Chapter Text

It was some time before dawn when Korra felt her eyes open, though she couldn’t see anything yet. Actually reaching a state of consciousness took a little longer. The quiet groans of waking, then the inevitable tightening of muscles returning to activity.

Feeling the body of another between herself and her right arm was her subtle, daily reminder that she wasn’t alone. And that the darkness in her vision was in fact Asami’s flowing hair.

Pulling herself away from that close embrace of warmth was difficult for many reasons. The basic instinct to stay warm for one, even though the morning was far from cold. The desire to not wake Asami herself was more straightforward, something she had learned to accomplish with greater success as the first year of their relationship had developed.

Normally, it was done out of a sense of deep care for her love’s tendency to sleep longer. An unwillingness to disturb such a tranquil sight.

For the past week, it had been to ensure Korra had the morning to herself. Alone. Long enough to think and contemplate without fear of interruption. To ponder on the thought burdening her more and more each day, that she wasn’t ready to share just yet.

As with every previous morning, she slipped out of the large mansion bed with barely a sound. One of the best features of the mansion itself was the abundance of carpeting throughout. Being far from a lightfoot in nature, it was by far the biggest advantage she had in making the long walk over to her favoured sitting window in silence.

With a gentle touch, she eased the paper window open to let the view of the pre-dawn mountains in.The outskirts of Republic City were barely visible on the far left, much further into the valley.

The sunrise itself wasn’t visible from that angle, given the north-west facing of the room. But, the view of the mountains meant she would be able to watch from the exact moment the snow capped peaks turned from dull blue to stunning orange.

It was her time to think. To lightly wipe her eyes clear, settle into her comfortable spot, and rest a hand on the region below her stomach.

Day by day, she waited for anything that would reassure her that her fears and worries were for nothing. Even a simple sensation. Something more than the constant indescribable feeling that wouldn’t leave. One that left her not so much with a sense of dread, as it was a sense of uncertainty.

Over a month of peace since her latest journey to the spirit world with Asami. A month of being able to move on from the fear that yet another crisis would rear up and demand her attention yet again. A week past that and she was already yearning for that peace of mind, more than ever.

It was different this time. It was personal, deeply so. And she just didn’t yet have the courage to open up about it yet. Especially not to Asami.

Her time of anxious pondering came to a reprieve when the first rays of dawn finally made themselves known. As it had happened each previous morning, the mountains to the north-west were set alight by daybreak.

Just like that, her breathing settled down to a much calmer pace. The easing from her waking concerns, to the state of mind ready to handle the day to come.

It was very nearly broken when Korra flinched on feeling a hand slide across her shoulders. A momentary surprise that subsided just as quickly. Her right hand slid back off her stomach to hold the window frame lightly, while her left found its way around Asami’s waist as she pressed in.

Without a word, she finally tilted her head around to lean against Asami’s chest, and closed her eyes.

“So, this is what I’ve been missing out on lately.”

Speaking with Asami every morning after sunrise had come as a challenge. Grappling with the decision of whether to open up or not. For once, Korra finally felt able to just put that aside, and enjoy the tender embrace for what it was. As long as it would last.

Her eyes remained closed as she took another long breath, kept further calm by the sound of Asami’s heartbeat.

“You’ve seen it for years already.”

Asami’s free hand crept up to Korra’s head, fingers lightly delving into her hair as she looked down towards her with a tender smile. There was something particularly endearing about her that day. The way she held on, looking serene.

“Not with you, I haven’t.”

That made Korra smile, and eventually chuckle in a very subdued way. A little bit after, she opened her eyes, and immediately felt a warmth on her cheeks at seeing Asami’s glittering down at her in the reflected sunrise.

How easy it would be to say a single word, and put things off another day. To promise Asami that they could share the next daybreak would mean putting off her trip to the South Pole that much longer at least. But every day she remained in Republic City, with Asami in particular, was another day of keeping her deeper thoughts bottled up.

“Asami?”

“Yes sweetie?”

Korra took another long breath. It was far from the time for a final decision on whether or not Asami would accompany her for the next few days. She wasn’t completely set on it herself yet after all.

Maybe it would be better to have her there. At a distance to begin with, long enough for the discussion Korra wanted alone. But there at the ready when she would likely desire her support most. Or maybe it would be better to have the rest of the time to collect herself up again, and more time to think on the way back.

Her eyes darted down briefly as she tried to think of a better answer for her part. Perhaps just the slightest indicator of what she was really going through, why she had moved her visit to the South up to the next few days. Something she could handwave off if it turned out all her worrying was for nothing, and she could breathe easy again.

“I think I am going to come down to the South Pole tomorrow. But, I don’t want you to feel obligated to stay with me. I know you’ve got business with Varrick that you’ll want to take care of first, and...”

Upon seeing Asami’s initial reaction, Korra sighed quietly and adjusted her position in a way she intended to be dismissive. “Too early for all that. Never mind.”

Far from putting off, Asami moved in closer still, carefully positioning herself behind Korra on what space there was on the window seat. The arm around her shoulders moved down lower, wrapping around her midsection, while the hand caressing through her hair slid around to gently tilt her chin up. Just enough to make the angle work when she leaned in and placed a loving kiss to her lips from above.

“It’s okay, Korra. We don’t have to be hanging off each other every time we leave Republic City.” She trailed her fingers back up along Korra’s face as she lifted her head again. “There’s plenty I can do while we’re down there. I just wasn’t sure if you wanted to go together.”

Korra nodded gently, maybe more for the feeling of the silk gown against her cheek than as acknowledgement. “I thought about it for a while. And I think it’ll be good for us. Visiting my parents at the same time you’re there on business. We can stay at the palace instead of you having to book out a room on your own.”

One of Asami’s eyebrows went up, accompanied by an awkward smile. “You sure? I like spending time with your parents, but we’ve never actually stayed with them overnight. Let alone several.”

Reluctantly, Korra lifted herself up and shifted around to face Asami a little more directly, wanting a proper discussion. “It’s not going to be like the first time when I got steamed at Dad. I promise.”

“Oh, it’s not that at all, Korra.” After lightly waving that rather awkward memory off, Asami began biting on her lip. “I know it’s different from when they hadn’t yet moved to the palace from their much smaller place. But, still…” She started tilting her head in a few different directions. “You know…” And eventually settled on a less subtle version of her lip bite. “Interruptions?”

Korra’s cheeks warmed considerably after that. She had been rather more absent from that part of their relationship for the past week in particular. It was perhaps another motivation to open up sooner, and not keep Asami in the dark for too much longer. Being evasive would inevitably set off the concerned questions after all.

“We’ll be fine, Asami. If there are any new grave threats that want the Avatar’s attention while we’re at the South Pole, I’ll tell them to come back later.” She gave a small shrug, then reached up to squeeze Asami’s shoulder lightly. “It’s not worth worrying about. Let’s give it at least one go, please?”

For Asami, there was simply no resisting at that point. Between her gentle pleading, and the matching expression on Korra’s face, she could only accept.

“Alright. But you’re taking me out for one night of fine dining, at the minimum.” Her hand trailed up along Korra’s arm, eventually lifting away to tap her nose after with a knowing smirk. “And Varrick’s company party doesn’t count. We’re both going anyway.”

Korra rolled her eyes in a lighthearted way. “I can’t promise anything like the restaurants here. And you’d be paying for it anyway, so technically-”

“Shh. It doesn’t matter who’s paying, or how the food compares.” Asami’s hand moved around to cup the side of Korra’s head, holding her there gently. “I want to have lots of happy memories in the peacetime, when we’re not saving the world. Together.”

She moved in for the long, tender kiss at that, letting her eyes drift low as her other hand worked around behind Korra’s back.

