Hey guys! Whoa two days in a row, that's frickin unreal haha. Anyways, I hope you enjoy!
Chapter 4: The Voice in the Night
It was night-time. The white face of the moon was shining brightly. Korra was sleeping peacefully. Suddenly, a chi-blocker crashed through her window. Two more broke down the door.
Korra threw off her covers and defended herself desperately with firebending. The chi-blockers avoided all her attacks and one got behind her. He hit her quickly in several locations along her back. She fell to her knees, paralyzed.
She looked up to see Amon coming towards her. Every step he took seemed to shatter any resolve she had. His face loomed in close to hers, menacingly.
"After I take your bending away, you will be nothing." His hand stretched forward to her face.
Korra screamed as she woke up. She looked around her. No Amon. No chi-blockers. She sighed with relief. She felt a sensation on her hand and looked to see Naga licking it. She rubbed her head.
"It's all right, Naga. I just had a bad dream."
The morning sun filtered through Ichigo's open window and fell on his face. He squinted and sighed deeply. He had hardly slept at all. Ichigo looked at the spot on the floor where he had meditated the night before. His memory recalled the scene.
"What do you want, King?"
"I want you to tell me your name."
"My name?"
"Yes."
"Very well. My name is-"
Ichigo didn't hear anything. "I didn't hear your name. Why?"
The voice laughed. "It seems that you're not ready. Do not summon me again until you know you are."
"How do I know?"
There was no answer.
"Answer me! How do I know?"
Still nothing. Ichigo cursed bitterly.
He went to the window. The view from here really was spectacular. But somehow, Ichigo felt that he didn't belong here. Not just in Republic City. But in this whole world. He felt so out of place.
Tenzin was at City Hall. Since he was on the City Council, he was required to attend regular meetings. The other members were all right. Except for Tarrlok. Tenzin couldn't stand that man.
"There is a madman running around our beloved city," Tarrlok began, "threatening to tear it apart. We need to create a task force whose sole mission is to find Amon and bring him to justice."
"Absolutely not." Tenzin replied instantly. "A move that aggressive would only further divide benders and non-benders."
The representative from the Fire Nation spoke next. "Tarrlok, I'm inclined to agree with your proposal. But who would even head up such a task force?"
Tarrlok smiled deviously and rose to his feet. "It would be my honour and privilege to accept such a duty."
"This is just another of your ploys to gain power, isn't it?" Tenzin said it more as a statement than a question.
"All I'm trying to do is help. Think back. 42 years ago, Republic City was threatened by another dangerous man: Yakone." He pointed at Tenzin. "Your father wasn't afraid to deal with him head on."
"This is a completely different situation and how dare you compare yourself to Avatar Aang?" Tenzin said angrily.
Tarrlok narrowed his eyes. "Amon is not going to stop with the bending Triads. Eventually he will come for all us benders, our friends and our families. Vote for this task force and I will stop Amon, before it's too late. All in favour?"
He raised his hand. The three other members looked at each other then eventually did the same. Only Tenzin was against it.
Tarrlok smiled.
That night, Korra and Ichigo were outside. Korra was practicing her airbending form while Ichigo listened to the radio. Suddenly the radio hissed and the music stopped.
Then Amon's voice appeared. "Good evening, my fellow Equalists. This is your leader, Amon."
Korra gasped and Ichigo gritted his teeth. "As you have heard, the Republic City Council has voted to make me public enemy number one, proving again that the bending oppressors of this city will stop at nothing to quash our revolution. But we cannot be stopped. Our numbers grow stronger by the day. You no longer have to live in fear. The time has come for benders to experience fear."
His message ended. Korra was breathing deeply. Ichigo was too but he hid it better.
"Korra," he said quietly. "Does Amon scare you?"
She looked at him with surprise. "What? I-no, no, I'm- I'm the Avatar. I'm not scared. Are you?"
Ichigo looked down at his hand. "Yeah. Yeah, I am. Amon scares me because I don't know him. I don't know what he's capable of. I'm not one to usually admit my fears to others but this man scares me, Korra. And I think he scares you too. And that's okay, Korra."
"I don't know what you're talking about. It's okay for you to be scared. You don't have powers, you can't bend, you can't protect yourself."
"No, Korra. It's because I can't bend that you have a much better reason to fear him than me. I don't have anything to lose. He can't take anything away from me besides my friends. But I am still afraid. I admit that because I know that by admitting my fears, I can turn that fear into resolve. I don't want to be scared anymore. I want to beat him."
