A Song of Thieves by Jacqlin Guernsey

Author:Jacqlin Guernsey [Guernsey, Jacqlin]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2023-04-02T16:00:00+00:00

23

Ari

I’m sitting in a room unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

It stands looming over me— a steep ceiling, gold flourishes touching every inch of the space, grand windows with their adjoining thick, flowing drapes, and a bed that would easily fit six grown men. I don’t want to sit down, afraid I will muss the linens or the elegant, velvety upholsteries. My discomfort is as wide as the space before me, unused to such finery and enclosed spaciousness.

Out the windows is a vast, open courtyard filled with, at the moment, an array of people. Some look to be servants and workers of the estate, moving to and fro with their afternoon chores and duties, keeping the grounds and living quarters up to the prestige and status of the Santanas. It reminds me of Turin, only an orderly version that shows a devoted concern for the well-being of the employed people.

I desperately want to hate Tess and her condescending, over-reaching brother, Liam. I’ve yet to meet their father, Lord Santana, but already I feel a tiny smidge of respect for their family. What I see from my limited view is nothing short of inspiring. Everyone has a purpose and a place, something grander than their common upbringing to contribute toward and feel proud of.

It’s suddenly clear why Marg wanted the kidnapping of Princess Adalena kept between us— there are very capable families within the realm, skilled leaders that would meet very little resistance should they make a move for the Crown. Felshan’s monarchy is fragile, a strong wind able to turn the Chattan-Sinclair line to rubble and seat another more proficient and equal to the task of rebuilding our atrophied kingdom.

Part of me wants to slip the information to the Santanas, the thought of light and life brought back to the people of Turin urging me to move forward with the idea. Could I turn my back on the princess? On the three men I started on this venture with? On Marg?

The first two hold little sway, even if they seem up to the task of personally changing the future trajectory of our suffering city. But Marg— her image won’t leave me. After the prince died, her life’s mission became entwined with Felshan and its capital city of Turin.

Could I betray her work? Her dedication to Princess Adalena taking the throne? Marg has hindered my own gain, but also given me the ability to seek the vengeance I’ve wanted since my mother was dragged from our home. I may never find those who took her from me, who made her rot in a cell without any proof of her crime, but I know their kind. Satisfaction will be such a sweet reward as I slowly inflict their suffering. And because of Marg, I can. I will.

My resolve cements into place. I won’t forsake my teacher and her efforts.

Don’t fail me, Marg. My silent prayer dissipates within the spacious walls of my temporary room.

A knock at my door startles me away from my vantage point.

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