Naga ran intensely along paths she had taken before, under similar circumstances, but with a completely different weight. It seemed she understood the real reason and Korra's interest in returning there. It wouldn't be strange if she knew after all, the connection between an Avatar and their spiritual animal was something so strong and complex that no one really knew how far it could go. And Naga certainly missed the place, the people, the food, and the events.
Korra braked after a curve. It was almost instinctive, as the silhouette of Republic City appeared after the turn. She felt a bit oppressed by the grandeur of the imposing figure in her field of vision. She remembered all the ghosts she would have to face upon setting foot there and hesitated; she even thought about giving up, but Naga made a forward movement, as if snapping her out of the trance and encouraging her to continue the journey. It was funny to think that such a strong-willed animal had asked for permission to continue under normal circumstances she would just ignore Korra's startled pause a few seconds later and forge ahead. Not this time. She just had the sensitivity to pull her out of her own daydreams and reiterate the idea of moving forward.
It was a simple gesture, but imbued with a lot of meaning. Perhaps, if not for that, Korra would have abandoned the idea of returning. Fortunately, Naga was there and attentive, ready to show her it wasn't the right thing to do. So Korra made the gesture the animal was so eagerly awaiting, and she started running against the wind again, happy. It wouldn't take long for them to arrive.
And she wouldn't give up on coming back anymore.
The sun was almost at its peak when she passed through the walls of the Air Temple. Entering was easy, but she was frankly surprised not to see any familiar faces along the entire route to the interior of the place. Obviously, some of Tenzin's new airbenders and students looked at her with disbelief, surprise, and admiration, as if they were seeing a ghost returning from the dead. Perhaps that was the case.
She walked through the wide hallways looking for any of her friends or teachers; she needed to show she was back. Despite her wandering, she didn't see them anywhere. She had even thought that maybe something important enough had happened for everyone to be out at the same time, but she realized that wasn't the case when she quickly passed by one of the meditation rooms and saw Tenzin and Kya inside, talking.
It wasn't very common to see people conversing in a place meant for meditation, precisely out of respect and to aid concentration, but since only the two of them were inside, they must have judged it wouldn't be a problem. Korra couldn't understand the nature of the dialogue, but in truth it hardly mattered; all she wanted was to announce her arrival.
She entered the room and was promptly noticed by Kya, who was facing the door; Tenzin, seeing his sister stop speaking mid-sentence and make a face of disbelief, turned to see what it was about. The monk also made a genuinely surprised expression. Korra was taken aback by the way she was received, but she didn't back down she would do what she had planned for the moment.
– Masters, I have returned. – She inclined her body forward in a polite deference to her long-time instructors.
Kya simply ignored all protocols possible and imaginable for the moment. She moved away from her brother and hugged the Avatar with great joy. Korra found it strange at first, as she didn't expect such an unrestrained approach, but she was happy to see the affection with which she was received.
– Korra, my dear! It's so good to see you! You disappeared for so long, without giving any news... We were rather worried, but even more eager for your return! – Kya pulled back a little, just to look into the eyes of the newly arrived apprentice. – How are you feeling now? Better?
– Yes. Now I feel ready to come back. And I imagine you already have big problems for me to solve.
– Problems never stop appearing, Korra. – This time it was Tenzin who spoke. – But let's focus on the good things for a bit, shall we? – He waited for Kya to step away from the young woman so he could hug her too. – You're back! And well! That's cause for celebration. Let's leave the problems for later.
– Thank you, Tenzin. – She returned the hug. – But where is everyone? It seems a bit empty here.
– Ah, that's because today is external training day. Most of the benders went to the forest to practice, my children included. They'll be back in the late afternoon.
– Now if you want to know about your team, I believe you can find them in the city center, in the usual spots. – Kya added. – But if you have the patience to wait a bit, you can have lunch with us; they'll probably come too.
– But of course I'll wait! No problem.
Korra helped set the table. She was already starving, and the delicious smell of Pema's food made her even more anxious for the meal. Kya was also in charge of placing all the cutlery and utensils in their proper positions on the table, which was good, because they'd finish faster. When they were almost done, Pema appeared carrying the first of the pots, containing the lunch food; she repeated the process a few more times until she brought them all and positioned them correctly, thus complementing what Korra and Kya were doing.
