“While your sister may be a soft one, you’re a tougher nut to crack…" (Patreon)

Marianna paused for a moment, then called to one of her guards.  "Get that weird little inventor from before.  Yvonne or whatever.  Tell her to bring that device she spoke of."  "Yes, your majesty," the guard said, bowing.  Then paused for a moment, afraid that saying how that plan might run into an obstacle would get her punished.  Marianna smiled, "Ah, you think she doesn't like me, and doesn't want to follow my orders."  Reaching into her purse, she pulled a handful of coin and gave it to the guard.  "Give her that, and tell her she'll get the other half when she brings that device."  

Her expression went from excited to serious.  As the guard bowed again and ran off to carry out her bidding, she turned her gaze back toward the sisters.  "Where were we?  Oh, yes.  You're a tougher nut to crack.  Let's try....this!"