Chapter 3: A Brush With Death Can Change a Person

Chapter 3: A Brush With Death Can Change a Person

How are you feeling?

She laid across the cushioned bench inside the carriage with a small pillow over her face and one hand pressing an accupoint on her wrist in an effort to control her nausea. Tori had thrown up three times since they left the fortress yesterday; how did her brother think she felt?

She kept her eyes shut as the carriage bounced along. Her voice was muffled and irritated. Im alive.

This was their second day on the road and once more, she cursed what felt like violent tossing while riding a carriage. Kasen was sitting across from her, legs crossed and a book in his lap as he looked at his pitiful sister. The ride was not bothering him in the least.

Who knew that she would get motion sick in a carriage?

Certainly not her.

They had a six day trip from Presidio to Horizon in a wooden carriage with no suspension. They hadnt even left the boundaries of Presidio before the roads went from stone to dirt and gravel. Shed been on various animal-drawn wagons and carts over dirt before, but not for this long.

Do you want some water? Kasen asked. He was already reaching for the metal jug in the compartment beneath his seat.

No. It would slosh around in her stomach and shed puke it up.

The next town has a decent high street. Ill send one of the guards to try to find some ginger oil. The smell will help, Kasen told her as he reached across and stroked back her puffy hair to comfort her.

She wasnt traveling with a maid and so she had to do her own hair. The best she could do was gather the thick, waist length mess and put it in a bun at her crown, but it was uncomfortable to lay on, so she just let it loose when they were in the carriage.

How much longer until we get to the next town?

Well reach it before sunset.

She let out a low groan. They just stopped for lunch a bit ago and she had to force herself to eat something. Kasen was in charge of her until she walked through Lyces gates and if she didnt eat, hed get worried. The first time she threw up, he was ready to send their parents a push message on the comcry - communication crystal.

Tori had pleaded with him not to tattle on her. Their parents were already worried as it was. Until the last minute, her mother was preparing to join them on the journey to Horizon and Tori had to convince her to stay, citing overseeing the fall harvest tax collections. The Marquis tried to come instead, but he had budgets for the next year to oversee and plan the training regimen for the winter.

Their fussing seemed to amuse Kasen. He tried not to laugh as he told them: You two werent this anxious when Sebastian and I went off to Lyce.

Their father looked at him as if he were stupid. Of course not. Back then it was you two. This time its Tori.

Her brothers amused face froze and Tori bit her lips. There was a clear favorite child and that favorite child was her.

She had hugged her mother, who was reluctant to release her, and then her father and Gramps. The large, rugged old man gently took her hand and placed an object into her palm. With a soft look on his leathered face, he gave his only granddaughter a loving smile. Always carry it with you to keep you safe.

Her mother had looked at the slender object and her lips pulled into a frown. Father, thats a knife.

Its a dagger. Our Tori is so beautiful, what if some hooligan tries to take advantage of her! the old man said, as if he were preparing his grandchild for war.

Tori drew her lips inward and tried not to let out a worn cry. She was just going to school.

Tori, remember, her father said with a serious look. He lifted his arm and made a motion. Stab in an angle and away from any bones. Jiggle the knife around in order to do as much internal damage as possible before you pull it out.

Oh my God, Papa...what are you saying...?

Dont leave the weapon in, her mother added. Tori tried to suppress her look of disbelief. Why was her angelic-looking mother adding to this? The Marquess had a thoughtful smile. Keeping the knife in will slow the bleeding and you want them to bleed out.

Mama....

Kasen had sighed beside her and gave the three adults a dull look. She cant carry bladed weapons to class. And where is she going to carry this when she goes out? Her purse?

Tori had thrown her brother a thankful look. Finally, some words of common sense.

Kasen took the dagger in its metal sheath from her hand and examined it. Its far too long to put in a purse. I know a good leather worker in the city. Ill have them make a dagger holster for her forearm and leg so it can be hidden beneath her clothes comfortably.

Dammit, Kasey.

Her dagger was now in the pocket of her jacket. The pocket was made by slicing the lining open. She hadnt stabbed anyone yet, but used it to cut some fruit when they stopped to eat. That was the extent of her activities on the journey so far.

Initially, she planned to do some more reading to pass the time, but she was too nauseous and could only lay down and try to sleep. It was difficult with the jarring movement of the carriage, but every now and then she managed to get a nap in.

