I drifted through sleep like a leaf on a forest stream, slipping fluidly between visions, dreams, and quiet darkness. For months, my slumber had been troubled by glimpses of horrors and war, my dreams filled with terrible 'what-ifs' of the past. Sleep had never been easy, and more often than not, I awoke in tears.
There was no such torment now, save for the occasional glimpse of a battle ahead in the coming days. Instead, I wandered through memories of Heartland's forests and the many adventures I shared with the Glory Chasers: Sorrin and Tana's wedding, Dyson's winning smile, and even Rasce's roundabout support. I spent what felt like days riding through Blue Canyon with Korra, practicing my smile, and reunited with Elise.
Once, I walked with Aurle beneath Westfall's ancient, twisted boughs, holding hands, talking, and laughing. Her furry fox ears twitched every time she smiled, her face bright, eyes sparkling with joy.