Chapter 88: I Am Not Disgusted By You

Chapter 88: I Am Not Disgusted By You

So...this tent was empty last night, Tori said as she, Piers, and Axton stood at the furnished, but unoccupied tent that was between Axtons and Ewans. This was supposed to be Axton's tent. Axton, your tent was supposed to go to Piers.

I thought they told me tent eight, Axton said. I counted eight down from the entrance."

Tori closed her eyes and rubbed her forehead. Axton, you had a map for the tent arrangements. All the ones on the west of the walkway are odd and all the ones on the east are even, with the Emperor and Empress tents being tent two.

Then...Gideon wouldve been in tent four, Piers in tent six, and I wouldve been here.... Axton crinkled his eyes. Why didnt anyone stop me?

You carried your bags in and didnt come out, Piers said, glaring at him.

Axton let out a heavy breath and rubbed the back of his neck. Thats my fault. I was so sleepy last night; I wasnt paying attention. Sorry, Piers.

Piers was still glaring at him. I slept on a couch last night. I am too tall to fit.

It was only one night. We figured out what happened, Tori said, tired. If we do this again, I will make sure each tent is numbered properly, well lit, and visible.

Ill move my things here, Axton said, turning around.

No, Ill have the knights move my bag here, Piers said.

There are plenty of knights around, so the owner of the tent doesnt matter, as long as each person gets their own. Tori turned around and led them out. Piers looked towards the guard that was standing outside the entrance.

Bring my baggage here.

Yes, Your Highness.

Tori continued walking down the wooden walkway, back to the wooden deck at the shore. Light crystals illuminated the deck as several tables from breakfast were now filled with intense-looking guests hovering over printed cardstock with painted discs that they used to place on top of the called numbers.

The Empress in particular had one red disc gripped between two fingers and seemed ready to slam it down as soon as one of her numbers was called.

All the players' backs were to Tori, and no one seemed to notice her as they loomed over their cards.

At the edge of the deck, closest to the shore, Henrik reached into a glass fishbowl with wooden balls that had been carved with numbers 1-75. Beside him, Ilyana wrote down what was called and guarded several envelopes that had the vouchers for prizes.

Tori crossed her arms and watched as Henrik stuck his hand inside the fishbowl and moved the balls around before taking one and lifting it up. He looked down at the ball and then turned it around for everyone to see the number.

36!

A loud thud was heard, and someone slapped their table. Bingo!

Tori turned to the right and saw an elderly woman lifting her arm and laughing as the people on either side of her looked over.

Grandma Connor, Ilyana will come to check your card, Henrik said. Ilyana rounded the table with a notebook and bent down to validate Ewans grandmas card.

21...7...3...51...and 36! We have a winner! Ilyana smiled and Henrik lifted up a bell to ring it as people clapped. Ilyana then escorted Ewans grandma to the front to pick her prize.

Can I choose any one? the old woman asked.

Yes, Grandma, you can choose any one you want, Henrik told her.

Id like that dinner at Sir Nassauns restaurant, she said with a pleased smile.

Grandma, pick another one, Axton said from the back. He smiled as everyone turned to look at him. Ill take you to eat at the Three Queens anytime you want. Just tell Ewan.

What...? Former Sword Association captain and Ewans brother, Patrick drooped his shoulders. Thats not fair.

Its his restaurant, Captain, he can do what he wants, Captain Messer said from the table behind him.

Oh...then in that case.... The old woman looked through the list. I already have a nice coat from Lions Gate...what is this rocking lounge chair?

Im glad you asked, Grandma, Tori said as she stepped forward. She, Henrik, and Ilyana had thrown in a few items that would be on sale in the future for advertising purposes. She raised her arm and two villagers assisting them carried in a carefully crafted wooden lounge chair with woven fabric and pillows.

Whats that? A rocking chair? someone asked.

Tori stood beside the chair. This wooden lounge chair is a recent design developed here in Viclya, by our local craftsmen, to be used on decks. The wooden frame is curved to allow one to rock slightly and there is a comfortable layer of durable canvas with cushions and an adjustable pillow. Let me help you lay down.

She and Ilyana helped Ewans grandmother lay on the lounge and raise her legs and feet up. The old woman leaned back and smiled. Oh...its very comfortable!

