Chapter 104: I Know What a Tiger Is

Chapter 104: I Know What a Tiger Is

Tori never pushed herself further when she started to feel dizzy. The moment she started to feel the slightest disorientation while using crystals, shed stop grounding and charging immediately to prevent the onset of crystal fatigue. Master Ramos told her that crystal fatigue started with a dizziness and, as it stressed the body, shed also become very tired and sleepy.

More serious cases could lead to a crystal user sleeping for longer than average periods of time immediately after they finished and that lingered in Toris mind when she felt the heaviness of sleep sweep over her.

Luckily, crystal fatigue was just the bodys way of forcing her to rest and recover. There were no long-term negative effects if it happened a few times, but in the case of crystal fatigue during an important activity, such as battle, it would leave the user a vulnerable target as once the grounding was stopped, it was difficult to restart until the body recovered. Even if they could ground and charge, the ability weakened significantly.

To Tori, crystal fatigue was a small price to pay to find Alessa, Dimitri, and Montan and thus conclude this...story arc, she supposed it was.

Besides, it was an excuse to sleep.

Tori opened her eyes and turned her head.

The light wasnt strong. Perhaps it was already sunset. She squinted and shifted her eyes towards the windows to try to estimate the time. The drapes were pulled halfway closed, but between them, there was a strong column of light piercing the room through the lace curtains.

That wasnt the dawn light. Was it already noon? Did she sleep through the night? She turned her head and felt a slight wave of dizziness, but it went quickly. She fixed her gaze on a figure seated on a chair beside her bed.

How.... Tori grimaced at once and snapped her mouth shut. Her throat was dry and her how sounded like a choking frog. The man on the chair put his book down and stood up. He twisted to the side and seemed to do something on his other side before turning back around with a glass in his hand.

Drink, Piers said. She rolled to one side and pushed herself up into a seated position before reaching for the cup. After taking a few large sips, she handed it back to him.

How long was I sleeping?

A day and a half.

A day and a...are you serious? Tori asked, narrowing her eyes. Piers lifted the cup to her again.

Drink more, until its all gone. She let out a low grumble, but still drank. When the cup was empty, she pushed his hand away and continued to look at him with suspicion.

Have I really been asleep for that long?

Yes. It is just past noon. You slept all yesterday, Piers said. He put the cup on the bedside table and faced her seriously. His voice was steady, but Tori could see some shadows under his eyes. Senior Benedict said that you used strong sacred geometry to gather energy, so your body is very worn and tired. Sleeping for an extended period of time is expected.

Tori lowered her eyes. A day and a half....

You slept through a lot, Piers said. He stood up and walked to the door. He opened it a bit. Bring warm water and a few small towels. Inform them that she has woken up.

Yes, Your Highness. Tori caught a glimpse of Sir Iturralde giving Piers a bow of her head before marching off. Piers closed the door and walked back to the bed.

What happened while I was asleep? she asked as she watched him return to his seat. It was one of the cushioned chairs shed dragged towards the window.

Master returned.

Tori tried to sit up straight, but Piers urged her to rest. He took the throw pillow at his back and put it against the headboard, so she could lean against it. My brother is back? Did he find them?

Piers nodded. They are safe.

Tori closed her eyes and leaned back against the headboard. She let out a heavy sigh and let her shoulders sink. Where did they find them?

Not far from where the carriage was found, but on the other side of the ravine. Sir Alvarez said that Master followed your energy trail as far as they could go. It faded before they found the illegal animal fighting and smuggling ring.

Toris eyes flew open, and she turned her head towards him. The what?

Lady Hart, Mr. Alvere, and Mr. Guthry stumbled upon an animal fighting and smuggling ring and were captured. Lady Hart says that they were taken when they were resting. She saw an animal stuck in a trap and tried to help it, but the poachers were nearby. The poachers tried to stop their carriage driver, but the carriage driver got away.

Then, in the chaos, the carriage was damaged and got into an accident?

Duke Tetri says that there was some chaos with the corresponding hoof prints and carriage tracks. Still, he is surprised that the driver cant be found, Piers replied. They are still searching for him.

Tori gave him a small nod. What happened to the poachers?

Master and Sir Rodriguez were able to subdue most of them. The ones who survived were taken into OTuagh custody yesterday, as the search ended in OTuagh territory, Piers said. It is for the best; they are better equipped to manage such a situation.

