The sirens started at dawn.
They weren't the normal city sirens that hummed through the Capital during minor emergencies. These were deeper and louder, that vibrated through the walls and floors of the hotel like a warning from the city itself.
Renna fell off the couch.
"What is that? Why is it so loud? I was sleeping, having a good dream about a beach, there was sand and everything, and now there's screaming."
"Martial Law sirens," Emric said, already on his feet as he pulled on his jacket. "That tone means a city-wide lockdown. All gates are sealed, transit is suspended, and nobody gets in or out."
Lyra stood by the window, looking down at the street. Military vehicles were speeding past, their lights flashing as armed soldiers in black armor set up checkpoints at both ends of the block.
"It's the gem," she said quietly. "The Emperor found out."
