CHAPTER: THE WOMAN ON THE OLD ROAD
Queen Rose stood before the large map spread across the table in her private chambers.
The eastern kingdom was marked in red ink, with several villages scattered along the old road. Some of those villages had been abandoned years ago, while others were still inhabited by farmers and traders who rarely visited the palace.
Jasmine had been seen somewhere in that region.
Rose ran her finger along the road, stopping at a small village near the border.
"Send men here," she ordered, pointing at the map. "And here. I want every village searched, but no one is to mention the name Jasmine unless they are speaking to someone who can be trusted."
The captain of the guards bowed.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"And find the woman who was traveling with her. The old woman said she was protective of Jasmine and the child. Someone must know who she is."
"We will do our best, Your Majesty."
Rose looked up sharply.
"I do not want your best. I want results."
