Chapter 53: As If The Woman Had Escaped

Chapter 53: As If The Woman Had Escaped

For the last two days, Tori made a point to avoid Dimitri and Gideon. She knew when they were set to arrive and planned around them. She had more important and interesting things shed rather do. Her family also seemed to try to keep them away from her by sending them out of Moss Hill, on tours of Kings Harbor. Tori could continue her exploration of the city when they were gone.

When she wasnt doing some work on her Lyce project, she was playing with her little cousins: Aiden and Maeve, Siobhan and Duncans son and daughter, along with four-year-old Ava, Bridget, and her husband, Baldwins, daughter. It was both to help distract them while succession ceremony preparations were taking place and to bond in order to strengthen family ties.

Red-headed Aiden took it upon himself to show Tori around the castle, proudly showing off the old fortifications, various rooms of interest, and the courtyard where he and his sister practiced with weaponry.

A few times, Tori played hide-and-seek with her little cousins. Moss Hill was large and she had to put limits on where they could hide so she wouldnt spend an entire afternoon searching for them. She was still at a massive disadvantage and had to secretly rely on her cousins nannies to clue her in on where to find them, otherwise the game would go on forever.

In an attempt to wrangle them in because she was tired of running around the castle, and at one point, found herself going down a dark and damp corridor questioning her life choices, she seized a chance to play with Ava and her dollhouse, which was a model of the original Moss Hill castle.

Ava seemed bored with playing, so Tori made it a dungeon crawl. Maeve overheard and wanted to join. Aiden came to find them to play and ended up joining. Cousin Eili dropped by to see what they were doing, as she hadnt seen any of them all day and found it too quiet.

After Tori explained what was going on, Eili and her wife wanted to try and they proved to be much more interested and aggressive in the game than the children Tori was originally leading. Eilis mage even had a tragic backstory that she made everyone listen to.

With her days filled, Tori only had to see Dimitri and Gideon at the large dinners in the main dining hall, where all the guests would come for a meal with the family. There, she ignored them and sat with Kasen as far away from them as she could. However, sometimes, she could almost feel their glares on her.

Tori wanted to meet their glare with one of her own. Did they think she wanted to see them at her cousins succession ceremony, which also fell on her actual birthday? Of course not. The family was celebrating a few days later for the distinct purpose of avoiding unwanted guests. Although, she did get a special breakfast treat that morning and all her friends called to wish her a happy birthday one after another.

Tori wondered if they had planned it. Piers called the night before, as if waiting for the moment it was officially her birthday. The flashing comcry by her bed stopped her from falling asleep. It irritated her and she replied with a curt thank you, goodnight before going back to bed.

In the morning, she called back after her friends birthday wishes to try to appease Piers.

He said he wouldnt do it again and would call at a more reasonable time on her next birthday. He also told her to ignore his brother and mother.

She found out from Andy that Gideon and Dimitri were detained at the gates to Kings Field under suspicion of being imposters. She had asked him if it had anything to do with her and Andy laughed. He assured her it didnt, but Tori still had her suspicion.

That was likely why Dimitri and Gideon were glaring at her.

She took solace in that shed be rid of them soon. They were scheduled to leave with their respective parents two days after the succession ceremony. From the information Tori was given, Baron Hart and Alessa would leave the day after.

Tori only had to see Alessa for one day, and even then, it was limited, as Tori spent her time with her family and meeting other members of the marquis families and some important vassals and merchants her cousins thought would be useful for her to know.

When the celebration after the ceremony started, they would be stuck in the same area. Tori continued to keep her distance. Alessa was spending her time with Dimitri and Gideon, taking turns dancing with each of them as possible. Tori was vigilant and made sure to avoid them while dancing. She always danced as far away from Alessa at all times and always with someone she knew. So far, Alessa hadnt said or done anything that would cause her trouble.

As the evening progressed, Tori became a bit more comfortable. Alessa and her two love interests werent anywhere near her and Tori was having fun dancing, eating, and meeting interesting people. She knew she was going to be physically and mentally exhausted after the party.

Tori! Eili threw her arm around Toris shoulder as she pulled her back. Were going to dance. Join us! All the OTuagh girls!

Tori tilted her head back to look at her cousin and wrinkled her nose. Im a Guevera.

Close enough. Come on! She tugged Toris arm and Tori looked back at the local lord and lady she was speaking to.

