[ The embrace diffuses his tension. But not completely. Against his will, his roaming hand slides up her spine, cradles the back of her skull, a melony warmth through the thick tumble of hair. His gaze never wavers from hers, but there is something wistful, drifting, in its gleam. Of course to her this is an adventure, a journey of self-discovery. Something novel and excitingly rewarding. But for him it's a an omen of disaster to come. It might not be, sure. Everything could turn out okay. But there is no way of knowing that. Even if the pregnancy is smooth sailing, if the baby is born healthy, ten toes and ten fingers, there is no guarantee he'll be the kind of person to keep a child. What would he do with a tiny human being? ]
[ He can't say that to Korra. How can he, when she's smiling in that softly glowing way that is identical to when she's absorbed in her katas, all the elements flowing through her, an incredible trancelike wave, as if her essence is breaking free of her flesh and flying up in a blur of burning light. Happiness that pure is rare but amazing to see. Affection wells in him, warring with cynicism. He could believe her. Believe in her -- and let her guide the way. Unconventional and brashly independent as she is, she is also able to compromise instantly and enthusiastically when she sees the need for it. Perhaps this quality more than any other is why she is the chosen one, the Avatar, and why she glides so effortlessly through fiendishly delicate situations like this. ]
[ He doesn't know. The fear that springs through him is enormous, but also selfish. Because baby or no baby, it's Korra he can't bear to lose. ]
[ With effort, ]
Look. I'll try. As much as I can. But don't pretend what I am won't be an issue. Children never stop needing. Everything costs -- one way or another. Whatever I feel, whatever I do -- it may not be enough.
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Date: 2015-02-16 04:29 am (UTC)[ He can't say that to Korra. How can he, when she's smiling in that softly glowing way that is identical to when she's absorbed in her katas, all the elements flowing through her, an incredible trancelike wave, as if her essence is breaking free of her flesh and flying up in a blur of burning light. Happiness that pure is rare but amazing to see. Affection wells in him, warring with cynicism. He could believe her. Believe in her -- and let her guide the way. Unconventional and brashly independent as she is, she is also able to compromise instantly and enthusiastically when she sees the need for it. Perhaps this quality more than any other is why she is the chosen one, the Avatar, and why she glides so effortlessly through fiendishly delicate situations like this. ]
[ He doesn't know. The fear that springs through him is enormous, but also selfish. Because baby or no baby, it's Korra he can't bear to lose. ]
[ With effort, ]
Look. I'll try. As much as I can. But don't pretend what I am won't be an issue. Children never stop needing. Everything costs -- one way or another. Whatever I feel, whatever I do -- it may not be enough.