Chapter 90: Do You Feel Any Discomfort?

Chapter 90: Do You Feel Any Discomfort?

Tori froze with Ilyana beside her. She was prepared to deal with Dimitri, Montan, and Alessa by herself, but didnt expect Axton and Piers to arrive. With other problematic love interests, it wasnt a problem. Piers had a good handle on Gideon. Dimitri and Fabian wouldnt say or do anything against her as long as Axton or Piers were there.

However, Montan was a different story. Both she and Ilyana knew how Axton felt about his half-brother, and the tension began to shift from her versus the love interests to Axton and his half-brother.

Tori swallowed hard and ignored her personal conflict. What was important now was to try to soothe out the situation. The very sight of Montan would upset Axton, and she couldnt help but shudder.

Nothings wrong. Tori turned her head towards the two men on horseback and gave them a reassuring look. Were just having a disagreement. Its nothing serious.

Axtons gaze settled on her for a moment, as if studying her face. Tori, your brothers left you in our care, and you are as close to a sister to me as I have. If someone is bothering you, you must tell me, he said in a low, even voice. Tori drew her lips inward and bit them. She knew he chose those words to attack Montan. When she didnt answer, he looked towards Ilyana. Lady Agafonova, as her friend and mine, you must tell me whats going on.

Ilyana chewed her lower lip for a moment, before nodding. We ran into Miss Hart when we were going to the tailor. We didnt speak to her, but her friend harassed us. Nanny Rey had to step in. When we came back to Lyce, Mr. Al...Alvere.... She seemed reluctant to say the name with Axton there and Tori understood. He was speaking to Miss Hart, and suddenly turned around and rushed towards us, appearing angry. Tori told him that whatever shes been accused of this time should be proven first, otherwise to leave her alone.

Then Tori asked him why he wanted to confront her if Miss Hart didnt instigate him to. He had no answer. Mr. Guthry has just appeared, and Tori told him that she regrets helping him with the guilds. I also regret that she helped him with the guilds, especially after he grabbed her wrist last year. Ilyana confessed the situation and darted her eyes away.

Tori told me about that, Piers said in a dull voice. His eyes drifted to Montan. Is what she said true? Did Lady Hart instigate you to attack Tori?

Montan was pale. He couldnt seem to take his eyes off of Axton, sitting atop a horse and looking every bit a gallant hero. She...she had Alessas friend threatened.

Training Commander? Piers asked. Tori and Ilyana nodded. For Training Commander Reystrom to step in, one has to wonder what Lady Harts friend was doing to Tori and Lady Agafonova.

Her friend was threatened, and she came crying to you? Axton sneered at Montan. And then you rushed to defend her without knowing the entire story. Montan lowered his eyes and Axton scoffed. Getting used by a woman. Just like your father.

Tori couldnt help but grit her teeth and let out a hiss. She turned around and looked at Axton. She knew he didnt like Montan, but his comment was unexpected. He didnt seem at all bothered by what he just said. However, Montans hands clenched at his side and a moment later, he whirled around and ran back into Lyce without another word.

Montan! Alessa seemed to try to do an awkward curtsy towards Piers before running after Montan. Unsure what else to do, Dimitri followed them, as well.

Tori closed her eyes and let out a low breath. This was between me and him. It really wasnt serious.

He needs to learn, Axton said, his voice still cold. Tori turned around and walked towards him. She patted Blue Rivers neck as she approached Axton.

I am happy that you want to help me. I know I can depend on you, but it wasnt necessary this time. It was just a small disagreement. Tori reached up and grasped his hand as best as she could being as short as she was. Axton took a deep breath and closed his eyes.

If he does anything to hurt you, he began, opening his eyes and looking at her and then at Ilyana. Any of you...I wont let him get away with it.

Tori nodded and Axton moved his hand out from under hers and stroked the top of her head. What are you two doing here? she asked, trying to steer the conversation elsewhere.

We were taking our horses around the academic quarter so they could get out of the stables, Axton said. He continued to stroke the top of her head as if needing to in order to calm down. Were you two at Madam Midstroms to get your dresses tailored?

Im going to wear the dress I was supposed to wear at the new year party, but Ilyana is borrowing one of mine and it needs to be tailored, Tori said.

He finally gave you the invitations, Piers said. Tori nodded. We will also be in attendance.

By the way, do you know how long we have to stay? Tori asked. Were bringing Albert with us, and we need to schedule our return.

Do we need to stay up until the prayer? Is there more to the ceremony besides it and a speech from the Emperor? Ilyana asked.

