?
Night had come over Air Temple Island, and Korra was in her room sleeping. Suddenly, a shadow passed by her doors making her shoot up in her bed alarmed. Then an Equalist broke through the window while two more broke through the door.
Korra jumped out of her bed and kicked a downward fire arc; however, the chi blockers dodged. They then came at her, but the Avatar blasted fire to keep them at bay. The chi blockers avoided the attacks with one of them jumping into the air, spinning like a top as they aimed for her head.
Korra blocked the kick with her arm before firing several fire blasts; however, while dealing with two chi blockers, the third somersaulted and chi blocked her back. He then kicked her to the ground, on her knees, and she cried in pain.
Amon walked in. "After I take your bending away, you will be nothing."
He reached his hand to Korra, and all she could do was watch in fear.
Air Temple Island: Night…
Korra awoke with a frightful scream while sweating and gasping for air. It was all just a nightmare. Naga came over and licked her right hand for comfort.
"It's alright, Naga." Korra pet her companion. "I just had a bad dream."
City Hall
The United Republic Council met at a U-shaped table.
"There is a madman running around our beloved city, threatening to tear it apart." This representative had dark skin, dark brown hair, three ponytails, and wore water tribe clothing. "We need to create a task force whose sole mission is to find Amon and bring him to justice."
"Absolutely not." Tenzin objected. "A move that aggressive would only further divide Benders and Non-Benders."
"Tarrlok, I'm inclined to agree with your proposal, but who would even head up such a task force?" A Fire Nation councilwoman asked.
"It would be my honor…" Tarrlok stood and bowed. "…and privilege to accept such a duty."
"This is just another of your ploys to gain more power, isn't it?" Tenzin asked in an accusing manner while lightly pounding the table.
"All I'm trying to do is help." Tarrlok retorted. "Think back. Forty-two years ago, Republic
City was threatened by another dangerous man, Yakone. Your father wasn't afraid to deal with him head on."
"This…is a different situation, and how DARE you compare yourself to Avatar Aang!" Tenzin yelled.
"Amon is not going to stop with the bending triads." Tarrlok warned. "Eventually, he will come for all Benders. Our friends, our families. Vote for the task force, and I will stop Amon before it's too late. All in favor?"
He raised his hand before the Fire Nation councilwoman, Southern Water Tribe, and Earth Kingdom representatives raised their hands. Tarrlok slammed a gavel on a platform to close the meeting, and he smiled at Tenzin, who glared back at him.
Air Temple Island: Night…
Korra and Sasuke were practicing Airbending movements while happy music played on the radio, but it wasn't long before the music became static.
"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 one, proving once again 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 must live in fear. The time has come for Benders to experience fear."
With Amon's speech finished, the radio went back to static.
"He just won't stop." Korra said, freaked out.
"Korra, relax." Sasuke assured her. "I'll make sure Amon won't hurt you or anyone else."
Streets: Day…
Mako was coming from another shift at the factory and looked in the direction of his trolley which was just now boarding. He threw one end of his scarf over his shoulder before running for said trolley as fast as possible.
While crossing the street without looking, a moped sped towards him. The rider saw Mako and attempted to stop, only to end up crashing into the Firebender. As he was not prepared for this, Mako was sent crashing to the ground.
The rider immediately parked and rushed over to him. "Oh, no! I'm so sorry. I didn't see you."
"How could you NOT see me!? I mean, I was ju-ju…" Mako stopped talking.
He was captivated by the fact that the rider, who took off their helmet, was a beautiful girl. She had wavy black hair, green eyes, and wore red lipstick.
"I was…I-I…wow. I was…" Mako cleared his throat and blushed.
"Are you okay? Did I hurt you?" The girl helped Mako up. "Ugh, I'm such an idiot."
"Don't worry. I'm fine." Mako brushed himself off. "My brother hits me harder than that every day in practice."
"Wait, I recognize you." The girl noted. "You're Mako, right? You play for the Fire Ferrets."
"Yeah, that's me." Mako said.
"I am SO embarrassed. My name is Asami." She held out her hand and Mako shook it. "Let me make this up to you somehow. How about I treat you to dinner? Tomorrow night, eight o'clock, Kwong's Cuisine."
After making her offer, she returned to her moped.
"Uh, Kwong's?" Mako was unsure about that. "I don't have any clothes nice enough for a place that classy."
"I'll take care of that." Asami put her helmet back on. "All you need to do is show up." She put her goggles on. "So…it's a date?"
"Uh, yeah. I guess so." Mako smiled. "I'll see you tomorrow night."
With that assurance, Asami got back on her moped and drove off. Though, she did take one more look back at the Firebender. Once she was gone, he stared off into space, lovestruck.
Air Temple Island: Evening…
Korra, Sasuke, Utakata, and Tenzin's family bowed their heads for the prayer before dinner.
"We are grateful for this delicious food, for happiness, for compassion, and…"
"I'm not interrupting, am I?" Tarrlok voiced as he entered the dining room.
"This is my home, Tarrlok." Tenzin retorted in an annoyed tone. "We're about to eat dinner."
