Chapter 98: This Isn't What It Looks Like

Chapter 98: This Isn't What It Looks Like

Her brothers green eyes went from Piers to her. All at once, Sebastians concerns regarding her closeness to Piers flooded into her head. The scene now before him was something he didnt want to see. Tori remembered Sebastians trembling, terrified face at the thought of her marrying Piers and being made a target for assassins.

She began to feel guilty even though she wasnt doing anything wrong.

Toris eyes crinkled up.

Sebby, she began carefully. This isnt what it looks like.

Sebastians face darkened. Do I look blind to you? he snapped back as he shot them both a glare.

Tori is giving me a greeting hug, Piers told him. For practice.

Practice? Her brothers incredulous voice seemed to raise as he shook in his spot. Do you think Ill believe that!

Sebby, it really is for practice, Tori said. Piers is working towards hugging the Empress, and Axton and I have been trying to get him used to embracing others.

Call Axton. He will confirm it. Piers was serious and Tori wondered if her brother would start yelling.

It doesnt matter if hell confirm it! Sebastian threw his arms down beside him and sneered. Why havent you let my sister go?

Piers seemed to think for a moment and then frowned. I lost count. One...two....

Just let her go!

Piers stepped back obediently, and Tori lowered her arms. You need to pay attention to how long you are embracing another person. It will get uncomfortable if its too long under these circumstances.

Is a month of absence too little for the one-armed hug? Piers furrowed his brows and frowned.

No, a one-armed hug will suffice, but you and I have both had some stressful situations recently, so a normal two-armed embrace is-

Do you really not understand how to embrace other people? Sebastian asked, both frustrated and exhausted by this exchange.

Tori frowned and stood in front of Piers. Sebby, you know he doesnt feel comfortable being touched. He hasnt hugged anyone since he was a little boy. This takes time to get used to. Dont yell at him; hes trying his best. Her disapproving tone was both admonishing and defensive.

Piers nodded and looked over the top of her head. Master, I can hug you, too.

Sebastian stared at the two of them and Piers stepped around Tori. He raised his arms and approached Sebastian cautiously. When Sebastian didnt react, Piers moved closer. He seemed to measure his steps before reaching out with stiff arms and putting them around Sebastians.

What is happening.... Sebastian muttered under his breath as he looked at them.

Tori watched as her brothers face went from frustration to confusion to disgust. Piers went with patting Sebastian on the back thrice and when it was over, he stepped back quickly and then looked towards him, as if awaiting a critique.

It was too stiff, wasnt it? Piers frowned and lowered his eyes. I need to be more relaxed, but Master didnt reciprocate.

Its fine. For some people, a firm handshake will do, Tori said with an assertive nod. She looked back at her brother. Sebby, what are you doing here?

Kasen was away from Presidio, still doing assigned work. She didnt expect her other brother to also leave the march. Didnt he have work to do? Her father wouldn't let him wander off so easily.

As if knowing what she was thinking, Sebastian frowned and waved his arm dismissively. Im not staying the whole summer, just a few weeks. Papa has given me permission.

Tori stared at her brother in silence before speaking. You missed Lady Idunn that much, huh?

Sebastian stood up straight and frowned. I didnt just come here for Idunn! Toris eyes narrowed, and Sebastian looked affronted. How do you see me?

Toris eyes slowly looked to the side. As someone who hasnt seen his girlfriend in months and is desperate to see her again.

Tori, Idunn and I are busy people, and we know this. Despite being unable to make time in recent months to see each other, we talk nightly, Sebastian told her, as if explaining to a child. He had a bit of an arrogant air. When you are older, you will understand that you dont need to be with your partner every moment to be in a strong relationship.

Tori narrowed her eyes. I already know that. Gramps and Grammie live apart so Grammie can do research, remember?

Sebastian let out a small cough. Then...if you understand that, you can understand that while I do hope to see and spend time with Idunn while Im here, I also came to see you.

Tori drew her head back, suspicious. Sebby, I told you and Mama and Papa that I was going to be busy working this summer for both Lions Gate and my Lyce project. I dont have time to play like last summer.

Sebastian almost appeared to pout. You cant spare a little time for me?

Tori faltered. Well...I can, of course, but its not the same amount as last summer. It seems a waste of your journey to come for just a few weekends. You have so much work to do back in Presidio.

I finished what needed to be done and the rest can be done through calls, he told her, once more regaining his confidence.

