Chapter 205: You're Lucky We Come From Money

Chapter 205: You're Lucky We Come From Money

There was nothing she wanted from Alessa except peace and quiet, but she doubted the childhood love interest of Alessas would understand that. Tori stared Tom down as she spat out her words carefully. If he was still in the same headspace that Gideon, Dimitri, and Fabian had been, then no matter what Tori said, shed be met with suspicion and resistance.

There was no point trying to convince Tom that she only came to help because Alessa asked her. Hed never believe her. She turned around and walked away from him before he could reply, leaving him standing there dumbfounded.

Part of her was annoyed, as while she understood why hed be suspicious of her, she didnt think shed done anything wrong. Shed defended herself and refused to break rules, but she never wouldve troubled Alessa if Alessa hadnt troubled her first.

The knights saw her approaching from within the cafe and had come out to meet her part way.

My lady, was that man bothering you? Sir Lloyd asked as he gave her a small bow of his head and looked past her, down the street.

Tori shook her head once. Hes a childhood friend of Baroness Hart and suspected me. Nothing concerning.

At once, the two knights frowned as she passed them to enter the cafe. He dares? Sir Dassler looked back at Tom in the distance. Tom was squinting in their direction, watching the knights surround her. Tori ignored him and gave a dismissing wave of her hand.

You know that the Baroness and I had some conflict in the past.

But it was not the Countess fault. The Baroness had overstepped numerous times causing the Countess problems, Sir Lloyd replied. They followed her inside and Tori went straight to the counter in the back to order a meal.

Hes nothing to worry about. I can manage a teenage boys suspicion. Be at ease. She ended her sentence in a firm voice and the two knights bowed their heads, accepting her answer. They returned to their table by the window as Tori ordered some fried potatoes and a soup.

She took a seat in the corner to wait for her food. Since Alessa admitted that she had asked her to come to the Golden Cow to help with the three families, she knew that Alessa was trying to take advantage of the fact that Tori had social influence. If she were being honest, she wasnt mad at Alessa for doing so.

It was a bit interesting to know that Alessa felt she could come to Tori, though Tori wondered if it was because Alessa noticed Dimitri, and to a lesser extent, Gideon and Fabian, coming to her for help. If those three who obviously had conflict with her before could do so, why couldnt Alessa?

In Lyce, Tori knew she had a good reputation, especially amongst younger students. It completely clashed with the reputation she had when she entered. Several years ago, she was an arrogant, spoiled, snob who barely made it into the school. Not to mention the suspicion that she bought her way in. Now, she was popular for her guidance, reliable nature, and admired for her rank while maintaining a busy life outside of school.

Alessa also had a clashing reputation from their first year, but in a negative sense. While Tori didnt think the rumors surrounding Alessa were as bad as the rumors that had surrounded her, being known as the person who spread unfounded rumors against other students and essentially cried wolf in order to gain favor from others wasnt something to be proud of.

Perhaps that was another reason Alessa had approached her so much since school started that year. It was well known that Alessa had blamed Tori in the past. If it looked like they were on good terms, then it could be seen that Alessa had changed for the better.

After all, if Tori forgave her and was willing to help her, why should others hold Alessas past actions against her? Tori didnt want to assume the worst, but appearing as friends would be beneficial to Alessa in more ways than one.

The corner of Toris lips almost curled up in a sneer. Now that Dimitri, Gideon, Fabian, and even Montan were avoiding Alessa, she was somewhat isolated. This would not do. The heroine cant go through life without some deus ex machina supporting character aiding her when she needed it most.

Tori not only had the influence and money to be the said supporting character, but Tori now appeared to be getting along with other influential people, even people she didnt previously like.

That mustve been seen as an opening for Alessa.

Then again, if she and Alessa were on good terms, wouldnt that come with some benefit for her as well? Alessa was annoying and Tori neither forgave her or trusted her, but having the favor of the protagonist wasnt necessarily a bad thing. After all, the good guys were children of luck, werent they? Their luck often carried to their allies.

Well, unless youre in a position where you can be fridged so the protagonist can grow as a character. Toris lips pursed into a line. She didnt think that despite the changes in the story, she had deviated from being the villainess, so even if Alessa was depending on her and approaching her with friendly intentions, Tori had to keep her guard up.

Was it disingenuous to do so? Of course.

But she didnt want her or her family to die because they were opposite Alessa and somehow got in her way even if it was by accident. Tori reminded herself that while she was the villain, this made her loved ones cannon fodder.

