Page 5 of Kiss of Ice

Ren brought out a satchel from under her robe and reached for the top shelf. There was a heart-stopping moment when she accidentally knocked over a row of glass vials with her sleeve. Cursing her perennial clumsiness, she managed to catch them before they rolled onto the floor and smashed. She listened at the door for a moment. No-one seemed to be coming.

Returning to her task, she stuffed the bottles she needed into her bag and then rearranged the rest so no-one would notice anything was missing. She took a last look round. Everything seemed as it should. Heart thumping, she moved back into the corridor and re-joined the crowd.

Just act casual. Give it a few minutes then head out.

She tried to look natural, to blend in with everyone else. The Emperor was making a speech and she found herself being pushed forward by the crowd as people behind her strained to hear what he was saying.

“It is my pleasure to formally open this new healing centre. Its state-of-the-art facilities will help build a strong and healthy community. It’s part of my promise to you, the people of Nush’aldaam, to bring us all closer together.”

He was annoyingly charismatic, thought Ren. People really believed him. Evenshenearly believed him.

“This healing centre will be open and available to all. And though I sincerely hope you never have to use it, be assured that when you do, you will be in the best possible hands.”

For fuck’s sake. She couldn’t let that go. She couldn’t. She tried to keep quiet but her treacherous mouth opened before she could stop it.

“As long as you have money, of course.”

Her voice rang out louder than she had intended. Heads swivelled her way and the Emperor frowned.

“What did you say?”

Shit.Ren looked round for an escape route but the crowd had closed in behind her. Gods damn it, why hadn’t she kept her mouth shut?

“I beg your pardon, your Majesty. I was just, erm, clearing my throat.”

The Emperor was frowning at her now. He took a step towards her and the crowd opened up, leaving a clear gap between her and him. Sweat prickled on her brow and she pulled the hood down further over her face.

“No, you very clearly said something. About money. Would you care to explain?”

She licked her lips.

“Well, your Majesty, this healing centre, like all healing centres in Arjhan lately, charges extortionate rates for treatment. So it’s hardly open to all.”

His eyes narrowed.

“You are mistaken. I established this centre to be available to everyone regardless of income or social standing.”

“Then you’re being lied to. Or you’re just deluded.” There was an audible gasp and she groaned inwardly.

Gods, where were these words coming from? Why couldn’t she shut up?

Kam’s lips tightened. He turned to the shorter figure next to him.

“Chief Healer, what do you say to that rather blunt accusation? Do patients pay for treatment here?”

The Chief Healer was a portly fae whose pointed ears were turning an unattractive shade of puce.

“No, no your Majesty. Everything is free, as you requested. There is no charge for treatment whatsoever. All our remedies are given free and gratis.”

“He’s lying!” Ren couldn’t stop herself blurting it out. “That’s totally untrue! Ask anyone!”

“Silence.” Kam’s voice was mild but it cut through her indignation like a blade. “Guards, put our opiniated trouble-maker in my carriage.”

“You’re arresting me? But I haven’t done anything wrong!”

Panicked, Ren turned and tried to force her way through the crowd towards the exit. She didn’t get far. Onlookers grabbed at her arms and held her in place as guards surrounded her. She was dragged outside.

A fleet of coaches was waiting, all pulled by teams of magnificent horses bedecked with plumes and silver harnesses. The guards pushed her into the biggest carriage and slammed the door.

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