Hatred runs deep
After last night's fiasco, the stadium had to be closed down for safety reasons and crime scene testimony by the chief of police. As such, the two brothers had no choice but to leave their only place to live.
The mood was sober. "I still can't believe they're shutting this place down," Mako finished packing his stuff.
"I know what you mean, bro," Bolin agreed from where he was sitting on the floor. "We had some good memories here, didn't we?" It was this place they had good memories and probably avoided the brothers hanging with the wrong crowd.
"Guys!" shouted Korra as she came to their apartment. "Great news! You don't have to go back on the street. I talked to Tenzin and made all the arrangements. You can come live on Air Temple Island with me!"
"Don't worry, there's plenty of room as long as you're all on good behavior." Minato was alright after yesterday when Korra healed him; his injuries are all healed, which is both goodand weird as her healing powers weren't that good. Korra wanted to ask, but knowing Minato enough, he probably didn't know.
"Oh, we'd love to, but..."
"Asami already invited us to live in her dad's giant mansion! From here on out, it's going to be the lap of luxury for us," holding Mako in a one-armed hug.
Of course Korra was disappointed, not because the two brothers declined her invitation but because it was Asami.
"Oh hey, Korra," "I was hoping you would stop by." Asami appeared out of Mako's bedroom holding Pabu.
"I was just leaving. So, I guess I'll see you guys around some time." Korra felt annoyed that her plans were thwarted.
Minato was no fool, as Korra still likes Mako, and irritated that Asami is hogging him, he blamed Pema. The problem is Asami is a nice person; she didn't do this out of spite but kindness. It's rare to find someone who is both rich and still humble towards those below them.
And probably irritates her even more. Korra can't hate her at all.
"Why not tomorrow?" I'd love to have you come visit the estate, and you and Minato should come. I talked to dad, and he agreed that you should come."
"I don't know. I have some... Avatar stuff to do."
"Come on, Korra," Bolin said, holding Pabu up in front of Korra's face. "We all deserve a little rest and relaxation after all this craziness. We could swim in Asami's pool. It'll be fun!"
She couldn't help but laugh at that. "All right, Pabu," she agreed.
"I'll be there, Asami." Minato agreed.
"Great," Asami said as she went to Mako's side. "We'll see you tomorrow." They waved Korra goodbye as she went down the stairs.
They were riding on Naga wandering around the city as it was never the same the bustling people are no more everything was quiet the tension was high. And people rarely walk on the streets anymore and metal benders patrolling the city for any sign of Equalists.
"Korra you need to let go that feeling Mako already has a girlfriend and he rejected your confession" Minato giving Korra an advice.
"I know it's just … just give me time" Korra still trying to let go her crush.
"I understand but please don't ma make it a habit" Even Minato has his patient.
It was quiet during the ride until Korra decided to speak. " Minato I'm sorry about what happen yesterday the pain and torture you had to endure" it was guilt Korra felt.
"Korra I already told you it's not your fault"
"No it is my fault rather than going after Amon I should have pritorized the civilian safety first maybe I couldn't have notice whit happen to you and prevented it,. " Korra for the first time was afraid losing someone she care the fear was different than Amon taking her bending" I almost panic and don't want to do seeing you like that I'm sorry " She admitted her fault.
" Korra it's alright like I said I don't blame you just try to stay positive for tomorrow we could use a break from what happen yesterday" Minato didn't hold anything againts Korra as she belive capturing Amon was important.
"Yeah your right a break" Korra doesn't feel the thrill .
The police raided a warehouse and found weapons that Equalists were using, and Cabbage Corp. was collaborating with Equalists. As such, the chief of police is putting Ganlong in custody and freezing his assets. If that wasn't enough, Minato and Korra are to be interrogated about what happened during the night of the finals; they even meet Tahno, who is now an NB. Talk about Karma.
They looked up to see Lin and Tenzin walking out with Hiroshi. "If you remember anything else about what you saw during Amon's attack, be sure to let us know."
"I'm happy to help in any way I can. I want these Equalists to pay for what they've done."
Lin turned to Tahno. "We're ready for you now."
"See you around, Avatar," Tahno said with a salute and left. While he was gone, Hiroshi saw Minato with the avatar and walked straight towards him.
Hiroshi put his arm on Minato's shoulder. "Are you alright, my boy? I heard what happened to you." He heard the news about how the Blunette was tortured by the Equalists during the attack.
"It's alright, Hiroshi. I'm fine, nothing broken, Korra. Manage to heal me from the bruise that happened yesterday." Minato is trying to reassure his friend.
Hiroshi bows towards Korra. "Thank you, young avatar, for saving Minato, and I would like to apologize that I am unable to do anything to help you in dire need."
"It's the least I could do, sir. Minato is someone important to me," Korra said.
"No need to apologize, Hiroshi; it's not your fault even if you don't know what to do in such a situation, as Asami safety was your only concern." Minato understood.
"Yes, she was the only light and hope in my heart during these dire times; however, I still need to apologize again on behalf of my family and myself."
It was strange that one of Republic City's richest men apologized for something beyond his control, but Minato was concerned because it was personal.
Korra inquired, "Out of curiosity, why are you so concerned about Minato? Not that anything is wrong, but you are his employer, according to what I've heard".
