Chapter Text
“This is my confession.
As dark as I am,
I will always
find enough light,
to adore you to pieces,
with all of my pieces.”
-Johnny Nguyen
The band started playing.
The bride marches towards the altar. Her wedding gown was white and pure, just like the woman she is.
On the other end, the love of her life was waiting for her, charming smile and delighted blue eyes gazing at her.
The bride smiled, and the person waiting for her at the altar smiled too. Spirits, this was a dream come true. Years of being by the side of her love, and they are finally here, about to take their promise to love each other for eternity, for better or worse.
Korra gaze at the bride, who's flashing a dazzling smile at her lover. It was the brightest smile she'd ever seen on the bride's face. On the other side of the altar, the bride's groom started sobbing, wiping his tears with the sleeve of his water tribe wedding suit.
Korra giggled. Varrick is crying, that dork.
It's only been a week since the attack of Kuvira's giant mecha. Team Avatar has been tirelessly helping rebuild Republic City. Still, despite the destruction Kuvira brought, there was a reason to celebrate—Varrick and Zhu Li's wedding! For a few hours, Team Avatar and the others allowed themselves a break.
The wedding is being held at Air Temple Island, the only facility in the city that acquired minor damage. It wasn't a grand ceremony, but the place's decorations were exquisite. The shades of blue and white twinkling lights gave a southern water tribe vibe that somehow made Korra feel like she was at home in the south.
As Zhu li marches to the altar, Korra could not help but steal glances at another woman. For the Avatar, the said woman is the most beautiful in the whole world.
By Korra's side stood a raven-haired woman in her stunning red dress. She was beaming at the bride with a vibrant smile on her face and, oh, spirits. She has no idea what she's doing to the Avatar's mind just by standing in such close proximity with her. And It's taking Korra all of her restrain just to refrain from holding the hand of the woman beside her.
Asami. Korra said with affection in her mind. As if she heard Korra say her name, Asami turned to Korra and smiled at her before focusing on Zhu li again. Just that smile made Korra swoon. The most powerful being alive goes weak on her knees with just a smile. But that was no ordinary smile. It was the smile of someone she chose to express her feelings within the most painful times of her life. A smile that pierced her heart with an arrow of igniting love, threatening to cause a wildfire of emotions to the master of the four elements.
Suddenly, Korra felt the song playing was for her. Suddenly she was taken on a possible future. She imagined Asami walking in the aisle on her white wedding dress, and Korra was there, on Varrick's spot by the altar, wearing her wedding dress too, watching Asami as her bride slowly get close to her. Or maybe they would march together hand in hand, whatever it would be as long as she'll be with Asami. She could imagine she'd be crying the same as Varrick, too, maybe even worse.
Zhu Li reaches the altar, and pieces of artificial snow started falling as Varrick kisses her hand, and they face the altar. It was a joyous moment. Zhu Li and Varrick look so happy that it makes Korra a little envious.
"And though the battle took a severe toll on our beloved city, out of the destruction, love did bloom." Bolin dramatically started. "So that is why, dearest friends and family, we gather today to celebrate the wondrous, and at time, inexplicable bond between Sir Varrick and the Lady, Zhu li!"
"Hey, pal! ‘camera on me, this is my big day!" Varrick manages to shout whisper to the cameraman, whose camera was fixated on the crowd.
After receiving a nod from Varrick, Bolin preceded his melodramatic speech, "True love is a fickle creature, difficult to find, nearly impossible to tame. But Varrick and Zhu li have proven that even the longest of long shots can have a chance at happiness together." Bolin raises his index finger with enthusiasm as pabu sits on his shoulder, "Now, for the vows…."
The lava bender's words faded as Korra imagine it, too. Asami, saying her wedding vows to her. Just the thought of it makes her heart swell. Then she shrugged. What am I thinking?! She stole another glance at Asami, pretending she was just checking the air bending kids that were a few chairs apart from her.
Does she even like me? She never stopped writing me letters, after all. But I'm her best friend, it's expected she'd write to me like Bolin and Mako did…maybe I'm taking my thoughts too far.
Korra frowned and mentally slap herself. This is not helping. She shouldn't be thinking things that might discourage her from discontinuing her tonight's plan. Since coming back, she'd thought of it, although the Kuvira crisis needs to be dealt with first. But now that Kuvira had surrendered, she's going to try to express what she feels to Asami.
Even when Korra was recovering in the south, there were these feelings she harboured toward the young CEO, feelings that pushed her to keep going. That's when Korra admitted it to herself: those feelings, it was something special.
It was…love.
I'm in love with Asami.
Once she gets the proper chance, Korra decided she would ask Asami to date her. She still has doubts, of course. After all, what can she offer Asami? She's not even sure if she can give Asami her time if they ever get to be lovers (that, she hopes so dearly), but she felt courageous because it's Asami. And Asami always makes her brave. So she has to do it tonight. It's a perfect night to confess to someone.
