Chapter 4: Were They Walking in Slow Motion?

Chapter 4: Were They Walking in Slow Motion?

The rest of the trip, even though the rural mountain pass, was quite smooth sailing for Tori. First, the ginger oil they purchased for her helped with her motion sickness and she was able to appreciate the mountain scenery as well as discuss what to expect of school life at Lyce with Kasen.

Even better: they didnt meet any more love interests on the way to Horizon.

Tori kept a mental list of the targets so far and there were five left. The remaining five should be local to Horizon or the Central Corridor; a wide, flat agrarian region surrounding the capital that supplied the majority of its food. Aside from the clever merchant archetype love interest, she expected to see the others at Lyce.

Their carriages entered the towering city gates of Horizon after a day of traveling through farmland. From the southwest gates, it took until well past sunset for them to arrive at their Auntie Lucias home.

Unlike the old world Mediterranean feel of the south, Horizon looked much more recently developed. The streets were not only paved, but wide enough to accommodate four carriages side to side. The boulevards that acted as the thoroughfares to the center of the city from the gates were easily as wide as an eight lane freeway in her original world.

They were lined with trees and there were suitable walkways for pedestrians on either side. Streetlamps were powered by yellow-white crystals and the better the neighborhood, the fancier the streetlamps were. Their aunts home was a large townhouse; relatively narrow and three stories tall with what looked like an attic beneath a peaked roof. There was space on either side to allow carriages and horses into a surprisingly large backyard.

The neighboring house styles were very similar, likely built around the same time, and were faced with stone or bricks. In Toris experience, large old cities were often oddly shaped, having naturally grown out and developed at different speeds and with varying periodic styles. There was some hint of that here, but it almost felt pre-planned.

Granted, this was a game world, so it likely was pre-planned. If she were to compare the building styles to her original world: old Paris and London, but in a grid pattern and cleaner. That was saying a lot considering the amount of horses.Follow current novels at novelhall.com)

Most of the homes in this district are owned by noble families who came from outside of Horizon, Kasen said. There is a market near here that specializes in imports from the south, so if youre homesick for something specific, you can go there. It has the best olive oil anywhere in the city.

Tori nodded. Their aunts husbands family was from the southeast, but had settled down in Horizon a few generations ago. The story went that her aunt had saved her uncle from a bully. The thing was, this happened during their aunts last year in Lyce. At the time, her husband was starting his first year of graduate school.

Her uncle paid his aunt to be a bodyguard and when she planned to return to Presidio after she graduated Universit four years later, her uncle finally confessed that he had been in love with her from the moment she knocked out a senior researcher who had tossed his papers into the trash.

The Marquess thought it was a very sweet story while the Marquis had sighed, convinced his younger sister had strange tastes in men.

He may be a weak man whose only strong point is his dedication to his research, the Marquess had said over dinner. But youre forgetting one important thing.

The Marquis and Tori and her brothers had all craned their necks to look at her. And that is?

The Marquess had looked utterly confident. Maurizo is handsome.

Her father had nearly choked on his pilaf.

When the carriage stopped in front of the earthy colored stone facade of the di Biancci manor, the dark colored door immediately opened and a middle-aged woman with curly black hair and a neat cobalt dress shot out.

Auntie Lucia. The door to the carriage swung open and Kasen stepped out, immediately embraced by the lively woman.

My Kasen! Welcome back! Lucia di Biancci de Guevera then stepped back and cupped Kasens face, her eyes twinkling with affection. She seemed to catch a movement behind Kasen and tossed him to the side. She threw her arms open. My Victoria!

Before both feet were on the ground, Tori was swept up in a tight, warm embrace. Her aunt pressed her head against hers and kissed the sides. Tori smiled against her aunts shoulder and closed her eyes before squeezing her in response. She'd never met this woman before, but the feeling was familiar.

Hi, Auntie Lucia.

Let me see my big girl, Lucia said. Her hands grasped Toris and moved back to look over her.

Cia, let them come in to rest, a mans voice chuckled behind her. Lingering by the gate was a man with graying dark hair, thin glasses on the bridge of a straight nose, and smiling thin lips.

Uncle Maurizo. Kasen stepped forward to take the middle-aged mans hand and be pulled into an embrace. Maurizo patted him on the back. Sorry to have to bother you so late.

What late? Maurizo laughed as he released Kasen. Your cousins arent even asleep yet.

Tori looked past her uncle and towards the open doorway. Two little boys were earnestly peeking outside, but didnt seem to dare set foot out the door. Her cousins were seven-year-old twins and from the looks of it, inherited the Guevera curly black hair and blue eyes. Toris smile widened at the sight of them.

