//------------------------------//
// Beyond the Wilds 
// Story: The Little Pony Legend 4: Balance of the Heart 
// by MaggiesHeartLove 
//------------------------------//


*(~)*

Isaiah 57:15 ~

I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts.

*(~)*

Beyond the Wilds


She ran. That was all she did. Her heart raced, her face dripping with sweat, her feet burned from the strength she placed into them. She thought she had escaped, but it was still behind her. Still coming at her. She didn't know what, but she knew it was there. Finally, she reached the end of her path, only to almost trip against the rocky ledge. Normally she would fly away, but she couldn't. Her wings were gone. She had no magic, no bending, her body felt heavy, as if she had something inside weighing her down, stinging, making her feel weak and helpless. She couldn't fight and she could not go into the Avatar State. It was like all of her past traumas all wrapped up in one, keeping her down.

But why? Why now?

She felt it coming. Moving in closer and closer. All she saw was darkness behind her, an evil laugh echoed in the wind, growing stronger, louder, more evil.

She couldn't escape, even if she tried. She was stuck with no way out. The last thing she witnessed were two glowing green eyes, followed by a familiar smirk from someone she once considered a friend. As she came into view, Korra's heart stopped.

Behind this woman's back…was a pair of wings, larger than her previous ones. Vines grew from behind her, and strangely enough the tips of the plants transformed into the faces of her former enemies.

With her at the heart of it all.

"You can not defeat me." she said in a wicked tone, "I destroyed you once, and I will do it again!"

"AHHHHHHH!"

Korra woke up in a cold sweat in the middle of the night. As she took in deep breaths she looked around, realizing she was in her bedroom of her royal palace. It was just a nightmare.

But then again, what else was new?

(~)

The next day, at the entrance of the Spirit Wilds, a certain airbender named Ryu stood before a gathering crowd. It was a relatively small group, some taking flash photography of the tall vines that outstretched from the ground up, creating a beautiful display of flora that was unlike anything the humans had seen in their won world. Some flowers in the Spirit Wilds could only be found here, so of course, humans would often ask spirits before taking any plants from their home. It was considered stealing if the humans did not ask. As such, several spirits would serve as "security" to make sure no ill-intentioned thief would vandalize their home.

Ryu wore the same red, yellow and gray full body wing suit all airbenders wore. He was one of the new age airbenders Korra and her friends had found three years ago after Harmonic Convergence. While he was reluctant at first, he eventually joined the new air nation and was a surprisingly decent airbender. His attitude still didn't change, except that he was slightly less lazy now, and his hair was now partly died blond.

He was usually in charge of giving the tourist a tour of the Spirit Wilds. On this particular day, his parents had decided to pay their one and only son a visit, and accompanied him during the tour. Much to Ryu's dismay.

"Everyone! Mom! Can we stay together, please? The tour is about to begin." Ryu said as he went through his flash cards…again.

Ryu's mother smiled with glee. She was so happy her son finally had a job…and wasn't living in the basement anymore. "That's my boy, Ryu." she said to two photographers who would join the tour. "He used to live in the basement, but then he got airbending, and he's been doing important Air Nation stuff all over the world. His father and I are here, visiting him and, we're just having the best time in the big city, we're so proud. Right, honey?"

Ryu's father, who was practically the spitting image of his son, right down to the glasses, shrugged his shoulders. "Well, at least he has a job now."

Ryu shook his mother's arms off of his shoulder in annoyance, "Mom, Dad, I'm trying to work!" he finally placed his cards in the right order and led the tour into the Spirit Wilds, demonstrating the land's beauty all while reading from his cards.

"Fun fact, everyone. All these vines were created by UnaVaatu when he battled giant spirit Princess Korra and the Mane Six for the fate of the world." he read in a strait, and unfeeling tone, not to demonstrate a lack of enthusiasm but in an effort to sound more professional.

However, nobody, aside from his mother, looked at Ryu. Everyone else was busy taking photographs of the stunning vines and the intricate designs they created around the now deserted buildings. Even as he spoke, nobody looked at him except his mother.

"Excuse me, are we in the Spirit World right now?" asked a tourist.

Ryu sighed, "No."

"Is the Spirit World in the ground below us?" the tourist asked while taking more pictures of the vines that adorned the ground, some growing out of the floor tiles.

the tourist asked while taking pictures of the ground, not looking at Ryu, who was starting to get very irritated at this point.

"No! Can I just get through my cards?" Ryu said, already loosing his patience. These were one of the worst things about dealing with tourists.

"Aw, honey, don't get flustered." said his mother.

"I'm not!"

"Uhh, why is that vine coming towards us?" the tourist asked, averting Ryu's attention away from his cards and towards the direction from where the tourist was pointing.

Just as he said, one of the vines had sprouted to life, slithering along the ground like a giant headless snake directly at them. The tourists continuously took pictures of the moving vine, which had accelerated its speed and showed no signs of stopping. Judging by the way it moved, Ryu had a feeling it wasn't just a friendly prank performed by the spirits. In fact, he didn't see any spirits since he and the others entered the wilds.

"Uh ... I don't see anything about that in the cards." Ryu said while frantically flipping through his cards.

The tourist picked up a nearby stick and ran towards the vine, "I'm gonna poke it with a stick." he said.

"No! Why would you do that?"

The tourist ignored Ryu and once the vine approached him, it stopped. The tip rose upwards like a snake's head and the man poked it gently with the tip of his very thin stick.

Everything was silent…for only a brief moment before the now living, and clearly ticked off, vine swatted the stick out of the man's hand before wrapping itself around his body, lifting him up high into the air as he screamed in terror.

"Everyone back!" Ryu shouted and dashed onward to rescue the captive, tossing his cue cards aside as he did.

Ryu's mother, on the other hand, was completely oblivious to the situation. "This tour is exciting!" she said, all the while her husband simply stood with the other tourists, shrugging his shoulders.

Ryu airbended at the vines in an attempt to slice it in half, but to no avail. The vine didn't even flinch at his attach. As Ryu's mother watched the fight, beaming with pride for her son, from behind her husband and the other tourists were also being entangled by more loving vines.

"Isn't Ryu the best airbender ever?" the woman said, only to scream in terror when one of the vines wrapped around her ankle and lifted her up into the air. Ryu attempted to save his mother but an extra vine quickly wrapped itself around him as well, preventing him from airbending.

As the vines disappeared into the wilds with its captives, the tourist's camera fell and was smashed once it hit the ground.

(~)

The alicorns were still unresponsive. Their horns still glowing green. Twilight held Mako's hand for support and all eyes turned to Korra. "You sure about this?" she asked her friend.

"When I was in the swamp, I managed to earthbend the stones from my system along with the remaining mercury poison."

"I can't believe you still had that stuff inside of you." said Twilight.

"My alicorn magic was stronger than the substance so it never held me back." Korra explained, "But I'm pretty sure I can bend these rocks out of their system."

Mako nodded in reassurance, "Go for it, honey."

Korra smiled at her fiance's encouragement and got in her stance. She gently moved her arms in the exact same way she did back at the swamp. With a soft motion, she located the stones. Ever so gently, she began bending them upwards to reach the alicorns' throats. Finally, all watched in awe as the green stones were lifted up from their mouths and Korra levitated them into the trashcan. She rested her arms, her heart racing the entire time. Everyone awaited anxiously for the alicorns to awaken…

But they did not.

Korra shook her head, anxiety already building up inside of her, "No…no, I don't understand. That should have worked, why didn't it work?!"

The zebra, Zecora approached the princesses, while their fever had died down a bit, they were still rather clammy and uneasy. Their front and back legs twitched repeatedly, and their closed eyes squinted harder and harder by the minute, unable or unwilling to wake up.

"I'm afraid the stones are not the only things at fault. For their fever has not come to a halt." said the zebra, speaking in her usual rhyme.

"But why? Why aren't they waking up? I got the stones out, they should be--"

"There are many concoctions and potion tricks. Perhaps the stones are not all that have been added to the mix."

Unlike most, Korra could understand Zecora's rhyming messages perfectly, "You're saying the stones might not be the only thing keeping them like this? That it was something else in the potion?"

"Indeed, my child. The mercury in you mixed with much of this mysterious brew. But I am afraid their majesties were not as lucky as you. Ironically enough, with the main substances in that metal, it was what awoke you from your fettle."

Korra shook her head in confusion, "So, the mercury inside me was what absorbed the stones from the potion and that was what allowed me to wake up? And if it hadn't I'd still be…" she looked down upon the alicorn queen, sweating and twitching in her torturous slumber, "Like them?"

"Precisely."

"And since Kuvira didn't know about the mercury," said Twilight, "she must not have known about this. She would have believed you were still in the same state the alicorns are in right now."

"But even so, the effects of the spell were still in play." Zecora said, "Keeping your true memories out of sight and away."

Korra lowered her shoulders in defeat as she looked won upon the alicorns. "What am I suppose to do now? We can't leave them like this. Zecora, isn't here any other way?"

"I'm afraid I have done all I can do. Perhaps the answers lye in you."

What could they do? She go the stones out, but they were still asleep. And what did Zecora mean by, Korra having the answers. If people thought being the Avatar was hard, try being a Princess Avatar who just so happens to be half alicorn.

(~)

At Air Temple Island courtyard, Applejack bended several stones to rise up and then fall back down. Naga leaped for the one risen stone before it sunk back down. The polar bear dog wagged her tail as she played.

Asami sat beside Applejack on the steps of the building, looking at some schematics in her lap. She hoped some time with her friends, and involving herself in her work would help take her mid off of Bolin. Fluttershy, who also sat alongside them, giggled at Naga's antics.

Their attention turned to Korra, her fiance as well as Princess Twilight, and even Opal when they approached. Fluttershy and Asami stood up, and Applejack stopped her playing with Naga.

"Hey, guys. So how did--?" Asami began, only to stop herself when she saw both Mako and Opal making "cut it out" hand gestures a few steps from behind Korra. Asami's eyes darted from them to the Avatar, who still had her back to them.

"Uhhh….hey, your hair looks nice! Did you condition it?" Korra arched an eyebrow, unamused, and Asami leaned to her right, speaking to Mako and Opal. "Sorry, I tried."

Mako face palmed himself, it was only a matter of time before Bolin rubbed off on her. Korra crossed her arm in frustration. "I earthbended the stones out of the alicorns but they still won't wake up."

Applejack placed a hand of Korra's shoulder, "Don't be so hard on yourself, suguarcube. We'll find a way."

"If we don't wake them up soon, who knows what could happen. Kuvira's still out there making a mess of things!"

"Don't remind me." Opal said, crossing her arms bitterly, "She has my family and no one seems to care but me."

Asami placed a hand on Opal's shoulder, "We all care, Opal. Don't worry, we'll get them back safely."

