Hello everyone. Welcome back to another chapter. Thank you for the review, suggestions and questions. I'll try my best to clear any confusion.
COMMENT REPLY SECTION
DCDGojira: Glad you enjoy previous chapter. It's nice to see a good story continue, especially the ones we enjoy. I'm planning on reading it soon.
ZeroTheOne: Soon. I want to build up their friendship first.
GokaiSilver3511: Thank you. I hope you would continue supporting this story.
ThunderFlameKnight: Nice guesses but unfortunately, no. Hint, these two season might not be loved by many but they are a personal favorites of mine.
Perseus12: I picture Shen as the sensible and level-headed of the two. The opposite of Korra.
Raximus: It's all up to them now to put and two together.
Cobalt Striker Gundam: Thank you for the compliment. My writing and ideas and far from perfect but I'm glad you enjoy it.
Bangetsugo: Agito is also the talk of the city but since he got somewhat the reputation as a neutral for fighting the Unknown. He's not a big issue. But still, he'll rise through the public's view soon enough.
Austin: Reverse Isekai would be good but I never been a fan of Isekai concept in general. You have terrible Isekai series to thank for that. But, it could be fun. I really wish I could write Super Sentai but they are not as appealing to me like Kamen Riders. Maybe one day. A king of the hill would be great but I don't think I'm ready for that kind of writing. Like I said before, maybe someday.
ZeroSaga: We'll see what happens.
Guest: This is among I made intentionally differs from the series. The source of Agito power and the origin of the Lords/Unknown. So the way they operates might be different in the story than in the series.
BOOK 1 CHAPTER 4: Acceptance
Shen sat on the stairs as he watched Korra going through the spinning gates. The airbender children used their airbending to spin the gates as Korra weaved through it. Korra easily done so and exited on the other side.
"That was amazing Avatar Korra. I never see anything move that swiftly and gracefully."
"Thanks. It came naturally."
Jinora smirked, "You should see her first few attempts. She got tossed around like a pin ball at one point."
"Jinora." Korra eyed her.
Ikki decided to join in. "Ooh. One time she got so mad, he shoot fire and destroyed it to pieces."
"You did?" Shen asked in surprise.
"Well…I…kind of…lost it." Korra nervously admitted.
"Well. I'm glad they managed to fix it. It would be an unfortunate thing to lose a historical Air Nomad treasure like this." Shen said as he walked up to it to take a closer look. "I wonder what the world would be like if they're still around."
"They'll probably laugh their asses off what a terrible airbender I turned out to be."
Jinora walked up to them. "Don't say that Korra."
"Yeah." Ikki jumped onto Shen's back. "You improve a lot since the first day you're here."
Shen held onto Ikki tight so the little girl wouldn't fell off. "That's true, and it isn't even been a month yet. You improve a lot."
"Thanks guys."
Jinora turned to her sister and frowned, "Ikki. How long are you going to stay on his back?"
"A little longer. Take me to the kitchen noble steed. I want some lychee juice."
Shen stood up straight, "Yes my fair lady." With that Shen walked off to the kitchen with Ikki on his back. Leaving an amused Korra and an annoyed Jinora behind. Korra looked at the younger girl and smirked.
"You want Shen to give you a back ride too Jinora?"
Jinora snapped towards Korra. "What? Me? No! I can't possibly imagine me doing such thing."
"Your face said differently."
Jinora felt her face heated up. She tried to stop it by lightly tapped it but it just grew hotter. Korra let out a laugh and Jinora glared at the Avatar. She dashed forward, towards her house, blasting a gust of wind into Korra's face.
"Come on. I was just joking!" Korra laughed even more and started walking back to the house.
Shen spend time with Korra and the airbender children until afternoon. Tenzin still hasn't return and Pema asked him to join them for lunch. Shen need some convincing but he admits defeat when Korra pointed towards Naga outside.
"This is delicious Pema." Shen said as he took a sip of his soup.
"Thank you for the compliment Shen, but I'm sure you could whip up something just as good."
"No. Not really. I mostly still need my parent's or any of the cook's guidance but I could make something if someone want something simple to snack on."
"Man." Korra took a bite out of her rice. "I can't believe you able to cook something without attempting of burning the place down."
"Like Korra almost did once." Ikki said but immediately went back to her food when she saw Korra glared at her.
"Hahaha. Other than that, I don't really know anything else. I never have the chance to dive into other things other than culinary."
"I'm sure you have some other hidden talents." Korra ensured him. "We just need to uncover them. If not talents, is there any other things you basically have interest in?"
"Well. I always wanted to be a theater performer. Like my grandmother once work with. Imagine being in someone else's shoes and tell many tales from various parts of the world. Fictional and non-fictional."
"And have the entire audience look at you. Stare at you and be criticized for the smallest of things. Sounds fun."
"Hey, you just haven't give it a chance. You might like it."
"I don't need to be a theater performer to be in the spotlight. Being the Avatar is enough. You should've seen the amount of reporters and journalist snuck onto the island to get a personal interview with me."
Shen rolled his eyes. "Please tell me you turned them away."
"Correction. I 'tossed' them away with a little earthbending." Korra struck an earthbending pose to make a point.
Their conversation stopped when they heard Pema's giggling. The two teens stared at the older woman alongside the woman's children.
"Oh. Sorry kids. I'm just happy to see you two becoming fast friends."
"Yeah. What's the big deal?" Meelo questioned them.
Shen laughed, "Nothing. Avatar Korra and I just like each other's presence." Shen turned back to the girl. "You should come to my restaurant Avatar Korra. My parents would love to meet you. Especially my mother, she's a big a fan of yours. She follow all of your achievements. I'm sure she's a bigger fan now that you're part of the probending team."
"I would love to meet her. I'll try to stop by soon."
Detective Yaozun exited his car at the Equalist rally the night before but now it was filled with police officers guarding and patrolling the area. He was let through the police line and was approached by Chief Bei Fong.
