Chapter 144: Destabilizing the Opposition Was an Important

Chapter 144: Destabilizing the Opposition Was an Important

Her weekend went well. Too well.

Lions Gates autumn and winter release party went smoothly. The guests had been excited about the new products and designs. Tori had been able to share some more information on Viclya for the coming months, as many guests invited to the release party had also visited the delta at least one during the summer.

The deltas tourist season was ending, and Tori had to explain that the reason was mainly weather conditions. The late autumn and winter weather conditions along the coast werent ideal for tourists to stroll around in, so Tori and the village council decided it was best to close the shops catering to tourists and turn their focus on to development.

However, they were planning to start the tourist season at the next Spring Festival. Reservations for resort tents and dining would be available a month before, at Henriks travel agency, Lions Gate Travel, in the Fifth District. Notices would also be posted at all the Lions Gate stores, including Duel.

Ilyana had taken on most of the hostess duties for the release party. Henrik focused mainly on coordination and branding. The two had tried their best to relieve Tori of the burden of hosting the event as much as possible and she was grateful for their hard work.

After Tori had done a final inspection of the showroom floor and upper level, she went outside to formally greet the guests, and then lingered around chatting with them as they waited. Tori had occasionally checked on their other friends, who had come to support them and get free drinks from Cafe Lumiere, and Piers and Axton, who unofficially hosted guests in discussions on recent changes in the Chamber.

Tori had sat for a few minutes with them to gain some insight, as she was still planning to attend the joint Chamber sessions come the new year.

The only thing out of the ordinary, at least it shouldve been, was that Nanny Rey found that at least a half dozen people were watching Lions Gate. Shed observed each individual and found that they didnt seem to have weapons, but were merely watching the release party intensely.

Tori wasnt sure if they were trying to steal designs or ideas or simply keep track of her whereabouts. She supposed she was relatively high profile in Horizon at this point, so it wasnt strange to have people watch her movements, but she still wanted to know who was watching.

Nanny Rey had disabled each individual watching, except one and then followed that person to their handler. Nanny Rey had returned in the evening to join them for dinner at the Three Queens and reported.

He went into an alley and entered the back door of the Thorn and Rose in the fourth district.

Tori had taken a deep breath and leaned back against her chair when she heard this. So, we were watched by Nicole Neil.

It wasnt a secret that she had a hand in Axtons inns renovations; however, the exact details of her involvement were purposely kept vague. She and Axton had made it common knowledge to the construction workers and renovators that she helped with the interior designs and suggested the new additions.

They didnt advertise her work in the in-room comcrys.

As far as they both knew, such a thing was the first in its kind, and the convenience it made for guests added a lot of value to the inn. Tori and Instructor Ignatius had developed them specifically for Lunar Inn. Preparing the exact Old Sulfae to use to program the crystals was complicated and not easily replicated.

If someone wanted that technology, theyd need to either figure out the Old Sulfae themselves and design the programming system from scratch, or go directly to Tori. The combination of charms and crystals was a lost art. Tori would be their best resource.

If they knew Tori wasthe resource. This was kept hidden so as not to trouble her. She already had so much to do, she didnt want to deal with trying to sell her crystal technology yet. Her goal was to make sure it was installed and commonplace in all of Axtons properties and hers before going public.Visit no(v)eLb(i)n.com for the best novel reading experience

By then, the programming, installation, and use should be much smoother, and theyd have less troubleshooting to deal with.

Regardless of the confidentiality, it was possible that someone theorized she was involved. She had expected that eventually, either Rosiek or Neil would come find her to get more information. She didnt expect that shed be under their surveillance so soon.

As of Lions Gates release party, the renovated Lunar Inns had only been reopened to the public for six days. This meant that someone had been watching the renovation and booked a room to study the changes as soon as it reopened.

Part of Tori had been a bit excited. To be watched so soon meant that the rival party couldnt sit still and felt threatened by her work, which is what she wanted. Destabilizing the opposition was an important part of any battle.

And Nanny Rey had done her part to ensure that Neil, and possibly Rosiek, knew that Tori knew she was being watched, as five of the six people watching her were incapacitated and could not report back as expected.

This all brought Tori some glee, but life couldnt always go smoothly.

As soon as Tori entered the homeroom class the next school day, Fabian was waiting by her desk, agitated and with a dark expression on his face. His hair was a bit tousled and there were noticeable bags under his eyes. She didnt know how long hed been waiting there, but she wondered how long hed regretted the breakup once he found out she was Gideons new guard.

Guevera, you tricked me!

I expected many things, but this was not one of them. Tori didnt shy away despite his murderous look and put her things on her desk. How did I trick you, von Dorn?

