Skies: Evening…

Deidara could see a city ahead, as his clay bird continued to ferry them through the sky. "Republic City dead ahead! We've made it!"

"Let's find Sasuke and be done with this." Sasori declared. "I've been on this stupid thing you call 'art' for far too long now."

That comment certainly ticked off the explosive user.

"Looking forward to seeing your brother again, Itachi?" Kisame grinned. "Let's see how strong he got."

"First, we must ascertain where he is." Itachi stated. "He lives on Air Temple Island; however, there may be business, like that war between the tribes, that has taken him out of Republic City."

"How do you know that?" Deidara asked.

"According to the newspapers we get, Sasuke is living with a family of Air Nomads." Itachi responded. "Said family resides on Air Temple Island, within Republic City."

"Air Nomads?" Kisame questioned. "I thought they were extinct."

"As I recall telling you, the prior Avatar was an Airbender." Itachi responded. "As he grew up, he had a son who can also Airbend, thusly creating a new family of them."

"Fine, we'll go to the island, and I'll show your brother my art." Deidara said.

"Our mission is to determine whether Sasuke is a threat or asset." Itachi reminded. "We don't hurt him until we decide what to do."

"I would have expected you to gun for him since you killed your own clan." Sasori responded.

"Regardless of what you think, we have our mission." Itachi stated. "Right now, we cannot raise suspicion. When we arrive on the island, we must act like allies to the Avatar and help them how we can until the time is right."

"You've been thinking ahead, as usual." Kisame stated.

Airship: Night…

As the airship flew through the night sky, Sasuke was putting one of his kunai on one of

the chains that trapped him back in Ba Sing Se. With how effective they were when he used them against Kabuto, he figured there was something to this. Mako and Asami approached.

"How are you doing?" Mako asked.

"Oh, hey." Sasuke greeted.

"Can't sleep?" Asami asked.

"Not really." Sasuke showed his chained kunai. "I've been busy working on a new weapon."

"Looks cool." Mako noted.

"Are you worried about Orochimaru?" Asami asked.

"He's one of the strongest Shinobi my former country has to offer." Sasuke voiced. "I still can't believe he figured out I was in the Four Nations and had his way to come here."

"He was the person you were going to for power, right?" Mako asked.

"Until I lost my memory, and you know what happened next." Sasuke shook his head. "Comparatively, I'm more worried about those criminals coming after Korra. I can't believe she almost got kidnapped when she was a kid."

"You're not alone." Asami voiced.

"Is there a reason why they were after her?" Sasuke asked.

"Chief said they tried interrogating them for years, but they never talked." Mako shook his head. "We don't know why they're after her, or what they'd want from her."

"Whatever the case, I'll handle them." Sasuke stated firmly.

"We'll all be there for her." Asami assured.

"Now, we're going to get some sleep." Mako ruffled the Uchiha's hair. "Try to do the same."

"Got it." Sasuke returned before the two of them left.

Field: Day…

The group had set the airship down in an open field for a little relaxation as they awaited some word on more Airbenders. Korra was using this time to play with Naga, using her Airbending to repeatedly throw a ball for her.

"While you're playing fetch, four of the most dangerous criminals in the Four Nations are hunting you down." Lin stated. "What's more, potentially one of the strongest criminals from Shinobi Country is after Sasuke. We should get moving."

"Lin's right." Utakata agreed. "The criminals here I'm still learning about, but Orochimaru is nothing to scoff at. Out of the three Sanin back home, even before his defection from Konoha, it was said he's the one you never wanted to be the enemy of."

That's not to say Utakata feared the man, but it was unwise to overestimate your own ability, no matter what you thought you had over your opponent. The Jinchuriki would rather they not be out in the open like this.

"Relax, we just got here." Korra assured. "Besides, no one knows where I am except us." Naga returned with the ball and dropped it next to Sasuke. "I think she wants you to throw it, Sasuke."

Sasuke looked down at the ball, which was covered in saliva and grass. "I'll pass."

Mako and Asami came out of the ship.

"We just got word over the radio about another Airbender." Asami informed.

"Finally." Korra said. "Where are they?"

"A city called Zaofu, the home of the Metal Clan." Mako said, making Lin uneasy and uncomfortable.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow. "You know the place, Lin?"

"Uhh…never been, but I don't want you going there." Lin declared. "I would rest easier if you were back at Republic City."

"Still don't agree with going there." Utakata retorted. "Raiko was quite clear; Sasuke and Korra aren't exactly welcome back."

He had noted Lin's discomfort, though that was outweighed by the fact it'd finally get these two somewhere safer.

