Chapter 99: In Front of My Cake

Chapter 99: In Front of My Cake

Tori sneezed. She narrowed her eyes and rubbed her nose. She looked around the plaza and the flowering plants in the gardens and pots. Her lips pulled into a frown. She didnt think this body had seasonal allergies. Wait, is someone talking smack?

Should we go whale watching first or should we do a cruise around the islands and maybe go upriver? Ilyana paced impatiently beside her. Her stepmother, the Baroness, and little brother had left their inn early that morning and were scheduled to arrive in the midafternoon.

Ilyana had been antsy since breakfast. Shed gone to the resort tent on the beach that she reserved for them twice to make sure that everything was ready, and she had to restrain herself from calling the Baroness every hour to see where they were.

Tori sat on a wooden bench beneath a small pergola placed by the curb of the lot so guests could sit comfortably and wait for their carriage. Tori chuckled.

Ilyana, theyve been traveling in a carriage for hours. Your brother may be excited and want to explore immediately, but your mother will probably want to rest, Tori said. Speaking as someone who was once physically forty, she knew how it felt to be traveling for so long and then want to relax as soon as she reached her destination. Her older body didnt bounce back as fast or as well as when it was younger.

It wasnt that she wasnt excited, but her body needed to rest and re-energize before she could dive into activities.

Ilyana stopped and stood up straight. She snapped her head towards Tori and looked at her with wide eyes. Should I have the carriage bring them closer to the resort tents?

Tori raised a brow. She looked past Ilyana. The closest carriages could get to the resort tents, which were across a small creek, was to park on the other side of the lot they were currently waiting by. Tori scrunched her lips.

I dont think it makes a difference, she said. Well have the valets bring their things to their tent and then let them have something to eat and drink to refresh themselves at the restaurant. She waved her hand towards Henriks restaurant in the plaza just behind them.

There were just a few guests present, all of whom were somehow connected to social circles Tori, Henrik, and Albert were part of. Guests came in limited quantities to assure that staff could be as attentive to each as possible and had reserved dates. All the guests they were expecting that summer had either reached out to stay at Viclya or had won stays at bingo.

Though the number of guests was expected to be small, they were guests with deep pockets and a decent amount of money was being spent at the restaurant and shops, as well as on the lodgings themselves.

Ilyana looked towards the plaza and nodded. Youre right! Mom and Riri are probably hungry after traveling all day.

You can take them whale watching tomorrow, Tori said. Itll be good to make a day of it and let them familiarize themselves around the area. Theyre going to be spending most of the summer here, after all.

Ilyana nodded. Its a shame Dad cant come. He said hell try, but hes always so busy.

Tori nodded. In the summer, it took about three weeks to get from Ilyanas hometown in rural northern Osten to Horizon and Viclya. Round trip would be six weeks and as far as Tori knew, Baron Agafonov ran his business by himself. Unlike her father, who threw march responsibilities at her brothers, Baron Agafonov couldnt leave his business for extended periods of time.

Tori leaned back against the bench and waited. A carriage was coming down the road and since they werent expecting many people, she figured that was it.

Is that them? Tori asked. Ilyana turned around to face the road and rushed forward. She craned her neck, and excitement and joy filled her face.

Thats them! She jumped up and waved her arms. Tori chuckled and rose to her feet.

She stood to the side and waited as the carriage circled the lot to get to them. As it rounded the corner, one of the windows was pulled open and Tori could see a small arm waving just as enthusiastically as Ilyana.

The dark colored carriage with its shiny metal finishes rolled to a stop in front of them and a footman jumped down to open the door. As soon as he opened it, a small being seemed to fly out and fling themself into Ilyanas awaiting arms.

Big sis! A small voice cried out as a pair of arms clung to Ilyanas neck.

Tori couldnt help but smile as Ilyana wrapped her arms around a little boy and hugged him tight. Riri! I missed you!

The child rubbed his head against Ilyanas shoulder as a lovely middle-aged woman climbed down from the carriage with a helpless look on her face. She was a slender woman of average height. Her dark brown hair with a few strands of gray around her temples was swept up into a neat bun just below her hat, and round glasses went over her hazel eyes.

Riri, youre not so small anymore. Your sister cant always carry you. Tori assumed this woman was Baroness Agafonova based on her fine clothing.

Im not heavy! Ilyanas little brother puffed out his cheeks defensively. Tori bit her lips to keep from laughing. Ilyana puffed out her cheeks, too.

Mom, welcome to Viclya! Ilyana, still holding on to her brother, closed the gap between herself and the Baroness and extended her free arm to hug her. Somehow, she still managed to hold on to her brother.