Although almost everything was ready, the other guests hadn't arrived yet, and the Avatar was apprehensive about that. Did they already know about her arrival? How had they been living after all those years apart? They were good questions, and she would like to have the answers.
It didn't take long for two figures to appear together. They were the brothers Mako and Bolin, clearly hungry, as their eyes lit up upon seeing the food laid out; but that gave way to surprise at seeing their longtime friend once again after so much time.
– Korra! You're back! – Bolin ignored his hunger and the others present and ran towards her, enveloping her in a strong, almost suffocating hug. – What a joy to see you again!
– Bolin... I'm very happy to see you too... It's been a long time, right? – She returned the hug, with a little difficulty.
– Bolin, maintain your composure. – Mako interceded. Upon hearing his brother's voice scolding him, he immediately let go of Korra. – Greet the others too, come on. – The earthbender gave a weak smile, since he really had ignored the others because of the pleasant surprise of seeing Korra, but he quickly made amends and offered cordial greetings to everyone. – I'm also very happy to see you, Korra. The time you spent away was hard for us too, especially because of your absence, but now that you're here with us again, I feel more relieved and happy. – He hugged her in a greeting similar to his brother's, but more restrained. After that, he proceeded to greet the others, though he still kept his attention on his friend.
– Mako, Bolin, I missed you so much! I really wanted to find you to catch up a bit. I was going to look for you, but fortunately we managed to get together much sooner.
– When did you arrive? – Bolin asked as he was already sitting down at the table.
– A few hours ago.
– Really? So it was pure coincidence that we met here?
– Yes. And I believe if we had planned it, it wouldn't have worked out so well. – All the others were already taking their seats around the table. – Guys, should we start eating?
– Yes, Korra. – Pema spoke up. – It's about time.
– Aren't we going to wait for Asami?
– She already left word that she might not make it in time because of some eventual problem at Future Industries and that we could start without her. – Kya was serving herself a handful of rice prepared by her sister-in-law. – Tenzin, Pema, and I need to finish some Temple chores before everyone returns. Bolin and Mako are on their lunch break, so they need to eat as soon as possible to get back to work, otherwise they won't have time.
– A shame she couldn't get away earlier... – Mako lamented. – Eating alone must be so bad...
– Well, then I think I'll wait for her. – Korra declared. – I don't have absolutely anything better to do after this, so I can keep her company.
– That's a good idea, but aren't you hungry? I mean, can you wait until she arrives when there's no well-defined time for that?
– Of course. I'm not that hungry. – She lied. However, she wouldn't leave Asami alone now that she was back. She assumed she had been somewhat lonely from what little she had heard; the obligations with the company had been consuming her quite a bit, and it wouldn't be nice to let her down when she could perfectly well wait for her.
Everyone was now focused on serving themselves. The Avatar saw the plates filled with food as beautiful as it was fragrant and, probably, delicious. Her mouth watered and her stomach growled in protest at the voluntary abstinence she had proposed to herself.
– Korra, I still can't believe you're back! – Bolin again expressed his joy, with his mouth full, snapping the friend out of her daydreams. – We have to talk a lot to catch up, besides the outings we have to do... There's a great place that opened in the city a few months ago and it's already a sensation, almost a mandatory spot for fun at night, and it's really nice too.
– Of course, Bolin, we can go there later.
– Let's go this weekend! – The earthbender looked at his brother, encouraging him to say something.
– Well, Korra. – Mako began after receiving the look. – We're celebrating my birthday there at the end of the week, so you're more than invited to show up.
– You can count on me. I just won't come if something happens that prevents me, otherwise, I'll be there without fail.
– Good then. I'm happy to hear that. – Her ex-boyfriend smiled at her tenderly and then turned all his attention to the plate he had just served.
It didn't take long for all those present to be in absolute silence, completely focused on the food. That was somewhat cruel to Korra's hungry stomach, but she wouldn't go back on her decision to wait for Asami she had already made that commitment. She just hoped Sato wouldn't take too long.
