#fyrefic

It was the first new year’s celebration you were going to spend in Republic City, and you weren’t sure if you were excited or treating it as a normal day. Walking up to Air temple island and seeing Bumi and Meelo carrying boxes of fireworks “Ahh I see the island is going to have their own show” you smile. Both men give you their shit eating grin and nod “of course, It’s going to be huge!” Meelo jumps excitingly as he hurries over to the safe location to set up. “You are going to keep it safe right, Bumi?” you give him a glare as you fold your arms, and he smirks. “Of course, plus if things go south Kya can use her bending to wash it out. Wouldn’t want the chief to fine us” he laughs, and you shake your head. “there is only so much leeway I can do to not get you arrested, Bumi.” You exasperated and slid your hands in your pocket.

“where is the chief anyway? She is not with you?” Bumi looks behind you as he holds up the box and you shake your head. “no, why would she be with me?” you look at the eldest son of the cloudkids and he gives you a knowing look. You and Lin have been dating for a couple months and so far Bumi has been the only one catching on. As far as you knew Bumi was the only one…. The island sure loves to talk even if they are all about peace and quiet. It gets really noisy with the gossip. You sigh as you rub the back of your neck

“Actually no, she had to work tonight. You know because crime spikes up in the holidays.” you stress, and he rolls his eyes “hey I got this. It’s not my first time dealing with these beauties.” He smirks as he walks over and helps Meelo set up with the help of a few acolytes.

*

Lin has never really given an ounce of care for the new year celebrations. If anything it gave her more work and paperwork since it seems there are always crimes. Busted windows, drunken fights, disturbance calls, noise complaints, just to name a few. But this was the first new year since Tenzin that she was going to have someone, you. A part of her felt bad that she had to work, but duty came first. You of all people understood and for that she was grateful. You had told her that you were going to spend the evening alone, but Lin suggested to head over to the island with the airbending family instead. Once the shift was over Lin would head over, but the both of you knew that Lin would return in the wee hours of the night, after the festivities would be over.

Lin sighed as she glanced down at the paperwork in front of her and got back to work as her officers answered calls.

*

After a couple of hours playing with the kids you told them to run off and let them give you a chance to get something to drink. Kya walks up beside you as you sip some water and gives you a smile. “Fancy seeing you here. Actually I’m glad you’re here. No one should be alone for the new year.”

You gave her a soft smile and nod “yeah, I suppose that is true. I’m glad too. I love the family as if they were my own.”

“I’m sure everyone loves you too. Sad Lin couldn’t make it through.” She sighed as she folded her arms, and you looked a way for a second as you nod. “yeah, you know Lin. Always working to keep the city safe.”

“yeah, but I’m sure the city won’t crash and burn one night.” Kya huffs and you softly laugh “that may be true, but who are we to stop the chief from doing her duty”

A snicker is heard from behind the both of you and Kya rolls her eyes “really Bumi, how old are you exactly? You still snicker over that word”

You smile watching the banter back and forth from the two siblings. You slip past them as Bumi gets defensive at how funny the word sounds.

Stepping outside and feeling the cool breeze as some citizens couldn’t contain their excitement and started already setting off their own personal fireworks.

No one should be alone for the new year.

Kya’s words repeated into your mind and you glanced back at the temples. She does have a point, but who were you to just step into headquarters at this time of night. There is just two hours until midnight.

*

“you know as much as we love having here. I’m sure there is a certain chief of police that will love to be brought into the new year.” Bumi sits beside you at the wooden gazebo as you look out towards Yue bay and you playfully scoff “is this your way of kicking me off the island? And only with an hour left of the year”

“No, but what Kya said had some truth. No one should be alone during new year’s” he smiles softly as he nudges you before standing up. You look at him puzzled before looking back towards the direction of where headquarters would be before looking back at the eldest brother. “Go, I’ll come up with some excuse to give the family.” He nudges you before you finally give him a smile and stand up. Lifting your sleeve up you look at your watch and see you have less than an hour to head over. “Traffic is bad. I’m not sure I’ll make it” you mutter as you purse your lips. “well you better get going. Isn’t that why you have your motorcycle to begin with?” he smirks, and you return the smile. Giving him a hug “happy new year, Bumi” he returns the gesture, and you climb over the railing and earthbend down the island.

*

Lin looked over at her clock on her desk, 11:40 P.M., she groaned as she pinched the bridge of her nose. There would be no use to call the island, all the lines are busy with everyone else trying to call their loved ones. It’s just a day, tomorrow everything will be back to normal, surely you did understand and aren’t feeling out of sorts.

*

You were revving your bike weaving and bobbing through other cars and vehicles that were trying to do the same that you were going. Trying to get to your loved ones to wish them a happy new year. You almost collided into a guy balancing boxes of baked goods on the sidewalk when you swerved past a satomobile. You yelled out your apologies while he yelled out exploitative at you. Looking ahead at the road with the cold wind blasting in your face causing your cheeks to turn a rosy pink. Glancing down at your watch, 11:50 pm, “I can make it. HQ is right down the road.” You mutter under your breath as you revved and sped quicker.

*

A knock on the door brings Lin back to the present as she files a report in her cabinet, “Better be important” she calls out as she metalbends the door open. “Hey chief, with five minutes left to the new year I was wondering if you want to celebrate in the bullpen” Officer Zan talked to the Chief. Lin looked over and indeed the clock had just turned 11:56 P.M. since the question. “thank you for the offer, but I have work that needs to get done.”

“of course, Happy New Year, Chief” the officer bowed

“Happy New Year, Zan” Lin nodded at the officer and he closed the door.

“just 3 minutes until the sky is bright and the noises” Lin muttered as she looks into her cabinet for her stashed bottle of sake.

*

“10!”

You jump off your cycle at the front of the building as you start to sprint inside the building.

9

Running past the front desk as the secretaries were watching the television watching the broadcast. You hear the muffled counting.

8

You run up the stairs as you reach the top floor towards the bullpen. You’ve come here once or twice to visit Mako and in turn was a way to see Lin. Which was how you met the chief and got introduced to her, the start of that relationship. A smile appears on your lips as you think back to that moment.

7

No, this is not the time.

6

You push past the door and look around trying to remember if it was a left of right to the bullpen. You close your eyes as you try to visualize the floor plan. “Crap, ok focus…. Once you go up the stairs you make a….. right” you look in that direction and hurried over.

5

“followed by a left” you voice out the directions and then the first door to the right will open into the bullpen. Sure enough the bullpen comes into view

“Hey, you’re Mako’s cousin right? He’s not here” Tan looks at you as the guys are all holding cups to cheer in the year.

4

“I’m not here for Mako, is the Chief in? I need to report something” you urged to the officer and he shakes his head “She doesn’t want to be disturbed”

3

“It’s fine. She knows me” you brushed him off and l remembered where her office is, but Tan stands in front of you. “She’s busy” you glare at him and push past him

2

“Stop!” Tan shouts out as you grab the handle and open the door to Lin’s office.

Lin looks up and her eyes widen when she sees you and then looks at Tan “What is the meaning of this?!”

1

“Happy New Year!!!” the cheers coming from the bullpen as the three of you are looking at each other. “I’m sorry Chief, I tried to stop them” Tan quickly explains and Lin raises her hand up to stop him “It’s fine. You’re dismissed Tan, enjoy the festivities in the bullpen.”

“yes, Chief” Tan bows and he gives you a look before walking out as you closed the door behind you.

“What are you doing here, y/n?” Lin stands up and walks around her desk as she looks at you. Her voice laced with a slight anger that you caused a commotion at her place of work and surprise.

“Happy New Year to you too” you smile as you stepped closer to the metalbender.

“Still haven’t answered my question” she smirked as she leaned against the desk folding her arms.

“No one should be alone on New Year’s, Lin” you spoke softly to her as you stepped right in front of her. “if you couldn’t be with me where I was, then I figured I should come to you.” you gave her a smile as you looked into her eyes.

“it’s just like any other day, y/n” Lin muttered as she looked away to hide her slight blush.

“That maybe but I wanted to start the year with someone I love” you smiled more as Lin’s eyes widened slightly before looking over at you.

“what?”

“I love you Lin Beifong.” You confessed, looking right at those pale green eyes that you love to lose yourself in. A blush appears on your cheeks as you turn your eyes away from the slight embarrassment.

“Do you really mean it?” Lin looked up at you, this isn’t the first time you’ve dropped the word, but it still surprised her that someone would come to express it towards her. She didn’t think she would be able to find someone else to share those emotions with. She looked almost hopeful that you wouldn’t have doubts or regrets from saying it, doubts about you not really loving her. It all vanished instantly when you looked back at her and smiled. The love of your face is evident to anyone who looked at you.

“Of course, I do.”

Lin heard the fireworks setting off in the background followed by the cheers. You and Lin missed the countdown, but the most prominent sound that was going off was her own heartbeat. She was glad that you didn’t develop the skill to have seismic sense or else she was done for.

“Isn’t there some sort of tradition between couples?” you smirked as you stepped closer resting your hands on either side of Lin’s waist.

“I’m not sure I know what you mean” Lin breathed out as you looked at each other’s eyes. 

“well the tradition is to kiss the one you love. Since here you are”

“Here I am” Lin smiles as your eyes glancing down at her lips. Your head came down to meet hers, and you kissed her.

