Celeste found Syzar in all dark attire, his eyes stern as they locked with hers. “You’re late,” he snarled.
Celeste rushed to his side and bowed.
“I am sorry, Alpha. I was seeing Queen Mother Vamara off. I had no idea of her departure, so it delayed my time to my quarters to find your message,” she added quickly.
She knew Syzar hated excuses and hated anything that would make him wait, so she was surprised by his next words.
“I see…” he muttered, with no other scolding words, as the alpha walked away, leaving Celeste blinking rapidly in surprise at his calm response.
Instead, he led them deeper into the garden, past a large statue in the likeness of his mother, now covered in flowers. Just behind it was a barred gate.
One he swiftly opened as they descended the spiral steps that led