"Detetctive Yaozun. A good work on the matter. We wouldn't have discovered it if it weren't for you."
"Thank you for the compliment Chief, but I couldn't take the credit alone. I had some help."
"Oh. Who?"
"Avatar Korra."
Chief Bei Fong sighed and looked at the big building they're currently investigating. "I not surprised that she got something to do with this. She just wouldn't avoid sticking her nose where it doesn't belong."
"I thought you would appreciate her contribution in helping taking the Equalist down. Why can't you admit she's trying her best to help?"
"Are you questioning me detective?"
"No. Of course not Chief."
"Got any progress on the evil spirits and the Agito?"
"No and yes." This caused the chief to raise a brow at him.
"I couldn't find anything on the evil spirits. I've visited many spiritual practitioners and went through many books but nothing. Nothing could be related to the spirits we fought."
"None of them could identify it or any way to take them down? Not even the Avatar? Oh well. So, what's the good news?"
"Chief. What do you think of the Agito? Do you trust him?"
"To what?"
"Defend the city and the innocents."
"Oh. I can't believe this! Bilan! Come here! The Avatar's here!" Talah called out to her husband as the man rushed out of the kitchen while still wearing an apron, holding on to a frying pan and cooking chopstick in his hands.
Korra smiled and proceed to bow at them as a greeting.
"I'm Korra and I'm pleased to meet you."
Talah and Bilan returned the gesture.
Talah took a deep breath and calmed herself down. "Welcome Avatar to our humble abode. I'm Talah and this is my husband, Bilan. I'm happy to have the Avatar's presence in this place."
"No. The pleasures all mine."
Shen rubbed the back of his head, "I know I asked you to come and visit soon. I didn't mean right away."
Korra nudged Shen on the side, "I know, but what's wrong of me coming here now? I got the whole afternoon of free time until Tenzin comes home."
"Well. Alright. Don't say I'm forcing you or anything."
Korra scoffed, "Please. I want to come here. To meet the people that brought and raised you into the world."
As soon she said that, Talah grabbed her hand and placed her down onto one of the empty table. In fact, there almost no one in the restaurant. Only three tables were occupied by people, and Korra's table was one of them.
"Where is everyone?" Korra asked as she looked at the two adults. "I heard this place was supposed to be quite popular."
Talah sighed but Bilan explained instead.
"Unfortunately Avatar Korra. We hit a rough patch recently. With the anti-bending revolution, many benders avoid our place. Most of our customers are benders from a nearby apartment complex and office buildings."
"What? Why?"
"Maybe they're afraid we're might be Equalist as well. Innocents on both sides are affected by this 'equality' movement. Some just had it worse than others."
Talah immediately returned to her cheerful self. "Well. Let's not burden the Avatar with such detail. An empty restaurant means we could focus our attention solely on you. Be right back."
Talah ran to the kitchen with Bilan as Shen took his place next to Korra.
"I'm sorry if my parents seems too pushy. They're just happy to see you."
"Are you kidding? I'm happy to meet someone that appreciates my presence. Now this is how an Avatar should be treated." Korra stretched her arms. "But, it is quite sad to see this place this bare. Must be nice at its peak."
"You have no idea. This place could get crowded to the point you need to weave through the people like that airbending gates. No wonder that exercise seems so familiar."
Talah returned and placed a place with plate of fried noodles, fried dumplings, condiments and a bowl of soup. "Eat up Avatar Korra. On the house."
"This looks amazing. Thank you."
"Mother. Avatar Korra just ate."
"It's just dumplings and noodles Shen." Talah told him.
"I know, but she just had a hefty lunch."
A sound of a record screech as Korra dropped a dumpling into the soup. "What did you just say?"
"What? You just had lunch?"
"Are you calling me fat?!"
Talah gasped as Bilan slowly backed away into the kitchen. He closed the door behind him and prayed for his son's safety. "He finally did it. The Avatar out of all people."
He closed his eyes and tune out his son's cries as he was getting an earful from the two women.
As a punishment, Talah made Shen washed all the plates, pots and pans in the kitchen as the staff were given the rest of the day off.
"I don't understand women." Shen grumpily put dirty plates into the sink. He was alone in kitchen while listening to the radio. It was playing a light and happy classical music that Shen enjoys.
Korra was practicing air bending stances out in the yard. Her movements and stances are a bit stiff and hard as she was still cursing Shen under her breath.
"Stupid Shen. I can eat all I want. Why do he cares about me like that? Weird guy."
Shen raised his hands to put a clean washed plate on top of a stack. The radio suddenly became static and a voice came from it. A voice that send chills down his spine.
"Good evening, my fellow Equalists"
Shen was surprised by the voice and accidently let go of the plate, shatters as it hits the floor.
"Shen. Are you alright down there sweetie?" Talah asked from upstairs.
Korra stops her practicing and sharply looks at the radio as soon she heard Amon's voice.
"What the…?"
"This is your leader, Amon."
Korra began to feel a little uneasy in her stomach. She slowly walks towards the radio.
"As you have heard, the Republic Council has voted to make me public enemy number one, proving once again that the bending oppressors of this city will stop at nothing to quash our revolution."
Shen walks towards the radio himself, ignoring that he's stepping on the shards of broken glass.
"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. But, it saddens me to inform you that there's have been a traitor among us. A non-bender that has turned his back on us. His brother and sisters. The Agito. The one that betrayed us."
Shen took a sudden step back and trip as he heard his warrior name. He fell onto his back but managed to support it with his hands. Unfortunately, his hand landed right onto the shards and sharp pain felt through his receptors. He looked at his hand and saw blood dripped from it. Small pieces of broken shards of glass embedded right into his skin.
"To all Equalist. This is a reminder. If you know anyone that is not one of us. Eliminate them, in the name of our freedom."
With that, the radio returned to be static. Shen got up and stared at it. His breathing slowly becoming heavier and heavier. Talah raced downstairs and shocked to see her son, staring at the static radio and a bleeding hand.
