Chapter 212: The Sooner We Dance, The Sooner We Eat

Chapter 212: The Sooner We Dance, The Sooner We Eat

What do you mean youre going to see your goddaughter? Sebby didnt say you were going to be the godparent! Tori snatched her bag off the ground and stormed in. And why didnt you tell me you were coming? We need to prepare if an imperial family member is coming. And where are your knights?

Theyre hiding on the ship.

Her eyes narrowed and her voice grew colder. Why are they hiding on the ship?

Because you would be mad.

So, you know Id be mad? Tori nearly threw her arms into the air. Piers-

I informed my family I was leaving for the ceremony. There is no problem.

She couldnt help but be suspicious. Did they agree, or they cant stop you? His eyes darted to the side, and he returned to his book. He went quiet. Piers.

Are you hungry? You came from Horizon and havent eaten yet.

Dont try to distract me with food-

Your Highness! Someone knocked on the door frame and bowed their head. It was Sir Dassler in civilian clothing. The meals delivered from Sapphire-by-the-Sea have arrived. Shall I bring them here?

Piers gave a small nod. Yes. Notify Ewan that dinner is also ready and will be served here.

Sir Dassler nodded once more. Yes, Your Highness!

Tori shot Piers an indignant glare. This is the Marquis room! Its my room! How did you even get in?

I told the Guevera knights that I am a guest and would be staying here.

Toris eyes bore into him. Did they give you this room or did you let yourself in?

Piers stared ahead of him. Im going to clear this table. We can put the food that arrives here.

Piers!

Your Highness, youre here, too? Ewan walked in and looked around. His eyes landed on the coffee table that didnt have food. Is dinner not here yet?

Tori let out a groan and swept into the room, bypassing Piers to get to the inner bedchamber. She pushed open the door and tossed her bag on to the bed, only to see a small travel chest pushed against the foot of the bed. A familiar seal of the first prince on top of the chest lid mocked her.

Piers! She stormed back into the antechamber, where two knights were placing the ordered food on the table. Ewan looked eager to start eating from one of the plush chairs hed pushed closer to the coffee table. Piers, why is your stuff in my room?

I will have it moved out here. The long sofa is enough for me, Piers told her, unbothered. Come and eat.

Tori took a deep breath. She didnt mind sharing a space with Piers, but not when he sprung it upon her and took up her room. She sat down on a plush chair across from him and picked up one of the plates. Ewan was eating, unbothered.

Your Highness, did you bring a gift for Masters daughter?

I did, Piers replied. It is a ceremonial dagger from the Late Unification Period.

Ewan nodded, but Tori froze. She chewed her food and swallowed hard. The Late Unification Period was over a thousand years ago. You got my niece a historical artifact.

It was in my personal collection, Piers replied. I must give her something meaningful to show my sincerity to my goddaughter.

Ewan gasped. Master picked you to be her godparent, Your Highness? How lucky! I am still hoping to be a godparent one day, but Henrik wont promise his first born.

Ewan, you cant force someone to make you a godparent of their child. She paused and looked at Piers with narrowed eyes. Piers, you cant force someone to make you a godparent of their child.

I am not forcing it, Piers replied in a smooth voice. I just want to show Master that I am the best choice.

Oh my God.... Tori let out a low sigh and continued to eat. I cant believe I have to deal with this the entire trip....

She stuffed the rest of her food in her mouth and leaned back against the chair.

She was so lost in the annoyance of Piers sudden appearance, that she forgot to contact her brother. It wasnt until they were already halfway to the open ocean that she remembered and at that point, she didnt want to bother any more.

If she had to deal with this, then so did Sebastian.

With light cargo and no stops, Tres Arcos was just a few days away. During this time, Ewan was not lax in his practice. With imperial knights and Guevera knights present, he had plenty of people to lead him through practices.

He also got his first chance to spar with Piers. The results were obvious, but she didnt expect them to hit Ewan as they did.

Tori.... Ewan came to her as she was in her cabin, reviewing land partitions. His usually smiling face was replaced with dejection as he trudged in and sat down. I dont think Im fit to be an imperial knight.

Tori lowered her papers at once and lifted her head, frowning. What are you talking about? Ewan, youre at the top of your class in La Garda. The knights are optimistic about you. If anyone is fit to be an imperial knight, its you.

