Chapter 46: So We're Name Dropping

Chapter 46: So We're Name Dropping

Why wont you wear it? Tori frowned and glared at the open comcry on her desk as Nanny Rey brushed and tied up her hair for the day. I charged it myself! She was indignant as Axton seemed to hesitate to answer. Tori narrowed her eyes and her voice lowered. Do you think its going to explode?

That...has crossed my mind.... Axton admitted.

Tori drew her lips inward and stifled her growl. When she overheard Gideon and Fabian talking about Axton possibly joining a skirmish while on summer training in the eastern front, shed gone through her box of crystals from Presidio to find a thumb-sized chunk of raw obsidian.

According to her studies, obsidian was often used by soldiers in the battlefield for absorbing chaotic energy of war around them and channeling it into energy for the wearer. She brought the obsidian with her to the delta to properly charge and then carefully scraped Old Sulfae for clarity of mind on it under the careful guidance of Instructor Ignatius.

Do you know how hard it is to carve obsidian? Its glass, Axton. I spent hours scraping at glass, Tori said, somewhat upset. The copper wire I wrapped around it was expensive, too. Shed brought the wire wrapped obsidian to Daybreak Garden to have it put on a sturdy leather cord for Axton to wear as a sort of safety talisman.

And all her hard work was for naught.

If its glass, isnt it dangerous to wear? What if I get hit and it shatters?

Its a raw chunk wrapped in wire, Tori said in a low voice. If you want, you can even put it in a small pouch. It just has to be close to you in order to take effect.

And what effect should it have?

Absorbing chaotic battle energy and channeling it to the wearer for additional stamina and strength when you start to feel fatigued. Ive also carved in clarity to keep your mind clear and focused, Tori told him. Instructor Ignatius oversaw the whole process and I checked the Old Sulfae with Kasey. Also, only one crystal exploded and it was because too much energy was channeled into it at once. Only one.

Axton sighed. All right, Ill wear it. I wont let your good intentions go to waste.

Thank you, Tori said. I havent made any for others yet. Youre the first. Tell me if it works well.

Are you using me to test this?

No. Kind of. I heard you were going to the eastern front and want you to come back safe and sound to deal with Piers.

Speaking of Piers, he said that last weeks events were fine. Were they really? You know how he is.

They went very well. Piers is very popular. Academics like him. Merchants like him. Foreign dignitaries like him, Tori said, naming off the people they ran into and Piers actually spoke to. As long as its on a subject hes interested in, hes very engaging.

Engaging is not an adjective Id use to describe him, but thats good. You should try to give him more exposure to the aristocracy and nobles, Axton said. The garden party this weekend is a good chance. I should warn you that he is most uncomfortable around the people who will be attending.

Tori nodded, though he couldnt see her. Is there anyone I should be wary of?

Unfortunately, I cant say. You know we dont normally go to these things. I can only base what I know on hearsay. I dont know if there is anyone targeting Piers, but Gideon will also be there. Keep an eye on who is fawning over him. It will be good to know whos on his side.

Understood.

And keep particularly attentive noble daughters away from Piers.

You know that I am also a noble daughter, yes?

Yes, but you dont count, Axton said. Tori frowned. I dont mean that in a negative way. Only that many noble and aristocratic daughters, and sons, actually, in Horizon often target potential partners of a higher status, and despite his attitude and aversion to people, Piers is the oldest son of the emperor. He and Gideon would be at the top of the list.

Tori knew that was true. She doubted Gideon would be swayed with his devotion to Alessa. Hed also likely be able to get out of such a situation, but Piers could be overwhelmed if admirers came to him all at once.

Ill be careful, she said. Dont worry, Ill stay with him.

Thank you, Axton said with a small breath of relief. Usually, when Im at training, he doesnt go outside.

Tori cringed. The entire time?

Hell go out into a garden or courtyard, but he wont leave the palace.

That was pitiful to hear, but she was sure Piers was quite content indoors. When do you usually come back after summer training?

Beginning of the eighth month, Axton told her. Tori heard some muffled voices coming through the comcry. All right. Ill be right there! Take care of him for me until I get back.

I will. Take care of yourself! The comcry dimmed and Tori let out a heavy breath. Nanny Rey, how dangerous is it on the eastern front?