The kiss started off slow and sweet. A slight uncertainty at first, each unsure about how far either one could go, but it slowly became more and more confident. Lin wrapped her hands around your neck as your arms made their way around her waist, and you pulled her even closer to you than Lin thought possible. Lin felt herself relax against you; she has never felt anything more... Right. You opened your mouth, hoping to deepen the kiss which Lin responded eagerly.

After a couple of moments, Lin reluctantly broke off the kiss, to get some air. Both of your faces flushed as you rested your forehead against hers. Slowly opening your eyes and looking into each other's eyes, each with a smile imprinting on each other’s faces. You brushed your hands down and held her hands into yours as you stepped back. Lin’s brow raised wondering what you were doing, and you smiled as you tugged her towards the window.  

You spun her around once and Lin let out an amused laugh before you pulled her close to your embrace. Wrapping your arms around her waist as her back is pressed against your chest. A soft kiss on her neck as Lin’s face is illuminated by the bright lights of the fireworks. The other of you stand there a moment to enjoy the quiet moment and the sound of the city celebrating the new year.

"y/n," Lin muttered against you as she looked out in front of her.

"Yes, dear?" you muttered back, rubbing her waist as the both of you slightly sway side to side.

"Happy New Year," she looks over her shoulder to look at you watching you smile. How she loves your smile, it causes her to turn to face you as you cup her cheek.

Shifting a bit as you slowly wake up, your arms around a warm Lin as you inhale her sweet sense. “I missed being in your arms” you mumble as the sun slowly creeped through the blinds of the window.  “Well you kept letting Ikki sleep beside you these past couple nights” Lin grumbles back neither one of you wanting to open your eyes. Both of you simply enjoy each other’s warmth. A smirk appears on your lips “Do I detect a hint of jealousy from Chief Beifong?” Lin scoffs and grumples something “absolutely not” she huffs and you let out a soft chuckle.

“I’m not some monster to turn away a child” you hold onto Lin closer so your face nuzzles into her neck. “you could’ve joined us” you whispered as you rested your head on her shoulder. Lin rolled her eyes “and let the blabbermouth start asking all sorts of questions as to what I’m doing in your bed”.

You smile laughing softly “good point”. Lin runs her hand up and down your back, soothing you as you relax against her. Even after all this time, Lin’s touch still gives you little shocks of electricity. Her hand runs down to the small of your back and a gasp escapes your lips right beside her ear. Your breath hitting her ear causes her to grip your waist and she opens her eyes, then looks down at you. Your eyes flutter open and meet those jade eyes you love; you move your hand up and cup her cheek softly stroking her cheek. “Hi” you smile whispering to her, and she smiles back “Hi”, glancing at her eyes and lips you lean in and decide to kiss her. Lin returned your kiss before you pulled back and slowly began to sit up, moving to sit on her lap. Lin watches you intently, running your hands up along her chest then lean down and slowly kiss her. Lin puts her hands on your hips and ass pulling you close as you wrap your arms around her neck. You look into her eyes and a shy smile slowly creeps on both of your faces. You bite your lip as you lean into Lin your lips slightly brushing against hers. Your breath slightly hitches when Lin closes the distance and kisses you. The kiss starts off slow, your lips moving along hers as the kiss gets passionately.

Lin’s left hand runs up your back as your hand runs up and cups her cheek as your hips grinds against her. A soft groan escapes her lips as she runs her hands up your thighs after a moment she wraps her arm around you and slowly lays you down on the bed. You grab onto the back of her neck, deepening the kiss once your back settles on the bed and Lin moves on top of you getting between your legs. Her tongue runs along your bottom lip as you smile and part your lips gaining her entrance. Both of you start fighting for dominance with you winning. Lin groans against your lips as you run your hand in her hair while your other hand runs down and rubs on her ass. You move your lips down along her jaw and Lin breath hitches as you reach behind her ear. She softly bites your shoulder and you let out a moan pulling Lin’s lips back to yours and kiss her feverishly. Lin kisses back with just as much urgency her hand running up and cups your breast, her thumb rubbing against your nipple. You pull back slightly and a smile appears on both of your faces. Leaning back in to return to the kissing, after a couple moments you bite Lin’s bottom lip gently “mmm Lin” you moan softly as Lin feels your hand start to creep down her stomach, inching close to her waistband. Lin grips onto your hip and pulls back “we can’t...” she pants as you whimper by the loss of contact, looking up at her.

“I don’t want to hurt you and someone might hear….” Lin voices out her concerns as you smile softly “you’re so cute when you get concerned” you coo, curling your finger on her chin pulling Lin back down, kissing her once again. Lin sighs as she starts losing herself against your lips but focuses once again “y/n….” she breathes out “yes baby?” you mumble against her lips as you continue kissing each other. “I’m serious” she mumbles, pulling back as you lick your bottom lip “as was I” you breathe out then laugh softly causing Lin to raise a brow “what’s funny?”

“Bold of you to assume we were heading down that route, Beifong” you smirk as you rub the small of her back.

“Isn’t that what your nabby fingers were getting at” she spat as you gape at her running your hand down her back “well now you’ll never know” you quip back as you smack her ass, biting your lip. Lin gasps as she glares at you while you put on a smirk. Lin pushes off of you as she sits up stretching “where are you going?” you raise a brow as you.

“Start the day. It’s Jinora’s master ceremony today or did you forget?” Lin looks over her shoulder to look at you. You lay back on the bed and groan “How could I? It’s what kept you awake last night.” you scoff as you sit up. “I had to make sure it was Saikhan proof.” Lin stands and starts to get dressed in her armor. You laugh at the mention of AC Saikhan “Still not giving him full reign?” sitting up and getting your clothes.

“He’s gotten better but he’s still not ready. He will be in charge while I attend the ceremony”

“Will you look at that? Lin will be attending, you say?” you smile as you walk up behind her and kiss her shoulder then another on her neck. “Chief Beifong will be attending” she corrected you and a chuckle escaped your lips. Tucking in your tunic as you buckle your belt as the both of you finish getting ready. Lin has to step out and get the security details situated for the ceremony. She leaves you with the routinely three kisses, before watching her walk down the hall.

*

As you walk to the temple you notice a few airships and boats are starting to arrive on the island. You reach the room and tentatively decide to knock. A soft voice grants you permission to enter, “come in”. You slid open the door and smiled softly “Hey Korra…”

Korra tilted her head to give you the indication that she heard you as she is in her wheelchair looking out the window. “How are you feeling?” you softly speak as you lean against the wall and watch as Korra shrugs. You exhale deeply as you sense the tension deep in the air and you rub  the back of your neck “yeah...”

“I see you’re back up on your feet” Korra comments, still looking out watching the people gathered in the yards.

“Just about, though I still have restrictions. I’m tired of not being able to do anything” you mutter then look up at Korra and you mentally hit yourself. “I’m sorry that was stupid of me-”

“It’s fine.”

“Is it okay if I take a seat?”

Korra nods as you walk over and sit down on the edge of the bed then exhale deeply. A moment passes before you speak up, “Sorry I haven’t come to check up you sooner”.

Korra turns to look at you as you return her glance before looking down. “You’re looking better though, but I bet it’s not going as fast as you’d hoped” you sigh trying to relate to the young Avatar.

“Yeah, you can say that,” Korra says dryly as you nod.

“You’ll recover. I know it’s tough, but you’ll push through. You’re not alone in this. You got me, Asami, the rest of the Krew and gang.” you reach out and gently rest your hand on hers. Korra gives you a small smile “Thanks y/n” you return the smile and gently squeeze her hand. “Anything you need. I’m here” you softly talk to her and she nods. “What should I do?” Korra suddenly asks.

“With what?”

“I’m sure you know that I’ve asked to stop the sessions.”

“Yes, I’ve heard”

“There’s no point. The sessions aren’t producing results”

“Then you had every right to ask to stop, you can start again when you feel ready” you assured her and noticed Korra look down before looking back out the window. “Have you thought of changing the scenery?” you spoke up again as Korra raised a brow confused

“Asami takes me on walks….”

“No, dear. I meant leaving Republic City and going back to the South Pole…for a small break”

“The idea has popped up in my head” Korra confesses and your brow raises then Asami knocks and steps inside. “Hey Korra...oh y/n, hi. I’m sorry I hope I wasn’t interrupting.”

You stand up and shake your head “No, not at all. Just having a friendly chat. I’ll let you girls get to your plans” you nod to Korra as you make way to the door. Stepping beside Asami Korra calls out “thanks, y/n.” the young avatar looks up at you and you give her a gentle nod. Turning over and squeezing Asami’s arm softly “take care of her, ‘Sami” you whisper softly as you give her a smile.

“I will” she breathes as she smiles back nodding before you step out leaving the two girls alone.

*

Asami pushes the wheelchair Korra is seated on. The young Avatar is dressed in a formal watertribe outfit - the same one she wore during the ball Tarrlok had hosted for her.  A couple of the remaining airbenders climbed up the steps leading into the main tower of Air Temple Island while a few of the adults waited to receive Korra at the base of the stairs. Kya has crutches while Bumi has his arm in a sling, you still have your bandages on as well but it seems like you and Tenzin have made full recoveries. Senna runs up and embraces her daughter who's expression softens slightly as she gives her mother a one-armed hug. Senna pulls away and rests a hand on her daughter’s cheek with a smile, dropping her hand as Tonraq walks up and bends down in front of Korra, “You look beautiful, sweetie.” Tonraq kisses Korra's forehead and she gives a tentative smile.

