Chapter 23: Get to Know Me a Bit Better

Chapter 23: Get to Know Me a Bit Better

Duels were uncommon at present. Usually, when there was news of a duel, it was more like a drunken brawl on the outskirts of town or two high ranking nobles had enough animosity that theyd finally agreed to a physical altercation to settle matters between them.

Ewan couldnt even remember the last time he heard about a duel in Horizon. They were so rare that when one happened, it was big news, especially if it was between nobles or wealthy individuals. As for duels between students and on school grounds, he didnt even think that such a thing happened in his parents generation.

Yet, as he watched the main fighting ring be cleared and Master McDouglass inspect the two wooden training swords that would be used, Ewan still couldnt believe it was happening.

And to Tori.

He paused and squinted. Then again, considering Toris past reputation, perhaps something like this was bound to happen? He debated whether he should go and get their friends, but the duel was going to start soon.

His eyes moved over to one side of the ring, where Sir Fabian von Dorn, the most highly ranked swordsman in the first-year class, was putting on a padded jacket. Master McDouglass agreed to let them have the duel, but safety precautions needed to be in place.

That meant wooden swords only, padded clothes, gloves, and helmets. As for the vague first to yield requirement for calling the winner, Ewan wasnt sure how exactly that would work. How did they know when one person yielded? Would that person have to say, I yield? Or would that person simply be unable to keep going?

Ewan. He heard his name called and he looked over and saw Tori adjusting her gloves. She tilted her head, making a slight beckoning motion. He walked forward. After this, do some laps around the training grounds to let out some energy and then go back to studying.

He couldnt believe he just heard her say that. Youre about to have a duel and youre telling me to go back to studying? Sometimes, he wondered if Toris mind was in the right place.

Not immediately, Tori said with a little shake of her head. Her bush of curly black hair was braided and she tucked it into the back of her padded jacket to keep it out of the way. The duel is probably going to get your energy up. You wont be able to concentrate immediately, so let it out first.

He ran a hand down his face. I cant believe you....

Itll be fine. This is as controlled an environment as we can get and Master McDouglass is overseeing the duel. Neither of us will get seriously hurt. She gave him a bright smile and Ewan wondered if she forgot that just minutes earlier, Sir von Dorn had pointed a sharp, metal sword at her face.

If Vice-Captain didnt stop him, Ewan wouldve brought his training sword down on Sir von Dorns extended arm. His first instinct was to protect his friend; he didnt think about the possible ramifications of injuring the second princes personal knight.

Tori seemed to look at him with slight amusement. She gave him a smile. Ewan, itll be fine, she told him with the same calm reassurance she gave them when they crossed the river. Dont worry. I wont let you regret not breaking his arm.

He squinted his eyes and looked down. Be careful.

Tori gave him another smile and pulled her helmet down, over her face. She patted his shoulder and walked towards the center of the ring.

Ewan gripped the sword in his hand tight. He let out a low breath and moved to stand closer to the ring.

Be careful, Fabian! Lady Harts voice filled the tense training grounds and Ewan couldnt help but frown at her.

The vice-captain was a few paces from her and Gideon and he gave her an incredulous look. Werent you just trying to stop him from fighting? Ewan almost nodded in agreement. For someone who seemed so desperate to stop the fight from happening, she had quickly turned to cheering Sir von Dorn on.

Lady Harts pretty face flushed and she shrank back beside Prince Gideon.

Here are your swords, Master McDouglass said as he handed Tori and Sir von Dorn each a wooden sword. It is the first to yield. Either one declares they yield or I decide they are no longer fit to continue. If a student appears injured, I will call the match immediately. If the other student continues to attack, then they lose the match and I will report the aggression to the headmaster, despite the agreed upon duel. He looked across the ring, disapprovingly at Prince Gideon, who nodded in agreement.

I agree, Tori said as she lifted her sword and gave her opponent a salute. Ewan didnt think Sir von Dorn deserved it.

I also agree. Sir von Dorn didnt mirror the movement and instead turned his back to Tori and took three paces for distance.

Hes already getting this ridiculous duel, Ewan heard his brother say beside him. He doesnt have to be a jerk about it. Patrick had his arms crossed over his chest and wore a tight frown.

