Chapter VIII: When Extremes Meet
Missing
The morning sun had barely risen over Air Temple Island when Tenzin burst into the main hall, his usual composure shattered. The meditation session had just concluded, and Team Avatar along with the Albanar siblings were gathered for breakfast.
"Korra's gone," Tenzin announced without preamble. "Her room is empty, Naga's missing, and no one saw her leave."
Mako was on his feet instantly. "What do you mean 'gone'? When did anyone last see her?"
"Last night," Tenzin said, his voice tight with worry. "She said she was going to meditate before bed. That was hours ago."
Odyn's expression darkened immediately, his orange eyes flashing with barely contained alarm. Without a word, light began to shimmer around his hands – not the deadly blades from the arena, but a gentler, searching radiance.
"Brother," Roy said quietly, recognizing the signs. "What are you sensing?"
"Wrong," Odyn said simply, his magic pulsing outward in waves. "Something is very wrong. Korra wouldn't just leave without telling anyone, especially not me." His voice cracked slightly on the last words, betraying the depth of his concern.
"Could she have gone on patrol?" Asami suggested, though her tone suggested she didn't believe it.
"Not without Naga, and not without telling someone," Bolin said, his usual humor absent. "Korra's impulsive, but she's not reckless about worrying people. Not anymore."
Sarai stood, her earthbender's senses already reaching through the ground. "I'm not detecting any signs of struggle on the island. Whatever happened, it didn't happen here."
"Then we search the city," Mako said firmly. "Split up, cover more ground—"
"Wait," Khanna interrupted, her tactical mind working. "If something happened to Korra, if someone took her, it wasn't random. We need to think about who would benefit from the Avatar disappearing right now."
"Amon," several voices said simultaneously.
"Or Tarrlok," Roy added grimly. "The councilman has been increasingly aggressive about wanting Korra under his control. Last night's council session was particularly contentious."
Tenzin's expression shifted to anger. "Tarrlok. I'll speak with him immediately. Roy, assemble your team—"
"Already done," Roy said, and indeed, several dark elf guards who had been stationed around the island were already moving into formation. "But Councilman, if Tarrlok has taken official action, confronting him directly may not be the wisest approach."
"I don't care about wise approaches," Odyn said, his voice dangerously quiet. Light continued to shimmer around him, growing brighter with his distress. "Korra is missing. That takes precedence over politics."
Sarai placed a hand on her brother's shoulder. "Odyn, I understand. But think about what Korra would want. She'd want us to be smart about this, not to rush in and make things worse."
"Your sister is right," Tenzin said, though his own agitation was evident. "Let me go to City Hall and make inquiries. If Tarrlok knows anything, I'll find out."
"And if he doesn't cooperate?" Mako asked.
"Then we make him," Odyn said flatly. The temperature in the room had dropped noticeably, frost beginning to form on the windows – an unusual reaction that suggested his emotional state was affecting his magic in unprecedented ways.
City Hall
An hour later, Tenzin, Mako, Bolin, and Asami arrived at City Hall, with Odyn following despite Roy's suggestion that he remain behind. The dark elf prince had been immovable on the subject, and Roy had finally relented, sending Khanna along to "provide support" – which everyone understood meant "keep Odyn from doing something rash."
They found Tarrlok's office empty, his assistant looking nervous.
"The councilman hasn't been in this morning," the young man said, fidgeting with his papers. "He left last night after a late meeting and hasn't returned."
"A late meeting with whom?" Tenzin demanded.
"I... I don't know. It was private. But I heard raised voices before he left."
Mako and Bolin exchanged looks. "Raised voices? Like an argument?"
"I couldn't say for certain," the assistant said carefully. "But the councilman seemed... agitated when he left."
Odyn stepped forward, and the assistant visibly recoiled from the intensity in his eyes. "Where would Tarrlok go if he wanted to hide something – or someone?"
"I don't know what you're implying—"
"Don't play stupid," Khanna interjected, her voice carrying the authority of Shadowvale nobility. "The Avatar is missing. Councilman Tarrlok was one of the last people to express interest in controlling her movements. Now he's also missing. Draw your own conclusions."
The assistant paled. "I swear, I don't know where he is. But..." He hesitated. "There have been unusual requisitions lately. Supplies sent to various locations around the city. Food, water, materials for... I don't know, construction maybe? The requests came through official channels but were marked confidential."
"Where?" Tenzin asked urgently. "Where were these supplies sent?"
"Multiple locations. Let me check the records."
As the assistant rifled through files, Asami noticed something on Tarrlok's desk – a map with several locations marked. "Look at this," she said, spreading it out. "These markings... they're all in remote areas outside the city proper."
"Perfect places to hide someone," Bolin observed darkly.
"Or build a prison," Odyn added, his hands clenched into fists. Frost was spreading across Tarrlok's desk where his fingers rested.
The assistant returned with a list. "These are the locations that received shipments. But I don't know which one—"
"We check them all," Mako said firmly. "Split up, move fast."
The Search
Team Avatar divided into search parties, with the Albanar siblings coordinating from a central location using police radios Roy had requisitioned through official channels. Odyn insisted on leading one search team himself, his desperation to find Korra overriding his usual strategic caution.
The first location – an abandoned warehouse near the docks – yielded nothing but old Equalist propaganda. The second, a storage facility in the industrial district, was similarly empty.
Hours passed. The sun climbed higher in the sky, and with each empty location, Odyn's control slipped further. Ice spread in his wake, and other members of his search party gave him increasingly worried glances.
"Odyn," Khanna said gently as they approached the third location – a compound in the mountains north of the city. "You need to center yourself. If we do find Korra, she's going to need you focused, not lost to your emotions."
"I can't feel her," Odyn said, his voice barely above a whisper. "There's a connection between us, something the vision established. I should be able to sense her, but there's nothing. It's like she's been... cut off somehow."
Khanna's expression turned grave. "Bloodbending. If Tarrlok is keeping her suppressed with bloodbending, it would explain why you can't sense her presence."
The thought of Korra being controlled in such a way made Odyn's magic flare dangerously. "Then we need to find her. Now."