The rest watch the little scene and you smile softly as Tenzin glances over with an approving nod “You're looking stronger every day, Korra.”

Raiko steps up and softly talks to the Avatar “I'd like to officially welcome you back to Republic City. I know that the last time we saw each other, it didn't end on the best terms, but I want to thank you for taking down those Red Lotus terrorists.” Korra who looks down sadly and Asami notices her friend's change of mood. Asami politely excuses the both of them “We should go inside.”

Ikki runs to Asami and grasps one of the handles of the wheelchair, “I can help.”

Meelo runs and climbs up the wheelchair into Korra's lap “I wanna ride with Korra.” Korra gives a small smile as she holds Meelo securely on her lap “Jinora's already inside.” he smiles as Asami pushes the wheelchair forward “It smells like shoe trees.”

Ikki glares at her brother “Sandalwood, Meelo.”

You move out of the way and stand beside Su and watch Lin walk up to Asami “I got this.” Lin bends a raised square platform from beneath them, then rests a hand on Korra's shoulder “Hang in there, kid.” Lin thrusts her arms forehead and the platform slowly moves up the stairs. You all look on worried about Korra’s current state which Raiko voices out loud,

“She's not looking good.”

Tonraq curtly responds to Raiko “Neither would you if you'd gone through what she had.”

Tenzin tries to break the tension “She'll be fine. She just needs time to heal. The poison took a great toll.” Raiko walks up to Tenzin “Of course. I'm just saying, the Earth Kingdom is in complete disarray since the loss of the Queen.”

“That’s a job that should be directed toward the politicians and law enforcement, they need to establish some sort of system and control. I get that Korra is the Avatar and she’s the living embodiment of peace and balance but not everything should be put on her shoulders,” you curtly respond to Raiko. Lord Zuko overhears the conversation and comes over to Raiko and Tenzin “And even with Zaheer locked up again, we still don't know how many Red Lotus members might be out there in hiding.” Zuko looked over at a concerned Raiko. Tenzin and Pema look troubled as well.

“Exactly. With the World getting more and more dangerous, we need the Avatar now more than ever. Who will protect us while she's in a wheelchair?”

You looked up the stairs as you watched Lin, Korra and Asami make it to the top, “How about we focus on the occasion we’re here for and then focus on that after.” you look at Raiko before you start walking to the steps with Kya, Bumi, Tonraq and Senna, offering to bend the platform beneath before slowly moving it up the stairs as Su follows with the others. Walking in, the room is filled with urns of incense sticks in front of an altar. The audience seated cross legged on cushions on the floor looking up at the platform as Jinora’s family and friends stand on either side. You stand between Lin and Su with Mako and Bolin while Asami joins Korra and her parents along with Tenzin and Pema. Jinora is wearing a yellow robe that covers her whole body with a hood concealing her head.

Tenzin starts the ceremony “Jinora, come forward” and the young airbender nods and takes a step toward her father before kneeling down on one knee with her head bowed.

Tenzin addresses the audience with a smile, “Today we welcome the first airbending master in a generation...”, he looks at his daughter fondly, “...and I couldn't be more proud of my daughter.” You catch Jinora give her father a smile as you look out over the ceremony. “When the existence of our people was threatened, when the Avatar's life hung in the balance, Jinora never gave up hope. Thanks to her leadership, I see a very bright future for the Air Nation. Of course, there would be no Air Nation without Avatar Korra. She opened the portals and somehow the world began anew for us - and she was even willing to lay down her own life...” You smile, but it drops when you look over at Korra and notice her saddened state becomes more prominent as she widens her eyes slightly and looks down at her lap “...in order to protect ours. There's no way we can ever repay her for all she's done. But we can follow her example of service and sacrifice. So while she recuperates, the Air Nation will reclaim its nomadic roots and roam the Earth. But unlike our ancestors, we will serve people of all nations, working wherever there is corruption and discord to restore balance and peace. I vow that we will do everything in our power to follow in your footsteps and bring harmony to the World.” Tenzin addresses Korra in thanks “Avatar Korra”, she looks up at Tenzin and he bows, she gives a small smile in return. Jinora is still kneeling on the ground with her father returns to his place behind her.

“Now, let us anoint the master who will help lead us in our new path” Jinora bows her head and you can see a little bit of the new airbender tattoo arrow peeking out from under the hood. Your eyes well up at the beautiful sight as she raises her head to the audience and you overhear Su whispering to Lin “Jinora looks like the spitting image of Aang” you couldn’t agree more. You remember reading about him and Jinora looks just like the illustrations in the books. She undoes the clasp on her robe and stands up to reveal more of the tattoos on her bare arms.

The new airbenders start bending the smoke from the incense sticks in a circular motion and it spirals outwards and upwards. The smoke hits the windchimes hanging above the hall and sweet, melodic tunes begin to ring out. Jinora hugs her dad around his waist. Your eyes well up more and you allow a tear to fall as you join the rest in applause.

*

After the ceremony Tenzin hosted a dinner in honor of Jinora. After a couple of hours of participating in small talk with everyone you could feel your concentration slipping, still tiring easily as your wound continues to heal. Asami checks up on you after leaving Korra with her parents and you brush her off, giving her a soft smile to assure her you were fine. Even Bumi’s usual jokes and stories didn’t cheer you the way they normally would. He noticed you hadn’t cracked a smile or laugh at his jokes as you usually laugh at his silly remarks. He figured you were tired and didn’t think much of it when you forced a genuine laugh to convince him you were fine. After a while you had enough of the crowded room and excused yourself from the area. You ran into president Raiko who has taken a moment for a smoke break and it peaks your interest. “President Raiko” you approach him and he sighs giving you a nod before taking another hit “Captain” he greets you before turning his face away to exhale. You eye his lit cigarette and inhale the scent of the smoke taking it in a moment, “You smoke?” he asks as he pulls out an engraved metal cigarette case from his inner chest pocket. You eye the case admiring the intricate design and then your eyes catch the cigarette “I did….quit a bit ago” you try to say as Raiko shrugs and puts the case back in his pocket “Figured I offer, my apologies if I overstepped”. You wave a hand dismissing it “No worries, you’re fine” you slightly bite inside your cheek as you look again as Raiko continues to smoke and you feel your hands fidget. You slide your hand in your pocket and you start rubbing your fingers together to distract yourself. You clear your throat “Actually, I’ll take you up on that offer” you give him a smile as he smirks holding his cigarette with his lips as he takes out the case and opens it for you. You pick one out and bring it to your lips as Raiko offers to light it for you. You close your eyes and start inhaling the smoke holding it in your mouth for a moment, letting it cool down so it doesn’t irritate your throat. You remove the cigarette from your mouth before you slowly let the smoke through your lips, exhaling. You savor the taste of the tobacco until you hear“I can’t imagine how rough you’ve had it” Raiko comments as you open your eyes, almost forgetting he was there. You inhale deeply before taking another hit giving him a nod “Yeah, the Red Lotus was no joke, but thankfully the main culprits were taken down” you say dryly as you exhale the smoke and look away. “If I remember correctly you’re from Ba Sing Se, right?” he glances at you as he follows your move and exhales. Your eyes narrow wondering what Raiko is thinking “Yeah, outer ring….”

“You could be useful with getting some control established in the city.”

“Heh, no thanks. I have no business in Ba Sing Se” you smirk as you continue working on your cigarette.

“Of course, but it’s in complete chaos and the world leaders want to regain some stability.”

“I agree, just not with a monarchy. It should join Republic City and move toward a democratic system of government”

“You have opinions on their political system?” Raiko seems amused and interested in what you have to say.

“The last queen, may she rest in peace, only cared on redecorating her temple while her people were too busy fighting for scraps in the street - dying from malnutrition.” you spat as you roll your eyes,

“Maybe you should have a career in politics, captain” Raiko smirks as he looks at you and you furrow your brows at him “So I can take your job?” you smirk back catching Raiko’s glare causing you to laugh, the first of that night as you shake your head “No, thanks. I have no desire for the presidency let alone politics. It gets messy, which you have plenty of experience with” you grin as you hold the cigarette in your lips. That comment appeared to irk Raiko as he pinched the bridge of his nose “Yes, it’s always busy in City Hall. There are no off days” he states irritated as he narrows his eyes at you. You smirk as you take a step away. “I think it’s best to enjoy the peace and quiet. Thank you for the cigarette, Mr. President” nodding at him before walking away.  Walking around the grounds, you manage to make your way down the island and sit along the shore. A slight breeze creeps up on your back causing you to shiver. You sink your feet in the sand as you look out at the large statue of Avatar Aang. You close your eyes and take a deep breath trying to gather your thoughts. You rub your arms to warm yourself up tugging your jacket closer to you, looking at the cigarette in your fingers and exhaling forcefully realizing what you’ve done. “Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. What is wrong with me?” you mutter under your breath. I mean it’s just one cigarette. I'm fine. Completely fine. Right? ….I feel off even though I know my body is recovering - I still feel broken. I don’t feel like myself. If the mind is weak the body will suffer. You lay your face down on your knees and wrap an arm around them while holding onto the half lit cigarette.

