Sasuke is another story. I can't risk having him cause trouble again."
"Given the chief of police's current stance, it is probably best we stay on the island anyways." Utakata voiced.
Korra rolled her eyes. "Fine. Whatever."
"I'm sorry, but you will stay safe here." Tenzin stated.
"Right. Safe." Sasuke scoffed before walking off.
Korra rested her elbow on her knee as she gazed out the window at the arena in the distance; meanwhile, Sasuke was back outside.
"Can't watch Pro-Bending, huh?" Sasuke shook his head. "I need to get back to my training anyways." Suddenly, his head starts hurting again. "Dammit, not again!"
Sasuke's Mind
Sasuke was within some village, clearly looking for someone, only to walk past a girl with long pink hair and green eyes.
"…You know why Naruto's annoying?" The girl asked. 'He wasn't raised right. He doesn't have a mother or father. I mean, if you don't have parents telling you right from wrong, how can you tell? Just think about it. Naruto does whatever comes to his head. He's all alone."
"Alone. Isolated. It's not about your parents scolding you. You don't know what it's like to be alone." Sasuke retorted angrily.
"Wh-Why are you saying that?" The girl asked.
"Because…YOU'RE annoying." Sasuke declared, causing the girl to step back.
Air Temple Island
Sasuke's head started recovering. "Who was that girl?"
Later…
"Korra, come out!" Sasuke was repeatedly knocking on her door. "You know your Airbending training starts soon!"
"I'm not coming out like this!" Korra yelled back through the door.
"Do it, or I'll break the door down!" Sasuke yelled back.
Korra let out an angry groan before opening the door and walking out wearing traditional Air Nomad attire.
"That's an…interesting outfit." Sasuke noted. "Why are you wearing it again?"
"Tenzin thinks this will help me 'get in touch' with my inner Airbender." Korra retorted.
"Well, let's get your Airbending training over with." Sasuke said.
Korra and Sasuke found and walked with Tenzin.
The Uchiha noted ring tailed lemurs flying through nearby trees. "This place does look nice."
"Beautiful, isn't it?" Korra asked.
"Yes, my father built this place from top to bottom." Tenzin declared proudly.
"Actually, I was talking to Sasuke." Korra voiced.
"Oh, well, I knew that." Tenzin replied embarrassed. "I was also telling him about the temple. Anyways, my mother informed me you've never been able to Airbend before."
"Yeah, but I don't know why." Korra responded. "The other elements came easily to me, but every single time I've tried Airbending…" Korra blew a raspberry. "…Nothing."
"That's alright." Tenzin placed his hand on her shoulder. "You just need to be patient. Often the element most difficult to for the Avatar to master is the one most opposite their personality."
"Is that right?" Sasuke asked interested. "Can you name an example?"
"Well, for my father Aang, it was Earthbending." Tenzin answered.
"I'm about as opposite an Airbender as you can get." Korra stated sadly.
"I'm not really an enthusiastic person, but if you give up on your training now, it's going to haunt you for the rest of your life until you need to get it right." Sasuke voiced.
Korra gave a small smile. "Thanks for that, Mister Enthusiast."
"I try." Sasuke retorted.
"Now then, let's begin your first lesson." Tenzin voiced.
He walked on ahead with the pair following. They ended up at stairs which led to Korra and Sasuke following him to large gates with air symbols on them. Waiting for them were Jinora, Ikki, and Meelo.
"Korra's gonna Airbend! Korra's gonna Airbend!" Ikki cheered while jumping up and down.
"What's this strange contraption?" Korra asked.
"A time-honored tool that teaches the most fundamental aspect of Airbending." Tenzin informed. "Jinora, would you explain the exercise?"
"The goal is to weave your way through the gates and make it to the other side without touching them." Jinora explained.
"You've done your homework." Sasuke noted. "Not bad."
Korra smiled confidently. "Seems easy enough."
"Jinora forgot to say you gotta make it through while the gates are spinning." Ikki added.
Tenzin got into a stance and turned his hands before thrusting them forward to create a powerful gust of wind. This made the gates spin rapidly. He then released a small leaf from his hand, and it started to move swiftly through the gates.
"The key is to be like the leaf." Tenzin informed. "Flow with the movements of the gates. Jinora will demonstrate."
Jinora ran up to the gates and weaved her way through the Airbending tool with complete ease. She moved in swift motions while rapidly swapping directions each time a gate came near her.
"Airbending is all about spiral movements." Tenzin continued. "When you meet resistance, you must be able to switch direction at a moment's notice."
Sasuke watched how Jinora moved gracefully through the Airbending tool with no problems, and he was slightly impressed.
After Jinora made it out, the Uchiha approached her. "Not bad."
Jinora blushed a little. "Thanks."
"Jinora, can you activate the gates?" Tenzin asked.
"Oh, right." Jinora voiced as she Airbends at the gates to make them spin rapidly.
"Let's do this." Korra declared with determination.
She ran full speed to the gates; however, the moment she got in, they started hitting her. Korra cried out in pain as she was sent right into multiple gates after. Tenzin and Sasuke cringed as they see Korra suffer until she gets sent right out and lands on her behind.
"Korra, you should…" Sasuke was cut off by her grunting and running back in. "Never mind."
Every attempt after was marred by the same mistakes as the gates assaulted her.
Sasuke sighed in annoyance. "This is embarrassing to watch."
"Don't force your way through!" Jinora called out.
"AH!" Korra shouted in pain.
"Dance! Dance like the wind!" Ikki advised.
"GAH!"
Meelo waved his arms. "Be the leaf!"
"OW!"
"Stop getting frustrated!" Sasuke shouted, frustrated himself. "Though, I suppose saying this is pointless since you'll never listen!" Korra got hit in the face one last time and groaned in exhaustion as she collapsed out of the gate. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, the only thing broken is my pride." Korra stated sadly.
"Look, this is just your first day." Sasuke stated. "You can try again later."
"Thanks, Sasuke." Korra responded with a small smile.
Utakata had been watching from a tree branch as he blew bubbles outward.
Night…
Korra was trying to stretch her hands forward to unleash a powerful gust of wind from her hands. Her target was a newspaper, with a picture of Lin on it, that was suspended by a rope. Sasuke was watching her along with Naga.
"Airbend!" Korra yelled; however, nothing happened resulting un her grunting in frustration. "What's wrong with me? Airbend!"
