Chapter 136: Don't Hesitate to Exploit Him

Chapter 136: Don't Hesitate to Exploit Him

The closer land was to large cities, the more they were worth. The land of the villages surrounding Horizon were some of the most expensive farmlands in Soleil due to being both fertile and close to a thriving market that depended on them. Many of the landowners, including farming families, were doing very well.

Of course, every so often, a family would fall upon some tough times and be forced to make difficult decisions. The sale of ancestral land was one of them.

From what JP had found out, small family farms had been targeted and coerced into selling their land at far below market value with the help of local leaders who had been paid off using the embezzled funds. The land was then turned around and sold to the highest bidder.

Of course, with Toris understanding of the Prime Minister, this wasnt something he sanctioned. If anything, it was because he trusted his idiot son too much and his idiot son was negligent. However, the money trail led back to him, and the people caught in the scandal claimed him as their backer.

Any politician with some ability was not without their enemies and those who saw him as displeasing pressed for a full investigation of the Guthry family. As of right now, the investigation was happening. While Tori was quite certain the Prime Minister and his wife were as clean as politicians could get, she didnt know about extended relatives.

If they had any shady dealings, it would be exposed, connected to the Prime Minister, and it would be difficult to regain the trust of his peers and remain in his position. If it were her, shed just resign.

I used to feel sympathy for the Guthrys because their son is ignorant, but now I think theyre cursed, Sonia said with another sip of her drink.

Tori shook her head. There is no reason for him to let this slip through his fingers. We had a budget to submit and had to include all our spending records.

I sent Albert to ask around with his connections at the imperial palace, JP said. Hopefully, we can get more details.

Is Guthry at least being held accountable? Ilyana asked. It was his responsibility to monitor the money being spent on his project.

JP shrugged his shoulders and shook his. That may be happening behind closed doors. I havent heard anything about his parents punishing him.

Henrik snorted and crossed his arms over his chest. This isnt going to bode well for the Prime Minister. His re-election is up.

By the way, do you know wholl the representative of the Cosora Delta after the new year be? Sonia asked.

Tori cracked a smile. Mr. Johan Sima. He was nominated by both village elders and community leaders, and voted for the most by villagers. By the first month of next year, hell have finished his two months leave of absence for my godchild. Ive arranged for him to rent one of the rooms at Piers building for him to stay when the Chamber is in session.

What about the noble chamber? Henrik asked. Tori drew her lips inward and pretended to focus on the contract. His voice lowered. Tori. Youre not.

I just want to see what its like being on the floor of the chamber. Itll be Cosoras first one, I want to be there for it, Tori said. In fact, I should be there for it.

Tori, youre doing too much already, Sonia said with a frown.

Im just going to sit and experience it the first few times. Tori assured them. Besides, were still trying to find a suitable representative.

Henrik let out a low breath and rubbed his forehead. You are going to get stomach issues again.

Henrik, Ive been very careful about putting the right people at the right place at the right time to execute what I want, Tori said. And I have you and Ilyana to look over Lions Gates details. Axton is directing his own experienced people for the inn renovations. Miss Bustamante and Mr. Ingram have settled into the delta and are working closely with our village leaders. When I do my quarterly review of them, Ill do so with Mama or Kasey. Theyre clear and following the AOP and other roadmaps weve mapped out. Im not doing every little thing by myself. Thats impossible.

What about your crystal projects? Ilyana raised a suspicious brow. How could they forget Toris crystal fanaticism?

Instructor Ignatius has brought in two underclassmen of his from Universit. Theyre fine tuning the details of some of our more advanced projects, Tori said. The man and woman were just like Instructor Ignatius - crystal fanatics to the core. When she had met them and helped interview them for the positions, they had seemed almost desperate to join.

The reason was they found out that Master Ramos lived on the island. Tori knew he was well-respected, but she didnt know he was idolized by so many. The weight of her bracelet felt somewhat heavier. Master Ramos was also relieved that only two people could live on the island and that Miss Hansen and Mr. Holloway had to live in the employee section of the encampment, which surrounded the operations tent.