Asami entered the Temple hall, breathless. She knew she was astronomically late and was already rehearsing a huge apology for her absence. Unfortunately, several last-minute small problems had arisen at the company that ended up delaying her. She had even bought a pie for dessert on the way as a way to try to make up for it, but deep down she hoped not to find anyone else there, since everyone had commitments right after the meal, and arriving to an empty room seemed more likely than anything else. She was very hungry, but skipping lunch was a fair punishment for messing up with all the guests.
Korra was finishing drying some dishes used by her friends and teachers earlier. She had offered to finish the job when she saw how pressed for time everyone was; this way she would allow them to leave on time, without delays, and also keep herself a little busy while Asami hadn't arrived. She had been left alone for some time with the task of dealing with the dirty utensils and was so absorbed in it that she did everything quite concentrated; she only snapped out of autopilot when she heard quick steps coming in her direction.
She knew very well who it was and her heart immediately raced. Her beloved was now a few steps away from her, and she would see her in person after so many years. She felt anxiety and fear at the imminence of the meeting, but she had to maintain her composure at all costs; so she took a deep breath as the sound of heels on the floor got closer.
– Guys, a thousand apologies for the delay. – Asami entered without any ceremony, completely inattentive to the environment. She was fumbling with her bag, as if putting away or looking for something with one hand while the other tried to balance the apology pie. – I had some problems and couldn't get here earlier... – She was going to complete the thought, but when she lifted her head, she saw an environment different from what she expected: there was only one person there, the last one she expected to find. – Korra...? – The shock was so great she almost dropped everything.
– Hi, Asami. – She smiled. – Everything okay?
– You came back? For real? – She left the pie and the bag on the table. – Or am I dreaming?
– Yes, I came back. – She left the dish towel on the sink. – After so long, I think it was about time.
Korra couldn't stop noticing how much Asami had changed, for the better. She still recognized her longtime friend right in front of her, but she had a more determined, lofty posture, seemed even a bit taller than she remembered, with vibrant skin, shiny hair, a striking gaze, and more beautiful than she recalled, as if that were possible.
Asami, in turn, noticed the illuminated face of the Avatar, a clear message that everything was finally okay. She smiled upon seeing that all the darkness contained in Korra's spirit when she left had been overcome and replaced by that version she loved so much. She couldn't help but notice that the determined look was back, that characteristic look she had fallen in love with, but which had been erased by unprecedented trauma. Korra's body didn't seem to have the same tone as before, but her mind seemed whole again; that was enough for everything to fall into place the rest was a matter of time.
– I can't believe you're back! – She ran towards the other and hugged her abruptly.
Upon touching each other, the two felt an electric current run through their entire bodies. After years apart and feelings stirred up, they had finally shown affection for one another, and even though it was minimal and merely friendly, it was enough to drive their hearts wild. Although it was mutual, they only perceived what they themselves felt, unable to see the same behavior in the other, a shame.
– Where is everyone? – Asami asked after verifying the emptiness of the place.
– They already left. They had unpostponable commitments.
– Damn it! I'm way too late.
– Relax, it's no problem. Pema left enough food for us.
– For us?
– Yes, I haven't had lunch yet. I was waiting for you.
– That's so kind of you. – She smiled, surprised and pleased by the courtesy extended.
– Don't mention it, no problem. I hope you're hungry, because it looks delicious! I'll go get it.
– Let me help you. – She accompanied her.
The whole meal was quite relaxed. They talked about trivialities and enjoyed good food. It was nice to catch up after such a prominent hiatus. As Asami had no other commitments at that point, she decided to stay there and spend the rest of the afternoon with her friend who had returned. Korra made no objections; she was more than happy to spend time with Asami, even better, alone.
It was all very fun; they were able to reminisce about old times, learn about new happenings in the city and in life. Spending time with each other had gained new meaning after they realized they were in love; despite it being mutual, they hadn't even touched on the subject out of pure fear and apprehension about how they would be seen and how it might affect the friendship and trust they already had.
Everything flowed so naturally that, when they realized, the afternoon was already ending and it didn't even seem like time had passed. Soon the Temple's apprentices would return with their teachers, and things would return to routine levels. Now they were walking casually along the balcony corridors overlooking the cove, still chatting about trivialities.
