Chapter 62: We Cannot Let Him Become Distracted

Chapter 62: We Cannot Let Him Become Distracted

Matthieu-Philippe. Tori thought the General looked like Piers, but as he greeted the Emperor in a surprisingly annoyed, if not cold, voice, she thought he sounded more like Sebastian and Kasen when they talked to Piers.

Maybe its an older brother thing? Tori wrinkled her nose a bit. Perhaps the General also thought no one was good enough for his sister. The Emperor didnt look at all bothered by the unimpressed look on the Generals face. It was likely that this is how the General always looked at him, and Tori was sympathetic.

The Empress had told her that the Emperor wasnt very athletic, and Tori had seen that firsthand at the spring festival when he only hit four pinecones. If she were the General who was lauded as the best living swordsman in the empire, and that was the quality of the spouse her sibling married, shed be somewhat disappointed, too.

At least the Emperor loved his wife.

Love should be considered, Tori said to herself with a nod.

What? Her brother appeared beside her and gave her a confused look.

Nothing.

When the crowd around him clears a bit, well go and greet him, Sebastian told her. Tori nodded and looked towards Piers.

You look like the General.

Piers nodded once. Many people say that.

Axton chuckled and grinned. Godmother used to brag that her blood was strong; as expected of marquis' blood. Then she had the second prince, who is a spitting image of the Emperor.

Tori lifted her hand to cover her mouth to keep from laughing.

Piers! A voice called out to the man next to her, and she suddenly began to walk forward. She looked towards her hand, wondering when it had returned to Piers arm. Sebastian and Axton followed behind them as they stepped out from the dark corner they were waiting in and towards the area just below the imperial couples thrones.

The General looked towards them, and his face seemed to brighten. Tori squinted her eyes, feeling almost blinded by the man. She quietly admonished herself. She thought she was used to seeing handsome men. Nearly all the men around her were good-looking; she shouldve been numb to it.

Is this our little Victoria? The Generals low, deep voice was smooth and gentle as he looked at her with thoughtful affection.

Tori stopped and took a step back. She grasped the sides of her dress to give him a curtsy and lowered her head. She could feel the warmth on her cheeks at his attention. It was as if she was acknowledged.

Good evening, General Marquis von Schwert.

He let out a barreling laugh and stepped forward with his arms open. Why are you so formal? he said as his arms pulled her into a strong embrace. I used to carry you around when you were still in diapers! Look how big and healthy youve gotten!

Tori was sure she was red with embarrassment. She couldnt stop herself from cringing as the announcement of her in diapers, even as a baby, filled the area. To the side, she caught both her brother smirking and Axton snickering while he was still hugging his godmother and telling her happy birthday.

Thank you.... Tori trailed off as she was released.

The General continued to hold her at arms length as he studied her face. You definitely have Gregorios hair and eyes.

Yes, but at least her face is like Tonis, the Empress said firmly. She glanced at her son. Shes here tonight escorting Piers.

The Generals eyes widened, and he turned to his eldest nephew with mirth. Is she?

Piers bowed his head to greet him. Hello, Uncle.

The Generals face softened, and he looked at Piers fondly. He took a step closer and lifted his arms just a bit, but stopped. He seemed to want to embrace Piers as well, but restrained himself. Its good to see you, my nephew.

Piers nodded his head and the General turned to Sebastian. Amusement filled him and he reached for Sebastians arm. The two men grasped each others forearms and pulled themselves into an embrace.

Its good to see you again, Master, Sebastian said as he gave the General a firm hug and pat on the back.

How are you doing, Sebastian? The General stepped back, still holding Sebastians arm and giving it a shake.

Sebastian took a deep breath before looking towards Tori and Piers with a disappointed expression. Tori drew her head back and gave him a questioning look.

Why are you looking at me? I didnt do anything.

Ah.... The General tightened his lips and gave him an understanding nod. He patted Sebastians shoulder sympathetically. We will talk.

Uncle! Another voice rang out and the General turned around. Tori looked past him and tried not to show her displeasure as Gideon arrived with Alessa on his arm. When they were close enough, he released Alessa and stepped forward to embrace his uncle.

Gideon! The General smiled and returned the second princes embrace. I heard you did very well at the tournament this year.

