Chapter 151: A Shrew at the Marketplace

Chapter 151: A Shrew at the Marketplace

What is wrong with her? Sonias hand squeezed the tall glass of iced coffee and Claire put her hand on her arm to try to calm her before she hurt herself. She didnt ask you. She just put your name on her stupid invitation.

If the Countess did not appear for the dance after it was announced that she would, it would reflect badly on her considering it is for such an event, Claire said. Tori knew she knew what she was talking about. Claire was very familiar with the aristocratic and noble circles in Horizon.

But Hart is using her name without her permission! Ilyana insisted. We should report her!Visit no(v)eLb(i)n.com for the best novel reading experience

Its on an invitation for a charitys program schedule, not legal or financial documents, Tori said with narrowed eyes. Aside from damage to my reputation, it has no direct legal or financial repercussions. It may influence people working with me, but it will not cause legal or financial issues by itself. This is different from when the Prime Minister was charged with corruption, as legal and financial documents were involved. Money was definitely involved.

An invitation wouldnt meet the legal requirements to punish fraud, Claire told them. She furrowed her brows. In fact, the way it would cause damage to the Countess reputation doesnt constitute as slander, either.

If Toris guesses were correct and Alessa did send invitations to various influential and wealthy citizens, then all of them would be under the incorrect impression that Tori had agreed to dance. If Tori didnt show up, as she planned, then it would put her character into question. Who would suddenly back out of a charity event?

Soleils culture put a heavy emphasis on noble obligations. The empire was nearly built on it. It was why there were so many public works, social programs, and charities for aspects that public works and programs couldnt support.

Her own family took supporting their march so seriously that mismanagement would get a family member kicked out. Tori could feel this responsibility in her bones.

What was worse was that it was on the date of her store opening. Obviously, to her it was more important, but since the orphanage was a charity and the store opening was to make money, it would also reflect badly upon her.

Now, Tori was practically extorted into doing a dedication dance, else it would negatively impact her reputation. Shed been building her reputation amongst the citys elite for some time to gain influence so people would go to her shops and support her project. She knew such a trick wouldnt ruin her, but she still didnt want to look like a greedy monster who hated children, either.

She was a high-profile person. She wasnt naive enough to think that there werent people out there waiting for her to slip up. Tori wasnt going to give them that ammunition so easily.

Her lips pulled into a tight frown and Ilyana aggressively chewed on a cream puff. How does she know you can dance that dedication dance to Saphira?

Its not a secret that Tori can dance, Sonia said. Even the other equestrians know she had changed electives from crystals to dance.

But dedication and blessing dances to the gods are different, Claire said with a furrowed brow. She was also frowning. Theyre more complicated and ritualistic than ballroom or folk dances. They cant be learned in a day or two.

They also have different variations, Ilyana said. Toris dance for Lord Sebastian and Lady Idunns wedding is the Nazaria version of the blessing dance for Suraelle. Its the longest and most complex version.

The longer and more complex, the stronger it is said that the blessing will be, Tori muttered as she carefully read the invitation once more. What annoyed her most about this was that if Alessa had asked her if she could spare time to dance, she wouldve arranged to do it. Alessa, or whoever was directing this, didnt have to go this far.

Tori was petty, but she wasnt going to let a bunch of innocent orphans pay for her pettiness. A single dance wasnt a big deal to her anyway. Also, it would give her an excuse to see the classroom cobbled together with Alessa and Dimitri's efforts.

Sonia looked towards her with a wary face. Do you know how to dance for Saphira?

Tori slowly nodded her head and looked up over the top of the invitation. Sebby is also blessed by Saphira. Of his trifecta gods, Saphiras dance is the simplest, so in a way I got lucky.

Got lucky? Ilyana scowled at once. Dont tell me you plan on doing it.

Tori let out a heavy breath. She put the invitation in front of her and tapped the actual date and times. The ceremony is mid-morning. It states the time right there. We wont open until the late afternoon.

Yes, but well be welcoming people before! Ilyana looked worried. Tori had taught her how to work the crowd to get them excited for entering.

I can spare a little time to rush out and do the dance. Henrik has a firm grasp on what to do and you and JP can help him. If Im a little late, its all right, Tori said. It isnt as if the orphanage opening will last into the evening.

Both Ilyana and Sonia didnt look convinced. Sonia gritted her teeth and crossed her arms over her chest. This isnt right. She cant just use you like this.

