The Uprising (The Mamluks Saga: Episode 2) by Edward Lake Page A

“Forgive me, My Ruler, but I suggest we act now. There might be more going on than we think.”
    He was right. But even so, I had to make him understand. “It saddens me to say this, but I’ve finally realized the truth: Juozas has abandoned us for good this time.” I stood up and exhaled. “I will do what is necessary to protect our heritage. That is why we must secure his spawn—and it will be much easier to achieve with Juozas close by.”
    London released a somber groan. “I suppose this means you plan to remove him as Champion.”
    I gravely nodded. “I have no choice. He’s become a threat to us all.” My heart was broken. I closed my eyes and shed a few tears.
    You swore to protect me, Juozas. Why, Son? Why have you betrayed us?

Chapter 37: Juozas
    I was in the security room going over a few standard procedures when Isabella walked inside. So far it had been a long, stressful day, and it was nice to finally see her. I turned in my chair as she came close. Isabella reached out to me and slid her hands onto my shoulders. I closed my eyes for a moment and rested my head on her belly. The sweet scent coming from her body made me sigh with pleasure. 
    Isabella carefully moved her hand up to my head and rubbed softly. I smiled and kissed her soft fingers, then I kissed her belly. I love you, too. I looked up at Isabella and saw her smiling as I felt her stomach. I smiled back as I went on. A few moments later, I felt the baby move, and Isabella quickly shifted my hand to the spot.
    She laughed merrily as she gently pressed down on my hand. “Can you feel it?”
    “Yeah, he’s really moving.”
    Isabella gave me a playful, testy stare. “It’s a girl, Juozas.”
    I firmly shook my head. “No. It’s a boy.” Lately, this had been a silly battle between us. I really wanted a son, and Isabella sternly stood by her belief that we were having a daughter. Still, I knew that when the baby was born it wouldn’t matter. Even so, it was fun to debate.
    Isabella smiled. “We shall see. And very soon.” She turned away and headed towards the entryway. But before she could step into the corridor, she quickly staggered back into the room and put her hand over her heart. “My Ruler, you startled me.”
    I leaned my head and saw Mother walk inside.
    “Sorry about that, Dear. I was just stopping by to say hello.”
    I stood up and walked forward. “Hello, Mother.”
    She smiled. “Hello, Sweetheart. How is everything?”
    I stopped alongside Isabella and put my arm around her waist. “Splendid.”
    Mother glanced at the control board with dithering eyes. “Very good.” She looked back at me. “What do you two have planned for this evening?”
    “We’re having dinner with Isabella’s parents.”
    Mother’s face burst into excitement. “That sounds great. I’ll stop by and join you.”
    I shifted my eyes. Something was different about her. Has she discovered our ploy? “Certainly, My Ruler. Isabella’s parents would be honored.”
    “Yes, they surely would. As would I, Great Emily.”
    Mother grinned. “My anticipation is sky-high.” She turned and headed out. “I’ll see you there.”
    Isabella and I glanced at each with great concern as we listened to her walk down the hall.  She has discovered our ploy.
    Later on, I arrived at Isabella’s building and headed inside to the dining hall. Mother was already there, sitting at the table, talking to Zydrunas and Susan. Their servant was setting the table, playing along. Right away, I made sure to remember not to be kind to the servant in any way.
    Mother saw me and smiled. “Hello, My Dear.”
    “Welcome, Juozas,” Susan said.
    I smiled at them and took a seat. “Hello, Mother. Thank you, Susan.” As I got comfortable in my chair, I studied Zydrunas and Susan. They were clearly on edge—and rightfully so. Mother was surely up to something, and I knew they sensed it, too.
    “Susan and Zydrunas tell me you’ve had dinner here regularly since