Chapter 466: Battle Report
"Wait and pray."
The words echoed hollowly in my ears and tasted like ash in my mouth.
Where had that ever gotten me? I had fought so hard and endured so much, only to find myself trapped once more, this time by my own failing body. I knew what Elinore didn’t—that the spreading decay was likely linked to the rift Haven had absorbed. That realm was deeply intertwined with my soul, and such a drastic change would inevitably weaken my resistance. It wouldn’t have been a major issue under normal circumstances, but the damage I’d sustained during the battle with the Circle had set a dangerous chain of events in motion.
A wave of despair washed over me, threatening to drown me in its icy depths. But then I remembered the vision, the haunting image of Elise’s twisted smile and vacant eyes, her perverse joy that I, too, was begging to be raped. I couldn’t give up, not now. Not when she needed me more than ever.
With a surge of newfound determination, I pushed myself to my feet, ignoring the protests of my aching body. I’d learned much from the visions, but would it be enough to alter the grim future I’d witnessed? Only time would tell... and I didn’t have much of it left.
"No," I said, my voice firm against the pain. "We’re not waiting. I’m not wasting any more time."
"Wait, Xiviyah, you should think about this. Stressing your body out will only–"
Ignoring her protests, I quickly dressed and made my way towards the door, throwing it open with a determined push. Or at least, that was the intention. My muscles were so weak that even this simple action left me panting.
The stairs loomed ominously before me, and I swallowed hard, summoning my staff for support. What are a few stairs compared to the challenges I’ve already faced? I thought defiantly.
Insurmountable, apparently. A conclusion I was forced to accept after stumbling on the first step and nearly tumbling down to the common room floor. Thankfully, Elinore caught up in time, her strong arms encircling me as she carefully guided me down the stairs. My face burned with embarrassment as the common room came into view, and curious faces turned towards us. Not exactly the most heroic entrance, but I still managed a meek "thank you" to Elinore as we reached the bottom.
"Xiviyah?" Korra’s voice was tinged with surprise. "You’re up, uh, early."