The booming sound of fireworks accompanied by lights flashing in the dimming sky dragged Korra out of her daze. Before she knew it, the ceremony was over, and the guests were moving to the other side of the venue for the wedding feast.
"Korra?" The young Avatar automatically turned her head towards the voice with an automatic smile on her face. That voice sounds better when the owner of it says her name. "Hey, Asami."
"Are you okay? You seem so occupied since the wedding started." Asami asked with concern.
"I'm okay. I'm just…thinking about stuff." Thinking about marrying you. Korra wanted to say.
"Come on, ‘food's about to be served." The young CEO offered her hand, and Korra was quick to take it. There's no way she's going to deny any opportunity to get to hold Asami's hands.
***
The event was nearing its end. After the guests stomachs were full, people were just dancing around and chatting. Opal had pulled Bolin to the dance floor, while Asami has been approached by President Raiko to talk about the facilities Future Industries will be funding and constructing for the affected people (She didn't look happy on talking to Raiko), which leaves Korra and Mako sitting in the table reserved for Team Avatar.
Korra was simply staring at Asami, who's still talking to Raiko at the side of the dance floor. Zhu li and Varrick had joined in their conversation, Varrick extending his arms wide and imitating a lemur-flying pose. At this rate, Korra might not get the chance she's waiting for. It made her a little anxious, but she mentally shrugged. Patience, Korra. You'll have your chance. She thought in the voice of her Master Tenzin.
Little did the Avatar know, Mako was looking at her curiously. Despite having plenty of people dancing around, it wasn't hard to notice who Korra is looking at. The ocean that is Korra's eyes displayed a glint of determination there. For a moment, Mako wondered again about what's going on between both of his ex…that also happens to be both his best friends.
"Korra. Is there something I need to know between you and Asami? You've been staring at her since she left the table." He asked out of curiosity and narrowed his eyes at her.
The Avatar's eyes widened for a moment. "M-me? Staring? I'm not! I'm just watching the people dance…."
That was a lie. Mako could tell by the way Korra fidgeted after his question, but he let it slide. He had a feeling he might find out soon anyway.
"If you say so…how about we just join Bolin and Opal at the dance floor?" Mako asked as he stood and offered Korra his uninjured hand.
"Sure, I guess. But don't blame me if I accidentally step on your foot." Korra grinned at her ex-lover as they walk through the dance floor.
Mako chuckled, "Hmm, maybe I probably deserve it?"
"Oh no, you don't. How's the arm?" Korra inquired as they start to dance. Both her hands curled around Mako's shoulder, and the fire bender's undamaged hand was placed gently on her waist.
"Much better," he replied with a smile.
Korra remembered the bruises she saw on Mako's damaged arm before it was aided. Judging by the deep lines that cut into the skin, she was sure they were going to leave a permanent scar. A scar that will serve as a reminder of Mako's sacrifice, and she will always be thankful for that but still, what Mako did…he could have died, she could have lost a loved one. "The words 'thank you' don't feel big enough for what you did," Korra lowered her stare at the ground for a second, looking for the right words to say. Still, she didn't find any, "but I honestly don't know what else to say."
"You don't need to say anything. I want you to know," Mako's eyes averted hers for a bit before saying, "I’ll follow you in the battle no matter how crazy things get.” He stated firmly before smiling, “I’ve got your back, and I always will.”
Mako’s words touched Korra’s heart. She beamed at him again, and no further words were needed. They danced for a few more minutes before Prince Wu came standing in front of them with a smirk on his face. “Oh, is this another chance for Makorra?” The prince teased.
“Prince Wu!” Exclaimed Mako in a tone that’s also telling the prince to ‘shut up’.
Korra chuckled, “Good to see you, Prince Wu or should I say, King Wu?” she pointed her index finger at him for a second and said, “’ You ready to take back Ba Sing Se and finally get back the throne?”
“Yeah, about that….” The prince scratched the back of his head, “I was actually thinking of stepping down as King and getting rid of the monarchy altogether.”
That made Korra’s ocean eyes widen, and Mako’s sand-shark eyebrows raise. “Are you joking?” Mako asked as if he couldn’t believe the prince, but Wu looked serious for a rare moment. “For once, I’m not.” Prince Wu answered. One could tell he was prepared for that kind of response the moment he had the idea. “Now, I know what you’re gonna say: ‘I’m being lazy’, ‘I’m afraid of responsibilities’, ‘I’m putting my singing career before my people’—but it’s none of those things. I really think the Earth Kingdom will be better off if their state were independent and have elected leaders, like the United Republic!” He explained enthusiastically.