Ewan shrank back against the cushions and drew his knees up to his chest, like a pouting child. How can I protect someone whos far superior to me with a sword?

Ah, so thats it. Tori took a deep breath and gave him a gentle, understanding look. Did you spar with Piers? He nodded his head. Piers is not representative of every imperial family member. Hes not only the best swordsman in his family, hes also one of the best swordsmen in the empire. Weve told you that before, remember?

I remember, but I didnt think he was that good. Hes almost as good as Master, Ewan said, complaining. It was as if he knew every movement I made before I made it!

Such an ability comes with experience and practice, Tori replied. You will also start to notice cues from your opponent's body or telling movements that can predict their line of attack the more you practice. Piers didnt magically know all at once. It was something learned.

Ewan groaned. I was too confident, wasnt I? Im so used to being at the top of the class, I forgot that there are always those better than me.

Its better that you learn that now than on the battlefield, Tori told him. Piers isnt taking it lightly with you, and in a way, thats good. Hes challenging you so you can improve.

I couldnt land a single hit on him.

To be honest, I dont think any of his knights can land a single hit on him, Tori said in a quiet voice. Her eyes drifted to the door and hoped the knights outside didnt hear her.

In his prime, Papa was supposedly able to beat all the Guevera knights, and, currently, none of them can beat Sebby. She grimaced a bit. At first, it did sound like their knights were incompetent, but one had to consider the person in question.

Ewan furrowed his brows and thought for a moment. Does that not affect them?

Tori shook her head. No, for some, its a bit reassuring that their liege is not helpless. That being said, they dont only protect the Marquis and his heir. They protect the Fortress, various military outposts, are assigned to ships, and for the higher ranked knights, they escort the family. Mama, Kasey, Robi, Fifi, and now Idunn and Valeria. When Im involved in a family event, they protect me. Im competent with a long sword, but Im not a master by any means. In your case, there is a higher chance of being assigned elsewhere. There are several tiers of imperial knights, after all.

Ewan took a deep breath. Tori, I want to apply to the first-tier knights.

She squinted and studied her friend quietly. First tier knights are another four to six years of intense training before theyre even assigned to an imperial family member.

I know.

During those training years, you will have little contact with your family and friends. You will be traveling often.

Ewan nodded his head once more. I know. He raised his eyes and looked at her hesitantly. My instructors told me that only a few students are accepted into training for first tier imperial knights a year. Some years, there werent any who were accepted.

But you still want to try?

He looked at her with uncertainty. Do you think Im good enough?

Tori put down her papers and met his gaze with defiance. I am not an authority on the ability and skill of knights, Ewan. I cant tell you if youre good enough. His eyes lowered and he swallowed hard. Tori didnt flinch. But, if you were assigned to me, I would trust you with my life.

He lifted his head and looked back at her. His eyes reddened a bit and he nodded. Thanks, Tori.

There was a knock on her door and Tori looked towards it. What is it?

My lady, Tres Arcos is in sight. We will disembark soon. Please prepare. Carriages are waiting at the dock, one of the knights told her.

Understood, Tori said. She stood up and reached across to pat Ewans shoulder. You have a good opportunity to learn from knights far superior to you. Take it, even if you cant get a hit in. Just keep practicing. Keep gaining experience. Remember what I told you before: sweat more now....

Bleed less on the battlefield. Yes. Ewan stood up as well and headed to his room.

Shortly after he left, Piers came in. His things had been packed in the morning. He sat around, watching Tori collect her things and put them away, appearing not at all bothered that he was arriving in Sur without having informed her family.

As the ship approached the private dock, Tori could make out the carriages and awaiting horses from the deck.

Piers, you have a dozen imperial knights with you...there are not enough horses for them, Tori said in a dull, somewhat irritated voice.

I have discussed this with the Guevera knights. We will take who we can with us. The rest will follow after horses for the nearby fortress arrive, Piers told her.

The corner of Toris eye twitched. There is still a chance that Sebby isnt going to make you Valerias godfather.

It is a very slim chance.

Tori noticed the knights silently exchanged looks around them. Sir Dobchek had assured her that the imperial family had been notified, but in order to keep Piers trip a secret, only the Emperor and Empress knew. Gideon likely didnt know where his brother was, and admittedly the thought of Gideon horrified that he couldnt find Piers was funny.

