The Voice in the Night
In a dream
Korra was asleep in her bed on Air Temple island when she heard something, making her raise up before chi blockers broke into her room. She began fighting them using her Firebending but they evaded it until 1 of them landed several precise hits on Korra, blocking her bending before 2 more held her arms as Amon himself walked up to her and reached out to take away her bending forever.
"When I take your bending away, you will be nothing." Amon said to a frightened Korra as his hand moved closer and closer.
In the real world
Korra woke with a yell while she was sweating and panting. And then Naga, who was beside her, licked her arm. "It's okay, girl. I was just... having a bad dream." She assured her animal companion while petting her head.
The next day
The Republic City council was having a meeting about Amon and what to do about him, especially now that they knew he could take away a person's bending permanently.
"There is a madman running around our great city, threatening to tear it apart." The council member named Tarrlok said to his fellow council members. "We need to create a task force, who's sole mission is to find Amon and bring him to justice."
But Tenzin was completely against the idea, as he knew Tarrlok all too well. "Absolutely not! A move that aggressive will only further divide benders and non-benders."
"Tarrlok, I'm inclined to agree with your proposal." Fire Nation councilwoman said in agreement with Tarrlok. "But who would head up such a task force?"
Tarrlok stood up as he answered. "It would be my honor and privilege to accept such a duty."
"This is just another 1 of your ploys to gain more power, isn't it?" Tenzin asked.
"All I'm trying to do is help." Tarrlok assured him before speaking to all his fellow council members. "Think back. 42 years ago, Republic City was threatened by another madman: Yakone." He reminded them before looking at Tenzin. "Your father wasn't afraid to deal with him head on."
"This is a completely different situation." Tenzin said before standing up. "And how dare you compare yourself to Avatar Aang."
"Amon is not going to stop with the bending Triads." Tarrlok said seriously before looking around at his fellow council members. "Eventually he'll come for all us benders. Our friends, our families. Vote for this task force, and I will stop Amon before it's too late. All in favor?" He asked while raising his arm before the other council members, except Tenzin raised theirs, sealing the vote before Tarrlok banged the grovel.
Later at night on Air Temple island
As Korra was practicing her AirBending movements while listening to the radio, the station suddenly began switching to Amon's voice, making Korra sweat as her eyes widened in fear at hearing his sinister voice.
"Good evening, my fellow Equalists. This is your leader, Amon. As you have heard, the republic council has voted to make me Public enemy number 1, proving once again that the bending oppressors of this city will stop at nothing to squash our revolution. But we cannot be stopped. Our numbers increase strongly every day. You no longer have to live in fear. The time has come for benders to experience fear."
The next day
Mako had accepted Tahno's offer to meet with the sponsor he'd mentioned when they rescued Bolin from Amon, while leaving Hasook out of it, due to not wanting any tension to endanger the Fire Ferret team. But he was also thinking of a way to get to Korra so they could be alone and put his plan of having sex with her in action. But 1st he'd deal with the Sponsor problem.
After getting to the meeting place, he saw Tahno, who shook his hand. "Mako. Glad you made it. How's Bolin?"
"He's still his usual self, which is good considering what he went through the other night." Mako answered honestly.
"That's good." Tahno said with a smile before he turned serious. "And you didn't tell that asshole, Hasook about this, did you?"
"No, of course not. He was through with practice for today so he went out to eat while I came to meet you."
"Good. The last thing I need is that shitbag trying to possibly ruin the whole tournament for both our teams this year." Tahno said, grateful for Mako keeping this from Hasook.
"What about Korra? How's she doing?" Mako asked, wanting to know how Korra was doing.
"Well, she may not admit it, but she does seem very afraid of Amon, especially after seeing what he could do to benders." Tahno answered with worry for Korra. "But she's also convinced that Amon's a fraud, and a hypocritical liar!"
"What do you mean a fraud and a hypocrite?"
"Korra's convinced that Amon is a Bender as well, but he's pretending not to be and he's convincing non-benders to rally to his cause through lies about his past. And that his power to take peoples bending away, is just something only a Bender could do, as the spirits wouldn't just give a random non-bender an ability like that." Tahno answered with hate for Amon and his lies and hypocrisy.
"And what do you think?" Mako asked curiously.
"I believe Korra on that, all of it. She may not be able to prove it, but her instincts are telling her that Amon is a Bender, a hypocrite, and a lying fraud. And it's not just her, my instincts are telling me the exact same thing."
"Well, whatever your instincts and Korra's are telling you, I hope they're right. Cause Spirits help us if you're both wrong." Mako said with worry for what was to come. "So, who's the sponsor you mentioned to me about?"
"Oh you'll see when we get there." Tahno answered.
Tahno took Mako to the Future Industries Satomobile factory, where Hiroshi Sato, who was accompanied by his daughter, Asami, had agreed to meet with Mako after telling him about his best friends' close friendship with the brothers. And in turn, he showed Mako his production factory. "So, what do you think about my operation here?"
"It's very impressive, Mr. Sato." Mako answered.
"Please, call me Hiroshi." The billionaire said politely. "So, Tahno tells me you're dirt poor."
"Not exactly, sir." Tahno answered while speaking for his friend. "I gave him some cash to stay in the tournament, but what he and his team could really use is a sponsor. I told him about you and that you'd be willing to help out. And because we are friends with him and his little brother, I figured I could help them out... especially after all they've been through, both past and present."
"Yeah. And because Tahno told us everything you and your brother have been through, and about your encounter with Amon, as well as you and your team's hard work to get where you are now, and your current financial problem, my dad has great news for you, Mako." Asami said with a smile.
"Indeed I do, Mr. Mako. I know Tahno gave you the money you needed to stay in the tournament, but I'd hate to see a hard working team like yours lose a shot at the championship in future tournaments because you don't have a sponsor, so I have agreed to sponsor the Fire Ferrets in the tournament!" Hiroshi said with excitement.
"Really? You're serious?"
"Dead serious, Mako! For this season and many seasons after!" Asami said with a smile.
"That's awesome!" Mako said with excitement.