“Crowded much?”

Your eyes open and look up, not wanting to turn around and keep quiet. Lin slowly approaches you and rests a hand on your shoulder. You flinch, having to remind yourself that it’s just Lin. “You alright?” she speaks softly and you nod bringing the cigarette back on your lips “I’m fine…. just needed some air” you mutter, annoyed with yourself.

“I didn’t know you smoke” her eyebrows raise and you smirk “I try not to make it a habit anymore and not around people hence why I’m down here away from the crowd”

Lin sits down beside you resting her arms on her knees “Anymore?”

You nod as you extend your legs and lean back on your arms - with Lin beside you it helps with whatever funk you’re in and you start to feel a bit better,

“Yeah, I used to smoke a lot in my early years.”

“Early years? You’re still in them” she scoffs causing your lips to curl up

“Okay well infant years then” letting out a laugh “started when I turned 20. I quit after I started to feel like I had to rely on it. Now I only do it when I need an escape or overwhelmed” you kicked some sand softly as you exhale a smoke.

“So you’re overwhelmed?”

“I don’t know what I feel right now” you look down and let out a laugh

“When was the last time you smoked before this?” Lin turns her head to look at you and your cheeks flush a bit when you realize when that was “You don’t want to know”

“It was after that little spat in the gym, wasn’t it? When I found your cycle outside that restaurant.”

You bite your lip and nod, “you really are a good detective” you deadpan as Lin rolls her eyes and you look down frowning. “I remember the subtle taste of it….” Lin confesses as she looks out at the water.

“Yea...I thought I ruined everything. I thought I lost you.” you close your eyes as you feel them water. Your mind races back to how you were feeling back then, but you compose yourself. “Do you smoke?” you try to change the conversation and Lin gives a curt nod “sometimes, just to take the edge off”.

You offer Lin a hit and she looks at you and accepts it, taking one then giving it back “Just one” you nod and exhale through your nose “It was my final puff anyways” you put out the cigarette.

“And now?”

“I don’t know. I saw Raiko smoking and I just made an impulse decision.” you slowly exhale the smoke from your nose and lips. A silence settles between the both of you as you’re looking back at the water. Lin lets you loop your arm through hers and you leave a kiss on her shoulder before resting your head on the same spot. Lin plants her lips on your forehead as she looks down on you, “I’ve missed you” you mumbled as you nuzzled into her. “It’s freezing,” Lin grumbles and you smile as you start taking your jacket off “What are you doing?” she cocks a brow at you. “Covering the both of us”.

“Here this would be better...” she moves over and sits behind you putting her legs in either side of yours. You lean back against her chest as she wraps her arms around your waist, careful not to hit your wound. You pull the jacket to cover both of your arms as she nuzzles her face in your neck and you smile in her embrace, “Does that feel better?”

“Much” she mutters as you run your hands along her arms and relax against her chest while looking out over the dark waters. Lin’s hand finds a piece of paper in your jacket pocket and pulls it out, unwrapping it, but it’s too dark out to read it “What’s this?” she asks as she leans up. Your cheeks blush a bit, “It’s a note...” you had forgotten it was in there.

“I should put it back then”

“It’s fine. you can read it. It’s actually for you”

“It’s dark.” Lin hands you the paper and you smile as you unfold the paper fully,

“Fine I’ll read it to you”

“The only light is coming from the moon. It’s completely dark. Unless you’ve developed night vision?” Lin quips and you laugh as Lin tightens her arms around you to quiet you down “I remember what I wrote, Lin. I think it’s better if I turn around for this.” you mutter and Lin cocks an eyebrow as she watches you turn around in her embrace. Facing her with your legs on either side of hers you scoot close enough so you can hold onto her waist.

You put your jacket on your knees as you look at her - Lin now looking concerned about what this note contains. You look into her jade eyes and even though it's dark the moonlight illuminates them beautifully. Lin looks at how your eyes are mixed with green and gold specks that seem to dance for her - she could easily get lost in them. Lin being here with you and giving you her full attention has you feeling grounded and feeling like your normal self. You rub her arms, stroking them lightly as you speak to her in low tones “I understand you were upset with my actions in the fight with the Red Lotus. We’re both stubborn as we try to save--” you smirk,

“You had to turn around to say that? How anticlimactic” Lin interrupts, scoffing, you roll your eyes and shake your head “No” you take a deep breath and look Lin square in the eyes as you take her hands into yours letting out a deep exhale “As long as I’m breathing, Lin Beifong. I will always fight alongside you. Endlessly. For the betterment of the world. For the next generations. For your love. For you…. Until my last breath”

Lin’s breath hitches taking a moment, surprised by the words and unsure what to say. She tries to divert the attention “Shut up. You didn’t write that. It’s probably just your doctor’s recommendations about wound care.”

You grin and chuckle “You’re more than welcome to keep the note then, Beifong” you hand her the piece of paper and she hesitantly takes it and stuffs it in her pocket.

You pull her onto your lap, your hands moving down to her ass while you lean in and kiss her. Lin is surprised by the sudden gesture but calms down at your touch. Kissing each other, Lin cups your cheek as you run your hands down her body. Lin pulls you down onto the sand using your jacket to prevent your back from getting coated. As much as the both of you were enjoying the make out session Lin couldn’t take the freezing winds anymore. You walked up back to your room hand in hand. Once you get close to the temple and dormitories, you let go of her hand. Lin slightly upset until she remembered why you let go and followed behind you. Standing in front of your door,  Lin glanced over at you and you gave her a smirk tilting your head for her to come in. Lin looks around before walking over and you slide the door for the both of you to slip inside. Lin held onto your waist as she pressed you up against the wall and continued from where you’d left off down by the shore. Planting your hand on her jaw, you part your lips to let her tongue slide inside with both of you fighting for dominance with Lin winning. She runs her hands down lower and grips your thighs picking them up. You wrap your legs around her and your arms go around her neck as you slide your other hand into her hair. Lin peels you off the wall and carries you toward the bed. She lays you down carefully as her hand roams up and down the left side of your body “Are you okay?” she whispers as she brings the palm of your hand to her lips and kisses it softly.

You give her a nod “Yeah” you pull her face back down and cup her cheek, kissing her deep and slow.

After some blissful moments you end up dozing off with Lin’s arms around you. Lin wasn’t quite tired so she slipped out of your room - suddenly feeling cold again she went to sit by the fire provided by the acolytes. She remembered the note and pulled it out of her pocket.

“As long as I’m breathing, Lin Beifong, I will always fight alongside you. I will fight endlessly... For the betterment of the world. For the next generations. For your love. For you. ... until my last breath.”

Lin shook her head scoffing, but can’t help her lips curling up into a soft smile. She can’t believe how much of a sap you are, but can’t help smile at the words of affirmations you dedicated to her. After warming up she slipped back into your room and got into bed, wrapping her arms around you. Half asleep you move your head onto her chest “It wasn’t stupid” Lin mumbles as you settle on her chest “What wasn’t?” you murmur as you sigh contently as you hold her “the note.” she clarifies and you smile “I know” you look up at her giving her a sleepy smile. Lin smiles back and she leans in pressing her lips onto yours. You place a hand on her cheek kissing her back, before sleep took both of you.

*

“You’re of no importance” Zaheer grins looking at you in the middle of the Zaofu courtyard, before batting a powerful gust of wind at you. The hit makes contact causing you to roll over, your back hitting a pillar with P’li standing over you smirking “You’re nothing” a bright light flashes and you cover your face. Once it’s gone you look around - it’s total darkness until a lava hand comes out from the ground with Ghazan’s face molten in lava “You’re coming down with me” he groans and grabs your ankle. You yank your leg free and scoot back trying to get away when your back hits a wall. A small fire illuminates the large cave and Ming-Hua’s face pops in front of you with a broad grin like a Cheshire cat, “Surprise”. She tilts her head before launching herself at you as a water tendril punctures your abdomen, not giving you any time to react. Your body jerks you awake as you open your eyes wide looking around. Reality sets in, you’re safe at the island with Lin by your side, asleep. You slowly sit up and lean against the headboard as you rub your face.

“It’s just a dream. They’re gone, dead, or in prison” you whisper to yourself as you cover your face. You remove your hands and look at Lin who is sleeping peacefully. You don’t want to concern her further - she needs the rest for work so you lay back down on Lin and she tugs you close. You kiss her shoulder as you stroke her side inhaling deeply to calm yourself down. Wrapping her arms tighter around you as you turn on your side. Lin stirs awake turning on her side, spooning you as she pulls you close to her, “You okay?” Lin mumbles as she adjust to the new position, her hand stroking your hip as she softly kisses your shoulder. Lin settles back down sleep slowly taking over her but stays away to hear your confirmation “...yeah. I’m okay. Rest, darling.” you reply back with a small smile. You reach down and take her hand. Pressing a kiss on it then hold it by your face as you look forward at the window nearby. Your mind clouded by thoughts as you begin to wonder if you are really okay. If the mind is weak the body will suffer a voice in the back of your mind murmurs and you grip your pillow tightly as anger fills your mind. I am not weak. I survived.  

