Ch11
Eastern United Republic
"So, apart from all the restrictions about landing and taking off that totally remove some of the freedom of flight, do airplanes ever give you trouble up here?" Korra asked from Pepper's saddle. She had never thought to ask the question to Tenzin when flying on Oogi, before finding that heard of sky bison.
"Not really," Jinora replied. She set a hand on the radio that was mounted to the leading end of the saddle. "When approaching a crowded airspace like Republic City or the Ba Sing Se, I have to call it in on the frequency. Sometimes I'll have to talk to tower or approach air traffic controllers, but most of it is them keeping us out of the way of approaching jets. Talking to ground controllers-"
"They control the ground too?!"
"No," Jinora corrected, "Those are the guys incharge of moving and directing planes that are rolling around the airport before takeoff and after landing. I only need to talk to them if we land on an active airfield. That's not too much of a problem since we don't need a runway. The real pain is the landing fees."
"Fees?!" Korra was completely in the dark when it came to these fines, charges, and regulations.
"Yeah…airports charge for every landing and take off…Dad hates paying the bill for that. That's why we avoid airports all together." Jinora returned to the original question. "Up here though, no problems really. Commercial airliners and military planes fly a lot higher than we can on a sky bison. Rarely do we ever break ten-thousand feet altitude. Usually those jets cruise at heights of thirty-thousand and higher; far too high for us to fly without difficulty breathing. We'd suffocate unless pretty much."
Korra got a flashbacks to getting the breath taken from her in a duel with Zaheer.
"The main issue is when we get closer to Republic City. Wake turbulence becomes an issue," Jinora finished.
Asami could see the confused look on Korra's face. "Think of it like a forceful wind force that comes off the edge of a plane's wing. It's this really strong, spiraling force that can completely flip smaller planes. Not something you want to get caught in."
"Warned Kai," Jinora added, "Didn't listen and he and Pepper got tossed from the air once."
"What happened?!"
"He was fine. They recovered quickly. I told him not to chase after jetliners. Dad also received a formal complaint from Korean Air that day…"
Korra groaned. "How's Tenzin doing by the way?"
"He's been fine," Jinora replied. "Under a decent amount of stress as of recent, but otherwise fine. The developments in the Earth Empire seem to concern him a lot recently though."
The avatar looked over the side of the saddle down towards the earth below. Several hundred feet below, the steady flashing lights of a low flying plane seemed to glide in the opposite direction, and even further down below, a long snake-like string of thirty-two cars of bullet train lights zipped and wound across the landscape like a rocket on rails. Off the opposite side were the densely packed white and red lights of the Great Central Highway, a four-lane expressway that connected Ba Sing Se, Omashu, and Republic City by road. Despite the back and forth conflicting rhetoric of Kuvira, and her disdain of modernity and regulations, Korra couldn't deny that the world was indeed progressing and operating at a new freakish level of efficiency, convenience, and productivity. She herself, at times, would question the need for an avatar as well.
"He'll be very glad to know you're back," Jinora closed. Korra had missed the entirety of her summary.
"It's…good to be back," she simply replied, uncertainly.
"I heard you met with Kuvira recently," Jinora inquired, "How was it?"
"It went well," Korra shrugged. "She was warm and welcoming as usual. Just as I remember."
"What do you think, Korra? Of how things are developing?"
"I..have to admit. I've been missing for six years. I..don't know exactly what to think yet," Korra replied, looking down at the saddle floor.
"I'm concerned. I don't like where I think this is going," Jinora voiced out. "I don't think what comes from Kuvira's address tomorrow morning is going to be her willingly announcing the ascension of Prince Wu to the throne."
Republic City; RCPD Headquarters
"Korra!" The airbending master exclaimed, "I'm so glad to see you. Are you alright?" Tenzin was, as anticipated, relieved that Korra had returned home safely.
"I'm doing well, Tenzin," she assured, "It's nice to see you too."
The morning had come and the headquarters was bustling with officers and phone operators responding to the numerous emergency calls. Just another day in the office, however to add on to the normal hustle and bustle, today was the day that Kuvira was set to make a formal address to the world in her State of the Empire broadcast from Ba Sing Se's former Imperial Palace.
"The world has been running rampant while you were gone," Tenzin began. "Kuvira has the Earth Kingdom under control, but that also presents its own set of concerns."
"I've heard," Korra acknowledged. "When's her speech supposed to happen?"
"In a few hours, just around noon," he replied. "Hopefully we'll be finished here soon. Chief Beifong just has a few more things to process regarding your arrest and then we'll be free to go." The thought hit Tenzin, and he suddenly remembered that fact. "Speaking of, what were you thinking?! Getting arrested in Los Angeles?! Breaking a federal statute of bending?! More importantly, participating in illegal fighting circles?!This is even worse than when you decided to become a pro-bender! At least it was legal! As the avatar I'd expect you to hold yourself in a higher regard! People look up to you Korra! "
Korra couldn't contest his outburst much. She had hoped, even if in futility, that Tenzin would not have learned the details of her arrest. "It doesn't feel that way sometimes," she muttered.