I didnt know you had so much free time, Master, Piers said.

Sebastian shot him a glare. If you must know, Im also here for Ewan. One of his references should be present and since Axton is at the border, I came for the interview.

Tori relaxed her shoulders. That was a legitimate, responsible reason. In fact, she was a bit happy that her brother had come all that way to support Ewan so close to the exams. Still, she couldnt help but prod at her brother.

Then does this mean youll have Ewan stay in Horizon until his entrance exams and then wait here for him? she asked with a raised brow.

Sebastian immediately let out a scoff. Why would I do that? He can review in Viclya. She knew hed say that.

Then youll wait in Viclya until his exams are over? Tori continued on. Sebastian opened his mouth and she cut him off. Thats great. Im glad there will be someone there waiting for him when his exams are over to follow up. I have to go to the Tetri Duchy with Instructor Ignatius and Lady Idunn to discuss purchasing crystals and take a look at their irrigation research.

Sebastians mouth snapped shut. He looked at his sister with wide eyes. I planned to go, too.

Tori frowned. Lady Idunn didnt tell her Sebastian planned on joining them. They were planning the trip in detail and had to let Duchess Tetri know how many people were coming with them. From her experience with Lady Idunn, she wouldve told her if her brother was coming so they could inform Duchess Tetri in a timely manner.

Sebby, did you tell Lady Idunn you were coming?

Sebastians face reddened a little. I wanted to surprise her.

Piers shook his head behind Tori. Master, you are aware that Lady Idunn is very busy. This is very rude.

Sebastians glare only hardened. No one asked you! And Ill call her right now! Flustered, Sebastian patted down his clothes until he found his comcry in his pants pocket. He walked to the corner and slid his finger across the crystal. Call Idunn Nordursin.

Tori looked back at Piers and let out a heavy sigh. Dont overwork Albert this summer. Ease him into the position.

Piers nodded. I will properly discuss the duties required of him, of course. He will only start to accompany me to Chamber meetings after he has suitable experience.

Hell want to come to Viclya to see us. You can join him if youre not busy.

I will make time to come for the twins' and Mr. Skuldsens birthday, as well as the celebration for Ewan when he is accepted into La Garda, Piers told her. Do not forget that you still owe me steak and said you will attend Mothers birthday festivities.

I know. And your mother reminded me when we were at the delta last, Tori said with a tired sigh. Will you be able to attend the smaller gatherings on your own?

Mr. Martin will be present, Piers said. I am confident.

Tori gave him a nod and lifted her arm to stroke his shoulder reassuringly. Dont overwork yourself, either. She saw the corner of his lip curl up as his eyes lowered.

I wont.

Will your brother be able to help you? she asked. He was useful at the new year party.

Piers glanced up and shook his head. No, he will be leaving for the Naval Academy at the end of the week.

Toris head snapped up. The last she heard; the Empress seemed reluctant. Your parents agreed? He nodded.

Mother called Marquess OTuagh directly to help find Gideon an open position for this years summer training. He wont be back until the eighth month, before Lyce starts.

Tori let out a low breath and knit her brows. I didnt expect him to actually go.

It will be good for him. He has very little self-defense training and his discipline is lacking, Piers said with a frown. The Naval Academy will not only train him, but discipline him and force him to work with others. He understands this well. I approved of his decision to attend.

Tori bit her lips and held back her laugh. She could only imagine how excited Gideon was to have his brothers approval.

If youre going, of course Im going. Sebastians firm voice came from the corner and the two looked towards him. Yes, theres time. The interviews wont be for another month. It takes a week to get to the Tetri Duchy from Viclya. How long are you planning to stay? There was a pause, and they could hear Lady Idunns muffled voice. Then, Ill accompany you three to the Tetri Duchy.

Tori wrinkled her nose and frowned. If Sebastian left with them, then he couldnt see Ewan off and the week before the exam would be wasted. At least discuss this with Ewan first....Oh my God, youre so clingy. Last summer, after Sebastian and Lady Idunn made up, he would seek out Lady Idunn when he was free.

Of course, my sister will agree, Sebastian said, full of confidence. He looked over his shoulder. Tori, you dont mind if I go with you to the Tetri Duchy, do you?

Alessa, what do you think of the carriage? Guthry asked. Gideon and I went through a better rental agency this time. It should be much more comfortable.