Theres more, Tori said, sounding like a salesperson. This crystal on your right arm rest can be moved along its groove to adjust the speed of the rocking or keep it still. On your left arm rest is a round niche to hold a beverage. This particular prize comes with an adjustable table for you to eat from or read on. The Viclyan Loungers, as we call them, also come with a little awning for shade that can be removed, as this chair is best used outside.

They dont go on sale until after we have the Spring Festival event, Henrik said. So, if you choose this prize, youd be the first person to have it.

Get the chair, Great-Grandma! Ewans niece and nephew urged their grandmother earnestly.

The old woman laughed. Do we bring it back?

Lions Gate will have it delivered this week. Tori told her with a warm smile.

Ewans grandma raised her arms and Tori and Ilyana helped her up. I will have my son clear a space in the yard for it.

Tori nodded and had the chair moved to the side. As Henrik returned the balls to the fishbowl and stuck his arm to stir them, villagers who were hired to help came to exchange cards with those who wanted new ones. A few people went to check out the lounger and even sit on it.

When did you start selling furniture? Albert asked as Tori passed him.

Lions Gate has a wide portfolio, Albert, Tori answered, a bit proud. Lions Gates Den is our furniture and housewares division.

Albert narrowed his eyes. Ilyana named it, didnt she?

It was the best one out of her suggestions, Tori sighed. She walked back to the walkway and Ewan walked over to her.

Tori, my parents and everyone really like bingo, he said. I didnt think theyd be so interested. Tori nodded.

Old people love bingo, Ewan, she said as she lifted a hand and patted his shoulder. If your friends and the Sword Association members get bored, dont forget the other things we offer tonight. The extra games are with JP and Sonia. Albert has the dungeon crawl notebook.

Ewan nodded and headed back to his seat.

Tori raised her arms and turned around, passing Axton and Piers. Im going to go for a walk and relax.

Before anyone could stop her, she headed up the path and towards the supply yard to be alone on her ifana stone pile. She thought that shed have to move to a different pile once her current one started to be sourced, but it seemed that the workers purposely left her particular pile alone.

Eventually, it would be used, but for the time being it was her little oasis. As she walked past the promenade, she saw her cousins arm in arm, walking along the completed portion. A few villagers also walked along the promenade, as it had become a popular place to take after dinner evening walks.

Its popularity in its unfinished state was promising. Shed had temporary streetlamps put up to keep the walkway illuminated and safe. Henriks restaurant was still open, as they were also using the knights and sailors as tests for running the restaurant.

Everyone was made aware, and it seemed to be going smoothly.

Once Tori got to the supply yard, she climbed her ifana stone pile and laid down. She let out a low breath and let her body relax. There were knights crawling all over the area and sailors patrolling the shores. It wasnt a very private party, but at least she felt much more assured of the safety of the imperial couple and their two heirs.

She owed Auntie Lucia for all her help arranging the security.

As the cool night breeze swept over her, she heard a near-silent crunching below and frowned. Someone was coming, and there was only one person who would bother her there.

What now, Axton? she asked, already sounding annoyed.

Im not Axton. A different male voice replied, and Tori narrowed her eyes.

Did Axton send you?

No, Piers said as he reached her. I send Axton. Not the other way around.

Tori raised her brows. Thats true. She turned towards him and looked up. Is there a problem with bingo?

No, but its much more competitive than you said it would be.

Its not much of a competition. Its very much a game of luck, Tori said. Piers remained standing a few paces from her.Updated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

Everyone is very determined. Mother won the last round and chose a sword from Daybreak Garden.

Tori smirked. Marquis blood.

It disappointed the students from La Garda. Ewan suggested they try dungeon crawl, so Mr. Martin will lead them through a round in Ewans tent, Piers said with a frown. Why did Ewan also get his own tent last night?

Its his birthday! I wasnt going to make him share with his siblings. And you each had your own tent. Axton just made a mistake and caused some confusion.

Piers frowned more so and narrowed his eyes. Axton needs more training.

Tori let out a little snort. Sit down, its difficult to talk to you if youre standing above me. Piers carefully sat down a good arms length from her. He seemed hesitant to hang his legs over the edge, but eventually did. Did you come here to complain about Axton?

Piers shook his head. I wanted to thank you.

The corners of her lips curled into a smirk as she closed her eyes. You already thanked me and promised me cake.

A few people asked about you as theyre interested in investing in Viclya.

Tori perked up at once. Investing in Viclya? Who?