Hiroshi explained without a hint of a lie, "Minato Arisato isn't just a worker; he is my friend and like a son to me."
"Thank you, and you're like a father figure to me, Hiroshi," Minato replied with a small smile.
Korra, who had just heard this, felt a tiny bit of jealousy in her heart that Minato regards Hiroshi like a father.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but these two need to be asked questions about yesterday's event." Lin came after Tahno finished his talk. And it was short; either he didn't have the spirit to talk about anything or just wanted to go home early.
"Apologies, chief Beifong, one moment, please." Hiroshi looks at the Bluenette. Asami told me that she invited both of you to the mansion," Hiroshi asked.
"Yes. She did," Minato said.
"Then I gladly welcome you to come to my home and relax after what happened yesterday; it's the least I could do."
"Thank you."
Next day, Sato Mansion.
"Tanaka, it's me, Minato Arisato," as the door to the mansion opens.
"Ah, Master Minato, it's good to see you again. Tanaka greeted a familiar guest that he liked. Unlike the two ruffians, this is the only person that has earned the butler's respect." The master and mistress told me of your arrival.
"Thank you, and this is Avatar Korra."
"Pleasure to meet you, Avatar Korra, and if you would follow to meet the mistress she's been expecting you." Tanaka turned around to start walking. Both Korra and Minato followed him. Korra tried her best not to gawk at the interior. "Spirits, this place looks like something out of a book." Korra looked around in awe. "Why didn't you tell me that you got invited once to the mansion?"
"You never asked."
As they were led downstairs to the pool, they could hear someone shouting, "Earthbending bomb!"
"Sounds like Bolin is having a blast," as they finally entered the pool room. Besides the pool were a couple of long chairs that looked pristine.
"Avatar Korra and Mr. Minato have arrived," the butler announced to the two of them in a formal voice.
"Hey guys!" Mako called them from where he leaned.
"Glad you could make it!" Asami told them both from where she sat on the pool's edge, close to Mako. They wore bathing suits of the same color and were probably a match on purpose.
"Welcome to paradise!" he declared before floating on his back in the water.
"Looks like you guys have settled right in," said the small sarcasm as she sat down on one of the chairs. Minato took the other one and relaxed fully.
"Pretty much," Mako agreed as he and Asami started swimming towards the two of them. "Except someone forgot to ask her father if we could stay here."
Asami smiled at him. "Yes, you could. And if you have doubts about it, just remember that it's easier to seek forgiveness than permission. Besides, I'd smoothed it over with my dad."
Bolin came out of the pool and went over to Korra, Pabu riding on his shoulder. "This is the greatest place on this side of the planet! Watch this, watch this." He looked at the butler and said with a more formal voice, "Fetch me my towel, good sir."
"Yes, Master…Bolin,"
"Master Bolin!". "Ha! I love this guy. Now pat me dry."As the butler approached,
"As you wish," the butler sighed in annoyance, unfolding the towel. He began drying off the earthbender at a speed that was very impressive to watch.
Bolin enjoyed it. "Don't forget Master Pabu."
"Wouldn't dream of it, sir." The butler is drying the ferment with impressive speed. When he was done, Pabu was dried, but his fur was all bushy.
Bolin looked up at the ferret. "Hm, he does have a point, little buddy. Don't worry; I know a way to fix that!" Without warning, he jumped right back into the pool. Tanaka was annoyed that all his work had gone down the drain.
"So, what do you have planned for us today?" Korra asked Asami as she swam near. "Let me guess: shopping, makeovers..."
Bolin, who was in the middle of water wrestling with his brother. "Ooh, ooh, I vote for makeovers!" he declared before getting attacked by his brother.
Asami said as she came out of the pool gracefully. "I had something a little more exciting in mind."
"Yeah?" asked Korra with a heavy amount of skepticism. "Like what?"
XXX
It turned out to be a trip to the racetrack where Future Industries test-drove the Satomobiles they created. Korra was in the back seat. Asami is the driver, and they were racing against Minato, who won again.
"That was amazing!" she declared as she hopped out of the Satomobile. "We lost, but it was fun."
"Well, you can't be afraid to mix it up sometimes." Asami removed her helmet. "I almost beat you, Minato."
"Almost Asami, you still have 10 years to beat me in your own game." Minato also removed his helmet.
Korra took her helmet off as well. "I gotta admit, I had you pegged wrong. I thought you were kind of...prissy. Eh, no offense!"
"It's all right; people usually assume that I'm daddy's helpless little girl, but I can handle myself. I mean, I've been in self-defense classes since I was this high." "My dad made sure I would be able to protect myself."
"Smart guy," the Avatar acknowledged.
XXX
Korra is washing her hands in the restroom. Dries with a towel before noticing a powder puff beside the sink. With trepidation, she lifts the puff by its handle and raises it to her face. She roughly slams the puff onto her face.
"Cough!" Korra coughs because she doesn't know how to utilize makeup being a tomboy. She steps out of the restroom, still coughing. She walks down the corridor till she stops when she hears Hiroshi speak.
Out of curiosity, she peeks through the keyhole and Korra sees Hiroshi sitting at his desk with his back turned. "No, no, I assure you." Everything is going exactly as planned. Mmm, yes. Luckily, the Cabbage Corp. investigation has bought us enough time. Trust me. By the end of the week, we'll be ready to strike."