"Korra, the world, regardless of how autonomous and self-sufficient it may seem, still needs its avatar. Likely now, more than ever since the passing of my father," Tenzin reinforced. "It feels like things have been chaotic beneath the praise and progress that makes headlines."
"Yeah I can see that," Korra said, noting the frantic operation of the police station. "Has Bolin been in the city?"
"He had stopped by on a couple of occasions," Tenzin replied, "But he's been relatively quiet. I admit, I don't know his whereabouts."
"Varrick too," Korra reported, recalling what Jinora and Asami mentioned on the flight back from Ba Sing Se.
"Varrick too, I'm afraid," he confirmed.
The doors to the operations room flew open, both swung wide with force as a uniformed couple entered the room; the man wearing the navy blue uniform of the UFDI, and the lady donning a green service uniform of the Earth Empire. The earth empire lady waited patiently by the door.
"Councilman Tenzin," the officer called out.
"Chief Inspector Stevenson," he returned.
"Seems I've come in during a bit of a busy period," the man commented.
"Admittedly so. What brings you to police headquarters?"
"A couple of things. Mainly, President Raiko would like me to try a hand at 'burying the hatchet' between Beifong and I. Second, in the interest of public safety, I figure it's only proper to brief the police chief on the findings of that investigation," Jun said. "Though I have a bit of a full schedule today. Is she here?" His eyes fell on Avatar Korra, widening at the delayed realization. "Avatar Korra," he monotonously observed, "You're back."
"Nice to see you again," she responded in a less-than-enthusiastic tone. She was still at odds with this man.
"I know we don't see eye-to-eye regarding the decision about Zaheer," he opened up, "But I hope in regard to our future working relation that we are able to move past that and let bygones be bygones."
"Of course," Korra said, not wanting to butt-heads with the head of the intelligence department. "I also understand we have very different opinions on the role of the avatar, but I can look past that too." Her teeth gritted as she finished the last words of the sentence.
"Outstanding," he said. "Tenzin, may we have a brief word in private?"
The airbender was caught off guard, "Certainly," he replied, gesturing towards Lin's desk.
The two men disappeared into the chaos of the operations room leaving Korra alone amid the storm. She quietly waddled over to the side by the door to get out of the way of the running officers and staff. Out of circumstance, she joined the Earth Empire officer posted by the door. She seemed friendly enough.
"Avatar Korra!" the uniformed woman greeted, realizing who she was. "It's an honor to be in your presence!"
"Hey!" Korra's spirit was somewhat lifted at this greeting. The army officer was slightly shorter than her in height and much less physically imposing. Though, something about her radiated a calm and hidden confidence and lethality. "It's nice to hear a friendly voice in here!"
"I'm sure. Everyone is so..busy and frantic. Though it's understandable," she chuckled. "Where are my manners? I'm Captain Yasuho Aoshima of the Earth Empire's 2nd Heavy Armored Division. Pleasure to meet you."
"So you are in the Earth Empire Army," Korra awkwardly responded, as if the uniform wasn't a dead giveaway. "What brings you here?"
"I'm accompanying Agent Stevenson," she simply replied.
"What's your relation?" Korra asked, not seeing how the two of them would cooperatively work together.
Yasuho turned faintly red in the cheeks, but Korra didn't notice. "He's a close friend."
"I see," Korra acknowledged. "If I gotta be honest. Some attitude on the guy," Korra commented. "I do not think he likes me."
"Oh~ Jun doesn't not like or respect you," Yasuho defended. "He's just a..very..headstrong and self-reliant person. It's his job to doubt."
"He had openly told me a few years back, that he questioned the need and significance of an avatar in the twenty-first century," Korra flatly recalled. Yasuho couldn't challenge that last sentiment. "So what brings you to Republic City," Korra asked, changing topics.
"Visiting friends. I'm on leave. Short vacation," the captain answered.
"You wear your uniform on vacation?"
Again, Yasuho was unable to reply to that.
"How is it? Working in the army under Kuvira?" Korra asked, crossing her arms and leaning back against the wall. She hoped she could gain some insight into the Earth Empire.
"Service is good. We're helping the people to a better living," Yasuho informed, folding her hands together. "It can be tiring and demanding, but that gives me fulfillment and satisfaction."
"Ah, I see," Korra acknowledged, nodding her head.
"Indeed," the captain replied, turning her head down to look over her cap's insignia as she held her cover in her hands. "The Earth Kingdom I grew up in was…much rougher compared to the Empire it is now. I'm happy to provide safety and defense for its people."
Korra's eyes wandered to the pistol holster she wore on her belt. "You use that thing often?"