"Sorry, but if there's an Airbender in Zaofu, that's where we're going next." Korra declared before everyone entered the ship.

Lin glared as Naga pushed the ball towards her. The metal cop bent her cable to puncture the it, leaving the polar bear-dog to whimper.

Airship: Later…

The airship flew over a plain and approached a huge, gleaming city made of metal, which was in the shape of a lotus flower. There are smaller lotus flower shapes around the city, and all, save Lin, look from the airships window.

"This place looks much better than Ba Sing Se." Sasuke noted.

"An entire city made of metal." Bolin smiled. "You should feel right at home, Beifong."

Lin was sitting away from the window, looking unimpressed. The airship landed on one of the pads. Metalbenders then bent strong cables out of a crane and hooked onto the ship. Once it was secured, a stairway was bent out to let the passengers out.

Bolin was the first to run out. "Yeah!"

Lin remained on the bench, catching Utakata's attention. "Are you coming?"

"What's there to see?" Lin retorted. "It's metal. Big whoop. Just find the Airbender and let's get moving. Also, don't tell anyone I'm here."

"Why not?" Korra asked.

"I don't need to explain myself to you." Lin retorted. "Just do what I say."

Sasuke rolled his eyes. "Whatever you say, Chief Cranky."

Hawk chuckled as he landed on the Uchiha's shoulder, and the group disembarked. They were greeted by a man with tan skin who wore green and yellow robes. He was also escorted by two Metal Clan guards.

"Avatar Korra, Uchiha Shinobi, it is an honor to meet you." The man bowed. "My name is Aiwei."

"Thanks for having us." Korra replied, bowing back.

"Is this everyone?" Aiwei asked.

"Yes, just us." Korra said. "Anyways, when are we meeting this new Airbender?"

"Right this way." Aiwei said, gesturing the gang to follow him as the escorts opened a gate.

Air Temple Island

New Airbenders and Acolytes alike were eating within the dining hall when Ikki arrived. With her was Kuon and his family, the former in Air Nomad attire while the latter three wore Air Acolyte robes. The family had just arrived, so Ikki was showing them around.

"This here is the dining hall, where everyone eats." Ikki immediately recognized the first of the new Airbenders. "Ah, this here is Daw. He's the first new Airbender to have arrived on the island."

Daw stopped eating, dropped his bowl, Airbent to rise, and turned to face the new arrivals with a bow. "It's so nice to meet you. How exciting. New friends."

"Excuse me? Hello?" Everyone turned to see a man with a hood covering his face entering the building. "My name is Yorru, and I heard this is the place to be if you're a new Airbender."

Yorru removed his hood, revealing his face and a bald head.

"You got that right, stranger." Meelo responded.

"Well, a couple weeks ago, I woke up and could suddenly do this…" Yorru stated, bending a small vortex in his palm.

"Mom! Aunt Kya!" Ikki called out excitedly. "We got another one!"

Yorru smiled.

"Excuse me?" Another new voice asked, four figures had entered the room after Yorru wearing straw hats and gray clothing. "Is this the place to help new Airbenders?"

"Yes." Pema had come over at her daughter's yell, holding Rohan. "Who are you?"

"We've heard the Avatar is looking for people who were recently made Airbenders, and that she was sending them here." The figure from before replied. "We can't Airbend ourselves, but we hope to help train those who can."

"You can totally help us train the new Airbenders!" Ikki declared excitedly.

"Hold on." Kya raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure you know about the new Airbenders, and do you have any experience teaching?"

"Listen, you…" The third figure began.

"Of course we have experience." The second figure cut him off. "You have nothing to worry about."

"Well, okay." Pema shrugged. "If you say so."

"Yay!" Ikki cheered. "New people to help!"

Zaofu

Utakata and the gang were on a tram with Aiwei, looking out the window at the city. Bolin was particularly excited as they passed a statue of Toph Beifong.

"Toph Beifong, one of the most renowned Earthbenders, and one of the members that helped Aang save the world." Sasuke noted.

"Very observant of you." Aiwei nodded. "That statue honors her as the first Metalbender. Toph expanded the possibilities of what Benders were capable of. Here, everyone is encouraged to reach his or her highest potential."

"Does Toph live here?" Bolin asked excitedly. "Are we going to meet her?"

"I'm afraid not." Aiwei dashed his hopes. "She would visit from time to time, but years ago, she left to wander the world in search of enlightenment. No one has seen her since."

The tram continued its path, only to stop at the edge of the city at a mansion.

