神靈

Chapter 69

The Price of Failure

The Sentinels and attendants in the Palace of New Ozai were particularly active today, preparing the guest chambers diligently for their honored guest. They had received advanced word from Phoenix Lord Azula herself and the palace chamberlains wasted no expense in decorating the room with the most opulent sheets and silks from across the empire. Scented candles and healing talismans illuminated the passageways, along with the emblazoned gold banners of Firelord's past.

Asami gulped inwardly, steeling herself as she approached the chambers with her usual squad of bodyguards. Beads of sweat dripped down her face as she sensed the presence of eyes on her, although they were out of sight, she had no doubt that a few more of the Dai Li Sentinels were scurrying behind the walls, watching her every move. Even the honor guard accompanying her had made her on edge. How many failed commanders and generals were escorted by such guards to their doom?

The thoughts of failure and retribution hung heavily in the air as she approached the chamber door, a pair of Jade Sentinels giving their commander a cold salute as they opened it, with a sight that made her heart drop.

In the wheelchair, immobile and non-responsive, was her friend and superior, Prince Zhenjin. And next to her, in all her glory and power, was Phoenix Lord Azula. At the sight of both the royals, Asami and her entourage wasted no time dropping to their knees, prostrating themselves before their sovereign lord and mistress.

"My lady, I apologize...I...I failed you. And the Prince."

Asami gripped her fists tight as she knelt on the floor. The memories vivid in her mind at the Southern Prison, their confrontation with Korra, and the arrival of that Wolf Tail that used his bloodbending to incapacitate both of them.

But considering the Prince had yet to recover from his injuries, the Wolf Tail had obviously tried even harder to take out the Prince right then and there. Zhenjin hadn't said a word or even moved since the incident, and Asami feared that in one way or another, the Water Tribal might have permanently crippled him from that encounter.

If that concern was shared by Firelord Azula however, she didn't show it on her face. She instead watched Zhenjin with an almost detached look of interest. Asami too, knew just how thin of a line her life was hanging on by right now. All it took was a simple command from Azula to express her displeasure, and she had no doubt even the guards next to her would behead her right then and there. Part of her was angry, frustrated. It didn't have to end like this.

Korra...how could you just desert us

To Asami's credit, she kept her composure, fully ready to accept the fate given out by her master, but in the next moment. Phoenix Lord Azula did something that truly terrified her, the feared 'Sato of the Black Blade', down to the very depths of her soul.

Azula smiled.

"Raise your head Asami, this failure is Zhenjin's own. He underestimated his adversaries, a lesson he's paid for, quite dearly." Azula put her hand on Zhenjin's shoulder, if the Prince had shown any response to the touch of his mother, he didn't register it. Instead, he had the same blank, empty stare and comatose reaction.

"That Bloodbender did a number on you my son." She turned to face him, "I know that feeling all too well..." Azula smiled, clenching her fists ever so slightly, remembering her own humiliation from so many years ago. It had shaped her into the woman she was today, stronger, more ruthless than ever. She had no doubt Zhenjin would come out of this even stronger.

"Let him meditate on his failures." She then turned to one of the attendants. "Once he is healed, have him summoned to me."

"My mistress," The attendant began, "The injuries to Zhenjin are quite severe, we don't even know if he can wake again, let alone..."

"Enough!" Azula snapped, causing the entire room to become deathly quiet.

"He is my son, and he is stronger than you know." Her lips curled back into a smile. "He won't succumb to this pitiful obstacle. I know it. When he is up and healed, you will let me know."

"At once mistress." The healer said nervously, backing away to continue work on Zhenjin.

"Asami, walk with me." Azula commanded, just as she gave the healers a dismissive wave, making her way for the palace hallways.

Asami and her guards followed behind Azula obediently, trailing slightly behind the Phoenix Lord as was befitting of their station. Only Azula's most trusted generals, the Four Fire Dragons, were able to walk alongside her as equals.

"I will overlook this failure, just this once. But in return, you are to capture the Avatar. My sources told me that she was part of your squad not too long ago? That shouldn't be too difficult for you, no?"