Yasuho's eyes widened in slight surprise as Korra suddenly changed the subject. "Eh?" she uttered as her eyes snapped down to her holster. "Oh this? No, not really at all. I'm a metal bender after all."
"Huh."
"Avatar Korra, if I may ask. How's the recovery?" The captain's tone was that of a very sympathetic tone. "I remember vividly, that whole thing with Zaheer..That couldn't have been easy."
Korra was starting to grow tired of everyone bringing this up. "I'm doing fine, okay!"
Yasuho was startled by the avatar's sudden snap back.
"I'm sorry," she apologized. "I've just been getting asked that over and over again. I..just want to get over that and leave it behind."
"I..errr…I apologize," Captain Aoshima backed down. "I too know that feeling of frustration."
"It's not your fault," Korra calmed down. "To address your question, admittedly, it feels like I'm still being limited by something."
"It's okay to feel this way," Yasuho assured. "What you went through… that would affect anybody. More likely, anybody else would be even more affected by what you went through at the hands of that terrorist. Recovery takes time. It takes accepting what happened and realizing that you survived. Survival in itself meant that you overcame and were stronger."
"But I didn't survive," Korra countered. "I was saved. I couldn't get myself out of that situation. I-I nearly died!"
"Getting yourself out of it, or being saved, regardless, you made it out. That's what you need to come to terms with. I know it's hard, but with time you will pull through. I am sure of it," Yasuho finished, smiling warmly. She could see Jun had finished his meeting with Tenzin and the police chief.
"Looks like you guys are about to head out," Korra observed.
"Yeah, so it seems," Yasuho turned to face Korra, almost military-like out of habit. "Once again, Avatar Korra, it was a pleasure to meet you in person. I hope we can meet again in the future." She once again folded, joined her hands together in front and prepared to bow in departure, but Korra interrupted.
"Likewise," the avatar replied, extending her hand for a handshake; a habit she had picked up from her time in the US.
Taking a moment to adjust her course, the army officer gladly took hold of Korra's hand. But she paused slightly after in surprise. Yasuho could sense something. Metal? Korra was slightly taken aback when, after shaking hands, the officer would not let her hand go. Instead, Yasuho seemed to examine her hand and arm, even flipping it over.
No rings or jewelry, Yasuho thought.
"S-something the matter, Captain?"
Yasuho snapped out of it, letting Korra go. "I'm sorry!" she exclaimed, pulling her arm back by her side. "Uh, you might want to get that looked at."
"Get what looked at?" Korra asked, startled and confused.
"Everything all set," Jun spoke up, finally reaching the group.
Yasuho spun to face him, raring to go. "Taken care of?"
"Yup," the chief inspector affirmed. "All set. Let's get on with it."
"What's all set?" Korra perked up.
She had caught Jun's attention. He rested both hands on his duty belt and looked down on Korra. "Booked another criminal. One way ticket to the Boiling Rock!"
"But," Korra spoke up, "Only the Fire Nation can book prisoners there."
"So you thought, Avatar," Jun chortled. "So you thought." He flung open the door and began to depart the room, "Yasuho, let's hit it. We have a visit to a battleship planned!"
Yasuho was right on Jun's tale, but Korra took hold of the captain's hand. "Wait," she called. "Before, what were you talking about?"
"I thought I was sensing…metal," Yasuho shakily informed, uncertain if she really was sensing it correctly."
Before Korra could fully absorb and make sense of what she was told, the tank officer had returned her cap to her head and had stepped off to follow Inspector Stevenson.
"Korra!" she heard a stern voice calling from the back of the office. It was Chief Beifong. "Get back here! Let's get this over with!"
Fire Nation Royal Palace
1965
It had been a while since Joe had made a formal visit to the Fire Nation palace. There had been a few ceremonies and festivals that he observed on the Fire Nation's home island, but a visit to the palace was rare. In the twenty-three years since first being pulled into the Bending Realm, the Fire Nation particularly had undergone the most change, being home to the Japanese fleet as well as the primary port of service to many of the first ships to transfer the rift after inter-worldly travel began. Since then, the capital island also had a bustling international airport located at the base of the volcano within the continually growing metropolis of Harbor City. Marine Corps Base Capital Island, had also evolved and had become Joint Base Capital Island; a potential home port for US Navy aircraft carriers, and a logistical Air Force base which, if necessary, could be supplied to service long range B52 Stratofortress bombers.
The high roofs of the palace were now outfitted with flashing red strobe lights to warn low flying aircraft, and the facility was now protected with concealed air and ground defense armaments. However, the out aesthetic of the grounds and physical building remained largely the same as it had for centuries. Firelord Zuko had made it a point that he had wanted to preserve the cultural identity of the Fire Nation in the face of rampant modernization. Elsewhere in the world, the traditional buildings of unique design based on their respective nations and regions were being overcome, or demolished, in favor of more modern offices, housing complexes, warehouses, and skyscrapers of the Mechanized World's influences.