"Wow, is this where the Airbender lives?" Korra asked.

"Yes, but first, her mother would like to meet you." Aiwei responded.

They were led into a dance studio where eight dancers rehearsed on a flattened metal lotus. Four of the dancers were swinging upward while the other four bent petals for their teammates to land on. The dancers bounced from petal to petal before jumping to the middle where the flower closed. It was then opened to reveal the dancers within posing gracefully.

"What kind of combat training is this?" Korra asked.

"Oh, this is not exactly combat training." Aiwei informed. "It is a rehearsal for a dance premiere next month."

One of the dancers, a middle-aged woman who almost looks like Lin, saw the group. "That's it today, everyone."

She clapped to the dancers before departing to meet the group.

"Allow me to introduce the matriarch of the Metal Clan, Suyin." Aiwei introduced.

"Please, call me Su." Suyin smiled. "Great to finally meet you, Avatar Korra." She pressed her fist into her palm before seeing Sasuke. "Ah, you must be Sasuke Uchiha, a renowned Shinobi hero of the country."

"Nice to meet you." Sasuke greeted.

"That would make those accompanying you Mako, Bolin, Asami, and Utakata." Suyin said.

"You've done your research." Utakata noted.

"I make it my business to know who's visiting my city." Suyin returned.

"So, you're a dancer." Korra said.

"Dancer, leader, wife, mother, and collector of rare meteorites." Suyin informed. "You'll find people here have many skills and interests." Then, Aiwei leaned in and whispered something, making her eyes widen. "Korra, why lie when Aiwei asked if anyone else was with you?"

Korra was shocked while Bolin clapped his hands over his mouth, but Sasuke elbowed him.

"What…? I, uh…" Korra tried to come up with an excuse.

"How did you know she was lying?" Sasuke asked.

"I'm a truth seer." Aiwei answered. "When people lie, their heart rate and breathing increase. I can sense the most subtle of changes."

"Thanks to Aiwei, there are no secrets in our city." Suyin said.

Given what happened in Ba Sing Se, Utakata would at least file that information away. "If he's the one who can tell when people are lying, who does the same for him? If there's no one, it means there might just be secrets here only he knows."

"We came with Republic City's Chief of Police." Korra said remorsefully.

"She didn't want anyone to know she was here, so we were made to promise we wouldn't tell." Sasuke added, no remorse in his voice.

"Lin's here?" Su smiled. "Well, I would love to say hello."

"Wait, you two know each other?" Korra asked.

"You're joking, right?" Su asked but nobody said anything. "Lin never told you about me, did she?"

"No, why would she?" Korra asked.

"I'm Lin's sister." Suyin answered, shocking everyone.

Airship: Later…

Lin looked at Zaofu through the window before Sasuke's reflection appeared within it. "We know why you were averse to coming here."

Lin turned to see the Uchiha, Korra, and Suyin, who was now in her Zaofu attire.

"Why didn't you tell us you had a sister?" Korra asked.

"HALF-sister." Lin corrected while looking at Suyin with disdain.

"Same mom, different dads, so what?" Su questioned. "We're blood, and after thirty years, the least you can do is say 'hello'."

Lin turned her back at that. "I have NOTHING to say to you."

"You two haven't spoken for THIRTY years?" Korra questioned, dismayed. "How come?"

"Ask her." Su responded. "I've tried."

"Oh, don't put that on me." Lin declared. "You're the one who tore our family apart."

"And you've done a bang-up job of keeping it that way." Suyin returned smugly.

"You haven't changed one bit, have you?" Lin asked.

"As much as I'm enjoying this sister reunion, we're not here to watch you bitch at each other." Sasuke retorted.

"Wow, he doesn't hold back his words, does he?" Su questioned; a touch surprised. "Though, he's right. We can stay and argue about the past all day, but that's not the reason why they came here."

"Lin, your niece is the new Airbender!" Korra declared. "Isn't that amazing?"

"Yeah, terrific." Lin said bitterly.

Zaofu: Later…

With Lin now reluctantly here, Suyin showed everyone a field of metal columns before a metal disc ricocheted between two boys.

"These are my two youngest, Wei and Wing." Su informed. "They're playing a game called Power Disc, which they invented all on their own."

Wing shot the disc at Wei, who redirected it and ricocheted it between multiple columns. Wei was quick to fire the disc back and ricochet it against a column. Wing lept to intercept the disc but failed to catch it as it entered his net.

"Oh, nice power Wei!" Suy called out.

"Wing goes down!" Wei cheered while Wing pounds his fists and grumbles.