“That’s…actually pretty wise and mature of you,” Mako commented as if the boy he raised has finally become a man. Korra agrees with her best friend, “I think that’s a great Idea! The Earth Kingdom should evolve.” She stated firmly as her face softens with a smile, “And I’ll do everything in my power to help you make that happen.”
That promise clearly delighted the prince, “Looking forward to working with you,” he made a gesture of salute as the music change into a happier and livelier tune. “But for now, the dance floor calls!” The prince said as he dragged Mako at the centre of the dance floor, although not without the injured fire bender’s resistance.
The Avatar just shrugged and started scanning the crowd. Opal and Jinora were nearby, dancing in the ways of the air benders. There was Kai, staring at the distance—why is he doing that? There was also Pema, chasing Rohan as he lifts his arms up in the air and speeds up to his feet. Korra didn’t realize just how much Rohan had grown through the years, but now that she’s back and Kuvira had surrendered, she was hoping to spend more time with Tenzin’s kids.
But first, she has a confession to make. There, as Korra turns to her back, was an approaching Asami. She’d just finish talking to the president and the newlywed couple. She looks exhausted, but her face softened the moment she saw eye to eye with Korra, standing nearby and flashing the signature avatar crooked smile at her.
“Hey…” Korra called, now she suddenly felt nervous, out of words once again.
“You look so fine in that dress,” Asami complimented. Her words made Korra’s mind swirl, and she couldn’t help but blurt out the words, “You’re the finest of us all—” and then she suddenly felt embarrassed. “I mean, uhm….”
Asami chuckled, “Why do you seem so nervous? It’s just me, Korra.” That’s the point. It is you.
Korra sighed to calm herself, even just for a little. “Let’s try that again,” she straightened herself as she beamed at the gorgeous being in front of her, “’ Wanna dance with me for a while?” was what came out to Korra’s mouth instead. She wanted to take it back, but when she saw the glow in Asami’s eyes, she just had to offer her hand to Asami.
The master of the four elements was nervous. Her hands were trembling and cold. Colder than the weather in her homeland, you’d think her hands, in particular, was hypothermic. But the twining of Asami’s hand with hers made her feel warm and comfortable. It was enough to ease the tension within her, and she can’t help but dream wide awake in Asami’s arms as they glide through the music.
Three years. My life was so dull without you by my side. She thought as Asami makes a twirl. If I hadn’t been poisoned, where would we be now? That thought struck a lance at Korra’s heart. It made her guilty in a flash. Would they be holding each other’s hands like this? Would they be going on more Team Avatar missions? There were a lot of ‘could have’ moments she missed. “I don’t think I ever apologize,” she said as her face fell. Asami notices that right away, and her face expressed nothing but pure apprehension, “For what?” Asami wonders.
“For being gone all that time, for not coming back sooner….” Before Korra knew it, they have stopped dancing, but Asami didn’t let go of her hand.
“You don’t need to apologize for anything,” It was the reassuring smile of Asami that told Korra, ‘It’s gonna be okay’. Her today’s mood has been up and down, and those simple act of smiling helps.
“I’m just so happy you’re here now,” On the spur of the moment, Asami’s face fell, and the look of exhaustion on her face before they started dancing returned. “I don’t think I could have handled losing you and my father on the same day…” that’s when the long-concealed tears of the young CEO started flowing like a river. Korra’s immediate response was to envelop her arms to the fragile beauty.
It’s only been a week since Hiroshi died, and Korra could somehow relate to what Asami must be feeling. When she saw her father fall from the cliff while fighting Zaheer, she was torn between rage and agony. Asami has been looking so exhausted whenever Korra sees her since then. She knew it was hard for Asami, given that she’d only tried to reach out to her father not long ago. “I am so sorry about what happened…” was all she could say as she tightened her embrace. Asami forces a smile and wiped her tears. Korra found it astounding how Asami can control her emotions like that. “Thank you…I’m just glad I was able to forgive him.”
As Asami calms down, Korra realized they were still embracing each other on the dance floor where people can see them, but at that moment, Korra didn’t give a single care in the world. Her world was here, and she was embracing her. How she wished they could stay like this forever…
In the serenity of the moment, Korra remembered something. Should I do it now? Right. She was gonna confess. Having her arms wrap around Asami made her more determined.
Just do it.
Just when Korra was about to speak, an "Ehem" sounded between them. Korra grunted and look at the side where the voice came from, it was Kai. Apparently, he was done staring at the distance.
"I hate to interrupt a Korrasami moment, but Asami," Kai looks warily at Asami before pointing at some men in the distance. They were wearing delicate shades of red garments. One particularly tall man averted his eyes when he saw Kai was pointing at them. "Those men have been watching you since the feast started. They look suspicious to me. Do you know them?"
Asami narrowed her eyes to the group of men, and then she looks shocked. The next thing Korra knew, the porcelain arms wrapped around her was gone. "Hold on. I'll come back, Korra," was all Asami said before she made her stride towards the men.