Sir Nassaun should be stationed at Amber Rock. Its a stone fortress overlooking the grassland border just below the hills. It is the fortress that supports multiple garrisons in the area and General von Schwert heads it, Nanny Rey said as she braided Toris hair.

What is the likelihood of Axton going into battle?

If there is a skirmish, it is almost certain, Nanny Rey said. Sir Nassaun is a good swordsman, but also skilled in spear and dagger. He has formal training in strategy and has led small units. General von Schwert will utilize him well, but within his ability. Tori nodded, quiet, and lowered her eyes. Nanny Rey smiled softly. Are you worried about him?

Piers really depends on Axton, Tori said. Not just to get him food. And Axton is a good friend. Hes helped us a lot.

Nanny Rey finished tying Toris hair and put her hands on her shoulders. You gave him a good crystal to protect him, my angel. I also wear obsidian when I am in battle.

Toris eyes crinkled. She tilted her head back to look at the old woman. Nanny...when were you in battle? What did you do?

Nanny Reys smile didnt falter. That isnt something for you to worry about, my angel. She kissed the top of Toris head affectionately. It is already mid-morning. You have meetings to attend.

Tori let out a low breath and stood up. She figured if Nanny Rey didnt want to tell her, she simply wouldnt find out. Somewhat disappointed, Tori headed outside of her tent, towards the largest of the dining tents where the villages weekly meetings took place. As she and Nanny Rey walked, they saw a crowd of people rushing to the edge of the encampment.

Tori furrowed her brows and looked around. Whats going on?

Lets go see, her nanny said as they followed behind the crowd. They reached the shoreline and Nanny Rey calmly moved people aside so Tori could get to the front. When they reached the walkway at the edge of the camp, she saw Brother Cassius in a simple white shirt and dark brown pants carrying a shivering little boy in one arm.

Both of them were soaking wet.

Thank you, Brother Cassius! someone cried out.

Jakub! What did I tell you about playing on the dock! A womans voice scolded, but was filled with fear. Its dangerous!

Tori watched as a village woman fell to her knees and gathered the little boy who had begun to cry. An old woman was also chastising a few small children cowering behind Brother Cassius. They all wore guilty and frightened expressions on their downcast faces.

Is everything all right? Before Tori could ask, Constantine slipped through the crowds to get closer. Brother, are you okay?

Its fine, Brother Cassius said with a tired smile. Im just glad I was nearby when he fell off the dock.

Tori narrowed her eyes. Do the children often play on the dock?

Theyre not supposed to, one of the men said as he frowned. Weve told them over and over that its not a place to play. They could slip in and fall. And thats exactly what happened!

Im sorry! The child continued to cry.

Bring him back to your tent and dry him off. Have him change into dry clothes, Tori said in a firm voice. She looked at the other children. Do you see how dangerous it can be? The dock is not a place for you to play. If Brother Cassius wasnt near, what wouldve happened to Jakub? Can any of you save him?

At the cold reminder, the other childrens eyes grew red. A few sniffled.

Lady Guevera, Brother Cassius looked at her, worried. It was an accident. Please dont be upset.

A child couldve drowned, Tori said in a sharp voice. Her straightforward statement seemed to silence the crowd. How can I not be upset? She looked around and pointed to the dock in the distance. Have the dock fenced off as soon as possible.

Yes, my lady, Johan said as he lowered his head, as if ashamed that such a thing happened.

As for the children, until a proper location is selected and an instructor is present, do not allow them into the water, Tori said. She looked towards the horizon and squinted. Since its the start of summer, the weather is warm enough. I will look for someone to teach them to swim.

Several pairs of eyes looked towards her, surprised. Teach them to swim? a woman asked.

They live by the water and will one day be going to and from the islands on boats. Its important that they know how to swim, Tori said. Well bring this up at the meeting in a bit. Brother Cassius, please go and change. Thank you for your help.

The man gave her a bow of his head and seemed to smile a bit. Yes, my lady. He headed towards his tent as the crowds began to disperse.

Tori let out a low breath and ran a hand down her face as she watched Brother Cassius leave. His wet, white shirt clung to his skin and Tori squinted. She could see bold, black markings across his back in various patterns and lines.

Does he have a tattoo? She hadnt seen anyone with a tattoo now that she thought about it. She looked around for Constantine and found him finishing up talking to the little boy who had fallen in the water and his mother. The little boy was finally calmed, but still sniffling as he was carried away.

