Chapter 97: It Didn’t Taste as Sweet

Chapter 97: It Didn’t Taste as Sweet

Despite her best attempts, Tori kept finding herself glancing at Fabian. He didnt seem at all upset when they returned to Horizon. He didnt act out of the ordinary during classes and shed caught sight of him with Gideon doing reviews in one of the study rooms of their dorm on her way to a review session with Ilyana.

As much as she wanted to know what the Emperors decision was, she didnt feel she was in the position to do so. Tori hadnt heard back from Axton, Piers, or her brother on what would happen to Fabian. Perhaps they didnt plan to tell her. She hadnt seen the three men since the pinecone challenge, either.

Whatever they were grappling with mustve taken time to clean up. Kasen said hed have work to do after this. Axton and Piers were still Universit students, and their final exams coincided with Lyces. If they didnt join her brother, which she doubted, then they were likely preparing for their own exams.

This made Tori think that they planned to wait until after final exams to tell Fabian, so as not to disturb his studies. As for Fabian, if he suspected something was wrong, she didnt know. She only saw him in their homeroom class, and it appeared as if nothing was amiss.

Tonight was the last night before their final exam week; the first tests would be in the morning. Ilyana was having the last of her review sessions that evening and the majority of their second-year class was with her, in one of the lecture halls, hanging on her every word in a last-ditch effort to prepare before their exams.

Tori felt that she studied better on her own and opted out. She spent most of the weekend in their dorm room studying by herself. She only came out to eat and that was what she was doing now. The low rumbling in her stomach and lack of remaining snacks meant she needed to go out for food.

She raised her arms over her head as she walked past the lecture hall on her way to the cafe for a break. She glanced towards the open doors. Light was coming from inside and she could see the back row of people with their heads bent forward, scribbling away.

Tori let out a chuckle and continued forward.

Lady Guevera! A young mans voice called for her and she turned around. Her hair was pulled up into a thick, puffy bun, and as it was a weekend, she was in a simple dress and her sandals from the delta. It was comfortable in the warm evening.

Mr. Zisos, you didnt join todays study session? Tori asked with a slight smile as he held a bag against him and sped up to catch up with her as she stopped.

I went to yesterdays session, but Im fairly confident with todays subjects, so I decided to do some self-study, Constantine said as he fell into step with her. Are you heading to the cafe, as well?

Yes. Tori stretched her arm across her chest and held it for a stretch before repeating it with the other arm. Ive been hunched over my notes all day. I thought I could get a snack. The commons are already closed for the evening.

Constantine nodded. I thought the same. The meal at the commons is limited and I didnt have much of an appetite earlier.

What are you thinking of getting?

Coffee and a sandwich. Constantine thought for a moment. Im tempted to buy some pastries, as well. In case I get hungry in between exams tomorrow.

They walked out of Lyces front gates and Tori nodded. I need to pick up some for myself and Ilyana. Instructor Rosemund lets us eat in between tests, but its not enough time for us to run to the commons and pick up something. Its better to already have something to eat with you.

Didnt you buy an entire cake during midterms? Constantine cracked a smile and Tori cringed a bit.

She was so stressed during midterm exams, as she had to deal with the imperial family in Viclya, that instead of getting her usual small pastries, she bought an entire cake and portioned it out. She stress-ate it far faster than she shouldve.

Im a bit more relaxed this time, Tori said as she lifted her chin. Im going to buy smaller pieces. But likely equivalent to the size of the cake. No one needs to know that. Constantine laughed as they walked down the street.

They turned the corner and saw the lights coming from the familiar cafe. As usual, it was quite empty. If Piers wasnt subsidizing it somehow, Tori was sure it wouldve closed already.

The little bell rang as they walked in, and Tori greeted Mama J and her youngest son.

Good evening, my lady. Mr. Zisos. The cheerful woman smiled at them. How is your studying?

I believe were rather well-prepared, Constantine said with a smile. Ive been studying all day.

I have, too, Tori said. She gave Mama Js son a nod of her head. And just the person I was hoping to see. I have a very long pastry order.

Did you want to order another cake? he asked.

Toris lips tightened into a line. I ordered one cake for myself once. Once. No. Just smaller pieces this time. Mama J took Constantines order and Tori ran down the pastry menu and selected both her and Ilyanas favorite pastries to be prepared.

I will have it ready for you soon, my lady, Mama Js son told her. Tori gave him a nod.

