#linbeifong x reader

[gabrielsellesty]

,,Sometimes you need to let someone take a control...-"

A bit something small 💙✨

[fyregrayfong]

Could you write a angst turned fluff for Lin x female or gender neutral reader?

Bonus points if the reader is a firebender. You don’t have to tho :)))

okay, so I’m gonna have to split this into parts because weeee boi 

do I write a lot.

Fun Fact: This story was a piece I was thinking of adding to my Book 4 of See You At The Station Series. Idk If I will still use it, but I did change the Reader to a fire bender per your request. ;)

Reunion (Lin x Reader)

This is set after the whole Zaheer (within the three year gap)

“Thanks for agreeing to accompany me tonight, Cin” you gave your date a gentle smile

“If I didn’t, you would make some excuse to leave early. What of our potential investors and buyers?”

You laugh as you fix your collar while looking at the rearview mirror “It’s always about business with you.”

“Here let me help” Cinder offers and reaches over to fix the collar laying it out then flattens out the suit jacket. Your cheeks slightly blush of the close proximity. Cinder slowly looks up and meets your eyes.

You clear your throat as you straighten up “thanks”

She gives you a warm smile as she sits back into her seat and puts on her seatbelt “don’t mention it. Let’s go”

Asami was invited to attend a state dinner in Republic City as she has been coming up with plans on modernizing Republic City's Central City Station. Asami had a stroke of inspiration on the tram designs and wanted to work on the ramifications. So she couldn’t attend so you offered to go as a representative for Future Industries. Rather than attend this dinner by yourself, you decide to take Cinder.  The Head of Automotive Interiors for the Satomobile. You and Cinder, a firebender, have become friends in the past six months after going through a bad breakup. You decided it would be a good idea to bring a fellow designer to talk up the next line of Satomobiles while you talked about the business.

Walking up the steps into the government building where the state dinner was being held. You smoothed down your suit jacket and let out a deep exhale. “You good?” Cinder looped her arm around yours giving your hand a gentle tap. Looking over you nodded your head “yeah, all good.” you reassured her and gave her a smile before walking the both of you toward the doors giving the guard your invitation.

“There’s president Raiko, we should introduce ourselves” Cinder looks at you and she starts walking both of you towards his direction. “Mr. President” Cinder approached and Raiko’s brows raised as he saw you giving you a big smile, “Captain y/n! So nice to see you here!” he extended his arms.

You smiled politely before gently correcting him “that’s former Captain, Sir. I no longer hold that position, remember? I’m now working along with Ms. Sato at Future Industries as partner and Head Designer.”

You and Raiko grab each other’s forearms in greeting as you give a firm shake “Right, sorry Ms. y/n, but is it okay if I call you Captain still? Despite the trouble in the city you held that position well. Wonder what happened.” He spoke as his security team covered him, keeping him safe while the perimeter was protected with RCPD’s finest. He took out his metal cigar canister taking one out.

“Uh...sure I guess although I’m not sure how the current Captain will take it” you looked around before looking back at Raiko as he is looking for a lighter “oh allow me Sir. If I may of course”

Raiko looks back at you and gives you a nod and you flick your finger, a flame coming out. An officer approaches to stop you but Raiko puts his hand up to prevent him as you continue lighting the cigar for him. “Thank you, Cap”

“Anytime, President Raiko.”

Cinder nudges you and fakes a cough giving you a cue “oh right so sorry” you apologized and turned dropping your arm down as you direct the attention to your date. “Mr. President, I would like to introduce you to Cinder, our brilliant Head of Automotive Interior of our successful satomobiles. She has been working diligently with our creative team on creating a beautiful car in the next season.”

Raiko gently shakes Cinder’s hand as she gives him a smile and respectfully bows “Mr. President, pleasure to meet you.”

“Oh no the pleasure is all mine. Are you two?” he eyes and points at the two of you. Your cheeks slightly blush “no no, sir. Purely business associates. We’re friends of course but just colleagues.” you clear your throat trying to bring down the head to your face.

“My apologizes”

“It’s okay, I understand with my arm around hers and our clothes slightly matching. I’m also from the Fire Nation.” Cinder tries explaining and you gently put your hand on her back and whisper in her ear “I think that’s good Cin.” you smile at President Raiko as he nods understanding “I don’t judge.” there’s an awkward silence before Raiko’s assistant comes up and whispers in his ear. Raiko speaks up, turning back to the both of you “Well I hope you enjoy the state dinner.”

You and Cinder bowed to the president before Cinder rubs her eyes “I blew it didn’t I?” she whispered. “Noooooo not at all.” you tried to assure her when she glares up at you and you laugh softly “it’s okay. He’s going to forget about it by the end of the night.”

A waiter with a tray of drinks comes by and you grab two glasses handing one to Cinder “Here this should take the edge off” you pass her a glass and watch as she downs it quick then grabs the one that you intended for yourself and downed it as well.

“Uh...that was for me…” you looked at Cinder then down at the two glasses in your hands

“Crap, I’m sorry”

“No worries, this isn’t my kind of drink anyways. Feeling better?” another waiter comes by and you set the two empty glasses on the passing tray. Cinder gives you a wide smile and nods “loads better. We should be meeting with these important officials on transporting vehicles for sales.” Cinder grabs your hand and tugs you along, but you stop. “Woah, how about you speak with Ambassador Zeng from the Earth Kingdom while I grab myself a drink from the bar.”

“Seeing as I took your glass back there. Fine. See you soon” Cinder gives you a smile before she heads over and approaches Ambassador Zeng.

You sigh as you near the outdoor bar unbuttoning your suit jacket as you wave a hand at the bartender, “a Pegu Club please” you order and the bartender nods as she starts pouring some gin, curaçao, lime juice, and bitters into the shaker with crushed iced. She starts giving it a good shake before pulling out a chilled cocktail glass and pouring the drink in it, finishing it off with a twisted lime and hands it to you. You gave her a nod and raised the drink in appreciation before taking a sip. Once you savored the alcohol you felt your shoulders relax.

“New haircut? Surprised to see you here”, it’s been a while since you heard that voice. It still gave you an effect as you felt the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. You inhaled before turning around and placing a smile on your face, “Chief Beifong, I’m sorry I can’t say the same. Figured I’d run into you sometime throughout the night, but it seems like you ran into me.” you calmly spoke as you took another sip from your drink.  

“Pegu Club?” she eyes the glass then up at you as a little bit of your facade escapes but you try regaining it and look away. “Yes, it is” you tap on the glass.

“At least some things never change...” She looks away at the surrounding scene, before her eyes look back at you. Noticing your physical changes, for once you’re dressed in a fire nation suit and your hair once long in length has been cut short. It looks nice on you, Lin thinks. Though the thing she couldn’t stop looking at were those eyes she missed. The bright amber eyes that seem to look like glowing embers from a fire. Sometimes it brought a shiver down her spine in the way you looked at her at night.

“It’s a favorite-” your voice brings her back from her thoughts and she looks back at you.

“I know….” a sudden softness slips from her voice, causes you to look up and meet those jade eyes. It causes you to lose your breath for a second that you need to take another sip to regain some control. Pegu Club was one of your go to drinks and Lin would often order it for you at restaurants and even tried to prepare it for you at home. Home.

“It’s good to see you Lin-I mean- Chief Beifong. I should get going. I left my partner alone long enough.” you stepped forward and started walking when Lin grabbed your arm to stop you “that Fire Nation girl you gallivanted in with? You sure have a sweet spot for fire nation don’t you?” she looked at you talking under her breath.

“What are you insinuating?” you looked down at her then darted your eyes around to make sure no one was eavesdropping. Lin doing the same. “Say it”

“Don’t act daft. First Iris and now her.” Lin put an extra emphasis on the word and you arch your brow up. Lin thinks you and Cinder are together. Is she jealous?

“You don’t know what you’re talking about, Lin. Please let go.” you mutter back and Lin’s grip loosens as you smooth the sleeve and button it up. “Now, if you excuse me, Chief. I have business to attend to” you bowed your head and walked away. Lin watched you go and pinched the bridge of her nose as she cursed herself for acting like this.

-/-

After talking to various ambassadors and important officials at the dinner making influences and possible deals with the neighboring cities and nations. Cinder and you decided to leave a couple of hours early before the festivities were to end.

“If you wanted to stay, I could have left you the car and I could’ve called a cap” you smiled as you walked Cinder down the steps to the valet. “Nonsense, what fun would I have with you gone.” she nudges you and you laugh nudging her back.

“I’m glad you came. I needed a friend tonight and glad you helped with the pitches. Hopefully we’ll hear from the assistants tomorrow morning on scheduling test runs and meetings.” you talked as the valet driver handed you the keys and you opened the door for Cinder. Cinder smiles and gives you a kiss on the cheek before squeezing it “look at you opening doors for me. So cute, but I could’ve done that myself” you laugh as you rub your cheek “I know, but let me do something nice.”

Cinder rolls her eyes and gets in the car as you close the door for her and starts walking around to the driver’s side. You open the door before looking up and see Lin talking to one of her officers and she turns her head and looks at you.

You sigh and tilt your head down on the roof of the car before you run your hand through your hair, “I’ll be right back, I forgot something” you told Cinder before you stepped back and walked over toward the Chief of Police as she orders the officer back to their post, “leaving so soon?” she folds her arms as you exhale “uh.. Yeah busy morning at work” you slide your hands in your slack pockets. Lin looks over your shoulder then back at you “is that what you’re calling it?”

You roll your eyes and look away “you can just say it Lin”

“Say what?”

“That you’re jealous for starters.” you smirk a bit as Lin rolls her eyes and shrugs “I’m not.”

“Sure, so you insinuating falsely over the relationship between my colleague and I twice in one night has nothing to do with you being jealous.” you pulled your arms out and folded your arms looking at the chief of police. The night late and a sudden chill with a couple party goers starting to leave and head to the valet.

“I have work to do” Lin snarls as she drops her arms and starts to turn. You step forward and touch her arm but quickly retract it “If you want to talk, really talk. I’m going to head back to my office after dropping Cinder off”

“Cinder?” Lin pursed her lips and you sighed getting the car keys from your pocket “office”. You sternly looked at her before you turned and walked back to the car. Getting in the car and starting it up “everything okay with the Chief?” Cinder looks at you as you slowly let go of the clutch and apply equal pressure to the gas, driving out of the area “yeah, just wanted to check up on former bosses. It was nice to see the chief” you look straight down the road as you drive away from downtown. “That lady scares me. She’s so intimidating.” Cinder taps on the window then decides to roll down the window as you let out a chuckle “yeah, she can be, but once you get to know her she isn’t all that bad” you turn a street and drive down the bridge until you reached Shassa Village. “You had to live in one of the fire nation neighborhoods.” a light chuckle as you looked at the street signs. “Well do I need to remind you that I am a fire nation lady” she ends in a sing-song tone.

“Yeah, but just because you’re from the fire nation doesn’t mean you have to stay in a fire nation borough.”

Cinder shrugs and smiles “it reminds me of home. Is that a problem?”

“No, of course not” you smile back as you pull up to Cinder’s townhome “alright, here we are.” you shift the gear stick in park, “thanks for the ride and for tonight”. Cinder gets out of the car and closes the door “See you bright and early tomorrow morning” she taps your car roof then walks up the steps and opens her door to give you a wave and you wave back, driving off.

-/-

Rubbing the back of your neck as you stare at your drafting table looking over the sketches you drew in the past two hours. Drinking the glass of whiskey you’re holding then rubs your eyes. It’s been the third straight night that you’ve snuck back to your office to work. Stifling a yawn then quickly blink as you set your glass down and grab your brush and softly brush off the eraser shavings from your drafting papers and get your pencil and compass to work on the new satomobile’s curves. You were planning on presenting a new line of satomobile, a luxury line. This new car would be sleeker with curves, integration of phones into the cars into the Public Switched Telephone Network of Republic City, and a better radio system.

-/-

Lin was able to secure and made sure everyone left the area safe and sound while her men checked surrounding areas. Saikhan approached the chief “I saw the state dinner was a success.”

“It seems it had” Lin gruffed back as she watched her men work

“Were my eyes deceiving me or did I catch Cap in the night? Did you request them to help us with the security intel?” He looked at the metalbending officers packing up the squad cars before looking at the chief.

“No, former captain y/n was here as a guest. It appears Ms. Sato couldn’t make it so y/n had to come as a representative for Future Industries.”

“Some snazzy date they had” he commented and Lin glared at Saikhan “apparently they’re just colleagues” she muttered and Saikhan nodded “So you two talked?”

“We ran into each other at the bar earlier in the night”

“Did y/n want their job back? As much as I hate to admit it, they were a damn good detective and leader” he gruffed as he folded his arms.

“No, let’s head back to headquarters. I don’t want to hear a word from your wife about how late I’ve kept you. All because you wanted to gossip.” Lin dropped her arms and started walking away, thinking back to her interactions with you throughout the night. Never forgetting how you looked and worked around the room.

-/-

You looked up at the clock and noticed it was nearing 2 in the morning. “I should leave now and get some sleep on an actual bed”, you muttered to yourself as you stood up from your drafting table and walked over to your desk to grab your jacket. You turned around to look out your office window as you fixed your sleeves and collar. A part of you was upset that a certain chief of police didn’t show up, although you understood. She had a job to do tonight and she most likely had better more important things to do. You sighed then finished off the whiskey left in your glass before setting it down on your counter. As you’re cleaning up your desk you hear the door open across from you “I’m sorry Jed. I know I promised to leave sooner, but-” you shuffle some papers into your portfolio.

“If you’re going to keep Jed up this late. He should get a raise or at least buy the poor boy a coffee. He was practically asleep when I saw him”

Your eyes widened as you placed your palms on the desk and slowly looked up. Lin standing across from you. Slowly stand up straight and walk around your desk “We provide our security with the amenities. I would have to check up on that later.”

For a second there was silence between the two of you and you were unsure of what to say “I wasn’t sure you would show up...”

“Neither did I...”

[fyregrayfong]

Hi! How are you? Hope you're doing great beside the boredom:D

I was thinking about some LinxReader thing and I came up with a scene where Lin is at the market and she's staring at some type of steak for a special meal with Katara (she wants to cook a traditional south water tribe dish to make her second mother feel at home) and the reader came behind her and helps her to pick the right one. After that encounter there are some other occasions for them to meet (I leave at your imagination to do the magic lol) and well Lin is intrigued and want to try and give the reader a chance.

Okay, I'm really bad at these things :')

okay, so I’m gonna have to split this into parts because weeee boi do I write a lot. 

The Market (Lin x Reader)

This is set after the whole Zaheer (within those three year gap)

Lin’s brows burrowed as she looked at the vast variety of cuts at the meat market this morning. She learned from Tenzin that Katara was coming in from the South Pole in the evening. Deciding that she would want to prepare her mother figure with a meal. Surely she remembered how to recreate the dishes Katara taught her when she was a little girl.

Though it has been decades since she’s prepared a traditional meal. Since becoming Chief, she has tended to keep at the quick meals or whatever Saikhan would force in her hands that his wife “accidentally” packed extra for. After the third time she was quick to realize the gesture.

Lin pursed her lips as she looked at the different cuts of fish. A passerby walked up and stood beside her as they also took in the sight of the fish.

“Hey, Jin. How fresh are the fish?” the stranger asked the merchant.

“Hey-Ho y/n!! Just caught these freshies this morning.” Jin smiles as the stranger nodded and caught interest at a cut of Koi. The stranger looked over and caught the chief of police in a pensive thought. They motioned Jin’s assistant to package up the Koi they picked up before stepping towards the esteemed Chief. “You seem to be thinking quite a bit for a fish” you spoke then gave her a soft smile.

