Chapter 153: But Not Her Ilyana

Chapter 153: But Not Her Ilyana

It was that dull, throbbing headache again. The low buzzing in her ears also seemed to surround her and she shut her eyes. She wouldnt describe herself as dizzy, but certainly she felt a bit off. She reached out to try to steady herself, but there was nothing for her to hold on to.

She heard muddled yelling cutting through the haziness. She tried to open her eyes, but they remained shut. For a moment, her heart froze.

The last thing she remembered was falling. She exerted too much energy far too quickly to move earth with crystals, so she was sure she was crystal fatigued again. She lost her balance, fell, and passed out, then that was it.

How long was she unconscious this time?

The yelling grew louder, and she couldnt make out the words, only the frantic voices.

Did I go back? The thought crossed her mind, and she didnt know how to feel about it. There was both a sense of relief and disappointment. She could see the friends and family she left behind...but she also left behind friends and family.

...arrogant bastard!

The voice was so familiar, Tori felt her heart clench. That was Ilyanas voice. She heard it practically every day, and while Ilyana raised her voice when she was extremely excited or angry, it was rare that Ilyana called anyone a bastard.

Regardless, hearing Ilyanas voice meant that she hadnt gone back. Tori felt more relieved than she thought she would be.

Her eyes began to open, as if automatically. It was daylight and she could make out the blue sky, so she was outside, but everything was blurry. She wanted to cock her head, but it wouldnt move.

The clear sky surprised her. That morning was gray and cloudy. When did the sky clear up? Had she been passed out all day? And did they leave her unconscious body outside?

Dont get fucking near her! Ilyanas voice was hyper aggressive, and Tori wanted to calm her at once.

Wait.

Ilyana wasnt with her at the orphanage. She shouldve been at Duel. She opened her mouth to ask what Ilyana was doing there and how long shed been out, but her words were different from what she intended.

Im fine. Dont worry about me. She lifted her hand and gently brushed away the helping arms that had been holding her up. Tori felt cold. Her body was moving, but the movements werent hers.

Lady Victoria, dont stand! You hit your head! What if you fall?

Tori held her breath. Ilyana never called her Lady Victoria. Her eyes focused on the pretty, familiar face beside her, and Tori wanted to squint. She was Ilyana, but not her Ilyana. Her soft, silky brown hair had been chopped off and grown out rather awkwardly. Her clothes were somewhat unkempt, far from the usual perfect pressed uniform of the top ranked student. There were bags under her eyes, and she was thinner than before.

My hair cushioned my fall. Im not hurt, Tori heard her voice speaking. She tried to move her body, but found that she could control nothing. Her body stood up, but was as if she were just along for the ride.

Her hands went down to her skirt and gracefully brushed off any dirt and leaves that couldve clung on. She could feel herself doing the action, but couldnt control it. She, or her body, then turned her head towards a small group. They were all familiar, but Tori hadnt seen them like this in some time.

Gideon was standing at the forefront with Dimitri at his side and Fabian on his other, shielding a pale, scared Alessa. Montan was there, too, right beside her as one of her hands clutched his sleeve for support.

You dare shove the daughter of Marquis Guevera, Tori heard herself saying. This was Victoria speaking; Tori was sure of it. There was such a natural and well-used arrogance in this voice. Is that what your parents taught you, Your Highness? I expected better.

Shut up! Gideon snapped. I wouldnt have pushed you if you didnt trip Alessa! Everyone saw what you did! He held his arms out to motion to the crowd around them.

The location was familiar. They were in one of the courtyards on campus, just outside some of the classrooms. She didnt know what time it was, but there were plenty of students around them, watching.

She heard a thought echo around her. Ridiculous! I didnt trip the stupid blonde on purpose, she almost ran into Ilyana and I pulled Ilyana away. How was I supposed to know that shed run into me instead and fall? There was an indignant snort. It isnt as if theyll listen to me.

Those mustve been Victorias thoughts. Tori put the clues together.

She was in Victorias body, and this was an actual scene from the game. It was weird and Tori wondered if she were having some sort of dream, but this did immediately bring up the thought of point of view.