Tori. Kasens voice penetrated her light sleep and she felt him give her a gentle shake. Come on, Tori. We arrived at the inn. Do you want me to carry you up to your room?

She nearly threw off the pillow she used to cover her eyes. She squinted as the orange light of the sunset came through the windows. No, no, Im up. She wasnt a child. She didnt need her big brother to carry her to the room. How embarrassing....

She ran her hand through her hair to try to pat it down and before bunching it up and twisting it into a bun. Kasen climbed out of the carriage first and when she hopped out, she found that they were on a paved street in front of a multistory building. The sign over the double doors said Isidro Inn and then had a symbol of an inn next to it.

She followed Kasen inside and one of the guards escorting them led them to their rooms. Another guard had already checked Toris room and brought up her overnight bag. From the look of the room, it was quite large and likely one of the best in the inn. Sebastian did not skimp when he reserved the rooms in advance for them.

Wash up and when youre ready, come downstairs. Theres a nice tavern connected to the inn and well have dinner there, Kasen told her as the guards exited her room. She nodded and watched him close the door before walking to a small table by the window where a ceramic basin and a jug of water were waiting for her.

It didnt take her long to freshen up and the water was nice and cool. It felt good to get a days worth of travel grime off her. She put her key into her pocket and stepped outside. A tall, intimidating plain-clothes guard was standing beside the door and lifted his right fist to pound his left breast.

The young lord is in the tavern, my lady.

Lead the way, Tori said. Are you guys all settled?

Yes, my lady. Team one and three are eating dinner. My team will have lunch delivered after our shift, the guard answered. Someone has been sent to buy ginger oil for you.

Much appreciated, thanks. Tori pretended not to see the guards twitch. She knew her familys staff still wasnt used to her being so polite, but she was too lazy to put up a front and act the way Victoria seemed to towards the guards and servants. She knew she couldnt keep up a facade every waking moment and was bound to slip up, so why bother?

She had a good excuse to explain her sudden change anyway. Besides, her family wasnt complaining. They were a little worried, she could tell that much, but as long as she was healthy and well, they didnt dwell on it. She just wished that everyone else didnt treat her personality change like it was the most shocking thing that happened.

The guard led her to the tavern and around the numerous boisterous tables. She could see a few doors across the room that opened to a patio dining area. Kasens familiar figure could be seen seated at a square table in the corner. There were some papers in front of him and a glass of red wine at his side.

Sorry for the delay, Tori said as she arrived behind him. She rounded the table and the guard pulled out the chair for her. Did you wait long? She gave the guard a nod of her head to both thank and dismiss him.

No, not at all. How do you feel?

Much better now that we stopped.

Her brother chuckled and removed his wire rimmed glasses. Kasen wore them in low light. Thats good. The air is fresh out here and its still a bit warm, so I thought it would be better for you in case you were still nauseous. Here, take a look at these. I brought them for you. He slid a few unfolded pieces of paper her way. Hanging lanterns over the patio helped provide enough light and Tori looked over them.

Maps?

This is Horizon and its surrounding countryside, Kasen said, tapping one of the sheets. He moved to the largest piece. This is a map of the major streets and alleys within the walls of Horizon and this.... He tapped another large piece. Is a map of the seventh district. I circled the Academic Quarter, where Lyce and Universit are both located. This map is more detailed.

Tori smiled. Thank you, Kasey! This is perfect. Ill look over them tonight. She focused on the map of the seventh district and started memorizing the major points on the map. It was a habit she developed traveling in her original world, as there were times she would lose connection on her phone or its battery was dying. Sometimes, she just didnt want to look like a complete tourist always checking her phone, so she would memorize locations and directions ahead of time as a precaution.

Theyre for you to keep, so dont worry about having to memorize them. Kasen lifted his hand to call over the server. A young lady rushed over, her face brightening with a blush as she saw him. Potato and beef soup with sour loaves. Kasen looked back at Tori. Is that all right, Tori?

Yeah, thats fine. Ill also have a glass of wine. She looked up from the map. What about you, Kasey?

The same for me. And another glass. He gave the server a pleasant smile and lifted his half empty wine glass.

Yes, sir! She scurried off and Tori continued to pour over the maps. Kasen seemed to have labeled some buildings. She collected the papers together and tapped on a map to get his attention.

What are the dorms like?

There are two large dormitory blocks: the east and west dorms. Theyre built identically, so if youre in one dorm and visit someone in the other, you wont get lost. The ground floor has a canteen opening during breakfast and dinner, the laundry service, and several study rooms. They get busy during test periods and its first come first serve.

