Chapter 50: I'm Sowing Discord

Chapter 50: I'm Sowing Discord

Baron Hart appeared confused and looked from Tori and Kasen, to his daughter and her friends. Alessa was standing stiff with a look of horror on her face. On either side of her, Dimitri and Gideon were at a loss. Tori could almost see the gears in their heads turning as she stood up straight and faced them.

Your Highness, Mr. Guthry, Kasen said, without a hint of remorse in his voice. I didnt expect to see you here. Are you coming through on your way to Moss Hill?

Even Andy seemed to have a bit of a smirk on his lips as he crossed his arms over his chest. He loomed beside Tori, as if daring the two young men to say something.

My lady, my lord. Baron Harts voice reflected his confusion as he turned to Tori and Kasen. Perhaps you are mistaken. They are my daughters friends from school.

The corners of Toris pink lips curled up. I am aware, Baron Hart. Mr. Guthry sits behind Lady Hart in the second row of our homeroom class. His Highness Prince Gideon sits across the aisle from her. She looked at Baron Hart with an amiable smile. I sit in the back row of the same class.

The color fell from the barons face as he fixed his eyes on Gideon. He immediately bowed. Your Highness! Forgive my rudeness! I was unaware that it was you!

No, Baron Hart, there is no need for an apology. Gideon quickly turned to try to calm their host, but tossed a glare at Tori. It was I who should apologize to you for deceiving you.

Deceiving...? Tori pretended to sound surprised. She put on a look of shock. Your Highness, were you not properly introduced?

Lady Hart, Kasen said in a firm voice as his cold, blue eyes fell on Alessa. As the hostess and the acquaintance of these two young gentlemen, it is up to you to properly introduce them. Baron Hart is unaware of what His Highness looks like, let alone the son of the Prime Minister.

I really do have the best brothers, Tori thought to herself as she held back from beaming at Kasen for collaborating so smoothly with her without being asked.

Alessas mouth opened, but she didnt seem to know what to say. I....

Baron Hart coughed and looked up with a panicked expression. Son of the Prime Minister?

Mr. Guthry, Tori said, gracefully lifting an arm and motioning towards Dimitri. She looked over at him and gave him a sweet, innocent smile. Are you traveling with your parents? I havent seen Madam Guthry and Prime Minister Guthry since the end of the Spring Festival. Will they be at my cousins succession ceremony?

She watched as each sentence seemed to make the situation worse. First, she outed them. Second, she asked about their parents and implied her good relationship with Dimitris. Third, she gave them a reminder that while Chetterswickshire was Alessas home town, Tori was family to the regions marquis.

They couldnt touch her.

Baron Harts face reddened. He seemed to be trying to calm himself as he forced a smile on his face. He raised his hand and looked towards the pale-faced old man lingering by the hall.

Patrick, Baron Hart said. There was a slight tremble in his voice. Can you bring our guests to the dining hall? I need to speak to my daughter for a moment.

Tori was glad no one could read minds, as she was internally cackling like a crone hopped up on caffeine.

Baron Hart, this isnt Alessas fault, Dimitri said with a look of concern. It was His Highness and I-

Mr. Guthry, Kasens voice cut him off and they looked towards him. This is a familial concern.

Tori tried to hold back her smile as her brother essentially told Dimitri to mind his own damn business. The butler came forward after appearing to have to collect himself.

Your Highness, my lords, and my lady, he said. Please follow me. Dinner will be served soon.

Tori gave the old man a closed-lipped smile as Kasen sent one look of warning at both Dimitri and Gideon before leading her forward, after Andy. It was one thing to look at Dimitri in such a way, but to give such a look to Gideon? Did Kasen have no fear? She pursed her lips. Then again, he wasnt afraid of Piers. Still, sometimes, her brothers were too brazen.

Admiral OTuagh, Lord Kasen, Lady Victoria, please sit here, the butler said as he motioned to the right side of a long table that had been prepared for them. Mr. Guthry, please have a seat here. Your Highness, I will move your place setting.

Theres no need, Gideon said, quickly holding out his hand and moving over to the place setting across from Tori, where he would've sat. I would prefer to sit here.

The butler looked torn. Gideon was technically the highest ranked person in the building; he shouldve been at the head of the table.

Mr. Mulligan, Kasen said as he took a seat to Toris right. Andy sat on her left. Allow His Highness to sit where he pleases.

Tori almost felt pity for the poor old butler who was just trying to do his job. Eventually, he bowed his head and stepped back. I will bring in the wine, my lords and lady.

