Chapter 13: Hunger is the Best Seasoning

Chapter 13: Hunger is the Best Seasoning

The worst-case scenario was that one of her group mates got hurt or worse.

The second worst case scenario was the one in front of her.

Why did they keep appearing in front of her when she wanted nothing to do with them? What sort of bullshit forced conflict was this?

Ignoring the NPC that filled out their groups, five out of the seven Romance of Soleil targets were standing in front of her with the heroine. There was no way Tori wouldnt feel suddenly cornered. This wasnt her bad end, but it was bad enough.

A dozen teenagers appeared from the forest, appearing cold, hungry, and obviously tired. They hadnt set up their camps yet, let alone selected a spot to set up at, and were now looking at her groups camp with expectant eyes. She knew exactly what they wanted even before Alessa opened her mouth.

While her grip on her dagger loosened, Tori still instinctively stepped in front of her boiling pasta to protect it from unwelcomed mouths.

She now faced a dilemma.

The heroine just asked her for a favor. If she agreed, there was a good chance theyd want their food, take up their space, and ruin the overall relaxed atmosphere Lions Gate was enjoying. She didnt know what Alessa and her wall of love interests would ask for, but she was sure it wouldnt just be permission to camp next to them.

On the other hand, if she disagreed and told them what she felt in her heart: hell no, find your own damn camping spot; she would upset the group, worsen her already shit reputation with them, and possibly open herself up to future retribution that could inadvertently lead to death at the hands of sex slavers.

She really didnt like either choice.

Tori looked towards her now quiet and serious group, silently asking them for permission.

Five pairs of eyes looked back at Tori, as if saying youre the leader; you make the call.

She swallowed hard. She settled on the third choice: avoid saying yes by feigning ignorance.

You're in luck. The area around here is a good place to set up camp. She turned towards the stream and looked over Ilyana and Henriks heads. That area over there is flat and suitable for laying down bedrolls. Its close enough to the river so you can fetch water with just a light crystal without fear of getting lost or running into anything, but far enough away that the ground is dirt and there are no large, protruding river rocks. She turned back to Alessa with an enthusiastic smile. Plus, its enough space for both your groups.

It is also far enough away from mine. Her suggestion wasnt permission to join her group, but since Tori didnt give them a flat no and reject them, they couldnt really criticize her. After all, she did recommend an area nearby that would be beneficial.

Alessas hopeful smile still faltered. She didnt make her disappointment obvious, but Tori had the distinct feeling that she was not used to being rejected.

Oh...is this area across from your fire not good enough? Alessa asked, glancing at the dirt patch opposite their tents.

We cleared that space for fire hazard reasons, JP said, suddenly. The wind was blowing in that direction earlier and we were worried any embers from the campfire would be blown over, so we kept it clear.

Tori mentally gave JP a thumbs up. That space was empty because they had nothing to put there.

Well, our good classmates are kind enough to recommend an ideal spot to us, Dimitri said as he put his hand on Alessas sunken shoulders. He looked towards the princes lackeys. Why dont we get at it? Its already dark.

The breath of relief that escaped Tori and her group was either unnoticed or ignored, but Tori still remained standing where she was, watching the two other groups.

As most of the boys lumbered towards the open space between them and the stream, Tori could see Girl NPC 1 and 2 huddled together to keep warm. Like Alessa, they also wore pants and long sleeve shirts, but none of them seemed to consider that the temperatures would drop significantly once the sun set.

Toris eyes moved to the protagonist to compare. She narrowed her eyes; that was quite an oversized jacket on Alessas narrow shoulders. Tori almost wanted to smirk. Which one of the love interests got the honor of giving her their jacket? She scanned each target and noticed that the blue-haired guy was in a long sleeve shirt and didn't have a jacket, like the others.

There were nine boys in the combined two groups and out of the three girls, only Alessa was offered a jacket. This game was treating Alessa as the pretty friend while ignoring the two plain ones, like some douchebag in a club.

How long do you think it will take to get a fire going? Girl NPC 2 asked.

It shouldnt take long. Fabian has had some wilderness training, Gideon said, sounding confident about his knights abilities.

Tori glanced over at the second campsite and crinkled her eyes. They didnt even have any kindling. What was Fabian going to start a fire with? Dirt?

While theyre setting up, do you girls want to sit by the fire? Tori motioned to the campfire between them. Its not very big, but its a bit warmer closer to it.

Thank you!

I was hoping youd ask!

