Chapter 204: How Desperate Is She?

Chapter 204: How Desperate Is She?

Keep your elbows tucked! If theyre out, theyre a target! Tori walked along the row of first-year students who were new to long swords. There was a half dozen of them, and Tiff had asked Tori to teach them the basics on how to hold the swords and the primary cuts, as Tori was the one who taught her. Miss Ward, slow down. Concentrate on keeping the cut smooth as you shift from one position to the next. Speed can come later; perfect practice makes perfect.

Yes, Senior!

Tori wasnt sure if it was because they were the Sword Association, but the first years tended to answer her as if she were a training commander. Ewan had told her that was normal, as that was how they answered their instructors at La Garda: loud and with vigor.

With the weekend looming the next day, students seemed to give their last school-related activity of the week their last bursts of energy. It was admirable, as if it were Tori, shed be lazy about it. She complimented her underclassmen on their enthusiasm and told them to lower their swords.

All right, stretch out. You have five minutes of free practice. If you have any questions, you can come to me, Tori said as she stopped and stood to the side. She stood with her legs apart and arms behind her back as the first years tried to loosen their shoulders and arms after their practice.

Miss Guevera, how are you with a single-handed sword? Master McDouglass, the associations staff advisor, called out to her and she looked over her shoulder.

She shook her head. Im not very good. I have limited experience with a single-handed sword, even less with a buckler. To be honest, Sir, Ill likely default to using one as an extended dagger.

Master McDouglass appeared a bit disappointed. Von Dorn and His Highness could use more individuals to practice with. A good variation will keep them from becoming complacent after becoming used to the others habits.

Is there anyone we can reach out to? Tori asked.

I know a few retired sailors, but they are not local to the area. In fact, theyre in Anlar, Master McDouglass said as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. The two are advancing quickly, so Id like to increase their training. Von Dorn in particular adjusts to a single-handed sword well. With his ability, it wouldnt be difficult to move through the ranks later.

I can request assistance from the imperial family as Prince Gideons Lyce guard, Tori said. I am sure the Empress would be excited to find a suitable sword master.

They will be unable to come on campus, but after school and on weekends would be enough to sharpen them further. Theyve told me they already accompany you to Viclya to continue the training regime a naval training commander gave them. Master McDouglass gave her a wide, cheerful smile. To see them so devoted and working hard towards their goal makes this old man proud.

Tori chuckled. They really are trying, sir. Ill speak to the imperial family regarding this.

Thank you, Miss Guevera. Master McDouglass looked out towards the training grounds, his eyes settling on Fabian and Gideon in front of practice dummies. I didnt think Id ever see you willingly assist von Dorn after that duel your first year. He chuckled a bit. Hardly much of a duel, though.

I like to think I humbled him, Tori replied. And that made him willing to learn again.

Master McDouglass nodded. He still had much to learn, but was too confident and resistant. It was a waste of ability and talent. His foundation was excellent. Its a shame he didnt go to La Garda.

Tori wrinkled her nose. No, I think hes better suited for this. I heard that almost all personal knights went to La Garda, but von Dorn remains at the princes side and plans to in the future. Thats also good.

She watched Fabian stop to correct Gideons form and Gideon, with a serious look on his face, nodded and practiced the form a few more times before Fabian nodded with satisfaction. The two continued to practice. For a moment, Tori wondered if their relationship would have remained like this if Alessa was still between them.

If the original story progressed and Alessa continued to be the object of their love, no matter what relationship Fabian and Gideon had, they would ultimately be rivals. Considering the romance-centric focus of the game, even if one of them did step aside for the other, the strong feelings would have remained and such strong feelings could mess up anyone.

Master McDouglass booming voice filled the training yard, telling all the students to head out as he had to close the yard. The students returned their training weapons, scrambled to the changing rooms, or in some cases, tossed their sweaty practice clothes into their bags to be washed.

Tori went to her large canvas tote. Sonia had embroidered the seal of the Countess of Cosora on one side and it was large enough to hold Toris gambeson, gloves, and two wooden training daggers.

The wagons to Duel leave in half an hour! Tiff shouted as she walked through the yard. If you miss them, youll have to find your own transportation there!

Captain, there are only two wagons. Thats not enough for us! someone shouted a complaint.

We only have so much money to rent them! the sword associations treasurer shouted back in defense.

Tiff, Im taking Layla there tonight. SIG One is free and can carry-

Guevera, can we ride in SIG One? Gideon always seemed to materialize to ask for something at inopportune times. Tori took a deep breath.