Korra hesitated and then snapped, "You don't know how I feel. Don't try and assume that you do." She got up and walked away. Ichigo stared after her and sighed. She would need time. At least he'd gotten over his own fear.
Mako was late for the trolley. He heard its bell ringing and raced across the street. He heard tires screeching and turned to see a bike coming straight at him. He screamed and the bike rider hit the brakes. The bike's end hit Mako and he tumbled to the ground.
The rider ran towards him. "Oh no! I'm so sorry. I didn't see you."
Mako rubbed his head. "How could you not see me? I mean, I was juuuu-"
He looked up and blushed furiously as the rider took off her helmet. Long black hair swirled around her face. She had lots of makeup on and her green eyes shone brilliantly. She was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen, Mako realized.
"I was, uh…" He stuttered and looked away. "Wow." He coughed.
She bent down and he blushed again as she grabbed his arm and helped him up.
"Are you ok? Did I hurt you? Oh, I am such an idiot!"
"Don't worry, I'm fine." He brushed himself off. "My brother hits me harder than that every day in practice."
She looked closely at him. "Wait, I recognize you. You're Mako, right? You play for the Fire Ferrets."
He smiled. "Yeah, that's me."
She put her hand against her face. "I am so embarrassed." She offered out her hand and Mako shook it. "My name's Asami. Let me make this up to you somehow. Uh, how about I treat you to dinner? Tomorrow night, 8:00, Kwong's Cuisine."
"Uh, Kwong's? I don't have any clothes nice enough for a place that classy."
Asami put on her helmet again. "I'll take care of that. All you need to do is show up. So, it's a date?"
"Uh, yeah. I guess so." Mako said. "I'll see you tomorrow night."
She revved her engine and drove off. Mako looked after her and she turned and smiled at him. Then she went off into the distance.
Mako grinned childishly and little hearts appeared around him.
At dinner everyone was seated. Tenzin sat at the head of the table while his wife and Meelo sat on the side to his left. Jinora and Ikki were on the side to his right while Korra and Ichigo sat together on the other end.
Tenzin said a blessing. "We are grateful for this delicious food. For happiness. For compassion. And-"
"I'm not interrupting, am I?" Everyone looked up to see Tarrlok standing at the entrance.
"This is my home, Tarrlok," Tenzin said with obvious annoyance. "We're about to eat dinner."
Tarrlok smiled. "Good, because I am absolutely famished." Tenzin narrowed his eyes. "Airbenders never turn away a hungry guest, am I right?" Tarrlok said teasingly.
Tenzin sighed. "I suppose."
Tarrlok moved across the room and approached Korra.
"Ah, you must be the famous Avatar Korra. It is truly an honour." He bowed slightly, ignoring Ichigo's obvious scowl. "I am Councilman Tarrlok, representative from the Northern Water Tribe." Korra rose and bowed.
"Nice to meet you." She looked pointedly at Ichigo, gesturing for him to bow as well. He scowled and turned away. She insisted so he got to his feet.
"A pleasure." He said icily. Tenzin smiled at his tone. Good boy, he thought.
"And who are you, may I ask?" Tarrlok inquired.
"Kurosaki Ichigo. Friend to the Avatar."
Tarrlok raised an eyebrow then sat down. Ikki scooted over to him.
"Why do you have three ponytails?" She sniffed loudly. "And how come you smell like a lady? You're weird." Ichigo snickered and Korra elbowed him sharply.
Tarrlok smiled awkwardly at Ikki. "Well aren't you…" He searched for the right word, "Precocious."
He turned to Korra. "So, I've been reading all about your adventures in the papers. Infiltrating Amon's rally, now that took some real initiative."
Ichigo narrowed his eyes slightly.
"Oh, thanks." Korra said. "I think you're the first authority figure in the city who's glad I'm here."
"Republic City is much better off now that you've arrived." Tarrlok insisted.
"Enough with the flattery, Tarrlok," Tenzin spoke up. "What do you want from Korra?"
"Patience, Tenzin. I'm getting to that. As you may have heard, I am assembling a task force that will strike at the heart of the revolution. And I want you to join me."
"Really?" Korra was surprised.
"What?" Tenzin and Ichigo both said at the same time.
Tarrlok nodded. "I need someone who will help me attack Amon directly. Someone who is fearless in the face of danger. And that someone is you."
"Join your task force?" Korra looked down at her food. "I can't."
Tenzin was shocked. Ichigo was happy that she hadn't agreed to help the creep but he still questioned her motive. Tarrlok was equally taken aback.
"I must admit, I'm rather surprised. I thought you'd jump at the chance to help me lead the charge against Amon."
