Chapter 82: You Were Meant to Come Here

Chapter 82: You Were Meant to Come Here

Ilyana slapped her hands on the table and her eyes narrowed. Do you know what she wants? Is she trying to find out Sonias riding competition choreography for St. Germaine? I know they took part in last years Three-Day Competition!

Tori lifted her hand to try to calm Ilyana.

Nanny Rey shook her head, but kept a serious look on her face. Im not sure. During the winter break, when Sonia was out riding, this Miss James was on the same horse trail. I also noticed her multiple times in the stables in the eleventh district.

Thats where Ciel Noir and Nuage are kept, Ilyana said with a frown.

Yes, she seemed to be inquiring about keeping her horse there.

Tori furrowed her brows and frowned. Miss James comes from a rather well-off family. They dont live near the eleventh or tenth districts. She shook her head and looked up. Why would she want to keep her horse there?

Maybe she wants to poison the horses and is using the excuse of keeping her horse in the same stables as an excuse! Ilyana seemed to deduce aloud and looked so confident.

Tori doubted that was the case. Maybe we should just watch her for now and make sure she doesnt get too close.

We should confront her! Ilyana said, determined.

We cant just confront her and accuse her of trying to steal Sonias choreography or trying to poison Ciel Noir, Tori said in an exasperated voice. Ilyana looked fidgety and Tori thought for a moment. Why dont we go downstairs and mention Sonia? Nanny Rey can watch Miss James reaction. If shes disappointed, upset, or angry. Perhaps that will give us a clue on what shes eyeing Sonia for.

Ilyana nodded, though it was clear she wanted to do more. Tori led her back downstairs and to the back counter. Nanny Rey also came downstairs and took a seat in the corner, out of Miss James line of vision.

Can we also get two small cakes? Tori asked Mama Js youngest son.

Of course, my lady.

Its a shame the others cant make it, Tori said. Sonia loves the cakes here.

Yes! Ilyanas voice was almost a yell and Tori tried to keep herself from cringing. But she is so busy at the stables! Practicing! If only we could go, see her and bring her some food!

Tori stared at Ilyana and slowly blinked. The sentences were loud, but stiff and awkward. Ilyanas eyes also kept darting around nervously. Tori sighed. Ilyana was good at many things, but acting was not one of them.

Right, Tori said, her voice much more casual. Shell probably spend most afternoons and evenings after class-

And weekends, too!

Yes...and weekends, too, at the equestrian grounds at Lyce, Tori said. We wont be able to hang around with her until after the Spring Three-Day.

Ilyana gave her a stiff, jerky nod and Tori tried not to run her hand down her face.

She saw a movement from the corner of her eye. Miss James had patted her lips with her napkin and stood up, rounding the small table, and leaving behind what appeared to be a half-finished cup of coffee.

The small bell to the cafe door rang as she left, heading in the direction of the plaza.

Tori looked towards Nanny Rey who nodded as she rose from her seat. It seemed that Miss James was disappointed. Then, she appeared determined as she got up.

Ilyana narrowed her eyes. Shes probably going to try to watch Sonia practice since we mentioned it.

How? Tori asked. Sonias practicing at the equestrian grounds by the stables at Lyce. Non-students arent allowed on the grounds without special permission.

The equestrian grounds reach the very back of the school. The back fence separates Lyce grounds from the buffer park between us and some of Universits research facilities. The park has a footpath; a lot of students seem to walk there during finals to relax. There is also a path that goes up a small hill and from there, you can see the equestrian grounds outdoor portion.

Tori looked at her suspiciously. How do you know that? Even she didnt know that.

We were trying to find a way to sneak into Lyce during winter break because we were worried about the medicinal plants, Ilyana said. Sometimes, she came to help water them. I didnt know the gardeners were taking care of it until I had asked you.

Is that why you wanted to know about the garden last month? Tori furrowed her brows. I wouldnt just leave it to die. Its useful.

I know...and we didnt find a way in, Ilyana said, looking to the side. She took a deep breath and looked out the door. We should follow Miss James!

Ilyana, we dont know if shes going to the park.

Im positive shed go to the park, Ilyana said. Its the only place where shed be able to see our equestrians.

Okay, lets say we do follow her and find her there. What do you plan to do? Tori asked as she raised a brow.

Ilyana froze. Well...well figure that out when we get there!

Tori sighed. She looked back across the counter at Mama Js son as he walked out with two small plates. Well be back in less than an hour. Please hold our food. He immediately made a turn and headed back into the kitchen.