You have to share it. It seats eight people, Tori said in a calm voice.

All right, then the captain and the officers can sit with me and Fabian, Gideon said. It was logical and no one argued with it. Tori gave them a small nod. She headed out of the training yard to put her things back into her dorm room and rinse off before following them to Duel.

Fridays were a big game night, and La Garda also came. When Tori got to her dorm room, Ilyana had already left with members of the tabletop gaming club. Tori put her dirty training clothes into the large bucket, poured in some soap, and activated the crystal to agitate the water. After cleaning up, she put on some clean pants and a tunic and headed to the front gates.

The wagons and SIG One had already left, but there were four knights waiting for her along with a beautiful black horse with a crystal-studded bridle. They were placed in a few tasteful points and didnt stand out too much. Tori didnt bedazzle every bit of leather.

Layla, my baby, Tori cooed to her horse as she came out and extended her arms. She stroked her horses neck and kissed her head. Have you eaten well? Layla let out a small chuff.

Nyaow! A loud cry came from the basket on the seat and Tori sighed. Alexander put his paws up on the edge of the basket and looked at her with large eyes.

Yes, Alexander, I see you, too. Are you being good at Piers apartment? Tori reached forward and gently scratched her cat under his chin. He let out a small chirp and rubbed his head against her hand.

Tori, I am here, too. Piers was seated on a brown horse and Tori furrowed her brows.

Wheres Ice Queen?

She does not like Layla, so I am riding Sir Dobcheks horse, Piers replied. Tori rounded Layla and patted the brown horse with the black points.

I thought she looked familiar. Hi, Boots. Tori softened her voice as she stroked the horses mane.

You know his name?

I know all the horses names, Tori said. She looked towards each of the four knights. East Wind, Leviathan, Smokey, and Reynaldo Felipe del Mar the third. She grabbed on to Laylas saddle and pulled herself up.

Youre getting better that mounting, my lady, Sir Atienza said.

Thank you! I think its less jerky, too, Tori replied. She adjusted her seat and took the reins. Lets go! She pulled on the reins and let Layla walk ahead, past the other horses. She made it two steps before a voice called out to her from the gates. She looked over her shoulder and almost let out a groan.

My lady! My lady, do you have a moment!?The source of this content nov(el)bi((n))

Even if she didnt, she couldnt take off galloping now. Tori turned Layla once more and made her way back to the gates. Can I help you, Baroness?

Alessa looked out of breath from running. My lady! Tomorrow...tomorrow can you come with me to the Golden Cow? Tori tilted her head to the side and frowned. Before she could ask why, Alessa stood up straight and rambled on. Several of our customers are upset that were limiting the number of spices and they want to discuss a deal. I tried to discuss it with the stores manager, but he says it is up to me and he normally does not deal with such things.

What about Mr. Rosiek? Tori asked. I have little experience with the spice trade specifically. Hed likely be of more help.

Alessa shook her head, helpless. Im unable to reach him right now. Ive been calling him all of yesterday and this afternoon, but he hasnt answered, and this is urgent. Im worried that the customers will take advantage of the Golden Cow, but I dont want them to be upset and end their business with us.

Baroness, as long as the spices are being sold well below the current market value, I doubt theyre going to end their business, Tori said. She crinkled her eyes and frowned. Do they demand larger quantities for themselves? Do they want priority? Exclusivity?

Alessa got as close to Layla as possible, but the horse sent her a low huff and stomped one hoof in warning. Alessa maintained her distance as a result, but still looked at Tori with a pleading expression.

They already have priority by being able to reserve the maximum amount per week, one week in advance. They dont need to line up with the other customers and come pick up at any time. This was because they offered to pay an additional fee. Alessa ran her hand through her hair and appeared at a loss. Now they want exclusive larger quantities for themselves.

Tori continued to frown. How many customers?

Alessas eyes lit up, as if shed seen her savior. There are three! The Montes family of the fifth, and the Paquets and Vidals of the second district.

Montes, Paquet, and Vidal.... Tori repeated the names and filed them away in her head. What time will they be coming to meet with you?

Tomorrow afternoon.

Wait for me tomorrow morning, after breakfast, at the gate, Tori said. Ill go with you to review their current contracts.

A wide smile bloomed across Alessas face. Thank you, Countess!

Tori gave her a nod and gave Layla a small tug to lead her back. They continued ahead and Piers fell into step with Tori.