Tori frowned. Are there desks in the dorm rooms?

Tch.... Then if you wake up with a sore neck from sleeping on a short bed, dont blame me....

They reached the lobby of the small inn and it felt more crowded than when they checked in earlier. Tori glanced around and saw around two dozen men. A few were dressed in gray and white robes with wooden beads around their waists, but the majority seemed to be guards in dark gray uniforms with a six pointed star embroidered into their cowls. She could make out the swords hanging half hidden at their hips.

Priests of Belcoy, she heard Kasen say as they reached the bottom of the stairs. They must be traveling to the capital, too.

The Church of Belcoy was the main religion in the empire and consisted of a council of gods of varying strength and importance. Most of the empire, her family included, were believers, but casual about their practice, so Tori never had any personal in depth experience with Belcoy or its clergy.

Everything she knew about them came from the foundational history books and her Grandpa Sophos. Religions and mythology always interested her, so she soaked up the information and felt she knew a good amount, but this would be her first time coming face to face with clergy and what appeared to be their guards.

Then well take whatever rooms you have left! A young priest was arguing with the woman at a counter who checked people in. Everyone was obviously tired from the journey, but there was no need to yell.

We have four rooms left-

Four? The priest balked. Why only four?

We are the only inn in the village and another party has reserved most of the rooms.

Tori looked away, guilty. It looked like all those people had to share four rooms mainly because of her and her party. She followed behind her brother as they rounded the group of clustered swordsmen and priests.

Fine, well take the four rooms. Which one is your best room?

All we have left are standard rooms. Our best room is taken. It was reserved a week ago for a noble guest.

They were almost to the door when Tori felt multiple gazes look in their direction. Kasen wasnt stopping and continued towards the door. She supposed as far as he was concerned, this wasnt their problem. Tori was inclined to agree. Sebastian reserved the rooms for them ahead of time.

Kasen suddenly stopped in front of her and she looked over his shoulder. Her lips pulled into a tight line at the sight of two guards in dark gray blocking the door.

Pardon us, Kasen said in a calm voice. Were heading out for dinner. Their guard was about to move forward to make room for them when the priest called from behind them.

Brothers and sister, may I have a moment of your time?

Tori didnt want to acknowledge the question, but Kasen looked over his shoulder. We already donated to the church.

Tori drew her lips in to keep from laughing. What a wonderful were not interested, thank-you-good-bye.

The priest frowned and their guards didnt move from the door. He looked Kasen up and down. You are a young master? Kasen didnt nod or shake his head. His cool, blue eyes just lingered on the priest as if bored and waiting for him to finish. The priest was not bothered by this and approached them. We are escorting the son of a church official. He is not used to such...modest accommodations.

The corner of Toris lip twitched. Then maybe he should keep his ass at home.

Would you be able to give us your room? We will of course pay you for it and will make prayers for your safe travels, as well.

Kasen opened his mouth to reject the priest, but Tori tugged on his sleeve and gave him a small shrug. Its fine. We dont need such a big room. Lets just save the money. She didnt want to be bothered by these guys any longer.

She could see the hesitation on Kasens face, but he turned towards the woman at the desk. Then transfer us to a regular room with two beds-

Ah, there are no other rooms. Weve already requested the remaining ones, the priest said. He sounded regretful, but didnt look like it.

Kasen narrowed his eyes. Then it looks like we wont be giving up our room. He turned away and glanced at Tori, who gave him an agreeing nod, and then took a step forward. Belcoys guards didnt move and the tension in the air heightened.

The priest made no order for the guards to stand down. Surely, you can sacrifice one room for a night.

Are you going to hold us hostage until we agree to your demands? Kasen turned around to face the priest. We would agree to take a regular room, but you wont even let us have that, so why should we give up the room we have now? The room we paid for and reserved ahead of time.

We have been instructed to make sure our young master is not lacking-

What a coincidence, I am traveling with my sister and have been instructed to make sure she is not lacking either, Kasen said in a cold voice. Or perhaps you are saying that the Church of Belcoy demands for my noble sister to sleep outside for the sake of your young master?

The priest reddened and his cheeks almost puffed up. He glowered at Kasen and lifted his hand. Several of the gray uniformed swordsmen took a step forward and Tori twitched, her hand moving over her dagger as she saw the swordsmens hand reach for their hilts. She didn't like where this was going.