Hiroshi slams the handset down on the phone; Korra then runs back down the hall.
Hiroshi pulled something from the cupboard, poured himself wine, and drank the entire glass to ease his anxiety. He was more worried about what happened to Minato than about the plan. Minato was actually like a son he never had and cherished.
Since meeting the boy, his life, as well as that of his daughter Asami, has altered. Hiroshi knew how difficult it was for her to make genuine friends, and Minato has no hidden goal in befriending him and Asami. The boy gave him several good ideas for the city, particularly for the non-benders.
He recalls how everyone was pleased and excited about the satomobile race event, which allowed everyone in Republic City to join in a competition unlike pro-bending. A large portion of his heart rejoiced at the sight of the arena being shut down.
Opening an orphanage to aid other children who have been abused. Also included are suggestions for developing equipment that could aid the police department, among other topics. The boy would have been an excellent protégé under his wing.
Hiroshi wanted his daughter to be engaged to Minato in the near future, once the revolution was ended. He would like the boy to be his son-in-law.
But witnessing Asami with a bender made his blood boil, but he stayed calm for the sake of the cause. And he simply needed the appropriate moment to explain to his daughter that he is an Equalist member and is fighting for her future.
But seeing his friend being brutalized made him wonder, what happens to individuals who have connections with benders? Will they suffer under Amon's regulations, and what will become of the former benders? He understands that some people harbor grudges.
Lightning bolt Zolt and his followers were discovered dead, most likely killed by people who had a hatred for him. With the triad leader benderless, he was most likely dethroned with his followers and murdered that night.
Hiroshi then saw a picture of his wife smiling and cuddling Asami remembering his reason for why he became an Equalist. "II cannot falter; I've come too far to stop." He has made his decision.
XXX
In the main hall, the three teens are watching as Bolin poses for the butler, who is squirting perfume at him for whatever reason before Korra runs past without even looking at them.
"Korra?"
"You're leaving? But I thought-"
"Sorry, I forgot, I'm supposed to air sit… I mean baby-bend… I mean babysit the Airbender kids and Minato your coming with me " as she grab Minato wrist pull him away ". See you later!" Korra said before leaving.
XXX
Later, that night, Minato and Korra talked to Tenzin and Lin in the police building as she finished explaining what she heard. "So, you think Mr. Sato manufactured those gloves for the Equalists, then framed Cabbage Corp?" Tenzin asked as Lin was skeptical.
"That's a bold accusation. But what proof do you have?" Lin remarked. "
Korra admitted. "Well, I don't exactly have proof? But I know what I heard. Sato's up to something."
"He does have the means and he has a motive," she admitted
"That's right," Tenzin agreed.
"A motive?" What is it?" korra asked curious
The Air Nomad looked at her. "Twelve years ago, the Agni Kai Triad robbed Sato's mansion. A Firebender killed Sato's wife during the break in." Tenzin explained
"That's terrible." She justdidn't expect.
"It was tragic." "It's possible that he's harbored anti-Bending sentiments all along," he said Lin. Has he told you the story?" Tenzin stared at the Bluenette.
"He did tell me what happened, but when I'm with him, he doesn't appear to be harboring any ill intent," but Minato stated that when the word bending was uttered, Hiroshi's body would harden, and he apologised to him as if he had done something wrong, "although I cannot deny the suspicion, especially the shock gloves, which are something only future industries could build."
That drew the metalbender's attention. "Why did you say that?"
"The design is comparable to future industries. I've seen their work previously. But you must understand that if Sato is guilty, it is not his fault." Minato attempted to defend his friend.
It makes sense, but she cannot show favoritism until proven guilty. "Perhaps we should look at Mr. Sato a little more closely, But we won't do it tonight."
"Why not?" inquired Korra.
"It's almost midnight, kid. You should be in bed by now." She walked past her and Tenzin to the door, opening it and walking through.
Korra just stared at the door as it closed. "She could've said that some way else,"
"Tenzin you of all people know he's just a victim" Minato said to the airnomad.
"I understand, but his actions would endanger Republic City, which I cannot allow," Tenzin said with a sorrowful heart.
"If his guilty let me talk to him first let me try convicting him that to stop this madness" Minato was intrigued by the idea.
"Very well but if he attacks and you know we can't hold back"
True to his word, Hiroshi let the police search his factories and warehouses for any sign that he had been in league with the Equalists. But they couldn't find anything that led him to collaborate with terrorists. Korra and Minato approached Tenzin, and Lin, atop Naga, climbing down when she got closer. "I can't believe that we didn't find anything," she said.
"It would appear Hiroshi is innocent," Lin said to her.
"Okay, you did your search," Asami didn't like them accusing her father. "Now you can leave. And Minato, of all people, you would have trusted my father."
"I do trust him, and this is the only way to prove his innocence." Minato was skeptical.
Meanwhile, Mako and Korra stepped away from the others to have a somewhat private talk. "So, I hope you're convinced now," he said to her.
"No, I'm not! I don't care how cooperative Hiroshi is being; I know he's lying." she replied
"Why are you doing this? Are you that jealous of me and Asami?"