Ewan glanced back at the ring. Tori stepped back another three paces. Master McDouglass moved back, to a safe distance, though he was also wearing a helmet.

Ready! their sword master called out. Sir von Dorn moved into an aggressive stance. Tori remained in her favorite position that seemed to invite the opponent to attack. Ewan swallowed hard. Perhaps Tori did not know about Sir von Dorns ability? Fight!

Sir von Dorn, surprisingly, didnt fly into an attack. He seemed to close distance, but didnt make a cut. He began to circle Tori, looking for a drop in her guard.

Do you think Tori can beat Sir von Dorn? Patrick asked him. Even I cant.

Despite his nervousness, Ewan nodded. It was a bit surprising. He thought hed shake his head and admit that his friend wouldnt be able to defeat the highest ranked first year swordsman, but he did know something that, aside from Tori, the rest of the people in the practice grounds didnt know.

She fought Sir Nassaun.

His brother uncrossed his arms and looked at him with surprise. Sir Nassaun? The first princes knight? Ewan nodded. How did that turn out?

Ewan furrowed his brows, ignoring the sudden clash of swords just a few paces from him. He blankly watched the two opponents put distance between each other as they realigned. I dont know. I wasnt there, Ewan said. But the last time I saw Sir Nassaun, I asked.

What did he say?

Ewan pursed his lips. He recalled the slight grin on Sir Nassauns face. Shes really fast.

She got his sword! Someone cried out and the brothers both focused on the ring in front of them. A wooden sword was tossed to the ground, and Tori was keeping close distance between her and Sir von Dorn.

She grabbed the blade of the sword, around the foible and held it across her body as if it were a short quarterstaff. She began to use it to hit various points of Sir von Dorns body and head with the pommel or simply use the blade as a club against his body; whatever opening she saw, shed take.

It seemed an almost reckless onslaught of attacks that didnt belong with a sword. Sir von Dorn seemed at a loss without his weapon and he just stood there, taking the hits. Everyone grimaced.

Tori took a step to the side and slammed her pommel beneath his chin. Ewan could hear the onlookers let out a hiss. A second later, she was behind Sir von Dorn. As he was still reeling from the hit, she realigned herself so she was facing his back. Her left hand returned to the pommel and Ewan bit his lip.

Lady Hart screamed.

The cut came down hard and fast, hitting the back of his right shoulder and dragging down across his back. At the very least, it would leave a bruise across Sir von Dorns back, padded jacket or not. He heard a grunt as Tori raised her arms and thrusted, the blunt tip of her sword pushing Sir von Dorn forward. He lost his balance. Fell to his hands and knees, and Tori pressed her point against his back, right behind his heart.

Guevera wins! Master McDouglass made the call at once and rushed towards the students.

Tori took a step back and lowered her sword as Sir von Dorns arms gave way. The hit on his shoulder likely caused the pain that weakened his arm. He fell onto his side and let out a cry.

What did you do to him! Prince Gideon appeared in the ring, skidding to his knees beside his knight as he looked at Tori with hateful eyes.

I made him yield. Tori spoke with such casual indifference that Ewan shuddered. She remained standing, her sword still at her side as she watched her opponent taking shallow breaths on the ground. I win the duel, Mr. von Dorn. She almost sounded as if she were mocking him. Are you satisfied?

Ewan rushed over to get a better look. He narrowed his eyes and drew his head back. Sir von Dorn was grasping his sides and curling up. The most celebrated first year swordsman was laying on the ground, beaten in less time than it took to instigate the duel.

Ewan let out a low whistle and looked at Tori, impressed and relieved. Sir Nassaun was right. You really are fast.

Tori shrugged. She handed her sword to the vice-captain and then lifted her helmet off.

Sir Nassaun? Prince Gideon looked up and narrowed his eyes as he knelt beside Sir von Dorn. How do you know my brothers knight?

Tori gave Ewan a look of disapproval and Ewan looked away. He didnt think it was a secret, but it seemed Tori didnt want to make it well known.

Hes my brothers underclassman, Tori said. She tugged off her gloves. You know who my brother is, dont you? Kasen de Guevera?

