Chapter 107: When Did I Retract It?

Chapter 107: When Did I Retract It?

My father! Alessas answer was clear and immediate. Tori didnt expect anything less from the protagonist.

If that is the case, then the Baron will relinquish his title upon marriage to Madam Voss, Piers said, as if it were finalized.

Alessas face dropped, and she couldnt contain the look of disbelief on her face.

Wait a moment. Dimitri remained at Alessas side and frowned. This isnt fair to Alessa. If the Baron gives up his title, then Alessa will not only lose her current noble status, but her future one, as well.

Dimitri! His mother let out a gasp and lifted her hand to her chest. Her eyes were wide as she looked at him. This is not our place to get involved!

He returned her affronted expression with one of his own. But its true! Youve always told me that parents do whatever they can to help their children! How is Baron Hart relinquishing his title beneficial to Alessa?

That is a fair point, Marquis Guevera said with an unimpressed look on his face after Dimitris impassioned plea. However, Baron Hart should decide this. His Highness Prince Piers was only suggesting an option.

Several eyes turned back to Baron Hart and Tori could tell that he was not ready to decide knowing that his daughter would lose her noble inheritance. He stood in place for a moment longer. I need to consider this.

Daddy! Alessa let out a disappointed and frustrated huff as her father looked towards her with a pained expression.

I know that you are upset, Alessa, but give me time to discuss this with Angela, the Baron told her. Alessa tensed at the name. This doesnt only involve us, but her.

Alessa turned her head away, gritting her teeth. You said you wouldnt remarry.

I didnt know what awaited me when I thought so, he said, his voice filled with regret. Go back to your room. You may have only been affected lightly by the poison, but you still need to rest.

Alessa shook her head, stubborn. I came downstairs to sit out on the porch and get some fresh air.

Then go, but dont stray from the cabin. There was disappointment in the Barons eyes and Tori could understand. She watched Alessa shuffle towards the door with Montan and Dimitri next to her.

Dimitri. The Prime Minister spoke in a low voice and Dimitri stopped in his tracks. Stay. I want to talk to you.

Tori craned her neck to watch Dimitri tense up and hesitantly release Alessas arm. He remained in place as Alessa gave him a worried look.

Ill be fine, Dimitri said, giving her a weak smile. Go outside and get some air. Staying indoors the entire time is tiring.

Alessa nodded and allowed Montan to escort her outside. There were two knights patrolling the perimeter of the cabin, but two additional ones followed behind Alessa and Montan to both ensure their safety and make sure they didnt run off again. Once they walked through the front door and it closed, Tori looked for an excuse to leave.

Im hungry, Tori said, looking towards the kitchen. Is there anything to eat?

Sebastian noticed her hint immediately. I was coming down to get something for myself and Idunn. Lets go to the kitchen.

Sir Ibarra, if you please. Tori motioned towards the kitchen and the knight carrying her nodded. Piers followed behind them and once in the kitchen, Tori looked around for something to eat. Since the valets and Instructor Ignatius were recovering, and Tori had limited mobility, they couldnt cook as they did before.

It was up to the knights to make the meals. Guevera knights had basic cooking lessons for preparing food outdoors while on a march and all had to spend time during their training cooking in the barracks. The food was edible, but whether it was delicious or not depended on the knight.

What do you want to eat, my lady? Sir Ibarra asked as he put her on a chair next to a small kitchen table at one corner. I can prepare it.

Its midafternoon, Tori said. Light snack?

Piers rummaged around the kitchen and brought her some bread, jam, and whatever other goods he could find. There was a nearly finished wedge of local cheese and some cured ham brought from Presidio by the knights. Is this enough?

Its a good start, Tori said. Where is the mayonnaise I made?

In the chilling box. I will get it, Piers said.

Do you want sandwiches? Sebby, does Idunn want a sandwich? Ill make some. Tori began to roll up her sleeves.