"I'm so proud of those two." Su declared.

Sasuke looked down at the two brothers, remembering the times he spent with Itachi when they were younger. The group then arrived at a gallery filled with metal sculptures. The one behind them was there using his Metalbending to make another piece.

"Huan, I'd like you to meet the Avatar, Uchiha Shinobi, his mentor, their friends, and your Aunt Lin." Suyin introduced.

"Nice to meet you." Korra stated.

"Hey." Huan said, not turning to look at them.

"Wow, that's a really nice…banana?" Bolin guessed. "Yes, very, very lifelike."

"It's not a banana." That only irritated Huan. "It was inspired by Harmonic Convergence and represents the dawning of a New Age. Obviously."

"Oh, yeah, no, uh, I can totally see that." Bolin said.

Sasuke rolled his eyes as they walked on. "Artists…"

They were led to a younger teenage girl, with slightly tanned skin and green eyes, who was reading a book.

"This is my daughter, Opal." Suyin introduced.

"Avatar Korra, I can't believe you're here." Opal had turned to see the group. "You're so amazing!"

"It's great to meet you, Opal." Korra said.

"You must be Sasuke, the ninja hero I've heard about!" Opal gushed. "You're so cool!"

"Thanks." Sasuke said.

"Opal, that's a beautiful name." Bolin noted.

"Thanks." Opal said, blushing while pushing her hair behind her ear.

"I'm Bolin." Bolin introduced.

"Opal, but you already knew that." Opal stated, blushing.

"Great, we've found the Airbender." Lin stated quickly. "Let's take her back to the ship and get out of here."

And the woman apparently trying to abduct you is your Aunt Lin." Suyin introduced.

"Really?" Opal was hopeful. "I've always wanted to meet you. My mom has told me so many stories about you."

"I'm sure she has." Lin retorted, annoyed and cold.

"So, I've set all of you up in the guesthouses while Korra trains Opal." Suyin said.

"Oh, I'm sorry, but I was kind of hoping she would train at the Northern Air Temple with the other Airbenders." Korra stated.

"That sounds amazing." Opal said

"Nonsense." Su waved that off. "This is where Opal's home and family are. You can train her here."

"I guess I could help her get started." Korra offered.

"Absolutely not!" Lin declared. "We're leaving."

"She's worried because there are crazy criminal groups after Sasuke and I." Korra informed.

"If you're concerned about security, don't be." Su assured. "This is the safest city in the world."

Lin rolled her eyes.

"That's what the people of Ba Sing Se thought before the Fire Nation took over." Utakata noted, suddenly feeling this was a little less safe than he hoped.

"Anyways, I'll see you all at dinner and come hungry." Su brushed past that. "My chef will blow the taste buds right out of your mouth."

"Lin, why do you have such a problem with your sister?" Korra asked. "She seems nice."

Lin glared at the Avatar.

Evening…

Korra and Opal were in the garden for the latter's first lesson.

"Okay, let's see what you got." Korra said.

"I'm not very good." Opal voiced.

"That's okay." Korra assured. "Even though Sasuke's not a Bender, I helped him learn all the forms for each of the four elements. I'm positive I can help you get Airbending down." She began by demonstrating.

"You want to keep your elbows in, torso straight, feet just skimming the ground. Why don't you try with me?" Opal followed her movements as they circled each other, and both bent a stream of air which encircled them. "Wow, you're a natural."

"You really think so?" Opal asked happily. "Thanks."

Air Temple Island

A female Airbender slammed against the spinning plates before tumbling out as the rest of the Airbenders, and the four figures, watched.

"You call yourself an Airbender!?" Meelo yelled. "Disgraceful!"

"That brat's pissing me off." The third figure muttered.

"Patience." The first figure whispered. "He's just a kid."

Meelo pointed to the gates making Daw run in, though he also struggled.

"Be the leaf!" Meelo yelled.

"I don't even know what that means." Daw responded.

Yorru calmly walked past them, causing everyone else to watch before he somersaulted through the panels. He avoided every gate, surprising everyone. After going through the final gate, the Airbender clasped his hands in respect.

"Now that man is a leaf." Meelo praised.

"A student is only as good as his master." Yorru replied while bowing.

Meelo bowed back before the first figure walked up to the gates. "Hey mister, you're not an Airbender."

"You could say I'm interested to try this myself." The first figure stated. "There should be no harm in that."

He went through the gate with movements that absolutely matched what Yorru accomplished, impressing everyone.

"Wow mister, you're good for a non-Airbender." Meelo praised.

"Everyone has a gift." The first figure responded.

