As much as everyone might have wished to linger in order to celebrate Isabell's successful awakening as the Hemlock Witch, the approach of dawn called Nyrielle and her progeny to bed, forcing them to return to their chambers deep within the ancient keep just minutes after Isabell had awakened.
"I know you'll tend to your witch well today," Nyrielle said as she gently cupped Ashlynn's cheek. "But take time for yourself to rest before you do. I'm sure that Isabell could use some real sleep herself after her ordeal, so hurry back to your tower and your own bed for at least a few hours before you throw yourself back into caring for others."
"I will," Ashlynn promised, standing up on her tiptoes to give Nyrielle a brief peck on the lips. "Today, we all need to rest. Tomorrow, when word arrives from Hanrahan, we can worry about what comes next, but for now, I don't intend to do anything more strenuous than cooking a warm meal and having a quiet conversation with Isabell and the coven."