"Good, because I am absolutely famished." Tarrlock declared. "Airbenders never turn away a hungry guest, am I right?"
Tenzin sighed. "I suppose."
As the master sat, he noticed Pema scowling, so he gave her a helpless look.
Tarrlok walked over to Korra. "Ah, you must be the famous Avatar Korra." He bowed. "It is truly an honor. I am Councilman Tarrlok, representative from the Northern Water Tribe."
Korra stood and bowed back to him. "Nice to meet you."
"And you must be the Uchiha boy I've heard about." Tarrlok said.
"Yeah, that's me." Sasuke said.
Tarrlok sat next to Korra.
"Why do you have three ponytails?" Ikki leaned over and sniffed the councilman. "And how come you smell like a lady? You're weird."
"Well, aren't you…precious?" Tarrlok said as he turned to Korra. "So, I've been reading all about your adventures in the papers. Infiltrating Amon's rally, now that took real initiative."
"Oh, thanks." Korra was surprised. "I think you're the first authority figure in the city who's happy I'm here."
"Republic City is much better off now that you've arrived." Tarrlok said.
"Enough with the flattery, Tarrlok." Tenzin voiced in a protective manner. "What do you want from Korra?"
"Patience Tenzin." Tarrlok put up his hand. "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."
"Really?" Korra asked.
"What!?" Tenzin asked shocked.
"I need someone who will help me attack Amon directly." Tarrlok explained. "Someone who is fearless in the face of danger, and that someone is you."
"Join your task force?" Korra thought about it. "I can't."
Tenzin, Tarrlok, and Sasuke were stunned while Korra drank her tea.
"I must admit, I'm rather surprised." Tarrlok voiced, surprised. "I thought you'd jump at the chance to help me lead the charge against Amon."
"Me too." Tenzin added.
"Same." Sasuke continued.
"I came to Republic City to finish my Avatar training with Tenzin." Korra informed. "Right now, I need to focus on that."
"Which is why this opportunity is perfect." Tarrlok tried. "You would get on the job experience while performing your Avatar duty for the city."
"Korra can perform her duty her way." Sasuke retorted.
"She gave her answer, so it's high time you go." Tenzin said, annoyed.
"Very well, but I'm not giving up on you yet." Tarrlok stood. "You'll be hearing from me soon. It has been a pleasure, Avatar Korra."
He then walked out.
"Bye-bye, Ponytail Man!" Ikki called, making Tarrlok growl.
Kwong's Cuisine: Later…
Mako arrived at Kwong's Cuisine and stared at it in awe. He clutched his scarf and checked his sleeves, knowing he wasn't in the right clothing for this. Still, he took a deep breath before walking in.
A serve bowed to him. "Ah, welcome to Kwong's Cuisine, Master Mako."
"Uh, 'Master'?" Mako asked.
He certainly wasn't used to this. In a back room, the serve pulled up pants, tied his shoes, styled his hair, and gave him a formal looking jacket to wear. The Firebender may not be used to this, but he certainly looked good. He then took his red scarf and started to put it around his neck.
The server glanced at it and began to pull it off before Mako grabbed his wrist. "The scarf stays."
"As you wish, sir." The server bowed. "This way please."
The server led Mako back into the restaurant area where he met and sat with Asami, who wore a formal dress.
"Look at you." Asami noted. "You look classy." Asami said.
"Yeah, thanks for this." Mako said.
"I told you I'd make it up to you." Asami smiled. "I am such a big Pro-Bending fan. I caught all your matches this season."
"ALL of them? Wow." Mako was surprised. "Honestly, I wish there were a few you hadn't seen."
"Oh, don't be ridiculous." Asami voiced. "You're amazing. I can't wait to see you play in the tournament."
"Yeah, well…maybe next year." Mako said dismayed.
"What do you mean?" Asami asked. "You made it in."
"It just isn't in the cards for us right now." Mako said.
"Tell me." Asami placed her hand over his. "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." Asami said dismayed.
Just then, a server came in carrying two silver platters. "Pardon me, Ms. Sato. Your main course."
He lifted the lids to reveal the meals.
"Thank you." Asami said.
"Ms. Sato?" Mako asked. "You wouldn't happen to be related to Hiroshi Sato, creator of the Satomobile, would you?"
"Yeah, he's my dad." Asami responded.
"Get out of town!" Mako exclaimed shocked.
"I'm serious." Asami picked up her glass. "You want to meet him?"
"Meet the most successful captain of industry in all of Republic City?" Mako asked. "Yeah, I'll take you up on that."
Air Temple Island: Morning…
Bolin sang a happy tune as he came up to Korra. "Hello, fellow teammate!"
"Hey Bolin." Korra greeted.
"Missed you at practice this week." Bolin said.
"Yeah, sorry about that." Korra said.
"Nah, that's okay." Bolin waved it off. 'We're probably out of the tournament unless some money miraculously drops out of the sky by tomorrow. Anyways, the reason why I came by is to give you this." He took out a cupcake with a rose. "Ta-da!"
