From here on out, your still free to suggest anything, but I'm going to keep it short with this one line. Anyways, in the spirit of freedom, this chapter features characters that didn't appear until the Turf Wars comic, any Shinobi in this chapter comes from somewhere in the vast Naruto verse, and any other characters, like a certain old man, are canon to Legend of Korra. His abilities, and others, not so much. I hope you enjoy.
Red Monsoon Car, Night…
Yakone rode in his car with Zabuza, Haku, and Zolt.
"Alright Zolt, lay it on me." Yakone stated. "What information do you have on the other gangs."
Zolt nodded. "As I understand it, you have been uninformed concerning the status of the other gangs since your return. Understandable when you don't want people to know you're here, so I've been thorough in gathering information."
"Outside of your own gang since Yakone clearly had his eye on you for some time." Haku stated.
Yakone held up a hand with a smile. "I did ask for information on the other gangs, but I should have been clear. In addition to the information on gangs I don't know, I also want information on how Tokuga has taken to leadership over the triads."
Zolt nodded. "Tokuga is a worthy successor. I can see why you recommended him to take over even though he is without bending. His hatred of Amon and value he sees in bending as power is something my previous men respect. His strength keeps the rowdier members in line."
"Glad to hear it." Yakone stated. "Please, proceed to the other gangs and inform me of anything I should know. No delay, as we'll be arriving shortly."
Zolt nodded once more. "The Agni Kai Triad, an all Fire Bending triad, is the rival to both the Red Monsoons and Triple Threats. Recently, their leader has been replaced by some dame who's said to be powerful and a Shinobi. Goes by Pakura of the Scorch Release."
"I've never faced her combat, but I've heard of her." Zabuza stated. "Scorch Release is an amplified fire much like the blue fames of the now dead Azula and missing son who vanished years ago."
"I see." Yakone stated. "Anything more on the Agni Kai's?"
"Almost every other member is a Fire Bender, but her second in command is another Shinobi." Yakone stated. "Gari of the Explosion Release."
Zabuza looked at the two men. "Gari and Pakura…" The Seven Swordsman's head began to hurt, but he didn't know why. "I know them more than I think, but I can't discern why. What is this?"
Yakone looked at Zabuza. "Have you heard of Gari, Zabuza?"
Zabuza, being the Shinobi, he was, portrayed nothing of the pain in his head. "Gari of the Explosion Release. Another known Shinobi who I never crossed paths with. It's a bit odd that Pakura and Gari would work together since they shouldn't be fond of each other."
Zabuza knew their village affiliations in the previous world, so it was odd to hear that those two had decided to work together.
"Interesting." Yakone stated. "What's next Zolt."
Zolt replied, "The Creeping Crystal Triad. No offense to the Red Monsoons or the Agni Kais, but this one's the top rival to the Triple Threats. They are comprised of about 90% Earth Benders, 5% Water Benders, 3% fire benders, and 2% non-benders.
Their leader is an earth bending dame named Jargala Omo. While the rest of her men are of little note, her second in command is another Shinobi. A dame named Guren and I hear has something called Crystal Release like that Sasuke Uchiha was talking about on the radio."
"Can't say I've ever heard of her." Zabuza stated.
"From what I gather, Jargala found the kid when she was young, took her in, and nurtured her talents. The girl sees Jargala as her mother and vice versa." Zolt stated.
"Well, with all these Shinobi around I may need to call Raiga back to my side to facilitate a sign of strength." Yakone stated.
"If you must call him back, stay weary." Zabuza stated. "Raiga was the most unstable of the Seven Swordsmen. I can only imagine he's become even more unhinged with the death of that kid he was looking after."
"Noted." Yakone then looked at Zolt. "Is that all?"
"There was the Terra Triad, but my boys and I wiped them out just under a year ago." Zolt stated. "The Creeping Crystals and Agni Kai's are going to be hard to sway towards any alliance."
