Hello everyone. Welcome back. Sorry for almost a month delay. Workload really dampen the mood to write. Anyway, I'm glad to see you guys enjoy the previous chapter. Without more delay, let's get into this new one.
COMMENT REPLY SECTION
DCDGojira: Glad you like it.
Raximus: Lol, me too. I hope he doesn't get bored.
Leonard lemon3891: Thank you for pointing that out. I have no intention on shipping them in any way but I'm glad the innocent romance caught your attention. Jinora do have a canon love interest in the series. She and Shen will share a close bond throughout the story.
DaftMerc39: Thank you, I hope you stick around.
Deltaclass01: As much I love for clichés and the obvious, but Wizard will be very OP in the LOK's world in my opinion. I would be lying if I said I didn't think about it when first planning this crossover. Maybe some other writer will pick it up soon.
Guest: Nice one. I didn't realize when writing that chapter than Shen's existence in this story shifts things, except the fact Bolin still got shot down in this universe. Glad to see you enjoy Shen's and Jinora's interaction.
Austin: I have an in-story canon to the Unknown's origin planned out. Just need the right time to put it in.
GokaiSilver3511: The Lizard Unknown will be hazard in some way for their journey to fight Amon.
BOOK 1 CHAPTER 7: The Game's Victor
Shen's condition from the recent beat-up has shown some improvement. In a few days, he's back on his feet and even trained some hand-to-hand combat with Korra. His fighting skill is still below average without his armor, but it's still impressive for someone who never fights a day in their lives.
Shen was busy going for kicks and punches, but Korra managed to lock his arms behind his back and swept his feet for him to hit the ground.
"Okay. I give up. I have mercy on someone that almost died."
Korra was going easy on him since the start. "Hmm. For someone who almost died, you did quite well. Just need more training."
Korra helped him and kissed him lightly up as Tenzin approached them.
"How was today's practice? I hope Korra didn't bully you like last time."
Korra wrapped her arm around her boyfriend's neck, "None of the such Tenzin. We're good."
"Korra. Let go of me." Shen pushed the Avatar away from him.
"There's only so much we could do right now. Shen, you're just recovered. Don't strain yourself too much, and Korra, please go easy on him. Get yourselves ready for dinner. Talah and Bilan will be cooking tonight."
"Oh boy, dinner's going to be great," Korra said excitedly as she dragged the boy with her.
In the forest at the edge of the city, the Lizard Unknown walked with a confident stride. It arrived at a clearing as two shadows approached it. The figures turned out to be two Mole Unknown. One of them was mostly silver while the other one was orange.
The two stared at the newcomer and the three of them just snarled at each other, as if they could communicate with each other without using words.
"Kill Agito. Kill Avatar. Kill benders."
The two Mole Unknown looked at each other before making their ritualistic hand gestures. They nodded before disappearing by tunneling underground. The Lizard Unknown stared at the two large holes before walked over it towards its destination.
"This is so good."
Korra took a bite out of every dish in front of her before consuming her rice.
"Korra. Watch your manners. We have guests." Tenzin reminded her as Talah giggled.
"It's okay Tenzin. I'm glad that she still appreciates my cooking. Shen dear, eat some more. You hardly eat your fish."
"Mother, you know I'm a slow eater." Shen slowly ate while Korra was scarfing down by the boatload.
"Shen. Would you like some more Chili Tofu? We could share mine." Jinora offered him her portion.
"Thanks, Jinora." Shen was about to grab it when Korra's chopsticks intercepted it, leaving Jinora and Shen's jaw dropped at Korra's action.
"Korra. That was for Shen." Jinora told her.
"Really? Hehe. Sorry." Korra cut the tofu into three equal pieces and offered one to Shen. "Here Shen. We'll share. Say 'Ahh'."
Shen playfully rolled his eyes at her before he took a bite. Ikki and Meelo cooed at them. "~Shen and Korra sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G~"
"Ikki. Meelo. Behave yourselves." Tenzin warned them.
"Come on Tenzin. They're just kids. Let them be." Bilan calmly told the councilman. Tenzin sighed but smiled all the same at the sight of his family, Korra, Shen, and his family, all having a wonderful and calm dinner together.
"So, Korra. When's the final match of the Pro-Bending?" Pema asked her daughter figure.
"It's tomorrow night, but we still have a short training session in the morning. I hope all of you can come and watch."
"We would love to Korra." Bilan frowned, "But, some of our waiters and cooks called in sick this morning, and they will be on leave for a few days."
"Yeah, sorry about this. We would be busy at the restaurant more than ever before, many people gathered" Talah added.
"Want me to stay and help?" Shen offered, but his father shook his head.
"No need Shen. You should go and watch the match. Your girlfriend will be playing her biggest match yet. You should be there for her."
"Okay." Shen agreed to it but felt a bit sad that he would leave his parents to handle the restaurant with the small number of staff they have left.
"Yaozun"
The detective turned to see his partner waving at him. Detective Shou currently supported by an arm cast walked up to him.
"Shou. Good to see you're back, but isn't it a bit too early for you to resume duty?"
"I'm fine, Yaozun. Just a little sore, but I'll be fine. Can't let a kid outdo me now." Shou chuckled at the memory of the reason he was hospitalized in the first place. "How's the kid, by the way?"
"Recovering and starting to train hand-to-hand combat without his armor."
"See? That's why I couldn't rest now. Shen's doing his best, and we should too."
Yaozun stopped in his track, "Shou. I hope you're not comparing yourself with Shen. He's got armor to protect him. You do not."
Shou laughed at Yaozun's advice and quickly patted him on the back, "Relax Yaozy. I'm just pulling your leg. All jokes aside, we still need to be ready. We're fighting wars on two fronts here, and the Equalists are at an advantage whether they realized it or not. That's nothing to sneeze at."
