Chapter 7: Prison Rules

Chapter 7: Prison Rules

After Alessas introduction, everyone else became a faceless mob character. Tori could hear them speaking, but nothing registered. Not their names. Not their faces. Not whatever random interests and hobbies they mentioned.

She was the last person to stand and introduce herself, and if Ilyana didnt give her a nudge, she wouldve forgotten to do so. Toris chair scraped against the floor as she pushed it back and rose to her feet. There were curious looks her way with more than just a few sneers, but that didnt shake her.

Tori went with the simplest introduction she could.

Good afternoon, I am Victoria de Guevera. Please call me Tori. She gave a small nod in the general direction of Instructor Rosemund, then sat back down. The classroom was quiet, as if waiting for her to continue.

Even Ilyana looked at her, waiting for more, but Tori said nothing else and remained seated. Instructor Rosemund let out a small cough.

Well then. Now that weve all been acquainted, lets do a review. She turned back to the board and the attention on Tori was drawn away.

Are you all right? Ilyana whispered.

Tori nodded. Yeah, Im fine. My ultimate death flag has appeared and she took my seat. I want to go home.

She swallowed hard and looked down at the blank page with just a doodle of the second prince being stabbed in the corner. She somewhat expected that she would be distracted the rest of the day.

Was it too much for you? Ilyana asked as the class concluded. The quiet scratches of students writing faded into full on conversations as the students rose from their seats. They had another break for lunch and then they would go to their elective classes elsewhere, so the people in the room gathered their things in preparation to leave. Ilyana seemed focused on Toris unsettled face. If youre overwhelmed, I will show my notes tonight. I always review them anyway and explaining them helps.

Tori gave her a small, but appreciative smile. Thanks, Ilyana. Ill take you up on that offer.

Ilyanas concern relaxed into a smile. Dont be afraid to ask me. I also tutored other students when I was in primary school.

Im lucky, then.

Ilyana began to put her things into her book bag. Its just a shame we dont have the same elective.

Dont worry, Tori said as she shoved her still blank notebook into her bag. Ill pay attention. Im probably just hungry.

We can pick up something at one of the cafeterias. The west one is close to my next class, so its on the way. The dorm commons were closed, as they were only open for breakfast and dinner. There were two large cafeterias on either side of the campus that were more like a food court and students could go to different counters to order different types of food. They used their dorm keycards to track their meals.

The two left the classroom and went to the closest cafeteria. Unsurprising to Tori, the looks and whispers continued. It seemed that it wasnt just the first year students who were talking, but her glorious reputation had also spread to the older ones.

Any appetite she wouldve had was gone, but Tori still ordered a sandwich, scanned her keycard, and then quietly walked out to eat in the garden outside. The hour-long break ended and Tori walked Ilyana to her class before continuing down the covered pathway to get to her MetaCrystals class.

When she arrived, there were already a few students. They turned when she entered and the volume of their conversations lowered. Without making eye contact, Tori went straight to the desk in the far corner of the last row, took her things from her bag, and pointedly ignored the other students for the next two hours.

She ended the class with a sense of satisfaction. Despite Gideon entering by announcing that he would speak to the headmaster after class about expelling her, Tori took pleasure in the general discomfort her presence caused the rest of the class.

The subject matter was also very interesting. The crystals that were being introduced were all familiar to her, having had a rock collection growing up and then that phase where she was really into metaphysical stuff. As an adult, she still found minerals fascinating and even had a chunk of an amethyst geode as decoration in her cubicle.

Instructor Ignatius was a young instructor and very enthusiastic about crystals. He dove right into the subject, starting with the most common crystals and their uses. Tori wrote down everything and even noted questions in the margins of her notebook to look up when she went through the assigned readings.

Unlike her homeroom class, her elective course felt shorter and Tori was excited about what shed just learned. Crystals in the game world werent just pretty and used for decoration; there were a myriad of things they could be used to power, depending on the type of crystal and the energy it contained.

Energized by the class, Tori put her things into her bag and headed out once more. Electives were the last class of the day and on normal days, shed return to her dorm or attend an after class activity, but there were plenty of things happening during the first week for first years. During the break, upperclassmen were setting up tables and booths in the central courtyard for their various clubs and activities. It wasnt mandatory for a student to join and Ilyana didnt plan on joining any, as shed rather focus on her studies, but Tori wanted to take a look.

They agreed to meet in the central courtyard after their electives. By the time Tori reached it, the scattered tables and frantic upperclassmen who were trying to get their tables, booths, and various exhibition areas up during the break were now in neat rows and hawking fliers to whoever passed. The scene was familiar.

