Page 24 of The Shadows Between Us
“Those are the five individuals you are putting on a show for,” Kallias adds.
“I’ve been told I would have made an excellent actress were it not for my noble birth.”
“I don’t doubt it.” Kallias sweeps his eyes over the guests seated at our table. “I’ve placed at my own table those closer to my age. Not that it matters much with the distance I must maintain from them.”
I want to ask himwhyhe must maintain such a distance. Why does the law prevent people from touching him? Does it have something to do with his shadows? But I do not know the king well enough to ask such questions yet.
CHAPTER
7
After lunch, I take a look at the schedule I’ve made myself to locate the soonest event. A troupe of performers is attending the Viscount of Christakos’s estate this Friday, and a party of guests has been invited to come watch a performance ofThe Lovers, a play in which two people find love despite all the obstacles keeping them apart.
Though Kallias will undoubtedly have received an invitation as well, it would be best to let him know I’m attending, so he may accompany me.
I pull a piece of parchment from a stack on the desk and select a pen. Knowing the letter will only be for his eyes, I begin.
Dear Kallias,
I have received an invitation to attend a play held at the home of the Viscount and Viscountess of Christakos. The performance is supposed to be the story of two lovers coming together despite outstanding odds. Wouldn’t it add credence to our ruse to be seen together at such a performance? I do hope you will accompany me.
Your friend,
Alessandra
It is not even an hour later when a servant finds me with a reply.
Dearest Alessandra,
Thank you for your invitation, but I’m afraid I must decline. A new problem has arisen, one that requires me to be in constant meetings all week long. I’ll barely have the time to break for meals over this one.
But do enjoy the play without me. I’m sure it will be splendid. At least I can work knowing you won’t be bored.
Your friend,
Kallias
I retrieve a fresh piece of paper.
Kallias,
What problem? Is there anything I can do?
Your friend,
Alessandra
Alessandra,
News will spread sooner or later, but it would seem the kingdom has a dangerous bandit on the loose. He’s attacking nobles on the road and stealing their money. Lady Mangas of the council informs me that there’s a sudden surplus in money flow among the peasants, so we can only conclude the bandit is stealing from the titled and giving it to the common folk. Naturally, I can’t have my own people fear traveling. I must put a stop to this at once.
Thank you for your offer of help, but I’m certain we’ll put this to rest quickly, so long as we can give it our full attention.
Your friend,
Kallias
Who in the world would steal and then not keep the riches for themselves? That’s just bad business. Someone that stupid must surely be caught soon.