“Hmm? What? Oh yes I’m... trying to decide what to pick” Lin muttered as she focused back at the stand. “Right....” you turned to look at the fish as Jin’s assistant came with the fish wrapped up in brown packaging as you thanked them.

“Excited to hear what dish you’ll create with this dish, y/n” Jin’s assistant smiled brightly as you placed the wrapped up fish into your ice chest. “Yeah, I’m thinking of maybe baking this piece in some ginger garlic marinade.”

“How did your last dish go?”

“The seaweed noodles with steamed halibut? Oh it came out really good. I wasn’t sure how it would come out when I steamed the sea prunes with the fish, but I was glad it came out good. Gave it a nice sweet and savory taste” you smiled as you picked up the ice chest and pulled out your wallet to pay for the fish. “Thanks so much” you smiled as the assistant bowed and walked back to the register.

You turned around and pursed your lips as the chief was still standing around.

“Well, what are you preparing? Maybe I can help you decide” you offer.

“I don’t need help. I’m perfectly fine.”

“Sure, I’m sure you have it all under control” you smirked as you couldn’t help but watch Lin look at a fillet of halibut. “If it’s the halibut you’re eyeing, keep an eye out for white, glossy flesh. You'll also want to avoid any brown spots on the white flesh” you comment as you eye a piece in the back and pick it up looking around for any imperfections and check the skin. “Like this one… it’s perfect” you smile then slowly set it down where you grabbed it.

“I didn’t ask but thanks I’ll keep that in mind” Lin grumbled then looked down and noticed the ice chest. “What did you get?”

“Oh just a piece of Koi. Figured I’d try earth kingdom today” you wave her off as you look down at the chest then back up at her.  

“Today? What do you normally cook?” Lin looked at you confused. She can’t really pinpoint your nationality from your all black attire, but she noticed your bright green eyes and she could have sworn there were specks of gold or amber.

“A little bit of everything, I guess? I come from a mixed family. Earth and Water parents, but I also have some fire on my dad’s side. So I grew up eating different dishes.” you looked around as you explained.

“Ah so that explains the seaweed noodles and your knowledge on halibut” Lin muttered as she turned to face the fish.

“So you heard that? Eavesdropping, are we chief?” you smirked as you turned to look at her and Lin’s eyes widened a bit. “It’s not like you kept your conversation low. The merchants across the street would hear you.”

“I’ll keep it quiet next time then. y/n” you introduced yourself, she extended her hand and gave each other a handshake. Lin lets go and picks up the halibut you picked up earlier “so this one is perfect, hmm?” Lin analyzed it for herself. “Yeah, perfect for Republic City’s chief of police.”

“So you say” she looks at you

“So I say” you eye Lin back not tearing your eyes away from hers

“I’ll take your word for it then” Lin looks up and motions for Jin to wrap up the fish.

“If it’s not then so help me Raava I don’t get locked up.” you joked

“I don’t think Raava would be able to help if this fish isn’t up to those perfect standards” Lin quipped up and you quieted down feeling a sense of doubt for picking the fish.

“Well….I mean maybe there is another that might be better?” your voice suddenly shaken as you look back at the other piece.

“Are you questioning yourself now?” Lin’s brow raises and hides her humor behind her voice as she folds her arms.

“What? Of course not” you stand up straight and look at Lin trying your best to look confident.

“How about this? I’m always around this market during weekend mornings. If that fish didn’t come out then you’re free to lock me up for some crazy offense.” You smirked as you looked at her eyes

“If it does?” Lin pays and thanks Jin for the halibut before looking at you. “Well you get to say thanks and I get to see the chief again.” you smiled as Lin placed her fish in her ice chest.

“For Raava’s sake you better be right, y/n.” Lin mutters before she walks off.

-/-

Next week rolled out and you were picking up some fresh vegetables and fruits. You were checking on how firm a mango was when you heard a voice “I see Raava has graced you”.

You put the mango in your basket when you turned around “Chief, glad to see you” you gave her a smirk as you packed some more food into your basket. “Grocery shopping?” Lin stepped forward as she grabbed some kale as her eyes glanced down in your basket.

“Yeah, figured I’ll shop for the week” you responded back as you grabbed a bunch of kale “so from that comment earlier I can safely assume the fish came out nicely”.

Lin looked at you and gave a nod “yeah, the dish was a success. Great reviews.”

You gave her a smile and nodded back “I’m glad everything worked out for you chief Beifong.”

“Lin”

“Pardon?” you looked at her as Lin grabs some grapes and puts it in her basket “My name? It’s Lin. You can call me Lin”

“Oh...right. Well Lin I’m glad it worked out. Are you prepping for another dish or just shopping?” you tried to carry on the conversation without being too weird or awkward.

“Shopping as well. Too busy during the week.”

“Right...protecting and serving the city. If you ever want some good food I know this small diner on the corner of 3rd and Yang. They’re open pretty late.”

“What do they serve?” Lin decides to engage as she grabs a couple of  fruits as she places them in her basket. You shrug and rub the back of your neck “A little bit of everything. It’s a little hole in the wall so not many people know about it” you reach in your pocket and hand the merchant a couple of yuans for your groceries.

Lin’s brows furrow as she thinks about your recommendation.

They did recommend the fish and they seem to know about food. Maybe Lin should listen to them.

“I’ll check it out when I can” she looks up as she also pays for her groceries.

“Sounds great”

-/-

Since that time at the market you and Lin would run into each other on the weekends and slowly the conversation would change to a shop or a diner nearby. Chatting about Lin’s line of work and when she would ask about you, you would answer the question but revert the attention back to her or change the subject. Lin felt slightly suspicious of the action, but felt that some people preferred their privacy to something she understood.

There was one Saturday morning the conversation ran longer than usual, both you and Lin were in a heated discussion on the pro-bending tournament. Either of you refusing to believe your teams would lose

“Eel Hounds are going to win the finals. They have only missed one game and that was because of that dumb ref” you exclaimed as you get your cup of tea and took a sip. Lin more relaxed shakes her head waving you off “no, you’re wrong. The Komodo Rhino have an equally strong offence and defense to win the finals.”

You smirk as you look at Lin “well I’m not budging on my choice”

“Me either”

“Well we can agree to disagree.” you bring the cup back up to your lips“but the Eel Hounds are going to win” you quickly say as you take another sip. Lin picks up a piece of sweet pun and throws it at your face. You laugh out as you catch it then glance at your watch, your eyes widening.

“Shit…”

“What? I didn’t mess your clothes right?” Lin looks at you confused as she notices your change in demeanor.

“What? No no. I’m late. I was supposed to be back at work before noon.” you reach down into your wallet and take out a couple of yuans.

“I got this.”

“Fine, this can be a tip then” you give her a smile as you pull your jacket on.

“Are you going to be in trouble?” Lin stood up as she paid the check

And you shook your head “nah, I just have this deadline that I cannot miss. I’m really glad we did this. Let’s do this again sometime” you smile as you touched her arm before stepping out the shop.

-/-

It’s been two weeks since that last interaction and Lin was busy with knuckling down on Triad business. After the recent bust she felt like she could relax a bit. Lin managed to finish her work early. She looked at the clock as she walked down the bullpen seeing 11:15pm. Walking down to her car and driving towards her nearby apartment she kept during the week. She remembered of that place y/n mentioned and decided to drive by it. Surely it’s already closed, most shops aren’t opened this late in the middle of the week. Surprisingly the diner’s lights were still on and Lin’s stomach started to rumble. “Shit, I forgot to eat lunch” she muttered and decided to pull over. Maybe this was a good time to try out this little shop in the alley.

While Lin stepped into the shop a couple walked out and nodded at the chief. Lin found the shop now empty which was to be expected and a voice rang out, “I’ll be right with you!”.

That voice…..

“What can I do for you” y/n appeared from behind the kitchen doors and stopped. The only noise being from the saloon doors swinging. y/n standing there in a black chef’s coat and black slacks.

“Lin…”

“y/n”

[fyregrayfong]

The Reunion || Part 2 

word count: 1,507

Part 1

cw// smoking

Taking a moment to take in the image of Lin standing in front of you. You take a stand from your desk and welcome her in. “You always knew how to make an entrance, have a seat.” you smirked as you walked over and placed your empty glass on the bar counter.

“It’s not like I asked for it. I hate the attention” Lin stepped forward as she closed the door and took a seat at the couch adjacent from the desk.  You let out a small laugh “I feel like a small part of you likes it.” you retort back as you prepped some tea and used your firebending to heat up the water. Walking back towards the couch and taking a seat across from Lin on the other couch. Placing the tea set on the coffee table between the two of you.

Once the three minutes were done you poured the tea into the cup and handed Lin a cup “just like you liked it” you muttered as you looked at her. Watching her reach out and take the cup from your hand before you sit back and take a sip of the black tea.

“It’s been a while…” you begin as you place the cup on your knee. Lin put the tea cup on the table and got up “this was a mistake...I shouldn’t have came”. Walking towards the door when you hurriedly put the cup on the table and rushed over to her, but careful not to lay a hand on her. Respecting her space “why did you. There had to be a reason” you called out to her and watched Lin stop with her hand on the doorknob.

Because I missed you, Lin thought

“don’t know” she stated out flatly

“Right” you ran a hand through your hair as you looked over at your desk and kept cleaning up. Lin took the opportunity to look around. Remember how your office at your shared apartment looked, always messy but you swore that everything made sense.

Flashback:

“How does this make any sense to you. There are papers everywhere!” Lin laughs as she looks at the different piles scattered all over your office. Then looks over and notice you furrow your brows while in a deep concentration on a sketch. “I know...I know...love. It looks disorderly, but I swear there is a system here” you look up at Lin, who is standing by the doorway and give her a bright smile. Lin shakes her head and smiles back...

Lin bites on her lip a bit as the memory came back and she turned away from you. Lin unsure what to do with her arms if to fold them, put them on her back, or keep them at her sides. She looks over at your drafting table where she keeps your plans for what seems to be a new satomobile.

Finishing packing up you glance over to where Lin is and you start to internally panic “uh….it’s not finished” you walk over to her.

“It looks nice...a new project?” Lin sounds interested in your work. She always had whenever you would talk about Asami’s ideas and your creative mind on how it would look. Lin would dabble in painting while you sketch to your charcoal pencils.

“Yeah, a personal project. It’s what kept me busy these past….months.” you muttered as you cleaned the eraser and pencil shavings.

“What is it exactly? I know it’s a car but what makes it different from what we have out in the streets?”

Lin looks down at the schematics, her lips pursing as she reads the notes and admires the details before looking up at you. You glanced away before Lin noticed you looking at her as you cleared your throat “right, umm this is a more luxury model. I modeled after the busy...er... career folks.” you walk closer towards Lin standing beside her as you start pointing out your ideas. “As the busy gets bigger, there is always work to do. So this car will have basically everything our everyday business owner will need. It has a better radio, a phone, for business calls, better transmission, smoother ride, the overall look will be sleeker and sexier” you explained along as you stared at your sketch proud of your work. Lin caught that glint in your eye and noticed how animated you talked and she honestly missed hearing your voice.

“You’re sure all of this will fit in your satomobile?” Lin raises a brow once she realizes you’re done talking.

You nodded determinedly “Won’t stop until it’s like how I imagined it. That’s why I haven’t presented it to Asami yet.  I’m working with an engineer on how to implement a phone and we’re getting close.” you looked over and gave her a soft smile. Lin’s lips matched yours and your eyes glanced down at her lips before you diverted your eyes somewhere else. “I hope it’s to your liking, chief” your tone back to professional. Lin was caught off guard before she blinked and questioned you “my liking?”

“Well you were the general idea” you turned around and walked toward the window behind your desk as you took out a cigarette and lit it. Taking a puff before turning around and facing the chief of police. “I was?” Lin now was clueless as to what you could mean. Did they design a car for me?

“Well as Chief of Police you’re constantly on the job so….” you shrugged a bit “this car could be your personal car with the amenities that can give you what you need to keep working and moving” you leaned back against the window as you folded your arms.

“You made me a car?” Lin raised her brow and dipped her hip to the side in disbelief. “You were in mind but not just you. Other workaholics like you. I seem to remember being upset not being in the constant know whenever you would drive from the apartment to the station.” you teased as you took another drag from the cigarette.

“You’ll be surprised just how much development I can miss from that drive” Lin says dryly as she rolls her eyes, bringing her arms up and folds them across her chest.

“Well hopefully if all things go well with my plans, this car will help.” you give her a smirk before putting the cigarette out on the ashtray on your desk. You lick your lip gently as it dried out from the smoking.

“What does your girlfriend think about it?” LIn asks you and she notices your whole body language changes. “She’s not my girlfriend” you muttered as you looked down at the desk “I’m pretty sure I’ve told you that.”

“Does she? I saw the way she looked at you” Lin says as she thinks back at how Cinder would look at you. The subtle gestures, the hand touching the excessive laughing at your jokes. Your jokes weren’t that funny. Okay, maybe they were but hearing her laugh at your jokes just made Lin....upset. It didn’t feel right....

“She can look all she wants. We’ve already discussed it. It’s not going to-”

“you’ve discussed it?” LIn cuts you off and you look up at her a slight tint appears on your cheeks.

“Yes, she spoke of interest, but I refused” you kept it professional as you stood up straight.

“There’s nothing to stop you” Lin’s face now looked unchanged, emotionless, preventing herself from feeling anything than the anxious feeling that you could be with another. She couldn’t really do anything, you were free to do what you wished. Be with whoever, there was nothing between the two of you any longer. The decision was made and now both of you were living with it.

“Right” you scoffed as you run your hand through your hair “is this how it’s going to be between us?”

You drop your hand as you sighed. Lin turned around and folded her arms “there’s nothing between us”

“It was going so well and now you’ve made it awkward between us, Lin!” you exasperate as grip the back of your leather desk chair. “It used to be so easy to talk. Now the tension is so dry a wildfire can easily be set off” you flick a small flame from your fingers and watch it spark before putting it out.

“It’s our reality now” Lin takes a step towards the center of the room

“It didn’t have to be and you knew that” you stood up straight as you turned to face your former lover.

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“You know exactly what.”

“Then say it”

“That our relationship didn’t fail because of lack of love, Lin. It was forced to break because of fear.”

“I wasn’t scared” Lin said matter of factly as she folded her arms

“Then what was it?” you scoffed in disbelief

“I was being cautious”

Shaking your head at the reasoning you grabbed your bag and coat before heading to the door.

Lin put her hand on your forearm to stop you “where do you think you’re going?”

“I’m leaving”

You head towards the door when Lin gently tugs your forearm to stop you as she looks right into your eyes.

“I’m leaving” you whispered again, softer this time.

[fyregrayfong]

(I just really love these fan arts so since this is a pinned post... I attached these art pieces from artist @tinaducain​) 

See You At... (Lin x Reader Series Masterlist)

This goes along the seasons of TLOK and contains scenes and dialog from the animated series.

TLOK 1: Hesitate

You move into Republic City wanting to serve your life purpose of saving and protecting. You decide nothing would be better than joining the RCPD. How will your relationship with the Chief of Police progress as the city gets taken over by an evil force lead by a man known as Amon.

TLOK2 2: Under Pressure

Six months after the Equalists Revolution, tensions start to rise in the South Pole with the water tribes. Friendships and relationships are put to the test when trust is questioned. How will you and Lin find some ground as you try to set some foundation to your new sort of relationship. Can you handle Lin or will you hesitate and lose patience.

