The Cover Story and a New Team Member

The hotdog confession in the library alcove marked a turning point. The President's initial amusement at Ellie's antics was now firmly coupled with a serious commitment to her safety and the unfolding investigation. He saw the full picture now – her father's innocence, Minister Chen's deeper crimes, and the very real danger that had extended its tendrils into the White House itself. The playful veneer of the "Blunder Years" remained for public consumption, but beneath it, a clandestine operation was rapidly taking shape.

President Sterling immediately brought Agent Miller into their confidence, sharing Ellie's discovery of the maps and the implications of the caves. Agent Miller's stoic demeanor remained, but Ellie sensed a heightened intensity in his gaze, a sharper focus on the potential physical threats.

"This new information changes our approach, Miss Chen," President Sterling explained the next day, in a hushed meeting in his study, with only Agent Miller present. "The 'sting' operation will proceed, but with added layers of protection. We need to confirm the contents of those caves. And we need to find that original ledger – it's the irrefutable proof."

"But how, Mr. President?" Ellie asked, feeling overwhelmed. "I'm just a cleaner. I can't go to Xanadu and explore caves!"

He smiled faintly. "Precisely. But you have unique access to information, and a remarkable knack for... strategic discovery. And we have resources." He looked at Agent Miller. "Agent Miller will be your direct handler. He will provide you with specific instructions, and ensure your safety. And we're bringing in one more person. Someone who can help us decipher the nuances of Xanadu's culture and politics, someone who can act as a crucial liaison."

Just then, a discreet knock came at the door. Agent Miller opened it, and a woman entered. She was elegant, dressed in a sharp business suit, with keen, intelligent eyes and a calm, composed demeanor. Ellie's breath hitched. She recognized her. It was Ambassador Li Mei, the current Ambassador from Xanadu – the same Ambassador who had made the suspiciously "inquisitive" call about Ellie weeks ago.

Ellie's mind reeled. The Ambassador? Hadn't she been the one indirectly linked to the "shadows"? Was this a trap?

President Sterling noticed her apprehension. "Miss Chen, this is Ambassador Li Mei. She is a highly respected diplomat, and crucially, she has provided invaluable intelligence on Minister Chen's illicit activities for months. She has been working with us in secret. She is a trusted ally."

Ambassador Li Mei offered Ellie a warm, reassuring smile. "Miss Chen, it is an honor. Your reputation precedes you. And I believe we have much to discuss about our mutual... interest in 'Xanadu's historical records,' shall we say." Her English was flawless, with only a subtle Xanadu accent.

Ellie, still processing the shock, managed a polite nod. The Ambassador, an ally? This complicated everything. Her innate distrust of authority, especially Xanadu authority, warred with President Sterling's clear trust in her.

"Ambassador Li Mei believes Minister Chen's network extends far deeper than anyone realized," President Sterling explained. "And she believes the original ledger is likely hidden somewhere within those very caves, acting as a secret vault for all his illicit dealings."

Ambassador Li Mei nodded. "Minister Chen has been systematically exploiting our nation's resources, using shell corporations and hidden assets. My goal is to expose him and bring true justice to Xanadu. Miss Chen, your father was a good man. He was merely caught in the crossfire. His legacy deserves to be cleared." She looked at Ellie with genuine sympathy.

Ellie felt a surge of emotion. Her father. A good man. To hear it from such a high-ranking official, allied with the President of the United States. It was overwhelming.

"So, Miss Chen," President Sterling concluded, his gaze firm and encouraging, "you are no longer just a cleaner. You are a key part of an international operation. Your unique access, your observational skills, and your Xanadu background are indispensable. Ambassador Li Mei will help us understand the cultural nuances. Agent Miller will handle the security and logistics. And I will provide the presidential backing. Are you ready?"

Ellie looked at the powerful President, the stoic Agent, and the elegant Ambassador. Her life had gone from scrubbing floors to being part of a global conspiracy, all in the span of a few months. It was terrifying, but also exhilarating. And for the first time, she felt a profound sense of purpose.

"Yes, Mr. President," Ellie said, her voice steady. "I'm ready." The next phase of her White House journey, a far cry from the simple "Blunder Years," was about to begin.