Chapter 174: Dig His Own Grave and Then Backflip Into It

Chapter 174: Dig His Own Grave and Then Backflip Into It

The Guthrys brought Dimitri back from their village.

In some cases, being out in the countryside, without the pressure and stress of a bustling, chaotic city, could help a person relax and recover without too much external stimulation. However, the countryside didnt always have the medical specialists and technology to meet the particular needs of someone sick or injured.

That seemed to be the case with Dimitri. He wasnt exactly thriving in the village.

The letter from Madam Guthry was sent from Horizon and was a mothers desperate cry for help. After Dimitri had his breakdown, he was taken back to his familys village about a days travel west of Horizon not only to recover, but to distance himself from the problems with his project, Lyce, and Alessa. From what Tori heard, his mother had gone with him, as his father was finishing his term.

As expected, his father was not reelected by his peers to serve another term. While Mr. Guthry was still acting as a representative of their area, it was no longer necessary for him to live in Horizon year-round. The Prime Ministers mansion was vacated for the next Prime Minister. Mr. Guthry had returned to his village and only came to Horizon for large Chamber meetings.

In those meetings, Tori was polite to him, but she never asked about Dimitri. Shed overheard some other chamber members ask about him and Mr. Guthry had been avoidant. According to Madam Guthrys letter, her husband had been furious with their son and seemed ashamed.

Their marriage had become strained, as well. Madam Guthry wanted her husband to pay more attention to their son after Dimitris breakdown, but Mr. Guthry found little to be sympathetic for. He didnt say Dimitri deserved it, but he didnt excuse Dimitri either. This resulted in some resentment on both ends.

Tori didnt think that needed to be shared. In Soleil, she was a sixteen-year-old noblewoman, not a couples therapist, though she had her fair share of listening to relationship gripes in her original world. She understood Madam Guthrys frustration and resentment with her husband, but she also understood Mr. Guthrys frustration and resentment with their son.

After all, Dimitri was the card that folded and sent the entire house down because he was negligent and did, and said, something stupid. Not only did he tarnish his father's reputation, but his familys legacy, and sabotaged his own future.

Despite all the backstory in the letter, the main point was that Madam Guthry wanted to know if there was anything with crystals that she could use to help Dimitri, as he wasnt eating or sleeping well, he was highly irritable, and didnt seem to have any regard for his own life at the moment. He had lost a lot of weight, with Madam Guthrys letter calling him skin and bones.

Dimitri could barely walk and remained in bed. He refused to eat, and his mother had to beg him. He simply laid in bed and stared at the ceiling or out the window. He seemed to have given up, though just a few weeks earlier, he had been much more volatile. Tori theorized it was due to being taken away from Alessa and her influencing charm for so long.

Was there a detoxification process? Was Alessas charm strong enough to make the withdrawal symptoms so volatile?

I had wondered about how he was doing considering the effect of the charms, so I guess this is my answer.... Tori took a deep breath and exhaled as her carriage bounced along. She couldnt believe this was how she was spending her day. Just a week earlier, shed been lazing on a water hammock with her friends.

Now, she was taking a carriage to a rented residence to see one of her enemies.

Dimitri was one of the favorites in the game if she remembered correctly. He was somewhat influential, especially in Lyce, both as the number one ranked student and as the Prime Ministers son.

He had fallen fast enough in his rankings thanks to Ilyanas hard work and determination to crush her enemies. That had been a big blow to his confidence and his social strength at the school. Because of him, his father was questioned, his family was investigated, and there was no longer a Prime Minister Guthry. That was a blow to his background.

Yes, Tori had hoped to chip away at him from the beginning, but who knew hed dig his own grave and then backflip into it? The more they had found out about his failing project and his weak attempts to rectify it, the more they had wondered if Dimitri was an idiot. It wasnt just her and her circle of friends; their entire class had watched Dimitri go from this ideal student on a pedestal to someone they would shake their heads at when brought up in conversation.

His demise was also tied with Alessa, yet Tori noticed Alessa didnt face much criticism for her lack of oversight. She was painted as a victim, which was true, but it wasnt as if she was completely innocent of the ceiling collapse at the abbey.

Some sort of protagonist halo? Maybe simply good PR? Gideon and Fabian hadnt involved themselves much in it. Tori didnt know if it was because they witnessed the collapse or had been present in the throne room when Ilyana punched Dimitri in the face, but whatever the reason, they didnt coddle and protect Alessa like they would have in the past.

At most, they were casual friends with her and helped in mundane ways, such as asking for an oven for her club. Gideon didnt pay for anything. He didnt buy her things. Even his words of support werent as fervent as before. It was almost performative.