"Show off." The fourth figure muttered.

"Great news!" Just then, Kya arrived. "I got a message from Tenzin. He's with a whole group of other Airbenders at the Northern Air Temple, and he wants you all to join them." The Airbenders smiled at the news. "We'll leave first thing in the morning."

"And the Avatar is with him?" Yorru asked.

"No." Kya answered. "Apparently, she had to split off."

"That's unfortunate." Yorru noted. "I was really looking forward to meeting her."

"What about Sasuke Uchiha?" The first figure inquired. "I've yet to find him."

"He's with Korra." Kya replied.

"I see." The first figure nodded. "So, you're helping to rebuild a long-forgotten nation, Sasuke."

Zaofu: Night…

The metal panels around the city closed, and the group were sitting down to dinner with Su and her family.

"Tonight, for your dining pleasure, I present a seared wild Kyoshi elephant-koi, paired with a ginger-infused pea tendril and hibiscus root salad." A chef declared, serving the food.

"Stunning." Suyin complimented.

The chef bowed before leaving. Within the hall, he bowed to a man and teen behind him who looked near identical.

"Sorry, dear. I'm going to have to take dinner to my office." The man said. "I just had a major breakthrough on my tram station remodel."

"Well, don't let me stand in the way of inspiration." Suyin said.

"You're the best!" The man said.

"Who's he?" Sasuke asked.

"That was my brilliant architect of a husband, Baatar, and our oldest son, Baatar Jr." Su informed. "He engineers all my husband's projects."

"Five kids, what a nightmare." Lin said bitterly.

Sasuke rolled his eyes and muttered, "Here we go…"

"No, no! My children are a blessing." Suyin said.

"Yeah, mom used to say that too, but she never meant it." Lin retorted.

"Hmm…I admit, I was skeptical when he said 'pea tendril', but this is delicious." Bolin noted.

"I know, right?" Opal smiled. "I don't think I've ever had a bad meal in my life."

"Oh, I had plenty when Mako and I were living on the streets." Bolin replied. "You'd be surprised how bad food from a dumpster can be."

"I'm sorry." Opal stated genuinely. "I didn't know."

"No, no, that's okay." Bolin assured. "That's all in the past. Things are great now. I got to be a Pro-Bender, fought against a dangerous revolution, became a mover star, and now I'm helping the Avatar rebuild a whole nation."

"Wow, your life sounds exciting." Opal said.

"So, how's the search for the new Airbenders going?" Suyin asked.

"Last we heard, there were plenty willing to consider it; however, our first real recruit was some petty thief." Sasuke replied. "He, like many others in Ba Sing Se, were captured by the Dai Li and forced into the Earth Queen's army."

"We ended up rescuing them, and they've gone with Tenzin to the Northern Air Temple." Korra nodded. "It'd been a bit rough, but things have turned around."

"Oh, the Earth Queen's terrible." Su stated. "She thinks she can just do whatever she wants."

"Sounds familiar." Lin muttered.

"What?" Suyin asked.

"Nothing." Lin replied.

"I mean, the idea of even having a queen is so outdated." Suyin commented.

"The world still needs leaders to guide their citizens." Utakata countered. "After all, you're a leader yourself. What the Earth Kingdom needs now are those willing to stand up and a proper leader ready to take the throne."

"Personally, I feel the world is evolving." Su countered back. "The Queen can evolve with it or step aside."

"Hey everyone, my little sister is an EXPERT on world affairs now!" Lin called out sarcastically.

"You want to talk about what's really bugging you?" Su questioned. "I'm right here!"

The sisters exchanged heated glares before Lin turned away.

"Aw man, I'm starving!" A familiar voice called out.

"That voice…" Sasuke growled.

"Don't tell me…" Asami sighed.

"Sorry I late, Su." Xiba Sato declared, entering the room wearing Zaofu robes. "I was really into finishing this new weapon…"

Sasuke stood, slamming his hands on the table. "What are you doing here?"

"Sasuke?" Xiba looked around the room. "I didn't expect you and sis to be here."

"Why ARE you here, Xiba?" Asami demanded. "You should be in juvie!"

"Let me guess, you came to Zaofu to try and get rid of the Metalbenders." Sasuke accused, walking up to him ready to strike the moment he tried something. "I bet it killed you to know Opal's a new Airbender, and you want her out of the way now to."

"This kid was an Equalist agent." Bolin stood protectively before Opal. "I'll protect you."

"Sasuke, it's fine." Su assured. "Xiba's not here to get rid of us. He came because he wanted to start over."

