The sun was barely peeking over the horizon, marking the beginning of my second day of exile.

I used very little caution as I approached the palace of Tarlea. Someone later told me that there is something about a mask that makes you feel invincible. Maybe I did feel a little invincible, but I still didn’t know how I would enter the castle.



I had brought the king gifts, dragging each of the thieves I had captured one by one, but I did not believe that they would earn me admittance.

“I didn’t expect your journey to lead you here,” I heard from behind me.