This was very much like welcome weeks at her university campus back in her original world. Shed even been on the other side, trying to coax new students into her club with colored pieces of paper and a prepared speech. It was exhausting, but like her club members, she was always passionate about it and didnt mind.

She walked down the few steps into the courtyard and headed to the closest table to check out what they offered.

It took her three booths into the courtyard to notice that no one was offering her fliers. Tori glanced up from reading the signs on a table and watched as three people in front of her quickly turned their heads away. She narrowed her eyes and looked around.

Everyone else around her was being handed fliers. Upperclassmen were approaching them, chatting them up, and subtly guiding them to different tables. She was the only one being ignored.

Its her! The one who bought her way in! Tori whirled around at the sound of the voice.

Shhh! Shell hear you!

Ugh.... Tori tilted her head back and let out a sigh. How did her reputation even get this far? Her entire first year class wasnt made up of students from the south, so how did the rumors spread so quickly? I bet it was fucking Gideon. That douche.

She turned around and everywhere she looked, students averted their eyes. Even if they were gawking at her when she wasnt looking, they would quickly pretend otherwise so as not to be caught. Tori frowned and marched forward, both upset and amused that the thin crowds seemed to part for her as she walked up and down the rows of tables and booths.

Although she was curious to see what activities and clubs a fantasy gaming sim school offered, she didnt want to deal with the awkward attempts at avoidance. Instead, she scanned the rows for the Lyce du Soleil Sword Association, of which both her brothers and aunt had been a part of during their time at Lyce.

Her eyes landed on a corner booth with a large circular ring behind it corded off by some rope. There were two people within the ring wearing masked helmets and padded clothing while gripping wooden practice swords. The sign hanging above the booth was the seal of the school and Sword Association.

She perked up and quickened her speed.

The booth had a healthy amount of interested students. At least a half dozen boys and a few girls were crowded around the table while another dozen or so stood by the ring, watching the existing association members spar. Tori made her way to an empty spot at the edge of the table.

We are one of the oldest associations on campus, a tall and lean young man was talking to the group from the inside of the booth. With curly dark hair and what seemed like an attempt to grow a beard on his face, the young man spoke with a hint of pride as he told the first year students about the association. We do competitive matches and work in conjunction with other sword associations and groups around the empire. Some of our notable alumni include....

His voice trailed off as he turned his head and saw Tori standing there, looking interested. His silence was sudden and the students listening to him followed his gaze. Someone gasped and the small group took a collective step away from Tori. The young man in the booth seemed to swallow and forced a weak smile on his face.

Can I help you, my lady?

She didnt pay attention to the obvious reluctance in his voice. Yes, Id like to join the Sword Association-

Were full.

Tori snapped her mouth closed and knit her brows together. She looked at the young man and then at the other students before looking back at him. Arent you trying to recruit first years?

The young man let out a little cough. Our Sword Association is for serious fencers. We work together with La Garda and do training with them at the Imperial Military Academy.

Tori nodded. I know. After all, her siblings were part of this association and so was Axton before he transferred to the military academy.

The young man shifted awkwardly. Do you have prior training?

Ive done a bit of sword work with my brothers-

Oh, Im sorry to hear that! He cut her off and gave her a regretful smile that didnt reach his eyes. But were only accepting experienced swordsmen.

Tori stared at him for a moment before turning back to the other students. Are you all first years? They shrank back, as if she had yelled at them, but they nodded their heads. All right. And do you have experience with swords? She narrowed her eyes and the students tried to look away.

She almost didnt hear the quiet no and not really from the small group.

Tori turned back to the young man with sharp, accusing eyes. If you dont want me to join, there is no need to make up such an obvious lie. The young man tensed up and frowned. But I havent broken any rules and Im not on probation, so there is no reason to prohibit me from joining.

The young man drew his head back and let out a laugh. Not broken any rules? he asked, incredulous. Everyone knows you bought your way in!

Oh my God, not this again. Tori frowned, not bothering to hide the irritation in her voice. Prove it.

The young man glared at her. What?

Prove it, she repeated. If you want to accuse me and stop me from joining, show your proof. Prove that I bought my way in. She lifted her chin and gave him a condescending look that seemed to come naturally with her body. If you cant prove it, shut your mouth and stop spouting lies.

The atmosphere around the table went from awkward to tense. The young mans face began to turn red as he bristled and sneered. I am your senior. You should show some respect-

How can you be my senior if you wont even let me into your association? What kind of person wants the privilege, but not the responsibility, huh?

Listen-

Hector. Tori turned her head towards the sound of a low voice. Another young man wearing padded clothes walked towards the table from the sparring ring. He was a tall, burly student with his head shaved and a helmet under one arm. He wore a serious look on his square face as he reached them and moved in front of the youth she was arguing with. Lady Guevera, I am afraid we cannot approve your joining the Sword Association.

