𝐖𝐚𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 | 𝐓𝐥𝐨𝐊

XIV

"This madman is walking around our beloved city threatening to destroy it..."

"We need to create a special force with the sole purpose of finding Amon and bringing him to justice." A man who was sitting says decisively, facing the others who were around the room.

"Of course not." Another man contradicts this. Airbender Master Tenzin.

Tenzin found himself in the city council chambers to hear the outline of Councilor Tarrlok's plan and his special force to eliminate Amon and the Equalist Revolution. Rumors about Amon's power had spread and the council was alarmed by the news. They spent most of the morning debating possible solutions, but Tarrlok had monopolized the debate, elevating his idea over the ideas of others.

"Tarrlok, what you propose is an aggressive move by the city. It would only further divide the benders and non-benders," The Airbender turned to report to the other three council members, all of whom hailed the origins of the Earth Kingdom, the Fire Nation, and the Water Tribe of South, to try to convince them to leave Tarrlok's idea aside. "I believe in bringing equalists into a debate and trying to find some common ground."

Tenzin would never like Tarrlok, but he did his best to work with him, believing that each member of the Council of Five possessed unique wisdom that could benefit Republic City. Tarrlok's wisdom was, however, self-serving. He was born a politician.

"Tarrlok, I'm tempted to accept your proposal," says the oldest lady representing the Fire Nation. "But who would lead this special force?" she asked, seeking an answer from Tarrlok.

"It would be an honor for me," Tarrlok says, standing, and bowing. "It is a privilege to accept this role."

'Of course, he appointed himself.' Tenzin then objected to the plan. "This is just another one of your schemes to gain power, isn't it?"

"I am offended by this accusation, Tenzin," Tarrlok replied innocently. "I'm just trying to help. Think about it. Forty-two years ago, Republic City was threatened by another dangerous man – Yakone. And your father wasn't afraid to face him at all." He says pointing his finger at Tenzin.

"That's a completely different situation," Tenzin stated, standing up from his seat as well, losing the calm tone he once had. "And how dare you compare yourself to Avatar Aang!"

Tarrlok narrowed his eyes, shooting the Airbender a glare. "Amon isn't just going to wipe out criminal bending groups," he turned to the other council members. "It will end up attacking all the voice actors – all our friends, and our family. Vote for this special force and I promise I will stop Amon before it's too late."

The faces of the other council members remained impassive. Tenzin felt himself dwindle. He would come to Tarrlok to argue before the council several times and they were often influenced by him. He was a smooth operator in his silk robe, his Northern Water Tribe braids carefully moisturized with oils and perfectly distributed around his long, thin face.

"Everyone in favor?" Tarrlok asked, raising his hand. And slowly, each member raised their hand. Except for Tenzin, who kept his arms glued to his body.

Tarrlok's measure passed four to one, leaving Tenzin in the minority. He could only watch as Tarrlok shook hands with the other council members. And inside him, a bad feeling was starting to grow.

--------------

The next few days were difficult for Korra. Ever since turning down Tarrlok's offer to join the special force, and the nightmares she had had about Amon, she had closed herself off. It wasn't exactly something she planned to do on purpose... – it just ended up happening that way. She told herself there was nothing wrong with that. It was perfectly fine to spend some time alone. After all, it wasn't like she was hiding from anything.