Fabian was the closest of the love interests in Lyce to Alessa recently, but considering that Dimitri had been suspended and Montan was in a transitional state escaping from his abusive home and trying to build a relationship with his estranged half-brother, thus having no time for her, being close to Alessa didnt say much.

Tori didnt think theyd ever completely cut ties with Alessa. They still wanted to support her and help her; they just werent as obsessed with doing so. Tori could only hope that was enough to prevent her own future and death.

She looked out the window. They were in the fifth district, which still had plenty of aristocrats, but it wasnt the same as living in the first district in the Prime Ministers mansion. Tori had given the address to Mr. Novak when he picked her up at Lyces gates that morning. The ride wasnt far at all, but she found she had a hard time imagining the former Prime Minister family living anywhere but at the mansion.

The carriage slowed to a stop in front of a townhouse with four stories and a peaked, black-tiled roof. The number on the gate was the house number Tori had been given. It was beautiful with black iron gate work and an almost Gilded Era style.

I swear this game is just pulling styles from everywhere....

It was an elegant home, but much smaller than the mansion. It lacked a proper front yard, but right across the street was the districts main park, making such a yard or back garden unnecessary.

The location was still affluent. In fact, the Martin Estate was on the other side of the park. Shed gone with the others a few times when Albert invited them over.

Her carriage door was opened, and Tori stepped out. There was no one waiting to take their carriage or lead them to a place to park, as there had been before.

My lady, I will park across the street. Please call when you are ready to leave, and I will bring the carriage around, Mr. Novak told her.

Tori nodded. Perfect. Thank you, Mr. Novak. The two Piers-assigned knights helped take down a box shed packed from the back luggage rack of her carriage and followed up steps behind her carrying it.

Tori lifted her hand and knocked on the door, half expecting for a sickly woman to answer. She had already notified Madam Guthry that shed pay a visit today. The door opened and a gray-haired maid answered politely. Her eyes were downturned, and she carried an air of sadness around her.

The feeling permeated the house as Tori stepped into the foyer and looked around.

Countess Tori. A womans voice caught her attention and she found Madam Guthry waiting for her at a doorway to another room. She bowed her head. Thank you for coming.

She was thinner and appeared older than Tori remembered her. The perkiness in her voice was also absent.

Madam Guthry, how are you doing? Tori walked across the foyer and held out her hands. Madam Guthry grabbed them as soon as she could and squeezed them hard. She gritted her teeth and seemed to hold back.

I am well.

No, youre obviously not.

Please, have a seat in the parlor. Madam Guthry gave her a little tug and Tori followed. She looked over her shoulder.

Please bring the box here and then wait for me outside, she told the two knights. Madam Guthry seemed to notice them for the first time.

Guards?

Ive apparently done a lot of eye-catching things recently, and my family is worried for my safety, Tori said with a wry smile. The two knights were in plain clothes and appeared just like any other civilian.

Madam Guthry nodded and led Tori to a plush, tan sofa.

Lucille, please bring us some coffee and pastries, Madam Guthry said as she took a seat. The gray-haired maid nodded and stepped back to let the two knights out before seeing them out the door and going to the kitchen.

When they were alone in the room, Madam Guthry, who hadnt let go of one of Toris hands, choked back a cry.

You have been through much since the last time we met, Tori said in a soft voice. Madam Guthrys eyes shut tight, and she nodded.

What did I do wrong? I tried to raise him to be a conscientious young man and to always be cautious with his actions because he would be scrutinized if he made a mistake, yet.... She trailed off and shook her head, her gaze looking out into the empty space ahead of her.

No parent can guarantee that their child will be what they want them to be. You can only try and hope for the best, Tori told her. In her original world, her parents wanted her to be a doctor and that didnt happen. Your letter....

Yes, I apologize for the sudden contact. I know that after everything that has happened since last summer, I have not reached out to you. And then my son wronged you....

Its not the first time. That has little, if anything, to do with you, Madam. It is between myself and your son.

Regardless, you must be confused as to why I sent you a letter without warning. Madam Guthry let out a small bitter laugh. I almost expected you not to answer, let alone pay a visit.

Tori shook her head, dismissing the thought. Even I have limits with my rudeness. She squinted. Why didnt you call me?

A few months ago, Dimitri had violent rage and threw my comcry. I lost my contacts.

That was a weak point in the comcry system. The comcry themselves were built to be sturdy, but they were still just crystal and whatever other material encased it. Crystals broke and there was no way around that fact.

I see. I was surprised to receive it from you. I read the letter thoroughly and Im sorry that youve been going through this. It is not your fault or Mr. Guthrys. You must understand that there were consequences to your sons actions. Or in this case, inaction.

Madam Guthry nodded and lowered her head. I know he brought this on, but as his mother, how can I stand to see him wasting away? When he was in a rage, at least he was on his feet, but now it seems as if hes given up.