Madam Martin, Prince Emil and Princess Vivian, and Miss Vissage.

Tori looked surprised, but pleased. Sonia?

She was telling Miss Agafonova that she has a bit of competition money saved up- Tori was already walking past Axton, in the direction of their tents. Axton frowned. Now where are you going?

To find Sonia! Tori said, unable to contain the satisfaction in her voice. You stay and help Piers.

Axton held his arms to his sides. Help him with what?

Axton, Piers said behind him. He turned around and saw Piers determined face. Hug me.

She thought their discussion about possible businesses in Viclya, particularly the promenade area, was going very well. Tori made sure to have Ilyana, Henrik, and Axton with her as she tried to sell her vision of a hammam styled bath house on a resort island.

With our current plumbing and crystal technology, I believe we can build this. However, this would be a phase three building project, Tori said. So, it will take some time.

Id like to see some more drafts on this, Madam Martin said. But I am very interested.

Of course, of course, Tori said, understandingly. I understand that a proper proposal is needed, and we would have to secure the island.

In conjunction with the bathhouse, it will be connected to a luxury inn, Axton said. Once we have secured the island, we will prepare immediately.

Many of our craftsmen have expressed interest in continuing their contracts after the first and second phases, which are for buildings and islands deemed essential, Tori said.

Of course, before that, we will be building up the stores along the promenade and plaza, Henrik said. We do have prospective plot outlines to show investors.

Tori nodded in agreement and a server rushed towards her. She craned her neck to the side as the server whispered in her ear. Her eyes widened and she nodded. She looked back at the round table where they were seated at Henriks restaurant for their final lunch before they left.

If youll excuse me for a moment, there is something with construction that I need to attend to, Tori said. She stood up and gave them a small bow of her head before following the server outside.

My lady! One of the construction leads was waiting for her. My apologies for disturbing you.

Tori shook her head. Not at all. Did it happen again?

Im afraid so, my lady.

Is Professor Grey still here? Id like his opinion on switching the pile drivers, Tori said as they walked towards the far end of the promenade, where it was still under construction. As they walked, they passed the Empress and Emperor walking arm in arm and tailed by several knights.

Lady Tori, where are you going? the Empress asked as she saw her scurrying along. Is it not time for lunch?

There is a slight issue with a pile driver I need to attend to. It wont take long, Tori said.

She thought that would excuse her, but as she got a few steps away, she noticed that the Empress had turned and followed her, dragging her husband and knights along. Tori took a deep breath.

Auntie Nika-

Carry on; I am curious and will stay at a safe distance!

The construction lead looked at her with uncertainty, as if wondering if he should send the two back. However, Tori shook her head.

Then, please stay where I tell you when we are closer, as the construction site can be dangerous, she said, as calmly as she could.

They continued walking, and when the completed portion of the promenade ended, Tori had the imperial couple, and their knights remain in place while she walked closer to where a pile driver had sunk into the soft marshy shoreline.

Were going to have to switch to the smaller pile driver, and it would be best to have one of the pile driver ships deal with the very edge of the shoreline, Professor Grey said as soon as he saw her.

Tori nodded. Then, I will leave that to you to arrange, Professor.

I apologize for this oversight. In the spring months, the soil here is wetter than normal. Professor Grey sighed. We shouldve switched to the smaller, lighter pile driver earlier.

This is something we have learned and will take note of in the future, Tori said. She moved closer to the wooden structure of the pile driver, which had one of its corners sinking deep into the soil, so that the structure seemed to tilt ten degrees to the side. Tori looked at her booted feet. The soil did feel softer than usual and very heavy objects with no support would certainly sink in.

This happened at the other end, as well. Tori rolled up her sleeve and adjusted her bracelet. She picked the terracrystal and knelt down to put her hand and the crystal on the ground. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

She visualized energy collecting beneath the soil and then pushing up, steady and evenly. She could hear the creaking of the pile driver above her as it was straightened out. She then condensed the soil and opened her eyes. The ground beneath the pile driver was much more solid and they could move it out of the way.

Clear! Tori shouted and the workers rushed forward to move the pile driver. Tori stepped back and someone handed her a towel and led her to a bucket of clean water to wash her hand.

Thank you, my lady! the construction lead told her, and she smiled and nodded. Were lucky to have caught you before you left."