Just then, Jinora came flying in and landed next to the others, looking frantic. "Guys, there you are! I just felt a weird surge of spiritual energy coming from the Spirit Wilds. Something's wrong."

"What happened?" Applejack asked.

"I don't know. The others are already there. Let's go."

(~)

With Sunset Shimmer joining them, the group explored the Spirit Wilds, which were unusually silent today. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew around the area, looking for any signs of the tour group that was reported missing. Rarity and Pinkie Pie were examining the whole place as well. Pinkie Pie did some acrobatic flips as she jumped from branch to branch with ease, calling out for anyone who could hear.

"Hello! Anyone here? Hello!! Olly-olly-oxen-free!"

Spike began sniffing the place, his nose close to the ground but found nothing. Over the years, Spike's scent became stronger and could recognize a scent like a bloodhound. But so far he found nothing. He turned to Sunset Shimmer and shrugged.

"Are you sure you felt a disturbance?" Rainbow asked Jinora, "Maybe you just had some bad food for breakfast, or something."

"I'm telling you, I felt it." Jinora said, after examining the empty window of a building and leaped down from one of the roots. "Maybe something happened to Ryu's tour group. We should've run into them by now."

"Yeah, but it's Ryu." Korra stated, "They might be at the mall, for all we know."

"I'd bet my money on that." Mako said, raising his hand, before he and his fiance fist pumped one another while smiling.

Fluttershy placed her hand over the vines, and even she could feel something was off. "I'm no expert, but I can definitely tell there is something off here. The wilds are usually so filled with spirits, now I don't see any."

"I have to agree." said Rarity, "They do seem to have lost their otherworldly shine and had been replaced by an otherworldly spooky haunted forest vibe." the unicorn hugged herself and shivered, "I'm getting the creeps just by standing here."

"Korra, can't you feel how strange the energy is?" Jinora asked.

Korra hung her head in disappointment. Normally, she would have been able to feel the spirit vibes. Her sensitive sense towards magical disturbances were often strong, but ever since she got her magic and memories back, it's like that connection had become clouded.

"No ... but maybe I can get a reading." Korra placed her hand on the surface of a nearby vine and closed her eyes, focusing on the energy of the wilds. Just like before when Prince Wu had been captured, the surface bellow Korra's palm gave off an golden glow.

Images of the vine's roots flashed before Korra's eyes, a trail leading her mind into a new location. The scene flashed in white and once it cleared, Korra saw the banyan-grove tree from Toph's swamp. Kuvira's mecha tanks cut through the trees large roots, and containers with those very roots were being lifted away into the airships that hovered over the area. One of the vines sprouted to life and grabbed one of the tanks, lashing out in anger, only to be cut by one of their chainsaws. The pieces of the pant fell and rolled down from the tree, splashing into the muddy waters bellow. For a moment, Korra could feel the tree's pain. The piercing sensation against her own skin was too much to bare.

With a gasp, she quickly removed her hand and nearly tumbled backwards, placing a hand over her racing heart. Mako quickly caught her, and Asami placed another hand on her shoulder.

"Korra, what is it? Are you okay?"

"It was Kuvira. I saw her stealing vines from the swamp. That's what's affecting our Spirit Wilds."

"I bet that's what you were sensing, Jinora." said Twilight.

Rainbow Dash grunted as she pounded her fists, "Grrr! That woman has seriously crossed the line! It was bad enough she was taking over the Earth Kingdom, made the alicorns sick, but now she's messing with the spirits?! She is so going down!"

"But why is she taking vines?" Sunset asked.

"Whatever the reason, I'm sure it's not good." Korra stated with a stern face.

"Oh, no really? Because my first guess was that maybe she just wanted to decorated her dictator decor with some nice supernatural plants!" All surprised/concerned eyes fell on Rarity. The unicorn blushed, "Sorry, but that woman's just getting me on edge! And it is not good for my complexion. Oh no, I think I feel a blemish coming!" she said, taping the surface of her chin with her finger.

"We have to tell Raiko." Opal said, "This might help him convince the other leaders to finally take her down!"

"Jinora, you keep looking for Ryu and the others." Twilight said.

The young girl nodded her head. "I'll go with her," said Rainbow Dash, "She could use the back up."

"Me too." Fluttershy volunteered. The two pegasus ponies turned to Korra and embraced in a warm good luck hug. Korra and the others ran towards City Hall, while Jinora, Rainbow and Fluttershy ran in the other direction, deeper into the wilds.

(~)

"I say we deal with this Kuvira situation immediately." Raiko said. He and the other world leaders, even Shinning Armor and Queen Hou-Ting, were all gathered around the table, discussing plans on how to stop Kuvira. Prince Wu was also part of the meeting as well, hence why Flash Sentry attended as well. Not that he had much of a choice in the matter, but did not rebel against the notion. he was just as concerned about the Kuvria crisis as anyone.

"Yes! Agreed!" Wu said with much, and unnecessary, enthusiasm, "And I know just how to get rid of her: we tell her she won an all-expense paid vacation to a tropical island. Then, when she gets there, we reveal that it was a trap. The island's a prison! Boom! Got her!"

Tenzin rose an eyebrow while Flash sighed in annoyance. Judging by everyone else's blank reactions, Wu knew this idea just wasn't going to fly.

"Or, okay, uh, I'm just spitballing here. We march in with an army of highly trained badgermoles!" He suggested with an excited smile.

Fire Lord Izumi narrowed her eyes, while Shinning Armor rolled his. Wu blinked, his smile wavering before disappearing entirely. "Do we know if Kuvira has any allergies?" he asked, this time with much less enthusiasm and confidence.

Hou-Ting sighed, "Sweetie, please let the grown ups talk."

"Look, I think we all know what must be done." Raiko said, "We take the fight to her."

"I don't believe attacking is the right move, since she hasn't done anything aggressive toward the United Republic." Tenzin said.

"Not yet." Lin said, "But Kuvira can't be trusted. She told us that she was going to turn over power and she didn't. I'm with Raiko."

"Me too." said Shinning Armor, "She has already attacked four of Equestria's royals, why would she do that if all she wants is to "unite" the Earth Kingdom? For all we know, she could be planning something bigger than we thought. I say we go on the offensive."

"We should start by retaking Zaofu." said Lin.

The golden doors bursted open, and Team Avatar Harmony entered the room. "President Raiko, I'm sorry to interrupt, but ... " Korra stopped on her tracks once she realized all of the world leaders gathered together, "What's going on here?"

Wu leaned back over his chair, casually greeting her, "Oh, hey, Avatar Korra. Just kickin' it world leader-style, trying to figure out what to do about Kuvira. For the record, I told Raiko he should've invited you."

Raiko shot Wu an annoyed glare before looking back at Korra. The Princess Avatar scoffed in surprise. "Wait, you invited him but not us?" she said gesturing to herself and the team, who crossed their arms in disappointment.

"Please, Korra, it's not personal." Tenzin said, trying to make the situation less awkward than it already was. "We just thought, perhaps we called you back into action a little too soon."

Korra was silent for a brief moment before saying, "Again. Him? Not us?"

Twilight turned to her brother, "Shinning Armor, why didn't you tell me about this?"

"I'm sorry Twiliy, but we figured if you knew, then Korra would eventually find out."

Twilight arced an eyebrow before saying, "Really? That's your argument?"

Raiko stood up from his chair. "Princess, we're in the middle of a meeting and we can't have people just barge in whenever they want!" he said angrily.

"Guys! Oh, perfect! You're all here." Bolin interrupted the president once he, Varrick and Sonata barged in, running by the guards. The young earthbender panted from exhaustion before giving everyone a friendly smile and wave. The three still looked as dirty and war-weary as the day they escaped Kuvira's clutches.

Varrick straightened his back, while Sonata literally froze in place upon seeing the two alicorn princesses, and a certain yellow/red-haired female anthro unicorn.

"Bolin?!" everyone said in perfect unison. Korra and Pinkie Pie happily grinned upon seeing their old friend.*squee*

"Bolin!" the little dragon ran up and jumped into Bolin's arms to hug him, "I'm so happy to see you! Wait a minute--" he released himself and landed back on the ground, backing away a few feet and crossing his arms in disapproval, "No, I'm not! You've got a lot of nerve coming back after what you did, mister!"

Asami was especially surprised to her her ex back. And with Varrick no less. And, a pony. She knew she had seen her before, and once she looked past the dirty cloths and messy hair, she remembered…she was with Kuvira.

Applejack smiled when she saw her old friend, "Varrick!"

"Applejack!"

"What are you doing here?!" Raiko exclaimed, his voice practically booming upon seeing the two. "Guards, remove these traitors!"

The guards quickly grabbed hold of the two men and anthro pony, only for Korra to step forward.

"No!" she ordered the guards, who ceased their attempts at arresting the three. She turned to a surprised Raiko. "They're our friends."

"They also work for Kuvira!"

"No! We escaped Kuvira's army! We're back on your side now!" Bolin said, holding his hands up in surrender to empathize his point. "And we have top secret information for you."

Korra narrowed her eyes at Raiko, silently telling him to allow the two to speak. The man, realizing the defiant woman would not be stepping down any time soon, and would never let him hear the end of it if he didn't comply, nodded his head to the guards and they fully released the three.

"Okay, I guess we should've opened with that line." Varrick said, adjusting his already filthy and torn shirt.

Sonata arched an eyebrow, "Ya think?"

"This isn't the time to be sarcastic, Sonata!"

"Sonata?!" Korra, Twilight and Sunset Shimmer all simultaneously exclaimed in shock. Their eyes the size of dinner plates.

The blue skinned pony's ears lowered in shame and chuckled nervously. She knew this was coming and now it was time for her to face the music. She wiggled her fingers in greeting to the princesses and her former Canterlot High classmate who all looked at her with scorn and anger.

"He-hey, guys. Twilight, Sunset, you're both looking great." the room was silent, a pin dropping could bring an echo into the halls. "New hair?"

Korra turned to Bolin, pointing at Sonata, "What's she doing here?"

"Who's Sonata?" Mako asked.

"She's one of the sirens who Wan and the alicorns banished all those years ago."

"And who tried to take over my school with their hypnotic singing." Sunset said, angrily placing her hands on her hips.

"And, by the looks of it, have been working side by side with the woman who caused all of this maddens!" Twilight exclaimed angrily.

Pinkie Pie pounded her fists angrily, "Why I otta--let me at her! Let me at her!" the pink angry pony attempted to attack the former siren, only to be caught by Mako who held her back by lifting her up by the arms as her legs kept on moving as if she were still walking.

"Whoa, pony girl!"

Asami narrowed her eyes at the eartbender, "Bolin, I can't believe you brought a monster here!"

