Chapter 47: Joke's On You

Chapter 47: Joke's On You

The consecration of various areas of the delta was an all-day event. After much discussion with the villagers, civil engineers, surveyors, and excavators, three sites were consecrated by the Bishop of Karap. The first site was on the largest of the delta islands, which had yet to start any development.

In the morning, several boats brought Tori, several village leaders, project and construction leads, and the Bishop of Karaps party, including Brother Cassius and Constantine, to the largest island: le des Rois or, as Tori often just referred to it - Rois.

After the consecration of the future church site on Rois, they went to an island slated for phase three of construction: Naos, where a small temple complex would be built. It was half the size of the test island and just next to Rois. Tori thought building a bridge between it and the church one day would be nice.

The party then returned to the encampment for lunch. In the afternoon, they visited an area further up river, past the encampment, that Tori had specifically asked to secure for the village.

They took boats to where a bend in the river made a piece of land jut out. It was dotted with trees and relatively flat; not as wet as downriver.

This was the area selected on the mainland to house the remains of the villages dead. Soleil both cremated and burial their dead, but the villagers custom was a day-long cremation. According to Johan, the deceaseds ashes and bones would be gathered by close family members and friends to be put in a stone, ceramic, or simple pottery box and buried on a section of the familys property reserved for burial.

If the family didnt have property, then theyd be buried in a public cemetery. In the delta, no one had property where they could bury generations of family members. It didnt seem that anyone really thought about this until Tori brought it up.

In her original world, shed been to many cemeteries. Some, like New Orleans St. Louis Cemetery Number One, had been for tourist reasons: curiosity on architecture, culture, and local religious practices. Sometimes, the burial area had historical significance. Other times, it was for the more mundane reason of someone she knew being buried there.

So, she took the lead. She suggested looking for a place on the mainland where they could bury and entomb their dead. Tori scoured the area just beyond the previously allocated land and applied for an area to be allocated to the village as burial grounds. Brother Cassius was brought into the conversation, as she wanted to be respectful of religious traditions. In the end, the group mapped out a piece of land that would be divided into plots for families to use with both below and above ground burials.

Tori sectioned off an area within that piece of land to be used for the cremation, including a place for people to sit and a small house with a kitchen for the family to rest and serve food to mourners. No gathering was done without food, after all. There would also be places for select shrines.

They still had to plot out the finer details, but it was enough to have secured the land for burial.

Tori was fascinated watching the consecration. There was holy water and incense involved. There was a specific blessing made and a prayer said to the Belcoy pantheon asking for blessing and protection. Finally, a hand-sized piece of clear quartz carved with Old Sulfae was buried in the soil. Constantine told her that the quartz was kept in Temple Mountain for at least a hundred years before it is brought out to consecrate a site.

That meant on the delta, there were three of those quartz pieces now buried. After the consecration of the burial grounds, the Bishop of Karap stood overlooking the river at the edge of the piece of land.

Lady Guevera, the gray-haired man with blue eyes and wrinkled, tanned skin said. May I ask why you selected this area for the burial grounds?

Tori was standing beside him and pursed her lips. It seemed like a good place for a ceremonial site. Far enough away from the edge of the delta where it wouldn't be bothered and perhaps one day threatened by urban sprawl, but close enough for the villagers to come. The surveyors and planners said this was also suitable land for modest burial and to build above ground tombs to hold remains.

It is on the west side of the river, the Bishop said. He turned around to face the land. From here, you can see the sunset.

Tori smiled a bit. Is it not fitting?

The Bishop smiled as well and looked ahead. It is very fitting. You have done well, Lady Guevera.

As Constantine said: we should all strive to do what the gods call upon us to do, Tori replied. She heard the old man chuckle.

Lady Guevera, as this area is not part of any duchy and their bishops, whose religious jurisdiction is it under?

As of right now, as this is property of the Imperial Family, I believe its under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Horizon, Tori said. Though, it is a bit far.This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com

My jurisdiction covers many outlying coastal villages and islands in the gulf.

Tori raised a brow and looked at the old man with a slight grin. Your Excellency, are you asking to oversee the delta?

There is a good energy here, the Bishop told her as he squinted into the distance. The vein is strong.

