The hissing of corroded pipes intermingled with the low thrum of shifting machines. Consistent without error, the heavy industrialized hums and drones were the endless beating heart of the living giant known as Republic City.

From the depths of this modern construct sin brewed deep within where the light could not reach. Somewhere near in the night a man has just taken his last breath before being dumped in the sewer ways, a courtesan on the hidden Red Road still applying her thick rogue for the long night ahead. The air here where the light cannot reach is heavy and stale, acrid powder and toxic fumes from volatile machineries home to Republic City both lingering and intermixed. It sticks to the skin once kissed, a filth hard to clean that intoxicates the lungs and thickens the blood.

During the day the city is rich and thriving, full of joy and hope. All that is illuminated by the light is what the city has best to offer. A promise for those who yearn. The night speaks differently. In truth, a city where the light is always falling at the edge of the horizon. What little light that lingers at this time is almost always corrupted, tainted until it becomes ink black. It's an inevitable fate, really. Whomever dwells within the underbelly descends, falling lower and lower every day till their soul gradually becomes stained. Born anew each dusk, a little changed, a little further down the gradual slope of descent. Until eventually, when enough days have passed between them and the person they once were, they're strangers. A void husk where brilliance once resided.

Tonight should have been no different, but the man behind the mask was no longer the same.

Noatak awoke to the crackling sound of a burning wick, the man was slumped in a wooden chair beside a desk full of documents. He touched his face with trembling fingers to feel the mask bound to his face.

A sickly sheen of sweat clung to his skin as he pulled the mask off. His eyes were glassy as he tried to focus.

A dream? No…

The man put a finger to his lips as he remembered what had happened. Why did she kiss me? What did she mean, what is her intention?

Noatak thought back to the last thing she had said, to remember her. Rest assured, Empress Korra. Compelled I was, but now I'm consumed. My memory of you will remain, a reminder of what should never come to pass.

Noatak dispersed his thoughts of the past and looked around for a moment. He knew of this night fondly. It was the night the Avatar left the safety of her home. By morning she would step foot in Republic City, and from there everything would fall into motion.

The man had been perplexed at how she arrived. There had been no public mention of her arrival, else there'd have been a grand display of it. He kept tabs on everyone who had influence, each with different levels of prioritization. Council member Tenzin was up there. He knew of his departure and return, but there was no new addition to his family.

It was a matter of simple deduction to find out how the Avatar arrived if not through Tenzin. Airships couldn't travel the long sea, which only left sea vessels. Knowing the girl's nature, she most likely ran away in the night. It would explain a lot of things, including why she wasn't a threat as he had expected her to be.

Noatak thought to call for Jhin, his right-hand man. It would be a simple matter to track down a returning sea vessel to Republic City through the Equalist movement, but then that could potentially muddy the waters and cause for unnecessary distortions.

He sighed and got up from the chair. He was happy to be back, but the origin point the Spirits chose left him with no time to contemplate on his actions. Noatak needed to guide the Avatar and sway her from walking down the wrong path, but that required the girl to know him on some level, for there to be a foundation of trust and dependency.

Befriend the girl? I can't be involved in her life too much. I have to live my own as well. Her lover might have a problem if he sees me and Korra. Knowing how idiotic some young men can be, the boy might just misunderstand and think me to be more than just a friend.

What if he only approached when the girl was alone? That way he wouldn't get her gangly group of friends involved. That reminded him…Asami Sato. Hiroshi's daughter. He never cared for the girl personally, but she was essential to keeping Hiroshi at his side. That man's hatred for benders wasn't nearly as great as his love for his child. It was for that reason Noatak labeled him a liability rather than an asset.

It was truly unexpected when the girl refused her father's hand. Hiroshi was nothing more than a tool in the past, but now Noatak had the chance to make things right. A daughter shouldn't have to make that choice, and a father shouldn't choose vengeance over family. In a way he owed the man. Hiroshi put it all on the line and got nothing for it in the end.

Unfortunately, the Avatar came first in priority. Even his own brother would have to take second place to the girl. For now, he could put aside Hiroshi and his daughter. He'd find a way to ensure Hiroshi made it out of this without his life turning to ruin.

No, what he needed to put his attention to was Avatar Korra. The man just remembered the girl's pet. There was no need to utilize any resources. All he had to do was linger at the docks and watch for a polar bear dog.

What to do when he did see her was the real question. Unfortunately, he couldn't think about it as he heard a knocking on the door. Noatak used his blood sense to know who was outside.

Speaking of the Lieutenant…

Noatak reached for the mask and put it on before opening the door. ''Jhin. To what do I owe the pleasure, old friend.''

Let's see if everything is really true. Jhin should be here to talk about the Revelation, the rally to gain more supports and provide a display of my power.