"Right." Yaozun nodded as the two continue with their duty.
They arrived at their desk, and without delay Shou crashed into his seat. "By the way, is there any news about Amon while I'm out?"
"No, nothing. To say the chief is worried is an understatement. She has been on high alert and hardly rests."
"With Amon going quiet, it does raise some bells." Shou sighed and fumbled through his desk aimlessly.
"Shou? Is there anything wrong? You want to talk about it?"
Shou slammed a thick folder onto his desk with a loud bang. "It's just…"
He walked to a water dispenser and filled a glass to the point it almost spilled. He gulped it down in a single breath, earning weird looks from their fellow officers.
"Every day Amon is not caught is another day towards the boiling point in this city."
"Yes, I agree." Yaozun pulled out a few reports of his own. "I understand why you refused to rest now, even after what happened."
"It's been a total nightmare for me Yaozy. A few of my friends, even my family asked me why I'm still working for an oppressive government. What do I say to that? That I still believe they will make changes for the better?"
"Well, you could tell them what you believed about all of this. Your thoughts on the oppression and the Equalist's actions. Whatever path you choose, you have your reasons."
Shou nodded and returned to his happy self. "Thanks, Yaozy. I knew you would have my back. Now, let's get back to work. What do we have today?"
Yaozun threw a folder at him and the two exited the room for their first assignment of the day.
Shen was busy doing his part at the restaurant. He will be going to the arena tonight and want to least help out by preparing the ingredients. He sliced and diced the vegetables and put them neatly into a bowl and into the fridge.
"Done. Next is the…"
"Good morning, citizens of Republic City. This is Amon."
Amon's voice came from the nearby radio that's resting on the kitchen's counter. Shen stopped at whatever he was trying to do focus his full attention on whatever the terrorist has in store.
"Amon." Shen greeted his teeth and get a little closer to hear.
"You all enjoy the last Pro-Bending match because it will be your last one. It's time for this city to stop worshipping bending athletes as if they were heroes. I'm calling on the council to shut down the bending arena and cancels the finals or else, there will be severe consequences."
The anger boils within him reached a new level. He clenched his fist and his mind filled with troubled thoughts. He will not allow Amon to do as he pleases. Despite no one ask of him, he will fight. He will be the wall in between Amon and his goals and he will never crumble.
"Mother. Father. I'm going to meet up with Korra." Shen screamed to the top of the stairs.
"Sure thing. Remember to invite everyone to a late dinner tonight. We'll celebrate their victory together." Talah replied from upstairs.
"Sure thing, mother. I'm off."
Shen rode his motorcycle to the arena. The moment he arrived; he saw the trio Fire Ferrets riding Naga towards him.
"Shen." Korra greeted him. "Did you hear the broadcast?"
Shen lifts his helmet's visor. "Yeah. I did. Quite surprising. Where are you guys going?"
"The City Hall," Mako answered.
"Get on." Shen offered and Mako joined Shen on his motorcycle. The four friends rode to the City Hall in the nick of time. No reporters gathered outside yet, providing them easy access to the councilman's meeting room.
Korra leads them towards it. She stomped her way there and pushed the door open, loud enough for the five council members to notice them.
"Korra, you shouldn't be here. This is a closed meeting." Tenzin got up from his seat.
Ignoring Tenzin, Korra continues forward, "As the Avatar and a Pro-Bending player. I have the right to be heard. You can't cancel the finals."
"I know winning the championship means a lot to you but as far I'm concern, we must shut the arena down." Tenzin held firm with the decision.
"What about the rest of you? Tarrlok, there's no way you're backing down from Amon, right?"
"I'm not surprised if he did back down," Bolin whispered to Shen.
"Actually. Tenzin and I agree for once." Tarrlok joined in standing up.
"I take it back. I'm quite surprised." Bolin whispered again and Shen nodded.
"The council is unanimous. We're closing the arena." Tenzin reaffirm.
"No! You can't do this," Mako screamed out.
"You can't." Bolin joined in. "Shen, say something." Bolin shook him but Shen did not say a word.
"I don't understand here. I thought out of all people, you would stand against Amon. What change?" Korra looks at Tarrlok in surprise.
Tarrlok fixed the collar of his robes, "While I am still committed to bringing that lunatic to justice, Avatar. I will not put innocent lives at stake just so you and your friends can play, nothing more, than a game."
Mako would not stand for this, "Pro-bending might only be a game to you, but think of what it means to the city! Right now, the arena is the one place where benders and non-benders gather together ... in-in peace! To watch benders ..."
'Mako please.' Shen pleaded.
"Beat each other up! In Pease!" He sides-hug Shen and brought him closer, "It's an inspiration to everyone!"
"I don't think they will buy it," Shen muttered.
"I appreciate your naive idealism, but you're ignoring the reality of the situation." Tarrlok continues to reason with them.
"Maybe they are right guys. People's lives are at stake here. Amon is not above…" Shen tried to reason with them.
"Not now Shen." Korra raised her hand at him before focus back on the council members "The reality is if you close the arena, you let Amon win!"
"Right! Exactly! Exactly what she said." Bolin leaned in closer to Shen. "Come on dude. Support your girlfriend."
"But Bolin…"
"I'm sorry, but our decision has been made. This meeting is adjourned. Please see yourselves out."
Tarrlok picks up the gavel in front of him. Sprang past Shen's head was a metal cable that knocks off the gavel head, shocking everyone present. Everyone turned to look toward the entrance of the courtroom as Lin enters the rooms, retracting back her metal cable. She confidently walked towards them, eyes the council members.