Asami gulped inwardly, feeling both relieved and terrified at the situation she found herself in. The Phoenix Lord knew?! And for how long...but then again, even she was ignorant of Korra's true nature for most of their journey together. Still, this was an opportunity as much as it was a threat. No doubt Chan and Ruon-jian had received similar orders, along with Master Ty Lee. If Korra were to find herself in the cross hairs of any of them...

"No, it is not." Asami saluted. "I won't let you down mistress!"

"See to it that you don't. Now, go. If you don't return with the Avatar, don't return at all."

And with that, Azula dismissed her top Sentinel, making her way to the inner sanctum of her palace, trailed closely behind by green-robed Dai Li Sentinels.

The sting of failure still heavy on her, Asami stopped, gripping her fists tight as she took the situation in. A part of her felt pity for what Korra was about to receive, but she quashed that down with a professional coldness that came with being a Sentinel. She would capture Korra first, then settle everything else later. With that in mind, she would have to reach back to her contacts on Sentinel Island, and make full use of her intelligence networks.

She had no doubt that her quarry would be found sooner rather than later, the Phoenix Empire was like one giant body. Just as an arm wouldn't move without a signal from the head, she would use these signals to trace her path back to the Water Tribes. When the time came, she and her elite team would be ready to strike.

Zhenjin's whole world was on fire.

He saw it all, remembered it all, the burning pain that coursed through his veins, as though his blood was boiling. The frustrating helplessness as his limbs stayed locked in place in the presence of that water bender.

Even in his world of fog and pain, Zhenjin still felt the cold icy grasp of his mother on his shoulder, the words stinging in his mind as she whispered to him.

"Let him meditate on his failures..."

He swore that was Korra's voice.

You're Azula's son. Never forget that.

"No...don't leave." He wanted to say, to reach out but the words stuck in his throat like acid.

And now even worse, he saw it all. The disparaging look of his mother, the disappointment on Asami's face, the feeling of betrayal as he watched Korra walk away with those Water Tribe savages...If only he was able to move. if only...he had more power.

Obey me!

He shouted, as if trying to will his body to move on command. But no voice left his throat.

Obey me...He felt the weakness seeping in.

Before long though, Zhenjin's battle with himself was lost, and he felt more arms dragging him down, his vision dissolving into his own personal world of darkness.

"Man, I'm so bored!" On-Ji griped as she leaned over the guard rail of their Southern Raider cruiser, watching the harbors of New Ozai. Hide, ever the soldier, stayed stoically calm as they stood on guard today together. Even the night's watch, with the city lit up brilliantly in a sea of orange embers was only enough to satisfy On-Ji's seemingly endless reserves of restlessness for on a few seconds.

"Button it up you two!" Mako growled from the bridge of the ship, knowing full well that the rest of the crew of the Southern Raiders was trying their best to catch a good night's sleep.

"But I didn't say anything." Hide protested, at last.

"No, but you're in charge of a very important function in this squad, keep On-Ji entertained and you might even earn a promotion to sergeant." Mako smirked.

"Oh Spirits, I'll try to failure harder next time..." Hide groaned, prompting On-ji to give him a playful raspberry and gleeful laugh.

Mako allowed himself a smile as he left those two at their bantering. Below decks however, he had more pressing concerns to worry about. Ever since their vessel had been commandeered by Admiral Chan for his invasion fleet, they had been stuck at Port in New Ozai with almost nothing to do but wait for their next set of orders. It was a maddening experience and Mako had pulled some strings within the Navy to get a very important meeting set up tonight.

He had received word from the Southern Raider Marines on deck that their guest was on deck, and he already took care to make his armor as presentable as he could, shining his ceremonial diao as though he were a new recruit.

It wasn't long before his guest of honor showed up, being ushered in by one of the Southern Raider guards that Mako had posted at the docks. As a soldier, Mako never thought about playing at the game of politics, but for once, he was glad he had connections that he could make use of.