Can you sense it? She was impressed. Aside from Instructor Ignatius, who had perked up in the carriage as soon as they reached the general vicinity of the delta and its energy vein, no one else had mentioned it.

The old man chuckled and gave her a knowing look. There are few crystal masters remaining, but we exist, he said. Also, Lady Guevera, the Archbishop of Karap and Temple Mountain, and the regions coasts and islands, is Pope Zisos. He has heard of your project and is interested.

Tori drew her head back and felt another wave of pressure sweep over her. The pope is interested in my Lyce project? Why did these important people keep becoming interested in her project?

Specifically, the resettlement of refugees. The process may also be applied to people faced with natural disaster, as well as war, the Bishop told her. As you know, the Belcoy Church is heavily involved with such organizations and projects dealing with helping those who need it. He has asked me to extend the goodwill of the church to you, should you need it.

Her mouth opened and remained agape as she tried to take in the Bishops words. But...the church is already helping.

The Bishop chuckled once more. And should you need additional help, even if it is prayers or blessings, we are open to your requests.

Tori could only nod, somewhat stunned that shed received such an offer. This was beyond her expectations when she asked Constantine. She frowned.

Your Excellency, is this because of Mr. Zisos? she asked, her brows furrowed.

The Bishop smiled. No, though he was the one who brought it to the Popes attention. He sent us to both consecrate the land, as asked, and to observe. The collaborative work is impressive. Everyone is eager.

There is a sense of urgency to get them settled and seeing the islands slowly develop is encouraging, Tori said. I can only plan and budget. Its the villagers, students, professors, and hired workers that do the difficult work.

The Bishop reached out his hand and Tori, having seen him do this earlier, lifted her head and brushed aside some hair that fell over her forehead. She heard him speak in Old Sulfae before pressing his thumb against her forehead and making a small circle. She could feel a bit of gentle, comforting warmth coming from that spot.

Eshra, Karsar, and Surgrid, he said as he pulled back his hand. Your trifecta blessing is the goddess of mercy and benevolence, the god of fortitude, and the goddess of knowledge. His eyes crinkled up and he laughed. How very fitting!

Tori smiled a bit. While all Gueveras had at least one of their blessings be from a god of wisdom, usually Suraelle or Surgrid, the other two were selected for what aspects the parents and godparent hoped the child would have.

Sebastian was also blessed with Surgrid, then Juhan, god of military strength and battle ability, and Saphira, goddess who protected the home, family, and children. Kasen was blessed with Suraelle, god of wisdom; Zoara, goddess of logic and reason; and, surprisingly, Phirus, god of passion and creativity.

Shed heard her mother lament that she shouldve had Kasen blessed by the goddess of patience and understanding, as Kasen used to get into fights all the time as a child.

Your Excellency! Lady Guevera! The boats are ready! Someone called from the makeshift wooden dock not far away.

Lady Guevera, please do not feel pressured by my words or the words of Pope Zisos, the Bishop said. What you are doing now is more than enough.

Tori gave him a small bow of her head and followed behind him. She took her seat on a separate boat, where she discussed possible buildings for the burial area. Tori wanted to wait until Architect Ebbadottir returned, as the woman was still combing the empire for quality resources to be used.

The Bishop was to stay until the end of the week and at first, Tori wasnt sure what else hed do, as shed already given him a tour of the islands and the encampment. She didnt need to worry. When he wasnt giving counsel to villagers or leading a prayer, he dragged his small entourage of exasperated priests and guards around the delta.

To count, Tori knew he took a small walking tour along the shore with Brother Cassius, went bird and animal watching with Margo, which included a successful whale-watching trip, and heavily discussed crystals with Instructor Ignatius.

The day before the Bishop and his party were scheduled to leave, a worried Constantine ran to find her because the Bishop and Instructor Ignatius were doing a crystal experiment on one of the empty islands.

Theyre what? Tori snapped her head up from the table, where she was reviewing the list of supplies the teachers had requested.

Constantine ran a hand through his hair and kept looking out the open door, towards the shore. They just got on a boat. Brother Cassius tried to talk them out of it, but they insisted, and so he sent me to get you.

Tori shot up from her seat. Nanny Rey! she shouted as she ran around the divider to her sleeping quarters. Get the things from Daybreak Garden! She rushed out with a large bag around her shoulder.

