Chapter 30: Her Own Personal Supervillain Lair

Chapter 30: Her Own Personal Supervillain Lair

As her roommate, Ilyana was very much aware that if it were up to Tori, Tori would sleep in and lay around doing whatever caught her attention at that moment. Not to say that Tori was lazy - she was far from it. Tori simply didnt like stress and would tackle the cause of it as soon as possible to get it out of the way, so she could focus on something she enjoyed.

Ilyana wanted Tori to do things she enjoyed, but Ilyanas chances to help were limited.

Headmaster says only two people are allowed to do beautification, Tori told her when she and Sonia started the beautification punishment. Any more and it wouldnt be a punishment. Even JP isnt allowed to help.

Before the sun rose, Tori was already awake and dressed in her practice clothes and a JP2 down jacket in order to help Sonia with her punishment for slapping Miss Hart. Ilyana thought it was too much. A full month of work, Sonia being banned from riding for two weeks last semester, and having to write an apology letter were worth at least three or four slaps. Five if they were light.

But Tori didnt complain. For the last week since they returned, shed gotten up before dawn to clean a section of the school next to the sword practice grounds. It was once a garden for agriculture niche students, but was no longer in use as there was a large space and four new green houses on the other side of the school.

The old garden was overgrown. It also happened to be in an awkward corner where any trash blown by the wind would end up and get tangled in the overgrown plants. Tori had been using the leather gloves she used for sword and they were now caked with dirt and squished plant juice.

According to Sonia, the section they had been assigned would take a month to clean up, with one hour every school day, either before or after class, if one person was doing it. With Toris help, it would be done in half the time. Sonia wanted to put in more time and get it over with, but her time was limited. Because she had riding practice after class, Sonia also came in the morning, leaving Ciel Noir to be fed by her brother.

Ilyana had taken to getting up and bringing them breakfast from the commons. Miss Juniper at the commons was sympathetic and packed breakfast croissants, some fruit, and juice to be brought to the two.

Surprisingly, by the end of the week, the old garden was almost cleaned up. Tori was didn't seem to be done as she told her friends her additional plans while they walked her to to the front of the school.

Next week, Im going to see if I can start aerating the garden, Tori said. Fix the fence around it and get it ready for planting.

Tori, all we have to do is pick up the garbage and weed it, Sonia said, looking at their friend with concern.

Yes, but its kind of a waste to just let it get trashed and overgrown again. Tori had sighed.

Dont push yourself, Henrik said with a frown. Youve been busy every waking moment since the project was assigned.

Toris lips tightened into a line. Ilyana frowned, as well.

Tori's schedule was tight as is. Shed garden until forty-five minutes before class, then rush back to the dorm, eat whatever Ilyana brought her, wash up and change, and run to class. After electives, shed go to the practice grounds, then to Instructor Ignatius to work on her crystal project, which was not required, just something she was interested in.

In addition, Toris Lyce project required much more research and preparation work than anyone elses. She had Librarian Hawthrone pulling everything he could on the Cosora Delta, the Asona Sea, and towns and cities in similar locations and environments. Ilyana had seen books on city planning, building materials, and even wildlife on the floor around Tori's bed. Tori had returned to the dorm several times with armloads of books and maps, which shed pore over nightly.

Tori had even asked her if she could go pick up some notebooks and pencils for her when she and Henrik went to check on the stores midweek. Tori would normally run such a simple errand herself, but she didnt have time. Ilyana was sure she was still upset about the responsibility of over 1,500 lives placed in her inexperienced hands.

It angered Ilyana that the two boys who shouldve been handed something as serious as resettling a village of refugees, Mr. Guthry and Prince Gideon, dismissed Toris project as something perfectly normal and easily manageable. Ilyana had no experience in such a thing, either, but knew it was anything but.

However, after Toris failed attempts to get reassigned to a new project, she seemed resigned to her fate. Resigned, angry, and bitter. Ilyana and the others couldnt blame her. While they all had a lot of confidence in their friends abilities, even they werent sure about how this project would turn out.

Do you have to leave tonight? Ewan asked, somewhat concerned as they stood outside the main gates with Tori.

Itll take a few hours to get to the delta, Tori said as she adjusted her thick cloak. She had two bags on her: her school satchel with notebooks, writing tools, and various papers; and a canvas bag with spare clothes and necessities. If I leave tonight, Ill get there early and can spend as much time as possible talking to the refugees. Ill be back before curfew the day before school starts next week.

I cant believe they assigned you a project so far away, Albert said with a look of dismay. His project was dealing with an old water system in the sixth district that needed repairs.

Tori shook her head. My brothers project was in Nordur.

