152

Isabella

"You do realize that your workers are human beings, yes? I would like to think that you provide them with an ample working environment," Donatella looked at me as though I had grown a second head.

"They are nameless. They are scum. If I provide them with something, they should be grateful that I've done so. The people in the lower city do not deserve your sentiment, Princess.

Believe me, it's best as things are. Of course, I will work them until they drop, and if they drop, there are five more people begging to take their position."

I looked at him and realized that I was in front of a slightly cynical man. "They are human," I said softly. "They have feelings like you. They have mothers and fathers and children. Don't you think it would be expedient of you to allow them some respect and relief by giving them incentives?"

"I clothe them, Princess, at least I remember doing so. I feed them sometimes. But I don't understand why you are so concerned about those common folk," he