Eve of Battle

There was a stunned silence as Orion and Joel took in Luxxa's claim. After a second, Orion leaped to his feet and strode over to the window, throwing the shudders aside. It was early evening, but the western horizon was alight with streaks of red. The sun was still high in the sky, far too early for sunset.

"A fire gate," Korra said softly, her arms around me tight, holding me close. The pressure sent a burst of tingles dancing through my Sunpurge, but I ignored them a moment longer, letting her stroke my head softly.

My eyes opened slowly and I held out my hand, summoning my staff from where it had fallen on the floor. Noticing the motion, Korra reluctantly stood, helping me to my feet. I took a deep breath and looked down at the map, eyes locked on the central citadel.

"It's time."