"I don't doubt it, but Yakone isn't one to back down from a challenge." Yakone smiled. "The fact that they are agreeing to a meeting is telling. If you're concerned about your former gang's strength, don't be. I sent a letter to a Shinobi I met out there. He should be by Tokuga's side."
"Really?" Zolt asked. "Who is this Shinobi?"
"I've never heard of this Shinobi before meeting him." Zabuza continued. "That said, he used a rare Blood Line Limit that is often overshadowed by Wood Release. His name is Ameyuki and he can use Mud Release."
"Even if he is unknown, it's good to know the Triple Threats won't be arriving completely outclassed." Zolt stated.
At that moment, the car came to a stop.
Warehouse
The car door was opened by the driver and Yakone stepped out followed by Zolt, Zabuza, and Haku. They'd arrived at a warehouse and parked near three other vehicles. Two red and one green.
"Looks as though the others have already arrived meaning we can start immediately." Yakone stated. "Haku, you and Zolt need to wait here. No doubt the others have only entered with their second in commands, so it would be rude not to answer in kind."
Yakone and Zabuza walked into the warehouse which was almost completely empty. The only things in the room were a round table, the three other gang leaders, and their second in commands who stood behind them.
Tokuga, leader of the Triple Threats, was the youngest among them with a black mohawk, orange eyes, and tan skin. He wore black robe pants, a white dress shirt, and an orange trench coat. He had a gourd full of sand on his back and hook swords at his side.
Ameyuki, the one behind him, was roughly the same age. He was a young man, but it was hard to tell since he was androgynous in appearance. This young man had a sleek physique, brown skin, and silver hair. His attire consisted of a full green suit with matching fedora.
Jargala Omo, leader of the Creeping Crystals, had brown skin, matching eyes, and long black hair in a ponytail. She wore a green shirt with matching pants and red robing over top. There were also golden bracelets on her wrists.
Guren, her second in command, wore red lipstick, has fair skin, dark eyes, and light blue hair in a spiky ponytail. Her outfit consists of a green dress with a long-left sleeve and a short right one. In addition, she wore a red turtleneck and brown gloves.
Pakura, leader of the Agni Kai, was a tall woman with fair-skin and brown eyes. Her green hair, with orange tips, was tied in a bun on top of her head with a hair needle running through it. Her attire consists of a sleeveless red top and red pants.
Gari, her second in command, has spiky, light-brown hair, prominent jawlines, and green eyes. He wears a light red, flak jacket, single-sleeved, dark red shirt underneath, leaving the entirety of his right arm exposed, and matching pants.
Like Zabuza, Pakura and Gari wore their respective head bands. Pakura's was from the Village Hidden in the Sand around her forehead, and Gari's, which was wrapped around his exposed arm, was from the Village Hidden in the Stone.
Yakone, followed by Zabuza, walked up to the table taking his seat while Zabuza came to stand behind him. "Sorry I was running late everyone, but some of my men were confronted by Chi Blockers, and I had to help them."
Pakura nodded. "I can understand that Yakone. My Triad's compound was attacked just yesterday. We managed to drive them off but lost a couple of fire benders in the process."
Tokuga said, "Since the Triple Threats joined Yakone, we have been able to protect each other and ensure none of our men are lost by crushing those who come after us swiftly and without mercy."
"That's all well and good for you two, but the Creeping Crystals have been operating just fine without your aid." Jargala firmly stated.
Yakone held up his hands. "Now everyone, let's reign ourselves in. I know tensions are running high, but we are at a moment in time where our gangs can bury the hatchet and come together to rule all of Republic City. When we do, there will be plenty of territory to go around."
"Why would the Creeping Crystals ever settle for working with the Agni Kais or Triple Threats?" Guren asked. "After the blood lost on both sides, how could we possibly work together?"
"Because we all have three enemies in common. Amon is powerful, the Avatar, even untrained, poses a threat, and Sasuke Uchiha may have directed most of his words to me, but you'd be foolish to assume he'll stop there. Face it, working together is our best option."