They approached the compound carefully. It was situated in a remote area, accessible only by a narrow mountain road. High walls surrounded it, and the gates were sealed with metal reinforcements.
"This looks promising," Bolin observed. "Also incredibly ominous."
"Roy," Khanna spoke into her radio. "We've found something at location seven. Sending coordinates now. Requesting backup."
Roy's voice crackled back. "Received. I'm dispatching units. Do not engage until—"
But Odyn was already moving. Light blades materialized around him, and with a sweep of his hand, they sliced through the metal gates as if they were paper. The entrance collapsed inward, revealing a courtyard beyond.
"—backup arrives," Roy finished with a sigh. "Never mind. Proceeding with assault."
The Confrontation
They found Tarrlok in what appeared to be a command center, monitoring equipment scattered around a central chamber. He looked up as they burst in, his expression shifting from surprise to resignation.
"I should have known you'd find this place," he said calmly. "The Avatar's friends are nothing if not persistent."
"Where is she?" Odyn demanded, light crackling around him like a storm. "Where is Korra?"
"Secured," Tarrlok replied. "For her own protection, of course. The Avatar needs guidance, direction. She's too important to be allowed to run wild with—" his eyes flicked to Odyn with disdain, "—unsuitable influences."
"Unsuitable?" Khanna repeated dangerously. "You've imprisoned the Avatar to keep her from her chosen partner? That's not protection, Councilman. That's control."
"Everything I've done has been for Republic City," Tarrlok said, standing. "The Equalists are a threat, and Korra is needed for the fight. But she won't commit, won't follow orders, won't—"
"She's not a weapon for you to wield," Mako interrupted, stepping forward. "She's a person. And you've committed about a dozen crimes holding her here."
Tarrlok's expression hardened. "You think you can stop me? Any of you?" Water began to rise from concealed reservoirs around the room. "I am a master waterbender from a legendary bloodline. You're just children playing at heroism."
"And you're a coward who resorts to kidnapping when you can't get your way," Asami said, her electrified glove crackling to life. "Let's see how legendary you really are."
The battle erupted instantly. Tarrlok proved to be a formidable opponent, his waterbending precise and powerful. But he was one man against multiple skilled fighters, and the tide quickly turned against him.
Until he raised his hands and the group suddenly froze in place, their bodies no longer under their own control.
"Bloodbending," Bolin gasped, struggling against the invisible grip. "He can bloodbend without a full moon!"
Tarrlok advanced on them, his expression cold. "You should have walked away. Now you'll join the Avatar in her confinement until—"
A blade of pure light screamed past his head, close enough to singe his hair. Tarrlok's concentration broke, and his bloodbending grip faltered.
Odyn stood at the entrance, but he looked different. His orange eyes were blazing white, frost spreading from his feet in all directions, and the light around him had intensified to almost painful levels. His magic was reacting to his emotional state, amplifying beyond anything he'd shown before.
"You," Odyn said, his voice echoing with power, "made a critical error. You took someone under the protection of Shadowvale. You took MY Korra. And for that, there is no mercy."
Tarrlok tried to bloodbend him, and for a moment, Odyn's body seized. But then something changed. A mark began to glow on Odyn's forehead – a luminous pattern that resembled a dragon's crest, pulsing with ancient power.
"Impossible," Khanna breathed from behind him, her eyes wide with recognition and horror. "The Dragon Crest. Odyn, don't—"
But it was too late. The crest flared brilliantly, and Odyn's entire form shifted. His skin took on a scaled, iridescent quality, his orange eyes now blazing with draconic intensity. Ethereal wings of pure magical energy materialized from his back, and an overwhelming pressure filled the room – the ancient power of the Ryuumajin, the dragon-blooded warriors of Shadowvale's oldest legends.
"What... what are you?" Tarrlok gasped, his bloodbending completely ineffective against this transformed state.
"I am Odyn Albanar," came the reply, Odyn's voice now carrying harmonics that suggested something far more ancient and terrible. "Crown Prince of Shadowvale, bearer of the Dragon Crest, and you have made the worst mistake of your miserable life."
Odyn moved with impossible speed. One moment he was at the entrance, the next he was in front of Tarrlok, his hand – now bearing dragon-like scales and claws – wrapped around the councilman's throat. He lifted Tarrlok effortlessly off the ground.
"Odyn, stop!" Mako shouted. "We need him alive!"
But Odyn wasn't listening. He slammed Tarrlok into the wall with enough force to crack the stone. Then again. And again. Each impact accompanied by the sound of breaking bones and Tarrlok's screams of pain.
"Where. Is. She?" Each word was punctuated by another devastating blow. Tarrlok's bloodbending was useless against this form – the Dragon Crest made Odyn's body fundamentally different, no longer purely flesh and blood that could be manipulated.
"Lower... level..." Tarrlok choked out, blood running from his mouth. "Cell... block three..."
Odyn threw him across the room. Tarrlok hit the far wall and crumpled to the ground, barely conscious. The dark elf prince stood over him, draconic wings spread wide, the crest on his forehead still blazing with terrible light.
"You should pray," Odyn said, his voice cold and inhuman, "that when I return with Korra, she convinces me to spare your life. Because right now, the only thing keeping your heart beating is the fact that I need to find her first."
He turned toward the stairs, then paused, looking back at Tarrlok's broken form. "You awakened something that should have remained asleep, councilman. The Dragon Crest hasn't manifested in our bloodline for three generations. It takes extraordinary circumstances to trigger it – overwhelming emotion, desperate need, or..." his eyes blazed brighter, "the threat to one's destined mate."
Khanna moved to follow him, but stopped when she saw the destruction he'd wrought. Tarrlok was alive but barely, his body broken in a dozen places. "Spirits preserve us," she whispered. "The legends were true."
"What legends?" Bolin asked, helping support Asami who was still shaking off the effects of bloodbending. "What just happened to Odyn?"
"The Dragon Crest," Khanna explained, her voice shaken. "It's the deepest secret of Shadowvale's royal bloodline. Thousands of years ago, our ancestors made a pact with an ancient dragon spirit. In exchange for protection of our kingdom, certain members of the royal family can access dragon power in times of extreme need. But the transformation comes with a cost."