While a little more hesitant at first, all of the lingering tension in Korra evaporated when their lips met. The rest of her shifted into the embrace, with the slight shiver of that hand gliding up her spine making her nudge forward a little more.

It was what prompted her to pull away from the kiss, though at least in a way that didn’t draw much attention to it.

After a few short breaths, Korra leaned back in again to touch foreheads with Asami, leaving a bit more space between them again.

“Love you, Asami. I’ll be back tonight to pack. No leaving in the night without me.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it, sweetie.”

Korra slipped away from the embrace at last, making a point of pulling the window shut before walking back towards the expansive wardrobe. She made a point of facing away from Asami while pulling her nightshirt off, even knowing for sure there was nothing new to be seen. Her mild paranoia still held onto a small part of her psyche for the time being.

*

Morning was in full swing by the time Korra made the descent glide towards Air Temple Island. Her wide detour around the spirit portal meant her arrival took slightly longer than usual, though no-one would notice anyway.

The only one in the front courtyard of the Temple at that moment was Ikki. From the look of it, she was sweeping up the autumn leaves into controlled gusts of wind. Those in turn eventually swirled up into whirlwinds of red, brown and yellow, sailing over towards the composting piles by the greenhouse.

Korra made a point of circling in the air until all the leaves had been set down in place before finally making her landing. The clack of her hang glider folding back up was all she needed to get Ikki’s attention after that.

“Hey Korra! Hm, aren’t you here early?”

Blinking a few times, Korra looked towards the general direction of the sun. Her conclusion that she was more or less on time remained, though she knew better than to argue with Ikki. Over just about any topic that could come to mind for that matter.

“Maybe I am early. Could you go let your dad know I’m here then?”

“Sure!”

Ikki turned around on the spot, and rather than making any attempt to actually approach the Temple, lifted both hands to her face.

“DAD! KORRA IS HERE EARLY COME SEE!”

Korra very discreetly rolled her eyes. After she had lifted her hands off her ears. “Yeah, walked right into that one.”

Before long, Ikki had scootered off to sweep more of the island’s leaves, conveniently just before Tenzin emerged from the Temple himself.

“Good morning, Korra. Nice to see you up and ready at this hour.”

Korra gave a small wave, then clenched that hand on her other arm across her chest. The universal indicator of apprehension, coupled with her not moving from that spot.

Once he had made a good read of the situation, Tenzin straightened up a little more and put on a comforting smile. He continued down the steps to stop close in front of Korra, then waited a few moments before reaching out to her shoulder.

“I take it you’re thinking about things that don’t involve our visit to the spirit world?”

Immediately, Korra started glancing back toward the portal again. The anxiety she felt was minor, more because of her lack of certainty than animosity.

“Actually, I think I’d rather sit this one out.”

Taking a deep breath helped calm her down enough to look Tenzin in the eye. For the moment, she wasn’t ready to tell him about her concerns either. Not in full anyway.

“I’ve felt different since the last visit there, with Asami. I don’t know if it’s in a good or bad way, still figuring that one out.”

Tenzin reached up to grasp at his beard in thought after lifting his hand away from her shoulder. “Hm, I see. Well, it was never an obligation to begin with. Would you rather I stay here as well then?”

“No, it’s fine. I know you’ve been waiting for this visit longer. And I don’t want to upset the spirits again by pulling you away from it. You know how some of them can get over punctuality.”

Her clenching hand tightened on her other arm a little more. Talking with someone who knew the spirits a lot better did sound like a good idea. Though having it be someone who could also give definitive answers felt like what she needed most.

“Actually, uh, when you get there? Could you ask Kya to come to the South Pole and meet me there tomorrow? I decided to go see my parents with Asami when she flies down.”

Once again, Tenzin remained comforting in his demeanour, giving her a warm nod. “Bumi and I were planning to visit mother at the end of the week anyway, along with Kya. I’ll let her know you asked when I arrived. I’m sure she’d be more than willing to continue there early on your request.”

“Thanks, Tenzin.” With one more breath, Korra finally released the grip on her other arm so that she could hug Tenzin. Just long enough to keep that feeling of comfort around. “I am fine, I promise. I’m just not sure where things with Asami are headed right now.”

“That’s quite alright, Korra. Taking the time to consider your future is very healthy, for both of you. By accepting that there may be flaws and other problems with your relationship, you can both work towards overcoming them.”

Korra had pulled away again by that point, leaving her feeling a little exposed when she reached up to scratch through her hair awkwardly. “Didn’t really work out that way with Mako, obviously.” Her arms folded back down as she began glancing away. “And to be honest, it’s a little different from you and Pema. You both wanted to have a family of airbenders. Aside from being together, Asami and I have entirely separate careers we’re both fully into now. And I know ‘being the Avatar’ isn’t technically a career, but still, you know?”

The full weight of her conflict hadn’t dawned on Tenzin until then. And while it wasn’t the kind of problem he could speak from personal experience on, he was determined to be helpful all the same.

“You’re right. While Pema and I have been far from free of ordeals, we have always had the same vision in mind for our family, even before we met. But that didn’t mean there weren’t still things to discuss and decide along the way.”

He paused to wave to some of the acolytes that had started to gather further down the path, indicating to them that he wouldn’t be much longer.

“Remember, Asami may be just as confused about where things will progress as you are. You’re both still young women. No-one expects you to get it right all the time.”

Korra took another long breath. It wasn’t so easy to put things into perspective. A slip up with Asami had sometimes been painful, but compared against some of the choices she made that affected the entire world, it was pretty much harmless.

“I do want to talk about it with her. But I’m worried things have already started to change.”

That time it was Korra who was interrupted from afar. In that case, more of Ikki’s calling out to her father. Keeping him there to talk any longer wouldn’t end well for either of them.

She curled her hand to draw her glider back over on a gust of wind, keeping it at the ready while she stepped aside. “I’ll see you in about a week then. Asami wants to stop over at the new airstrip near Kyoshi Island on the way down. In case anyone asks and we haven’t arrived at the Southern tribe yet.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Stay safe, Korra. And good luck.”

“You too, Tenzin.”

Korra watched him all the way from the courtyard to the staging area further down, where Oogi and some of the other sky bison had gathered.

Regardless of her own personal situation, it was nice to see more interactivity between humans and spirits. Entire groups of benders and acolytes making a pilgrimage to meditate with those they had the strongest connection to.

The outbreak of hostility seemed so far into the past now. Now, while far from true harmony between the two worlds, they were definitely on the right track at last.

She only wished she could feel happier over it all.

*

A full day and a half had passed when they finally touched down at the runway not far from the harbor city’s walls. Shortly after, they were outside the palace. Some of the attendants had already set to work in taking their luggage inside.

Korra had already stepped out of the cab by then, leaving her with the daunting task of convincing Asami to not join her just yet. She still wanted what remained of the afternoon to herself. Both for talking with her parents, and time to go over what she would say afterwards.

“They’ll understand just fine, believe me. Probably busy with Water Tribe administration right now, and you’ll be busy with industry stuff, so it all works out.”

Asami pursed her lips lightly, then smiled. “You can tell me if you just want a bit of time with your parents first, Korra. It’s nothing to be ashamed about.”

For a few moments, Korra’s eyes dipped to the icy ground below. Putting things plainly still felt like a challenge. Especially now with the moment of truth so close at hand.

She made herself smile again when looking back up, leaning closer to Asami for what would inevitably follow. “I never want it to sound like I’m ignoring you when I need a little ‘me’ time. That’s all, I promise.”

“You’re so sweet, Korra.” Asami took the invitation of the lean in to kiss her again. Keeping it short and tender for the sake of the patient driver waiting on them both.

“Love you.”

“Love you too, Asami. I’ll see you in the evening.”