She never had kids of her own; she was a dedicated SINK, but that didnt mean she hated children. She loved them and everyone always said she had a way with kids. She greeted her uncle and took her aunts arm. She walked arm and arm with Auntie Lucia into the house. Ahead of them, the twins latched on to her brother as soon as he entered.

Mateo, Marco. Auntie Lucias voice was low and firm, reminding Tori of her father when he gave directions to her brothers. Come greet your cousin, Victoria.

The twins, still hanging off her brother, turned to look at her. Two curious sets of blue eyes studied her appearance. Then, they silently climbed off Kasen and stood in front of her.

Hello, Tori said as the two identical faces looked at her. Their sun-kissed pink faces were soft and round. She wanted to squish them. Please call me Tori.

Tori... The twins looked at each other simultaneously, as if to confirm what they heard, and then turned back to her. The one on the right stood up straight. Im Mateo, the oldest, and hes Marco. Suddenly, the two ran around in a circle around her, weaving between their parents and Kasen before stopping in their original positions in front of her.

Which one am I? the duo chorused.

Tori heard her aunts heavy sigh behind her. It was clear this wasnt the first time the twins did this.

Tori smirked. How am I supposed to know? Youre identical twins and I just met you. Itll take me a few days to become familiar enough to tell you apart.

She was being honest, but the twins looked surprised by her answer. They exchanged looks once more and then nodded.

Okay, you pass, one said with approval all over his face.

They each grabbed one of her hands. Mama, the other twin said. Were going to show cousin Tori around!

Auntie Lucia looked at Tori, asking for silent confirmation that she was willing to humor the two. Tori nodded. She looked at the twins and raised a brow. Are you guys sure you know your way around?

Of course! Weve lived here all our lives!

Dont take too long, her uncle said as she was dragged away. Your cousins have been traveling all day. They probably havent had dinner yet.

She was a little famished, but still pretended to be serious as her little cousins took her through the halls, pointing out rooms and decorations at random along the way. Eventually, Auntie Lucia had to rein them in so Tori could eat. The twins were sent to their room for bed and her aunt and uncle discussed their schedule for the next week.

The main plan was for Tori to pick up her uniforms, buy school supplies, and familiarize herself with the city, specifically, the seventh district. Kasen would be with her and once Sebastian, who was renting a small apartment for his longer stays in the capital, was finished with his work representing the Mark on behalf of their father, he would join them, as well.

Use my carriage, Auntie Lucia said with an air of finality. Its smaller and easier to take around. Its also a smoother ride.

You dont need to use it, Auntie? Tori asked. Her aunt shook her head.

Ill take your uncles carriage after it drops him off at work. The boys have fencing lessons in the morning and then tutoring in the afternoon, so I will send them off in the morning before I go to work. Auntie Lucia was a purchaser for the Imperial Knights and worked in the sprawling compound of government buildings just outside the imperial palace.

It was quite late by the time Tori was finally able to fall into her guest bed. The guards had brought up her overnight bag that she had stuffed with everything she thought shed need for another week. Her trunk with the majority of her belongings would be sent to Lyce in the middle of the week to be delivered to her dorm room. It would be waiting for her when she arrived.

She had one more week until she stepped into Lyce and the game officially started.

Tori rolled over onto her back and spread her arms out on either side of her. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

She was fine. She was doing fine. No matter how appealing the second prince was, she wasnt going to have an interest. He was her walking death flag. She would try to keep her interactions with the protagonist, if any, to a minimum. It wasnt as if the protagonist was going to start trouble with her if she didnt do anything first.

Dont start none, wont be none, right?

After giving herself a bit of reassurance, Tori rolled off the bed to wash up and change before going to sleep. Despite falling asleep late, she still woke up before dawn. A thin strip of pink-orange peeked from the horizon when she looked out the window. She wondered if her body woke up because she was still used to getting up early for her morning commute.

She remembered that as a teenager, she could sleep until well past noon and thought being in Victorias body would be the same. She tried to go back to sleep, but her mind was up, so she got out of bed and warmed up her body with stretches. Tori laid a throw blanket on the floor and began to stretch out and hold fixed positions.

Her current body was still too weak for her liking and with little endurance; however, all her little efforts to strengthen herself had started to pay off. A young and spry body was easier to shape and her flexibility was improving far faster than it did when she was a fully grown adult. Shed still need to work on her stamina, though.

