Thieves World 01 – Thieves World by Asprin, Robert

‘I have! This very night – last night, rather!’

‘Pardon, Highness, but killing’s the business of them that rule, not thieves.’

Kadakithis looked long and thoughtfully at Hanse after that, and would likely

quote Shadowspawn long hence. Hanse had twice to mention the ransom at the

bottom of the well.

‘Ah! Forgot that, didn’t I. It’s been a bit busy tonight – last night. I’ve

things to do. Hanse. A busy day ahead on no sleep and much excitement. I fear I

can’t be bothered thinking about some coins someone may have lost down an old

well. If you can get it out, do. And do return here to discuss employment with

me.’

Hanse rose. He felt the kinship between them and was not comfortable with it.

‘That … will need some … some thinking, Prince-Governor, sir. I mean …

work. And for you! Uh, yourself, that is – Your Highness. First I have to try to

get used to the fact that I can’t hate you any more.’

‘Well, Hanse, maybe you can help a few others not to. I could use the help.

Unless you take it ill of me to remind you that half of salvage found in this

demesne is the property of the government.’

Hanse began to wonder about the possibility of transferring the few gold coins

into one saddlebag. If he was able to get the bags out of the well. That would

take time, and help. And that would require paying someone. Or cutting someone

in …

Hanse left the palace wearing a soft new tunic, eyes narrowed. Planning,

calculating. Plotting.

THE PRICE OF DOING BUSINESS

by Robert Lynn Asprin

Jubal was more powerful than he appeared. Not that his form conveyed any