Constantine looked up with a helpless expression. They were racing to see who could get the furthest on the dock without falling in.

Nanny Rey let out a tired sigh. Children are like that. She looked at Tori and Tori knit her brows and lifted her hand to her chest, feeling somewhat attacked.

Piers gave them a nod and then pulled Tori away. When they were a few steps ahead, Tori let out a low breath. That excuse isnt going to last forever.

Itll last however long I want it to last, he said, almost determined. He looked down at her. Are you all right?

I should ask you that.

Im not the one theyre being rude to.

But Im not the one theyre eyeing like starving wolves, Tori countered. She shook her head. Being a prince certainly is troublesome.

You understand this better than Axton.

Did you know that youd get this much attention? Tori asked. Piers seemed to hesitate.

I know I have a reputation. This is unexpected." As he said it, she could feel him tense up and she lifted her hand and stroked his arm.

Youre doing very well, she said quietly. If it gets to be too much, we can go. Youve already walked around.

Not enough people know me, he said. Can we stay a little longer? He looked at Tori as his voice had a bit of a plea.

Tori nodded. Of course. Well stay as long as you like. When youre tired or uncomfortable, we will go home. Piers looked ahead of him and kept walking.

I will try to speak up more, he told her in a quiet voice. So you dont have to.

Its fine, Tori said. Thats what Im here for.

People shouldnt be rude to you because of me. Thats not fair.

Piers, people have been rude to me since I was a child, Tori told him. Some people will dislike me, regardless of what I do. And its not necessarily something I can control. He opened his mouth and Tori cut him off. And its not something you can or should control, either. He slowly closed his mouth.

Youre too nice. His voice was withdrawn and Tori chuckled.

Just because Im nice to you and the others doesnt mean Im nice to everyone.

Piers furrowed his brows and looked at her with a hint of disbelief in his eyes. Who?

Piers! The two turned their heads forward to see a handsome, silver-haired young man walking forward, with a face that was growing darker with each step.

Your Highness Prince Gideon. Tori greeted him in a tired voice, resigned to the fact that they had crossed paths once more. She forgot that hed be here and that she was supposed to watch him. Good afternoon.

Gideons face was filled with displeasure as he looked at Toris arm holding on to Piers. Good afternoon, he said behind gritted teeth. He looked at his brother and then at Tori with a forced smile. I didnt expect to see you here.

Until Axton returns, Ill be escorting Piers to various functions. She wanted to make that clear.

Gideon looked upset and turned to his brother. Is that all right?

Piers raised a brow. Why wouldnt it be?

You dont like...things like this.... Gideon said, lifting his arms weakly. Are you not anxious?

A bit and if it becomes worse, I will leave, Piers told him, as if reassuring his brother. I know you worry, Gideon, but there is no need to.

Gideon still appeared torn. He seemed to think before perking up. Do you want me to accompany you? Perhaps having someone familiar nearby will make you more comfortable. He looked at his brother earnestly and Tori tilted her head. I am free to do so, if you'd like!

Toris brows shot up. Hold on...does Gideon actually like his brother?

If you want, I can walk with you. Ive been to this event in the past and it can get confusing for someone on their first visit. We can look for a gift for Mothers birthday together!

Toris eyes widened. The admiration and pride in Gideons eyes, the way he leaned towards Piers, the earnestness in his voice as he asked to spend time together. At this point, Tori knew a devoted brother when she saw one. She looked up at Piers.

I dont mind. Piers and Gideon both seemed somewhat surprised. Tori smiled encouragingly at Piers. Its a good chance to see if there is something your mother will like.

Piers relaxed a bit. All right. His answer was directed more at her than at Gideon.

Tori loosened her hold on Piers and put some space between them. She looked at Gideon and gave him a nod. Lead the way, Your Highness.

He gave her a cold look, but smiled hopefully at his brother. I saw a garnet necklace further up. Do you think Mother would like it?

Piers seemed to hesitate, but Tori poked his arm. Lets take a look. Have you considered if she wears red often?

Tori purposely fell back a step as she let Piers follow Gideon. Sorry, Axton. Change of plans.

Instead of watching Gideon to see who approached him and appeared exceedingly encouraging of the mediocre prince, why not put Gideons admiration of his brother on display and see what happens?