Agna Qel'a, the Northern Water Tribe capital city, by comparison now had steel and concrete reinforcing the ice that had guarded the city from the sea and invasion for thousands of years. The iconic fortification and barrier was now more steel and concrete than it was water and ice; gone were the days of it being exclusively made of ice and snow. Ba Sing Se now had a bustling international airport and had an electrified inter-ring train system as well as streetcar lines in the upper ring. Powerlines criss-crossed over the streets, roofs, and markets, and smoke stacks rose up and belched smoke over the lower ring's merchant quarters. The Southern Water Tribe, although having grown substantially following the end of the war, could no longer be recognized as the small fishing tribe it was when Katara and Sokka had set off with Aang after discovering him in the ice. Hotels had popped up, there was talks of a cruise ship terminal to be built and the US Navy often sends their warships there to test crew competency in freezing conditions. It was rumored that the Southern and Northern Water Tribe waters were a place for Uncle Sam to test his nuclear-powered submarines away from the eyes of the Soviet Union as well.
The Earth Kingdom was being heavily altered as well. Its army had suddenly grown to a level to match that of the pre-surrender Fire Nation. Ostrich horses and carriages had been replaced by Willys Jeeps and Tiger Tanks. Ba Sing Se now had power lines and a growing electrical grid that covered the upper ring as well as most of the middle ring. And the once large and uninterrupted expanse of the Earth Kingdom were being terraformed and redeveloped as the Japan National Railway and the Union Pacific Railroad linked the Earth Kingdom beneath the steel rails; by the iron serpents that were passenger and freight trains. After the success of the Shinkansen, built and launched in the previous year from Tokyo to Osaka, there was talk in Japan of building a similar bullet train system here in the Bending World.
Although the Fire Nation made an effort to keep up with the rest of the world regarding technology, Zuko tried to hold on to the cultural past as much as he could. Though, Joe thought it was futile and only a matter of time before even the Fire Nation would be altered by modernity.
"Present, arms!"
The pair of imperial palace guards came to a US-taught position of attention and rendered the proper hand salute that was due to the Marine Corps officer. Colonel Stevenson returned the salute, allowing the sentries to drop theirs.
"Colonel Stevenson," his aid called out, "Your items." The lance corporal handed him the leather portfolio and notebook.
"Thank you, corporal. You're dismissed," Joe excused.
"Aye, sir," the enlisted man saluted, before turning on his heel and marching off.
Colonel Stevenson followed the palace escort as he was led towards one of the inner conference chambers. The two of them passed between the towering paintings of each Fire Lord in the nation's history. Interestingly enough, Ozai's was still displayed, as well as Azula's even though her reign was comparatively short. Zuko's was the first one in the series where the Fire Lord was depicted with a kind and benevolent facial expression.
"Is the Firelord in the homeland currently?"
"Fire Lord Zuko is currently away, Colonel," the escorting man informed. "He's off-world in Washington D.C., with Avatar, if I remember correctly."
"I see," Joe said in reply. He let his eyes wander as if searching for an answer to the questions in his head somewhere in the room. Aang was probably going to say something in protest of the escalating Vietnam conflict. He was going to be in for a fun ride, if that boy-, and Joe still considered him a boy, thought that President Johnson was going to back down from an ever growing communist influence in Asia.
"This the chamber," Colonel Stevenson," the escort announced, motioning towards the grandiose doors. "She's expecting you inside."
"Thank you, sir," Joe thanked. "And, coffee, please. No sugar."
"My apologies, sir. Our kitchen has yet to acquire more coffee," the escort replied, bowing.
"Uhh..jasmine tea?"
"Right away, sir," the man acknowledged.
Entering the excessively large chamber, Joe noted all the ornate decorations, fire, and dragon motifs that were sprawled across the walls, pillars, and high ceiling. It was warm, as was always the case in these Fire Nation structures. Even though electricity and central heating and air conditioning was installed, the heater was essentially never used as flames were still favored for illumination over light fixtures. Intricate carvings of dragons wrapped around the pillars and stretched across the ceiling and walls, emphasizing the ode to original bending masters.
Placed at the very center of this large chamber was a rather long table, though small in comparison to the larger war room table, used for meetings and gatherings. Awaiting Colonel Stevenson's arrival sat two women at the far end of the fixture. There was a chair at the distant opposite end, closest to where he approached from, but Joe was not going to seat himself at that extreme distance. He walked around and down the length of the table, finally coming to a halt and pulling out the chair at the right hand of the lady who sat at the very end; who still maintained this commanding air to her even after all these years.
"Joe-san!" The other lady greeted, ecstatically, "It's been a while!"