TLOK 3: In These Arms

Lin Beifong has finally come to terms about her feelings about you and made the next step. The both of you are trying to develop this newfound relationship when the sudden re-emergence of airbenders is causing disruptions in all the nations. Things start to take a turn for the worse when one of the people who was gifted air bending turned out to be the notorious criminal Zaheer - the man responsible for the attempted kidnapping of Korra when she was a little girl. It turns out he is part of a group of dangerous anarchists who wants to overthrow the world's governments and the Avatar.

How will Chief Beifong, you and the rest of Team Avatar be able to handle this new villain? Will it come between you and Lin?

Lin x Reader One Shots:

Hold Me, Even For A Moment Not Bad

Happy New Year, My Love

Lin x Reader Prompts

The Reunion (Angst/Fluff) || Part 1 Part 2

The Market (FTL)|| Part 1 Part 2

One Shots

You are you and I am me || Bumi I meets Bumi II

Beifongs Keep Their Promises || Lin Beifong & Iroh II

[fyregrayfong]

Lin x reader request: Happy New Year, my love

I’m so sorry I’m publishing so late. I am so blocked so I literally took all day to try and write something for this request. Hopefully I did not let you down. Luckily this will be the last fic of 2020!!! So this is a milestone in itself. 

It’s currently 11:16pm where I’m at so it’s still 2020. So I still accomplished getting this request in the year. 

Hopefully you like this one anon. If not....I’m sorry *tears*

Happy New Year, My Love | Lin x Reader FF

Word count: 2510

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

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

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

*

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No one should be alone for the new year.

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

*

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

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

*

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

*

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

*

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

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

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

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

*

“10!”

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

9

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

8

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

7

No, this is not the time.

6

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

5

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

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

4

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

3

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

2

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

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

1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“what?”

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

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

“Of course, I do.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Happy New Year, my love” you whisper as you smile lovingly at your beloved. Lin pulls you into another kiss; and Lin knew at that moment, that if this year was even half as good as it was at this moment... then It was going to be a very good year.

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 1: Captain 

Artwork by @tinaducain​

You dodge a slab of metal sheet coming your way and run before sliding across the floor and pushing yourself up. Bringing up your fist you slam your earth gauntlet on the ground causing a wave of earth to barrel towards Lin. Lin bends up a wall of earth to block, jumps over and sends a punch your way. You lean back to dodge when Lin swings her leg under you knocking you down on your back and you groan out. Lin walks over towards you and straddles you putting your arms above your head as she pins you down. “Yield?” she smirks as she looks down at you as you admire Lin’s body on top. You nod your head after bringing your eyes to meet hers “Yeah, I yield”. Lin blushes as she catches you looking at her body and stands up and smirks then lifts her shirt to wipe some sweat off the inner corner of her eye “What’s the matter, rookie? Can’t keep up?”

As you get up your eyes look down at Lin’s amazing abdomen flexing and glistening in sweat, slightly biting your lip. Lin catches you looking again, and scoffs putting her shirt back down forcing you to focus back on “I’m pretty sure I’m no longer a rookie” you laugh as you unwind your wrappings from your arms.

“Then what are you?” Lin asks, causing you to look at Lin confused “Did you get hit hard back there? I’m a lieutenant”

“Not anymore”

“What?” your eyes widen as you drop your binding wrap on the bench. You try to think of any reason for why you’re no longer in your position. “wait...If this was about that bust on the Agni Kai last week. It’s not my fault Shin blew our cover and made it ten times more work than it needed to be.”

Lin smirks and lets out a laugh as she folds her arms, she loves making you sweat “You’re being moved up to Captain”

“Wait, I’m being… promoted?”

“You passed your civil service promotion to captain exam. Though I didn’t like how you and Mako handled the Varrick case. You chose to listen to your instincts and trust a low ranking officer rather than be blinded by your title and rank. Putting your jobs on the line was reckless, but you chose to keep going anyway. I need more people like that in my team, especially in the higher ranks.”

“Thank you, chief.”

“You deserve it”

“Captain…it is easier to say. It just rolls off the tongue.”

“It sure does”

Your eyebrows perk “Chief?”

“Captain?” you walk towards Lin and both look over at the door to make sure it was closed before putting your hands on her waist and both of you lean in and share a kiss.

“Is this why you wanted a private sparring match with me?” you pulled back a bit and grinned

“I had to knock you down a bit before giving you the news” Lin shrugs as she wraps her arms around your neck and smirks “You can knock me down as much as you want” you whisper brushing your lips against hers as you lift her up and kiss her deeply. Lin softly laughs against your lips and urges you to put her down so you both can freshen up and get back to work.

           “Oh, can you get Mako so I can give him the news that he’s being promoted to detective” Lin asks as she walks out towards the door. “Sure, chief” you smile as you pack up your gym bag, and Lin smiles back “Thank you, Captain ”. Your eyebrow raises as you bite back a grin and your cheeks redden. Lin is going to be the death of me .

*

Walking down the hall after your shower and changing back to your uniform you look for Mako at his desk. “Mako, chief’s looking for you” you give him a stern look as you put your arms behind your back. Mako starts to look nervous as he slowly gets up looking around at the other officers who are snickering. “Did she mention anything” he asks as he walks around the desk and starts walking to Lin’s office. “Nope, but… good luck” you whisper but don’t look at him keeping a straight face. Once you reach the door you open it for him allowing him to step in first before closing the door after you. “Chief, Mako is here for you” you announced as Lin puts her glasses down and leans back in her chair, “Do you want the good or bad news first?” Lin looks at Mako in a cold stern face. Mako shoots you a look and you shrug “I would probably start with the bad news you’ll end it with a good note”. Mako sweats a bit and nods “Good idea.. uh the bad news chief” Lin groans slightly and leans forward in the desk “Well unfortunately you’ll no longer be needed as an officer.” Mako’s eyes widen as he hears the news “What?!?  But I thought…I thought I was doing a good job on the force”. Lin waves a hand and eyes him “Well you thought wrong”. Mako looks down defeated and upset “Oh…thanks for the opportunity, chief” he turns towards the door grabbing the door handle. You turn to him and stop him putting your hand on his shoulder “Don’t you want to hear the good news?”. “No, I’m good. I don’t think anything will be good after losing a job” Mako looks down and you smirk letting a laugh escape your lips “Who said anything about losing a job? You’re not fired” Mako jerks his head over to you confused “What?”. You look over at Lin and give her a look to end the ploy and she groans standing up from her chair “Your paperwork got processed and it’s been finalized. You’re officially a Detective.” Lin gives Mako a gentle smile. Mako lets out a sigh of relief and bows to Lin “Thanks, chief. I won’t let you down”. Lin gives him a wave to dismiss him and he leaves out the office and you close the door after him. “That was good, chief” you look over at her and she gives you a look before smiling a bit “Get back to work”

“Yes, chief” you coo as you give her a salute before walking out the office closing the door after you. You walk over to Mako and give him a smile “Well congratulations are in order here, Detective.” Mako sighs and smiles “You two really had me there. How did you know?”

“Chief told me the news after promoting me to Captain. Consider yourself lucky, she told me after sparring me.”

“Oh…congrats, y/n”

“Thanks, let’s just hope we don’t have to do any more secret sting operations anymore. I would like us to keep our jobs” you give Mako a stern look as you rub the back of your neck.

“Same”

“Alright well I got to head back to work. Keep it up” you dismiss yourself and head back to your office.

*

After Harmonic Convergence you and Lin made the decision to take the chance and see each other romantically, sort of dating but you both decided to keep it under wraps for now. Your apartment was part of the buildings that got taken over by the spirit vines so you’ve been sort of living with Lin. Tenzin and Asami both offered you a place to stay, you figured with a lot of bodies at the air temple it would be best to stay with Asami plus it would be easier to keep the secret going and get to Lin if you stayed inside the city. After a couple of nights of not showing up to your room at the Sato estate, Asami had growing suspicions of how far the relationship had developed between you and Lin.

After kissing Lin goodnight you decide you should head back to the estate and spend the night there. Stepping into the grounds you sneak inside the mansion and creeped back to your room. A light turns on “You might as well have stayed over at this point” Asami laughs as she folds her arms sitting on a recliner. You looked over at the clock on the wall and saw it was three in the morning, you tried to keep your cool “Oh hey, Sami…I was just getting a glass of water” you stood up and rubbed the back of your neck. “Really? Seems awful like you’re trying to sneak in after spending time with your girlfriend.” She laughed some more and shook her head. “Whaaaa?! Wait…. how’d you know she’s my girlfriend?” you blush then your eyes widen and you try to backtrack “Wai--”. “Aha, I knew it! I didn’t but you just confirmed it” Asami jumped out the chair and pointed at you. “Shit…” you muttered as you hung your head down “Okay, you caught me” you put your hands in the air. “You really weren’t that slick to hide it. You come home late with your clothes all disheveled than when you left even when it looks like you try to smooth it out.” you both exchange a laugh “You happy huh?” Asami quiets down and you smile sliding your hands in your pockets “Yeah, very much so. Haven’t been this content in a while”. “Well nice going, Beifong is a catch.” She smirks. As she folds her arms.

“Asami!” you gape at her and point a finger at her eyeing her

“You can’t tell anyone. we’re keeping it quiet right now - no one can know. Especially not Team Avatar, Korra and Bolin will never shut up about it if they find out.” You groan then smile and let out a laugh.

“Why? it’s a good thing. We’ll all be supportive of it.” Asami walks towards you and puts a hand on her hip.

“It’s new, we want to enjoy it before being put on the press or hearing it from the group.” You shrug and run your hand through your hair before resting it on the back of your neck.

“I understand and respect that, and my lips are shut.” Asami assures you as she puts her hand on your shoulder.

“Thanks, I should head for bed. You should too. No more busting me….” you give Asami a glaring smile then groan rubbing your face “I should let Lin know about this… she’s not going to be happy.”

*

Walking up the steps and taking a deep breath before knocking the door and waiting for an answer. The door opens and Lin looks around “You were supposed to be at the station.” Not waiting for her to greet you when you step inside and close the door after you, “We need to talk”.

Lin folds her arms and looks at you “What’s wrong y/n” she looks at you concerned. You pace around the room a bit before looking up at Lin “I know we agreed to keep our relationship a secret, but—”

“I knew you weren’t okay with it - why didn’t you say something?” Lin snapped as she rubs her eyes. You shake your head and hold her hands into yours “I wanted our affair quiet, but Asami figured it out” you look at Lin sorry for blowing your cover. “how?”

“She caught me… she was waiting in the sitting room to catch me sneaking upstairs. Apparently she’s been keeping tabs on how many times I’ve been coming home late.” You sigh and look at Lin.

“Asami isn’t going to say a word, Lin” you assured her even though you could see in Lin’s face that she was upset and scared of being found out. “We need to talk to her. Make sure she isn’t going to say anything” she looks at you.

••

The past eight days with you have been the most fun Lin’s had in years and the blooming relationship sometimes has her feeling like a teenager. Lin asked you to keep the relationship a secret and you’ve been more than understanding and even agreed to keep it from everyone else for the time being. It surprised Lin at first at how maturely you handled it, your age did come into question as she thought you would want to show off since most young adults like to go out and be seen. She thought you would have to be convinced, but you accepted no questions asked. “Let's just enjoy ourselves first before bringing people into our affairs”. Lin heard you say as you took her hands into yours. Lin blinked surprised at how quick and easy that conversation went.

••

“Sure, I think Asami is still home” Lin grabs your wrist and pulls you out of the house and both of you go to the Sato estate.  

Butler opened the door “Madam y/n…Chief Beifong” he addressed the both of you “Did you forget something madam?”you greet him as you and Lin step inside to let the door close “No, Butler we’re actually here to talk to Asami before work. Is she still here?”

“Yes, Miss Sato is in her study. If you can follow me” he starts to walk the both of you before you stop him “It’s okay Butler. I know the way to the study” you bring your arm out and guide Lin to the study up the stairs. “Before we go in there. Please tell me you’re not going to go fists in the air” you whisper as you grab the door handle looking at Lin. Lin rolls her eyes and gives you a huff before you sigh and open the door with a smile “Sami, hey, how are you doing” you force a smile as you look at Asami then look at Lin.

           “Hey y/n, um Chief Beifong. Nice to see you too” she greets the both of you. “Let’s cut to the chase,” Lin butts in and your smile drops as you groan, putting your face down. “Cut to what chase?” Asami looks from Lin to you as you bring your face up and look at Asami, “We’re here—mostly Lin—to talk about the new development you’ve learned about the two of us” you motion between Lin and yourself. “Oh…” Asami sets her pen down and puts her hands on the desk as she stands up. “Well if this is about me telling anyone. Like I told y/n, I will not expose your relationship.” she speaks assuring Lin. “You’ll swear to secrecy?” Lin glares at Asami to which both you and Asami share a weird glance then back at Lin. “Excuse me?” Asami looks at Lin as she folds her arms slightly amused by the situation. “Honey is that really necessary?” you speak out only receiving a glare from Lin when you call her honey in front of Asami and you step back hiding a smile. you cover your mouth as you look at Asami and give her a soft nod to continue to play along. Asami inhales and nods “Yes, I’ll swear to secrecy” she puts her hand up and promises. “If I ever find out anyone finds out that they heard it from you I will arrest you for treason.” Lin peers over Asami in an intimidating tone. Asami looked over Lin’s shoulder, and you shook your head quickly assuring her that Lin was bluffing. When Lin looks over at you, you quickly stop and just give her an innocent smile. Asami got the gist and assured Lin that she will not speak a word about your relationship to anyone. “Oh so Raava help me” she gave Lin a soft smile.

           Driving back to the station you peer over to Lin as she sits in the passenger seat, “Well I think that went well…. everyone made it out alive, unscathed.” You joked softly as you turned back into the city limits as Lin doesn’t say anything. “Lin, if anyone had to find out from the group. I say we were pretty lucky that it was Asami. Anyone else and news would have spread faster than we could take a breath.” You look over at Lin again and she seems to be calming down and sighs deeply “you’re right, Asami is the least of our worries in that bunch”. You smile reaching over to give her hand a kiss, hearing Lin give in as you pull up to her apartment and get out to get to your cycle. “I’ll make it up to you for my mishap” you give Lin a smile as she rolls her eyes and slides over to the driver’s seat. “I’ll see you at the station” she calls out as you say it back while you put your helmet on and give her a thumbs up as you follow behind.

*

Looking over at the new recruits as they train and you’re barking out orders watching out for their stamina and agility through the course. You sigh at how many of them aren’t any better than the ones the previous day. “Alright head to the showers. You all are pathetic.” You bark out as an officer hands you a clipboard, “These recruits aren’t ready to go out onto the field” you mutter going down the list of recruits, writing down notes besides ones that caught your attention and others who were a mere disappointment. “Captain, the Chief is looking for you” an officer salutes standing at attention and you pinch the bridge of your nose “Very well”. Handing the recruits over to another colleague to beat them into shape you make way over to Lin’s office. Some officers acknowledge you and greet you as you step into the office before closing the door with a soft click. “Chief” you greet Lin but notice she’s on the phone and puts her finger up to quiet you. You stay standing while putting your hand behind your back as you hold onto the clipboard. Another minute and Lin finishes the phone call and returns her attention to you “Captain, how’s training with the new recruits?” You step up and hand her your clipboard “It’s hell. It seems like every time we let recruits join they get worse”. “You just have to train them harder” she reviews your comments and notes, “what about this one…uh Sheng, it says he shows promise.” You nod as you take a step forward towards her desk “Yes, he’s one of the better ones. smart, agile, still needs improvement though.”  