''Amon,'' greeted Jhin. ''I have good news brother.'' Jhin stepped past Noatak and laid an encrypted dossier on the table. ''When you have the time to read it in full. It's about the Revelation. We've found the right candidates for you to demonstrate your power on. We're sending out the word on the streets. Should be full swing by tomorrow.''

Brother… Jhin was a good man. He wasn't his right hand for nothing. Be it the Avatar or the Four Nations, he was willing to fight them all. Absolute loyalty to the end and beyond if not for being betrayed. A true soldier.

Noatak would have left his mask off, but he didn't have his trademark scar on his face. It took time to apply, and he'd have to keep his face clean for tomorrow. Jhin knew what he looked like, or rather he knew the mask beneath the mask.

Noatak put a hand on Jhin's shoulder. ''Why don't you take a seat. It's been a while since we had some time to talk between ourselves.''

''Been too long,'' said Jhin as he took off his head gear and sat down. Noatak took a seat on the other side of the table. The glass stained window behind him captured the moonlight from the outside, illuminating the quarters in a blood-red hue. The light casted a long shadow across his mask, leaving only his frosted blue eyes to gleam in the frigid midnight.

Jhin looked to his leader and felt awe. He knew in his heart he had made the right choice all those years ago to follow this man. Benders had no place in this world anymore. It was time for a revolution.

Noatak offered Jhin a glass of brandy to which the man promptly accepted. ''How's life treating you, old friend. Any thoughts of home?''

Jhin smiled after having taken a drink. ''The Equalist Movement is my home. As for life, it's meaningful to say the least. Everything we've worked for is coming to fruition, Amon. I feel it on the streets, see it in the fearful eyes of the benders. They know their time is running short. It's only a matter of when.''

Jhin looked to the man graced by the blood red moonlight. ''And what about you brother? Everything is going according to plan just as you've calculated.''

''I'm a man of principle, you know this,'' replied Noatak. ''Plans are subject to change. Nothing is over until the Equalist banner hangs across the four Nations. Republic City is just the beginning, a means to an end.''

Jhin swirled the amber in his glass, a look of contemplation in his eye. ''A perfect world. Oh, how I long for that day to come.''

''Soon my brother. Soon.''

Jhin raised his glass and drank until there was nothing left. The mustached man sighed and shook his head. ''I was worried when the scouts reported on the departure of the councilman. It's no secret he has close ties with the new Avatar seeing as how he's the son of Avatar Aang. It won't bode well for us if the Avatar makes their way to Republic City.''

It didn't, thought Noatak. He didn't speak his thoughts, however. ''The prowess of the new Avatar remains to be seen. If history has taught us anything, it's that not all Avatars are born equal. No matter. If the Avatar thinks she can win then it won't be long before a new one is born. Nothing will get in the way of the revolution old friend. On this you have my word.''

Noatak frowned as he soon noticed his slip of the tongue. He had addressed the Avatar as a she, something which shouldn't be known yet as the identity of the Avatar remained a mystery until tomorrow. Thankfully Jhin didn't speak on it, either not noticing or thinking it a mistake.

Noatak felt different now that he was back. Part of him began to reminisce on how it all came to be. The Equalists, that is. The start was by no means glorious, nor was it joyful. Only a grim determination for change.

''Do you remember the night the children died, Jhin?''

It was a sudden switch of tone, but Jhin didn't mind. ''I remember. They let that monster free not days after. The bastards. I nearly died in my attempt to kill him, but then you showed up. You took away his bending before he could finish me off.''

The man behind the mask closed his eyes as he thought back to that night. A mother of three had lost her children. The three little ones has snuck out to play in the park not far from home, only to be killed by a junkie Firebender. It was a crime unlike anything that had occurred, the first of its kind for Republic City.

A poor judgement from the so-called law. That same man was given pardon by someone with authority who bypassed the Council. A friend perhaps, maybe a family member. No one really knows. The whole situation reeked of corruption and incompetence. Because of it, the mother of the children ended her life when she saw the murder of her children roam the streets, a bottle of liquor in his hands like nothing happened.

''There was always a tension,'' said Noatak softly. ''In a better world those children would still be alive, that mother still here. The city has forgotten them, but you and I, the Equalists, we carry them in our hearts and minds.''

Jhin nodded solemnly. ''Always.'' Jhin hesitated for a moment as he opened his mouth to speak but decided to go through with his thoughts despite his trepidation. ''If I may ask, but…why –''

''Bring them up?'' interrupted Noatak. Jhin nodded.

Because I had forgotten. I had blinded myself a long time ago, and only now do I see.