"What cost?" Mako demanded.
"The Ryuumajin form amplifies everything – strength, speed, magical power. But it also amplifies emotions. In this state, Odyn is more dragon than elf. Driven by instinct, by raw protective fury. If he finds Korra unharmed, he'll return to normal. But if she's been hurt..." Khanna's expression was grim. "Then nothing in this city will stop him from tearing Tarrlok apart."
Roy's voice crackled over the radio. "Sister, what's happening? I'm reading massive magical energy signatures from your location."
"The Crest has awakened," Khanna said simply. "Odyn has transformed."
There was a long pause. "Understood. All units, prepare for potential catastrophic magical discharge. And someone get a medical team to that location. Now."
As they waited, Tarrlok managed to lift his head slightly, pain and fear warring in his eyes. "What... what is he?"
"He's what happens," Asami said quietly, looking down at the broken councilman, "when you threaten someone a dragon-blooded prince has claimed as his own. You didn't just kidnap the Avatar, Tarrlok. You took Odyn's mate. And you've paid the price for that mistake."
Korra's Prison
Korra had been awake for hours, testing the limits of her platinum cell for the hundredth time. The metal was unbendable, the walls were thick, and Tarrlok had been keeping her suppressed with bloodbending during his periodic visits.
But she'd felt something change a few minutes ago. A warmth in her chest, a familiar presence that she'd been missing. Then that warmth had exploded into a raging inferno of power unlike anything she'd ever felt. Odyn. He was close. And he was furious.
The door to the cell block exploded inward in a shower of ice and light. What stood in the doorway made Korra's breath catch in her throat. It was Odyn, but also not Odyn. His form was wreathed in draconic energy, ethereal wings spread wide, and a glowing crest blazed on his forehead. His eyes, normally a warm orange, now burned with primal draconic fury.
"Odyn?" Korra whispered uncertainly.
At the sound of her voice, something shifted in his expression. The raw fury dimmed slightly, replaced by desperate relief. "Korra," he breathed, and his voice carried both his familiar tone and something far more ancient. The draconic features began to recede as he approached her cell, though the crest remained faintly visible.
His hands found the cell door, and with strength far beyond his normal capabilities, he simply tore the platinum door from its hinges. The metal shrieked in protest before giving way like paper.
The door clattered to the ground, and Korra stumbled into his arms. The moment she touched him, the last of the dragon transformation faded, the wings dissolving into motes of light, the scales disappearing. But the crest on his forehead remained, pulsing gently now rather than blazing.
For a long moment, they just held each other, both trembling – Odyn from the aftermath of transformation, Korra from relief and lingering fear.
"I couldn't feel you," Odyn said into her hair, his voice fully his own again but carrying exhaustion. "The connection between us, it was gone. I thought—" His voice broke. "I thought I'd lost you."
"I'm okay," Korra assured him, though her voice shook. She pulled back to look at him, her hand reaching up to touch the still-glowing crest on his forehead. "What is this? What happened to you?"
Odyn's expression was complicated – part shame, part relief, part fear. "The Dragon Crest. It's... it's a secret my family has kept for generations. I never wanted you to see it. Never wanted anyone to see it."
"Why?"
"Because it makes me a monster," Odyn said quietly. "The Ryuumajin form turns me into something driven by instinct and rage. I hurt Tarrlok badly, Korra. If you'd been injured, if he'd harmed you, I would have killed him. I wanted to kill him. Part of me still wants to."
Korra looked at him – really looked at him. At the exhaustion in his eyes, the way his hands were shaking, the fading crest that marked him as something more than a simple dark elf. "You're not a monster," she said firmly. "You came for me. You saved me. That's all that matters."
"I nearly lost control—"
"But you didn't," Korra interrupted. "You held back enough to leave him alive. You fought through whatever that transformation does to you because of me." She cupped his face in her hands. "That's not being a monster, Odyn. That's being the person I fell in love with."
The crest finally faded completely at her words, the last of the dragon power receding. Odyn sagged slightly, and Korra realized the transformation had taken a physical toll.
"Come on," she said, supporting him. "Let's go home. Together. And you can explain everything about this Dragon Crest thing when you're not about to collapse."
"I destroyed half the facility," Odyn said weakly. "And probably terrified our friends."
"Good," Korra replied fiercely. "Maybe people will think twice before messing with the Avatar's dragon prince."
Despite everything, Odyn laughed. "Dragon prince. Is that what I am now?"
"Well, you did just grow wings and scales to rescue me," Korra pointed out. "So yeah, I'm dating a dragon prince. That's pretty cool, actually."
As they made their way back to the main level, Odyn leaning on Korra more than he wanted to admit, she felt a strange sense of rightness. The vision she'd had of their future – it made even more sense now. If Odyn carried dragon blood, if their children would inherit that power along with her Avatar abilities...
They would be building something truly unprecedented. A family, a future, that would reshape the world.
Aftermath
By the time they returned to the main level, the rest of Team Avatar had secured what was left of the interrogation room. Medical teams were working on Tarrlok, who looked like he'd been hit by a stampeding platypus bear. Multiple broken bones, severe contusions, and barely conscious.
The councilman looked up as Korra and Odyn entered, and genuine terror crossed his face. "Keep him away from me," he croaked. "Please."
"He's not going to hurt you," Korra said, though her arm remained supportive around Odyn's waist. "Are you, Odyn?"
"Not unless you give me reason to," Odyn replied, his voice carrying an edge that suggested he was still fighting the urge. "But Tarrlok? Remember this feeling. Remember the fear you're experiencing right now. Because you awakened something that has slept in my bloodline for three generations. The Dragon Crest has marked you."
"What does that mean?" Tarrlok asked through broken teeth.
"It means," Khanna said, stepping forward with grim satisfaction, "that the dragon spirit within my cousin now recognizes you as a threat to his mate. If you ever – EVER – threaten Korra again, the transformation will be instantaneous. And next time, there won't be anyone to hold him back."