“With these spirit vines we’re going to need more officers” Lin groans then puts the clipboard down “These recruits just need to get whipped into shape. They’ll be ready for the field” you reach down and get the clipboard. “You seem to be fitting well into your new rank” Lin looks over at you and smiles. “It’s an adjustment but I’m fitting in well” returning her smile.

*

Peace and tranquility fill your mind as you breathe in the evening air of Republic City from Lin’s terrace. “Evening, Captain” you hear your girlfriend’s voice coming up behind you waking you from your meditation. You smile then open your eyes to lift your head up and look over to see Lin walk to your side as she sets down a cup of tea on the table, “Evening, Chief”. Looking over at the cup you reach over and take it close to your lips and smell the aroma

“Spearmint?” you look over at Lin before taking a sip. “Figured you’ll want to end it with some stress-reducing tea”.

“Thank you. that’s considerate of you.” you take a deep breath before looking over at Lin “Funny story…. Bumi is planning to knit his spirit pet a sweater”

Lin scoffs a laugh “really? Do spirits even get cold”

“I don’t think so, but it’s sweet”

“It’s dumb”

“It gives him something to do. Tenzin mentioned he’s retired from the United Forces”

“Tenzin isn’t all glad about it. He still wishes Bumi rejoins.” Lin smirks causing both of you to chuckle while continuing to enjoy the night.

“You should join me for a session. It would help with the stress you’ve been having.” you smirk into your cup as you take another sip. “I have other ways to relieve stress if you want to join me for a session” she gives you a sly smirk as she leans against the doorframe “If it’s under my responsibilities then who am I to refuse my beautiful girlfriend” you eye Lin and watch her movements. She turns away from you and slowly walks away bending off her armor as she makes her way to the bedroom, “I’m waiting, Captain”. You bite your lip as you watch Lin walk away and set your cup down on the table. Quickly stand up, stepping inside the apartment and close the door before rushing after Lin. You step in the bedroom and grab Lin’s waist and turn her around to face you and kiss her deeply. Lin wraps her arms around your neck before bringing her hands down and starts grazing her nails up your abdomen lifting the hem of your tank up. The sensation of her nails causes you to gently bite her lower lip and a soft moan escapes her lips. She lifts your tank up and pulls it off of you before she plants her palm on your chest and pushes you back with a knowing smirk on both of your faces.

*

Sitting up in bed swinging your legs over the side as you look for your tank, Lin looks over and softly brushes her fingers up your back causing you to shiver as you fix your tank to put it on. “Just when they’re about to heal I end up opening them back up” she smirks as she looks at the scratch marks she’s left along your back “I wonder why” you deadpan “You should get them healed by a healer.” She mutters as she brushes her fingers along a fresh scratch mark “And say what? That I got attacked by a possum-chicken?” you laugh “Besides I like the burn, it’s a reminder of who put them there” you bite your lip as you turn over to look at your lover and lean towards her “You,” you growled as you dip your head to catch her lips, “Are the most amazing woman I’ve ever met.” you kissed her again, lingering for a moment before searching for your tank and slipping on some boxer style underwear letting out a groan as you get up. “I’m going to get us some water, feeling quite parched from that backbending session” you smirk and quickly duck out of the room before Lin can throw a pillow at you.

Sitting back in bed after quenching your thirst and handing a glass to Lin then looks down at the cup before speaking “It’s nice that at least someone knows about us and they that support it…it makes it feel more real” you bring the cup back up to your lips and take another sip. “Real?” Lin peers over at you as she sets the glass on the nightstand which causes you to nod “Yeah, like this isn’t some sort of evil dream that I don’t want to wake up from”. You gently tap on the glass before setting it aside. “It’s not a dream” Lin whispers as she looks at you and you return her glance, the both of you lean in and share a kiss “Thank the spirits it’s not” you mumble before cupping her cheek and deepening the kiss. Lin licks your bottom lip before pulling back “I need to clean up” she mumbles as she gets off the bed and walks to the bathroom.    

You bite your lip and smile as you watch Lin walk away as she wraps her robe around her body heading towards the bathroom. Lin has been far more open to you and affectionate behind closed doors than before. You were wondering whether Harmonic Convergence had anything to do about it or the fact that Lin got laid. I’m going with the first option. If it was Harmonic Convergence you have to make a plan to thank a passing spirit.

[fyregrayfong]

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

Forever yours, y/n

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 2: Resolution

Artwork by: @tinaducain​

          Standing on the dock you look up the long incline and sigh then make your way up the Island. After a while you decided to bend a raised square platform from beneath you and use it as a lift. You get to the Temple much faster and bend the platform back to place. The first person you see is Bumi sitting on a bench in the gardens. “Hey there Bumi” you walk over to him and wave. “y/n, hey!” he pulls up his half knitted sweater “How’s it looking?” he smiles brightly. You look down at the knitted sweater and give him your best smile “It’s cute. I’m sure Bum-Ju will love it!”.  You smile as you keep walking until you feel a little rumbling of feet approaching and you ground yourself wincing. Meelo and Ikki run and tackle your legs “y/n! Are you staying here? Wanna play with us? How’s Republic City?” Ikki jumps tugging on your hand while Meelo airbends himself up and piggybacks on your shoulders. “Woah guys, slow down” you laugh as you calm Ikki “Hi Ikki… Meelo. No,but sure we can play, The city is doing okay.” Ikki and Meelo grab your hands and lead you down to the gardens. For about a couple hours you spend talking and sending Ikki and Meelo in the air by launching them with columns of earth. Korra and Bolin join in after a while and Bolin thought it would be a good idea to build a small maze for the kids to run through so the three of you built a rock maze for Ikki and Meelo. “Alright you kids ready? Whoever wins gets Korra’s dessert!” you smile at Ikki and Meelo “Hey!” you hear Korra yell out “I didn’t agree to that!” you shoot her a look and she frowns folding her arms “Fine”. You look over at Bolin and shoot him a thumbs up as he starts the countdown and the kids run off. You walk over to Korra and stand beside her “You know you’re allowed to get more dessert” you laugh.

           Tenzin walks up to the scene and looks curious about the game “Well at least they’re not causing a mess around the island” he comments. “y/n, nice to see you. I was wondering if you could accompany me for a walk” you look over at Korra and Bolin before looking at Tenzin “Sure, Tenzin” you wave at the group and follow Tenzin. “I hear you’ve been promoted to Captain. Congratulations” he smiles and you blush slightly “Thanks, but it’s just a title. I’m still y/n. Though it’s nice to be recognized for the work I’ve put into the force.” You smile sheepishly. A moment of silence eases between the two of you as you reach the wooden pavilion, the both of you look out and enjoy the scenery, “I never got the chance to thank you for accompanying my siblings and I in rescuing Jinora”. You shake your head slightly and put your hands up “You don’t have to thank me. Jinora was in trouble. I would have done it no questions asked.” You give him a gentle smile causing Tenzin to sigh and nod giving in “Still it is nice to give thanks for someone’s actions.” You nod understanding “I understand, I…no problem. Anytime you need help. I’m here”.

           Tenzin glances at your direction before slowly walking into the pavillon “I also wanted to talk to you about what happened in the spirit world…” he spoke tentatively with a gentle expression on his face. “Sure, what about it?”

“How much do you remember from The Fog? It’s perfectly fine if you’re uncomfortable talking about it…” he looks out at the scenery not wanting to cause any discomfort to you. Your gaze goes to the ground as your eyebrows furrow “Um…just remember seeing my dad…making comments about the past…” you tried to not say as much details. “If this is something you don’t want to talk about I understand, forgive me for intruding” he turns to face you. “Did something happen in The Fog with me?” you ask softly as you turn away from Tenzin as he gives you a nod. “You referred to me as your father and mentioned that it wasn’t worth it…” a sharp inhale fills your lungs as you look up to the scenery in front of the both of you as you grip the railing closing your eyes. “Before The Fog I had this preconceived notion that I was the cause of my parent’s death. Everything went downhill when I got into an altercation with some schoolboys that left me scarred on my left bicep and shoulder blade.” You cuff up your sleeve to show Tenzin the burn mark on your bicep before putting the cuff down then sigh as Tenzin keeps quiet, listening to your story. “My dad passed then my mom followed shortly after, my two sisters and I were split up between our guardians. I was set to stay and live in Ba Sing Se, but…”

“You didn’t want to live in a place that was a constant reminder of what you’ve lost…” Tenzin finished your sentence causing you to glance his way before nodding slowly and looking down,

“Yeah, I left and traveled the world. I guess trying to fill whatever I was missing. It wasn’t until after The Fog I spoke to my sister who told me the truth about what happened with my parents. They were just trying to move us into the middle ring to some place safer, but he got infected by an untreated cut and passed away. My mom couldn’t handle the grief and passed from a broken heart. I’ve been trying to come to terms with it and find some closure.”      

A silence settles between the two of you before Tenzin speaks up “I’m sorry for the life you’ve been dealt. Not many people can endure and rise above like you have done. I am glad that you have found resolution from your past. Mediation could help you further in finding enlightenment and clarity. If you wish to have some guidance Kya can also be of assistance, she’s a meditation instructor.” Tenzin puts a hand on your shoulder and your eyes well up, tears forming “That sounds nice, thank you, Tenzin”.

“Of course, You’re always welcomed to visit the island, y/n”. You felt that the good thing about Korra coming to the Republic is since her entrance. Everyone has formed somewhat of a dysfunctional family with our airbending family, the 'Gaang' kids, Team Avatar, Lin still needs some convincing . . . and now you.

“I appreciate it, Tenzin. I should go actually, I need to get ready for work.” You smile as you wave Tenzin goodbye and head down to the dock to return to the city.

*

Word got around that president Raiko wanted to hold a press conference regarding the rising tensions on the spirit vines covering the city. A large portion of the city has been taken over by vines, apartment buildings, shops, and even City Hall. You’ve taken your post to stand behind Raiko’s side next to a column as he tries his best to answer the reporter’s questions. A male reporter raises his hand and begins, “Mr. President, are you concerned that your approval ratings are now nearly as low as the Avatar's? Have you seen today's headline? It says, "Raik-Oh-No. Polls pan, Prez plans!"

A grimace appears on the president as he listens to the reporter, getting irritated before composing himself, “I'm not concerned with snappy put-downs in the press. I'm facing this calamity just like every other citizen. There's a tree growing right through my office. You think I'm not doing everything I can to get rid of it?”

It just so happened to be the moment that Korra flies down on her glider and walks over towards the podium. The reporters start their wave of questions towards Korra and the president,

“A few questions, please!”

“Avatar Korra! Do you regret the way you handled the Unalaq crisis?”

“Why are you forcing the integration of spirits in Republic City? “

Korra tries to ease the reporters and places a hand on her chest, “Listen, I've been trying everything I can think of to get rid of these vines, but-“

“Why can't you fix this?”

“Are the vines here to stay?”

“Is this part of your New World Order?”

Korra tries her best to keep up but gets annoyed and speaks up “Look! Harmonic Convergence was just a couple weeks ago. I just need a little more time to get everything back to normal.” Raiko speaks up suddenly relieved the fault isn’t targeted towards him “The Avatar has put us all in a very difficult position, but my administration- “

Korra confused by Raiko’s sudden finger pointing and irritably interrupts -

“Oh! I'm sorry. Did I put you in a difficult position by fighting the giant force of Pure Evil that was going to destroy the whole World?” she grabs Raiko by the chin “Maybe your administration” she moves his chin up and down slightly “Could've handled that!” Raiko and Korra glare angrily at each other. You wince watching the scene putting your hand down as you cover your face embarrassed for the both of them. Not in front of the reporters, they’re going to have a field day with this you think to yourself.  You step up as Lin separates Korra and Raiko apart. You put your hand on Korra’s back and bring her aside as Lin speaks to the reporters “That's all! No more questions!” The President storms back into City Hall and Lin gives Korra a look, “That…. could have gone better but it could’ve gone worse….” You try to put Korra at ease and you’re glad to see Asami walking up the steps. “I should get back” you wave at Asami and head back to the other officers working the remainder of the night at the station while Lin stayed with Raiko on security detail with the spirit vines.

*

You check the clock on your desk with a groan, rubbing your eyes as you stand up and grab your jacket to head out. Closing the door, you walk out the office and head down the hallway. There’s a shuffle behind a desk and you stop dead on your tracks as you peer over and see Mako. You purse your lips as you slowly walk around the desk and give Mako a slight nudge with your foot “Mako?” you speak softly causing Mako to jump in his sleeping bag. “Oh y/n it’s you” he breathes out as he calms down. “Again? This is the third night now. What the flame-o are you doing here?” you ask as you take a seat on the chair at the desk nearby, “I’ve been sleeping at the station…” he smooths out his sleeping bag, “Yeah I get that but why? Tenzin offered you and Bolin a place at the island…” your comment causes Mako to shrug “It’s weird...besides I’ll be closer to work” - he comments as he sits on his sleeping bag and you nod “If you make it weird then it will be…” you sigh then push yourself up and push the chair under the chair “Yeah okay…well goodnight. Don’t bust too many triads tonight. Leave some for the rest of us.” You give him a smile before glancing up at Lin’s door and see her light still on then look back at Mako as he lays back down. You pull out your wallet and take a couple of yuans out and leave it with a note

“You probably don’t need this, but make sure yogurt yourself fed. Chief wouldn’t be happy if her best detective gets sick.” - y/n

Sliding both through the crack of his desk drawer,  before heading to Lin's apartment.

           After getting done with your night routine you’ve been lying in bed waiting for Lin to come home. Sleep starts to take over and you doze off after an hour you get woken up by a door opening from the bathroom and Lin in her robe, “You’re home” you murmur as you sit up a bit and turn the lamp on from the nightstand.  “Sorry I didn’t mean to wake you” Lin spoke as she brushed her hair and took her robe off, setting it on her chair and walking to the bed in her pajamas. “Nonsense, I was waiting for you” you smile as you watch her. Lin lays down beside you and you open your arms to her. She creeps into your arms and lays her head on your shoulder as you share a kiss before running your hand down her arm. Both of you settle down and hold each other close enjoying the peace and quiet, “So Mako is staying at the station again” you whisper while you rub the curve of Lin’s back.

“Seems like it. I’ve left him so food once” she grumbles

“Wonder how long he’ll last before he wishes to be on a bed. His back will hate him” you grimace thinking about the times you slept on a floor or ground.

“The beds on the island are hard anyways”

“Don’t know how they sleep on them” You both laugh softly “How long will it take for Mako to push past this awkward phase?”

“Hmm?”

“Well since Mako and Korra broke up he’s been weird around her. Even more since Korra and Asami have been hanging out. I get they’re exes and it could be weird but they’re still friends.”

“Not my problem so I don’t care. They can figure it out on their own” She mumbles against your chest as she dozes off to sleep.

You’re right” you rub her back softly as you dip your head down and give her another kiss before dozing off to sleep.

*

“I understand that you have meetings with president Raiko over the spirit vines and approving the new zoning areas, but if you could swing by for a couple minutes and give some words at the academy from their Chief.” You pass Lin your reports, the new week's patrol schedule, and the update on the arrest books. Lin looks over your work “You made sure everything is up to date?.” Lin puts on her glasses and your lips curl up trying to hide your smile. You always thought she looked cute with her glasses on.

“Yes, the arrest book is set. I personally made sure”

“What about the—”

“Chief!” Mako bursts into Lin’s office interrupting your meeting. “Mako what have I told you about bursting into my office!” she barks out at Mako. “I know but you’re not going to believe it. I ran into an airbender.”