Constantines eyes narrowed, appearing confused. What is-

Lets go! We need to get there before they do something! Tori ran past him. As they shot out of her tent, Nanny Rey was right beside them with what looked like a pile of thick, leather bags in her arms.

Tori nearly ran the entire way to the dock, reaching it somewhat out of breath. As soon as the boatmen saw her coming, they opened the gate to let her, Constantine, and Nanny Rey through.

Where did the Bishop and Instructor Ignatius go? Constantine asked as they got into one of the boats.

His Excellency and the instructor said they were going to Anahata Island, the boatman said. Anahata Island was named after the heart chakra, as the first time Tori went on it, she could feel energy without trying. Nowhere else on the delta had she been able to sense it so clearly just by being near that particular island. It also happened to be the island furthest away from shore, but when viewed from the lagoon, it was spaced in the center. Shall I follow?

Yes! Quickly! Tori said, almost unable to contain her impatience. We need to get there before they start.

Constantine nodded. His look of worry didnt fade. Across from him, Tori gathered the heavy leather pieces from Nanny Rey.

What are those?

Leather aprons. Theyre usually used in a blacksmiths shop, Tori said. I also brought some helmets.

Tori drew her lips into a tightline. I am so spoiled; I almost hate myself.

Wait a moment. I brought it up, Kasen said, frowning. This should be my present.

You copied and translated that entire charms book from Master Ramos for her. The crystal energy fortifications are from me! Sebastian told them. Tori, dont worry. Ill have everything ready before you start Lyce in the fall.

Tori wanted to protest, but she looked at Instructor Ignatius and the Bishop, who looked surprisingly excited at the idea despite clearly being threatened. She took a deep breath and nodded. I will leave it to you, Sebby. You should come and see them when theyre being installed.

Youre inviting me? Sebastian sounded elated and Tori cringed.

If youre not busy-

Then as soon as Papa and Mama return from the succession ceremony, Ill come! Save me a tent! As if to make sure that no one would refute him, he quickly told his siblings, or rather, Tori, that he loved her and to be good before the crystal dimmed and the call ended.

Lady Tori, with the crystal energy fortifications, we can safely do our experiments on the island. Instructor Ignatius looked almost breathless as he thought of their glorious, experiment-filled future.

This is a good distance away from the rest of the islands, the Bishop agreed with a serious look. Small bursts of energy, like what happened at Lyce, wont be a problem. Considering safety, people would be out of harms way. With your brothers precautions, it would be enough to contain large waves of energy.

And remember, even large waves of energy from crystals do weaken the further out they go, Instructor Ignatius told her. I also highly doubt wed work on something with that much energy on the island. There is just limited space. However, it would be a good place to do some research and development, as youve called it.

Tori furrowed her brows. I have no problem with this as long as it doesnt negatively affect the village and the delta. That includes the wildlife and environment, as well as the people and the structures.

Of course. Id hate for there to be a negative impact on the quality of life here, the Bishop said with seriousness. Where would the otters live?

Kasey? Tori turned to her brother. What do you think?

It can be done, Kasen said. Although, I think that aside from Sebastian, you should try to find another master. Tori slowly lifted her hand to point to Instructor Ignatius and Kasen snorted. Hes a master in the loosest of terms.

Considering the scope of this, I may not be of as much help, the Bishop said as he furrowed his brows and frowned. I am also required in Karap.

Your Excellency, do you know of any other crystal masters who may be able to help? Instructor Ignatius asked.

The old man frowned and appeared stumped. Tori looked down and wrinkled her nose. She didnt know who else to ask. Perhaps Sebastian would know. She reached into her pocket and took out her comcry to call him back.

Her eyes widened with surprise to find it glowing. She flipped it open, wondering who it was as it wasnt time for her nightly Ilyana-call. Across from her, the Bishop looked at Instructor Ignatius with some disappointment.

There is one, but hes kept a low profile since his retirement-

Hello? Mr. Ramos? Tori stepped a bit away to take the call.

Lady Guevera, how are you? an amused, scratchy voice asked from the comcry.

Tori smiled. Im doing very well! How are you? Are you calling with more books on charms?

She heard him laugh. Im still collecting a few for you. I received a call from your brother just now.