''We shouldn't lose ourselves, Jhin. I needed to know you still remembered. Whatever happens next – whatever it may be – I need you to know that regardless, the intention was pure. It was always pure.''

Noatak thrummed his fingers against the wooden table as Jhin closed the door behind him. They had spoken a bit more into the night, but he hadn't allowed the lieutenant to question him on what he had said previously. What was to come when everything was revealed, Noatak didn't know. He doubted he'd ever see Jhin again when his true identity came to light, but a part of him wanted the man to know it wasn't always a lie.

While the night was still young, he knew he had to prepare. There were only a few hours until the Avatar arrived. He knew he had to start right away, but something about him felt sluggish. Maybe it was the slow and dull thrums of distant machinery, perhaps the comfort of his quarters – he didn't know, but his eyes began to close despite his unwillingness.

Noatak sighed. He forced his blood to move a bit faster to induce an adrenaline rush. He didn't like to manipulate his body in such a way as it could lead to complications, but there was no time for rest.

In moments the dull tide of weariness cleared. His senses became crisp as his body was stimulated to believe it was facing a moment of crisis.

It would be good to go around the port ahead of time. It might be useful to procure the yard manifest to see the comings and goings of the ships. Might be good information to know where the Avatar came from, even if the location isn't all that specified.

Another thing he had to prepare for was his eventual encounter with the Avatar without his mask. A first impression meant all the difference, and Noatak wasn't sure what impression he should make. Should he even use his actual name?

Telling the girl would be a grave risk to make. She's soon to get to know my brother after all. Tarrlok isn't one for sharing skeletons in the closet, but the girl might just reveal my name if she did share it. It's not time yet to visit him. Still don't know where to even start.

Noatak escaped into the night through a secret exit in his quarters. His mind was still debating whether or not he should tell the girl his name.

Would there be any benefit in telling her my real name? She'll come to know of it eventually through Tarrlok.

Noatak thought back to how the girl had screamed his name in fury as she attacked him with all her might. His mind had gone blank at the time when he first heard her say it. Refused to believe she had uncovered his identity.

Oh brother. The trouble you put me through. What would you have done without your big brother always looking out for you.

The towering man crouched low into the shadows as he observed the dock workers. The port itself was too much grounds for a single man to cover in short time. It would be easy to miss his window of opportunity to get to know the Avatar if he was too far away by the time he noticed her and her polar bear dog.

Timing was everything. Perfect timing could disguise his intentions and make the Avatar mistake their chance encounter as genuine. He had to admit the girl was sharp when she needed to be. Maybe the Avatar had a sense for insincerity. Either way he would rather strive for perfection. A wrong step would make the path going forward that much more difficult.

Waiting for a chance, Noatak entered the main wharf when the first patrol unit moved to another sector. Nothing would be easier for the man than to just bloodbend them, but doing so would create ripples that may or may not influence the greater picture.

It took him some time, but he was able to locate the manifest locked away behind a vault. Noatak took out a flask of water and manipulated the water into the keyhole before turning the water into ice. With some masterful maneuvering he was able to craft the perfect key to unlock the secure box.

All too easy. Metal vaults might keep most out save for Metalbenders, but for a master Waterbender this amount of manipulation is nothing.

Noatak began to peruse the manifest carefully, looking for anything that caught his eye. He needed to acquire the information before the patrol unit came back. From his observations everything around here ran like clockwork. Three minutes give or take was all he had.

Dates of departure…Expected imports…cargo vessels…Ah, inbound and outbound sea vessels. Only a steamship carrying imported cargo is expected to return sometime tomorrow from the South, Wolf Cove. No doubt this is the one carrying the Avatar. Cargo…did she stow herself away then? If so then my assumption that she ran away really is true. No one then has yet to know that the Avatar would be here in Republic City, not until she makes it known.

Noatak wanted to piece everything together with his newly acquired information, but he waited to do so until he was beyond the premises of the dockyard. A few hours had already gone by, but the manifest had been worth the time spent. He now knew the Avatar wasn't expecting anyone, which meant he could make his move the very second she stepped of the steamship.

The man dressed in humble attire shifted his cap low, the light from a distant lamp reflected in his eye. Patrol… Noatak carefully put away the manifest and retreated into the shadows before making his way Eastside.

As he left, Noatak could see Air Temple Island not that far off in the distance. He wondered what the Councilman was doing now. The son of Avatar Aang and the only Airbender. Avatar Korra would learn to airbend in time, but it truly took the fear of losing her lover to manage it.

That reminded him of the Avatar's bending. He had thought her powerless when he took her bending. Perhaps it was because she hadn't learned how to utilize air that he wasn't able to take it away. Regardless, Avatar Korra would somehow be able to gain her bending back, all of it. How she regained her bending truly intrigued Noatak, but his curiosity wouldn't be answered any time soon. He turned his thoughts to the present.