"Shen. What happened? Did you dropped a plate?" Talah went to fetch a first aid box. She grabbed Shen's arm and guide him towards a chair. She sat him down and began working on his hand.
"Please be more careful. I don't know how you're going to look after yourself if your father and I are not around anymore. I hope you'll find a good wife before then, to look after you. Sometimes I wished that I was immortal."
"Why?"
"So that I could I look after you forever, my little Shen. What else?" Talah playful pinched Shen's cheeks before standing up. "I'll do the remaining dirty plates. You go up and rest."
Shen looked at his mother entering the kitchen towards the sink. He replayed Amon's words in his head. "I won't let you win Amon. Be sure of that."
A day or two since then, Shen had been spending time around the restaurant more than ever. He make sure he was near his parents at all times. He hardly leaves other than to run to the store a few blocks down or take the trash out in the back. This did not go unnoticed though.
"Shen?" Bilan called out to Shen as the two cooking up an order.
"Yes father?"
"I noticed you hardly went out in the past few days. I'm surprised you hardly go and meet the Avatar."
"There's no reason for me to go and meet the Avatar. She got her training and I got my work here. Plus, there hasn't been any attack lately. So, there's no reason for me to go anywhere."
"True, but, don't you miss going outside? Potato please."
Shen plopped a neatly cut potato into the pan, "A little bit, but it's okay."
"Are you sure?"
"Father. I'm fine." Shen reinforced it.
"Alright then."
"Shen." One of the female workers called him. "There was a phone call for you."
"Who…who is it?" Shen asked.
"A guy named Bolin. He hang up already. He said he's in a hurry. He asked me to tell you to meet him at Air Temple Island. He said it is important."
Shen looked at his father, to which the older man gave a shrug of the shoulder.
"Don't look at me. You friend needs you. Go."
Shen nodded and left without uttering another word. He arrived a bit later and saw Bolin was talking to Korra as the Avatar rubbed Naga's head. The polar bear dog sniffed the air and turned towards him. She barked happily when she saw him.
"Whoa there Naga. Don't jump on me."
"Look who's here. My other savior." Bolin wrapped his arms around Shen and the warrior returned it.
"Great to see you too Bolin. Why did you called me out here?"
"This." Bolin pulled out a small bag with a single beautifully decorated cupcake it in. "Before you ask. This is a thank you gift for saving me from Amon. You were amazing. I never knew who have such power"
"Hey. Where's his flower?" Korra asked as she twirled the flower in her hand.
"You gave Avatar Korra a flower? What about me?"
"What? Oh no. No. No. No. I would give you one but it would be weird, dudes give each other flowers and all…"
"Bolin. Calm down. I was kidding. Thanks all the same, but it wasn't a big deal or anything."
"No big deal? No big deal?" Bolin took turns looking at Shen and Korra. "Is this how strong people talk? No big deal? Man, you guys are really something."
"Whatever you do Bolin. Do not tell anyone of my ability, please. Make sure to tell Mako this as well. I need this to be a secret."
"Sure thing." Bolin made a zipping motion across his lips, "My lips are sealed."
Shen smiled and took a bite out of his cupcake. "Thanks. So, what have you two been doing lately?"
"Well. I'm still trying to put the whole situation behind me. Mako's busy doing odd jobs here and there. What about you Korra?"
"Oh. Well, there is something that came up. It begins when…"
"Delivery for Avatar Korra." A council page came towards them carrying a large gift basket.
"Speaking of the devil. Right on time." Korra sighed as Shen and Bolin never took their eyes of the gift basket.
The council page placed the gift basket next to Korra. "Tarrlok sends his compliments and urges you to reconsider his offer."
"You could tell him, I haven't changed my mind." Korra replied with a hint of bitterness which caused the two boys to stare at her in surprise.
The council page bowed and walked off.
Shen walked over to the gift basket and examined it, "Who is Tarrlok Avatar Korra?"
"Is he bothering you? Cause I could have a word with him." Bolin confidently punches his fist into his other hand. "I mean, Shen and I could have a word with him. Right Shen?"
"Right." Shen nodded confidently. "Who is Tarrlok again?"
"Calm down you two. You guys makes it seemed I'm being courted by someone. It's nothing like that. He's just some old guy working on the council with Tenzin. He asked me to join his task force to fight Amon but I guess he wouldn't take no for an answer."
"Oh okay. Cool. Good. That's better. That sounds better. I like that better." Bolin sighed in relief.
Shen sat next to Korra. "You don't trust him?"
"I don't know. He's one of the council members. It's not like I have a reason to distrust him but I don't feel I would want to trust him either. What do you think Shen?"
"Well. What I was taught growing up, you can't be certain of anything but there's one thing to be certain. Politicians have agendas. I'm sure this Tarrlok guy have some other goal in mind, big or small doesn't matter, getting rid of Amon is just an easy convenience. Who would say no to dealing with a terrorist like that? In the end, I would say, it's okay to trust people but always be conscious"
Korra smiled, "Thanks Shen."
"You're welcome Avatar Korra."
"Wow Shen." Bolin was impressed. "Any thought of being a counsellor?"
"Hey, that's might be your true calling." Korra suggested.
"Me? A counsellor? I don't know." Shen scratched his head. "My mother always said I'm terrible at reading people at most times."
"Huh. That's does sound like a valid point." Korra said.
"Ouch. Avatar Korra, that hurts."
Korra and Bolin just laughed at the warrior. Shen scoffed a bit but joined in the laughter as well afterwards.
The next day Shen decided to come back to talk with Tenzin. He walked around the island and saw the man stood in front of a luxurious Satomobile wrapped in a ribbon. He chuckled at the sight of Ikki and Meelo played in it by pretending to drive and making car noises.
"Good afternoon Councilmen Tenzin. Nice car by the way. From Tarrlok?"
"Good afternoon Shen. Korra told you huh? He just wouldn't give up. Oh well, Korra should be finishing up her training right about now. You could go see her if you want."
