For some reason, Emira could not keep herself awake. Part of her wanted to believe it was rebellion, that she was disobeying Prince Kael's command not to sleep. But the truth was simpler- the water was too soothing, its warmth seeping into her body until all the aches in her muscles began to melt away.
It was only after a few minutes after sitting in the bathtub that she had noticed the faint scent of herbs rising from the bath, sharp and earthy beneath the steam. The bath had been prepared with medicine meant to ease pain and stiffness. That explained why her legs no longer felt like stone, why the deep soreness was ebbing with each passing breath.
Her eyelids grew heavy again, and her head dipped before she caught herself. No, she couldn't stay here. She needed to get out before she truly fell asleep.