Bolin stood in front of Sonata to defend her, "No, no you've got it all wrong, she's with us now. Listen to me, Kuvira's making this thing that goes--Ba-Boooooooo-Aaaaaahhhhh!" Bolin rose his voice in a poor attempt to mimic the sounds of the weapon, all while extending his arms widely. "I don't know how it works, but it has this--wrwrwrwrwwrwrwr!" he made strange noises while making a face that looked like he had been shocked by electricity.

Knowing this wasn't going anywhere, Varrick stepped forward, "It's a super weapon! Like a regular weapon, only super."

Korra's eyes widened at this news. "And let me guess: it has something to do with spirit vines."

"Yes! How did you know?"

"I saw saw a vision of Kuvira taking spirit vines from the swamp."

"If she figures out how to harness their power, we are all doomed."

Sonata tugged on her left arm in shame, "Yeeeeeeeeeah, that's not the worse part."

Korra and Twilight turned their attention to the siren, "What's the worse part?" They asked in union, both knowing they would not like the answer.

"Kuvira is in possession of these magical stones that can restore magic. That's how me and my sisters managed to get our powers back. The longer she wears it the more her pride and arrogance gets transferred into my sisters' stones which is increasing their magic and once they gain their full power, they won't need her anymore."

This new information was shocking for everyone. So Kuvira wasn't the true mastermind behind all of this; It was Adagio and Aria!

"But where did she get those stones?" Sunset asked.

"She found them in the cave up a mountain three years ago."

Korra's eyes widened as she remembered, "Laghima's Peak." she said nearly breathless, "I remember these large green emerald colored rocks within the cave where the Red Lotus held me captive."

"I remember that, too." said Twilight, "Zaheer tied me up to one of them and I could somehow feel it giving me my strength back."

"The Zenith stone!" All eyes fell on Tenzin, "I've read about them. They contain powerful spiritual energy within. They must have become mixed with Equestrian magic when the worlds were united."

"That would explain a lot." Rarity stated, "So what are we going to do about Kuvira now? She not only has a powerful weapon but two powerful magical creatures."

"Not exactly," said Sonata, "My sisters will need three voices to make our magic work. Without me, they're pretty much powerless."

"Well, that's good!" Pinkie Pie said, who had already been released by Mako a while back, "Now we only have one problem on our hands!"

Applejack arced an eyebrow, "And just how is that suppose to be good? Pretty sure a supper weapon is just as bad as evil sirens."

Raiko's brows furrowed with worry, "She's right. Kuvira might use the weapon to attack Republic City. The only way to protect ourselves is with a preemptive strike."

"My airbenders won't be part of an unprovoked attack!" Tenzin said, rising from his chair.

"Neither will the Fire Nation." said the Fire Lord, also rising from her chair.

Izumi was a lovely woman with long wavy grey hair with shaper features, amber eyes and spectacles that surprisingly not only increased her beauty but also showed off her intelligence perfectly. Her long robes, decorated with red and gold, complimented her figure perfectly and her flame-like ornament shimmered in the sunlight.

"But, Fire Lord Izumi, Kuvira is a threat to the world! She has to be stopped!" Raiko said.

"The Fire Nation has spent too much of its history fighting nonsense wars. And I refuse to drag my nation into another one unless there is no other choice. If you attack Kuvira, you'll do it without my army."

Her voice was firm but wise, and Raiko had no other option than to agree to her terms. "Fine. I'll hold off any plans of attack. We'll go on the defensive and fortify security on the borders."

"In that, you'll have my help." she said, her eyes softening.

Shinning Armor stepped forward as well, "And you shall have the assistance of the Canterlot Royal Army. I will send word to my troops immediately."

(~)

Asami, Opal and Sunset Shimmer exited the building, where Bolin caught up with them. He knew he had to make things right with not just his friend Opal; who's family he failed to protect, and Asami; the woman he loved and whose heart he had shattered.

"Asami! Opal, wait! Please, I just want to say that I'm sorry for everything."

Asami crossed her arms in front of her chest. He did seem pretty remorse for what he did, but she was still rather reluctant. Asami may be sweet and kind, but once you betray her trust, it takes a while to get it back. It took her nearly six months to fully let go of her resentment towards Mako and Korra for them to become friends, and she was still only now starting to forgive her father. Bolin was seriously in the polar bear dog house right now.

"I'm glad you're okay, but it's a little late for "sorry"

"I know, I know. I didn't listen to you, and I sided with Kuvira, and I helped her take over the Earth Kingdom, and topple Zaofu, and get Opal's mom captured, and her brothers, and her dad …" He briefly stopped once he saw Opal and Asami's displeased expressions, while Sunset simply looked concerned. "Wow, that does sound really bad when I say it out loud like that. But I can explain myself, honest!"

Lin walked out and placed a hand on her niece's shoulder, "Opal, can I talk to you for a moment?"

Opal turned to Asami, who nodded her head saying it was all right. The two Beifongs walked towards a pillar, opposite the others and Lin spoke, "I'm sorry, kid, but Raiko couldn't convince the other leaders to attack Kuvira."

Opal's browed furrowed, "So our family …"

"Looks like we're going to have to save them ourselves."

"Don't you think some other people would agree to go with us?"

"This is an unsanctioned and dangerous mission into enemy territory. We can't ask other people to risk their necks for our family. If we want to break them out, we'll have to do it alone."

As they spoke, Bolin tried his hardest to explain everything to Asami, "And when Sonata showed me your letters, I snapped out of it!"

"Then, you were under a spell that made you act like a jerk this whole time?" she asked with a hint of hope in her voice. Maybe it wasn't actually Bolin with who she was speaking with before. Maybe it really was all out of his control.

"Yes!…Well, yes and no. On the one hand I was in control, but in the other I...wasn't."

"So, you did mean those things you said to me?" Asami said while narrowing her eyes. Her previous hopes slowly fading. Does this mean a part of him did mean those things he said? The idea revived the horrible break up and her heart accelerated in fear.

"No! No, I wasn't thinking straight, I--" he face palmed himself, he knew he was terrible as explaining things clearly to people, "Okay, maybe I did mean some of that stuff but not everything, I swear!"

"Which is it then?" she asked, "Did you mean them or not?"

Bolin didn't know what else to say. He knew he was aware of the words he had said to her, the siren's magic increasing his pride in order to not properly think about what he was saying. He knew he hurt Asami greatly, he of all people knew how hard it was for someone like Asami to regain trust.

Asami's expression softened a bit as she lowered her arms, "Bolin, when you left with Kuvira the first time, I'll admit, it was hard for me, but I supported you every step of the way because I knew you were doing it to help people. But, when you came back, that same man…it's like he disappeared." her voice cracked a bit, indicating she was struggling to fight back the tears that threatened to come out. "I barely recognized you, and that scared me like you wouldn't believe. I never knew I could feel so brokenhearted again. I thought I lost you!"

"I know I hurt you and I can't take back what I said, but I want to set things right, honest. Just give me another chance, please."

Asami sighed sadly, "I know being angry at you won't solve anything, and I'd be a hypocrite if I didn't give you a second chance. So, I won't hold this against you." upon hearing this, Bolin sighed with relief and held Asami's hands in his.

"Thank you, Asami. It's so great to be with you again!"

The moment after he said those words, a familiar image flashed before Asami's eyes. No longer did she see the face of the kind and loving Bolin she fell in love with, but that cold and distant angry man from before. The words they yelled at one another echoed in her ears, so crisp and clear it was as if she were hearing them for the first time all over again. Memories of her father's betrayal flashed before her eyes as well. She gasped, her eyes blinking twice to shake the images away and she took a tentative step back, releasing Bolin's hands, much to his surprise. It was too fast for him to notice, but for a split second, Asami's eyes gave a brief green glow which came and went faster than a speeding train.

Asami shook her head, her heart pounding and her hands partly trembling. The pain from the breakup, coupled with the pain from her father's betrayal, which she had thought she could overcome now that she was learning to forgive him, have become fresh yet again. It was as if her brain refused to allow her to forget it, which had never happened before and didn't understand why it was happening now.

"Um, listen, I said I'll give you another chance but, I don't think we can just jump right back where we left off."

"Why not? Asami, it's me."

Asami tried to say the words but the harder she looked into Bolin's eyes, the more her heart ached. The pain was still fresh, and being around him right now wasn't helping. It was just like going back in time. Feelings of betrayal had resurfaced as if they had happened only recently. Asami took another step back averting her gaze from Bolin, her eyes giving a brief and quick green glow once more.

"I just can't!" With a heavy heart, Bolin watched her leave. She briefly stopped and turned her head, he silently hoped she would say something to him. But she did not. "Come on, Sunset."

The anthro pony looked at Bolin with sympathy, shrugging her shoulders, "Sorry, Bolin. Good luck." she said the last part in a half-whisper, as to not let Asami hear, and followed her friend. Once they were gone, Pinkie Pie happily hugged Bolin, accompanied by the others.

"We're so glad you're back, Bolin!"

"You're not mad?"

"Are you kidding? I can never stay mad at you!" Pinkie smiled, "Besides, you're here, that's all that matters."

Bolin was then approached by his brother and future sister-in-law, "It really is good to have you back, little bro. I was worried about you."

"We all were." Korra said as she, Mako and the others embraced him.

"Thanks, guys. Mako, I'm so sorry about the way we left things. I'm such an idiot. You tried to warn me about Kuvira and I ran off anyway, like an idiot. You were right and I'm just an idiot. I hope ... that ... I'll be able to earn your trust again."

But Korra disagreed, "If anyone has lost people's trust, it's me. Ever since Kuvira kicked my butt, no one even wants me around."

Mako placed a reassuring hand on Korra's shoulder, "We want you around." he said kindly, as Applejack placed another hand on her free shoulder.

"We know why you couldn't go through with it." said Applejack, "Nobody blames you."

"And Bolin, you're not an idiot." Mako said to his younger brother, "You were just doing what you thought was right."

Twilight smiled reassuringly as well, "It's easy to get swopped up in what may seem attractive, but it takes real courage to see the truth."

Bolin lowered his gaze in shame, "Actually, believe it or not, Sonata helped me in that department."

Everyone looked at him with surprised looks, and Flash mentioned, "No, seriously."

"I am serious! Sonata helped me see the truth about Kuvira by showing me Asami's letters that she and her sisters hid from me. She said love can break the spell."

Korra's eyes widened in surprise, "She…did?"

"Yeah. She really has changed. She can help us."

Korra pondered on this for a moment as she and the others shared a glance, all equally questioning the same thing; Should they trust Sonata? She did help Bolin return home, and she did give them important information as well.

"Maybe we can." Korra finally said…right before turning her head to her fiance, whispering, "But keep an eye on her, just in case."

"You got it."

Rarity sighed in relief, "Well, as crazy as things are, I for one am simply relieved the whole team is back together."

