Chapter 121: Portrait of What His Family Could’ve Been

Chapter 121: Portrait of What His Family Could’ve Been

She could almost hear the record scratch in her head as Axtons handsome, smiling face looked at her and told her that she had gotten heavy. From his tone, he was sincere in the same way adults complimented small children on their healthy growth when they saw them once a year, during the holidays.

It wasnt meant to be insulting.

But it was.

Tori narrowed her eyes a bit and the smile on her face froze. Youve gotten taller, Tori. Im glad youre healthy after the poachers, Tori. Youre getting stronger, Tori. There are many things that can be said other than Ive gotten heavier. WTF, Axton.

We are making sure she eats well, Piers said. She slowly turned her head to look at Piers with narrowing eyes.

Et tu, Piers?

Ow! Axton snapped his head to the side and Tori saw her brother lower his hand with a disgusted and annoyed look on his face.

Sebastian sneered as Axton rubbed the back of his head. No wonder youre alone.

Its good to have big brothers. Tori nodded to herself, satisfied.

Axton. Piers put the crate down and moved towards Axton, slowly opening his arms apart.

Axtons eyes widened and he took a step back.

What are you doing? Dont move, Tori said, frowning. She gave Piers an encouraging look. Okay, like we practiced. Just relax your shoulders and lean in. Allow your arms to slide into position.

She saw Piers shoulders lower and, though he looked concentrated, he began to lean to one side. Axtons eyes crinkled up, and for a moment, Tori thought he would try to flee. His arms were tense at his sides, and he had a wary look on his face.

Piers slowed as he approached him. His arms are awkward.

Dont worry, as long as you can get your arms around him, Tori said. Axton cringed as Piers made contact. Lower your shoulders. Tilt your head to the side, as if looking over his shoulder. Good, like that. Dont lock eyes with him. Now hold for three counts.

Its good that you are doing well, Piers told Axton in a robotic, clearly forced, voice. Tori walked around, checking his posture, and nodded to herself, satisfied.

After three counts, Piers took a step back and then to the side. His arms slid away from Axton, but the movement wasnt as if he were snatching his arms away or rejecting Axton. Piers stood to the side, as if to get out of the way and allow someone else to embrace his friend.

He looked towards Tori with expectation on his face.

Good job! Tori beamed. Thats much more natural this time, dont you think?

The corner of his lips curled up, appearing pleased at her praise. We practiced a lot.

Across from them, Sebastian scowled. That better just be practicing.... He muttered under his breath.

What do you think? Piers looked towards Axton with a serious expression. Improved?

Axtons brows rose and he tilted his head to the side, giving a reluctant nod. I must admit, it was much better this time compared to when I left. When I left, you were still counting to three out loud, and when you reached three, you almost shoved me away.

Tori, I have improved. Piers seemed to almost report it to her, and she nodded.

Yes, you have! Very good! She lifted her hand and patted the side of Piers head. I told you that you could do it.

Sebastian was sneering. His eyes turned towards Axton and narrowed. What are you doing here so soon? I thought you wouldnt get here for another few weeks.

General Marquis sent me back for two things. Axton stood up straight and faced Sebastian as if addressing a superior. He wants me to be of assistance to Senior Kasen.

And second?

Axtons lips twitched and he almost smiled. To clean up Sun Garden.

Tori lowered her hand from patting Piers head and her eyes widened. Are the proceedings complete?

Axton couldnt seem to control his smile and nodded; his eyes crinkled with joy. The proceedings are complete. The Alvere Duchy is mine.

Tori let out an excited cry and hobbled back to Axton to hug him again. Congratulations!

He laughed as he welcomed her back into his arms and nuzzled the top of her head. I should say the same to you, Countess of Cosora.

Tori slacked in his arms. Please dont remind me.

She felt his chest vibrate against her as he laughed. Senior Sebastian was telling me about it. You will have suitable assistance in running it. All nobles do. How well those nobles manage them depends on the individual, but if you can manage all of this, you can manage your assistants.