Tenzin arrived with Republic City police backup, his eyes widening as he took in the scene. The destroyed room, Tarrlok's broken body, and Odyn's exhausted but dangerous demeanor. "What happened here?"
"Tarrlok learned why you don't threaten the mate of a dragon-blooded prince," Lin Beifong said dryly, having arrived moments before. She looked at Odyn with new respect and wariness. "I assume there's an explanation for the fact that half my officers reported seeing a dragon warrior tearing through this facility?"
"The Dragon Crest," Roy said, having arrived with additional security forces. His expression was carefully neutral, but there was tension in his posture. "Brother, we need to talk. Later."
"Agreed," Odyn said quietly.
As the police loaded Tarrlok onto a stretcher, the councilman looked at Korra one last time. "I thought... I thought I was helping. I thought I was saving the city."
"You were trying to control it," Korra replied. "There's a difference. And now you know what happens when you try to control people who are stronger than you realized."
"The dragon..." Tarrlok whispered. "I saw a dragon."
"Yes," Odyn said simply. "You did. And you survived the encounter. Be grateful for that mercy, because it won't be offered twice."
As they prepared to leave the compound, Bolin sidled up to Korra. "So, your boyfriend can turn into a dragon warrior. That's... that's new information."
"Apparently," Korra said, glancing at Odyn who was being supported by Sarai and looking increasingly exhausted. "Though I'm still processing it myself."
"Is it weird that I think it's kind of awesome?" Bolin asked. "Like, terrifying, sure. But also awesome. We have a dragon prince on Team Avatar!"
Despite everything, Korra smiled. "Yeah. I guess we do."
Asami approached, her expression thoughtful. "The power you displayed, Odyn. That kind of transformation – it's not just about strength, is it? There's a cost."
Odyn nodded wearily. "The Ryuumajin form draws on life force as well as magic. The transformation itself is exhausting, and maintaining it for too long could be fatal. It's meant to be used only in the most desperate circumstances."
"And you considered Korra's kidnapping desperate enough," Mako observed.
"Wouldn't you?" Odyn replied simply.
Mako looked at Asami, then at Khanna who stood nearby, and didn't answer. But the question hung in the air, heavy with implications.
In the aftermath of Tarrlok's arrest, Team Avatar gathered outside the compound. The sun was setting, casting long shadows across the mountains.
"Are you sure you're okay?" Mako asked Korra, his concern evident despite the complicated state of his own relationships.
"I will be," Korra said. She was leaning against Odyn, drawing comfort from his steady presence. "Thanks for finding me, guys. All of you."
"That's what Team Avatar does," Bolin said firmly. "We find each other. We protect each other. No matter what."
"Though next time," Roy added dryly, having arrived with additional security forces, "perhaps we could have a plan that doesn't involve my brother demolishing half a compound in a magical rage?"
"There are worse strategies," Khanna defended. "Direct, efficient, terrifying to enemies. I approve."
"You would," Sarai muttered, but she was smiling.
As they prepared to return to Air Temple Island, Korra caught Odyn's hand. "What you did today," she said quietly. "The power you showed, the way you fought through his bloodbending... that was incredible. And terrifying. But mostly incredible."
Odyn's expression was serious. "I can't lose you, Korra. The thought of you being imprisoned, controlled, unable to reach out... it awakened something in me. Something I'm not entirely sure I can control."
"Then we'll figure it out together," Korra promised. "That's what partners do, right? We face the scary stuff together."
"Together," Odyn agreed, and kissed her forehead gently.
City Hall - Days Later
The emergency council session to address Tarrlok's crimes was unlike anything Republic City had seen. The chamber was packed with citizens, reporters, and representatives from various organizations. Team Avatar sat in the gallery, along with the Albanar siblings, watching as the evidence was presented.
But there was an additional element to this session – questions about the "dragon warrior" that had been witnessed during the rescue operation. Rumors were spreading through the city, and the council demanded answers.
Roy stood to address the chamber, his military bearing impeccable. "Councilors, citizens of Republic City. You have heard reports of a transformation, of dragon magic. These reports are true. The Albanar royal bloodline carries an ancient gift from a dragon spirit – a pact made thousands of years ago to protect our people."
Murmurs rippled through the chamber.
"This power, the Dragon Crest, manifests only in times of extreme need and only in certain members of our family," Roy continued. "My brother, Prince Odyn, accessed this power to rescue Avatar Korra from unlawful imprisonment. While the display was... dramatic, it was used to save a life and stop a criminal."
"And if this power is turned against Republic City?" one councilman demanded. "What then?"
Odyn stood, and the room quieted immediately. There was something different about him now – an edge of danger that hadn't been visible before. "The Crest responds to threats against those under my protection. Republic City is under my protection. So long as this city doesn't threaten my mate, my family, or innocent people, you have nothing to fear from my dragon blood."
"Your mate?" Councilwoman Yuki asked. "You're referring to the Avatar?"
"I am," Odyn said calmly. "Korra and I are bonded. The dragon spirit recognizes this bond. Any threat to her is a threat that will awaken the Crest."
Tarrlok's confession, wheeled in on a stretcher with heavy restraints, came next. His ability to bloodbend without a full moon was hereditary, passed down from his father – Yakone, the notorious crime boss Avatar Aang had defeated decades ago. But now his testimony carried additional weight.
"I made a mistake," Tarrlok said, his voice weak from his injuries. "I thought I could control the situation, control the Avatar. Instead, I learned why our ancestors feared the dragon-blooded. The prince wasn't just protecting Korra – he was acting on instinct older than our civilization. I'm alive only because she asked him to spare me."
"My father wanted revenge on the Avatar," Tarrlok continued. "He raised my brother and me to be weapons against benders who had wronged him. But I chose differently. I chose to use my abilities to fight for Republic City, to make a difference, to be better than he was. But in doing so, I became exactly what I was trying to fight."
The council deliberated for hours before reaching their verdict. Tarrlok would be imprisoned indefinitely, his bloodbending abilities to be suppressed by a team of waterbenders and carefully monitored. His brother, Noatak – a name that sent chills through everyone who heard it – remained at large.