Master Ramos had found their energy and idolization a bit overwhelming.

Around the table, Toris friends looked unconvinced. Tori sighed and put the contract down. How can I just hand off the position without knowing what it entails? I should at least attend a few chamber meetings to get firsthand experience.

It was a fair and responsible act, and her friends seemed to reluctantly nod their heads. Tori handed Henrik the contract and leaned back against her chair.

JP, do you know when exactly Guthrys questionable craftsmen will start building Harts classroom?

JP shook his head. No, but I can find out.

See what you can find out about the craftsmen wholl be doing the work. I highly doubt Guthry would allow the craftsmen who were reported for poor work to do the work.

JP nodded and Tori shifted through her planner, which had already been marked with various meetings, appointments, and notes.

On the weekend, she was meeting her Auntie Maria in the Central District. As she didnt have her aunts comcry registered to hers, they set a time and location to meet. Her aunt shouldve already arrived in Horizon for part of her sabbatical.

On the day of the meeting, Tori had called for her driver to get SIG One ready and asked Axton and Piers if they could go with her. While she wasnt sure how well Piers knew the Central District, she was quite sure Axton knew his way around.

Rather than ride along with the carriage on Blue River and Ice Queen, they were in the carriage when it arrived at the front gates of Lyce. Along with one other passenger.

Tori crinkled her eyes as she stood outside the open door of the carriage and looked at the fluffy gray cat sitting up on the carriage bench beside Axton. Alexander had on his purple vest and his leash was on Axtons hand.

Why did you bring my cat? Tori asked. She climbed into the carriage and picked up Alexander before taking her seat next to Piers. She hugged him against her chest and kissed the top of his head. Alexander, I missed you, but you cant always go out. What if you get lost?

He doesnt get lost. He always comes back, Piers said.

Tori tensed in her seat. She turned her head to look at him with wide eyes. What do you mean he always comes back? Piers, this isnt Viclya! He could get hit by a carriage if he wanders around outside!

He wears his vest, and he stays within the courtyard and building, Axton told her with a grin. He leaned back against the seat bench as the footman closed the door. And one of the knights makes sure to watch him.

Toris jaw dropped. Why is an imperial knight watching my cat?

So, he doesnt run away.

Axton, you cant waste the imperial knights time on watching my cat, Tori said. The carriage moved forward, and Alexander settled on her lap, his head nudging her hand for more attention. She turned towards Piers. Is this how you treat pets of the imperial family?

No, Piers replied, looking straight ahead and unbothered. Pets of the imperial family are confined within the palace grounds, so all staff are familiar with them. The palace is surrounded by knights at all times, so they do not require an individual knight to follow them.

Tori pursed her lips. She looked at her cat and sighed as she scratched his chin. I know he enjoys his time outside, but the city is different from a small village. Alexander, you need to be careful. Stay away from other cats and the street or youll get hurt.

She received a small meow in return and Tori hunched over to hug him.

Do you know where your aunt told you to meet her? Axton asked, watching her play with her cat.

She said Plaza of the Twin Crescent Fountains.

Axtons brows rose and Piers turned from the window to look at her. Is the property she is going to sell you there? Piers asked as Axton knocked on the wall behind him to give Mr. Novak, the driver, directions.

Tori shrugged. She said it was nearby. I assumed since it was a plaza, she wanted to meet at a landmark close to the property.

Its not far from the main street going through the Central District, Axton said as he turned back around. A Central District property is already very impressive. If its near a plaza or landmark, like the fountains, thats even better.

There shouldnt be any property available for purchase in the Central District. Most are owned by the government, the imperial family, or individuals from old families descended from the imperial family. Axton looked at Piers. Arent there a few old palace homes that belong to your immediate family?