"Actually Councilmen Tenzin, I'm here mostly because I want to talk to you about something."
"Oh? Is there anything I could help you with? Please. Walk with me." Tenzin offered and the two walked side by side towards where Korra was training. "Tell me what's plaguing your mind. I'll try to help as best as I could."
"It's about the Equalist as a whole. I'm worried about my parents. Ever since that night, I begin to feel uneasy. I think some of my parent's friends are one of them. What if they spill the beans to Amon?"
"Because of Agito?"
"No. Because of my parent's neutral stance on the revolution. They want changes too but not like this. To the Equalist, neutral means against."
"How do you know that they are one of them? Your parent's friends I mean."
"I don't know for certain but they're always talked about the same thing. Non-bender's oppression, equality and they even asked us to gather in rally to protest once or twice. The way they talked, it's like they willing to do anything to make it happen."
"Shen. I understand you. I really do, but, right now it is important to know that thinking about such things about your fellow Republic City citizen, furthering dividing us is not what we need right now."
"But…"
Tenzin put a hand on Shen's shoulder, "I understand your concern. But, you need to have faith, the police are doing everything in their power to take Amon down. Right now, I need you to be on your guard to push back any of the evil spirits that might appear. Understand?"
Shen smiled and nodded, "I understand. Thank you Councilmen Tenzin."
The two arrived to where Korra was practicing airbending stances at a round platform with a Yin-Yang symbol.
"I see Tarrlok's gifts are getting more and more extravagant." Tenzin said to the Avatar.
Shen sat at the stairs, "Tell me about it. A new Satomobile? He sure got some money to burn."
Korra sighs but not letting go of her airbending stance, "That guy really doesn't know how to take a 'no' for an answer."
Tenzin and Shen looked at each other.
Shen stood up, "Avatar Korra? Are you feeling alright?"
"I'm fine." Korra answered slowly before taking a seat at the stairs with the two male. Tenzin shared a look with Shen as the boy shrugged his shoulder.
"Why don't you take a break? Shen's here. Why don't you two go hang out in the city?" Tenzin suggested.
"Yeah. We could go get some juice. I know this nice place…"
"No thanks. Not really in the mood for anything." Korra said as she looked into the distance.
"In any case. I'm glad you turned down Tarrlok's offers, but I want to make sure it was for the right reason."
"I'm really focused on my airbending right now is all." Korra tried to sound convincing but Shen could detect something else in her voice.
"Are you sure that's all?"
"Yes Shen. That is all."
Tenzin smiled, "Well, that's good to hear. But, it is okay to be scared. That goes for you too Shen. The whole city is frightened by what's been going on. The important thing is to talk about our fears, because if we don't, they can throw us out of balance. Understand?"
"Loud and clear Tenzin." Shen replied and Korra sadly nodded her head.
Tenzin stood up and dusted his robes, "I'm always here for both of you, if you two want to talk."
Shen waved at Tenzin's retreating form and he took a seat next to Korra. "Want to hang out or you want to me leave you alone?"
Korra stayed silent for a while, Shen took the hint and stood up. After a few steps, Korra called him.
"Shen. Want to play Pai Sho with me?" Korra asked with a smile.
The two played late into the evening with Korra having a huge winning over Shen. She had won 8 out of 10 of their matches. Shen groaned as Korra continue to beat him.
"You losing badly you know. I thought I was bad." Korra chuckled.
"Give me a break. Pai Sho was never my kind of game. Too much strategies, takes the fun out."
Korra laughed but stopped when Shen saw the council page ascending the steps to the mansion, to where they were playing.
"Great. Here he comes again."
"Avatar Korra! I have something for you."
Before she could stand up. Shen intercepted the man, politely turned the man around and ushered him away.
"I'm sorry. Avatar Korra is not seeing visitors right now. She required rest after a long day of training. Thank you for stopping by. Please don't come back."
"It's not a gift, it's an invitation."
Korra appeared next to Shen, "To what exactly?" She grabbed the piece of paper and began to read it.
"Tarrlok is throwing a gala in your honor." The man bowed slightly. "All of Republic City's movers and shakers will be there. The councilman humbly requests your attendance."
Korra frowned and knew if she rejects it will put her and Tenzin's good name on the line in front of the big influencers of the city.
"Could I bring a plus one?"
"Oh? Well…I supposed so. The Avatar must have a fine gentleman by her side by now. Or women, we don't judge."
Shen scoffed slightly and turned to Korra in confusion, "You're going to ask Mako to go along with you?"
Korra grabbed his hand and pulled him to the mansion, "No silly. You, of course. Come on."
"Wait Avatar Korra. I don't have a fancy suit or anything." Shen cried out as he being pulled away.
Shen was waiting outside wearing his fine suit. It wasn't his to begin with, it was his father's. He make a quick call and asked to borrow Bilan's old suit that fits him perfectly. A standard Earth Kingdom styled suit. He tugged on the collar.
"This suit is hard."
He heard footsteps behind him.
"Am I late?"
"No. Everyone is waiting at Oogi…"
Shen lost of words when he saw Korra approached him wearing a beautiful Water Tribe dress. She had her hair in a bun, something Shen never thought he wanted to see.
"You were saying Shen?"
"Oh, umm. Tenzin and the others are waiting by Oogi."
"So, what are you waiting for? Let's go." Korra pulled Shen along, not before her hair brushed closely to his nose.
Let's just say since then, flowers are Shen's favorite scent.
In a few minutes, they arrived at the gala. Music were playing, guests from every corner of the city were presents. Everyone was wearing their fancy suits and dresses that make Shen look like a peasant among them.
His jaw dropped at the sight of the decorations, food and even entertainment.
"First time in this sort of situation?" Tenzin asked them.
Shen nodded slowly, "Yeah. I never seen so fancy stuff before. Tarrlok must've have gone all out."
"It wouldn't be a surprised if he's holding back. He had organized bigger and better galas in the past, even for the smallest of reasons."
Their arrival had the guest applauded at them. Clearly amused and interested by the Avatar's presents.
