Marcen gave a deep bow, his voice smooth and precise. "And the purpose of the meeting?"
"To seek their counsel," she said, her tone sharp but measured. "And to offer mine. I want their opinions, their wisdom. Tell them I do not summon them lightly. If possible, they are to come tonight. If not, then by dawn. This is urgent."
He bowed once more, lower this time. "It will be done, Queen Celeste."
"Dismiss the attendants when you're finished," she added, already turning back to the window. "I want the chamber cleared."
"As you command," he said with reverence.
Within moments, the few silent attendants standing along the side of the door, so still they might have been part of the walls—stepped forward. Each bowed low, placing their hands over their hearts.
"We hear your will, Queen Celeste," the head attendant said solemnly. "And we shall obey. Exactly as you command."
Celestia gave a single nod.
They filed out in silence.
•••