"It's true." Xiba held up his hands. "I really wanted to turn my life around after the Equalists."

"How did you escape?" Sasuke questioned.

"When I was in my cell, a giant vine crashed through my wall, so I took the opportunity." Xiba answered. "I happened to come across someone else who knew just the place where we could both start over."

"A vine?" Korra questioned. "You mean you escaped during Harmonic Convergence?"

"That's right." Xiba responded. "Look, I've had a lot of time to think about what I've done and realized it was a mistake ever joining the Equalist. I should have left with you guys that night under our mountain, just as Asami did.

Thing is, I can't go back to change what happened, but when that vine broke through my cell, it felt like I was being given a second chance. I realized I could start over." He got down on his hands and knees. "I am sorry for everything I did."

…

For a moment, there was silence.

"If you do ANYTHING that steps out of line, don't expect mercy from me." Sasuke retorted while walking back to his seat.

Xiba stood with a slight, genuine smile. "I'm one hundred percent on the right path now."

"Who was with you when you escaped?" Asami asked.

As if on cue, Varrick and Zhu Li entered the room.

"Sorry we're late, everyone." Varrick declared.

"There's your answer." Xiba said.

"Varrick!" Sasuke stated hatefully.

"Varrick!" Bolin stated excitedly.

"What are you doing here?" Asami asked.

"Good question, Asami." Varrick took a seat next to her. "I mean, what are any of us doing here? Wow, food for thought. Any who, how's our company doing?"

"You mean my company?" Asami questioned. "Future Industries reverted back to me after you plotted to abduct the President."

"ALLEGEDLY plotted to abduct the President." Varrick correct. "Never convicted."

"That's because you escaped prison, just like that twerp." Mako retorted.

"Nope, the universe decided to set me and this tyke free." Varrick returned. "After being let out, I found poor Xiba all alone with nowhere to go, so I looked up my old friend Suyin here. After pitching her a few ideas, we're in business."

"Varrick's heading up my new technology division while Xiba decided to use the old Equalist equipment to protect Non-Benders and Benders, without oppression."

"I'm working towards true equality." Xiba added. "Weapons to protect Non-Benders as well as things that could enhance Benders."

"I've seen the future, and the future is magnets!" Varrick declared. "As we speak, I've been working on a high-speed rail that will revolutionize transportation and shipping as we know it; however, that's…"

"Alright enough!" Lin stood. "I'm trying to keep the Avatar and Sasuke safe, yet you're harboring criminals."

"Ease out, Lin." Su stated. "Sure, Xiba was part of an anti-bending revolution, but he was just on the wrong path. Varrick also made mistakes, but neither should be punished for their whole lives over it. Why, my chef was a pirate, but now he's a culinary master. People change, Lin."

"You haven't!" Lin yelled while storming off.

"Lin!" Korra called out.

Lin didn't stop and slammed the door with a cable.

Bathroom:Later…

Sasuke was washing his hands, Mako was styling his hair, and Bolin brushed his teeth.

"So, you and Opal seemed to hit it off at dinner." Mako noted. "I think she's really into you."

"Yeah, she's sweet, pretty, and super nice; however, she's not my type." Bolin said.

"Yeah, your type is dumb Mover Star or psycho Ice Princess." Mako retorted.

"When it's put that way, Opal might want to steer clear." Sasuke added.

"Ya know, that hurts right here." The Earthbender pointed at his chest before thinking about it. "That said, you guys might be right. Maybe Opal is Bolin material."

Su's Study

Korra was with Su in the woman's study, where she examined a model of Zaofu.

"You know, before I built this city, there was nothing here." Su voiced. "I wanted to make my mark on the world."

"It's amazing." Korra smiled. "Thank you for being welcoming, and I'm sorry for how Lin's been acting. Can I ask what happened between you two?"

"It's complicated." Su replied as they both sat on sofas across from one another. "We didn't have a normal childhood. Neither of knew our fathers, and Toph was always busy being Chief of Police. Because mom grew up in such a strict household, she gave us all the freedom in the world, hoping we'd figure out our own paths."

"That sounds like a good thing." Korra replied.

"In a way, it was, but we both ended up fighting for Mom's attention." Su stated. "Lin followed in her footsteps and became a cop while I was…more of a rebel. Mom wasn't happy with how either of us turned out. When I was sixteen, I left home to explore the world.

I sailed the seas on a pirate ship, joined a travelling circus for a while, and visited both sides of the world. It took me a while, but I realized what I was looking for was a family. So, I bought this land, found a brilliant architect, who became my husband, and created my home."