Toris fake smile started to hurt. She watched the two Girl NPCs scramble forward and instead of crouching near the fire to warm their hands, they loomed over the log where Ilyana and Henrik were seated.

They didnt say a word, but it was obvious they wanted to sit on the log. Ilyana rolled her eyes and scooted down, forcing Henrik to scoot down, and making Sonia lower her arms to make room. The Girl NPCs smiled brilliantly, as if they just didnt use social pressure to get the seats.

You should stay here and get warm, Gideon told Alessa as he stood in front of her. You worked hard today.

Alessa pulled the jacket tighter around her. No, I'm part of the group! I can help set up!

Gideons face softened. Dont worry, we can set up the camp quickly and get the fire up in no time.

Tori squinted. She couldnt believe she was forced to watch this at her own campsite. Turning to Ewan, she picked up the large spade that was next to the fire hole.

Help them clear a spot for a fire. When youre done, come back and well get them started with some kindling and the flame so they dont have to start from scratch, Tori said, handing him the spade. She leaned forward and lowered her voice. The sooner they have their own fire, the sooner theyll leave and we can eat in peace.

Any resistance Ewan had vanished and he smacked JPs arm as he passed. Grab some kindling for them. Just enough to start them off. We have plenty to last us.

JP raised a brow, glanced at Tori for confirmation, and then stood up once she nodded. JP gathered a bunch of twigs and a handful of bark and straw and followed Ewan to the other camp.

Thank you for your help, Lady Guevera, Alessa said as she picked up the bowls JP had put on the stump and placed them on the ground next to it so she could sit.

Tori could see her group mates barely contained disgust. Sonia reached over to pick up the bowls and dusted the bottom one off before putting it on her lap.

Ilyana took a deep breath and offered the Girl NPCs a pleasant smile. Were surprised to see you here. We strayed away from other groups some time ago and hadnt seen anyone since we set up. Were you all looking for a place to set up camp?

Yes and no, Girl NPC 1 said. We were fishing and lost track of time. We couldnt find a clear place to set up our camp and the sun set faster than we expected.

We were going to make do with camping in the brush or by the river, but Fabian smelled smoke. Alessa looked excited as she spoke. Dimitri said it was likely another group and we walked a bit further and saw the fire.

Tori cursed the campfire, as if it had betrayed them.

You have to be more careful tomorrow night, Henrik said. He didnt bother to sound pleasant. Before the sun sets, you should be setting up camp. Its dangerous to continue when night falls.

We planned to, but we had an accident, Girl NPC 1 said. One of the Armada boys was refilling our water canisters after lunch and his bag fell into the river. It was swept away before anyone could get to it.

It was the bag that carried our food. Girl NPC 2 looked gutted by this, but then looked towards Alessa with admiring eyes. Luckily, Alessa caught some fish.

Tori stirred the pasta in the pot and crinkled her eyes. She went fishing? Is that like a side game?

She heard giggling and from the stump, Alessa clapped her hands. I used to go fishing all the time in Chetterswickshire. There were many streams near my home. I also cleaned the fish myself. All we have to do is roast them now.

Oh...lucky, Sonia said with a nod. It wouldve been tragic if you had nothing to eat.

"Alessa isn't like other noble girls." Girl NPC 1 bragged openly. "She had no problem getting her hands dirty and gutting the fish."

Tori caught her three remaining group mates exchange silent, dubious looks, and she pulled in her lips to keep from snorting. I'm not like other noble girls because I can gut fish. Bitch, please. I watched my Marquess mother take part in a pig slaughter over the summer just to get the entrails so she could make Papa the sausage he likes so much.

Fire pit is set up. JP returned and began to pick through the various burning sticks in their campfire.

Wheres Ewan?

Digging a toilet. JP pulled out one of the sticks that was lit up like a torch. Everyone out of the way!

He marched back, passing Gideon who was coming to retrieve the girls. Gideon swung out to the side to avoid the torch and glowered at JP before turning back to Toris camp. He approached Alessa and knelt down by the stump.

Once he starts the fire, well be ready to roast the fish you caught, he said. You really saved us, Alessa.

Both Girl NPCs chorused with agreement and Tori vaguely heard Sonia whisper its just fish under her breath.

Alessa rose to her feet and smiled. Great! Lets start immediately! She motioned her hand up to signal the Girl NPCs to follow her and Tori wondered if she remembered that the other two didnt have jackets. She looked towards the other camp and could see JP crouched by a small glowing pile of embers, blowing into it while several other boys stood around like mannequins.