Bolin smiled warmly at her words, "Aww, I love you guys. And I really wanna hug again." he said, right before they embraced him once more. It really was good to be home.

Sonata watched from afar as they hugged. She felt so happy that Bolin was forgiven…but how long would it take for them to forgive her?

(~)

Back in the Spirit Wilds, Jinora, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy continued their search for Ryu and the others. Rainbow cupped her hands around her mouth and called out. "Ryu! Anybody!" but no answer came. "Seriously, how hard is it to find a group of tourists and an airbender with bad dye job?"

Jinora walked on ahead, scouting the area. Still, there was no signs of spirits roaming around. Rarity was right, without the colorful variety of creatures happily frolicking or dancing in the air, the wilds were uninviting and cold. The young airbender spotted something on the ground.

"Hey guys, look."

The two ponies approached Jinora, who squatted down to show them what she had found; a broken camera, the same one dropped by one of the tourists from before. The lens was shattered, the small pieces reflecting the small bit of sunlight that peeked in through the opening of the vines.

"They were definitely here."

Fluttershy's pony ears perked at the sound of a distant noise. She turned her head towards the source, her long pink locks dancing against her shoulders, and her cyan eyes widening at the sight before her, so much so she shrieked in terror.

"AAHH!"

A large spirit vine came to life and attacked them. The ponies flew right out of its grapes while Jinora airbended herself upwards, landing feet first onto a nearby building. Another vine grew from an opening in between the two buildings and stretched out to grab her. Jinora opened the wings on her suit and flew off, but was pulled back when the vines wrapped itself around her ankle. Thinking fast, Rainbow Dash shot fire at the vine, causing it to release Jinora. She lost momentum, only for Fluttershy to catch her in mid flight.

The three flew away from more of the vines that sprung to life and reached out to grab them. They narrowly evaded another incoming vine from the direction towards which they were flying, but they ducked in the nick of time before proceeding. They proceeded to fly forward, outrunning the vines, but none the less, they did manage to take hold of one hostage.

"Jinora!"

The young girl was grabbed by the legs as the vines wrapped around her body, trapping her. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy blasted the vines with their bending, but one managed to knock Rainbow away, sending her flying backwards onto a building, passing out and collapsing. She morphed back into her pony form as a result. Fluttershy flew down beside her, blasting the vines away from her friend, until she created a tornado that scared the vines away, but it was already too late. Jinora was already gone, the vines dragging her away deep into the wilds.

Fluttershy felt she would cry, but she tightly closed her eyes before a single tear could spill. She needed to get to the others. She carried Rainbow Dash and she few out of the wilds to warn her friends.

(~)

Back at City Hall, where Mako, Korra and the others were still present, Fluttershy and a now partly conscious, but exhausted Rainbow Dash, lowered down.

"Rainbow!" A.J cried out as she rushed to her friend's aid, alongside Rarity.

"What happened?" Rarity asked with concern. Rainbow Dash was able to will herself to morph into her anthro form and her two friends slung both of her arms around their shoulders to help her stand. Fluttershy clapped her hands close to her chest, visibly shaking. Korra wrapped her arms around her in reassurance to ease her anxiety.

The two slung both of her arms around their shoulders to help her stand, and Fluttershy clapped her hands close to her chest, visibly shaking. Korra wrapped her arms around her in reassurance to ease her anxiety, "Fluttershy, are you alright?"

"It's Jinora. The vines. They took her. She needs help!"

Everyone gasped in horror and Korra's worried face quickly changed into one of determination, "Rarity, A.J, Pinkie, you guys take Rainbow and Fluttershy back with the alicorns, the rest of us will deal with the vines."

(~)

A group of cops, led by Lin, stood by the entrance of the Wilds while more people, who had come for the second tour, were now boarding onto the buss, ready to leave. Lin addressed to her men, "Get everyone out of here. Put up a perimeter. Cancel all tours. Somebody get a hold of Tenzin."

Once the officers dispersed, Korra and the others arrived. "We gotta get in there and find Jinora." said Twilight.

"I don't think anyone should be going in there right now."

Spike stepped forward, addressing to the woman, "Didn't you hear us? Jinora's in there, we can't just leave her. Besides, we've got two alicorn princesses here, what more do you need?"

Both Mako and Flash placed their hands on their hips, clearing their throats, "Ahem!"

"Oh, yeah and those guys."

Both boys pouted in annoyance while Korra addressed to the chief of police, "Lin please, I know I haven't been myself lately, but I can do this."

"Korra, I understand you're the Princess of Friendship and all, but---" Lin jumped back while Korra let out a surprised yell. A massive vine sprouted from the tall greens, wiping everything it came into contact with, primarily a string of lanterns that decorated the entrance and narrowly missed the tour buss before it speeded away, but not without causing public damage to the side of a building.

Twilight determinedly turned to Lin, "If we don't do something now who knows what else the vines will do."

Lin couldn't negotiate with that logic. And so, with much worry, she allowed them to go in, "Be careful."

(~)

The group of friends entered the wilds, which looked even creepier than before. If it weren't for the fact that they had only been out in the sun not more than two minutes ago, they could have assumed it was already night. As they continued along the path, Spike started to shake, gasping every single time he though he heard something.

"Ah! What was that?!"

Twilight rolled her eyes, "A stick." she said dryly.

Spike jumped once more, "Ah! What was that?"

"Just a rock." Mako said.

Finally, Spike yelped once more, causing the others to groan in annoyance and turned around towards him. "What now?" Korra asked in annoyance, they had no time for this.

"There's a spider on my back."

Twilight groaned in frustration, "Will you---it's just a lief, turn around." Spike did as she said and turned…to reveal a medium spider, almost his size behind his back. The others cringed in disgust, all looking at Twilight to swat it away. They certain weren't going to do it. With one swipe of her tail, she swatted the bug away, "Lief. Told ya."

The group continued searching for the lost child. Korra called out, "Jinora!"

"Hello, anyone?" Mako yelled, cupping his hands around his mouth to amplify his voice.

Flash followed his example, "Jinora! You here, kiddo?"

"It's us!" Twilight added.

Mako became on edge when he heard a rustling coming from behind. "Wait. Do you hear that?"

Spike hid behind his leg, "Would "no" be the right answer?"

The five of them followed the sound, coming from a closed up glass window. The rustling sound grew louder, first very slowly before accelerating as the friends looked on, awaiting for something to occur, if this was a threat or all in their minds.

For a moment, the sound stopped. Sighs of relief were heard…until three vines came crashing through the window and started attacking. Korra, Mako, Twilight and Spike wasted no time in unleashing their fire attacks, while Flash Sentry pulled a knife from his pocket. With the press of a bottom, it grew into a katana sword. The latest in Equestrian defenses. With all of his might, he sliced the vines while Twilight, Mako, Korra and Spike attacked with their fire. One vine wrapped itself around Mako's waist, lifting him up into the air, screaming as he did.

"Keep your coils off of my fiance!" Korra called out in righteous furry as she sliced the vine in two with her fire. The half that lifted Mako fell lifelessly to the ground and Mako tucked and rolled upon impact. Korra unleashed a fire arc at another incoming vine.

Twilight saw more vines coming their way, "Come on!" she shouted. The group retreated, following her into a building. Korra broke through the stone wall with her bending, allowing everyone else to run inside. When another vine came at them, Flash sliced it in two with his blade, giving Korra time to block the entrance with a rock rising from the ground. With that over, Flash calmly placed his katana sword away, while Mako breathed a sigh of relief.

Korra inspected him. "You okay?"

"Yeah. But how's about we cross safari off of our list of potential honeymoon destinations?" Mako said jokingly, earning a chuckle from Korra.

"Uh, guys…Get a look at this." Twilight's jaw nearly dropped, her eyes widened and her finger pointing upwards, not taking her eyes off of what was in front of her. The couple walked closer towards their friends and they too were shocked.

The room was illuminated with a green glow, which came from the long rounded green cocoons that hung from the vines around the building. Spike hesitantly walked closer towards one of them, his dragon feet getting wet from the liquid that surrounded the area. He noticed that these cocoons contained something inside. He squinted his eyes to see clearly and saw…a human face.

"AH!! Face! People! Gah!" he screamed in terror and ran away from the things while the others walked closer.

"What are those?" Flash asked.

"This must be where the vines took everyone." Twilight said, "But why?"

Korra approached the cocoons, placing her hand onto its gooey surface. Upon her touch, the interior of the cocoon lit up, revealing Jinora curled up into a ball, sound asleep but covered in green goo. Her skin and clothing looked pale.

"It's Jinora and the rest of them."

"Let's get them out." Mako created a fire dagger in his hand, ready to release them but was quickly stopped when Korra placed her hand on his chest, making him lower the dagger which disappeared.

"Don't! The vines trapped them here, but now they're in the spirit world. If you attack now you'll provoke the vines. Let me try."

The others stepped back to give Korra her space as she began bending the waters bellow the cocoons, performing the spiritual healing technique she learned from her uncle all those years ago. The two streams of water circled around the glowing greens, glowing a bright yellow. Korra's hands began to shake as she tried to send positive energy through the waters, but it was no use, the vines would not budge. She grunted and lowered her arms, causing the water to fall and stop its glowing.

"They won't open."

"So what now?" Flash asked curiously.

"Maybe if I travel into the spirit world, I can free them."

"Well, then what are you waiting for?" said Spike, "Meditate away!"

Korra sat down, the star on her forehead glowing brightly once she closed her eyes and placed her knuckles together. She could feel her mind wander and drift. Her eyes opened and she was no longer sitting, but standing. However, this place was not what she had expected. She stood on surface of a tall flat rock. Looking around, she noticed several more around her and flat surfaced mountains all around her, The sky was a clear with a sunset-like hue and the clouds were of a pale yellowish white tone.

"Wait ...this isn't the spirit world." Korra said to herself. But, even with that fact, this place looked…oddly familiar.

A gust of wind picked up, almost out of nowhere with a fierce intensity, causing her long mystical hair to whip around her in elegant forms. Korra turned around, looking up into the sky, spotting the very source of the wind. A man floated in midair, wearing a familiar set of clothing, which billowed in the winds he manipulated around him. Upon seeing him, Korra's heart began to race.

"Zaheer! No!"

The sinister airbender pushed Korra back with his winds, sending her tumbling back She cried out in main as the stone surface punctured her skin with its small pebbles and larger rocks. Since when was her skin this sensitive?

As she tumbled, dust rose upwards, entering her lunges, causing her to cough. She stopped at the very edge of the rock and rather than stay down, Korra got back to her feet, eyes of anger aimed directly at Zaheer. She spread open her wings, ready to fight him on equal grounds, but when she tried to lift herself up, Korra cried out in pain and was forced down to her knees. She clutched her stomach, feeling a familiar stinging sensation coursing through her. Her body felt heavy, filled with something inside. Like metal.