The mustached man who entered was middle aged and portly, sporting spectacles along with the formal business suit that was familiar to many of the new industrialists that had sprung up in the empire, all sponsored by Phoenix Lord Azula's industrialization program.

"War Minister Sato." Mako saluted.

The man smiled warmly at Mako, and even waved off Mako's salute and extended his hand for a handshake.

"Please Mako, call me Hiroshi. Asami seems to get alone fine with you, so I will extend you that courtesy as well."

The War Minister and famed Industrialist was well known throughout the empire as being the architect behind Azula's war machine, helping her create the factories needed to supply her armies on multiple fronts. By stroke of fate, he was also Asami's father. And though she would frown at him using that connection so openly, he had to act, for Korra and Zhenjin's sakes.

"Yes,of course Minister... Hiroshi." Mako nodded gratefully. "And thanks again for agreeing to meet with me on such short notice."

"Normally, an official of my rank is not concerned with such matters, but my daughter has spoken highly of you in the past." Hiroshi remarked cordially. "Now, what can I do for you my son?"

Mako felt his face flush a little at the mention of Asami. Yes, it was true he originally knew Minister Sato when he was still with Asami. But that was...a different time, different circumstance. Still... Better to ask for forgiveness than permission, as Asami would say.

"I was asking mainly for a favor actually sir," Mako began, "Obviously I'm just a lieutenant, but there is a new expedition being planned for the North Pole. I would like my crew to be on the forefront of it, rather than relegated to guarding harbors." Mako had a sneaking suspicion that Chan had planned on isolating them from the rest of the war, having identified them as part of Zhenjin's allies, and deprive them of status and a chance to prove themselves.

"I'm afraid you're conferring upon me more influence than I possess." Hiroshi shook his head sadly. "Last I checked, Admiral Chan was very protective of his ships."

"Yes...I'm aware of that sir." Mako said, trying his best to hide his own frustrations at dealing with Chan's officers over the last few weeks. Every inquiry he made about a future operation had been met with orders to simply guard the harbor.

"I feel he isn't making the best use of me and my crew."

"You're afraid you'll miss out on the glory, is that it son?" Hiroshi's tone softened in sympathy, as though he were getting to the root of the issue here. "I understand. Back when I was your age, I thought of nothing more than going out to earn my laurels." The industrialist gave a sly smile. "Even better if the ladies notice it too? Is that right?"

"Well, not exactly sir." Mako blushed, making an effort to not sound too awkward, it wasn't the whole truth. "But I feel like my men could serve the empire in a better capacity than just idling at port."

Hiroshi chuckled lightly at having thrown some of the bluster off Mako, but as if seeing the conviction in Mako's plea, the minister nodded in understanding, stroking his chin in contemplation.

"I can't strip the admiral of a perfectly fine ship, that is beyond even my capacity." Hiroshi nodded approvingly at the well kept condition of the Southern Raider ship. And although Mako felt a hint of pride at having his crew and ship praised by the War Minister, he felt a little bit crestfallen that this was probably as far as he could go. Being stuck at port without being able to help either Korra or Zhenjin.

As if realizing Mako's dilemma, the old man offered a wry smile. "And while I can't reassign this ship. Her crew is another matter."

At that, it took all of Mako's discipline to not jump for joy at the chance of returning to the front. Even if it was for reasons Minister Sato didn't understand.

"It will require some favors to be pulled in, but I'll admit, the timing couldn't have worked out better." Hiroshi explained. "You are right in that there is a big operation coming in the next few weeks, and the Phoenix Lord has detailed me with one of her most important projects to end the war. To that end, I need a special, elite crew to protect it."

This was the break Mako was looking for! If only to escape Chan's clutches. Now, with such a high profile mission, they were all but guaranteed to be on the front lines against the Water Tribes.

And on the path back to their lost comrade, Korra.

"Count us in Minister Sato." Mako beamed. "Please tell us what we need to do."

