The Legend of Korra goes through its own kind of growing pain this week, as ‘Reunion’ gives Team Avatar a second chance after a three-year absence. Our heroes have each undergone a transformation of sorts, but like many aspects of life, there are those elements that you cannot change.

Last time we saw Asami and Korra in action, the two had put aside their differences over the whole “Mako debacle,” which turned them into a dynamic duo of sorts. Korra’s quick judgment of Asami’s desire for reconciliation with her father was harsh, yet the Avatar has every right to not trust the man who wronged her. Thankfully, their squabbles were forgiven by the episode’s end, which is a good thing, since Team Avatar is at its most effective when everyone is happy.

Bolin may have been cut off from the main group, but his impact was vital in setting up the final push for this season. Our overly excitable earthbender is always in good company when Varrick is around. The brilliant scientist found a way to temporarily sabotage one of Kuvira’s spirit-vine weapon prototypes. Bolin, on the other hand, made some new friends with the group of refugees. His skill as a lavabender has improved greatly over the last three years since the season 3 finale. Also, who wouldn’t want to see Varrick’s failed attempt at carrying Bolin through the forest?

Korra used her bending abilities sparingly this week, but her control over the skills Toph taught her were quite impressive. She may have some kind of internal scarring, yet her focus never wavers, which should give us hope that our heroine will return to form soon. Her skills will most assuredly be needed with the reveal of Kuvira’s army at the swamp, attempting to harness the power of the vines spiritual energy. The ships surrounding the great tree was a troubling image, especially knowing that Toph is somewhere below. Will she get involved?

If Toph is in trouble, one has to wonder whether or not Korra will come to her aid in time. Or perhaps Toph will simply sneak off? That last scenario doesn’t seem likely since Toph is more of a clobber first ask questions later kind of woman. It would be amazing if Zuko and Katara came to her rescue instead, reuniting old school Team Avatar in epic fashion.

There’s also the question of what Kuvira wants with a super weapon. For the most part, she has had little trouble conquering the entirety of the Earth Kingdom, so does she want more? Is this crazed military dictator looking to bend the knees of both the Water and Fire nations, too – or maybe just Republic City? Regardless, Korra needs to find out what’s troubling her if she wants to stand a chance against “The Great Uniter.”

We are now past the halfway mark of Book 4: Balance. How has this season measured up to the previous three? Keep watching to see what happens next.

The Legend of Korra continues next Friday on various streaming services.