Lin looks over the injured men and women resting while you and Su check on the officers. Kuvira helps Tonraq down and walks him over to the injured as you bring over medical supplies. “Your arm is pretty beat up” you comment as you hand Kuvira the bandages “It could’ve been worse”. “Hold on, Kuvira you got him?” you look over at her and she nods as you excuse yourself to help bandage another officer’s ankle.

“You look pretty beat up, y/n” Iris voices out nearby as you turn your back away from her and focus on the ankle “Nothing I haven’t dealt with before. I’m fine” you mutter as you hear a shrieking noise and turn toward the sound. What the fuck is that god awful noise . Su stands up and points to the sky and your eyes follow her glance “Caw! Caw! Caw! Caw!” Lin turns around and looks up “Caw! Caw!” a baby bison rapidly descends down to the ground “Caw! Caw!”

The bison lands and skids along the grass, exhausted. Bolin is thrown off from the crash landing. The poor calf whines and Asami gets off as well. The four adults, you included, run up to the group and you grab hold of Asami “You good?” you ask as you check her over, and she nods.

Mako and Lin help Tenzin disembark from the calf's back while Su helps Bolin up as the kid airbender starts to talk “Hey, everybody. There's something I gotta tell you.”

Lin cuts him off and looks at the teens “How did you guys make it out of that temple alive?”

“It was all Bolin. I thought we were done for. Then out of nowhere, he lavabends!” Mako looks over at Tonraq then at Bolin

“Well would you look at that!” you smirk as Su rests a hand on Bolin's shoulder “I knew you had the potential for something big. You just had to believe in yourself.” Bolin smiles widely at Su,

“You're right. Being moments from death was a pretty good motivator too. Of course, we never would have made it back without Kai.”

Kai smiles “Glad I could help. So anyway-“

“--Did Zaheer get away with Korra?” Tenzin interrupts and you notice Kai frowning, you purse your lips but continue on listening to the conversation.

“I'm afraid so.” Lin laments and Su remarks as everyone turns to her “Apparently, he can fly now.

The crew and Tenzin, Asami, and Bolin raise their eyebrows with surprise “What?”

“How?”

“Are you sure?”

Lin looks over at Tenzin “I wouldn't believe it either if I hadn't seen it for myself.”

“I thought the ability to fly was impossible or just some story.” you look at Tenzin,

“I've heard the legends about Guru Laghima's ability to fly. But I never imagined they were true.” Tenzin looks down, worried about Zaheer’s new ability.

“So what's our next move?” Tonraq asks around the group and no one says anything, unsure on how to proceed.

Kai gets off his bison and walks up to the adults “I have an idea.”

Lin sharply talks to Kai “Not right now, kid! We need to figure out where Zaheer took Korra.”

“--And find the airbenders.” Tenzin adds to which Kai is not amused.

You slightly lean over at Kai and whisper “if you want them to listen you gotta say it with your chest, kid” Kai looks at you and nods then irritably yells out “That's what I've been trying to tell you! I know where the airbenders are, and I bet it's where Korra is too!”

Mako looks at Kai and frowns “Well, why didn't you say something?”

Kai frowns and gives a frustrated sigh.

“I mean you guys never gave him a chance. Kept talking over the poor boy” you purse your lips as everyone glares at you and you fold your arms shrugging.

“Where are they? How did you find them?” Kai turns his attention to Tenzin as the baby bison walks up to Kai “After I got blasted out of the sky, I woke up on the side of the mountain where this little fellow found me.” Kai rests a hand on the calf's head and the baby bison whinnies and Kai kneels down to stroke its snout “I tried to sneak back into the temple to see if I could rescue everyone, and that's when I saw the airship leaving. I followed it to some caves a few miles from here. That giant lady met up with some people who took the airbenders into the caves.”

“Was it Ghazan and Ming- Hua?” Lin asked, listening to the young airbender.

“No, there were four more of them. Didn't look familiar.” He stands up and looks at her,

“Must be more Red Lotus members than we thought.” Mako looks over at the group then down to the ground.

“I couldn't fight them all on my own. So I came back here, hoping you guys would show up.” Kai looks at the group “Smart thinking” you gave him a nod then turn your head to Lin

“We need to get to those caves.” Lin remarks and you look over in the direction Kai had mentioned seeing the other airbenders being held,

Kai shrugs “How? I don't think we can all fit on my bison.”

You, Tenzin, Mako, and Lin look at Kai as a shadow passes by overhead and you all look up as a grunt from an air bison is heard. You recognize Oogi circling the sky and Tenzin calls for him “Oogi!”

Oogi lands on the ground in front of his owner and takes a step forward.

Tenzin rests a hand on Oogi's head, and the bison grunts again “I'm glad to see you too, old friend.” He rubs his hand affectionately over Oogi's fur.

“Well no better time than the present. Let’s go there now,” you suggest, and everyone agrees. You earth launch yourself and Asami onto the saddle first. Lin and Su climb in after as you help Tenzin sit down as the rest of the crew get in while Asami holds the reins atop of Oogi’s head. Bolin climbs up Oogi's tail into the saddle - Mako is on the ground looking up at the saddle.

Kuvira walks up to the bison and speaks to Su “I want to come with you.”

Su shakes her head “No, Kuvira. Stay with the injured. We'll be back for you once we have the Avatar.”

Kuvira nods and walks away. Kai climbs on to his baby bison and the calf purrs. Mako walks over to Kai and they exchange some words.

You stay upfront near Asami and Tenzin “You got the reins, ‘Sami?”

“Yeah, I’ve flown Oogi before remember”

“Uh…right. I forgot” you rub your forehead as you move to the back of the saddle and Mako climbs up. Soon Kai takes off with Asami tailing behind him and flies in the direction he last saw the airbenders.

You lean back against the saddle as you fix up your metal forearm sleeves, bending out the dents.

“How are you holding up?” Lin whispers to you and you look down at the chest plate and bend out the dent at your side “I’m good, I just want to get korra and the airbenders out safe” you grit your teeth as you fix the plate trying not to focus on the bruises underneath before leaning back against the saddle.

“I hope Opal is okay” Su looks out towards the view of the mountain ridges

“Since they have Korra now, she and the rest of the airbenders should be fine. They got who they wanted.” You look over at Su before looking away.

Kai comes up beside the saddle “The place where I saw them taking the airbenders is around here.”

“That's gotta be where they took Korra.”

He points to a mountain where there are five airbender statues carved into the side. The statue in the middle is the biggest.

“That's it! Down there, Lefty.”

Lefty moos and flies down. Oogi follows soon after and the two bison land in front of an opening in the mountain. You grab onto the saddle and hop down, you look up and watch Lin slide down Oogi’s tail. Tonraq and Bolin support Tenzin as he gets down from the saddle. Tenzin groans in pain as he holds onto Oogi for support. Su walks towards him.

You start toward the opening and look up at the largest statue as Asami walks up beside you “I don’t know what Zaheer is planning against Korra but…”

“We’re going to stop him and get Korra back, y/n” Asami looks at you and you nod at her “That thing charged up?” you look at the glove and Asami powers it up with blue electric waves sparking out, “Always” Asami sports a determined look.

“Ready?” Su looks at the both of you and receives a nod, the group starts running into the opening of the secret Red Lotus hideout.

*

As Su and Lin make quick work of digging into the cave the voice of a Red Lotus guard comes from behind the last piece of earth “Hey! What do you think you're doing?” there’s a muffled noise as Lin and Su send a chunk of rock from the side, knocking the guard out cold when he collides against the wall. “Saving them” you glare at the guard in a defensive stance as another one runs forward before looking to the side at your group of intruders. The guard bends the two slabs of rock behind him towards them. Su bends up a protective wall of earth and the projectiles collide with it, making the top half crumble. You and Asami leap over the remains of the wall and she ducks as the guard sends another slab at her while you check for any guards more coming. Asami reaches up to grab the guard's arm and proceeds to electrocute his back as she brings him down to the floor. “All clear” you state walking back and the rescue team relaxes when the guard falls unconscious and Su looks to the side locating her daughter “Mom!” Opal is happy to see her mom as Su runs to her daughter and rests her hands on Opal’s shoulders “Oh, honey, I’m so glad you’re safe” she embraces her daughter.

Bolin runs up and roughly shoves Su away, hugging Opal as well “Me too”.

Su sits up and glares at Bolin as Asami starts unlocking people’s cuffs. You eyes find and rush over to check up on an unconscious Kya and Bumi, reviewing Kya’s injuries as Lin helps to support Bumi. Broken bones, bad bruises, overall badly injured…shit, they both look like they fell from a high place. “Kya…” you call out to her softly trying to wake her up as you lift her head a bit, putting your hand on the back of her neck “y/n?” she weakly responds as she opens her eyes “Hey, you guys found us.. Took you long enough” she smiles weakly coughs turning her head towards you. “Yeah…we’re here. Can you walk?”  

“My leg…” she says weakly

“It’s okay….don’t worry. We got you now” You look around and grab a bender “Hey what’s your name?”

