Chapter 67: I Enjoy a Good Challenge Every Now and Then

Chapter 67: I Enjoy a Good Challenge Every Now and Then

Youre not wrong, Tori said as she lowered her trembling hands. The folded sheet clenched in it was held firm. Most students wouldnt spend this much. Most wont even come near to spending this much. And it does make sense that there is a limit to the students spending on a singular project. However.... The air felt colder and Sonia and JP shuddered as the others looked at Tori with worried expressions. It would have been good to know the limit before I started.

Ilyana swallowed hard and took a step forward. Tori-

I need to speak to the headmaster. The emotionless smile on her face was disconcerting as she turned around and walked past the announcement board. She climbed up the steps of the administration building and anyone who was nearby seemed to purposely avoid her, be they students or staff.

The door to the headmasters office was open, and in the antechamber, Mr. Legaspi, his assistant, stood up as soon as she entered.

Lady Guevera. His usual calm, emotionless voice had an unmistakable tremble. The headmaster has been expecting you.

The corner of her eye twitched. Then the old man certainly knew that this would affect her. Mr. Legaspi rounded his desk and rushed to the closed door and knocked to announce her. He then pushed the door open and stepped aside to let Tori in.

The headmaster looked up from the documents on his desk and sat up straight as Tori walked in.

She saw him take a deep breath, as if readying himself for the inevitable confrontation.

I know what this is about.

A budget limitation shouldve been one of the guidelines provided with the project when it was first assigned. It has been several months since we began and a new policy has been applied, one that was never touched upon before. Lyce projects never had budget limitations in the past. Why has this been applied now?

She knew there were no budget limitations in the past, as shed asked about it when she first started. She wanted to know if there was a percentage of her familys income or a limit on taxes that she had to work within, but there wasnt. Kasen even researched for her.

The headmaster took another deep breath and clasped his hands together in front of him. Various nobles and families of students have expressed concern that without a budget limitation, the spending on the projects could get out of hand.

Tori cocked her head just a bit as her eyes narrowed. This came without warning. There were no rumors of such limitations being considered. If there was, this should not be applied to existing projects.

It seems to have become a pressing concern this year, the headmaster said. He seemed to avoid her eyes and she took that as a sign of guilt. Lyces governing board was notified and asked to review and implement a budget before the new school year began.

The budget limit per year is extremely high. Most noble families dont make that much in a year, let alone be willing to spend an amount on a childs project. Her eyes bore into the headmasters. I cant think of any other student who would reach it other than myself. Considering all the money spent in the last few months, Ive surpassed the limit for the last school year and have documents in place to surpass it this year. I have an entire village to not only support, but re-establish. This was a massive responsibility given to me and despite my initial protests, I accepted it and spent months working on it. Suddenly, I am being told that there is a limitation without prior warning and I am the only one being affected? She ground her teeth. It is exceedingly suspicious, Headmaster Laurent.

The man let out a low breath and lowered his head. He closed his eyes and nodded. I understand your frustration, Miss Guevera. I also thought it was too late to apply it to existing projects. I dont think its necessary for them at this point; however, this is a limitation agreed upon by the Lyce du Soleil Governing Board. There is nothing I can do about it.

Something in the room cracked, cutting through the silence. Headmaster Laurent looked up and glanced around, appearing to look for the source of the noise. Above the window behind him, a crystal carved with the seal of the school had a faint, jagged line halfway across it. His eyes widened and he looked at Tori.

Headmaster Laurent, there are over fifteen hundred villagers who are depending on the funds Ive allocated for them to rebuild their lives. This isnt counting the 150 workers also at the delta who have signed contracts to work for a period of time. I have spent months working with them to build a town on the marshes. Do you have any idea how much money has already been spent?

He furrowed his brows. Miss Guevera, I would think that you would be the one most pleased with this considering how much you are spending-

Why would you think such a thing, Headmaster? Tori asked in a sharp voice. I was never asked for my opinion on this policy, which directly affects me.

But putting a limitation on how much is spent per Lyce project gives students an idea of what is possible without overspending.

And the limit they chose was more than what most nobles make in a year? Tori asked as her brows rose.

Students will be able to plot better budgets if there is a limitation in place. Headmaster Laurent tried to reason, but she could see that even he wasnt fully convinced.