"You can't fight me and the poison!" Zaheer said, echoing the words from long ago.

Korra rose her head up, seeing that the clouds above had turned into a sinister shade of gray and black. She stared at the man in shock. "No…I got it out!"

"You'll never get it out!"

Zaheer bended the air around Korra, creating a vortex around her head in an attempt to bend the air out of her lungs, just as he attempted to do so long ago. The suffocation never came, the image frightening Korra enough to jolt her back to the present. She gasped for air, feeling her lungs perfectly in tact. She hung her head, pressing her hands onto the watery floor and panted, her hair fell to her face and sweat dripped down her face and shoulders. Mako and Twilight quickly approached her, both placing a hand on her shoulders.

"Korra! What's wrong?" Twilight asked with concern.

Korra breathed a few times before answering. "It's Zaheer."

"What are you talking about?"

"He's been haunting me ever since I fought him." Korra said, removing her now sweaty long hair from her face. "I can't get any peace. It's like he's blocking my magic."

Twilight's brows furrowed curiously. "But...you confronted him years ago."

Korra's head jolted upwards, wondering if she had heard her right. "What?"

"You and I went to see him at his prison after the Nightmare Asami incident. Don't you remember?"

That was just it…she didn't. She was certain she would have, but why now? Why was she having this all over again? Just when it seemed she was out, she gets pulled back in.

"Zecora did say this would happen. Because I was exposed to the potion for so long some of my actual memories could take a bit longer to come back. You'd think I'd remember this one."

"What are you going to do?"

Korra thought about it for a moment and began to wonder. Maybe this was a clue. Maybe if she was going to remember how to get back into the spirit world, she would need to see Zaheer again. Only this time, she would do it alone.

Mako pulled Korra to her feet again, "I have to go see him. Maybe if I remember that day I'll be able to save the others."

Mako caressed his fiance's face, "We're here for you."

(~)

Back at the entrance to the Wilds, Tenzin stroked his beard after what Korra had just informed him. P'Li stood beside him, assisting in any way she could. She cared just as much for Jinora as her father did.

"Korra, he's too dangerous. Even when he's locked up, he can't be trusted. I didn't like you going there the first time."

"I need to if I wanna save Jinora and the others. There's no other way."

"There is another way. I'm calling your father. He can lead an expedition into the Spirit World from the Southern portal."

Korra's heart felt heavy, "You've lost faith in me, too, haven't you?" she turned her head slightly away from Tenzin, "No one thinks I'm capable of anything anymore."

"It's not that at all."

"I know I can do this." she said pleadingly.

"Tenzin, please." Twilight also pleaded, "If there is any hope on saving anyone it relies on Korra remembering that moment."

Tenzin sighed, and P'Li placed a hand on his shoulder, "I'll go with her. I'll be her escort."

"You sure?"

"I am. I want to save Jinora just as much as you do. If Korra feels this is what she must do, then we must accept it."

Korra walked up to Tenzin, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Tenzin, please. I'll be okay."

Tenzin could tell by the look in her eyes that this was definitely what his student wanted. He couldn't deny her this. "Alright. P'Li will take you to his prison deep in the mountains outside the city. I'll call Raiko and get the clearance."

Korra hugged her mentor, "Thank you."

(~)

Latter on, at Raiko's office, Asami and Varrick, now back in his blue attire, were asked to come in for him to discuss the Kuvira situation. "Thank you both for coming." he said to the two.

"It's nice to be welcomed back with open arms." Varrick said, making Asami roll her eyes.

"Actually, I brought you here out of necessity." Raiko narrowed his eyes. "It's no secret I never liked you. Especially after you tried to have me kidnapped."

"Allegedly." Varrick correctly

Asami scoffed at this, "Right. Everything you do is "allegedly". Like when you took over my company and bombed the Southern Water Tribe Cultural Center!"

"I own that building! A man has a right to blow up his own property! Besides, didn't we move past that? I'm a changed man, don't you remember?"

"Oh, yeah. The same "changed man" who worked with Kuvira in taking over the Earth Kingdom and build a supper weapon?!"

"In my defense, part of my brain was under a siren spell!"

"Only partly!"

Raiko rose his hand to stop the bickering, "Right now, I need you to put aside your differences. If Kuvira really is creating a super weapon, we're going to need the two brightest minds in the city working together to stop it."

Varrick smiled and offered his hand, "What do you say, Asami? Partners again?" Asami scorned at his hand, but she knew that if there was any hope in stoping Kuvira they were going to need all the help they could get. She sighed in defeat and shook his hand.

"Fine. I'll help." she said bitterly…only to then twist his hand around and started effortlessly crushing it with her own. Droplets of sweat dripped from Varrick's brow and cheeks, being pertly forced to his knees, struggling to hold back the screams of pain that threatened to come out as he gritted his teeth.

"But don't even think about double-crossing me again." Asami warned, showing zero concern. Varrick, in a lot of pain, nodded weakly at her demands. The woman was as pretty as a picture, but also as fierce as a saber tooth moose lion.

Varrick would be wise not to cross her….again.

(~)

Sonata had never seen such a beautiful island before. It was so large and wide, filled with beautiful trees, fresh fruit and stunning buildings where the airbenders and air acolytes lived. She was no longer wearing her uniform and instead was now wearing an outfit similar to the one she wore back at Canterlot High. A purple jacket with a lighter magenta color, similar in design to Asami's former casual outfit, but with the sleeves rolled up and a pale pink skirt, only her's was longer and ended at her knees. Her boots were pink and wore dark purple stockings. She had removed the dye from her hair and fur, now once again pearl blue, and with her long blue hair in a long high braid. She walked beside Bolin, who now wore a casual brown colored jacket and black pants and boots.

"Wow! This place is so beautiful. Who are we looking for again?" she asked, having gotten distracted with the beautiful scenery.

"Pabu. My fire ferret."

"Oh. Right."

Bolin began calling out for his little buddy, "Pab-pabs, where are you?"

Sonata looked up and saw a red furry creature on top of the tree branch right above Bolin's head. "There he is!"

Bolin turned around and saw his old animal companion, who jumped into his master's awaiting arms. Bolin hugged his old four legged companion, his furry face nuzzling his cheek "Pabu! Oh, I missed you so much! I would like you to meet Sonata."

The pony cooed at the sight of the creature, "Awwwww, he's so cute!" she tickled his chin, much to his delight. Bolin then looked at Pabu dejectedly.

"So, I don't know if you've heard, but Asami's kind of mad at me. I was hoping ... you could help me win her back." Pabu chittered, which Bolin appeared to have understood. "Awesome! Yes, I have an idea. Sonata, wanna help out too?"

"Sure!"

(~)

Opal sat one a set of steps outside one of the temples, reading a book in her lap, when Asami and Sunset Shimmer walked out. The riven haired non-bender carried rolled up papers in their hands. Opal looked up from where she sat. "Going to see Varrick?" she asked.

"Yeah. Just came to pick up some of my old files." Asami said, putting on a false smile, but Opal could see right through her. She stood up and placed a hand on her friend's shoulder.

"Asami, I know you're still angry with Bolin but, maybe you should talk with him. I mean, even it's not all his fault."

"This coming from the girl who just had her family captured by Kuvira?"

Opal knew Asami did care about the well being of her family, she knew better than anyone just how much ones mother and father means to somebody. But Opal didn't need to dig too deep to know what was truly going on. That was how she was able to tell Bolin was in love with another.

"I appreciate you care, but I can tell you're just looking for an excuse not to talk to him."

Asami's angry expression softened. Deep down, she knew her friend was right. "You always were good at reading people."

"Especially my friends." she said kindly. "Besides, he did say it was because of a spell."

"Yeah, but not a full blown control spell." the heiress said, "Part of him still had his free will, so what if…what if he really has changed, and not for the better?"

"You don't really believe that, do you? I know Bolin can be a bit oblivious, but he really does feel sorry."

"I know, it's just that…" Asami's eyes closed shut, once again, the scene from the break-up replayed in her mind. It had haunted her ever since they parted, and it was coming back, striking her with crushing force. "It's just, every time I see him, I keep going back to the break up. It was jarring to see him act so differently from the man I knew. The last time I had an experience like that was with my dad when he turned on me. I'm just scared Bolin really has changed more than I care to admit."

"Asami, don't think like that." Sunset said compassionately. Asami gave the unicorn a saddened look, only for the unicorn to see her eyes give a very brief and quick green glow. Sunset almost missed it, and Opal was blinded by it, having blinked in the exact same split second the glow happened.

Before Sunset could say something about it, Pabu came running towards them with a pink ribbon tied around his neck. Asami kneeled down and lifted him up, "Hey, Pabu." she noticed the note tied to the ribbon, "What do you got there?" she asleep before unfolding the note. Upon reading it, Asami's eyes widened in worry.

(~)

The three friends ran through the garden towards a clearing where they spotted Bolin, sitting on a nearby small hill with a picnic blanket. Beside him was a basket of buns. He looked up and smiled when he saw his true love approaching. "Asami, you made it!" his smile then shifted when he saw she was not alone, "With Opal and…Sunset Shimmer…hey guys."

"What's this?" Asami asked, arching an eyebrow at the scenery.

"A picnic, just for the two of us!" Pabu jumped into his shoulder, "Well, the three of us. Sorry, Pabs."

Asami showed him the letter in her hand, "So, this note Pabu brought me saying you broke both of your legs was just a ruse?" she said in a somewhat disapproving tone.

Bolin's eyes darted to his side. "Maybe…" he said before smiling again, "But now that you're here, don't you want to just sit back, relax, try some of my homemade steam buns—Pema's recipe—and watch Pabu do some of his world famous backflips for entertainment? Ha-hah!" he laughed while flipping Paby and catching him while he caught the bun in his paws. Sonata then appeared from behind a tree, a towel over her arm and holding a tray of fresh fruity drinks.

"Would the lady care for a fruit punch?"

But Asami did not look happy at all. She looked at the drinks and then back at Sonata. Her death glare sending shivers down her spine and Sonata tiptoed away.

"Oooooooorrr, maybe latter."

Asami turned back to Bolin, her hand on her hip and speaking in a sarcastic tone. "Wow. Steam buns and fruit punch. My favorite. Yeah, this will totally make me forget all about Kuvira, the lady who gave Korra a false memory potion, captured Opal's family and is possibly torturing them as well as innocent people as we speak!" Her voice grew higher and angrier, which caused both Opal and Sunset to slowly back away, and Bolin to look on with guilt. "But hey, why worry about that, right? Let's just sit down, have a great picnic because we're so in love!" she turned away to leave, but not before briefly turning her head, "I'm sorry you had to see that, Pabu." and with that, she walked away, leaving a sad Bolin behind.

