Chapter 179: Don't Want To Be a Necromancer

Chapter 179: Don't Want To Be a Necromancer

Axtons lip twitched as he stood outside Fionas chicken enclosure, seemingly trying to hold back a smile. A few paces away, Tori stared at her nieces prized rooster with a neutral expression. Every so often, she heard Axton let out a wheeze or snicker.

Her eyes narrowed. Just let it out.

No, no. Axtons voice went up and down with barely controlled laughter. He was wrong to say it. A half snort, half laugh left him, and Toris eye twitched. Youre much...prettier than the rooster.

Tori snapped her head towards him and glared. He doesnt give compliments often! Hes still learning!

Axton held up his hands, as if to calm her down. That may be so, but hes never compared me to a farm animal before.

Tori sneered and looked back in the chicken enclosure, where Fiona was introducing terrified chicks to a regal gray cat. Thats probably because he doesnt want to compliment you.

Axton inhaled a sharp breath as his amusement vanished. He has complimented me before!

Example?

He said Im...well, there was that time he said...actually, no. Once he...wait, that wasnt me.... Axton furrowed his brows and looked out at the distance, as if questioning his entire life.

Tori had heard Piers compliment and praise Axton before, but it usually wasnt when Axton was present. She watched Axton grow flustered, his cheeks reddening as he couldnt remember a time. His face fell and Tori sighed.

He said youre a good big brother, remember? Tori said with a heavy breath. Axtons face lit up again. Tori shook her head and looked back into the enclosure. She walked towards the gate and flipped up the latch. Fifi, youve already fed them. You need to get ready for your trifecta reblessing.

Fiona perked up and nodded. She pointed to the fence. Alexander, go! The big gray cat somehow managed to not only jump onto the fence, but perch on the narrow wooden planks before jumping down on the other side. Fiona nodded, satisfied, and looked back at the chickens. Hemmy, Drumstick, Wing, Cutlet, Dumpling, Nugget, Your Royal Highness Prince Piers, Fiona said as she named all the chickens. Ill be back in the afternoon. Santiago, watch your family.

She gave the rooster a look of warning before turning around and slipping through the gap in the gate that Tori held open for her. She then took Toris hand, swinging it above her as she led Tori back inside.

Nanny Rey met them in the outer hall and Tori handed Fiona off to her to get dressed.

The trifecta ceremony for Fiona and Robert would take place in the familys private chapel within the original Fortress. For small and intimate ceremonies, such as trifecta blessings, the chapel was used instead of going down to the Basilica.

Grandpa Sophos once explained that the chapel was used historically for trifecta ceremonies because the children were usually infants, and it wasnt ideal to bring them out of the safety of the Fortress. Slightly older babies also risked becoming upset in an unknown setting.

Tori, her brothers, her father, his siblings, and pretty much every child of a Guevera Marquis had their blessing in the chapel.

Since there were guests for the wedding staying at the Fortress, there would be more guests than normal in the chapel. It would be crowded, but luckily Fiona and Robert were older and wouldnt be bothered by all the faces.

Tori changed into a cerulean and damask dress that clinched at the waist. The skirt wasnt too large, and the sleeves were relatively loose. Her hair was pulled into an updo, and a gold and white lace mantilla was placed over her head and pinned to her hair to keep it in place.

Her friends were waiting for her outside her room, and they headed to the chapel together. Robert and Fiona had invited them to attend and were one of the few non-relatives invited.

When they got to the chapel, it was already rather crowded. Ilyana and the others took their seats towards the back while Tori went to sit with her family. Their OTuagh relatives were there and waiting patiently in the pews as Kasen stood behind Robert, who was standing with a crutch, and wearing a handsome white suit, and Fiona, in a fluffy white dress with yellow accents.

Toris mother was kneeling beside Fiona, carefully pinning a small, matching mantilla with some embroidered chicks on to Fionas hair. Roberts mantilla was resting over his shoulders, and he would put it over his head when the ceremony started. All the Guevera and Sophos women wore a lace veil over all or part of their head, including Auntie Lucia. The men had them around their neck and tucked almost unseen beneath their collars.

Instructor Ignatius, who also wore a white suit as a godparent, wore one over his head, as part of the ceremony. If the ceremony was happening in Horizon, he wouldn't wear one. The practice had been lost elsewhere in Soleil, but noble men and women still wore them in religious ceremonies in Sur. Idunn also had one draped over part of her head as she spoke to the Archbishop.