She didnt even ask you, Ilyana said. She sat up straight. You should ask her what she means by this when class starts.

Tori held up her hand to calm her. I want to see what she does first. Maybe she has an excuse.

Sonia snorted. An excuse...when doesnt she have one? Shell just get teary eyed and turn to Guthry for help, as if shes the victim.

Claire looked a bit surprised at Sonias clear hatred of Alessa. Is this Baroness Hart woman really this unpleasant?

Yes. Sonia and Ilyana chorused at once.

She tends to play the victim, but at the same time, pushes her errors and faults onto others. She usually says that she was only trying to help or had good intentions. Perhaps something was an accident and out of her hands, Tori told her. However, I still want to see how she reacts to this. If shell mention it to me in class or if she wont and plans to set me up for failure completely.

She knows you can dance and purposely put you in such a situation. This still doesnt explain how she knows you know how to dance this particular dance, Ilyana said.

Sonia frowned. Perhaps she doesnt. Perhaps she simply used Toris name.

Tori narrowed her eyes. Her fingers tapped on the tabletop. No, there are people who know.

A trio of eyes looked at her. Who else have you told?

In the dance class elective, there is a roster of all the active students and a list of dances they are competent with. Its voluntary and used so other students can ask for assistance. Tori closed her eyes and momentarily regretted her decision to be open to help her classmates. My list is the longest with a total of twelve different blessings, seven ballroom, and ten folk dances from Sur and Anlar. And those are only the ones I feel comfortable teaching.

Victoria was proficient in many more dances, but proficient did not mean mastery. Tori had spent some time considering which dances she could assist with seriously. If she wasnt certain she could perform it without technical error, then she didnt write it on the list. Still, the list was long.

Where is the list located? Sonia asked.

Tori let out a small scoff as her lips pulled into a dry, bitter smile. In the dance studio where we have the class...and you know who else is in that class?

Ilyanas face immediately darkened. Von Dorn. She spat out the name with such vitriol, it was as if Fabian and her had some sort of blood feud.

Lets say Hart really didnt mean any malice and only wanted to have a blessing dance performed, which is common for these sorts of things, right? Tori looked at Claire, who nodded.

Yes, especially for events connected to the church. This orphanage is run by an abbey.

Exactly. Then, she wouldve looked for someone who can dance. Shes with von Dorn all the time. Its very possible that he mentioned me in passing.

But why didnt she ask you first? Sonia demanded.

Im sure well find out when school starts next week.

It was too far aways for Sonia, and despite Toris reassurance that shed find out when class started, as Alessa had to come to class, Sonia still went to Alessas dorm room to look for her. Alessas roommate told her that Alessa wasnt there that weekend. Sonia was sure she was lying, but Tori said they had better things to do than wait outside Alessas room.

Sonia still had practice and Tori, Ilyana, and Henrik were poring over the exit surveys from their soft open. Tori had also asked that the girls keep the invitation issue to themselves, as she didnt want to add another cause for concern to her friends plates.

Of course, Sonia and JP were twins and she blurted it out to her brother. She told JP not to tell anyone and, for a gossip, JP kept his mouth shut, though his irritation was palpable. Henrik and Albert were too focused on Duel to notice, thankfully.

Tori mentioned the invitation to Piers.

Golden Cow Print Shop.... Piers said in a low voice from her comcry. I will look into it.

Whats there to look into? Its either a set up or an accident, Tori said. She sat cross legged on her bed as she clumsily embroidered a somewhat coarse handkerchief with Old Sulfae. Whatever the reason, Hart and I are already at odds. Finding out the truth wont really change anything.

This is unacceptable.

I know, but its already been done. I can only act according to the situation to use it in my favor. I dont know who the invitations have been sent to, but if I got mine, it means other people have also gotten them, and there is a good chance someone will ask me about it. If I say I didnt agree to it and dont want to do it, they may still wonder why I wont, considering its for charity. After all, at this point Id know and would have time to practice. Someone might even ask why I didnt volunteer in the first place since Hart and I are classmates. Its not exactly good publicity to put a grudge before helping orphans.

You are not upset?

Of course, Im upset, but I dont have time to dwell on it, Tori replied with a snort. She was a busy woman, and this was a minor inconvenience. If I must dance, then Ill dance. Its not a problem and I wont be doing it for free. I already have dance clothes in the right colors and the dance is simple. It doesnt even have any musical accompaniment. I just jiggle the bells on my wrists and ankles.

