By the seventh day, Morwen no longer had the strength to stand.
At first light, Aldric descended into the lower chamber carrying the update. During the night, the elderly witch had collapsed beside the basin. She remained awake. Her mind was still clear and sharp. Yet her legs had failed her completely. For the third transfer, she would sit in a chair beside the iron circle rather than stand as she had during the previous ceremonies.
Aria remained silent for several heartbeats.
At last she spoke.
“Bring her chair into the room. Make certain she’s comfortable. I’ll come up in an hour.”
Aldric dipped his head in acknowledgment.
Then he departed.
Kael sat on the bedroll with his shoulders resting against the stone wall. Sleep had barely touched him during the night. Aria hadn’t rested
