Desert hallways (2)

«What's the meaning of this?» the Empress repeats, this time almost neurotic.

«I have no clue, your majesty. I didn't know there have been changes,» a man replies. I recognise the voice.

It's one of the advisors. He did press some of the candidates with difficult questions while keeping others unoccupied, but that didn't influence the decision much.

The other counsellors are all experienced people. We didn't fall into such obvious manipulation.

«The last time I checked, the list was the same.»

«You're useless!» the Empress shouts.

And here we go. This harpy will now rail against her helper and blame him for her failure. Now that I know who he is, I can play another trick...

Will I even need a trick to trigger the harpy? She's so enraged that it's a surprise she doesn't attack on the spot.

«What should I do now, your majesty?» he squeals.