You said that was his choice, JP reminded her. He decided to focus his project in Nordur. The school didnt force him.

Do you have everything you need? Ilyana asked as they stood outside, under the dim streetlights. Tori had arranged to spend the weekend at the delta to get a better grasp of the situation. She assured them she wasnt going alone and had adult supervision.

Yes, I do. I bought all my warm clothes and the delta is slightly warmer than here. It should be fine. Tori was attempting to reassure them, but it wasnt going to work. She gave them a helpless look. Give me some support here, she said with a small, tired laugh. This is quite an undertaking and I need encouragement.

Ilyana furrowed her brow and stepped forward. I know you can do this. When we graduate and they look back at your project, theyll call you Tori the Townbuilder!

Sonia let out a snort and laughed as Toris eyes crinkled with mirth. Ilyana ignored the questioning looks from her other friends.

Well need to work on that title, Tori said. She looked past Ilyana and everyone followed her gaze. A large white carriage was approaching, drawn by four bay horses and flanked with what looked like two dozen guards on horseback.

Ilyana narrowed her eyes and squinted in the streetlight. Those werent normal guards, though they were in plain, civilian clothes. She could tell from the way they sat on the horses and the matching quality of the saddles, reins, and even their boots. A glint of silver from a pin that kept their dark riding cloaks closed caught her eyes.

She gasped and Alberts jaw dropped. Are those imperial knights?

Wow, Auntie Lucia asked for help from the imperial knights, Ewan said, looking surprised.

Henrik shook his head as the white carriage with black iron accents and the imperial seal on its doors stopped on the curb beside them. I dont think Auntie Lucia has that kind of clout.

Tori adjusted the bag over her shoulder as the footman jumped down to open the door for her. The carriage is here, Tori said. She looked towards her friends and held out her arms to hug Ilyana. Ill see you in a few days. Dont go out by yourself.

Ilyana wrinkled her nose. Ill be fine.

She hugged Tori tightly and heard the carriage creak. She lifted her head and her eyes went wide.

Is this all youre bringing? a smooth, low voice asked as a man stepped out of the carriage and reached for Toris bags.

Ilyana stepped back, but didnt move any further as she and all her friends watched Tori hand her bags to the first prince.

Yes, did you bring all the paperwork for citizenship and the land management reviews on the delta? Tori asked as she placed her bag in Prince Piers awaiting hands, as if he were her servant.

Ilyana struggled not to make a horrified face. She loved Tori and thought she was amazing, but he was the first prince of Soleil - a figure they actually respected. Wasnt Tori being too familiar? Was it because Lord Sebastian was Prince Piers sword instructor, so this level of familiarity was accepted?

Of course. The doctors arrived this morning, by the way. They went with the two dozen military tents you ordered from Daybreak Garden. The professors are arriving tomorrow, as well, the first prince said. He looked past her and gave the other students a nod. Good evening.

Good evening! Ilyana winced as her voice rose awkwardly. Behind her, she heard someone whimper.

The first prince raised a brow, but said nothing and placed Toris bags into the carriage.

Its cold out, dont stay out too long, Tori said as she looked over them one last time. She seemed to mindlessly put her hand on the first princes offered one to pull herself into the carriage. As soon as she was inside, Prince Piers followed her. The footman closed the door and Tori pushed aside the curtains and slid open the glass window by her seat. Sonia, Ill be back in time to help you weed the garden.

Dont worry about that! Sonia seemed to choke behind her and JP patted his sisters back.

A knock on the wooden carriage sounded. Go, they heard the prince order.

The footman jumped back onto the drivers bench.

I thought you said youd bring the most humble, low-key looking carriage you had. They heard Toris somewhat annoyed voice. Ilyana bit her lips.

Tori, dont be mad at him...he might be emperor one day.

This is the most humble, low-key carriage we have.

It has the imperial seal all over it. Next time, Ill just rent a carriage.

This one is more comfortable and you get motion sickness.

I brought the ginger oil! The carriage jerked forward and they began to head out.

I dont want to take a rental carriage. It wont be comfortable.

Why do you make it sound as if you always ride...oh. Right. Toris voice began to fade. Youre a prince.

Ilyana crinkled her eyes and drew in her lips, likely mirroring the same look of uncertainty as the others.

Everyone else saw what I saw, yes? JP asked, his eyes following the trail of guards behind the eye-catching white carriage. Tori was picked up by the first prince.

Stop, Piers said, lifting his hand to silence the man. Johan looked up, confused. Piers motioned to Tori. The person in charge is she.

Johan looked Tori. Her? Confusion and disbelief were written all over his face and Tori wanted to nod and agree with yeah, Im surprised, too.