"Me too." Tenzin agreed. Ichigo said nothing and let Korra speak.
"I came to Republic City to finish my Avatar training with Tenzin. Right now, I just need to focus on that."
Tarrlok leaned forward eagerly. "Which is why this opportunity is perfect. You would get on-the-job experience while performing your Avatar duty for the city."
"Korra gave you her answer. It's time for you to go." Tenzin said firmly.
Tarrlok nodded. "Very well. But I'm not giving up on you just yet. You'll be hearing from me soon. It has been a pleasure, Avatar Korra."
He turned to leave. "Bye-bye, Ponytail Man!" Ikki waved. Tarrlok scoffed and left the room. Ichigo got up suddenly and went after him.
"Ichigo, where are you going?" Tenzin demanded.
"I forgot to ask him something." Ichigo ran off. He caught up with Tarrlok outside. "Hey, wait!"
The councilman turned around. "What is it, Kurosaki Ichigo?"
Ichigo pulled to a stop. "Heh. You remembered my name. And here I thought that you were ignoring me."
"What do you want?"
"Since Korra has refused to join your little task force, I thought you might want a replacement."
"Who'd you have in mind, Kurosaki?"
Ichigo sighed then made up his mind. "If you agree to not bother Korra anymore, I'll join your task force."
Tarrlok laughed. "You?"
"Yes, me."
"Why would I accept a little street punk like yourself? Can you even bend?"
Ichigo scowled. "No, I can't."
"Then you are of no use to me." Tarrlok turned to go. Ichigo grabbed his arm.
"I fought Amon."
"What?" Tarrlok was shocked.
"I was at the rally. I attacked him."
"How did you fare?"
Ichigo rubbed the back of his head. "Uh, not too good. In fact I ran. He's strong. But I think that if I fought him again, I could gain information on the way that he fights. Then the next time, I might be able to beat him."
"How would you do that?"
He shrugged. "I don't know. Fighting just comes naturally to me."
Tarrlok looked at him with scrutiny. "Why do you want to fight Amon? You have no clear motive."
Ichigo looked off into the distance and smiled slightly. "Because I don't want my friends to get hurt. It seems that, no matter where I am, I feel a need to protect something."
Tarrlok scoffed. "If you can't even bend, how can you protect anything? If you ever face Amon, you would be afraid and you would run. Just as you ran the first time."
Ichigo looked him dead in the eye. "A wise man once told me that fear is not what you need in a battle. Nothing will come of it." Ichigo closed his eyes then opened them quickly. A fierce wind began swirling around them. Tarrlok looked around and prepared to defend himself.
"I don't need bending, Tarrlok! All I need is the resolve to fight. If I dodge something, I'll say that it won't cut me. If I protect someone, I'll say that I won't let them die." His voice became lower. "If I cut something, I'll go for the kill!"
The wind died away. Tarrlok looked at him in wonder.
"What are you? A monster?"
Ichigo chuckled. "I'm a human. I can just get a little excited."
Tarrlok took a deep breath. "The work the task force will be doing is quick and precise. Cutting off the Equalist's escape and destroying them will all be in a day's work for us. You are a loose cannon. And I will not allow you to join my task force. Furthermore, if I see you anywhere near Amon, I will personally escort you to a lifetime in prison! Understand?"
Ichigo looked at him defiantly. It was all he could do just to stay on his feet. That little rush of power had drained him. He didn't even know how he'd done it. Tarrlok turned and left. Ichigo didn't stop him. When he was sure that Tarrlok was gone, he fell to his knees and spit blood from his mouth.
What am I? What was that? Those words just randomly came from my mouth.
He cursed. I've got to regain my memories!
He brushed off his mouth and struggled back to the house.
Mako stared up at the giant restaurant. Lights were beaming all over the place. People in suits were dining there. He'd never been anywhere so fancy. Mako looked at his dirty clothes and sighed. Then he went inside.
A man with an incredibly long moustache greeted him with a very deep and extravagant bow.
"Ah, welcome to Kwong's Cuisine, Master Mako."
Mako was perplexed. "Uh, Master?"
Next thing he knew, Mako was in a dressing room with nothing but his underclothes on. The man placed a white dress shirt on him and black pants. Then he shined Mako's shoes, furiously. He did his hair and put on a dark grey and black coat to complete the outfit.
Mako stared down at himself. Then he grabbed his scarf and put it around his neck. The butler tried to take it off but Mako grabbed his hand.
"The scarf stays." He said firmly. The man bowed low again.