Korra finally leaned away from the cab and closed the door for her. Watching as it gradually picked up speed once the chained tires found their grip on the ice once again.

One step closer to clearing her mind of the doubt. She definitely felt ready for one way things could go. As for the other, she was far from prepared, but willing to face it.

Even with such a heavy mental weight, she still made sure to keep up her trademark Avatar smile to all those that greeted her. From the workers kind enough to haul all the luggage up the steps, to tribesmen visiting the palace as part of their normal routine, to those travelling from afar to meet with the Elders.

She had been through plenty of high profile meetings, speeches and photo shoots. The more simple pleasure of simply being recognized by those passing by felt refreshing.

And certainly far better than the many times she was being called out for her missteps. At that moment, the last thing she wanted was to add the doubt of others to her own personal issue. Knowingly or not.

It went away altogether when she finally caught sight of Tonraq across the hall. Her father was talking with a few other people, discussing what she guessed was another plan of some kind given how he pointed to the papers they were holding.

The moment he caught sight of Korra, his entire expression lit up. A few quick gestures and words for the others to continue without him followed, before he finally strode over to embrace his daughter once more.

“It’s wonderful to have you here. I thought it’d be another two weeks at least.”

Korra just kept to that warm embrace for a little longer, cherishing the safety she felt with her father. One more little reassurance that she needed. That things would work out with his help.

“I wanted more time with you, mom, and Asami all together.” She lifted her head away after a bit more hugging, looking right up to him. “That’s okay, right?”

“Of course.” There was a light chuckle to Tonraq’s voice as he spoke. Both his hands moved up to Korra’s shoulders as she grew relieved. “She’s part of the family in my eyes. Whatever else, I want you to be happy. Hearing how you’ve grown closer with Asami this past year has been nothing short of wonderful.”

Korra nodded at that, feeling misty eyed as she glanced back down again. “Thanks Dad. I want to keep being with her. More than anything.”

Tonraq tilted his head, then began to smile.

It immediately sent Korra into a fluster, pulling away from the embrace a little to clap his chest lightly. “I’m not ready to give her a necklace yet. I’m not sure if I’ll even make one at all, and just do my own thing instead.”

“I don’t doubt it, Korra. Just don’t be surprised if you end up setting a new Southern Water Tribe tradition in the process.”

“I’ll try not to.”

She stepped back completely after that. Thinking about lifelong commitments had unsurprisingly brought her back around to the main issue. Though she was certainly feeling less of the uncertain dread by then.

“Has Kya come by yet? I’ve been meaning to talk to her when she gets here. And mom for that matter.”

“Your mother is at the training camp with the other waterbending instructors. I haven’t heard from Kya yet.”

The smile faded as he noticed her quiet reaction. One he had seen before, and now at least had a better idea of how to handle. “There’s a few things I need to take care of. I’ll make sure no-one disturbs your room once they’ve moved all the luggage. Will you be alright until I come up?”

Korra’s hand went up to her other arm for a bit, though not nearly as tightly as it had been the previous day. She still felt a little more under control so far.

Yeah, I’ll be fine. Don’t rush any important meetings because of me”

Once again, Tonraq took her shoulders in an affirming hold, looking right at her in that fatherly way. “Korra, there’s nothing here that can’t wait for you. And not because you’re the Avatar.”

He left a light kiss to her forehead and one last embrace before leaving her be at last. True to his word, ready to give her space until he was needed at her side once again.

It took longer for Korra to finally start making her way to the upper levels. She had only returned to her room in the palace a couple of times since being trapped there for months in a wheelchair.

When she finally entered it, thankfully after all the deliveries had been done, she felt a turmoil of feelings yet again.

Both times she had ended up thinking about that first year of recovery. How things might have changed if she had allowed Asami to stay with her.

In all likelihood, her bad temperment would have driven her back to Republic City early, and ended things between them for good. Short of that, it would have made things harder for Asami in general anyway. And pulled her from the many achievements that had brought her success.

Something she feared was going to happen after all.

Her time of blank staring along the wood walls ended when she collapsed onto the bed, turning it into a blank stare at the ceiling.

One moment, she was reassuring herself that it was far from an end to the life they were going to have. An alteration certainly, but nothing that would take away from what they both had ambitions for.

The next was the crippling fear that she had upset everything for them both. A simple accident, a misunderstanding. And still so very impactful, maybe even to the point of pushing them apart.

Discussing it hypothetically was so very different to discussing it as a real plan. A subtlety she had simply not considered would be lost on the spirits. In their own unique perception of everything.

She nearly gasped out loudly when a knock at the door snapped her out of that growing anxiety. It wasn’t until the cool arctic air evapourated the beads of sweat from her arms and forehead that she noticed just how much that feeling had taken hold.

The second knock came just as she lowered her hand back to her stomach. Still no change, aside from the brief knot that had formed in her chest.

“ Korra, it’s Kya. You okay in there? ”

Fingers gripping into the bed, Korra made herself take a few deep breaths. The moment of truth had come, and she wanted to be ready for it.

“Yeah, I’m okay. I just need a second.”

Once her hands released from the bed, she very lightly gestured to bring more of that cooling breeze through the room. The glister left on her skin soon faded away, and while it did leave a light chill, she was willing to tolerate that in order to keep herself calm.

“Alright, you can come in.”

Kya was very considerate with her entry to the room, opening the door slowly at first, then closing it with great care, She looked to Korra with a soft smile, walking over and sitting on the bed beside her once she had a feel for things.

“So, I’m pretty sure you didn’t ask me here to talk girl problems.”

As she hoped, that got a small smile out of Korra.

“That and Tenzin mentioned it was to do with the spirit world. I’m also guessing it’s not something dangerous, but I’m not sensing any minor imbalance either.”

Korra closed her eyes for another breath, one last chance to keep calm. Her eyes opened, hands gripping the bed again briefly before she finally moved to stand and turn.

“I feel different. I need to know for certain that it is what I think is going on. And you’re the only one who can check that I also trust.”

It wasn’t what Kya had expected to hear at all, leaving her with a concerned look when she just nodded in response. “Okay. I won’t tell anyone about this, if that’s what you’re worried about?”

“I just…” Korra clasped her hands together, bringing them to her lips as she thought over her choice of words. “Something about me has felt off. And I want to know what’s going on for sure before I tell my parents. And I need time to think about it before I tell Asami. Everyone else, I’ll get to when I’m ready.”

She made herself release the tight grip her hands had fallen into, leaving them by her sides instead. There was no backing out, not after all the mental preparation she had put herself to.

“Could you check my energy aura, and just save the questions until later? Right now I need to know the simple facts. Please?”

Kya nodded sagely, still feeling very concerned, but willing to go along with the request without question. “Alright. Remember the usual. Try not to tense up too much. Let me know if there’s any sudden pain or flashes of memory. And don’t firebend by accident.”

“I won’t. It’s not going to be like last time.”

There wasn’t anything more Kya had to say. Once her water pouch was uncapped, she drew out the reserve to encase both hands in a swirling layer of water. Both began to glow as she lifted them up in front of Korra, slowly moving together along her frame in order to attune to her energies.

The inner turmoil was quick to turn up, something that brought on extra concern as Kya continued the scan. Aside from the emotional turbulence, she couldn’t perceive any significant blocks in her energy. Compared to the times they had gone through the same process after her poisoning, she seemed to be in excellent spiritual health.

“I’m not sure what I’m looking for, Korra. There isn’t anything telling me that a spirit damaged any of your chakras. If that’s even possible.”

“I haven’t really paid much attention to them, to be honest. But, I think-”

“Hold on, I think I’ve found something.” Kya leaned down a little, spreading her hands apart a little to focus the sense of energy more precisely. “There’s something odd going on with your…” She caught on her breath lightly when it began to click over. “Water chakra.”

