Chapter 46 - The Thief's Tale

Chapter 46 - The Thief's Tale

Kessa’s investigations seem to have drawn the watchful eyes of those behind the trouble in Daisyfield. Oh, and then there’s Pantheus.   Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason   Excerpt: “Good, sir,” Clint approached the man with a confident swagger that irritated Kessa because she had an inkling what was in store. The man dropped the map to observe who had addressed him. Clint gestured to the map. “Need help?” Relieved to have some assistance the man graciously inclined his head and started to ask for directions. Unwilling to wait until the man finished, Clint grabbed him by his collar and viciously yanked him close. “Shut your trap, will ya?” The traveller, looking confused and frightened, obeyed. “Give me your money!”

Teaser for Chapter 14 of The Thief's Tale

Teaser for Chapter 13 of The Thief's Tale by Meena Mason

Chapter 45 - The Thief's Tale

In the port city of Daisyfield, Kessa navigates both the problems plaguing the area and the qualms impacting her relationships. Was juggling ever a tick in her list of attributes?   Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason   Excerpt: After spending the afternoon at the beach, Kessa ambled up the dock toward The Salty Inn. The day had flown by. She couldn’t believe it was dinnertime. Peeking into the dining room, she saw her family was already seated and engrossed in conversation. Waving diffidently to them, Kessa sat down. After dinner, Malieous commented on how unusually quiet Kessa was that evening. Aquestria laughed. “Kessa’s always quiet at dinner time, Malieous. She’s got too much food in her mouth to do much talking.” Everyone joined in the laughter, except Malieous, who only smiled, and Kessa, who stuffed a huge piece of buttered bread into her mouth to hilariously illustrate her sister’s point.

Chapter 44 - The Thief's Tale

A family trip to Daisyfield with Pantheus sounds ideal. Rest, relaxation, a soothing swim are just what Dr. Finesse would order. But there’s no rest for the covert it seems.   Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason   Excerpt: Cacophonous hoofbeats frightened the beggars back in time to avoid being trampled. The horseback riders were garbed in uniforms that identified them as Daisyfield guards.                “Round them up,” an authoritative voice boomed through a full helm.                Several guards dismounted and marched toward the terrified impoverished. They were none to gentle as they began herding them into a group. Judging by the complaints, cries, and scuffles, the people were opposed to being herded… and were, understandably, frightened. “Just what in Althalos’ name do you think you are doing?” Kessa demanded in a voice that matched the authority and volume of the helmed man, but was also amply spiced with anger.                A guard, still on his horse and positioned close to her, swiveled his head to glare at her and his arm lifted as if he meant to strike.

Chapter 43 - The Thief's Tale

Although Kessa might consider herself a bit of a social outcast, she certainly didn’t act like one at her sister’s celebration party. Nor was she treated like one. Quite the opposite, in fact.   Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason   Excerpt: Kessa’s deliberation was diverted by the drink tray. She was in the midst of arguing personal misgivings about partaking, when she heard a condescending voice declare, “Hey, blondie, best to avoid the spirits after your performance at the banquet, wouldn’t you say?”