"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I agree with the Avatar."
"You do?" Tarrlok and Shen asked at the same time.
"Yeah, you do?"
Lin ignored the girl and continue facing the council members. "I expected this kind of cut-and-run response from Tenzin."
The teens minus Mako snorted, to which Tenzin just rolled his eyes.
"But the rest of you? Come on, show some backbone. It's time that the benders of this city displayed some strength and unity against these Equalists."
Tenzin and Tarrlok glanced at each other. "We must prevent the conflict between benders and non-benders from escalating into all-out war! The council is not changing its position, Lin."
'Good one Councilman Tenzin.' Shen praised.
Tarrlok step forward, "Now just a moment, Tenzin. Let us hear what our esteemed Chief of Police has in mind."
'What are you doing Councilman Tarrlok?'
"If you keep the arena open, my metal benders and I will provide extra security during the championship match. There's no better force to deal with the chi blockers. Our armor is impervious to their attacks." Lin explained.
"Are you saying that will personally take responsibility for the safety of the spectators in the arena, Chief Lin Beifong?" Tarrlok asked for some confirmation.
"I guarantee it." She replied.
Tarrlok smiled sarcastically, "It is hard to argue with Chief Beifong's track record. My fellow councilman, if she is confident her elite officers can protect the arena, then she has my support. I am changing my vote."
He raised his hand and Shen silently scorn every minute it's up in the air.
"Who else is with me?"
The other members seem hesitant to raise theirs'.
"Oh, I just remember. If anything does happen. I'm sure our Chief of Police will get the Agito to help out. Rumor has it that the Agito and the police force are best of friends. Right Chief Beifong?"
Lin glared at the man and her eyes linger on the teen behind her slightly, to avoid Tarrlok from noticing it.
"Chief Beifong?"
"Oh yes. Of course. I'm sure the Agito will not allow terrible things to happen to the good citizens of Republic City."
"Excellent. Now, the votes."
The remaining three representatives slowly raised their hands. Tenzin was the only one remained unchanged and could only look away in disappointment.
"So, that will be the verdict. The arena stays open. Good luck in the finals, you three. Also, the honorary members" Tarrlok's gaze lingered towards Shen.
The Fire Ferrets were all jumping and cheering. All of them except Shen that is. He remained silent and began to feel his heartbeat gradually beating faster and faster. He rushed out of the room to a nearby water dispenser. He drank a cup and drizzled some onto his face.
'This is bad. The risk that tonight will bring. Detective Yaozun. I need to talk to him right now.'
Shen walked back to the hallway that the courtroom was located. Korra and Tenzin were talking about something that Shen wasn't able to pick up. The only thing he heard was what Korra said to Tenzin as the Airbending master walked away.
"See you at home, Mr. Heartbreaker!" She proceeds to laugh. Her beautiful laugh ceased up when she saw him. She wrapped her arms around him but didn't get one in return.
"Shen. Isn't it great? The finals are on. I can't believe we did it."
"Oh yeah. Great."
Korra let go of the hug and looked at her boyfriend with sad eyes. "Hey, what's wrong?"
"Nothing, Korra. Sorry, I need to go."
Shen was about to leave but Korra still got a hold of his hands. "I know that look and tone of voice, Shen. It's about the finals, isn't it? You're against it continuing, am I right?"
"Kind of. Korra, I got…"
Korra was disappointed with his answer, "Shen, why? I thought you want to fight Amon. This isn't like you."
"I am Korra, all the way, but risking the civilians is not the way. Amon is not above collateral damage. I believe he wished that the council would continue the competition."
Korra was not expecting that kind of answer. "We have Chief Beifong on our side for once. Don't you trust her? Don't you trust me?"
Shen sighed, "I do trust Chief Beifong. I'm glad she's on board with us. Most of all, I trust you the most but…"
"Shen, please. I need you to be entirely on board with me. I need you than ever right now. We need to stand together. We need to be an example that benders and non-benders could co-exist and have a good life. Amon needs to know that the people of Republic City reject his lunacy. Say no to Amon's revolution."
Shen looks into her bright eyes and felt his anxiety and worries slowly faded away. "Alright. I trust you Korra. Let's show Amon that we don't back down."
They shared a kiss and walk hand-in-hand back to the exit.
In an unidentified cargo area, Amon watched over the entire procedure as his people loading lots of huge cargo onto trucks. The smile under the mask getting wider and wider as more and more cargo got loaded.
"Amon", the Lieutenant approached him from behind. "I just got word. The council defied your threat. They're keeping the arena open. What would we do now?"
"That doesn't matter. This is perfect. I couldn't ask for a better outcome."
"Another thing Amon. The project is a go."
"Oh?" Amon was surprised to hear the project they've been working on was ready to be deployed. "We got a suitable candidate?"
"Suitable is an overstatement, but he could last longer than the others without dropping dead." The Lieutenant reported as he scratches his cheeks, not knowing to be happy about it or not.
"Oh well, we only need him to distract the Agito. If he failed, he has no use for us anymore."
"Understood Amon. I'll get him prep for the operation."
Shen was laying on the bed when he heard his mother called his name. He found her in the kitchen with her husband as they getting things ready.
"Shen, there you are. You should be leaving for the match soon. It will start in an hour." Talah told her son.
"Mother, I think I should stay home."
"Don't be ridiculous Shen. What would Korra say? Are you worried about us after that madman made that announcement? Oh, don't be Shen."
"Mother, Amon's…"
"Shen." Bilan interjects, "Listen to your mother. We're fine. The restaurant is a hub of unity. Benders and Non-benders. We are one here. Go. Don't let one man's craziness cornered us into a hole."