Again, it was to no avail which made the Avatar's eye twitch.
"Korra, calm down." Sasuke commented.
Korra did lower her clenched fist and started breathing to calm herself. Unfortunately, it couldn't last as she let out an angry cry and unleashed a blast of fire at the newspaper. It burned along with the rope it hung from.
"Better?" Sasuke asked.
"Almost." Korra took a few more breaths. "Now, I'm better."
"It's natural to be frustrated." Sasuke voiced. "I get frustrated by my constant headaches."
"You think I'll be able to Airbend?" Korra asked.
"Trying to Airbend is all you." Sasuke informed. "I'm no bending expert since I'm still new to knowing about it. All I can say is keep trying to find a way to Airbend, and you'll get it one day."
"How is your combat training going?" Korra asked, wanting to switch topics. "I didn't think you'd need to train since I've seen how you can handle yourself against the Metalbender cops. Not to mention, you're smart."
"I'm hoping we just got some of the worst cops on the force because those guys were sorry." Sasuke voiced. "If not, I'm hoping there are stronger people out there in general. I tend to think along the lines of the second meaning I can't let my strength plateau."
"Well, want to learn how to bend?" Korra asked.
"I don't think I'm a bender; however, maybe there is something to that." Sasuke reasoned. "Weather I can bend or not, I could integrate how a bender fights into my combat. It'd probably be helpful since Beifong confiscated my weapons."
"Well, I could help you with three of the four bending styles." Korra offered.
"I'll start with hitting the books tomorrow before I take any of your time." Sasuke returned.
Just then, they could hear static, and it was coming from a side building of the temple.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm coming to you live from Republic City's Pro-Bending arena. Tonight, the best in the world continue their quest for a spot in the upcoming championship tournament."
"So, this is that Pro-Bending match you mentioned before." Sasuke figured.
"Wanna check it out?" Korra asked.
"How?" Sasuke questioned. "Tenzin won't let us see it, and Utakata is in agreement with him."
"I have an idea." Korra said.
Korra and Sasuke moved silently up to the roof where they listened to the match.
"Grab your snacks and grab your kids because this match is going to be a doozy!"
As the match progressed, Korra was enthralled with the game and seemed particularly impressed with a player by the name of Mako.
"Yomu is hammered back to zone three, and the clock is winding down. Can Yomu hold on? He's teetering on the edge of the ring. The Fire Ferrets line up to strik…"
The radio was cut off.
"What?" Sasuke asked.
"Korra, come down here please!" Tenzin called out.
"Great." Sasuke stated annoyed.
"Stay here." Korra whispered, not wanting Sasuke to be in trouble to, this was her idea, and lowered herself to the shock of the sentries. "You shut it off at the best part!"
"I thought I made myself clear." Tenzin stated. "I don't want you listening to this distracting nonsense."
"It's their radio." Sasuke hadn't listened to Korra and came down to join her. "Technically, you said we couldn't watch a match, yet didn't say anything about listening to one."
"He's right, Tenzin." Korra agreed.
"You know what I meant." Tenzin voiced. "Anyways, shouldn't you two be in bed?"
He then left while Korra had an unamused look on her face.
"He's starting to annoy me." Sasuke commented. "Honestly, I don't find the sport to be bad."
"I don't understand him sometimes." Korra agreed.
Morning…
Korra was now meditating alongside Tenzin, Jinora, Ikki, and Meelo underneath a gazebo near a cliffside.
"So, this is meditation." Sasuke was watching nearby. "According to Tenzin, it's supposed to help get in touch with one's spiritual self."
The Uchiha decided to walk on over. Korra was having trouble concentrating as meditation was just too boring for someone as restless as herself. Then, she got the feeling someone was at her side, so she opened one eye only to see Sasuke getting into position next to her.
"Sasuke, what are you doing?" Korra asked.
"I thought I could try this meditation thing out." Sasuke responded.
"Korra, he shouldn't be here." Tenzin voiced.
"Tenzin, he's not trying to cause trouble." Korra argued.
"Very well." Tenzin relented, returning to meditation.
"So, how's it going?" Sasuke asked.
"Not great." Korra answered. "I think I'm doing it wrong."
"There's nothing to do." Tenzin retorted. "Let you mind and spirit go free, for air is the
element of freedom."
"First, she was talking to me." Sasuke stated. "Second, isn't it paradoxical to tell Korra she should embrace freedom when you won't allow us to listen to the radio or leave the island?"
"He's not wrong." Korra agreed.
"Please, look at Meelo." Tenzin stated, getting them to do just that. "He's able to mediate."
"How do you not notice he's sleeping, yet we both do?" Sasuke asked in disbelief.
"What?" Tenzin asked shocked before calming. "Well, at least he has the relaxation part down."
"Whatever." Korra stated impatiently. "None of this Airbending stuff makes sense to me."
"I know you're frustrated but give it time." Tenzin assured. "Eventually, it will click."
"Just try again." Sasuke added.
Korra did just that…for about three seconds. "Yeah, it's not sinking in yet."
"Korra…" Sasuke warned.
"Okay, fine." Korra relented, as she got back to meditating…for about ten seconds this time. "Ugh! How long has it been?"
"About ten seconds." Sasuke answered blankly. "Kind of hard to give it a shot though when the person next to me doesn't seem that enthused by it."
"Want some lychee juice?" Korra asked.
"I'll try it." Sasuke decided, so both stood before walking off.
"Korra!" Tenzin exclaimed annoyed. "Meditation is not over yet!" The Avatar ignored him and kept walking. "That girl is being difficult."
"Daddy, can I have some lychee juice too?" Ikki asked sweetly.
"No." Tenzin answered without even thinking, making her pout.
Utakata watched the training once more, wondering just what about this drew his attention. Perhaps he was just looking out for Sasuke when Tenzin inevitably slipped up as all master's do. As for the pair, they entered the kitchen, and each got a glass of lychee juice.
"I honestly thought you'd last a minute on meditation, but I see I was wrong." Sasuke stated.
"I tried." Korra retorted.
"You think Tenzin's wanting us to come back?" Sasuke asked.
"Probably, but I'm not going back today." Korra said.
"Doesn't the role of Avatar mean you must make sacrifices?" Sasuke asked.