"You do speak a great deal of logic." Pakura stated. "Also, we may be of different gangs, but we're all Triads. No matter what triad, we should know when to band together. Frankly, the threats that have popped up warrant it."
"Just a second, you'd be willing to let the past go?" Jargala asked.
"If it means securing a future for my people, I will work with the Triple Threats and Red Monsoons no problem. Especially with the promise of dividing this city amongst ourselves." Pakura stated. "It's a better outcome than waiting around to be taken down."
Yakone said. "Jargala, I know our gangs dislike one or multiple gangs represented in this room, but that was the old order. This is a new order. One where the Triads are run by people willing to put our efforts towards the right enemies instead of each other."
"Guren, what do you think?" Jargala asked.
"Mother, as much as I hate to admit it, they are speaking great sense." Guren stated. "In the end, we'd gain a fourth of Republic City. Something which would enable ourselves and our men to thrive."
Jargala closed her eyes. "Very well." She opened her eyes. "The Creeping Crystals are in."
At that moment, the warehouse was bathed in white energy as a man familiar to all four leaders suddenly appeared on the table. It was an old man with a long white beard. He wore finery and a purple robe with a hat.
Zabuza, Guren, Ameyuki, and Gari immediately moved onto the table with Zabuza having his blade at the man's neck, Guren had created a blade made of Crystal, and Ameyuki and Gari had drawn kunai.
"Zabuza, stand down." Yakone stated. "This is a friend."
"Thank you for your immediate action my daughter, but Yakone is right." Jargala stated. "This is my friend as well."
Tokuga said, "He granted me power Ameyuki, so stand down."
"Gari, return to my side and leave our friend be." Pakura stated.
The second in commands did as they were told.
Yakone stood. "Hundun, I was not aware of your affiliation with all our gangs."
Hundun chuckled. "I have to keep some secrets. After all, I've been around for 1000's of years. That said, I am pleased to see that the four of you have come to an agreement. It is the outcome I was hoping for."
"Why is that?" Jargala asked.
"Because it gives me the chance to tell you the way to claim Republic City. You five will take your men and leave. They need time to learn how to work together. In the meantime, let the Avatar fight the Equalists. No matter who wins, you'll have an easy victory upon your return." Hundun explained.
The gang leaders looked at each other and had to admit that there was logic behind his words. They each knew the Equalists were gearing up for something big, so it was best to tactically retreat before returning in the future to claim what was theirs.
"Your plan makes sense Hundun, but you said us five will take our men and leave" Pakura stated. "There are only four of us in here."
Hundun smiled. "I believe in your cause to the point that I am offering a fifth triad of seasoned war veterans from the 100 Hundred Year War. A whole platoon of Fire Benders who attempted to claim the North only to be stopped by Avatar Aang. Their leader is Admiral Zhao.
Just then, a dark portal opened nearby and out stepped Zhao himself. He had a widow's peak, the traditions fire nation hairstyle, and mutton chops. His attire consisted of fire bender armor from the 100-year war.
"I know the legends do not speak highly of a cooperative personality, and the disdain for water and earth benders would be a problem." Hundun smiled. "Fortunately, I, in conjunction with the Fog of Lost Souls, was able to iron out those aspects of his character. Isn't that right Zhao?"
Zhao nodded. "I am more than aware and accepting of the world as is; however, I will not accept the sorry state of the Fire Nation. Prince Zuko and his entire line must be wiped out. I will help you four, and you can have all of Republic City because I have my sights set on my nation."
The four gang leaders looked at one another before nodding as they each trust Hundun. "Now, if none of you have any qualms with the plan I've outlined, return to your men and exit the city I will contact you when the time is right to strike."
With that, the old man vanished leaving the gang leaders to discuss plans.
Republic City, Police Department
Shisui had decided to come and check out the police department figuring the place was likely still open even this late into the night. After all, the city was far more dangerous than even the day he arrived.