"Wait," Korra said suddenly, standing up in the gallery. "Noatak. Tarrlok, what happened to your brother?"
Tarrlok's expression was haunted. "I don't know. Father trained us together, but Noatak... he embraced Father's teachings in ways I couldn't. He wanted to destroy bending itself, to remake the world without it. We fought, and he disappeared. I thought he was dead."
"You thought wrong," Korra said, pieces clicking together in her mind. "Because I think I know where he is. And what he's been calling himself."
The council chamber fell silent as everyone processed the implications.
"Amon," Tenzin breathed. "Tarrlok, your brother is Amon."
Tarrlok's face went white. "No. It's not possible. Noatak would never—" He stopped, realization dawning. "His philosophy. His hatred of bending. His ability to remove bending abilities..." He looked up at Korra with horror. "Spirits help us. My brother isn't just leading the Equalists. He's the perfect weapon against benders because he IS a bender. The ultimate hypocrite."
"And now he has another reason to target Republic City," Odyn added grimly. "I brutally beat his brother and revealed dragon magic. If Amon learns about the Dragon Crest, he won't just see it as another form of bending to eliminate – he'll see it as the ultimate prize. The power to transform into a dragon warrior? That's exactly the kind of threat he'd want to neutralize."
The weight of this realization settled over the chamber like a heavy blanket.
War Council
That evening, Air Temple Island hosted an emergency war council. Every member of Team Avatar was present, along with the Albanar siblings, Lin Beifong, Tenzin's family, and select members of the city's leadership.
"So Amon can bloodbend," Mako summarized grimly. "Strong enough to remove bending permanently. And he's been operating under the guise of being a non-bender."
"Which means every Equalist who believes in him is being lied to," Asami added. "His entire revolution is built on hypocrisy."
"That's the leverage," Roy observed, his tactical mind working. "If we can expose his true nature, prove he's a waterbender using bloodbending, the Equalist movement would collapse."
"Easier said than done," Lin countered. "Amon has built an entire mystique around himself. Revealing his face, proving what he is... it would require irrefutable evidence."
"And getting close enough to gather that evidence without being debended," Bolin added nervously.
Korra stood, drawing everyone's attention. "Then that's what we do. We find a way to get close to Amon, expose his bloodbending, and reveal the truth to his followers. It won't be easy, and it won't be safe. But it's the only way to stop him without this city tearing itself apart."
"You're talking about using yourself as bait," Odyn said flatly. "Drawing Amon out by making yourself a target."
"I'm the Avatar," Korra replied, meeting his eyes. "I'm already a target. But if we're smart about this, if we plan carefully and work together, we can turn that into an advantage."
"I don't like it," Odyn said.
"Neither do I," Tenzin agreed. "But Korra is right. Amon won't stop until he's achieved his goal of eliminating bending. We need to stop him first."
"Then we do this properly," Roy said, standing and moving to a map of Republic City spread across the table. "No more improvisation, no more rushing in. We plan every detail, prepare every contingency, and we don't move until we're ready."
"How long will that take?" Asami asked.
Roy exchanged looks with his siblings and Khanna. "Based on what we know of Amon's resources and capabilities? A week. Maybe two. We need to gather intelligence, position our forces, and most importantly, find the right moment to act."
"Meanwhile," Sarai added, "my training program continues. We need the citizens of this city ready to defend themselves, benders and non-benders alike."
"And we keep patrolling," Mako said, looking at his fellow Fire Ferrets. "Team Avatar stays visible, stays active. We show people that there's another way forward besides Amon's revolution."
As the meeting concluded and people began to disperse, Korra found herself standing on the balcony with Odyn, looking out over the bay toward Republic City.
"You're really going to do this," Odyn said. It wasn't a question.
"I have to," Korra replied. "This is what being the Avatar means. Standing up to threats, protecting people, maintaining balance."
"Even if it means putting yourself in danger?"
"Especially then."
Odyn was quiet for a moment, then took her hand. "The vision you had. Of our future, our children, Shadowvale rebuilt. I need you to promise me something."
"What?"
"Promise me you'll fight to make that vision real. That you won't sacrifice yourself trying to be a hero. Because I need you, Korra. Not the Avatar – you. And our future is worth fighting for, not just the present."
Korra turned to face him fully, seeing the fear and love in his orange eyes. "I promise," she said. "I'll fight for our future. Together."
They kissed as the sun set over Republic City, two people from different worlds united in purpose and love. Behind them, the city hummed with tension, preparing for a conflict that would determine its future. And ahead of them, somewhere in the shadows, Amon plotted his next move.
The stage was set. The pieces were in motion. And when the final confrontation came, it would reshape Republic City forever.
But for now, in this moment, there was just the two of them, holding each other against the uncertainty of tomorrow, finding strength in their bond and hope in their shared vision of what could be.
The revolution was coming. And Team Avatar would be ready.
Turning Tides
The Night Before - Mastering the Dragon
Flashback - Air Temple Island, Late Evening
The meditation pavilion was quiet save for the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Korra and Odyn sat facing each other, their hands clasped together, both glowing with a subtle radiance – Korra's Avatar spirit energy intertwining with Odyn's dragon-touched magic.
"Are you sure about this?" Odyn asked, his orange eyes reflecting concern. "The Ryuumajin form nearly killed me during the rescue. The drain on my life force was... significant."
"Which is exactly why we need to figure this out," Korra replied firmly. "You awakened something powerful, Odyn. Something that could help us against Amon. But we need to make sure it doesn't destroy you in the process."
Roy, Sarai, and Khanna sat nearby, observing the attempt with varying degrees of concern and curiosity. Roy had brought several ancient texts from their personal library – scrolls that detailed the Dragon Crest's history and the few known instances of its manifestation.
"According to these records," Roy said, reading by lamplight, "the Ryuumajin transformation was originally meant to be sustained by a spiritual anchor. The dragon spirit that made the pact with our ancestors intended for the bearer to have a connection to balance their power."
"Like the Avatar," Sarai observed, watching as the energy between Korra and Odyn pulsed with increasing intensity.