You let out a laugh “You sure it wasn’t Tenzin or air kids?”

“No! It's a random person here in the city! I witnessed it personally.” He walked in more inside the office as he looked as you and Lin shared a glance.

“What do you mean?” Lin looks at Mako

“I got a call early in the morning and when I got to the scene I got knocked down by a door being knocked off its hinges by a powerful gust wind.” Mako reported his findings and your mouth drops “Could it be possible?” you mutter.

“I’m not sure how but we should tell Tenzin immediately” Lin puts down her glasses and gets up.

*

Approaching the temple you notice everyone is already outside watching Bumi punch the air and you have a slight amused  and confused face deciding to play with him as you dodge an attack “Woah watch out Bumi, it almost got me” you quipped. Lin walks to Tenzin and turns around to continue looking at Bumi “Invisible spirit monster attack?”

“Lin! You won't believe this. Bumi just started airbending.” Tenzin looks at Lin

“What?!” you comment as your eyebrows raise. Mako and Lin have similar facial expressions and the three of you look at each other then turn to face Tenzin.  

“I'm afraid he's not the only one. “ Lin comments as Tenzin, Korra, and Asami simultaneously react “What?”

Mako joins in “I got a call last night about a guy who just started airbending out of nowhere.”

Tenzin walks up to the three of you “You mean there's another one? Where is he now?”

Mako slightly blushes as he rubs his neck “He... blew a door down on me and got away. We've got an all-points bulletin out on him right now.”

The three of you start to walk off while Mako gets pulled back by Korra “We'll help you look for him. Where should we start?” Mako gets nervous and rubs his neck again and gets awkward “Oh, well, you know, you should... You should leave it to the police. It's... police business, you know. It's, um... official.” Lin and you are standing behind Mako while Tenzin, Asami, and Korra look at Mako incredulously. There is a large amount of awkward tension in the air and it seems like Tenzin, Lin, and you all have the same idea and slide away from the scene and leave the exes on their own. You slightly lean over at Lin “Well that was exciting…Let’s talk to Bumi maybe we can get some more information to help find the other guy” you whisper and Lin nods “Good idea” you subconsciously put your hand on the small of her back and guide her towards the siblings but Lin stiffens and quickly reaches back to swiping your hand away. “Oh sorry” you drop your hand and walk ahead, approaching Bumi who was standing with Kya “So you’re an airbender now, cool congrats” you smile

“Explain to us how this happened exactly” Lin folds her arms as she catches up.

“Bum-Ju and I had a little fight. I made him this sweater, --oh I finished the sweater—“he pulls the sweater out from his jacket pocket and shows you and Lin, you nod at his work politely “And he didn't seem to like it. And I'll admit it might need work, but it was my first attempt at knitting. So I was a little hurt.”

“Get to the point, Bumi” Lin rolls her eyes and groans

“Right! I was climbing a tree that was on the edge of a cliff when the branch snapped, and I started to fall. I was screaming when all of a sudden I started airbending, preventing my fall…well I still fell down hard and it still hurt but it was amazing!” Bumi exclaims as he tries to airbend but to no avail.

You exhale deeply “Well nothing like falling to your almost death to bring out hidden bending powers” you chuckle a bit

“But how is this all possible? Airbending developing randomly out of nowhere” Lin questions the group

“Maybe it’s a result of Harmonic Convergence? The world is balancing out by creating more airbenders.” You try to think of a possible reason.

“That’s possible…I think” Kya folds her arms and thinks of your hypothesis

“Well I guess Kya can’t mother you about not having special non-bending powers” Lin mutters as she gives Kya a smirk causing a laugh out of Bumi while Kya gives Lin a scowl “I do not mother!”

“You do too! You’re just like mom!” Bumi interjects with his sister. “Oh forgive me for looking out for you Bumi! I don’t want you to get hurt or worse, killed!” Kya huffs as she turns pursing her lips.

“Well now with airbending he’s less likely to get hurt though the chances are never zero” you suck in air through your teeth as you rub the back of your neck.

“Mako’s done let’s go” Lin walks away and heads towards the dock

“We’ll be on the lookout for any new airbenders” you look at the siblings before waving goodbye “Hey Asami are you heading back? We can give you a ride” you call out to Asami.

“Thanks but, I’m actually going to hang out with Korra” Asami smiles and waves at you as you nod and join Lin and Mako to the boat.

*

“Is it possible that new airbenders are popping up in the city?” Mako asks the two of you.

“It sure seems that way” Lin comments as you drive the group back across Yue Bay.

“This is a good thing. More airbenders in the world….” you speak up as you look at the city in front of you. A world with more airbenders. It seems like the world is helping Tenzin out and also creating balance.

[fyregrayfong]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Avatar: Legend of Korra Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Lin Beifong/Reader Characters: Lin Beifong, Bumi II (Avatar), Kya II (Avatar) Additional Tags: New Year's Kiss, New Year's Eve Series: Part 2 of Lin x Reader Summary:

Lin x Reader Request It is your first New Years with Lin, but as Chief she has to work.

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 17:Anointment

Summary:

It's has come to the day of Jinora's master ceremony.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

“It’s fine.”

“Is it okay if I take a seat?”

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

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

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

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

“With what?”

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

“Yes, I’ve heard”

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

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

“Asami takes me on walks….”

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

Ikki glares at her brother “Sandalwood, Meelo.”

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

“She's not looking good.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Crowded much?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“So you’re overwhelmed?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“And now?”

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

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

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

“I should put it back then”

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

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

“Fine I’ll read it to you”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

An inside voice answers back, Barely.

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 15: The Red Lotus 

CW: Blood and violent fighting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“How?”

“Are you sure?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kai frowns and gives a frustrated sigh.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Yeah, I’ve flown Oogi before remember”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“That's it! Down there, Lefty.”

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

“My leg…” she says weakly

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

“Otaku”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

*

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

“You have no water. It's over.”

“Not yet.” she gives him an evil smirk

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Taken down”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Probably”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Poison….Zaheer poisoned Korra.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You couldn’t help but feel guilty that because of your encouragement, Korra sacrificed herself - you feel somewhat responsible. You take a deep breath as you look up at the metal frame of the bunk above you and think of how lucky it is that everyone made it out somewhat alive.

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 12: Investigative Palms

Summary:

You and Lin go in search for the Krew.

Waking up to the feeling of a soft pair of lips kissing your shoulder, you feel Lin shift out of bed, “Not even a good morning? I deserve more than a sneak out?” you mumble stifling a yawn, sitting up and rubbing the sleep from your eyes. “I have to go back to my room,” Lin states. She turned to leave but caught sight of your sleepy doe-eyes and stopped, resting her hand on the doorframe as she fixed her left shoe. She made her way back to the bed and leaned in to kiss you goodbye, hopefully that was enough until the next time. You kissed her fully, tongue and all, placing your hands on her hips and tugging her back onto the bed. She laughed against your lips and peeled herself from your hands, “y/n..I have to go.”

“Just a little fun before you go” you whine but smile

“No, it’s late” Lin smiles

“Can’t blame me for trying,” you defended and laughed. “I’ll meet you at the airship. I’m just going to close my eyes for a bit.” you pull the covers up over your face, as Lin walks out towards the door as she calls out, “We’re on a tight schedule so you better not keep us waiting, y/n!”

You make a gruff noise to let Lin know you understand waving her off as you go back to sleep for a couple more minutes.

*

Fixing your sleeves as you roll them up, you make your way up the lift to the docking bay and only see Lin standing around with a confused expression on her face before raising your sleeves a bit to look at your watch, “I’m not that late. Are the kids in the ship?”

“No, I thought they would have come with you.” Lin groans and pinches her nose and you look around the area scratching the back of your head.

“Maybe they’re on their way now. How long have you been waiting?” You turn to her as you lower your hand “Fifteen minutes at most”,

“Okay, let’s wait another fifteen. If they haven’t shown up we’ll go look for them” you offer - “You’ll wait five minutes before heading out and look for them. I’ll stay here in case those nitwits show up”

“Sounds good… well I’ll check on the animals in the meantime” you walk over towards the airship when Lin stops you,

“They’re not here either” Lin grumbles then sighs and your eyes widen then turn around, “Wait what?“

“How many minutes has it been?!” Lin grabs your wrist and looks at the watch “Three minutes”

“I can’t wait anymore. Go look for them” Lin puts her hands on your waist and pushes you away “Okay, how about I go check the guest houses and you check the grounds.”

“Fine.”

After checking all the guest houses, you came up empty. No one inside, not even the animals. You scratched behind your ear, it was weird that you haven’t seen anyone and you start to get a sinking feeling in your gut. You head towards the Beifong estate and see Lin coming in from the grounds then notice Su talking to two guards on the bridge as you and Lin approach her at the pavilion.

“Where is everyone? I've been waiting to leave for half an hour.” Lin asks her sister annoyed to not have seen the teens.

“Good morning, y/n and good morning to you too, Lin. Now, don't get mad. Korra's fine. I'm just waiting to hear if she tracked down Aiwei yet.“

“What?!” You and Lin respond in unison. You’re shocked then groan face palming while Lin furrows her brows “You let Korra go?! I thought we were on the same page about this, and then you go stab me in the back?”

“Oh, don't be so overdramatic. You can't control the Avatar's every move.”

Lin storms off “I can try.”

“I can’t believe you lied to me, Su. I told you not to do it!” you exasperate causing Lin to stop and turn around “Lied to you? You knew about this?!”

Your cheeks blush slightly as you realize you probably fucked up, “Su told me about her plans--” Lin’s eyes start to narrow “--but I told her about not wanting to put the kids in danger. Su assured me that she, herself, was going to search the mountainside with Kuvira and a couple guards.” you tried explaining yourself but Lin is seething.

“And you didn’t tell me about this! When did this plan happen?!” Lin narrows her eyes as you direct her arms towards Su. You try coming up with the words “Last night after everyone left. I was going to but Su said she was going to tell you in the morning!”

Su finally steps up and stops Lin “Don’t put this on y/n. This was all me. y/n helped me under false pretenses and for that I apologize” she looks at you feeling slightly guilty for asking for your help. “y/n told me they weren't going to go behind your back again.” Su looks at Lin and watches her glance between her sister and you. You look down, your hand resting on the back of your neck upset and hurt by this whole situation “Typical Su” Lin spat out

“Wait let me make it up to you two somehow!” Su catches up to you, putting a hand on your shoulder to stop you “I can get a Jeep ready for you and you can catch up to them.”

“May Raava forgive me if any of those kids get hurt, it'll be on you, Su” you point your finger at her as you storm off.

*

Lin drives the jeep along a rocky desert path. Both of you kept quiet for the most part of the ride. “You should have told me about Su’s plan” Lin looks down the road as she passes a pothole and keeps following the other set of tire tracks.

You sigh “Forgive me for trusting your sister’s word, anyways who were those other three people with Zaheer?” you ask, trying to change the subject. Lin turns her head at you for a second pursing her lips then continues on,  “The lavabender is Ghazan, the armless waterbender is Ming-Hua, and the third eye freak is, P'Li, a powerful firebending criminal who we all saw can combustion bend.” lightly tapping on the door of the jeep as you gather the names and bending of each criminal then look up, “--wait where did the tracks go?”

Something catches your attention and you point over to the right “Over there” Lin follows the tire tracks that turn into a small shady clearing between a couple of boulders. She stops the car at the rocks and changes gears, reversing, and then turning her wheel toward the clearing. There are two abandoned vehicles “Well we found Aiwei and Team Avatar’s jeeps”. Lin pulls up, stops the car, and gets out to inspect the team's vehicle while you look over Aiwei’s. She is about to search the back seat when a flash of white jumps out at Lin. Naga snarls at the Chief who yells with surprise. “Lin!” You quickly turn around and run to Lin. You watch Naga growl, then sniff around and quickly recognize Lin,  circling around her and licking the cop's cheek enthusiastically, messing up a bit of her hair. “First you scare the life out of me, now you want to lick me,” Lin says dryly “She likes you babe” you smile as Naga licks Lin again, who wipes her cheek. You pet Naga as she licks your cheek while you look up at her saddle, “Where’s Pabu?”

As if he heard his name, Pabu pops out from the jeep, jumping onto Lin and circling around her body. Lin grabs him by the scruff of the neck and glares at the fire ferret as he whines. Lin places Pabu on Naga and reaches into her pocket. Naga sits and waits. Lin hands out a couple of sticks of dried meat jerky.  “Here, chew on this, and leave me alone.”

“Where’d you get the jerky?”

“There was a shoulder pouch filled with it on my couch” Lin zips the pouch “I forgot I bought that. Look at you going soft of them” you smile and Lin rolls her eyes “Just to get them off my back”

“Sure... I don’t blame them for liking you” you watch Pabu and Naga eat the jerky greedily before heading back to your inspection as she walks over to the radio in the jeep and picks up the receiver.

“Tonraq, you read me?”

Tonraq over the radio “Yes. We copy”

“I found Korra's jeep, but the kids aren't here. Meet me at the Misty Palms Oasis.”

You look in Aiwei’s jeep for any clues, lean down finding a crumpled up map and note seem to have blown onto the floor. You smooth out the note and read the message ‘Xai Bau’s Grove, sundown.’

This must be where and when Aiwei's going to meet Zaheer.

“Tonraq is going to meet up with us with Lord Zuko on Druk” Lin walks over to you “Druk?” you ask weakly “Dragon” she responds and you curtly nod. She notices you focused and exchanges glances between the note and map “What are you looking at?”

You hand Lin the note “This was crumpled up but it seemed to have been folded before. Maybe the kids found it and went after Aiwei.” Lin looks over the note as you smooth the map on the hood of the jeep.

“But it’s weird….”

“What is?” Lin looks up and walks over standing beside you as you scan the map “I’ve been almost all over the Earth Kingdom and I’ve never once heard or seen anything named, Xai Bau’s Grove”

“Could be a secret hideout” Lin suggests as you nod folding the map “maybe...”.

Two blue crow spirits land on the hood and caw at you, “Hi there” you smile softly then look up as five crow spirits have come to join, one landing on your shoulder and another on your head. While the other three fly around Lin landing on her shoulders and the top of her head. You greet the spirits kindly while Lin shakes them off of her, shooing them away “What is it with animals attacking me” she growls.

You roll your eyes and smile as Lin grabs your arm and pulls you towards the jeep “Come on let’s go before any more beasts show up”

You chuckle and get in “Okay, but Naga and Pabu should join. We can’t leave them behind” you call for Naga and wave her over as Lin starts the car and drives towards the town.

“We can meet up with Tonraq and Lord Zuko at the local cantina” Lin drives down the short road as you look out at the small town and gets out the car “You go on ahead. I’ll search around the town for any clues on the kids”.

“What? No.”

“Don’t trust me, Chief? I’m offended.” you raise an eyebrow and smirk, folding your arms.

“No, but it’s best we don’t separate… for safety reasons” Lin stammers and you smile  “I appreciate the sentiment but only one of us is needed for the reunion with Lord Zuko and Chief Tonraq. I’ll be back shortly.” you assure Lin resting your hand on her arm looking at her.  “Plus the animals can protect you” you quip and Lin rolls her eyes as she steps inside the cantina.

*

Walking down the street you notice a Tavern Owner looking particularly depressed as he sweeps the front of his building “Excuse me, sir.” the owner stops sweeping and brightens up a bit “Oh a potential customer”. You awkwardly smile and tug on your collar “Actually, I was hoping to ask you a question...”