Shisui looked up at the building. "So, this is where Sasuke sort of has a job. Considering the state of this city, I can't ignore what's going on or the laws of this world. Still, I did pick the oddest time to come." He shrugged. "Eh, it should be fine."
Shisui walked into the building and found it rather quiet all things concerned. There didn't seem to be anyone around. The fact that the Equalists and Triads were causing so much trouble began to make the Shinobi worry.
"Did one of the sides decide to take the police force out already?" Shisui thought.
The Uchiha stealthily moved through the building looking for any signs of a struggle. Shisui ended up finding nothing until he came to the chief's office. There was a light on, so he peered in. Kanan was working on something at his desk and there were discarded papers everywhere.
Shisui knocked causing Kanan too look up. "Who's there?"
Shisui opened the door. "Shisui Uchiha."
"Oh, I've seen you around the island." Kanan stated. "You're from Sasuke's world. Is something wrong on the island?"
Shisui entered the room. "No, nothing like that. I just decided to come and offer my help the way Sasuke does. The Triads and Equalists are big problems, so I want to help bring them down."
"I see, but couldn't you have waited until tomorrow?" Kanan asked.
Shisui chuckled and rubbed the back of his head. "In all fairness, I thought this place would be fully operational."
Kanan sighed. "I have people on patrol, but I let most of them go home. It's worrying, but the Triads haven't been active since the championship match while Equalists haven't been active since the Sato Mansion raid. It's likely both parties are flying under our radar."
"I see." Shisui looked around at the room. "So, what are you doing exactly? No offense, but if this were paperwork, you wouldn't be throwing it around."
Kanan sighed before looking at Shisui. "You know, I was going to talk to Sasuke about this, but you are here." He pushed his current paper forward. "I've been working on a new design for our police uniforms. Something that isn't as susceptible to electric based attacks."
Shisui picked up the paper. He was looking at a well detailed armor design. It showed two layered black leather armor modeled after the metal armor they currently wore and padded with rubber in between the two layers.
"Smart." Shisui stated. "The leather and rubber should provide just as much protection from chi blocking as your metal armor while also negating the Equalist's shock gloves and fire bender's lighting. Not to mention the whole thing would be lighter. So, what's the problem?"
"The problem is that I'm having trouble incorporating metal into the design to where it's functional and barley a detriment." Kanan explained. "As officers, we need an easy way to restrain and capture criminals; however, gauntlets or the belt leave a large weak point.."
Shisui nodded and grabbed a pencil before sitting down. "Alright, I think I see what can be done." He began adding to the design. "Tell me Kanan, I've noticed your family is rather agile. That's the air bender style, right?"
Kanan nodded. "That's right."
"You're proficient in the forms even though you can't air bend?" Shisui asked.
"That is also correct." Kanan stated. "I wanted the ability to at least begin teaching any of my kids who could air bend, so I learned all that a non-air bender could from my father. I then intergraded it's style with the earth and metal bending my mother taught me."
Shisui erased and drew in more to the design. "A combined style that keeps you rather mobile. "Metal bending… there's no particular limit besides size?"
"Naturally." Kanan stated. "If something is to big, it'd take more metal benders to move."
"Good to know." Shisui was putting the final touches on the design. "Alright, I think I got something."
Shisui passed the paper back to Kanan who looked at the design. The armor was relatively intact; however, boots with rubber soles and the belt with metal cable, and a layer of rubber layered over it, had been added. Finally, there were metal strips layered together in various places.
Kana was impressed. "Of course, with rubber layered over the belt it shouldn't mess with the systems and leaves our hands free. With rubber soled boots, it's a little extra protection. What's the deal with the metal strips? I get the rubber would protect our bodies, but it's still odd."
Shisui stated. "Your unique fighting style is the answer. Teach your movements to the people under you, and the force will be able to move light on their feet. Combine that with the strips and you can take out opponents easier. You can bend the strips and wrap it around the eyes blinding your opponent or bend it around their arms and/legs for instant cuffs."