"Wow, thanks." Korra accepted. "What's this for?"
"Uh, oh, I can't remember." He was playing it off. "Oh, yeah! Now I do! You and Sasuke
saved me from Amon!"
"Oh, that?" Korra shrugged. "It's no big deal."
"No big deal, are you serious?" Bolin questioned. "I was totally freaking out when he was coming at me with his creepy mask all 'I will take away your bending forever.' I mean that is… scary stuff. I still can't sleep well."
"Delivery for Avatar Korra." It was Tarrlok's page carrying a large basket of items surrounded by flowers, which she set next to the Avatar. "Tarrlok sends his compliments and urges you to reconsider his offer."
"Tell him I haven't changed my mind." Korra informed.
The council page bowed and walked off.
"Who's this Tarrlok guy? Is he bothering you? I could have a word with him." Bolin said, punching his fist into his palm.
"No, it's not like that." Korra assured. "He's just some old guy who works with Tenzin on the council."
"Oh, good." Bolin nodded. "I like that better."
Sasuke and Jinora walked out from the inside of the temple.
"Your first game of Pai Sho, yet you're already a natural at the game Sasuke." Jinira declared.
"I learned from the best." Sasuke said.
Jinora blushed a little. "I wouldn't say I'm the best."
"You two played Pai Sho?" Bolin asked interested. "Who won?"
"Sasuke did." Jinora admitted upfront. "It was his first game too."
"Wow, Sasuke." Korra nodded. "That actually fits you since you're pretty smart."
Sasuke shrugged. "I guess."
Bolin took out a cupcake that had a star on it. "Hey Sasuke, I got something for you."
"Why give me this?" Sasuke said.
"It's my way of saying 'thank you' for saving me from Amon. If you, Korra, and my bro didn't show up, I would've lost my bending forever." He shook a bit. "Just thinking about it still gives me nightmares."
"I know what you mean." Korra said downcast.
Sasuke then saw the basket full of items. "What's all this?"
"Oh, Tarrlok is trying to make me change my mind on joining his task force by giving me gifts." Korra replied. "He's really tenacious."
"Clearly." Sasuke noted.
Future Industries Factory: Day…
Within a factory containing several rows of Satomobiles, Asami and Mako were talking with the former's father, Hiroshi Sato. "What do you think of my little operation here?"
"It's very impressive, Mr. Sato." Mako said.
"Please, call me Hiroshi." The man stated. "So, I understand you're dirt poor."
"Uh, well…" Mako hesitates.
"Young man, it is nothing to be ashamed of." Hiroshi assured. "I, too, come from humble beginnings. Why, when I was your age, I was a mere shoeshine, and all I had to my name was an idea; the Satomobile.
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."
"Dad, stop bragging." Asami said. "Just tell Mako the good news."
"What good news?" Mako asked.
"Well, my daughter passionately told me about your hard-earned success in the Pro-Bending arena, and about your team's current financial stumbling block." Hiroshi leveled. "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."
"Are you serious!?" Mako asked excited.
"He's serious." Asami assured. "My dad's going to cover your ante for the championship pot."
"That IS good news!" Mako exclaimed.
"There's just one catch." Hiroshi informed. "You all must wear the Future Industries logo on your uniforms."
"I'll tattoo it on my chest if you want, sir." Mako pointed to the area which made and Asami and Hiroshi laugh. "Thank you so much for this. I promise the Fire Ferrets will make the most of this opportunity."
Air Temple Island
Tenzin walked past a luxurious Satomobile, wrapped in a ribbon, which Ikki and Meelo were playing in.
"Out of the way, Daddy!" Ikki called out. "We're driving!"
Tenzin shook his head before approaching Sasuke. "Have you seen Korra?"
Sasuke pointed to the round platform. "Right there."
Korra was practicing her Airbending stances.
"I see Tarrlok's gifts are getting more and more extravagant." Tenzin
said, joining the Avatar with the Uchiha following.
"Yeah, that guy doesn't know how to take 'no' for an answer." Korra said.
"Korra, are you…okay?" Sasuke asked.
"I'm fine." Korra responded.
"Why don't you take a break?" Tenzin sat on the stairs with Korra and Sasuke joining him. "I'm glad you turned down Tarrlok, but I want to make sure your decision was for the right reason."
"I'm just really focused on my Airbending training is all." Korra said.
"Right, that's what you said." Tenzin voiced. "You know, it's okay to be scared. The whole city is frightened by what's been going on. The important thing is to talk about our fears. If we don't, they can throw us out of balance." Korra said nothing. "I'm here for you if you want to talk."
Tenzin then left.
"Korra…" Sasuke began before his head hurt again.
Sasuke's Mind
He was in a forest and was confronted by a woman that instilled fear within him.
"You're paralyzed with fear. You can't move." The woman said.
It that shifted to that blond boy, only this time his eyes were red and fox like. "You're not scared, are you scaredy cat?"
It then briefly shifted to that man standing over those dead bodies before shifting again to some boy with red hair and green eyes. He had an emotionless expression and was covered by sand that made him look like a monster.