Tori narrowed her eyes once more. You said the ones who survived....

There were three fatalities during the fight. One was fighting Sir Rodriguez and the other two were mauled to death in the barn where the animals were kept, Piers told her. When Lady Idunn reached them, Master had her close and lock the doors to contain the animals. A few had escaped before the doors were closed. Those animals were abused.

Her heart sank and a tight pressure reached the bridge of her nose. Abused?

Piers leaned forward and touched her head gently in an effort to console her. They were forced to fight each other and were wounded. Sir Alvarez said they were also starved. Aside from a few animals who were caught recently, the rest were suffering to the point where they were simply waiting for death, so Master.... He trailed off as Toris eyes reddened.

Were there a lot of them? she asked, her voice tight.

Yes.

Tori shut her eyes. What will happen to the poachers?

Illegal trapping, smuggling of exotic and domestic wildlife, and selling humans-

Toris brows shot up and she almost snapped her head back at him. They were selling people? Slavery and human trafficking had been banned in Soleil since the start of the Young Empire period.

They had plans to sell Lady Hart, Piers said. I do not know if they had sold others previously. Tori ground her teeth together and Piers carefully put his hand on hers. A doctor arrived yesterday and examined them. Aside from physical scrapes and bruises, they are also malnourished and dehydrated. They are in rooms below us and their parents have been informed that they have been found. Lord Sebastian contacted Prime Minister Guthry through your father and Senior Benedict contacted Mr. Sima, who had Architect Ebbadottir contact Madam Voss. They will arrive in the coming days.

Tori nodded. That brought her some relief. Good...good. Im glad.

A knock came from the door. Your highness, Ive brought warm water and towels.

Piers rose from his seat and went to open the door. He thanked Sir Iturralde and carried a jug of water to the wash basin. He poured the water in and then carefully dipped the small towel into the basin before wringing it out and bringing it to her.

Tori raised her hand to accept it and began to wipe her face.

What about the poaching camp?

OTuagh soldiers have moved in to oversee it and collect further evidence of illegal activity, Piers said. The animals that could be saved were recaptured and will be released further away from the area.

Tori buried her face in the warm, damp cloth for a moment. It felt refreshing when she lifted her head up. Where is my brother?

Piers didnt answer immediately. Resting.

Downstairs? Tori asked. She glanced around her large room. The furniture shed moved had been put back and all the random pieces of paper that littered her bed were stacked on her desk.

Yes, Piers said. Senior Benedict and I brought our things here temporarily so that the knights could rest in the other rooms downstairs.

Tori nodded and paused. She looked over at him curiously. Sebby was okay with that?

Yes, it was necessary, and he wanted Senior Benedict here to check on you. Three of the rooms below are occupied by Lady Hart, Mr. Alvere, and Mr. Guthry, so there is less space for the knights who have assisted us. Lady Idunn has posted knights at their doors in case they try to run again.

Sebbys probably with Lady Idunn, right? Tori said with a slight grin. She patted her neck with the towel and glanced out the window. Its light out. I should go downstairs.

Piers seemed to stiffen. Are you hungry? I will ask for someone to bring you food.

Are the valets still here? she asked. I can go downstairs for a snack. I need fresh air.

Piers shifted awkwardly. You are still recovering and need to rest. Senior Benedict says that you should not push your body so soon after crystal fatigue. You could risk crystal shock.

Tori lifted her hand and gave him a dismissive wave. Ill be fine. Im not going to do any crystal work for a few days. I know I need to rest. She handed him the towel and Piers hesitantly took it.

Master also wants you to rest.

Tori blew some hair out of her face and gave him a bored look. Piers, Ive been lying in bed for a day and a half. At least let me walk around and stretch my legs.

Piers draped the towel over the back of his chair. Then, I will help you walk in the room.

Are you worried Ill tumble down the stairs? she chuckled. Ill be careful, Piers. Dont worry.

Master said-

My brother will complain no matter what, Tori said with a sigh. I used sacred geometry and used more energy than my body can manage, despite multiple warnings not to. It then resulted in crystal fatigue. I know hes mad. It was why she experimented without telling anyone.

Piers kept his eyes away. You can only walk in your room.

Its a slow process, no matter how much energy you can gather, Instructor Ignatius said. He finally lifted his head from the wound and lowered his arms. And the crystals use up energy quickly. After I use them, I clean them and then place them on your charger. Unfortunately, there is a considerable gap, so Im only able to use the crystals for an hour or so before I use them up.