Gideons smile faltered a bit as he stepped back and nodded. I will do better next year.

To be able to lead a team at your age, and to the final match of the tournament, is very good, Piers said, calmly. At his words, Gideons eyes seemed to sparkle.

Thank you, Piers!

Tori was impressed with his admiration of his brother. With Piers at her side, Gideon hadnt glared at her once that evening. Hes like an anti-Gideon forcefield....

And who is this young lady at your side? The General asked as he looked past Gideon and gave Alessa a small, acknowledging nod.

Alessa took a step forward to curtsy as Gideon introduced her. Uncle, this is my classmate and friend, Lady Alessa Hart. She is escorting me tonight and is from Anlar.

Lady Hart, a pleasure. The General gave her a more formal greeting. You mustve traveled far.

It was no trouble, Your Grace, Alessa said as she stood up straight. My father and I have come to Horizon and plan to stay until Lyce starts in the fall. He will be attending chamber meetings during this time; perhaps youll be able to meet him.

The General nodded and his sister looked at him curiously. How long do you plan on staying?

Not long, actually. I only came to see you for your birthday and to drop off Axton and Fabian, he replied.

Fabian has returned? Gideon asked, appearing surprised.

The General smiled a bit. Yes, but he is likely in his quarters. We arrived at the Cosora Delta quite late this morning, then it took some time for us to travel here. Thankfully, Axton called one of the instructors working on the islands and they arranged for a carriage to come to bring us here. Fabian must be exhausted after the journey.

Alessa took in a sharp breath and tensed. Is Sir von Dorn all right?

Yes, Lady Hart. He is fine. He wasnt injured. Its more that hes tired, the General told her patiently. I made sure to keep him away from any major skirmishes and he was only allowed to join minor ones with an auxiliary team.

Most of his time was spent doing drills and participating in the daily training of the soldiers, Axton said. He sighed and shrugged his shoulders. However, they are adults with years of experience. It was difficult for someone as young as Sir von Dorn to keep up consistently.

The General nodded in agreement. Especially when he doesnt practice often enough. He turned to look at the Emperor with a stern look. If he is going to continue being Gideons personal knight and aide, I suggest he join in more consistent training. Having him join La Garda or participate with the training regime of the imperial knight cadets is recommended.

The two men stood across from each other with formidable looks, as if discussing something serious. Then again, the ability of the second princes personal knight was something important. They could not approve of one who could not do their job.

Tori looked at Axton and wondered if his training was more rigorous. Shed only sparred with him once and she could barely hold out for a few minutes. Axton also left Piers side periodically to go to the eastern front to train under the General. That was more than shed seen Fabian do.

Now that she thought about it, when did Fabian practice? He didnt join the sword association and from what she overheard from the General, he also didnt train with knight cadets. When would Fabian have time for professional instruction when he was in school and following Gideon around?

Did he practice on his own? That was fine for foundational work, but experience, even just sparring with another person, was an absolute necessity for improving ones reaction and flexibility. After all, empty space didnt fight back. In the sword association, Captain Connor also had them cycle through each other for partners in order to be exposed to as many styles and levels as possible.

The Emperor seemed to take the Generals words seriously. I will take this into consideration, General. Thank you for taking him this summer.

The General shook his head. He is protecting my nephew; his training should be his top priority. We cannot let him become distracted.

The gardens of the inner palace were all connected and after doing another round of greetings, Sebastian suggested they go out for a walk to relax a bit. Tori agreed, as Piers started to look around more and was growing tense, signs of his increasing discomfort. They sneaked out from the same door from which she and Piers came through and wandered back through the garden.

They crossed the courtyard and out of a gate to get to another section of the palace. From there, the sprawling gardens seemed to melt into the darkness, but they kept close to the palace buildings, where there were light crystals illuminating the stone walkways.

I...I dont want to leave Lyce, either. Fabians voice was laced with hesitation and Tori almost scoffed. What happened to his determination just seconds earlier? But my duty....

If youre able to improve while at Lyce, do you have to leave for La Garda? Alessa asked.

I suppose I dont, but-

Then all we need to do is find you an instructor who will be able to help you improve! Alessa nearly shouted this, as if it were the answer to all their problems. It shouldnt be that hard! Who wouldnt want to train and guide the personal knight of the second prince?