Where are you going to get the bells?

I can borrow them from class. Lyce has a lot of dance accessories. She heard Piers let out a low huff.

It is good that my brother is separated from Baroness Hart, Piers said. I do not like this.

Tori chuckled. Ill let you know what happens tomorrow.

He hummed. I will check on the print shop.

I told you thats not necessary.

Tom Fields has entered the city.

Tori narrowed her eyes. Does he have anything to do with the print shop?

You said he was working in a print shop under Masters order in Sur. If that is his trade skill, he would try to find a trade job in Horizon.

Tori let out a tired breath. Obviously, Tom would be hooked up with a job from Adrien because of Alessa. While she didnt think he would be problematic, the less love interests Alessa had at her fingertips, the more comfortable Tori would feel.

As long as he doesnt do anything that could cause me or the others or our shops harm, let him be. That boy needs a job, Tori said. Tom didnt have wealth or influence, but considering his financial situation and that of his family, he really did need a job. Still, she didnt want to underestimate him. She didnt think hed do much in the beginning and he tried to trash her store. Even if she werent hurt, someone connected to her could be.

Collateral damage was something she needed to take into consideration.

The next day, she and Ilyana got up early to pick up their breakfast pastries and get to class to wait for Alessa to arrive.

Gideon, who was now used to receiving his breakfast pastries from them, had been waiting by the entrance of their homeroom. He politely held the door open for them and followed behind them without a word as they went to their seats. Ilyana spread out the pastries and Gideon took the familiar packed scones.

Thank you, he said in a calm voice, as if Ilyana still wasnt giving him a suspicious look. Hed been surprisingly calm and civil, and had even left Duel with a bright smile on his face and thanked them as he left with his brother and Axton. He didnt appear torn up about not being forgiven; perhaps he was content to at least be treated normally. Guevera, do you know when well be notified if our request to come to the next soft open is approved?

He had a hint of worry in his voice. The playing area had a maximum capacity, of course. There were only so many tables and chairs, otherwise, guests would just stand around or wait in the cafe. There were very few people who could reserve rooms. Mainly Sir Granger, who was heading the party of Piers escort knights; Ewan, who arranged for his La Garda classmates; and Axton, who would do whatever he wanted.

Spots for next week had to be reserved outside of those three people. Only knights who were off duty could attend, and some of the La Garda students had training, so Ewan said a different set could come. Duke Fekete and his son would be around with their people. Tori also had another small set of guests coming, including Tiff and some Sword Association members.

Gideon had to apply to come again. Tori knew he could always just tag along with Piers. Piers and Axton were always invited and if they brought him, she couldnt turn him away, but Gideon went the proper route and applied to return. She respected that.

Fine! Forty! Dimitri dug into his inner pocket and pulled out his crystal account fob. He held it out, expecting Tori to take out hers and receive the payment.

Tori sat relaxed on her desk and after a few moments of silence, agreed. Forty. She reached for the paper, adjusted the price for three hours to forty percent, then signed her name. She turned the paper around, put the pen on it, and pushed it to Dimitri to sign. That would make it a binding contract.

Dimitris nostrils flared as he snatched the pen and signed the paper. You cant back out. How do you want to be paid?

Tori picked up her bag that shed packed and stood up. She looked at Dimitri and smirked. Send the money to the abbey as a donation to the school in my name - Ill be sure to check for it. On the opening day, Ill arrive before the dedication ceremony begins and perform, but can only stay until about noon, as I need to return to the city for my stores opening. Lets go, Ilyana.

She walked out into the aisle and past a stupefied Dimitri, Alessa, and Fabian. Ilyana giggled almost manically behind her as she followed. They left the classroom and when they were far enough away, Ilyana let out the laugh she had been failing to keep contained.

Did you bargain on purpose? Ilyana asked. It couldnt possibly cost that much for a dancer!

Tori grinned. I did bargain on purpose, and planned to have the donation made, but it does cost quite a bit for a skilled dancer, especially for the more complex dances. The prices I gave weren't far off. They can always check with the Belcoy Church, but there is a varied rate depending on the dancers skill level and accolades. Id estimate my rates are middle to high. I just happen to have a good number of accolades. Thank you, Victoria.

Ilyana nodded. Do you really think that Hart didnt know about your invitation?

