Ryker approached the gates of the Inner Ring, sweat dripping down his face.
Not from exertion, but from the sheer stress of what was ahead of him.
That woman had ordered him to speak to Magnus Vaelor personally.
She could have sent anyone else. One of her trusted captains, one of the seasoned Inner Ringers who actually belonged in this world of marble and gold.
But no. It had to be him.
The traitor.
The rebel dressed up in a stolen uniform, carrying stolen orders, breathing stolen air.
Ryker wasn't even sure if he wanted to carry out the order.
On one hand, this could be the beginning of something bigger, a way to tear the system down from the inside.
On the other hand, it could end with him gutted like a fish before he ever said a word.
He flexed his fingers, trying to keep them from shaking. Get it together.