Everything Tori knew about the game was a summary of the gameplay from the wiki-article. The original game and its Universit sequel were all from the point of view of the heroine, Alessa Hart.

Then...its possible that Victorias actions were misinterpreted? GDI, Tori, you shouldve considered that. In Presidio, shed already figured out that Victoria was at odds with her local peers because they started the animosity and Victoria simply reciprocated and tried to best them in the limited ways she knew how, which mainly consisted of waving around her status.

Even if I tripped her, can you prove it was on purpose? Victoria asked in a haughty voice. If she ran into Agafonova and Agafonova fell, would you say I shoved Miss Hart forward because I happened to be standing here? Dont be ridiculous. Miss Hart ran into me and fell on her own.

You expect us to believe that? Dimitri sneered.

You wouldnt believe anything that Miss Hart doesnt tell you, Victoria replied. Even if I did trip her on purpose, it does not give any of you permission to shove me.

Tori wanted to nod with satisfaction. Huh...shes calmer and more rational than I thought.

You deserve it, Fabian said in a low voice.

Victorias eyes narrowed. You know nothing about me, Mr. von Dorn.

I know you bought your way in.

Its been proven that I havent, yet you still desperately cling to that, Victoria hissed. It seems that the rumors of Victorias temper werent for nothing. Tori could feel her growing annoyed quickly.

Your ranking is rock bottom for our year, Dimitri glared at her. He looked towards Ilyana. I told you before, Miss Agafonova, you shouldnt waste your time with Lady Guevera. Shell only bring you down. You went from entering rank two to the low sixties.

Tori heard heavy breathing behind her, and Victoria looked towards Ilyana. The girls face was red, and her hands were clenched at her sides. Tears were in her eyes and the thought clicked.

This Victoria didnt force Ilyana to get guards for their first winter break. No guards meant no one protected her when she was in the inn that winter, meaning....

Oh my God, Ilyana.... Tori felt her heart tear. No wonder Ilyana looked so worn and thin. No wonder her grades had dropped.

In the game, Ilyana had been assaulted. This wasnt mentioned in the article as Alessa didnt know.

Shut up, Guthry! Victoria moved to stand in front of Ilyana. Tori could feel the surge of anger and frustration. She has nothing to do with this! You can fight me all you want, but leave Agafonova alone! Ilyana, I told you not to get involved with me, a pained voice echoed around Tori. Why didnt you listen to me? I cant let them know what happened to you.

Its not her fault! Ilyana insisted.

Agafonova, just go back to the room! Victoria nearly barked over her shoulder. She turned back to glare at Alessas posse of love interests. Im not going to waste any more of my time talking to these dogs sniffing up her skirt.

She turned around and felt someone grasp her wrist. Victoria snapped her head around and found Gideon gripping her wrist and boring his eyes into her. Apologize to Alessa!

Im not apologizing to anyone, Victoria replied in a cold voice. And if I did, Id like to have actually done the act first. If you want an apology.... She ripped her arm away from Gideons grasp. Then Ill gladly trip her on purpose.

Gideons eyes widened. You! Youre just jealous of her!

Victoria balked. You think Im jealous of a poor barons daughter?

Dont try to hide it, Fabian said. Youve been following His Highness since our first year and always telling him to stay away from Alessa. His Highness only danced with Alessa the night of his coming-of-age ball, even though you were on the recommendation list.

I didnt want to be on that list! The only reason I paid attention is because I dont trust Hart! Are you sure youre not the one jealous, Sir von Dorn? After all, its your liege who got to dance with her. Not you. She smirked and Tori silently commended her for trying to hit where it hurt. Youd be more fitting with her, dont you think? A knight from a fallen family and a poor barons daughter. Does His Highness know?

Fabians face reddened. I am loyal to Prince Gideon!

For how long? Victoria scoffed.

Thats enough from you, Lady Guevera, Dimitri said, cutting in. If you apologize to Alessa, you can go.

Oh, I can go? You will allow me to go, Victoria sneered back at him. You are in no place to order me around, Mr. Guthry.

If not him, then what about me? Gideon asked. I am the second Prince of Soleil.