Fabian seemed to let out a low breath. A good instructor is difficult. Instructors who teach beginners are plentiful. Instructors for more advanced students are harder to find. Those who have experience in battle may not be able to teach well. Usually, anyone who is capable of instructing and has battle experience is already-

Dont worry so much about that, Alessa told him enthusiastically. Well find someone. Ill ask my friends to ask around and Im sure Gideon will help. He doesnt want you to leave his side, either.

Do you really think that well be able to find someone?

Yes! Im certain of it!

I have to applaud their cheerful outlook. And Alessa does have a point: if they can find a good instructor to personally guide Fabian, he can improve. Tori rubbed her chin thoughtfully. Beside her, Sebastian continued listening in.

Tori could make out footsteps and after a few moments, Sebastian dared to peer around the corner. He paused, almost scanning the area, before pulling back.

Theyre gone, he said, lowering his guard. Tori also relaxed.

Sebby, do you think theyll be able to find an instructor? Even though the area was clear, she still kept her voice quiet.

Sebastian appeared dismissive and shook his head. He was right about advanced instructors with suitable combat experience: theyd likely already be in a position where they are teaching others and theyd have to try to lure them away from that position. If they arent already teaching others, then they wont want to. There is also a chance they could have been dishonorably discharged for misconduct. Those arent the type of people youd want teaching an influential kid.

He made a good point. They turned around and started walking back to the original garden, where they had started. Some time had passed and by now, Axton and Piers were coming out of the kitchen with food.

Cant Sir von Dorn train with the knight cadets, like the General said?

That would be the best course of action until he can enter La Garda. I just hope hes not foolish enough to discard the opportunity to do so. La Garda only takes the best swordsmen and other weapons-based fighters. Theyre a training ground for imperial knights that will be in close proximity to the imperial family.

Tori pursed her lips. When he put it like that, competition sounded fierce. Is it difficult to be accepted? How many people apply versus how many are accepted?

Im not familiar with the numbers, as we dont join La Garda, Sebastian said. Most children of marquis families who go to Lyce wouldve already had strict formal instruction when it comes to fighting. We also rarely become imperial knights. However, from what I recall, its a complicated process and the requirements are strict.

Do they have to take tests or be recommended?

Both and then some. Aside from academic standing from secondary school, La Garda also looks at an individual applicants ability through a series of in-person physical tests to judge skill and stamina. Then there are written tests that include parts on history, knightly conduct, and strategy. If they pass, then they go on to individual interviews and must provide recommendations. I heard those recommendations can also be followed up with interviews with those who gave them. Then, the applicant and their family have a comprehensive background check done, as there is a good chance they will be guarding the imperial family directly someday. If they pass all of that, then theyre accepted.

Tori was tired just thinking of it. She let out a sigh and furrowed her brows. Do you think Ewan can get in?

Sebastian thought for a moment and nodded. It shouldnt be a problem as long as his ability stands out. His family already has several knights, doesnt it? There wont be a problem with his background check. How is he academically?

Hes above average for a niche student. Will that suffice?

For the most part, but if competition is strong, then I recommend he study up.

Tori nodded. Ill talk to Ilyana about it.

Sebastian chuckled and looked over at her. Does he really want to go?

Piers asked him, and Ewan said he never thought about it because he didnt think he was good enough.

Sebastian chuckled and looked ahead of him. Well, he certainly has the humility they want.

Were hoping that Axton can spare some time to train him directly, Tori said. I think Ewans actually rather good. His foundational work is solid, and he has good reflexes and control.

Sebastian nodded. If hes really interested, bring him to the Presidio on Winter Break. The testing for applicants to La Garda starts in the spring. There is time for him to improve.

You want him to train with the knights in the fortress? Tori asked. It was a promising idea; Kasen told her that the knights of marquis families were held to a higher standard than that of imperial guards considering the position and responsibilities of the marquises.

Sebastian grinned. I will teach him.

They reached the gate to the first garden and Sebastian stepped forward to open it for her. She stepped through and they could hear the gentle gurgle of water from the fountain just above the faint sound of music still coming from the ballroom.

