Chapter 32: A Symphony of Sacrifice
When Gale asserted his leadership over the northern tribe and successfully united it with the southern tribe, a profound transformation swept across the global landscape.
The survivors of the hundred-year war bore witness to the rise of a new dictator, emerging from the shadows much like Ozai's ascent to the world's summit.
For the younger generation, this marked the first time they encountered an individual challenging the delicate balance of the world. A charismatic yet cruel leader emerged, shattering established norms and casting a shadow over the familiar stability they once knew.
Gale found himself within the confines of the northern tribe's palace, delivering an impassioned speech to the local residents. However, many trembled in the face of the situation, unable to reconcile with the promises of a man who had invaded their land and now dared to inspire them. His actions were repudiated by many as an act of villainy.
Beside Gale stood Eska, visibly frightened and submissive. Understandably so, as the man before her was responsible for her father's death. To worsen matters, Gale had discovered Eska and her brother hiding, with Desna attempting to protect them but meeting a tragic end at Gale's merciless hands.
Noticing the fear etched on his wife's face, Gale interrupted his speech and approached, whispering threateningly in her ear, "Smile, my beautiful wife, or would you prefer to meet death?" As he spoke these words, he possessively pulled her by the waist.
Eska, upon hearing Gale's threats, felt compelled to force a smile, though her eyes betrayed the anguish behind that expression. She waved to the crowd with an artificial appearance of joy, while the sense of oppression intensified in the face of Gale's dominating presence.
The Red Lotus members behind Gale couldn't contain their laughter witnessing the scene. Undeniably, the man was truly eccentric, bordering on insanity, but his courage stirred a mixture of admiration and incredulity among those present. As the laughter echoed, it became clear that, for those followers, Gale's madness was a source of entertainment, even if accompanied by a chilling touch of unpredictability.
—
Upon concluding his speech, Gale didn't hesitate to impose a cruel seal of slavery on his own wife's soul. Then, devoid of compassion, he expelled her from the palace, sending her directly to the military plane bound for Republic City.
Entering the northern tribe's meeting room, Gale took his seat with the confidence of someone accustomed to command. Observing their leader's subtle indication, the Red Lotus members promptly took their places, eagerly awaiting the man with blue hair's next guidance.
"As everyone is aware, there have been changes to the plan. Zaheer is aware of this," declared Gale, casting a meaningful glance towards the man, who responded discreetly with a nod.
Elaborating on his plan before the audience, Gale articulately laid out the foundations of a new strategy aiming to unite the spiritual world with the material world. He expressed his perspective on Unalaq's failure to become the Dark Avatar, acknowledging the validity of his intent. However, unlike Unalaq, Gale planned to transcend this duality by merging not only with Vaatu's darkness but also with Raava's light.
Boldly, Gale outlined that, after this complex fusion, he would willingly disintegrate himself. He argued that, given Raava or Vaatu's inevitable rebirth, the only solution would be to eliminate both. Thus, Gale proposed to shoulder this colossal burden, committing to a final sacrifice to eradicate the duality threatening the world's balance.
Absorbing Gale's words, a complex mix of emotions filled the Red Lotus members. Doubts, trust, and simultaneously, deep sadness hovered over the room. Gale's plan stirred a whirlwind of feelings but paradoxically fueled a silent understanding among them.
The Red Lotus members, devoted to their ideologies, accepted the imminent possibility of death as an integral part of this path. They were willing to sacrifice themselves for their beliefs, understanding the inevitability of the outcome proposed by Gale.
Faced with the expressions of acceptance from those in front of him, Gale proceeded with determination.
"I want to emphasize that I freed all of you because I need help to unify this corrupt world. As I mentioned, control precedes chaos. The liberation of the world is also part of my plans, as I aim for them to be free from political tyranny after my death," declared Gale, as his expression shifted between confidence and a dark sadness.
In a moment of genuine sincerity, he continued, "By declaring war on the Fire Nation, I naively assumed that the other nations would not get involved. However, Zaofu joined the war due to the death of a Metal Clan descendant in Republic City."
Feigning surprise, Gale continued his speech, his eyes reflecting a murderous determination, "With Zaofu entering the war, the Earth Nation becomes the next target. Currently, I am in conflict with practically two nations, plus one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world. Therefore, I ask for your collaboration. Together, let's help save this world."
Zaheer was the first to rise from his chair, turning his gaze to Gale and then to his fellow Red Lotus members. With conviction, he expressed his words, "I faithfully believe in Gale's words. I trust my life to this man. Without him, we would never have gathered again, and none of this would be possible. I cannot stand still and think that we are dead weight. Are you with me?"
Upon hearing their leader's words, the Red Lotus members rose in unison, full of determination, responding in synchrony: "We will follow you, Gale."
Observing unanimous agreement in the room, Gale's eyes glistened with feigned joy. In a calculated moment of insincere gratitude, he emotionally conveyed, "Thank you all; your presence is truly appreciated."
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone