Thieves World 01 – Thieves World by Asprin, Robert

will vary depending on who you talk to … or more importantly, who you believe.

INTRODUCTION

l THE EMPEROR

‘But surely Your Excellency can’t dispute the facts of the matter!’

The robed figure of the Emperor never slackened its pacing as the new leader of

the Rankan Empire shook his head in violent disagreement.

‘I do not dispute the facts, Kilite,’ he argued, ‘But neither will I order the

death of my brother.’

‘Stepbrother,’ his chief adviser corrected pointedly.

‘The blood of our father flows in both our veins,’ the Emperor countered, ‘and

I’ll have no hand in spilling it.’

‘But Your Excellency,’ Kilite pleaded, ‘Prince Kadakithis is young and

idealistic …’

‘… and I am not,’ the Emperor finished. ‘You belabour the obvious, Kilite.

That idealism is my protection. He would no more lead a rebellion against the

Emperor – against his brother – than •’. I would order his assassination.’

‘It is not the Prince we fear. Your Excellency, it’s those who would use him.’

The adviser was adamant. ‘If one of his many false-faced followers succeeded in

convincing him that your rule was unjust or inhumane, that idealism would compel

him to move against you even though he loves you dearly.’

The Emperor’s pacing slowed until finally he was standing motionless, his

shoulders drooping slightly.

‘You’re right, Kilile. All my advisers are right.’ There was weary resignation

in his voice. ‘Something must be done to remove my brother from the hotbed of

intrigue here at the capital. If at all possible, however, I would hold any