"Akiko!" He called back. "You look like you're doing well. Life in the bending world continues to be good to you, I hope." Joe removed his barracks cover and tucked it under his arm, readying to take a seat. "Get mastery of your firebending powers yet?"
The younger woman, of the two of them, finally spoke up. "She's getting there, but still has much to learn in my opinion." The words seemed to flow and roll off her tongue as she spoke. "Major Stevenson, you're not just going to talk over me and catch up as if I don't exist, are you? It's certainly a little rude, don't you think?"
Joe looked at the lady, who resembled Akiko very closely. In contrast to the Fire Nation attire Akiko wore, she wore a well-tailored burgundy skirt suit. "It's Colonel now, Azula," he corrected, standing behind the chair he pulled out. There was a brief but awkward pause as Joe waited for her permission to take a seat.
"Go ahead," she sighed, gesturing to the chair. "So, what brings our favorite Marine officer back to the Fire Nation palace? And to see me specifically."
Colonel Stevenson set the forest green barracks cover of his service uniform down on the table neatly, taking a seat. "Well, this time it's not a wellness check in, that's for sure," he chuckled. "I mean…do I have to, even? You have good company," he said gesturing to Akiko, "Had good company for the past couple of decades now. Not in a prison. And! Well…you're not exactly fourteen anymore, are ya? If I remember…now… thirty-seven?"
Azula rolled her eyes. She didn't need to be reminded of her age. Akiko, chuckled a bit to herself.
"No-, rather," Joe continued, "I came to consult with you about military predictions. Err..I came to get some of your military insight."
"Really?" Azula's ears seemed to perk up at this. It had been a while since anyone asked, or…she was openly allowed to go on record about military advising or discussion. She uncrossed her legs, sat up, and even leaned in closer. "Surely, you aren't coming here alone on this matter."
The aid re-entered the chamber silently and was now distributing cups of tea. Joe received his with both hands, just as Akiko did. Azula didn't give the man attention and let him simply set hers down on the table before her. She still wasn't so interested in tea.
"You'd be right," the colonel answered. "I'm not here on my own interests, actually."
"What does the commandant of the Marine Corps want?" Azula asked.
"Not just the Marine Corps. The Department of Defense," Joe clarified. "The Pentagon is interested in the ongoing and the future situation in the Bending World."
"Is President Johnson afraid of a communism outbreak or something? I can assure you that's not going to happen anytime soon, you know."
"You're sure about that?" Joe asked briefly, as he began taking paper and pen out from his briefcase.
"Of course. It won't happen here in the Fire Nation, with all this western influence. The Water Tribes also are too heavily at the whim, for now, of the Mechanized World. The Earth Kingdom…even though there are problems and a mix of praise and disdain for the Earth King…if a revolution was going to happen, it would have happened already."
"I see," the colonel remarked. "That's good, then."
"You know," Azula provoked, "You're not going to win in Vietnam."
Joe paused. Especially knowing that it was his boys, US Marines, being sent into the jungles. "How are you so sure?"
"Because it's their home," Azula further prodded. "If they lose they'll have nowhere left to go. It's not in your best interests to fight this war the way you guys are going about it."
Joe held his tongue. He despised communism, and the growing trouble posed by North Vietnam, just as what transpired in Korea. The north was also murdering their own people, an internal purge set forth by the communist regime. In his eyes, not only was it important to prevent Eisenhower's so-called Domino Effect from occurring, but right and just to protect the Vietnamese, former allies of the West, from being massacred by their own radicals. He was on the fence though about having boots on the ground sent into the fighting in growing numbers, however.
"If you were serious about it," Azula carried on, "And you really wanted to crush the north. You would need to actually crush them. None of this installing a puppet government, you'd need to properly occupy the country. Reprogram them."
"That's enough," Joe stopped the former princess from continuing.
Azula smirked, and settled back into her chair. "Well," she purred, "Of course. I'm just talking hypothetically after all. So, what is it Uncle Sam wants to know?"
Colonel Stevenson cleared his throat.
"That's too cruel," Akiko quietly said to her friend.
Azula responded quietly, "It's just conjecture. Obviously, I'm not suggesting they actually do that."
"Well, Azula," the colonel began. "Out of the previous Fire Nation leadership left over from the War. Among those that were, admittedly, very capable, and that are still alive. You're one of the last ones remaining. The rest are either dead, were killed in the war, or retired so hard, we can't find them."
"Why don't you ask any of Zuzu's current chiefs of staff?"
"Well, they're all…say..very optimistic and are..idealists in this notion that the world will continue to stay this peaceful," Joe admitted.
"Well what do you expect? Him and Aang are both…delusional at times, to put it nicely. Sometimes they fail to accept reality," Azula commented. Joe noted how she mentioned the avatar by name. A very nice improvement from the past.