Tori felt an unexpected feeling of loathing around her. Did OG Victoria hate the second prince, too? Then why did the game say she was in love with him? Did love turn into hate?

Is this an order from the second Prince of Soleil? Victoria said, keeping her voice restrained.

Gideon didnt hesitate. It is an order.

Hah...throwing his weight around. No wonder Kasen and Sebastian dont think hes fit to be the crown prince. Victoria took a deep breath. She forced a wry smile on her face and gave Alessa a mocking bow. Apologies.

Everyone could tell that she didnt mean it, but as soon as she said it, she turned around and began to walk away.

What kind of parents do you have that would teach their daughter to be so rude? Dimitri said in a low voice. How can such a family run one of the marches yet still produce a daughter like you?

Victoria stopped and Tori could feel her anger. Her family was obviously a sensitive topic to her. She turned around and faced Dimitri and the others with an arrogant expression.

My family has served this empire since it was founded, Mr. Guthry. They have done so well doing so that your little village has not been ripped apart by war and your entire family hasnt been slaughtered. You can criticize me all you want, but do not question my family.

This only seemed to goad Dimitri further.

Then perhaps you should act like a proper noble daughter.

And what is a proper noble daughter supposed to act like? Like her? Victoria lifted a manicured finger at Alessa. Alessa gasped and seemed to shrink further behind Montan. Hiding behind four men because she doesnt want to get scolded for running into another person? Should I cry and apologize so people will pity me? Victoria sneered once more. A marquis family doesnt raise such pathetic children.

No, instead they raised an arrogant, stubborn, stupid daughter! Gideon growled. I shouldve had you expelled when I could!

I havent done anything to be expelled for.

Youve been bullying another student! Montan shouted.

Its not a secret that you openly mock her, make fun of her for being poor, and then use your status to push her around, Guthry said.

Victoria rolled her eyes. Is she not poor? Everyone knows thats a fact. Am I not allowed to criticize her? Or point out her flaws and mistakes? Is it my fault the so-called proper noble manners you deny I have are also absent in her? Victoria looked at Alessa, disgusted. And am I supposed to stay silent when everyone thinks Im bullying her simply because she cowers every time she sees me after I scolded her for telling people I bought my way in or cheated?

Because its true, Gideon said.

Im not the one who condemned another student for an unfounded rumor when we moved in first year, Your Highness, Victoria said in a low voice. Nor was I the one who went around telling everyone I bought my way in. Or did you forget that shes the one who spread it through the dorms that I bought my way in without checking?

I didnt mean to! Alessa cried out. I only heard it when I moved in. I mentioned it to a few people I met, but I didnt spread it around on purpose.

Victoria looked at her. You did it, but you didnt do it on purpose. My reputation was damaged from that point on and all you can say is that you didnt mean to. And you wonder why I dont like you.

Alessas eyes filled with tears. Lady Guevera, I told you many times already, Im sorry. It was an accident.

Dont cry! Ilyana hadnt taken two steps away from Victoria. All you ever do is cry and ask other people for help!

Im afraid I cant do that, Miss Guevera. Miss Agafonova was the one who punched Mr. Guthry. There are witnesses and obvious proof. The Headmaster motioned towards Dimitri, who had pieces of cloth up his nose, where a bruise was forming. He glared at them.

Victoria grit her teeth. Then can they be punished for pushing me and grabbing my arm? Victoria released Ilyanas arm to pull up her sleeve to reveal a bluish-gray bruise around her forearm.

The Headmaster took a deep breath. Mr. von Dorn caused that?

Headmaster, Fabian was only trying to stop her from fleeing! Gideon insisted.

And where would I go? Its the middle of the day; campus is closed, Victoria snapped. Dont try to pretend he didnt want to hurt me.

Mr. von Dorn will receive suspension for two weeks and the Empress, who is listed as his guardian, will receive notice.

Gideon looked horrified. Headmaster!

As for Miss Agafonova.... The Headmaster looked disappointed. Im afraid this is grounds for expulsion.

What? Victoria yelled. No! It was just a small fight-

Miss Guevera, Miss Agafonova hit another student in the face. She was the first to throw a punch, Headmaster Laurent told them with some regret in his voice. That is grounds for dismissal.

