Thieves World 3 – Shadows of Sanctuary by Asprin, Robert

genius is responsible for the achievement which will establish Sanctuary’s

position in the Empire.’

Lady Rosanda stared at her companion, impressed, but Lalo scarcely heard her,

already abstracted by consideration of the possibilities of the place. ‘Has Lord

Molin decided on the subjects that I am to depict?’

‘If you are chosen -‘ answered Danlis. ‘The murals will portray the goddess

Sabellia as Queen of the Harvest, surrounded by her nymphs. First, of course, he

will want to see your sketches and designs.’

‘I might model for the Goddess …’ suggested Lady Rosanda, twitching an

improbably auburn curl over one plump shoulder and looking arch. ‘

Lalo swallowed. ‘My Lady is too kind, but modelling is exacting work -1 wouldn’t

consider asking someone of your refinement to spend hours posing in such

uncomfortable positions and scanty attire …’ His panic eased into relief as

the lady simpered and smiled. His own vision of the Goddess was characterized by

a compassionate majesty which he doubted Lady Rosanda could even visualize, much

less portray. Finding a model for Sabellia would be his hardest task.

‘Now that you understand the work, how much time will you require?’

‘What?’ Lalo forced himself to the present again.

‘When can you bring us the designs?’ Danlis repeated tartly.

‘I must consider … and choose my models …’ he faltered. ‘It will take two or

three days.’

‘Oh Lalo …’

The limner jerked, turned, and realized that he had come all the way from Molin

Torchholder’s well-guarded gatehouse to the Street of the Goldsmiths without