"Yes..well, I'm sure you know the both of them are over there right now trying to get an audience with the President, trying to convince him to somehow make amends with the Soviet Union," Joe grumbled. "Don't get me wrong, I respect the kid. Now more than when we first met but…yeah… Anyway," Joe refocused, getting his pen ready. "The Pentagon is, as you know, busy and is currently monitoring the situation of the worlds! Not just Vietnam. War and peace..it's this inevitable cycle. And Uncle Sam wants to be prepared for anything. Contingency and readiness, essentially. In your view, in this world, who is likely to instigate another global conflict?"
Azula leaned back in her chair and pondered for a bit. Her eyes swept about in their sockets, and her eyelids narrowed as she squinted, she crossed her arms as well, but just for a brief moment before she straightened out and had a reply ready. "Well," she began, "It's not going to be us. To get that off the table right away."
"Then who?" Joe and Akiko both leaned in on the table to hear her answer.
"It could be the water tribe," the former princess began. "Though, I'd say there's a fifty-fifty chance of that happening. The two tribes have been existing in harmony on polar opposites of the world just fine. The real reason why that would start is..maybe..one of them believes the other has slipped too far away from tradition? Since they're both sooo spiritually focused. At any rate, such a move, politically and militarily would likely hail from the Northern Tribe since they have the greater naval fleet and army."
Joe's pen flew across the page as he scribbled as much of what Azula was saying as fast as he could. "Go on."
"If there was the 'inevitable' war. The one that is, in my opinion, the most certain…it would come from the Earth Kingdom."
"Why do you think that? What grounds?"
Azula didn't even have to think. She had a lot of experience operating in the Earth Kingdom. Afterall, not too long ago, in her memory, she toppled the hollow facade of a government and was able to temporarily claim the monarchy, after all. Leaving the Earth Kingdom under the rule of Joo-Dee between the Fall of Ba Sing Se, and the coming of Sozin's Comet, was even more remarkable that no one was able to seize back power from within. "Let's see. They're disorganized. The Earth King, Kuei, is-...and forgive me-... an idiot. There is far too much crime in..well, everywhere that isn't Ba Sing Se and Omashu! Has been that way for thousands of years! There is a lot, and that's an understatement, of discontent among the people and a low quality of life. And, on top of that, for the nationalists of the Earth Kingdom, Aang and Zuko essentially cut off a massive chunk of its western sovereign territory to form the United Republic. Even after Kuei tried to retake it by force and eventually agreed in its formation, there were a lot that saw it as seizure of Earth Kingdom territory. No different from when France was practically gifted the Rhineland after the First World War. I don't think I need to remind you of what happened following that. Hell, the Earth Kingdom is even mass producing and fielding German weapons! MG42s and Panzer tanks."
"How do you think-...No… If it were you," Joe rephrased his question. "If you were going to direct the Earth Kingdom war machine. How would you do it? A full on land and air invasion? Tanks and aircraft being used to overthrow the monarchy and force its people into allegiance?"
"No," Azula answered concisely. "No blitzkrieg. The following would have to be built up and convinced to follow from within. I'd wait for a window to seize power again, with less force than last time. I'd want to be someone with authority and a following already within the armed forces. That, likely, won't be hard. Especially given the right opportunity."
"And the people? Won't they back the monarchy?"
"No, they won't." She sipped her tea. "Because I would play off of their disdain and suffering, rightfully so given how often they are victimized by the gangs. They'd fall right into ranks. And then, when the moment comes to light, I would give them the choice."
"Serve or die?"
"No. I'd give them the democratic choice. I'd have them elect me to rule. Between choosing between me, who protects the people, prosecutes the criminals, and is actually…competent…and not some soiled royal oaf, it would be a very easy choice between wanting me to rule, and putting the monarchy back in power."
Joe finished writing and set his pen down. "So just like Admiral Yamamoto said in parting when he left this world."
Azula tried to recall the IJN officer saying that, but couldn't. Rather she said, "Just like history has said."
Bolin was anxious as he stood on the sidelines of a grandiose stage before a mass of people, soldiers, foreign visitors, and reporters on the grounds of the former Earth Kingdom royal palace. It was a historic site that had seen the rise and fall of numerous regimes and rulers throughout the millennia, from the many Earth Kings, to the Fire Nation occupation, the prior Earth Queen, and now the seat of the Earth Empire's central governing body.
To him, the Empire had undoubtedly created a better world for the Earth Kingdom as a whole. People no longer had to worry about crime. Trade increased, and as a result the flow of money improved. The economy was at the highest it ever had been for the entire existence of the Earth Kingdom's ancient history. Even the poor, a perspective that both he and his brother could relate to, were now better off, with the Earth Empire having drafted several of the impoverished into its work and military forces. He had seen first hand, those with nothing turning into upstanding citizens with comfortable lifestyles as he traveled around and made the inspections with Kuvira and Bataar Jr. From this regard, everything was great.