Piers nodded. They are rented out. The imperial palace and its grounds are sufficient for the family. If Gideon or I move out of the imperial palace, we will likely be designated one of the imperial residences in the Central or First Districts, if we choose to settle in Horizon.

Children of the Emperor received a stipend to live on once the official heir was announced. This was to encourage the other children to move out and set up their own households. Or in Piers Aunt Celines case, fund her travels around Soleil. Their own children, however, would no longer receive a stipend.

As of right now, as there was not yet a crown prince, Piers and Gideon had an allowance, though large expenses, such as Gideons tuition, were paid directly by the imperial household. Piers had spent part of his allowance on the house and courtyard in the Academic District, Cafe Fortuna, and Axtons inns. Tori didnt know how much he actually had and didnt bother to ask.

But she knew he had accumulated quite a lot.

The carriage ride took a little under half an hour. They went up the main street cutting through the Central District and then took a left into another street that opened up into a long plaza with two layered fountains mirroring each other.

Axton knocked on the wall behind him and a narrow panel slid open.

Mr. Novak, you can drop us off here and park by the building. Well wait outside for Toris aunt.

Yes, Your Grace.

They circled around the two fountains once before Mr. Novak stopped the carriage beside a building that seemed to stretch across the entire plaza. The footman, who was one of Piers people, came down to open the door and Tori hopped out first with Alexander in her arms. She set him down and took the leash before wandering towards the fountains.

Auntie Maria nodded once more. She lifted her finger and tapped her lips. Im surprised no one stopped her, too.

Tori ran a hand down her face. And youve kept it all these years?

Auntie Maria smiled. Your grandfather said I should. I thought about selling it to others or returning it to the imperial family, but I felt a bit uncomfortable doing so since this was my godmothers gift to me just before she died.

Why did you leave it to sit there, unattended? Axton asked, looking at the stretch of building with disbelief.

I dont have the money to maintain it properly. The Sophos family is a scholarly family; our wealth is limited. I always prayed that the gods would guide the right people to come to me whom I can hand the property to without feelings of worry or concern. She squeezed Toris arm and smiled at her fondly. And you came!

I swear to God, this family is the biggest golden finger in the entire game. Victoria, what the hell. Now that Tori knew what property her aunt was talking about, she couldnt help but be hesitant. Even if she only paid for the value of the land, it didnt scratch the surface of the propertys monetary value, not to mention its historical value. If she agreed to buy it, shed be cheating her aunt. Auntie....

Before you say anything, lets have a look inside! Auntie Maria said as she produced a thick metal key. I promise you; you will fall in love with it!

She scrambled up the steps to the massive iron doors and Tori watched as she used an almost comically large key to unlock one of the doors. The sound of the unlocking doors alone seemed to echo around them before Auntie Maria leaned against the door and pushed it open.

Alexander trotted right in, and Tori followed. How long has it been since youve been here?

Oh, quite some time, Auntie Maria said. I last visited before I joined the abbey, so it may be a bit dusty. She laughed and looked over her shoulder as she lifted her arms and waved, triggering the long dormant light crystals into illuminating the massive foyer. Still, I think you will be quite satisfied!

Part of Tori hated that her aunt was right.

All the decorations and furniture that were once inside of the Lunar Pavilion had been removed when it was given to Auntie Maria, but there were still exquisite details all over the interior. Door handles, door frames, ceilings, hallways, light fixtures, the interior courtyard and garden, and the gorgeous mosaic tiled floor all screamed classic imperial wealth.

It was far too easy to imagine crown princesses of old strolling down the porticos and having coffee in the now overgrown garden. Despite its neglected state, it was gorgeous.

And it was all Toris for the low, low price of more than she could currently afford.

She had never felt so financially ill-equipped in Soleil until this moment, and she came from one of Soleils wealthiest families.