Ewan had broken the tension and laughed, saying it was very normal and the peeling was just about done. Hed seen it plenty of times with his niece and nephews. Because of his experience with his siblings children, he was quite good at handling the baby.

Sebastian had looked at Piers with disgust and muttered that he had chosen the wrong pupil.

Tori looked at her own temporary pupil. Are you nervous for your performance?

Fiona shook her head, her thick brown hair moving around her. No, Im excited! she said in an earnest voice. Its my first real blessing dance, so its special. I practiced hard, Auntie Tori. It has to be perfect for Val.

There was a glint of determination in the childs eyes and Tori was filled with pride. Im sure you wont let her down.

Fiona gave her a nod and put on a serious look. Shell be blessed no matter how much she struggles.

Okay, baby, calm down. Tori touched her head gently. She looked towards Nanny Rey, who was smiling from ear to ear as she looked at Fiona. Nanny, I leave her to you.

Nanny Rey gave her a small nod and Tori left to check on the next person.

Piers room wasnt far. As an imperial family member, his room was kept in the more private and heavily guarded area of the Fortress. It was across the hall from Toris room, but Fiona had been spending the night in her room, so Tori had to take her niece back to her nieces room to get ready first.

The same two imperial knights from earlier that morning remained on either side of Piers door and along with them, two more Guevera knights. There were two Guevera knights stationed outside of Toris door, as well, and more patrols. Along with increased security because of the new baby, anytime there was any sort of celebration, security was increased.

She approached Piers' door, adjusted her mantilla, and lifted her hand to knock. She knocked once and then waited. Piers opened it almost immediately, but was holding his open comcry in one hand. He gave Tori a nod and stepped back into the room, allowing Tori to enter as he continued his conversation.

Congratulations are in order. Ive already sent something to the baby and mother. Will you return to the border immediately? Piers asked. Tori closed the door behind her.

No, the security at the Amber Fortress is steady and the chaos in the south has distracted the usual raids. Im going to the northern mountain range, a mans deep, authoritative voice replied.

Piers outward expression didnt fade. You should have more faith in Axton.

It isnt that I doubt my boys ability, Piers. Its only that the situation is different from usual and something of this matter hasnt been done before. I want to see it with my own eyes.

Tori recognized the voice as the Marquis General.

You rarely leave the Amber Fortress, Uncle. You should take the time to rest for a few more days. Lt. Commander just had the baby and Master says that bonding with ones child is important during their first few days of life, Piers said.

Tori sat on the arm of the sofa as she watched him slowly pace the room.

Gigi is doing well and Elsa wants me to go. She insists that Ive spent long enough considering the mission, the Marquis General told Piers.

Uncle, you would not be able to take on Axtons mission task. He is best suited for the job. In addition, Axton has a strong blessing charm to aid his movements and increase protection. You do not. There was a strict firmness in his voice and Tori felt that if Piers had solid reason to order his uncle to stay with the Lt Commander and the baby, he wouldve.

I wont be joining in the mission itself, but I will be waiting nearby and observing. A womans voice could be heard muffled in the background, but Tori couldnt make out the words. Yes, Ill let him go now. Piers, there are some things I need to arrange. Pass my well wishes to Sebastian.

Yes, Uncle, Piers replied. And I will arrange for Mother to visit this summer to see my cousin.

The call ended and Tori pushed herself up. Did they have the baby?

Yes.

How is the Lt. Commander?

It was a difficult birth with some complications. Uncle said it was long, but my cousin was born safely. Lt. Commander Roth was exhausted, but she is recovering well, Piers said.

Tori lifted her hands to the collar of his shirt and began to straighten it. Her name is Gigi?

Gisela Oliva Sherez von Schwert.

Sherez? She shares part of her name with Axton? Tori smiled at the thought as she lowered her hands.

Uncle wanted a name to connect them as he considers Axton like a son to him, Piers said. He paused. Do I wear a tie?

Its not an incredibly formal event. Your clothes are more than fitting, she said. Are you ready?

Piers nodded and he put his comcry into his pocket. He walked outside with Tori and followed her downstairs, to the small family chapel where Fiona and Robert had their trifecta ceremony. The door was open, and Sebastian was waiting just outside.

He straightened his back and narrowed his eyes at Piers.

Master. Piers greeted him with a small bow of his head in respect, as Sebastians pupil.