Shell like a sandwich, Sebastian said with a smile. Can you make one for me, too?

Sure, Ill make a bunch, Tori said. Piers came back with a jar. Piers, get some eggs and mustard, too. Sir Ibarra, please heat up the stove. I will direct you.

Everyone was cautious with her in the kitchen. Bringing a chair too close to the stove would put her in an awkward position. Not to mention that she would be seated too low, and it was difficult for her to use the stovetop at such an angle. Instead, she remained where she sat and instructed the knight and Piers step-by-step.

She cut up some green onions on the table and had it mixed with the egg and mayonnaise for an egg salad sandwich. She made them toast all the bread before assembly. She had Piers melt the cheese on some of them and layered ham with others. With all the prepared ingredients in front of her, she washed her hands once more and put them together.

She carefully sliced them into triangles for easier consumption and so they could try multiple. Just as Piers removed her grilled cheese from the pan on the stove, her father came in, sniffing the air.

Are you making something to eat? her father asked, looking around. His eyes immediately settled on the plates where Tori had placed sandwich triangles. Why so much? You shouldnt push yourself!

Tori bit her lip to keep from laughing. All she did was put the pieces together and cut onions. Sir Ibarra was the one feeding the stove and Piers did all the cooking. I didnt do much, Papa. Have a taste. Sir Ibarra, please bring the larger serving plate upstairs to the recovering individuals.

Of course, my lady! Sir Ibarra nodded and picked up the large plate with a wide smile. Tori separated a few pieces onto a smaller plate.

Sebby, this is for you and Idunn.

Thank you. Sebastian smiled warmly as he took the plate in one hand and a jug of water in the other. He also left the kitchen.

Piers gave Tori her sandwich and before he could sit on the other chair across from her, Marquis Guevera heartlessly took it and picked up one of the egg sandwiches slices.

Tori, you dont need to work so hard. The knights can cook, her father said thoughtfully before biting into the sandwich. Piers stood to the side, staring at him.

Tori cut her grilled cheese in half. It gives me something to do. When we go through the lake towns tomorrow, we should pick up things to eat on the road, as well.

I understand, her father said with a nod. Your brother and Idunn will leave today with some knights, as he needs to arrive in Horizon for the interviews. Everyone else will leave with us.

Tori lifted the plate with the grilled cheese towards Piers and his lips curled up as he took half of it. What about the Prime Minister and the others?

Her fathers eyes narrowed, and he looked out towards the living room. They will leave, as well, though Baron Hart will be taking his daughter back to their hometown. The Prime Minister said they will take Alveres boy back to Horizon with them. As much as I dont want them to travel with us, there is no real reason for them not to.

Tori wrinkled her nose. Ive called all of Axtons inns along the route were supposed to take to make reservations for us and the knights. I didnt make any for them.

Her father scoffed. There is no need to. They are responsible for themselves. They can find their own lodgings for the journey back, he said, not bothering to hide the annoyance in his voice. You and your brother have already done too much for them.

Tori bit into her sandwich and sighed.

Are the Guthrys speaking in the living room?

No, they went back upstairs, to their room, her father said. The Prime Minister should have some silence charms or a noise muffling charm. Since their son had just woken when they arrived and has since been recovering, I doubt they had a serious talk with him about what happened.

Will they follow through with the punishment?

Her father raised a brow and looked at her after he finished his first sandwich slice. Not only that. If theyre smart about it, theyll keep their son away from the Hart girl. He picked up the remaining plate of sandwiches just as Piers finished his and was eyeing the plate. The Marquis stood up and walked out of the kitchen with the sandwiches. Your brother was right: that girl is trouble.

What are you saying? Dimitri looked at the dark, disappointed looks on his parents faces with disbelief. While they werent the most indulging parents, they had always been supportive of him and never restricted who he had relations with.