My lady, your meal. Lukas Jaeger brought a small tray with her food and a drink and placed it in front of her.

Thank you. Tori gave him a small nod and picked up the utensils.

As she considered the pros and cons of positively associating with Alessa, the pros seemed to outweigh the cons. The closer she was to Alessa, the more Alessa could depend on Toris social influence and guidance, but Tori would get information because Alessa talked. And if she didnt, then Tori could get information some other way without being suspicious, so long as Alessa had some level of trust in her.

Just like today, Alessa allowed her access to their sales records and purchase orders against the managers wishes.

Tori lifted some fried potato to her mouth and silently chewed.

The name of her spice supplier was the Southeast Spice Company and they delivered twice a month: on the fifteen day and on the last day of the month. And it was the same amount every time, as if their sources and trade werent affected by whatever was happening in Pargath.

And if Tori knew when they came, she could try to track them.

Of course, there were flaws in the plan. In the case where the supply wagons or horses were switched out, or the crystal she used to track them was discarded before they got to their destination, then it would be useless to try. The crystals she used werent expensive, but it would be a waste if they were lost.

In addition, the current tracking technology she had could only be tracked from about half a day's travel away based on the size crystal she considered using. It had to be small to remain unseen. The distance was far enough for those tracking not to be noticed, but any sudden changes and the trackers would be too far away to do anything about it. Still, she supposed it was worth a shot to find out how the goods were entering the empire.

Chef, the grocers are here to pick up the empty crates from this mornings produce delivery.

Tori paused with her fork halfway up to her mouth. She looked up and saw Lukas going through the service door to get to the kitchen after one of the cooks called for him.

How was the meeting at the Golden Cow? Henriks voice spoke up above her and she snapped her head up. She blinked and furrowed her brows, her mind blanking for just a moment. Henrik put some folders on the table and pulled out a seat. Youre not ranting, so I assume it wasnt too bad.

Tori tightened her lips and gave him a dull look. It wasnt bad at all. If anything, I think the three families who tried to overwhelm Hart regretted doing so when they realized I had come to the table.

You do have a reputation.

A good reputation.

Sure....

Tori snorted and ate some potatoes. Henrik raised his arm to call for some coffee before opening one of the folders. Whats that?

The guest surveys from last month, Henrik said. Were getting a lot of good feedback. The third-tier imperial knights are having a day-long event where they bring their families. They want to know if they can have a custom-made escape room created on-site with a knight theme.

Toris brows rose with interest. Thats possible, but expensive.

The third-tier imperial knights only have this event every three years, Henrik said. He slid over a piece of paper. Its not until after the new year and they are still looking for a venue. For a moment, he looked pained. It hurts me that the Lunar Pavilion will not be open at full capacity.

To be fair, the speed in which its being renovated is much faster than normal and aside from the inn portion and the official opening of the shopping areas on the ground floor, the rest of the Lunar Pavilion can host events, Tori said. She looked over the paper shed been given and drew her head back. You werent kidding about the budget.

I was surprised, too. I had Ewan ask around and the other imperial knight tiers have picnics in the park once a year. Nothing too elaborate, but the third-tier imperial knights have a lot of officers. Most instructors at La Garda and cadet instructors are third tier.

So, not as high risk as the first and second, but at least a pay grade above average imperial knights, Tori said. Many third-tiered knights also did security detail, so she knew a few. Since theyre interested in the Lunar Pavilion, lets see what we can do.

Henrik grinned. I thought youd say that. Ilyana and I have started the hiring process for the pavilions restaurant and cafe.

About the restaurants winery in the lower level, The Cellar, Tori said. Sebby wanted to recommend a classmate who is a sommelier. He comes from a family that owns a winery, but hes the youngest, so hes been looking for a job outside the family winery.

Henrik nodded. Lord Sebastian would not recommend him if he was not a talented individual. Where is he now?

Sebby says hes currently working at a winery near Mezzaluna. They have a restaurant, and he works as a sommelier there. Zephyr...Zehpora?

Zephyrus? Henrik sat up straight. He works at Zephyrus?

Tori nodded and made a little finger gun at Henrik. Thats it. Thats what it's called.

Tori, thats the most prestigious restaurant in Mezzaluna. Why would he want to leave?

Tori pursed her lips. His fiance was the heiress of the winery, and she broke up their engagement.

What?

To marry his older brother.

What!

Tori grimaced and nodded. I know. Sebby said he was tired of having to listen to him crying about it, so he wants to throw him at us to take care of.