"As you wish, sir. This way please."
Quiet music was playing as Mako and Asami sipped their drinks appreciatively.
"I am such a big pro-bending fan." Asami said, "I caught all of your matches this season."
"All of them?" Mako said, surprised, "Wow. Honestly I wish there were a few that you hadn't seen." He smiled easily.
"Oh, don't be ridiculous. You were amazing. I can't wait to see you play in the tournament."
Mako frowned. "Yeah well, maybe next year."
"What do you mean? You made it in."
"It just isn't in the cards for us right now." Mako explained.
Asami put her hand over his. "Tell me, what's the problem?"
Mako sighed. "We don't have the cash to ante up for the championship pot. So it looks like we're out of the running."
"That's not fair."
The waiter came with two trays. "Pardon me, Miss Sato. Your main course." He placed the plates on the table and removed the lids.
Mako looked at Asami in amazement. "Miss Sato? You wouldn't be related to Hiroshi Sato, creator of the Sato-mobile?"
"Yeah, he's my dad."
"Get out of town!" Mako exclaimed.
She smiled. "I'm serious. You want to meet him?"
He scoffed. "Meet the most successful captain of industry in all of Republic City? Yeah, I'll take you up on that."
They smiled at each other.
The next morning, Korra was sitting with Ichigo while rubbing Naga's chest. They looked up as Bolin came up to them, humming to himself.
"Hello, fellow teammate and friend!" He declared loudly.
"Hey, Bolin." Korra said quietly.
"Yo." Ichigo and Bolin bumped fists.
"Missed you guys at practice this week," Bolin said.
"Yeah, sorry about that." Korra replied.
"Eh, it's all right. We're probably out of the tournament anyway. Unless some money miraculously drops out of the sky by tomorrow. Anyway, the reason I came by was to give you this. Ta-da!"
He handed Korra a red flower and a small cake wrapped in a bag and tied with a yellow bow.
Korra took them. "Wow, thanks. What's this for?"
He put a hand to his chin as if in thought. "Uh, oh I can't remember. Oh, now I remember! You saved me from Amon!"
"Oh, that? That was no big deal."
"No big deal, are you serious? I was totally freaking out when he coming at me with this creepy mask saying," He tried to imitate Amon's voice, "I will take away your bending forever'! I mean that is scary stuff. I still can't sleep well."
"Mm hmm." Korra looked at the ground. Ichigo sighed inwardly. He wished he could help her but he didn't know how. Talking to her didn't seem to work.
"Delivery for Avatar Korra." A woman's voice caused them all to look up. A small, strange looking elderly lady was hauling a massive bouquet of flowers and sweets in a basket. She placed it next to Korra.
"Tarrlok sends his compliments and urges you to reconsider his offer."
"Tell him that I haven't changed my mind," Korra replied.
The lady bowed and left. Ichigo glared after her.
"Who's this Tarrlok guy?" Bolin asked. "Is he bothering you, huh? Cause I could have a word with him."
Korra chuckled. "No, it's not like that. He's just some old guy who works with Tenzin on the Council."
Ichigo nodded. "Yeah, a real creep. Wants Korra to work with him but she's refusing."
"Oh, good. Good. Yeah, that sounds better. I like that better."
Ichigo smiled.
Factory noises were all around him. Mako looked around in amazement.
"What do you think of my little operation here?"
"It's very impressive, Mr. Sato."
Asami's father smiled. He had a kind face with greying hair and a big grey moustache. "Please, call me Hiroshi. So, I understand you're dirt poor."
Mako was taken aback from the man's directness. "Uh, well."
"Young man, it is nothing to be ashamed about. I too came from humble beginnings. Why, when I was your age, I was a mere shoe-shiner. And all I had to my name was an idea: the Sato-mobile. Now I was fortunate enough to meet someone who believed in me and my work ethic. He gave me the money I needed to get my idea off the ground. And I built the entire Future Industries empire from that one selfless loan."
Asami smiled like this happened a lot. "Dad, stop bragging. Just tell Mako the good news." Hiroshi laughed.
"What good news?" Mako asked.
"Well my daughter passionately told me all about your hard-earned success in the pro-bending arena. And about your team's current financial stumbling block." He put his hand on Mako's shoulder. "Now I'd hate to see you lose your chance at winning the championship, just because you're short a few yuans. That's why I'm going to sponsor the Fire Ferrets in the tournament!"
Mako was shocked. "Are you serious?"
Asami smiled brightly. "He's serious. My dad's going to cover your ante for the championship pot."
"That, that is good news!"