Alessa reached them and looked at the carriage with wide, amber eyes. Sparks of excitement seemed to come from them as she circled the carriage. Its wonderful! So large!

We have Mr. Rosiek to thank, Guthry said, looking towards the older man. It was the agency he recommended.

Mr. Rosiek laughed and waved his hand sheepishly. The agency is my stores next-door neighbor. I only wanted to support them, as well. He looked towards the carriage and the two horses pulling it and lifted his hand. He patted one of the horses thick necks. The Bowers just invested so much in replacing all their old carriages. If I can direct some business their way, I will.

He gave the prince and Guthry a grateful look.

Alessa looked at them with an even more grateful expression. She stepped back to do a small curtsy. Thank you for your help this summer.

Montan watched the other two young men blush a bit as they shook their heads and assured her it was nothing. Montan disagreed. From what Alessa told him, the prince was paying the rental fee for the carriage for a trip to Chetterswickshire and back. Considering that it would also act as their mode of transportation while in Chetterswickshire, it was not inexpensive.

Guthry was paying for his and Alessas rooms at inns, knowing that Alessa had financial concerns. As for private guards, a half dozen of Mr. Rosieks men were with them. They were used to guarding goods transported through the Central Corridor. They knew the routes and where it was safe to stay the night.

All of this was for Alessas sake, but it also helped Montan. He only needed to pay for his lodgings and food. It was a small price to avoid returning to Sun Garden. His mother had already called him twice before final exams, pleading with him to send her more charms because his father had become increasingly agitated due to his half-brothers claim for the duchy.

As she had lost her ability to ground and charge her own charms years ago, she had to rely on him to do it for her. That was how he learned; with his mother gripping his hand and forcing him to write out characters he couldnt read over and over. He didnt understand what she was using them for until he was older.

His private tutors told him he had a talent for charms and as much as he hated having to make them, he needed them. Charms kept him safe. They blocked out the noise of his parents. They allowed him to remain quiet so he wouldnt be noticed. He used them for quick bursts of energy so he could study. He had even sold some for money.

Even now, he had a small stack of charms on his person. Though, none were the energy-draining charms his mother made him make. He hated those.

Those charms helped make his father dependent on his mother. Those charms were now used to control his father when he had one of his fits of rage. They were tools his mother used to help ruin the life of Duchess Alvere.

If his mother didnt give birth to him and occasionally protect him from his father, then Montan wouldve denied her those charms that she begged for.

Is everyone ready to go? Alessas gentle voice reached him, drawing him out of his gloom.

I am.

I had some food prepared for your journey, Mr. Rosiek said. He waved his hand and a man who was seated by the driver on another carriage jumped down and rushed over with a large canvas wrapped box. Just some dried meats, cheeses, and bread, in case you are hungry on the road.

Thank you, Mr. Rosiek, Guthry said as he accepted the package. We appreciate this.

I am happy to be of assistance, Mr. Rosiek replied. He cast an affectionate look at Alessa. Her friends are my friends. She saved me, after all.

Alessa lowered her eyes and flushed. I only did what I could. I will help others where I can.

Montans own expression softened. Unpretentious and generous. She tried to offer comfort even when she herself was experiencing difficulty. He smiled a bit and looked away to hide it.

She reminded him so much of Duchess Alvere.

His eyes narrowed. He had to be sure to protect her.

Montan, take a seat next to me, Guthry said as he climbed into the carriage. Montan nodded and followed him up. Alessa was seated across from them, and she scooted close to the window to say good-bye to the prince and Mr. Rosiek.

Remember to stay together, Mr. Rosiek said as he approached the window. Dont go out at night in unfamiliar towns. If you do, make sure to have at least two of the guards with you. He craned his neck and looked into the carriage. Mr. Guthry, Mr. Alvere, this goes for you two, as well.

Thank you for your concern, Mr. Rosiek. Guthry gave him another appreciative nod.

Alessa, Mr. Rosiek looked up at her in the carriage. If there is anything you need, do not hesitate to call me.

Adrien, Alessa said with a warm smile. She reached out of the open window and the merchant raised his arm so she could grasp his hand. If you finish your business here, please come to Chetterswickshire.

He returned her hopeful look with a brilliant smile. If I am able to finish here, then I will come. I have been meaning to look over our workshops there.

Alessa nodded and released his arm. She looked past him, at Prince Gideon.

Please tell Fabian good luck for me! she said. I wish I could see him off for his exam, but I need to return home.