If he remembered correctly the Avatar did get into trouble with the law when she arrived, leading her to be taken into custody. He didn't know how important these events were, but he was willing to make a sizable distortion as it pertained to his first encounter with the girl. If their encounter was too short, it would be even harder to establish a foothold in the coming days thereafter. His best chance was her first day at Republic City.

First encounters with the opposite sex. Noatak couldn't remember a time where he had to impress a girl. Actually, he didn't think there was one. Certainly, there was never a time where he went to such lengths for a woman.

Walking through the night wasn't safe for most non-benders. The tragedies of the past still echoed. Those who often walked the slum streets at such an hour were all criminals of different ilk, some thieves and others gangsters. Low light could barely reach the sin that festered on the streets of the Eastside. Noatak glanced at one of the alleys as he walked by. Two shadows could barely be seen within, the low moaning of a female in lust a whisper in the night. No doubt one of many.

On another street corner a group of men prowled about, tattoos on their arms and necks, the faint impression of weapons hidden beneath their vests. Most men on the Eastside streets belonged to the Triple Threat Triad. Lately a shadow could be seen in their eyes, most of them having a nervousness to them.

Noatak couldn't help but smirk. To the well initiated of the underworld it was clear that trouble was brewing beneath the dark waters. Even the typical layman was beginning to see it as the Eastside Triad was showing large signs of activity and aggression.

In the past I only took Jhin's word for it, but seeing it in person really is something else. Noatak in the past timeline never stepped out of the shadows like this, walking without his mask and in such attire. It was only in his final moments did he return to being Noatak. Before that he only lived as Amon, never caring for anything outside of the revolution.

Noatak knew in his heart that the foundations of the Equalist movement weren't displaced. Nonbenders feared for their life when confronted by a bender. It was all too easy for a Firebender to burn someone to ash, an Earthbender to crush the bones and flesh. As for Waterbenders, the lethality was all too easy to conjure.

Policy in Republic City favored those with power. Of course there were many benders with the strength and sincerity to protect the weak, but so what? In the hearts of the weak there was only resentment. Nonbenders didn't want protection, but strength of their own. The Equalists provided them a path.

Noatak curled his hand into a fist. All I've worked for and for nothing. In the end they will all despise me, and everything will shatter beyond recognition.

He didn't want to break the hope he had given, but it was too late. Everything had been built on a lie, his lie. The outcome wasn't one he could change, a maddening fact that he had to live with, to accept.

One of the gangsters swaggered towards Noatak with a smug smile plastered on his face, but stopped dead in his tracks when he looked into the towering man's eyes. Noatak merely scoffed and walked away. It would seem there was still some sensible people left in the Triple Threat Triad.

…

Korra held her head in her hands as she groaned. Naga, her polar bear dog, touched her with its nose.

''Sorry girl. Just a bad dream.'' Korra smiled at Naga, but she couldn't get past the lingering feeling that she had just forgotten something important. She didn't dwell on it, however, as the cargo along with her and Naga lurched forward a bit.

''Naga we're here!'' exclaimed Korra excitedly. The metal loading doors began to open, a shaft of light entering the ill-illuminated area. She had gotten used to the dim lighting of the cargo space, so seeing the bright light of the outside made her cover her eyes.

She motioned for Naga to move as the ship's crew began to unload the stored cargo onto the loading area of the port. With agile steps she climbed atop Naga's saddle, the smile on her face never leaving as she had finally made it to Republic City.

Naga was a blur of white to the workers she dashed past, their faces a mixture of shock and awe as one unlucky worker was knocked over. Korra waved joyously at the knocked over dock worker as she departed into the distance. ''Thanks for the ride!''

The young Avatar quickly fled the docks, making her way towards the base of a large suspension bridge leading towards the heart of Republic City. Above her head, two airships floated high in the sky, both moving to different parts of the city.

''Wow. Just look at this place, Naga.'' In the distance Korra could hear the sounds of honking, the suspension bridge full of Satomobiles. ''I've never seen so many Satomobiles!''

Naga and her moved further ahead, the full view of the waters of Republic City in all its splendor and glory displayed before her. It took her breath away to see the sheer magnitude of Republic City. Wolf's Cove, the capital of the Southern Water Tribe, just couldn't compare to the modern giant that seemed to live and breathe all on its own.

What stole her gaze was the statute of Avatar Aang laid off on the coast of Yue Bay, Air Temple Island not far from it. It took her some time to break away from the colossal statue of her past life, of the hero who ended the Hundred Year War. A small part of her wondered, Will I ever be able to live up to Avatar Aang?