"There's just one catch," Hiroshi said. "You all have to wear the Future Industries logo on your uniforms."
Mako grinned. "I'll tattoo it on my chest if you want, sir!"
Hiroshi and Asami laughed heartily. Mako shook hands with them. "Thank you both so much. I promise that the Fire Ferrets will make the most of this opportunity."
Tenzin looked at the fancy red car with disgust. Tarrlok had given it to Korra this morning but she hadn't touched it. Ikki and Meelo imitated driving noises as they sat in it.
He went to the training area where Korra was running through some airbending exercises.
"I see Tarrlok's gifts are getting more and more extravagant," he said.
"Yeah, that guy doesn't know how to take no for an answer."
"Korra, are you alright?"
She nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine."
Tenzin took a seat on some steps and gestured for Korra to do the same.
"Why don't you take a break?"
She sat down beside him. "I'm glad you turned down Tarrlok, but I just wanted to make sure it was for the right reason."
"I'm just really focused on my airbending now, that's all."
"Right, that's what you said." He sighed. "You know, it's okay to be scared. The whole city is frightened about what's going on. The important thing is to talk about our fears. Because if we don't, they can throw us out of balance."
Korra looked away from him. Tenzin got up. "I'm always here, if you want to talk."
That night, Korra was sitting with Naga while Ichigo and the kids played a board game. The lady that had brought the large basket of flowers earlier in the day came again.
"Avatar Korra, I have something for you."
Korra jumped off the steps. "It doesn't matter how many gifts Tarrlok sends. I'm not joining his task force!"
She earthbent the ground under the woman's feet, turning her around and then kicked her in the backside.
"It's not a gift. It's an invitation."
Ichigo rose to his feet at that and went to stand beside Korra.
"For what?" he asked.
"Tarrlok is throwing a gala in the Avatar's honour. All of the city's movers and shakers will be there. The councilman humbly requests your attendance."
Ichigo looked at Korra. "Well? It's your call, Korra."
She considered the invitation then nodded. "Okay. I'll go. But Ichigo, Tenzin and his family will accompany me."
The lady bowed. "Tarrlok wouldn't have it any other way."
The building that the party was in was very large and it had massive posters of Korra decorating the entrance.
Korra and the others went inside. They were all dressed in their best. Korra was wearing a deep blue Water Tribe dress. Tenzin and his family were wearing modified airbending outfits. Ichigo just wore a straight black suit with a white undershirt and a black tie.
His hair was still spiky but he'd done his best to smooth it out. The crowd started applauding as they entered. The kids went to go play and Pema started greeting people she knew. Ichigo and Tenzin stayed with Korra.
Korra looked around. "I can't believe this is all for me."
"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.
"Yeah, be wary of him, Korra. You never know what that scumbag will do next." Ichigo warned her. "Speaking of which, here he is now."
Tarrlok was dressed in a long blue trench coat and a grey vest coat. He spread his arms wide in greeting.
"So glad you could make it, Avatar Korra. If you'll excuse us," he glared pointedly at Ichigo, "The city awaits its hero." He led her away from them. But Ichigo followed stubbornly.
Tenzin looked around and gasped. "No, Meelo, that is not a toilet! Oh, dear." He ran to collect his son.
Tarrlok was leading them around and introducing them to famous people. He indicated one in particular.
"Korra, allow me to introduce Republic City's most famous industrialist, Hiroshi Sato."
She bowed. "Nice to meet you."
Hiroshi bowed back. "We're all expecting great things from you."
Korra frowned imperceptibly. "Right. Greatness."
Ichigo went forward. "So you're the guy who made those ugly Sato-mobiles?"
Korra kicked him in the knee. "Sorry, Mr. Sato, my friend is a little too vocal sometimes." The man nodded in understanding.
"It's quite all right. Everyone is entitled to an opinion."
"Hey, Korra!" Her and Ichigo looked in surprise to see Mako and Bolin. Mako had his arm through the arm of one of the most beautiful girls Ichigo had ever seen. She's almost as pretty as Inoue and Rangiku-san! The names popped into his head out of nowhere.
Hiroshi smiled. "This is my daughter, Asami."
"It's lovely to meet you," Asami said then she smiled at Mako. "Mako told me so much about you."
Korra crossed her arms. "Really? Because he hasn't mentioned you at all. How did you two meet?"
Bolin rushed to her side. "Asami crashed into him on her moped."
"What? Are you ok?"
Mako smiled. "I'm fine. More than fine. Mr. Sato agreed to sponsor our team. We're back in the tournament."