Ill also have a coffee with sweetened milk, Tori said. And a slice of puffy cream cake to eat here.

She headed over to the chaise lounge by the hearth, which was glowing with light crystals, but not fire. The weather in Horizon had warmed recently and a fire wasnt needed to warm up the cafe. However, the aesthetic of a glowing fireplace was always welcomed.

Constantine sat on one of the plush chairs and seemed to sink in. He closed his eyes and let out a heavy breath. I always wondered why monks looked so tired when all they did was sit and read religious text all day. Now I know why.

Tori laughed and laid back on the chaise. Your body can get stiff when you remain in the same position for prolonged periods of time. Youll be able to stretch out and relax when we go back to the delta after exams.

She noticed Constantine open his eyes and pause for a moment. He looked over at her and his brows furrowed a bit.

After exams.... He trailed off and Tori tilted her head towards him.

Are you going back to Temple Mountain immediately after exams? she asked. Now that she thought about it, Constantine hadnt told anyone his plans yet. For some reason, she simply assumed that he was going to join them all in the delta over the summer. Hed become a permanent part of their little group. Where they were, he was.

No, no, Im still going to remain in the delta over the summer, Constantine told her with a smile. She squinted her eyes. He was smiling, but it didnt seem to reach his eyes. Tori quietly pushed herself into a seated position.

For how long? she asked in a quiet voice. The game gave Constantine two years to decide. Time was almost up.

The corners of his lips turned up into a slight, pained smile. Until the end of the eighth month, he said. Tori held her breath.

And then?

There was a glint of regret in his eyes. And then I will be joining the seminary.

She took a deep breath and for a moment, didnt know what to say. The last few months, she hadnt thought about it. Constantine was now a trusted friend at her side, whom she threw responsibility at, as she did with the others. Shed taken it for granted that he was there, hanging out, eating, and playing games with them. She lowered her eyes and narrowed them.

When did I stop thinking of him as one of Alessas love interests?

Is it surprising? he asked. Tori lifted her head and shook it.

No, of course not. I knew youve been interested in the seminary for some time and just werent sure, she said. Tori tried to give him a reassuring smile. I...I just didnt realize the time had come so quickly.

Constantine nodded and looked down. I spent a lot of time thinking about it. I am enjoying my time in Lyce and the work Im doing at the delta has been very fulfilling, but I find myself going back to the church. I still have much to learn.

Tori nodded. I understand. If the pull wasnt strong enough, you wouldnt have been considering it as seriously as you had, she said. Mama J came by and placed their drinks and pastries on the table. Thank you.

Thank you, Constantine gave the older woman a smile and a nod before he leaned forward. Do you remember my interest in religious artifacts?

Tori nodded as she picked up the plate with her cake. Yes. Are you still interested?

Constantine smiled. I can get the best theology studies at the seminary in Karap. They have a diverse collection of religious artifacts, second only to Temple Mountain. My uncle said that it would be best to get a solid foundation first before focusing on artifacts.

Thats understandable, Tori said as she brought her fork and took a bite of her cake. She thought for a moment. How long is the period for seminary studies?

Cloistered for two years.

She slowly stopped chewing and swallowed her cake. Her eyes fixed on Constantine. Cloistered? He nodded and gave her a weak smile. Then...you wont have any contact with anyone outside the seminary for two years.

He let out a small chuckle. Thats the only negative side. I cant leave the seminary. I cant contact anyone outside the seminary, not even my uncle.

Tori looked at her cake and knit her brows. It didnt taste as sweet as she thought. Then we wont see or hear from you for two years.

I was trying to find a time to tell everyone, he said before taking a long sip of his coffee. I thought it would be best to wait until after final exams. Then we can all enjoy our time at the delta together before I leave. After all, Miss Agafonova is staying over the summer, as well.

Tori took another bite of her cake and thought for a moment. She stared out ahead of her thoughtfully. Were going to miss you.

She didnt look at him, but from the corner of her eye she saw Constantine snap his head towards her. His eyes seemed to redden a bit before he lowered them and tried to distract himself with his sandwich.

Lady Guevera, he said after a few bites in silence. Joining the seminary is usually a direct path to joining the clergy. Few people study and then decide not to join.

Tori looked over at him. Have you considered it?