Brother, why are these men reaching for their weapons? She spoke clearly and projected her voice to make sure everyone in that room heard her. We havent done anything wrong. Why are they threatening us?

Kasen snapped his head towards her with a look of silence, but she ignored it. The Church of Belcoy may be the main religion of the empire, but it didnt mean they could do whatever they wanted. They still had to abide by the empires laws and as far as she was concerned, they were acting like thieves.

The priest shot her a glare. Threatening you? Young lady, do you know to whom you are speaking?

Tori stuck her nose up as her eyes went up and down his vestments. Silver robes with a white sash, one embroidered line on your cuffs, and your wooden prayer beads have a six pointed star at the end. Youre a first level Vicar of Belcoy of the White Star Order; an order which focuses on guidance of the parish. In particular, youth and seminary students. White Star priests guide by examples of patience and compassion with vows of humility and grace.

Hell yeah she knew who she was speaking to. Grandpa Sophos was a scholar and knew a lot about the Church of Belcoy. When he came to visit her bringing pastries from the best patisserie in Presidio, he had seen her reading a chapter on the influence of Belcoy in the empire. As the two of them greedily ate cakes and custards, he broke down the levels of the Church of Belcoy and its major orders.

The reason: she would leave Presidio and the south, and meet people who used Belcoys authority as their own power. He didnt want her to be swayed or victimized, and felt that knowledge was a good means to protect herself. In a way, it was similar to how Gramps gave her a dagger.

Tori met the eyes of the priest confidently.

The priest narrowed his eyes and frowned. She could almost see the little gears in his head turning to try to justify his actions when they went against the teachings of his order. Hypocrisy, thine bait is self-righteous arrogance.

There has been a misunderstanding, a voice said behind the priest. From the pack of guards huddled in one corner came a young man dressed in dark green and gray. While simple in style, the clothes looked well made and new. He mustve been the son of a church official the priest was talking about. We dont need all the rooms in this inn. We will take whatever is left. The teenager with dirty blond hair and gray eyes stepped forward, his arms out at his sides as if welcoming them. His movements were smooth and he stood out from the crowd after just taking three steps. You two are free to keep your room.

Tori tried not to frown. Why did he make it sound as if he was the one doing them a favor?

The young man looked at the priest with smiling eyes. Its fine, Brother Philip. Ill take a regular room. Ill have one when I get to Lyce anyway.

The priest still looked displeased, but gave a nod. The guards standing between them and the door finally stepped to the side. Her familys guard stepped forward to keep the pathway clear and she followed Kasen out the door. She heard the priest give in behind her.

If that is what you want, Master Constantine.

Toris step faltered. Are you all right? Kasen asked as he stopped and reached for her arm. Tori straightened up and put a smile on her face.

Im fine...I didnt see the small step there.

Be more careful. Kasen put her hand on his arm and guided her down the street. Tori chewed on her lower lip.

Master Constantine. The son of a church official who was going to Lyce. Well-above average good looks and held a certain amount of respect from the priesthood. Tori was 75% sure that the young master was prospective love interest #2.

Constantine Zisos, the only son of Pope Zisos. He was the birth child of Pope Zisos elder sister and her husband, but they died in a plague years ago and one-year-old Constantine was the only survivor at the time. Pope Zisos thought that Constantine was blessed by the gods and adopted him. He grew up surrounded by the Church of Belcoy and was treated as if hed be the next pope.

Basically, he was the harem member who had the power of religion behind him.

I dont know who that young master is, but if hes going to Lyce, you try to stay away from him. I dont trust a man surrounded by priests who would extort travelers, Kasen said.

You dont have to tell me twice. She was already hoping that they wouldnt cross paths in school.

By the way, since when did you know the priest rankings and orders of Belcoy?

Grandpa Sophos, she said. He knows a lot about it.

Hmm.... Kasen looked ahead of them. Mama said he used to like to get into a lot of theological arguments with clergy. I wouldnt be surprised if he knows more about them than they do. He and Bishop Sepulveda once got into a fist fight.

Tori squinted. Isnt Bishop Sepulveda a friend of his?

Now he is. Still, if Belcoys holy knights are there, dont be so quick to get into an argument with them. Theyre not very well trained and count on the Church to give them protections when they get into skirmishes.

It seemed young Master Constantine was someone to look out for. Tori nodded.

Ill keep that in mind.