She gasped in surprise. "What? Don't be ridiculous! That has nothing to do with it!" She felt insulted that Mako would call her shallow.
"If you don't drop this, consider our friendship over."
"I'm sorry. Hiroshi is not the man you think he is."
Mako scoffed and walked away with Asami.
While she was waiting, she felt someone's hand press a piece of paper into her hand. She turned around to see who it was but had no luck; she couldn't tell them apart.
She read the paper in her hand and then immediately turned to Tenzin, Minato, and Lin. "I think you guys should hear this."
She told them before reading the paper again. "'If you want to find the truth, meet me under the north end of the Silk Road Bridge at midnight.'"
"What do you think?" Lin asked him.
When midnight came, Korra, Minato Lin, and Tenzin went to the described location.. "Psst, over here," a voice spoke from behind one of the bridge support columns. From out behind it came a guy in a heavy coat and hat pulled down against his head. It was obvious that he was trying to keep his identity and the fact that he was there a secret.
"We got your message, what do you want?" Korra asked him.
"Listen, I joined the Equalists because I believed in what Amon said. I thought he could make life better for us Nonbenders. But I didn't sign up for this…this war," he told them.
"What do you have on Hiroshi Sato?" Lin asked.
"He manufactured those gloves for the Equalists."
"I knew it!" Korra declared.
"So it's true he really is member of the Equalists". Minato admitted that his friend was collaborating with terrorists.
"And there are rumors he's working on something even bigger. Some new kind of weapon," The informant continued.
"We search all of Future Industries and found nothing," Tenzin already heard from Lin they already search high and low even the bathrooms.
"That's because he has a secret factory."
"Where?" asked Korra.
"It's right underneath the Sato mansion."
All four of the questioners gasped in surprise at those words. "How do you know that for sure?" Lin demanded right away. "Have you been there?"
"No, but I've kept my ear to the ground." He looked around any sign of trouble fearing that what he said would be heard . "That's all I can give you. Anymore and I'll be in trouble ." He turned around and walked away before any of them could stop him.
"Hiding in plain sight close at home he would have an alibi and able to work in secret a very familiar character that I can't remember but similar" Minato felt like someone he knew with a bat theme symbol.
Everyone just ignored Minato and focus on what's important arresting Hiroshi Sato before he became a threat.
Even though they didn't have hard evidence of what he had told them, Lin called in an airship with Metalbenders to take them to the Sato mansion.
"Raiding the Sato mansion is a risky move with Tarrlok breathing down your neck, If we're wrong…" Tenzin warning Lin .
"I know. I can kiss my job goodbye, But protecting Republic City is all I care about. We can't let Amon get his hands on this new weapon."
XXX
The doors burst open, and cops quickly filled the room, intent on finding something or someone. Bolin threw his hands, completely surprised. "I'm innocent!" he shouted.
Mako was displeased. "Bo, put your hands down."
"What are you doing here?" Asami demanded as the cops continued searching.
"We have reason to believe that there's a factory hidden below the mansion," Lin told her as Tenzin, Korra, and Minato came in behind her.
"I think I would've noticed if there was a factory underneath my house. The lies you people come up with just to persecute my father." Asami already had enough with the accusation.
"Where is your father?" Tenzin asked her.
"In his workshop, behind the house," she answered.
XXX
But to their surprise, there was no Hiroshi. There were shelves, corkboards, boxes, tools, and engines scattered all over the room but no Hiroshi. Asami saw this as she came in and was a little concerned. "Dad?" she called out. "Hello?"
The cops searched every inch of the place, only to find nothing. "Chief, the estate's been secured. No one has left the workshop since we arrived."
"Perhaps we just couldn't see him leaving." Lin ambles out into the center of the room, her hands clasped behind her back. She stops, turns around, and then abruptly raises her leg tight against her body. The bottom of her metal boot retracts, revealing the barefoot within, then she stomps down on the floor. Using one of her bending abilities, echolocation
"There's a tunnel beneath the workshop, running deep into the mountainside."
"What? There's no tunnel." Asami spoke up.
Lin looks down at the empty patch of floor, then takes an earthbending stance and rips metal off the floor with a wave of both arms. The entire group approaches the hole and looks down to see a braced, dark tunnel with an industrial elevator just below a flight of metal stairs.
"Do you think your dad knows about this tunnel?" Bolin asked Asami in a whisper.
"I don't understand. There must be an explanation."
"Maybe you don't know everything about your dad," Korra told her, her voice turning gentle for a moment. "I'm sorry."
"Officers, into the tunnel," Lin ordered her men, and they moved. "Be cautious." When Asami, Mako, and Bolin tried to follow, she stopped them. "You three stay up here. Officer Song, keep an eye on them."
"Wait, why can't we go? Minato can go, and his a-" Bolin quickly shut his mouth before saying anything offensive.
"Is that a what, Bolin? I want you to say it out loud." Minato wasn't in the mood right now, as this kind of thinking is what makes the worst of Hiroshi and others like him.
"I mean nothing, we just stay," Bolin said, trying to mend his anger.
"Enough dawdling people, let's go," Lin got everyone's attention. As they moved towards the elevator. Lin would have let Minato Arisato stay, but Tenzin proved the boy could defend himself as an NB only during the raid when he was caught off guard. Also, she has no time to argue.
