I went back to the garden to clear my head but minutes later, I heard footsteps behind me. I turned, expecting Avalon or one of my other mates instead, I saw guards at least a dozen of them, they were armed and weren't smiling.

"Miss Delphine," one said formally. "You need to come with us."

"What?" I looked around, confused. "Why? What's happening?"

"Alpha's orders," the guard said. "Please don't make this difficult."

"Alpha's orders?" I repeated. "Where is Avalon? I need to talk to him—"

Before I knew what was happening, multiple hands grabbed me from behind. I tried to summon Phoenix fire, but something cold pressed against my...