Tori had worn one for her goddaughters trifecta ceremony, as her mother had told her to. Shed gotten a lot of compliments.

Tori squeezed past Gramps talking to Grandpa Sophos, and stopped as she noticed who was seated at the end of the pew. Her eyes narrowed.

Why are you here? She didnt mean to sound rude, but she really didnt know why Gideon was there. Piers, who was seated next to Gideon, could be explained as he was invited. Fiona and Robert knew Piers and even addressed him as uncle.

Gideon looked affronted. Am I not invited to this ceremony?

No, its for family and close friends. Gideons face fell at the implication that he was neither family nor a close friend, but Tori didnt know what he expected.

I asked Senior Kasen for permission to bring Gideon, Piers said. He wished to accompany me.

And you let him? Tori asked with crinkled eyes.

Why is he in my seat? Axton appeared on the other side of the aisle and looked down at Gideon.

What do you mean your seat? I got here first, Gideon said with a frown. And why are you here? Guevera said this was only for family and close friends.

Fifi invited me, Axton said, as if it were obvious. Did Fifi invite you?

No....

Did Robi?

Gideons lips tightened into a line. No....

He has permission from Senior Kasen to come, Piers said. He looked at Gideon and then looked towards the end of the pew. Gideon sighed and scooted to the very end, allowing Piers some room to scoot over and give Tori some space to sit. Axton relegated himself to the row behind them.

Tori took her seat and a few moments before the ceremony started; Ava climbed on her lap as if it were the most natural thing to do. Tori held back a laugh. Ava mustve known that Fiona would be busy and couldnt occupy her time.

The sound of a bell ringing from behind the sanctuary indicated that the ceremony was about to start. Those who were standing took their seats. Despite the fancy clothing, the trifecta blessing itself was rather simple. The Archbishop came from around the sanctuary and waved around an incense holder before handing it off to Sebastian to hang. Usually there were altar boys and girls to help, but as this was a private family chapel, the duties fell on one of the family members.

Robert, Fiona, and Kasen sat on the left of the aisle while the godparents sat on the right. The Archbishop of Presidio opened with a standard prayer, then welcomed everyone and told them what they were there for.

Then came the blessing of fine quartz dust in a gold-plated bowl. Sebastian then picked up the bowl and followed the Archbishop to the front of the altar.

Robert Benedict de Guevera de Rivere. The Archbishop called the boys name and Robert carefully stood up with the help of one crutch. He stepped towards the Archbishop and bowed his head. Who is the godparent for Robert?

I am. Instructor Ignatius stood up and walked towards them, standing to form a triangle with the Archbishop and Robert.

The Archbishop dipped his finger in the quartz dust and pressed his finger over Roberts left brow, then slid his finger to his forehead and used his finger to write a character. Tori narrowed her eyes. She could feel a trace amount of energy moving. It had been the same at her own goddaughters trifecta blessing.

Saphira, Goddess of Protecting the Home, Family, and Children, blesses you to strengthen your bond with your family. The Archbishop dipped his finger in the quartz dust again and pressed it over Roberts right brow. Zoara, Goddess of Logic and Reason, blesses you to think thoroughly and without distraction so that you may make righteous decisions. He drew another symbol over Roberts head. These are the two gods your father has selected for you. Will the godparent proceed with their blessing.

Instructor Ignatius seemed to take a deep breath and stepped forward. I am Benedict Arron Ignatius and to bless my godson, I have chosen Karsar, Goddess of Fortitude, so that you may always have courage in pain and adversity. He carefully drew a character on Robert's forehead.

The energy that Tori felt faded, but not before she saw a slight glow coming from her nephews forehead.

Blessed water was sprinkled around Robert along with closing prayer. Then it was time for Fiona.

She seemed excited. As soon as the Archbishop called her name, she jumped off the bench and scrambled up a wooden step stool meant to make her taller so the elderly Archbishop could reach her forehead without bending too far down. Fiona seemed to try to remain calm with her little hands grasping the sides of her dress as big, sparkling brown eyes looked at the Archbishop.

The Archbishop chuckled and drew a character on her forehead. First was Saphira, like her brother. Then came the second gods blessing and Tori could see a slight hesitation on the Archbishops face.

Kekorei, God of Domesticated Animals. The Archbishop drew the symbol. Blesses you to be compassionate and diligent to animals.