Bolin put his arm around his brother. "Isn't that great?"
"Yeah. Terrific." Korra said half-heartedly.
Ichigo went up to Mako. "So she crashed into you? I bet you're happy about that, aren't ya?"
Mako blushed slightly. The action wasn't lost on Korra. Lin Beifong walked past and Tarrlok called her name.
"Chief Beifong. I believe you and the Avatar have already met?"
Beifong scowled. "Just because the city's throwing you a big to-do, don't think you're something special. You've done absolutely nothing to deserve this."
Then she saw Ichigo. He smirked.
"Hey, Beifong."
"You." They glared at each other for a few seconds then she sighed and walked away. Ichigo scowled at her back.
Tarrlok turned to Korra. "It's time for you to speak to the crowd, Korra."
She nodded and he instantly glared at Ichigo. "And you're not coming on stage with her."
He snorted. "Wasn't planning to." Tarrlok nodded, satisfied and led Korra to the stage.
Ichigo smiled at Mako and Bolin then nodded to Asami. "Pleasure to meet you, Miss Sato."
She grabbed his arm. "Wait a second. I heard you insult my father earlier."
He shrugged. "I wouldn't call that an insult. What of it?"
Asami scowled in his face. "Don't do it again or you'll regret it."
The pressure on his arm increased and they glared at each other for a second. Then Asami smirked slightly and let go, her point had been made. Ichigo turned and went over to stand by Tenzin.
Tarrlok and Korra went up to the microphone. All the reporters started crowding in front of her. Ichigo and Tenzin went forward.
"If you'd be so kind," Tarrlok said, "They just have a few questions."
"But-"
Tarrlok pushed her forward.
The first reporter started. "Avatar Korra, you witnessed Amon take away people's bending firsthand. How serious of a threat does he pose to the innocent citizens of Republic City?"
Ichigo narrowed his eyes. "I don't like where this is going."
Korra cleared her throat. "I think he presents a real problem."
Tarrlok glanced at one of the reporters. "Then why have you refused to join Tarrlok's task force?" The reporter asked. "As the Avatar, shouldn't you be going after Amon?"
"Well, I…"
"Why are you backing away from this fight?"
"What? No. I've never backed away from anything in my life."
"You promised to serve this city. Aren't you going back on that promise now?"
All the reporters started talking. Ichigo realized what was happening and started walking forward.
"Do you think pro-bending is more important than fighting the revolution?"
"How do you think Avatar Aang would have handled this?"
"Are you afraid of Amon?"
"I'm not afraid of anybody!" Korra yelled. Ichigo tried to stop her but it was too late. "If this city needs me, then I'll join Tarrlok's task force and help fight Amon."
You idiot! Stop it, Korra! Ichigo almost yelled it out loud.
Tarrlok smiled and placed his hand on Korra's shoulder.
"There's your headline, folks!"
Ichigo cursed. That bastard.
Tenzin came up behind him. "It's out of our hands now, Ichigo. All we can do is pray that Korra will do the right thing."
Ichigo glared fiercely at Tarrlok. "If tonight is anything to go by, I don't think she knows what is right anymore."
At City Hall, Korra was sitting twiddling her thumbs. She was dressed in a task force uniform. She was at a table with several other task force members. Tarrlok was speaking.
"My fellow task force deputies, tonight we will execute a raid on a chi-blocker training camp located on the Dragon Flats borough." He pointed to a diagram of a building. "According to my sources, there is a cellar underneath this bookstore where Equalists train chi-blocking in secret."
The metal door to the room was banged on. "Korra!" They heard Ichigo's voice coming from the other side. Tarrlok ordered his men.
"Don't let him inside!"
They quickly moved to the door but then it was sent flying off its hinges. Ichigo came through it, panting.
"Korra, wait." She looked at his hands and saw that they were bloody.
Did he knock that door down with his bare hands?
"Arrest him! He is a Equalist spy!"
"No!" Korra cried. She jumped in between Ichigo and the officers. "He's a friend. He's just worried about me that's all." She turned to look at him. "Ichigo, please leave."
"But Korra, listen to me. We need to talk about this."
"Leave!" She yelled and he backed away. She wouldn't look at him. He looked sadly at her back then focused his angry eyes on Tarrlok.
"This isn't over, Tarrlok. I will make you pay for what you've done."
The councilman smiled. "On the contrary, Kurosaki, it is you who will pay. With your freedom if you don't do what the Avatar says."
Ichigo cursed then turned and left. "Be careful, Korra!"