Air Temple Island
"Again…" Sasuke muttered.
Evening…
Korra was on the railing and leaned against the temple as the council page arrived.
"Avatar Korra, I have something for you."
"It doesn't matter how many gifts Tarrlok sends." She jumped down before using Earthbending to turn the earth she stood on 180 degrees before booting her butt. "I am NOT joining his task force!"
Sasuke and Jinora stopped their game of Pai Sho to see what's going on.
"It's not a gift, it's an invitation."
"To what?" Korra asked, taking a piece of paper from the page's hand.
"Tarrlok is throwing a gala in your honor. All of Republic City's movers and shakers will be there. The councilman humbly requests your attendance."
City Hall
Utakata had no idea why he was here…okay, that wasn't exactly true. He'd decided to join in on this invite since he didn't trust Tarrlok one bit. Any Jonin worth their salt, especially one whose been a rouge for years now, could tell they shouldn't. Just in case, he wanted to be present.
It unfortunately meant wearing something aside from his standard attire, but that was a small price to pay. Naturally, he arrived with Korra, Sasuke, Tenzin, Pema, Jinora, Ikki, and Meelo. Like him, they were all obviously dressed in gala clothing.
The kids ran off while the other attendants began clapping as they saw Korra. "I can't believe all this is for me."
"I'm not sure what Tarrlok is plotting but keep your guard up." Tenzin warned. "It's not like him to throw a party just for the fun of it."
"He's right." Utakata nodded. "Events like this make certain agendas all the easier to achieve."
"Speak of agendas, and he shall appear." Sasuke commented as Tarrlok walked over to the group.
"So glad you could make it, Avatar Korra." The councilman greeted. "If you'll excuse us, Tenzin, the city awaits its hero."
He took Korra with him, prompting Sasuke to follow. "I'm going with them."
Utakata turned blue as he noticed what Meelo was up to. "Uh, Tenzin?"
The master looked and gasped. "No, Meelo! That's not the toilet!" He walked over while covering his eyes in shame and embarrassment. "Oh, dear…"
Now that he was alone, Utakata decided to go about blending into the background. After all, events like these were also great for gathering intel.
"Korra, it's my pleasure to introduce Republic City's most famous industrialist, Hiroshi Sato." Tarrlok introduced.
Korra nodded. "Nice to meet you."
Hiroshi bowed. "We're all expecting great things from you."
"Right…greatness." Korra said downcast.
Sasuke joined her just as Mako called out to them. "Hey, Korra! Sasuke!"
He was holding Asami's arm, and Bolin accompanied them.
"This is my daughter, Asami Sato." Hiroshi introduced Asami.
"It's lovely to meet you." Asami stated. "Mako has told me so much about you."
"Really?" Korra questioned irritated. "He hasn't mentioned you at all."
"You must be this Uchiha boy who came to the city recently." Asami said to Sasuke.
"What of it?" Sasuke asked.
"Bolin told me about your memory problem." Asami voiced. "I'm so sorry to hear that."
"Is that right?" Sasuke asked while eyeing the Earthbender in annoyance.
"So, how'd you two meet?" Korra asked.
"Asami crashed into him on her moped." Bolin informed.
"Are you okay?" Korra asked concerned.
"I'm fine. More than fine." Mako declared happily. "Mr. Sato agreed to sponsor our team; we're back in the tournament!"
"Isn't that great?" Bolin asked.
"Yeah, terrific." Korra said, clearly unenthused.
"Daddy! Big Sis!" A voice called.
They turned and saw a boy around Sasuke's rushing over to them. He had shaggy black hair and green eyes while he currently wore formal clothing.
"There you are Xiba, you little scamp." Hiroshi chuckled. "This is my son, Xiba Sato."
"He's a little rambunctious, but a smart and good kid." Asami added, ruffling her younger brother's hair.
"Stop it, Sami." Xiba blushed as any brother would when talked about like this. "You're embarrassing me." He then saw the Uchiha. "You're Sasuke, right? I heard of you. You broke into Amon's rally the other day. That took guts."
Sasuke shrugged. "Thanks, I guess."
"You were amazing too, Avatar." Xiba added. "Might I also say, you're even prettier in person than in the papers."
"Uh, thanks…" Korra said, uncertainly.
"Look, you got yourself an admirer." Mako said, amused.
Korra rolled her eyes. "Oh, be quiet…"
Just then, Tarrlok came to Korra with Lin Beifong. "Chief Beifong, I believe you and Korra have already met."
"Just because the city's throwing you a big to-do, don't think you're anything special." Lin said in a harsh tone resulting in them glaring at one another. "You've done absolutely NOTHING to deserve this."
"I don't recall anyone throwing you a party for your policework." Sasuke spoke up.
"Watch who you're talking to, you little snot, or you'll be spending your days at that juvenile detention center." Lin declared harshly.
"Oh, the chief of police threatening some kid because he said words you don't like?" Sasuke smirked. "Seems you'll conveniently forget the book in service of yourself."
Lin growled as she turned to Korra. "You'd better keep that little monster on a leash, or it's
YOUR head!"