"I can't believe this all for me." Korra said as she was overwhelmed by a warm welcome.
"Yeah." Shen answered sadly.
"We're not sure what's Tarrlock's planning but keep your guard up." Tenzin reminded the two. Korra turned to Shen and saw his sad impression. She closed the gap between them and whispered, "Hey, but, there's nothing that could beat the way your parent's greeted me."
Their private conversation was cut short when Tarrlock appeared right behind Shen. He pushed the young warrior aside to greet his guest of honor.
"So glad you could make it Avatar Korra. If you'll excuse us, the city awaits its hero."
He ushered her somewhere but Korra stopped midway. "Excuse me for a moment."
She grabbed Shen's hand and pulled him along.
Tarrlock was intrigued by this action, "Well, who might this be?"
"Shen Xiang sir. Agi….Avatar Korra's friend."
Tarrlok held up his hand and Shen shook it. "Pleasure to meet you Mr. Xiang. You must be someone important for the Avatar to allow you to be in her inner circle."
"Oh no Councilman Tarrlok." Korra intercepted. "He's just a normal guy. His family have no influence but if being a trusted friend is a status of power, then yeah. He's someone important."
"I see. Well then, let's get going and meet the guests."
"What are you doing Avatar Korra?" Shen whispered.
"Taking this guy ego down a peg. Not everyone and everything need to be a classy and influential." Korra whispered back.
They arrived in front of a well-dressed middle-age man with a moustache.
"Korra, it's my pleasure to introduce you to Republic City's most famous industrialist, Hiroshi Sato."
"Nice to meet you." Korra politely greeted him.
"We're all expecting great things from you, Avatar Korra." Hiroshi Sato said to her.
"Right. Greatness." Korra said in a low voice. She might managed to contain her excitement or it was never there in the first place, but Shen couldn't hide his.
"Woah. Hiroshi Sato. You're one of my idols sir. You inspired me in more ways than one."
"Hah! Always nice to meet an enthusiastic admirer." Hiroshi Sato happily grabbed Shen's hand, "What's your name boy?"
"Shen Xiang, sir. It's an honor to meet you in person."
"Likewise my boy. It is people like you that give me reasons to strive for bigger and better dreams for all of us." Hiroshi turned behind him and Shen saw a beautiful girl heading towards them.
'She's so beautiful. Oh, Mako and Bolin is with her. Wait! Mako and Bolin?!'
The two eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as they weren't expecting those two would be here.
"Hey Korra. Hey Shen." Mako happily greeted them.
"Avatar, Shen. This is my daughter, Asami."
"It's lovely to finally meet both of you. Mako's told me so much about you two."
"Really now? Because he hasn't mentioned you at all. How did you two meet?" Korra eagerly asking to know.
Bolin leaned towards them, "Asami accidently crashed into him on her moped."
"What? Are you okay?"
Shen make a concern face, "Should you really be up and about Mako? Why haven't you two told us anything?"
"Shen, Korra. It's no big deal. I'm fine. In fact, more than fine. Mister Sato here agree to sponsor our team. We're back in the tournament." Mako told them with a big smile on his face.
"Isn't it great you guys?" Bolin asked as he stuffed pastries in his mouth.
"Yeah. Terrific." Korra said sadly.
Shen scratched the back of his head, "I was just about to ask my mother that maybe our restaurant could sponsor you."
Bolin wrapped his arm around Shen's shoulder. "Aw. No worries bro. Hey, maybe your mother could be our dietitian advisor. All athletes need that."
"Oh. Actually. I already handle that part as well. I managed to get hold on the best nutritionist in the city." Asami chipped in.
"You're the greatest Asami." Mako cooed, making Korra gag and Shen blush.
After that, Korra was introduced to the head of the police.
"Chief Beifong, I believe you and Avatar Korra have already met."
Shen was slightly far away to hear something Chief Beifong said to Korra. He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see Detective Yaozun smiled at him.
"Evening Shen."
"Evening Detective. Escorting Chief Beifong?"
"Yeah. She's could be a hard one. I tried to get her to recognize Avatar Korra's contribution in the raid but her mind is set on the Avatar being useless. Something tells me, this runs deeper than just personal opinion. Oh, by the way, there's something I need to tell you. It's…"
"Let's go detective." Chief Beifong walked passed them, not before giving Shen the same hard and cold glare.
"Sure thing chief. We'll talk soon, alright? See you later Shen."
"Of course Detective." Shen nodded while wondering why the chief of police just glared at him like that or what the detective wanted to talk to him about.
"There you are Shen." Korra approached him in some sort of distress.
"What's wrong Avatar Korra?"
"Tarrlok asked me to answer a few questions for the reporters. Any advice?"
Shen begin to think, "Hmm. Whatever you do. Do not give in to impulse. Whatever to say to the media, they will hold you on to it. If you back off, it would damage your creditability to the point you just have to go with it."
"Don't give in to impulse. Got it."
Korra turned around but Shen hold her hand, "I mean it Avatar Korra. Don't do anything you'll regret."
"Understood Shen." Korra smiled confidently.
"Go get them."
Shen smiled at Korra as she got up onto the podium with Tarrlock. He felt a hand landed once more on his shoulder and turned around.
"Ah, Detective. Back so soooooooon?"
Shen jumped backwards as the hand wasn't the Detective's but it was Asami's instead.
"Oh. I'm so sorry. I don't mean to scare you. Shen was it? Were you expecting somebody else?"
Shen began to blush a crimson red. "Oh no. Miss Sato. Just, I wouldn't thought of you coming to talk to me. Alone no less. Where's Mako and Bolin?"
"They're talking with my father about the sponsorship. And please, just call me Asami. A friend of Mako is a friend of mine." Asami picked two glasses of juice from a waiter and handed one to Shen.
"Thanks. Wow. I'm making a lot of friends lately. This is weird." Shen took the glass from her.
Asami giggled at the boy in front of her. "By the way, you're the Agito right? I was wondering when I could meet you."