I dont know, Tori said, truthfully. It was sent out by the Golden Cow, so it couldve been done on purpose by Rosiek to put pressure on me. Perhaps she just had a severe bias against Adrien and therefore blamed him for everything she could.

Ilyana wrinkled her nose, displeased. In the end, youre still doing the dedication dance.

I am, but it is for a good cause, Tori said, satisfied. Despite the method she was coerced into doing it and her personal feelings on Alessa, Tori did actually like children. Had she been asked first, she wouldve complained to Ilyana in private about Alessas nerve, but she still would have agreed to do it. I really dont mind. This isnt so much for Hart or the money as it is for the children. What is the harm in a single dance as a prayer for their success?

Her suspicion that Tom Fields would get a job at the Golden Cows print shop turned out to be true and she was not surprised. He had very few choices to begin with, and after working at her familys print shop in Sur, he had suitable experience to work in printing.

Tori sat in SIG One with Piers and Axton, parked closest to Duel Cafe with Alexander on her lap. Diagonally across the street, near the cluster of Golden Cow-related stores, was a narrow building that just had a silhouette of a cow painted gold and print shop beneath it.

And youre sure hes using the print shop to get information? Axton asked.

Tori nodded. If the marches intelligence divisions use our print shops to get information, why cant Rosiek? The wealthy and powerful who are throwing parties need to get fancy invitations done. If his print shop makes them, hed know where they were gathering. Then, its just a matter of attending those gatherings and using social engineering to collect information.

Axton looked at her with uncertainty. What do they teach you in the marches?

I was taught to dance.

He gave her a dull look as she put on a cheeky smile. Piers was sitting across from her with his legs crossed as he looked out the tinted windows.

Is that why you are letting guests of Duel know about the print shop in the backroom? Piers asked.

Tori nodded. All the salespeople at the counter have been taught to both handle customers for games and customers for printing. Our invitations were printed in-house using custom designs.

Itll give guests another option, at the very least, Axton said. So...why are we watching the other print shop?

I cant remember what Tom Fields looks like. Axton gave her a confused look and she shrugged. Its been some time. All I know is that he has blond hair and is pale and skinny.

Axton raised a brow. Then how would we know what he looks like?

Piers.

Axton looked at the man next to him. I remember what he looks like, Piers said in a calm voice. He seemed tense. Thats him.

Tori slid closer to the window and peered out. She vaguely remembered a younger man who was skinnier than the one she saw walking down the street towards the print shop. She narrowed her eyes. Are you sure thats him?

Im sure.

Hes...bigger than I remember. Tori frowned. What did they feed him in Sur?

He had blond hair that was now tied back at the nape and was wearing plain, unembellished clothing. Tom had grown taller and wider, as well. She really shouldnt be surprised; puberty changed people. If she didnt see a person for two years, they were bound to change.

I checked with Master, and he said that Fields gave his notice to quit. He was well-liked and never caused trouble, but everyone seemed to understand that he wanted to be closer to home.

Horizon is about the same distance from Presidio as Chetterswickshire would be. Tori rolled her eyes.

You said he wanted to be close to Baroness Hart and that theyre childhood friends, Axton said. Perhaps he wanted to make sure she was safe here.

Tori rubbed her forehead. That really was the reason Tom had returned. Has he had any contact with Hart?

Yes, but nothing substantial. She welcomed him back, they went out to eat to celebrate their reunion and catch up, and she introduced him to Rosiek for a job, Piers reported. It is as you expected.

Do you think hell try to vandalize your store again? Axton asked.

Tori shook her head. If hes smart enough, he wont do it again, especially considering how he was banished from Horizon for two years. He should also figure that by now, I do have guards everywhere. Where does he live?

Twelfth District, Piers said. Block twenty. Many young laborers new to the city move there.

Well still go with the plan. If he doesnt do anything strange, I have no reason to retaliate. Hes older now, and I hope a bit wiser, Tori said. She watched Tom walk into the narrow print shop. A few minutes later, he walked out with a large satchel of what looked like letters and a piece of paper clutched in one hand. I suppose theyre starting him off with delivery duty.

Well, now that hes settled, can we go into Duel? Axton said. He turned his attention to the well-lit cafe. Sonia, Ilyana, and Albert were sitting around a table drinking some iced beverages before they opened the doors. Gideon, who had followed them from Lyce, was seated by the window with his eyes fixed on the tinted carriage, as if knowing Piers was inside.

You are impatient, Piers told Axton.