Of course. I am still uncertain at this point, though. If I join the clergy, I can still continue on to further studies. In my case, I am interested in archeology. If everything goes as I believe it will, I will continue to study elsewhere after I join the clergy. It is not rare to do so, he said. That being said, I will have my ceremony in two years.

Tori perked up. Your ceremony where you get your markings? She immediately wondered what tattoos he would choose and what gods or goddesses he would honor.

I have a favor to ask of you. Constantine put his half-eaten sandwich back on the plate on the low coffee table. When I have my ceremony and receive my markings, a witness needs to be present. Someone who is over the age of thirteen, and not blood related or already in the church. He gave her a helpless smile. As you know, my only blood relation is my uncle and nearly everyone else I know is also in the church....

Tori blinked and looked surprised. Are you asking me to be your witness? Wasnt this an honor? He couldn't just pick anyone.

His hands fidgeted and he seemed a bit nervous as he avoided her eyes. When you are a witness to a ceremony, in the churchs eyes, you become family to the one receiving their markings. They would not see you as any different from a blood related family member. It is of similar weight as a godparent. He chuckled a bit and flushed. Except you wouldnt have to take care of me.

Tori lowered her head and let out a small laugh. May I ask why you want me to be your witness?

She looked over at him and Constantine seemed to think for a while. Im not sure how to explain it. When I first met you, I couldnt help but think our paths were meant to cross.

She drew her head back. When you first met me? Her eyes narrowed a bit. At the inn...?

Your practicing paid off. Ilyana looked over her shoulder at them. Sonia came in first this year in the Spring Three-Day. First. JP also made it in the top ten and he didnt participate in one of the three events.

You both got perfect scores in the archery run, Ewan said. Its happened before, but not to two people from the same school in the same year.

They turned the corner into the alley and saw several carriages and two white horses tied nearby.

When are you two arriving tomorrow? Tori asked.

Well be leaving in the morning and should get there in the afternoon, JP said.

Well spend your birthday celebration in the resort tents on the beach, but afterwards, well move you into the regular tents in the encampment. Several in our corner have been cleared out as a few families have moved on to some of the phase one islands, Tori told them. Its also closer to the stables.

Sonia stretched her arms over her head and let out a relieved sigh. I am looking forward to spending a summer just riding along the beach.

If we stay at home, our dad makes us help at the imperial stables, JP said, with a roll of his eyes. And by help, he means clean.

Tori let out a small snort. Are they coming with you tomorrow?

Yes, but by carriage, Sonia said. Our mom isnt really a rider, so they will come in a rented carriage. They have the invitations to let them into Viclya.

And Ilyana, your mom and little brother are arriving this week, right? Tori said, turning towards her friend. Ilyana nodded her head energetically. Yes! They are almost here. Just two days away!

You and Henrik arent going to work at the guild this summer? Albert asked. They reached the door to Cafe Fortuna, but Tori stopped to put the kitten into the imperial carriage she usually took.

No, our projects are at a point where we need to monitor them as they grow, Henrik replied. Not to mention Lions Gate is growing.

But we will go back every so often, Ilyana said. The factory and store for Duel still needs to be finalized and then the machinery needs to be installed. Thats just the back part.

The materials will be coming in from Presidio, along with the manager my brother recommended, Tori said. Weve spoken at length about what is needed. They filed through the door and nearly froze a few steps in.

They had never seen the cafe so full.

Are the imperial knights waiting for us? Constantine asked. He looked out the windows. Where are their horses?

My lady! While the knights had noticed them immediately, one of them came to greet her. We have been waiting for you. We will prepare to escort you immediately. He looked over his shoulders and gave the others a nod. At once, they quickly finished their food or downed their drinks.

They stood up in small groups and politely greeted Tori and her friends as they walked around them to go outside. Only two remained seated, taking their time eating in the corner.

Well be ready in a few minutes, Tori told the knight. We have to pickup our orders.

The knight bowed his head. Yes, my lady. He straightened up. Before you leave, His Highness wishes to speak to you.

Tori knit her brows together and pointed up, to the rooms on the upper floor. The knight nodded and Tori glanced at her friends. Ill be back in a bit.

Do you want the usual? Ewan asked.

Yes, and get something to eat for Alexander, Tori said. Some chicken and water. She walked through the cafe and headed up the stairs.

She knocked on the door to the large room and heard someone tell her to enter. She pushed the door open and peeked inside. Piers was laying across the violet chaise and lowered the book on his lap.

Rank?

Third.

