Blake eventually met Cimon in the Portal Chambers, preparing to head out, talking with Celeste and a handful of noble youths in their age group from across the manor. Blake counted three of them outside of Celeste and Cimon, and two of them were boys, barely Blake's age, while the girl was around 16 from the brief glance Blake gave her way.
He ignored their existence as he made his way over to Cimon.
"Has Achlys still not returned?" Blake asked Cimon.
"No, she's still on her mission," Cimon shook his head. "She will meet us there, though, I am certain… Eventually, anyway. The Shadow Conclave will be meeting on the Winter Solstice and there are many noble families and houses that will be attending. She will be delivering the news personally. She may be late, but she will meet us at school within the coming weeks, I'm sure."
Blake nodded his understanding before turning to Celeste, who was watching him intently. "Princess."
"Blake…," she said, slightly breathless.
