**145 years after the Air Nomad Genocide. Ba Sing Se.**
Despite Tianhai's explosive growth, the capital of the Earth Kingdom, Ba Sing Se, remains the largest and most populous city on the planet. Under Lao Beifong's skilled leadership, the city has transformed significantly. The population is evenly distributed across all rings, eliminating the once-suffocating crowds on the streets.
For months, residents have watched a massive rock formation hovering above their heads. Initially, it caused panic—each moment felt like the multi-ton boulder would crash down, burying their fragile lives. But they've grown accustomed to it. The government provided explanations, and years of Lao's rule have built immense trust among the people.
"We're all going to die! These are our last peaceful years! All preparations are pointless—just enjoy life! We're no match for an ancient spirit!" screamed a disheveled man, his voice nearly breaking. He held a large sign painted in blood-red letters: "The End is Near!"
Revealing the truth about the upcoming Harmonic Convergence—when the planets align and spirit portals at the poles merge—has had negative consequences. Not everyone's psyche can handle the knowledge of an impending clash with a powerful, ancient spirit. Some see no hope for a good outcome.
For instance, the man now shouting was once a high-ranking officer at a base with breaches. After losing close friends when a higher spirit invaded, he lost his fighting spirit. Witnessing how easily a mere higher spirit overwhelmed them, he concluded humanity stood no chance against Vaatu.
"Please come with us," said police officers, approaching the man after just five minutes.
Unrest is the last thing needed now. Thankfully, propaganda keeps pace. People know humanity's achievements have granted access to realms they never imagined. Chi energy emitters are scattered worldwide, pushing the birth rate of children with bending abilities to unprecedented levels. Even those without gifts can pursue mastery of life energy.
Dozens of airships land daily on the island, delivering construction materials and supplies.
"How's progress?" asked Roku, who had joined the inspection committee.
"By our estimates, everything will be ready in six months," replied the lead overseer of the island's transformation. "Maximum capacity is 500,000 people. Food and water supplies will last a month, but with rationing, that can triple."
"Only a quarter of the current metropolis's population?" thought Roku. "We'll need to relocate three more islands of similar size…" He'd already brought thirty islands into this world, but expanding the portal to the required size demanded not only all his bodies but also the aid of at least five ancient spirits. Fortunately, the entire combat-ready population would be in the Spirit World; otherwise, there wouldn't be enough flying islands.
"Continue."
"The sewage system runs straight down, reducing technical water usage. The ventilation system works flawlessly, so housing dozens in enclosed spaces poses no problem," they explained, reaching one of the residential buildings. Inside was a small, fully equipped kitchen, several bathrooms, and numerous capsule bedrooms. Families with young children have larger spaces, but everyone else must settle for these "coffin-like" quarters. There's no choice—it's the only way to accommodate so many.
The world has felt rushed lately, as if time were running out. Thankfully, the required number of airbenders has been reached. Ten thousand masters, each at least mid-level, eased Roku's worries. So far, everything's on track.
Another issue is troubling. No one knows what will happen when the worlds merge. Wan Shi Tong is certain natural disasters are unavoidable, but their severity is unknown. Worse, no one knows how it will unfold—perhaps everyone in the Spirit World at that moment will simply die. They can't influence this, so they hope for the best.
*
**Spirit World. Tree of Time. Yo.**
"Your struggles amuse me. Clearly, your tiny human minds can't grasp the truth—victory will be mine!" The ominous words, echoing for miles, belonged to Vaatu, the Great Spirit of Darkness and Chaos.
"He's so annoying," I muttered. Beyond his frequent release of dark energy, his voice constantly preys on people's hearts.
"I'm sorry, Senator, I can't go on," whispered a practitioner, sweat pouring from his brow.
"Those feeling unwell, return! Let the next group take over!" I called, met with relieved cheers.
Recently, we began fortifying the area around the Tree of Time, the focal point for scattered dark spirits worldwide. Working near the source of dark emanations is grueling, so workers rotate every two hours. Prolonged exposure to Vaatu has driven some mad. Even I struggled to adjust, but my power level seems to make a difference. It's harsh training, but practitioners and benders will need to endure Vaatu's presence eventually.
Massive walls now surround Vaatu's prison, topped with the most advanced weapons of mass destruction. While I've prevented classical firearms here, secret research continues. Perhaps things will change in time, but now I need as many people as possible. With guns, the death toll would rise. Human resources are hard to replace; with improved living standards, families have fewer children. Once, three or four children per family was normal; now, even one seems rare. We must encourage population growth subtly—you can't just say, "Have more kids!"
"Submit to me!" With Vaatu's roar, the already dim barrier let through dark miasma. His pure energy's effects were visible: many lost focus, some clutched their heads, and weaker-willed individuals made wild cries. It took half an hour for people to recover.
Vaatu's actions are called "dark tides." The longer they're absent, the stronger the next wave. Even I find it challenging, but it strengthens will and heart.
My unique bending abilities have grown significantly. My firebending now consumes enemy energy, boosting its power. Earthbending draws nearly limitless energy when I'm grounded. Airbending has gained self-awareness, enhancing my techniques' autonomy. Of course, it's no match for Vaatu, but every detail matters. You never know what might save your life.
Lately, I've focused on finding my inner spirit. Korra's connection with hers gave her a chance against Vaatu. Astral projection seems to distill all spiritual, life, and mental forces—everything from willpower to mastered techniques. Yet, it's unclear how a capable but ordinary girl created such a powerful projection. Maybe I'm missing something, or perhaps anyone, under the right conditions, can fight darkness…
*
**Yue Bay. Air Temple Island. Yo.**
"Father, Yorūichi is bothering me again!" complained a beautiful girl with short black hair and large green eyes. She glared at another, curvier girl whose open back showcased a cascade of purple hair. The brunette smirked.
"Kitten, please don't bother Opal," I pleaded with my restless daughter. "And what did I say about that outfit? Wear something less… form-fitting?" She wore her favorite black bodysuit, paired with stockings that only added spice.
"Don't you like it, Father?" she posed provocatively, showcasing her toned, bare derrière.
"Yorūichi's the only daughter who sees nothing wrong with her father's advances…" Likely my fault—I placed a part of myself in them as they matured, to ensure their safety. I still don't fully understand this bond; perhaps it's why Yui and I are more than siblings…
"Pervert!" Opal shouted, covering my eyes. "I'll tell Mom!"
"She already said she doesn't mind," Yorūichi shrugged. Clearly, Chitara's influence—as a spirit, human morals mean nothing to her.
"It's fine, Opal," I soothed, petting my youngest. Opal, my daughter with Toph, already masters earth, lava, and metalbending.
"Yorūichi, leave your sister alone," I said firmly. "Find someone more your 'weight class,' like Kushi or Hime," I smiled, knowing she'd avoid them. They'd spank her, unlike Opal, who hasn't yet matched her sister's strength and often becomes Yorūichi's target.
"Hmph," Yorūichi snorted, casting a mocking glance at Opal.
"Thanks, Dad," Opal said, wrapping her arms around my neck. Of all my daughters, she's the gentlest and most obedient. Despite her age, she still loves hugs and closeness.
"Anything for my little princess," I kissed her forehead, making her cheeks flush adorably.
"Almost forgot!" she blurted. "Mom Kuvira asked for your help—another spirit-powered bender's appeared…"
"The others are in the Spirit World—I'll go," I said. Another modern issue: powerful benders emerging. Most are law-abiding, but some overestimate their abilities. Last month, I had to permanently stop one. His power made him delusional, leading to chaos.
The situation's under control. All my wives and nearly all my daughters now match ancient spirits in strength.