After focusing for a little longer, she returned the water to the pouch and stood back up.

Korra’s eyes had already started to well up a little. She knew enough to conclude that her suspicions were finally confirmed. And that it wasn’t simply lingering guilt that had been uncovered.

“So, that’s it. I’m pregnant.”

Still in disbelief, it took several seconds for Kya to make that simple nod.

Having nowhere else to turn at that moment, Korra wrapped her arms around Kya to bury her face into the older woman’s shoulder.

She didn’t even know what to think or feel at that moment. While it wasn’t a truly upsetting revelation, it did still leave her shaken. The doubt was cleared up at last, but it had now been replaced with the uncertainty of how to handle her future going forward. Now that there was a child of hers involved.

*

It was less than half an hour later when both her parents returned. By then, both Korra and Kya had moved to the chief’s dining room. Far enough away from any potential bystanders in what could so easily become a conversation of exclamations.

For Korra, it was far from enough time to calm down from the emotional burnout, let alone to actually know what she was thinking anymore. But she didn’t want to delay telling them for any longer than she could manage. Delays would just lead into the slippery slope of hiding the truth.

When the doors finally opened to them both, Kya silently waved them over to the arrangement of chairs she had prepared. One more layer of caution until the doors were closed firmly again.

That time, it was Senna who moved in to console her daughter first, Tonraq keeping close at hand without crowding them all.

The sight of Korra in a bleary eyed state, head resting against her hand, brought back a lot of worrying memories. So many restless nights of frustration to overcome.

Senna eventually took Korra’s free hand between both of hers, holding it up a little while kneeling down in front of her.

“I’m here now. We both are.” She gripped Korra’s hand a little tighter when Tonraq’s came to rest on them as well. “Whatever is going on, we want to help you.”

Korra kept staring ahead, not even trying to open her eyes up a little more to make contact. All she could think about was the impact going forward. Things that couldn’t be helped, regardless of time and intent.

It took a lot of willpower to finally make herself speak up. Before she let herself collapse in exhaustion.

“Kya, she uh…” A mild sniffle followed, along with a bit of a flinch as Kya reached across the table to her arm. “She just confirmed that I’m pregnant.” Her eyes finally moved to meet with Senna’s, catching as they were already starting to widen. “With Asami’s baby.”

The reaction that followed from her parents was just about exactly what she expected, right down to how long the silence lasted.

First the shock of the news itself, then the utter confusion at who the other parent was. Not that they would assume for a moment that Korra had been cheating on Asami in any way. But at least that made a lick of actual sense than what they had just heard.

Seeing that Korra was ready to go quiet again, Kya quickly stepped in to give her some breathing room. “I’m still trying to wrap my head around it too. But I can’t say that there isn’t at least one spirit that can make this kind of pregnancy occur.”

“A spirit?” Tonraq’s shocked look started to close in, approaching a frown. “You mean there could be a spirit going around doing-”

“Their name was Gei Haizi.”

Korra’s voice was so solemn, and devoid of feeling by then. But it still had the the other three’s attention immediately.

“I wanted to take Asami to Xai Bau’s grove. Along the way, we talked about our plans for the future. How she wanted to grow Future Industries, how I wanted to continue closing the gap between spirits and people. I guess somewhere along the line, we ended up talking about how we’d ever be able to start a family.”

She took in a long breath. For the first time that day, she was actually starting to feel calm inside. Both her parents had eased up a little as well by the look of it.

“That’s when Gei Haizi appeared. They’re not like most of the other spirits I’ve seen. And I don’t mean the androgyny. They were a lot more, alive, I guess?”

A mild glaze started to form over Korra’s eyes. Her memory of that encounter was far from perfect, which made her constant attempts to recall it rather frustrating at times. Putting it into words for the others was no better.

“I don’t know. Gei Haizi said that they had helped couples who couldn’t have kids in the distant past. Maybe I just wasn’t clear enough when I told them that Asami and I were just talking about it, not trying to make it happen.” For a few moments, she closed her eyes to once again try and focus on those few seconds. “Gei Haizi just nodded, then returned to being a cloud of flowers. It was such a brief encounter. I didn’t even know what to make of it at the time.”

Another long pause for breath followed. Somewhere between, she reached up to wipe her eyes clear.

The brief time given was enough for Tonraq to bring around chairs for Senna and himself. Keeping the supportive circle with Korra intact.

Kya had been deep in thought throughout. Now with an understanding of what had happened, even if it was sparse, she could do something about it. “Korra, Tenzin and I can look for Gei Haizi. It sounds a lot like they could be akin to ancient spirits such as the Mother of Faces. We can sort out what happened.”

“No. This is something I’m going to confront Gei Haizi about myself.” While brief, it was still a spark of energy for Korra that snapped her out of the daze. “I don’t want to tell Tenzin yet. And he’ll find out from Gei Haizi if you find them first. Let me do this when I’m ready.”

While doubts continued to linger, Kya eventually gave a nod, withdrawing her hand from Korra’s arm. “Alright. But, I’d still like to try and dig up any information about Gei Haizi that might still be out there. They might reappear again to others, maybe even outside the spirit world.”

With some reluctance, Korra gave a conceding nod. It was all she was going to get on that side of the matter, leaving her with the personal. She finally looked back over to her parents, face still bearing the burned out expression, with a little less of the defeated.

“I’m going to tell Asami tonight, when she gets back.” Her whole body trembled a little as emotion started to well up again. “I don’t want to ruin everything she has. If it means staying here for the next few years…”

“It won’t come to that.” Tonraq looked to Senna with a nod, mirroring her earlier show of support by holding one of Korra’s hands warmly. “We’ll find a way to live in Republic City with you, if that’s what it takes. We won’t let you feel trapped here yet again.”

Senna’s voice had started to crack just a little, all the outpouring of feelings taking a physical toll. “I can be there sooner, and for longer at a time. I’m sure there’s plenty of waterbenders to teach. There’s plenty of ways to make this work.”

It was enough to ease the absolute worst of Korra’s fears. The rest she was far too worked up about to let go of just yet.

One step at a time, another was out of the way. The next she wanted to be in mildly better condition for.

“I need to lie down, clear my head. I guess I’ll tell you what’s happening with Asami later. Maybe tomorrow.”

When she moved to stand, both her parents immediately got up to help her in that. Relinquishing the hold together once certain she was fine on her own.

At the doorway, before opening it, Korra stopped briefly. To get back some of her composure for the walk to her room, and her own sense of gratitude.

“Thanks for hearing me out, and not getting upset. And thanks for coming, Kya.”

She left things at that, making her way out into the hall with as much composure as she could fake.

*

Three hours of lying on the bed in complete silence, unable to sleep or rest, had eventually driven Korra to the balcony outside. With the night drawing in further, the air developed its familiar bite. On any other day, she would’ve gone for her fur overcoat by then. But losing the chill on her arms and neck would mean falling asleep. And she didn’t want to leave things until the next morning with Asami.

She was watching one of the auroras snake its way in the direction of the spirit portal when she heard the hallway door open.

“Korra?”

A wince followed from that. There wasn’t enough determination left in her to answer Asami.

It didn’t matter, as the balcony doors opened shortly after to Asami herself.

The moment she saw Korra in that state, she gasped in concern. There was no hesitation in taking hold of her arm and trying to bring her back inside.

“Sweetie, what’s wrong?”

Korra didn’t answer at first, or resist being taken back into the warmth of the room. There was still just enough hesitation, and a desire to be proven so very wrong about what her worst fears kept telling her would happen.

She didn’t even look down as her chilled hands were taken into Asami’s, and brought up closer to be warmed by her breath.