Lin, Tenzin, Minato, and Korra followed the officers into the tunnel.
Down below, the large elevator platform follows a rail down the diagonally descending tunnel. With a spotlight at the front of the elevator and red emergency lighting throughout the tunnel being the only light source. After a short ride, the elevator comes to a halt against a perpendicular walkway as the metal benders quickly follow it, moving in bending stances.
They emerge into a brightly lit, massive room covered in crisscrossed metal bracing. Near the entrance, two massive banners bearing Amon's face hang from a rafter. "Not your average backyard workshop," Lin commented.
"This type of construction would take years. I believe he began to create this facility on the day his wife died," Minato observed, as it was beautifully advanced designed and remained secret for years.
"I suppose you might be correct." Tenzin agreed.
"I've been in the force for years, and I've been everywhere in Republic City, including the underworld. How could I have missed this?" Lin blamed herself for failing to see the Equalist secret underground railway.
"Don't blame yourself; he fools everyone," Tenzin replies, attempting to alleviate the metalbender's guilt.
"I guess those are the new weapons," Korra stated, her eyes locked on a series of machines lined up against the walls. They looked almost humanoid in shape, but with treadmills instead of feet, claws instead of hands, and a glass window instead of a face. They were taller than humans by far, and there were a great deal of them down there.
"Hiroshi was lying alright, but where is he?" Tenzin asked the obvious question. As if to answer it, a wall of metal suddenly shot up from behind them, surprising them all and blocking off the entrance they came in from while also killing most of the lights.
"It's a trap!"
XXX
"What was that?" Bolin asked as he, his brother, and Asami stared down the hole into the abyss.
"We need to get down there and see what's going on," Mako said.
"Absolutely not!" the police officer declared. "You're staying here until the chief comes back."
Mako and Bolin had an idea. "Alright, sir, we'll stay put," Mako said to the cop. "But could we wait outside like he did?" He jerked his head at the door and then scratched his nose. "It's so dusty in this workshop." The brothers use an old trick they learn from the streets, and it works.
The brothers used that moment to tie a gag around his mouth and tie him to a barrel. "Sorry, pal. We know you were just doing your job."
"Yeah, just stay put until the chief comes back," Bolin said. "That sounds very familiar, doesn't it? Why? Because you said it."
When they turned to walk towards the tunnel, Mako placed his hands on his girlfriend's shoulders. "Asami, you should stay here. We'll check it out."
"I have to find out the truth about my father."
"I understand. That's why I'm going down to find out for you. Please."
"No, are you going to tell me just because I'm an NB that I can't protect myself" Asami was not in the mood.
"No, I didn't say that," Mako was trying to make it less awkward.
"Then let me come, or I will force myself to come with you." Asami insisted and threatened Mako
Mako sighed in defeat. "Alright, but stay behind me."
XXX
Once the wall had gone up and blocked them off, Lin tried to bend it back down. But the wall would not move.
"I'm afraid you won't be able to metalbend that wall, Chief Beifong. It's pure platinum," Hiroshi's voice announced through the factory, making them all stop and turn around to see where it was coming from.
Green lights on the new weapons turned on, blinding their eyes for enough time to be surrounded. "My mecha tanks are platinum as well. Not even your renowned mother could bend a metal so pure."
Korra shouted at him. "Hiroshi, I knew you were lying, no good equalist! Come out here and—"
"And do what, young Avatar?" cutting her off. "Face the wrath of your bending? No, I think I'll fight from inside here, where my odds are a little more...equal."
"That source was a setup! You lured us down here!" Lin said in realization.
"Guilty as charged." The tanks moved forward, closing in on the small group surrounding them like wolfbats, ready to pounce on their prey.
" STOP!"
Minato yelled, and everyone stopped what they were doing to watch the Blunette walk forward toward his boss, confidant, and friend. " Hiroshi I understand why you're doing this; it's for your wife. Isn't it because of what happened to her that you detested benders and believed that getting rid of them permanently was the solution?"
"Yes, it's the only way to achieve greater peace: the eradication of all bendings, including the airnomads." For Hiroshi, it makes no difference; anyone who can bend the elements is the enemy.
"Hiroshi, as a friend, I implore you to stop this. I may not know how you feel, but this is not the way. "This path will only lead to more suffering."
Hiroshi only moaned, "Minato, you're like a son to me." That day, I met you. I realized it was fate. You must understand that as no-benders, we all suffer under their control. My wife loved this city but was betrayed; she did not even get justice." Hiroshi Mech's arm gestured at the person. "Isn't that right, Chief Beifong"
"Lin?" Tenzin was surprised to see that the earth bender knew something.
"It happened before you became a council member, Tenzin. We captured the triad members who attempted to rob the Sato estate, but due to a lack of proof and corruption, we were forced to release them," Lin stated.
"You already know benders are corrupt; they are the reason wars started. The greatest example will be the Hundred-Year War; they are a scourge on our civilization, particularly the avatar; they promised to bring balance to the planet, and benders are part of that equilibrium.
Korra felt like she could have done more as the Avatar.
"Hiroshi Not all benders are bad; some are decent and victims of other benders, as you are aware."