Nanny Rey- Tori looked around, but her nanny was gone. Tori narrowed her eyes. Did she already follow Miss James?

Lets go! Ilyana grabbed her arm and dragged her outside. Once they were out on the street, they began to quicken their walk. Tori let Ilyana lead her. Her friend was surprisingly fast and wore the determined expression she had when she was taking exams. Tori still dutifully followed.

They bypassed the main gates of Lyce and seemed to follow the outer stone and metal fence to go around the block. Tori had forgotten how big Lyce actually was as she was so used to rushing around inside. Walking around the perimeter of the school felt twice as long. They got to a portion where a stone and dirt-packed path seemed to meander into a narrow section of greenery once Lyces fence turned into a corner.

It was Toris first time, but Ilyana was right. The footpath did cut through a sort of mini forest between Lyce, which she could see through the tree line on her right, and Universit, where she could see the tops of buildings above trees on her left. The path also began to slope upwards.

It was a lovely place to walk during the daytime, but Tori was not a fan of walking through a park at night by herself. In the forest, shed worry about wild animals. In a city park, shed worry about serial killers and sexual predators. It was an unfortunate mindset.

Your foots in the wrong place! What did I tell you? Hips over knees and facing forward. What kind of a knight are you if you cant even get that straight! A mans loud, almost angry voice came from their left and Toris hand shot out to grab Ilyana and hold her back. She narrowed her eyes as she looked towards the sound. There was a grunt and then the sound of something hitting the ground. Again! Until you get it right!

Tori looked at Ilyana, who looked back at her. She made a small motion of her head towards the sound and Ilyana looked hesitant, but nodded. Tori reached into her pocket and took out a silence charm. She put it on herself after charging it and held Ilyanas hand to keep her connected.

The duo crept closer to a clearing where they could hear the sound of struggling and yelling. Through the trees, they could see two figures on a large patch of dirt. There were some bags tossed to the side, but both figures were wearing helmets and padded clothes.

Tori knew how Fabians training clothes looked and recognized him as the shorter, thinner combatant in an instant. Across from him was a man who wasnt much taller, but thicker. His clothes were worn and had some rips and scuffs. His helmet didnt look as new as Fabians, but Fabians helmet was scratched up.

Their wasters also had visible dents.

Fabian let out another grunt as he was hit in the stomach by the mans foot. Toris brows shot up and she frowned. Fabian hit the ground and grasped his stomach.

Stand up! The man seemed to order Fabian. It was one kick! Thats what you get for keeping your center line open! I told you to keep your sword in front of you! The moment its not protecting you, its worthless! How many times must I tell you!

Sorry, Master! Fabian seemed to wheeze, but still pushed himself up into a standing position. He once more realigned himself and put his sword in front of him. Again!

Youre right, again, the man sounded as if he were sneering.

Tori watched as the mans attacks rained upon Fabian. The style was different from what she normally saw in Soleil. It was much more aggressive. The weapon was held higher than she was used to, and the steps were larger and more direct. Tori already knew her style was lighter to reduce the amount of energy exerted. To see such bold steps made her tired.

Fabian was only able to block about half those attacks and as his master continued his aggressive attacks, Fabian was losing energy.

Unlike Ewan and her, she didnt see him working on his endurance. It was always his attacks and footwork. Good technical work, but he was being worn down quickly as a result.

Why are you so weak? I bet that Connor boy youve talked about is better than you! Look at you! You cant even stand this much! One particular cut across knocked Fabian to the side and Tori turned her head away.

The young knight was out of his league with his master and the master was not going easy on him. Fabian looked constantly overwhelmed and the mans degrading remarks, comparing him to Ewan and how he should be ashamed if Ewan, who just started his training, got into La Garda.

Then the older man brought Tori up.

You got beaten by a girl! And a little noble girl, at that! Arent you embarrassed? the man yelled. I bet you thought she was harmless; a pampered little princess who couldnt hurt you. Well, she did! What are you going to do about it?

Tori stepped back, gently tugging Ilyana back with her before they quickly sneaked away. They got on the path and walked towards the street. It wasnt until they were back on pavement that Tori peeled off the charm shed stuck to her chest and ripped it in half.

Ilyana looked at her with a shaken expression. I think we know why von Dorn is so determined to fight Ewan...and you. Her face was pale. Is Ewans training like that, also?