Do you recognize the names? Tori asked.

Paquets are influential in local business. A few restaurants and shops in the second districts main street are owned by them. The Vidals are landowners and supply poultry to various restaurants, including the ones for the Paquets, Piers said. The Montes family run a transport service throughout the Central Corridor.

Im sorry Im late! Have you already dealt with those troublemakers? The young mans eyes immediately narrowed as soon as they landed on Tori, who was still seated at the table.

The fuck you staring at? I didnt do anything. Tori raised one brow and kept her lips in a tight line silently daring him to say something.

Alessa got in between them, shielding Tori from Toms withering glare. Since Tori knew who he was after Alessa said his name, she wasnt surprised by his initial response to her.

That was exactly how a love interest hooked on the heroine would look at the games big boss villain. Suspicion, disgust, and a smattering of hate. She hadnt seen such a look in a long time and Tori almost basked in it.

Yes! Its all taken care of, Alessa said with a wide, happy smile. We managed to make a deal with the parties involved-

An exclusivity deal? Toms russet face paled and his hands shot up and grabbed Alessas shoulders. What about the commoners? Didnt you say that you still wanted to give them access to the spices?

Alessa appeared stunned by his desperation for a moment, but tilted her head back and laughed. There isnt anything to worry about! A set amount is still allocated for commoners and the pricing remains below average.

Tom slowly withdrew his hands and lowered them to his sides. His hands clenched. Were those people angry?

Alessa chuckled and shook her head. Im sure they were disappointed that they didnt get as lucrative a deal as they thought, but something is better than nothing, so I dont think they were angry.

Tom let out a breath of relief and nodded. Good...thats good.

Isnt it? Alessa asked, her smile still beaming. And its all thanks to the Countess hard work!

Tom took a step back, his head snapping back as his jaw dropped a bit. The...Countess?

Alessa motioned to the table where Tori was seated. I told you she received a peerage, right? Countess Victoria de Guevera, Countess of Cosora.

His doubtful eyes turned towards Tori.

Mr. Fields, Tori said with a cold, curt nod. We meet again.

The corner of his lip curled up in a sneer. How unfortunate.

And we agree on something. Thats a pleasant change. She responded to his sneer with a goading smirk. Go ahead and open your mouth. I havent ripped a love interest a new one in a while, and I can use the exercise.

Toms nostrils flared as he let out a low huff. He turned his head towards Alessa but kept his eyes on Tori. Alessa, theres no need for an ignorant noble to get involved. Shell only try to trick you. Maybe she was working with those customers. She cant be trusted.

Alessas hands were up, and her face was red. She was flustered as she looked from her friend to Tori and back. The Countess has an excellent reputation at school. Even the former Prime Ministers son trusts her with his project.

Hes the former Prime Ministers son, Tom said, looking towards Tori. He still has some influential backing. You and I are outsiders to Horizon and youre a young noble from a small family. Its far too easy for her to take advantage of you.

He looked at her helplessly. Alessa looked down and seemed at a loss as to what to say. Tori checked the time piece in her pocket. The afternoon was still young, and she hadnt eaten lunch yet.

Shes not taking advantage of me. Besides, I was the one who went to her for help.

What? Why! He paled and looked at Alessa with disbelief. Tori wondered if they remembered she was still there.

Because the Countess knows how to deal with the nobles and aristocrats! Youre right! Im an outsider here and my family has no real influence or position. There is no reason for those families to deal with me unless they plan to take advantage of me. Thats why I asked Countess Guevera, Alessa said as she lifted a hand to her chest. I needed her name and expertise!

Toris eyes slowly squinted. This bitch...did just admit to targeting me to use me? Now that the powerful love interests are gone, shes going to try to use me? The villainess? How desperate is she?

Tom let out low huff, unconvinced. His hardened glare looked back at Tori. I dont trust her. There is no reason for her to agree to help you. She not only detained you this summer, but caused your reputation to plummet at Lyce. She must be planning something. There is no such thing as altruism for a noble. Shes just as corrupt as those nobles who tried to coerce you into selling the spices to them.

Tori grit her teeth for a moment before turning her head away in distaste. Baroness, quiet your guard dog before I silence him myself. She pushed her seat back, scraping it against the floor as she rose to her feet. I will not stand for such blind accusations.

Wait! Countess, dont leave yet! Alessa grabbed Toms arm and pulled him back. This isnt what you think! The Countess was helping me!