He kicked at a garbage can and knocked it to the ground in frustration. Tarrlok had so easily manipulated her and he could do nothing about it. Tenzin was waiting outside the entrance to City Hall. He sighed when he saw Ichigo.
"No luck?"
"No. She's made up her mind."
"Oh, well. All we can do is hope for the best."
"Yeah. I just hope she doesn't do anything stupid."
"Me too."
A truck took Korra and the task force to the cellar. Korra and the other members jumped out of the back. She went to a window and looked down into the cellar. Sure enough, there were people training.
On the wall there was a giant poster of Amon. She remembered her dream and she gasped in fright.
Tarrlok nodded and two officers unscrewed the lid off a large canister of water. The waterbenders passed the water to each other. Everyone took a part of it. Tarrlok held up his hand then gave the signal.
The walls of the cellar were smashed as the water seeped through and froze anyone in its path. Then the earthbenders jumped in and slammed most of the remaining chi-blockers into walls.
Two of them were left and they ran out a back door.
"I'm going after those two." Korra said as she dashed after them. She ran into a dark hallway then fell to the ground as she tripped over a wire. The chi-blockers jumped down at her from above.
Korra leaped backwards while kicking one in the gut with a rock of earth. The second came up behind her but Tarrlok froze him into a wall.
"Nice timing. Thanks, Tarrlok."
"We make a good team, Avatar."
Korra surveyed their handiwork. "Yeah, we do."
Soon the press came to take pictures of the task force with its captured Equalists.
Mako looked at the picture in the newspaper as Bolin came over.
"No Korra for practice again?"
"Doesn't look like it." Mako scowled. "And no Korra, means no Ichigo. He's probably brooding and feeling sorry for himself."
At a press conference, Tarrlok was speaking.
"Avatar Korra has bravely answered the call to action. With the two of us leading the charge, Republic City has nothing to fear from Amon and the Equalists."
A lady raised her hand. "Question for the Avatar. Amon remains at large. Why have you failed to locate him?"
Korra stepped forward and grabbed the microphone. "You wanna know why? Because Amon is hiding in the shadows like a coward. Amon, I challenge you to a duel. No task force, no chi-blockers, just the two of us, tonight at midnight on Avatar Aang Memorial Island. Let's cut to the chase and settle this thing. If, you're man enough to face me."
Meanwhile in a park in Republic City, an engine powered rickshaw was slowly going down a path. Mako and Asami were sitting inside.
"I know it sounds weird to say this," Asami said, "But I'm really glad I hit you with my moped."
Mako chuckled. "Um, me too."
"I forgot to ask, why didn't you accept the new silk scarf I bought for you last week? You didn't like it?"
Mako grabbed her hand. "No. It was really nice but, this scarf was my father's and it's all I have left of him. I just feel like- like it keeps me safe."
"I'm so sorry. I lost my mother when I was very young."
Mako smiled at her and she leaned against him. "I feel so safe with you."
Ichigo shut off the radio. He had just heard Korra declare her challenge against Amon.
That idiot doesn't know what she's getting into. Amon is too strong and too smart for her right now. I have to stop her. If I can't stop her, then maybe I'll be fighting Amon again a lot sooner than I expected.
He put on his coat and pulled on the hood. Passing a mirror, he stopped and looked at his reflection.
Please help me, nameless guy.
He got no answer.
Tenzin came in on his glider as fast as he could. Korra was in a boat at the docks, untying the painter.
"Korra, this is madness." Tenzin said.
"Don't try to stop me and don't follow me. I have to face Amon alone."
Tenzin turned angrily to Tarrlok. "This is all your doing!"
Tarrlok raised his hands. "I tried to stop her but she's made up her mind."
Korra set off, waterbending the sea to increase her speed.
Ichigo was right. Tenzin thought. She has no idea what she's doing anymore.
Tarrlok spoke again. "We'll be watching the Island closely. If anything goes wrong, I have a fleet of police airships ready to swoop down."
Tenzin groaned quietly as he watched the little boat be engulfed by the late-night mist.
The island was smaller than Air Temple Island. With a rocky surface that sloped up to a flat roofed, temple-like structure. On the side of the temple was a large clock that sounded out very loudly. Atop this temple was the massive statue of Avatar Aang.
Korra stood on top of the temple, at the base of the statue. She reacted to every sound that she heard, thinking it was Amon. Suddenly the clock chimed and she cried out in shock. It rang twelve times.
It's midnight. Korra thought. She took a deep breath and prepared herself. She waited for about half an hour. Finally, she stretched and yawned.
"Guess you're a no-show, Amon. Who's scared now?"