Opal sighed and face palmed herself, "You know, when she said she'd give you a chance, I'm pretty sure this isn't what she meant." she said before following her distressed friend, "Asami!"

Sunset was the only one who remained there, looking on with sympathy. But Bolin knew she wouldn't stay. "Go ahead."

"This was a nice gesture, you know." the unicorn reassured. She even smiled at Sonata, "And you….good job with the drinks." she took a cup and drank it to make her feel better…but then spit it out, "That's not fruit punch!"

"Ops, I guess I took the prune juice by mistake. I always get my fruit drinks mixed up."

Sunset stuck out her tongue and placed the cup back onto the tray.

"I don't know what else to do." Bolin said as he stood up, "I want to show Asami how much she means to me, how sorry I am. I never should have gone with Kuvira."

Sonata placed a hand on his shoulder, "No, this isn't your fault. It's mine. If I hadn't hidden those letters in the first place. You're in this mess because of me. I'm the one Asami should be mad at."

"But like you said, only part of me was under a spell, the other part really wanted to prove myself so I could make her proud."

"But our spell warped it around and influenced you to act like a jerk."

"You're both right." said Sunset.

"We are?"

"Yeah. You're both to blame here, but if there is anything I've learned in my life, is that if you want to make up for your past mistakes, you've got to give it your all."

"How?" Bolin asked.

(Parody of Risk it all from Sofia the First, the Curse of Princess Ivy)

Sunset;

Once some time ago

I was a selfish brat

With a selfish plan

Thought I was all that

Love set my heart aglow

So strong

So strange

But first I had to show that I could change!

As she sang, Sunset sanded across the grassy fields, encouraging her friends with her words of wisdom.

When my friends were in a spot

Their back against the wall

I gave it all I got

And dared to risk it all

Things were getting rough

But I answered the call

I had to stay tough

And dare to risk it all

I was brave enough

To finally dare to risk it all

Putting yourselves first, led you astray

So now it seems your cursed, to your dismay

To make up for your deeds and prove you've grown

Try putting others needs before your own!

Your friends are in the spot

Their backs against the wall

Just give it all you've got

And dare to risk it all

If things start getting rough!

Just answer the call

You have to stay tough

And dare to risk it all

I know you're brave enough

To finally dare to risk it all…

She stood by the tree as a cocoon opened up, reveling a lovely butterfly. It landed on her hand placed it on Sonata's hand, who released it into the open air.

To save the ones you love

You have to rise above

The curse is sure to fall!

But only if you dare

Dare to risk…

It all!!

"Thanks for the encouragement, Sunset" Bolin said, "I know what to do now."

"What can I do?" Sonata asked, "How can I prove I want to set things right?"

Sunset placed a hand on her shoulder, "I say you're off to a pretty good start." she said, earning a smile from her new friend.

(~)

Korra felt her heart would burst out of her chest as she looked up at the tall building. It wasn't so much as a building more like a mountain with doors carved onto the front of it. The doors were guarded by two White Lotus sentries. P'Li, wearing a long cape with her hood down, stood before the sentries, who bowed in greeting. She did the same but then quickly realized the princess was not beside her. She approached Korra and had to forcibly drag the frightened child towards the doors. P'Li spoke to the sentries in a formal voice.

"Princess Korra would wish to speak with the man you hold prisoner."

The two sentries looked at one another before one responded, "As you wish."

Twilight, Flash, Spike and Mako approached her and Twilight gripped her friend's hand, "It's gonna be okay. Once you see him the memories will come back."

"You sure?"

"I have a pretty good feeling." she said optimistically.

"No offense Twilight but, 'just a feeling' isn't reassuring enough."

"Just relax and you'll be fine. We did it once together, I'm sure you can do it by yourself."

As the doors opened up and Korra took in a deep breath. This was the moment of truth.

The lights flickered as the elevator lowered down. Twilight never released Korra's hand the whole way. As they descended, Korra could see very vague images in her mind. This elevator, the smell, the dim lighting, it all seemed familiar. Nearly none of this felt new at all. Once the elevator landed, they all walked towards another metal doorway, which another White Lotus sentry opened.

"Approach the wall." he said.

Korra turned to face her friends, all looking at her with reassuring looks. Maybe there really wasn't anything to be afraid of. P'Li approached her and placed a hand on her shoulder, "Good luck." Korra embraced her in a warm hug. Flash hugged her next, followed by Twilight, though hers lasted much longer, and finally Mako. He gently kissed her forehead, making her feel even more at ease.

"Good luck." he said.

Korra then felt something tug on her leg, she looked down and saw Spike smiling up at her. She kneeled down and hugged the little dragon. Once she got back up, Korra approached the wall just as the sentry had told her to do so. Everyone watched on as the metal door closed behind Korra. The gears of the elevator echoed in the silence as it lowered the Avatar downwards. Once the elevator stopped, the door rose up, at the speed of what felt like an eternity, before revealing an open spaced room, illuminated by a green light due to some artificial crystals. At the very center of the room…there he was.

The man was in a meditation pose on the floor. Chains wrapped around his wrists and ankles. His hair was long once more, grey with a tint of blue. He sensed a presence enter his domain and opened his eyes to see who had come to visit him. He was certainly not expecting to see her again.

"Korra."

Korra herself was slightly taken aback by his response. He didn't sound angry, he sounded surprised and…relaxed. She quickly reminded herself not to let her guard down. Zaheer stood up and faced the Avatar. "I…I never thought I'd see you back here."

Korra felt so strange, for this was not the man she had fought three years ago. How could she not remember this?

"I need to ask you a question, and you will answer me." she said in a demanding voice. Zaheer remained calm and unfazed, his expression lacked any signs of anger or disgust towards her.

"What do you want to know?"

"Someone gave me a memory potion which made me forget who I was. So far, I've gained all of my memories back, all except for one. I need to know...did I come to see you before today?"

Zaheer looked at her in surprise and confusion, "You don't remember? Really?"

"So it is true." Korra concluded.

"Yes. With Twilight Sparkle, three years ago." he took a moment to examine the young woman, a soft smile grew on his face, "You've become quite the young woman since the last time we met. I heard your boyfriend proposed to you."

Korra was taken aback by this, "How did you know?"

"These White Lotus Sentries talk a lot. Don't think I can't hear them from down hear when I mediate. Congratulations by the way."

Korra shook her head in disbelief, "Okay, back up! What is up with you? Last time I saw you, you poisoned me, had your friends abuse and beat up my friend, clipped our wings and tried to kill us both! Not to mention, you nearly wiped out the new air nation and chose your newfound 'freedom' over the woman you loved! And now you're here all passive and relaxed and treating me like I'm some old friend? What sense does that make?!"

Zaheer lowered his gaze, sure signs of sadness in his eyes, "It's a shame you forgot that day…the day you saved me."

Now Korra was even more confused than before. She saved him? How and when? And why couldn't she remember. "Why can't I remember it? Why can't I remember ever seeing you again?"

Zaheer took a better look at Korra's eyes, they seemed so hazy and lost, and that's when he realized, "I know why you're really here."

"You don't know anything about me!" Korra snapped almost instinctively, like the response was natural.

"Your heart is in pain. I can see it in your eyes. That's why you haven’t gone to the spirit world. I have spent most of my time there and it's well-known that the Princess Avatar hasn't been there for a while."

"You can go into the spirit world from here? Doesn't seem very magically charged. Besides, I thought you were in denial about Equestrian magic."

"Your mind really is in a haze. After our last encounter I discovered Republic City is flowing with the magic of the three worlds. The magic you brought back after years of speration." he looked at her sadly, "You've forgotten it. That's the problem."

"No, my problem is you! You...poisoned me! You've ruined me! People used to think I was unstoppable, but now they don't think I'm capable of anything!"

"What are you talking about? You were the one who helped bring the Magic of Friendship into a fallen world. You restored people's hope, their faith."

Korra felt her head pounding, she grunted as she clenched her head, and Zaheer looked on with worry. Korra slowly calmed down, taking in deep breath to sooth her racing heart. "Those sirens…they messed with my mind, it made me live an entirely different life. I thought seeing you face-to-face would help me remember." she clenched her fists tightly, "What happened to me? Why did I live that life? Why did I feel unhappy there? Why did I feel like something was missing? And why can't I get myself to believe it was all fake, an illusion made from a spell?!"

"Because it made you forget the core aspect of who you have become." Zaheer said, "Neither of us are the same as before, Korra. I had once learned to fly, but now I'm bound in chains. My feet have since been cemented to the ground, and for all the reasons you’ve stated. You have magic, and the freedom to use it, but you’re allowing fear to hold you back."

"I'm not holding myself back, but my powers have limits!"

“We all have limits, Korra. But the magic you now carry within you, the magic which saved you from the poison, that is limitless."

"How do you know?"

"I've seen it. I've felt it."

Korra arched an eyebrow at this, "That's…creepy."

"If you would let me help, you can get over this block. Let me lead you into the sprit world."

Korra refused, "No way. I can't trust you."

"Maybe not. But if you had any other options, you wouldn't be here now, would you? We may have been enemies once, but I now fully see how much I have hurt you. I don't blame you for not trusting me, but please…let me do something for someone else for once."

Korra didn't have any other choice. "I've come this far. What have I got to lose?" and so, despite her conflicting feelings, she sat down to meditate along with Zaheer, who now sat in the same pose.

"Focus on the sound of my voice. Don't be afraid."

Korra did as he instructed, but soon she began to remember her last fight with him. She could see both set of memories; the one from her false past and the one from her real one. She couldn't bare them both, she needed to get out. But Zaheer could feel her hesitation.

"Let it play out." he said in a reassuring voice.

"I can't!"

"You can. Accept what happened to you. Don't fear what might have been." Zaheer said. For Korra, those words felt familiar.

"I have no control!"

"Don't be afraid. Hold on!"

Korra saw herself fall into a massive vortex and suddenly felt her body floating in mid air. She opened her eyes and found herself in what looked like an ocean. She then heard voices from behind her and she spun around. Before her eyes, the surface of the water rippled, and she could see images.

Images of her past.

..…………..

This was the last place Korra and Twilight ever wanted to go, but in their guts they needed to do this. Over the past year, the two girls have been dealing with the trauma and fear from their experience with the Red Lotus. And while they have made great progress, they still needed to do one last thing if they were to fully move on from this. For Twilight, her attackers were already gone, but Zaheer played an equal part in this. The elevator door rose up, Twilight held Korra's hand tightly, now face to face with Zaheer. His hair had grown to medium length and was mediating in mid air. Once he noticed the princesses, he opened his eyes and lowered down.

"Well, look who it is. I figured you would show up sooner or later."