It was a seed of self-doubt, a fear she sometimes ruminated on when she was by herself. With it came a determination. She was the Avatar. I am the Avatar! Deal with it!

''Lost?''

Korra was broken out of her thoughts as a voice emerged from behind her. Naga moved on her own to sniff the newcomer who had approached. Apparently liking what she smelled, the polar bear dog licked at the stranger's hand.

Korra stood dumbly atop; her face blank as she stared at the man who smiled softly at her. With piercing blue eyes and a handsome smile, his enthralling voice resounded once more as he reached out to Korra with an extended hand – the one not being nuzzled on by Naga.

''Your polar bear dog is hungry. I can help you, if you'd like.''

Korra didn't think at all when she jumped down and grabbed on to the tall man's hand. It was only when she felt the coolness of his touch that she shook herself out of her stupor.

Spirits! What's going on with me?!

Korra blinked her eyes and looked down to see their clasped hands. ''I-I…T-That won't be necessary. Naga!'' She tried to get the polar bear dog to behave and to save herself from further embarrassment.

Why am I stuttering?! You've seen plenty of good looking guys down in the South, what's different now?! Get your head out of the garbage!

The towering man simply chuckled much to Korra's dismay. She couldn't help but blush as her stomach chose this moment in time to growl loudly.

''Seems like it's not just your companion that's hungry. I know a place, so what do you say? It's on me, free of charge.''

Korra just couldn't refuse. The man before her dressed plainly. A simple loose white shirt and pants with a bit of shadow to his jaw. His laid-back smile was just so…inviting. She didn't sense any ulterior motives from the man, nor any danger either. He was sincere in his offer.

''Where are my manners. My name is…Noatak. It's a pleasure meeting you…'' His voice trailed off with a question to his tone, that soft smile of his still lingering.

''Korra! My name, that is. It's Korra. It's good to meet you Noatak.''

Why are you being so dumb right now Korra? Play it cool. You're acting like a girl with a crush!

Korra found herself a tad disappointed when he just shook her hand before letting go. She didn't know why she thought they'd be holding hands. Noatak patted Naga and even found her sweet spot behind the ear, making the polar bear dog stick her tongue out and wag her tail happily.

''Excuse me, but are you perhaps from the Southern Water Tribe?'' He seemed to be pretty familiar with how to handle her companion, not to mention he had a similar tone of skin to hers. If not for that, his name was definitely Water Tribe.

''Close, but I'm from the North.'' He began to walk towards the bridge with Naga right beside him, nearly leaving a stunned Korra behind.

Naga you traitor. Wait up for me!

Korra was quick to take up Noatak's other side, her arms crossed as they used the sidewalk on the bridge.

''Northern Water Tribe huh.'' Korra was a bit distracted with all the Satomobiles nearby as they traveled the suspension bridge. She could see all of the people inside them staring at her and Naga. She probably looked like a water bumpkin to them.

''And you must be from the South, am I right?''

Korra smirked. ''What gave it away?'' She was dressed from head to toe with typical Southern Water tribe garments, different from that of the North in that the South typically sported softer hues of blue with simpler stitching.

Noatak returned her smirk with one of his own. ''The polar bear dog,'' he said as he eyed her apparel.

Well played, Noatak. Well played, thought Korra. She felt herself beginning to relax in his presence as the two began to familiarize themselves with each other.

''What brings you to the city, Korra? You're a long way from home.'' Asked Noatak as he led her and Naga into the heart of Republic City. The statue of Aang was gradually hidden by the massive buildings, Air Temple Island falling further away.

The streets were bustling with activity, people from all walks of life mingling and going about their business. Sometimes the shadow of an airship would appear overhead as the roaring sound of Satomobiles drove past. On a corner a woman was painting on canvas, another a street performer using their Firebending as part of their dance. It amazed Korra at how vibrant the city was. She could only imagine what it would look like at night.

''Would you believe me if I said I was the Avatar?'' Korra turned away from it all and glanced at him with anticipation, wanting to see how he'd react to her statement.

Okay cool guy, what face are you going to make? No way someone like me is the Avatar, right?

She watched as Noatak met her eyes with his own. There were no ripples at all, none she could see. ''Avatar Korra.'' He nodded to himself. ''It has a nice ring to it. I must say, it must be my lucky day for me to run into the Avatar. Maybe that's what they call fate.''

Korra was honestly surprised and a bit shocked at how easily he accepted her identity. It was to the point that she was the one calling him into question.

''Wait, you actually believe me?'' Korra pointed a finger to herself, her head titled slightly to the side.

''I like to think myself a good judge of character, Avatar. Besides, why would you lie to me?''

Korra nodded, but she still felt a bit put off. He was just way too calm. She's the Avatar for Spirit's sake! The one and only!

