Zita's testimony had set the investigation in motion, and now the officials were working tirelessly to uncover the truth. Lord Hastings and his team were poring over the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together the events surrounding Arin's disappearance.
As the investigation continued, Zita found herself being drawn deeper into the web of deceit that had ensnared her brother. She was summoned to testify again, this time in front of a special council convened by the king.
The council chamber was packed with dignitaries, officials, and members of the royal court. Zita's heart was racing as she took her place before the council, her eyes scanning the room for any sign of Lord Arden.
Lord Hastings stood before her, his expression grim. "Your Highness, we've uncovered some disturbing evidence," he said, his voice low and urgent. "It appears that Lord Arden was not acting alone in his plot to silence your brother."
Zita's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with possibilities. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice firm.
Lord Hastings hesitated, his eyes scanning the room before he spoke. "We've found evidence of a larger conspiracy, Your Highness. One that involves several high-ranking officials and members of the royal court."
Zita's heart skipped a beat as she realized the scope of the conspiracy. She knew that she had to be careful, that she was now a key player in a much larger game.
The council members were stunned, their faces pale as they absorbed the news. The king himself looked shaken, his eyes narrowed as he gazed at Zita. "Tell us more," he said, his voice firm.
Lord Hastings nodded, his eyes glinting with determination. "We've found documents, Your Highness, that suggest a plot to manipulate the royal succession. Lord Arden was working with others to ensure that the throne would pass to a specific individual, one who would be more... sympathetic to their cause."
Zita's eyes widened as she realized the true extent of the conspiracy. She knew that she had to act quickly, that she had to do everything in her power to stop the plot.
The council continued to question her, their voices a blur as Zita's mind raced with possibilities. She knew that she was now a key player in the fight for justice, and she was ready to do whatever it took to bring the conspirators to justice.
As the meeting drew to a close, the king leaned forward, his eyes locked onto Zita's. "We will get to the bottom of this, Zita," he said, his voice firm. "We will uncover the truth, and we will bring those responsible to justice."
Zita nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. She knew that the road ahead would be treacherous, but she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As she left the council chamber, Zita felt a sense of determination wash over her. She knew that she was now a key player in the fight for justice, and she was ready to do whatever it took to bring the conspirators to justice.