I missed you, my sweet girl. Im glad we could come this year, the Baroness said, holding on to Ilyana tightly. She didnt seem to want to let go. Your father says that if he can finish his work, he will try to come and meet us here before we return.

Okay, Ilyana nodded and shyly pulled away. She glanced at Tori, who remained quietly waiting for her introduction. Mom, this is Tori.

The Baroness eyes widened as she turned towards Tori. She seemed to take a deep breath as her eyes crinkled up. Lady Guevera!

Tori smiled gently. No need to be so formal. Tori or Lady Tori is fine.

The Baroness face filled with warmth as she stepped forward and extended her arms. Lady Tori.

Oh! Tori found herself enveloped in an embrace and let out a slight laugh as she lifted her own arms to hug the woman back. Baroness Agafonova, welcome to Viclya.

Thank you! The Baroness stepped back and held Tori at arms length. Her eyes went up and down, as if committing Toris image in her mind. Its good to finally meet you. Youre all Ilyana ever talks about when shes home.

Mom! Ilyana flushed and quickly tried to squeeze between them. I dont talk about Tori all the time!

Most of the time, the Baroness said with an amused smile. She looked at Tori and winked. Ninety percent.

Ilyana let out an embarrassed groan and almost hid her face against her brother. Tori stepped forward and craned her neck.

Are you going to introduce me to this handsome little man? Tori asked with a grin. Ilyana gasped, as if realizing she had forgotten. She quickly put her brother down and seemed to urge him forward.

Tori, this is my little brother, Illarion. We call him Riri, so please call him Riri, too! Ilyana gently prodded her brother forward.

Tori looked down at the pale, chubby six-year-old with big brown eyes and thick brown hair. She could see his resemblance to Ilyana and nodded approvingly. Sure enough, since his big sister is a beauty, hes a cutie, as well. Tori knelt down to greet him. Hello, Riri. Im Tori.

His cheeks reddened under her gaze, and he tried to step back and hide behind Ilyana, but Ilyana wouldnt let him. Riri, greet Tori properly, like Mom taught you.

His little brows furrowed, and he seemed to be gathering his courage. He took a deep breath and daringly looked up to meet Toris eyes.

Hello, I am Illarion Agafonov and I am six-years old. He fumbled a bit before trying to give her a bow. It is a pleasure to meet you, Tori.

LadyGuevera, the Baroness corrected. She is the daughter of Marquis Guevera.

Riri looked embarrassed by his mistake and repeated the bow. It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Guevera.Visit no(v)eLb(i)n.com for the best novel reading experience

Tori chuckled and stood up. She took a fluid step back and lifted the corners of her skirt. It is a pleasure to meet you, Young Lord Agafonov. She straightened up after her curtsy. But you may call me Tori.

With conflicting instructions, Riri looked at the Baroness for direction, who gave him a nod. He looked relieved.

Mom, you must be tired. Come and rest at the restaurant first, Ilyana said as she gently pried her little brothers hand from gripping the cloth of her dress.

Ill have our staff bring your things to your tent, Tori told them. Ill meet you at the restaurant.

Thanks, Tori! Ilyana took her mothers arm and led her towards the plaza.

Tori quickly gave instructions to the awaiting staff and stepped back and watched to make sure her orders were followed before turning around and heading to the restaurant. She found the small family seated in the outdoor dining area.

Riris chair had been moved close to Ilyana and the chubby little boy was clinging to his sisters arm as she looked over the menu with him. Tori quietly approached and took a seat across from them.

This is your friend Henriks restaurant? the Baroness asked. He is the merchant guild masters son, am I correct?

Tori nodded. Yes, my lady. Youll be able to meet them soon. Henriks project is this restaurant, but he also does the bulk of the paperwork for Lions Gate.

The Baroness nodded, appearing impressed. You all are so young yet youre doing so much!

Lyce requires it of us, Tori said as she raised her arm. And we are very lucky to have the resources to do what were doing. A server rushed forward and Tori asked for an iced coffee with sweetened milk. The man bowed and rushed away.

When are we going to go on the boat? Riris eyes were fixed past the fountain in the plaza and on to the water.

Tomorrow, Ilyana assured him. We will go look at whales and then circle the islands and shore.

Riri nodded. Can I draw the whales?

Of course you can draw the whales! Ilyana said. You can do a lot while youre here. Go play in the water, go on boats, go fishing, sleep on a hammock.

Whats a hammock?

A large swing you can sleep on!

Riris eyes widened, as if hed just been told something shocking. He whirled around to look at his mother. Mom, did you hear that!?

I heard, I heard, the Baroness laughed as she reached forward and stroked her sons hair back. But you cant bother your sister all the time. She has work to do while were here.