"Exactly like the Avatar," Khanna confirmed. "The problem is, no one in our bloodline has had access to an Avatar for thousands of years. The last time the Crest manifested, the bearer died within hours of transformation because there was no anchor to stabilize the power."
Odyn's expression darkened. "So the vision Korra had – of our future, our children – might have shown us not just what could be, but what needs to be for me to survive using this power."
"Our spiritual connection isn't just romantic," Korra said, understanding dawning. "It's functional. The Avatar spirit recognized that you needed an anchor, and it... it chose me."
"Can you feel it?" Odyn asked, his voice soft. "The connection between us?"
Korra closed her eyes, focusing on the warmth that had been growing in her chest since she'd first had her vision. "Yes. It's like a thread connecting our spirits. When you transformed to save me, I felt it pulling at both of us. You were drawing on your life force, but also on our bond."
"If we can strengthen that connection," Roy suggested, "theoretically, the transformation would draw primarily on the spiritual link rather than Odyn's physical vitality."
"How do we do that?" Odyn asked.
Korra opened her eyes, meeting his gaze with determination. "We meditate. Together. We strengthen our spiritual bond until it's strong enough to support the dragon power without killing you."
For the next several hours, they sat in meditation, their energies intertwining and growing stronger. The others watched as the glow around them intensified, taking on a unique quality – water and light, dragon and Avatar, perfectly balanced.
Finally, Odyn opened his eyes. "I can feel it now. The difference. It's not just my power anymore – it's ours."
"Then let's test it," Korra said. "Carefully. Just a partial transformation."
Odyn took a deep breath and called upon the Dragon Crest. The mark blazed to life on his forehead, but this time, instead of the overwhelming surge that had nearly consumed him before, the power flowed smoothly. His eyes shifted to their draconic state, scales appeared along his arms, but he maintained perfect control.
"How do you feel?" Sarai asked urgently.
"Strong," Odyn replied, his voice carrying harmonics of dragon speech. "But not drained. The power is flowing through the bond between Korra and me. As long as we maintain this connection..." He let the transformation fade, the scales receding, though the crest remained faintly visible. "I can use it without dying."
Korra was breathing heavily, feeling the echo of power that had flowed through their bond. "That was incredible. I could feel everything you felt, see what you saw. It's like we're sharing more than just power – we're sharing perception."
"The true purpose of the Dragon Crest," Roy said, studying the texts with new understanding. "It was never meant to create a solitary warrior. It was designed to create a bonded pair – dragon-touched and spiritual anchor, fighting as one."
"Which means," Khanna observed with a slight smile, "that you two are even more connected than we thought. The vision wasn't just showing you a possible future – it was showing you what you're becoming."
Odyn and Korra looked at each other, both understanding the weight of what they'd discovered. Their relationship wasn't just personal – it was mystical, spiritual, and now essential to Odyn's survival when using his full power.
"We'll need to practice," Korra said. "Get used to sharing consciousness during transformation, learn to fight together while bonded."
"And we'll need to keep this capability secret," Roy added. "Amon knowing about the Dragon Crest is bad enough. If he learns that you've mastered it, that you can sustain the transformation through spiritual bonding, he'll see you as an even greater threat."
"Let him," Odyn said, taking Korra's hand. "When the time comes to face him, we'll be ready. Together."
That Same Night - Bolin and Sarai
Meanwhile, in the training grounds
Bolin and Sarai stood in the moonlit courtyard, practicing earthbending forms. But Bolin's attention kept drifting from the rocks he was supposed to be manipulating to the woman instructing him.
"You're not focusing," Sarai observed, though there was amusement in her voice rather than frustration.
"I'm focusing," Bolin protested. "Just... on the wrong thing, maybe."
Sarai lowered her stance, abandoning the training for the moment. "What's on your mind?"
"Everything, honestly," Bolin admitted, sitting down on a nearby bench. "The city's on edge, Amon's getting bolder, and I keep thinking about what happens when this all comes to a head. What happens to us – to you – if things go wrong."
Sarai settled beside him, her expression softening. "You're worried about me?"
"Of course I am," Bolin said earnestly. "You're a dark elf princess whose family has been revealed to the public. You're running a training program that's basically preparing people to fight Amon's forces. You're a target, Sarai. And that terrifies me."
"I can take care of myself," Sarai reminded him gently. "I've been training since I could walk."
"I know," Bolin replied. "But knowing you can fight and not worrying about you are two different things. Is this what it's like for you? Worrying about the people you care about?"
Sarai took his hand, her touch warm despite the cool night air. "Every day. My brothers are both in positions of authority, making themselves targets. Khanna throws herself into danger without hesitation. And now you – running into battles with chi-blockers and mecha tanks like it's just another Tuesday."
"So we're both just constantly terrified for each other," Bolin concluded. "Great foundation for a relationship."
Despite the serious topic, Sarai laughed. "Actually, I think it is. It means we both understand what it's like to love someone who's fighting for something bigger than themselves."
"Love," Bolin repeated softly. "So we're using that word now?"
Sarai looked at him directly, her violet eyes serious. "Aren't we? I mean, I fell for you weeks ago, Bolin. Your humor, your heart, the way you can make me laugh even when everything seems hopeless. If that's not love, I don't know what is."
"I love you too," Bolin said, the words tumbling out with characteristic enthusiasm. "I mean, obviously. You're amazing and beautiful and you could definitely kick my butt but you choose to teach me instead, which I appreciate. Also, you're a princess, which is still really cool even though you keep saying it doesn't matter."
"It doesn't matter to us," Sarai corrected, leaning her head on his shoulder. "But it might matter when this is all over. When we start rebuilding Shadowvale, there will be expectations. Political considerations. My family will want to ensure alliances are strengthened, that our people's future is secure."
"Are you saying they'd want you to marry some stuffy noble?" Bolin asked with concern.
"They'd want me to marry someone who makes me happy," Sarai replied. "And who better to help bridge the gap between dark elves and humans than someone who embodies the best of humanity? You're kind, brave, loyal, and you make everyone around you better. That's exactly the kind of person who should be part of Shadowvale's future."