Shen sprayed the juice in his mouth back into the glass. "What? How did you…"
"Mako told me. I'm so honor to meet the one who has been fighting the evil spirits." Asami took his hand, "Thanks to you. The city is safer for everyone. So, thank you very much. You're a hero."
Shen's face was a various shades of crimson as he staring at the radiant light shined by Asami.
'Spirits! A beautiful girl just thanked me.'
"Mako told you huh? Okay. Well, it was nothing. I tried my best to help. But Asami, please don't tell anyone. I really wished to keep my identity a secret."
Asami smiled, "Of course. You're secret is safe with me."
Shen nodded and turned to the front where Korra was still talking to the reporters.
Asami turned as well and realized something about Shen, "She's amazing isn't she?"
"Yeah."
"She's one strong bender."
"She's sure is."
"She's very beautiful."
"No doubt about that. Wait."
Asami laughed all her heart out, attracting a few people around them. Shen was blushing and tried to hide his face. "You tricked me."
"Mako was right. That was fun."
"Damn it."
"So, is it true? Do you like her?"
"Of course I like her. She's a nice…"
"No. I mean. Do you 'like' her?"
"I don't know."
"Hey. There's no need to be embarrassed. I'm sure it's completely normal for a boy like yourself to be head over heels for a beautiful, amazing, strong and independent woman like the Avatar. Everybody would. So, don't think too much. You'll regret it."
"Thanks Asami."
"No problem. You can talk to me about anything, if you want. I'm all ears. See you around Shen. Hope we could meet again."
The two slightly bowed at each other and be on their way.
In the middle of the night at the city, two man of water tribe descend, was leaving their shop. One of the man walked around the corner.
"I'll start the car. You locked the door."
"Sure." The second man obeyed as his friend continue walking.
After he locked the door, he walked around the same corner to their car. Once he reached it, he was surprised the car was not started and furthermore, his friend was nowhere to be seen.
"Alaq? Where are you?"
Light buzzing sound came from behind him. He turned to no one.
"Hey. This isn't funny. Come out."
He turned around and around as the sound surrounded him. He made a slight mistake with his footing and he fell to the ground. As he got up, he balance himself by leaning against the wall. He felt something brushed against his face. He turned to…a hand sticking out of the wall.
He screamed as he tried to run away. He was so scared that he accidently bumped into someone. He looked up and saw a woman with insect eyes. Bee's antennae poking out of her forehead and have two big bee wings on its back.
"Stay back!"
ZHING!
Shen saw the flash and make his way out of the gala. Chief Beifong saw him leaving and began to replay the detective's question. Shen ran faster and faster but also without being noticed by both Sato from the middle of the crowd.
The man shot water at the Unknown but it just dodged with high speed invasion. The man icebend some of the remaining water to freeze it in place. The Bee Unknown dodged but some of the ice froze the right wing, sending it to the ground.
"Not so though now huh?" The man used every ounce of water left he have with him to freeze it for good. He was about to release it when the ice on the frozen wing shattered and the Unknown jumped on him.
It kneed him in the gut before tossing him into the wall. She conjured a rapier and ready to end the man's life.
"Henshin!"
A bright light blinded her before she was tackled by Agito.
"Get away from here!"
Agito pulled the Unknown away from the victim while blocking multiple attacks from the rapier. One managed to strike Agito in the chest. He stopped himself from falling with his arms and lifted a leg to kick the Bee Unknown's face.
Agito went for another kick but it flew into the air. It flew around and shot stinger-like spikes at the warrior. Agito tried to find cover but a few hit his legs and body.
"That hurts you know!"
The Bee Unknown took this opportunity to dive right towards Agito with her rapier in front, right towards Agito's chest. The masked warrior readied but a foot kicked the Unknown away.
The newcomer offered a hand and Agito accepted. The man looked like in his late twenties to early thirties. He got short and slightly curly hair and light beard. What's more surprising, he was wearing a Republic City police uniform.
"You alright?"
"I'm fine thanks. Who are you?"
"Talk later. We got a spirit to beat."
The Bee Unknown returned to the fray and stared at the two. Agito and the officer readied themselves to fight. The Bee Unknown buzz angrily at them before shot up into the air and left.
"Hey wait. Man, that things fast."
"I never knew that thing would be so scared of a non-bender."
Agito turned to him and gave him a questioning look behind the mask. "A non-bender?"
"The name Shou. Detective Shou of the Republic City Police. A few non-benders on the force."
"Amazing. A non-bender police officer. Do you know Detective Yaozun?"
Detective Shou chuckled at the name, "Yaozun? That trouble maker? Yeah, I knew him. Almost lost his job multiple times because of his terrible deduction skills. Enough about that. It's an honor to meet you Agito. Heard so much about you."
He stretched out his hand and Agito shook it. "I can't really say who I am. But, I meant no one harm."
Shou waved his hand, "That's alright. Need to keep your identity safe. I understand. Too many untrustworthy people nowadays."
"Oh, it's nice talking to you but I need to get back to the gala…I mean…stuff. I got stuff to do. See you around detective."
Agito left the man as he sprinted back. Shou waved at him and smiled.
"Agito. What a curious fella. I like him already."
Shen returned to the gala and saw a paled Tenzin and worried looking Pema. Shen approached them.
"Councilman Tenzin? Pema? What's wrong?"
"There you are Shen. You can't believe what Korra just did." Tenzin told him.
"What happened?"
Pema rubbed her husband's arm, "It's Tarrlok. Somehow, he managed to get Korra on board with the whole task force to fight Amon."
"What? How? I thought Korra completely against it."
"We thought so too but apparently there's still part of her refuses to back down from a challenge."
Shen just sigh out of disappointment. He don't know what to think at the moment. He need to do something.
"Anything you think I could do to help?"
"Could you talk her out of it?" Pema asked.
"Backing out now is the worst thing she could do. What would the media say if Korra back out?" Tenzin think for a while before looked at Shen.