Toris unwavering, unimpressed expression never left. Students should be able to make budgets within their own limitations in accordance with the needs of their project. Is that not part of the project itself?

It is. Students must submit budgets-

And have you considered that with this limitation, it may encourage students to spend more, thinking that spending more equates to more work? It only takes a few to make this limitation turn into an expected amount to be spent. Has the board thought this through thoroughly enough?

Miss Guevera, simply because the policy directly affects you doesnt mean it is a bad policy. Headmaster almost seemed to try to plead with her.

Its not. What is incomprehensible is that it was issued to all existing projects that are already working within their own budget, set by the students. If anything, this limitation should be applied to new projects for the first-year students.

For many, if not most, existing projects, this limitation will not make a change, he told her knowingly.

Toris eyes narrowed once more. How many projects have been considered that will be affected by this policy?

I am sure there are several-

I would like to discuss this with them.

The headmaster seemed to hold his breath. As you are aware, the project reports are not open to the public until they are completed. Students do not know how much other students spend.

So, there is a chance that I am the only person affected by this? A chance that I was purposely targeted.

I am certain you are not-

When was it passed? Rather than question, it came out more as a demand and, if Tori wasnt trying to control herself, it would've been.

The Board came to the final decision a few days ago.

She could feel bumps rise on her arms. When was the policy for the budget limitation proposed?

The headmaster knit his brows and seemed to try to remember. After the last semester.

By whom.

Headmaster Laurent shook his head. I am sorry, Miss Guevera. The Governing Board would not disclose that information.

Is there a reason? Should changes in policy not be transparent? Are they trying to hide something? Tori asked.

They claimed there were concerns for retaliation-

Retaliation? Then it was submitted by an individual with concerns over a backlash from whoever this would affect rather than a proposal brought up by the Governing Board to address a long-standing concern? Fucking cowards.

The headmaster frowned. I didnt say that.

Tori took a deep breath and drew her head back, shaking it slightly. You dont need to. She lifted her chin and took a small step back. All right. Since you will not tell me, I will find out through other means and get this policy retracted, or at the very least, revised.

The headmasters eyes grew wide and he jerked his head back. Pardon me? Miss Guevera, this is a policy enacted by the schools Governing Board. Its not something that can be overturned by a student so easily.

An icy smile reached Toris lip. I enjoy a good challenge every now and then. She gave the headmaster a small nod of her head and turned around.

Miss Guevera!

Have a good evening, Headmaster. She nearly threw the door open as she walked out, not bothering to close it on her way out. Mr. Legaspi jumped in his seat as she walked past, seething. Another cracking sound cut through the room and a small, decorative crystal plaque on his desk cracked down the center.

Tori walked out of the office and her friends, who had followed, but remained outside, stood to attention from where they were leaning or crouched down against the wall.

Tori? Ilyana rushed over and Tori held out her hand to stop her.

I need a moment.

Ilyana took a deep breath and lowered her hands. She nodded, stepping back without protest. Ewan put a hand on her shoulder to give her a comforting squeeze.

Without a word, Tori walked down the hall and out of the administration building. A murderous look was on her face as she stepped outside. And because she was having a bad day, the last people she wanted to see were just out the doors of the administration building.

Alessa was standing between Gideon and Dimitri, with Fabian on Gideons other side. Gideon opened his mouth and Tori held up her hand, putting it between them with her palm almost touching his face.

Dont talk to me. I will consider it harassment.

He jerked his head back and glanced at the other three. None of them seemed to know what to say and Tori ignored them as she walked to the school gates. As she neared, she reached into her pocket and took out her comcry.

Call Lourdes Reystrom, Tori said after sliding her finger across the cold crystal. A moment later, the womans voice answered.

The members of the Governing Board are well known individuals. Its not a secret who they are or how theyre connected to the school.

Yes.... Tori gave him a suspicious look. What are you getting at, Skuldsen?

As well-known individuals, Im afraid they may try to retaliate against you by trying to ban our store, Henrik said. He shrugged. I just feel that we should make sure they dont have a chance.

Tori took a deep breath. I didnt really want to get Lions Gate involved.

Well, when the face of Lions Gate is suing her school....

Im not the face of Lions Gate. Tori rolled her eyes. But proceed. Ban them before they can ban us.