"Maybe." Korra sighed. "I want to be able to learn to Airbend, but I'm just not feeling it. I wish I could find something that will help me get the hang of it."
"Maybe you need something that can get you started." Sasuke offered.
"You know what, you're right." Korra smiled. "I think I know just the thing to do that."
"Really?" Sasuke asked.
"Yep, you up for sneaking out tonight?" Korra asked.
"Sneak out and go to the arena?" Sasuke figured.
"You in?" Korra asked.
"You'll need somebody to keep an eye on you, so might as well." Sasuke stated.
Night…
Korra looked out her window and saw one of the White Lotus sentries below. She waited for him to leave before jumping out the window and landing on the ground. The Avatar then went to find Sasuke who was near the end of the courtyard.
"There you are." The Uchiha voiced, exasperated. "What took you so long?"
"You try having these sentries watch your every move your whole life." Korra answered.
"Hm, no wonder you've done this before." Sasuke noted.
"Let's go and keep quiet." Korra informed, and they ran towards a cliff. "Hold your breath and stay close."
Sasuke nodded as he jumped into the water with Korra. She utilized her Waterbending as they dived and started swimming them towards the city.
Water
The arena was lit with lights shining around the glass domed structure. Korra rose from the water, bringing Sasuke with her. Above, the two spotted an open window.
"There's our way in." Sasuke voiced.
"Hang on." Korra said.
She used her Waterbending to make the water elevate them towards and inside the window.
Pro-Bending Arena
They landed inside with Korra Waterbending the water off them and out the window. The pair then walked through the halls of the building and eventually stopped in front of the entrance to a large room full of exercise equipment.
"This is…something." Sasuke noted.
"This place is incredible." Korra voiced.
"Hey!" A voice called, making them jump in surprise before they see an elderly man coming towards them. "What are you doing in my gym, and why did you bring your child here?"
"Uh, he needed to go to the bathroom, and we tried looking for it only to get lost." Korra responded innocently.
Sasuke face palmed. "Is that the best you can come up with?"
"Ah, the old 'I had to pee' excuse. You know, I'm sick of you kids sneaking in here without paying! I…" The man began.
"Shut up." Sasuke interrupted, annoyed.
"What'd you say, you little punk!?" The man demanded.
"He didn't mean it." Korra stated, trying to calm the tension.
"Yes, I did." Sasuke declared.
"Sasuke…" Korra warned.
"That's it!" The man shouted. "I'm taking you and your brat to security!"
"Try me!" Sasuke invited.
"There you are!" A young man with brown hair and green eyes called out. "I've been looking everywhere for you."
"A friend of yours?" Sasuke asked.
"No but play along." Korra whispered.
"It's alright, Toza." The guy stated. "She's with me."
"Yep, I'm with him." Korra agreed.
"So, you see. We're together."
"Well, not 'together' together. More like friends."
"Right. Friends. I didn't mean to imply."
"Well, you implied it alright." Sasuke stated, mildly annoyed.
"Yeah, this brat…" Toza began.
"Is my little brother and has to be with me at all times." Korra interrupted.
"Yep, any brother of my friend is also my brother." The guy added.
Sasuke raised an eye brow at these two. "Seriously?"
"You know what, fine. Just go already." Toza declared. "I have work to do but keep your brother in line."
He then started lifting barbells with his Earthbending.
"After you." The guy said while stepping aside to let the pair move.
"Thanks a lot." Korra stated.
"Don't mention it." The guy said. "I've never seen you around here before."
"This is our first time at the arena." Korra informed.
"So, you take your brother everywhere with you?" The guy asked.
"Look, I'm not really her brother." Sasuke declared. "I'm just staying with her for a while."
"Oh, so she's taking care of you?" The guy asked.
"You could say that." Korra responded. "He's new here and lost his memory."
"Wow. Really?" The guy asked sympathetically. "So, he doesn't remember anything?"
"Other than his name, no." Korra answered.
"I'm so sorry to hear that." The guy voiced genuinely.
"Yeah." Sasuke said.
"So, I'm trying to help him get his memory back while taking care of him." Korra added.
"Well, if you need anything, let me know." The guy offered.
"Thanks, I guess." Sasuke shrugged. "So, about the pro-bending match…"
"Right! C'mon, this way." The guy said, leading the two to the doors and into a balcony locker room. "What do ya think? Best seats in the house, huh?"
"Whoa!" Korra declared in amazement.
"This is something." Sasuke noted.
The arena was full of screaming fans, red and blue platforms on the ring, water under the ring, and small earth discs were on both sides.
"This is even more amazing than I imagined." Korra voiced.
"Glad you like it. Name's Bolin, by the way." Bolin introduced.
"Korra and he's Sasuke." Korra introduced.
Just then, two more boys entered with one of them looking their way.
"Psst, Bolin!" The Earthbender approached the red eyed and black hair guy while Sasuke turned to watch. "I told you, stop bringing your crazy fangirls in here before the matches. Get her out of here." He putt on some gloves before seeing Sasuke with a serious look. "Who's this?"
"Oh, that's her friend." Bolin answered.
"Well, get him out of here too." The young man stated sternly.
Sasuke walked on over. "I'll leave when I want to, loser."
"What was that?" The young man asked in an irritated tone.
Sasuke smirked. "What, you hard of hearing?"
"You better watch who you're talking to, or I'll have security toss you out." The young man threatened.
"Try me." Sasuke challenged.
The two of them glared at each other with anger and hostility.
"Okay, okay." Bolin got in between them. "Let's all calm down here." He looked to the young man. "Look Mako, I kind of promised they could stay, but I've got a good feeling about these two. There's something about them. Also, the boy's lost his memory, so…"
"I feel bad already." Mako interrupted sarcastically.
"I didn't think you'd feel anything." Sasuke retorted.
"Why you." Mako growled.
"Sasuke, what's wrong?" Korra asked, joining them.
"Korra, I would like you to meet my big brother, Mako." Bolin introduced.
"This punk is your brother?" Sasuke asked.
"Wait, Mako?" Korra smiled as she extended her hand. "Wow, I heard you playing on the radio."
"Come on, Bolin." Mako ignored her while putting on his helmet. "We're up."
"Or we can meet up later." Korra stated half-disappointed.
"Punk." Sasuke commented.
"What!?" Mako demanded, turning to Sasuke angrily.