Bolin was quiet for a moment, processing this. "So you're saying when you eventually become a reigning princess or whatever, I could be... what, a prince consort?"
"Something like that," Sarai said with a smile. "Though we'd probably have to work on your formal etiquette. Royal dinners require more than just enthusiasm."
"I can be dignified," Bolin protested. "I'm very dignified. Pabu, back me up here."
The fire ferret, who had been dozing nearby, chittered sleepily without opening his eyes.
"Even Pabu disagrees with you," Sarai teased.
They sat together in comfortable silence, watching the stars reflect on the bay. In the distance, Republic City's lights twinkled, a reminder of what they were fighting to protect.
"Whatever happens," Bolin said finally, "we face it together, right?"
"Together," Sarai agreed, sealing the promise with a kiss.
That Same Night - Mako's Dilemma
In the men's dormitory
Mako lay in his bed, staring at the ceiling while his mind raced through the complicated tangle his romantic life had become. Across the room, Bolin's empty bed reminded him that at least his brother had figured out his relationship situation.
A knock at the door interrupted his brooding. He opened it to find both Asami and Khanna standing there, their expressions equally determined.
"We need to talk," Asami said.
"All three of us," Khanna added.
Mako felt his stomach drop. "Now?"
"Yes, now," Asami replied, walking past him into the room. Khanna followed, and both women positioned themselves in a way that made it clear Mako wasn't escaping this conversation.
"Look," Mako began, but Asami held up a hand.
"Let us talk first," she said. "Khanna and I have been discussing this situation, and we've come to some conclusions."
"We both care for you," Khanna continued, her tone matter-of-fact despite the personal nature of the topic. "And we're both aware that you have feelings for both of us. The question is what to do about it."
Mako opened his mouth, then closed it, unsure how to respond.
"In Shadowvale," Khanna explained, "there are traditions for situations like this. When two individuals of equal standing both wish to court the same person, they may enter into a formal competition – not violent, but a demonstration of compatibility and worthiness."
"That's barbaric," Asami said immediately, then paused. "Actually, now that I say it out loud, it's not that different from business competition. Never mind."
"The point is," Khanna continued, "we could formalize this rivalry, turn it into some elaborate test of your affections. Or..." she glanced at Asami, "we could acknowledge that this situation is complicated and that forcing an immediate decision helps no one."
"What are you suggesting?" Mako asked carefully.
"Honesty," Asami said simply. "From all of us. You admit that you have feelings for both of us. We admit that we're both interested in you. And we give you – and ourselves – time to figure out what we actually want instead of what circumstances have pushed us toward."
"You're... not demanding I choose right now?" Mako asked, surprised.
"I'm a businesswoman," Asami replied. "Forcing a decision before all parties have sufficient information is bad strategy. And right now, with Amon threatening the city, with everything in chaos, none of us are in a position to make clearheaded decisions about our futures."
"Besides," Khanna added with a slight smile, "if I'm going to win your heart, I want to do it fairly. Not because you felt pressured or because circumstances forced your hand. I want you to choose me because you actually want me, not because I was the only option."
"Same here," Asami agreed. "And honestly, Mako, I need to figure out what I want too. My life has been turned upside down. My father betrayed everything I believed in, I've lost my home, and I'm living on an island while the city burns. Maybe I'm attracted to you because you represent stability in chaos. Or maybe it's real. But I need time to know the difference."
Mako sat down heavily on his bed. "So what does this mean for us?"
"It means we're honest with each other," Asami said. "No more hiding feelings, no more pretending. We acknowledge this is complicated and we give everyone space to figure out what they actually want."
"And if I end up choosing one of you?" Mako asked quietly. "What happens to the other?"
"Then she handles it with grace and moves forward," Khanna said firmly. "We're not children, Mako. We can accept that not every attraction leads to a lasting bond. But we deserve honesty in the meantime."
"Can you give us that?" Asami asked. "Honesty? Time? Space to figure this out without pressure?"
Mako looked at both of them – Asami with her business-like practicality masking genuine vulnerability, Khanna with her regal bearing hiding hope and uncertainty. Both incredible women, both deserving better than his confusion.
"Yes," he said finally. "I can do that. And for what it's worth, I'm sorry I let this get so complicated."
"Romance is always complicated," Khanna observed. "The question is whether it's worth the complication. Time will tell."
After they left, Mako lay back down, somehow feeling both more confused and more relieved than before. At least now everything was out in the open. Whatever happened next, it would be based on honesty rather than confusion.
That Same Night - Roy and Ikki
On the balcony overlooking the bay
Roy had thought he'd found a quiet corner to review security reports, but he should have known better. Ikki had a talent for finding him no matter where he tried to hide.
"You know," she said, settling beside him without invitation, "for a master tactician, you're really bad at avoiding one determined airbender."
"I wasn't avoiding you," Roy replied, though they both knew it was a lie.
"Yes, you were," Ikki said cheerfully. "You've been avoiding me since the whole Dragon Crest thing with Odyn. You're worried that I'm scared of your family now, aren't you?"
Roy set down his reports. "Aren't you? Your father saw what Odyn did to Tarrlok. What he became. And you've read the same histories I have – the Dragon Crest runs in our family. I could potentially manifest it myself under the right circumstances."
"And?" Ikki prompted.
"And that doesn't concern you? The fact that I might one day transform into a dragon warrior driven by primal instinct?"
Ikki was quiet for a moment, actually considering the question seriously. "Honestly? It's kind of amazing. Terrifying, sure. But also amazing. Your family carries dragon blood, Roy. That's incredible."
"It's dangerous," Roy countered. "Odyn nearly killed Tarrlok. If Korra hadn't been there, if she hadn't been hurt but alive, he might have completely lost control."
"But he didn't," Ikki pointed out. "He held back enough to leave Tarrlok alive. And now he and Korra have figured out how to control the transformation through their spiritual bond. If – and I'm saying IF – you ever manifest the Crest, we could figure out the same thing."
"'We'?" Roy repeated, looking at her sharply.