Korra glared as Lin walked off before suddenly becoming saddened.
"Pfft, what a loser." Sasuke said.
"Just let it go, Sasuke." Korra said.
Later…
Tarrlok, Korra, and Sasuke were walking down stairs where they were met by reporters.
"If you'd be so kind, they just have a couple of questions." Tarrlok said.
"But…" Korra was cut off as Tarrlok pushed her forward.
"Avatar Korra, you witnessed Amon take away people's bending firsthand. How serious a threat does he pose to the innocent citizens of Republic City?"
"I think he presents a real problem." Korra said.
"Then, why have you refused to join Tarrlok's task force? As the Avatar, shouldn't you be going AFTER Amon?"
"Well, I…" Korra was cut off.
"Why are you backing away from this fight?"
"What? No! I've never backed away from anything in my life!" Korra said.
"You promised to serve this city, aren't you going back on that promise now?"
"Do you think pro-bending is more important than fighting the revolution?"
"How do you think Avatar Aang would have handled this?"
Korra was confused, annoyed, and intimidated by the bombardment of questions.
"Are you afraid of Amon?"
"I'm NOT afraid of anybody!" Korra yelled. "If the city needs me, then…I'll join Tarrlok's task force and help fight Amon!"
"What?" Sasuke asked shocked.
"There's your headline, folks." Tarrlok said, cameras started flashing.
Tenzin hung his head in disappointment, Utakata closed his eyes, Mako & Bolin looked at each other in confusion, and Asami & Xiba smiled.
Sasuke glared at Tarrlok's mischievous smile. "This must have been his plan all along."
Days Later…
Korra was now among other task force members, wearing a task force uniform, within a room of City Hall.
Tarrlok stood before them, also in a task force uniform, pointing at a blueprint. "My fellow task force deputies. Tonight, we will execute a raid on an underground chi blocker training camp located in the Dragon Flats Borough. According to my sources, there is a cellar underneath this bookstore where Equalists train chi blocking in secret."
Dragon Flats Borrough
A large Satomobile, with a water tank and space for the task force, pulled up to the bookstore. All the members got up from their kneeled positions, within the vehicle, and ran to the wall where they used the openings at the bottom to peer inside.
Several men and women were training in chi blocking techniques, and on the opposite wall there was a large poster of Amon. That made Korra have a flashback to her nightmare, and she gasped in fear. Then, a look of resolve graced her face.
Tarrlok gave the signal, and a task force member unwound the top of the water tank before another member went about bending a stream of water out towards the other Waterbenders of the force. Everyone took their share, readying themselves for the next signal.
Tarrlok gave it, and they flooded the room before freezing the water, capturing several trainees who yelped in shock. The task force Earthbenders then broke through the wall causing several of the people within to leap back, but three task force Earthbenders lept in.
They started bending bricks and slamming earth into people. Tarrlok and Korra entered after them with Tarrlok throwing someone against the wall with his Waterbending and freezing them to the wall. A chi blocker threw two grenades with green gas while another opened the door.
Korra froze the two grenades in ice, stopping the leaking of smoke. "I'm going after them."
The Avatar kicked the door open and ran down the corridor, only to end up tripping on a wire which sent her crashing to the ground. An Equalist lept out from a space in the ceiling and tried to strike Korra; however, she kicked a large rock into him before falling back.
She wasn't safe as a second Equalist lept down while swinging a bola. Fortunately, Tarrlock arrived and blasted a stream of water at the man, sending him crashing into a wall. The councilman then froze the guy there.
"Nice timing." Korra smiled. "Thanks, Tarrlok."
"We make a good team, Avatar." Tarrlok said.
Korra crossed her arms. "Yeah, we do."
Their actions that night would result in the task force being greeted by reporters who got the story of what happened. They then ushered several chi blockers into the back of a police truck with several task force members on either side.
Air Temple Island: Morning…
Sasuke had the newspaper in hand.
"Thanks to Tarrlok's task force, with the Avatar at their side, the city is slowly becoming a much safer place. The Avatar and Councilman Tarrlok have agreed to a press conference this evening at five o'clock'."
"This does not sound like a good thing."Sasuke saw Korra walking to her room, so he followed. "Korra, are you okay?"
"Not now, Sasuke." Korra said, closing the door in his face.
"Look, you can't keep doing this to yourself." Sasuke spoke through the closed door. "You must leave the task force."
"Just leave me alone!" Korra snapped through the door.
Sasuke sighed. "Fine." He walked away. "Whatever."
Inside the room, Korra fell back against her door and slowly fell to her butt. She sighed as almost immediately she regretted snapping at him like that.
City Hall: Evening…
Tarrlok was on stage with Korra before a room full of reporters. "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."
"Question for the Avatar! Amon remains at large. Why have you failed to locate him?"
"It's because Amon is hiding in the shadows, like a coward!" Korra answered as she took the microphone. "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 if you're man enough to face me."
She put down the microphone and left the stage while the reporters attempted to get details.
Park: Night
Mako and Asami were on a carriage ride through the park.