She got to her feet and got down off the temple. As she walked past the gaping entrance towards her boat, a rope snagged her leg and she fell to the ground.
Korra gasped and cried out as the rope tightened and she felt herself being pulled into the building. She raised her legs and firebent her way out of the ropes. In the brief light, she caught a glimpse of several chi-blockers surrounding her.
Two ropes went around her arms. She grunted and kicked out with her free legs. Then she felt the familiar pounding on her back and she went down.
Her vision was hazy. She blinked several times then gasped as her vision cleared and she saw Amon approaching her.
"I received your invitation, young Avatar." His raspy voice sent chills down her spine. He reached out and grabbed her chin. "Our showdown, while inevitable, is premature. Although it would be the simplest thing to take your bending right now, I won't. You'd only become a martyr. Benders of every nation would rally because of 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. But now my focus is not on you, Avatar. My focus is on him."
A small rustling echoed around the room. The chi-blockers turned on the lights and now Korra could see how many there were. The noise sounded again. Amon rose to his feet.
"Come out, one who waits in the shadows."
There was a rustle of movement and a man with a hood covering his face stepped forward.
"How'd you know I was here?"
"It was obvious. You couldn't bear to see the young Avatar killed now could you, Kurosaki Ichigo?"
The man started in surprise and Korra gasped. "Ichigo?"
He removed his hood and the unforgettable shock of orange hair came into view. "Korra. I'm sorry, I couldn't let you come here alone."
"Ichigo, what are you doing? Run! While there's still time!"
Amon laughed. "I'm afraid he won't be running away this time, will you Kurosaki?"
Ichigo smirked. "Am I that easy to read?" He sighed. "Well then, Amon. Shall we dance?"
The Equalist leader made no reply.
"I'll take that as a yes."
Ichigo charged forward with a yell. Amon caught his fist and threw him into a pillar.
"Ichigo!" Korra cried.
Ichigo groaned and got to his feet. He rolled his shoulders and grinned.
"That all you got?"
This time Amon stepped forward. "I had hoped to savour this battle, but it seems that you can no longer entertain me. So I will end this now."
Ichigo scowled. He threw a right cross. Amon avoided it easily. Then he stepped inside Ichigo's guard and hit him solidly in the chest. Ichigo flew back and rolled to a stop.
Blood fell from his mouth. He spit and struggled to rise. He succeeded.
"Your tenacity is admirable, Kurosaki. But it is nothing more than that. Tenacity." He dashed forward and kneed Ichigo in the gut then he elbowed him in the neck.
Ichigo fell to the ground. Amon continued, "Tenacity is practically worthless if you don't have the power to back it up. In your case, Kurosaki, you've got plenty of resolve but you have no power. But I sense something hidden deep inside you. A power unlike any that the world has seen." He turned around. "I will be patient and wait for you to unearth this power. Then we can fight as equals."
By now, Ichigo was unconscious. Amon strode past Korra. "Until next time, young Avatar." The lights faded and they were left alone. Korra crawled over to where Ichigo lay. She propped him up in her arms.
He groaned. "Hey, Korra. I didn't do so hot did I?"
She nearly slapped him. "Ichigo, you idiot! Why did you face him alone?"
He grinned weakly. "Cause I'm a badass…"
Korra shook her head with a chuckle then they both fell into unconsciousness.
Korra saw things in her dreamlike state. She saw Sokka, Katara's brother. She saw Toph standing with several police officers. She also saw a strange man in handcuffs. Then she saw Aang. He looked like he was in battle. Then the vision faded.
Tenzin came running into the room. Korra saw him.
"Aang?"
"Korra! Ichigo!" He ran to her side. "Korra, are you all right? Was Amon here?"
"Yeah. He ambushed me. Then Ichigo came and Amon nearly killed him!"
"Did he- did he take your bending?"
Korra shook her head. "No. I'm ok."
"Oh, thank goodness."
Ichigo began to regain consciousness. "Baldy, what are you doing here?"
Korra started crying. Then she hugged Tenzin fiercely.
"I was- I was so terrified! I felt so helpless."
"It's all right. The nightmare is over." Tenzin soothed.
Korra's shoulders shook. "You were right. I've been scared this whole time. I've never felt like this before and-Tenzin I don't know what to do."
Ichigo sat up and he put his hand on her shoulder. She hugged him too and he returned the embrace.
Tenzin looked at them. "Admitting your fears is the first and most difficult step in overcoming them."
And that's the end. Tell me your thoughts. I'll try and update again soon. Thanks for reading and I'll see you next time!