“How long have you been out there, Korra? This isn’t how you were when I left a few hours ago.”

When Korra finally reacted, it was to pull her hands free from Asami’s and turn away in shame. Her arm went up against the doorframe, with her head in turn coming to rest against it.

“I’m sorry, Asami. I’m so sorry.”

“Sorry? For what?”

There was again no hesitation for Asami as she took hold of Korra’s arms to turn her back around. With some more work, she also got her back to eye contact as well.

“Did something happen with your parents?” When all she got was a shake of the head, Asami bit down on her lip, then pressed the issue. “Please, talk to me. Have I done something to upset you and not noticed?”

“No. No it’s not-”

Finding the exact words became a struggle. She was completely focused on readying herself for the breakup. The only thing she could see happening.

“I messed up, Asami. I wasn’t paying attention, and when Gei Haizi showed up I just didn’t think things through.”

“Gei Haizi? What are you…” Memories of that encounter began to sink back through for Asami. Little by little, until she finally came to understand. “Wait, it actually worked? And you’re really-”

Korra finally nodded again. It was all she could manage, the rest of her bracing up for the outburst at last.

“Is this why you were upset? Korra, sweetie...”

“Asami, please, don’t try and let me down easy. This isn’t something we planned for, and you’ve got so many other things in your life-”

“What? Let you down?”

When the rest clicked over, Asami went for the simplest move she could think of to ease her love’s overflowing worries. Both hands quickly wrapped around and pulled her close as she went in for a quick, but meaningful kiss. Making absolutely sure that Korra didn’t pull away until the point was made.

Even then, she maintained her tight hold, keeping her eyes directly on Korra’s. “So many wonderful things to come into my life weren’t planned for at all. Why would this...” The hand around Korra’s back slid around to the front in a smooth motion. “...be any different?”

It took long enough for Korra to catch up to the reality of her complete overreaction. Everything she assumed had felt so very clear and inescapable up until that moment. That she’d lose Asami again, and have no way back that time.

Feeling it sink in made her eyes tear up a little, before she couldn’t help but break into gulps of the most awkward laughter imaginable at her own state.

“I’m-” Several breaths were needed before she eased out of the gulps. “I’m such an idiot.”

“Korra, you’re not an idiot. The only thing I’m upset about is that you care about my feelings so much, you’re behaving like your own don’t even matter.”

Asami’s other hand moved from Korra’s back to her face. A gently brush of the fingers brushed the mess of a fringe from her eyes, and hopefully further eased her mind.

“I’m going to be here for you, sweetie, throughout this. There’s nothing and no-one more important in my life than you.” A wry smile formed after that. “Either of you.”

The great sigh of exasperation came from Korra after that. Still a little giddy from the overwhelming relief at how things had turned out. And now having more sinking-in moments, her eyes starting to shift upward. “This is really it. I’m a mother, and now you’re going to dote on that for the next decade.”

“Count on it.”

Asami went back in for another kiss, and at last felt reciprocation. Enough for her to keep it going a little longer, and make it truly mean something.

“We’ll talk about our new plans when we’re back in Republic City, and not a moment before. Tomorrow, I’m breaking our agreement and sticking by your side for the entire day.”

There was nothing left for Korra to argue with, that time her quiet nodding being done with a smile.

“And while we’re on the subject, I want you to sleep properly. If I wake up, and you’re not in my arms when I do, Korra…” With that wry smile persisting, she leaned over towards her ear and whispered at just above silence.

Korra’s eyes widened quite abruptly, followed by a near coughing fit at her cheeks developed a rather hard blush. Her fluster was just as quickly soothed by Asami’s hand touching along her cheek. And the sight of her pristine smile.

“I get that today was difficult for you. So, tomorrow is going to be as special as I can make it. I want us to look back on this trip as the beginning of the best part of our lives. Alright?”

Before the tears started up again, Korra managed a nod. Her arms wrapped tightly around again, face finding its way to that waiting shoulder to press into. One final reminder to herself that it was all real.

“I love you so much.”

“And I’m not ever going to stop loving you, Korra. Don’t forget that.”

*

For the first time in what was possibly months, Korra had slept so soundly that waking up didn’t come with any real restlessness. Just a reluctance to become fully conscious.

There was the briefest moment of unease at not feeling Asami’s arm around her when she began to stir. One more latent fear that she had forgotten what really happened before.

It was dispelled by that familiar hand cupping her face. When her eyes started to open a little more, Asami was waiting there in front of her. Giving another kiss that carried the sweet taste of honeyed tea.

“Hey sleepy head. You feeling better?”

Korra blinked several times, slowly improving her vision with each one. From her angle, she was looking up slightly at Asami, who had to be kneeling beside the bed in front of her. There was also a faint glow of sunlight around her.

“How long was I…”

“Asleep?” Asami slid up from her kneeling position to sit on the bed, still gazing down at her precious sleepy girl. “Long enough. Gave us time to get everything ready.”

“Ready? What?”

She finally started to shift from her sleeping position, gradually working up to a sitting position mirroring Asami. It was then that she finally began to notice other scents around her. Those of Water Tribe cooking. In a way, that also explained the taste of tea on her lips.

Asami moved from the bed to stand in that time, reaching down for Korra’s hand to draw her out as well.

“This is the start of our special day. You really don’t want to miss it.”

Her eyes still heavy, Korra eventually managed to rise from the bed and follow Asami out. Even when they reached the dining room again, she wasn’t quite all there yet.

There was no mistaking the much more potent smells of early morning cooking. What didn’t occur to her until she actually sat down was that it wasn’t the food she had expected at all. Far from the stews and boiled meats of Southern Tribe cuisine.

Seeing the first bowl set down in front of her confirmed it.

“Where… When did they start making Kwong’s -style pho down here?”

“They don’t. I prepared it this morning for you, from Li Kwong latest take on the recipe.”

Asami leaned down for a kiss to the cheek, with her hand resting over Korra’s to give a gentle squeeze. “We’ve got the whole day to ourselves. Enjoy breakfast as long as you like. I’ll be here with you. Once I get our tea.”

Rather than saying anything, Korra started pushing a piece of pork around the bowl of pho. A habit that lasted until her appetite finally set in. The first bite did the rest, getting her into the mood for what was actually a rather nice recreation of the real deal.

She was halfway through when Asami returned a little later, carrying the family tea set over to a place between them. The glint of the Water Tribe insignia under the glaze drew enough attention to leave her meal be a little while.

Tea meant either a time for relaxation and focus, or for talking. It was undoubtedly going to be a case of the latter.

“I spoke with your parents after I got up, Korra. Just letting you know. We don’t have to discuss anything you’re not in the mood for.”

Korra swallowed quietly as she eyed down the tea being poured for her. Her anxiety from the night before had shifted into being about her complete overreaction. And most of all, the lack of faith she had in Asami’s love for her.

“Maybe I should finish this first.” She began pushing around some of the noodles in what remained of the broth. A head tilt from Asami, something she noticed on the edge of her vision, was enough to change her mind.

A small sigh, and the clink of the chopsticks being set down on the bowl’s edge, before she turned to face her properly. “I am so sorry. I really don’t deserve all this-”

“Korra, it’s okay. You have nothing to apologize for.” Asami’s hand went right for Korra’s, clasping around in the way she knew would bring the smile back. “No-one thinks rationally when they’re that upset. And I’m not bothered that you waited until you knew for sure to tell me either. I really do understand.”

“It’s just-” Korra was about to pull her hand away to grasp at her forehead. The hold it was under proved to be too much for her to pull away from.

Instead, she settled for another calming moment, to better consider what she had to say. “This is different from my duties as the Avatar. Before, if I had to go off to the other side of the Earth Kingdom for two weeks, that’d be fine. I’d miss you, obviously, but the only things that we’d have to change would be personal stuff.”