He gave her a nod of approval. Did Nanny Rey already leave?

Yes, yesterday, Tori said as she entered and closed the door behind her. Nanny Rey was still a training commander, and while she was spending most of the year in Horizon, resuming her nanny duties of sorts and training them on dagger, she had to oversee training the remainder of the year.

Piers closed the book and put it aside. Axton has also left for his border training, as well. That explained why there were two remaining knights downstairs.

Did you come to see us off? Tori asked as she sat down on the edge of the chaise beside him.

He gave her a small nod. And to tell you that my father has spoken to both Fabian and my brother about the man acting under a false identity.

Tori took a deep breath and her back straightened. No wonder she didnt see them after exams. How...how did they take it?

Piers seemed to think for a moment. Uncomfortable. Tori crinkled her eyes.

Uncomfortable?

At the time, I believe Fabian was in a state of shock. Gideon asked if we were sure and properly identified the man. Both seemed unwilling to believe it.

Thats...understandable, Tori said. They both know what this would mean to von Dorn. Piers let out a small hum of agreement.

It is unfortunate, but there is nothing we can do to change what happened. Father has acknowledged that Fabian is a victim in this; however, if this is made public, it will destroy Fabians career as a knight. Father has decided to keep certain details quiet.

To protect von Dorn? Tori asked. Piers nodded. Tori narrowed her eyes. How does von Dorn feel about it?

He has not replied. He asked for some time to think, Piers said. He has been ordered not to leave the palace and not to contact anyone who had a connection to his former master.

They locked him down in the palace. Tori pursed her lips. Then, you dont know if hell try to continue on to La Garda.

I do not. If he wishes to continue, then we will allow him to. If he decides to step away from his duties, then we will not stop him, either. Piers looked solemn. He is in a pitiful situation.

And your brother? Tori asked. Fabians situation obviously affected Gideons.

He has voiced his support for Fabians decision, whatever it may be. However, knowing my brother, he hopes that Fabian will continue on to La Garda.

Tori raised a brow. Even if von Dorn was compromised?

He has faith in his knight, Piers told her, as if it were only natural. His eyes lowered onto his hands. Personal knights are the closest to us, since we were children. If you cannot trust them with your life, who can you trust?

Tori nodded quietly. She thought for a moment. Does von Dorn know I distracted them on purpose?

No. No one aside from us four. Her, him, Axton, and Kasen. It will remain that way.

She was fine with that. Thank you for letting me know. He gave her another nod. I kept thinking about it since Axton told me. Kasey said it was mostly paperwork. I didnt expect there to be such an ordeal.

We did not expect it either. He was only to be arrested for questioning, Piers said. We didnt expect him to become violent all at once.

Tori almost let out a small scoff. Shed seen the man. She could believe it. Im glad youre all safe.

You were worried? Piers glanced at her a bit.

Tori nodded. Kasey didnt tell me what he was doing. I know hes a good fighter and swordsman, but anything can happen on this sort of thing, right? Of course I worried about him.

She looked towards Piers who stared at her for a moment longer before diverting his eyes. Only Senior? His voice was quiet.

Axton is a knight who has seen battle and my brother wouldnt allow you to put yourself at risk, even if you were assisting him. Youre the first prince of Soleil. Even though she explained her reasoning, she caught the disappointment on Piers' face and she rolled her eyes. I didnt say I didnt. I was worried about you, too.

Piers was quiet for a moment. You havent seen me in four weeks.

Yes...?

His violet eyes flickered towards her tentatively. Should you not hug me in greeting after a long absence?

Do you want a greeting hug? she asked. She wouldnt initiate it unless he gave her consent.

Piers nodded. I need to practice. Axton says I am too stiff. I hugged him three times before he left, and he said it was worse each time. Piers frowned, as if unable to believe that his efforts only got worse.

She blinked at him and let out a heavy sigh. She stood up and held her arms out. Tell me if you are uncomfortable.

Piers nodded and rose from the chaise. He had a concentrated look on his face as he stepped towards her. Her arms slipped beneath his and against the sides of his body as he moved forward to put his own arms around her.

The door creaked open just as he was about to rest his arms on her.

Piers. A tired voice yawned his name. Do you know when my sisters coming.... The voice trailed off and Tori looked towards the door and froze.

Piers' arms closed around her, but he looked towards the door and spoke in a dull voice.

Master, he said to Sebastian. Youre awake.