"You must really have bad hearing." Sasuke smirked. "Might want to get that checked out."
"You little…" Mako growled before turning to Korra. "Is he with you?"
"Uh, yes?" Korra answered.
"Keep him in line; otherwise, I'll have security toss you both out." Mako warned.
"Mako, let's just get our game started." Bolin tried.
Mako sighed in annoyance. "Fine." He walked off. "Let's go."
"Sorry about that." Bolin apologized. "My brother gets focused before a match."
"I feel bad for you being related to him." Sasuke commented.
"Sasuke, stop it." Korra warned.
Sasuke crossed his arms. "Whatever."
"Well, wish me luck, not that I'll need it." Bolin stated, putting on his helmet and going off to join his teammates.
"Good luck!" Korra called out. "Knock 'em out!" Once they were gone, she turned to the Uchiha. "Sasuke, you really need to learn to be nice."
"That guy was being an annoying punk." Sasuke defended.
"Hn. You seem to have an interest in that punk." Sasuke said.
"What? No." Korra retorted quickly. "He's not my type."
Sasuke rolled his eyes. "Yeah, whatever."
A spotlight fell on the stage, highlighting the announcer.
"Introooooooducing, the Fire Ferrets!"
The audience bursts into applause as Mako, Bolin, and their third member wave from a platform that's slowly taking them to the ring.
"Ahhh! Bolin! I love you!" A girl squealed with joy.
Sasuke shook his head. "Annoying."
Then, his head started to hurt again. He was thinking of that pink haired girl; however, this time she was with a whole group of other girls. Among them there was this girl with long, light blond hair tied in a long pony tail, and she wore a violet outfit.
"Sasuke, is your head hurting again?" Korra asked, concerned.
"I'm… fine…" Sasuke grunted.
"Your tone says otherwise." Korra worried.
"Just…watch the…game." Sasuke grunted.
"The rookie Ferrets came out of nowhere and made it further than anyone expected this season. Tonight, they face their toughest test yet, folks."
The bell rang signaling the start of the match. The opposing team's Firebender unleashed a fire blast at Bolin, but he ducked under it while Mako sent his own fire blast at the opponent. Bolin then raised an earth disc and kicked it at the opponent.
The opposing Firebender destroyed the earth disc with a fire arc and blasted out fire of his own. The Fire Ferrets' Waterbender, known as Hasook, used water to block the blast before pulling up more water and firing it at the opposing Earthbender who cartwheeled out of the way.
"Hasook is the first to feel the heat of the Tigerdillos! He tries to return the favor, but they're too fast for him while Mako shows off his trademark 'cool under fire' style!"
The Earthbender Tigerdillo threw an earth disc at Mako who moved out of the way before also dodging a following fire blast. He then retaliated with two fire blasts at the Tigerdillos while also avoiding an incoming water bullet followed up by an earth disc.
"Not bad." Sasuke begrudgingly admitted.
Mako shot another fire blast at the Tigerdillo Earthbender making Korra smile excitedly before the Firebender and Waterbender both move in front of Mako. Rather than target him though, they hit Hasook and Bolin knocking them back to zone two.
"Oooh, the Tigerdillos score with a walloping one-two combo!"
Bolin and Hasook scrambled to their feet while Mako directed his attention to the opposing Benders. Korra was nervous while Sasuke remained indifferent. Mako jumped and spun around his axis in the air successfully dodging the earth discs and fire attack coming at him.
He landed perfectly on the ground and flipped to avoid another fire attack. Then, an earth disc hit him in the chest causing him to be pushed back. His foot just moved past the line, making it light up while a horn blew.
"Mako's over the line! The Tigerdillos get the green light and advance into Ferret territory!"
"Come on, Ferrets!" Korra yelled, raising her fist in encouragement.
The Tigerdillo Waterbender shot a water bullet at Mako, but Bolin blocked it with an earth disc. This gave his brother the space to jump and unleash a fire kick at the Tigerdillo Waterbender. He jumped over it while the Earthbender threw a disc at Hasook knocking him back to zone three.
Mako jumped over another water bullet which proceeded to strike Hasook. This opportunity was taken full advantage of as another water attack and an earth disc nailed the Waterbender pushing him over the rim and sending him plummeting into the water.
"Oh, Hasook takes a dip, but he'll be back for round two, assuming the fabulous Bending Brothers can hold their ground until then!"
Mako and Bolin dodged the earth and water sent their way. The latter rose an earth disc to shield himself against the water, but the impact pushed him back to zone three while the former landed in the third zone. The bell rang signaling the end of the round.
"Round one goes to the Golden Temple Tigerdillos!"
The Tigerdillos cheered as Mako angrily glared at Hasook once he rejoined the team. The two teams then got into stances as the bell rang. The Tigerdillos unleashed their respective elements and pushed all three Fire Ferrets back a zone.
"The Fire Ferrets are knocked into zone two, and the Tigerdillos advance!"
The Tigerdillo Earthbender threw an earth disc at Hasook who blocked it with Waterbending. At this point, the Fire Ferrets return as good as they got. Bolin knocked one back with earth disc, Mako punched out two fire blasts, and Hasook sent two water arcs. The bell then rang.
"The Fire Ferrets cinch the round in the closing seconds!"
Bolin and Hasook celebrate but Mako doesn't look happy. The bell rang again, and the Tigerdillo Waterbender aims water at Hasook who tumbles out of the way to avoid it. Mako
destroys an incoming earth disc with a fire blast while Hasook shoots a water bullet.
Bolin fires an earth disc before Hasook was hit by a water blast and sent crashing into Bolin. Both ended up on the floor which gave the Tigerdillo Earthbender an easy mark. He nailed the pair with an earth disc sending them into the drink.
Kora clutched her head in worry. "Oh, no!"
Mako, now alone, ducked under a water blast, avoided three fire blasts, and deftly dodged two earth discs.
"You better not fail, punk!" Sasuke yelled.
Mako was panting while remaining in his fighting stance; however, he would not give up.
"He is dancing on the edge of the ring, surviving the three on one barrage! It seems his plan is to let the Tigerdillos punch themselves out!"
Mako unleashed a fire blast, which vaporized an incoming water bullet, before hitting the Tigerdillo Waterbender and knocking him into the drink. Mako took this momentum and ran with it by throwing more fire blasts.