''You don't believe me, do you? I can prove it!'' Korra was about to Firebend and Waterbend to prove it to him, but Noatak grabbed her hand before she could perform the bending techniques. She wanted to object, but the coolness of his hand pulled her into the same stupor from when she first met him.

''I believe you, Avatar. I dare say I even trust you. If you're waiting for some kind of big reaction from me, don't. It doesn't change anything between us, nor should it. I'm not going to treat you any differently had I not known in the first place.''

Noatak seemed to be alluding to something else as he reassured her. It took Korra a moment to realize what he was talking about. She took a deep breath and took a moment to collect herself. ''Thanks, Noatak. You're a pretty perceptive guy, aren't you?''

''Don't thank me yet, Avatar. I have yet to treat you and your companion to a meal.'' She smiled as he let out a deep but short laugh. It felt good to hear him laugh. It made her feel good. However, she was a bit peeved that he started to call her Avatar instead of her name.

''Korra,'' she said with narrowed eyes. It caught Noatak off guard when she said it and squeezed his hand. Before he could ask what was the matter, she spoke up again.

''Don't call me Avatar. Call. Me. Korra.'' Much to her amusement, Noatak looked embarrassed as he nodded his head.

The two continued to walk the streets of Republic City, only this time hand in hand. Korra couldn't focus on anything else but the hand holding hers. If Noatak felt any way about it, he didn't make it known.

Is this a date? This is a date, isn't it? Korra had never held hands like this with the opposite sex. Naga obviously liked the guy, and she herself felt relaxed in his presence. If it weren't for him doing all this for her, she'd probably be running amok and up to no good. Somehow, she always ended up getting into trouble.

Story of my life…

Perhaps sensing the changing mood of Korra, Noatak brushed against her hand with his thumb. She looked up to see him looking at her with concern.

''I - …'' She wanted to explain to him, but Korra couldn't find the words. Looking into his piercing blue eyes, the young woman felt the desire to open up about her frustrations. That same desire was quick to turn to doubt.

''It's alright Korra.''

''What do you mean?''

Noatak shrugged. ''Whatever it is that you're feeling. You're not the Avatar right now, not with me. In this moment it's just Noatak and Korra, two friends who are about to have a great time in the city.''

Korra was reminded of the hand interlocked with hers. ''Friends?'' For some reason it didn't sound as good as she thought it might have. Still, she was very happy. She had never had a friend besides Naga.

Noatak nodded and smiled wryly. ''If you'd like of course. I hope you don't take offense.''

Noatak was surprised at what came next. With widened eyes full of shock, he felt Korra burrow into his chest and hug him with all her might. His instincts for survival flared as all the wind was squeezed out from his lungs. Spirits, she picked him up off his feet like it was nothing! It took some effort on his part not to think back to another time when she picked him up off his feet.

Some of the passerby whistled and hawed at the sight, all with smiles at what they perceived to be a loving couple.

Korra put him down with a wry smile of her own. She looked a bit worried that perhaps she had gone too far. Noatak was quick to readjust back to his laid-back self, only this time he reciprocated with a hug of his own to reassure her.

Korra had to admit bear-hugging Noatak felt nice, but it was a world's difference when Noatak put his arms firmly around her waist and brought her close to his chest.

Spirits. I'm going stupid again.

Korra couldn't help but pick up on his scent. It was impossible for her to put a defining word to what he smelled like, but each time she breathed it in Korra felt like she was back in the South. Back home. It was crisp and refreshing, just like the arctic wind. She didn't like it when Noatak pulled away, making her feel bereft of something she didn't know she needed.

''Come on. The place is right around the corner.'' Noatak unknowingly made up for the bereft feeling he gave Korra when he took back her hand into his.

Korra didn't know what to expect when Noatak had said he wanted to feed her and Naga, but it certainly wasn't this. The place around the corner, as Noatak had said so casually, was one of the tallest buildings she had seen for a restaurant. Dragon's Head was the name written in gold and red. There was a line of people waiting to enter, but the path Noatak led them to wasn't the waiting line everyone else stood in, but another entrance that read ''Reservations and VIP only.''

Korra was confused when she saw him lead her to the reservation section. Had he planned for this? All of a sudden she was beginning to feel displaced, like everything that happened so far with the man was by design.

That doesn't make sense. He'd never know I was coming to Republic City. No one even knows me aside from my parents, the White Lotus, and Tenzin. Was he just waiting for some girl to catch his interest then?

While Korra was lost in thought, Noatak approached the man on shift who held the list of reservations.

The man was about to greet the two cordially until Naga's head and body followed through the entrance. ''S-Sir, our policy doesn't allow for animals within this establishment.''

