Chapter 181: Maybe They Would Offer Him Potato Chips, Too

Chapter 181: Maybe They Would Offer Him Potato Chips, Too

Thank you for your help tonight. Im sorry you had to go through that. Tori hated that tonights dinner was so mentally exhausting. Tomorrow was the wedding and she had to wake up early to prepare for the ceremony as the grooms sister, but all she wanted to do was sleep in and put off dealing with her mothers sister, and mothers sisters goddaughter.

Piers sat on the sofa in her room, holding one tumbled amethyst at each of her temples to ward off her headache. A cool, damp towel was placed over her eyes as she lay across with her feet hanging off the edge of the sofa and her head on a pillow on his lap. She didnt see his concerned face as she concentrated on the energy from the amethyst.

Itll be over soon.

He almost sounded as if he was going to ensure that with violence.

Alexander was on her stomach and purring in an attempt to comfort her as she replayed that evenings unexpected events over in her mind once more.

After Fabians refusal to accompany Alessa, not only could Tori not believe it, but neither could Alessa. The blonde had looked completely taken aback. Her mouth had dropped, and she seemed to want to ask why, but Gideon swept in to save his friend.

He had expressed his disappointment and then excused Fabian. He only came to escort me in. Due to the nature of this dinner, it is inappropriate for him to be here, Gideon had said.

Tori had to admit, Gideons ability to navigate delicate situations was good. It seemed that now that also included situations with Alessa. She had almost praised him for growing as a person.

Fabian had taken the excuse and slipped away. Tori heard he had gone to Fionas courtyard with the other lucky people and joined them in a round of dungeon crawl before Ewan chatted him up about the Guevera knights training. Fionas courtyard was still active even after Nanny Rey had taken Fiona to go to bed.

Of course, Tori could not join them. She was dealing with her mother and aunts tense relationship, and dodging questionable questions from her aunt. Her aunt even had the audacity to sit Alessa next to Tori because they knew each other from school. Her Guevera and OTuagh relatives had not forgotten Alessa and were stunned to see her there, at yet another large march event.

If Sebastian had less self-control, he wouldve kicked her out, even at the risk of offending his aunt. Tori had pulled him aside when he found out and reminded him that it was his wedding the next day and this was not a time to play into the drama that their aunt apparently needed to live. Besides, Tori insisted that she and Alessa were on better terms.

Not on great terms, but better than when she showed up at Siobhans ceremony two summers earlier. Idunn had also helped calm Sebastian down and dinner had proceeded with most of the discomfort coming from Fabianas not-so-subtle criticisms of how her sister raised Tori to be so distant from her.

Tori could manage Alessa, and with Gideon there and Piers threatening aura, Alessa quietly ate and only asked about recommendations to places around Horizon that she could visit. Unfortunately, it was Toris own blood-related aunt that pushed the awkwardness of the dinner.

After Tori had attempted to ease the tension by assuring her aunt that she was simply busy as her Lyce project was much more complicated and complex than she imagined, thus keeping her from visiting, she realized she could not stop her aunt from complaining and making remarks disguised as well-meaning thoughts. This was different from Toris mother, who was rather straightforward.

Her parents had been seated further up the table with Sebastian, Idunn, their grandparents and some of Idunns close relatives, so Fabiana was far less restrained than she shouldve been. She made some passive-aggressive comments, muttered subtle critiques on Tori, and even dared to lightly scold her. For her brothers sake, Tori didnt cause a scene.

She had laughed and brushed off Fabianas words. Still, Fabiana continued until her luck ran out. There were two topics that Fabiana didnt continue to chatter on about, and that was because Piers and Axton stopped her immediately.

The first one was the Lunar Inns. Alessa had told Fabiana about the Lunar Inn at the Lunar Pavilion. Fabianas face had a smile, but there was sharp coldness to it as she spoke about how Tori was so lucky that Maria had given her the Lunar Pavilion. She had said that shed been offering to buy it from her sister for years, but her sister refused. Then she had asked what Tori had said or done to make her sister give it to her.

She made it all sound as if Tori tricked her Auntie Maria.

Axton had stopped eating and turned towards Auntie Maria, who was seated further down and chatting with some Nordursins. Sister Maria, do you remember how much we paid for the Lunar Pavilion?

Auntie Maria hadnt seemed to think anything of it, but laughed and said, If the Duke of Alvere is still paying it off, isnt it a bit too much to speak of?