Then I will be expel-

I accept. Ilyana lifted her head up, her eyes red and puffy, but she put on a proud look. As long as Lady Guevera isnt punished and is noted as having nothing to do with todays affairs, I will leave today.

Ilyana.... Victorias voice was painful. Tori wanted to argue further, but had no control. She wanted to request an investigation, to call others for help, appeal to the board, and spread news that Dimitri Guthry was violent towards young women to turn people against him.

Victoria was at a loss and felt helpless. She simply lacked experience and knowledge to do anything more.

Tori knew that in the game, Ilyana had been expelled. She didnt graduate and her expulsion had something to do with fighting for Victorias sake. Thats the way it happened, but at the same time, it was different from what Tori expected.

In the end, Victoria and Ilyana were escorted back to the dorm room. Victoria hesitantly called Auntie Lucia to ask her to house Ilyana until Ilyanas parents could send a carriage to pick her up. Victoria refused to let Ilyana stay at an inn. Ilyanas parents were angry and heartbroken. Surprisingly, they did not blame Victoria. Baron Agafonov cursed the school, but arranged for a carriage to come and pick her up.

Victoria went to her aunts house with Ilyana, refusing to leave her side. Her aunt helped her arrange for a leave of absence.

Im sorry, Victoria said as she sat on a chair in Ilyanas guest room. Ilyanas hand that punched Dimitri was wrapped up and had an ice pack on it. If it werent for me....

Ilyana shook her head. No...no, Im the one who hit him. I know what I did.

He provoked you.

I still couldve held back, Ilyana said. She lowered her eyes from where she sat on the edge of the bed. I wish I couldve hit him more. The things they say about you, my lady....

Victoria took a deep breath. Never mind what they say. I dont care. She ran hand down her face. I shouldve controlled my temper. I shouldve just avoided Hart and the others. They dont like me, and I dont like them.

Every time you cross paths with Hart, she looks like shes afraid of you. As if youve done something to her. Prince Gideon and the others blame you, Ilyana huffed. You yelled at her once for those rumors! Once! And it was well deserved!

It doesnt matter anymore. Everyone hates me.

Ilyanas voice was soft. I dont hate you.

But I got you dragged into this. Victoria looked at Ilyana with a defeated expression. Im sorry, Ilyana.

Ilyana sniffled and shook her head. No...youve always taken care of me when you can. Im only mad because I have to leave you.

Victoria shut her eyes. When...when is your carriage coming?

Dad said it should be ready tomorrow evening. I gave him your aunts address.

Victoria nodded. All right.... She took a deep breath. Is it just a carriage? No guards?

The route back to Gorask is safe.

Tori seemed to have the same thought as Victoria. We thought Horizon was safe, too. Victoria forced a smile and squeezed Ilyanas hand.

You should rest for tonight, she said. Ill see you in the morning. Since the carriage doesnt come until the evening, lets go spend the day in town. Get some gifts for your family.

Ilyana sniffled once more and smiled. Okay.

Victoria slipped out of Ilyanas room and her forced, pleasant face fell. She quickly crossed the hall to her own room, and as soon as the door was shut, Victoria curled into a ball against the door. She brought her knees to her chest and let out a choked cry. Painful, guilty thoughts echoed around Tori.

It was her fault Ilyana was being expelled. She shouldve done better. She shouldve protected Ilyana more. She shouldve kept them away from her. Why was she so stupid and impulsive? Why did she lose her temper so easily? Why did the very sight of Hart and her little entourage anger her?

Tori wanted to comfort and teach her, but could only watch.

Victoria lifted her hand and wiped at her tears. She was always late in protecting Ilyana and she refused to stand aside and be late again. The only problem was that she had no more money. She had a few coins, but all her money was sunk into her project. Shed already bothered Auntie Lucia.

She took out her comcry and opened it. Victoria had thought about calling this person multiple times, but she was too embarrassed. She was just his seniors little sister...who was she to call him?

He didnt even seem very interested in helping her. Kasen made him.

Tori knew who Victoria was thinking of in an instant. Do it! Call him! she screamed into Victorias mind, not knowing if shed listen. Call Piers!

