The gradual cooling of her bath water brought Nadira slowly out of her peaceful doze. With a sigh of regret, she arose and dried herself off with a nearby towel; she searched the room and found a comb for her hair. A few minutes of struggling with errant tangles, she then tied it back neatly. Wrapping the towel about her body, she entered her room to find herself still alone. Good, she thought, perhaps Shani is down getting to know the other staff.

A moment of indecision flashed across her face as she wondered whether she should dress and return downstairs. But the bath had relaxed her so completely she turned that thought aside, deciding instead to sleep while she could. Soon enough she would have to speak with the formidable Morga and gather with the other women, reluctant as she was to do so. This time alone was more necessary and healing than she had realized.

She tossed her towel onto the chair by the table and then climbed into her bed, warmed flesh feeling the coolness of the sheets. Not long did she lie wakeful for sleep overtook her soundly, continuing quietly the healing she so needed.