Page 121

--donation bonus (day #5, post 3/5)--
“You must tell no one of your work. Not your family. Not your friends. Not your superiors. No one can support you in these endeavors, except me.”

“What endeavors, ma’am?”

“Two days from now, you will begin to observe my brother Nathaniel’s chambers in secret.”

“Prince Nathaniel? May I ask why?”

“At that time, I am almost certain that someone will attempt to plant evidence that implicates him as the assassin. I want you to remove said evidence and then follow the person who planted it.”

Lynnette blinked. “Why would someone want to frame him?”

“Because he is guilty.”

Lynnette blinked again. “W-what? I don’t understand...”

“I have seven brothers,” the Queen said. “Nathaniel is by far the most foolish. And while that does not allow me to forgive what he has done, there is no doubt in my mind that someone is using him. I want you to help me discover who my true opponent is.”

The young woman’s expression wavered for only a moment. “I understand, Your Highness. I will do as you command.”

“Thank you, Lynnette. However, I must tell you, your circumstances will temporarily worsen, and I will not be able to improve them without revealing my intentions to my enemies. I am going to have you demoted to nightly patrols, where your absence among the Guard will be least problematic, but it will still not go unnoticed. Your superiors may have you removed from the Queen’s Guard entirely.”

“I understand...”

“Endure this hardship for me, and I shall show my gratitude as only I can. You and your entire family will want for nothing. That is my promise.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”