章 123: The Storm Breaks

The next morning, China awoke to chaos. A sensational headline blazed across every newspaper, social media platform, and news station: "Death of Minister of Finance, Mr. Song: A Real Accident or Government Assassination?" The article ignited a firestorm of speculation and fear, sending shockwaves through the nation.

In Shanghai, at the head offices of the clandestine organization, pandemonium reigned. Phones rang incessantly, their shrill tones cutting through the tense atmosphere. High-ranking officials from various sectors bombarded the office with demands for answers.

Director Chen Liwei, head of the Shanghai branch, paced his office, his usually unflappable demeanor cracking under the pressure. His secretary, Liu Mei, burst through the door, her face pale.

"Director Chen, we have calls from three more ministers and the head of national security," she reported breathlessly.