Fabianas face had reddened as Axton turned to her with a sweet smile and told her that he and Tori had made a joint purchase because the cost of the property was so large. It was an investment for both of them. He had then asked if she had any concerns about his inn. It was a clear warning that as it involved him, she was not worthy to judge how he spent his money and with whom.

The second topic had drawn a bit more attention. Unfortunately, by the time it happened, Axton had excused himself and somehow managed to take Gideon and Aiden with him to escape the awkward dinner. They didnt get to hear Fabiana ask the question many people in Horizon wondered, but didnt dare verbalize.

Do you plan to become engaged and marry my niece, Your Highness? Fabiana had an innocent smile on her face, but the table quickly became quiet. Her husbands eyes had nearly rolled back as his face paled. Her children had been mortified in place and Tori had felt her heart tighten.

She knew that many people questioned it, but it was none of their business. And she was only sixteen. Let her live her life. If Piers didnt mind, why did everyone else have to care?

She opened her mouth to speak, but Grandpa Sophos had spoken up first.

Fabiana, that is an inappropriate question to ask His Highness. There had been a hint of warning in his tone.

My apologies, Father, youre right. Fabiana had given her father a small nod. Her apology had come too soon, and Tori was suspicious. She was right to be. Fabiana then looked directly at her and gave her a self-satisfied smile as she winked. Tori, do you plan to become engaged with His Highness? Tell your auntie. Ill help.

Tori had seen her mother standing from the corner of her eye. Antonia had looked as if she were ready to grab Fabiana and physically kick her out of the Fortress.

Beside Tori, Piers wine glass had gracefully returned to the table. His expression had been eerily calm, but his cold voice had sent chills up her spine.

Madam Lombardi, may I ask you a question?

Fabiana had sat up straight and looked excited. Of course, Your Highness.

Who gave you the audacity to ask an imperial family member such a question? Do you see us as equals?

Tori had heard someone hiss as her aunts face lost color. No, Your Highness-

Then, why do you dare to ask such a personal question of me, the first prince of Soleil?

I dont dare, Your Highness.

My personal relations, regardless of who they are with in relation to you, have nothing to do with you. As we are celebrating my masters wedding tomorrow, I will let tonights offense pass, but Madam Lombardi, there will not be another.

Her aunts head had dropped and Fabiana trembled in her seat. The imperial family was known to be measured and even allowed for a certain level of criticism, but they were still the imperial family, and some things just could not be tolerated.

Your Highness, thank you for your mercy, Uncle Enrico had looked like he lost a year of his life as he also bowed his head.

Piers had turned away from them, as if unwilling to pay attention to an insignificant guest. He then lifted his hand and Tori found that he had somehow woven his fingers between hers and placed their joined hands on the table, as if in some sort of act of defiance. Against what, Tori wasnt sure.

Just like Axton had prophesied, her mother had ended up taking Fabiana out of the dining room. Though it had happened after dessert, Tori hadnt seen her aunt again that evening. An embarrassed Uncle Enrico had to be escorted out and Alessa had no choice but to follow. Fabianas adult children apologized to for mother and left soon after.

As the evening wound down, Piers had informed one of the hosts, Idunn, that he was retiring for the night, and took Tori with him.

He offered to take her to Fionas courtyard, but Tori just wanted to rest, so he took her back to her room and prepared a cool, damp towel for her.

Thank you for stopping her, Piers. Im sorry she asked such a question.

It is not your fault. Neither you nor anyone else controls her. Piers paused. Madam Lombardi is different from the Marquess.

Wasnt Auntie Maria right? Piers answered her with a small hum of agreement. Im glad the others didnt have to meet her. Its fine if she targets me, but Ilyana and the others are off limits.

...I am not off limits?

Any sane person knows that you, as the first prince of Soleil, should be off limits, Tori said with a scoff. I dont know what she was thinking. Not even high nobles would ask you such a question. I know she was asking to target me. How is this woman my aunt? Up until now, all her relatives had been amazing. She forgot that there was always at least one relative no one liked.

I will be upset if she interferes with Masters wedding tomorrow. Piers voice lowered. Must she be present?

Tori lifted her hand and took the towel off her eyes. She gave him a suspicious look. Whatever youre thinking, dont.

I have not told you.

You dont need to.

His lips curled up a bit and he put his hand on her forehead and stroked her hair back. You know me best.

Nyaow. A lazy meow came from the gray clump on her stomach.