"And his plan is working!"
Mako continued to unleash fire at the opposing Firebender knocking against the back pole of the ropes and sending him into the water. Mako kept it up by targeting the Tigerdillo Earthbender, who was not about go out without a fight.
He sent multiple discs at the Firebender, but Mako destroyed them all, covering the field in dust before he kicked out a fire arc that pushed the Earthbender into zone three. To follow it up, Mako came out the debris and unleashed a fire blast that sent the Tigerdillo Earthbender into the drink.
"It's a knockout! What a wing-dinger of a hat trick, folks! Mako pulls off the upset of the season, winning the match for the Fire Ferrets!"
The entire stadium went wild, but as Mako took off his helmet, he remained serious. It wasn't long before the Fire Ferrets returned to their balcony.
"YAHOO! YES! One more win and we are in the championship tournament!" Bolin took off his helmet. "So, what did you think, Korra? Bolin's got some moves, huh?"
"What did I think?" Korra grabbed Bolin by his shirt. "What did I think!?" She playfully shoved him back. "That was amazing!"
"You did more harm than good out there!" Mako scolded Hasook. "You nearly cost us the match!"
"We won, didn't we?" Hasook asked, taking his helmet off.
"Barely!" Mako yelled.
"Get off my case, pal!" Hasook yelled back.
He threw his helmet and stormed out of the room.
Mako grunted in annoyance. "Useless."
"You guys were incredible out there." Korra praised making the Firebender flinch at the sound of her voice. "Especially you, Mr. Hat Trick!"
"Oh, you're still here?" Mako asked coldly, walking by her.
"Oh, you're still a punk?" Sasuke asked coldly.
"You brat!" Mako suddenly grabbed Sasuke's shirt. "Who do you think you are!?"
Sasuke stared him down. "I think you should let me go before I make you."
"Mako, let him go." Bolin voiced.
Mako grunted as he dropped Sasuke before glaring at Korra. "Like I said, keep him in line."
That certainly irritated Korra, but she choose to focus on Bolin. "Anyways, I've been immersed in bending my entire life, but I've never learned how to move like that! It's like there's a whole new style here. Think you can show me a few tricks?"
"Absolutely!" Bolin answered happily. "What about you, Sasuke? Wanna learn?"
"I don't remember if I was a Bender, but the moves could certainly be useful." Sasuke agreed.
"Right now?" Mako rolled his eyes. "Come on, Bolin."
"Just ignore him." Bolin stated softly.
"Trust me, I tried." Sasuke retorted. "Unfortunately, it's impossible."
"You little…" Mako grunted.
"I can show you the basics; however, I'm not sure how my Earthbending will translate to your Waterbending, but we'll figure it out." Bolin assured her.
"Won't be a problem." Korra confidently crossed her arms. "I happen to be an Earthbender."
Bolin looked at Korra like she'd grown three heads. "I'm sorry. No, no! I didn't mean to assume. I, you know, I was just figuring…with your Water Tribe getup…that you are…a Water Tribe… gal."
"No, you're right." Korra smiled smugly. "I'm a Waterbender and a Firebender."
"Hmmm, I'm confused right now." Bolin said.
"How DENSE can you be?" Sasuke asked incredulously. "If she can bend fire, water, and earther, then that makes her…"
"…She's the Avatar, and I'm an idiot." Mako finished for him while hanging his head.
"Thank you for finally stating the obvious." Sasuke retorted smugly.
"No…way." Bolin was excited. "The Avatar!"
"Okay, what's up with this brat though?" Mako asked.
His brother was right in this girl being special, so perhaps this kid was something more than some annoying kid.
"His name is Sasuke, and he's no brat." Korra argued. 'He's just a kid who lost his memory, so he doesn't know his place in the world."
"That's my problem because…?" Mako asked.
"Alright, I'm about five seconds away from making you shut up." Sasuke threatened.
"Sasuke…" Korra warned.
"You've got such a smart mouth, brat." Mako growled. "Memory or no memory, you need to learn to be more respectful!"
"I could say the same to you." Sasuke retorted. "If you actually can be, I won't have to beat you down."
"Whatever." Mako scoffed. "Where did he even come from?"
"Hello, no memory idiot." Sasuke retorted. "Obviously, I don't remember."
"Whatever, you little brat." Mako retorted.
"Stupid punk." Sasuke shot back.
They got close to each other with Mako bending down, so they two could glare at one another fully. Korra and Bolin quickly got between the two, breaking them up. They then went to the gym with the Bending Brother switching outfits.
They now wore white sleeveless shirts and black pants. Bolin began showing Korra some Earthbending moves while Sasuke watched on intrigued to learn some of this himself. Despite his current feelings on Mako, the movements could prove useful for his training.
"Alright, let's see what you got." Bolin declared, so Korra took an Earthbender's stance before bending two discs into the net. "That was great. Good power, but you'd be a sitting Turtleduck in a real match. Not so upright and flat footed." He showed off an altered stance. "Stay light on your toes, right up until the moment you need to dig in and strike. Then…"
Bolin rose two earth discs from the nearby piles and sent them flying towards the net. They hit the same spot Korra did; however, Bolin's stance clearly didn't leave him anywhere near as open as the stance she had used.
"Okay, let me try." Korra stated.
She managed to mimic his stance and hit the same spot.
"Wow, nice adjustment!" Bolin praised. "You're a natural."
"Very nice." Sasuke offered.
Mako shrugged. "Not bad."
"What does it take to impress this guy?" Korra asked.
"Apparently, nothing." Sasuke responded.
"What?" Mako asked. "I said 'not bad'."
"That seems to be Mako for 'I don't care and that was pathetic'." Sasuke retorted.
"If you keep this up…" Mako began.
"What, you'll burn me?" Sasuke stated snidely. "That's all you do."
Mako growled, and his face turned red with anger before he grabbed Sasuke by the shirt again. "The thing I'll do is give you a scar matching Zuko's!"
"Try it." Sasuke responded coldly. "I'll have you laid out faster than you make a flame."
"Let him go." Korra demanded.
"You know what, it's getting late." Mako dropped Sasuke. "I'm going to turn in. Nice to meet you, Avatar Korra and your brat too."
"Yeah, been a real pleasure." Korra retorted sarcastically.
"Don't get hurt." Mako spoke with his back turned.