"I know it sounds weird to say this, but I'm glad I hit you with my moped." Asami said.
Mako chuckled. "Uh, 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?" Asami asked.
"No, it was really nice, but this scarf was my father's." Mako responded. "It's all I have left of him. I just feel like it keeps me safe."
"I'm so sorry." Asami apologized. "I lost my mother when I was young." Mako put his hand over hers, and they stared warmly at one another before she leaned into him. "I feel so safe with you."
Docks
Tenzin flew in with his glider and landed on the dock where Korra, Sasuke, Utakata, Tarrlok, and several others were.
"Korra, this is madness." Tenzin said.
Korra wrapped a rope loosely around her arms and hands. "Don't try to stop me, and don't follow me. I have to face Amon alone."
"Korra, this isn't helping you." Sasuke tried.
"I have to try." Korra said.
"This is all your doing!" Tenzin yelled at Tarrlok.
"I tried to talk her out of it too, but she's made up her mind." Tarrlok returned.
Utakata glared his way. "I'll bet…"
Korra guided the boat out from the docks and sailed off for Avatar Aang Memorial Island, using her Waterbending.
"We'll be watching the island closely. If anything goes wrong, I have a fleet of police airships ready to swoop down." Tarrlok informed.
"Sasuke, I need you to go with her." Tenzin was not convinced. "She may need your help."
"Okay." Sasuke said.
As he moved to step on a different the boat, Utakata approached and rested a hand on his shoulder. The former Kiri Jonin looked away for a moment before nodding and turning his gaze back to the amnesiac.
"Be careful over there." Utakata voiced genuinely.
Sasuke nodded before getting into a boat and paddling his way to the island.
Avatar Aang Memorial Island
Sasuke arrived and immediately hid behind the leg of Aang's statue before proceeding with watching Korra.
"I know you're here, Sasuke." The Avatar said.
"How did you know?" Sasuke asked.
"I'm not stupid." Korra responded in an authoritative tone. "I told you to stay with Tenzin."
"You're not my mother, and Tenzin asked me to go with you." Sasuke retorted.
Korra sighed."Sasuke, I don't…"
She was cut off by a loud noise.
"What's that?" Sasuke asked, in his fighting stance.
"Just a false alarm." Korra pointed at the clock on the side of the island. "It's just the clock near the side of the statue going off. It's midnight."
"I see." Sasuke said.
"Sasuke, you need to go NOW." Korra ordered firmly.
"No." Sasuke said.
Korra grunted. "You're so stubborn."
"You're one to talk." Sasuke replied.
"Fine, just stay close to me." Korra relented.
Later…
The pair waited for Amon to arrive; however, hours passed, and there was no sign of him.
"I'm starting to think this is a lost cause." Sasuke said, starting to tire.
"Guess he's a no-show." Korra stood with the Uchiha joining her. "He's the one who's probably scared."
They walked past the base of the statue when a bola was thrown out. It caught the Avatar by the feet, causing her to fall to the ground and be dragged into the darkness.
"Korra!" Sasuke shouted.
He chased after her and arrived within a dark room that was soon lit by Korra unleashing a fire blast to break free from the bola. The light of the fire allowed them to see Equalists all around the room. Korra delivered a spinning fire blast, but whips were sent out to entangle her arms.
Korra's arms were held back, so she attempted to kick out fire and earth. It didn't stop a couple of them from closing in behind her and delivering a rapid series of strikes that disabled her. The Avatar was brought to her knees, unable to bend.
"Enough of this!" Sasuke yelled.
He attempted to go for the Equalists holding the whips; however, others got in his way. As such, he went about punching and kicking his way through them. Eventually, a thrown bola wrapped around and restrained him.
He struggled in vain to free himself. "Damn you!"
"Sasuke!" Korra cried.
The Equalist soldiers held Korra by her arms, and some did the same to Sasuke before Amon stepped out of the shadows.
"I received your invitation, young Avatar." He reached his hand out towards her, just like in her nightmare, only for him to grab her chin. "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 of every nation would rally behind your untimely demise. 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 delivered a jab at Korra's shoulder, knocking her out. During Korra's unconsciousness, she had a vision of four people: Aang, Sokka, Toph, and Yakone. Then another vision occurs of Aang charging to attack something.
"Leave her alone!" Sasuke yelled.
"Ah, you." Amon turned his attention to him "I don't know what your purpose is, or why the Avatar keeps you; however, if you are of any value to me, then you might be useful still."
"Shut up, shut up, SHUT UP!" Sasuke shouted.
His onyx eyes turned red, and each iris split into three tomoe.
"What's this?" Amon asked.
Sasuke now had the strength to break free as lightning began to develop within his left hand. The Uchiha looked at it for a moment, baffled, before ultimately shoring up his resolve. He charged Amon, fast. The Equalist Leader only just had time to shift his position.
This resulted in the lightning infused thrust piercing through his right shoulder rather than his chest. While not a death, the electricity coursing through the masked leader made him scream out in pain. Sasuke then kicked Amon into the back wall before he began panting heavily.