Tori frowned more so. May I know the reason?

Tori kept her eyes on Ewan as she pulled back her sword and stepped three paces back, putting the same distance between them that they started with.

Pommel to the throat, she said, returning to her relaxed stance. Thats one.

Yes! Ilyanas excited yell broke the stunned silence around the ring. You got him, Tori! That was amazing! Whoo! She clapped her hands together and Tori gave her a little salute with her hand.

That...that doesnt count! Hector rushed forward and bent down to check on Ewan. Ewan waved him away and pushed himself back up.

What do you mean? Tori frowned. I hit his throat.

Hector scowled. It has to be a hit on the head, above the neck, or the torso, below the neck and above the waist, to count.

Tori looked at Ewan as he stood on his feet, rubbing his throat as he hunched forward. Fine. She conceded the technicality. Hector wasnt wrong. She just needed to be more careful next time.

Are you all right, Ewan? the captain called from the side, where he had uncrossed his arms the moment she throat-slammed his brother.

Its nothing! Just surprised! Ewan shook his body and rolled his shoulders to loosen up before returning to his side of the ring. He lifted his sword in front of him, arms bent and ready to extend in order to hit her when the distance was closed. It looked like he was taking their little wager more seriously. Ready!

Tori remained in her relaxed stance. Hips facing her opponent, knees even beneath, and her weight distributed, but appearing as if she were simply being lazy with her arms hanging and sword pointed down.

The kid in front of her seemed tense and full of pent up energy ready to explode into an attack. His own stance was offensive and Tori chuckled to herself. Shed encountered many opponents who started with an offensive stance. It was fairly common and looked aggressive. As soon as the signal was given, theyd storm ahead. The style was very here I come.

However, Toris school taught her preferred style. Rather than here I come, it was come and get me. "Ready."

Fight! The vice-captain raised his arm and the kid across from her took a step forward and paused, waiting for Tori to move. She didnt. She wanted to let him come to her. When she didnt move, Ewans shoulders tensed and he stepped forward.

Another thrust to the face? Really? And at that distance? Tori took another half step to the right, avoiding the point of Ewans sword as she raised her arms and used the cross guard to deflect the blade. Her movement didnt stop with a block and she transitioned into a parry. Similar to her earlier move, she turned her pommel forward and slammed it into Ewans face mask.

It was a hard hit, carrying the force from her forward movement, and was enough to make him stumble back again. As he struggled to regain his footing, Tori opened distance between them, taking a step back, realigning herself, and whacking the back of his wrist with her sword. It wasnt too hard a hit, but it was enough to make him release his sword.

It hit the ground and Tori stepped back, this time keeping her sword up and between them.

I hit him on the head, she said aloud. Thats one!

Ilyana yelled once more. That mustve counted this time! She hit him in the face! She glared at the vice-captain, as if demanding he agree.

The vice-captain stood at the side, his mouth slightly agape as he looked at Tori with disbelief.

Vice-Captain. Tori didnt lower her sword. Arent you going to call it?

The young man took a step forward and raised his arm. He wore a pained expression as he lowered his arm to point to Tori. First hit: Victoria de Guevera....

Ilyanas clapping and excited yelling stood out from the murmuring crowd. Why arent you clapping? Tori heard her ask someone sharply. That was a good, clear hit to the face!

Tori chuckled beneath her mask and lowered her arms. She rolled her shoulders and relaxed her stance once more.

Is defense all you can do? she heard Ewan say in front of her. She looked ahead and shrugged.

Why waste my energy when my opponent can come to me?

Heh...very well. Ewan adjusted his stance once more. He held his sword on his right, in a slightly more relaxed position than when it was held center. Vice-Captain! Im ready!

Tori returned to her position. Ready.

Fight!

The crowd held their breath. No one moved.

Ewan remained in his position with his intense eyes fixed on Tori. She kept her gaze on his head, watching for it to bob with a movement and hint at what direction hed move. However, Ewan didnt take a step.

She raised a brow beneath her mask. It seemed the young man wanted to play her game. That wouldve been acceptable. Tori didnt mind playing a waiting game with him. Except, she barely had a sandwich for lunch and her stomach felt empty. She wondered if Ilyana was getting hungry, too.

Okay, lets end this quickly, she said under her breath as she lifted her sword to her shoulder. Behind her, the spectators watched with unwavering gazes as she took small, even steps in a slight angle. Keeping her hips in line with her opponent, she moved her arms and brought her sword down.