“Oh...seems to be a lot of that today…” he sweeps a bit “Questions?” you encourage, and the owner nods “Yeah, two boys were here earlier asking all sorts of questions about some guy”

“Did one of them have a red scarf?” you questioned him and he shook his head “No, they were wearing yellow raincoats and goggles”

“Raincoats and goggles? In the middle of a desert?”

“Not the weirdest thing to see in these parts”

“Well what about that guy they were asking about? Was he by chance sixty, balding, wearing glasses, a long green robe, and has a piercing that goes from his nose to his ear?”

“Yup, that’s the very same description the boys came asking about. Is he some sort of celebrity or wanted criminal?”

“Uh, no….. The boys are my cousins. I was supposed to meet them here after my car broke down. I was hoping to find either one to catch a ride back to Ba Sing Se with them.”

“What about the old man?”

You wave him off “My jerk of an uncle” you try playing into your story as you look around the town “Anyway sorry to take up your time. Here's...a gold piece for your help. Thank you” you dig in your pocket and give him a gold coin before walking away. Looking for any other possible leads.

You catch a couple across the street at a nearby inn. The male nudges his female companion and the woman looks up at him, confused. He then motions his head towards you and the woman turns in the indicated direction. Your green eyes widen as you focus on the poster the lady is holding and see an image of Bolin as Nuktuk. The lady seems to notice you staring at the poster and holds it tight to her chest and she grabs the man’s arm and tugs him down the street. Your eyes follow them and start walking after them “Hey!” they run down the street with you following after them. The couple duck into an alley and you slow down and approach with caution. The female jumps out to attack you and you evade it “Woah woah woah, I’m not here to fight you!” you yell out waving your hands up

“Then why were you chasing us!” the man huffs,

“I saw the Nuktuk poster” you pant, reeling a bit from the scare.

“Oh so you saw the autographed poster and wanted to steal it from us!” The woman steps up to you causing you to put your hands up defensively and take a step back. “Wait, you say an autographed poster?”

“Yeah!” a crazed smile appears on the man’s face

“We met Nuktuk at the Inn over there!” The woman points in the direction of the inn and the man steps beside her “We're his biggest fans.” Both of them have this wild expression as she pets the poster on Bolin err Nuktuk’s face.

“May I see? I promise not to take off running” the lady glares at you and steps back “Or…you could just let me see it? I’ll put my hands behind my back if that helps” you smile, and she eyes you suspiciously “I’m also a big fan. I just want to admire Nuktuk’s autograph. You guys are so lucky!” you try in your best fan voice and the couple exchange a look before agreeing. You look at the poster with your hands behind your back and see the inscription

“Lily and Macao, Nuktuk says to always reach for the stars!”

That is definitely Bolin’s handwriting. Bolin and Mako were definitely around here.

“Oh wow that’s…. incredibly lucky!” you smile

“I know! We’re so happy. We made him a plushie doll and everything. He was so nice to us.”

You look back at the direction where the woman pointed earlier “You said the Inn was in that direction?”

“Yeah! Oh maybe he can sign something for you!” the man smiles as he puts an arm around the woman’s shoulder.

“Oh well I don’t know but I hope so” you force a smile and wave at the couple “Thank you for your help”

You walk until you find a building with a ‘Misty Palms Inn’ sign that seems to be the one the couple had pointed out and walk into the establishment and approach the check-in counter. Smiling and speaking politely “Good Afternoon. I was wondering if you happened to see my cousin, Bolin. He’s known as Nuktuk. Maybe you saw him walk around these parts?” you watch the old lady’s eyes widen

“Oh yes! But he and his friends are gone” she frowns and closes her ledger and sets it under the counter.

“What do you mean gone?” you grab on the counter and look at her,

“The two girls left on their large polar bear dog but Nuktuk and his male friend fought and got captured by some waterbender. They got thrown in a truck. Poor boy had a bruise on his eye. The make up was so realistic...I didn’t know they were filming a mover here!”

“Oh, um yes. It’s a surprise. Filming is top secret.” you quickly add and turn around “Thank you, have a nice day!” you run out before the Innkeeper can ask any questions.

Walking around the streets you find your way back to the cantina stepping inside the establishment hearing jazz music playing in the background. Lin looks up and stands up from her table as Tonraq and Lord Zuko look up following her gaze as you walk over to her at the back of the tavern.

Tonraq greets you “Captain y/n” you nod back with a handshake and squeeze on the arm “Chief Tonraq, sorry to see each other again under these circumstances”.

“That always seems the case with Korra involved” he tries to lighten the mood and you give him a slight smile before turning your attention to Lord Zuko and respectfully bow to him “Lord Zuko, it is an honor to meet you, sir.”

Lord Zuko stands and returns the bow “It’s a pleasure to meet you as well, Captain y/n.” You turn your attention to Lin who seems ready to question you, sighing and shaking your head motioning for everyone to sit, you take the seat across from Lin. “They were definitely here, but Mako and Bolin got captured by Ming-Hua, most likely taken back to Zaheer.” you look at Lin’s eyes before turning to Tonraq “What about my daughter?” a sense of urgency in his tone.

“--and Asami?” Lin asks you, her eyes slightly softening as she asks about your friend. You shrug, shaking your head once again, not knowing the answer “Korra and Asami seem to have evaded getting captured. A witness recounts seeing Korra and Asami leaving on Naga--”

“But Naga’s here and Korra isn’t!” Tonraq rebutted and you nod “I know, neither is Asami. Our only hope is that they escaped Zaheer.” You look at the three important figures sitting around you.

“Korra wouldn’t leave Naga. She will come back for her. It’s best we stay here in case she returns” Tonraq suggests and you nod “Understood.”

“Well no use worrying until they return. After that long trip we could use a good meal” Lord Zuko speaks calmly and calls for a waitress, ordering food for everyone.

*

After eating, you decided to order something slightly stronger than tea. The four of you are seated at a table at the back of the tavern. Korra and Asami run up to the table “What are you all doing here?” Everyone at the table turns their heads towards the teens Tonraq is the first to stand up “Korra, you're safe.” He shares a hug with his daughter. As you stand up and tackle Asami in a hug “I’m so glad you’re safe too” as Asami returns the gesture.

“Yeah, we made it out of the desert, thanks to Asami.” She looks over at her. Tonraq gives a nod of gratitude at Asami. Tonraq walks Korra over to Zuko as the ex-Fire Lord stands up to greet her.

“Do you remember Lord Zuko?”

“I met you when you were a very young girl. It's good to see you again, Avatar Korra.” Lord Zuko greets the young Avatar “It's good to see you, Lord Zuko.”

Lin gives Korra a little glare of annoyance “Thanks for ditching me back at Zaofu” she says bitterly.

“Yeah, sorry about that. But how did you all find us?”

“I am a detective, you know.” commenting dryly as she raises an eyebrow and you hide a snicker behind your hand.

“Did you find Mako and Bolin?” Korra looks at Lin. Lin looks over at you causing a sigh from you, as you step toward Korra

“Some people at the inn saw them get captured by Zaheer's crew.” Korra and Asami frown with concern when Lin finishes your report “We don't know where they are. “

Tonraq turns to his daughter “Did you hear about the Earth Queen?”

Korra looks up at her father confused by the question “What about her?”

The radio at the bar blares to life and everyone turns their attention to it.

“Once again, the Earth Queen's reign has come to an abrupt and violent end. Ba Sing Se has descended into chaos. Rioters and looters have overrun the palace.” The radio broadcaster announces the events going on in Ba Sing Se. Your face softens growing with worry about the family you have in the city.

“The Red Lotus” Korra looks down in quiet anger

Tonraq scowls “What's that?”

“The name of the group that's been trying to capture me and just took out the Earth Queen. I'm afraid this is only the beginning, Dad.”  she tells her father.

Ba Sing Se has fallen. After Zaheer and the Red Lotus toppled the Earth Queen’s administration, the city descended into chaos. Things just got bad.

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 3: Banishment

Thanks again to TheRoadLessTraveled for editing and Ash for beta reading.

Lost in thought, you notice that Asami and Korra have been hanging out more as of late. Asami was planning to take a drive with Korra in the city when you left Air Temple Island with Lin and Mako. It makes  you happy that she’s making friends with another girl. It was good to have more than just one friend.. Your mind snaps back to the present as you’re giving orders  to the recruits for the day’s group training session. You hand one of your officers the reins as you head in for individual interviews. As you take a seat, a bright eyed  and fresh faced young man sits in front of you as you set your interview papers onto the desk. “Mr. Paq, I just have some questions for you to start off this interview process.” You don’t look up at him before starting, jaded as you are with the process thus far. “Let’s start with the basics…why do you want to work in law enforcement?”.

The remainder of the day was filled with interviews and observing training. Ever since the spirit vines had taken over much of the city, headquarters has been swamped with a spike in gang activity and policing the public tension. Through your open office door, you notice Lin and her officers walking past, and you catch part of their conversation. , “My uncle told me the Avatar almost wrecked that building! It was about to tip over before they braced it!”

I’m sorry what?! “Yeah heard about it from my brother, he was there!” another officer joined in on the conversation. “Get back to work!” Lin barked to the officers and soon all chatter ceased. You rose from your desk and walked over to Lin’s office, knocking on her doorframe “Chief…”

“Captain” she returns as she motions you to come in

“So, word on the streets is Korra caused a building to tip over?” you fold your arms as you lean against the wall.

“Word travels fast…” Lin rolls her eyes and  groans.

“Anyone in the building?”

“We got them all out safe” Lin pinched the bridge of her nose as she started to pick up another folder of reports.

“What abou—”

“Chief…Captain!! There’s a call of a possible 10-56A over at the Kyoshi bridge, it’s the airbender Mako was talking about earlier!” Officer Song reports. You snap into action and Lin jumps from behind her desk, both of you making way out the bullpen.

“Song, gather the task force and meet us at the bridge. Further orders to come once we get there.” You bark to the retreating officer.

“Understood captain.” Song gave you a salute and ran off to scramble a metalbending force. You and Lin head down to the Chief’s squad car, sirens blaring as you peel out of the garage towards the latest crisis.  

*

Lin took control down at ground level while you and the metalbenders scaled up the bridge supports to surround the man. As the squad gets into position, you order your men “On my command  and ONLY my command. Do not engage. I repeat, DO NOT engage.” The officers acknowledge your orders with nods as you look at the man desperately clinging to a column of the bridge.

“Come down immediately, or we will be forced to take action.” Lin’s voice can be heard from a megaphone.

“Stay back! I'm dangerous!” the man yells out as he hyperventilates, looking out at the scene in front of him.

“Sir, it’s okay! We’re not here to hurt you! We ju—” you try and calmly talk to him when an officer shoots out a cable from his armor towards the man. He spreads his arms, reflexively airbending outwards, blowing all the officers off the bridge. “Sorry!” the man yells out. You yell back as you shoot out a cable to grab onto the side of the bridge and pull yourself up - gathering your footing and landing on the bridge safely. You stalk towards the officer putting a finger on his chest, growling under your breath “What the FUCK did I say, officer” You avoid making a scene, what with the press watching their every move, but you resolve to tear into the officer later.

Your eyes catch Korra flying up to the bridge and you walk away from the officer to stand beside Mako and Lin.  

“Think Korra can talk some sense into him?” you look up and watch Korra and the man you’ve learned from Mako is named Daw.

“Would help her reputation if she does” Lin comments “He’s not listening to reason. Hopefully Korra can talk him down.” You all turn to watch the scene above.

After a couple minutes of talking, Korra stretches her hand out to Daw and he attempts to take it. As he does, one of his feet slips off the ledge and he starts hurtling towards the pavement with a scream. Korra immediately throws herself off the bridge and dives after him. Catching him by the waist, Korra opens her glider just in time and they drift upwards for a moment before landing safely near the police cordon.  Tenzin walks up to the new airbender, welcoming him with genuine excitement. The police force stays back as Korra and Tenzin talk to Daw, only to be interrupted by Raiko.

“We have a crisis every other day now, thanks to you.”

Korra, surprisingly taking a calm approach, talks to Raiko while he keeps digging at her in response

“Well, you know who's not here to stay? You! I order you to leave this city. You've caused nothing but trouble since you arrived!” The crowd including you gasp with shock

“That’s a bit much,” you whisper, making a step forward, but Lin grabs your arm to stop you and shakes her head.

“We can’t interfere, it’s between the two of them.” She lowers her voice as you look at her, incredulous.

“I’m not going to talk to Raiko” you walk over to Korra and Tenzin. You listen in to her plan and you chime in to tell her that you and Mako will search for any reports of airbenders in the city and other nations. Korra and Tenzin thank you for your support and help before you turn around to walk back to Lin.

“Do you always need to meddle?” Lin groans folding her arms and you get a bit ticked off.

“When it concerns friends and loved ones, yes” getting an eye roll from Lin

*

You walk into Lin’s office after the whole banishment thing and ask Lin’s assistant to bring in some lavender tea. The assistant looks over at the chief and she nodded her assent as you take a seat across from her desk. Rubbing your temple as Lin takes a seat at her desk she pinches the bridge of her nose and you look over at her, “You do agree that Raiko’s decision on Korra’s banishment is fucking stupid?”

Lin looks up at you and gives you a glare “Language, captain. I don’t need to start hearing any more of that around the bullpen then I already do.” she breathes in and sighs “But yes… his decision was indeed stupid.”

You were about to start your rant when the assistant walked in with the tray, so you keep quiet as you thanked him as he bows and excuses himself out of the office closing the door. “I always wondered how Raiko even got the presidency but now I’m not surprised. It’s all about schmoozing and kissing ass - I mean flattery will get you anywhere in the political system.” you correct yourself before Lin can give you another look as she pours the tea into the cups and hands you one. You thank her and carefully blow to cool it down then take a sip, taking a moment to breathe in the stress-relieving tea.

“I’m not happy about it either. I can’t keep the Avatar safe when she’s not going to be within the city limits.”

“Raiko always needs an ego boost in front of the press which doesn’t help the public, so he had to make a spectacle to get back into their good graces” you spat as you take another sip of the tea.

“No use sulking about it. Don’t let it interfere with work.”  she takes a sip of the tea and you nod as you finish your cup

“Right, like I would let Raiko do that.” You roll your eyes and set the cup on the tray and stand up. “Well since Korra and Tenzin are leaving us. I guess I should get started with sorting through reports on other Airbenders. That should help them, I’ll get Mako to assist.” you voice your thoughts aloud as you walk to the door, Lin waves you off as she reads a report.

*

Mako brings over several reports from Ba Sing Se about a sudden rise of airbenders. You think up an idea, get up from your desk and walk over to the wall - taking down your map and laying it on your desk. “Wherever there’s been a report, we’ll mark it on the map.” Grabbing a marker and putting circles around the areas so far you’ve heard of reports from. Mako mentions a report in the lower ring of Ba Sing Se “That’s where I’m from” you mutter softly causing Mako to join in

“My dad was from there too”.

“Have you ever visited your family?” you ask while you go over the reports.

“No, never had the money and I was too busy trying to keep Bolin and I alive” you shrugged as he added another mark on the map, “You?” he asks.

“No, it’s been years since I’ve last visited. It’s not a place I’m particularly fond of.”

“how come?” Mako looks over at you as you read a report.

“It reminded me of what I’ve lost, my parents” you mutter, not giving much emotion as you said those words.

“I didn’t know… I’m sorry” Mako mutters softly.

“It’s okay, I’ve come to terms with it” you assured him as you walk back to the map to add another mark watching the number of reports spread, “Woah there have been this many reports?” you put your papers down and move the map towards you.