Thank you for the fire, Gideon said. Tori almost wanted to sneer. At least he had the decency to thank them. He craned his neck as he stood up to see what she was cooking and curled his lip in distaste. Enjoy your dinner.

He turned away and Tori put a lid with several rows of small holes along one side on top of the pot. She reached into her bag and put on the oven mitts she borrowed from her aunts kitchen and carried the pot to the tree line. She drained the water and then returned.

Ilyana took Toris water canister with her to fill up as the small group headed to the river. When they returned, there were slices of frittata in their bowls and Tori was slicing meat and cheese.

Is the water ready? Henrik asked.

Yeah, its still hot, though. Tori pushed forward her mug with what looked to be another mug with small holes at the bottom. Henrik opened a metal canister and scooped out some ground coffee into everyones cup, then poured the hot water over to let it drip into the lower cup. Lets get the map and review our hike for the day. We have to make good time since were crossing the river today.

That would be the most complicated part of the hike. Theyd lose time, but safety was their priority. As Tori and Henrik reviewed the map, Ewan finished cutting up the meat and cheese while Sonia and JP made their lunch sandwiches. Ilyana wrapped them up and packed them in each persons satchel.

My, my, dont you all look prepared for the day, an amused voice said. Tori lifted her head and saw Constantine coming over. I could smell your breakfast all the way over there. It smells delicious.

Thank you, Tori said. We planned out our meals for the excursion.

Is that so? He craned his neck and looked into Toris open bag. You still have quite a bit of supplies.

Ewan reached over and quickly lowered the flap over the opening, making Constantine jump back a bit. Not really; we only brought the minimum wed need for the three-day, two-night excursion.

If we dont get to the end point by tomorrow afternoon, were in trouble, Ilyana said with a light laugh.

I was going to ask you if we could perhaps buy some rations from you, Constantine said. I believe the girls told you yesterday that we lost our food to the river. Ewan looked like he wanted to reject him, but Constantine didnt let him talk. We could really use the help considering how difficult the night has been.

Well, whos fault is that? Certainly not mine. Tori thought to herself. Still, she let out a sigh and stood up. I was actually thinking about your food situation last night. It was an accident that you lost your food. I went over the rations and adjusted our meal plan. Tori walked back to her tent and took out a wheel of cheese as wide as the length of her hand and a large paper wrapped package. This has a large loaf made the day before yesterday, six smoked pork sausages, and a jar of pickles. She held them out to Constantine. If you combine it with any fish Miss Hart catches, it should get you all through until tomorrow.

Constantines eyes were wide as he accepted the rations. Thank you, Lady Guevera. Thats quite generous of you! The giving hands have the largest hearts!

The corner of Toris eye twitched. Its going to be a long day with the river crossing. You all should eat.

Constantine took the rations and headed back to his camp triumphantly.

Are we going to be short on food? Ewan asked, sounding as if he wasnt sure how to feel about what just happened.

No, I packed extra, Tori said. As a precaution in case we were delayed. But now, we have to get to the end point at our estimated time. I left a bunch of food in the wagon for us to eat on the way back.

Howd you know they were going to come ask for food? Ilyana asked.

Tori began to pack up her things. They dont have a choice. If they dont ask, theyll go hungry...at least until they find another group that may give them food.

Then you really prepared it for them last night? JP asked. Tori nodded.

Im not a monster, she said with a helpless shrug. And I have to toss them something to lessen the hate after I pretty much told them to go fuck themselves last night. Now, lets hurry up and take the tents down. We have a river to cross.

Tori took the initiative to bid the other camp farewell. Her words were short and sweet, aiming to be more a notification that of their departure and not leaving room to allow the other two groups to follow. Henrik was already leading the group away when Tori wished the other groups a safe journey.

Did they try to invite themselves along? Sonia asked as Tori rushed to catch up with them.

I tried not to give them a chance to.

I was thinking..., JP said as they marched along. You dont think they purposely came to find our group because of our tents, do you?

Tori let out a low breath. The thought did cross her mind. Lets just forget about it. Hopefully, we wont run into them again.

They followed the stream until it fed back into the Daga River. The shores on either side were clear of trees; just sediment and round stones, so they stuck to the area just beyond, where there was still relatively even dirt.

It didnt take them long to start seeing groups huddled by the river, maps out and trying to figure out if they were in the northernmost point and where to cross.

It doesnt look so bad, Ewan said as they passed a group. The river is narrower here than it was earlier. Cant we cross here, too?