"That is rather ingenious." Kanan stated before getting an idea. "Oh, this has just given me an idea for something more I can add to my own set of armor. I'll have to ditch the staff to make this uniform work for me, but I can borrow a little something from the Kyoshi Warriors as a replacement." He looked at Shisui before nodded. "Thank you."
Shisui smiled. "Sometimes we just need another viewpoint to make something work."
Kanan extended his hand. "Well, if you can fight as well as you draw and think, you'll be a great asset to the police force."
Shisui shook the hand. "Thanks."
They let go and Kanan stood. "Well, how about I treat you to a late dinner as thanks for this?"
"Are there even places open this late?" Shisui stood.
"You haven't been in the city long Shisui Uchiha." Kanan walked around and put a friendly arm around him. "Come on, I know this stand that makes some great Earth Kingdom food."
They started walking and Shisui smiled. "Sounds good to me."
Air Temple Island, Early Morning…
Sasuke was waiting as Mako, Bolin, Asami, and Soren arrived. All but Soren and Mako seemed tired, but that was the point. After all, what good was this test if his students were at peak condition.
"Good morning everyone." Sasuke stated. "Ready for your first day?"
Bolin groaned. "This is even earlier than our time slot for training during pro-bending."
"Trust me, soon any of you who are tired will be wide awake, but first I believe introductions are in order. Granted, some of us know each other, but it's good to get perspective for those who don't or may know little."
"Alright, how is this going to work Sensei?" Soren asked.
"Things you like, things you hate, hobbies, and dreams for the future. Allow me to demonstrate." Sasuke stated. "My name is Sasuke Uchiha. I like tomatoes, Asami, and my family. I dislike any foods that are sweet and people like who I used to be. My hobbies include training and taking walks. My dream is to stop the Shinobi who'd negatively impact this world. Soren, your turn."
Soren sat up. "Yes, I am Soren. I like my family and hate it when people think I'm weak because I'm a non-bender. My hobbies include training and playing with my sibling. My dream is to become strong like my mother, father, and Sasuke Sensei."
"Good, you're up Asami." Sasuke stated.
"My name is Asami Sato. I like Sasuke and my friends while disliking my father and the Equalists. My hobbies include driving and enjoying the company of my friends. My dream? I suppose it would be to grow old surrounded by people I care for."
"Bolin, your next." Sasuke stated.
Bolin said. "I'm Bolin. I like helping my friends whenever I can, Narook's Seaweed Noodlery, and my brother. I dislike whenever my friends or Mako are in trouble. My hobbies include pro-bending and hanging with my friends. My dream is to grow strong enough to protect those I care about."
Sasuke said, "Mako, you're the last."
"Names Mako. I like my brother and helping people. I dislike people who use their power to hurt or kill others. My hobbies include training and reading. My dream is to one day become a detective or to protect people in some regard." Mako replied.
"Let's get started." Sasuke walked over to a clock on a stump and pressed the start button. "This is set for noon." He walked back to stand in front of them and produced three bells. "Your task is simple. All you must do it take these bells. If you can't take them by noon, you don't get lunch."
All their stomachs growled with Bolin freaking out. "What, no lunch!?"
"Not only that, but if you fail to get the bells, I will tie each of you to one of the four stumps over there." Sasuke explained. "You will then be forced to watch as I eat my lunch in front of you."
"I see." Mako stated. "You made sure we'd be hungry as a motivational tool."
"Precisely." Sasuke stated. "As you can see, three bells, but four of you. This is to make sure at least one of you will be tied down and disqualified. That means no training and no Chakra for those of you who don't have it.
Of course, all four of you could be just as easily disqualified. Use anything you deem necessary. If you aren't prepared to kill me, you won't take these bells." He put the bells on his waist. "When I say start, you may begin." He became relaxed. "Start."
Axl:Great chapter, Asami accepting Sasuke' s past and Sasuke admitting his feelings for Asami shows good character development between them.
Quillion9000: I'm glad to hear it.