The taunting in his voice ignited a flame within the girls. With their hands still clapped together, Korra stepped forward, trying her very best to swallow her fear.

"We came here to look you in the eye and tell you that you have no power over us."

Twilight stepped forward as well, "That's right. We will no longer be scared of you."

Without warning, Zaheer assumed a menacing look and lunged at the girls, making them gasp in fear and step back. Twilight hugged Korra for protection while shaking and whimpering from the shock.

Zaheer laughed in amusement, "I guess it didn't work. You still seem scared."

Korra didn't want to be here. She couldn't be here. She refused. "This was a mistake." but as she tried to leave, Twilight grabbed her wrist.

"Wait!…We've made it this far already. Now let's finish it." Twilight's determined look brought more hope for Korra and the two stood before Zaheer, not letting go of each other's hands.

"I know why you're here." Zaheer said arrogantly.

"You don't know anything about us!" Korra exclaimed.

"You still haven't gotten over what happened to you. Even after all those days of playing with your pony friends and being princesses you still have yet to fully recover from your experience. You don't even have chains and yet you hold yourselves down."

"That's not true! We've made progress!" Korra said defensively.

"I can see the fear in your eyes. It's always been there and it always will. You think you may have won, but I guarantee, if you never had your magic you never would have survived. And neither would have your pony."

Twilight clenched her fists in anger, "You're a monster!! You never cared about anybody besides your stupid philosophies! I don't know what P'Li ever saw in you to begin with! Leaving you was the smartest thing she ever did!"

Zaheer's anger ignited within him and her charged at Twilight, but Korra stepped in between, extending her hand froward to stop him. More than anything, she wanted him to know what it felt like. To be tortured for no good reason, and to feel that your life does not matter simply because you do not think the same way as someone else.

"Stop it!"

Korra's hand landed right on Zaheer's heart, and in a blinding light, Korra's eyes began to glow, as did Twilight's and…even Zaheer's. He began to scream in agony, feeling an incredible amount of pain deep inside. He could see it.

He could see what he had done. Not only that…but he could feel it.

He could feel the poison stinging Korra's very insides. He could feel the hurt Twilight had when he was beaten and abused. He could feel the terror she had, her racing heart, her mind constantly drifting to her loved ones, constantly asking is she would see them again. She wasn't just trying to survive for her own sake…but for the sake of others as well. He could feel her heart, fighting the poison within, fighting as hard as she could, despite the fear.

Such courage. Such ambition. Such…love.

He then began to witness and feel her pain and guilt during the aftermath. How terrible she and Twilight felt. Their empathy for each other. He was seeing through their eyes. He witnessed their life. Despite their fear and anxieties, they still had love in their hearts.

Love. Such a powerful and…liberating thing. No restraint, no doubts, no resentment, no fear, no deception. It was something he had felt once. But long so forgotten.

Korra and Twilight experienced something similar. They saw Zaheer's past. How he used to be. He was once a kind and energetic child, who only wanted people to feel they could be themselves. His heart was in the right place, always. But as he grew older, his views changed. He still believed in freedom and equality, however he began to believe those who do not see what he sees should be condemned and unfit to live in the new world he dreamed of creating. But even so, his heart still wanted others to feel free. Not restrained. But the sad thing is…

He did not have that freedom.

He did not have real love in his heart. The 'love' he thought he was fighting for was nothing more than a beautiful lie. He did not accept anyone as an equal, it was either those who shared his beliefs and those who didn't.

That was when it all became clear.

Finally, Korra removed her hand, her eyes stopped glowing as did Twilight and Zaheer. The man felt disoriented and collapsed to the ground, getting on his knees. He couldn't believe everything he had seen, and neither could the girls.

That was when their perspective changed forever. Korra looked at the man before her, and no longer did he see an attacker…she saw a lost human soul. She no longer felt anger towards him, just pity. Pity he started out such a good person, and there was still good in him, but that good had been warped into selfishness and he only believed what he wanted to believe rather than see the truth.

He looked up at the Princess. Her eyes carried no anger, not restraint, no pride. She looked at him like she had witnessed a child lose his parents, or a parent losing his child. She saw how broken he was, how empty he was.

Twilight saw what Korra saw. Her fear towards the man was gone. Gone forever. Zaheer…he had so much potential, so much heart…and he had lost it. Korra couldn't believe she had once hated him. He was a human like any other, he simply lost his way.

Now, she wanted him to find his way. She now wanted to help him. She slowly approached, extending her hand for him to take…but he did not. Zaheer couldn't even bare to look at her. He just couldn't.

The two princesses shared concerned looks and decided to leave him be. Hand in hand, walking out of the room, leaving the now remorse Zaheer alone to think about what he had done.

…………..

Korra opened her eyes, no longer floating in an ocean, but sitting in a meadow of the Spirit World. It was as beautiful as the first time she came. She looked around and saw Zaheer, no longer with chains around him.

"I did it ... and you helped me. I remember now.”

“I got to experience your pain the same way you experienced mine. I used to take great pride in the path I choose. But I have come to realize not every path you take will lead to true freedom. My heart wanted to believe a beautiful lie rather than see the true reality. Someone I once regarded as poison to the world was actually the one who would help save it….and myself."

Korra smiled at the man, no longer seeing the monster she claimed he was. He was human, flawed and imperfect and capable of losing his way, just like her and anyone else. Now, he had the right lifeline to keep him on this right path. Who'd have thought, that they would both help one another to heal from their past.

"I’m grateful for your help, Zaheer. I really am. Do you know where Jinora and the others are?"

"No, but there is someone who does." Zaheer's image faded and Korra was left alone in the meadow. But not completely. A small white colored butterfly with blue patterns landed on her finger.

"Raava! I missed you. Where have you been?"

"I have always been with of you."

"Can you help me find Jinora?"

"Yes. And I can help you save the alicorns as well."

Korra smiled with glee at the news, "Really? How?"

"You've allowed the Light of the Rainbow to guide you before. Let it guide you again."

Korra looked up at the clear blue sky, and indeed she saw the Rainbow. Its colors hearing across the sky like a comet. Spreading her wings, Korra flew ahead, Raava close behind and followed the Rainbow. The scenery seemed to fade so quickly before her eyes, first she passed the meadow, then the cliffs near the fog of lost souls, until she reached a vine forrest with a glowing green orb at the very center, where all of the people remained trapped within.

"How do I release them, and save the alicorns?"

"You must embrace the magic within." said the Raava butterfly, fluttering beside her.

"But I'm powerless in the spirit world."

"No, Korra. No matter where you are, so long as you keep that love within your heart you will never be powerless anywhere. Share your gift with others. Share it, and you will see what you can do."

Korra walked over to the large orb and placed her hand on its surface. Her eyes and wings glowing white. With all of her heart, Korra opened her mouth and harmonized a beautiful and soulful tune.

Ah, ah, ah, aah…….

(~)

Back in the human world, Twilight's Element of Magic manifested on her chest as Korra's voice was heard from it. Her eyes started glowing white as she too echoed Korra's singing.

Ah, ah, ah, aah…….

The rest of the Mane Six, who were at the hospital with the alicorns, Rainbow Dash had an ice pack on her head, when their Elements manifested and their eyes glowed, with Korra and Twilight's voices echoing through the gems. Their mouths opened and they too began to harmonize.

Ah, ah, ah, aah…….

Ah, ah, ah, aah…….

Mako, Flash, P'Li and Spike watched in amazement as Twilight's Element glowed brightly and she was lifted up into the air. Korra's eyes continued to glow, and the green orb glowed bright yellow, turning into bright yellow particles. The humans trapped within rose upwards into the air, returning from which they had originally been when captured by the vines. Back in the human world, Jinora and everybody else awoke once their respected cocoons opened up. Everyone blinked in surprise, trying to remember what had happened. Their bodies were covered in green goo.

Ryu felt sick and disorientated upon awakening, feeling he would gag in disgust. "Ugh...I'm getting changeling flashbacks."

Jinora gathered everyone together and led them out of the wilds. As they went, she saw several small spirits beginning to emerge from their hiding spots. Looking around as if to make certain the coast was clear. Parting the vines, everyone basked in the sunlight, happy to finally be free again. Jinora immediately spotted her father and ran towards him with arms wide.

"Dad!"

Tenzin happily embraced his daughter. "I'm so glad you're safe. What happened? How did you get out?"

"Korra saved us."

(~)

Ah, ah, ah, aah, aah,

Ah, ah, ah, aah, aah,

Korra then began moving her arms as if she were bending, all while harmonizing beautifully. And as she sang, magical yellow sparkles emitted from Twilight's Element, which floated away, pass the guards and out of the cell, all the way toward where the other Mane Six were. Once the yellow sparkles came through the walls, more sparkles emitted from the other Elements of Harmony. Korra was sending her energy through the only way she truly knew how.

Through her friends.

The ponies continued to harmonize as the yellow sparkles landed on the alicorns. The green in their horns began to fade and their eyes slowly fluttered open. They no longer felt weak, or trapped in a nightmare. Leilani shockingly rose her head, smiling to see her daughters once more. Cadance also woke up, and nearly cried at the sight of her husband and daughter. She morphed into her anthro form and the three of them embraced.

Once Korra finished her singing, the Elements stopped glowing. Each pony quickly realized what had happened. Korra somehow managed to transfer positive spiritual energy through the Elements to save the Alicorns. Twilight lowered down and also shook her head, her boyfriend helping her keep her balance, "What happened?" he asked.

Twilight got on her feet and smiled, "Korra…Korra happened."

(~)

Korra opened her eyes, once again back in the human world. Zaheer stood before her, smiling proudly before bowing. "Well done, Princess."

Korra bowed in return. "Thanks to you. And that's saying a lot."

Zaheer chuckled, "You should get going. You have to do what you need to stop Kuvira."

Korra's smile faded, being replaced with a look of guilt, "I was so angry with her…I can't believe I acted so horribly."

"It's natural to feel angry, just so long as you don't forget she is human too. She will need you now more than ever."

"Thanks, again." Korra nodded her head until Zaheer stopped her.

"One more thing….could you tell P'Li I said hello?"

Korra smiled, not even turning around, "Sure thing."

(~)

Outside of the prison, Korra and her friends all walked out. Spike stretched his arms and casually placed them behind his head, "Well, that was interesting."

"How do you feel?" Twilight asked Korra.

"I feel ...whole again. I feel good."

"Do you think you're finally able to forget about your false memories?" Flash asked. But Korra did not give them the answer they were expecting.

"No." Korra gently shook her head, "However, even if they might have been fake, looking back, they made me realize just how much you all mean to me. When I was poisoned, I tried so hard to forget it." Korra slowly smiled. "But it was because of your friendship that I finally found the courage to accept the reality of what happened to me. After facing Zaheer and my trauma again, It made me realize I wanted to help others who had suffered as I did... and to help people like Zaheer so that they won't make the same mistakes. You guys are the reason why I'm the Princess of Friendship. The other me might have forgotten that, but I never will. Never again."