With no other servant in the house, the butler headed to the kitchen. The dining hall was silent and Tori had a slight, pleasant smile across her lips as she looked around. The light crystal chandelier was in good condition and none of the crystals were dim. There was a fire going in the hearth across the room. She liked the cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Your Highness, does your family know you are here without escort? Kasen asked in a calm voice.

I have a dozen knights following me. Half of them are in the village and the remaining six are keeping a close eye on the manor. Theyre standing guard just outside the walls, Gideon said, as if defending his decision.

So, thats who they were, Andy said as he leaned back against his chair. He looked over at Kasen. I told you there was no need to confront them.

We can never be too careful, Kasen said. His eyes flickered to Dimitri. And you, Mr. Guthry. Does your family know?

Yes, Lord Kasen, Dimitri said, avoiding Kasens eyes. They are two days ahead of me and I will meet them at Lady Siobhans succession ceremony.

Oh, so you are here for my sisters ceremony, Andy said. How interesting.

Admiral OTuagh, we only wished to travel through without drawing attention to ourselves, Gideon said. Surely, you can understand that we didnt wish to trouble Baron Hart to host a prince and the Prime Ministers son when he cant afford it.

I can understand, but deceiving him was uncalled for, Andy told them. Do you have any idea how humiliated he must feel right now?

Gideon sat up and looked towards Tori with resentment. He wouldnt feel humiliated if Lady Guevera hadnt revealed us! Tori could feel the temperature in the room drop.

So, you are saying that it is my sisters fault that your lie humiliated Baron Hart? Kasen said in low, measured words. The two across from them tensed. What if I were the one to greet you first? Would I be in the wrong to have followed convention and greeted you?

Gideons face flushed and he looked away. Tori raised a brow. She was sure that if her brother wasnt there, all the blame would be put on her and Gideon wouldnt shut up about it.

We didnt know that you, and Mr. Guthry, were staying here under false identities, Andy said. He sneered and shook his head. This was a mistake. I never shouldve arranged to stay the night. He pushed his seat back and stood up. Tori, Im sorry. Kasen, you were right. We should leave.

Leave? The butler stopped by the open door to the kitchen, the wooden cart he was pushing with two bottles of wine and two silver platters of carefully arranged appetizers creaked to a stop in front of him. He circled around his cart and rushed forward. My lord, is there a problem?

Theres a problem? Baron Hart appeared at the doorway from the hall with a look of concern. Admiral, is something the matter? Behind him, Tori could see Alessa wiping at her red eyes.

She almost wanted to scoff. Did you cry? Bitch, it hasnt even been five minutes!

Alessa? Dimitri immediately rose from his seat. Are you all right? Gideon didnt say a word. He walked across the room to Alessa as she entered, forcing a smile on her face and pretending everything was all right.

Its nothing, she said. Im fine.

It was clear she was anything but fine, and Tori rolled her eyes. There was no yelling that could be heard; if anything, Baron Hart likely asked her what was going on and scolded her for keeping the identities of the two boys a secret.

Baron Hart, this is my fault, Gideon said, rushing to Alessas defense. I was the one who wanted to come without the imperial entourage and purposely didnt announce my identity in order to keep a low profile. It was not my intention to burden you or Alessa.

We didnt wish to trouble you, Baron Hart, Dimitri added. We thought it best to keep our identities quiet.

Tori wished she had poured some wine so she could enjoy watching this to the fullest. Before Baron Hart tried to refute or reassure them, Andy spoke up.

Baron Hart, there has been a change of plans, he said. My cousins and I need to leave at once.

Is it an emergency? Whats wrong? Is there any way I can be of assistance? Baron Hart looked torn between speaking to the two teenage boys and the two men.

Andys face was cold and he shook his head once. There is no need for your assistance, Baron Hart. We will have our men prepare our things. Tori and Kasen stood up, as well.

Baron Hart looked helpless. Then...then, Admiral, my lord, my lady, please at least eat before you leave. He waved his hands towards the table. My butler has prepared his specialty for tonights dinner!

The knights might not have eaten yet, Tori said in a quiet voice.

Kasen shook his head. They already ate, Ive checked. Andrew will leave compensation for the food.

Andy looked back at Baron Hart. If youll excuse us, Baron Hart. We need to inform the knights. They will assist us. He gave the lesser nobleman a wry smile. Please enjoy your meal.

As he stepped around Baron Hart to leave, Tori paused in front of him and gave him a small nod of her head. Baron Hart, it was a pleasure to meet you. I apologize for our hasty retreat. Rest assured that I will follow through with Stackhouse Bricks. Thank you for coming to meet us there today yourself.