"Excellent!" Hiroshi clapped his hands enthusiastically. "Like i said, give me a few days to make the arrangements. By all intents and purposes, your ship will be part of the Admiral's command. But I will have a replacement crew brought on shortly. Please give me a list of only the best candidates in your Southern Raiders and await your next orders. They will come shortly." The War Minister seemed pleased with his own little ploy to get around Chan's orders.

"Thank you sir." Mako saluted, "You won't regret this. One question though. What exactly is this project of yours to end the war?"

At that, the Minister gave a triumphant, enthusiastic smile that was all too common for inventors.

"By chance my boy, how familiar are you with the Siege of Ba Sing Se?"

Normally small talk was at the bottom of Korra's 'favorite things to do in the world' list, but for some reason, this catch up of sorts with Katara had a reinvigorating feeling to her soul that she couldn't explain. Even at the steps of the Water Tribe Courtyard, the hours melted away as they spent hours talking about her past life; Katara's steps towards becoming a waterbending master, her showdown with the last Northern Master and the time spent with Aang before the Invasion. Even something as simple as laughing at how Aang had taught her penguin sledding had a unique charm to it that even got through Korra's usually stern demeanor, and she found herself laughing utterly at the ridiculousness of it that she swore she felt tears forming in her eyes as she laughed.

"Man...you, Aang and Sokka, you guys were something special. Taking on the entire Fire Nation and saving the Water Tribes..." Korra remarked in a sense of wonder. The stories Katara had shared must have been when they were only kids, barely even teenagers. Even though Korra had her own rough upbringing to take into account, she was still a green rookie in bootcamp at the age when Katara and her friends were fighting Elites of the Fire Nation. That only made her respect and admiration for her and Sokka increase even more. They were fighting for as long as she was alive, and even before then.

"So...you fought against Phoenix Lord Azula?" Korra inquired. "What was she like?"

"Yes." Katara tensed up at the mention of that name. "She was a monster then and is one now."

Korra nodded, even though she never officially met her, Korra almost felt like she knew her all too well. From the visions Aang had shown her, and the lengths she went to against her own family.

"She...she was the one who struck down Aang." Katara lowered her head solemnly, as if still carrying the burden of guilt for that day. The image of Azula wearing triumphant smirk, the lightning still smoking from her finger tips...

"I won't forget that look she had on her face, it was like she enjoyed it."

Korra shivered at the thought, although she didn't have that particularly memory of Aang's, it wouldn't surprise her to see Azula revel in being the first Fire Nation ruler to kill an Avatar. She didn't know what disturbed her more, reliving Aang's death or even just contemplating that in a roundabout way, Korra only existed because something Azula did. Spirits! Korra shook her head, that was a thought she didn't want to have around.

"And you blamed yourself for it." Korra said with as much empathy as she could muster, having lived through it.

Katara didn't respond, her eyes glazed as though she was staring at a far off memory. Korra knew just how painful this moment was for her, but she hoped that as the Avatar, she could at the very least give her some comfort and support through the inhuman burden she had been shouldering for so long.

"I saw what happened Katara." Korra put her hand on Katara's in comfort. "I saw what happened with Vaatu and the Spirit World. It isn't on you."

"I let the you- The avatar. Down." She sighed, "I can't bear to do it again, not after so long.

"You didn't let anyone down Katara, least of all Aang." Korra replied gently, "If anything, you did what you've always done. You've given hope to those that came after him."

To Katara's surprise, Korra stood up defiantly, "You don't have to do this alone. I know I'm still new to this Avatar stuff, but I'll fight to make sure Aang's sacrifice, your sacrifice and everyone's won't be in vain."

"Thanks...Thank you Korra," Katara smiled, wiping away some tears. It was a remarkable transformation. Korra one second seemed so uncertain and scared, then curious, and now she seemed ready to lead the charge herself. Granted, she had some fire of her own, but perhaps a part of Aang was still in there. Somewhere.

"There will come a day when Azula comes for our tribes." Katara shivered at the thought of another invasion, but in her bones it all but seemed inevitable. Azula wouldn't stop until she ruled the world. "On that day, we'll be ready. I'll be right beside you Korra."