"Understand father. I'll be looking forward to the celebratory dinner." Shen said to them and immediately left. He sat on his motorcycle and as he put on his helmet, he thought he saw something at the corner of his eye. Think nothing of it, he rode to the arena.
Talah rounded up her remaining cooks and waiters. "Okay everyone, not only do we have a lot of customers to feed but we also need to prepare a nice feast after the Pro-Bending Finals for the newest champion. I know a few of your co-workers called in sick but that's to be expected at this time of the year. So, let's do our best today."
"Yes, mam." The remaining employees chorused.
Shen arrived at the arena and met Detective Yaozun and Detective Shou at the side of the arena like they agreed on.
Yaozun happily greeted the teen. "Shen. Glad you're here. The police currently doing a security sweep of the area."
"Do you need help with anything?"
Shou shook his head, "Not at the moment. Just stand by for now. The Agito is not to be expected until things go wrong. If the Agito is spotted, the info could be a leak that the Agito is someone who knows of the threat and allowed by the police to be around. That could be trace to anyone having connections to the police and the Avatar, which put you in danger."
"Oh. I see. Sorry."
Yaozun waved it off, "No need to apologize. You're worried and this is your first operation. I was nervous on my first operation back when I was stationed in the Fire Nation. My squad were tasked to keep the street safe when Fire Lord Izumi visited a charity event. Sadly, there was an assassination attempt and the event need to be cut short."
"What happened?"
Yaozun rubbed his head, "I don't quite remember. I was just a low-rank officer back then. Got a chunk of earth to the head and woke up in a hospital a few days later. But the Fire Lord is safe. The assassins couldn't even close to her."
"Good job at rising the kid's confidence, Yaozy." Shou rolled his eyes and lit a cigarette.
"Relax, Shen. I'm sure nothing will happen. You better get in, Korra's might be waiting for you."
"Thanks again you two." Shen thanked them before walking in.
While heading to the Fire Ferrets' waiting room, he could hear Shiro Shinobi's voice through the speakers. "The anticipation is palpable as we are just moments away from the championship match. Will the Wolfbats' ferocity help them repeat as champ? Or will the underdog Fire Ferrets serve up a surprising bowl of smackdown soup?"
'Let's wish that's the only fight that will happen tonight.'
Inside the waiting room, Shen met them, ready to fight in the match.
Korra noticed his present, "Shen. I'm glad you're here. Will you be on patrol?"
"Not an official one though. Sorry. I still could hear Shiro Shinobi's commentary through the speakers all over the arena."
Korra kissed his lips, "That's okay. We'll celebrate later, okay?"
"Okay. Go break a leg, guys. Not literally." Shen waved at them as their team's name was announced and they stepped onto the platform.
"Alright, time to get to work." Shen put on a determined face and walked out of the room. He decided to sneak into the areas that were off-limits to the public. It's still off limit except for the police force but he needs to make sure himself that there are no shady characters there.
"The match should've started by now."
"Tahno tries to clean the Avatar's clock with some dirty water boxing. Mako on the other hand firebends, but misses while Ming takes two earth disks and delivered them to Mako, followed by two more, which is enough to force him back to zone two. Ming shakes off Mako's attack and returns the favor. Shaozu flips forward while Bolin kicks some earth disks toward him. Looks like one of the disks bounces off the side ropes and hits Shaozu back, knocking him against the fence. That was unlucky, he decided to get fancy, but Bolin ricochets a disk off the ropes and says 'No, thank you, sir!'"
"Nice one guys. I'll have mother make some of Mako's favorite to cheer him up." Shen laughs as he reached the back of the arena. He looked through the things that were put there and found nothing out of the ordinary.
"Hey, you! What are you doing?" A police officer spotted Shen and immediately walked over. "You're not supposed to be here."
"Wait, I can explain."
"Yeah, explain in at the station." The officer pulled Shen's hand and dragged him away.
"Hold up officer." Detective Yaozun stopped them. "What's going on here?"
"I found this boy sneaking around at the back detective. I'm taking him for questioning."
Yaozun sighed and Shen nervously smiled at him, "He's with me. I vouch for him. Let him go."
"Oh, sorry sir. Of course. I'll resume my patrol."
After the officer left, Yaozun turned to Shen, "What are you doing Shen? What are you doing sneaking around?"
"I'm sorry. I need to keep my eyes open in the area. I can't sit down while this threat is looming over us. Please let me help Detective."
Yaozun shook his head and pulled out a card that looked like a business card but it was very fancy looking with more colors. "Take this. If any of the officer questions you, one look at this and they should leave you alone."
Shen took it and look at it mesmerizingly, "Wow, detective. I never knew you hold such power."
"I don't. That card is only given to the closest associate of the police. Since I was tasked to handle the evil spirits, I was given this to give to my closest informants to make it easier for them to reach me. I should give the Avatar one."
"Thanks, Detective. This is amazing."
"And the Wolfbats advance despite Tahno exceeding the waterbending time limit. The match continues with Korra begin to waterbend, only to be hit by Tahno's attack. Bolin launches a disk at Tahno, who dodges, as Korra rolls to the side. Mako dodges a disk from Ming and begins firebending back at him. A questionable call by the officials. Ming trips up Mako with another dirty trick!"
"Looks like the Fire Ferrets aren't doing so good," Yaozun commented.
"Where's Detective Shou?"
"He's patrolling at the spectators' seats. He should be back soon."
At the spectators, Shou was jumping up and down like a madman.
"Come one Fire Ferrets! I have my entire month's wage on you guys!"
ZHING!
A flash of images raced into Shen's head. Trees, snow, and a man running away in fear.
"The evil spirits," Shen told him
"Lead the way."