Fiona nodded with a glint of determination. And to become a beast master, she whispered. It was almost unheard, but Kasen frowned.

Fifi.

And to become a master and friend of beasts. The Archbishop just went with it and Tori gave him credit for doing so. Idunn stepped forward to bless Fiona.

I am Idunn Freyjadottir Nordursin and to bless my goddaughter, I have chosen Noasha, the Goddess of Creation, so that you may bring life to everything you do and everyone you touch.

Fiona gasped and her eyes widened more so. Like a necromancer?

Tori cringed and covered her face with her hand. This child couldnt figure out how to say sacrifice, but knew how to say and what a necromancer was? Was this her fault? Did she mess up Fionas early education?

Fiona. Kasens stern dad voice sounded, and Fiona stood up straight.

The final blessing was given, and the two children were presented to the family with their new trifecta blessings. Various members of the family and their guests came to greet them, touching their heads to symbolize strengthening the blessings with well wishes of their own.

Afterwards, they had a large lunch in the dining hall and Tori noticed that Fiona was unexpectedly sitting in place. Furrowing her brows, Tori approached her niece who sat on the patio, staring blankly out at the garden. Ava, who was still following her, followed Toris gaze.

Shes suspiciously quiet, Cousin Tori. Did she get sick? Ava asked.

Im not sure...do you mind if we go ask if something is the matter? Tori asked, looking at her little cousin. Ava let out a low, resigned breath, but nodded.

Idunn returned his grin with a similar one laced with daring. Who says youre my opponent?

I cant watch this.... Kasen rolled his eyes and looked away from their brother, who was now kissing Idunn.

Gregorio. Antonia approached the Marquis Guevera, who was dressed in light armor, and presented him with a maroon handkerchief. For you. Good luck and be safe. Gregorio looked pleased as he accepted his wifes gift.

Thank you, my love-

You must be careful. Youre not as young as you used to be, Antonia told him seriously and his face reddened.

Tori heard her grandfather snort from the steps.

A small cough came from behind her, and Tori looked over her shoulder. Ah, there you are, she said as she took a step back to face him.

Piers was in brand new light armor for the games. He was standing tall and straight, a hundred times more princely than his brother.

Gift? he asked as his eyes fell on her bag.

Tori chuckled. Ive been working on these for ages, so appreciate it. She dug through her bag and took out a violet handkerchief embroidered with a silver cat in one corner and Old Sulfae for safety, speed, strength, and clarity of mind around the borders. She held it out to Piers and smiled. Good luck, Piers.

His lips turned up in a slight smile and his eyes sparkled as he accepted the handkerchief in his hands. He looked down at the material, almost entranced. His pale fingertips touched the embroidery before looking towards Kasen and Sebastian.

Tori pretended she didnt see her two brothers glaring at Piers and ignored Piers subtle, but still somehow arrogant expression.

Do I get one, too? Axton appeared beside Piers and Piers satisfaction immediately disappeared.

He brought his handkerchief to his chest protectively and narrowed his eyes at Axton. This is mine.

I know thats yours, but did Tori make one for me, too?

Why would she-

Yes, heres yours! Tori fished out a white handkerchief with Axtons initials and Old Sulfae for good luck embroidered boldly on one corner. Axton gave her a wide grin as he extended his hand and took it from her.

I wont let you down! The brides side is going to win!

Tori! Kasen and Sebastian spoke up at the same time and Tori turned around. Her brothers looked horrified.

Wheres mine? Sebastian said with a flushed face.

You couldnt possibly have only made them for those two. Kasens voice was filled with displeasure.

Tori laughed and shook her head. Of course not! She reached into her bag and pulled out a stack of neatly folded white handkerchiefs. Lets see...this one is Sebbys...Kaseys...Papa! This one's for you!

Thank you, my daughter! Her father beamed as he rushed over to take it from her.

Uncle Rom, Auntie Lucia, Uncle Renzo.... It seemed as if they were simply lining up to pick up handkerchiefs. Idunn, I made one for you, too.

Idunn giggled and gave Tori a hug before accepting the handkerchief.

How long did it take you to make these? Ewan asked as he unfolded his white handkerchief to find that two swords had been embroidered along two sides and his initials in the corner where the points would meet.

I started months ago, Tori said. When I had free time or my hands werent busy, Id work on them. I think Ive improved even more.