It was the first day of a long school week and she was too lazy to verbally spar with him.

He slammed his hand on her desk and glowered, leaning in towards her. Tori was about almost a head shorter than him, but as she was used to being towered over, she didnt shrink back. After all, what could von Dorn do to her? She wasnt afraid to get hit and wasnt worried that hed get away with doing so.

You told me that I should rethink my position as Gideons personal knight to make me give up my position!

Toris neutral face didnt falter. I told you to rethink your position so you could reaffirm your focus on it, not so youd quit. That was all your doing, von Dorn. I didnt make you quit.

Hearing her say it only seemed to infuriate him further. His face reddened as he scowled. I wouldnt have quit if I had known youd replace me!

Tori tried not to look too exasperated. She jutted out her hip and crossed her arms over her chest. Im not replacing you, as Im only an on-campus guard, not a personal knight. And even if I were to replace you as a personal knight, it was not my decision. I was given the position by the Emperor. I didnt volunteer for it. I didnt even consider that Prince Gideon would have a guard assigned while on Lyce grounds.

Fabian sneered and shook his head. I find it hard to believe that you didnt know.

Well, whether you believe it or not, a fact is a fact. If you want confirmation, you can request an audience with the Emperor to confirm that I was assigned the position. Tori narrowed her eyes. And while I may feel unqualified to be a personal knight, I am not helpless. She smirked. At least I can stop him from being hit in the face.

You-

Fabian, what are you doing? Gideons voice spoke up behind them. He paused as he came down the stairs to get to his desk in front of Toris. His brows were furrowed as he looked at Fabian, confused. Is something wrong?

Fabian grit his teeth. I didnt know that she would be assigned as your guard.

I didnt either, Gideon said. His movements had slowed, and he stood beside his desk, looking from Fabian to Tori and back. Father made the decision.

Are you all right with this? Fabian snapped his head towards Gideon and Gideon jerked his head back with some surprise. He blinked and lowered his gaze, contemplating for a moment before nodding.

Aside from Father, my brother and Axton also discussed her appointment with me. Gideon lifted his head and met Fabians eyes. So far, Guevara has been diligent in doing what is expected of her and the escort knights are satisfied with the arrangement.

Tori nodded, satisfied with his answer even though he didnt outrightly say that he was all right with the situation. Im his guard only when he is on campus. When he is outside of Lyce, the escort knights take responsibility for his safety.

Fabian was still scowling. Gideon lifted a hand and put it on his shoulder.

She is a Guevera and has the trust of my family, Gideon said, trying to placate his former knight. No matter our personal grudges, she has a duty.

Fabian didnt stop glaring at Tori even as Ilyana arrived with their breakfast pastries in hand. Ilyana slowed down as she reached her seat beside Tori and put the pastries on the desk first. She looked at the three of them, noting the tension, and seemed hesitant to speak.

Von Dorn, no matter how much I dislike Prince Gideon, it is not enough for me to betray the imperial family and be lax in my responsibilities, Tori said. She caught Gideon giving her a stunned expression at the word dislike. Also keep in mind that Piers is very close to me, and Prince Gideon is his younger brother whom he cares about. If not for the duties placed upon me, I would still protect Prince Gideon as an extension of Piers. If you are concerned that I will not do my job properly, you are welcomed to continue guarding him whilst in Lyce. I will not stop you as long as your actions do not harm him.

Why would I harm him!? Fabian nearly snarled at her and Ilyana gasped, lifting her hand to her chest before looking at Tori with worry.

Tori didnt flinch. I dont know, von Dorn. What reason would you have to harm him? Her deadpan tone seemed to make Fabian grind his teeth together. He lowered his shoulders and took a heaving breath.

As long as I am in Lyce, I will also keep guard over Gideon.

Fabian, you dont have to-

I need to, Fabian said, turning to Gideon with a sour expression. I know I gave up my position, but that doesnt mean I want to leave you unprotected. If I can, even if it is in a minor capacity, I will ensure your safety where I can.

Gideons eyes reddened and he nodded. He squeezed Fabians shoulders in acknowledgement. Thank you, Fabian.

Additional eyes and hands are always welcomed, Tori said. However, you cannot lead him away without notifying me first and you must report the company he will be with. Even if he trusts you, we should be cautious of other parties.

Fabian frowned deeper as he gave her another glare. What do you think Ill do to him, Guevera? Ive known Gideon longer than you. Ive been his knight since we were children! What do you think Id do to harm him?

Maybe you wouldnt do anything, Tori replied with a shrug. Maybe you would just stand there and do nothing. In some circumstances, no reaction is worse.

A look of confusion crossed Gideons face. Fabians hands clenched at his sides.