"I can take care of myself." Korra retorted.
"I was talking to the brat." Mako replied.
"Hmph. I can handle myself just fine." Sasuke said.
"Sure, you can." Mako stated sarcastically.
As he started moving up the stair, Sasuke picked up an earth disc and threw it at Mako's back making him fall. "You were saying, smart-ass?"
Korra and Bolin laughed.
"You little punk!" Mako yelled as he lit his hands with flames, ready to attack, only to extinguish them. "Gah, you're not worth it. I'm out of here. See you upstairs, bro."
"Upstairs?' Korra asked. "You guys live here?"
"Yep. In the attic." Bolin responded. "It's nothing fancy, but we got some great views."
"Muse be perfect for that idiot to look out and brood over." Sasuke commented.
Korra laughed at that. While Bolin could understand Mako and Sasuke not meshing well, he didn't want Korra and him to have a bad impression of his brother, provided he could help it.
"Look, Mako tries to be moody, but he's actually rather mushy on the inside." Bolin offered.
"If you say so." Sasuke scoffed.
"Hey Sasuke, want to try?" Korra asked, wanting to move back into the bending.
"I've tried seeing if I could bend earth, yet it's not coming to me." Sasuke shrugged. "Fairly certain I'm not a Bender at this point."
"Even then, the way you threw that disc was good." Korra voiced. "Try that."
"Fine." Sasuke relented.
He took three discs and threw them, one after another, into the net.
"That was cool!" Bolin exclaimed.
"It's like you have a natural talent for it." Korra added.
"I guess." Sasuke shrugged.
Air Temple Island: Next Day…
Korra was back to working through the gates, and it was going about as well as her first day. She charges full force ahead and gets hit as a result.
"Patience, Korra!" Tenzin instructed.
After taking one too many hits, Korra had enough. In a fit of rage, she Firebent at the gates in a fiery inferno. Sasuke shielded his eyes as they knocked out of their sockets and burned remains scattered across the yard. Sasuke, Tenzin, Jinora, Ikki, and Meelo were stunned.
"That was a two-thousand-year-old historical treasure." Tenzin declared in disbelief before getting angry. "What is wrong with you!?"
"There's nothing wrong with me!" Korra yelled. "I've been practicing like you taught me, but it isn't sinking in okay!? It hasn't clicked like you said it would!"
"Korra, this isn't something you can force." Tenzin calmed himself. "If only you would listen…"
I have been!" Korra interrupted. "You know what I think? Maybe the problem isn't me. Maybe the reason I haven't learned Airbending is because you're a terrible teacher!"
She then stormed off in rage while Meelo pointed at the man. "Yeah, you're a terrible teacher, daddy!"
He then went about trashing the remains of the gates while Jinora and Ikki hugged Tenzin.
"That doesn't help, you little snot." Sasuke sighed as he walked off. "I'll go find her."
For the third day in a row, Utakata had been watching the training. "The bond between master and student, what a joke."
Granted, nothing he was seeing here was as grievous as what he'd been put through. Still, what was the point of a master who clearly couldn't teach their student a thing? It was just another level of why he placed no faith in such concepts.
Sasuke did search for Korra before finding her within her room, and she was yelling. "Stupid Airbending! Stupid Tenzin! Stupid gates!"
She let out a huge groan before going silent.
"Korra, it's me." Sasuke voiced. "I know you're not in the mood to talk right now, but…"
Sasuke was cut off by Korra opening the door. "Come in. Maybe you can cheer me up."
"Doesn't seem like my specialty, but I'll try." Sasuke reasoned as he walked in.
"I'm sorry you had to see that." Korra said.
"Getting frustrated is part of training." Sasuke stated. "It happens."
"I know, but…GAH! Why is this so hard!?" Korra yelled. "I've never had trouble with the other elements." She sighed. "Let me guess, you'll tell me to be more patient, and I shouldn't have yelled at Tenzin."
"Did you mean what you said?" Sasuke asked.
"About him being a terrible teacher? No, it was out of anger." Korra responded.
"Korra, I may not know you well, but I'll be here if need anything." Sasuke stated.
"Thanks, Sasuke." Korra gave him a small smile. "That might just be the nicest thing to come from you yet."
"I'm trying to cheer you up." Sasuke retorted, mildly annoyed. "Don't ruin it."
Korra chuckled. "Sorry."
"You may not be perfect." Sasuke voiced. "Like all humans, you're bound to make mistakes, but will that stop you from trying to learn Airbending?"
"No." Korra answered.
"Are you willing to keep trying to do the right thing?" Sasuke asked.
"Of course." Korra answered.
"Then, do what you do." Sasuke declared.
Korra hugged him. "Thanks."
"Yeah, whatever." Sasuke was uncomfortable. "You can let go now."
"Not a fan of hugs, huh?" Korra asked.
"Not really." Sasuke answered.
Pro-Bending Arena, Night…
Korra and Sasuke snuck out again and went to the Pro-Bending arena. They arrived within the locker room; however, the Bending Brothers looked sad and disappointed. Bolin was sitting on the bench with his head hung while Mako leaned against the wall with his arms crossed.
"We didn't miss your match, did we?" Korra asked.
"You look like you've lost." Sasuke added.
"Might as well have." Bolin said sadly.
"Hasook is a no good, no show!" Mako exclaimed angrily.
The referee arrived. "You got two minutes to come out or you're disqualified."
"Well, there goes our shot at the tournament and winnings." Mako stated bitterly.
"Can't you ask one of the guys to fill in?" Korra asked.
"Nah, the rules say you can only compete on one team." Bolin informed.
"The answer is obvious then." Sasuke smirked.
"What bright idea do you have, brat?" Mako asked.
"Korra can fill your vacant Waterbender slot." Sasuke offered.
"Yeah, I am a top notch Waterbender." Korra added, certainly liking the sound of this.
"She's the Avatar." Bolin looked around. "Wouldn't that be cheating?"
"Not if she only Waterbends." Sasuke retorted.
"Forget it." Mako scoffed. "I'd rather forfeit than look like a fool."
"How can you look like one if you already are one?" Sasuke asked.
"Why you…" Mako growled.
"Thanks for the vote of confidence." Korra stated sarcastically.
"Times up." The ref came in. "You in or what?"
"We're in!" Korra answered.
"We are?" Mako asked.