But on the other hand, his closest circle seemed to oppose and question everything. It was annoying at the least, sometimes concerning at the most. The last time he and Mako had spoken they had a rather heated argument about the Earth Empire's doings in the countryside. On one hand, Bolin had seen nothing but greatness and compassion; he had even ridden with the 2nd Armored Division on a few aid missions to severely struggling towns and villages. However, Mako claimed a different recollection, saying he had heard of terror and violence on those that disagreed in the slightest; tales of tanks decimating towns and villages with their cannons, and the ruthless execution of common thieves. Opal, his…ex-girlfriend..had all but walked out on him the moment he joined the ranks. She wouldn't even speak to him on the matter, or about anything at all. She had essentially cut him out of her life. Suyin, Chief Beifong, Tenzin, and Asami as well all had similar opposing views. He believed in the cause he was serving, but with seemingly all of his closest friends accusing him it felt wrong at times.
"Bolin, it is great to see you again. I've heard nothing but good about you while I was away in the Mechanized World," Kuvira greeted Bolin with a firm handshake and a friendly hug. "Thank you for holding the fort down while we were gone. I had no doubt you could handle it."
"My pleasure," he replied, with a joyful, slightly concerned, tune. "Everything all set?"
"I'm about to go on," she answered, patting him on the shoulder with a smile. "And thanks to your hard work communicating and advocating with the public, in addition to the hard work of our soldiers and staff, I think we are now poised to make a great change in our communities- No- Our World." She looked at Bolin then the rest of her entourage of staff officers, soldiers, government members, and secretary personnel, as to convey her appreciation to the rest of them as well. "The past six years! All of our hard work! It's all come down to this moment! It's all thanks to you! Today, we will write history!"
A crescendo of cheers and applause came from her large staff, and the influence poured into the reporters and then the crowd as they were made aware of Kuvira's arrival. Cameras were aimed at the stairs to the large stage, broadcasting around the worlds. Viewers in Republic City, Agna Qel'a; the Northern Water Tribe Capital City, Hari Bulkan; the Fire Nation Capital City, Omashu, Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Moscow, Berlin, Paris, London, New York, Toronto, Houston, Mexico City, Los Angeles, and Honolulu, among numerous other cities and states, were tuned in to watch the coming State of the Empire address. Everyone was anxious and curious to know what was coming next.
Kuvira ascended to the stage and took her place at the podium. The Earth Kingdom Imperial Palace behind her with the forest green banner of the Empire draped over its traditional insignia. Suited and uniformed agents of the Dai Li, high ranking officers of the military, and several government officials and ministers were seated in the rows of chairs behind Kuvira. There were numerous flags blowing in the morning breeze, formations of sharply dressed soldiers, patriotic marches and music played from the Earth Empire Ba Sing Se Division 1st Army Band, and tanks and other military equipment on display. The moment Kuvira took center stage, from behind the balance, came the roar of a 747-400, painted in the green and silver livery of Emerald Airways, flanked by two Empire-produced F-86 Saber fighter jets, each aircraft drawing a thick and colorful green yellow and white smoke trail, and representing the economic and military strength of the nation. The crowd went wild with pride and excitement.
"How are you fairing, Bolin?" Bataar Jr. asked the adjutant man-to-man. "It's a lot to take in, isn't it?"
Bolin nervously stuttered, as he often did, as his mind raced from one word to the next erratically when he was nervous. "Oh yeah! Everything's great! The crowds cheering! The music's inspiring! You and Kuvira are back! The progress! And the jets flying over! It's totally awesome, you know!"
"You look uncertain about something," Bataar said with concern. "It's okay to tell us."
Bolin put his hands in his pockets. "It's nothing, really. Just, despite everything we've done…all my friends, my brother, my girlfriend, they just..all seem to resent me. When it's literally all of them against me..it just feels isolating."
Bataar sucked his teeth, "Well. I think I, too, know this feeling. From my own mother and father- my family of all people!" He patted the young man on the back, trying to raise his spirits. "Take it from me, Bolin. We are doing the right thing here. And regardless of what you do, there are always going to be..haters. In this case, they are resisting change. Change can be scary, I'll admit. But it's inevitable, and it's for the better. We've read how scary it seemed when Aang first ventured into the other world. By comparison, this is just something that should have happened billions of years ago. Rest assured, sooner or later, I'm sure they'll all come around."
Bolin felt his spirit somewhat lift up. "Thanks," he said, grinning.
"That's the spirit. Now come one!" Bataar Jr. exclaimed. "Join us on stage, for the worlds to see!"
The two of them quickly shuffled onto the stage and took their seats beside some prominent military officers. Bolin sat next to Colonel Guan, a notable Earth Empire Intelligence Officer from its Southern Forces.
"Ladies and Gentlemen!" Kuvira announced over the loudspeakers. "My fellow countrymen, beloved supporters, diligent workers, and brave soldiers, sailors, and airmen, of our armed forces! It is my honor to stand before you today humbled and proud to have led you this far and to have achieved, cooperatively, so much!"