"It may be true, but you cannot deny that bending triggered wars, caused sorrow, and killed people. When I lost my wife, I realized that bending is simply a tool, a weapon that anyone can use without restriction, if not a permit, out in public. Join me, my boy, and let's make the world a better place."
"Are you doing this for Asami?" Minato inquired.
"Yes, I'm doing all of this for her in a world where she would be safe from benders."
"Then you have to recognize she never wanted this. The man I previously knew cared about his family, the none-benders, and Republic City." Minato took a big breath. "You're grieving, leaving an empty space in your heart, and the only thing that can replace it is hatred, which will turn you into a monster. Please, Hiroshi, is it not too late to turn back. We can still make things right." Minato asked Hiroshi to hear the reasons.
Hiroshi shook his head. "I'm sorry I've come too far to be stopped," as the tanks started to move again. "Forgive me, but I must do what is needed to be done." Hiroshi's tank shot forward a claw at them, extending it out on a line, making Korra, Tenzin, and Lin scatter. The other tanks took that as a signal to begin the battle.
The other mecha tanks moved in. But Minato didn't move, just standing still, watching the carnage unfold around him as nobody cared if he even existed.
One smashes a claw down toward a group of Metalbenders, but they dodge and shoot out their whips to entangle the mecha tank. Two other Metalbenders tangle up another of the vehicles, while Lin dodges another grappling hook attack and leaps up into the air above it.
As she arcs through the air, she deploys large metal wrist blades out of her armor. As she lands on the mecha tank, she stabs at the cockpit's main window and drives the blade in as far as it will reach. The masked equalist shifts out of the way of the blade. More blade attacks burst in through the various windows, keeping the driver from doing anything but twisting around in fright.
He flipped up to it and ran down it. Meanwhile, Lin continues to stab away as the mecha tank rolls backward into the scaffolding.
Korra blasts with her fire at Hiroshi's mecha tank, having the humanoid vehicle roll forward with hesitation, but then is pushed back by a burst of air that comes from over Korra's shoulder.
She looks back to see Tenzin in an airbending stance, while Metalbenders are still wrangling mecha tanks behind them. Tenzin moves towards Korra, each step carrying him into a different attack that unleashes powerful bursts of wind.
The metalbenders are pulling at their whips, grunting with exertion, but they're starting to be pulled forward by their quarry. Suddenly, electricity emanated from the tanks claw, traveling up the metal wire and shocking the metalbenders, and they were knocked out.
Lin, still stabbing away at her unmoving mecha tank target despite having already shattered every window, was struck by one of the projectile's grappling claws. She is thrown off her mecha tank, crashes and bounces off the nearby scaffolding, and then is yanked flying into the air by another mecha tank.
On the other side, Korra and Tenzin are double-teaming with another mecha tank. It's pushed up against a wall, struggling with continuous fire and air blasts. Hiroshi growls and pushes both his control levels forward. One of the mecha tanks' grappling claws shoots forward at Korra, but she dodges with a series of backward flips that carry her out of the claw's continuing path.
She Earthbends a chunk of the floor into the air and fires it back at the mecha tank, but another claw comes at her from behind and catches her off guard. She is pushed flying into some of the metal machinery on the far side of the factory and bounces off.
"Korra!" Tenzin shouted.
As Korra falls, Tenzin shoots out a swirling sphere of air that catches her and lands her softly on the ground. Seeing her safe, Tenzin turns back to the mecha tank and dodges another grappling-claw attack. The tank rolls forward while firing its claws again as another mecha tank joins the attack. Tenzin once again dodges all the claws and jumps into an airbending move that summons a giant, spinning windwheel around him.
While everyone was preoccupied by the fighting, they just ignored Bluenette, who was standing in the heart of the battle, knowing he could do nothing.
Even during the combat, everyone ignored him as if he did not exist. Minato instantly became aware of something.
He saw a doppelganger of himself with yellow eyes, and he shot himself. It's like telling him what he should do. Minato could sense something inside him trying to come out and a call. His body moved on its own as he reached into his pocket. He could feel a familiar metallic surface on an object he recognized.
It was a gun, but not a gun. An evoker with the words S.E.E.S. on it ,He understood what to do and aimed directly at his head.
Tenzin rides it forward and avoids another claw, then leaps into the air. Hiroshi's mecha tank fires a metal disc that deploys small, whip-like tendrils. It catches Tenzin wrapping around and electrocuting him.
Hiroshi steps down onto the factory floor and looks at his defeated enemies as Amon's lieutenant steps forward to join him. "Well, I'd say that was a near-flawless test run. Load everyone into the transport and deliver them to Amon."
"Mr. Sato, look." An equalist pointed to the Bluenette and observed what he was trying to do.
"What is he doing?" Has he gone insane? Lieutenant, look at Bluenette's wild smile.
Hiroshi was inquisitive and had no idea what his friend was doing until he murmured one phrase that would transform the globe and people's lives.
"PER-SO-NA"
Bang!
Minato's body was engulfed in blue light as it glowed brighter; his eyes were blue, and it appeared manifested for all to see as they heard its words.
"Thou art I... And I am thou...
From the sea of thy soul I cometh...
I am Orpheus, master of strings..."
It appeared human and resembled Minato, but its limbs and legs were mechanical, with a bass on its stomach and a massive lyre on the back.