Excuse me for a moment. My cousins call. She gave them a small nod of her head as the older couple chuckled and raised their glasses to her, as if in encouragement.

Eili led her to the center of the room where Bridget, Grammie, and even Maeve were already getting in a large circle. Eilis wife also seemed to be herding additional women into the circle and Tori bit back a laugh. Her cousin said all the OTuagh girls and she meant it and more. There were additional cousins whod come from all over the empire, as well as the young Nordursin ladies.

There were about twenty of them in the circle. As Tori took her place between Eili and Bridget, she saw Duncan escort Siobhan forward. Siobhan shrugged off her navy cloak, handing it to her husband before raising her arms and stepping out to join them in the circle. At once, Tori and the crowd began to clap and cheer.

All right! All right! Im here! Siobhan laughed. She turned towards the musicians and gave them a nod.

The hand drummer beat his drum five times in succession before the music burst from the other musicians and filled the room. Tori heard her cousins let out whoops as they began to move. Tori had a wide smile on her face as she shuffled along, moving in tandem with her relatives as they stepped in and around a circle.

She didnt have to think; her body seemed to know what to do and Tori almost felt as if she were enjoying a ride. Her favorite part was always the part where they moved to the center, clapped, and turned. As they stepped back out of the circle, they spun around and looked for someone to pull into the dance.

Papa! Tori saw her father and extended her hands towards him. His brows shot up and he quickly handed his wine glass to her mother so he could join her. He let out a boisterous laugh as Tori grabbed his hands to swing him into the circle and spin around with him.

She could feel her heart racing as she swung around the circle, nearly colliding with others in the chaos. After she let her father go, she rushed back to her place in the circle to continue. Her face was flushed and she could feel some sweat collecting at her brow, but she reveled in the rush.

As the song completed, Tori was pinching the sides of her skirt to bow towards the inside of the circle, where Siobhan was left to stand, clapping her hands and stomping her feet. They ended with a loud yell before clapping and cheering. The ladies on the dance floor began to disperse to catch their breaths as the musicians played some calmer music.

Do you know how to dance northern dances, too? A womans low, husky voice asked her and Tori turned around and beamed.

Yes! But only the basic ones, Tori said. Lady Idunn, youre well versed in western dances, as well.

Only the basic ones, as well. Idunn Birtadottir Nordursin was a tall, blue-eyed beauty with an undercut on the left side of her head and long, straight ash-blonde hair swept over. She was Sebastians senior in Lyce and Universit by a year and, according to Kasens gossip, Lady Idunn and Sebastian were once involved. I heard about your project in the delta. I have extensive experience in farming technologies if you need assistance. I assisted Kasens greenhouse project in Nordur.

Toris face lit up at the offer. Before she could reply, she heard her name.

Lady Tori! Someone called and she immediately turned in the direction of the voice.

She caught a movement over Lady Idunns shoulder and squinted. Madam Guthry waved towards her. She looked back at Lady Idunn and gave her an apologetic smile. We should have lunch tomorrow to discuss that further. We have many farmers who I believe would rather do something more familiar than fishing, but we have very little land.

Lady Idunn glanced over her shoulder and nodded. Then, I shall arrange for lunch tomorrow.

Tori gave her a small, thankful nod and stepped around her. She approached the Prime Ministers wife with a smile. Good evening, Madam Guthry! Im sure my cousin already greeted you, but thank you for coming. We hope you are enjoying the celebration.

Tori pretended she didnt see Dimitri standing there with displeasure barely contained on his face. She focused on greeting his mother.

Oh, were enjoying it immensely! The seafood is a welcomed change. Honestly, Charles and I havent had our fill! Madam Guthry laughed and took Toris arm in a familiar gesture.

Interest in seafood was a good sign, especially from a Horizon native, like Madam Guthry. Toris brows shot up and she nodded. I agree! I managed to get many recipes to try. Heres to hoping!

By the way, I saw you dancing out there. Have you had lessons?

Tori lifted her chin and puffed out her chest a bit. Yes, formal lessons in all regional dances since I was a child. Both folk and ballroom.

Wonderful! Would you consider dancing with Dimitri? He isnt familiar with western folk dances, but hes had lessons in the waltz. Would you mind? There was a distinct sound of pity in Madam Guthrys voice when she was referring to her son and Tori pulled her lips inward to keep from snort-laughing.