I thought youd say that. Ive already contacted the managers and sent them the names and families involved, Henrik said with a smirk.

Keep their names. I dont want them anywhere near the delta when we have the Spring Festival there.

Students, I wanted to make an announcement, Instructor Ignatius stood in front of the large table where he normally did experiments in front of his students. He took a deep breath. This will be my last year teaching at Lyce du Soleil.

From her seat in the back of the class, Tori lifted her hand and ran it down her face. She feared this would happen and knew exactly what he planned to do instead of teaching.

The class was filled with murmurs, all wondering why he was quitting after only two years of being an instructor at the most prestigious school in the empire.

While this will be my final year. I will work hard to prepare you all for using crystals to the best of your ability! The school has already begun looking for a replacement instructor. He looked far too happy saying that.

Because of his announcement, the class had difficulty concentrating and Tori could only wait until it was over to approach him.

Instructor, she said as she reached his desk. The last time she had seen him, hed looked tired and out of spirit. She suspected it was because he missed working at the delta, but she didnt think he missed it to this extent. Whats going on? Everyone told me that you loved teaching.

He looked at her with a bright smile and affectionate eyes, as if knowing her was the honor that led him to the delta. I do love teaching! he said, seemingly unable to stop smiling. Its one of the best ways to spread my interest in the subject.

Its an obsession, but whatever. Then why is this your final year teaching? Youve only been doing it for two years. Toris eyes scrunched up. Is it the students?

No, no! The students are wonderful! Everyone is so attentive and has a strong interest, he said as he cleaned up his desk for the evening. Its just that over the summer, I found that I loved working on projects at the delta even more. He lifted his head and his eyes crinkled up, almost unable to contain his excitement. I plan to move there permanently to work on our projects. Ive already talked to the village council about it.... His voice trailed off and Tori realized he mustve seen the disbelief and slight disappointment on her face. Lady Tor-Miss Guevera...is that all right?

Tori closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. If the village is fine with you moving there, then, of course, I am also fine with you doing so. I just thought that you had found your passion in teaching.

He chuckled and nodded. I thought it was my passion, as well, he said in a soft voice. But the school simply doesnt give me the flexibility I didnt know I needed, nor do I think I am able to use crystals enough to gain the experience Id like. Im thinking of going the direct master-apprentice route, as Master Ramos had.

Tori bit her lips. Are you sure? she asked. You only spent a few months at the delta. You dont know how winters will be. And youve been living in a tent. Anahata Island is a phase X island. It will be one of the last islands to be built upon as its not considered important for immediate village function and support.

Miss Guevera, I am very serious about this, he said as he paused. What Ive been making with my own two hands at the delta, addressing problems I never thought about, but can solve and help so many people is something I never knew I needed. The delta is...a magical place. It was enough to draw Master Ramos, the premier crystal master in Soleil, out of retirement and move to it.

Tori looked down. Youre a good instructor, she said. She meant it, despite knowing he was a spy for her brother. The students like you, and I, who am very weak with crystals, am learning a lot from you. I want you to do what you want - to live where you want. I just want you to be sure.

His face softened and nodded. Im sure, Lady Tori. Ive thought about this for some time and discussed it with Master Ramos. He smiled thoughtfully. And you know, there are young people in the delta who have promise and Id like to give them the opportunity to learn more about crystals. They are on what is likely the strongest energy vein in the empire. It would be a shame for them not to learn.

She nodded. Then, if thats what you really want...whatever I can do for you there, let me know.

He smiled widely. A tent and food are enough!

Tori gave him a nod before going to gather her things and head towards the training grounds. By the time she came out of the changing area, Captain Messer was having a general meeting with the first-year students. She caught Tori coming out and smiled.

And here she is! Im sure most of you are familiar with Lady Tori de Guevera. She will be the one giving you a preparation lecture for your excursion later this week. Last year, Toris team came in third.

Hello, everyone! Tori smiled as she went to stand next to the captain. Its good to see you all again. I hope you have been adjusting well to Lyce these last few days. She was greeted, but there was some hesitancy in their eyes. Tori chuckled. And if youre wondering about whether or not Im suing the school, let me put your minds at ease. I am.

Beside her, Captain Messer brought her hand to her face. Tori...

