Eric didn't answer immediately. He feigned a weak cough, considering how he should reply.
When Eric didn't answer, Governor Yajisiyan looked to Ahmed, who was standing to the side.
"Er, he took a nasty blow to the head. Something's wrong with his throat," Ahmed explained.
"What's his name? Ahmed, you're Balha's second-in-command, are you not?" Yajisiyan asked.
"Er..." Ahmed froze, staring blankly at Yajisiyan before turning to Eric. "What was your name, again?"
"Hmm?" Yajisiyan was puzzled.
"What I mean is, I'm just a second-in-command. Personnel matters for the City Guard were always handled by Balha himself. He always liked to bring in fresh blood... But, but, without a doubt, he always found some... some outstanding Warriors." Ahmed glanced toward the doorway, at the few emaciated peasant conscripts who had followed him in, then turned back to Yajisiyan and spoke with an air of great sincerity.