“Otaku”

“Hi, Otaku, can you help me support Kya?” another female airbender offers her aid as well and you help them support Kya before checking up on Bumi. Asami unlocks the remaining cuff on Jinora’s wrist and the girl rubs them when it's off. Asami walks away, revealing Kai in the background. Jinora runs to Kai “You’re alive!” she throws her arms around Kai “I can’t believe it!”

you turn your attention back to Kya and notice her leg looks more messed up then you thought whispering to the two airbenders to not let Kya put too much weight on that leg. You greet the kids and Opal before helping Lin support Bumi “I see you had a lot of fun, Commander”,

“Ha! I’ve had better, Captain” he coughs weakly trying to laugh, but his face can’t hide the pain and tiredness.

“Hey Commander, stay with us” you shake him softly.

“We have to get these two out of here now.” Lin cast a glance to Bumi “They don’t look so good”

Bumi coughs weakly “What are you talking about?” he punches his arm in the air “I feel great” he coughs weakly again.

Tonraq addresses the rest of the team “You guys get everyone out of here. I'll search for Korra.”

Mako and Bolin step forward “We're going with you.”

“Me too” you step up as Lin gives you a look as you notice Jinora step forward “You don't have to search for her. I know exactly where she's being held.” The four of you turn to listen as she explains “we’ll run and talk. I’ll bring Jinora back once we’re almost to Korra’s location. You can wait for us here” you look at Pema before taking off with the small team. Once Mako, Bolin, and Tonraq get close to Korra you grab Jinora “come on, let’s get you back.” you look at Jinora “but, I can help!” she protests as you rest your hand on her shoulder, “I know, but you need to take care of the airbenders. Your dad...he’s injured so I need you, Meelo, and Ikki to lead them out to safety.” she looks at Korra’s direction then back to you and nods “Okay, I can return on my own. You join them” she looks at you with determination, “you sure? I can escort you back”

Jinora shakes her head “there’s no time. Save Korra, y/n!” she yells as she scooters back to the others.

*

The four of you run up to an opening at the side of the cave and see Korra yell out a battle cry as she breathes fire out of her mouth. “What have they done to her?” you look on with concern at the scene. You’ve never seen Korra like this while in the Avatar state. Tonraq calls out to his daughter “Korra!” She ignores him and sends out streams of fire toward Zaheer and he dodges, flying up into a hole in the ceiling. Korra propels herself from the ground by blasting fire from the soles of her feet and chases after him. “We have to help her!” Bolin quickly steps in front of the water tribe chief “Look out!” he bends a protective wall of earth as rock collides against it. You look over and see Ghazan then kick up some rocks and punch them at him. “You help Korra. We got this” Mako looks at Tonraq who nods and starts running after Korra and Zaheer.

Mako punches fire and dodges a small piece of ice that flies over his shoulder. You roll over to the side and send a wave of rocks at the waterbender. Ming-Hua avoids the fire and earth and jumps up, swinging the crystals on the ceiling with her water arms. Mako chases after the armless waterbender as you assess the situation with Bolin. Bolin bends a rock at Ghazan who punches it into dust. Bolin sends over another boulder again and Ghazan raises a wall of earth to protect himself. He then bends the wall to Bolin who cuts it clean in half. As he does so, Ghazan charges and tackles Bolin by the waist, causing them to roll along the ground. Bolin throws the older lavabender off and when Ghazan lands, he quickly sends two slabs of rock towards Bolin. The teen dodges the first one and punches the second one into dust.

An ice shard comes within an inch of hitting your face and you look back at Ming-Hua who has a smug grin on her face, “Oops”. Your eyes narrow and you grit your teeth as she tries attacking you again and you jump up to avoid it. At the same time you bend a chunk of earth with you and send it at her. Ming-Hua uses a water-whip to cut through the slab. You land on the ground and send two boulders at her - she dodges and sends a tendril at you turning the tip into an ice shard. You quickly jump to the side as she attacks and Mako sends a flame over to melt the ice. Looking over at Mako, the waterbender uses that quick second wrap her water arm around your neck gripping tightly as she pulls you up from the ground. “Let me go, you bitch!” you spat out as you bend a dagger out and try cutting the water while Mako fights her trying to break the hold she has on you. “Sure” she smirks and throws you across the cave - you hit the ground rolling then fall into a crevice below, landing face first in some water. You push yourself up groaning as you blink your eyes trying to adjust your vision to the darkness, your clothes drenched. Standing up you sense it’s an underground cave filled with water, the only way back is up through the crevice.

*

The splash catches Ming-Hua’s attention and she swings herself away with her water arms and Mako runs after her, shooting fire as he chases the waterbender. Ming-Hua starts bobbing and weaving behind a small pillar of rock as she intercepts the flames and they evaporate. She scurries backwards and trips, falling and rolling onto a small ledge below. She sits up as Mako stands at the top in a bending position. He has Ming-Hua backed up against a wall.

“You have no water. It's over.”

“Not yet.” she gives him an evil smirk

*

You look up and hear Ming-Hua and Mako’s voices and your eyes widen. If she comes down here we’re fucked. You bend a protective wall to hide behind as you hear someone jump down into the crevice followed by a fire shot. Mako lands down and you call out to him “Mako” he turns and you look around in the dark against each other's back. He bends a stream of fire from his hands to illuminate the area. “She’s here somewhere” you whisper as you try to use what little sight you have despite the fire. Sensing danger behind him, Mako turns around, you sense him leave your back and you turn in his direction and see Ming-Hua above the water with multiple water appendages on each arm.

“Now it's over!” she screams launching at the both of you.

She swings forward, Mako immediately extinguishes his fire and the both of you run to avoid the attack. Ming-Hua has encased the lower half of her body in water and she continuously whips her numerous water arms at the both of you. “Get out of the water!” Mako orders as he starts running toward the various stalactites and stalagmites. You run towards a wall before having to backflip to avoid a tendril, then jump on a pillar. The firebender rolls backwards behind another pillar and dashes off to the side. You shoot your cable to the ceiling and hang, pulling yourself up until your palms touch the ceiling. You bend the earth to encase around your arms as you hang on. Mako starts climbing and supporting his weight in between two columns of earth. Everything is happening so fast but the next string of events seemed to happen in slow motion. Mako begins to shoot lightning at the water with one arm. Ming-Hua makes a last ditch attempt to stop Mako and sends tendrils at him with a sharp ice shard. You look up at your arm before bending the earth off and scaling down and get in front of Mako. Kicking the ice off two of them before you feel a piercing sensation entering the left side of your abdomen. Your hand starts to go to the spot, but the entire cavern lights up and you cover your eyes instead. Ming-Hua screams from the electrocution and soon everything goes still, you let go of the cable and jump down to the water, recoiling your cable. Mako joins you as the both of you look shocked at what’s left of the scorched Ming-Hua.

“Let’s go” you mutter as you tilt your head over to the crevice opening and launch the both of you up to the surface.

You jog over toward Bolin but feel a dull pain and trip down, Mako kneels down to help you up “y/n”.

“Go, I’m fine. Help Bolin,” you groan as you look up and see Ghazan bend up a chunk of earth gets knocked back by fire hitting the rock and he is thrown backwards. Mako gets in a bending stance and he runs at the other man, propelling himself off the ground with firebending and passes over Ghazan's head to join his brother. You push yourself up and head over to the brothers once the pain passes. Ghazan bends up a chunk of earth but Mako quickly cuts it with fire. Mako lands on the ground as the three of you send a barrage of earth and fire to the lavabender. Ghazan bends up a small chunk of earth but is soon overpowered by the constant attacks. Bolin sends a rock hurtling at him and it makes contact as Ghazan stumbles backwards. He stands up as you three flank him from a distance.

“There’s three of us and one of you” you yell as you bring your fists up to your face,

“Give up, Ghazan! You can't win!” Bolin yells down at the lavabender.

“I'm never going back to prison. If I'm going down today, you're coming with me!” He turns around to face the group then punches the ground beneath him. The cavern shakes as rocks fall and the ground quakes underneath you, you look at the boys and the floor gives out from under you. You reach out to them as you fall and Bolin manages to grab your hand. Ghazan smirks and reaches for your leg, the burning sensation spreading from where the palm of his hand holds on. You yell out in pain as you try to kick him in the face while Mako sends lightning at him causing him to let go. They both pull you up while dodging the rocks falling from the ceiling. Ghazan shoves his hands down and lava drips down in an attempt to collapse the floor underneath him. Rocks start to fall down from above, “Hang on!” Bolin yells and you ground yourself as Bolin bends a platform of earth and slides the three of you up a slope of flash cooled lava. Reaching safety, you notice a Red Lotus motif on the wall breaking up and disintegrating. The area continues to collapse. Once it’s safe you three glance at each other before turning away and running off.

Joining the rest of the team you’re forced to shield your eyes from the wind. You try to look for a reason for the sudden wind and see  Jinora and the airbenders controlling a massive tornado with Jinora in the eye of the twister as she moves her arms around in a circle before she pushes her hands forward. As the twister moves, you feel a sharp pain in your abdomen. You place your hand there feeling dizzy “Boys…” you weakly call out getting their attention before falling on your knees. “y/n!” Bolin looks at you and notices your face looking pale as Mako notices you holding on to your abdomen. “She’s hurt” Mako helps you up as Bolin puts your arm around his shoulder “Stay awake, y/n” Mako looks at you as you try to keep your eyes open while they walk you toward the group. They set you down gently besides Bumi and Kya as Asami rushes over “Y/n! What happened?!” Asami yells as watches you go in and out of consciousness. Lin turns around at the sudden noise behind her and sees you, her eyes widen and a pit forms her stomach.