Another sigh came up. Her free hand found its way to her head instead, indicative of her own state of mind. “I can’t keep anything straight.” She winced right after that, something that only made Asami smile more. It wasn’t something she felt like doing herself at all.

“This should have been something we had a chance to plan for. And I don’t know if I should go blaming the spirits or not. I don’t know what kind of impact this is going to have on your career. I don’t know how it’s going to impact me being the Avatar. I just don’t know.”

Asami moved from her chair enough to get her arms around Korra comfortably. Just holding her as warmly as she could, to ease away the mounting fears before they could take hold.

“We’re going to figure it out, sweetie. We’ve still got eight months to get ready.”

She eased back on her latest embrace to look over Korra’s face. The confusion was still there, but the anxiety had waned again. Progress in the right direction.

It was harder for Korra to accept the constant optimism. But it did inevitably start to stick with her, even if it was in small amounts for the time being.

“Seven and a half months. Four until I won’t be able to bend anywhere near as well as I can now. And then there’s recovery time after…” She broke out into an awkward laugh at that, her hand brushing down over her mouth for a bit before settling under her chin. “How am I going to get through delivering a baby without tearing the whole hospital down?”

Asami just smiled more, leaning in to give a long kiss to Korra, squeezing her hand as she did so.

“I’ll be right beside you, holding your hand like I am right now. That’s all you need to keep the hospital intact, surely.”

It was enough of a comforting thought that Korra kept her smile afterwards. A little moment of levity that she could hold onto.

“I’ll try not to burn down the mansion in the meantime. Or crack the foundations because of mood swings. And all the other pregnant nonsense I may or may not have to go through.”

“It wouldn’t be worthwhile if it was easy.”

After one more loving hug, Asami finally moved back to her own seat. “You’d better eat the rest of your pho before it gets too cold. There’s a lot of places to visit before tonight. When we go out for dinner.”

Korra looked to the bowl again. It had cooled off already, though she didn’t mind that much any longer.

“I think I know a place. It’s pretty much a fancier version of Narook’s , back in Republic City. That okay?”

“Of course, sweetie. It’s going to be great.”

*

The day went by in a flurry of activity, more for the two of them specifically. While the Southern Tribe had grown in global status after gaining independence, it was still far from the hub of activity that was iconic to Republic City.

For them both, it was a benefit in its own way. There was a greater sense of tranquility as they wandered the streets and other locales together. While there were also fewer spirits hanging about, they too had a serene quality to them.

It also meant that getting the table they wanted for the evening was far easier than it really should have been on such short notice.

From there, the flurry was a blur for Korra in particular. Asami was the one who somehow knew all the places they needed to visit in order to prepare, and she had followed along with that hopeful smile on her face. Somehow, she had even actually gone through with being prettied up, beyond just getting to wear one of her nicest dresses again.

Dinner itself had gone by just as quickly. A lot more smiling, laughing, and general uplifting chatter between them. Such a complete turnaround from the day before.

Everything finally returned to a normal pace once she made her way outside to the balcony overlooking the city itself. She hadn’t questioned why it was devoid of tables, or other guests for that matter. The sight of the moon over her home was too breathtaking to allow for any other thought.

It was a beatiful constant, in both her own life as well as that of the entire tribe. Knowing that it would be there to watch over the South, regardless of anything else.

All she was missing at that point was Asami by her side to share in the view. She hadn’t been away for more than a couple minutes after asking for them to meet out there. Though what she was doing in that time was a mystery, given she had quite clearly gone over to the kitchens.

It wasn’t too much later when Asami did finally arrive at the balcony, braving the cool air to stand beside Korra and watch the cityscape with her. And then primarily her.

“I don’t think you’ve ever looked so beautiful until now.”

Korra was briefly taken aback by that, the tinge spreading across her cheeks as she looked at Asami. “Where’d that come from?”

“What? Can’t I compliment my girlfriend when she’s at her most gorgeous?”

One of Korra’s trademark pouts began. Mentally, she was already working on sussing out what Asami was up to.

“It’s a little different when we’re sitting at a table across from each other. Out here, just the two of us, come on.”

“Maybe it’s because the moonlight suits you better.”

Asami moved a little closer after that, her hands sliding across the railing until they brushed over Korra’s. Her head tilted down a little after that. “When we first met, things weren’t all that great between us. We were both interested in Mako, that caused a lot of tension, and then we just ended up not speaking to each other for a while there.”

It was something Korra remembered rather well. A phase of her life she had a lot of minor regrets over, but never enough to outweigh all the positives.

“Well, you did take me car racing in the middle of that. And now after a year of learning, I actually know how to drive, thanks to you.”

Asami chuckled lightly, her hand tightening around Korra’s for a moment. “I know. I’ll get back to that.” She cleared her throat before looking back up to lock eyes again. “I snapped at you a few times. Over my father, over Mako. I’m just so glad that I didn’t let that become my only impression of you. Because it was so far from the truth.”

By then, Korra had gone very quiet. She had a much better idea of where things were starting to go, but was still in the early stages of disbelief. All she could do was listen, out of politeness and anticipation.

“You were still ready to be supportive when I needed it, even after all our dumb arguments. I never took that for granted. And I still wish so much that I tried harder to do the same in return, when you needed it most.”

That was the only moment where Korra felt she had to speak up. It was something she had been reevaluating herself for quite some time. To know Asami had done the same, and still felt guilt over it, was something she couldn’t keep quiet on for a moment longer.

“Asami, I don’t regret telling you to stay in Republic City four years ago, at all. I ended up mouthing off at Katara of all people. Writing the letters instead of talking face to face, every single day, was a filter I needed to have between us. I didn’t just want you to not see me all weak and helpless because my pride was hurting. I didn’t want you to give up on me forever.”

Asami’s watery eyes became obvious at that moment. The build-up had been happening already. Hearing Korra’s side of things simply brought out the tears sooner than she had expected.

“Gonna be here all night if I don’t keep going, sweetie.” She did her best to smile while saying that, and lightly patting her eyes dry with a tissue before the makeup started to run.

When she felt ready to continue, she took another deep breath and squeezed hands again for stability. “What I’m saying is, I don’t for a moment pretend that we’ve always been perfect for each other. We’ve had some arguments, and some distance, and we’ll probably end up having full blown fights if we stay together. And I’m willing to accept all of that, because I know I’m going to come back to you when those fights are over.”

Just as she had rehearsed, Asami reached around her back to retrieve the small, long box she had kept hidden there. Just before stepping out to the balcony.

“I also know that we’re never going to have a truly normal relationship. That just comes with dating the Avatar, and I accept that. I know you have duties to the world that will keep us apart at times. And that those duties might put you in great danger.”

She paused to bite at her lip briefly. Her rehearsed speech obviously hadn’t accounted for Korra’s pregnancy, since she had prepared it well before then. And she couldn’t bring herself to leave that out.

“I’m also ready to face whatever we have to as upcoming parents. It’s already not at all what I could have ever expected it to be like. But I don’t need it to be easy, or any kind of normal. I’ve worked through so many challenges already, and I’m not going to stop overcoming more when they come.”

After a few more breaths, rife with the sound of being choked up inside, she finally brought the box forward. The lid popped open for a bit, long enough to retrieve the necklace, then closed again as she set it carefully on the railing.

“Korra, building a life with you is probably going to be the biggest challenge of all. But I want to face it with you. And I want us to succeed.”

Her hand that was currently holding onto Korra’s finally released so that she could hold the necklace with both. Carved into moonstone was the gear pattern of Future Industries, mixed with the waves of the Water Tribe insignia.