I wont! Riri looked determined.

Their beverages and a light meal arrived. Tori told the Baroness about what they were planning and what activities were available for them. In the afternoon, theyd take a tour of the encampment and shore so they could be familiar.

As they spoke, Riri began to grow impatient. He fidgeted in his seat and looked at his mother and sister pleadingly. Can I see the fountain? Can I walk to the water? I want to see the beach!

Finally, Ilyana gave in. Mom, Im going to take Riri around the promenade. Do you want to come?

Im going to sit here a bit longer, the Baroness said, happily leaning back against her chair. Ill wait for you two to return.

Ill keep your mom company, Tori said, sipping on her drink.

Ilyana gave her a thankful look and led her excited little brother out into the plaza. The two remaining ladies watched them go and the Baroness looked thoughtful.

Thank you for having us this summer, Lady Tori, she said. Tori smiled and shook her head.

Im happy to have you. We all are. I know Ilyana misses home, but with the work that were doing right now, its difficult for her to go back, Tori said. She giggled. She has been looking forward to your arrival for weeks.

The Baroness laughed and looked towards the fountain, where Ilyana and Riri had stopped to inspect. Tell me, Lady Tori, how is my daughter in school?

Her brother tilted his head to the side. Is it really that loud?

There is a circle around the restaurant, but if you really want to hear how loud it is, step outside onto the promenade, Tori said. But Im warning you now, its very loud. She could see some curiosity on her brothers face.

Tori moved towards Henrik to tell him that it was time. He nodded and stood up to get everyones attention while she called Instructor Ignatius. After confirming that Piers was safely seated on the bench surrounded by noise muffling circles, she told Instructor Ignatius to begin the countdown.

Everyones eyes were turned towards the water, and they could hear a faint whistle before the first explosion happened.

Riri screamed, but quickly clapped his hands as he looked at his sister and mother excitedly.

Tori returned to her table to get a slice of cake, only to find her brother kissing Lady Idunn while everyone was preoccupied with the fireworks. Ugh...really? Tori muttered as she turned around. In front of my cake?

She walked towards the remains of the three cakes and asked for two slices: one from JPs and one from Sonias. With a fork stabbed in each, she ignored the fireworks and went to sit with Piers on the bench. As soon as she entered the circles, the noise quieted down.

Did you get the others? Piers asked. Half of his cake slice remained uneaten.

Yes. Sonia has a mixed berry with cream and JPs is a tea blend, she said as she sat down. She handed him JPs and put Sonias cake at her side. Piers gave her the remains of Henriks slice to try. I think I like Henriks the best.

Did they pick?

I gave them options and they picked from them.

What will your cake be? Piers asked. The tea blend isnt bad. Its very light.

Its a secret, Tori said, sitting up proudly. Youll see.

Piers chuckled and ate his half of the slice. You have a busy few months ahead of you.

Tell me about it, she said, stuffing her face. My little cousins are supposed to arrive just before my birthday so they can celebrate it with me. Auntie Lucias family is also coming down to relax after Uncle Maurizo gets back from Alpine Valley. And I have the Tetri Duchy trip before all that.

When are you leaving?

In two days.

Piers nodded. You can ride in my carriage.

I wont rob you of your carriage, Piers. Ill take one of the usual ones, she said.

Youre not robbing me. Im going, too.

Tori looked up with one puffed out cheek stuffed with cake. She slowed her chewing before swallowing. Youre coming, too?

The Tetri Duchy is on the southern border of the Nord March and River View, the seat of the Tetri Duchy, is on the way to Trautingen.

Tori recognized the name. Thats the town at the entrance of Traut Valley that flooded.

Piers nodded. The relief efforts havent been going smoothly and there are still many displaced people, though that should not be the case. Father is sending me and a few people to check and reorganize if necessary. It will likely take a few days, but I can take you there and come back with you.

Are you sure its not out of your way? Tori asked.

No, in fact, it is normal to stay in the homes of high-ranking nobles as opposed to inns when available, Piers said. Duchess Tetri is already expecting us.

All right, Tori said. Are you leaving from Horizon?

We can leave from here and meet the rest of the party at River View, Piers replied. While we are going, I would like to discuss with you some logistics on dealing with the displaced villagers there.

Tori gave him a dull look. Are you giving me more work?

Just a few questions.

She wrinkled her nose. All right, thats fine. We have several days. Is Albert coming with us?

Piers shook his head. No, while Im there, he will be taking some classes on scheduling procedures for official events and learning to use the reference halls. There is a strict process, and he only recently became authorized to access the mid-level reference halls as an aide-in-training.