Its a standard ball for the most part. The actual ceremonial portion is short, but its not the first thing that happens, Axton said, his hand on top of Toris head. There will be refreshments, food, and dancing, then the Emperor will give a speech, the Archbishop of Horizon will give him a blessing, then the Emperor will present him as an adult member of the imperial family.

That will go by quickly, Ilyana said, looking at Tori. We dont have to stay too long.

Tori nodded, pleased to hear it.

After the presentation, the chamber will present the prince and his parents with a list. After that, its just dancing, Axton told them. He was finally satisfied and lifted his hand off of Toris head. You can sneak away then.

He has a list? Of things to do? Tori looked put off by that. Damn, he just became an adult and theyre ready to throw work at him immediately.

Its an engagement list. Piers voice made her freeze. Tori stood still as something in the back of her mind seemed to click. Its a list compiled by the Chamber of suitable partners for Gideons future engagement.

That was what she was forgetting; the looming thought in the back of her mind that she couldn't remember, but knew was important.

How could she forget that at one point, Victoria saw herself as Gideons fiance?

She was likely announced as one of the suitable partners during their second year. It was now their second year.

Tori vaguely remembered returning to her dorm with Ilyana, but she didnt remember what exactly she said to Piers and Axton to excuse them. As soon as she got back to their door, she sat down on her bed and tried to even her breathing. She was shaking and Ilyana was worried, asking her what was wrong.

Tori didnt know how to explain it.

What could she say? That she was going to be on that list, just like the game, and was this another step closer to that bad end? She and Gideon had been at odds since the beginning, and everyone knew that. What were the chances that theyd put her on that list?

She didnt think there needed to be a list at all! Why would it be necessary? Was it just a formality carried over from a different time? Was it to make the members of the Chamber feel as if they had some control over the imperial family? Did they think an imperial family member could not find their own spouse?

And how seriously did the imperial family take that list? Piers didnt have a ball on his sixteenth birthday, and he didnt have a list. Axton said it was because Piers was a special case. Therefore, the family didnt hold such a list as important, right?

His Highness Prince Piers told us that the list is short, Ilyana sat beside her, holding her hand as Tori trembled and tried to reign in her thoughts. There are dozens of eligible young noblewomen in the city. Not to mention that it is unlikely for you to be in that list because everyone thinks youre Prince Piers prospective bride.

Tori slowly turned her head towards Ilyana. Tori was aghast, but Ilyana made a good point.

Tori looked down at the bed. Perhaps the rumor isnt so bad.... Piers was leagues better than Gideon. Youre right...the chances are slim. Tori nodded. And even if she was on that list, it didnt mean anything. A list was just a list.

In the original game, Victoria being on that list went to Victorias head and she became hyper-aggressive towards Alessa, who she believed was trying to take her position at Gideons side. Never mind that she never had it to begin with.

In the present situation, even if her name was on that list, Tori didnt want to be paired with Gideon. She had no reason to intensify her attacks on Alessa. Therefore, her possible conflicts with Alessa would not increase because of this.

Just in casemaybe I should call Piers to confirm. She hadnt escorted him anywhere in months. Hed been going to small meetings and gatherings by himself, with knights or Axton. Tori hoped that by now, the rumors of her targeting Piers had diminished.

But the dread in her stomach and the weight on her shoulders did not let her rest. The closer the date of the ball came, the more antsy she was. The night before the ball, she gave in to her worry and called Piers.

How long are you planning to stay?

At the ball? I plan to arrive just before the ceremony, remain for its duration, then I will leave before the dancing commences.

Tori took a deep breath. Shed have to arrive earlier than that. All right. Thank you. She slid her finger across the comcry and called her next victim. How long do you plan to stay at the ball tomorrow?

From the start to when Piers leaves, Axton replied. He paused. Didnt you just call him?

Yes.

Whats the matter?

I need an escort.

Tori, youll be fine! Ilyana chuckled from her desk and looked at her with amusement and exasperation. You've been worrying about this for too long. Its just a list.

I cant take any chances! Tori said, her voice laced with concern.

She heard Axtons voice laugh over the comcry. Tori, there are only ten people on that list. With how close you are to Piers, they wouldn't dare put your name on it.

Tori took a deep breath. Are you sure?

Yes. Im sure.

Its only a list. Piers could be heard, likely seated near Axton. It is not an engagement. No one is honor bound to marry my brother.