My goal is to overturn an unfair policy, or at the very least, have it revised and require future policies to be introduced to existing students in the coming year with an adjustment period, rather than having them pushed on them immediately. Of course, this is bearing in mind safety. However, dont focus on that. You have a three-day, two-night excursion to deal with.

Theyve been assigned classification and collection of medicinal plants not far from the delta, Captain Messer told her. I believe its near the village of Lutrae Landing. They need to collect a total equivalent to the weight of ten copper coins.

Toris brows rose. Thats quite a bit. You all have your work cut out for you. Now that you know where you are going, I should tell you to get a bit of prep work done. First, get your maps. Last year, we had a difficult time. They go quickly and apparently, as soon as students find out where their excursion will take place, they go get maps.

A few first years seemed to pale and looked towards the entrance to the training grounds. Captain Messer was merciful. If you havent gotten it - go now.

Several students rushed out of the gate.

For the rest of you, start buying the equipment you need. The school shouldve given you a list of suggested supplies. We have reserved the training grounds the day before you leave to do a mock set-up of your camps to prepare. I, Ilyana Agafonova, and some other friends will be here to guide you.

Senior Tori, for the lecture tomorrow, can we bring our groupmates?

Tori looked at the captain, who nodded. Yes. Only Sword Association members and their groups. Be prepared to take notes and if you have any questions, get them ready. If you have difficulty buying supplies nearby, our Lions Gate East in the eighth district has equipment ready. Last year, there was also a shortage of supplies and I didnt want that to happen to other students, so we arranged to sell supplies with a discount for Lyce students. Just show your school identification tokens.

She took a step back and Captain Messer clapped her hands.

All right, now we can get to the good part! If you have some experience, you will follow me. If you are an absolute beginner, Master McDouglass will walk you through the basics.

Tori stretched out before joining Ewan, who was in the middle of his laps. She jogged with him for two laps and then went to practice her sets to further warm up. Ewan joined her as soon as he finished running.

Okay, Tori said. I checked Sebbys guide. Today there will be angles and footwork, focusing on your left side. Ewan nodded, knowing exactly what to do.

Hes improved over the summer, someone said behind her. She looked over her shoulder and saw the new Vice-Captain, Garrett Gartner, or GG, as everyone called him. He was a tall, hulking young man with short dark hair and a warm, encouraging personality. Hes putting in more effort than usual.

Tori smiled proudly and puffed up her chest. Hes training for La Garda.

GGs brows shot up and he looked at her with surprise before slowly nodding with approval. Then...does he have a master guiding him or a personal instructor? he asked as he looked back at Ewan.

Not really. He stayed for about two months at the delta this summer while my brother was also there. Sebby got him started on foundational work and conditioning.

GG narrowed his eyes and almost cringed. By Sebby you mean Lord Sebastian de Guevera? The Monster?

GG, hes still my brother. She narrowed her eyes at him before turning back to Ewan. But yes. Sebby worked on a training regimen tailored to helping Ewan improve slowly, but steadily.

Im a bit envious.

Ewan also has time scheduled to train under Sir Nassaun.

The First Princes knight? GG let out a low whistle. That must be nice.

Tori nodded. We think Ewan has a really good chance. Ilyana is going to tutor him to raise his academic performance and prepare him for La Gardas written exams.

GG looked at her with a mixture of disbelief and unfairness. So, this kid not only gets a personalized training regimen by Lord Sebastian and is training under Sir Nassaun, both of whom were taught by General Marquis von Schwert, and are considered the best swordsmen of their respective ages, but Ewan is also going to be tutored by the first ranked student of your year?

To be fair, Ilyana was already leading reviews for everyone and had been helping him since last semester, Tori said. What Ewan needs are more sparring partners for experience.

Ill spar with him.

Both Tori and GG turned towards Fabian, who was working on strikes a few paces away. Tori frowned.

Ewans laugh came from ahead of her. No, thank you, Sir von Dorn. Perhaps in a few months, but Im not ready for you yet.

Oh? Fabian asked in a sharp voice. Are you afraid?

Yes, Ewan said, without a hint of shame. Ive just started taking my training seriously. Im inexperienced and I have many limits, but Im not stupid. He looked towards Fabian with an empty smile. Im not going to put myself in a situation I clearly cant handle for my own vanity.