Page 66 of Cursed By Gold

I gently pry open the heavy golden box, curiosity overpowering the pain radiating through my battered body. Nestled inside, I'm surprised to find not jewelry or riches, but instead a carefully packed meal - slices of roasted pheasant, goat cheese,the same scones I ate way too many of at the interviews, and vibrant winter fruits. My stomach rumbles reflexively at the sight and scent of food, despite the lingering nausea from my injuries.

I notice a small folded note tucked beneath a cluster of grapes. Wincing, I extract it and undo the wax seal bearing the royal crest. The message inside is penned in elegant script:

My Dearest Lady,

I hope this small token finds you recovering well. Please partake of these refreshments that you may regain your strength. I could not help but notice your enthusiasm for the scones at the interviews. Consider this a sampling of Cook's finest creations, along with my fondest wishes for your swift return to health.

Until we meet again,

R.

A warmth blossoms in my chest as I read the king's words, touched by his thoughtfulness.

I lift a slice of pheasant to my lips, savoring the burst of savory juice. As hungry as I am, I force myself to eat slowly, making each mouthful last. The food truly is exquisite - perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection.

By the time I've finished half the meal, my eyelids grow heavy, the healer's draught taking effect. I reluctantly seal the box again, stowing the remainder of the king's gracious gift forwhen I wake. As darkness creeps into the edges of my vision, my fingers brush the note once more. A smile touches my lips as I'm lulled into tranquil, dreamless sleep.

***

Scanning the small room, I notice the untouched golden box on the bedside table. A warmth kindles in my chest at the memory of King Remme's thoughtful gift, his elegant handwriting wishing me a swift recovery. It has been ages since someone cared for me so genuinely, without tangled motives or transactional intent. The intense look on his face just before I was skewered will forever be seared into my mind. But even intrusive thoughts of the king send a nervous prickle down my spine now. Too much has happened; the connection between us, however scintillating, could prove disastrous if mishandled. But if it isn’t… no. I can’t let myself think about that right now.

A scraping at the door shakes me from my reverie. Rose saunters in, raking a critical eye over my remaining bandages. "Well, you look less like death warmed over at least. How are you feeling?"

I grimace, trying to shift to a seated position. "Well enough to get out of here. I'm assuming that's why you're here?"

Rose smirks. "Am I that transparent?" She steps closer, voice lowering. "FG sent word. We need to move tonight."

My brow furrows. "Tonight? But Tabitha..."

"I know," Rose cuts in briskly. "But it can't wait. Godmother received intel that the king plans to transfer Tabitha somewhere even we can't reach. This is our one window to get her out. You and I are the least likely to be killed if we are caught sneaking around the castle grounds. We can always claim we got lost while exploring or something."

My heart sinks, even as I know Rose is right. Fairy Godmother's network of informants is unparalleled. Combine that with the magic she keeps hidden from most and if she says time is running out, that is the stark reality we face.

With a grimace, I force myself upright. "Then we better get moving. Help me dress at least semi-decently for travel."

Rose nods and fetches my rumpled training clothes and boots. She works swiftly but gently to unwrap the bandages and ease the simple garments over my injuries. I bite back small hisses at the pull and sting, trying not to reveal my lingering weakness. But I can't fully hide the occasional wince or intake of breath.

"Sorry," Rose mutters after one particular nip of pain flashes across my face. "I know it still hurts like hell."

The rare apology takes me aback. She and I have been childhood rivals, only growing more competitive over the years. Vulnerability does not come easily, for either of us.

I give a strained chuckle. "At least I'm mobile. I'll manage." I meet Rose's eyes briefly. "But thank you. For coming to get me."

Rose looks faintly surprised by my sincerity but simply nods and eases my cloak over my shoulders. "Think you can walk or should I pinch a set of crutches? I’m sure you will be especially helpful as a distraction. Toss you to the wolves when it all goes wrong."

I inhale slowly, bracing myself. "I'll walk." I tentatively place weight on my legs and bite back a groan. My thighs tremble with the effort, sending twinges through my abdomen. But I remain standing.

Rose hovers a hand near my elbow, ready to grab me if I stumble. When I continue standing steady, Rose nods approvingly. "Right. Let's get the hell out of here then."

We slip out the door and navigate the winding back passages of the castle. More than once, I have to muffle a pained gasp and lean against the wall as my injuries throb. But I refuse to slowour progress or risk capture by stopping to rest. I am a member of the Triple G's, damn it. I will not falter during a mission.

The last sliver of sun disappears below the horizon as we finally pass beyond the outer castle walls. The fresh night air helps revive me somewhat, though I still have to concentrate to put one foot in front of the other.

Rose leads the way through a maze of side alleys and hidden passages only the guild knows until we reach the concealed underground door of the GGG tavern. The familiar taproom with its scarred tables and crackling hearth envelops us in welcome warmth. Fairy Godmother sits waiting, worry creasing her brow.

"Thank the heavens you made it, child," she rasps, fussing over my wan appearance. "When I heard what happened in the trial..."

I wave off her concern. "I'll live. What's the plan for Tabitha?"

---