"Yes, idiot. You are." Sasuke declared, making the Firebender glare at him.
"Yes!" Bolin cheered.
"I didn't agree to this!" Mako exclaimed.
"Nobody cares." Sasuke retorted.
"You can thank me later." Korra said while opening the locker to get her new uniform.
"This girl is crazy." Mako stated exasperated.
"And you're some punk." Sasuke pushed him to get moving. "Get out there."
"Remind me to kill you later if we lose this, brat." Mako said.
Sasuke watched from the balcony as Korra entered the ring with Mako and Bolin.
"Looks like the Fire Ferrets have ferreted out a last-minute replacement Waterbender. Let's see if she's another diamond in the rough like the brothers from the school of hard knocks!"
The team got into their stances.
"Don't do anything fancy or aggressive." Mako ordered. "In fact, don't do anything. Just try not to get knocked off the ring."
"You got it, captain." Korra retorted, annoyed.
She then adjusting her helmet after it fell. The bell rang signaling the start of the match. Korra immediately kicked out her foot and blasted an opposing Bender off the side of the arena. Mako face palmed in embarrassment.
"Woo-hoo!" Korra cheered. "Man overboard!"
"Fire Ferret Waterbender penalty, move back one zone."
"Idiot!" Sasuke face palmed. "I'm not even a fan like she is, yet I've read up on the rules."
"What? Why?" Korra asked.
"You're only allowed to knock players off the back of the ring." Mako explained frustrated. "Not over the sides!"
"Oh…whoops." Korra was certainly embarrassed.
She moved back a space while the Bender she knocked over had rejoined his team. The bell rang, so the match began again.
"And we're back in action after that hiccup, but I'm not sure this replacement player knows what she's doing."
Korra pulled some water but was hit in the stomach by an earth disc which knocked her back. She retaliated with a water blast but straddled the line which makes the referee blow his whistle.
"Foul! Over the line! Move back another zone!"
"I'll show you over the line!" Korra muttered frustrated while walking to zone three.
Mako grit his teeth in anger.
"The Platypus-Bears take round one!"
"At this rate, the Fire Ferrets are doomed." Sasuke sighed.
The bell rang again, and the Platypus-Bears began attacking.
"The Platypus-Bears know a green player when they see one, and they are focusing the brunt of their bending on this poor girl!"
Korra was getting assaulted by all the elements, and her Waterbending only achieved so much against the barrage sent her way. She was getting knocked back, so in response, she bent two earth disc to guard herself.
"Wait a minute! Did that Waterbender just Earthbend!?"
"Korra…" Sasuke groaned.
"Foul! I think…"
Air Temple Island
Utakata had noted how invested the White Lotus seemed to be in Pro-Bending to the point he had garnered a level of interest in it. While he wasn't about to disobey Tenzin's wishes on not leaving the island, the man had said nothing about listening in. He just did it on the roof without the sentries knowing and happened to hear something of interest.
"Wait, Water and Earth…" Utakata sat up. "That's Korra and given Sasuke seems to have become rather attached to her…Are they both there?"
At this point, Tenzin approached the group of sentries "Pardon me, have you seen Korra this evening? She's not in her room, and I can't seem to find Sasuke either."
The sentries were paying more attention to the game and listening to the announcer.
"You've got to be kidding me! She's the Avatar, folks! Playing in a pro-bending match!"
The sentry who was drinking did a spit take.
Tenzin became angry. "I'll get her myself!"
Utakata suddenly lept down from the roof, clearing Tenzin, to land at the base of a tree before the Airbender turned. "I have a feeling Sasuke is with Korra, so I'm coming with." The master was about to speak. "Don't worry, I'll stick with you, but I got to confirm this for myself."
"Very well." Tenzin sighed and moved past him. "Come along."
Pro-Bending Arena
Sasuke hung his head in humiliation. "Korra's either going to be disqualified or they'll lose."
"The Avatar will be permitted to play provided she solelyWaterbends!"
The Platypus-Bears groaned at the ref's bell rang again, and the match continued. Korra's status as the Avatar did not deter the Platypus-Bears from targeting her. She deflected discs, water bullets, and fire blast with her water whip as she was constantly pushed back.
"This girl might be the Avatar, but she's no Pro-Bender. A fact the Platypus-Bears are exploiting."
The Platypus-Bears just continue to unleash attacks until a fire blast and earth disc see Korra fall while a water blast hits her head knocking her into the water.
"Aaaaand, she's in the drink!"
"Dang." Sasuke then spotted Tenzin and Utakata enter the arena. "Double dang."
Korra got out of the water and onto the platform where she now sees the same pair as before her. "Oh, hey, Tenzin. I thought you didn't like coming to these matches."
"Once again, you have flagrantly disobeyed my orders." Tenzin crossed his arms. "You were to
stay on the island. Let's go."
"No, I'm in the middle of something!" Korra declared firmly.
"I have tried my best to get through to you by being gentle and patient, but clearly the only thing you respond to is force. That is why I'm ordering you to come back to the temple immediately!"
"Why? So, I can sit around and meditate about how bad I am at Airbending?" Korra retorted frustrated. "You know, I'm beginning to think there's a reason I haven't been able to learn it, because maybe I don't even need it!"
"What!? That is a ludicrous suggestion!' Tenzin retorted. "The Avatar needs to learn Airbending. It is not optional!"
"No, this is what I need to learn!" Korra argued. "Modern styles of fighting!"
"Being the Avatar is not all about fighting, Korra." Tenzin argued. "Where is Sasuke? Clearly, he's been nothing but a bad influence on you."
"Don't pin this on him!" Korra and Utakata defended at the same time.
They shared a bit of a surprised look before the former moved to renter the ring. "Now, I have a match to finish!"
"From where I stand, Sasuke has been a voice of reason." Utakata declared firmly. "He has done nothing but attempt to get Korra to see your view and attempt to embrace your training. While he can certainly be crude, that is no reason to blame him for this."
Tenzin was taken aback to hear such a passionate defense from someone who has typically been rather calm. The master then had the decency to look ashamed of what he said in the heat of the moment. While it was true Sasuke could be a tad crude, he'd seen what Utakata had.
Before he could speak, the bell rung and round three began. The Firebender attacked Bolin, but he crossed his arms in defense before retaliating by throwing an earth disc. He rose another to defend himself against a water attack while the Firebender attacked Mako.