Tori took a deep breath and nodded. I hope so. She tilted her head to the side and looked at him curiously. Is that what you do?

Axton let out a small snort and looked over her shoulder to glare at Piers. When do I have time to focus on the duchy when I have to deal with him every day?

Piers turned his head towards the water. Dont blame me for your lack of time management.

Axton opened his mouth to retort, but a hand clamped over his shoulder, and he turned to look into the glowering green eyes of Sebastian. Let my sister go.

Axton looked down and Tori gave him a cheesy smile as she stood in place, her arms at her side as Axton still clung on to her like she was a stuffed animal. I have things to do.

He rolled his eyes and released her. Tori straightened out her wrinkled dress.

Are you going to Sun Garden today? Piers asked.

At least let me rest! I just got back. Axton shot him an annoyed glare.

What ship did you take here? Piers looked out towards the landing island. Several large vessels were anchored nearby, where there was suitable deep water.

Osten Vass, Axton said as he stretched his arm across his chest.

You took the General Marquis naval ship? Sebastian asked.

Its the fastest one.

Axtons tent should be clean. It was only used for a bit when we were out of tents for guests, Tori said as she began to walk towards the encampment. She paused after a few steps. By the way, Axton, Piers and I need to discuss something with you.

All right. Axton bent down to pick up a large bag and a sheathed sword tied securely on to it. About what?

Montan Alvere, Piers said. Axton froze with the strap of the bag still in his hand. He looked towards the two as Piers picked up the crate.

Axtons eyes automatically narrowed at the name. His voice lowered and was cold. What about him?

Tori kept walking, but Piers responded in a dull voice. Duke Alvere is abusing him.

Have you considered water reservoirs on the farms? Tori asked as she walked along with Idunn and Instructor Ignatius. Since were next to the river, we should prepare for occasional flooding.

A water reservoir isnt a bad idea, Idunn replied with a small, thoughtful nod. They would help with flood control and distribution further inland.

I am thinking about opening an ironworks for urban and rural construction. Tori stared straight ahead of them. Unfortunately, the villagers dont have much experience with that. I will need assistance from my family for human resources.

That would be very useful for pipes and bridges, Idunn told her. Have you considered where to get raw material?

Tori shook her head. Not yet. Currently, any time we need metalwork done, the guilds had to arrange it for us. If we are going to grow, we will need our own workshop. We can also use it to train villagers, providing another job opportunity in the future.

Iron ore is readily available in Nord, Idunn said. The quality is incredibly good. Helviti is our marchs ironworks. It may be arrogant of me to say, but Helviti is one of the most skilled ironworks in the empire in recent years. The blacksmiths are trained well, but their use is limited in Nord. We dont have a large population that needs ironwork outside of military use. It would be mutually beneficial for them to come here.

Who do I have to contact to arrange that? Tori asked.

Jon Magnusson, Idunn answered. She pursed her lips. My brothers brother-in-law. I will arrange an introduction.

Dede looked proud. But our riding skills have not diminished!

Dede, Mom cant ride. Sonia reminded him with a tired look. The old man didnt seem bothered by that.

Your mother doesnt like horses. Dede said it, but he looked almost pained. That aside, did you tell the Countess why I have come?

Yes, Dede, JP said. He looked at Tori. The Sur-Alvere border is mountainous with hills at its base. I talked to some people, and they said that the Fekete Duchys hunting grounds are similar, so Dede will be able to guide us. He brought some horses with him for hunting, as Ciel Noir and Nuage arent suitable.

Dede, I am counting on JP and Sonia to represent me in the Empress birthday hunt, Tori said, firmly. Will you be able to guide them in the next few weeks?

Dede bowed his head once more. Leave them to me, my lady. I will ensure that they will be able to track, shoot, and skin anything they set their eyes on.

Henrik didnt appear convinced, but Tori nodded. Then, what time would be best for them to go?

Mornings would be good, my lady.