The two got to their respective vehicles and rode to the location at breakneck speed. They're getting further away from the city center and near the forest on the city outskirts. The more he rode, the more his stomach turned as he remembers his previous encounter with the spirits near a wooded area.
He's quick on his feet the moment he stopped his motorcycle. He scanned the area and recognized the location. Shen walked a few more minutes until he discovers a trail of recently disturbed snow.
"This is where that man was attacked. Hmm?"
The ground in a thin layer of snow began to shake as two white claws emerged underneath him. Shen barely jumped away as the silver-colored Mole Unknown showed itself. He felt his clothes was grabbed and tossed into the air and hit into a tree.
The spirit kicked Shen a few times before putting its claws around his throat. It lifts Shen off the ground, and the boy has a hard time breathing. Two fireballs hit the Unknown's shell on the back, just enough to get it to focus on Detective Yazoun.
Shen took the chance to summon the Alter Ring, which gave him a massive power boost. With a hard kick, the Unknown dropped the boy as a few more fireballs landed near it, forcing it to keep his distance.
"Shen, now."
"Henshin."
Agito appeared in a flash of light and the two traded blows.
A few strikes to the body of the Unknown left it unfazed.
"What?"
In the ground behind Agito, emerged a second gold-colored Mole Unknown. It slammed its hard body into Agito's back, and the silver one crashed its own into Agito's front.
Agito groaned in pain as he was sandwiched in between the two Unknown.
Luckily, a few streams of fire send the three of them apart as Detective Yaozun came in. It's enough for the gold one to stagger backward and give Agito some time to grab the silver one's hand and threw it over his shoulders and into its friend.
Yaozun blasts a few more fireballs, forcing the Unknown to continue going backward.
SHING!
The horns on Agito's head split open, meaning it's getting ready for a finisher. Agito jumped into the air and aimed for the closest one. The silver one saw the kick and immediately turns around, facing the shell on its back to the warrior.
The kick landed but it wasn't enough as it only managed to push the Unknown a few steps forward.
"What?" Detective Yaozun was puzzled. "How? Not enough power?"
Agito scanned the two creatures in front of him and smiled. The silver one growled and ready to attack once more…before felt excruciating pain. It growls in pain before the light above its head appeared.
It exploded and its gold friend managed to escape underground. After a few instants, Agito felt it wasn't anywhere near for now.
"Nice one detective, thanks."
"No need to thank me. Let's go back before…"
BOOM!
Multiple explosions erupted around them. Agito shielded the detective and they ran further into the forest. The explosions kept following them and almost hit them a couple of times.
"What is that?"
"I don't know. Keep running detective."
They arrived in a small clearing and the explosions stopped.
"Be careful Shen. Whoever doing that might be still nearby."
"Right."
In the cold forest in the middle of the night, the eerie feeling is very prominent. The two looked around frantically to keep their guard up.
"HAHAHAHA!"
A burst of diabolical laughter erupted from the woods and heavy footsteps follow it. Entering the clearing and exiting the woods, was something the two never seen before. It was a man in a metallic armor suit of some kind.
It was entirely gray and silver besides the two big red eyes. On its head were two antennae that look similar to horns. On its waist was a belt with red bars and a few buttons on it. On its back, it seems it has some kind of generator or power source which made him look like he's wearing a backpack.
On his left thigh, a concealed weapon which Yaozun guess it's a knife or dagger for close-quarter combat. The most unrecognized weapon was the one he's holding. A small black hand-held weapon with a barrel and a scope on it. He has a finger on a small pulling mechanism.
'Wait? Could it be?'
"How do you like it?" The armored individual asked them as he twirled the weapon in his hands. The high pitch and arrogance in his voice could be hinting his still a young man.
"Who are you? What are you wearing?" Yaozun questioned him.
"This?" He motioned to his armor. "I'm not entirely sure. They called it the G3 System or something. I don't know what it stands for but they told me that I'll be untouchable wearing this."
He aimed his weapon at them, "As for me. I'm the guy that will kill Agito and gain Amon's approval to be one of his top lieutenants. Pretty sweet offer huh?"
"Amon?" Agito tries to confirm it. "You work for Amon?"
"Bingo. You must be Agito. You know, you don't look so strong. We better make this quick if I want to join the main party."
Detective Yaozun raised a brow, "What do you mean, 'the main party'?"
"Well, I'm told not to go spewing secrets but since you two going to die anyway, I might as well tell you. You see, we have this big plan on getting Agito away from the arena so that almost all Equalist forces could attack the Pro-Bending Arena tonight…"
"What?!" Agito and Yaozun screamed.
"Wait! It gets better. Turns out, we don't need the plan to lure Agito since you're out from the arena anyway. That's why we're here. Coincidence huh?"
While the idiot laughed at the coincidence tonight, Agito leaned towards Yaozun.
"Shen. If he said is true, we need to get back to the arena."
"Right, detective. Let's take him down…"
"No, Shen. We cannot afford this guy to leave with this armor. Like I said if what he said is true, that armor dangerous as well."
A shot was fired above them, dismantling a tree branch.
"Hey, what's with the talking?"
"Nothing, we're just discussing that's fine armor you got there. Right Agito?"
Agito nodded and gave a thumbs-up, "Yeah. Beautiful armor. More beautiful than mine."
"Oh really? Thanks. At first, I thought it would make my butt look big…"
"Detective, I'll distract him and you must return to the arena."
"What? Shen, no…"
"Ready? One, two, three, go!"
Agito sprinted towards G3 that still talking about the armor making his body look bad. He punched the man in the chest and knocked him down to the ground.
