The corridors were quiet again, but this time there was a sense of readiness throughout the household.
Marcus stood near the main entrance and looked around.
Everything was in order.
He checked his communicator once more, but there was no new message from Ryker. He slipped it back into his pocket. The Royal family was on its way home.
Marcus remained near the entrance for a moment longer before turning toward the servants. "Keep everything ready until they arrive. I don't want anyone leaving their post without being replaced."
"Yes, Commander."
Marcus gave a final nod before walking away. There was still work waiting for him in the study, but his attention remained partly fixed on the approaching return of the Royal family and the emergency that had forced them to leave Nightfall so suddenly.
Whatever had happened to Cooper, Marcus knew that the investigation surrounding the child had just become even more urgent.
