Shona made her way toward the ministers' chambers, feeling the weight of her double life with every step. She steeled herself, knowing that any misstep could expose her. The ministers were powerful and cunning, and despite their cordial facades, she could sense the hunger for control lurking beneath, as they sought to replace the king.
As she entered the ornate hall, a group of ministers sat around a polished mahogany table, their gazes sharp as they took in her arrival. The Minister of Intelligence, an older man with graying hair and a cold expression, gestured for her to sit.
"Shona," he began, his tone as icy as his stare, "I trust your mission went well."
She forced herself to appear calm, though her heart was racing. "Yes, Minister. I met with the Astral Maiden organization, as you instructed."