"What the…?" He saw Yaozun using firebending to propel him into the air and reached his car. He aimed his weapon but Agito grabbed his arms and pulled him up and dragged his attention away from the detective.
"So, this is how you want to play? Fine by me." G3 struggled to have his weapon released but Agito held his arm firmly. G3 uses his free hand to grab his dagger at the side of his leg and slashed Agito in the chest.
"Not so tough…duh!"
G3 went flying into a tree as Agito side kicked him. As he flopped to the ground, a portion of the red bar on his belt depleted.
The man saw on the screen on the inside of his helmet the reading of his remaining energy.
ENERGY REMAINING: 84%
'That much in one kick?'
He saw Agito walked towards him.
"Stand down. Final warning."
He panicked and scrambled on the ground to find his weapon. He found it and aimed at Agito.
"Eat this."
He pulled on the trigger and released small balls that explode upon contact on Agito's armor. It hurts quite a bit and Agito knew he wouldn't last long if he tries to act tough and let the explosive balls hit him. He dodged and ran from tree to tree as cover.
"You like that? You like that?!" G3 taunted as he recklessly shooting at his opponent and destroying the trees in the process
'This guy is crazy.' Agito cursed.
"You can't escape this! Agito! Huh?"
He pulled on the trigger but nothing comes out. "Huh? Out of ammo?" He panicked and try to find where he kept the rest of the ammunition.
"Where is it? Where is it?"
Agito took this chance and jumped forward. He kicked the weapon out of his hand and kneed him the stomach a few times. Every time Agito's knee made contact with G3's stomach, sparks flew and it was bright enough to see.
G3 fell into the snow as Agito towered over him. The warrior brought his foot down as G3 swiftly dodged it. He went for a leg sweep and Agito fell to the ground. Took the chance and got on top of him.
G3 dishes out lots of light punches to Agito's face but it seems it did nothing. Agito grabbed both of G3's hands and gripped them hard.
"Get off of me." Agito rolled over, pushing his attacker off of him.
Agito went for a kick but G3 got up in time to grab his foot. Using his other leg, Agito springs himself upward and kicked G3 in the chest.
Detective Yaozun sped through the street towards the arena. He picked up the radio to call in any officers stationed there.
"This is Detective Yaozun calling to any of the officers stationed at the arena, please respond. I repeat, to any police stationed at the arena, please respond."
"This is Officer Yun. What's the situation detective?"
"Please get the intel to Chief Beifong immediately. Amon is making his move at the arena. He's probably there now. Stop the match, get everyone ready and civilians evacuated"
"This is a bold claim Detective, Chief Beifong's not going to like hearing rumors like this…"
"I got the intel from a reliable source officer! Do your job and get this to Chief Beifong now!"
"Yes sir. I'll get on…Arghhhh!"
"Officer? What's going on? Talk to me!"
The only response the detective's gotten was multiple screams of pain and sounds like bodies dropped to the ground.
"The Equalists." Yaozun greeted his teeth and the steering wheel. He violently threw the radio's receiver to the dashboard and let it dangle there as he continues pressing his foot on the accelerator and sped more and more.
Back at Xiang's Delight, the almost full restaurant was experiencing slight unrest when the Pro-Bending Finals were interrupted by a disturbing broadcast. Shiro Shinobi commented on how the Republic City Police were dropped one by one by masked individuals with strange gloves before being electrocuted himself.
It would be funny if it wasn't horrifying to the people in the restaurant. Talah was holding onto her husband and the usually calm man had his arms around his wife. Colors drained from their faces as they remember their only son is at the arena.
She pulled her husband into the kitchen and whispered to him.
"Bilan, we need to find Shen, it's dangerous over there."
"Talah, I'm worried too but Shen's could take care of himself. He got that power, remember?"
"I know. I know. It's just, our baby boy…"
Bilan hugged her warmly, "There, there. We have to believe that Shen's in good hands with Chief Beifong, Councilman Tenzin, and Korra."
"Alright. I believe you."
They returned to the restaurant and patiently waiting for anything new. The customers mostly were starting to panic. Some rushed out of the establishment and some try to calm the rest down.
"Everyone, let's get out of here, the Equalist will kill everyone that's not on their side." One man reached for the door.
Another man stood up, "Are you crazy? Being outside the least safe places to be. They could ambush you from anywhere."
Conversations like these were thrown back and forth and, in a few minutes, more than half of the customers returned to their homes.
"Yuka," Talah called out to one of her waitresses, a girl with long brown hair and soft facial expression "Get the remaining customers some drinks. On the house. Meals too. It might help them calm their nerves. Get Mao and the others to help you."
"Yes, mam."
Agito walked over to G3 as the downed fighter laid in the snow.
"How are you so strong?" He asked the mystical warrior. "I know you're a non-bender. Why helping the enemy?"
"You have a warped sense of who the true enemy is," Agito replied. "I protect those…"
"Being oppressed? Where were you when our brother and sister being oppressed by all those benders? My newlywed wife was killed by the Triple Threat Triads just a few months ago. Where were you?"
Agito shook his head, "You know the ones at the fault of your wife's death, but choose to support someone that hurt even the innocents?"
"Innocent? Hardly. They did nothing, the council, the police. They're all cowards." As he talks, he slowly and subtly pressed a button on his belt, and a small tube revealed at his left wrist. "That's why tonight, you and everyone will die!"
He aimed the tube to Agito and a stream of flames shot out. Agito barely dodged it. G3 ran forward and slashed Agito's chest with his dagger a couple of times. He went for a stab and Agito caught his hand as the dagger was mere inches from his chest.
Agito kicked his leg but G3 stabilized and backhanded Agito to the face.
'He's getting aggressive. I need to be careful.'
