Zita's determination was put to the test as the investigation continued to unfold. She was approached by Amina, who had been a key source of information in her investigation.
"Zita, we need to talk," Amina said, her voice low and urgent. "I've received word that Lord Arden is planning to flee the palace. He knows that the net is closing in around him, and he's desperate to escape."
Zita's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with possibilities. "We can't let him get away," she said, her voice firm. "We have to stop him, no matter what it takes."
Amina nodded, her eyes glinting with determination. "I've arranged for a meeting with one of Lord Arden's associates. He's willing to turn state's evidence, but we have to be careful. Lord Arden has people watching our every move."
Zita nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. She knew that she was taking a risk, but she was willing to do whatever it took to bring Lord Arden to justice.
The meeting was set to take place in a abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of the city. Zita and Amina made their way there, their eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of danger.
As they entered the warehouse, they were greeted by a nervous-looking man, his eyes darting back and forth. "You're here to talk to me about Lord Arden?" he asked, his voice shaking.
Zita nodded, her eyes locked onto his. "Yes, we are. What do you know about his plans?"
The man hesitated, his eyes scanning the room before he spoke. "Lord Arden is planning to flee the country, but he's not going alone. He's taking several key witnesses with him, people who could implicate him in the conspiracy."
Zita's eyes widened as she realized the scope of Lord Arden's plan. She knew that she had to act quickly, that she had to stop him before it was too late.
As they left the warehouse, Zita and Amina were met with a surprise. Lord Hastings and a team of palace guards were waiting for them, their eyes locked onto Zita's.
"Your Highness, we've received word that Lord Arden is planning to flee," Lord Hastings said, his voice firm. "We need to move quickly, before it's too late."
Zita nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. She knew that the shadows were converging, and she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.