Ikki blushed but didn't back down. "I'm an airbender, Roy. We're taught from childhood to seek spiritual balance, to connect with energies beyond ourselves. If Korra can anchor Odyn's dragon power, then theoretically, another spiritually-trained person could do the same. It's basic metaphysics."
"You've been researching this," Roy realized.
"Of course I have," Ikki replied. "You think I just flutter around being enthusiastic without any actual knowledge? I'm Tenzin's daughter, Roy. I've been studying Air Nomad philosophy since before I could walk. And one thing I know for certain – power isn't inherently dangerous. It's how you use it and who you share it with that matters."
Roy turned to face her fully. "Ikki, I need you to understand something. My family's existence is complicated. We're exiled royalty with enemies we can't name, planning to eventually rebuild a kingdom that was destroyed. Anyone who becomes close to us becomes a target."
"I know," Ikki said simply. "And I don't care. Well, I care, but I'm not scared off by it. Roy, I've lived my entire life as the granddaughter of Avatar Aang, the daughter of the only airbending master in the world. I'm already a target for anyone who wants to make a point about airbending or the Air Nomad legacy. At least with you, I'd be targeted for a reason I chose, not just because of who my grandfather was."
"That's not reassuring," Roy said dryly.
"It's honest," Ikki countered. "Which is what you respect, right? Honesty? So here's me being honest – I like you, Roy. I like how seriously you take your responsibilities, how you protect your family, how you're working to build something better for your people. And yes, I like that you can potentially turn into a dragon warrior, because that's just... that's just really cool, okay?"
Despite himself, Roy smiled. "You're impossible."
"I'm determined," Ikki corrected. "There's a difference. And I'm determined about you, Captain Roy Albanar of Shadowvale. So you can either keep avoiding me and waste both our time, or you can accept that I'm not going anywhere and we can figure out what this is together."
Roy looked at her – really looked at her. Not the enthusiastic airbender girl who had first approached him with questions about security, but the young woman she'd become. Strong, confident, genuinely interested in him despite knowing the complications.
"Your father is going to kill me," Roy said finally.
"Probably," Ikki agreed cheerfully. "But he'll get over it. Especially if you keep being all honorable and protective and stuff. Dad respects that."
"And if the Dragon Crest manifests in me? If I become a danger?"
"Then we'll deal with it together," Ikki said, taking his hand. "Just like Korra and Odyn are dealing with it. That's what partners do, right? They face the scary stuff together."
"Partners," Roy repeated, testing the word.
"Well, what else would you call someone who's helping you navigate the complicated intersection of dragon magic, political exile, and rebuilding a kingdom?" Ikki asked.
"I was thinking more along the lines of 'close friend,'" Roy replied, but there was warmth in his voice now.
"We can start there," Ikki allowed. "But I'm warning you, I'm very persuasive when I set my mind to something."
"I've noticed," Roy said dryly. "It's mildly terrifying."
"Only mildly?" Ikki grinned. "I'll have to work on that."
They sat together watching the stars, Roy's tactical mind already running through scenarios and possibilities, Ikki content to simply share the silence. In the distance, Republic City hummed with tension, preparing for whatever came next.
But for now, in this moment, there was just the two of them, beginning to build something that might withstand the storms ahead.
Present Day - The Siege Begins
Back to the main timeline
Naga and Pabu were curled up together in the courtyard of Air Temple Island, enjoying a rare moment of peace before the chaos descended. Inside, the dynamics between the various couples had shifted subtly, each relationship deepened by the honest conversations of the night before.
Korra lay sleeping in her bed, exhausted from the spiritual bonding practice with Odyn. She felt his presence even in sleep now, a warm constant in the back of her mind. When she woke, it was to find Mako sitting nearby, watching over her with concern.
"You okay?" he asked quietly.
"Better than okay," Korra replied, sitting up. "Odyn and I figured something out last night. Something important."
Mako smiled slightly. "You two seem good together. Really good. I'm happy for you."
"Thanks, Mako," Korra said, and meant it. "How are things with... everything?"
"Complicated," Mako admitted. "But honest now. Which is something."
Before they could continue, Asami appeared in the doorway, her expression carefully neutral as she observed them together. She looked sad for a moment, then seemed to collect herself.
"Pema needs help in the kitchen," she said simply, then left.
Korra gave Mako a sympathetic look. "You'll figure it out."
"I hope so," Mako replied.
The peaceful morning didn't last long. Soon, the sounds of explosions echoed across the bay, and Republic City came under siege.
The Battle for Air Temple Island
As the Equalist airships descended on the island, Team Avatar sprang into action. But they weren't alone. Roy coordinated defense from the command center he'd established, while Sarai led the White Lotus sentries with practiced efficiency. Khanna positioned herself as a mobile strike force, her shadow magic making her nearly invisible as she took down chi-blockers with brutal precision.
And Odyn... Odyn stood beside Korra, their hands clasped, ready to demonstrate what they'd learned the night before.
When the Lieutenant and his forces breached the courtyard, the dark elf prince's forehead began to glow. The Dragon Crest activated, but this time, there was no loss of control. Odyn's transformation was smooth, controlled, his draconic features emerging while he maintained complete awareness.
"Together?" he asked Korra, his voice carrying dragon harmonics.
"Always," she replied, and their combined power surged.
What followed was a demonstration of power unlike anything the Equalists had seen. Odyn's dragon-enhanced strength combined with Korra's bending created attacks that were nearly impossible to counter. They moved in perfect synchronization, sharing perception and power through their spiritual bond.
But even as they fought, they heard the sounds of more airships approaching. And in the distance, they saw Oogi taking flight with Tenzin's family aboard.
"They're evacuating," Korra realized.
"As they should," Odyn replied, his transformation already beginning to fade now that the immediate threat was neutralized. "Your place is to protect the city, but Tenzin needs to protect his family."
"And we need to let him," Korra agreed, though the decision pained her.
As Lin Beifong made her stand to protect the fleeing family, as the former police chief was captured and debended, as Team Avatar fled into the sewers, one thing became clear:
The war had truly begun. And when it ended, nothing would ever be the same.
To be continued in Chapter 9: Skyhook