G3 pressed another button and the right hand began to light up with high voltage electricity. He ran straight to his opponent and Agito avoid it as fast as he could.
"Hold still!"
Agito jumped upwards and barely missed G3's hands. He went for a roundhouse kick and kicked G3's hand away. A second roundhouse kick made contact with G3's body, staggering him. A third one landed a devastating kick to G3's head.
Sparks flew and the force cracked G3's right eye lens as he landed on his back.
ENERGY REMAINING: 34%
HELMET SCANNING DETECTION MALFUNTIONED
RIGHT HAND BADLY DAMAGED
CHEST PIECE NEEDS IMMEDIATE MAINTAINANCE
HELMET FLASHLIGHT BROKEN
Those are not good readings from the system. This Agito is stronger than reported. He hardly talks but he let his strength be shown through his combat.
'I need to escape. He'll kill me.'
G3 prayed his last-ditch effort is still available. He shot more flames at Agito and his prediction was spot on. Agito jumped backward to shield himself. He may be strong but he seems to be scared of fire to a degree.
'I hate fire.' Agito cursed and decided to chase the man down.
He returned to the location but was greeted by a strange sight. G3's wearer, in a state of terror, undone the armor and ran for his life in a black bodysuit. He was a young man with black hair that only looks a few years older than Agito himself.
The man ran deeper and deeper into the woods.
"Wait! Don't run! It's dangerous in the woods!"
Agito left all the G3 armor parts in the snow and ran after the man.
"Stay back! Stay back!" The man screamed for his life.
They ran for a few minutes before arriving at a cliff.
"Please stop running. I'm not going to hurt you. Turn yourself in and we will help you seek justice for your wife." Agito begged.
The man looked over the cliff and turned to Agito. A single tear ran down his face. "No. Lies. All lies. That's what they tell me too until the case went cold. Went cold they say! At least now I can be together with her again. Long live the Equalist! Long live Amon!"
The man let his body fell over the cliff. Agito ran towards him. He could feel their fingers briefly touched before the man's body fell into the darkness below.
Agito's transformation canceled and there stood in the cold was Shen. His eyes were wet due to tears. He failed to save a man. A misguided man but still a man. Does he have any family members? What if they were waiting for him? Did they know of his activities? This will certainly haunt Shen for quite some time.
Shen wiped his eyes and ran back to his motorcycle. He took one good look at the general direction where the cliff was and just thinking what's at the bottom gave him the chills.
He put on his helmet and rode back to the arena.
"Please enjoy. It's on the house." Yuka put two glasses of juice in front of a worried couple. She walked over to Talah who was waiting to listen to any update at the arena.
"Any news mam?"
"No, Yuka. I'm afraid…"
The radio let out a loud static before a voice came on, Amon's.
"I believe I have your attention, benders of Republic City."
Everyone in the restaurant stopped what they were doing and focus on the radio.
"So once again, the Wolfbats are your pro-bending champions. It seems fitting that you celebrate three bullies who cheated their way to victory because every day, you threaten and abuse your fellow non-bending citizens, just like the Wolfbats did to their opponents tonight."
"That's not true!" Talah screamed. "There are bad benders but there are more good ones out there!"
"Those men were supposedly the best in the bending world and yet it only took a few moments for me to cleanse them of their impurity."
"You're the impure thing in this city." A cook named Mao muttered under his breath as he fried some vegetables.
"Let this be a warning to all of you, benders and even non-benders out there," Amon paused, "if any of you stand in my way, you will meet the same fate. Now, to my followers: for years the Equalists have been forced to hide in the shadows, but now we have the numbers and the strength to create a new Republic City."
"He's mad." Bilan spat.
A realization hit Talah.
"Where's Korra and Shen? What have you done to them?!" Talah gripped the radio but Yuka and Bilan stopped her from accidentally damaging it.
"I'm happy to tell you that the time for change has finally come. Very soon, the current tyrannical bending regime will be replaced by a fair-minded Equalist government. You and your children will no longer have to walk the streets afraid! It's time to take back our city."
"This city belongs to everyone! It's big enough for everyone if you're not greedy!" A man shouted and the others cheered.
"For centuries, benders have possessed an unnatural advantage over ordinary people. But thankfully, modern technology has provided us with a way to even out the playing field. Now anyone can hold the power of a chi blocker in their hand."
'Chi-blocker?' Bilan raised a brow. 'Just like what one of my brothers' been practicing.'
"My followers and I will not rest until the entire city achieves equality, and once that goal is achieved, we will equalize the rest of the world. The revolution has begun!"
"What is happening to this city?" Talah asked herself before sitting on the nearest chair, with Bilan rubbing her shoulders.
Detective Yaozun neared the arena and saw multiple Equalist airships hovering above the building. He knew the attack was already underway. He stopped the car somewhere and he slowly sneaked towards the building.
Police officers stationed outside the building were knocked out cold and Equalist forces patrol the outside in large numbers.
'I need a way in. How?'
At Xiang's Delight kitchen, Mao, a large man with a gruff expression, was busy cooking up an order when he heard something was knocked over behind the building. He turned off the stove and slowly walked outside.
"Hello? Anyone out here?"
He looked near the trash can but nothing was out of place.
"Mao? How is the order coming along? What are you doing outside?" Yuka came into the kitchen, surprised to see her co-worker standing around.
"Nothing, I thought I heard something."
"It's just probably some wild animals. They come around every quite so often. I'll leave out some leftovers for them in a bit. Now, the order please."
"Right." Mao ignored the noise and returned to the kitchen to get the order ready.
Shen rode his motorcycle as fast as he could to the arena. He shuddered to think what would happen if he's late getting there. Everyone could be in danger. Korra could be in danger.