Tori turned her head away and shook it. Im sorry I got involved.

You gave yourself crystal fatigue to find them, Sebastian said. Do you regret it?

Right now, yes.

Her brother cracked a small smile and raised his hand to stroke her hair back. Dont feel sad or angry. Everyone made it back alive, including those missing kids. This is as successful a mission as we can ask for. Go back to your room and rest. Another two days of this and the wounds will be healed shut.

His Highness should rest, as well, Idunn said, looking towards the door. Piers hadnt moved. He has not slept and remained at your bedside to watch over you.

Sebastian made a disgusted face. Thats disturbing. Dont do that.

Tori looked over at him and raised the corner of her lip. You and Kasen did that after my riding accident.

Thats different, were your brothers, Sebastian said, dismissively.

Tori took a deep breath and rolled her eyes. She stood up and Idunn held on to her to make sure she was steady. Your Highness, please assist Tori back. Make sure she eats before she rests.

Piers gave Idunn a nod.

Lady Tori, can you take these crystals back to clean and charge? Instructor Ignatius asked. I have one more to use and dont want to waste time. Dont try to charge them yourself. Youre still recovering.

Tori nodded. I know. She rounded the bed and went to wrap up the towel to carry the crystals back. Sebastian frowned.

Theyre covered in blood.

Its fine, youre my brother, Tori said. This isnt disgusting. She saw the moved look on her brothers face.

Idunn, she heard him say as she carried the small bundle out. She said its not disgusting.... My sister loves me so much.

Yes, yes. Idunn coaxed. She even disobeyed the prince to see you.

Tori could hear her brothers voice lighten. She did!

Close the door, Tori said as she passed Piers and walked into the hall. She walked up the stairs cautiously and headed to her room. She went directly to the wash basin to rinse the bloody crystals, and used another towel to dry them. As she placed the crystals on her selenite charging plate by the window, Sir Iturralde arrived with a brothy soup.

Where shall I put it my lady? Shall I clear the desk? The coffee table? Sir Iturralde looked around.

No, Ill take the tray and eat on the bed. She went back to the wash basin and took a piece of soap to wash her hands, then rinsed it with the remaining water in the jug. She walked back to her bed and sat on the side where shed woken up.

Ive sent the valets to pick up some pastries for you in town, my lady. They will return before dinner.

Wonderful! Thank you.

Tori adjusted herself to sit back against the headboard and then let Sir Iturralde place the wooden tray with the small bowl and spoon on her lap. Do you need anything else, my lady?

No, I will eat and then rest some more, Tori replied. Sir Iturralde looked relieved at once. She smiled and nodded.

Then, I will return to my post. Sir Aguilar will come and switch with me in an hour. She stepped back and gave Tori a bow before turning around and walking to the changing screen to gather Toris clothes. Once the door closed when she left, Piers quietly returned to his seat by her bed.

He inched a bit closer to her with a worried look. Do you want me to feed you?

No, I can hold a spoon.

What about blowing on it? Is it hot?

Not that hot, Tori said. She blew across the spoon before putting it in her mouth. The soup was quite flavorful, and she quickly devoured the bowl.

Do you want another? Piers asked. She wanted to say yes, but shook her head.

No, its fine. A little bit at a time. Sir Iturralde said she would send the Tetri valets to go to town to get me some pastries, she said. She pushed the tray forward and Piers moved to pick it up. He brought it to the door and handed it to Sir Iturralde before returning to his seat. Arent you going to rest?

All the rooms are taken below, he said. The chair is fine. I dont need to sleep.

Tori frowned. She could see shadows under his eyes. How long have you been awake?

Not long. He avoided her eyes and turned his head away.

Youre going to lie to me? She watched his body deflate. Guilty, he shook his head.

I havent slept since I arrived.

It was late afternoon when you arrived. Tori frowned. That meant that hed been awake that day, as well. Piers, lay down and get some sleep. She patted the side of the bed next to her.

Piers tensed in his seat. He shook his head. I can sleep on the chair.

Nonsense, youve been up for at least two and a half days. Tori didnt bother to hide her irritation. Lay down and go to sleep.