Whats going on? Fabian, why are you so upset? Alessa seemed to appear out of nowhere. Her pale hand grasped onto Fabians sleeve and gave him a small pull back.

Tori raised a brow. Alessas entrance was quite convenient.

There was a bit of an organizational change and Mr. von Dorn has some reservations about it, Tori said as she took her seat. We were just confirming the changes.

Alessa looked confused and turned to Fabian, as if asking him to confirm Toris words. Fabian took another deep breath and nodded. He gave Alessa a gentle smile.

I was just telling Guevera that I will continue to support Gideon, he said, his voice calmer than earlier. Hes still my friend, after all.

Alessas face bloomed. She looked towards Gideon with a warm smile. Fabian has been very worried about you. He doesnt seem to know what to do with himself when youre not with him.

Tori tilted her head to the side and narrowed her eyes. Does von Dorn spend a lot of time with you?

Of the favors that Tori asked for in exchange for being Gideons guard, unrestricted access to all of Universits collections, including the restricted ones, was the only favor that didnt involve money.

Tori needed it for time.

Creating a ring for Piers that could be discreetly worn and alert him of tampered food, contaminated air or surfaces would be useful. She was sure that those watching the empire closely would identify Piers as the crown prince before it was formally announced. He was too much of a target, and poisoning him was high on the list of ways to assassinate him. There were simply some things she and Axton couldnt protect Piers from with swords and words alone.

If it worked, she could perhaps sell it to the imperial family for money. Charms testing for poison werent subtle and were one time use. Having a piece of jewelry was much more efficient. Axton had also told her that food testing charms were created in bulk and didnt keep up with any newly discovered toxins.

If Toris project worked the way she wanted, any crystals she had registered to the master crystal could be updated remotely as long as the new toxin was registered with the master crystal. She had tried this using different seafood and it worked so far.

It was just that the real items she needed to register were dangerous and in some cases, she couldnt be around them for long. Every safety precaution she could think of needed to be in place and where she was missing information, she had to depend on Master Ramos or the vault keepers.

When are we going? Instructor Ignatius said as he watched her carve.

After our midterms. My second carriage, SIG Two, will bring you to the Academic Quarter. Dean Zanuto requested to interview me first, and you two should be present as my masters. He wishes to review my experiment. He cant stop us from doing it, as the Emperor gave an order, but there is no need for me to be rude about it.

If you are able to get the support of the deans, then it will make your future experiments much smoother. Master Ramos agreed with a nod. Be sure to bring your findings with your tests with seafood. If he knows that you have prior experience and that this works, he will likely be more accepting of the situation.

Yes, Master Ramos.

The poison gas from the minerals at the cabin mustve really shaken you, Instructor Ignatius said with a helpless expression. It was good that you had Kasens charms to assist you.

Tori nodded. Since she had woken up in Presidio two years ago, Kasen had been her guiding light in nearly everything. Sebastian told her that Kasen wasnt a patient man, but he had been so when he was essentially re-introducing her to Soleil. Kasen never got annoyed. He didnt get angry at her.

He worried a lot and was clearly disappointed by her taste in men, but when it came down to it, he would support her. OG Victoria loved Sebastian the most of her brothers, but Tori loved Kasen the tiniest bit more. Not that Sebastian would believe her.

For a moment, she wondered what she would do if something happened to her brothers. She knew what her brothers would do if something happened to her, but she was at a loss as to what shed do if one of her brothers was hurt. Depending on the situation, there was a high possibility her reaction would not be minor in the least.

She finished the Old Sulfae in one crystal and began to turn the clamp to release it. After spinning the lever once, she saw her comcry light up beside her tools.

Tori put her craving tool that she was still holding on the table and reached for her comcry as she loosened the clamp. Henriks name appeared on the crystal, and she cocked her head to the side. He didnt come with her that weekend. The opening for Duel was less than two months away and he was overseeing the final details. In the coming weekends until Duel opened, hed stay in Horizon to train some employees.

She slid off her stool and walked further away so as not to bother the others with her conversation.

Hi, Henrik, she said as she slid her finger across the crystal.

Hi, has my father called you? Henrik's usual unimpressed voice had a hint of urgency in it.

She pursed her lips and furrowed her brows. No. Why? Did he need something?

It isnt that he needs something, but he may ask for a favor, Henrik said, his voice lowering a bit. Annika asked if we have any part time job openings.

Tori drew her head back. Henrik and his sister werent close by any means. They didnt dislike each other; it was more that they acted as strangers in two separate spheres.

I thought she was only working during her breaks.

I thought so, too, but she had arranged with the wine store to allow her to work part time, on weekends. Shes been working there on the weekends since school started.