"Shen. I got something to ask of you."
"I'm all ears Councilman Tenzin."
A few nights later, Agito stood on top of a building. He eyed multiple large vehicles parked on the ground in front of the said building. Exiting it was members of the task force including Korra and Tarrlok.
"You better not let harm to Avatar Korra, Councilman Tarrlok. If anything happens to her, you'll answer to me."
The water benders opened a large tank of water to ambush an Equalist gathering. Agito jumped down at the back of the building. He crouched down and put his hand on the ground. After a few second, he sensed something.
"There's an underground tunnel or some sort. Maybe if I…"
A large explosion occurred and Agito knew the ambush already begun. He focused power on his fist before punched the ground beneath him. The ground crumbled down and Agito found himself was right.
He landed in a tunnel and he could hear fights going on at one end. He ran towards the sound before he came face to face with two escaping Equalist.
"Sorry. I got lost. Is this the way to the market?"
The two Equalist rushed at the intruder and Agito easily beat them down. As he put the two unconscious men at the side, he heard someone called his name.
"Shen? What are you doing here?"
Agito turned to see Korra with a perplexed expression on her face.
"I was…ummm…on the way to the market?"
"Really? That's the best you can come up with? Did Tenzin told you to come?"
"Well…yes and no."
"Avatar Korra." Tarrlok appeared from behind her and he too, was surprised to see Agito.
"My, my. I would never thought to be able to have the chance to meet you. I'm Councilman Tarrlok. Council representative of the Northern Water Tribe and the leader of this task force. It's an honor, Mister…"
"Agito." He answered in a deep and gruff voice as he shook Tarrlok's hand.
Korra raised a brow at him to which Agito ignored.
"Using your nick name I see. May I know why you're here?"
"I was…on the way to the market."
'Stop using that excuse. No one's going to believe that.' Korra mentally said.
"I see. Even a warrior of you caliber must eat." Tarrlok nodded.
'You, out of all people, believed him?'
Agito motioned towards the two unconscious Equlist. "Well. It seems you got everything under control. I'll be off now. Councilman. Avatar Korra."
"Wait. Why don't you stay? It will great if you would be on the front page with us."
Korra's expression turned to worry. Was Tarrlok planning on roping Shen into this as well?
'Don't fall for it Shen'
"That's okay. I didn't do much. I'm just happened to stumble upon here…while looking for the market. Thanks for the offer. Goodbye. Stay safe, Avatar Korra."
With that Agito left. Korra felt a little bit of coldness from Shen's voice. It wasn't because of the fake deep voice he's using, but in his voice in general. He was disappointed in her.
A few days later, it was night time as Bilan read the newspaper while waiting for Shen to close up the restaurant. He flipped through the newspaper and smiled at what's on the front page.
"Shen. It seems this task force is quite something. They managed to stop another Equlist secret meeting."
Shen was busy drying the plates, "Great." He said in a low and unmotivated voice.
Bilan put down the newspaper and walked towards his son. "Did you and Avatar Korra fought again?"
"What? No. What makes you said that? We are fine with each other."
"Because it's been a few days and every time I mentioned her, you seemed so uninterested. What happened?"
"Father. Do you think that the Council's a bit too secretive?"
"I believed there's isn't a government that completely transparent. Everyone has a skeleton in the closet. No matter how big or small. But, if you're talking about the council, they tried their best. At least, they tried to convince the public and themselves that their doing their best."
"Were the council always been like this?"
"Oh no. Spirits. No. The council comprised a group of amazing people back then. But, to us Non-benders, Sokka of the Southern Water Tribe was the best. He was our hero. He spoke for non-benders and benders equally. Who says you need to be bender to do great things."
"Sokka? He part of the previous Team Avatar right?"
"Right. He helped ended The 100 Years War. He was a great warrior and brilliant strategists. But even he have had some bad secrets."
"Really?"
"From what I've heard, he used to be a bit sexist as a child. He believed men should be warriors and girls should stay at home. How they couldn't be warriors or fighters. But, he did something that not everyone could. He opened his eyes and changed his mind. Some story say, he even joined the Kiyoshi Warriors for quite sometimes in his teens."
Shen just laughed at the story.
"What I'm trying to say is. We mustn't judged to harshly on someone based on their past, especially those who want to undo their misdeeds. Knowing whether certain things could be pass or not is the real test. Tarrlok might be doing this to boost his popularity, but if he doesn't do anything that could hurt people or the city, we mustn't judged him too hard. If he did…"
"We'll be ready to make him answer." Talah appeared right in the middle of two.
"Mother? When did you get here?"
"Just now. I heard you two talking for a while now. Oh, Shen, I almost forgot. It's Avatar Korra."
"What's with Avatar Korra? Is she okay? Is she alright?"
"She went to challenge Amon. She's waiting for him at Avatar Aang Memorial Island at midnight. It's all over the radio."
Colors drained from Shen's face. His worried face turned into a scowl. He dried his hands before gave his parents a quick hug.
"Where are you going Shen?" Bilan asked.
"To knock some senses into a hot-headed Avatar."
"Okay." Talah replied. "Make sure to ask her to come around soon."
"Sure mother. I'm off."
Shen opened the front door and immediately slammed head first, right into Detective Yaozun.
"Ow. Detective?" Shen acknowledged him as he rubbed his head.
"What are you doing that for Shen?" Yaozun was rolling on the floor as he held his head in pain.
"Sorry. What are you doing here?"
"The Avatar. She's going on her own again. I need you over there. It could be a trap."
"Let's go then."
Detective Yaozun drove as fast as he could. Shen looked at the clock in the car and it showed half an hour before midnight.
"Detective, what was it you wanted to talk to me about?"
"Oh. That. It was nothing actually. I thought it was important but it was a fluke. No need to worry about it." Yaozun smiled and gave Shen a pat on the back.
They arrived at the peer where the police force had stationed. Shen transformed into Agito and Yaozun approached the police and two councilman.