“I don’t know. We were running out of the cave when y/n collapsed” Mako stammers out as Lin kneels beside you “Where’s Ghazan and Ming-hua?” she barks out while she sits by your side and Asami puts your head on her lap as the brothers stand over you.

“Taken down”

You feel woozy like if your blood pressure is dropping as you blink trying to focus on Lin as she calls out to you, “y/n, focus, talk to me”.

You slowly blink then slowly turn your head over to her and give her a small smile “Hi” you whisper then try to sit up but Asami keeps you down “You’re hurt” her eyes watered. You look confused at first then realize the pain hitting again, wincing, “My abdomen..” you untuck your tunic and lift the drenched clothing up to reveal the stab wound. “I guess that chest plate didn’t really help, Chief” you let out a weak laugh then cough out in pain.

“Shit…” Lin looks and immediately applies direct pressure on the wound “When did this happen?” she looks at the brothers but you speak “10 minutes?…” you wince at the pressure “Mung-hua...she was coming at Mako. I intervened, wasn’t fast enough” you grimace as you cough.

“You’re losing a lot of blood” Lin’s voice full of worry as she looks at the wound and you look down to see it for the first time “Put it back in then” you quip as you try to breathe and go to laugh but the pain gets worse and you wince. Lin looks at you in disbelief at how you’re trying to crack a joke at a time like this. “This isn’t the time for your wisecracks” she snaps at you and you put your hand over the one she has over your wound, “It's good to find humor in dark moments sometimes.” you smirk as you look up at the sky  “How did you not feel this?” Asami asks you - when you don’t answer she looks up and notices you starting to close your eyes. Asami looks at Lin and tells her something but you don’t quite hear.

You were starting to feel a weird need to close your eyes and go to sleep. A temptation to just close your eyes and let go. But your mind and heart rushes to Lin - you’d never want to leave her, not when you just got her. You open your eyes up more as you fight hard to stay awake.

“y/n, stay with me” Lin calls out and you didn’t seem to hear, she thinks your hearing is starting to fade  “What?” you blink trying to focus. Asami repeats the question “Adrenaline.” you try to talk but you start to feel weak and tired and you wince, looking over at Asami who has tears in her eyes, “I’ll be okay, ‘Sami” you whisper as you tuck some hair behind her ear then look at Lin, “Lin… I’m sorry”

Lin shakes her head “You’re fine. You’re strong and you’ll pull through. You’re not quitting on me”.

Your eyes well up but you refuse to give in to the tears “I’m not quitting”

Turning your head over to Mako “Mako, how much for you to pry Chief’s hand off of me”

“I’m not doing that. You’re going to be okay, y/n. There’s no exit wound so it’s probably not that deep”

“Probably”

Kya regains consciousness and looks out at the scene beside her and musters enough energy to scoot over beside Lin assessing the situation “I can probably bend the water out of their clothes and use it to stop the bleeding” she speaks weakly as she looks at you then Lin. You shake your head “No, save your energy for Korra” you look at Kya and she gives you pleading eyes, “You’re the one who needs help right now, y/n”.

“Hey...I’m fine it’s just a scratch. All in a day’s work..” you smile weakly looking at the two older women as Kya rolls her eyes “You sound just as bad as Lin” she smirks back as she starts bending the water out of your clothes. Lin scoffs as she applies more pressure on the wound to prevent you bleeding out in the meantime. You bite your lip, fighting back a groan “I thought you were fine” Lin quips and you curl your lips up as Kya gives Lin a nod to move her hand. She brings your hand down with her and doesn’t let go. While Kya starts to heal you “I was until you did that, chief” you laugh but cough out in pain again then notice Korra coming to the surface. “Look - Zaheer!” you mutter as Lin looks over then looks at you conflicted. “Go, Kya’s got me. I’m feeling better. Take the bastard down, Chief” you urge her, and she looks at you with concern “I got her too, Lin” Asami looks at her and she nods heading to the scene. Korra slams Zaheer into the earth and she’s laid out on the ground as well. Lin and Su encase Zaheer in a rock pyramid pulling him upright.

Feeling concerned about your injury you exhale “I’m fine right?” you look over at Kya and she just nods not looking at you or Asami “Yeah, you’re fine. You’re going to be okay. I stopped the bleeding. It cut through a piece of your liver, but it’s fine. That’s the best I can do for right now.”

“You truly are quite the master healer” you smirk as you sigh in relief “Don’t spend all your energy. Korra might need you” you grab Asami’s hand and try to sit up as Kya nods “You can’t fight, one hit and that wound opens back up. You’re not completely healed.”

“Thanks for saving me yet again” you smile as you hold on the wound while Asami helps you back to your feet but you feel weak and Kya step in and help as well. “No need” she takes your hand and you both support each other with Asami’s help. Asami notices Korra, whose eyes are open in the Avatar state. Tonraq picks her up in his arms and your eyes soften at the weakened Korra. Asami looks worried for Korra and you nudge her to get close to Korra, “Go” you whisper to her and Asami “I can’t leave you”

“It’s okay, Kya and I got each other” you whisper back and Asami relents and slowly walks towards the scene.

“Korra, sweetheart” he looks down at his daughter, resting a hand on her face “It’s me, your Dad. Please hang on” Korra looks over at Tonraq and reaches out to touch him but her hand drops and she falls unconscious. Your throat tightens as you watch the scene in front of you, your eyes tearing up. Tonraq laces his fingers with hers and tears form in his eyes. A deep chuckle is heard and everyone looks over at Zaheer who has started laughing like a mad man. You glare at Zaheer and ball your fists bending a dagger out of your sleeve and try to walk towards him but Kya stops you shaking her head. “The bastard hurt Korra” you try to reason with Kya as she stumbles a bit. She looks at you as you fight back the angry tears forming in your eyes “Don’t stoop to his level. You are not a killer, y/n. He’ll be dealt with. ” she reasons back in a hushed tone as you support her. Kya’s eyes also show great concern with the young avatar she’s seen grow and helped raise.

“What are you laughing about?” Lin casts a dirty look at him as he turns his head to look at the Chief “You’re too late!” he smiles full of glee “The poison’s been in her system too long. The Red Lotus has won.”

Poison….Zaheer poisoned Korra.

Jinora walks up toward the Beifong sisters “You can save her. The poison is metallic” both sisters look at one another surprised by the revelation and Su quickly runs towards Korra. She drops to her knees at Korra’s side and her hands rest on her forehead and shoulder and she concentrates on the metallic poison in Korra’s body. Su starts to bend pulling movements from Korra’s legs and goes up her body. The sound of liquid can be heard and everyone around watches with a mix of worry and hope that Su can save Korra in time. She keeps pulling the poison up Korra’s body until she moves her hand above Korra’s head and the teenager opens her eyes. The metallic liquid is pulled out of her mouth and Korra coughs. Su bends the poison to the ground and it falls down in blobs. Korra opens her eyes and comes out of the Avatar State turning to look at her dad.

“Dad? You’re... alive” she says weakly as she gives a small smile. Tonraq, relieved his daughter has woken up hugs her tightly “I’m here for you. I’m never going to let you go”. You smile fondly in the background until Zaheer starts yelling “No!” he starts to become unhinged “You don’t understand. The revolution has already begun. Chaos is the natural order of all--”

You watch as Bolin takes his shoe off and balls up his sock and shoves it into Zaheer’s mouth causing his voice to become muffled. You look at Bolin smiling in amusement and a bit of disgust that Zaheer now has a used sock in his mouth. Lin and Opal on the other hand look purely disgusted by the action.

Bolin looks proud and smirks pointing over at Zaheer “You see what I did there? I put a sock in it.”

You bring your hand up and pinch your nose “literally” kind of embarrassed by the boy.

“Classic Bolin” Opal looks at Zaheer as she dryly responds to her boyfriend.

“I do what I do” he smiles as he puts his shoe back on.

You cough covering your mouth as you wince as your stomach flexes, Lin looks at you then walks over to Tonraq putting a hand on his shoulder “We should move Korra somewhere safer.”

*

Lin and Su helped the injured climb up onto Oogi’s saddle, Tonraq holding onto Korra, Bumi and Kya supporting each other, Asami sitting between you and Korra as she watched the both of you. The Beifong sisters made room for you to lay down with your head on Opal’s lap, Su let Lin take a spot next to you Lin didn’t think about the gesture but took it. You were going in and out of consciousness “one of the officers is a healer, y/n will be okay” Su assured Opal but it was meant to be more for Lin, “You have to stay awake y/n” Opal cupped your cheek and your eyes fluttered open and you give her a soft smile “I’m trying honey”. Kai led the group back to Laghima’s peak to meet up with Kuvira and the rest of the Zaofu guards. Once the injured are set onto cots in the bunk rooms, the pilot set a course to Republic City. Bolin and Opal help you to one of the beds and Opal calls her mom for help to bend off the chest plate. “Hey y/n?” Bolin hesitantly speaks and you look over at him “yeah Bo?” you say weakly and look at the younger brother as he tries to formulate his words. “Thanks….for saving my brother”. You inhale deeply as you feel your throat tighten a bit but give him a nod “anything for you boys. Mako would’ve done fine without me. I was reckless.” you give him a small smirk

“I’m sure Mako will be equally appreciative as I am, just hang in there, okay?” Bolin spoke with such gentleness with a slight concern and you give him a nod “I’m not going anywhere. Who else is going to make sure you kids don’t end up in trouble” you smile as you grit your teeth as a sharp pain hits your side. Opal rushes out the room and calls for the healer, Koda, to evaluate your injuries. Closing your eyes once you feel the relief from the healing session, but wince a bit but once the new bandages are placed. Koda excuses herself and you thank her. Looking up to see Su is now with Opal giving them a soft smile, “Hi…” you notice Opal tearing up and you nod her over opening your arms. She walks up and hugs you and you rub her back. “I’m okay, Opal. barely a scratch” you whisper as Opal lets out a disbelief laugh “That’s more than a scratch. I saw the wound just now”.