I have a new game story I want to use. Sir Wagner got a little too cocky last week and thinks the last story was boring. Axton narrowed his eyes and glared down the street, where people, including knights, were lined up.

Tori rolled her eyes. She scooted to the other side of the carriage and twisted the handle. As soon as it clicked, the footman who was waiting outside reacted and opened the door the rest of the way. They climbed out of the carriage, and Albert let them into the cafe.

Tori, Ilyana said as she handed Tori her drink. Mr. Somerset said someone came by to apply.

Tori furrowed her brows. Weve already done our hiring. We even have part-timers for game guides.

Ilyana sighed. I know, but he wanted to ask about seasonal work.

Seasonal work? Tori didnt think such a thing would really be necessary at Duel, but she shrugged and walked out into the lobby to speak to the manager, Mr. Somerset. The graying man was a retired imperial knight from Nord who came to Horizon when he was a teenager for work. At that time, hed participated in the Imperial Anniversary Tournament, and was recruited. He left the knighthood after an illness weakened his lungs, making it difficult for him to keep up with his peers, even if he was just a fourth-tier knight.

He had been in a leadership position and while offered an office job, he had heard that Duel was hiring. Dungeon crawling was a popular pastime with the knights, and he came to apply. He was a large man with a beard and jovial disposition. When he saw Tori coming, he smiled wide.

Countess Guevera!

Ready for another soft open, Mr. Somerset? she asked as she walked towards the counter.

I am ready. I know were not supposed to sell anything yet, but last week, we had several guests asking us to hold items for purchase. I said at the time that we cant do that, but considering that many people have asked for it, do you think it is a good idea to take orders for games ahead of time?

A pre-order? Yes, we can do that, as long as they pay ahead of time. Ill let Henrik and the others know thats an option. Just have them fill out an order form and write pre-order at the top. Make sure they keep the lower portion so they can claim their order when we open, Tori told him.

In that case, Captain Somerset, can I get an order form? Tori tilted her head up and saw Axton just behind her, with a chilled drink in one hand. It was getting cold out and he still wanted a cold drink.

All right, youll be the first, Your Grace. Mr. Somerset prepared a form for him, and Axton told him all the items he wanted to order. When the list was complete, Mr. Somerset read it aloud to confirm and put it on the table with a pen. Just sign here...here...and I will take your payment.

Axton put his drink on the counter and began to fill out his information. Tori looked back at the manager. Ilyana said you were approached by someone for a job?

Yes, a young man had been waiting at the main entrance this morning when I came in, Mr. Somerset told her with some concern in his eyes. As you know, I come in almost at dawn. He was wearing your school uniform.

Tori tilted her head to the side. It wasnt out of the ordinary for Lyce students to get part-time jobs, no matter what their social status. He wants to work here?

Mr. Somerset dug around beneath the counter and took out a sheet of paper. He gave me a resum. I suppose he heard about the peculiarities of our hiring process.

Tori accepted the sheet of paper, but before she could read anything on his actual work experience, her eyes landed on the name.

Montan Alvere?

She sucked in a sharp breath, wincing when she realized she said the name aloud. Her head snapped to the side.

Axton was still hunched over the counter, but had stopped writing.

Yes, Mr. Somerset continued. His eyes flickered to Axton. I am unsure about hiring him. Since Mr. Somerset wasnt a native of Horizon or Alvere, he likely never paid attention to the rumors and story of the late Duchess, Axtons father, and his illegitimate younger brother; however, he did know that Montan went to a prestigious school and had Axtons surname.

He likely asked because he wasnt sure if he had to seriously consider Montan.

Tori held her breath and looked at Axton. He hadnt moved.

Did he say why he wanted to work here? Axton asked in a low voice.

He did not, Your Grace. He only gave me his resum and asked to be called if there is a position open.

For a moment, Tori wondered if Montan had been fired from his previous job. He had returned the borrowed tuition money, so Tori didnt think hed be fired because of doing so.

There is no reason for you to hire him, Axton said. He continued to fill out the form. Treat him as you would all others who apply for a job.

Tori bit her lips.

My lady? Mr. Somerset looked at her for confirmation and she nodded.

Axton is correct. Unless we personally recruit someone for a position, as they had already likely been interviewed and screened by us, treat all applicants the same, regardless of their personal connection to me or my friends, Tori told him. Mr. Somerset smiled, pleased with her answer.

Then, if we get busy and our bookings are filled once we open, I will call him in for an interview.