Yes, Alexander knows me best, too.

Tori snickered and gathered Alexander against her as she sat up. Its getting late. You should go to your room. You may not have to get up early tomorrow, but I do. I have to get my hair and makeup done, get dressed...thinking about it is already painful.

Piers rose to his feet and helped her up. Aunt Celine says beauty is pain.

Tori rolled her eyes. I dont want to hear that coming from you. All you have to do is get dressed, so you can sleep in.

You believe I am beautiful? His eyes lit up a bit as she led him towards her door. Tori sneered.

He didnt want to maintain such a false, fabricated friendship with Alessa. The decision didnt hurt as much as he thought it would. Perhaps hed already been resigned to the decision after finding out about the charm and knowing that it wasnt harmless.

The thought that he couldve been used against Gideon filled Fabian with fear. Gideon was not only his prince, but his friend. They had been together since they were children.

He didnt want to tell anyone about his realization. He resolved not to approach Alessa and to avoid contact, specifically her touch, whenever he could. When school resumed in the fall, he would join Gideon in the second to the last row of their homeroom. The seat in front of Agafonova was still available. Maybe they would offer him potato chips, too.

Von Dorn, youll be standing on the other side of Prince Gideon, one of the knights instructed him as he reached the plaza. The portico of the large building curved around the length of the plaza was turned into a viewing terrace that looked on to the square and fountains below, where the crowds would gather. A fenced off area was where the performances would be held.

Fabian quickly handed off his horse to an awaiting knight and rushed to stand beside Gideons gilded chair. He and Piers were guests of honor seated just behind the bride and groom. Duke Alvere had a seat to the right of Prince Piers and the two were talking.

JP, when is Toris dance? Duke Alvere asked as he leaned to the side. On a slightly lower platform just to his right were some cushioned seats for the Countess guests and the small children of her family.

She has to change, so she said she will come out after the salute of the knights, Mr. Vissage answered dutifully. So, that was the reason the Countess was missing from the viewing terrace.

Fabian, Gideon said as he looked up at him. Are you all right? You seem distracted.

I am just trying to plan ahead. I think I will continue the march to the Fortress in the same position I was in earlier in the procession.

Gideon nodded. Well be served lunch here, at our seats, and wont be leaving until the sun starts to set. Conner, Martin, and Agafonova brought snacks for everyone if you are hungry.

Fabian nodded. Dependable friends.

He furrowed his brows and bent down. I dont think we should accompany Alessa tonight, if shell be in the Fortress.

He paused, half expecting Gideon to reject him. Instead, Gideon nodded. I agree. I dont know if that disagreeable woman who is her godmother will follow her. She has been rude to not only Guevera, but my brother. I wont give time to entertain such a person.

They wont be coming to the Fortress. Prince Piers spoke up in a low voice that only they seemed to hear over the shouting of the arriving crowds and festivities around them. Gideon snapped his head towards his brother and furrowed his brows.

They wont? But isnt she the Marquess sister?

Ive spoken to the Marquess, Prince Piers said, keeping his gaze ahead of them. Her sister and Baroness Hart will not be attending the reception celebration at the Fortress. He said nothing more and Gideon lowered his head and nodded.

Fabian wondered if Gideon was as relieved as he was. He glanced around the viewing terrace to see where Alessa sat. Seating was done in accordance with social rank and personal relationship with the bride, groom, and the families involved. As Lord Sebastians maternal aunt, Madam Lombardi shouldve been seated reasonably close by.

In fact, his maternal uncle and his family were a few rows in front of the Countess friends and small children. Fabian finally caught sight of them several sections to the right. Alessa was looking towards them with some longing in her face, but there really wasnt anything they could do.

No. Fabian shook his head. If Gideon wanted, he could have her brought to their area with a few sentences. He wouldve done this in the past, but Gideon allowed for the distance. Fabian glanced over at his friends head as Gideon watched the knights salute their newly married heir and his wife.

Perhaps Gideon had also made his decision some time ago to keep his distance from Alessa.

Shes next! Agafonova clapped her hands and seemed to squeeze the little girl on her lap. She was the adopted child of Kasen de Guevera and she and her brother were victims in the ceiling collapse last winter. Fifi, are you excited?

Aunties going to dance!

Cousin Tori is the best dancer in the family, the OTuagh child in front of them said in a haughty voice. Watch carefully.