"But...they both had their own catches in exchange, Mako." Tahno informed his friend.
"Yes! Mine was for your team to wear the Future Industries logo on your uniforms." Hiroshi told the Fire Ferret Captain.
"I'll tattoo it on my chest if you want me to, sir! Thank you so much! I promise that the Fire Ferrets will make the most of this opportunity." Mako said before looking at Asami. "And what's your catch?"
"Well, you have to go out with me to dinner at Kwong's Cuisine. And don't worry about the cash or what to wear, my dad's got that all covered." Asami answered with a smirk.
"All right, it's a date." Mako said while mentally thinking to himself. 'This is perfect! If I can get Korra jealous by going out with Asami, I'm sure she'll be chasing after me, trying to get me, and that's when we'll be alone so I take her for my own. But Asami looks beautiful and hot too.'
Tahno smiled at this and put his hand on Mako's shoulder. "Well, you can handle things from here, buddy. I've done my part to help your team, plus extra for you." He said while pointing to Asami. "I'm gonna go get something to eat and check on Ming and Shaozu later after that. Korra's gonna be practicing her AirBending today so she can make more time for practice tomorrow, so I guess we've both got the day all planned out."
"Yeah, I bet." Mako said with a smile. "Well, see you later, Tahno."
"Later, Mako. Have fun tonight." Tahno said before taking his leave.
Later in the evening on Air Temple island
Korra, Tenzin and his family were gathered at the table for dinner and while Tenzin said the dinner prayer, a voice was heard behind him. "I'm not interrupting, am I?"
Tenzin looked and saw Tarrlok, who bowed in respect. "This is my home, Tarrlok. We're about to eat dinner."
"Good. Because I am absolutely famished." Tarrlok said as Tenzin rolled his eyes. "Air Benders never turn away a hungry guest, am I right?" He asked before walking to where Korra was.
Tenzin sighed. "I suppose." He said before sitting down and saw Peema gave her husband a look.
Tarrlok looked at Korra and bowed in respect. "You must be the famous Avatar Korra. It is an honor to meet you. I am councilman Tarrlok, representative of the Northern Water Tribe."
Korra got up and bowed as well. "Thank you." She said in respect, despite the fact that her instincts were telling her that something about him made her skin crawl.
They sat down and Ikki got close to him and said with a raised eyebrow. "How come you have 3 ponytails." She asked before sniffing. "And how come you smell like a lady?"
"Well, aren't you the observant little lady." Tarrlok said politely before talking to Korra. "So, I've been reading about your adventures in the papers. Infiltrating Amon's rally. Now that took some real initiative."
"Thanks. You're probably the only authority figure who's actually glad I'm here." Korra said, trying to act polite.
"Republic City is much better off now that you've arrived."
That was when Tenzin said. "Enough with the flattery, Tarrlok. What do you want from Korra?"
"Don't worry, Tenzin, I'm getting to that." Tarrlok said before looking at Korra. "As you may have heard, I'm building a task force that will strike at the heart of the revolution. And I want you to join me."
"What?" Tenzin asked.
"I need someone who will help me attack Amon directly. Someone who's fearless in the face of danger. And that someone is you!" Tarrlok said to encourage Korra.
But after a few seconds, Korra gave her answer, which surprised Tarrlok and Tenzin. "No."
"I'm... honestly surprised. I thought you would jump at the chance to strike at Amon."
"Me too."
"I came to Republic City to finish my Avatar training with Tenzin, so I need to focus on that." Korra explained. 'And to help my new team get through the Pro-Bending tournament this season. And because there is something about you that makes my skin crawl.'
"Which is why this is perfect for you." Tarrlok insisted. "You'll get plenty of experience on the job and be able to perform your Avatar duty for the city."
Tenzin then spoke for Korra. "Korra gave you her answer. It's time for you to go."
"Very well." Tarrlok said before looking at Korra again. "But I'm not giving up on you just yet. You'll be hearing from me soon. It has been an honor to meet you, Avatar Korra."
When he walked to the doorway, Ikki spoke out, making him form a weirded out face as he left. "Bye bye, ponytail man!"
Meanwhile, at Kwong's Cuisine
Mako stood wide eyed at the restaurant before composing himself and walking in, where a waiter and dresser greeted him. "Good evening, master Mako. "He said before taking him to the dressing room and getting him ready by changing him into a nice outfit fit for a date and even did his hair.
But when he tried to take his scarf, Mako stopped him. "The scarf stays."
"As you wish."
Mako then met with Asami at her table and they began to talk. "I'm such a big Pro-Bending fan. I watched all your matches this season."
"Awesome! Glad you did." Mako said with a smile.
"Yeah. Can't wait to see you play in the tournament. You should really thank Tahno for being a good friend to get you the cash and my father as your sponsor."
"Yeah, I should. But you do know he's got a new teammate of his own on the White Falls Wolfbats, right?"
"Yeah. I heard about that. The Avatar herself!" Asami said with excitement. "Tell you what: you and your team do well, it just might be you vs the Wolfbats in the championship round. That's a match I'll definitely be there for!"
"Then I'll be looking forward to seeing you there." Mako said with a smile before the food arrived and they began eating.
The next morning at Air Temple island
Bolin was walking up to Korra, carrying something behind his back. "Hey, Korra."
"Hey, Bolin, what's up?"
"Well, Mako told me that Tahno helped him find a sponsor for our team and the Fire Ferrets are in the tournament for this season and many seasons after." Bolin answered with a smile. "Visited Ming and Shaozu and they told me you and Tahno weren't at practice this week... for obvious reasons?"
"Our own separate reasons: Me for Airbending practice, and Tahno because he wanted to help Mako."
"That's cool." Bolin said. "Anyway, the reason I'm here is to give you this." Before revealing a bag with a cake in it and a flower. "Ta-da!"
Korra took them and instantly figured out why he'd bring these to her. 'He's into me. But I think...I already have the guy for me. I just... don't know how to tell him yet.' She thought before saying out loud with a smirk. "Thanks. This a thank you for me, Tahno and your brother saving your ass?"
