Page 123 of The Forgotten Queen
“Marx said they can’t find Kase,” Dannyn said. “When my dad died, he sent word for him to return home from Tolsten, but they haven’t been able to locate him on the road or in Tolsten.”
Sydria patted her arm. “I’m sure they’ll track him down soon.”
“Probably not.” Dannyn sighed.
All three women jumped as a loud sound blared through the castle.
“What’s that?” Sydria asked, lightly covering her ears. “Is it a fire?”
“No.” Terror took over Queen Malory’s expression. “It’s the alarm for the king’s guard.”
“What’s happening now?” Dannyn stood, slamming her napkin down on the table. “Doesn’t everyone know my father just died? I can’t take any more craziness.”
A team of guards filed through the door. “Your Majesties, Princess Dannyn,” the head guard said, glancing at all three women. “King Marx has asked that you come with me.”
“What’s going on?” The queen mother stood, her voice trembling as she spoke.
“The castle is under siege,” the guard said.
Queen Malory fainted.
Dannyn gripped the table for support.
Sydria stood motionless as her mind exploded with a memory.
“I hope you can forgive me someday, but I want to set you free. Set us both free.”
A gunshot.
Blood.
A stolen breath.
She was dying.
Dead.
38
Marx
Against Commander Tindale’s advice, Marx opened the Cristole Castle gates, allowing several PTs and two transporters into the grounds.
Marx stood on the front steps of the castle with his commander and a line of guards behind him.
“Your Majesty, we’re already surrounded. Why would you give them access to the middle of our stronghold?” Commander Tindale asked as they watched the vehicles drive down the lane.
“Because I know what they’re here for.”
Tindale shook his head. “You’re a foolish man. Ready your guns,” he yelled to the soldiers behind him.
Marx turned over his shoulder. “No!” he said, looking at each of his men in the eyes. “Put your guns down. We will not fight them.”
“But sir—” Tindale pleaded.
Marx leveled the commander with a hard glare. “Donotengage.”
The line of PTs pulled into a circle around the transporters. The riders got off their machines with guns drawn. They ducked behind their PTs, using them as shields in case shots were fired. Another team of guards with guns stepped out of the second transporter, pointing their weapons directly at Marx as they built a wall in front of the first transporter.