"What is that, a spirit?" exclaimed an equalist.
"Impossible!. I've never heard of someone summoning a spirit before!" The lieutenant was skeptical.
"Everyone get inside the mech tanks!" Hiroshi isn't sure why, but he's had a horrible sensation ever since what happened to his wife; he gained a sense of danger.
Minato glanced at the familiar persona that he recognized, and memories of his past flooded back like a broken dam, bursting. Orphenus alone was insufficient; he needed to summon the only entity capable of fighting the Equalists, and it answered its master's summons.
Something happened. Orpheus screamed in pain and clutched his skull. "Ngh...Aaaaaaaaaaah!" Minato screamed in pain, just like Orpheus. Then it arose from within Orpheus, with the traditional skull-shaped headdress and floating coffins attached to its back with black clothing. And it roared, echoing across the cavernous cavern.
However, not everyone could hear the roar; only those who are spirits, attuned, or can sense it could.
XXX
In the dining room on Air Temple Island, the Tenzin family was having dinner. The husband told his family to eat first because he would be late. Jinora, who was holding her bowl drop, spilled its contents onto the table.
Jinora stopped what she was doing and stood up, looking around in fear, ignoring everyone.
"Jinora, what's wrong?" Pema asked her eldest daughter, who looked terrified for some reason.
"Did you hear that?" She turned around, looking for the source.
"Hear what?" Kiki asked
"It was a roar and a dreadful roar. I can't stop shaking in fear."
"Well, I think she's just daydreaming because of puberty."
"No, I'm not, and how do you even learn that word?" Jinora points to Meelo. Maybe you're right. I didn't hear it anymore, but it was scary, like the sound of a beast attempting to swallow my soul.
Everyone glanced at each other, pondering the eldest air nomad's comments.
XXX
Spirit Library
Unalaq, who was conversing with the owl spirit known as Wan Shi Tong, interrupted what they were doing to investigate the source of the roar.
"Did you hear that?" Unalaq is attempting to locate the source of the sound.
"Yes, I heard it; it's the sound of death manifesting; I can feel my feathers shivering for no reason."
"You're one of the strongest spirits and afraid." Unalaq couldn't believe such a strong spirit would be scared.
"The grim reaper, or whatever you call it, is neither from this world nor a Spirits. Even spirits experience fear of death. Unalaq, do you feel it too?" The owl Spirit pointed to Unalaq's trembling hands, which he hadn't noticed.
"Then we better search if it's a threat; we can't let it stop our plan for opening the spirit portal."
"Yes, we must." The Great Spirit concurred.
XXX
Mountaintop prison.
Zaheer, who was meditating in prison, heard the roar and opened his eyes. "Guard, do you hear a roar?" the prisoner inquired.
"What a roar!" I did not hear anything, and this is the first time I've heard you talk, Zaheer." The guard may be new, but he has heard from his colleagues that Zaheer hasn't spoken in over fifteen years.
"I felt like a change was coming and it would affect everything."
"Yeah, you can do it in the cell," the guard replied.
XXX
The spirits in the spirit realm panicked when they heard the roar of a beast, prompting the lesser spirits to flee while the others rushed, with the exception of one person who was simply pouring tea. This man was originally known as the Dragon of the West, the Tea Master, the former General of the Fire Nation, and Zuko's favorite uncle.
"Something unusual, my friends, but please remain calm. I doubt it would do us any harm."
The spirits paused and gazed at the sage.
"Regardless, change is on its way. It may be good or bad; we must have hoped for balance," he added, sipping his tea peacefully.
xxx
The equalists strike Thanatos with its cable claw, but the persona grabs it and pulls, saying, "Get over here!" Minato shouts. It snatches the mechanical hand and break it like a dry twig before using it as a club to beat it into submission. And it collapsed like garbage. Thanatos then flew to the next one, grabbing both arms and pulling them hard till they tore apart while the pilot screamed in terror.
An equalist launched an electric Bola at Thanatos, wrapping it as a surge of electricity surging through its body in an attempt to stun the spirit, but it instead fueled his rage and broke the bindings. He seized the mech tank head and slammed it to the ground three times, leaving a fracture in the floor as the mayhem continued.
"Get the remaining prisoners to Amon; we can't let any benders here." Hiroshi instructs the lieutenant to leave.
The lieutenant acknowledged, "Yes, as the other equalists seized the metalbenders that were shackled and fled when the platinum wall was down.
Minato was holding back, not attempting to murder the Equalists because they were humans, not shadows, and utilizing Megido would be excessive, producing a massive hole at the head of the tunnel and potentially letting a cave in.
Then Hiroshi was the last one left. He tried to fire his elect Bola, but Thanatos swatted it away and caught the machine as it tore through the cockpit, spotting Hiroshi Sato in the fleash and moving its palm to crush the man's head like a tomato.
"Stop Thanatos!" Minato used all of his resolve to keep Thanatos from crossing the line, but the reaper was unsatisfied and wanted to unleash all of the destruction it could. Minato decided to give him what he desired; it gazed up, the skull-like mouth forming a bright circle as energy charged "Megidolaon!" as it shot a purple beam upward, disintegrating anything near the death ray that traveled to the surface and beyond.
