Gregor waited out front of the mayoral building, waiting for Saladin's representative. He stood for ten minutes before a soldier came out. "The Empress will see you know."
"But.." Gregor tried to speak but the soldier's raised hand stopped him
"She will see you now." He said it again, slower and Gregor could only take a deep breath a nod. Walking through the halls he saw soldiers lining the hall, watching him with hawk-like eyes. He felt his back go cold as he tried to keep calm in front of them all. He walked up the stairs and with each step he felt more conflicted about what he was doing.
Was he right? Did he have to betray his friend? Was this the only choice? Questions and self-doubt plagued him until he stood outside a door guarded by a man in black amour with scars on his face. He eyed Gregor before opening the door and letting him in. Inside he saw Isra, smiling warmly at him with a cold-looking old man behind her.