Jogging would be ideal, but she wasnt exactly in a world with a culture of morning jogs. Not that she liked jogging. Or waking up early. Shed have to settle on doing walks around campus when school started. She also planned to join the Sword Association at Lyce. Both her brothers had been part of it. They came from a martial family; it was kind of a tradition.

Kasen assured her that there were often a small handful of young women who joined per year and one of his female seniors had joined the Imperial Knights as a personal knight of the empress. At one point, their aunt had been the captain during her school years. Tori didnt plan to pursue a career in knighthood, but getting a chance to use a sword would help her destress.

As the light from the window overpowered the meager light from her oil lantern, Tori finished her morning routine and went to wash her face at the basin. A knock came from her door and a maid asked if she needed anything, as well as notified her that breakfast was ready when she was.

Tori looked over her shoulder, back at her brother. You ordered shoes for me?

Kasen nodded. Of course. Youll need shoes for school: warm ones for the winter, as well as boots and gloves for sword. I also ordered you a pair of boots for the First Year Excursion.

Toris forehead wrinkled. But I already bought shoes for school. She had two pairs of black leather flats that were comfortable and had a slight heel. It was suitable for wearing with her uniform and she could walk quickly in them without a problem.

Her brother didnt listen to her and instead followed Old da Silva to the side of his stall. He called for one of his apprentices to bring Kasens order. A moment later, three new leather sets of shoes were placed on the table: black lace up booties with a lined interior that were indeed more suitable for the winter; tan calf high boots that folded over at the top; and dark brown calf high boots that had buckles to secure them in place. Their soles were a bit thicker.

All three are weather treated and have grips at the bottom to secure your footing on wet surfaces, Old da Silva said as he reached over and took a black, leather clump from his apprentice. And this is a riding cloak. Water resistant lamb leather with a soft, quilted lining. There is a hood and a flap that goes over her lower face to protect you from the wind and rain. The sleeves are loose with button cuffs at the wrist and they match with your gloves. There are pockets for your money pouch, handkerchief, and dagger.

Tori, who was admiring the feel of the lamb leather, lifted her head. How did you know about my dagger?

Old da Silva chuckled to himself. You are a Guevera.

Tori let out a low sigh. Kasen stepped forward and examined the cloak, nodding in approval. This is perfect. Tori, go in the back and try it on. Make sure it wont drag. Take the shoes with you to make sure they fit all right.

Tori gathered all the items in her arms and followed an apprentice. Okay.

Old da Silva, speaking of daggers, can you have one of your apprentices measure out her dagger and her leg and arm for holsters? she heard Kasen say behind her.

Is that really necessary? she said over her shoulder.

Yes. Dont dawdle; were meeting up with my two underclassmen after this for lunch. Kasen said.

Tori went into a small corner of the stall that had long curtains that hung down to give her privacy. It wasnt needed since she was just trying on shoes and a cloak, but she closed them anyway. She sat on a stool and began to switch shoes.

Do your underclassmen need to meet with you today? she asked.

I want to introduce you to them. Sebastian and I will be leaving soon, but those two are starting at Universit. If you need anything, you can go to them.

Tori rolled her eyes. She stood up and checked the fit of her boots. Ill be fine. Auntie Lucia and Uncle Maurizo are nearby.

It doesnt hurt to have more resources in the city, Kasen said. She begrudgingly agreed. Dont worry, theyre responsible.

The fact that he felt the need to say that was worrisome. Tori switched out the booties to the other pairs of the boots. Her brother was right; they were far sturdier than what she saw on the high street. It made sense that cobblers for adventurers would make more durable footwear than cobblers for noblewomen who would never wear out their shoes, if they could help it.

All the shoes she brought from home were made by the cobblers who made the shoes for her family and their guards, so they were just as durable.

After confirming that everything fit, Tori pulled aside the curtain with her free hand as her things hung on her other arm. Everything fits.

Okay, let Old da Silvas apprentice take your measurements for the arm and leg holsters. Use your dominant side. Tori nodded and handed her things to one of the workers before going back into the fitting room.

Once her measurements were taken, Kasen paid Old da Silva and left an address to send the holsters to. He carried the bundle of shoes and her cloak as he led her back to the street. As she got back into the carriage, her stomach began to grumble. Kasen lifted his hand to his mouth to muffle his snort, but Tori heard it and glared.

Dont worry, well eat soon. The restaurant isnt far.

She crossed her arms and leaned back against the carriage. Once more, they crossed town to get to an elegant restaurant facing a large, busy plaza. The carriage stopped in front of it and Kasen stepped out, tugging his coat down to straighten it. He turned to offer his hand to Tori, but she used the handle on the side of the carriage instead.

