Chapter 229: Gate Warnings

I tried checking in on Dad, but he had the basement door warded. Part of me was pissed he wasn't paying attention when Celeste broke in, but the other half was grateful. It was probably those very wards which would have kept her from doing what she was trying to if I hadn't arrived home.

That thought made me pause at the bottom of the first floor stairs. What if she wasn't heading for the basement? But if not, what was she after? I pondered the question all the way to my room. A brief touch behind Meira's door told me she was sleeping. At least I didn't have her to deal with tonight.

There was still no Galleytrot waiting for me and nor could I reach him.

I sat down at my computer and checked for messages. And no Quaid either. Great, it seemed everyone was ignoring me. Sassy lay curled up on the bed sleeping, so I let him, sliding under the covers myself.

***

The hum drives me to my knees, shaking my soul as the pounding footsteps draw closer. I lift my eyes, looking up at the Gate