He tried to retaliate but was unsuccessful resulting in the brothers ended up backed into a corner, against the railing. The Waterbender went about blasting them consecutively to keep them pinned. Korra was on the defensive from fire and earth attacks, which pushed her to zone three.
"Looks like the Avatar's pro-bending debut is going to be cut short! She's been pushed back to zone three, and the water is calling her name!"
Tenzin covered his eyes as Korra was about to fall.
"It's only a matter of time before…Hold the phone! Stop the presses! She's moving like an entirely different player! Suddenly, the Platypus-Bears' strikes are only striking air!"
Tenzin uncovered his eyes looked on in surprise as Korra had taken on an Airbending stance and started gracefully dodging the opposing teams' attacks with spiral movements. "How about that?"
Utakata glanced at Tenzin's expression of pride before casting his gaze downward. The Platypus-Bears were starting to gas out. This was perfect as Mako and Bolin were still relatively fresh. They took full advantage by hammering in fire and disc respectively.
The Platypus-Bear Earthbender was knocked back by an earth disc while the Waterbender was knocked back by Korra's and Mako's combined water and fire attacks. The Fire Ferrets worked together and knocked all three opponents into the drink. The bell rang shortly after.
"What an upset, folks! The rookies, Avatar in tow, have nabbed a place in the championship tournament! I cannot believe it!"
"Believe it." Sasuke muttered to himself. "Why does that sound familiar?"
Briefly, the Uchiha's head hurt as he once again saw that blond-haired boy.
Down below, Tenzin raised his arms. "YEAH! WOOHOO!" He then saw people above eyeing him and he regained his composure. "Come along Utakata." He turned to leave. "I believe Korra and Sasuke are both just fine."
Utakata followed, now deep in thought, while the crowd went wild at the Ferret's victory. Korra and Bolin high fived as the team returned to the balcony and met with Sasuke.
"Talk about a close call." The Uchiha commented. "I thought you guys were done for."
"Oh, thanks for the support." Korra stated sarcastically.
"Korra, what can I say?" Mako smiled. "You really came alive that last round. The way you dodged their attacks, you're a natural."
"Thanks." Korra returned.
"This is a first coming from you." Sasuke commented.
"Shut up." Mako voiced irritated. "I'm trying to be nice."
"Look, I can't take all the credit." Korra knew who was responsible. "Someone else taught me those moves."
Sasuke looked at her. "I think he deserves an apology."
Korra nodded. "Yeah, he does."
Air Temple Island
Tenzin was at the gates area, helping the Air Acolytes fix the destroyed gates, when Korra and Sasuke arrive.
"I'm really sorry, about everything I said." Korra apologized genuinely. "I was really frustrated with myself, and I took it out on you."
"I think I owe you an apology too." Tenzin admitted. "I was trying to teach you about patience, yet I lost mine."
"No hard feelings?" Korra asked.
"Of course not." Tenzin smiled. "By the way, you were good out there tonight. You moved just like an Airbender."
"You stayed and watched?" Korra asked.
"I did." Tenzin informed. "Pro-Bending turned out to be the perfect teaching tool for you."
"Thanks." Korra stated.
"It's good you seem to have a more favorable outlook on Pro-Bending since Korra was officially made a Fire Ferret." Sasuke commented.
Tenzin wanted to be exasperated by that; however, everything that's happened up to this point flashed through his mind.
He ended up smiling. "Congratulations."
"Thank you." Korra smiled. 'Would you like some help?"
"I would appreciate that." Tenzin stated.
"Sasuke?" Korra asked.
"Why not?" Sasuke shrugged.
They started helping to fix the gates.
"Sasuke, I don't know what's going to be in store from here on out, but will you stay with me through to the end?" Korra asked.
"I suppose." Sasuke shrugged. "Guess we're in this together."
"Glad to hear it." Korra stated happily.
Utakata observed them once again from atop a roof. "The bond between master and student…"
Even now, the memory of his master's final act against him was clear as day; however, looking back on how Tenzin interacted with Korra had begun to stir up countless, earlier memories of their time together.
Flashback…
Back when Utakata was a Kiri Jonin, he'd just returned from a mission and landed behind his master. "Mission accomplished." He held out the scroll he'd retrieved with a smile. "A good ninja must complete his missions swiftly, correct master?"
"You're a fool!" He scolded, turning around, to the Jinchuriki's shock. "Your mission was to track and locate the stolen scroll. You were never instructed to retrieve it. Your life is precious. You must never waste it, do you understand?
A ninja never runs away from a battle that must be fought; however, at the same time, he never fights an unnecessary battle." He calmed down and approached him. "Still…" He lovingly put a hand on his student's head. "Having said that, I'm glad you're alright."
Utakata smiled. "Thanks master."
Air Temple Island
"He did care about me or so I thought." Once again, that night when his master attempted to extract the Six Tails played through his mind. "It wasn't me he cared about, only the power within me. He saw me merely as its vessel…I've always thought this to be true, but what if I'm missing something?"
Utakata turned his gaze back to Tenzin, Korra, and Sasuke. For the first time in years, the former Kiri Jonin felt as though the conclusion he drew may not have been the right one. In the end, he knew tonight would not be one where he proved or disproved this feeling.
I'm going to be upfront in that I contemplated breaking this chapter into two; however, that ended up not feeling right. The last two chapters obviously contain the events of episode 1 of Korra; however, there was a clear stopping point. The first chapter covered Korra and Sasuke departing while the second has them arrive in Republic City. So, what I'm saying is, you guys will get large uploads as I cover each episode form here on out.
Onto the contents of this chapter. I think a missed opportunity from the original story was not having Sasuke learn from bending. No, I'm not about to make Sasuke a Bender. What I'm saying is integrating the four bending styles, plus a little Pro-Bending, into his Taijutsu can only help him improve. It gives Sasuke something to learn while Utakata goes through his own arc this book on his path to eventually becoming Sasuke's master.
Here, Utakata doesn't have a student nor are there Tracker-Nin hunting him down. His only issue would be being reminded of the bond between a master and student. I think his growing interest in Sasuke's wellbeing would be enough for him not to run from simply seeing that. This leads to him confronting his past, which is by no means finished by this chapter alone.
Abhishank (Ch. 1): I will do my best.