So thats what youve been doing at night, Ilyana said. If Id known that you would give them out as good luck charms, I wouldve made one.

Sonia elbowed her gently and whispered. Do you think Lord Kasen would accept it?

Ilyanas face flushed. Good luck for Ewan!

Sure, Ilyana, JP said as he patted her shoulder with pity in his eyes. Sure.

Tori handed out the last of the handkerchiefs and stepped back, pleased that everyone seemed to enjoy them. It was worth all the time she spent embroidering.

In the marches, there was a legend of a wife who stayed behind while her husband went off to war. Anticipating that he may be wounded, she packed him scrap pieces of clean cloth to clean and bandage his wounds. She couldnt be there to care for him, so she did what she could to prepare him. When her husband returned years later, he told her that every time he was injured and bleeding, he would use the cloth she gave him.

He would clean them and reuse them. Hed even used them to treat his fellow soldiers. Because of this, some lives were saved, including his. He credited his wife with his safe return. To commemorate this, he kept one bandage that was rather stained with blood no matter how much he cleaned it. His wife embroidered over the bloodstain.

It started a tradition for family members remaining at home preparing bandages for those who went off to battle.

These eventually became embroidered handkerchiefs given to loved ones heading to battle to bring them good luck. In ceremonial events like the war games in Sur or mock naval battles in Anlar, giving handkerchiefs to the participants was part of the pageantry.

As Tori was staying behind, she made them for those leaving to participate.

She heard snickering and saw her brothers looking at Piers with squinted eyes and smug smiles. She could almost hear them silently telling him that he wasnt as special as he initially thought since Tori had made handkerchiefs for nearly everyone.

She looked towards Piers and saw his head lowered. He still held her violet handkerchief in his hands and his fingers played with the smooth fabric. She craned her head.

Are you all right? Do you not like it? she asked. It has Alexander on it.

Piers shook his head. I like it. His voice was quiet. He turned around and walked towards Ice Queen.

Everyone mount! Sebastian shouted.

Tori stepped back as the participants and various knights all climbed onto their horses.

Piers climbed on to Ice Queen in a smooth motion and suddenly, a gray blur jumped in front of him. Piers drew his head back.

Alexander, you cant come, he said.

Nyaow! Alexander patted the saddle and continued to look forward.

Alexander. Tori frowned and walked over. Come down. You cant go. Youll get lost in the desert.

Nyaow! A meow of protest left the cat, but Tori didnt budge.

Alexander, what are you going to do during the game? You cant participate, Tori told the cat, earning her some amused looks from the knights and guests.

Both sides have reached their capacity of players. If you play with an extra player, we will be disqualified, Piers said. His reasoning was sound, but the cat was not happy.

Alexander let out an annoyed hiss and then turned towards Tori. He prepared to jump down, but Piers grabbed hold of him and leaned over to put him in Toris arms.

There is plenty to do here. You have all the food you want and the kids like playing with you, Tori told her cat. So, stay. Alexander let out a trill and lazily draped himself over her shoulder. Tori sighed and looked up at Piers. And you. Everyone has tried to make sure your quarters for the games are clean, so dont be upset about all the dust. It is the desert, you know.

I know, Piers said. The horses in front started moving forward. Tori glanced towards the head of the group. Her brother and Idunn were seated on horses beside each other, looking regal and strong, like a warrior couple going off to battle. Albeit they were battling each other for three days for fun.

Tori looked back at Piers dull expression. She took a deep breath and stepped closer. Piers. She put her free hand on his arm, and he looked down at her. Yours is the only colored handkerchief.

She watched the flicker of recognition fill his eyes before they were replaced with joy. His face remained unmoved, but she could see the corners of his lips tugging up slightly. He looked down at the handkerchief that had been carefully folded and tucked against the back of his hand in his leather riding glove.

A small sliver of violet peeked out. My eyes.

Tori gave him a small nod and stepped back. Your eyes.

Thank you. Piers hands tightened around the reins, and he prepared to gently kick Ice Queen forward.

Oh, Piers, Tori said as she looked up at him. She gave him a firm, serious look as she dropped her voice. Dont use this to annoy my brothers.

Piers nodded and he trotted off with Axton following behind him.

Tori stood to the side and watched the entire entourage disappear through the gates of the Fortress.

Hes going to use it to annoy your brothers, isnt he? JP said.

Tori brought her lips into a tight line. Yeah, its a given.