We knew it was going to be a tough road for Meredith.

Still, we weren't quite prepared for something like this.

The first sneak preview for Season 8 of Grey's Anatomy has been released, and it leaves no doubt about how Mer's professional transgressions are viewed by her employer.

Watch her meet with Richard in this clip from "Free Fallin'" ...

The two-part episode airs September 22. Will Derek be just as hostile toward Meredith? How will Alex be received by his colleagues, given his role in Meredith's downfall? Which way is Cristina leaning as far as the monumental decision she faces?

Follow the jump for ABC's first promo:

How do you predict all of these story lines will end up when the dust settles next month? Leave a comment below to discuss these clips from the eighth season ...

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.