If she asked to work part time, then she probably liked working there. Has something changed?

She didnt say, Henrik said with some disapproval. She suddenly asked me if we had any part time positions.

Tori lowered her eyes and kicked the ground distractedly. Lions Gate doesnt need any more employees and weve already finished the hiring for Duel.

She heard Henrik take a deep breath and exhale loudly. She didnt ask for a part time position at Lions Gate or Duel.

Tori jerked her head back and wrinkled her nose. She wants to come and work all the way in Viclya?

She asked for work at the Lunar Pavilion.

Tori stopped moving. She held her breath as she wrapped her head around that statement. Her eyes narrowed. We havent advertised the Lunar Pavilion yet. The structural assessments and renovation plans are still being finalized for approval. There are very few people who know what were planning for it. Did you tell her?

No. Henrik sounded irate. I havent told my parents about it, either. You said you didnt want to attract attention to it yet as you just purchased it.

Maybe she overheard us talking?

When? Henrik almost scoffed. Annika is hardly at home when Im at home. Aside from passing her a few times on her way out, Ive hardly seen her.

Then, how did she know about the Lunar Pavilion? Tori asked. It was more to herself than to Henrik. The only guild members who know about it right now are the masonry and carpentry guild masters. Theyve also agreed to keep the extent of the project quiet.

What about the surveyors and inspectors?

They dont know what were doing to it. They think were only restoring the aged and damaged portions of the palace. The imperial architects I asked for from the Emperor to assist in the design so as not to damage the building answer to the imperial family and are tight lipped.

You and Duke Alvere also filed the necessary paperwork for doing business at that property. Anyone can look up your registration.

Tori frowned and glared at the ground. Did she ask about a particular position?

No. She only asked for part time work there.

What did you tell her?

I told her there arent any. I also asked where she heard about it and she said she heard me talk about it, but unless she was eavesdropping without me knowing, then its impossible. In addition, we havent talked about specific details for shops, as you dont yet know how you can space the ground floor.

Tori let out a heavy breath. Did you call because youre worried your father may ask for a job on her behalf.

Yes. My parents dont force my sister and I to be in a close relationship, but that isnt to say they dont wish for it. Im always being compared to Ewan or JP and Sonia. Theyd love for me to be close to Annika. They say we act more like step siblings than we do real ones.

To be fair, JP and Sonia are twins, and Ewan is the youngest and was given a lot of attention by his older siblings, Tori said. But I can see why theyd want you two to get along. If one day your parents are no longer there, they want you two to be able to depend on or support each other.

And thats fine, but I dont want my personal matters to negatively affect you or Lions Gate. If my father calls you asking to give Annika a job, tell him no, Henrik told her firmly.

Ill have to anyway. As you said, there arent any jobs. There wont be for some time, Tori said. But this still doesnt answer the question of why she asked to begin with. She wasnt fired from her job, was she?

No. When she asked me, she was on her way to her part time job. With each word, Henrik sounded increasingly affronted. Its strange. Shes never asked me for a job before. Not with Lions Gate or Duel. She has always kept her business separate from mine.

Tori chewed her lower lip for a moment. Where did you say she currently worked?

At a wine store.... Henrik trailed off and she heard him let out a low breath. A wine store owned by the Golden Cow.

Tori cracked a small, bitter smile. It looks like were being watched, Henrik. Watched far more intensely than I initially thought.

I cant believe this.... Henriks voice was tight. I know were not close, but to try to gather information for our rival?

Does Annika know that we have some...grievances with the Cow Man and his company?

I think so.

If youre not sure, ignore it. Weve rejected your sisters request. Make sure to speak to the hiring managers at all our locations to ensure that she is banned so she isnt hired at any of our stores. Its a bit much, I know.

No, I agree. This is too much of a coincidence.

Henrik, if there is a chance that your sister is being asked or coerced to do this, we need to be cautious around her. Maybe even your parents. She couldnt help the guilt at her last few words. She liked Henriks parents and they were always very kind to her.

I also understand. If she has a question or request, my parents will answer or oblige if they can, without a second thought. Its easy for sensitive information to slip through with a few careless words. If she is being forced into this, she cant get much out of me. I dont even keep copies of our business paperwork at home.

Tori knit her brows together once more. You dont? Then where do you keep it?

Over the summer, it was with me at the delta, but for some time, Ive kept the important documents at 905-88 Rue Universit, Seventh District. She could almost hear the smug smile in his voice.

Toris eyes widened. Piers house?

Henrik chuckled. Where else would be a safe place to keep our paperwork, but a heavily guarded private residence of a prince who is essentially our backer?