"It sounds like you've made the perfect life here." Korra noted.

"Almost." Su admitted. "I've always wanted Lin to be a part of it, but I gave up hope long ago of her ever coming around."

Korra gave her a sympathetic look before getting an idea.

Zaofu

Opal was at a pavilion, training her Airbending, when Bolin arrived. "Hey, lady. Wow, you're really blowing me away with your Airbending."

"Why are you acting weird?" Opal asked.

"Why're YOU acting weird?" Bolin asked back.

"I don't like how you're talking to me." Opal replied before walking off.

"Wait! I'm sorry." Bolin quickly dropped the flirty act he was putting on. "I just get really self-conscious when I know a girl likes me, and I end up looking stupid."

"Who said I liked you?" Opal asked.

"But I thought…Mako and Sasuke said…" Bolin was cut off.

"Just kidding." Opal smiled. "Do me a favor and just be yourself."

"Be myself." Bolin smiled. "Yeah, I can give it a shot."

The pair looked at each other romantically before Korra arrived and cleared her throat, catching their attention.

"Oh, Korra." Opal said.

"Opal, can I steal you away for a minute?" Korra asked. "I need your help with something."

Opal waved to the Earthbender before leaving with the Avatar.

Air Temple Island

The four figures convened to talk.

"Sasuke's not here after all." Sasori scoffed. "This was a waste of our time."

"Don't be hasty, Sasori." Itachi stated. "Sasuke may not be here, but people on this island clearly know him. They'll know where he's going."

"You always were quite skilled at espionage." Kisame said.

"How can we get that info?" Deidara asked.

"You three wait here." Itachi walked off. "I'll get our information."

Tenzin's Study

Yorru entered Tenzin's study and found a small shrine of an Air Nomad. He took an amulet with a sculpting of a guru from the shrine and opened it to find an inscription within.

"'Let go your earthly tether. Enter the void. Empty and becomewind'." Yorru recited.

"What're you doing?" Yorru turned to see Ikki. "Noone's allowed in daddy's study except daddy."

"I'm sorry, but I couldn't sleep." Yorru responded.

Itachi had entered the hall, intending to search for information, only to come across the study with the two people inside.

"What were you reading?" Ikki asked.

"A poem by Guru Laghima, the wisest Airbender who ever lived." Yorru answered.

Itachi heard someone coming, so he activated his Sharingan just as they rounded the corner. It was Kya, who was about to speak to him until he locked eyes with her. Utilizing a Genjutsu, he simply made her not see him before backing away, letting her enter and observe.

"Ikki, you should be in bed." Kya voiced.

"Night." Ikki stated to the man.

"Good night." Yorru returned.

Ikki walked out of the room and went left while Itachi was to the right, meaning he didn't have to put her under a Genjutsu.

"You seem to know a lot about Airbender history for someone who just got Airbending." Kya voiced.

"I've always admired the culture." Yorru returned.

"And you moved through those gates like a natural." Kya voiced. "Come to think of it, one of those strangers was able to do it, but he's not a bender." She shook her head. "Where did you say you came from?"

"A small village up north." Yorru answered. "You've probably never heard of it."

"Wait." Kya looked closer at Yorru, realizing his identity in shock. "Zaheer!"

"Zaheer?" Itachi thought.

Kya bent water from the fountain and directed it at Zaheer, who dodged with some Airbending. The Waterbender had the water circle her before using it to shoot ice shards at the Airbender. Zaheer grabbed a staff from the shrine and used it to break the shards while backing up.

Air Temple Island

Zaheer had made it to the window and blasted himself outside with air. He then leapt and attempted to use the glider to escape; however, Kya had lept out after the man before catching him with a water tentacle.

"So, he's here doing something similar to us." Itachi came to the window. "It appears his question about the Avatar might just align more with our question about Sasuke. He could very well be hunting the Avatar."

He lept out the window and down to the ground before finally dispelling his Genjutsu on Kya, who was too focused on Zaheer to remember that brief glimpse she got of Itachi prior.

"I need some help!" Kya called.

She then lept down and dragged Zaheer with her, sending him smashing into the fountain. Itachi saw White Lotus sentries moving to help the Waterbender.

"Kisame, Sasori, Deidara, stop them!" Itachi ordered. "Don't let them help that woman!"

"Finally, something to do!" Deidara declared while throwing out small birds made from his clay.

They exploaded, causing the men to leap back. In their current state of disorganization and focus on Deidara, Kisame came in cutting one down with Samehada while Sasori used chakra threads to catch the second. He lifted the man into the air before flinging him into the ocean.