“Yeah, maybe we can give this map to Tenzin and Korra” Mako says and you nod

“Yeah, that’s a good idea” you roll up the map and hand it to Mako - he looks surprised and confused “Care to do the honors, detective?” you give him a smile as he shakes his head.

“Uh—no, you should do it since you’re captain” he gives you back the map in your hands.

You sigh and smile softly “How much longer are you going to be weird around Korra and Asami?.” You look at Mako and when he doesn’t say anything you add “As captain, I have pressing matters to attend to at the academy. You can do this…just don’t be so stiff around Korra. She’s still your friend after all.” You give him a soft smile and a pat on the back of his shoulder as you escort him out the office.

*

Dropping off the week’s patrol schedules and new inspections on personnel onto Lin’s desk, she just gotten done signing her name on a report. You take a seat and groan laying your head back, “Rough day?” Lin mumbles not taking her eyes off the papers. “Though I agree and support Korra’s decision on keeping the portals open. The rising rate of crime is something I don’t support” you groan as you rub your eyes a slight laugh escapes Lin’s lips “A price to pay it seems”. You rub your face as you lift your head and look at Lin, a slight rise builds inside you as you flick your finger and quietly lock the door as you get up from the chair and walk around the desk.

“y/n?” Lin softly speaks your name and notices you walking over to her but continues to go over her pile of papers.

You stand behind Lin and lean down, moving her hair aside and whisper, “How about we stay in tonight…” a kiss behind her ear “…watch a mover” another kiss down her neck “…or enjoy some music...a glass of wine” a kiss lower her neck as Lin sighs at the touch of your lips “Just the two of us” you softly peck Lin’s neck. “The door…” Lin whispers and you smile “It’s locked….” you kiss her neck as Lin closes her eyes and bites her lip “Just the two of us? I… like the sound of that” a happy sigh escapes her lips.

“Me too” you whisper, kissing behind her ear then grabbing the arms of her chair and turning her as you start kissing her. You pull back and something catches your attention and you look down at her desk “Wait what is that…” you sound confused “Get up…I think there’s something on your desk” you lean down and check under Lin’s desk “On my desk? What are you talking about?” Lin stands up and looks over your shoulder. “Yeah there’s something on your desk” you state, then get up and smirk as you put your hands on her thighs and lift her up to sit her down on the desk “Oh wait it’s you” you smirk while you wrap your arms around her “That wasn’t funny or cute” she glares at you and you smile pouting your lips “I’m sorry, let me make it up to you” grinning as you lean in and slowly start kissing her. She kisses you back running her hand up into your hair.  Your tongue swipes over her bottom lip, tasting her. Her lips part, your tongues dancing against one another until you pull back for breath. “I should sto….” You trail off in a whisper as your eyes stare back at her lips and you lean back in as you tug Lin’s waist closer to yours, standing between her legs.

           Her phone rings and she groans before pushing away, putting her hand over your mouth as she composes herself and answers “Chief Beifong” managing her usual tone. You peck your lips on her palm and your ears pick up and recognize that it’s Mako’s voice. You want Lin to keep working, but you're just craving to put your lips on her skin. It’s just Mako . You grab onto Lin’s hand and kiss her hand before dipping your face into her neck and start kissing it while listening in on the conversation. Lin bites her lip as her hand grips your waist while she listens to Mako. “Spit it out already, Mako” she groans - a mix of aggravation of wanting Mako to say what he wanted and also by her reaction from your lips. Mako asks her for permission to go to Ba Sing Se with Korra and Tenzin. Mako tries to give her reasons to let him go but Lin cuts him off “Yes, fine. Go” she accepts quicker than Mako thought because he stutters on the other side of the line. She tries to focus on the conversation as your teeth graze against the back of her ear, causing Lin to put her hand on the phone to muffle her little moans “y/n…” she breaths trying to compose herself again while putting the phone back to her ear “Are you done, Mako?”

“Yeah—I mean—” Lin hangs up on him and runs her hand up your arm.

“What did Mako want?” you mumble as you bring your lips to her jaw.

“A trip to Ba Sing Se with Tenzin and Korra” she breathes out as she pulls your lips to hers and you continue to  make out with her “That’s nice...” you mutter against her lips.

“Mhmm” Lin nods as she bites down on your lower lip causing a groan to escape you, “We’ll be alone in the city” you add pulling your lips back and pressing your forehead against hers “Yeah…” she breathes and lifts your face up giving you a deep searing kiss before pushing you away “That was completely inappropriate.”

“I wouldn’t have done it if it was an important call…”

“I would mark that as harassment. Back to work” she wipes her lip with her thumb and pointer finger as she slides down the desk. You groan hanging your head down, “Fine, Sorry chief”. You look over at Lin’s small mirror and fix yourself back up, you notice Lin giving you a smirk causing you to look down not feeling as bad. Making sure to wipe your lips to remove the lipstick stains then look at Lin getting back to her chair. She pulls open her right hand drawer and takes out a tube of lipstick, reapplying before you open the door “I’ll get those notes to you, chief” you spoke back in your work voice as you leave the office, surprised you just got away with that.  

*

Stepping onto air temple island after leaving work early and not wanting to be at the apartment alone you run into Kya, Pema and the kids. “Hey everyone, I bet it’s getting pretty exciting here on the island” you smile as you slide your hands into your pockets. “Yes, we are over the moon about the new rise of airbenders” Pema gleams as she holds Rohan. “I’m sure dad would be so happy” Kya adds, and you give her a sympathetic nod “I’m sure he is”. Rohan starts to get fussy and Pema turns to Kya and asks her if she can watch Meelo and Ikki while she attends to Rohan.

Meelo and Ikki notice your presence and come running over to you and start tugging on your shirt and cuffs. “Oh hey, you nibblers, I thought I was safe” you laugh as you kneel down and give them hugs. Kya steps forward “Careful guys, you can’t just attack everyone who comes to visit” she puts on her ‘aunt voice’ and you smile looking up at her, “It’s fine”.

“Come on let’s play, y/n!” Ikki jumps as Meelo does his usual jump up to piggyback on your shoulders “Yeah!”

You laugh and look at Kya “Well I guess it’s playtime, want to join?” you ask Kya and she nods “Best I come in case of injury” and you chuckle “Good idea”

           Meelo and Ikki start jumping rope while you and Kya hold the rope for a couple of minutes before the kids get bored. “How about the launching game?!?” Meelo suggests which got you a look from Kya and you wince “Uh what launching game?” Kya questions and you try to stop the kids. “Oh, y/n launches up in the air with her earthbending columns” Ikki smiles.

Kya jerks her head at you, and you put your hands in the air “I don’t launch them up high! Just enough for it to be fun, but safe” you try to explain yourself. Kya shakes her head but smiles “Well show me miss catapult” folding her arms. You sigh as you unbutton your uniform jacket off and set it gently on a tree branch before walking over to the kids and ask if they’re ready and get into position. They do so and you inhale deeply and stomp your foot down earthbending two columns and launch the kids up in the air, hearing them laugh as they start coming down. “This time launch us at each other!” Meelo runs at one side while Ikki runs to another and you shrug “Uh, okay…sure” you look at the both of them and launch them up in the air and watch as they grab their other’s forearm and start spinning around each other.

           After about an hour of playing with the kids you sit down beside Kya and catch a breath. Kya is taking in the sunset enjoying the rays as she watches Meelo and Ikki run around, “I miss having that kind of energy”

“Yeah, they always seemed to be at full charge all day.” You laugh and get up to grab your jacket before sitting back down. Kya notices the scar on your arm and her eyebrows furrow as she concentrates “Can I ask… Where did you get that mark? ” she takes a moment to ask and you glance down at it and tell her the story. “Huh…I met someone with a similar experience except the person I ran into would have had a mark on their back too…”

“On the left side” the both of you finished in unison. Kya looks at you surprised, and you turn your back towards her and lift your tank up to show her.

You turn back around and your eyes widen as you look at Kya “I knew your eyes felt familiar - you’re the healer that saved me!”

“My eyes? Such a small world” Kya says as she lets out a laugh of disbelief.

“You’re telling me.” you laugh, joining in.

“Wow, and here you are.” She motions to you.

“Here I am” you smile and rub the back of your neck “Your eyes were the only thing I remembered. They were the brightest blue eyes I saw. Trusting."

"Thanks" Kya blushed slightly and smiled you nodded and looked down fumbling with your hands "I never got to thank you, by the way. I tried looking for you when I got better, but was told you had already left Ba Sing Se” you put on the uniform jacket and buttoned it up.

“I was only there for a few days. I ran into you as I was leaving, and you were beaten and burned badly. I had to help” she spoke softly as she remembers that night.

“Well thank you. I owe you my life” you sit back down beside her as you pull your knees up and rests your arms on them.

“Nonsense, anyone would have done it” she waves and brushes off the sentiment.

“I don’t know. The lower ring is a different place. Most of the time people are just left out to die with how bad the living conditions are there.” You look down as you stop talking - silence settles between you both before you talk again “Sincerely though, I’m grateful. I’m in your debt”

“And you helped save Jinora. That debt is well paid off.” she smiles and then adds “I’ve always wondered what happened to you - if you were well. I’m glad you are. That’s all a healer hopes for.”

You smile softly as you look down slightly before glancing out at the scenery “Yeah, I’m well. Just like I told Tenzin, I would have done it no questions asked”.

Pema calls the kids inside for dinner as she walks towards you and Kya “Dinner’s ready, Kya. y/n would you like to stay for dinner?”

“Sure, why not. Thanks for offering” you smile as you get up, dusting yourself off and join the women inside.

“How’s everything at the station, y/n?” Pema starts the conversation as everyone eats their dinner.

“Hectic in all honesty. With the spirit vines there has been rising tension in the city, but that’s what’s to come when change happens. We all just have to adjust to it.” You smile softly as you push some veggies around in your plate before munching on a steamed carrot.

“What about everything here on the island? I bet it’s getting hectic here” you look at Kya and Pema.

“We’re all very excited to start receiving the new airbenders,” Pema smiles as she cradles Rohan in her arms.

“I bet” you smile as Meelo jumps up “We’re going to whip those benders to shape!” he poses as a commander “I’m sure you are, Meelo” you chuckle “What about you Ikki?” you glance over at her and she smiles excitedly “I’m so excited to be a teacher! Daddy says I get to keep my room too!” she clasps her hands together. “Well the new benders are going to need a lot of guidance, but go easy. Airbending is new to them.” You give them a smile as they listen attentively. Dinner continues on and soon Pema calls for the kids to get ready for bed while you and Kya help with the dishes.

“You have a way with kids, y/n” Pema comments as she washes the dishes while Kya checks on the kids.

“Yeah, I love kids.” You smile softly as you dry the dishes.

“Ever thought about having kids of your own?” Pema asks and you sort of drop a dish in the sink filled with water and pick it back up “Kids? Of my own? No... I think I’m too young to think about kids” you laugh as a slight blush creeps on your cheeks.

“Really? I guess to each their own. So you never thought about it?”

“No, not really. Not kids of my own anyways. I’ve been busy working and living to think about the possibility of raising kids” you shrug as you set the dishes up. “Plus, your kids are a handful. I think they kill any thought of me wanting kids…I’d miss the quiet” you laugh but quickly apologize to Pema “I’m sorry, it was a joke. I care for your children, but—”

“It’s okay, y/n. I agree sometimes they are a handful, but I don’t regret the life I chose” she smiles assuring to you then sets down her wash rag “I should check on the kids…and Kya”

“Right, I should get back to the city. Thanks for everything tonight, Pema. Everything was delicious.” You started to head out when Pema stops you and hands you a bamboo basket “I had plenty leftovers, so I made you a takeaway bag”

“Thanks, you shouldn’t have, but it’ll make for a good breakfast” you smile and raise the box a bit in gratitude before leaving the island.

*

“Lin?” you call out into the empty apartment and sigh “Even when I hang out at the island and have dinner I still somehow make it back before her” you mutter as you smile putting the food in the ice box. You grab a cup and fill it with some ice, then measuring out a finger of whiskey before sitting out on the terrace and looking out at the night sky. After fifteen minutes of gazing at the stars your attention is back on the room when you want to listen to some music. You stand up and grab the radio and bring it outside and turn the knob on. A lovely jazzy melody plays as you sit back down and enjoy your nightcap, looking out over the city skyline. The faint sound of the door opening has you stirring, and Lin’s voice calls out your name as you tell her where you are. She walks over to you as she slowly settles out of work mode as she leans over and gives you a kiss, “Hi” she whispers on your lips and you smile “Hi” you whisper back and kiss her back. “You’ve been here the entire time after work?” Lin heads back inside and starts changing into her house clothes. You turn down the volume and bring the music inside as you close the door behind you, following Lin, “No, I actually had dinner over at the Island. I was hoping to catch Tenzin and Team Avatar before they left, but they were long gone. So I ended up spending time with the airbending kids, Pema, and Kya.” You sit down on the couch as Lin continues the conversation in the bedroom. “Pema had you look after the kids? Don’t let her do that if you don’t want to.”

“Oh no, the kids asked me to play. I didn’t mind…” You smile as you take a sip of your whiskey. Lin comes out in her white tank top and sweats as she fixes her hair and changes into her house shoes.

“I brought leftovers from dinner if you’re hungry. I can heat them up for you” you get up and kiss the left side of her temple before heading to the kitchen. “You don’t have to, y/n” Lin remarked “I want to. I just didn’t know when you were coming home, go sit at the table.” You smile as you start heating up the food Pema made. Once they were done you make a plate for Lin, bringing her to the outdoor couch on the terrace as you grab a throw blanket and hold each other as she eats and you watch the sky, “Why do you like being out here so much?” Lin mumbled on your shoulder as she pulled the blanket more on her. “It's peaceful, the sky, the noise from the city as it starts to quiet down as people fall asleep.” You speak softly, holding Lin close as she huddles to you looking at the sky, not understanding, but content nonetheless. You put an arm behind your head to prop it up on the arm rest while you’re both laying down. “Also, It’s become my favorite time of day because it’s when I know I can be with you without anyone looking.” You look down and she lifts her head up to look at you and you dip your head down and slowly kiss her. “I love being with you, Lin” you whisper against her lips as you share another kiss with your girlfriend. Lin lifts her head up and slowly moves herself on top of you and straddles on top of you as you kiss each other, your hands moving onto her waist, so she doesn’t fall off of you. Hands slide up her sides as you pull her waist close to yours while you kiss her deep and slow, “Let’s go to bed…” Lin mumbles against your lips and you nod slowly as she crawls off of you, you sit up and hold her hand as you walk to the bedroom and lay down wrapping your arms around her. Your legs intertwine as you kiss her shoulder. Lin smiles in your arms and runs her hand up and down your back, you’re dozing off from her soothing touch and she slowly falls asleep along with you. In peace in each other arms.

[fyregrayfong]

Chapters: 17: Anointment

I'm really sad this has come to an end of this book. I think I'm gonna take a small break. wrote about 200K in the span of 4 months. #mindblown I really hope you guys loved this book as much as I have. I'm sure it could have been better and I'm gonna try and do better in the future. So sorry to have kept you readers waiting. please please please forgive me. I do have some ideas on short one shots of reader and Lin during Reader's first year in Republic City and maybe even some parts of Iris (before the break up) or even Rei. lol jk...maybe.