"Wait for me, everyone. I'll be there soon."
"Tonight, couldn't get any worse. At least you're here to keep me company."
Detective Shou was sitting next to an unconscious Equalist member that ambushed him in the men's restroom. They fought and Shou managed to knock him out. He peeked outside and saw lots of Equalist patrols wandering outside the restroom.
"These guys are so annoying."
Shou saw an opening in the window and crawled out, not before thanking the Equalists for the fancy high-tech gloves. He landed silently outside of the arena, just the way he intended.
"Glad for you to join me."
Shou looked up and saw Detective Yaozun on his knees opposite of him behind some boxes. "Yaozy. Where were you?"
"Evil spirits"
"Where's the kid?"
"Long story but he's on his way here. Trust me."
"You picked a bad time to disappear."
"Hey! Not my choice."
"Whatever. Equalist has taken over the damn place. Almost all officers got knocked out."
"Yeah. I noticed."
The two detectives felt like they were the most useless police officers in existence as they're powerless to do anything at the moment. All they could hope for is a swift conclusion to tonight's drama.
Amon looked pleased as the people in the arena began to chatter to themselves. Some were overcome with joy while others wallowed in despair. It means nothing to him. As long his ambition becomes a reality.
"Amon, time for us to go." His Lieutenant advised him.
"Where's our self-made man?"
The Lieutenant hesitated, "He's dead sir. According to our info, he killed himself trying to run from the Agito. He's stronger than reported."
"Smart move. If he showed up here without killing the Agito, I'll have him executed anyway. Come."
Multiple ropes descended from a hole on the roof above them. It turned into small platforms for the Equalists to be evacuated. As Chief Beifong and the others could only watch the mastermind escape, a large explosion erupted on the platform, shook the entire arena.
Korra, who was tied up with her team managed to break free with the help of Pabu. She propelled herself into the air using waterbending to chase Amon down. Unfortunately, despite her mastery over water, the amount of water lessens bit by bit, preventing her from getting anywhere near to the roof.
Her water platform disappeared completely and she begins to fall. Chief Beifong saw her falling and was about to grab her with metal cables as a figure zoomed past her.
Agito Storm managed to get a hold of Korra and using his wind manipulation, they drifted in the air.
"Shen. You're here. I thought Amon got you." Korra was happy to see him as she taught the worst had befallen him.
"He almost did, but I'm here now. Let's get this guy."
Agito swung the Storm Halberd and created a powerful air current that shot them upwards and through the hole.
Amon saw them approaching.
Agito knew they are an easy target if they huddled like that. They need to separate.
"Korra, go up."
Korra nodded and brace herself.
Agito sends another strong air current underneath Korra, sending her upwards, and managed to grab onto one of the ropes by knocking the man occupying it off.
"Easy does it." Shen used the wind to help the man landed slowly onto the glass roof. The Equalist prepared to fight but met with a blow to the head, knocking him out.
"You should know better than to help these people," Chief Beifong scowled.
"Sorry Chief. Watch out."
Agito blasted a gust of wind behind Chief Beifong, knocking the Lieutenant who was behind her. Agito rushed forward and fend him off with more Equalist members approaching them. Korra, who has been knocked off the platform moments ago, shoot fireballs at them.
The Equalists were trapped between the Chief of Police, Agito, and the Avatar.
Agito jumped over their heads and the Equalist goons lose their focus as Chief Beifong used her cables to sweep them off their feet and fell at the sides of the glass roof.
Agito and Korra used their fire and wind to fight against the Lieutenant's high voltage electricity. They were surprisingly evenly matched.
The electric baton was brought down but was blocked with the Storm Halberd. Korra slammed her foot into his stomach, followed by a powerful blast of wind, knocking the man clean off the glass roof.
"No!" Korra screamed as Amon managed to escape. Chief Beifong scolded herself for not doing her best. Later they gathered with Tenzin, the detectives and the Fire Ferrets.
Korra was contempleting on what to say, "I'm so sorry everyone. I don't know how…"
"Korra, this isn't your fault. No one could see this coming." Tenzin assured her.
Yaozun sighed, "If there's anyone to blame, it's me. I should've contacted you guys sooner and warn everyone. I'll accept full responsibility."
"Don't give yourself too much of a hard time. I'm the one that confidently stated we could defend everyone. You were in just as much shock as everyone." Chief Beifong lowered her head in shame.
Later, Yaozun joined Shen, Korra, Mako, and Bolin at the spectators' seats.
"I'm glad you're okay Shen. We thought they must've got you when you failed to show up." Mako put a hand on Shen's shoulder.
"I'm also glad you're safe. What happened to the G3 guy?" Yaozun asked.
Shen couldn't bring himself to look into the detective's eyes. Korra sensed her boyfriend's discomfort and hugged him. Trying her best to calm him down.
"I failed to persuade him to stop. He rather dies than being trampled by benders and he strongly believed that no one could help him."
"You shouldn't blame yourself," Korra said softly. "You're weren't the reason. He chooses that himself. You try to get him to listen but he wouldn't."
"Thanks, guys. Everyone."
"Shen! Shen!"
Detective Shou ran towards them. His face was as pale as sheets. No one, not even Yaozun ever seen him like this before.
"What happened Detective?" Shen began to feel uneasy himself.
"Your family's restaurant and the entire block are on fire! They're burning down to the ground as we speak!"
TO BE CONTINUE…
That is all for this chapter. A cliffhanger, I know. Sorry about that. I hope this chapter is worth the wait and reach your bare minimum expectations.
Anyway, please follow, favorite and leave a comment, it is greatly appreciated. Stay safe and healthy everyone and I'll meet all of you next time.