Lado played a good card. Or maybe it had been Alessio behind him all along. But rallying the support of all the Eclipse Alphas ensured Neveah could not actively decline or risk shaming Alessio.
At the end of dinner, it was decided.
Neveah would be performing the Luna dance in two days.
The Eclipse Alphas filed out of the dining hall, led away by Lado. Neveah walked at a slow pace behind, ignoring Alessio's looming presence by her side.
"The Eclipse Alphas will be having drinks in Lado's study." Alessio relayed to Neveah. "I'm expected to join them. I don't know how far into the night it will take."
Neveah pursed her lips. She didn't care either way.
"I'll walk you back." Alessio added, "You need your rest. I can always join them later."
Neveah shook her head slowly. "I'll be fine on my own. I know the way back."
Alessio was about to protest but she fixed him with a blank stare.