"Yeah, it is! Hahaha."
That was when a delivery guy spoke out while walking up to Korra. "Delivery for Avatar Korra!" She said before putting a basket full of gifts down beside the rebel girl. "Tarrlok sends his compliments and urges you to reconsider his offer."
"Well you can tell him: I'm not interested." Korra said with a glare before the man walked away.
"Who's this Tarrlok guy?" Bolin asked.
"Relax. He's just some middle aged asswipe working with Tenzin on the council." Korra assured him.
"Oh, okay." Bolin said.
Hours later
Tenzin was walking up to Korra and stopped when he saw a red Satorace car with a pink bow tied to it, obviously another gift for Korra by Tarrlok, which his youngest children were playing driving in.
"Rrrummm. Rrrrrummm. Rrrrrummm." Ikki said, pretending to drive with Meelo beside his sister. "Outta the way, Daddy, we're driving here! Beebeep!"
"Beebeep." Meelo said with a childish smile.
Tenzin shook his head before walking up to Korra, who was practicing her AirBending movements. "I see Tarrlok's gifts are becoming more and more extravagant."
"Humh. That jerk off doesn't know how to take no for an answer." Korra said with annoyance.
Tenzin sat down and asked Korra to take a break, which she did. I'm glad you turned down Tarrlok, but I just want to be sure that your decision was for the right reason."
"I'm just focused on my Airbending practice, and getting my new team through the championships."
"That's... what you said... while probably adding the part about your team mentally." Tenzin said before adding. "You know it's okay to be scared. The whole city's frightened by what's been going on. The important thing is to talk about our fears. Because if we don't, it'll throw us out of balance." He then got up. "I'm always here for you if you want to talk." Before walking away.
Later that evening
Korra was sitting alone while the Airbending sisters were playing a game nearby when the delivery guy walked up to Korra. "Avatar Korra."
But Korra just got up. "Look. I don't care how many gifts Tarrlok sends, I'm not joining his task force!" She said before Earthbending around and kicking him away.
"It's not a gift, it's an invitation." He said before turning around and giving Korra the invitation.
"Invitation to what?"
"Tarrlok's throwing a gala in your honor. All of Republic City's movers and shakers will be there. The councilman humbly requests your attendance." He explained.
Later at the place of the gala
Korra, in a beautiful dress with her hair down and in a white headpiece, was walking with Tenzin and his family into the building where lots of high class people of the city clapped at seeing Korra. "All this for me? I don't know if I should be flattered or disgusted."
"I'm not sure what Tarrlok's plotting, but keep your guard up. It's not like him to throw a party just for the fun of it." Tenzin advised her.
That was when Tarrlok himself walked up to them. "I'm thrilled you made it, Avatar Korra." He said before looking at Tenzin. "If you'll excuse us, the City awaits its hero." And walking away with Korra.
Tenzin looked and saw that his son was peeing on something, making him gasp. "Meelo, that is not a toilet! Oh dear." He said before running up to him.
Tarrlok then introduced Korra to Mr. Sato. "Korra, it is my pleasure to introduce you to Republic City's most famous industrialist: Hiroshi Sato."
"Nice to meet you." Korra said politely.
"We're all expecting great things from you. Just like Avatar Aang." Hiroshi said, speaking for the city Elite.
"I'm not Aang!" Korra told him, having long despised being compared to Aang, as it was always the same way while she was training under the White Lotus.
But that was when Tahno, along with Ming and Shaozu, Mako, Bolin and Asami walked up to her. "Hey, Korra!"
Hiroshi then introduced his daughter. "And this is my daughter Asami."
Asami smiled. "It's lovely to meet you."
"Yeah, you too." Korra said before noticing that Asami had her hand around Mako's arm. "I'm guessing she's your date?"
"Y-yeah, you could say that." Mako said with nervousness. "But Tahno introduced us, so he helped out a bit."
"Well congratulations. And what about the sponsor?" Korra asked.
"You're looking at him." Tahno answered with a smile while pointing at Hiroshi.
"He's agreed to sponsor the Fire Ferrets in the tournament for this season and many more after!" Bolin informed her.
"Well, that's awesome. I look forward to seeing your matches in the tournament for this season. And if fate allows it, it'll be our teams fighting in the championship round." Ming said with a smile.
"And if Mako plays his cards right, him and Asami will be spending a lot more time together." Shaozu added.
"Hope so." Korra said before seeing Beifong walking up to her, making her glare at the Chief of police.
"Ah, Chief Beifong, I believe you and Avatar Korra have already met." Tarrlok said with a smile.
But Beifong only got in Korra's face. "Just because Tarrlok threw this little party for you, don't think you're anything special. You've done absolutely nothing to deserve this."
But Tahno glared at Beifong and stood beside Korra, along with Ming and Shaozu. "Back off her, Beifong!"
"Oh, the delinquent Wolfbats helping the delinquent Avatar. Not surprising, given yours or your old friend's record, Tahno."
"Hey! You say something else about that day, I'll kick out all your teeth, Beifong! Don't you ever bring that up again." Tahno quietly threatened so no one else would hear.
"I could arrest you for threatening a police officer, Tahno."
But this time, Korra stepped in and said quietly. "You couldn't nail a 5 dollar whore. Now you shut your fuckin' mouth and get outta my sight before you really piss me off."
"You're lucky we're in the presence of the Republic City elite, Avatar. Be thankful I don't put you all behind bars for life." Beifong warned.
"Go to hell, bitch." Korra whispered in her ear, angry at Beifong for bringing up Tahno's past with Hasook.
Beifong made an angry look before walking away, not wanting to cause a scene in public, especially the Republic City elite, which she was a part of.
"Thanks for sticking up for me, Tahno." Korra said with a smile. "And you guys too."
"Hey, we don't care who she is, nobody messes with a teammate and a friend of ours while we're around." Ming said while patting Korra's shoulder.
Shaozu added after his friend. "And besides, us Wolfbats stick together no matter what or who tries to mess with us, even if it's that old jerk Beifong."
"And thank you for sticking up for me, Korra." Tahno said with a grateful smile.