Tori had thought about telling Madam Guthry about Alessas charm and its possible withdrawal when pulled away from it, but decided against it. If she told Madam Guthry and all the blame was put on Montan, who gave Alessa the charm not realizing how problematic it could be, then Montan would be drawn into a very troublesome situation.

Montan was ignorant of what harm his charm could do outside of the user. Tori had gotten the text on laws pertaining to charms from Kasen and from what she looked up, Montans negligence would be punished depending on the severity. From what she estimated, hed be fined and maybe have to do some public service work for two weeks to a month.

However, Dimitri, the son of a high-profile man, was the victim of the charm. It could be argued that Montans charm influenced the Guthry familys fall from grace. If that were the case, Mr. Guthry could push for a heavier sentence.

Of course, Axton would not sit still if his brother were in trouble, even if Montan accepted his punishment. Axtons godmother was the Empress and no matter how neutral the parties should and tried to be, there would be some bias whether they liked it or not.

In the end, Tori decided to go with the lets not make this any more complicated than it needs to be route.

What?

Im looking at you, Tori said as she lifted her head and met his eyes with some defiance. I will give you guidance. He seemed to want to laugh, but she cut him off once more. Many people have money. Many people have a name. But how many of them can build a town in two years with refugees in a marshy wasteland?

She didnt want to have to use Madam Guthrys words, but if she could just get Dimitri to eat, to do one thing, then she could press him to do more.

Youre a very arrogant woman, do you know that, Guevera?

She held out her hands. You shouldve known that from the start, Guthry. She sighed. Im not asking you for much. Just eat. If not for yourself, for your mother. If youre alive, you can do better.

Dimitri narrowed his eyes and looked down at his hands on his lap. I dont understand why you want to help me after what Ive done and what Ive said. Im sure Agafonova told you. What is your ulterior motive? He looked at her with suspicion.

Helping your mother, Tori replied in a droll voice. Believe it or not. She rose from her seat and walked to the door. She pulled it open and saw Madam Guthry standing there nervously. Madam, please call for the maid to bring up the small heated food box in the case I had carried in.

Madam Guthry didnt ask any questions. She nodded and rushed downstairs. Tori lingered by the door and looked back at Dimitri. He looked confused. You brought me food?

It's porridge. If you havent eaten well for a while, its best for you to start with something like this so you dont upset your stomach, Tori said. Its a small bowl. If you eat it all, Ill leave you alone.

Madam Guthry came back leading their maid, who held a wooden tray and a small hand-sized bowl with some light brown porridge. Tori thanked her and carried it into the room. The maid rushed in behind her and earnestly placed the tray over Dimitris lap.

Please enjoy, young master. The maids eyes looked at him fondly; she mustve been with the family for some time and watched Dimitri grow up.

Dimitri looked down at the food as the maid left the room. Madam Guthry stood with Tori and waited for Dimitri to pick up the spoon.

He simply stared at the small bowl.

What did you put in it?

Tori blinked. She gave him a quizzical look. Do you think I need to put something in it to make you worse than you are now?

She saw him clench his jaw. Im not eating it.

Dimitri! The Countess-

Tori lifted her hand to silence his mother behind her. Madam Guthry, can I have a moment alone with him?

Madam Guthry didnt think anything of it and immediately bowed her head and scurried outside. The door closed behind her, and Tori kept her eyes on Dimitri. Perhaps it was her look that made him sink back against the pillows he was leaning on.

What are you going to do to me? he asked.

Tori said nothing as she moved her seat closer to the side of his bed. You know, if youve really given up, you wouldnt put up a fight if you really think Im poisoning you, she said in a quiet voice. Guthry...sometimes it is easier to tell your problems to a stranger so that no matter what their reaction is, you dont give them enough emotional weight to be hurt by their reaction. While Im not a stranger, I am someone who has a very, very, very low opinion of you. In addition, you already hate me. Whatever you tell me and whatever my reaction will be wont hurt you. So...if you do want to talk, I will listen.

He turned his head away. I have nothing to tell you.

Then, Ill leave after you eat the bowl. Its not big. Perhaps not even a dozen spoonfuls, Tori said, glancing at the small bowl on a tray over his lap. If you do one thing today, please eat.

Stop telling me what to do, Guevera.

What can I do to get you to eat?

Leave.

Eat first. They were at a stalemate. Tori watched him carefully. If he tried to flip the tray, shed have to avoid the porridge. Dimitri gritted his teeth and glared at her. Do you not like chicken? My niece loves it. I made this for her before. I know she was only trying to flatter me, but she said that it was the best food shed ever eaten.

Dimitri snorted. She hasnt seen the world.