Kya bent water at Zaheer, intending to freeze it. The Airbender lept in time to the point only his leg was frozen, but Itachi moved in before breaking him free.

"What are you doing?" Kya asked.

"This man is my lead." Itachi responded.

"Your what?" Zaheer asked.

Kya sent a wave of water at Itachi, who suddenly dispersed into multiple crows which flew around the Waterbender. She used the water whip to drive them away, only for Zaheer to nail her in the stomach with an air kick, knocking her back first into the temple itself.

"Hold it right there!" A White Lotus sentry yelled.

More sentries arrived, though they were unaware of the full danger.

As such, Kisame was quick to slice another one down with Samehada. "Too bad you don't have Chakra, Samehada could use a good meal."

Two sentries came in, with Deidara attaching insect sized bombs to their backs. As they attempted to fire blast at Kisame, he detonated them, causing the men to cry out in pain before being silenced.

"Finally, some art!" Deidara declared, joyfully.

Three more sentries arrived, bending fire, water, and earth at the two Akatsuki members. The pair were quick to dodge while Sasori came up behind the Benders. He ensnared them with his Chakra Threads before pulling them close and quickly dispatching them.

He then pulled out a scroll, sealing their bodies away. "In my hands, these could be useful puppets."

"Your friends are impressive." Zaheer said.

"We are skilled." Itachi retorted.

Kya had recovered, now standing, and bent all the nearby water around herself.

"You should give up now." Itachi warned.

"Don't tell me what to do!" Kya yelled, sending a large wave of water at the pair.

Itachi and Zaheer both dodged deftly.

The Uchiha then wove through hand signs. "Fire Style: Great Fireball Jutsu!"

Zaheer unintentionally utilized his Airbending at the same time, resulting in the rather large fireball Itachi let off turning blue from all that extra fuel. Kya retrieved all the water and sent it into the large ball of fire, creating a massive cloak of steam.

Zaheer opened his staff, seeing this as his chance to leave, but not before looking the Uchiha's way. "Who are you?"

"Itachi Uchiha." Itachi introduced.

"Itachi." Zaheer nodded. "Let's meet again soon."

He then flew off while the other three Akatsuki members gathered around Itachi.

"Aww, I haven't gotten to fight a Waterbender yet." Kisame turned to the cloud of steam, Kya's silhouette was visible as she made her way out the other side. "Oh, looks like you haven't finished that one yet."

"Not now Kisame." Sasori chided. "Our cover's blown."

"Be that as it may, we got what we need." Itachi stated.

"What do you mean?" Deidara asked.

"That man, Zaheer, asked about the Avatar earlier." Itachi responded. "That means he's hunting her. As Sasuke should be with her, our best chance at finding him is through that man."

"Fine by me." Kisame said.

"The problem is, he got away." Sasori remined.

"He won't go far." Itachi retorted. "I'm sure he's somewhere in the city. Deidara, let's go."

"Yeah, yeah." Deidara said, creating a bird they all escaped upon before the steam dissipated.

Zaofu: Guesthouse

Lin, who is in her undershirt, was reading a newspaper when there was a knock on the door. "Who is it?"

The door opened, revealing Korra. "Hey, it's me, and I've brought someone who wants to talk to you."

The Avatar opened the door to allow Opal in.

"You want to talk? Then talk." Lin declared, turning away.

"I'm sorry being here has been so hard for you." Opal stated genuinely while entering the room. "When you showed up, I was so excited to get to know you. I heard so many great things about you from mom and Grandma Toph.

I guess I was kind of sad you didn't want to know me. Believe me, I know my family can be a little crazy and overwhelming sometimes; however, I would love it so much if you would be part of it."

"Get out." Lin said annoyed.

Opal was shocked. "Sorry, did I say something wrong?"

"Get out!" Lin repeated, this time yelling with rage.

Opal teared up at that and ran out the room.

"What's your problem?" Korra asked. "Don't get mad at Opal. I asked her to talk with you because I thought it would help you snap out of whatever funk you're in. Guess I was wrong."

"Why don't you focus on fixing the world and stop trying to fix my family?" Lin asked annoyed.

"You know what, Su's right." Korra stated. "You're never going to change. You'll just remain this bitter, lonely woman."

She then stormed out of the room. Now that Lin was alone again, she put her hand on her face and tears started running down her cheek.

alwynonlinereading: When Jinora came to get Kai in canon, she kissed him on the check. Here Jinora has known Sasuke for much longer, and the two have had feelings for a little while now. As for Kuon and his family, they appear here.