I dont believe shed help you for nothing, Tom said in a low voice. She had you arrested this summer!

It was holding, Tori told them in a calm voice.

It doesnt matter what its called! You detained her! He threw his arms to the side and took a menacing step forward.

Tori didnt budge. I also detained my own blood-related aunt. Whats your point? Should I have ignored my deltas protocol because I am familiar with them? Isnt that an abuse of my position? The corners of her lips tugged upwards. Wouldnt that make me a corrupt noble?

Toms face reddened, but his glare did not weaken at all. Only you would know whats in your heart.

Oh, my fucking G.... Tori rolled her eyes and shook her head. Think what you want. Im going to get lunch. She walked towards the door and Alessa cried out.

Countess, please forgive Tom! Alessa stood between her and the door, arms spread out to try to stop her as she wore a worried look. Hes worried that Ill be taken advantage of, so hes cautious about everyone.

Its fine to be cautious, but there is no need to call me ignorant or accuse me of corruption, Tori replied. She craned her neck and looked past Alessa. If youll make way, Baroness, I have another appointment with a meal after this.

A look of panic reached Alessas face before she looked towards Tom. Tom! Apologize to the Countess! Shes done so much to help me recently. The sandy-haired young man stood rooted in his spot and appeared reluctant to open his mouth. Alessa gave him a pleading look. Tom!

Ill apologize, if we find out later that she took advantage of you-

With absolutely no respect, I dont need nor want his insincere apology, Tori said with a dismissive glance. He can think whatever he wants of me. He is entitled to his opinions and his opinions are irrelevant to me.

Alessa pursed her lips and looked at Tom with a beseeching expression. She shut her eyes and lowered her head. Im sorry if my friend insulted you, my lady.

Dont concern yourself about it, Tori replied. She drew her eyes back to Tom and narrowed them.

She stepped around Alessa and opened the door herself. SIG One was parked down the street, at Duel, so Tori walked in that direction. She hadnt eaten much for breakfast and skipped lunch to deal with the three families. A late lunch at duel was a good idea. Her thoughts drifted to the menu and what she wanted to eat when she heard the rapid footsteps coming up behind her.

Hey! A mans voice called out and Toris thoughtful smile thinking about lunch dropped. She glanced towards the windows of a store as she passed and saw the reflection of Alessas childhood friend about to reach her. His arm was extended, his hand aiming for her arm. Toris eyes narrowed.

If you try to grab me, Fields, Ill make sure your good hand will be as useless as your bad one. She saw his reflection nearly come to a halt as his extended arm pulled back, as if about to be burned. Once confirming that he stopped, she turned around to face him. Are you here to warn me of something, Mr. Fields?

He jerked his head back and narrowed his eyes. His lips were tight lines as suspicious eyes looked her up and down. What are you planning to do with Alessa?

She blinked at him. Did you not hear her say that she came to me in order to use me to deal with those families who were putting pressure on her? In what world did you see me plotting something against the Baroness?

Dont think Ive forgotten what youve done in the past! You know that the Golden Cow is competition with your store, so you-

Even if that were the case and I was trying to sabotage Baroness Hart, which Im not, let me ask you a question. Tori crossed her arms over her chest and lifted her head up. What makes you think you can threaten me?

Confusion filled his face as he looked at her as if the questions had nothing to do with what they were talking about. You think Im threatening you?

Youre here to warn me against taking advantage of the Baroness, arent you? There must be a dire consequence in order to ensure that I wont; therefore, you are trying to threaten me.

He let out a bitter laugh and put on a smile that didnt reach his eyes. You think too much, Countess.

As do you, Tori replied. Because there is nothing you can say or do that will be a threat to me. I mean...you can try. But I hope youre aware of the consequences.

Tom sneered. Now it seems that youre threatening me.

Tori uncrossed her arms and let out a tired sigh. I keep telling people that I dont make threats, she said. Her eyes narrowed. I make promises. Baroness Hart came to me asking for help, so I came to give it as a fellow student. Whether or not you believe that it doesnt matter to me. I dont care whether you think Im incapable of altruism, but the Baroness and I are perfectly capable of being civil towards one another.

The ugly expression on his face didnt leave. Civil just means youre pretending for the sake of mutual benefit.

Tori lifted her hands and gave him two unimpressed claps. It seems you understand that much.

He leaned forward. What do you want from Alessa?

What do I want from Hart? Toris brow rose. How about to be left alone?