"Hey, like you guys said: we Wolfbats stick together no matter what." Korra said, smiling back.
A bit later
Tarrlok walked with Korra down the stairs as the press began taking pictures while Tenzin and the Wolfbats watched with worry. "If you don't mind, they have a couple of questions." The councilman said before gently pushing her in front of the press.
"Avatar Korra, you witnessed Amon take away people's bending 1st hand. How serious of a threat does he pose to the innocent people of Republic City?" A male reporter asked.
"I think he poses a real problem."
Tarrlok looked at another reporter, who asked. "Then why haven't you joined Tarrlok's task force? As the Avatar, shouldn't you be going after Amon?"
"Well, I-" Korra tried to say before more reporters asked her.
"Why are you backing away from this fight?"
"I've never backed away from anything in my life." Korra said, trying to reason with them.
"As the Avatar, it's your duty to serve this city. To serve us! Are you turning your back on us?"
"Is Pro-Bending more important than fighting the revolution?"
"How do you think Avatar Aang would have handled this?"
"Are you afraid of Amon?"
Korra was so pressured by these questions that she burst out. "I am not afraid of anything or anybody! If this city really thinks I'm its personal problem solver and its personal weapon, I'll play the role you guys have given me and I'll join Tarrlok's task force, since it's all you guys think I am! You guys want me to be Avatar Aang since you all think that's who I should be and not my own person? Then fine!"
"There's your headline, folks." Tarrlok said with a smile, much to Tenzin's, Mako's, Bolin's, Ming and Shaozu's concern as Korra looked away in sadness.
Tahno growed at seeing these stupid, nozy, self-centered media jerk offs pressuring Korra and comparing her to Avatar Aang when he was long gone and wanting her to be like him. And if he wanted to help Korra, he'd do anything, whatever it took. So he stepped up and used his Waterbending to splash water in the press. "Okay, that's enough! Leave her alone! She did not ask for any of this! And stop making her try to be someone she's not! Avatar Aang is long gone, and if you idiots can't see her as nothing more than someone who's long since died, someone who solves your every problem or a personal weapon, you guys can fight your own battles for once in your pathetic lives!" He told them before saying something that surprised them all. "If Korra's joining his task force, I'm joining too."
This greatly surprised Korra, as she hadn't expected that. "Tahno, what are you doing?" She asked quietly after pulling him upstairs so they could talk in private.
"I'm doing what I have to help you and to get these paparazzi asswipes off your back, Korra. They, and these high ranking assholes have absolutely no right to pressure you like this or treat you as if you're nothing but a servant and weapon they can use when every problem crops up. And they definitely have no right to compare you to someone who's long gone and force you to be just like him. And if this city can't, or won't see that, they can go fuck themselves!" Tahno explained with soft eyes, making Korra surprised that he'd stand up to anyone in this city just for her before she hugged him.
Sometime later in a briefing room
Korra and Tahno, wearing the uniforms of Tarrlok's task force, sat beside each other and other benders as Tarrlok informed them all. "My fellow task force deputies, tonight we will execute a raid of an underground chi blocker training camp located in the Dragon flash borrow. My sources tell me that there is a cellier underneath this book store, where Equalists train chi blocking in secret."
A bit later
A vehicle with Korra, Tahno and Tarrlok and the other task force members was driving through the streets and got to the location while docking so as not to be seen. And when everyone got out and locked the the open windows on the ground, Tahno stood beside Korra as the Avatar saw people training in chi blocking before he eyes landed on a poster of Amon, making Korra remember her nightmare before she gasped, but calmed down when Tahno touched her shoulder to comfort her, making her touch his hand before Tarrlok gave a finger signal to 1 of his deputies, who opened a water container before passing the water through the Waterbenders of the task force, including Korra, Tahno and Tarrlok.
Korra took a breath and looked at Tahno, who nodded before they bended the water through the windows, catching everyone inside the cellier off guard as a few of them were frozen in the water as the task force Earthbenders dealt with a few more while Tarrlok froze another's head! 1 of them ran out of the back door as another one threw 2 green smoke bombs that Korra stopped by freezing them with her Waterbending. "I'm going after those 2!" She said before running after them, only to trip under a tripwire before a chi blocker from above tried to attack her but she quickly Earthbended him in the gut, stopping him before another one with a bolo ropes appeared behind her, only for Tahno to save her by freezing him into the wall! "Nice timing. Thanks, Tahno."
"We're a team, Korra, whether it be in and out of Pro-Bending." He said before helping her up while thinking about Ming and Shaozu. "Though, I wish Ming and Shaozu were here with us."
"Me too. Though with Shaozu's leg the way it is, he won't be able to walk for at least another week." She said before looking sad. "I only hope that he'll heal up to where he can at least walk again."
"Don't worry, Korra, he will. I know he will, and then, maybe they'll join us." Tahno assured her before they shared a hug.
And as the task force took in the chi blockers and the ones in training, the press surrounded them again before it was all over the newspapers, with Tahno keeping them all away from Korra, as they had pressured her enough already. It even got to Ming and Shaozu, who were talking with Mako and Bolin, the brothers having already trained with Hasook, who had gone home for the day.
"No Tahno or Korra for practice again, guys?" Bolin asked.
"No. But you saw the way those Media assholes were pressuring Korra. Tahno's doing this to help take the pressure off her, as you guys can see he's still doing it." Ming answered while showing them the paper.
"Personally, I think Tahno made the right decision. I mean, if my leg wasn't fucked up right now, we'd be out there with them." Shaozu answered while looking at his still injured leg.
"I feel you on that, big guy." Mako said with sympathy for Shaozu, but secretly even more jealous at seeing Korra and Tahno in the paper together. 'How the hell can I get to Korra if there is always either Tahno or someone else around her? Fuck! I have to get to her somehow. But what about Asami? She's so beautiful and hot too. Maybe... I'll concentrate on her for a while longer.'
