Chapter 157: Test Them
She gestured for them to sit around a low table carved from volcanic glass, then produced several crystals that began to glow with soft light—recording devices that would capture every word of their conversation.
"Let’s begin with basic information," Commander Yuehua said, her tone professional but not unfriendly. "Names, ranks, and units of service."
This was it—the moment where their deception would either hold or fall apart entirely. Lin straightened her shoulders and met the Commander’s gaze directly.
"I am Lin Shuang," she said, using a variation of her real name that sounded plausible. "Former tactical advisor to the Inner Sanctum defense corps."
"Captain Zhen Wei," Captain Zhen said, also modifying his name slightly. "Third reconnaissance squadron."
All eyes turned to Grim, who realized that his answer would be the most scrutinized of all.
"Grim van Ambrose," he said, deciding that truth was safer than invention. "Strategic consultant specializing in inter-realm conflicts."
Commander Yuehua made notes on a tablet as they spoke, occasionally nodding as if their answers matched information she already possessed. But when she looked up again, her expression had hardened slightly.
"Interesting," she said. "Because according to our records, the Third Reconnaissance Squadron was disbanded three months ago after their commander was arrested for seditious activities."
The silence that followed was deafening. Captain Zhen’s cover story had just been blown apart, and with it, potentially their entire deception.
But before anyone could respond, Lin spoke with a calm authority that commanded attention.