Tori stopped and looked over her shoulder. Ewan shrank back, as if hed said something wrong. Tori drew her lips inward. Okay, I get it. Come here. She veered off their course and walked closer to the shore. Several groups turned in their direction, but didnt make contact, instead opting to watch them, as if expecting a show. As her group reached the edge of the water, she looked around the rocky ground and picked up a weather-worn stick that washed ashore. She turned around to face her group. Okay...first...Henrik, are we at the northernmost point of the river?

He reached into his satchel and took out his map. He compared the notes to the scenery around them. I believe so.

And if that side is north, then the flow is going southwest, Tori said, first holding her arm out to point across the river and then turning to point downstream. You can kind of see the river start to bend there. Its very subtle, but itll start to flow southwest, right?

Right.... Her group nodded.

Back to the stick. Keep your eyes on it. Tori turned around and hurled it into the water. It landed somewhere in the middle and everyone squinted to catch sight of it. It bobbed up further downstream and then was quickly swept away. Tell me: can you walk faster than that stick is being carried by the current?

The stick was nearly out of view and tossed around, through some white froth. It occasionally disappeared under the water.

Ewan squinted. No....

Then what makes you think you can stand up and wade across the river when the current is faster than you can move? Tori asked as she turned around to face them. The river bends, but its not sudden. If youre washed away, you wont hit the shore. We also dont know how deep the river is at this point, but anything around your knees and up is too risky. You can also see some white water; thats the froth at the top. That indicates speed, an unstable current, and rapids, which in turn mean sharper rocks and steeper gradients we cant necessarily see on the surface. The unseen current can knock you over, you wont be able to stand, and youll be dragged downriver. If youre lucky, youll be able to stay afloat long enough to get to where the river is shallow and slows. If youre not...well...its a risk for a reason, right? She gave Ewan a questioning look. Still think its safe to cross here?

Ewans face paled and he shook his head from side to side. Tori gave him an approving nod.

Smart. Lets continue down and find a safer place to cross. Tori led them back to the edge of the forest and continued south.

They made it a few minutes before the sound of multiple footsteps trudging behind them registered. Tori glanced over her shoulder and could make out at least two dozen people following not a few paces from her group.

Im sure well lose them, Henrik said as he checked the compass.

Were they following us the whole time? Tori narrowed her eyes. She had been so focused on moving forward, she wasnt paying attention.

I dont know if theyre following us or going in the same direction, Henrik said. But as far as I know, were the only ones whove made the decision to cross downstream. It takes too long, so other groups dont want to waste their time.

Tori furrowed her brows. She reached into her shirt and pulled out her compass, slowly coming to a stop. Oh no! Bad news! She raised her voice and turned to face her group. Were going in the wrong direction!

What! Someone in the mass of students behind them let out a cry of disbelief. Weve been following you for half an hour!

Ilyana whirled around with an incredulous look. Why are you following us? The other students didnt even want to share the same wagon as them.

A girl at the head of the group sputtered and shook her head. Were not following you!

You just said you were following us for half an hour! Sonia nearly choked with anger.

Its a coincidence! Another student said, defensive. Were going in the same direction!

Oh...oh, okay! Sonia sneered and nodded her head. Then dont let us keep you back! She turned towards Tori. Should we stop here for a snack?

The corner of her lip turned up. Its about lunch time. Lets take a break. They marched further away from the river, finding a place by the base of the trees to sit down in the shade.

The group of people seemed at a loss as Lions Gate sat in a loose circle and took out their wrapped sandwiches. Tori opened a tin of sliced fruit and another charcuterie tin, using her rucksack as a little table to place them on. They unanimously ignored the other students as they took a rest and made a show of eating their sandwiches, praising each other for their hard work, and complimenting the spread.

The other students mulled about like displaced bees who just lost their queen.

Ilyana took a piece of ham and cheese on a cracker as she eyed them. Theyre definitely following us.

Henrik snorted. Whatever gave you that idea?

We cant just wait for them to leave here, Ewan said. They dont look like theyre going anywhere soon.

JP furrowed his brows. Should we try to go in a different direction?

No, Tori said. Theres no guarantee well lose them and we dont know how long itll take for them to get frustrated with us and leave on their own.

Why are they following us, anyway? They dont even like us, Sonia grumbled.

They all started to follow us after the northernmost point...when Tori threw the stick in the river, Henrik said with narrowed eyes. I think its because we have something they lack.

A place to cross? Ilyana asked.

A competent leader. Several eyes turned towards Tori as she stretched out, resting against some jutting tree roots and munched on cheese cubes.

She frowned. Leadership is overrated.