A Promise Kept

My eyes fluttered open, heavy with exhaustion. A soft yawn escaped my lips. Fable's fur brushed against my face, but the gentle sensation was overshadowed by a searing ache radiating from my chest. I let out a pained whimper, every breath filling my lungs with fire, and pressing a hand to my breast. Beneath the shredded blouse of my dress, my fingers brushed against the rough linens of bandages.

"Xiviyah? You're awake?"

The voice was familiar, yet felt distant, as though echoing down a long tunnel. Blinking against a wave of dizziness, I lifted my gaze. Green eyes, filled with worry, stared back at me. Korra. Her name struck me like a physical blow. In a breathless gasp, everything came crashing back–the Inquisitors, the demon...and Korra.