Brave/Proud

At ten years old Jinora had a pretty good grip on a couple of things.

First off was her air glider; Daddy said she used it beautifully.

Second was her air scooter; Mommy said Jinora reminded her of Grandpa when she did it.

Third was that Lin Beifong was important to Daddy, and what was important to Daddy was important to Jinora.

No fear, she repeated as her mantra, preparing to leave the room. She knew Ikki and Meelo would follow, because Daddy wasn't here and Lin needed them to help protect Mommy and the baby. No fear, and with that Jinora set off.

In the moment her mind was clear, as if there was a voice telling her what to do. Wisdom beyond your age, the old scrolls had said, comes when the young must fight the old. It had been as if the spirits of past Airbenders had guided her.

When it was over Jinora was proud. When Daddy returned, though, she finally admitted to herself that maybe she had been a little frightened. She gripped Daddy tightly and though he said nothing she knew he understood.

Her sister won't stop talking. Jinora knows it's because that's what Ikki does, especially when she worries, but Mommy is tired and Rohan is asleep and Meelo is about to pass out too. Jinora watches her Daddy's rigid back fly Oogi.

"Ikki," Mommy soothes and she finally falls quiet, watching the water beneath them as Jinora moves to pass her mother and brothers. Daddy's one arm is already behind his back as if waiting for her.

Carefully she moves to sit on his lap, Daddy holding her tight. "Is Rohan asleep?" he asks and Jinora nods, watching Oogi's eyes search out the upcoming distance.

"Lin is going to loose her bending isn't she Daddy?" Jinora asks quietly. Daddy holds her closer, kissing her head.

"You were very brave back there."

"Did I make you proud?" As the last of the sun sets the little girl turns her face upward to see her Daddy watching her. He smiles.

"You always make me proud Jinora."

Behind them, Ikki has started to babble again.