"That power…is it bending? No. It felt…different." Amon noted. "And your eyes…It seems I was right. Every time I see you, there is promise within you. Continue to deliver me proof of your usefulness and impress me with whatever abilities you have. We will meet again, boy."
Amon and his Equalists then disappeared into the darkness.
"That power…how did it happen? How could I create lightning? My eyes…how am I seeing red? What's happening?" Just then, his red eyes reverted to onyx, and he fell to the ground. "Damn…"
He passed out.
Later…
Korra started to regain consciousness and saw a shady figure, wearing an Airbender tunic, coming for her. "Aang?"
"Korra!" The figure was Tenzin, who rushed over to prop her up. "Are you alright?" She spotted Utakata rushing over to help Sasuke. "What happened? Was Amon here?"
"Yeah, he ambushed me." Korra answered.
"Did he…did he take your bending?" Tenzin asked, worried.
Korra created a flame in her palm before then closing it. "No, I'm okay."
"Thank goodness." Tenzin said relieved.
"Sasuke!?" Utakata shouted, propping him up.
Sasuke was roused. "Ugh, please tell me I haven't lost my memory again."
"Doesn't seem like it, given you remember you have lost it before." Utakata stated relieved.
"Sasuke!" Korra rushed over to him. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, though something weird happened." Sasuke said.
"What?" Utakata asked.
"My eyes turned red, and I made lightning." Sasuke informed.
Utakata was taken aback by that.
"Lightning?" Korra questioned. "I thought you're not a bender. How could you make lightning?"
"I don't know…" Sasuke responded.
"Well, I'm glad you're safe." Korra said before she started crying. "I was terrified! I felt helpless."
"It's alright Korra." Tenzin embraced her. "The nightmare is over."
"Tenzin, you…you were right." Korra stated. "I've been scared all this time. I've never felt like this before, and I don't know what to do!"
"Admitting your fears is the first and most difficult step in overcoming them." Tenzin said.
"Sasuke, I'm sorry for snapping at you." Korra sniffled. "I was just scared to the point I channeled my anger at you."
"I understand." Sasuke nodded. "It's okay, Korra."
Air Temple Island
Korra, Tenzin, Sasuke, and Utakata disembarked on Air Temple Island before the two youngest took their leave back towards the temple.
"So, you were able to turn your eyes red and make lightning, which you attacked Amon with?" Korra asked.
"Yeah, that's what happened." Sasuke answered.
Utakata glanced away as he heard their conversation while Tenzin was able to see it this time.
"Is there anything you'd like to discuss about what Sasuke was saying?" Tenzin asked once the kids were out of ear shot.
"Part of me hoped I could leave it all behind me; however, another part has been realizing that isn't possible." Utakata sighed. "There is a lot I can share and given you are likely to become far busier, now may be the only chance I get to tell you in quite some time."
"Very well." Tenzin nodded. "Follow me to my study where we can talk in private."
Hallway
"I don't know how you did it, but it sounds cool." Korra noted. "Those eyes and the lightning must have been something you could do before."
"I don't know." Sasuke said.
"I'm going to help you figure everything out." Korra said.
"And I'll help you deal with this Equalist nonsense." Sasuke returned.
"Deal." Korra smiled. "I know I'll be there for you just like you'll be there for me."
"I guess we will." Sasuke nodded. "Anyways, we've been through a lot tonight."
"Yeah, good night." Korra said.
"Try to sleep well." Sasuke said.
The pair went their separate ways.
Tenzin's Study
Utakata took a seat across from the Airbender.
"Alright, begin when and where you are ready." Tenzin voiced.
"I suppose I should start with, what do you know about the Shinobi Nations?" Utakata asked.
"I had thoughts about that being where you and Sasuke were from." Tenzin stated. "I know over there spirituality seems less important. I am also aware of what a Shinobi is; however, there aren't records of our people knowingly meeting one. We tend to deal strictly with the Daimyos."
"Bear in mind I'm rather young, so I can only tell you how I've understood it." Utakata noted and received a nod in return. "For the longest time, Shinobi were in what was known as the Warring State's Period. Small nations and factions fought for Power, land, and influence.
It was a time of violence and bloodshed, so you can imagine branching into a continent dealing with its own conflict wouldn't be a high priority. Even after Hidden Villages sprang up, at least in Kiri, wars always seemed to crop up when talks of coming here came up.
Basically, we've had our conflicts keeping us busy these last seventy years to the point even the peace your nations have had don't seem like an enticing prospect to our Kage. We've been content to leave things to the Daimyos, probably how any other village has seen it."
"I see." Tenzin nodded. "That explains a lot, though it doesn't tell me about Sasuke."
"As I've said, I could only tell you how Kiri saw things, with certainty, and that's the village I used to be part of." Utakata informed. "As such, I don't know anything about Sasuke specifically. In fact, far as I knew, he shouldn't be alive."
"Shouldn't be alive?" Tenzin asked.
"Itachi Uchiha." Utakata informed. "He was added to the bingo books by Konoha, the village where the Uchiha had resided, for reportedly killing his entire clan. I had no reason to doubt such a claim given the Uchiha were huge within Konoha, a powerful clan."