This would be the part they pushed into the ground. The top had three crystal rings as thick as her thumb, also with Old Sulfae.

The base crystal was a hazy smoky quartz, then terracrystal, then a ring of clear quartz which was removable once the wooden cap was removed and could be charged. Tori wanted it to be able to be used by individuals who couldnt ground. She, Instructor Ignatius, and Kasen through many calls to him, worked hard to get each piece to work together to adjust the amount of energy for soil type and depth.

The terracrystals were two rings from the same piece and synchronized to each other. The clear quartz could be recharged on the selenite energy plate at night, but out on the energy vein, it lasted through all their experiments, only needing to be charged to go from half full to full.

Are they ready? Tori asked. Theyd done tests on the islands, but it would be their first time inland and for a larger distance between the two basalt rods.

Instructor Ignatius nodded. The plowing sticks are ready.

Tori closed her eyes and tried not to cringe. I thought we agreed not to call them that....

Her instructor looked at the two basalt rods that were half as thick as his arm. He furrowed his brows and looked at her with confusion. But thats what they are? Theyre two sticks that plow.

Tori took a deep breath. How did this man get a girlfriend? Well come up with a better name for marketing purposes later, she said, forcing a smile. Lets get to the testing site. She looked around and saw Master Ramos fiddling with something else. Master Ramos, do you want to come?

No, no, you two go ahead! he said, not looking up from his work. Im sure itll be fine!

Tori wrinkled her nose. She gathered their protective equipment, and the spares for Lady Idunn and the farmers, and trudged back to the boat.

Along with the basalt rods, there were metal measuring sticks with notches in them that would keep the distance between the rows even. They thought it would make it easier for the farmers.

The two nervously sat on a boat, clutching their things against them as they tried to quell their nerves. While the tests on Anahata Island had proven successful, the field turned farmland would prove that their experiment worked as intended and could be used by anyone, not just crystal users.

They arrived at a makeshift dock. Past the river, where a small dike had been piled from large rocks pulled from the field, was the undeveloped area that was cleared. Lady Idunn was standing there with two farmers from two families who would be taking part in the initial crop experiments.

Hello! Thank you for coming today! Tori said as she climbed her way over. Before we begin, please put on this protective equipment in case anything goes wrong.

Perhaps she shouldnt have led with that as the two farmers paled and looked concerned.

Itll be fine. At most, itll just have some dirt flying, Instructor Ignatius told them. Once everyone had on the thick leather smocks and helmets, one farmer went with Instructor Ignatius while the other went with Tori and Lady Idunn across the field. They started furthest away from the river.

How is here? Tori asked as she spoke into her comcry.

It looks about even. I think its fine, Instructor Ignatius replied.

Okay, push them in. Tori handed her comcry to Lady Idunn before lifting a wooden mallet and slamming it on top of the wooden cap of the basalt rod to drive it into the ground. It wasnt hard, but it wasnt as soft as the ground closer to the water. They had notches on the basalt with numbers that they matched up. I buried it at three.

Confirmed. Buried at three.

All right, smoky quartz is also at three.

Confirmed.

Turn the clear quartz to begin energy flow. Tori lifted her hand to the first crystal ring and twisted it to the side. There was a slight click, and it began to glow. She stepped back and waited.

My lady, whats happening? the farmer asked.

The basalt rods are funneling energy into the ground and the terracrystal is programmed to search for its sister-crystal, on the other basalt rod. When it finds it, the two will connect an energy stream and that is where the energy will flow and -oh! They found each other! Tori jumped as the crystal with the spots began to glow. Instructor Ignatius-

Confirmed! Theyve connected.

Tori took a deep breath and wrung her fingers. Now...we just wait.... She seemed to hold her breath and then watched a row of dirt began to raise and turn itself over, creating a soft mound of dirt. The line was like a wave coming from the base of each basalt rod before they met in the middle.

It connected! Instructor Ignatius exclaimed. The clear quartz dimmed, indicating that it was no longer funneling energy.

Lady Idunn, please check to see if this is suitable, Tori said, nervous.

The beautiful blonde woman smiled and knelt down, trowel in hand. She dug through the upheaved mound of dirt and then moved it between her fingertips. She lifted her head and motioned for the farmer to check. The middle-aged man knelt down and inspected.

Across the field, Tori could see the other farmer with her instructor also inspecting.

It is sufficient, Lady Tori, Lady Idunn said as she rose to her feet. She smiled and nodded.