In fact, his father believed it was important for him to have a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. It was necessary not only for future political relationships, but also for Dimitri to understand and be empathic to the different situations of the people of Soleil. Hed always encouraged Dimitri to be social and was often complimented by others on how well-behaved and amiable his son was.

An excellent heir to the Guthry family, they would tell his father. And the Prime Minister would accept the compliments with humility, but tell him he was proud of him.

That was why hearing his fathers words, Dimitri could only be stunned.

You are not to contact Lady Hart outside of Lyce again, the Prime Minister repeated. His voice was low and solemn as his stern eyes fixed on Dimitri. He wasnt joking. It is understandable that you would have contact with her in school. I know she is your classmate. However, you are to limit contact with her there and not get involved in her personal life again. Do you understand?

No! Dimitri stood up from the foot of the bed, where he had been seated. He threw his arms down at his sides and shook his head. Why should I end my friendship with Alessa? She hasnt done anything wrong-

Oh, now you remember Fosse, his father said with a slight sneer as he opened the door. He looked back at Dimitri. Your allowance will be suspended until you return to Lyce. When Lyce begins, the amount will be decreased until further notice. Any funding needed for your project will require my approval before any money is spent or a contract is agreed upon.

Father!

You have shown with your actions that we cant trust you as we thought we could, Dimitri. His father stepped aside and gave him one last solemn look. I hope you understand the consequences of your actions.

Hell arrive by the end of the week, dont worry. They already left, Tori said as she leaned forward with a safety pin. Her comcry was on the bed next to her. She had pulled up the hem of her dress so she could put the safety pin on to keep it from flying around if there was wind.

A nervous breath came from the comcry. Master MacDouglass has been interviewed already. He had several people he was recommending.

Are you still worried? Tori asked.

Its not over yet! Ewan seemed to whine. Tori chuckled.

I think you already passed the hard part, Tori told him. Your stamina and physical fitness are very high, and you ranked securely in the middle for basic technique, with high scores for footwork. Ilyana said you had some of the highest scores for the written exams.

I wouldnt say highest.... Ewan said, sheepishly. I did well above average in knightly conduct and strategy.

And what is well above average?

Top ten.

Uh-huh. What about history and comprehension?

Top three in both.

Tori let out a pleased hoot of approval. I knew it! Our Ewan is ideal for knighthood!

She heard Ewan laugh and she relaxed a bit. Thanks, Tori. I still cant help but feel a bit nervous, but youre right. I did pretty well.

They are interviewing my brother. The moment he says that the Guevera March is interested in you, La Garda is not going to let you go, she told him, filled with confidence. I wouldnt even be worried about the background check. You come from a family of knights. By the way, how did your parents take it?

Ecstatic! Ewan almost yelled. My brothers bought me drinks. Dad cried. Mom and Grandma said to make sure to thank you and Ilyana.

You can count as Ilyanas pupil, too. Her first one she personally guided. Shes so proud of you, you know. We all are.

He laughed once more. Im not accepted yet.

I know you will be, Tori repeated once more. By the way, did you see von Dorn there?

No. Applicants were separated into three groups, and we didnt have contact with each other, Ewan said. I dont think there was a particular way we were sorted, but I didnt see him. Our scores and ranks were sent privately, so there was no ranking board to check.

Tori let out a little hum. Im curious about his scores...I can probably find out when I go to the imperial palace to pick up my wheelchair.

At the reminder that she currently could not walk, Ewans cheerful voice grew serious. Will you be better soon?

In about a week or a week and a half, I should start to regain feeling in my legs, Tori said. She looked down at her unmoving limbs. But it will take another month or so to fully regain control and be back to normal. I think being in the delta will help.

Will you be able to walk on your birthday?

Tori hesitated. I dont think so, Ewan. Ill probably have feeling in my legs and will be able to move them a little, but I wont have enough control to walk.

You have to be more careful next time.

She cracked a slight smile. I know. Trust me, I hope this doesnt happen again.