Master McDouglass was kneeling on the ground, inspecting Sir von Dorn. He gently helped the young man up and let out a low breath. Lord Kasen is more than on par with any imperial knight. Lord Sebastian is even more skilled than Lord Kasen.

Patrick furrowed his brows. Lord Sebastian is the reason they no longer have the anniversary tournaments, isnt he?

Ewan heard the stories, but was too young at the time that they happened. He only knew a little. Tori cocked her head to the side, looking equally confused.

What did my brother do?

Master McDouglass began to help Sir von Dorn to his feet as Prince Gideon came to his knights side to try to support him.

The imperial couples anniversary tournaments were a week-long tournament, where anyone can sign up and try their skill against imperial knights for a prize. He looked at Tori with an unreadable expression. Lord Sebastian was in his last year at Lyce. He went through 148 imperial knights in that week, without a single loss. He then dedicated his win to his sister.

Ewan wished someone dedicated their win to him. Tori had two brothers and he had three and two sisters, yet no one dedicated anything to him. He looked over at his friend. Tori had furrowed her brows.

Tori took a deep breath. I agree with you that the vandal should be punished, but he comes from a poor family. Chetterswickshire lacks work; where is he going to get the money for the coats he ruined? Itll already be a struggle for him and his family to pay the fine.

Henrik was not swayed. He shouldve thought of that when he broke in and vandalized our store.

Then what about his injury? Tori released his arm. When he fell he injured his hand. The doctor said he may not be able to hold anything in his hand again. He was in an apprenticeship with a jeweler and now he cant hold tools or instruments. Henrik, think about it. She gave her friend a beseeching look. How will he be able to make a living with this kind of injury? Itll be difficult for him to get a skilled labor job that pays better than being a farm hand - if he can even get that.

Henrik pursed his lips. He squinted and looked away, still hesitant to agree. Tori pressed on.

Henrik, hes our age. Hes just a kid and he made a mistake. A stupid one, but he didnt hurt anyone and its not as if we cant afford the damages incurred. At least let him off on the fees. They can better use that money to find a good doctor for him and try to fix or heal his injury. I dont want a kids life ruined because of one stupid decision.

She watched him swallow, but Henrik didnt agree.

Tori knit her brows together. She let out a low breath. And perhaps this will also appease Miss Hart and her friends. Waiving the fees is the only thing we can do at this point.

Henrik opened his mouth, appearing as if he was ready to argue, however, he seemed to be reminded of the trouble that Alessa and her love interests had caused recently. Ewan had excitedly told them about the duel, making everyone frustrated.

She watched Henriks shoulders fall and he sighed. He closed his eyes. Next time, dont be so soft.

Tori beamed. Thank you, Henrik!

Despite agreeing, Henrik was still visibly annoyed. If this happens again, no matter who it is, the fee will be paid.

Of course. Tori nodded. You can deal with it next time. I wont get involved.

He rolled his eyes. Im going to finish packing. Are you heading back to your dorm?

In a bit. I just need to pick up some lunch for me and Ilyana. Want to come?

I already ate. Ill see you at dinner.

Okay! Tori watched Henrik turn back in the direction of the west dorm before she began down the street.

Lady Guevera. Another voice called out to her and she briefly wondered how many people were going to stop her from getting food. She turned around and quickly drew her head back, surprised to see a handsome young man with dirty blond hair and gray eyes approaching. Good afternoon.

Tori tried not to frown. She was hoping she wouldnt have to run into another love interest or Alessa until she left, but it seemed that was not to be. She gave the young man a courteous nod.

Mr. Zisos, good afternoon. I just want to go get lunch and pack...can I not get a pause in the game for this?

Constantine gave her a smile and joined her. Im sorry to hear about your store being vandalized.

Tori lifted her hands. We can only waive the damaged goods fee. The rest is out of our hands.

She heard his low chuckle and his soft smile didn't leave his face. I know. I heard what you said to Mr. Skuldsen. He turned to look at her and she thought he looked rather pleased. There isnt anything wrong with being soft-hearted every now and then.

Tori wasnt sure what he was going to say when she saw him, but she did not expect this. She froze for a moment and couldnt help but glance at him suspiciously. Thank you. I only did what I thought was right.

His smile seemed to widen and he looked ahead. Ive noticed youre not quite what the rumors say.

