About this story
A duke's commission takes you from seminary to Turin and then to the throne of Pianura, where you drain the marsh and grant a constitution while Fulvia Vivaldi finishes her father's book and Gamba's conspirators wait. A shot meant for a duke finds her. Forty chapters carry the muddy boy from the chapel at Pontesordo to a crown laid down at the same altar.
How it opens
February light entered the abandoned chapel through a slit above stacked farm tools.
Saint Francis suffered on one wall while Saint George waited in armor on the other.
FilomenaBeggar-nobles still wear out shoes, Odo, and your fine family sends no leather.
GiannozzoAsk the painted saints to mend your coat if they are such excellent company.
Choose
The saints listen longer than you manage, which is already useful.
Leave Momola's food alone and I will leave your foolishness unreported.
One day I will return with boots for everyone except you.