The little girl nodded and wore a determined expression. Fabian followed her gaze. The crowd directly across from them began to part. Knights stepped in to create human walls as a steady drumbeat echoed through the plaza. With each beat, a woman in gold took a step forward, arms out and looking straight ahead.

Its Auntie!

The woman stopped in the center of the performance area and the drums stopped. The entire plaza seemed to hold their breath as she stood, unmoving in the first position of the blessing dance.

Then the drums started once more.

He watched her twist her body and stomp her feet with firm, solid movements of her legs; quick to stabilize herself and transition into another graceful movement that was so subtle, no one but those who studied the dance could appreciate it.

Fabian had watched her do this dance many times, over and over, little by little.

But seeing her go through the entire dance in that golden costume with its flowing sleeves and jingling details, he was reminded that this was not just a dance. This was a blessing, and he could feel the energy coming from her with each turn, each step, and each breath.

How many times had she lectured him in their class about the symbolism of each tiny movement and the importance of executing them well?

The golden strands shone in her thick, black curls, making her hair sparkle in the sunlight. That was what she was, he decided.

Countess Guevera looked like a ray of sunlight, enlightening all she touched.

His eyes widened. Suraelle was the Goddess of Wisdom, but wisdom was represented by the beams of sunlight and fire.

I understand now.... The way her arms moved in circles to eventually point down; the way she stomped on the ground. It was sunlight, or just light, which also translated into a flame on a lantern. Enlightening man; giving man wisdom.

His heart quickened as his eyes followed her around the courtyard. He wanted to be warmed. He wanted the attention and affection she gave others. He wanted to be touched by sunlight. To have it wrapped around him forever. He could hear his heart beating in his ears. He wanted that dancing woman and held out his hand, the palm up, and squinted.

Her small figure danced in his hand. She would be sincere with him. She had always been sincere with him, even when expressing her anger. She didnt hold back against him.

The dance ended with a final clash of symbols and unexpected fire flew up from her hands.

She modified carnelian rings.... He heard Instructor Ignatius telling Lord Kasen.

Lord Kasen looked smug as he lifted his hands and began clapping. You can be honest with me, Benedict. My sister is a genius, isnt she?

Instructor Ignatius sighed, but continued to clap. The sound of applause filled the plaza and Fabian only clapped harder.

His hands began to hurt from clapping, but he didnt stop. A movement came from his left and he turned his head. Prince Piers had leaned forward on his chair. His eyes were on the slim figure of the young woman bowing to the crowd once more, and they were filled with warmth.

For a moment, Fabians heart twisted. His hands lowered and he looked down.

He wanted the Countess, but the Countess would never want him. She had much better options.

Brother, what did you think of her dance? Gideon asked.

She is the sunlight that betters me, the first prince replied.

Fabians heart dropped, even though Gideon had made a disgusted face at his brothers undisguised praise.

Fabian didnt remember what the next performance was, but just before the next one started, the viewing terrace they were on grew lively. He heard the rapid chattering of Agafonova and the others and turned his head.

His eyes widened and his face reddened as the Countess slipped back into the viewing terrace in the gown shed worn to the wedding ceremony. She was holding a small metal bowl with some dust and was tapping her finger inside and lifting it up to her friends forehead.

The blessing of Suraelle is upon you, she was saying with each touch on their forehead. May you become wiser with this blessing.

Were you endowed for today? the nun who was her aunt chuckled.

Yes, just for today, she said with a wide smile back. Auntie, the blessing of Suraelle is upon you. The nun leaned forward to be blessed, then blessed her niece in return.

She made her way towards her family, blessing them individually. Fabian took a deep breath and took his seat; his eyes fixed ahead of him. They were lucky to receive her attention.

Von Dorn, let me see your head. Hearing his name, he turned towards the voice and immediately felt a warm finger against his forehead. He felt a small, gentle pulse of energy and then the finger retreated. The blessing of Suraelle is upon you. May you become wiser with this blessing.

His eyes widened. Me?

Dont you want it? she chuckled. She grinned. Im not so petty that Id forget you when it matters, von Dorn. She shook her head and moved on to the next person.

His hand rose and he touched the remnants of crystal powder on his forehead. An unexpected calmness was in his chest, as if there was some reassurance in his life that had been so shaken in the last year.

Perhaps it was the crystal dust blessing, but the thought came to him: it is not a terrible thing to be in the Countess light.

At the very least, Countess Guevera was sincere to him.