A shaking finger slid across the cool crystal. Call Piers du Soleil.

Tori held her breath. It seemed that Kasen had also introduced Victoria to Piers and Axton when she arrived in Lyce. Victoria never called them, and Tori could understand why. In some ways, Victoria was much more restrained by her age and culture than Tori was. They had similarities, but differences.

The comcry pulsed for some time and Tori felt her heart sink. Perhaps in the original game, Piers didnt want to help Victoria?

Lady Guevera. A low, familiar voice came from the comcry, and Tori relaxed.

Ask him for help, Tori shouted in Victorias mind. Ask him to protect Ilyana!

She didnt know if Victoria heard her or was in any way influenced, but Victorias shaking voice spoke up. Good evening, Your Highness. Im sorry to bother you.

There was a pause. Do you need help?

Victoria shut her eyes and seemed to brace herself for rejection. Your Highness...can you protect my friend?

The first favor Victoria asked of Piers was for her friend. Victoria was short tempered, easily frustrated, arrogant, and not very academically inclined, but Tori couldnt hate her.

A half dozen third-tier imperial knights, all women, were in front of Auntie Lucias house the next evening, surrounding the carriage that Baron Agafonov had sent. Both Auntie Lucia and Ilyana looked surprised to see them.

Sir Angelou, is there some sort of mistake? Auntie Lucia asked the middle-aged female knight leading the group.

No mistake, Madam Biancci. His Highness Prince Piers has requested that we escort Lady Agafonova to her familys estate in Gorask.

The first prince? Ilyanas eyes were wide. Why would he request such a thing? She didnt know him at all. In fact, Ilyana forgot his first name.

Sir Angelou nodded. Yes, my lady. Lady Guevera requested a favor from him.

Several pairs of eyes turned to Victoria, who was standing to the side. Ilyanas eyes watered. Victoria....

Its a long journey. I want you to be safe, Victoria told her. She was too embarrassed to admit that she was personally broke and decided to try her luck asking if the first prince could spare some knights to escort Ilyana.

Ilyana choked back a cry and threw her arms around Victoria.

She didnt seem to want to let go, but Victoria ushered her into the carriage. Theyd bought many snacks for Ilyana, and Victoria got her a pillow and blanket for her journey. The door closed and Ilyana waved from the window.

I can still apply to Universit! Ilyana shouted out the window. Dont worry! Ill make it!

Victorias eyes watered. Just be safe!

Victoria stood on the curb, watching the carriage disappear down the street with a small escort of knights. Auntie Lucia beckoned her to come inside. As Victoria turned around, she caught sight of a snow-white horse a few houses away. There was a larger, bluish-gray horse beside the white horse, but the riders were familiar, though it had been some time since she saw them in person.

Victoria grasped the edge of her skirt and did a curtsy in their direction.

Piers, still atop Snow Queen, gave her a small nod of his head in return.

Victoria returned to her aunts house and was quiet the rest of the evening, worrying her aunt and little cousins. Marco and Mateo gave her part of their dessert, knowing she liked sweets, to cheer her up. Victoria had lovingly stroked their heads and thanked them, but told them to eat.

As she laid in bed and closed her eyes, her body seemed to feel heavy.

Tori began to feel the dull, aching pain from when she woke up the day before. In the silence of the room, Tori could hear the buzzing in her ears. She didnt know if Victoria heard it.

Just below the buzzing, she heard Victorias thoughts. I need to tell His Highness about Alessa Hart.... Shes not good. I know it.

The buzzing grew louder, and Victorias thoughts were drowned out. Tori didnt know what to do about the dull headache and wanted to grab her head. Her body wasnt hers to control, yet she still tried to lift her arms.

...shes struggling-

Watch her arms!

Tori, calm down. A cacophony of voices reached her ears as the buzzing began to fade. Tori, its all right. Dont worry. You have a small bump, and the crystal fatigue is minor.

Dont say its minor-

Its not as bad as it couldve been considering what she did.

She didnt know who was talking. She opened her mouth. Ilyana, she croaked. Her mouth was dry.

What? That sounded like Axton.

Wheres Ilyana? Tori asked. Is she safe?