We have a reservation, Kasen said to the suited man by a podium in the foyer. Under Guevera.

Tori wondered when her brother even had the time to make a reservation. She followed him through a brightly lit restaurant with a high ceiling, hanging crystal-lit chandeliers, and many tables hosting well dressed customers. There was a good mix of men and women. Some looked like they were having a casual cup of coffee and catching up; some looked like they were discussing business.

She and Kasen were led up some stairs to a second floor that overlooked the main dining area. A square table with four chairs was right by the railing and the server pulled out one of the chairs for her to sit.

When are your juniors getting here? Tori said as she accepted a leather bound folder. She opened it to check out the menu.

Kasen didnt bother. He was familiar with the restaurant and had his order in mind. Soon. I told them we were having lunch here. Afterwards, well go to the seventh district. One of them just graduated from Lyce and will show you where to buy the best school supplies near campus.

Tori nodded and skimmed the menu. She was still deciding when she saw Kasen move and heard him speak.

Its about time. Didnt I say that we would be meeting here for lunch? Kasen rose from his chair.

Tori lowered her menu and looked over her shoulder, towards the stairs.

The curious look on her face fell as the menu slipped from her fingers.

At the top of the stairs, two men were approaching their table. Several pairs of eyes from other tables seemed to move and follow them as they passed. Tori squinted. Were they walking in slow motion?

Time seemed to slow, allowing her to take in the sight. Since she arrived in this world, she had seen her fair share of good looking people. Her entire family was good-looking. Everytime she looked into the mirror, she saw a pretty face. However, these two were at another level.

Both were tall with defined features. They wore well fitted clothing that brought out the colors of their eyes and emphasized their strong shoulders, narrow hips, and long legs. Their very demeanour walking was laced with an air of confidence that drew the rooms attention the instant they appeared.

The one at the front had smooth skin a shade or two darker than hers and thick, short dark hair that had a few strands lazily hanging over his cold, violet eyes. His black suit seemed tailored to his body, appearing simple with few embellishments, but expensive. She could almost see him seated at a large desk in front of a wall to ceiling window, in an office at the top of a skyscraper, ruining business rivals with a dominating aura.

Behind him, the other man had a rich mocha complexion and wavy black hair that was jaggedly cut at his angular chin. His gray eyes were sharp and seemed fixed on her. His clothes were more relaxed, appearing fitting for a fantasy worlds swashbuckling hero. Tori swallowed hard. The sleeves of his white shirt were rolled up to his elbows and she could make out the defined lines of his arms. One thing came to her mind: this man belonged on the cover of a bodice ripper.

Senior Kasen, the would-be dominating CEO said as he extended his hand to her brother. Our apologies for the tardiness.

Tori drew her lips inward and bit them. Even his voice was attractive; low and smooth.

Its fine, Kasen said as he finished shaking their hands. Let me introduce you to my sister.

The two men stopped beside the table and both turned to her. For a moment, she almost felt blinded. This was not a good sign. Anytime such a character had a standout entry, it meant they were important to the story.

Toris stomach twisted as she made a silent prayer.

Please, whatever gods there are in this world, dont make these two love interests. I dont want to have to fight for my life against hot guys. Im shallow.

Tori, these are my two underclassmen: Piers and Axton. They are first year students at Universit, Kasen said, smiling at his sister. Tori remained seated, staring up at the two new men with dilated eyes. Her brother cocked his head and looked towards the two men, wondering what theyd done to stun his sister.

They looked equally confused. The three men exchanged uncertain looks before the man who shouldve been on the cover of a romance novel took a step forward and gave her a small bow before extending his hand politely.

Hello, my lady.

Oh no, this ones voice is hot, too....

My name is Axton du Nassaun. Its a pleasure to meet you. Silence. He looked back at Kasen before glancing at the man named Piers.

Piers met his gaze before looking back at Tori. His lips were a tight line and he didnt seem to want to speak. His eyes went up and down her seated figure, judging, before speaking.

Piers Emil du Soleil.

Du Soleil? Of Soleil? The corner of her eye twitched. There was only one family in the empire who had that surname.

Axton is an imperial personal aide and knight to his highness, Prince Piers, Kasen said. The first prince of Soleil.

Tori felt her stomach sink. Prince of Soleil?

Axton furrowed his brows. Lady Victoria?

Her mind went blank and she couldnt help the words that came from her mouth.

Oh, fuck me....