Well, she and her brother were brought up in the abbeys orphanage. The hardness on Dimitris face faltered. His eyes flickered towards her.

Theyre orphans? He narrowed his eyes. But arent your brothers alive?

My second brother, Kasey, adopted Fiona and her older brother from the abbey, Tori said casually. He came with me when I went to re-do the blessing dance and they found each other.

Were they...were they hurt when the ceiling fell? Dimitri asked in a hesitant voice.

Tori inhaled deeply and was quiet for a moment. Fiona had a few scratches, but was fine. We met Robert not at the orphanage, but at the hospital. He lost everything below his left knee.

Dimitris face paled. Hes that boy? he asked, his voice breathy. The child who lost his leg?

Tori nodded. Robert Benedict de Guevera de Rivere. His second name is after Instructor Ignatius. I dont know if you remember him, he quit this year to work in my delta, but he and my brother are good friends, Tori told him. Robi and Fifi left with my brothers for Presidio at the beginning of the week.

Is he all right to travel? What about his leg? Dimitri asked. Some time had passed since the ceiling collapsed, but time didnt seem to connect in Dimitris head.

Hes all right to travel. His wound has healed well. Theyre riding in a carriage and doctors and medical craftsmen are waiting for him in Presidio to fit him for a prosthetic. She paused and studied Dimitris expression. Id say hes doing better than you are right now. He lost a leg, but got a doting father...an amazing aunt. Last weekend, we were in Viclya, and he and his cousins were gorging on festival snacks while playing in the water.

Dimitris eyes were red once more. Then...hes fine?

Hes doing as well as he can in his situation and every day he is trying hard, Tori said. Our family loves him very much in the short time weve had them. When I asked if he feels uncomfortable talking about the ceiling collapse, he said no. He was scared and worried about his sister, but at least they got a dad. His words. Not mine.

Dimitri seemed to nod his head, dumb. Good...thats good....And...your brother likes him?

Kasey loves him. He even brags about him to Axton and the others, Tori said with a light laugh. He says that Robi is smart and talented like him. Robi is sensitive to charms, like him. Robi is a fast learner and patient with his sister. The gods brought him two children that were meant to be Gueveras; he felt it in his bones.

This brother was the one at Marquess OTuaghs wedding? The one who looked like you?

Yes, Kasen de Guevera.

He sounds like a good father. My father also.... Dimitri trailed off and looked down at the porridge. Guevera...I dont know whats wrong with me.

Whatever it is, its temporary. He had a breakdown, then withdrawal from the charms that likely aggravated his nerves, it made him erratic and now he felt helpless from what she observed. She was by no means a professional, but what he was going through wasnt something the medical professionals of Soleil could help with.

All the ones the Guthrys had gone to said he was going crazy.

How are you sure?

Gut feeling. Tori shrugged. She met his gaze firmly. This will pass, but how quickly it passes will also depend on you. First, you should eat and rest. Stay away from what is causing your problems, which is what youve been forced to do. Eating will keep up your energy. You wont feel as tired or weak.

I see...and then?

Then, move around. Take walks. Walks help clear your mind and improve your physical health. Then, we can talk more.

His eyes stayed on hers. You want to talk more?

How can I guide you if I dont talk to you? Tori asked. Talking to people is good. And this process may take time. Some days, youll feel as if youre not yourself and can do nothing. Other days, youll feel almost like your old self. Thats normal. The latter will one day overcome the former. I believe you can do it.

He seemed hesitant to believe her. You believe I will get better?

Guthry, I didnt think youd get this bad. I dont just believe you will get better; I think its a matter of time until you do. Im just trying to speed up the process for your mother, she said. You made mistakes, but I dont think youre the type of person who will do nothing to rectify them. At least not when Alessa is directly involved. I fully expect you to learn from what happened and to do better because no matter how much I personally dislike you, I think you are responsible and willing to try to make up for your mistakes. You will never be able to give Robi back his leg, but you can make it, so such a thing never happens because of your ignorance again.

Dimitri looked down at the cooling bowl of porridge. His pale, thin hand rose and picked up the metal spoon. Tori didnt say a word as he brought a spoonful of porridge to his lips. As he put the spoon in his mouth, his eyes closed. She didnt know what he was thinking.

Without a word, he continued eating. The room was silent except for the light sounds of a metal spoon against a ceramic bowl every so often. Finally, the last of the porridge was eaten and Dimitri put the spoon on the tray. His eyes were still fixed on the bowl.

I dont understand you, Guevera.

Tori exhaled slowly and looked at the bowl, as well, wondering what shed gotten herself into. Sometimes, I dont understand myself, either, Guthry. She shook her head.

Your friends...will they be upset that youre willing to help me?

Tori raised her eyes and met his. Upset? When Ilyana finds out, shes going to punch you again.