"Wouldn't have it any other way Katara!" Korra grinned. "This time, we'll send Azula packing!"

Katara smiled, almost proudly at this new Avatar. Granted, she only mastered three of the four elements, but Aang had done so in less than a year, and the presence of this new Avatar, Katara couldn't help but feel some of that confidence as well.

"That was all very inspiring Avatar! I should write that down!" Sokka clapped and laughed, causing the two girls to jump in surprise as the Water Tribe Councilman peaked at them from the courtyard entrance.

"Councilman Sokka!" Korra blurted clumsily, her background as a soldier confusing her when it came to protocol with friends.

"Please, just call me Sokka, the title feels so stuck up sometimes. Although important!" Sokka laughed, "So, how are you doing Kiddo?

Korra couldn't help but smile, although he can definitely be serious as leader, Sokka just had a way to make people around him feel welcome and relaxed, whether it was with subordinates or friends.

"Just catching up with Katara."

"I noticed." Sokka winked as he gave Katara a playful sneer. "Were you regaling the young avatar with tales of me and my trusty boomerang?" The Councilman joked. "Don't hold anything back Katara, after all, I was the one who usually came up with all the plans."

"Like Cactus juice?"

"Ok...don't remind me." Sokka shook his head, while Korra had to do her best to suppress a chuckle.

"I owe you Korra." Sokka gave the avatar a light jab in the ribs. "It's been years since Katara made a joke at my expense. I'm glad spending time with you is bringing my little sister more out of her shell at least." He winked mischievously at Katara, who rolled her eyes at the all too familiar banter from her older brother.

"I do what I can." Korra smirked, equal to the task.

"I've come to expect that from you." Sokka smiled, then quickly composed himself seriously, clearing his throat as if making a grand pronouncement.

"I have a surprise for you actually. Your mom needed some peace to rest in their new home with your father and I couldn't exactly fit her anywhere else so..." It was at this point that Korra realized that Sokka was pulling onto what looked like a leash, and with a gentle tug, he signalled his guest to enter the courtyard.

"I think this belongs to you."

"Naga!" Korra shouted with glee just as the Polar Bear Dog rushed at her with all its gargantuan weight. Korra laughed lightly as the Polar Bear Dog just stopped short of trampling her, opting instead to give her a friendly lick.

"Don't forget this guy too." Sokka tugged on another lease, but more gently, and to Korra's amazement, it was another one of her long forgotten friends she hadn't seen in weeks.

"Kodiak!" Korra was all too happy to see Noatak's pet wolf. Although he was hesitant at first (heck, he snarled at her when they first met as enemies) Kodiak eventually pounched on Korra with equal enthusiasm, giving the avatar a friendly lick on the cheek as she crouched down to embrace him. To her amazement, Naga seemed content to have the wolf join in on the little cuddle. Polar Bear Dogs and Arctic wolves didn't make the best companions together.

"You miss your master...don't you boy?" Korra smiled sadly as Kodiak gave a small whimper. It was another injustice to add to the heap that Noatak didn't even have a chance to greet his oldest friend. "Don't worry boy, we'll get him back."

With that Korra's eyes suddenly darted up to Sokka, and the councilman nodded solemnly as though he read Korra's thoughts.

"I also have an update on the boys Korra. We don't have much time, we need to get ready for their trial."

"Their trial?" Korra eyes widened in surprise.

Sokka nodded, his earlier cheerfulness giving way to a serious demeanor. "Your uncle is set to make an example of them in a court martial. Best case, they are exiled and disgraced, but worst case, execution. We have to save them."

Korra shivered involuntarily at the mention of a court martial, remembering all too well a lifetime ago, her own experience going through a court martial and punishment. The scars on her back remained a stark reminder of the price one paid for failure. She couldn't let her friends, who risked everything to save her family, to go through the same thing.

"Let's go Sokka." she said with grim determination.

A/N : Holy crap what's this? A new chapter within a month? Let's see if we can get things moving a little faster haha. Thank you all for your patience and for sticking by this story through thick and thin. I'll do my best to keep this up :D