At this, Tori let out a little snort and grinned. Is anyone really what the rumors say, Mr. Zisos?

I suppose youre right, he said. Youre much more kind than people say. She turned her head back at him, her eyes wide. Most people would be happy to watch someone who tried to do them harm suffer for a lifetime, but you are still worried about that young mans future.

Tori shook her head as they walked down the street and rounded a corner. Youre giving me too much credit. I just dont think a child should have to suffer the rest of his life because of one stupid decision that didnt hurt anyone. Even if he has a problem with or doesnt like me, I dont want him to suffer like this. As a great philosopher once said, I still want to see you eat, just not at my table.

Constantine looked surprised at this and blinked. What philosopher said that?

Tupac. I read it in some obscure book.

She stopped in front of Cafe Fortuna and Constantine smiled even more. Thats quite a book. He opened the door for her and followed her inside.

Tori went straight to the back and waved. Hi, Tobias! Do you have any of that stuffed chicken breast over pilaf? I want one of those and a cheese sandwich. Two coffees, a custard, and a slice of whatever pie you have today, too. I can bring the containers back tomorrow.

Tobias nodded. Well get it ready for you, Lady Tori.

Tori smiled as she leaned over the counter. She looked at Constantine, who didnt seem to plan on ordering. Um...would you like anything to eat or drink?

He looked around. What do you recommend?

It was a cafe and Tori wasnt sure what his food preferences were. She didnt recall there being any dietary restrictions for the church of Belcoy, but didnt want to suggest something he couldnt eat. She wrinkled her nose a bit and looked him up and down.

Do you like coffee?

I do.

All right. Tobias, she said, leaning back across the counter. Can I get a foam with grounds?

Of course, my lady. As Tobias brother worked on packing away the food she ordered, Tobias took out a small copper pot and put in some water. He measured out fine ground coffee and began to heat the small copper pot. Does the gentleman want sugar?

Just a little, please, Constantine said as he watched Tobias.

Toris food was packed in a canvas bag with her coffee in a special ceramic jar with a cork lid that had a small hole drilled at the top. It was placed beside her as Tobias took the coffee off the heat and then let it rest for a moment. The warm scent filled the air. Tori watched with interest as the coffee was poured into a small cup.

A moment later, it was placed on the counter in front of Constantine. Enjoy.

Thank you, sir. Constantine picked up the cup by the small handle and blew across the top before taking a sip.

Curious to see if hed like it, Tori watched him drink. His eyes seemed to widen and as he lowered the cup, a pleased smile filled his face. His gray eyes rose and met her blue ones.

How did you know Id like unfiltered coffee?

The corner of her lip tugged up a bit. I didnt. In truth, it was a guess. She once met someone with his name in Greece and so she went with this worlds version of a Greek styled coffee. She knew it was a shallow reason, but was pleasantly surprised that shed guessed right. She looked back at Tobias. How much is the total?

73 coppers, my lady.

She reached into her pocket for her money pouch only to see a silver coin placed on the counter and pushed forward.

She looked towards Constantine, who continued to drink. Mr. Zisos, I can pay for your coffee. I was the one who asked.

No, he said. Your order and mine are on me.

Tori shook her head. I cant accept that.

Please, Lady Guevera. I came to bother you first. Allow me to pay this time, he said, unbothered by her protests.

She hesitated and tilted her head to the side. She raised a brow. I didnt think youd be so pushy, Mr. Zisos.

She watched his lips curl into a grin. His eyes held hers with a playful glint. Then, perhaps you should get to know me a bit better. He lifted his cup towards her before bringing it to his lips and drinking the remaining contents and then placing it on the counter. Constantine gave her one more satisfied smile. Ill see you next semester, Lady Guevera.

Toris jaw dropped as he gave a courteous smile at Tobias and walked out of Cafe Fortuna without looking back.

Did...did some kid just...? No. No. Tori turned her head towards the counter and met the curious eyes of Tobias, his brother, and Mama J peeking out from the kitchen. Tori slammed her hand on the counter, placing another silver coin on it before grabbing her bag.

Dont tell Axton or Piers! She shot out of the cafe in the opposite direction of Constantine, refusing to acknowledge what just happened.