It didn't take long for everyone to hug their beloved Avatar. As they did, she released a single tear. She didn't care she would never forget that "other" life, because it only helped her realize how much her blessings meant to her. And that was what helped her find the Light in the dark.

She then turned to P'Li, "Zaheer says "hello". I hope you two can work things out."

The combustion woman smiled at the young Avatar, "Thank you, sweetheart."

(~)

Back at Air Temple Island, Lin and Opal were nearly finish hoisting their belongings onto the bison's saddle. Asami handed the airbender a wrapped up box of food for the trip. "Here you go. Be safe, okay?"

"I will. Thanks Asami, you're the best." Opal and Asami hugged like long time sisters and once they parted, they both noticed a certain earthbender approach them, followed by Sunset and Sonata.

"Where are you going?" he asked Opal.

"We've got some family business to take care of." she said, "Me and Aunt Lin are going to save my parents and my brothers."

"What? That's dangerous!"

"It's her family, Bolin." Asami stated, "She has to do something."

The words echoed in Bolin's minds. He remembered having said similar words before in the past. It was then he realized Asami had the right idea. Here he was trying to make up for his mistakes with romantic gestures when in reality there was more to it than that. It wasn't just Asami he had to make this up to, but Opal and her family as well. He could have helped them but instead he ran away. He made a mistake and he couldn't make it again. Sunset Shimmer was right, if he wanted to set things right he had to start now.

"Then I'm coming with you." he said, his voice sounding determined and sure of himself, which actually caught both girls by surprise. "I know I've messed up and I don't blame you for not trusting me now, but your family are my friends too, I can't just abandon them again. I joined Kuvira because I wanted to help people. I lost sight of that but not anymore. Please, I'll do anything I can to help."

Opal knew her friend was being sincere, this was one of his many character traits they both knew him well for. Asami, especially, was rather surprised when she heard him speak this way. This wasn't at all like the last time they spoke.

"Alright." Opal replied, "Thanks, Bolin." she said before heading to her aunt to inform her of their extra passenger, leaving him and Asami to talk. He didn't care if it was a bad time for it or not, he needed to say these words.

"Alright, listen. I just want to tell you that I understand how you feel. I listened to myself when I should have listened to you and I can't change what I said. I know there is nothing I could do or no big gesture that could make up for all my mistakes, but I don't care how long it takes, even if I have to try and try, over and over and over again nothing is going to stop be from trying to win you back because ... I love you, Asami."

At that moment, Asami was speechless. Those words, the way he said them, the sincerity and compassion in his eyes, but also the untapped wisdom underneath the goofy exterior. This wasn't anything like the arrogant man she had spoken to during the coronation. If anything, that man no longer existed.

Opal smiled with happiness as she, Sunset and Sonata watched the two speak. This really was a wonderful moment and it brought her hope. But Bolin wasn't done yet. "You are the only one for me and you always will be. After everything that's happened I've realized that I don't want to spend another moment without you in my life."

Asami's heart was pounding so loud she feared she would go deff. "What are you saying?"

"I'm saying…I want us to be together forever, but not if you don't want us to. I want to be the man you deserve again. And I'm going to start by following your example. I'm putting my friends first. Thank you."

"For what?"

"For reminding me what I'm fighting for. Just like you always have."

For a moment, that same image of the stranger appeared before her eyes, before shattering like broken glass. She could even hear the pieces falling to the floor. It was as if a veil had been pulled right off from her eyes and she could see much clearly now. Her eyes gave a green glow before dimming forever. She blinked, almost as if she had just woken up from a half sleep. All of a sudden, everything was clear as day once more.

She was right, this wasn't the same man she saw during the coronation event. This man was selfless, caring and placing the others needs before himself. The very same man she witnessed before he left to work for Kuvira, but the one who did return was misguided and manipulated, nothing like the man she loved. But now, there was no doubt that this was the man she had fallen in love with…he was never gone after all, he just needed an extra push to come back in full swing.

This was her Bolin. The Bolin she loved. The same Bolin who left on that boat to help people. And the Bolin she wanted to be with forever. She felt foolish for not having seen it sooner.

"Alright, let's move!" Lin called out.

Bolin gave Asami one final glance before leaving, not inciting a kiss unless she allowed him to. But, she couldn't leave him without saying something in return. He had already said what he truly needed to say, now it was her turn. She had allowed her hurt and fear to keep her away, but she swore she would never make that same mistake again.

"Bolin, wait!" she called out, making him stop on his tracks. He wondered what she wanted to say. Only, she didn't say anything. Instead, she ran towards him, wrapped her arms around his neck, and kissed him full on the lips. Surprised at first, but Bolin happily returned the gesture.

Sunset, Opal and Sonata swooned at the scene, while Lin only rolled her eyes. Why did she have to be surrounded by such lovey dovey types?

Once the kiss ended, Bolin blinked. "Okay, now I'm confused. Happy, but confused."

"I'm sorry for the way I acted. It really wasn't all your fault."

"No, you were right to be mad." Bolin insisted. "Even if I wasn't fully brainwashed, I could have walked away the minute I saw trouble, but I didn't. I let my pride get to me and I hurt the people I love."

"Yeah well, I kind of know how that feels." Asami bit her bottom lip, "Let's just say, you weren't the only one who was blindsided." Asami smiled and caressed his cheek with her thumb. "I was just so scared of loosing you again. But even if that spell did effect you, the man I love was never really gone. I see that now. You said you would come back…and you now you really have. Can you forgive me?"

"Forgive you? There's nothing to forgive, I'm the one who should be apologizing. Will you give me another chance to prove myself to you?"

"You already have. I want to be with you, too. The real you. That's more than enough for me."

Bolin couldn't help but smile, "Really? You do?"

"Yes. Forever. I never want us to be apart again."

Now it was Bolin's turn to be speechless, smiling his goofy grin. Oh, how she missed that grin. "Well, since we're talking about 'forever' here, there is one other thing I wanted to ask you. I really wanted to wait for the right moment but…something tells me this is it."

Sunset, Sonata and Opal all simultaneously gasped… when Bolin got down on one knee!

"You don't have to give me an answer now and it may not be much, but you need to know what's really in my heart…" he took Asami's hands, not taking his eyes off of her, her green eyes sparkling with her everlasting beauty that matched her soul.

"Asami Sato…will you marry me?"

There was only one word she wanted to say to him, but she was already chocked up with tears she could barely get it out. After a brief moment, she finally did.

"Yes…Yes! Yes!"

Bolin jumped up and cheered in victory, "Yahoo!" He lifted Asami up by the waist and twirled her around, laughing all the while. Once he lowered her down, she immediately collided her lips with his, for which he happily kissed her back. Sunset, Sonata and Opal happily squealed with delight and happiness.

"I'm so happy for you!" Opal said with such glee before being called by her aunt.

"Okay lovebirds, you can celebrate latter, we need to move out."

"Wait!" all eyes landed on Sonata who stepped forward, "I want to come with you too."

"What?"

"I know I didn't personally get your family captured, but I still feel responsible. I want to set things right and stop my sisters."

Opal looked up at her aunt, waiting for an answer. Lin sighed in defeat, "Fine, she can come."

Bolin held Asami's hands close to his heart, "I promise, when I come back I will never leave you again." he kissed her forehead.

"I'll be here waiting."

(~)

Latter that same afternoon, Korra was once again admiring the sunset underneath the gazebo when her fiance walked on over. "The alicorns are feeling a lot better now, thanks to you." he said proudly.

"I'm just glad they're awake. I don't know what we would do without them…what I would do without them."

Mako wrapped his arm around her, allowing her to rest her head on his shoulder.

"Mako."

"Yeah."

"I'm sorry."

"For what?"

Korra stood a few feet away to look at him, "In my fake memories, when I was in the south pole recuperating, I got letters from you, Asami and Bolin. But, in all of that time…I never wrote to you. Or Bolin for that matter. I only wrote to Asami."

Mako seemed a bit surprised by this, but not shocked for he knew these memories were fake. Still, to Korra they were very real.

"For a long time I kept asking myself why I only wrote to her and not you, and…then it hit me. I was in a very dark place and felt I had lost so much already that, writing to you would be like being reminded of what else I had lost. I couldn't tell Bolin because you know he can't keep a secret, and because I never knew the Mane Six, Asami was the only other female friend I could relate with at the moment. Every time I tried to get the courage to write to you, I couldn't without pouring out my feelings in some way. I didn't know if I was ever going to come back or if you had already moved on with your life, so sending your letter…it would've been like loosing you all over again." tears began to roll down eyes eyes as Mako wiped them off with his thumbs. "I'm so sorry."

"Hey, hey, it's okay. It's okay." he wrapped his arms around her, showing she was safe in his arms and that she was never going to lose him again. "You have nothing to feel sorry about."

"My point is, it doesn't matter how my life would have been…my love for you was never going to change. I thought those memories meant that we wouldn't have worked in another life…but I was wrong. Thankfully. Even if we were just friends, the important thing is that I have you in my life."

Mako smiled and he could feel is own eyes start to water too. "I'm thankful to have you in my life too. You mean everything to me."

"You don't sometimes feel like you gave up too much because of me?"

"No. Because of you, I became a better person. You're not just my fiance Korra…you're also my best friend."

Korra's tears escapade once again, "You're my best friend too. I love you."

"I love you, too."

They leaned in and their lips touched in a sweet loving kiss….until….

"Guys!" Asami came running at top speed and stopped to catch her breath, "Guys! I have--oh, sorry did I interrupt something?"

Korra and Mako simply laughed it off, "What is it, Asami?" Korra asked.

"Well, I wanted to let you know that me and Bolin worked things out."

"You did? Congratulations!" Korra said as she hugged her friend, but after she did she noticed there was something different about Asami. Her smile particularly. "Wait a minute. I know that smile."

Before long the two girls shrieked to the top of their lungs, jumping happily like little girls. Mako was confused by this action, "Hey! Hello, yeah, I don't speak "shriek" so what's going on?"

Instead of giving him as straight answer, Asami just spread out her ams and hugged Mako. "Bring it in, brother!"

Mako then put two and two together, and he too screamed for joy. "Alright!" he hugged Asami tightly, practically lifting her up before placing her down. This was such great news; now the four of them were going to become an actual family!

The rest of the Mane Six ran out and joined in the fun, screaming like maniacs. Happy, happy manics.

"Why are we screaming?" Rarity asked.

"I don't know, but it's fun!" said Pinkie Pie, while jumping for joy.


*(~)*

Romans 8:1-4~

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

*(~)*