A golden coin was dropped onto the service desk before any more protests could be voiced. The man recognized it instantly and bowed his head respectfully. ''Apologies Sir. I didn't know you were an esteemed guest of Lady Yu.''

Noatak glanced back to Korra who had a blank look to her before looking back at the man. ''I'll take the top if it's open and empty. If not, a private room then to accommodate for my friend and her companion.''

The man behind the desk smiled. ''You're in luck, Sir. The top is free and shall be yours for the duration of your stay. Everything is on the house as per order of Lady Yu.''

''I won't argue and disrespect Lady Yu's kindness. Tell her when you see her that Lee from Dragon Flats borough stopped by. We'll have the recommended course and the assorted refreshments please.''

Korra had been listening in on the two's conversation, hanging on to every word from start to finish in case she missed something. Rather than a reservation like she was thought to believe, Noatak was cashing in on some favor he had done for this Lady Yu. Korra was both relieved and touched. Relieved because her fear that this was all planned out was untrue and touched that he would go to such lengths for her.

Indeed, it was something else when Noatak led her and Naga onto an elevator that took them to the top. It was an outdoor area with a full view of the entire Republic City. It took Korra's breath away when she stepped to the rails and looked out to see everything for miles on end.

Noatak was of course right by her side; his hand never having left her own. Rather than the view, Noatak had his eye entirely on Korra and the expressions she made. His lips curled ever so slightly upward at the sight of Korra in awe.

''I don't know what to say, Noatak. This – this is just beautiful. Thank you, really.'' The landscape from high above was truly something else. She was able to see all the way to the far horizon where the sea and sky gathered. A few steamships could be seen pulling away into the horizon. Perhaps the ship she had left not long ago was already returning to the South.

''I'm glad you like it. I thought I'd give you a memory to remember me by if nothing else. One you'd never forget.'' Noatak flashed that handsome smile of his, the light of the sun illuminating him at that moment. ''Welcome to Republic City, Korra.''

Korra found the city to be amazing – gorgeous even beyond her wildest dreams, but in that moment she could hardly bring herself to care for it. The man who stood by her side made everything dull in comparison. He stole her breath away.

Noatak pulled her away from the rails and towards the dining table set in the center of the area as their food had arrived. Korra swallowed the saliva that threatened to drool out of her mouth at the delicious smell that emanated throughout. Even Naga was affected, her nose sniffing loudly as several platters of food were set down.

Ever the gentleman, Noatak helped Korra to her seat before sitting himself down. Naga relaxed herself into a comfortable position beside the table, the polar bear dog resting her head atop a corner of the table next to Korra. The roof above their heads was decorated with lanterns that would be lit during the night. It acted as shade to keep them from the sun's heat.

Korra didn't know where to start. She looked to Noatak for guidance to which he thankfully provided.

''The three large flagons are the refreshments, Korra. The one in blue glass is wine, the metal one is lychee juice mixed with water, mint, and lime, and the silver flagon is just iced water. Which would you like?''

''Oh, uhm…'' Korra bit her lip as she wondered which she should have. She hated the taste of alcohol, but she didn't want to look like a little girl in front on Noatak who had already pulled off the stopper of the blue glass and poured himself a healthy serving of wine to his cup.

''I'll have some wine, please.''

Noatak looked to her for a moment before smiling. Korra watched as he grabbed her cup, but instead of pouring wine he poured instead from the metal flagon.

''I saw you eyeing the metal flagon ever since I told you what was in it. Don't accommodate yourself to me, Korra. Just be truthful to yourself. Just be Korra.'' He held the cup for her to take, a soft smile on his face to show her that he wanted nothing else but for her to just be herself.

You're not the Avatar right now, not with him. In this moment it's just Korra and Noatak. You don't have to hide or pretend, just be…you. Korra remembered his words when they walked the streets. It felt like a dream to have met such a man. It was like he knew her, knew what ate at her insides and troubled her. It was too good to be true. It had to be, right?

But it isn't. Korra looked into his eyes, the pools of wintry blue inviting her to drown within them. He's real. He's right in front of me. That man is Noatak.

Korra accepted the cup and drank some to give herself a moment of reprieve. The mixed lychee juice was delicious, addicting even to where she just wanted to drink everything in one go. It reminded Korra that she would have been gulping down bitterness had she succeeded in pretending to be something she wasn't.

Noatak proceeded to point out the various dishes after she put down her cup. It was truly a sight to behold as some dishes were steaming hot and others cold and teeming with a frigid air. ''The cooks interestingly enough use their bending to make the food. They don't use traditional fire like other places. Some of the dishes are quickly frozen by a Waterbender to preserve their freshness until served.''