Darling, I know we agreed on only the land value, but Im afraid thats the lowest they could assess it, Auntie Maria said as she stroked Toris back sympathetically. When she showed Tori the paperwork and the estimated value of the land, Tori had stumbled to the side and grabbed a column as if the numbers had physically wounded her. Auntie Marie looked troubled. Should I just gift it to you? The biggest problem is your Aunt Fabiana.

Tori knew property in the Central District was expensive, but she was unprepared for just how expensive. She pressed her forehead against the cool stone column as she tried to calm herself.

No...I cant take this from you for nothing, Auntie. She might as well rob her aunt.

Do you want it? Piers grasped her hand gently. If you want it, Ill buy it for you.

The foyer where they stood seemed to freeze in time. Tori remained against the column and closed her eyes, but could already see her aunts surprised expression and Axtons one of sheer annoyance.

Piers sounded like a web novel CEO who spoiled his lover with irrational, over the top purchases that frustrated their already stressed assistants. Tori knew that Piers meant it, too. If she asked, he would buy it for her.

She took a deep breath. She already received so much from him - and even if she didnt, buying the Lunar Pavilion was too much.

If you have that much money, you can start letting Axton and the knights eat for free at Cafe Fortuna.

Piers looked away, but still held her hand. You can just tell me no.

Axton shot him a glare.

Auntie Maria giggled. This one reminds me of your father. If my sister ever mentioned something she was interested in, and Gregorio heard, hed try to buy it for her.

Tori smiled a bit. She could see her father doing such a thing earnestly just to please her mother. Papa didnt offer to buy her a former imperial residence.

Auntie Maria laughed and put her hand over her stomach to try to hold her laughter back. No, no, he just married her and gave her a march.

Tori briefly saw the look of recognition on Piers face and quickly spoke up with a sharp look. Its not a competition. Piers earnest face deflated.

I bet your father would let his friends eat for free at his restaurant.... Axton muttered.

Tori took a deep breath and turned to face her aunt. Does it have to be paid all at once?

Auntie Marias face looked at her intently. Darling, it doesnt have to be paid at all. The only reason I agreed was so Fabiana doesnt complain because she wouldnt be able to afford the cost of it. You know my second sister is quite envious. Your mother is beautiful, a genius, and a marquess. Your Uncle Dom is a brilliant mathematician and celebrated musician. I am Empress Henriettas goddaughter. If I give you this property as a gift, she wouldnt accept it and will trouble you. She let out a heavy sigh and crossed her arms as she shook her head. That woman is really so annoying. She simply cant let others live better than her....

Tori drew her lips inward and bit them. She nodded quietly.

I can pay for half. She heard Axton speak up and looked towards him. He was standing in the center of the foyer with his hands on his hips as he looked up at the vaulted ceiling, seemingly admiring the architecture. He paused for a moment and looked back at them. The upper floors are suitable for an inn, and I dont have any inns within Horizons city borders. This location would be ideal for high level guests of the empire who arent guests of the imperial family.

If Axton can pay for half, I can also pay for half, Piers said, taking a step forward and meeting Toris eyes.

She sighed and shook her head. No one is paying for half. Piers opened his mouth and she cut him off. Or buying it for me. He closed his mouth.

Axton furrowed his brows and looked down, thinking. What if I sign a multiple yearlong lease for some of the upper floors? Would that make up the difference? My inns are reputable, and I will of course pay for any renovations and furnishings, as they would be my responsibility. Youd just have to check for any repairs that need to be done.

Tori pursed her lips. It was an enticing offer.

Renting a space in the Central District is expensive, Piers said. And historical buildings require more attention and must meet stricter guidelines.

To be honest, Tori, I dont want to split the property, Auntie Maria said as she looked up and around at the beautiful interior. The building is historically significant and splitting it into smaller, individual lots would damage the structure and ruin the inner courtyard gardens.

I need to think about this, Tori said. Aside from buying the property, Id still need to have it inspected, have repairs done, then do any remodeling and furnishing. Then there is the issue of hiring people and upkeep and overhead costs....