JP, your morning duties will be on hold. We can work in the evenings, Tori told him. Take Dede to discuss with Margo Sima on suitable locations for hunting. She monitors where our villagers go to hunt. Make sure the location is suitable for horses.

The twins nodded and Sonia led their grandfather out of the tent. JP confirmed his schedule with Tori and then followed.

Ilyana looked at Tori with a quizzical expression. I thought the hunters were supposed to represent the Empress.

I thought that would be too much pressure, Tori said. Besides, their spots were reserved by me to represent the Empress. Axton says hes only so-so at archery and unless Piers is going to slay animals with a sword, I dont see him bringing in the necessary game to beat the second princes party.

They represent the Emperor, right? Henrik asked. Tori nodded.

She narrowed her eyes. He has a lot of confidence in his second son. I want them both to be disappointed.

Many of the original staff of Sun Garden had left in the years following his mothers death and he had done his part to keep track of them. Most of them now worked at his local inns. A few remained, including the head butler, who had served under his mother.

Axton hadnt seen him for many years and as Blue River stopped in front of the closed iron gates leading to the sprawling, wheat-colored stone estate beyond it, Axtons eyes reddened. The head butler was already going gray when he was a child. Seeing the man now, Axtons heart twisted.

Time had not been good to Mr. Merced. His hair was all white and he looked thin, with bags beneath his eyes and wrinkles all over his face. He seemed to stoop forward; different from the upright gentleman in a crisp suit that Axton remembered from his childhood.

He swallowed hard.

He watched the old man slowly bend down and lower his knee. Axtons eyes widened and he jumped off Blue River.

Mr. Merced, there is no need to kneel.

It is your first-time home in so long, Your Grace, Mr. Merced said in a shaking voice. I must kneel.

Axton bit his lips and took a step back to allow the old man to do what he wished. In the future, a bow will suffice, Mr. Merced. Please rise.

Yes, Your Grace. The old man pushed himself up slowly and brushed his knee with one hand before lifting his head. Welcome to Sun Garden, Duke Alvere. As he said the title, Axton could see the glint of joy and pride in his eyes. How long had he waited for this day?

Axton gave him a solemn nod. Have they left?

Yes, Your Grace. Mr. Alvere has left with only his belongings, which were listed in the marriage contract between him and the late Duchess. Mr. Tills and the knights sent by Her Majesty ensured that he took nothing that belonged to you. That woman has also left, and all her things bought with Alvere money have been confiscated.

Axton nodded, satisfied. What about their son?

Young Mr. Alvere has not returned to Sun Garden since the early winter. Mr. Merceds eyes flashed with discomfort. He seemed to want to say more, but held his tongue.

Then, take me inside.

Mr. Merced nodded, and he turned and unlocked the iron gate. The two imperial knights escorting Axton at the order of the Empress followed behind them as they walked up the gravel path, towards the intimidating manor house. In its very center were the oldest parts of the estate, from the unification period of the empire.

That center area was where the family crypt was. However, the buildings outside of it were built in a later, peaceful period, when the Alvere family focused on showing its influence through extravagance. The main estate was surrounded by a thick stone wall with iron prongs sticking out.

However, the estate itself was more a palace than a fortified castle. As Axton passed the once green and manicured garden with Blue River in tow, his eyes narrowed. The plants were overgrown and some of the fountains he remembered there being had been covered by them.

When Mr. Alvere began to run out of money, the first servants sent away were the gardeners, Mr. Merced said. Sun Garden was not receiving visitors. Only essential staff were retained.

Axton nodded once more. They reached the front steps of the estate and there were two more Imperial Knights. Several had been sent to guard Sun Garden in case his father tried to break in and steal things. His godmother was careful about this.

Mr. Merced unlocked and opened the heavy double doors. A loud creak seemed to echo through the interior. Axton looked up and raised his hand to signal the light crystals. Only two of them above the vaulted ceiling foyer turned on.

Is every room like this? he asked.