The crowd applauded and cheered.
"The past six years have been challenging. Many have doubted it was possible. When I was placed to lead, the country was in shambles! Crime and disorder rampant, Ba Sing Se, a symbol of the Earth Kingdom, was being gutted and razed to the ground. It took perseverance, diligence, strength, and a lot of love for this country and, more importantly, its people, to get to where we are today, but six years later we now prosper at the edge of wealth and progress in the Bending World! It has been a long, steep, and constant uphill battle; but in merely six years, we have accomplished what other world powers have done in hundreds! What the monarchy had failed to do in thousands of years, and still fails to do!"
Boos erupted sporadically from within the spectators. It helped that Prince Wu himself was seated on stage, at the far end from Kuvira and staff, sulking.
Kuvira raised a hand, and instantly the crowd went silent.
"The leaders of this world, namely those in Republic City; a foreign power; now, after all this progress, want me to step down and return the responsibility of leading you into the future- into prosperity- into the hands of royalty. Joining us today, please welcome, his highness, Prince Wu!" Kuvira quickly swung around and gestured to the prince, who just stood up to receive applause.
Crickets. Murmuring. It was silent. But the silence quickly evolved into boos and more demeaning words and phrases aimed at the prince.
Kuvira raised her hand once more. And again, silence. "I admit. The terms to which I accepted this leadership role from, was originally temporary. I had agreed to cede power back to Wu, after a certain period of time. Admittedly, I am over the original deadline, by three years." She paused. "But I had to assert and fight for that position to begin with!" Kuvira quickly rebounded with a fierce call to arms. "Originally, the leaders, people with no ties to the People of the Earth, wanted to default to Suyin Beifong to take control of the situation of unrest following the murder of the Earth Queen by the terrorist Zaheer. Someone, who not only was too focused on her own city and neglected the rest of the you who live outside the safe walls of Zaofu, but also someone who resisted and turned her back to you! The common folk! The ones who truly suffer at the hands of uncontrolled crime and violence! Here where you are robbed, beaten, starving, or murdered, while the Metal Clan and the members of the Royal Court hide behind walls of platinum and stone! With no avatar present to control the fires of undrest, I was compelled to do something! Anything! And set out to Ba Sing Se to aid in taming the worst riots and crime sprees the city has seen since the Third Uprising!"
The crowds' roars grew and grew!
"I asserted and secured that role, and together we secured the city. We saved the vulnerable! And I punished the criminals! We gained a voice with the Mechanized World, one more prominent than ever before and now we have become a strong world power, on par or even surpassing other nations in existence. We can now protect our people and defend our territories! Our poor are now employed, taken care of, housed, fed, and self-sufficient! And it is all thanks to our cooperative efforts!" She paused here and waited for the crowd to settle down to a low roar before continuing. "If I am to cede power back to the royalty..I can say, I would be satisfied with what we have become and what we have achieved together. If necessary, I would be content."
There was silence. A different kind. Not of judgment, but of disappointment. Spirits, crushed.
"We don't want that spoiled idiot! We stand with the Great Uniter!"
"We won't go back!"
"DON'T STEP DOWN! DON'T HAND US OVER!" the crowd started to repeatedly and rhythmically chant. Over and over again, their cries were broadcast around the worlds! People in Republic City, Agna Qel'a, Hari Bulkan, Omashu, Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Moscow, Berlin, Paris, London, New York, Toronto, Houston, Mexico City, Los Angeles, and Honolulu, among numerous other cities and states, clearly heard this call.
Bolin was concerned, slightly frightened at what he could see. But inside, he was conflicted. He didn't know what to feel. The former pro-bender and movie star turned to look at Prince Wu, silenced and ashamed.
Kuvira got back on the microphone above their cheers. "Original terms aside, situations change! People change! And things need to adapt!"
Cheers! A fury of them.
"As your current leader, it would be irresponsible- No!- Unethical for me not to take into account the will of the people! Therefore, I propose a new way forward! For the first time in thousands of years of existence, the Earth Empire will have a democratic election! And not by state! Not by territory! But by each and every individual vote! One week from now, we will see exactly who you as the majority feel should be incharge of leading the Empire! I will honor this decision wholeheartedly!" Somehow the applause grew higher than before. "I thank you for your support, your dedication, and your perseverance! It has been my honor to lead for the past six years, and it is my hope that I continue to earn your favor for the years going forward!"
In closing, the Great Uniter stepped out from behind the podium and gave a solemn bow towards the crowds. Soldiers in formation snapped to attention and rendered salutes. The crowds of civilians mimicked this too. "All Hail the Great Uniter!" they chanted and chanted until Kuvira and her staff had fully departed, leaving behind Prince Wu and Bolin.
"All Hail the Great Uniter!"