Kessa says goodbye to Fervour and heads for Cyrene, hoping that Casyius will overlook her decision to defy him. One can always hope, right?

Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason

Excerpt:

“Kessa?”

She blinked open her eyes and looked up into Aquestria’s concerned face.

“Are you all right?” Aquestria asked.

Sitting up, Kessa glanced around. Realizing she was in the middle of the road where she’d first seen the dog, only there was no dog now, she shook her head - mystified.

Helping her up, Aquestria pressed, “Why were you lying in the middle of the road?”

All the sweat, blood, bruises, sprains, and tears bestowed during Mud Mania would hardly be worth it if there weren’t a magnificent celebration at the conclusion.

Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason

Excerpt:

“Did you take any strange substances at the party?” Charlo questioned. “You watched your plate and goblet closely, right?”

Incredulous, Kessa blurted, “Yes! Routine, doctor.”

“You didn’t bump your head while swimming or anything, did you?”

“No!”

“Hmm.”

“Come on, Charlo. Spill the beans. Your secret’s safe with me.”

Her face scrunched up in confusion, Charlo said, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Mud Mania is all wrapped up with a pretty, little crown on top. Time for the winner to step onto that center podium and wear that crown. Goodness - what winners have to endure!

Audio version of, The Thief's Tale, written and read by Meena Mason. Copyright © Meena Mason

Excerpt:

The king stood up, waiting for the crowd to quiet prior to pompously traipsing down to the podiums. The mayor of Fervour and one of his councilmen, draped in colourful regalia that reminded Kessa of peacocks, trailed the king, ceremoniously carrying the silken cushions that pillowed the medals and the crown.