A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Sima. I am Victoria de Guevera, the daughter of Marquis Guevera. I have been assigned by the Lyce du Soleil to resettle your village. Tori kept her posture straight and greeted the man with a small nod. A cold expression was fixed on her face as her tone was stern and unfeeling. Show me to your village elders.

Her normal amiability was pushed aside for now. She needed these people to take her seriously and in such a situation, her friendliness would be seen as a weakness. She already didnt look the part of a responsible, experienced leader. She knew that the moment they set eyes on her, theyd think it was either a joke or become upset that such a serious situation was given to a teenager.

Not that she could blame them.

Johan seemed at a loss. He looked towards Dr. Cooper-Fontaine, as if asking if this was true. The gray-haired doctor nodded and Johan knit his brows. He took a step back and looked at Piers, as if wanting to say something. Instead, he nodded and beckoned them forward to follow him into the big tent.

He held the flap open as Dr. Cooper-Fontaine stepped in with Tori and Piers. Inside, there was a small metal fire bowl in the center of the room, and several old and late middle-aged men and women were seated around it dressed in colorful, but worn clothing.

As soon as Piers entered, they began to rise and Piers raised his hand to motion for them to sit.

Your Highness, please take a seat, an old man said as he motioned to a chair with a cushion to the left of the entrance. Tori noticed there were only two seats set aside and one was a stool. Dr. Cooper-Fontaine took a seat on the stool and motioned to them to sit as well.

Tori narrowed her eyes. Do you want me to sit on Piers lap?

Take a seat, Piers said. He stood behind the chair, leaving it open for her. From the corner of her eye, she could see the elders in the room look at each other with confusion. Tori slowly took the seat in front of him.

No one spoke. Everyone was looking at Piers, as if expecting him to start the conversation. Tori knew that wasnt going to happen. She took a deep breath and sat forward on the chair.

My name is Victoria de Guevera. I am the daughter of Marquis Guevera and I have been assigned the task of resettling your village, Tori said. Her eyes were sharp as she gave them a small nod. Its a pleasure.

The confusion in the room immediately gave way to tension she expected. Numerous people sat up straight and a series of murmurs sounded from all directions. Tori remained seated, waiting for someone else to speak.

Lady Guevera, the old man who had asked Piers to take a seat when they entered was now looking at her. We were told that Soleil would send someone to oversee our resettlement. It has been over a month. Did they really hand this matter to a child?

Yes. Tori didnt bother to hide it. Lyce du Soleil has eighty academic students and in the second semester of their first year, they are assigned a Lyce project: a multi-year long project aimed at giving the academic students a chance to tackle real world problems using their resources, on which their progress and success are carefully monitored. My project is to resettle the over 1,500 refugee villagers on the delta.

She could almost taste the displeasure in the air. Someone rose from their seat, glowering. We left our homes in order to survive! Our livelihoods! They told us they would help us settle in safety and instead they send us a child? Your Highness, what is the meaning of this!

Several people began to yell and argue, and Tori understood why they would. She didnt blame them; she was just as angry and disappointed when she found out. But as upset as she was, she had a responsibility and there was no going back. She was stuck working with these people.

She readied herself and let out a low breath. Sirs and madams, if you would give me a moment of your time-

You are just a child! What would you know about our situation, someone shouted from across the room. Several voices followed.

This cant be correct. This must be a mistake.

You Highness, we do not accept this!

Tori drew her lips inward. Of course, everyone would talk over her. No one wanted to listen to her and they were upset. Tori was, too. She hadnt felt this brushed off since.... She frowned. She actually couldnt remember the last time a group of people brushed her off. Shed always managed to regain control of the room when necessary.

She looked around at the people standing and yelling, pleading in Piers face as he purposely ignored them. Dr. Cooper-Fontaine couldnt seem to calm them down and the more they complained, the angrier they got. It was clear that they were not going to listen to her at all.

Tori took a deep breath and reached into the sleeve of her cloak. She tugged down her dagger and twirled it in her right hand. Desperate times, Tori.

Without a word, she stood up, walked to the nearest wall of the tent, and slashed it open.

The cold air flew in, silencing the men and women protesting to deaf ears. Tori stood by the slashed tent wall, dagger still in hand.

Johan turned red. What are you do-

Good, now Ive got your attention, Tori said in a loud, booming voice that filled the tent. If you wish to yell and scream like children who didnt get what they want, then feel free to do so. Youve already been here for over a month. Its cold. Its wet. This is a wasteland you cant farm or build traditional structures on. I understand your frustration and I agree. An inexperienced child should not be put in charge of over 1,500 lives. I argued about this myself. I was enraged that theyd be so careless to do so, but I am stuck with you and you are stuck with me. So, you have a choice. You can either work with me or I will simply find others in this village who will.