Daddy, you went to that womans place again? Alessas voice went from distraught to disbelief. Tori looked towards her. Alessas face remained red, but her eyes narrowed and her lips pulled into a frown. Daddy, shes not a good woman! Shes trying to take advantage of you!

Alessa! Baron Hart turned just as red. He looked at his guests apologetically before turning to his daughter. He tried to lower his voice. This can be discussed later-

You said youd never remarry after Mumsy died! Alessa said, choking back a cry.

Toris eyes widened. Oh my God, Im sowing discord. And it doesnt even have anything to do with me. Suck it, game. Im better at setting up sympathetic encounters than you.

I am going to be busy! I was going to take Tori sightseeing, Andy said. Tori looked up from her food with wide eyes; she didnt recall agreeing to be someones excuse to get out of blind dates. Andy met her gaze and she could almost see the desperation on his face. Right, little cousin?

She could feel several eyes on her as she chewed. She glanced around and swallowed, Cousin Andy was going to take me to explore Kings Harbor. Maybe take me out on a ship. The last part wasnt ever discussed, but if he was going to use her as an excuse, she was going to milk the opportunity to have fun.

You see? Andy said. He seemed to try not to appear too relieved. Toris developing a delta region; she should know how to sail. Who else is going to teach her?

Tori snapped her head towards him. This was escalating. Wait, I never said I wanted to learn to sail-

Thats going to take up so much time. How can I possibly meet these women youre talking about? Andy said, motioning to Tori. She needs to know her way around a boat if shes going to be on the delta.

Actually, I do know how to paddle-

Then, thats perfect! Lord Ramseys daughter is an avid sailor, Bridget said with a predatory glint in her eyes. Im sure she can help teach Tori.

Tori could almost see Andys mind stop working when he was cornered.

Sorry, bro, Ive done what I could. Youre on your own. Tori shook her head and concentrated on her meal.

She was distracted as a servant rushed into the dining room and went straight to Marquis OTuagh at the head of the table. Lawrence sat up straight and looked surprised.

Shes early, he said before turning towards the table. He lifted his goblet and tapped the side with his knife. The clinking sound quickly got everyones attention and they turned towards him. The entourage of Empress Monica has reached the edge of Kings Fields. She should be arriving within a half hour.

While a few family members looked surprised, Toris mother let out a heavy sigh. She told me shed be here around sunset. Antonia lifted her hand to rub her forehead the same way Tori saw Axton do when he was tired of whatever random, unnecessary thing Piers had done that gave him more work.

Tori drew in her lips and tried not to laugh.

Alston, are the Empress and Prince Gideons quarters ready? Siobhan asked.

Yes, my lady, a middle-aged butler said firmly.

And the rooms for their entourage prepared as well? Siobhan continued.

The knights will be housed in the central garrison while her personal attendants have servants quarters in the east wing, adjacent to Her Majestys room, the butler said.

Were almost done with lunch, but prepare a light meal and some tea and coffee for Her Majesty, Lawrence told them. He looked across the table, towards Toris mother. Antonia, as discussed, you are the liaison on our behalf. If you need anything, tell Bridge or Ei.

Of course, cousin, Antonia said with a small nod of her head. I will ensure her stay is enjoyable. Ive already discussed with Bridget on the plans before and after the ceremony.

What about Prince Gideon? Duncan, Siobhans husband who reminded Tori of a short lumberjack, asked. Have we prepared activities for him or will he be joining Her Majesty?

Tori looked down at her food and continued to eat, as if it didnt concern her. Both Andy and Kasen didnt say a word either.

Some of the activities, such as the tour of King's Harbor and the naval yard, will likely have him come along, Bridget said. She frowned. Should we prepare more?

Tori, youre His Highness age, Eili said, looking across the table. Tori tried not to make a face. Do you have-

No, sorry, Cousin Eili, I just dont have time, Tori said, repeating Andys earlier words. I still have daily calls to make to the delta and have orders to review. Not to mention my sailing lessons with Cousin Andy. Im afraid I wouldnt make a good liaison.

Eili looked a bit taken aback, but her siblings laughed. Tori, were not going to make you a liaison, Siobhan assured her.

Of course not. Deidre, Eilis wife, who was a captain in the navy, shook her head. A prince who lets his knight duel a young lady unprovoked is not worth your time.

Toris eyes widened. You know about that? She looked around the table and everyone seemed to turn to her parents, who then turned to Kasen. She narrowed her eyes. You told Mama and Papa?

You didnt say it was a secret.

Ugh.... Tori groaned.

I was going to ask if you have any ideas on what hed like to do, Eili said, wrinkling her nose. Does he fence?