Tori drew her head back. My brother...? She looked at Kasen, but knew he hadnt called anyone else. She narrowed her eyes. Sebby, I mean, Sebastian?

Yes, the young lord. The most...stubborn of my pupils, Mr. Ramos said, with a hint of exhaustion in his voice. He was rambling on about something and mentioned you. He was annoying, so I ended that call and thought to call you instead. Tell me, is it true? Do you really have an island on an energy vein?

Tori blinked and slowly nodded. Yes, its in the Cosora Delta. Ive been assigned to resettle refugees from the eastern war front here. The first time I came, I noticed it was on an energy vein. A rather strong one. She looked up and saw several pairs of eyes staring at her in silence. Tori raised a brow and turned around. The peak seems to be a particular island furthest from shore. My brother says to put aventurine around it to contain energy.

That idiot. Aventurine can only do so much. Youd need black tourmaline and clear quartz, as well. Mr. Ramos snorted. Tori could almost see him rolling his eyes. I cant leave such an important place to him.... He muttered.

Mr. Ramos, you know a lot about crystals, dont you? Tori asked. Do you know a crystal master who could come and oversee the development of the island for experimenting with crystals? She didnt hear the Bishop almost choking behind her.

Its in the Cosora Delta? Mr. Ramos asked. He seemed to pause for a moment. Lady Guevera, would it be possible to come and see it?

She was a bit surprised at the request, but wouldnt stop him. If he was Sebastians teacher at one point, then he was likely a crystal master in his own right.

Of course, Mr. Ramos! Is that all right though? What about the antique shop?

Ah, its fine. I can close down whenever I want. Im retired, you know, he said with another laugh. Give me two, no, one month, and I will be there.

Ill have a tent prepared for you, but I wont be here to welcome you, as at the time, Ill be in Anlar.

Ah, yes, for Lady Siobhans succession ceremony. Dont worry so much about hospitality. As long as there is a roof over my head and a place for me to sleep, Ill be fine, he said with a reassuring voice.

Then, I will have everything prepared for you, Mr. Ramos! Tori smiled widely. Ill let my instructor know to expect you. He can show you the island.

Excellent, I look forward to it. Also, Ill bring you some interesting things, yes?

Tori giggled. Sounds great. Ill see you in a few months then, Mr. Ramos! Safe journey! She slid her finger across the crystal and turned around. Her excited smile faltered as she saw the Bishop and Instructor Ignatius staring at her with a strange mixture of disbelief and...terror.

Lady Guevera. The Bishops voice shook just a bit. Who...who was that who called you?

Oh, Jorge Andronikos de Ramos, Tori said. He owns the antique shop in Presidio where I bought that charms book. I didnt know he was Sebbys crystal master.

The Bishop lifted his hand to his mouth and almost whimpered. My dear Lady Guevera...do you know who Master Ramos is?

Tori tilted her head to the side, confused.

Tori, Kasen said as he stood up. Master Ramos isnt just Sebastians crystal master. He is the premiere crystal master in Soleil.

That being said, Tori said as she sat on her bed, cross legged and looking down at her comcry in front of her. Is it possible to use that island to do crystal experiments?

There is no reason for it not to be, Piers replied. The entire delta is under your jurisdiction.

I know, but the land is property of the imperial family, Tori told him. Its under my jurisdiction now, but what about after the project is over? Can we still use it to do crystal experiments?

Piers didnt answer at once. You can do whatever you want on the delta.

She rolled her eyes. All right, Im going to go through with this in order to have a place to do experiments and develop things. She thought for a moment. What if I buy the island from your family?

Thats not necessary.

I was already considering buying this particular island that had a really nice view, and maybe build a small place to come and relax-

You don't need to buy it.

I cant just ask for it to be given to me. I know were not using up all the islands, even the ones that can be built upon, and that a few families want to settle on the mainland, but I cant just claim an island for myself.

Yes, you can.

Piers. Tori sighed, tired.

Tori, he said. She could hear a hint of amusement in his voice. Consider the delta as yours. You can build whatever you want. You can build a store, a restaurant, a mansion.

Tori cracked a small smile. I can build a crystal research and development facility on an island?

If you want, you can build a crystal tower seen from across the lagoon, Piers told her, causing Tori to laugh. His voice softened. Tori, you can do whatever you want.