Henrik looked at a loss for words. Im more than happy to hire the sommelier from Zephyrus, but....

His breakup is not going to negatively affect his job, I think, Tori said. It should be fine, right? He got the position of his own merit and Sebby spoke highly of him. Idunn said he personally selected all the wine for their wedding.

Henrik furrowed his brows and nodded. I have no issue with this. We dont have any wine for him right now, though. The Cellar is still being renovated.

I told Sebby that and he suggested that we send him around Soleil and maybe to Nazaria to collect some wine for us, Tori said. What do you think?

Tori gasped. Wait, Mama J-

The woman nearly slammed the tray on the table, her eyes wide. Is that a Declyan temple cat?

Tori snapped her head towards Alexander and the black cat. Declyan...the death cat?

Mama J chuckled. Well, they are said to serve the god of death, but having one cross your path is a sign of good luck. Declyan temple cats are rare in Soleil. We dont have any temples to the god of death either...a few shrines...ah, maybe this one is from the shrine a few blocks away.

Have you seen him before?

This one? No, but I did see the white one. There are always two: a white and a black cat. Did Master Alexander make a friend? Mama J smiled fondly at Alexander, as if talking to a grandchild.

Nyaow! Alexander tapped his front paw on the ground.

I will bring you something to eat and some bowls of water, Mama J told them. She turned around. My lady, I will return in a moment. She happily went out the door and as it closed, Tori looked back at the two cats.

Alexander...do you know this cat?

Nyaow! His tail perked up.

Is he from the god of deaths shrine? She received a similar answer. Your friend? Alexander was quiet. Tori furrowed her brows. Family member?

Nyaow!

Toris eyes widened. Alexander, is he your father? Her cat let out a loud meow and rushed forward to circle her legs. Tori looked at the massive black cat. Holy crap, youre going to be huge.... She looked at Alexander. Youre lucky we come from money, or else I dont know how wed afford to feed you when you get to be the size of a lynx.

Her cat trotted back to his father and let out a distressed meow before swatting at the larger cats fluffy tail. Tori narrowed her eyes and could make out a matted clot of fur mixed with something orange-brown. She leaned closer and confirmed it wasnt anything disgusting. It almost looked like thick paint.

This isnt blood is it? Tori asked. She didnt expect either cat to answer, but Alexander drew his ears down. Okay, some sort of paint? Her cat looked at the larger cats tail once more and meowed pitifully. Do you want me to remove the matting?

Nyaow! Alexanders ears and tail shot up.

Tori sighed and looked at the larger cat. It hadnt moved much. It seemed to have relaxed and sat on the floor, like a statue that protected a gate.

I can see why youre considered a holy cat, she said to herself.

Mama J knocked and made herself known, but pushed the door open herself. She looked excited as she held another tray with two metal bowls. One was larger than the other, but both had identical shredded chicken with at least part of a steamed fish.

Hes Alexanders father, Tori said as Mama J put the bowls on the ground.

Is he really? Oh, then Master Alexander is going to get quite large, Mama J replied. Alexander nudged her leg in thanks before crouching down beside his bowl. If this isnt enough, tell me and I will bring more.

Mama J, its more than enough, Tori said with a slight chuckle. Hes not that big yet.

The old woman left the room and Tori knelt down on the floor. She loosened her dagger and put it on the floor before going through her satchel. Her spare gloves for sword were inside and she tugged them on.

No offense, Alexanders father, but I dont want to risk getting scratched, Tori said. Stay still and Ill cut the matting out. When were done, you can eat as much shredded chicken and steamed fish as you want.

The large cat let out a low breath and stood up. He walked towards Tori and then elegantly turned to the side, sitting back down, and exposing his long, fluffy tail to her.

She was starting to wonder if perhaps the Declyan temple cats were extraordinarily intelligent. She carefully took her dagger and made short strokes in the fur, removing the matted clump. She then reached down and moved it aside gathering it in one gloved hand. It was still somewhat soft.

The brown, sticky clump appeared like mud at first glance, but it was tacky and stuck to her gloves. Tori pulled off one glove and touched it, still matted with long black fur. It had a clay-like consistency and looked to have been part of a larger piece.

Perhaps Alexanders father had rubbed up against it.

Tori picked it up and lifted it against the window. Now that she got a better look at it, it was something sticky mixed with mud to make it that light brown color. She pinched it between her fingers; shed felt this before. It was a dense, incredibly sticky material. She squinted; it shone a bit.

Her eyes widened and she brought it to her nose. She could still smell a sort of musky woody scent that filled her mind with childhood memories.

