"Welcome back to Eternal, envoys," greeted the emperor cordially.

"Thank you for giving them a ceasefire of 12 hours, Your Majesty. Too many innocent lives have been lost from this war," I said.

Master Wind quickly gave me a series of eye signals, reminding me that I had spoken too much.

"Envoys, I only have one question. Do you have any blood in your hands?" the emperor suddenly questioned.

Everyone sank into silence, except Domo who meekly said, "The fighter drones do not bleed."

"I am aware of everything you have done. Half of your companions are still staying with the rebels even now, harming the lives of imperial soldiers. That alone qualifies them for capital punishment," said the emperor sternly.

I broke out in a cold sweat. It did not seem like this audience would end favorably for us. As the emperor grew furious, four Gando warriors entered and stood guard at the two sides of the room. Each Gando warrior held a different weapon as they stood, filling the room with an oppressive atmospher...