“Eh looks worse then it is. The worst is over” you chuckle a bit as you groan a bit at the sudden discomfort causing Opal to pull back. You assure her it wasn’t her as she sits back as Su steps forward, “How are you feeling?” Su takes a seat beside you as she rests a hand on top of yours as Opal scoots back.

“The adrenaline definitely wore off so I’m starting to feel it all.” you smile then frown a bit “It happened so fast. I felt something, but didn’t think much of it. It wasn’t until we made it outside that the pain came rushing in.”

“You’ll be back on your feet soon” Su looks at you smiling softly as Opal holds your hand. You look around then at the two of them “Wait where is everyone? Kya and Bumi? How’s Korra?”. They exchange a glance before Su speaks “Koda is healing them as best as she can at least until we arrive in Republic city. Korra...she took a great toll. She’s completely worn out. Tonraq and Asami are with her.”

You nod as you sigh looking up at the ceiling “I’m surprised she lasted that long with that poison in her body” you look back down before you hesitantly ask “Where’s Chief? How’s Lin?”

Su raises her eyebrow but answers your question “She’s fine just minor scuffs and bruises from the fight with P’li. She, Mako and Bolin are guarding Zaheer. “

You nod in understanding “Good, that guy deserves to rot in prison for what he’s done” you sneered as you turned your head looking upset. Su takes a couple of moments to gather her thoughts before she speaks and your ears perk up “I...we want to thank you...it was reckless but for you to step in front of Lin like that...” you interrupt Su,

“--I told you I would protect your family.” you don’t look at her as you look away.

“You’re part of our family too, y/n” Opal cuts in and rests her hand on top of yours and Su’s. Su agrees with her daughter - “We might not be blood, but you have a family with us. We all love and care for you, y/n.” Su gently smiles and you tear up nodding “Thank you”. The three of you share a smile before Su taps your hand gently.

“We’ll let you rest” Su and Opal stand up and you nod as they head out the room.

*

Lin made sure everyone in the bunk was asleep or busy before she walked over, but noticed someone seated beside you. She was going to walk away, but her eyes narrowed, noticing the Zaofu guard armor and stepped in. Iris had taken a step closer to you, asleep, contemplating whether or not to take your hand taking a seat on a nearby chair. Lin stepped further in once she notice Iris placing her palm on your sleeping face. Lin balled her fists feeling tired of this pathetic woman, she slowly stomped her way over composing herself, "If my memory serves me correctly... y/n stated that you have no reason to touch them"

Iris let go of your hand and stood up at attention "Chief Beifong, I-"

"I don't need to hear your reasons. Get out." Lin sneered as her eyes narrowed at the graying firebender who's eyes had widened by the demand "I just wanted to check up on y/n..." Iris's voice slightly pleading with the Chief of Police.

"The last thing Captain y/n needs is stress and from the last interaction I witnessed. That's all you are, a stressor. I won't say it again." Lin's voice lowers as she stands over Iris and watches as Iris looks back at you before backing down "I'm not going to stop" Iris looks at Lin, testing the Chief looking her in the eyes ``What is that supposed to mean?" Iris keeps her eyes on the Chief but says nothing and walks out of the room. Lin looked back at you and took a seat beside your cot.

She watched you sleep, taking in the wounds on your body. She wondered why you didn’t take your metal sleeves off as she softly brushed her hand down your arms and bent the sleeves off you herself. She set them beside you and even though the healer on the team checked you she wanted to see herself. She was careful to check on you noticing the bruises on your arms, your left arm in a sling with bandages on your left shoulder, side, then found bruising around your neck, probably from Ming-Hua. Lin traced her fingers on your hand before intertwining your hand with hers. She watched as your chest rising and falling with every breath with your left arm laid on your middle. She didn’t want to wake you, but she had to check up on you. Lin looked around and saw everyone was still asleep then scooted closer towards you and sighed. She didn’t understand the emotions she was feeling. She has dealt with officers getting stabbed while on the job, herself included. But having to see you being walked out and then the wound bleeding and your face getting pale. She did get worried. Lin shook those thoughts away, you’re sitting right next to her. She’s safe and alive, you’re touching her, holding her hand. Lin leans over towards you and moves a couple of loose strands of hair out of your face. Lin is tough but when it comes to her emotions and putting those to words, she has no experience. Despite the lack of confidence, she tries to formulate her emotions, settling to tell you while you’re asleep, she whispers “I look at you and my heart is open to the future. For years, I didn’t think I’d be open to the possibility of a relationship like this again. You fill the cracks and crevices others have created and take away the years of loneliness I’ve felt”. Lin looks over you for a couple more minutes until sleep starts to overcome her and she dozes off on the chair, not letting go of your hand.

*

You must’ve dropped off to sleep after talking to Su and Opal from the pain relief medication, because suddenly  you’re waking up to something squeezing your hand. You open your eyes and turn your head and see a sleeping Lin sitting beside you. Her fingers slowly trace over yours so as to lull herself to sleep. Your eyes soften as you rub Lin’s hand and pull her hand softly to your lips kissing it gently “Lin?” you whisper to her. Lin doesn’t budge so you let go and put your hand on the cot to push yourself up and wince a bit. You moving about causes Lin to stir and wake up “y/n, what are you doing?” she sits up quickly and helps you but you dismiss her attempts and lay back down and blink, focusing in the dark room. “How long have I been out?” you look around as Lin rubs her eyes “A couple of hours”

“C’mere” you pull Lin to you and she looks around to make sure everyone is still asleep before she climbs into the cot beside you.

“First you jump in front of me and almost get blown up by that third eyed freak then you get yourself stabbed” Lin huffs but wraps her arms around you and holds you tight, her voice muffled by the nape of your neck. You put your arms around her "Take my heroics actions minimize them why don't you" you quip before you tuck some of her hair behind her ear “I couldn’t let her get to you or let Mako get hurt. I did the same thing you would’ve done.” you softly speak to her not to waken up anyone as you hold onto her just as tight. “It’s different when it’s you getting hurt...” she breathes out into your neck as you tighten your hold on her. Your eyes widen and you stiffen up a bit then run your free hand down her back “I’m sorry, but you understand better than anyone on the why.” you whisper back giving her neck a light peck.

She pulls back and reaches her hand up to cup your cheek. “Doesn’t help your case.”

“It’s just a scratch” you try to sound convincing as you kiss the palm of her hand, she rolls her eyes. “Just a scratch, my ass”,

You smirk letting out a soft chuckle as you run your hand down to grab her ass “I could do that” Lin grabs your hand and stops you, giving you a glare.

“I’m alive, Beifong” you offer her a smile and kiss her palm again.

“Not for long” she says gruffly as your mouth gapes open

“Lin Beifong, you wouldn’t...that’s murder” your eyes widen,

“I would and I can get away with it too” she quips back as she shuts your mouth, causing you to smile more. You kiss her forehead as she runs her hand across the small of your back as you do the same to her. “Ah yes I forgot you’re Chief of Police Beifong” you chuckle before softening a bit, and change the subject “How’s Korra?”

“She’s asleep. Tonraq is staying with her and so is Asami. Kya gave Korra a bit of a healing session but it wasn’t much success due to her condition.”

“Is Tenzin going to call Katara to come to Republic City? You should ask Asami to offer an airship to get her. She’ll get there faster” you suggest as she nods “Asami offered, but Katara wouldn’t be able to handle the trip…”

Your brows furrow “Then maybe you should take Korra to the south pole”

“Republic City is on the way, the injured will be healed there. Then considering how the recovery goes there we’ll call for Katara.” Lin explained as you sit up a bit to adjust yourself, the motion causing you to wince.

“Good” you adjust a bit as Lin pushes back but you pull her closer “What about Zaheer?”

“Mako, Bolin, and some of the Zaofu guards are guarding him. Uncle Zuko and Raiko are making preparations to make a prison impossible for him to escape.”

You let out a breath and nod. Lin looks around and starts to get up, you grab her wrist “Lin...”. Lin gives you a look, “I need to...”

“--I know...don’t let him out of your sights.” you kiss the back of her hand before she sits up leaning over you and give each other a slow kiss cupping her cheek  ending it with one, two, three kisses before she gets out of the cot and heads out the room. Not before giving you another glance as you settle back down on the cot closing your eyes.