Piers glanced at her and then shot to his feet. I can sleep on the sofa. He walked towards it and stopped. Instructor Ignatius used blanket and pillow were still strewn about. Tori knew very well that he didnt want to sleep in someone elses used spot. He wouldnt even sleep in Axtons bed in the tent during Ewans birthday. In addition, Instructor Ignatius also looked tired. If he had to rest, hed return to sleep there.

Piers. Tori watched him begin to pace the room. Piers, just sleep on the bed. This side is unused. He was particular about where he slept; hed even change the sheets on the cushions of the day bed at Cafe Fortuna before he used it.

He stopped by the window and looked towards her. His face reddened and she almost couldnt believe it. Was he being shy? Why was he being shy now when he needed to sleep? Why not when he was sleeping across from her in the carriage?

Youre using the bed, he said.

Yes. Its a big bed. Im not taking up the whole thing, Tori said. Unlike the beds in the guest rooms below, the master suites bed was massive. This can fit at least three full grown adults. You can sleep on the other side. Its clean. I havent touched it. She motioned to the far end of the bed, which had untouched pillows and a still flat blanket and sheets. She wouldnt be able to touch him from her side if she stretched out her arms.

Piers seemed to hesitate. Tori-

Youve slept across from me in the carriage. Its the same distance. This was starting to annoy her. She already said it was clean. Piers, you need to sleep. There is nothing more to it than that. If youre uncomfortable, then we can put pillows between us! I wont bother you. He still hesitated. Oh my God, are you serious? Tori tilted her head back. Okay, fine. She scooted off the bed. Ill sleep on the sofa, and you sleep on the bed. When Instructor Ignatius comes, he can share with you and stay on my side. Fair?

His face fell. No, you need the bed.

Im short. I can sleep on the sofa. Tori gave him another dismissive wave. She picked up her pillow and walked to the sofa. She tossed Instructor Ignatius pillow to one of the chairs and replaced it with hers, then fell back against it. Now, go to sleep!

Piers seemed to freeze before she heard the creak of the bed. Satisfied, Tori curled up on her side and closed her eyes. The sooner she slept, the faster the time would come when she could wake up to something sweet to eat. Her mind drifted off to desserts that could be brought back.

When she was at Reflection Lake last year, she had a delicious berry and cream puff pastry. They told her it was a specialty of the region. Maybe theyd bring her back that puff?

She could almost smell the sweet cream in the lightly sugar-dusted puff.

Tori took a deep breath. Sugar.

A smile tugged at her lips as her eyes slowly opened. The room was dark and she briefly wondered how long shed been asleep. She rolled over on her side to look towards the window and paused. She should be able to see the window from the couch. Tori furrowed her brows and shifted around. There was no seat back. She stretched out her arm and felt something soft and puffy.

Pillows? Tori squinted and tried to adjust her eyes to the thin sliver of moonlight coming from between the curtains. She could make out a pile of numerous pillows to one side of her and she narrowed her eyes.

She pushed herself up and peered over the pillow wall.

The corner of her lip curled up once more. Piers was sleeping soundly with his mouth slightly open and his silk eye mask on. She looked around her and wondered if one of the knights had carried her on to the bed when they checked in on her and found her curled up on the sofa.

It wasnt uncomfortable; her feet didnt reach the other end. Perhaps Sir Aguilar or Sir Iturralde didnt think she should be sleeping on a sofa in her condition and carried her back. Since she was there, she might as well continue sleeping and eat her pastry in the morning.

She licked her lips. She could almost taste that puffy berry and cream pastry.... Her salivating came to a halt. Tori lifted her chin and sniffed the air. There was a faint scent of something sweet. Did the valets choose to bake her something? She shook her head. In Soleil, baking was a specialized cooking style. It wasnt something most servants simply picked up for fun.

And Sir Iturralde told her that the valets had gone to town. Tori narrowed her eyes and sniffed the air again. Why did the air smell sweet?

Her blood ran cold.

No...no, its a coincidence.

Her eyes flickered to the window. But it was so dark; who would be baking? She kicked off her blanket and stumbled towards her desk, not caring if she woke up Piers. She then rummaged through her notebooks to find Kasens old notebook.

Her heart trembled in her chest as she fumbled through and found the worn old thing. She flipped through the pages; she had left some old charms pinned inside as bookmarks.

The notebook opened to a page, and she grabbed the charm, flipping it around.

The characters gave off a faint glow and her heart sank.