Up until that moment, Korra had become completely silent. Her chest had simply felt too tight to speak, tied up with heavy anticipation, while her own eyes had started to well up as well with the emotion of the moment. Seeing the necklace at last, and all it represented for them both, made her break up into joyful tears.

“Will you marry me, Korra?”

All the tension and anticipation reached its peak at that moment. Just when she felt like she couldn’t breathe any longer, Korra felt the tip over into pure bliss.

Her hands went right for Asami’s shoulders, nearly knocking her back slightly as she went in for a passionate kiss unlike any they had shared before.

She held it for as long as she needed to in order to let her body catch up. Her entire face was flustered when she parted lips at last. An uncontrollable smile took hold right after.

“Yes. I… Yes.

Through eager nods, she managed to remember to turn around for a few moments. She could see Asami’s hands trembling as they came down over her head, bringing the necklace up and fastening it in place. Her own hand went up to touch along it as she turned back around.

Never before had Asami’s green eyes looked so mesmerising. Even as she was doing her best to keep them clear.

When the peak settled down again, Korra went right back in for the second kiss. It was longer, and a little less overly energetic than the first. Or more precisely, their last kiss as girlfriends. Now, they were fiancees.

That time when Korra parted from the kiss, it was with a mild laugh of awkwardness. Something she tried to soothe for herself by stroking up and down Asami’s arms. “I don’t have a necklace for you. Or a ring. I guess that’d be more fitting now, since I’m the one with the necklace.”

“That’s okay, sweetie. I’ve been waiting for the right time for a while now. You’ll know what to get when you’re ready.”

Korra’s eyes began to wander in her bubbling excitement. Back inside, she could see a few waiters bringing out some surprise additions to their table, as well as fancy decorations. That explained Asami’s brief visit to the kitchen.

It also gave her a moment to think about what the next few weeks would be like. Word was going to spread everywhere before long, that was an inevitability of being the Avatar. She just wasn’t sure how much was going to become common knowledge.

“It’s funny. Last night, I was having a breakdown. Tonight, I don’t think I’ve ever been happier. One crazy week so far.”

“And it’s far from over.”

Asami’s hands finally moved around to grab Korra’s arms in turn. Holding that moment between them, a serene moment of perfection.

“We still have Varrick’s party to attend before we head back to Republic City. I’m sure he’d be happy to add a special event for us, if you want.”

The thought made Korra smile. So many of their friends would be there.

“You know what, I think that’s a great idea. We can announce our engagement on our own terms that way.” She couldn’t help the way that her smile grew into a wide grin after saying that. “We’re engaged. It just happened and I’m still getting surprised by it.”

“It’s very real, Korra.” Asami went in for one more kiss. The final affirmation that it was all really happening.

*

The sky was clear around the spirit portal on that morning. For Korra, a couple of days after the proposal, and before the announcement to those outside her immediate family. Exactly when she felt was right to get another concern off her mind. And to spend a bit more time with Naga.

They were still on the approach to the stop-over point near the portal itself, now coming into view. What had been the military camp had been converted over to a small town of its own in the past four years. A secure place for spirits wandering through to the physical world to safely interact with those of the Southern Tribe, and vice versa.

Korra had only seen it twice, the first being not long after the Republic City portal opened. And she hadn’t been inclined to spend much time there on the way back.

From the top of the ridge overlook, she could see one or two new buildings that had risen since the previous visit. And from the look of it, the spirits had formed a new patch of greenery in one of the previously open areas of snow. Some real progress of cooperation between the two worlds.

At the first scent of seal meat, Naga quickened her pace down the sloped path. No doubt prepared in advance after Korra had notified the town of her visit.

“Easy, Naga. Don’t go knocking anyone over.”

Fortunately for them both, there wasn’t much foot traffic along the larger track that they soon moved onto. Those that were making their way around outside knew well enough to get out of the way of an excited polar bear dog. Some of the unaware spirits were still taken aback when the pair bolted past nonetheless.

The destination, for Naga anyway, was around the back of the fishery. A few cages containing crates of fish, with a ‘No dogs’ sign hanging in front lined the back wall. Just off to the side of them however was a bucket of chopped meat. ‘Naga’ had been somewhat roughly painted on the side in black.

After sniffing at it for a bit, Naga tilted her head upward. Her eyes focused in on Korra, waiting for approval.

“Alright, you earned it. Just behave, and leave the fish alone. I’ll be back in a little while.”

Korra left with a scratch behind Naga’s ears. Departing from there meant she wasn’t interrupted on the walk towards the edge of the forest, something she was grateful for on that occasion. She needed that time to go over what she needed to say to Gei Haizi, as much as she otherwise didn’t mind chatting with people in general.

The spirits that she wandered past on the way further in seemed to understand. Some of them waved, others gave a nod. But they all kept to themselves, content with watching her make her way to the portal along the well travelled path.

A few minutes later, she was walking out into the spirit world once again. The area around the Tree of Time was looking as lively as ever. One of the groups of airbenders were gathered in a half-circle around the front for meditation under the guidance of the Western Temple guru.

She again decided to make the most of the time left to herself. In all likelihood, she’d just end up feeling awkward for interrupting their meditation, only to leave again so quickly. And until Kya returned, she wasn’t going to bring up Gei Haizi without good cause.

Not too far from the portals was a more secluded grove she had come to visit in the past for meditation. When visiting with Asami, traversing on foot was part of the experience. Getting to see all the otherworldly environments and the like. On that occasion, she was content on drawing herself directly to where her latest journey had started.

“Okay. Gei Haizi, if you’re sensing me already, I’d like to talk.”

Standing on a comfortable spot, Korra tilted her head and closed her eyes. Both hands came up in front with her knuckles pressed together. Drawing her into a suitable meditative pose for her shortcut forward.

It didn’t take long for the grove to shift away from her. Soon, more and more locales of the spirit world went rushing past as her concentration fixated on that familiar energy. When she opened her eyes, she was in the same area, not far from Xai Bau’s grove.

Shortly after, the orange grass in front of her began to twist upward. The grass hardened into bark, forming into the vague shape of a tree trunk. That trunk in turn peeled outward after a few seconds, revealing the figure of Gei Haizi once again.

Draped in jacaranda flowers that served as long hair, and framed the face of neutral features.A ‘skin’ that resembled powdery stone oddly enough, an imperfect white with streaks of purple spread across. Rather than legs, Gei Haizi’s body seemed to simply emerge from the ground like a tree. Though when they moved to approach Korra there was no evidence left behind of any disturbance. In fact, the ground itself almost seemed to move up and aside in their path.

Korra had to tilt her head back a bit to watch Gei Haizi’s face when they finally came to a stop, given the significant height difference. Thankfully it wasn’t enough that she was at risk of straining her neck.

Once they had come to a stop, Gei Haizi blinked a few times. Their sparkling crystal-blue eyes full of innocence. And soon, gentle confusion.

“Avatar Korra. Are you faring well?” There was a brief pause in the wistful voice, accompanied by a shift of expression. “I do not understand why you would return so soon. The cycle of new life has only just begun inside you.” They gestured a hand towards Korra directly at that moment. “You are not ready to begin another.”

“That’s what I need…” Korra bit her lip for a bit. Even after all her time to think, she still wasn’t sure about her exact phrasing. “...I want to talk to you about. Because, the fact is, I didn’t actually want to become pregnant at the time.”

She could already see that expression of confusion grow deeper. “Before you ask, I’m not here to ask you to undo it, or anything like that. I’m here because I want to help you understand that other humans might not be so accepting of your gift. Especially when they haven’t directly asked you for it.”

Gei Haizi’s face turned to a more stern form of confusion. Not quite offended at Korra’s implication. Rather, understanding just enough to feel as if they were being put at fault in some way.

