As she glanced at the man in front of her, a dark expression washed over his face. The corner of his mouth curled into an unsettling smirk. Skyla could feel her palms become warm as her fists clenched, hidden beneath her gown. She knew she was far outnumbered and fighting would be useless. She had no other choice but to follow the men out. Taking a silent deep breath she exhaled, pushing her shoulders back and once again taking on the demeanor of royalty. She stepped forward.
"Release the maids to return to their families in the village. I will come without hesitation." The words flowed numbly from her.
"As you wish, your highness" the leader agreed.
"But General Nol..." another guard interjected.
"Do not disregard my authority lieutenant! The princess is the link we need. Nothing else matters." The general snapped.
The maids were soon ushered from the room. As the guards surrounded her Skyla walked slowly through the halls of the castle. She tried to think of every scenario. Who was behind this envision? Where was her father? How was she to escape? However, the distance between her quarters and the throne room was not far enough for her to complete her thoughts. As they entered, the torches lining the walls provided a warm glow to the vast room. It was still dark out judging from the sole window hanging high above the throne at the top of the cathedral ceiling.
Sitting on the throne of her father was a short man. His hair and beard were gray with age. His stocky demeanor made him look oddly small sitting in such a large seat. He was flanked by two more guards on either side, although they were tucked against the wall seemingly placed to hide in the shadows. As she approached, the man was lightly strumming his fingers on the arm of the chair. His other hand was curled around his chin.
"Kneel." Stated Nol the guard.
But Skyla would not move. She had never kneeled to anyone and she was still a person of authority in this kingdom. She would not lower the respect due to her people by kneeling before a stranger whether he sat on the throne or not.
"I said kneel!"
Suddenly her legs were out from under her as she felt a swift kick to the back of her knees. Her palms fell to the floor to catch her fall. She swore she could almost see a smile form on the imposters face as he rose from his golden seat.
"Now now general. Is that anyway to treat a guest in our new kingdom?" The mans voice was deep and strong with undertones of something dark. "Help her up."
General Nol grabbed her arm sharply yanking her to her feet. "Your kingdom?" She spat the words out at the intruder. "This is the kingdom of my father King Andar. Our people are peaceful and wish no ill to anyone. He has worked hard to build alliances across the country and they will not stand for your betrayal." It took everything she had to hold on to the last few pieces of composure she had left. As her breathing increased with anger, she felt warmth begin to spread throughout her body again as her eyes burned into the man before her. She could not reveal her true self until she knew what they were up against. However, the words that flowed from his mouth next left her spiraling and alone.
"I am your new Ruler Zafar." He scoffed. "The king is dead."