– Wow, Korra. Thanks for spending this time with me. My days are always so hectic, it's always good to have a break from the craziness of the corporate world.
– I can imagine, but no need to thank me. I did it gladly and would do it again.
– Is that an invitation?
– It could be. When do you want a repeat?
– Hmm... Let me check my schedule, with luck I can fit you in. – She joked.
– Ah, of course. Please, make a certain effort to guarantee that; I know Miss Sato's schedule is tight, but I'm cool, I swear. – She joined in the joke too, eliciting laughter from both.
– You can count on it. – She looked at the sky and saw it was already sunset time. – By the spirits, Korra! It's already late, I need to get home.
– Hey, calm down. – She gently took her hand as Asami was already preparing to distance herself. – Give me fifteen more minutes? – She received a look mixed with confusion and reproach, clearly on the defensive. – I swear it'll be fine. – And she began to pull her by the arm in a specific direction, but Asami didn't know what it was about.
– Where are you taking me? – She allowed herself to be led, but still wasn't confident.
– Sit here. – She pointed to a wooden bench on the north lookout. – To end the day on a golden note, you're going to see the most beautiful sunset in the world.
It wasn't yet at its maximum splendor, but Asami already understood how majestic the event ahead was. Without much further questioning, she ended up sitting on the bench, and Korra did the same, placing herself to the right of her friend. Several minutes passed in complete contemplative silence; it wasn't uncomfortable on the contrary, it was comforting.
– It really is beautiful. – Sato spoke up after a while. The Avatar just agreed with a nod, and they continued to watch the twilight.
Gradually, the afternoon gave way to night, and the stars emerged. The sky was clear so that one could see infinite dots of light over the city, the sea, the Temple, and everything else. It was all so perfect that Korra became absorbed in the moment. It was great to be in Sato's presence, even as a friend, but she wanted more than that. She knew the possibilities were remote, and perhaps she could never attract loving glances from the most beautiful woman in the world. But if she wanted a chance, she would have to try in some way, and if she weren't reciprocated, she hoped the friendship between them would remain unshaken; she wouldn't know how to handle losing her best friend.
– Asami... – Imbued with sudden courage, she decided to say what she felt once and for all.
She looked to the side expecting to have her undivided attention for her confession, but all she saw was a tired Asami sleeping, her body leaning forward due to the poor position. Obviously, she had had a very turbulent day, and at the first opportunity to be still, she ended up falling asleep. Korra couldn't blame her; if she had reached that point, rest was more than deserved it was necessary.
The Avatar simply helped her into a better position. Very carefully, she rested her beloved's head on her own lap. The other's fatigue was so great that she didn't even wake up to see what was happening; she just accepted being guided into a new, much more comfortable configuration.
– Sleep well. Your day was difficult; you deserve a good rest. – She looked directly at the girl in her lap while stroking the black locks that fell over her leg. It was comforting to see her there. Asami's sleep was so peaceful it transmitted calm to anyone.
Korra averted her gaze from the young woman and looked back at the stars above, but she didn't stop giving Sato a head scratch, a kind of confirmation of affection and concern. A few seconds later, a shooting star passed through the Avatar's field of vision. It was beautiful, sparkling, and would grant her a wish. She wished the other were awake to contemplate such an image, but she wouldn't wake her for that.
As for the wish gained, she had several options for requests to make, all of which would favor her in unimaginable ways and were equally valid. She could have given in to the selfish impulse to ask for something just for herself, but not this time. She decided to be altruistic, something not very common when it came to Korra. In the end, she ended up asking that Asami's main and most important wish be granted.
She smiled upon realizing she had put someone ahead of herself at a moment where she could, theoretically, have the world in her hands; she could have even asked for Asami's love, she just didn't think it was fair for something like that to happen. If she were to be reciprocated, she preferred something natural, coming from Sato's own initiative and not from an assertive superstition, after all.
She felt funny for acting that way; she didn't even seem like the willful, hot-headed Korra who hates being contradicted and wants everything in her hands as soon as possible. She stopped to think a bit and realized Tenzin was right, after all. Love really does change people. She was living proof of that.