Chapter 9. The Vow of the Rejected

Celeste’s POV

I awoke with a sudden rush of icy water splashing down my face, jolting every nerve in my body. A shiver raced along my spine as my eyes snapped open, only to find the rough, cold earth pressing against my cheek. My arms and legs were tightly bound, as if I’d been accused of some grave crime. Overhead, a deep, commanding voice cut through my daze.

“Is she conscious?” it demanded, its tone sharp and intimidating.

From somewhere behind me came a hesitant reply. “My The Goddess, I believe so.”

Before I could gather my wits, strong hands seized me under the arms and hauled me to my feet. I was forced forward until I stood mere inches from a woman whose presence made my blood run cold. I dared not meet her eyes and quickly dropped my gaze.

She wore a gown of gleaming silver that swept the ground in stately folds, and atop her head perched a magnificent crown, each jewel catching the dim light like distant stars. I couldn’t help but wonde