Prelude to the revolution

"This is a danger to our nation; we need to annihilate these Equalists," Tarrlok said, pounding the table and directing his eyes towards Gale. "Don't you agree, Councilor?"

Gale remained silent, observing the other council members.

In the last five months, the Equalists had grown from a small fish to reach the level of a megalodon, all thanks to Gale, who contributed to the organization.

Hiroshi Sato needed investments to complete the uniforms and special equipment to deal with benders, and Gale assisted him. As the true leader of the Southern Tribe, he essentially held the financial resources of an entire nation. Thus, he made a large-scale investment in Hiroshi's industries, going so far as to establish a factory in the Southern Tribe and acquire a significant portion of its shares.

From this significant investment, the company experienced exponential growth, expanding colossally.

Turning his thoughts to Tarrlok's question, he subtly nodded in agreement.

"Tarrlok is right; this is a drastic situation. If we don't act, the Equalists will declare a coup," Gale said, his words echoing immediate urgency.

Noticing the mention of the word "coup," the Earth and Fire Kingdom council members showed expressions of concern, immediately triggering a discussion.

Tenzin tried to calm things, stating that it was impossible for an organization without actual war equipment to stage a coup, but it was in vain. The discussion had begun.

After several hours of debate, Gale finally decided to intervene, aware that his extremist views might resonate.

Gale stood up with determination, his voice filled with anger as he proposed, "I suggest we declare martial law, implement a curfew, and take all necessary drastic measures to protect the benders of this nation. We cannot allow them to be at the mercy of these self-proclaimed equalists."

Turning towards Tarrlok, Gale declared with conviction, "I propose that Councilor Tarrlok lead this operation. I believe he is perfect for this role."

Upon hearing Gale's proposal, Tenzin intervened with an angry expression.

"What are you saying, Councilor Gale? How dare you?" Tenzin exclaimed, his forehead veins visibly bulging, revealing his anger.

The Earth and Fire Council members tried to intervene, but Tarrlok took the lead.

"Councilor Gale is absolutely right. It seems like all of you are turning a blind eye to this situation. The nation, the Republic is in danger," Tarrlok said as he raised his arm. "Time for a vote. Raise your hands if you support Councilor Gale's idea. Remember, they'll be coming for all of us soon."

Gale quickly raised his hand in agreement.

Tenzin sat back at his table, refusing to raise his hand, while casting a threatening glance towards Gale. "I really thought you weren't like this, Councilor."

Ignoring Tenzin's whispers, Gale redirected his gaze towards the other council members.

In the end, they also raised their hands.

"It's decided; martial law is in effect from now on," declared Tarrlok, his voice conveying the sense of a tyrant leader emerging.

Without a second thought, Gale stood up and was about to close the gate when he was stopped by Tenzin.

"Where are you going? We're not done yet," Tenzin declared, still angry.

Gale paid no attention to the airbender and simply walked towards the exit of the palace.

Without hesitation, he decided that the revolution should start on that day