Later on at a press conference
"Avatar Korra has bravely answered the call to action. And surprisingly, the captain of the White Falls Wolfbats himself has voluntarily and willingly answered the same call. And with the 3 of us leading the charge, Republic City no longer has to fear Amon and his Equalists." Tarrlok told the reporters.
That was when a female reporter spoke out among the others. "Question for the Avatar: Amon still remains at large. Why have you failed to locate him?"
Tahno again stepped up for Korra. "Hey! That's enough trying to corner her with your stupid, nosy questions! She's already been pressured enough by you idiots! Just leave her alone!"
But that was when Korra put her hand on his shoulder and spoke gently to him. "Thank you, Tahno, but let me say something." She requested before he nodded and let her speak up. "You jerk offs wanna know why I haven't found Amon? Because he's a coward! And if you can hear me now Amon, it's time you and I settle this, alone. Just you and me tonight at midnight on Aang Memorial island! This is, if you're man enough to face me." She announced before walking away, with a surprised Tahno and Tarrlok following her.
Meanwhile
Mako was riding with Asami in a carriage through the park as the heiress spoke to him. "I really should be thankful to Tahno for introducing me to you."
"Yeah, me too. Tell you what: you can thank him when my team's new equipment arrives."
"I'll be sure to bring it myself so I get the chance." Asami said before asking. "By the way, why aren't you wearing that new silk scarf I bought you last week?"
Mako touched his scarf before explaining. "Well, this was...my father's scarf, and this is all I have left of him. I just feel like... like it keeps me safe."
Asami felt sympathy for Mako, as he was similar to her in that regard. "I'm sorry." She apologized before revealing her own loss. "I lost my mother when I was very young." Mako took her hand before they smiled at each other before they both leaned in for a brief kiss before separating. "I feel so safe with you." Asami said before kissing him again, making Mako wrap his arms around Asami's waist while she wrapped her arms around his neck and they began to make out for the rest of the ride.
Meanwhile
Korra was preparing to go to Aang Memorial island to face Amon while Tarrlok and the other task force deputies watched, with Tahno trying to talk her out of this. "Korra, don't do this. Amon may be there, but he's more than likely not going to be there alone. That's not how men like him work. He's most likely waiting to ambush you."
"Maybe not, Tahno, but I have to face him alone." Korra insisted.
But that was when Tenzin glided up to them. "Korra, this is madness!"
"Don't try to stop me and don't follow me. I have to face Amon alone, Tenzin."
Tenzin glared at Tarrlok. "This is all your doing!"
"I tried to talk her out of it just as Tahno has been trying to, but she's made up her mind." Tarrlok said in defense.
Tahno tried 1 more time to stop Korra. "Korra, please, don't do this. Who knows what he has waiting for you and if he takes away your bending, there'll be no 1 left to stand a chance against him. He'll kill you as an example and then use his followers to capture every bender around the world and he'll take every bender who has the power and do what he did to the Triads. You can't let him win. Even if every bender in the world were to gather in numbers, he'd more than likely kill who he can and take away the bending of all the ones he lets live." He said before he touched her cheek. "Please, Korra. I... don't want anything to happen to you."
"Tahno, nothing is going to happen to me. And Amon won't win, I won't let him." Korra assured him before leaning her forehead against his. "I'll be alright, Tahno. I promise."
They then separated before Tahno joined Tenzin and Tarrlok on the docks while Korra used her Waterbending to sail her boat to Aang Memorial island as Tarrlok assured them both. "We're watching the island closely. If anything goes wrong, I have a fleet of police airships ready and waiting to strike."
"Shut your damn mouth, Tarrlok! This is all your fault! My gut tells me you orchestrated the Gala, and the Media to pressure Korra into making her do what you want!"
"That's a wild accusation, Tahno. Do you really think I'm that smart?" Tarrlok asked smugly, only for Tahno to growl at him before looking at the Island with worry and concern for Korra.
Meanwhile, with Korra
The young and rebellious Avatar had gotten to the island but didn't see Amon anywhere before she waited for him. When the clock struck midnight, she twitched in fear before regaining control of herself and continued waiting for Amon. After waiting for what felt like hours as the city grew dark, Korra was frustrated. "Damn it! Fuck! Maybe he really is a fucking coward." She said before walking to a doorway nearby.
But as soon as she got in the middle of the doorway, she was taken by surprise as a rope wrapped around her before pulling her inside! Korra quickly used her Firebending to burn the rope before seeing Amon's henchmen surrounding her! And as she tried using her Firebending to blast them and see in the darkness, ropes captured her hands before she tried her legs to Firebend and Earthbend before 2 chi blockers hit her fast in the back, blocking her bending before the light from the fire died out before she awoke to find herself held by 2 of Amon's henchmen, with only a small light to see.
Amon then appeared out of the darkness and spoke to the young Avatar. "I received your invitation, young Avatar." He said before he moved his hands towards Korra as if to remove her bending, just like in her nightmare. Korra cringed and closed her eyes, wanting for what was to come, but instead, Amon grabbed her chin and turned her face towards him. "Our showdown, while inevitable, is premature. Although it would be the simplest thing for me to take away your bending right now... I won't. You'd only become a martyr. Benders from every nation would rally behind your untimely demise. But I assure you, I have a plan. And I'm saving you for last. Then, you'll get your duel, and I will destroy you." He vowed before knocking her out with a chop to her neck, and disappearing seconds later with his followers.
While Korra was unconscious, she suddenly saw memories of the past of a Avatar Aang, Sokka, and Toph, as well as an evil looking man's eyes and Aang, in the Avatar state about to fight before she regained conscious and saw Tenzin and Tahno running up to her.
"Korra! Korra, are you alright? What happened? Was Amon here?" Tahno asked before taking her into his arms.
"Yeah. And you were right, Tahno: he did ambush me." Korra answered.
"Did he-did he take your bending away?" Tenzin asked with concern.
"No, he didn't. I'm okay."
"Oh thank goodness."
Korra then broke down and embraced Tahno as she cried, finally letting the fear that she'd kept in out. "I..was so terrified! I felt so helpless!"
"It's alright, Korra, we're here for you." Tahno assured her.
"He's right, the nightmare is over." Tenzin added.