Mr. Merced shook his head. No, Your Grace. To save money, Mr. Alvere and his family lived on the second floor of the east wing. The other wings were closed off to his family.

Axton narrowed his eyes. The east wing was the wing where the mistress lived with her son. Axton and his mother lived in the more lavish west wing up until the day she died. Before his father strayed, he also lived in the west wing.

Axton walked through the halls. Most of the expensive furniture and decorations had been confiscated by the Empress, and were stored elsewhere. He planned to go through the items for furniture for his own home later. As such, the halls of Sun Garden were relatively bare.

The gilded frames, tapestries, statues, and so forth that lined the halls of the four other duchies were missing in Sun Garden. Some rooms didnt even have furniture. It seemed that only the rooms that were necessary, such as the kitchen, were stocked.

Axton didnt go into the east wing. He slowly climbed the curved staircase leading to the upper floor and had Mr. Merced unlock the door to the west wing. Axton expected it to be as desolate and dark as the lower level, but when the door was opened, it was brightly lit with furniture and wall decorations.

He narrowed his eyes and stopped at the doorway, looking at Mr. Merced with questions.

The old man looked conflicted. Mr. Alvere lived in the east wing, but he slept in the Duchess room.

What? Axton couldnt contain the disgust on his face. He marched through the west wings hall, passing various paintings and tapestries that were similar, but different from what he remembered. He was also sure that the Empress had confiscated all the expensive items in this wing, as well.

Why was it so well decorated compared to the rest of Sun Garden? In addition, some areas were lined with dust and this wing was spotless. Even the deep green rug that ran along the hallway was well kept. It was as if he stepped back in time, before he left to live in the palace.

His face grew darker with each step, but he said nothing. Mr. Merced didnt stop him.

Axton stopped in front of a gilded door and lifted his hand over the handle.

He froze and his breath shook. No dust on the handle. No dust on the carvings on the door. He could feel his heart beating quickly. His hand squeezed the handle of his late mothers bedroom.

The door didnt creak. It opened smoothly, as if well-oiled and brand new.

It swung open and he saw the familiar wooden frame of his mothers canopy bed in a room where the heavy hunter green drapes were pulled to the side to fill the room with bright sunlight.

Axton stood at the door frame.

When he left, there was a small chair by his mothers bedside. It was where he sat, holding her hand, as she breathed her last breath and told him she loved him. It was where his godmother found him, sitting in a daze while outside the door, his father fought against guards and servants to get in and see his mother.

He did not let him see her. From her death to her burial, he did not let that man see the Duchess.

Axton stepped into the room and quietly walked around, over the parquet floor. His usually quiet footsteps were heavy. He touched the soft sheets of the bed. They were the same ones he remembered. Alveres colors were green and yellow, so much of the fabrics were green and yellow.

He turned around and faced the massive hearth. Before his father betrayed his mother, above it had been a family portrait of the three of them: his father standing proudly behind a seated Duchess with a baby boy on her lap. They were once a beautiful, perfect family.

The portrait was one of the first things his mother removed when she found out that his father was with another woman. He was certain that portrait was burned. Afterwards, nothing hung over the hearth again.

His eyes narrowed and he looked at a massive portrait.

Is he crazy? Axtons voice was tight.

The portrait was of a beautiful, perfect family of three. A lovely woman with wavy dark hair and blue-gray eyes seated on a gilded chair. His mothers warm smile was familiar. Behind her was a man with curly black hair, smiling fondly as one hand rested on her shoulder. Her hand was on his. The mans other hand was on the shoulder of the young man standing next to him.

Axton took a step forward, unable to take his eyes off the painting.

The young man was tall and upright, wearing a familiar imperial knights formal uniform worn at palace balls. There was the sash, the sword, and every insignia pin he had in the correct place. It was as if hed stepped into the painting from the ballroom.

Axton let out a heavy, shaking breath as he took a step back and looked at the fabricated portrait of what his family couldve been.