They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest; and he was sitting with the guards, warming himself at the fire. (Mark 14: 53-54)

Peter seems to have circled around. As the crowd of temple police and assorted others march Jesus through the night, we can envision Peter skittering behind.

From Gethsemane it is a short walk to the walls of Jersusalem. Once inside the gate Peter would have blended with the curious who joined the procession.

Mark's choice of language has led most scholars to conclude that this was not a meeting of the Sanhedrin or Chief Religious Council. The Sanhedrin met in the Chamber of Hewn Stone within the temple grounds and was not chaired by the Chief Priest.

The anonymity of the crowd restored Peter's confidence. His love for Jesus called him to keep as close as possible.

The night was cold, the risk was significant, but Peter followed his heart into the courtyard of his adversaries.