A flaw in the system

Introduction

Damn! Someone defeated the security measures I set up in the ducal palace. What a shame! My reputation will suffer a lot from this. Hmm... If I find out who did this before they have time to hide everything they stole, I could keep my reputation untarnished. But if they see I'm on their trail, they'll skedaddle, and I'll never have the chance to catch them. Once again, will you help me? First you'll have to question the palace guards; they may give you a clue about where to begin your investigation. I suspect they'll be a little reluctant to help you. After all, they're implicated in this incident themselves. One last point: if you could find the paintings before they're destroyed, that would be great!

Cunclusion

Nice work! My reputation won't be entirely spotless, but I'm confident that time will sort things out. Take this recommendation letter, and also this foggy pearl I won gambling.