The first time it happened, it was a long laborious process to get the pile driver unstuck. Tori tried to see if she could assist and after some discussion and testing with Master Ramos, the second time a pile driver got stuck, she was able to manipulate the ground to make it easier to remove.

After she cleaned her hands and dried them, she headed back to the promenade.

You are able to use crystals to manipulate earth. The Emperor stated it more than asked for confirmation.

Tori gave them a bow of her head and nodded. Im still a novice and learning, but I can do minor manipulations.

You straightened out a pile driver, the Empress said in a solemn voice. I hardly call that minor.

Tori smiled a bit. I consider it minor.

Then Id like to see what you consider major, the Emperor said with a raised brow.

Tori thought for a moment. The Bishop of Karap once caused a landslide. Although it was somewhat minor. Tori motioned towards the plaza. Shall we continue to have lunch?

The imperial couple followed her, and Tori tried not to walk strangely as she felt their gazes on her back.

She had shown off more than she intended to that weekend. She didnt plan on Master Ramos revealing her as his pupil or for the imperial couple to watch her move a wooden structure and a massive granite block in a few seconds.

She turned around and gave them a slight bow once more. I would very much appreciate it if what you saw me do does not leave the delta.

Of course! the Empress said, almost immediately. The Emperor gave her a nod of agreement. But I do have one request.

Tori bit her cheek to keep from groaning out loud. Yes?

The Empress beamed. Where did you get those fireworks?

Tori almost let out a breath of relief. That wasnt a secret. I met a merchant in Anlar. Hoita, great person. His family runs a trade network through a trading village called Hoit, from the east, over the strait and to Nazria, and then to Kings Harbor. I put in an order over the summer for enough stock for everyones birthday celebrations and the Spring Festival event.

The Empress furrowed her brows. How long does an order take to make and arrive?

I can call him, but it depends how much stock is close to us, Tori said. Hoita was on his trading vessel in the lagoon right now, having been invited and taught Instructor Ignatius how to use the fireworks. It took a few months to arrive, but to be fair, it was winter and so there were some delays.

Is there a possibility of putting in an order in time for an event in two weeks? the Empress asked.

Tori drew her lips in. She knew immediately that such a thing was almost impossible. Logistics of delivery alone would take a few weeks, as Hoita would need to go, pick up the items, and then bring them back. Thats why when she saw the bamboo tubes in Hoitas trading vessel during one of her visits, she asked about them and put in an order immediately, as well as arranged for assistance.

The Empress shoulders dropped a bit and she frowned.

The Emperor squeezed her hand and looked towards Tori. Lady Guevera, we will purchase the same number of fireworks used last night from you and are willing to pay double.

Tori raised a brow. She quietly did the planning in her head. She didnt mind selling them, but needed to make sure shed have enough, as she planned to use them when Ewan got accepted at La Garda.

She believed she had enough and gave them a nod. That is do-able. May I ask what the fireworks are for?

The Empress looked surprised, and the Emperor raised a brow. You do not know? You shouldve received an invitation!

Invitation? Tori tilted her head to the side. She hadnt received anything.

Perhaps Gideon has not given it to her, yet, the Emperor said, looking at his wife.

The Empress let out a tired sigh. Its for Gideons birthday in two weeks. He will be turning 16, so it is his coming-of-age celebration, as well.

Tori didnt keep track of love interests birthdays, and didnt care, but now that the Empress mentioned it, something about Gideons birthday told her it was important. It had been almost two years since she woke up in Soleil; the smaller details of the game were hazy. After all, she never actually played it and only spent a little time skimming the main and character wiki-pages for the game.

She furrowed her brows and frowned. Did something important happen on Gideon's 16th birthday? Was it an important game event? It sounds like it would be.

Do you agree to sell us the fireworks, Lady Guevera? the Emperor asked.

Tori took a deep breath and shook the thought out of her head. Perhaps shed remember later. She looked up and nodded. Yes, I will arrange it. Hoita will leave later this week, but Instructor Ignatius has been trained. I will arrange for Hoita to come to Horizon before he leaves to do any preliminary setup.

The Empress looked pleased and nodded. We will pay for his troubles. Thank you, Lady Tori. Allow us to send a carriage to pick you up to get ready for the celebration.

She forced a small smile and turned around, trying to hide her disappointed expression. There was likely no way she could avoid Gideons birthday now.

But she would still try.