P 11/2 Ch 1: Captain P 11/4 Ch 2: Resolution P 11/6 Ch 3: New Airbenders   P 11/7 Ch 4: The Proposition P 11/10 Ch 5: Creative Privacy   P 11/12 Ch 6: Ba Sing Se P 11/14 Ch 7: Metal Clan P 11/16 Ch 8: Beifong Sister Showdown P 11/18 Ch 9: Conflict Resolution P 11/20 Ch 10: Iris & The Flying Boar P 11/22 Ch 11: Infiltrated P 11/25 Ch 12: Investigative Palms P 11/27 Ch 13: Misty Palms Oasis P 11/28 Ch 14: Point of Action P12/01 Ch 15: The Red Lotus P12/03 Ch 16: Recovery 12/11 Ch 17: Anointment

[fyregrayfong]

In These Arms | Chapter 4: Proposition

Throughout the night you and Lin switched sleeping positions with her spooning you and wrapping her arms around you, gently squeezing you in her sleep. You wake up in her arms and smile sinking in lower into her embrace as you stretch gently then carefully turn around to face her. Lin is at her most peaceful when she’s asleep, you rub your eyes as you look over squinting to see the clock and notice it’s five in the morning. Laying your head back with a soft groan, you’re not really feeling going to work today. You wish you could just stay in bed, you look back at your lover and carefully move some hair off of her shoulder and lean down gently placing your lips there. Her skin is soft despite her rough nature, you can’t get enough of her.

Lin gently stirs and wakes to the sensation of a pair of lips kissing their way along the nape of her neck. You work your way up, planting one just behind her ear, causing a sleepy smile to spread across her face, “y/n…” Your hand was at her hip, grazing her sensitive skin as you slowly urged her nightshirt upward. She still hasn’t gotten used to being touched like this by you. She drew in a happy breath and rolled onto her back to catch your mouth with her own, placing her hand on your cheek. “Mmm morning beautiful” you mutter against her lips. “Don’t lie to me” she whispers back as your hand slips down along her side. “I’d never lie to you, baby” you smirk as you leave a trail of kisses down her neck. She groans digging her nails into your side “I’m not an infant…” causing you to groan smirking against her neck “….Do I have to remind you of the last time you lied?” she grazes her through your hair giving it a light tug. A chuckle escapes your lips as you bite your lip “Well…I may have lied on that particular instance, dear, but I would never lie about you” you lift your head up and look into Lin’s eyes as you rub her hip with your thumb. Lin lifts her head up and catches your lips once again with hers deepening the kiss. Enjoying this quiet morning moment between the two of you before you both mentally prepare for the mess of work awaiting at headquarters. Glancing over at Lin’s alarm clock while you kiss her you see how close it is before it’s time to get ready for work. Parting on a string of soft kisses, you gave Lin a final kiss on her shoulder before getting out of bed.

Lin licks her lips then stretches and looks over at the clock “Is that the time?” she sits up quickly and jumps out of bed as you nod - stretching yourself. You open the door to the bathroom and get the shower going before walking to the dresser to grab a change of undergarments.

“Well one of us is going to end up late and it’s not going to be me” she grumbles as she pushes you aside and walks into the bathroom. She starts stripping from her sleepwear as you lean against the doorframe folding your arms and smile. Lin side glances at you and huffs “What? Just because you’re with me doesn’t mean you can slack off, Captain” she carefully places her clothes on the counter and then starts wetting her body. You shake your head amused by her sudden stress as you walk over to her “Ok, well I have a proposition where we can both get to work on time” you lean against the counter to watch Lin shower.

“Proposition?” Lin raises her eyebrow as she starts washing her hair,closing her eyes so it doesn’t get in her eyes. You start unbuttoning your nightshirt and slide it off, folding and setting it beside Lin’s. “I’m going to join you in the shower...” as you start sliding your night shorts off. “What!” Lin got done rinsing her hair as she opened her eyes wide looking at you from behind the glass shower doors. “Yeah, come on it’ll save time” you slide off your undergarments then stand returning her stare.

“No funny business?” she glares at you as she steps aside to let you step in with your hands up like a criminal and start wetting your hair “No funny business” ensuring her.

“Keep your hands up” she orders you and you smile at her command, keeping your hands up “I’m going to start washing my hair” you talk her through your actions as you grab the shampoo and quickly wash your hair as Lin grabs her body wash and cleans her body. Lin continues watching your every move as you get done rinsing your hair “You don’t trust me?” you breathe out from under the water as you look at her before stepping out to let Lin rinse her body. You grab an extra washcloth as you wash your body down and watch Lin shakes her head, biting her lip, I don’t trust myself. Lin thinks to herself as she steps towards you, pulling you to her and pressing you against the wall as she kisses you deeply. Your hands move down to her hips and she grabs them pinning them against the wall “Hands. Up.” She growls against your lips. You gulp which seems to be loud because Lin smirks against your lips and chuckles softly.

“What about no funny business” you stutter out “That was for you, not me” she squeezes the side of your neck, kissing the back of your ear as she suckles on your earlobe causing you to groan and tilt your head back, “Lin….”. she runs her hand down your body as she kisses down your neck “You didn’t think I forgot about your little stunt in my office” she growls on your skin as she bite on your clavicle causing another groan to escape from your lips, “Fuck….Lin”

“Someone is getting antsy” Lin quips and you lift your head to look at her as you drop your jaw “What?” you mutter, and before you can say anything else Lin runs her hand down your body and places it over your core while she kisses down your chest. You close your eyes - feeling them roll back while arch your back, breath deepening and fighting the urge to move your hands to grab onto Lin. “Don’t you even think about moving your hands or this shower is over” she growls against the space between your breasts and you grunt as you plant your hands on the wall. “Yes, Chief” she gives you a soft kiss “Nice to know you still follow orders, captain ” she drags her teeth down your abdomen as she whispers seductively that tone of voice just causes you to melt. The shower went on twice as long as it should have but there are no complaints.

You look at Lin as she bends on her armor while you button up your shirt. You smirk as you fix your cuffs, “Because of your funny business we’re late to work” Lin looks at you as she bends her belt around her waist. You laugh softly “I was ordered not to do anything” you remarked as you fix your collar then step behind Lin wrapping your arms around her kissing her neck. She turns around to look at you and steps back from your embrace, “To add on that whole beautiful remark earlier. You, Lin Beifong, look beautiful in all hours of the day.” You glance down to her lips before looking at her eyes and notice her cheeks getting rosy so you give her a sweet kiss. You softly place your hand on her cheek and Lin rests her hands on top of yours “I’ll go patrol the city so I can arrive later at the station,” You mutter as you bend on your cables on your back.

“Sounds good” she gives you a soft smile

“I’ll see you at the station” you whisper your lips curling up to a smile as you see Lin’s smile

“I’ll see you at the station” she assures you and quickly kisses you before opening the front door and steps out heading to her satomobile.

*

Patrolling the streets of the city, It’s been a while since you’ve been out doing fieldwork, with the new recruits to handle there’s been a rise of gang violence and turf wars with the triads. You’ve spent most of your time in your office or training the new recruits. Now you’re preoccupied with your new relationship with Lin. It’s nice getting some fresh air and time on your own, but it’s been about two weeks now and you still haven’t gone out on an official date. Of course it’s a bit difficult since the relationship is supposed to be a secret, but that doesn’t mean you can’t just happen to stumble into the same restaurant and enjoy a meal together.

I should ask Lin out to dinner… as a date. I’ll figure it out as I go. First I gotta get Lin to agree.

Not noticing the large vine on the ground you almost trip on it and you suddenly notice the change of scenery as these spirit vines have come to inhabit the city. Looking around, curiosity got the best of you and you walk past the barricade and survey the area. Raiko and pretty much most of the city are tired of dealing with the unpredictable spirits and vines, but you don’t mind. It’s brought back the airbenders after all, so it seems to be a sign that things are going in the right direction.  

You never really asked Lin for her opinion on the vines, but she doesn’t really seem all too thrilled about the subject. It’s just caused her more work and problems to handle so there weren't any pros to outweigh the cons. You’ve always kept telling everyone that it’s an adjustment that will take time to get used to. The spirits have been separated from the material world for a very long time, and you think they should get the chance to experience our world - just like we need a better connection to the spiritual world. That is something you did agree with Unalaq on. You’ve noticed you’re a quarter of a mile away from where you entered and you start to debate whether or not to turn back, “Hey!” a gruff squeak comes from above your head causing you to turn around and see a mongoose spirit angrily pointing its finger at you. “What's a human doing in here?” it got closer to you and you start to walk backwards putting your hands up in the air, “I mean no harm! I was just admiring your home”.  

“Scram if you know what’s good for ya!” the mongoose stomps on the ground and starts charging. You run back and hop over the vines sprawled all over the ground floor instead of climbing over them, “Sorry!” you yell out. Looking at the entrance you came from, it starts to close and you sprint quicker and dive through before it shuts. Landing on your side you turn onto your back panting “Some neighbors” you breathe and get up dusting yourself off before walking away and heading back to your patrol route.

*

“Hey y/n, where have you been?” Chen called out as you walked into the office “Out in the field, which is where you’re supposed to be Chen.” You remark, walking over to the snack station to grab a water, “I was---on my way to do that, Cap” Chen stutters as he heads out of the station. Turning your head toward the other snickering officers “What about the rest of you?” you raised an eyebrow at them “You’re lucky it's me here rather than the chief seeing you lot slacking” you slide a hand in your pocket as you watch the men slowly get up from their desks and head on out to go to their respective duties. You shake your head as you pinch the bridge of your nose and turn the corner nearly running into Lin “Oh…Lin…sorry” you blush and grab the back of your neck “Let me get out of the way”. Lin looks at you confused but doesn't say anything as she continues on her way to her office, and you go to your own office.

           After work you decided to head down to the gym and work out, and gratefully it’s empty. Since there’s not much to do with Team Avatar out searching for airbenders and Lin is still working, you guess you could visit Air Temple Island, or maybe unwind back in the Sato mansion. Puffing as you bench press some weights, you get your reps in before moving to the power rack. It’s been a while since you’ve strength trained or built muscle alone. You walk to the piece of equipment and start stripping the rack of all the weight and start setting up your next work out. You make sure the bar is at the right height and adjust the parts needed to set it at your shoulder height, also making sure the safety bars are set in case any problems arise. You move under the bar and grab onto it making sure your arms are roughly parallel with the floor and start to take a deep breath and contract your core muscles. You establish a solid foot position and start doing your squats while looking at yourself in the mirror checking your form.

           “Nice to see someone taking their job seriously” Lin leans against the doorframe folding her arms. “Got to keep my strength up and my appearance” you smirk as you look over at Lin and go down another squat before setting the bar back on the power rack. You shake your shoulders before walking over to a mat and get into a push up position, all while Lin just watches you, “What appearance would you be talking about?”. You do about five pushups before talking “Just because I’m up in rank doesn’t give me the excuse to slack off.” You do another five “It also helps if you’re trying to impress a certain someone” you glance at her before doing another five. “Care to join me, Chief?”

“No, I have too much to do” Lin stands up and turns her body away. “I propose a wager…” you call out to her as you plank “Oh?” you’ve peaked her interest.

“Whoever can do the most pushups in the next two minutes wins. Loser has to pay for the winner’s dinner” you smile as you go down to the ground “If my math is right, I’ve got 16 ahead of you, chief” you bite your lip as you watch Lin turn back to look at you and she gives you a glare as if debating in taking on your wager. “Is that all?” she approaches and bends her armor off, getting into position on the mat next to yours. “That’s all, just don’t go easy on me” you grin as you prop yourself back up to look at her. “I never do” she smirks back at you and you look over at the clock mounted on the wall, making the call to start. Despite Lin’s age she quickly puts down ten pushups by the time you’ve done five, you’re taking this wager seriously, but you keep looking over at Lin and watching her. Your pace slows down as you watch her biceps flex and her core hardening, you bite your lip hiding your smile then remember what you’re doing and quickly try to catch up. Once the second minute comes around your arms are burning and you collapse on the floor turning on your back, “Did I win?” you pant. Lin lets out a laugh as she sits on the mat “not at all” she pulls her tank up and wipes her forehead. “Well can’t blame me for trying.” You laugh as you prop yourself up as you turn onto your side “I guess I owe you dinner, chief. How about tomorrow night? 8 pm?”

“You were serious?” Lin’s eyes widen as she drops her shirt down and you smile “Of course, I never go back on a wager. What do you say?” you smile as you glance towards the door before scooting closer to her. “I—” she tries to speak, and you smile softly “It’s just dinner, Lin” you assure her, and she groans “Fine” she rolls her eyes and gives you a faint smile.

“Great, it’s a date” you smile wide and sit up once you get the strength. “WAIT! You never said it was a date!” Lin spoke in a hushed tone. “Dinner…date…same thing” you shrug and smile “Your armor is off the table.” You push yourself up as you softly groan from your sore muscles and put a hand on your back. “You lost the right for any requests,” Lin gets up quickly and debates with you as you walk over to the door and look around before closing it. “That’s the only thing, I’ll handle the dinner, I’ll send you the directions. If you don’t wear your armor then you won’t be spotted so wear civilian clothing. That’s final?” You retort in a hushed tone. “I’m taking Lin out to dinner, not Chief Beifong,” you approach her just as she walks towards you and you slide your arms around her. You smile as she rolls her eyes, folds her arms and grumbles. You take in her demeanor and sigh “Okay fine, it won’t be a date. It’ll be a celebration dinner for my promotion to captain.”

Lin purses her lips, still looking hesitant at this dinner proposition. You give her a soft smile and kiss the right side of her temple before letting her waist go. Grabbing your towel to wipe the back of your neck you head over to the water station. Lin softens, watching you walk away and she follows after you “y/n, you’re not upset are you?”

“No, I’m not upset…. I’m just gonna grab some water” you laughing softly as you grab a paper cup, Lin leans against the wall, “I know I might not have the best lie detection like my mother, but I can sense something is off” she folds her arms and you take another drink of water before tossing the cup in the trash. “Great detective skills, Chief” you smile before stepping aside .

“You’re upset” she looks at you and your lip twitches a bit “I’m not upset, Lin” you chuckle as you fidget with your towel “Maybe that’s your guilt talking” you add in as you toss your towel playfully at her. Lin catches it and rolls her eyes “Yeah right, guilt” she scoffs then pouts lightly looking down.

You purse your lips a bit and step over to put your arms around her in a comforting gesture “Really, I’m not upset, Lin - what is there for me to get upset about? I’m already lucky to be dating Lin Beifong” you grin as you lift her chin up as she smiles but looks away.

“I just wanted to treat you to dinner… an actual dinner in public or semipublic, as much privacy as it can get without being public.” you ramble, chuckling “Even if it’s in some table in the farthest corner or a backroom” you motion, “Something that I can do to treat….my girlfriend” you wrap your arm back around her as she folds her arms, “If it’s not wearing the armor you’re worried about, then wear the armor. I don’t mind it. I like you in your armor ” you ramble on some more when Lin covers your mouth with her hand “Okay”. You stop and look at her “Really?” you muffle behind her hand as she removes it and nods “Fine, dinner it is. It’s not a big deal. Just dinner”.

“Just dinner…. I’ll handle everything” you smile as you lean down and kiss her “I’ll send you the details tomorrow” you whisper before stepping back onto the training mats.

“I’ll see you tomorrow” jogging away happily.

Lin shakes her head at your antics “You’re not staying over tonight?”.

“No, figured I should stay at the estate. Let you miss me a bit” you smile, giving her a wink before jogging back to her and give her another kiss “You won’t regret it.” You whisper against her lips as you pull away.

“I feel like I might already might” she whispers under her breath. Lin stands there slightly nervous, what did she get herself into for dinner tomorrow night. She looks down noticing that she is still holding on your workout towel and a soft smile appears on her lips as she hangs it over her shoulder while walking back up to her office. She wonders what kind of crazy plan you have in store.