Olivier's pupils suddenly contracted.
He almost thought he had misheard. "Lord Suleiman? All of them?"
Suleiman's tone held not the slightest emotion. "Not a single one."
"Replace everyone, from Lord Lymond's personal valet to the lowliest kitchen helper."
"I don't trust them."
"Replace them with servants whose backgrounds can be verified in Lion's Den and whose families are in the territory."
Olivier's throat bobbed. "But... Lord Lymond..."
"Some of them have served House Lychester their entire lives. Replacing them all at once—wouldn't that anger Lord Lymond?"
Suleiman turned around, his gaze sharp. "That is why Lord Lymond cannot be allowed to notice."
"That is why I entrusted this matter to you, Olivier."
He walked over to Olivier and looked directly into his eyes.
"I need you to do it silently, replacing them little by little."
"Every departure must have a reasonable explanation—one that leaves no room for suspicion."
Olivier felt immense pressure. This was far too troublesome.
Suleiman spoke unhurriedly, yet every word was exceptionally clear. "For instance, an old servant's distant nephew made a fortune in King's Landing and took him there to retire."
"A personal maid's daughter gave birth and needs her help caring for the child."
"A stableman's legs are failing, and he wishes to return home to retire."
"Weave a bright future for every person who leaves."
"And make that future real."
Olivier sucked in a breath. "Make it real?"
Suleiman nodded. "Yes. Give them a large severance payment—enough for them to live comfortably for the rest of their lives."
"Make sure they truly go where they are meant to go and live the lives they are meant to have."
"We must be merciful, Olivier. We must let them leave with gratitude toward House Lychester."
The flames in the fireplace licked at the dry firewood, producing