Tori shook her head. I dont think so.

Ride? Bridget asked.

Tori shook her head again. She squinted. I honestly dont know what His Highness is interested in. With one exception....

Suddenly, Andy placed his utensils on the table and stood up. Before I forget, and while the only ones around the table are family, I believe I should tell you all what our dear little cousin had to face at Lyce.

Tori grimaced and slowly raised a hand to try to calm him. I know I said I wanted to inform the family, but maybe not right now. We just arrived.

No, they should know, especially if hes going to bring her here, Kasen said, his voice low.

Whats going on? their father asked as he frowned. He looked at Tori. Has he done anything to you?

Tori let out a low breath. She put her utensils on the table. It looked like there was no avoiding it now. Lets begin with the primary player. I have a classmate named Alessa Hart....

She sped through her meetings and subsequent clashes with Alessa chronologically, then one by one, brought up the various love interests that troubled her, how they connected to Alessa, and what they had done to wrong Tori. The only love interest spared was Constantine as he actually hadnt been terrible to her.

She even had him on her comcry so they could coordinate his return to Horizon via the delta. However, for Gideon, who falsely accused her; Fabian, who tried to duel her and lost; Adrien, who stole her designs and accused her of theft; Dimitri, who almost broke the law to bribe her; Montan, who blatantly threatened her; and Tom, who broke in and vandalized her store, she spared no detail.

Bridget likely expressed the familys reaction best. Are they stupid or crazy?

They understand who you are, dont they? Eili frowned.

Does the Prime Minister know his son did that? Toris father demanded. When I see him at the ceremony-

Papa, its fine, Tori said, raising her hands. Im actually on good terms with Prime Minister Guthry and Madam Guthry. This is between me and their son. Same with the others. They have been annoying, but its nothing I cant handle myself. Just think of these as childrens grudges. I only wanted to make it clear what happened in case something happens at the succession ceremony and I become the subject of a misunderstanding.

Siobhan was leaning against her chair and thinking. I want to ban that Hart girl, but Tori brings up a good point that His Highness may cause a stir.

Its not necessary to ban her, Grammie said, calmly. Just watch her and make sure she doesnt say or do anything that could trouble our Tori. If she does, we will deal with it.

It sounds like she has a way with words, Gramps said as he stirred his post-meal coffee lazily. Lawrence, see to it that if she says anything, it doesnt go beyond these walls.

Lawrence nodded. I understand, Uncle Victor.

The entire dining hall was quiet and Tori closed her eyes. While it was good that it was all out there and that her family was on her side, she really hoped this wouldnt make anything too awkward. If it was obvious two marquis families were shunning Alessa, it could be construed as two marquis families bullying Alessa. And it would all lead back to Tori.

If Gideon blamed Tori and tried to use his influence as a prince, would the imperial family get involved? Would Piers be enough to help her? A small part of her worried that this could be taking a step towards her family being made into villains, as in the games sequels; one of the very things she was trying to avoid.

A small cough went through the hall and the butler seemed to nervously take a step forward. My lords and ladies...the Empress has arrived.

Crap, how long have I been talking? Tori sucked in a sharp breath, but before anyone could say anything, her mother was walking past the table, heading straight for the outer courtyard. Now that she thought about it, her mother had been strangely quiet. Tori scrambled to follow her. Mama!

Tori didnt pay attention to anyone else as she ran after her mother. She saw her mother walk through the open entryway to the outer courtyard and before Tori could step outside, she heard her mothers uncharacteristic yell.

Monica!

Toni! Ive missed you! How are you-

What did your son do to my daughter?!

Tori cringed as she stumbled out into the courtyard. A large, ornate carriage with a familiar seal on its doors had stopped in front of the entrance along with two smaller ones filled with luggage and attendants. There were at least four dozen imperial knights in the courtyard, some of which were familiar faces to Tori.

The door to the largest carriage was open and a dumbfounded woman stood just outside of it as her mother yelled at her.

Tori narrowed her eyes. The woman looked familiar and she wracked her mind to try to remember. She sucked in a sharp breath; the woman wasnt wearing glasses now, but she was the woman from the pinecone challenge who hurled a pinecone at her husband. Tori knew she mustve been related to Piers if he talked to them!

His parents! He didnt even introduce me to his parents! Her eyes widened. Wait...then that man who hit four pinecones was the Emperor? Wow.

Before she could voice her surprise, the woman let out a scoff and stood her ground against Toris mother.

What are you talking about? the Empress said as her face heated up. She puffed up her chest. I have it on good authority that Piers hasnt even kissed her yet!