How is he doing? Tori asked.

I am very satisfied, Piers looked ahead of them and nodded. Mr. Martin was the correct choice. He already has the etiquette necessary, is serious when given instruction, and quick to learn and apply his knowledge. I also took him to a luncheon yesterday and he did well.

Tori was pleased, although was amused that the Albert who worked as an intern for Piers sounded much more mature and competent than the Albert who was lamenting being left out of the summer fun in the delta. Thats good. What about when you go to Trautingen? Who will accompany you?

Six of my usual imperial knights, one of my fathers aides, and two members of his staff. There will be another dozen knights escorting them from the capital, Piers said. I will travel independently of them.

Tori leaned back against the bench. Youve traveled outside of Horizon before, havent you?

Not far.

Hmm...you wont be used to the long journey, Tori said, rubbing her chin. I suppose there is a first time for everything.

They finished off their cake just as the fireworks ended. There was a sound of applause and they returned to the restaurant to return the plates and utensils. There was another bingo night happening at the deck by the tents that was reserved for guests of their party.

Sebastian looked quite interested, but Lady Idunn said she was going to go for an evening walk on the promenade, as was her habit. Sebastian followed her without question, though Tori caught him looking back at the deck a few times.

Are you going to walk or play? Piers asked.

Im going to the Den workshop, Tori said, once the game was going well. I put in a personal order and want to see if its ready. They tend to stay open late, so I want to see.

I will accompany you.

Okay. They crossed the creek to get back onto the promenade. Although the sun had set, it was still very lively with people doing their evening walks and a few children running around.

Where is everyone getting the hats? Piers asked as he noticed several men wearing them.

The haberdashery, Tori said. It was obvious. Dont buy one. I already have some for you and Axton.

Why didnt you give one to me?

Im saving it for my birthday, Tori said.

Axton cant come.

Well, we can celebrate with him at another time, she insisted. I also got you both a set from our delta collection. I think itll look great on you both.

They passed by the temporary Lions Gate shop and Tori pointed out the shirts she had chosen for them. Piers squinted.

My father wore that shirt the other day, he said. Did my mother buy it?

Probably. The Empress bought a lot of clothes when she was here with your brother, Tori told him. The woman nearly bought one of everything in their new collection, as well as several straw sunhats for herself and her husband. It seemed as if she didnt buy anything for her sons.

Piers narrowed his eyes, but didnt complain. That is likely where the dresses shes been wearing at home came from.

Im glad she likes them.

They reached a large store that displayed home furnishings. The wood workshop was just behind the storefront and Tori walked through without question. She waved and greeted the woman at the storefront, who told her that her father and husband were out back.

In the yard behind the store, there were piles of lumber and strips of wood to one side. Partially finished furniture was piled to the other side and under the bright glow of light crystals, two men were finishing some pieces.

Lady Guevera! A man with graying hair looked up when they entered and smiled. And Your Highness! Welcome!

Good evening! I came to see if the box I ordered is ready?

Ah! Yes, I just finished the lining today, the woodworker said. He stood up and dusted off his hands. Follow me, my lady.

Tori clapped her hands together, excited as she followed the man. They walked into one of the indoor work areas, to a large bench where smaller detailed work could be done. On the bench was a slim wooden box about half the size of a briefcase. It had leather on its corners and a sturdy, leather wrapped handle. Toris initials and the Guevera crest were burned into the leather handle.

The old man pushed it forward and opened the two latches that held it closed. As he lifted the lid, a tray divided into compartments was pulled up and below it was another tray with deeper, larger compartments. All the compartments were lined with soft leather.

Piers furrowed his brows and looked at it. What is that?

Crystal carrying case! Tori said, gleefully as she pulled it towards her and began to examine it. I wanted something that I can open and see all the crystals I can use at once, and also be useful for travel. The leather cushions the crystals to keep from being damaged and the compartments keep them organized.

How do you know which crystals are in which compartment?

Tori gave him a deadpan look. I can tell my own crystals apart, Piers. Master Ramos wouldnt accept me as a pupil if I couldnt even tell them apart.

Piers looked back at the box. You had this custom made?

Tori nodded. There is a place for a selenite charging plate on the underside of the lid and there is enough space to put my carving utensils. Tori closed the box and brought it against her chest, hugging it. It fits my needs perfectly!

Piers nodded. It is very useful.

Isnt it? Tori beamed. Tomorrow, Im going to Anahata Island to get help deciding on what to put inside, and get the additional crystals that I can put on my bracelet. She lifted up her arm to show him.

The corner of his lip curled up. Impressive. You are a force to be reckoned with.

Tori grinned. Thats the plan.