Invisible String | Mako

Chapter 19

-Mako-

In a way, I have always admired Iroh. Growing up, I always assumed children that came from such a status like him would grow up to be assholes. Iroh, certainly did not. He is a genuinely caring person and a damn good bender- which I appreciated.

I knew he cared greatly for Elena and her family, mostly because of her sister, Vera. Whatever his reasoning may be, I was glad to have another person to help us out.

"Thank you for coming" I said, reaching out to shake his hand.

He returned the gesture, squeezing my fingers endearingly. "It's a shame the reasoning, but I am more than happy to help."

"This would mean the world to Vera" Elena says, a small sad smile on her lips.

Iroh frowns, shoving his hands into the pockets of his trousers. "I know. It breaks my heart that she and the family are in danger. I will do whatever I can"

"We have a few ideas" I say, glancing at Vera, "We are planning to attend this fancy party this weekend. A lot of notable people will be there. We are hoping to catch someone in the act"

"Elena told me about Riako" Iroh frowns, "I'm pissed. I already sent a radio message back home"

"Do you think the Fire Nation would be willing to help us?" Elena asks, "Clearly the leadership here is no use"

"I bet we'll be able to do something" Iroh assures us, "I don't know what that is right now, but once I hear back from my mother I will let you know. My grandfather was so upset when he heard the news"

"My parents care greatly for the Fire Lord" Elena frowns, "Anything they can do will be met with much gratitude"

I shove my hands in my pockets, watching the two high-born people talk about their high-born families. I feel a little dumb, standing there without any political status. I didn't have a family that could send countless soldiers, or millions of yuans to throw at the situation. I just have myself and my bending.

"Mako has been a hero" Elena chimes in, reaching over to squeeze my arm gently.

Iroh gives me a proud smirk, "That is the type of attitude we could use in the United Forces"

I shrug, writing his compliment off to niceties, "Thanks"

"Well" Elena says, clasping her hands together, "I'm sure you are hungry from your journey, shall we get something to eat?"

"Great idea" Iroh says, "I'm starving."

The night had just begun when we all arrived at Koda's. Asami gives a quick smile to the hostess and we are escorted back into a private dining room. I sit down beside Elena at the head of the table. To my right is Bolin, followed by Asami, Korra, and finally Iroh on Elena's otherside.

"Too bad this place has a rule against pets" Bolin frowns, glancing over the menu, "Pabu would love this place"

"Bring him some takeaway fried squid and noodles" Asami suggests, glancing over the menu. "Does he like squid?"

"Pabu will eat anything" I add, "Literally. One time I saw him eat right out of the garbage can"

Everyone chuckles, Bolin looking at me with a scoff, "He was eating leftovers!"

A waiter comes and serves us drinks followed by an assortment of appetizers. Asami coordinates a few more items to be brought out for the table as we begin our feast.

"So this Benefit Recital" Iroh says, sipping from his glass, "What is it?"

"The Republic City Conversatory of Music is hosting a benefit recital for the local schools this weekend." Elena explains, "I was invited to perform when I first moved here. After my family was taken it was reschedule until now"