As they walked up the path, Sebastians expectations were met. A small table had been set up by the fountain, along with four chairs: one on each side. Axton was seated and already eating what looked to be a full plate of meat and bread. There was an open bottle of wine while a three-tiered tray of small pastries and cut fruit was placed in the center of the table.

A coffee carafe was next to the wine bottle and there were small mugs along with the glasses. In front of one of the chairs was a small, round plate.

Upon seeing the two of them arrive, Piers stood up, prompting Axton to look up from his food. He snatched a napkin from his lap and dabbed his lips as he rose to his feet to welcome them.

Tori, Piers looked eager as he moved behind the chair that had a small round plate in front of it. I brought you pastries. Is this enough?

Tori looked at the three-tiered cake tray. There was easily enough for all four of them on that tray. Did he steal the whole thing from the kitchen? Hes a prince; I doubt anyone would stop him.

Beside her, she heard a gruff voice speak, exasperated. If I can teach that idiot, I can teach anyone.

Until Sebastian returned to Sur, there was no need for Axton to accompany her to the delta. He and Piers had come to see off the General when he left, but they had returned the next day. They left behind Tori, Sebastian, and nervous new swordsmanship pupil, Ewan.

Axton had agreed to take time to guide and train Ewan in order to prepare him for La Gardas physical and skill tests. Tori initially thought hed be hesitant. She didnt know his workload at Universit and then there were matters of his businesses, though he didnt appear too involved in their management.

However, Axton seemed interested. Hed apparently never really instructed someone before outside of leading training sessions.

I think this would be a good test of my knowledge and ability, he had said. Id like to be someones Master Swordsman one day.

After Axton agreed, he suggested that Ewan meet them in the delta before Lyce started so they could get an early start. Tori called Ewan from the garden immediately, and he almost didnt believe her. It wasnt until Axton took the comcry and confirmed it that Ewan was left speechless.

Sebastian said if Ewan wanted, he could leave with them the next evening. He had some time in between helping his own master on Anahata Island and could observe Ewan and make notes for a training regimen. Tori didnt require as much supervision when she was working, so he had free time.

One of Ewans brothers overheard and assured them that Ewan would be ready to leave the next day and that he didnt need to come back until Lyce started. Ewan seemed to want to protest, but his brother wouldnt hear of it. After all, it wasnt just any instructor who was offering to guide Ewan. It was Sebastian de Guevera: the legendary monster who was responsible for ending the anniversary tournaments.

As a result, Ewan stayed in the spare tent Henrik usually used, which was next to Axtons, and joined Sebastian on his morning runs and training regimen. Hed also go to Anahata Island to practice his form and do drills as Sebastian worked with Master Ramos. Sebastian was spending quite a lot of time on the island and Tori was starting to suspect he was avoiding their other guest, who had arrived the day after they returned to the delta after the banquet.

Your brother is on the island again? Lady Idunn asked as she looked around Toris tent. Sebastians cot was pushed to the side and his blanket was neatly folded and piled atop his pillow. Lady Idunns eyes had a distant look as they settled on the cot, as if wishing for something more.

Tori looked up from her desk, where she was comparing islands for her and Ilyanas dream resort spa. Yes, he took Ewan and went. Theyre going to start placing the first of the stone pillars that will hold the crystal pillars in place today, so its kind of an important moment. All the calculations, placement, and processes need to be correct to get it up smoothly.

Lady Idunn nodded her head once and seemed to tighten her hold around the papers in her arms. Her blue eyes lingered on Sebastians cot for a moment longer before tearing them away. She walked towards Toris desk and placed the papers on it.

I have selected a few acres of land upriver from the map. Miss Sima and Mr. Reiter, who was one of the farmers in the old village, will come with me to take a look. Do you want to come, Lady Tori?

Tori nodded. Id like to see. Will we need more people?

I was put in touch with some students from Universit through a colleague. They will come with us to take soil samples, measurements, and record the existing plant life there.

When do we leave?

Ive arranged for some time after lunch, Lady Idunn said. If that is all right.

That works out fine. I have to bring my brother and the others lunch on the island, anyway, Tori said.

Youre going to Anahata Island? Lady Idunns arms lowered, and her eyes grew just a bit. May I join you?