We have confirmation on this side! Tori nearly yelled into the comcry.

Same! Move one row down.

Taking the metal ruler with notches they moved the basalt rods an even distance away and repeated the process. They did it several more times until they were almost halfway done with the field before handing it over to the farmers to try. The two men were both amused at the novelty and impressed.

Instructor Ignatius jogged across the untilled part of the field to get to them and was out of breath. Lady Idunn...will this work?

The woman crossed her arms and chuckled. You did an excellent job, Benedict. You and Lady Tori. The two crystal users looked at each other excitedly. Now...work on something for irrigation.

Aquamarine is most suitable and its quite cheap. We can get it domestically, as well, Instructor Ignatius huddled at their workstation with Tori as the two worked on a rough sketch of the fields irrigation and what needed to be done. If selenite werent so porous, we could leave it out there to charge the crystals on their own.

Tori nodded. Yes, the rain and humidity, not to mention any water from the river, would wear it down quickly.

Lady Tori! Master Ramos called for her and she looked up from her sketchbook.

You go, Instructor Ignatius smiled gently. Master Ramos has been working on something for you for some time.

Tori slid off her stool and walked towards the older man with a smile. Yes, Master Ramos?

Come here, come here, he said, beckoning her over with a gentle wave of his hand. She walked towards his work area across the tarp, by the entrance to his tent. He put a small wooden box in front of her. This is for you.

Tori looked a bit confused. Why?

I think it will be useful, the old man chuckled. Tori pulled the wooden box closer to her and lifted the lid. Inside, placed right in the empty box, was a small row of gold-colored curved panels in a row. Towards the bottom end of each, a different colored crystal was embedded. Its a bracelet.

It didnt look like one and Tori picked it up. It was a chunky metal bracelet. It was long and more like a cuff. She looked at Master Ramos with uncertainty. Can I put it on?

Of course! Of course! He laughed. Tori carefully squeezed her hand through two metal rings that the flat metal panels with the crystals were attached to. The part closer to her wrist seemed to have the panel circle around it, like a hinge, whereas the metal ring closer to her forearm was a strong magnet that kept the panels in place. Take the panel under your wrist from the wider part. Pull it off the magnetic ring and move it over your palm.

Tori did as she was told and found that the curve of the panel rested in her palm comfortably. The panel locked in place. She could feel the crystal against her palm and found that the crystal was also exposed on the other side. She sat up straight and her eyes widened.

Wait.... There was a crystal on her hand. It was ice calcite; she was familiar with the feeling. She focused her energy on it and the air around them began to grow cooler. She sucked in a sharp breath and looked at Master Ramos. These....

Portable crystals, ready at any time, for you to use without having to carry a bag with you. And you can change the crystals. The old mans joy seemed to fill his eyes as Tori jumped out of her seat and adjusted her bracelet to find a piece with terracrystal. She slammed her hand on the ground and easily upturned earth as soon as she focused her energy.

Her heart was racing as she looked at the simple metal piece on her wrist. It was simple, but elegant enough to be worn at school or at dinners. She could have an array of crystals with her at all times and close to her hand! Tori held it against her chest as she ran back to Master Ramos with red, glistening eyes.

Master Ramos! She held her arms wide and he laughed as he welcomed her embrace.

You still need to practice more to get used to the others, but this will be a useful tool for you. Crystals are a tool to control energy and while the amount of energy is important, knowing how to use that energy is even more important, he told her as he gave her back a comforting pat.

Tori wiped at her eyes as she pulled away. Does Sebby know how to use this?

Master Ramos shook his head. Your brother, that fool, is by far my strongest pupil. But he has the imagination of a rock. He gave Tori a deadpan look and she cracked a smile. Lord Sebastian is...an overpowered monster, for lack of a better term, but unless hes given specific instructions, he doesnt know how else to use crystals. The only thing hed been able to do himself is to harness obsidian energy in battle continuously. Master Ramos shuddered for a bit before giving her a smile. But watching your experiments, listening to your thoughts, and seeing your drawings, you have so much more flexibility than him. Youre not as strong and will get crystal fatigue far easier, but the way you think makes these crystals invaluable in your hands.

I dont know where to begin.... Tori said in a breathless voice.

Anywhere you want, Master Ramos told her, reassuringly. He laughed as his eyes crinkled up. You will get the best practice here on the delta. The energy vein will assist you in your learning and control. Lady Tori, I believe you were meant to come here.