I cant believe they caused so much trouble....

Well, on the upside, we stopped poachers and an animal fighting ring, Tori said. That knowledge was of some comfort. And we dont know if they wouldve done something similar to anyone else who saw them. Its good that they were caught now. The Anlar March and Cousin Baldwin are investigating it.

Part of her did wonder if this was part of the games original story line. If it was, how did Alessa and the others escape? Were more of the love interests with her to protect her?

She suppose it didnt matter. It was over and done with.

I have to go. Grandma is asking for frozen fruit juice and I had to hide all my charms. Ewan let out a tired sigh.

Why did you hide your charms?

Because my siblings and their kids kept taking them to freeze their drinks! I ran out and had to beg for some from Henrik. Hes so stingy. Luckily, Constantine gave me a bunch.

Tori muffled her laugh. Ill make you some more when I get back. And some for Grandma.

Thanks, Tori. Ill let her know.

The call ended and Tori looked out the window. The sun was going to set soon, and she had an appointment to relax outside.

A swing was the last thing Tori thought she needed, but when Piers told her he found an old swing in the stables and would find a suitable tree so she could use it, Tori was a bit excited. There was only so much she could do stuck in the room and unable to do crystal experiments. Part of her was embarrassed that she was so bored because of that. She could almost see JP, Henrik, and Albert calling her a crystal fanatic.

Shed already spent hours on the comcry calling her friends and catching them up on her last few weeks. Thankfully, because of properties of the crystal in the comcry, it didnt require any grounding on her part. Comcrys were developed for everyone to use.

Ilyana had cried and Sonia was so angry, she had to go for a long ride to calm down. Henrik and Constantine were stunned and assured her that they would prepare for her arrival in the delta, as she would need some changes made to her tent due to her mobility issue.

Tori told them that she would continue doing her work over the summer in Viclya, but she was limited in where she could go in a wheelchair.

JP wanted to spread the news, but Tori said she didnt know if the news of Alessa, Dimitri, and Montans rescue would have negative effects for others, so not to do so.

Albert would be joining the imperial knights that were coming to meet them halfway. He was coming as Piers aide and her friend. Hed bring with him clothes for her that were easier to change in and out of, packed by Ilyana. Tori asked Ilyana to send several pieces of the delta collection so she could give them to all the Guevera knights who helped them and the imperial knights who were caught in the poison gas.

With her friends caught up, Tori prepared to summon a knight to bring her outside.

Her comcry lit up once more and Tori saw a name that she hadnt seen appear in a few days. Her brows furrowed and she slid her finger across the crystal.

Hello, Madam Voss.

Good afternoon, my lady. Thank you. Madam Voss voice was a bit hoarse, but Tori could hear her sincerity.

We are lucky to have found them safely, Madam.

Mich-Baron Hart has told me that you not only had crystal fatigue, but fell to crystal shock in order to protect Alessa and the boys, Madam Voss said. It was luck and your efforts, and I cannot thank you enough. I am aware that I was the one who brought the matter to your attention and involved you.

It was a good decision to do so. They are also my classmates. Everyone is safe and the injuries are minor, Tori said, trying to ease any of the womans guilt.

She heard Madam Voss take a deep breath. I heard that crystal shock has caused you to lose your mobility.

Its temporary. If this sort of thing doesnt happen again soon, Ill be fine.

Regardless, I will always be indebted to you, my lady.

Hmm...remember that when we renegotiate our contracts, Tori said with a slight grin. She heard Madam Voss let out a small chuckle.

Lions Gate and you are our priority, my lady. I will let you go; I know you are leaving tomorrow and should need to prepare.

Thank you, Madam Voss. Please dont forget to send us an invitation to your wedding. Even if I am unable to come, I will send a gift, Tori said with a smile.

Madam Voss didnt answer immediately. Her voice was tight. Thank you for your kindness, my lady, but I have already broken off the engagement.