"You...you both were right. I've been scared this whole time. I've never felt like this before and I don't know what to do!" Korra admitted before leaning in Tahno's embrace further.
"Admitting your fears is the 1st... and most difficult step to overcoming them." Tenzin said wisely.
And it was then and there that Tahno vowed. 'Amon, I will make you suffer for this! I swear on the spirits to make you pay for what you've done to Korra! After this, you don't deserve to live!'
An hour later
Tahno entered his apartment along with Korra, who was still sobbing after her frightening encounter with Amon. After guiding her to the couch and both sat down, Tahno held Korra close to him while she still sobbed on his shoulder. And they remained like this for some time, knowing that Korra needed to calm before he could do anything else.
When 30 minutes had passed and Korra's sobbing had been mostly gone, she asked Tahno. "T...Tahno?"
"Yeah, Korra?"
"Can I... stay with you... just for tonight?" Korra asked with a little sob as they glanced into each other's eyes.
He gave a nod, not minding it at all. "Of course, Korra."
But then she added with a small blush "Well… by staying here for tonight, I mean not in a... very close way."
Tahno gave a small chuckle. "That's okay. I... wasn't planning on forcing you to my bed or anything." Korra sighed in relief before Tahno stated. "You can use the guest room, if you like?"
Korra nodded. "Yeah... that'll be fine."
Thinking that she could use a blanket and something to drink, Tahno stood up from the couch and took a blanket from a closet and placed it over Korra, which she appreciated. "Thanks."
"You're welcome. I'll be right back." Tahno stated before walking over to his kitchen.
Korra was feeling a bit better now having Tahno to comfort her and gave him a blanket to cover herself.
After a minute, there was a knock on the door. "Yoohoo! Tahno, are you home?" A sweet woman's voice called.
Korra raised an eyebrow while Tahno peeked from the kitchen, making him sigh in a bit of annoyance. "Oh, great. It's my Mom." Before he then walked over to the front door and opened it, showing a woman in her mid-thirties, being indeed Tahno's mother, Laira.
Laira said with a bright smile. "Tahno! Hello, my dear." And gave a hug to her son.
Suddenly, a 51 year old man hugged Tahno, who was his father, Ridaq. "Hello, son."
Tahno then asked. "Hi, mom, hi Dad. But... what are you guys doing here so late?"
Laira then asked Tahno with a serious face while putting her hands on her hips. "Now, now. Is that the way of greeting your parents?" But then formed a sweet smile again. "Me and your father just came by to see how you're doing. Is it true that you joined councilman Tarrlok's task force?"
"We saw your picture in the newspaper where you and Avatar Korra arrested a group of Equalists, and heard some about it on the radio." Ridaq stated, being proud too that his son was doing good deeds for Republic City.
Tahno scratched the back of his head. "Uhh... yeah... sorta."
That made Laira and Ridaq raise an eyebrow, with Ridaq asking. "What do you mean with 'sorta'? Aren't you happy that you joined Tarrlok's task force? After all, it's a very important job, as I've heard."
Laira nodded while adding with a bit of fear. "With that evil man named Amon on the streets with his Equalists, even I don't feel safe to walk the streets."
Tahno sighed. "Well, I... I actually joined in because I..."
That was when Korra, still with the blanket covering her, walked over to the door and greeted Tahno's parents with a humble bow. "Hello. You must be Tahno's parents. I'm Korra."
Both Ridaq and Laira were completely surprised to see the Avatar being in Tahno's apartment. "A...Avatar Korra?!" Ridaq asked with a bit of shock, before he and his wife both bowed. "It's... an honor to meet you in person."
Laira then asked Korra with concern. "Is it true? You met face to face with Amon?"
Korra looked away, feeling uncomfortable to talk about it. Tahno nodded and placed his arm around Korra's waist, comforting her.
Seeing how upset Korra was, Laira apologized. "I... I'm sorry, I didn't think it was..."
Ridaq placed his hand on his wife's shoulder, telling her. "Laira, I think we should allow the Avatar to rest." Before he then formed a small smile to his son. "And I think our boy is doing just fine."
Tahno smiled back to his father for understanding.
"See you soon, Tahno." Laira said before she and Ridaq left, knowing it would be unwise to enter Tahno's place with Korra being in a bad state.
Tahno brought Korra back inside and closed the door before she said with a small smile. "Your parents seem like nice people."
Tahno chuckled. "Yeah, they are. You should meet my grandmother. I'm sure she'll love you, I'm sure." But then figured. "Well, when you're ready for that, at least."
Korra nodded. "I'd love that, and to get to know your parents."
For a little while, both Tahno and Korra sat back on the couch, drinking some tea, both not in the mood for beer at the moment before Tahno showed Korra the guest room, which was a normal room with two beds, as Ming and Shaozu would often spend the night.
"Thank you for letting me stay here for the night, Tahno." Korra thanked him.
"Not a problem." Tahno said while raising his hand, as she didn't have to thank him.
Korra then came closer to him, saying softly. "And... thank you for being there for me... while being in Tarrlok's task force." Before she planted a kiss on his cheek. "Goodnight, pretty boy."
"You too... Korra."
The next day
After eating some breakfast and taking a shower, Korra told Tahno that she was heading back to Air Temple island, which he didn't mind and told her that he'd inform Ming and Shaozu of everything that happened.
But on the way, a very expensive looking car stopped in front of her while she was walking, making Korra jump back before she saw obvious undercover police lights on it and looked up to see Beifong staring at her. "What the hell do you want, Beifong? I am not in the mood for you and your shit right now!"
"I heard what happened between you and Amon last night. How damn stupid do you have to be to meet a terrorist on your own?" Beifong said, insulting Korra before adding salt to the wound. "You certainly lived up to your reputation as the worst Avatar in existence. You ask me, Amon would have done the city and the world a big favor by taking away your bending." She said before speeding off, making dust fly in Korra's face.
Korra covered her eyes and formed a very mad face. "You... arrogant... cocksucking... PIECE OF SHIT!" She yelled before going into an alleyway and going a different route to the police station, since she knew it was where Beifong was going. And when she got there, she saw Beifong park her car in a private parking space away from the others before going into the station.