"Wait, Asami—" Korra heaved a sigh. It was no use. She just missed her chance to confess.
"Thanks, Kai." Her tone was sarcastic as she glared at the Airbender, who just smiled apologetically at her.
"What is Korrasami—" Her eyes widen at the realization. "Is that a combined name of me and..."
"Yep, Korra and Asami." Kai finished for her. Well, that isn't bad. Then she remembered a word Wu had said earlier. "And I'm guessing the Makorra was..."
"Exactly, Mako and you. I actually bet on it but judging by what you and Asami are doing earlier, I guess I owe Jinora and BoPal some yuans."
"Wait, you guys are betting on us?"
Kai’s eyes widened as he realized what information he just let slip. "It wasn't me who started!” He defended, “I just miss having loads of money in my pockets, so I joined...It was just between me, Jinora, Opal, and Bolin at first, but then Kya and Bumi joined, and oh, I think it might have started when your parent's told Tenzin..."
"My parents were involved in this?" Korra didn’t know what to react. A bet, really?
“You didn’t hear anything from me!” Kai had sprinted from a distance before Korra could even question him further, she wanted to chase him, but then she saw Tenzin making her way towards her. Her master motioned her to walk towards the corner where the wedding ceremony was held earlier. She could see the spirit portal she accidentally created gleam around the ruined buildings from where she stood.
“I spoke to President Raiko. Tomorrow he’s announcing a plan to rebuild the city rather than rebuild downtown.” Tenzin stood beside her and joined her in watching the gleaming portal.
Still feeling a bit disappointed by her failed attempt in confessing, Korra let her mind wander on other things. “I bet Aang never could’ve imagined there’d be a spirit portal right in the heart of republic city.”
That’s the time the master gaze at his student. “Korra, you’ve transformed the world more in a few years than most Avatars did during their lifetimes.”
As Tenzin looks at Korra, he saw a whole different person. The look on his student's face doesn’t display the same look of confidence it had before. Instead, she looks more humble. And determined, which he was thankful.
“But I feel like I’ve only just begun. There’s so much more I wanna learn and do.”
That’s what Tenzin wanted to hear. “You don’t know how happy I am to hear you so full of hope again.”
“It’s been a bit of a bumpy ride, huh?”
Tenzin could never really express how proud he is of Korra. Beyond being just the Avatar, his student has come to understand she’s human too. “I’ve come to realize life was one big, bumpy ride.”
Korra smiled in agreement with her master. “I know I was in a pretty dark place after I was poisoned. I finally understand why I had to go through all that. I need to understand what true suffering was…so I could become more compassionate to others, even to people like Kuvira.” Tenzin gently placed a hand at Korra’s shoulders that convey a lot of things: ‘you’ve grown’, ‘that’s my student’, but most of all, he was telling, ‘I’m proud of you, Korra’ in that warm touch of his hand.
“Excuse me, Tenzin.” Interrupted a voice that sounds way too good for Korra. It was Asami’s voice, of course. “Varrick is looking for you. Something about looking to borrow a glider suite to fly off the tower?” Asami looked so convincing that Korra almost believes it. But when she saw the naughty grin that etched on Asami’s face for a split second as Tenzin replied, “That doesn’t seem like a good idea,” she knew Asami was just bluffing. She’s good at this. It worked, though, because Tenzin looks panicked as he speeds off from where Varrick might be, leaving the two of them alone.
“So, who are those men?” Korra asked.
“Fire Nation Soldiers. They just needed to tell me something but was afraid to ask, no big deal.”
“I see,” The matter doesn’t seem to be important, so Korra didn’t press on. “So…back to the dance floor?” She offered as Asami sits on the stairs, clearly too tired to stand.
“I’m kind of all danced out,” Asami replied, she let out a heavy sigh, and Korra has a feeling Asami had done that countless times, maybe since her father died. “Honestly, after everything that’s happened in the past few months, I could use a vacation.”
The desire to do something for Asami to at least remove that look of exhaustion on her pretty face made Korra say the words “Let’s do it!” enthusiastically. She leaned closer to Asami as ideas of being alone with her clouded her mind. “Let’s go on a vacation, just the two of us! Anywhere you want,”
Asami seems to ponder for a second before saying, “Okay…I’ve always wanted to see what the spirit world’s like.”
Korra’s eyes sparkled at that as fleeting thoughts came flooding her mind. Me. Asami. Alone in the spirit world. Korra recalled her failed attempt earlier. If Korra couldn’t get the chance to tell Asami what she feels, maybe she’ll have a better chance at the spirit world. She did her best not to look too excited in front of Asami. But deep inside, she’s jumping from too much joy. “Sounds perfect.”
The end…
…of chapter :)