The massive purple eruption from the ground was witnessed by Republic City police officers outside the workshop. Knowing that something was wrong, they went right to the source and called for help.
When it was over, the underground cavern had a massive ceiling that pierced the surface, allowing you to glimpse the sky above.
"Hiroshi I know you are not a nasty guy; you are simply misguided. Please, you can change for the better, as Minato collapsed on the floor and Thanatos vanished into the sea of spirits.
Hiroshi, too, took a big breath to relax and nearly died. He had so many questions, particularly about Minato Arisato's strength.
Then Mako, Bolin, and Asami came out of their hiding spot; they saw the whole thing managed to arrive before the carnage. They saw a bone-like spirit thrashing the equalist mech like chew toys.
Bolin and Mako were in stance, preparing to attack Hiroshi since the man's tank was damaged even though he knew when to retreat. He saw Asami and tried to talk to her.
"Hello, Mr. Sato. Wow, what a really swell, scary factory you have here under your giant mansion." Bolin is trying to make small talk.
"Sponsoring our team, supporting the Avatar... it was all just a big cover," Mako explained.
"Yes, and the most difficult part was watching my daughter traipse around with a bender!"
"Dad, stop!"
They turned to see Asami. "Why?" was the question she asked.
Hiroshi explained. "Sweetie, I wanted to keep you out of this for as long as I could, but now that you know the truth, please forgive me. These people... The benders... They stole your mother, the love of my life. They have wrecked the world! But with Amon, we can fix it and build a wonderful world together. "We can help people like us anywhere! Join me, Asami."
"I love you, Dad. But no. I cannot follow the road you have chosen. Please, it is not too late to stop this."
XXX
Everyone was awake, and the police were able to seize the Equalist and its weapon; nevertheless, knowing such a weapon is in the hands of Amon means they are outmatched and require an army. Mako, Bolin, and Asami recounted what had happened and who was in charge of combating the equalists and won.
They all stared at the unconscious Bluenette, who was being healed by Korra again. They needed answers but had to wait.
Mako cast a brief glance at Korra, annoyed by her obvious concern for Minato.
Minato awoke in a familiar velvet-colored room, but much larger, like a lounge for wealthy people, while theirs was a bar. A stage with a blindfolded guy playing the piano and plenty of tables and chairs for everyone to sit and eat. When he peered out the window at the night sky with clouds hovering, he realized he was on an airship.
He was sitting in the bar chair, and on the other side of the counter was a woman with gray eyes and long, platinum hair tied in a braided bun with a dark blue ribbon headband. She donned a knee-length blue dress with gold embellishments and a popped collar, a black belt with a gold buckle, black stockings, blue high heels, and black gloves.
"My name is Merope, and I welcome you to the velvet room. "Honored guest," the women said, greeting him.
"Where's Elizabeth and Igor?" Minato inquired.
My sister Elizabeth is away for a minute, and my master is preoccupied with another task; for the time being, I will serve as your attendant or bartender.
"…"
"That was a joke," she laughed.
"Why am I here in this world?" Minato wanted to discover why he was in a different universe than his own, and Elizabeth could know.
"That I can't answer like any other guest; we just offered them our assistance and services relating to the compendium, but only my master would know. I can see there's a reason you're on this earth.
Minato still doesn't understand . "Why can I connect to the Velvet?
"The velvet room will always be open to anyone needed, no matter space, time, or reality."
"Did you just quote the watcher?" Minato inquired.
"Of course you have to thank my other guest; he provided me with certain entertainment."
"Here," Merope offers Minato a glass of cocktail. "Margarita is named after my big sister Margaret."
"I'm underage," Minato wanted to avoid drinking.
"But you are much older, am I right?" The flight attendant tilted her head.
What she stated was true: After being suspended in time for years, his probably older than he looks Minato took the glass and drank it like a man, "a sour with a salty taste but refreshing", it's his first time drinking. His eyes are beginning to feel heavy.
"Thank you; it appears our time is up. Don't worry, we'll meet again.
XXX
Minato's eyes opened, indicating that he was finally awake. When he looked around, he saw a familiar room: Air Temple Island's medical chamber, with Korra waiting for him nearby.
"Korra, you're here?" Minato was astonished.
"Minato, thank spirit, you are awake, everyone awake!" Korra summoned the others.
"That's great," Korra said, delighted that her childhood buddy had recalled who and where he was from; nevertheless, Minato wasn't smiling, which troubled Korra. Tenzin, Mako, Bolin, and Asami came into the room.
"My name is Minato Arisato; I'm a student of Gekkoukan High, a leader and member of S.E.E.S., and I'm not from this world."
Everyone was startled by what they heard.
"What does that mean" Bolin said.
This is what you all wanted. Minato finally summons his personas, both Orphenus and Thanatos. Orpheus is still not enough, and as such, Thanatos is needed and let go. The carnage as it decimated the mech tanks, but summoning powerful personas is exhausting, and he had summoned them for a long time and needed time to practice.
Like shamans, only those with special abilities could sense spirit and hear Thanatos roar. And Hiroshi started to have doubts about what he was doing and question himself.
Merope is the character from persona 5, the phantom X.
What happened to Zolt was never mentioned again, only that someo named Viper dethroned him.