Korra walked up to the vehicle and took a look at the expensive car And hearing Beifong's insults in her head made her blood boil as she tightened her fists. "Let's see how you like when someone takes your shit away, you old jack off." And in a roar of rage, she used her firebending so much on Beifong's car that it burned half of it. Korra panted as she'd unleashed her anger, but then realizing what she did, she began to think and formed a mischievous smirk as she jumped over the car and used her firebending to draw a hand giving the finger and wrote in words: 'FUCK YOU, BEIFONG, YOU COCKSUCKING BITCH!' And smiling at seeing her result, Korra walked away with pride.
And a few hours later, Beifong came out of the station and when she saw her car half burned and the firebending graffiti on the other side, she exploded with anger, knowing exactly who did it. "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" She yelled out before calling a police airship to pick her up. And after it got to her and she entered, she ordered the pilot. "Take me to Air Temple island. I have an Avatar to arrest."
Meanwhile
At Air Temple Island, Korra had just returned and was greeted with lots of hugs from Jinora and Ikki.
"Thank goodness you're okay!" Ikki said, with some tears forming in her eyes.
"We were worried that something had happened." Jinora added.
Korra ensured her. "I'm okay, you two. That's more important."
Tenzin then walked out of the temple and walked over to Korra. He smiled when he saw she was a little bit better than what happened last night. "Korra. I hope that you've rested well enough after... your meeting with Amon?"
Though the memory of Amon nearly taking her bending was still fresh and painful in Korra's mind, she gave a small nod to Tenzin. "I'm... better. A little bit."
Feeling that she could use a break, Tenzin suggested. "Perhaps it's better that you need to take a break, Korra?"
Korra gave a deep sigh. "But... what if Amon-"
"That can wait." Tenzin advised while placing his hands on her shoulders. "Even the Avatar needs to take a break. Right now... you need to have a clear mind, and a day off might not be such a bad idea."
Though she felt that Tenzin meant well, Korra however assured him. "Under other circumstances than just Amon, I would take a break. But... the city needs me. And I need to be ready whenever Amon strikes again. And since airbending is all about 'having a clear mind', I should start training again as I still can't airbend."
Tenzin sighed, accepting that Korra wished to train again. "Very well. But if it's too much for you, don't hesitate to tell me."
They then entered the temple, with Jinora and Ikki following them. But just as they entered the training grounds, all were surprised at a police airship approaching the island.
Confused, Jinora asked her father. "Uhm, daddy? What's going on?"
"I don't know, Jinora." Tenzin answered.
Korra felt that it was probably Beifong who was pissed off for her car being destroyed. 'Looks like the old bitch finally realized I fucked up her precious car.'
As the airship landed, to Korra's confirmation, a very very very pissed off Beifong stepped out of it, accompanied by 3 agents. "AVATAR KORRAAAAAA!" Beifong yelled.
Korra walked over to her, accompanied by Tenzin. Korra crossed her arms as she smirked. "Good morning to you too, Beifong. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"FOR DESTROYING MY CAR, AVATAR KORRA..." Beifong yelled as she marched over to her. "I'm placing you under arrest for destruction of police property!" and took out some handcuffs.
That was when Tenzin moved in between them, stopping Beifong in her tracks. "Hold it right there, Lin."
"Get out of my way, Tenzin." Beifong demanded.
"What did Korra do that you're accusing her of?" Tenzin asked, being the calm person in this situation.
Beifong then groaned as she stated. "Destroyed my car with firebending graffiti, that's what!" Before she then tried to push Tenzin out of the way, but Tenzin stopped her again.
Korra then asked with a grin on her face. "Oh, really? Prove it."
This got Lin even more angry. "I don't need proof to know that it was you who destroyed my police car! You're going down to the station and-"
Again, Tenzin stopped her. "That's enough, Lin!" Before he then seriously told her "Korra has a point. If you want to arrest her, you need evidence to make the arrest legitimate, otherwise you're violating the constitution."
"Why you...! I know she did it, Tenzin! I FUCKING know she did it!"
Ikki, who was with her sister and mother at the steps of the temple, gasped as Lin was cursing. "She said the F word!"
Tenzin crossed his arms as he asked Lin with a serious face. "Just because you think Korra broke your car on purpose, doesn't give you the right to arrest her! As a council member, I should remind you that the law says that a person is innocent until proven guilty. So I ask again, Lin, where is your evidence? Did you even see yourself that Korra vandalized your precious car?"
Beifong thought about that. "Well, no... I-"
"Do you have any witnesses that have seen Korra doing that, or do you have any hard evidence against her?" Tenzin added.
Lin sighed as she put her handcuffs back. "No... I don't."
"I thought so." Tenzin then gestured to her to go away. "Now that you don't have any business here, I suggest you and your agents should leave."
Lin groaned as she turned to her agents and went to her airship.
"Oh, and Lin?" Tenzin asked, making Lin stop and turn to Tenzin. "Next time keep your swearing out of my children's presence. You don't want to be a bad example to them or anyone else, right?"
Seeing that Tenzin had a point, Lin gave a nod. "Right. My apologies for doing that with your kids around. It won't happen again." Then she glanced at Korra, warning her. "You better watch yourself, Avatar. One day I'll make sure you'll end up behind bars for life or be thrown out of Republic City!"
Korra chuckled while giving a mock salute, knowing that she couldn't give her the middle finger because of the kids being in eyesight. "Good luck with that." After Beifong had left with her police force, Korra thanked Tenzin. "Hey... thanks for stepping up for me."
But that was before Tenzin looked serious to Korra. "Did you do it? Did you do what Lin accused you of?"
As she couldn't lie to Tenzin, Korra at first felt a bit nervous before she angrily stated what had happened, which made her destroy Beifong's car in her sadness/anger.
Hearing her story, Tenzin told her. "Korra. Just because someone tells you those things, doesn't give you the right to enact revenge like that or let your anger take control over you." But seeing that what Lin told her went too far, he stated. "Though I feel for you that Lin shouldn't have said those things to you, you shouldn't react in such a way. Trust me, she's not worth it."