“Not accepting? Directly asked? I fulfil what the soul desires. I grant the gift to those who cannot receive it through mortal means. Do you mean to tell me that humans would be ungrateful for such a gift?”

Korra took the moment to breathe in, and collect her thoughts properly. In an earlier time, she might have started getting worked up with Gei Haizi’s lack of understanding. She wanted to move past that impulsive phase of her life altogether.

“Gei Haizi, what you can do, it really is a wonderful miracle. I’m still amazed that Asami and I can actually have kids of our own together, with your help. But we weren’t preparing for that. It might’ve been what we were discussing, and maybe I did want it in some obscure way. But we didn’t know that you went ahead and made it happen until I worked out why I was feeling different a month later. Others might not be nearly as patient as I’m trying to be right now.”

That brought on a thoughtful hum from the spirit, which by all accounts was far better progress than just altering the type of confusion on display.

“I have not interacted with humans in several thousand years. Their thoughts and desires always seemed so aligned with their existence. I granted what they wished, and they were happy.”

“Yeah, well, life’s nowhere near as simple these days. And to be honest, even other spirits have already realized that. A lot of the ones I’ve heard of that came to the human world before I reopened the portals have their own system worked out. Some of them granted favours to humans, but those humans had to really work and earn those favours, to prove that they wanted them. They weren’t given different faces or new limbs ‘because their soul desired that’.”

Korra waited again before speaking further. That time, Gei Haizi really did look offended, and now she had a better idea why. And thus what to say.

“I know you’re being so very generous with your gift. You’re not asking for praise or favours in return. And if gratitude is all you want, then that’s completely understandable, and very benevolent of you. But, I’m just asking that you please consider asking people before you give them the gift. Ask them if they understand what you’re giving, and if they’re actually ready for it. Something as simple as that. It doesn’t have to involve an elaborate summoning ritual at all.”

It took a while, but that did finally seem to get through to Gei Haizi. The trails of jacaranda began to waft around in the wind as they gave it deeper thought. Some of the purple markings started shifting across the skin as well. Dust particles rolling across stone, only in all manner of directions.

“I felt that the routines and rituals of my kindred were a trivial distraction. I never approved of the way spirits treated humans in that era. If the ways of the mortal world truly have changed for both humans and spirits, perhaps I should as well.”

Korra lifted both eyebrows at that. Not the response she expected to get, but it was definitely a good one.

“That’s good, really. I’m not familiar with that many spirit rituals, aside from what Katara told stories about when I was growing up. But I’m guessing you can think of plenty of your own ideas already. And when you have something worked out, I can help share that out to the people who really would appreciate and ask for your help the most.”

That finally brought a smile to the great spirit’s face. They extended a hand down towards Korra, intending for as much of a handshake as they could manage.

“You make a very interesting proposition, Avatar Korra. I had not considered actually visiting the mortal world myself. I merely expected that I would encounter those in need as they passed through this realm of their own accord.”

They smiled a little more after that, becoming briefly lost in thought, and imagination. “I think I will let the call of those in need guide my journey among mortals. It will be interesting to see the world as they do.”

Korra did her best to try and return the gesture, given her hand was dwarfed by the spirit’s. It told her a little more about Gei Haizi’s actual form at least. The texture of powdery stone was not literal, as there wasn’t a trace of anything left on her hand when they let go.

“When I left the spirit portals open, I thought it was time that the Avatar stopped being the bridge between the two worlds. But now, I think I need to be a different kind of bridge. If we can set an example of spirits aiding humans, with care and respect given in return, this could change everything for the better.”

“I find your ambition and optimism rather, uh…” Gei Haizi hummed again for a bit of thought. “Heartwarming, I believe the phrase is, Avatar Korra?”

“Close enough.” Korra found herself smiling in return at that. “I’m just glad you’re so open to all of this. I’ve had spirits attack me just for stepping in the wrong place by accident.”

“Sadly, patience is not nearly as common as you would assume with timeless beings.” At that, Gei Haizi started to fold their arms, returning to a more thoughtful, and then concerned expression. “You have enlightened me greatly this day, Avatar Korra. I now have much to think about. It is a sensation I have not felt for many eons. I feel that I owe you something more than what I have already given.”

There was another pause as the great spirit thought it over. Then, they started to tilt forward a little, moving a hand to the chest when the tilt became a bow. “What I do already owe is an apology, Avatar Korra. I truly did not comprehend the notion of causing you distress through my actions.”

The apprehension about revisiting the spirit world Korra had felt up until that day was finally cleared. She had been on quite a rough ride coming to terms with what had happened, and had more or less accepted the reality. The sincere apology for an act of innocence removed any doubt that remained.

“Like I said, I was upset at first. And I definitely overreacted a lot for a while there. But, I think if it had been someone else that started this off, especially someone I didn’t know? It could’ve turned out so much worse for everyone.”

She glanced down once more, giving herself a moment to think. “If I had a choice, well, we probably wouldn’t be having this conversation at all really.” A small chuckle followed before she looked upwards once more. “But, if it was a choice between coming here on behalf of a total stranger, with an upset family and a lot of people scared by some mysterious spirit pregnancy, or myself? I probably would still choose this.”

Gei Haizi gave a solemn nod, Their expression returned to a more comfortable smile. “I have learned from my mistake. And I appreciate that the consequences have not damaged your view of me. Now, I have much to contemplate on my own.”

The wafts of jacaranda flowers began to grow downward around their form, gradually encompassing the base. A simple, clear indicator that the great spirit was preparing to depart.

“Good health to you, your partner, and your daughter. I will seek you out in this realm when my pondering is complete.”

Just like the first time, Gei Haizi dissolved away into a massive cloud of flowers. Drifting off into the ethereal wind that flowed throughout the spirit world. The ground where they had been standing previously looked completely untouched.

Korra waited a little while after before relaxing. Settling things with Gei Haizi had always been her goal, but actually coming to a beneficial agreement was a wonderful bonus. And better yet, it wasn’t going to be yet another concern that needed her constant attention.

She already had two significant ones on the horizon.

*

The night of the party had arrived. After a long week of overflowing emotions, many exchanges of affection, and a number of late night returns to the bedroom, Korra and Asami were finally at the end of their visit to the South Pole.

They had both stepped into the golden light illuminating the path between the road and the steps, which led up to the bustling entry hall.

Korra was in her traditional formal dress, complete with the hairpiece, and her favourite fur coat to keep the necklace concealed just a little longer. Asami had opted for overlaying her iconic red dress with the much darker longcoat, at least until they got inside where it was warm.

Unlike the palace, Varrick’s company hall had been built with heating systems in mind from the onset. On that occasion, it was welcomed by both.

The moment lingered as they both remained on the path, not quite ready to ascend the stairs. Another small chill on the wind made Asami sigh. “So, this is it. I’m with you, Korra. Whether you want to announce it tonight, or keep waiting, you’ve got my support.”

Korra smiled softly. There was no keeping her hand from finding its way around Asami’s back in that moment.

“You’re absolutely sure Varrick won’t mind?”

“He’ll love the spectacle, believe me. Just remember, he’ll be very clear when it’s time. Don’t worry about missing the chance.”

Following that, Asami’s hand moved around Korra’s back in turn, mirroring the hold. When the latter turned to her with a wry look, she just smiled innocently.

“You ready, sweetie?”

Korra’s smile became a grin, growing more as she leaned in to give a loving kiss.

“Yeah, I’m ready.”

Together, they began walking up the steps at last. One incredibly eventful, stressful, and all around memorable week behind them. What was bound to be one amazing future ahead of them. And eight months of varying degrees of frantic preparation to face. As a couple.

The story will continue in:

Part Two: Fire for the Avatar's Love