Why Are You Doing This?

The walls of Fort Grey were thick and unyielding, built decades ago to house Amerathia's most dangerous criminals. Now, they held the men who had nearly torn the nation apart.

President Matthew Hesh walked through the dimly lit corridors, his footsteps echoing as he approached the high-security block. His shoulder ached from the wound he had sustained during the final battle, but he ignored it.

This visit wasn't about his pain. It was about understanding.

Whitaker and Collins followed close behind, their expressions unreadable. Armed guards flanked them, their rifles ready, their eyes watchful.

"Are you sure about this, Matt?" Collins muttered.

Hesh didn't answer immediately. He kept walking. The iron door loomed ahead.

"Yes," he said finally. "I need to hear it from them."

A guard unlocked the heavy door. The bolts groaned as it swung open.