Lions Gate didnt have much fluidity at the moment, either. However, Tori didnt know when such an opportunity would arise again. She supposed she could wait until she had more money.

Auntie, do I have to buy it now? Tori asked, her voice quiet and strained.

No, of course not! Auntie Maria beamed. I will hold it for you. When youre ready, its yours.

Dont hesitate. Go with Axtons proposal, Kasen said over the comcry. Tori sat on her bed with several papers regarding the Lunar Pavilion with her, including the estimated value of the property, and quotes from the masonry and carpentry guilds on repairing parts of the neglected building. You wanted property in the Central District, and its being handed to you. As Auntie Maria said, the only reason youre paying is because of Aunt Fabiana. If she knew how much you paid, she cant complain. She and her family would never be able to afford it. Even if it isnt opened at once, you can get started on some of the projects youve been thinking about.

Tori took a deep breath. Her eyes were still fixed on the uncomfortably long series of numbers on the quote. She wanted a better idea of how much the property and basic renovations would cost her, even if it hurt. The guild masters had rushed over when she called, and they looked excited to have the opportunity to work on such a building. They assured her that they would handle it personally.

As she still had reservations on purchasing the property from their aunt, she decided to call her family for their opinion. Her parents offered to give her more money, but she felt uncomfortable taking such an amount for nothing. It wasnt as if her parents would allow her to pay them back; she was their little princess. Anything she wanted; they would give her if they could.

Sebastian offered to loan her money when she rejected his initial offer to simply hand her the amount required. It was tempting, but Sebastian had a wedding coming up and Tori didnt feel comfortable taking the money considering his situation. If Sebastian wasnt getting married, she wouldve likely agreed.

After she rejected Kasens money, he opted to encourage her to take up Axtons offer. Axton was doing this as an investment in his business. An inn within a former imperial palace fit perfectly in the Central District, and Axtons request to rent a private flat of his own would be convenient for him.

Axton just became Duke Alvere a few months ago, Kasey. Not only is he working on the infrastructure repairs, and having counts and viscounts review the state of his duchy, he also just invested a lot of money into upgrading his inns, Tori said.

Tori, you dont know how wealthy Axton personally is, Kasen replied in a firm, knowing voice. He keeps it hidden well, but during his mothers time, the Alvere Duchy was the wealthiest duchy in the empire. Despite his father having a bit of control for over a decade, the damage he did only scratches the surface of that wealth. Control of Alveres major industries was handed over to the Empress on the grounds of imperial oversight until the heir - Axton, came of age and title, and Mama had assisted. Axtons inns are a personal endeavor he and Piers came up with to upset his father. Now that Axton is Duke Alvere, everything has been handed back to him. Hes flush with money, so dont hesitate to exploit him.

Toris lips tightened into a line. All right, Ill talk to him about this again and well get all the necessary parties in line.

Good, Kasen said, sounding approving. By the way, since you mentioned Axtons inns, I have more information on Nicole Neil, who is opening inns along the trade route. She doesnt hire locals. She brings in existing employees.

Thats not too surprising. Its easier to manage and set up with experienced employees, though it is somewhat annoying to locals, Tori said as she leaned back against the wall. Were also doing that for Duel.

Yes, but we can track the registries of your villagers back to their original border village, Kasen told her. From what our people are gathering, the new employees are trying to re-register to Chetterswickshire are orphans or from rural Nord.

Whats surprising about that?

Nord is the most sparsely populated administrative region in Soleil and these employees of Neil are coming from unnamed villages and areas that Nord have no records of. They are either new and have not yet been recorded; extremely sparse to the point that they dont meet the requirement to be considered a village and are instead minor settlements, in which case they shouldve registered as individual homes to the march; or they dont exist at all.

Tori sat up straight. What do you mean dont exist? Neils employees are lying about their place of origin? She shifted uncomfortably. Then where did they come from?