During their conversation, time still seemed distant to them. Judge Beldor inquired of one of the soldiers from Saron when Nerre was expected back. A week, a messenger had informed them.
A week in which many hoped for a miracle, just like Marli did once she was alone with the child. While Beldor hoped time might spare them. But then everything came to a much too premature end.
***
Most notably, it was evident in the soldiers. From the city gate, the path would stretch towards the courthouse. There, deep underground, dungeons were set up, where people were already treading on each other's feet. An unworthy place for the criminals, as the king saw it. Among rogues, murderers, and thieves, there were simply women and men. Banished here in desperation or because of a wrong word, waiting for their execution.
There, the Amazons were to be housed. For Nette and her most dangerous subordinates, the heavily guarded dungeons of the castle were intended, which the second stop led to. For this purpose, soldiers and mercenaries erected a makeshift wall from the outset, as well as a stage for the noble population. Judge Beldor was informed early on by his escort, the commander who was specially there for his protection, that he had the task of securing the stage at the market.
A stop was planned here. After a speech from the victorious soldier Nerre - Beldor could only spit whenever he had to see her like this - the Amazons would be separated. Only the king and the proud soldier knew what fate had in store for Nette.