She couldve sworn she heard Ewan snort and criticize her move as he quickly raised his arms and used his sword to block and push the point of her sword to the ground. This time, Tori took a half step to the left and raised her arms, keeping her sword between her and him. Now, she faced his right side, which was left open.

It was a fast and smooth motion to rotate her sword from pointing to the ground, up and over her shoulder, before slamming it onto his right shoulder and dragging it over his chest and down his arm. She kept the pressure, as if wanting to cut off his flesh to get to his hand.

Ewan let out a hiss as Tori pushed her pommel down, lifting the point of the sword as she stepped forward, and pressed the tip against his chest, right beneath his breast bone.

I got his torso, she said, holding the sword against him firmly. You know what that means.

Two out of three! Ilyana nearly screamed and beneath her mask, Tori smiled. Tori wins!

Stop. A low voice cut through the tense air and Ewan turned his head. Toris eyes flickered to the side and watched as the captain approached, putting on a helmet. She narrowed her eyes and drew her sword back. Ewan, stand down.

Hey...hey, wait! Ilyana protested at once as everyone watched the captain usher aside his brother and put on his gloves. His sword was pinned under one arm as he stopped where Ewan had been standing. Thats not fair! Tori was only supposed to fight one opponent!

Tori frowned as well. She was getting hungry, was tired of being ostracized, and was wasting an unnecessary amount of energy for something that shouldve been as simple as filling out an application form.

Captain, I do believe we had an agreement. You understand that I only made it for convenience. I dont want to have to get the school involved to force you to accept me, Tori said.

The Captain stood across from her, a good head taller with arms as thick as her legs. From afar, it looked like overkill to have him fight her.

If you can get the sword out of my hand, youre in, he said in a calm voice. No one will restrict you. You wont be excluded from any activities and if someone retaliates against you for arbitrary reasons, they will face disciplinary actions.

Tori narrowed her eyes. Are you sure I wont have to fight everyone in the association?

I give you my word, he said. My name is Patrick Connor. I am the Captain of the Lyce du Soleil Sword Association and ranked first within it.

Oh, so were going by prison rules? Beat up the most powerful motherfucker in the yard and no one will mess with you? Got it.

Tori nodded. All right. She took a step back and rested her sword on her shoulder once more. Whenever youre ready, Captain.

He took the invitation. The captain moved forward, closing the distance until they were just a pace and a half apart. He moved around her and unlike his younger brother, his steps were smoother and he took angles. Tori moved to keep him within her center line of vision, almost matching him as if dancing.

The sound of the crowd surrounding the ring, cheering and yelling for the captain to beat her, faded into a dull background noise as she focused.

The captain suddenly moved forward, extending his sword to cut her. Tori stepped to the side, avoiding being hit, but his cuts were tighter, cleaner, and more exact than Ewans. He was aggressive, but Tori just had to keep her sword between her body and his sword. She narrowed her eyes.

As the smaller person, shed need to move in closer to actually hit him. His sword would normally hit her before she could touch him. That was what everyone thought whenever they watched the poor, short lady against the big, tall swordsman; shed never be able to reach him.

But people who relied on their size and reach had a difficult time when their opponent was too close. Few people felt confident enough to get in closer, which hindered the opponents ability to strike.

Tori lived off of that tactic.

Her small body was fast and if she was quick and precise enough, she could get a blade against her opponents throat before they could wonder where she went. With that in mind, she targeted the captains dominant arm. Using her own sword as an extension of her arm, she slid it against him, purposely avoiding his sword and getting so close that they were touching.

She heard him gasp behind the mask as she wove her sword over his forearm and under his armpit and then stepped around him, lifting her sword and his arm that wound around it. The angle of his arm was awkward and enough pressure would dislocate it. It was a daring move and too risky to be used in combat, when she needed to keep moving, but since it was just the two of them and she didnt need to worry about another attacker, she might as well use it.

Ugh! The captain groaned as he lurched forward, falling to his knee to relieve the pressure against his shoulder. His sword dropped as pain shot through his arm. Tori stepped around him, twisting his arm against his back as he hit the ground.

She stood behind the bigger student, her sword holding and pinning his arm awkwardly at his back as he hunched forward on his knees in front of her. The crowd was silent.

We had an agreement, Captain, Tori said, unmoving. I trust youre good on your word.

She watched his shoulders heave up and down with deep breaths. We had an agreement, he said. Welcome to the Lyce du Soleil Sword Association, Lady Guevera.

Her eyes crinkled up as she stepped back and slid her sword out from behind him. The captain brought his arm against his chest and rubbed it as he rose to his feet. He turned around and Tori lifted her sword, bringing it to her head in a salute as she met his dark eyes.

Its Tori.