Its tree resin, she said. In her original world, her grandparents house was surrounded by pine trees, and as curious little children, she and her cousin would play with tree sap. Then get scolded for getting it on them, as it was a mess to clean up. She looked down at the cats who were now both eating their shredded chicken. The massive black cat ate unbothered. Is this a sign from the god of death to use tree resin?

She was thinking too much about it, but it did come at a convenient time. She removed her gloves and wiped her hands on the warm, damp towel Mama J put on her tray. After she wiped her hands, she ate and dug out her comcry to call Sir Lloyd, who was often in charge of watching Alexander.

My lady, good afternoon? The man sounded a bit nervous, and Tori raised a brow.

Good afternoon, Sir Lloyd. By any chance, do you know where Alexander is?

There was a long, tense pause on the other side.

My lady, forgive me! We have lost Master Alexander! I swear he was attached to his leash when I went into the store, but when I came out he was gone! Im sorry! I am incompetent! Please give me another chance! He gushed out the sentence as if hed personally insulted her and wanted to live. Tori almost rolled her eyes.

Hes in the small room above Cafe Fortuna. Hes eating with me and his father. Alexander, say hi to Sir Lloyd. She held out her comcry and Alexander lifted his head.

Nyaow!

Master Alexander, what are you doing there? Sir Lloyd sounded betrayed, and Tori cringed. You said you would wait for me while I went to buy ink for His Highness!

Nyaow....

Stay where you are! Ill be right over! He ended the call and Tori looked at her cat.

Do you see what you did? You made Sir Lloyd worry. Tori put her comcry on the table next to her and finished her snack. The two cats also seemed finished. Alexander looked up at her and gently pushed his bowl towards her feet. No, youre going to have dinner later. His ears bent back.

Master Alexander! a strained voice came from the hall and Tori stood up. She went to the door and pulled it open. Sir Lloyd stumbled on to the upper floor, sweat on his face as he looked as if hed just escaped death. My lady!

Hes in here, Tori said. She stepped aside and Sir Lloyd and Sir Wagner bowed their heads to her before entering the room.

Thank the gods! Hes safe. Sir Wagner let out a breath of relief. He looked at Sir Lloyd with annoyance. You said you could manage walking him.

Hes usually very good about-is that Declyan temple cat? Sir Lloyd seemed to do a double take.

Alexanders father had sat up once more and moved his tail behind him before lifting his front paw and licking it clean. Sir Wagners mouth dropped. I heard they were big...but not this big.

Sir Lloyd pressed his palms together and bowed at the cat. This humble man accepts the blessing of the god of death.

Tori wasnt sure what was happening. The massive black cat seemed to respond to the phrase and stood up. He sauntered to Sir Lloyd and put his paw on the knights boot. Tori expected him to let out a low, grumbling purr, as if acknowledging Sir Lloyds greeting.

Neow.

She blinked. What was that? Is that how you sound? Like Alexander when hes hungry at night and begging for food? Alexanders father looked towards her, and she could swear he was looking into her soul. Tori lifted her hands and let out a nervous laugh. Not that its bad. Its very cute.

Grr....

Heroic. Dashing. Exactly what an esteemed temple cat should sound like, she said as the large cats ears began to fold down. As he became satisfied, the large cat perked his ears and tail and turned towards the daybed. He jumped up and then on to the ledge of the open window. So, thats how you two got in.

Nyaow nyaow! Alexander jumped on the bed after him and Sir Lloyd lunged forward.

Im sorry, Master Alexander, but I cant let you go!

Wait, Tori said as she took a step forward. Do you know where the shrine to the god of death is?

Yes, its about six blocks from here, at the Rotunda Gardens, Sir Wagner said. Do you wish to go there?

Gardens.... Tori furrowed her brows. Maybe the trees that had sap were there. Yes, I want to go. Lets follow Alexanders father.

Sir Lloyd, who had his arms full of Alexander, jerked his head back. That temple cat is Master Alexanders father?

No wonder His Highness isnt here.... Sir Wagner said in a quiet voice. He stood up straight. If you wish to go to the shrine, we can escort you, my lady.

Sir Lloyd put Alexander on the ground, the leash securely attached once more. Wagner, call for an additional escort in case Master Alexander runs off again.

Sir Wagner nodded and took his comcry. Tori reached for her satchel and slung it over her body. I will meet you downstairs in the alley. I need to ask Mama J for a small container, Tori told them. Theres something I need to collect in that garden.