Tori could think of two possible reactions from those with self-serving intent, who wished Gideon to become the crown prince. The first was caution. There would be some hesitancy to try to turn Gideon against Piers if it was clear Gideon held his brother in high esteem. If it were her and someone tried to turn her against Sebastian or Kasen, shed automatically label them as an enemy trying to sow discord.

Whether or not Gideon would realize it in time was unknown.

The second reaction was to try to use Piers to control Gideon. If it were Tori, thats the route shed go. It was a bit more work, but much more subtle.

Tori narrowed her eyes. Wait a second, am I doing that right now? Oh my God, I am doing that right now. Admittedly, she had some issues with that, but her intention wasnt to harm either brother. Yes, Gideon was an annoying little prick and if he picked a fight with her, Piers brother or not, she would gladly throw hands.

But that was personal and didnt have the fate of an empire hanging on it.

At any rate, she could observe Gideon better if he was close by. She followed behind the two brothers, occasionally standing beside Piers and touching his arm to silently ask how he was doing. She didnt stray far. Shed only gone ahead a few times when an item caught her eye, but nothing called to her to be bid on.

Unsurprisingly, more people came to greet them when Gideon was with them. Tori had to admit, Gideon knew proper etiquette and was very responsive to whoever greeted him. No wonder he was so popular. In contrast, Piers was stoic and answered in short, clear sentences to people he was just meeting.

Whenever more than two people approached, Tori automatically stepped forward and put her hand in Piers arm once more. She would immediately feel him relax and when he relaxed, he spoke more.

He also seemed rather comfortable with, or at least used to, Gideon constantly asking him questions and looking at him with eyes desperate for approval. And Piers would, surprisingly, give it when due. His responses to Gideon were always short and concise, but never in a negative tone. He almost sounded encouraging.

This was very insightful into their relationship and Tori took note. She found that, despite her own conflicts and problems with Gideon, she was relieved his relationship with Piers wasnt antagonistic.

She also found that Gideon was a good shield to keep the romantically inclined social climbers distracted. Gideon could laugh and chat with them while Piers and Tori casually stepped back and pretended to look at an item. When Gideon realized they had stepped away, hed apologize to whoever he was talking to and run after them.

In this way, Tori and Piers didnt need to deal with as many admirers, though there were a few who wanted to bypass Gideon to get to the older, more attractive brother.

I honestly cant blame them. Tori sighed after Piers rejected yet another offer to walk around with another party.

Are you tired? Piers asked as he leaned closer. She looked up and shook her head, despite wanting to take off her shoes and sit down.

No, Im fine. How are you doing? Are you okay? Do you want to rest somewhere quiet? Tori asked. Youve done very well today. Its more than enough.

Piers looked towards the rows of items to be auctioned. I havent bid on anything.

Tori chuckled. Is that required? He shook his head. Then, you dont have to. She stroked his arm comfortingly. Do you want to go back? He hesitated. Tori furrowed her brows and thought for a moment. Do you want steak? She saw a flicker of recognition in his eyes and smiled. Lets go back and Ill make you a steak.

All right. Piers smiled softly. Lets go.

Piers, are you leaving already? Gideon took a step closer, having been standing behind them.

I have had enough interactions for today, Piers told him, appearing serious. Gideons eyes widened and Tori could almost hear him wanting to go with Piers. I will drop off Tori at her aunts before returning to the palace.

Gideons face dropped and Tori turned her head away to avoid laughing at him. I see. He looked disappointed. Then, I will see you at the palace.

Piers gave him a nod. Tori gave Gideon a small bow of her head. Have a good afternoon, Your Highness.

Lady Guevera, Gideon said, causing her to stop and look over her shoulder. She gave him a quizzical expression. He seemed torn, as if he were fighting with himself. His hands clenched at his sides and he stiffened, awkwardly avoiding her eyes. Tha...thank you.

Before she could ask what he was thankful for, he turned around and marched off in the opposite direction.

I didnt do anything for him, Tori said in a low voice. That was the most pleasant thing Gideon had ever said to her. Was it because Piers was there? What is he talking about?

Dont worry about him, Piers said as they watched Gideon be intercepted by a few older attendees. Tori narrowed her eyes and Piers patted her hand. He can be a bit strange, but hes not all bad.