She looked towards Dimitri and found him staring at his mother, dumbfounded. His mouth was opening and closing, but no words came out, as if a fish on land. Dancing with him notwithstanding, it was funny to see his expression. She might have been avoiding them because she didnt want to deal with them, but she wasnt going to back down when the situation arose.

The corners of her lips curled up. I dont mind. Since he and Gideon were glaring at her whenever they had the chance, she might as well use this opportunity to find out what shed done this time to anger them.

He whipped his head around. What? He shook his head and seemed to take a cautious step back. Tori tried to hold back her smirk.

Is he afraid of me? Dumbass.

Wonderful! His mother's smile widened and looked towards her son. Tori could see her eyes narrow a bit as her voice lowered. Dimitri. Ask the lady to dance.

She wasnt sure if he was horrified or upset, but a small part of her couldnt help but relish his discomfort.

Is something the matter, Mr. Guthry? Are you nervous? she asked in a calm voice. There isnt anything to worry about. Im sure youll be fine. She watched his eyes narrow as the corners of his lips tugged downward.

Im not worried at all, Lady Guevera. He seemed to force a smile and took a step back to give her a small bow before extending his hand. May I have this dance?

Tori wasnt shaken. They were surrounded by her family and their friends in a formal setting. From what she knew of him, he wouldnt act out or make a fool of himself in public. If they were alone, yes, but not in front of so many influential and powerful people, including his parents.

She placed her hand in his as her lips tightened into a line. Dimitri stepped forward and walked past his mother. Any pleasantness of his face vanished as soon as Madam Guthry couldnt see his expression. Tori stared ahead of them as they seemed to march through the crowd, to the dance floor, and get this over with.

I want to let you know that -

Youre only dancing with me because your mother asked and you cant say no in this setting, Tori said as they reached the dance floor. She turned to face him, their bodies slightly off center from each other. Her left arm rose and rested on his upper arm, just below his shoulder. I know. Im doing this for the same reason. She cocked her head to the side and gave him a wry smile. Dont embarrass me.

The corner of his eye twitched and he held up her right hand in his left one. Likewise, Lady Guevera.

Do you like dancing?

Yes. Tori looked back towards the castle. I heard you dont like dancing.

I can dance.

I didnt say you couldnt dance. I said you dont like dancing, Tori said. And I dont blame you. Sometimes, its crowded. The music might be too loud or just terrible. Someone might not be in control of themselves and run into you. These are all the reasons I dont like clubbing, though.

Piers didnt answer immediately. He was likely thinking about what a suitable answer was. Is it all right if we dont dance?

She smiled a bit. Of course, its all right if we dont dance. Im not going to make you.

But you like to dance.

I can dance with other people, like my brothers or Ilyana. I dont have to dance with you. She couldve sworn she heard him take in a sharp breath. Ah...so thats it. Its difficult to dance with you in a ballroom. There are too many people.

I can dance in a ballroom. She could hear the tension in his voice.

Okay, then one day, arrange for a ballroom and musicians, and I will come and dance with you, she said. Just the two of us, so no one bumps into you.

Just the two of us? Piers repeated, as if unsure.

Yes. Do you want to dance with me?

Yes. I will prepare.

It doesnt have to be soon-

When you return, I will come meet you at the delta.

Piers-

And I will show you the palace and we can dance.

She let out a helpless laugh. Piers, when I get back, I still need to do work at the delta for my project. I've been away for weeks. We can dance some other time."

When?"

Let's try to work it in before school starts, Tori said. Dont worry. Im not going to forget.

All right. He paused for a moment, but didnt say good-bye. How was your birthday? Tori almost wanted to laugh. She didnt expect him to ask.

It was fine. We are having a family dinner in a few days to celebrate, Tori said. After most of the guests leave.

Hmm...did my mother bother you?

Tori tilted her head and thought for a moment. She narrowed her eyes. No. Actually...I hardly saw her. Just like Dimitri and Gideon, shed only seen the Empress at dinner and they were seated far from each other, as Gideon sat with the Empress.

During the day, even before Gideon arrived, Tori spent most of the day gallivanting around Kings Harbor with one or more of her relatives. She only returned in the afternoon and would spend time with the children or make some calls to the delta and her friends. Her mother was always with the Empress, but Antonia never called for Tori.

Is Mama purposely keeping the Empress away from me? Is she that mad? Damn, Mama can hold a grudge.

Good, she heard Piers say. Mother can be a bit impulsive if there is no one to stop her.