Toris blue eyes glared at them. Some of them were in disbelief. A few red-faced elders scowled and glared back. An old woman didnt seem to be put off by Toris threats and hobbled over.

You think that just because you are a marquis daughter, you can take on such a responsibility! Youre a child! You dont know what youre doing!

Tori didnt falter. She lowered her head until she nearly met the old womans face.

Madam, youve been here a month. Is there anyone amongst you that has the means and ability to organize a resettlement? Tori drew her head back and swept her eyes across the room. Your Highness, I ask that you send imperial knights around the village asking for any able bodied men and women to report to Dr. Cooper-Fontaines tent at midday if they wish for assistance in resettlement. Dr. Cooper-Fontaine, I will take up some of the room of your medic tent.

A separate tent has already been set up for you, my lady, Dr. Cooper-Fontaine said as he stood from the stool.

Good, then have those willing to help go to my tent. The land excavators and civil planners will arrive soon. When they arrive, also send them to the tent, Tori said, still keeping her eyes on the old people. Where are the records of the households?

Theyre in the carriage, Piers said. Ill have someone bring them to your tent.

Have them bring out the land surveys, as well. I want to isolate one of the islands to test one of the building projects, Tori said. The sooner we can confirm that the piles and backfill will be stable enough to build on, the better.

She turned around and instead of walking to the entrance and pulling aside the flap to exit, she decided to be dramatic and climb out of the tent from the large hole she cut. Piers seemed to try not to smirk as he followed behind her.

Dr. Cooper-Fontaine prepared to climb out of the hole as well, but got tangled up and decided to awkwardly leave through the main entrance.

How do you think it went? Piers asked as he walked beside Tori.

Tori nodded more to herself than to Piers. Surprisingly, it went better than I thought. I was sure at least one old person was going to slap me. Piers chuckled.

Lady Guevera! a voice called behind her and Tori stopped and looked over her shoulder. Johan was running to catch up with them. She raised a brow and gave him a quizzical look as he reached them.

Can I help you, Mr. Sima? she asked.

You..., he seemed out of breath and looked at her beseechingly. You have construction plans?

Tori nodded, as if it were obvious. Did you think I came here to waste time? There are at least twenty-seven habitable islands in the delta. If the right precautions are taken, they are suitable for homes, stores, and workshops. This land is not suitable for traditional farming, so Ive sent out inquiries to local villages to find out what can be harvested from the delta and the Asona Sea as both sustenance and tradable goods. Im here to gather information so I can put together a plan to not only resettle your village on those islands, but provide a source of income.

Johan looked aggrieved for a moment and shook his head. Why didnt you say so in the beginning?

Mr. Sima, Tori said, drawing her head back and smirking. Im a child. What would I know about resettling a village? Tori gave him a small nod, as if to say lets end this here, and turned around.

She continued to walk down the wooden planks as she reached into her pocket and felt for her amethyst. Her fingers brushed against a pulsing warmth and Tori furrowed her brows. She slowed to a stop and pulled out the crystal. Without concentrating and trying to feel its energy, she could feel it pulsing in her hand and sending that gentle wave of energy up her arm.

But when she went to sleep that night, the amethyst had been only a quarter of the way charged. It had taken her days to get it to that level. Now, it was fully charged and she wasnt trying. She looked around the village of tents and furrowed her brows.

Tori? Piers watched as she marched ahead, walking towards the waters edge. He cocked his head and followed behind her.

Tori shoved her crystal back into her pocket and found a slab of stone by the waters edge. She knelt down and tossed the side of her cloak back to reveal her arm. She pushed up her sleeve and flexed her hand.

She took a deep breath and shoved her arm as far into the water as she could go without getting the rest of her body wet. She closed her eyes and concentrated.

There was a warm, gentle wave pulsing up her arm. Her arm was wrist deep in mud, but she could feel it. Her eyes shot open.

This is a vein, she said in a quiet voice. She lifted her arm and rinsed her hand in the water to get rid of the mud. There mustve been multiple energy veins that crossed at the delta for someone as unskilled as her to be able to feel it so easily. A smile reached her lips and she let out a laugh.

What are you doing? Piers asked, standing on the plank walkway several paces behind her.

Tori didnt answer. Her mind was elsewhere. If she set this town up right, she could build her own personal supervillain lair directly on an energy vein to help her with her crystal experiments and possibly protect her from the game. She giggled, almost maniacally, to herself. She stood up and turned to face Piers with a bright expression.

Im going to build a city.