Noatak took the time to introduce the food set on the grand table, at least as much as he could remember from when he had eaten there last. Of course, he was perfunctory in his explanation as Korra and Naga barely held in their drool.

Much to Noatak's amusement, Korra was very vivid in her expressions. If a dish was too hot or cool, she'd make it known in a humorous way. She would glare at him from time to time whenever she did so as he couldn't help but laugh. She would smile seconds later whenever he did so. Compared to her, Noatak ate with grace and manners. Korra had begun to restrain herself when she noticed his way of eating and drinking, but the raised brow he gave her reminded Korra of what he had said earlier.

Be yourself. Korra threw away all pretense and dove in with relish. It reminded Noatak of the frostwolves back in the North with how quick and ravenous she ate. He'd push a plate of food towards her and within a blink of the eye it was all gone, shared between the young woman and her companion.

In time the food was gone, the cups of wine and lychee juice near empty. Naga happily laid down fully and seemingly dozed off as the two humans continued to talk.

''I don't mean to be nosy, but who is Lee?'' Korra raised her hands and smiled ruefully. ''You don't have to answer if it makes you uncomfortable, I'm just curious. I heard you when you were talking to the man at the front desk.''

Noatak shook his head. ''You're my friend, Korra. It's only right that we get to know each other better.'' There was a shift in his demeanor as he leaned back into his chair, a look of reminiscence as he spoke. ''I'm not young,'' started Noatak with a wry smile. ''I came to Republic City many moons ago to start fresh, to get away from my life back in the North. Noatak is my name, but there was a time when I was a young man who resented that fact. So I chose to live under a new name for a time, a simple one that I could remember. Lee. I met Lady Yu's daughter when I was working part time as a tutor at the University. A couple thugs wanted to hurt Lady Yu's daughter when she was walking home from the campus, and I just so happened to be there to defend her. They were benders, so I wasn't able to do much, but I was able to fend them off until the police arrived to handle the situation.''

Korra was surprised when she heard that last part. She assumed him to be a Waterbender. It was an error on her part, she thought. Aside from Pema, everyone she knew was a bender. From her parents to her teachers, she hadn't really interacted with nonbenders on a more personal level. Korra realized that this was the first time, her very first friend no less.

''That's brave of you, Noatak. I mistook you for a Waterbender, so hearing that you stood up to those thugs without bending is remarkable to say the least. I can't understand how there could be people out there who would abuse their bending like that.''

Noatak could see that she was genuine in her response. It reminded him of how naïve the girl was. Evil existed in all places, all things. Even she was no exception to that. Too trusting was another matter. The food could have been spiked, the lychee juice mixed with poison or some aphrodisiac. The girl was sheltered all her life, something he could see clearly now as he interacted with her not as Amon, but as Noatak.

''I had heard that the city was…unstable. My Airbending Master, Councilman Tenzin, was supposed to teach me. He couldn't stay to fulfill his obligation, and I couldn't wait couped up until he was ready.''

''So you came to the city instead?'' Asked Noatak to which Korra nodded. ''Brave and bold, I like that about you, Korra. Still, I've heard the Councilman to be quite stern. I don't know the man, but I doubt he'll be happy about you arriving. Republic City is indeed undergoing a time of unrest. Something sinister is brewing, it's apparent to everyone.''

Korra crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes. ''All the more reason why I should be here, don't you think?''

''I have no doubt of your abilities, Korra. But I must say, the unrest is far more severe than you might have been led to believe.''

Korra could hear the seriousness in his voice, something she hadn't heard before. Usually, she would have brushed it off as she did her teachers and parents, but Noatak was different. She could see the care and concern in his eyes as he told her. It made her feel warm and fuzzy on the inside to know she had such an awesome friend.

Korra put a hand to her chin in thought. ''Tenzin would definitely underplay what was going on.'' The White Lotus too no doubt. Wouldn't want me to act out recklessly if I knew what was going on. Whoops, too late. Avatar Korra is here to stay.

''Do you know what's going on in the city, Noatak?''

Noatak sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. There was a graveness to his eyes that worried her. ''I'm afraid I know all too well. As a nonbender, I have no qualms with benders – with people such as yourself, Korra. However, the same can't be said for others.''

''What do you mean? What are you talking about Noatak?'' Korra genuinely didn't understand. She always thought benders and nonbenders got along. Why wouldn't they? In her mind, it was like the difference between people who knew how to cook and those who couldn't. It wasn't that big of a deal, you just had to make up for it with something else. Someone who couldn't cook would prepare the food or clean the dishes. It was a team effort. Unity led to prosperity, or so she had been told by her father.

Noatak stood up and held out his hand for her to take. ''It would be better if I showed you. Care to visit the park?''