Mama is the liaison for the Empress, Tori told him.

She will do a good job, Piers said, satisfied that someone was keeping his mother under control. The Marquess is a powerful woman.

Why do you think your mother would bother me? I expected to have coffee with her at least once before she leaves, but no one has mentioned it, so I thought she was busy with state-related business.

Mother is very curious about you, he replied. Im sorry.

Why are you sorry?

She keeps asking about you, but I dont answer her, so she wants to talk to you herself."

Tori drew her lips in for a moment. What does she ask about? Piers didnt answer. After a few seconds, Tori wondered if hed left the comcry somewhere and wandered off. Piers?

I have to go.

Piers. There was no answer and the crystal dimmed. Tori looked at her comcry, annoyed, before she flipped it closed and put it back into her pocket. She began to make her way towards the terrace to finish her breakfast, when she saw a figure rushing out from some other part of the garden.

Tori squinted as she slowed her steps.

Tori! The Empress seemed to come out of nowhere and Tori wondered where her attendants were.

Soleil didnt have a practice of ladies-in-waiting. They had same-sex servants that were general staff to do things like helping one dress or clean their personal chambers. However, there was always a distinct set of professional attendants to powerful individuals, and they could be men or women. Individuals who were very busy or in powerful positions usually had multiple attendants assigned to different areas. These were highly sought-after positions that required specifically skilled and somewhat highly-educated labor.

Even her brothers had attendants theyd delegate work to, both professional and personal. They were more like personal assistants that seemed to desperately try to keep their boss focused. At least that's what Tori gathered from watching the attendants of her family. JP had once said if she or Ilyana wanted to hire him, he was willing to work for them. For Henrik, not so much.

Seeing the Empress emerging from who-knew-where in the garden without a single attendant was a bit alarming. At dinners, there was at least one standing by. It almost felt as if the woman had escaped.

Your Majesty? Tori couldnt help sounding confused as she did a curtsy.

I was afraid Id miss you again this morning, the Empress reached her and quickly regained her imperial bearing. Ahem...you may rise. This is an informal meeting.

Tori stood up straight. Can I help you with something, Your Majesty?

The Empress was looking at her with wide, bright eyes and an excited smile. Are you free for coffee today? Ive been meaning to have coffee with you, but your blasted mother - I mean, Antonia, has kept me so busy with these meandering tours and games-

My lady, I found her!

Tori looked up, towards the terrace, and saw a well-dressed, exasperated woman shouting into the dining hall within.

Your Majesty, I think they are looking for you. Tori looked at the middle-aged woman in a lovely dark red dress. The Empress looked towards the terrace and frowned. Shall I escort you up?

The Empresss eyes widened and she quickly extended her hand and grabbed on to Toris, as if worried Tori would retract her offer and flee. Lets take our time, the Empress gave her a warm smile.

Your Majesty! Someone else called for her and Tori looked at the Empress.

They sound urgent.

Its fine, the Empress assured her. Tori could feel the womans grip on her arm tighten as they slowed. Ive been wanting to meet you for a while. The pinecone challenge notwithstanding, of course. Ive been meaning to have you over to the imperial palace for a meal, but Ive been told youre very busy.

The Empress was being surprisingly considerate and Tori found herself a bit suspicious as to why.

With regular Lyce classes and activities, the project, and the store, Im afraid I have little time to spare. I usually try to schedule as much in as possible, Tori said.

Then, have you heard of the Empress Banquet coming up in a month? It is my birthday banquet. I heard you will be returning to the delta after this. Perhaps you would like to attend? The Empress had an eager expression. You need not worry about transport from the delta to the city. I will arrange for someone to bring you the day before to the palace and to stay the night as my guest. After all, you are my dear friends daughter. I should be more hospitable.

Tori smiled awkwardly. Thank you for your invitation, Your Majesty. There is no need to arrange for transport or lodgings. I already plan to stay at my Auntie Lucias the night before, and of, your banquet.

The Empress gasped. Her brows shot up and looked at her with disbelief. Then, you agree to come? She narrowed her eyes and seemed to search Toris face for any sign of falsehood.

Tori nodded slowly. She swallowed hard and forced herself to give the Empress a proper answer. She couldnt shake the feeling that she shouldnt. Yes, Your Majesty. His Highness Prince Piers has asked me to escort him. Ive agreed and we have already made arrangements for the evening.