Korra sighed. "Right... I... I'm sorry, Tenzin."
Tenzin shook his head as he put his hand on her shoulder. "No. You don't have to. All I'm saying is... just keep your head cool next time."
Korra nodded, promising she'll try harder next time, but secretly crossed her fingers behind her back. 'I'm not gonna let that bitch slide for anything she does to me. if she keeps this thing up with me, I don't care if she's the fucking leader of Republic City herself, I'm fucking her boney old ass up beyond healing!'
And later that evening
Korra went to the Pro-Bending gym and met with her team, with Ming and Shaozu greeting her 1st. "Hey, Korra."
"Hey, guys."
"So Korra, is it true that you actually burned Beifong's car with your Firebending?" Tahno asked with interest.
Korra smirked. "Well, you guys didn't hear this from me, but hell yeah I did! That bitch insulted me and I sure was damned if I was gonna let her get away with it."
Tahno was very surprised by Korra's will to punish Beifong in such a way when not even the baddest of delinquents would try such a thing. "Korra, you are such a...badass to do something like that!"
"Yeah! Even we would never have done anything like that, and to Beifong of all people. You truly are worthy of being a Wolfbat, Korra!" Ming said with excitement for Korra.
"Yeah! Possibly the greatest Wolfbat to ever live in my opinion, besides our captain, of course." Shaozu added.
"I really don't like to brag, but the bitch deserved it for insulting me like that, especially telling me that Amon would have done the city and the entire world a favor by taking my bending away."
"Well I, for 1, think that bitch got a taste of her own medicine." Shaozu said with a smile while patting Korra's shoulder.
That was when Tahno got an idea. "Hey, Korra, you know what? Let's just skip practice for tonight and go out and celebrate you sticking it to that bitch."
"And how do you propose we celebrate?" Korra asked.
"By drinking our asses off at the bar! We know a great bar that has the finest alcoholic drinks in the city." Ming answered.
That sounded like a great idea to Korra. "You know what? After everything I just went through, some alcohol is just what I need right now. I'm sure practice can wait another day. But tonight, I plan to drink you guys under the table."
"Well what are we waiting for? Let's go!" Tahno said before they all headed off.
Korra and her Wolfbat team headed to the nearest bar and eyed the drinks inside, with Korra just itching to get some alcohol in her. "So, guys, we just gonna stand here or are we gonna drink our asses off?" She asked before getting grins from Tahno and the others.
The Wolfbat team then sat on stools at the bar where Tahno already paid for their drinks before the bartender gave 1 beer each and they tapped their glasses together. "A toast. To Korra, the most badass girl to ever be part of the White Falls Wolfbats!" Tahno said to his team.
"Cheers!" Korra, Ming and Shaozu said together before they all downed their shots in 2 gulps.
They gently slammed the glasses down and Korra told the bartender. "Keep 'em coming, bar girl. Tonight, I'm drinking my team under the table."
"You got it, Korra!" She said before serving the Wolfbats more beers.
The teenage, rebellious Avatar and her teammates then spent the next few hours drinking while Korra told them all about how she destroyed Beifong's car in detail, including the firebending graffiti, which impressed them even more.
But that was when Silah entered the bar, wearing a very sexy dress, and saw Tahno, sitting very close to Korra. She walked up to him and spoke out. "Tahno!" She called out, getting their attention.
"And what the hell do you want, Silah? Come to try and win me back again?" Tahno asked sarcastically. "Because that's never gonna happen."
That was when Silah decided to use drastic measures and showed her breasts and pussy, revealing that she didn't have a bra and panties on. "Oh come on, Tahno. Surely you can forgive me if I allow you to fuck my hard tits and my horny pussy." She said seductively.
That was when Tahno had enough. "Silah, get this through your thick fucking skull: when I say it's over, it's fucking over! I will never, ever date a backstabbing slut like you. Not when I've found someone far more beautiful, more loyal and far more special than you'll ever be!"
"What?!" Silah asked with fury.
Ming and Shaozu nodded before grabbing her and escorting her out. "You heard captain Tahno, slut! You're out of his life, so why don't you just go find something else to mess with?" Ming asked with fury before they threw her out of the bar.
But Korra, while thinking about what Tahno had said about already finding someone, had hope in her heart. But she was also feeling inspired by that slutty bitch in a strange way, as she'd thought of another way to be more rebellious. 'Looks like that bitch did me an unknowing favor tonight.' She thought with a smile before downing her beer.
"Sorry you had to see that, Korra." Tahno apologized as he sat back down beside Korra.
"It's alright, Tahno. Let's just finish our beers and forget about all our troubles for now. That is why we came here, isn't it?" Korra asked while holding up her 6th beer.
"Hell yeah, it is, Korra." Ming answered as he and Shaozu rejoined their teammates and friends.
The Wolfbats then continued to drink until they got to their 10th beers and decided that that was enough for now. And when Korra headed back to Air Temple island, while giving Tahno a kiss on the cheek, she went into her room and locked the door before opening her closet and grabbing all her bras and panties, even stripping out of the ones she already had on before quickly getting her clothes back on, heading outside and throwing them into the air. "So long, my underwear, your uses have run its course." She said before using her Firebending to burn them all to ashes! Korra then felt her breasts and her ass and pussy, feeling much more comfortable without a bra or panties. "Oh fuck yeah. I feel so much more comfortable and even more sexy now than before. And just wait until I tell Tahno. Shit, is he in for a big surprise...sooner or later, if I ever tell him how I feel about him. I... just hope he feels the same way about me." She said before getting serious and vowing to herself. 'Amon, you fucking bastard, you... will pay for what you did to me! I swear, 1 way or another, I'm gonna enjoy making you suffer before killing you myself!'
There you go, my dear friends, the Voice in the Night chapter is finally complete. Next comes the Spirit of Competition, where things are going to 'heat up' a bit, if you get my drift. Rate and review and I'll see you all next time, my dear friends.