Its not necessarily marrying him thats freaking me out. Tori eventually let them go, but as her concerns lingered, she tried to rationalize possible chains of events. In the end, the big factor shouldnt have been her name being on the list. It was her reaction to being on the list that would ultimately play into the game.

Victoria took being on the list as an actual engagement. Tori would not.

Its just a list. It means nothing. I am freaking out for nothing.Updated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

She continued to almost chant those words under her breath as a carriage came to pick them up at her Auntie Lucias, where she and Ilyana had gone to get ready. She and Ilyana had brought a bag of the clothes they had arrived wearing into the carriage, as after the ball, they were going to be returned to Lyce.

Albert was already in the carriage when it arrived, dressed in a dark blue suit and having been picked up first. He sat across from Tori and knit his brows together.

Albert furrowed his brows. Ive been going to events similar to this since I was younger, but it isnt something Im interested in. I only go as an obligation.

Thats fine, Tori said. It would not be often.

Albert looked at them curiously. Have you tried asking someone else? He looked towards Ilyana who shook her head.

Im only here because Toris here, Ilyana said, firm.

What about Henrik? Albert asked. He might do it for money.

Your Highness, a knight appeared, and he bowed to Piers. His Majesty requests your presence for the ceremony.

Piers gave him a small nod and looked at the others. Axton moved to join him. Please excuse us. Tori watched Piers, flanked on either side and behind by knights while Axton led the way, making a small path through the crowd so that Piers could get through.

They walked through the crowds of guests to reach the thrones, where the imperial couple was seated while Gideon continued to chat with some people.

Piers gave his parents a small nod of his head as he stood by the side. Axton stood not far from him, in similar distance to where Fabian stood away from Gideon.

Tori, Ilyana whispered, and Tori looked away from the imperial family. Look directly ahead, across the room.

Tori furrowed her brows and did as Ilyana said. She narrowed her eyes as she saw Alessa across the room, in a lovely white gown with flowers in her hair. Next to her were Dimitri and, somewhat surprisingly, Montan. I suppose he got an invite, too.

I know that Mr. Guthry and the second prince are friends, but I didnt know he was also friends with Mr. Alvere, Albert told them.

It could also be that he was invited as Duke Alveres son, Tori pointed out. For formalitys sake.

Considering all the rumors we heard, Im surprised he came, Ilyana said.

Im surprised they invited him considering Axton is here, Tori replied. The other two winced.

Trumpets sounded and their attention was turned away from their schoolmates and back towards the ball room.

The Emperor and Empress had risen from their thrones and stood beside each other in complementing black and violet clothing with gold detailing. Gideon stood two steps below them, hands clasped lightly in front of him as he stood up straight and kept his eyes ahead. He looked like a real prince.

Piers was in a similar position but seemed to make a point to try to remain invisible to everyone else.

Thank you everyone for coming to my youngest sons Coming-of-Age celebration! The Emperor greeted the masses and Tori stood in her place, near the pillar and behind the crowd.

She listened to the Emperor speak, first recalling fond memories of his son, then noting his accomplishments. Although Tori thought that the Emperor describing Gideon as charismatic and the best polo player in the family didnt exactly count.

The Emperor segued into welcoming the Archbishop of Horizon to bless Gideon.

From the entryway, a man in long silver and white robes with a peaked hat and jewel encrusted crook walked forward. In front of him was a boy holding an incense carrier and a girl holding an ornate glass and metal bottle of oil and a gold dish. There were a few more priests behind him.

He walked down the carpeted center aisle and stopped in front of Gideon, who bowed his head.

Prince Gideon Francis Leonard du Soleil, kneel once to accept the blessings of the gods, the Archbishop said in a calm voice. Gideon did as he was told, kneeling once with his head bowed, before rising to his feet. It is my honor to bless you once more.

He turned to the girl and had her hold out the small gold dish before he took the oil and poured it into the dish. There wasnt much used, perhaps a few drops. He gave the oil bottle back to the girl and took the gold dish in his hands.

He lifted it up, saying a prayer in an old language that was a bit similar to Old Sulfae. He turned around once, showing the oil in the dish to the people before turning to face Gideon. With the dish in one hand, the Archbishop dipped his thumb into the oil.

Ordean, god of gentle compassion; Izpha, goddess of energy; Geoni, god of discovery and resolution. Each time the Archbishop named one of the gods that were likely Gideons trifecta blessing, he would dip his thumb into the oil and then press it into Gideons forehead, as if to strengthen the blessing. Tori furrowed her brows. Perhaps that was the reason. With these blessings, may your strengths flourish. Whose blessings do you wish to choose for yourself?

