What does Reynie create as a plan to gather intel about the Whisperer?

Reynie's plan to gather intel about the Whisperer involves creating a system for clandestine observation while blending in at the Institute. This approach is effective because it allows Reynie and his friends to remain unnoticed while they gather important information about the Whisperer's activities and motives. By blending in, they can observe interactions and situations without drawing attention to themselves, thus ensuring that they can collect accurate data without risking exposure to the very forces they seek to understand.

This strategy underlines Reynie's resourcefulness and intellect, as he recognizes the need for discretion in a high-stakes environment where the Whisperer's influence looms large. It highlights the importance of stealth and subtlety in espionage, contributing to the overall theme of clever problem-solving that permeates the story. Other options, such as forming a structured team of spies or a network of informants, would likely compromise their cover and attract unwanted attention, making them less viable for Reynie's objective.