We understand, Alessa, Prince Gideon replied with a gentle smile. He gave her a small nod of his head. I will be sure to tell Fabian. He will be thankful for your kind words and thoughts.

Alessa told them good-bye, and Mr. Rosiek stepped away from the carriage. He looked at the driver and gave a nod. Drive safe. My friends are in your care.

Yes, Mr. Rosiek! A small crack was heard, and the carriage jerked forward. Alessa remained seated by the window, extending her hand and waving as her friends grew smaller and smaller.

Well, we wont stop to rest for a few hours, Guthry said as he leaned back against the plush carriage seat.

When will we reach our first stop? Montan asked. Hed never gone past the Alvere Duchy. When his father traveled, he traveled alone. Montan had never even properly visited the other duchies.

We left a bit earlier than this time last summer, Guthry replied, thinking a bit. We had reached our first stop shortly before sunset. This time, we may reach there a bit later.

Four or so hours. Alessa perked up in her seat. We will be well out of Horizons borders and in the Central Corridor.

Well stop every few hours to rest, Guthry told him. The journey can be a bit long, but it wont take a week.

Adrien has instructed the driver to take us directly to Chetterswickshire. We wont be taking round-about roads to sightsee.

Montan nodded. Im surprised His Highness didnt come. As much as he didnt want to think about it, the second prince seemed very close to Alessa.

Alessa invited all of them to come join her in Chetterswickshire for the summer and Montan was certain that the second prince would want to come, as he had gone last summer.

Gideon said that he had responsibilities to the imperial family now that he is an adult member. As such, he had something he needed to do for his position, Alessa said as she tapped her chin and looked up. I had hoped he could go. My father would be more likely to listen to him.

Alessa, I almost forgot to ask, Guthry said as he leaned forward and knit his brows. Does your father know that we are accompanying you this summer?

Alessa nodded. Yes, I let him know that you and Montan will be coming. He said he will prepare well. He hopes to apologize for the awkwardness from last summer.

What about the brick woman? Montan frowned. Will she be there?

Alessas lips immediately tightened into a line, and she looked down. I dont know, she said in a strained voice. I think...I think she is still working at her familys factory.

If they are proceeding with the marriage, I dont think well be able to avoid them, Guthry said, cautious.

Alessa sat up straight and seemed to put on a look of determination. Dont worry! I wont let her cause us trouble. I will speak to my father again regarding this matter.

Montan wanted to warn her that men who were entangled with such women were stubborn and wouldnt listen, but he held his tongue.

Guthry shook his head, frowning. I dont understand why he would marry a woman his daughter dislikes. Surely there are others.

Its that woman! Alessa bristled. She bewitched my father! I dont know what she did, but if she were as kind and understanding as my father insisted, then she wouldnt continue on with the marriage knowing that I disagree. How can she force a man to wrong his daughter?

Montan asked himself a similar question. How can a man wrong his son? He wondered if Baron Hart was like his own father, but shook the thought out of his head. A man like his father would never have been able to raise someone like Alessa.

Is there anything we can do to help you? Guthry asked.

If you think that she may have bewitched him, I can use a charm to see if there is any questionable energy on his body that is affecting him. Montan offered. Guthry looked at him with surprise.

Thats possible?

Montan nodded, but kept his eyes on Alessa. Though theyre not as permanent or strong as crystals, charms are much more flexible and can be tailored for a specific use. If I can find the right characters and arrangement to use, many things are possible.

Alessa clapped her hands together and nodded. She looked at Guthry. Montan provided me with those charms to help me focus before exams.

Can you make cooling and heating charms, as well? Guthry asked, interested.

Montan tilted his head to the side. Cooling and heating? His focus had always been on defense and strengthening the body. The body?

Things like food or drink, Guthry said.

Montan frowned. Why would that be necessary? Isnt that just a waste of time, supplies, and energy? No....why do you ask?

Guthry looked a bit disappointed. My mother uses these charms to chill drinks into a sort of slush. When used with fruit juice or sweetened coffee, its very refreshing on a hot day.

Montan knit his brows together once more. What characters and arrangements would be needed to make such a charm? Where did she get the charms?

At this, Guthrys face fell. He frowned and looked out the window. Lady Guevera, he said, almost reluctant to admit it. His next sentence made Montan frown even further. Lady Guevera also appears quite proficient in charms.