Saphira.

Tori drew her head back, surprised that hed pick blessings from that goddess. The goddess of home and family? Her eyes drifted to Piers.

Then, blessings of Saphira, the Archbishop dipped his thumb into the oil once more and ran a line across his forehead. Goddess of home, family, and children. A wonderful blessing for an imperial son.

He then gave the dish back to the girl and took the incense holder. He swung it around Gideon three times before handing it back to the boy. The Archbishop then stepped back, and he and all those with him bowed their heads towards the imperial family.

Gideon remained standing up straight as the Emperor was approached by a man holding a white pillow. Across the pillow was a purple sash. A woman approached the Empress with a similar pillow, but the only thing on it was a broach.

The Emperor then stepped down to stand in front of his son and put the sash across his body. The Empress followed and pinned the broach on his sash, above his left chest. They then returned to their positions behind Gideon.

Citizens of Soleil, I present to you my adult son, Prince Gideon Francis Leonard du Soleil! The Emperor announced and acknowledged his son, causing the ballroom to fill with applause.

Tori also brought her hands together and clapped, but her eyes noticed two men walking towards the thrones. One of them was the Prime Minister and the other Tori recognized as the Chamber Lord.

In each of their hands was an envelope and Tori held her breath.

She wasnt the only one. Silence quickly enveloped the room and Tori couldn't help but wonder if this was what they considered the most important part.

Prime Minister Guthry and the Chamber Lord both knelt in front of the imperial family, holding for a second to hold up the envelopes to be collected by the chamberlain. Once they were in his hands, the two men stood up, bowed their heads, and stepped to opposite sides.

The chamberlain moved to stand where they had knelt and opened the first card.

The Engagement List, as suggested by the Common Chamber of Soleil, the man read out, his voice almost echoing through the silent ballroom. Lady Octavia Vanderwallen for her musical skills spanning five instruments and singing voice. Lady Henrietta Augustus.

Tori furrowed her brows. That was all? They were just naming young women with accomplishments. This wasnt so bad.

Lady Caroline of Hanover for her superior skill in dance and song.

I heard of her, Albert told the two. Shes been dancing since she could walk and has traveled all over the empire to learn regional dances. Shes famous in some circles for not only dancing, but being able to sing secular and theological songs and chants.

Lady Eugene MacPherson for papers on reforming land tax in rural villages in order to ease the financial burden.

Oh, thats a good one, Tori said, nodding. I vote for her.

Were not voting for them, Albert chuckled. After every name was called, there was a brief applause and whispers amongst the guests relating to that young lady.

Lady Grace Somers for her efforts to spread literacy in the thirteenth district.

Also, a good one, Tori said. They were halfway through, and Tori took a deep breath. Five more and she was clear. Actually, four. One of those names has to be Alessa. This game world revolves around her.

The chamberlain handed the first card to another man before opening the second card. The Engagement List, as suggested by the Noble Chamber of Soleil. Lady Zuzana von Knig for her work preserving the artwork and oral history of the empire.

Tori nodded her head once more. That was also good.

Everyone is so accomplished, Ilyana said as she clapped. They have everyone from those skilled in the arts, to young ladies with a desire to help the empire.

Sometimes both, Albert pointed out. Ilyana nodded, impressed.

Two more names were called out and Tori and Ilyana recognized them from Lyce and discussed, but Tori continued to listen. Two more spaces remained. One of them had to be Alessa. There were members of the chamber present at both Siobhans succession ceremony and the Empress banquet. They mustve noticed Alessa at Gideons side.

In addition, Alessa was still a Barons daughter. She counted.

Lady Sophia de Lorraine for her papers on irrigation in arid climates.

A long sigh of relief escaped her. That was it. It was done.

Thats very impressive, she also gets my vote, Tori said. There was one more name that needed to be called, but Tori was assured. Who else could it be, but Alessa?

Her friends were right: she wasnt going to be on that list. Being seen with Piers and being assumed that she was his prospective bride had a surprising upside.

Lady Victoria de Guevera for her work in the resettlement of refugees, and the habitable and economic transformation of the Cosora Delta.

The entire ballroom went silent. No applause. No whispers. Only silence.

Tori stood in place as her lips stayed parted. All eyes seemed to search for her until she was found, located in the back of the crowd and nearly hidden by a column. Ilyanas eyes were wide and Albert was petrified.

No one was talking.

Tori closed her mouth slowly and narrowed her eyes. Fuck no, Im out.