"Sasuke…" Tenzin stated sympathetically.
"Even with him disproving this fact, I doubt Konoha would have stretched the truth that much… without good reason." Utakata informed.
"What do you mean?" Tenzin inquired.
"I don't put any stock in the Hidden Villages myself, not for a long time now." Utakata voiced firmly.
"Utakata, what happened?" Tenzin asked.
"I'll keep the explanation short." Utakata informed. "Over in the Shinobi Nations, there exists nine beasts, with tails one through nine, made of pure Chakra. The First Hokage captured all but the One Tails, another had already caught it, and distributed them among the five great villages.
Kirigakure got the three and six tails, but no matter what beast you had, it became common practice to seal them within select villagers. We then become valuable assets to our village. While I've heard things about most other villages, Kiri respected us."
"I take that changed with you?" Tenzin guessed.
"In a way." Utakata sighed. "I had a master who I thought cared for me. To be fair, every memory I have before the last seems to confirm that. It's the last memory which set me on the track to forsake my village and go rouge.
My master attempted to remove my tailed beast. When you remove a Tailed Beast from their Jinchuriki, they die." Tenzin went wide eyed at that. "The Six Tails didn't want to go, so it came out to kill him instead.
Without question, I sacrificed for my village." He was becoming angry, though it was tampered. "Then, my village entered a bloody era, and I was done with it all. I went rouge, wandering the Shinobi Nations. Well, you can pretty much put the rest together from there."
"Given what you've told me, you couldn't take Sasuke back to Konoha." Tenzon reasoned. "Your status as a criminal, by how your village saw you leaving, and the unknown of just what they could have been putting that boy through."
"Now, you understand." Utakata voiced. "When I found Sasuke, he bore no symbol but that of the Uchiha Clan. Given my experience as a Shinobi in general, I bet I could think up even worse things that could have happened to him than you currently are."
"I believe you would be correct." Tenzin bowed his head. "This does clear up a lot, yet I feel you should at least inform Sasuke of what you know about him."
"Will you do it if I choose not to?" Utakata asked.
"No, this is your information to share." Tenzin informed. "I am merely giving you advice." He closed his eyes. "Though, I do not think he will take it well if his memories come back, and he finds out you were hiding something from him."
"Probably not." Utakata stood and walked to the door. "I will…consider your advice." He nodded. "Truly I will."
He put his hand on the doorknob before stopping at what Tenzin said next. "A master as you described yours to be…"
Utakata glanced back at him. "What?"
"You said up until the last memory you had with him, your master showed his care for you." Tenzin sighed. "I don't pretend to know what he must have been thinking, but I can tell you how I'd have seen it were I in his shoes.
If I were your master, I'd have been aware of the burden you carry. Even if the village respected you for it, you'd still be targeted. What kind of master would I be if I did not attempt to remove the beast and allow you an easier life."
"Cold it be…" Utakata looked down as he pondered this. "Was my master's intention not to kill me?" He closed his eyes. "I've never found a way to safely remove the six tails myself, but it could be master did…just to mess up and pay the price."
The more he thought on it, the more those good memories with his master flooded his mind. All those memories conflicted greatly with the memory of the same man who would purposefully attempt to kill him.
"What if Tenzin's interpretation is true?" Utakata opened his eyes and turned the door knob. "You have given me a great deal to ponder."
With that, he stepped into the hall leaving Tenzin to sigh at what he now understood. Despite the Shinobi Nations labeling Utakata as a 'criminal', he just couldn't see it that way, so he had no intention of acting on anything the young man told him.
Given the uncertainty that lied with Konoha, if that's even where Sasuke came from, it was far too risky to attempt contacting with them. Given the Elemental Nations had no known ties with Hidden Villages, it was effortless to conclude he was more loyal to Sasuke than them by default.
Alright, let's talk about history. Konoha is the oldest canon Hidden Village, and it was founded 74 years before the start of Naruto. Before the founding of Konoha, we were in the Warring States period which had to have gone on for decades. Perhaps even centuries. At the point Madara and Hashirama come about, the Senju and Uchiha don't even remember why they were originally fighting. According to Legend of Korra, the 100 year war they were experiencing ended 70 years ago.
This means Konoha would have been founded four years before the end of the 100 year war, and the Shinobi Nations have only had lulls of peace considering three wars followed the founding of Konoha. All of this is to say I think it's reasonable to assume the Elemental Nations know of the Shinobi Nations; however, I do not think it's reasonable to assume Shinobi would interact with that continent's troubles. Is it a flimsy justification, perhaps. In the end, this ensures consistent history.
If the Shinobi had influenced the hundred-year war or vice versa, we'd be dealing with a drastically different world at this point in the story. The concept of this story is putting Sasuke, and to an extent Utakata as I felt Sasuke needed a Shinobi sensei, within the story of Legend of Korra and seeing what can be made from that. Now that Sasuke is there, it gives incentive to properly introduce the two continents more than they have done in the past.
Abhishank: Thank you.