"Who are you?" Tarrlok asked.
"I'm Detective Yaozun of the Republic City police. I have a special request."
Agito Ground Form appeared from behind the building to everyone's surprised.
"Agito. This is certainly surprised." Tarrlok greeted him with a friendly manner.
Agito ignored the man and walked towards the edge or the peer.
"I was about to get you. Good thing you showed up." Tenzin said. The man put his hand on Agito's shoulder. "Please. Keep her safe."
"I will."
Agito jumped onto a nearby boat and transformed into Storm Form in a press of a button.
"Fascinating." Tarrlok admitted.
With a swung of the Storm Halberd, Agito Storm launched the boat forward at top speed.
"He's a mysterious man isn't he Tenzin?"
"I guess so."
It took longer than he like but he arrived at the memorial Island and hope no one saw him approached. Amon might not show up if he know he had company.
Agito launched upward using air onto the monument. He hide in the shadows and sneaked quietly around towards the base of the statue. There he saw them, Amon, Avatar Korra and a group of Equalist. They had her in a bind while Amon stood right in front of her.
Something inside of Agito snapped. To see what the man have done to the Avatar that he look up to so much, arises a new emotion. Something that Shen never had experience before. He held hard his halberd and swung it with all his might.
A blast of air rushed forward and knocked all the Equalist and Korra off their feet. Amon turned towards the fighter and chuckled sinisterly.
"Ah. The hero has come. Too bad I don't have the time to entertain you. We'll meet again Agito. Until then, I'll make each and every day a living nightmare for you."
Agito rushed forward but the Equalists blocked his way. Shen battled one after the other. Amon slowly returned into the darkness and disappeared. Agito in his Storm Form has amazing speed and maneuverability. He managed to block and dodged almost every attack from all angle to almost super human level.
Two Equalist threw the bola towards him from two opposite side. Agito jumped and let both bola flew passed above and below him, resulting the throwing weapon ensnared the Equlist member instead.
One member tried to chi-block Agito by punching his arm but nothing happens. He punches a few more times but same result. Agito kicked him into his friends and the rest gathered around him. He stabbed the halberd onto the floor and lift himself up.
He proceed to kicked all the members in the chest in a circle. He slammed his foot and a gust of wind send them flying backwards. A few was thrown into the water below and some was knocked unconscious by Agito, as he propelled them upward with a powerful wind from under their feet, hitting their heads at ceiling.
After what seemed like for a long time, all the Equalist was either thrown off the island or knocked out. Agito walked back towards Korra who was also knocked out. He sat down and gently lifts her head up and place it on his lap.
He refused to undo the transformation, worried that more Equalist would still be there.
"What are we going to do with you? You will Tenzin high blood pressure at this rate."
They sat there for a while longer, while Agito looked onto the night sky. After a few minutes, he felt Korra stirred and tried to get up.
"Easy Avatar Korra."
Korra was surprised to see him, especially after how she broke her promise of not doing things out of impulse. "Shen? What are you doing here? Where's Amon?!"
"He's gone. He escaped as soon I got here. Did he take your bending?"
Korra conjured a small flame with her hands. "No, I'm okay Shen."
"Thank goodness you're okay."
Shen undid the transformation and was about to get up but saw tears streaming down Korra's face. "Avatar Korra? What's wrong?"
Korra immediately started to cry as she embraced Shen with all her might. She pressed her face into his chest. Shen slowly wrapped his hands around her and slowly caressed her back. "It's okay Avatar Korra."
"I feel so terrified. I felt so helpless." More tears ran down her face and onto his clothes but Shen didn't mind it.
"It's over now. Let's get you back home."
Korra let go of him but still unable to stop her tears, "Tenzin was right this whole time. I was scared, Shen. I'm scared. I never felt this way before…and now…"
Shen hugged Korra once more and she took refuge in his chest once more. "I don't know what to do, Shen. Please tell me what to do."
"I don't know. But, admitting them is always a good step forward. But, I do know one thing."
"What is it?"
"I'll never let Amon hurt you ever again. From now on, I'll be your shield, Avatar Korra. I promise you that."
Korra smiled at him and mouthed a small 'thank you' before returning into his arms.
A figure landed on the statue's base and it revealed to be Tenzin. He flew over here with his air glider.
"Shen. Korra. You two alright?"
"We're fine Councilman Tenzin."
Tenzin saw Korra and in her state. "What happened?"
"Long story. I'll tell you later. She's not in the condition to talk."
The three of them returned home while the police handled the arrests. Shen thought long and hard what step to take next.
The next morning, Korra awoken in her bed. At first, she thought unmotivated to get up but slowly, a delicious scent slowly creeping into her nostril. She got up and raced to the dining room. She opened the door with force and shocked to see Shen and the detective was there, talking to Tenzin and having breakfast.
"There she is." Tenzin acknowledge her.
Korra sat down opposite of Shen and the detetctive.
"Korra. I believed you already met Detective Yaozun." Tenzin introduced her to him.
"Good to see you again detective." Korra nodded.
"To you two Avatar Korra. I'm glad you're okay. Shen here was worried sick."
"I'm glad you're worried about me, Shen. Look, I apologized for what I did."
Shen smiled at the Avatar. "Hey, no worries. You do whatever you think is right. We're here to help you get through it."
"He's right Korra. Right now, we need to put the past and mistakes behind us and use it as a guide for the future. " Tenzin sipped and put down his tea. "But, we have to admit, what you did last night was reckless. Good thing Detective Yaozun brought Shen over. Who knows what Amon could have done to you."
"I understand Tenzin. Thanks."
The four of them began to eat breakfast. Korra took a bite of her bread and looked at Shen, who was in front of her and was talking to Yaozun. She smiled at the warrior who held her in his arms last night.
'I promise to be stronger. For all of us. You'll be my shield and I'll be yours.'
That is it for the fourth chapter. I hope you guys like it. Please favorite, follow and leave a comment. Stay safe and healthy everyone. I'll see you amazing readers next time.