Sebastians look hardened. Im going to trust you with my daughter in the unlikely event that Idunn and I are unable to care for her.

It is an honor, Master. I take this responsibility seriously.

Sebastians green eyes bore into Piers, as if waiting for him to flounder under his gaze. She is my little girl, Piers. My and Idunns little girl.

Yes, Master. I know.

If you fail, you will disappoint not only me, but Tori. Hearing this, Tori gave a small, agreeing nod of her head. Shed also be disappointed if Piers failed to live up to the duties of a godparent of her niece. And Tori will leave you.

Sebastians final words made her freeze and she knit her brows together. Was her brother using her as some sort of threat?

Piers didnt back down from the responsibilities given to him. I understand, Master.

Sebastian took a deep breath, raised his hand, and put it on Piers shoulders. You must love and protect her like your own. His voice was tight and almost pleading.

Once more, Tori was reminded that in the original game, this beautiful family Sebastian had did not exist. She lowered her eyes to hide the sudden redness.

I will love and protect her, Master, Piers repeated in a quiet voice. I will swear it to the god of which I have selected.

Sebastian appeared satisfied. He gave Piers a little shove into the room and motioned for Tori to go in. He waited outside for the last of the expected guests. Inside, Idunn was already by the altar. Toris immediate family was seated on the first set of pews.

She saw an unexpected face in the second row.

Andy, what are you doing here? Tori asked. I thought you were out on tour.

We are scheduled for a stop in the naval yard just east of Tres Arcos. There are some repairs being done after a storm and it will take over a week, so I rushed here to attend, Andrew said as he and Tori reached across the seat backs to embrace. I just arrived this morning.

Then get some rest after this, Tori said.

Andrew nodded and looked at Piers. Your Highness.

Captain OTuagh. Piers gave him a curt nod in reply. He paused. I am going to be a godfather.

Andrew chuckled and nodded. I heard.

Satisfied that he was acknowledged, Piers nodded and looked back towards the altar. Everyone had arrived and the door closed to the chapel. Sebastian swept across to get to his wife and the Archbishop of Presidio presided.

Idunn held Valeria in her arms and to her credit, the baby didnt cry and seemed to just sleep through all the welcome and prayers. When it came time to bless her, her eyes were still closed.

Valeria Catalina Njala Idunndottir de Guevera. The babys long, formal name was spoken by the Archbishop and Idunn stepped forward and tilted her towards the Archbishop. Who is the godparent for Valeria?

I am. Pier rose to his feet and walked towards them.

Just like with blessings previously, the Archbishop dipped his finger in quartz dust and pressed it gently over Valerias left brow.

Saphira, Goddess of Protecting the Home, Family, and Children, blesses you to strengthen your bond with your family. This was an important god for her family. The Archbishop dipped his finger in the quartz dust again and pressed it over Valerias right brow. Inkari, Goddess of Forethought, Preparation, and Defense. He drew a line across Valerias little forehead. These two goddesses are the gods selected for you by your parents, Idunn and Sebastian. Will the godparent proceed with their blessing?"

Piers took a deep breath and moved closer. He extended his right hand with light movements, drawing across Valerias forehead. I am Piers Emil Geron du Soleil and to bless my goddaughter, I have chosen Mise, God of Loyalty, Honor, and Duty, so that you may live up to and follow the path that has kept your family strong.

Tori glanced at Sebastian to see if he approved, and she saw him give a small nod.

Mise was a minor god, if Tori remembered correctly, but his symbol was a character in Old Sulfae which was found when referring to the original Soleil tribe and its warrior class. Piers was connecting Valeria, the descendant of the warrior class, to him, the heir of Soleil.

Tori smiled a bit, knowing Piers mustve put a lot of thought into it to show how serious he was about being a godparent.

The trifecta ceremony ended and Tori felt a small tug on her arm. She looked down and saw Fionas big eyes looking up at her. Auntie, the little girl said, almost whispering. Lets get ready to dance for my little cousin.

Tori smiled softly and caressed Fionas hair back. All right, lets get ready.

Her little niece grabbed her hand and pulled her to the aisle. The sooner we dance, the sooner we eat!

She followed her niece out the door and heard Kasen speaking to Piers on the way out.

He shouldve arrived at the mission location already, Kasen said as his lips remained in a tight line. Has he started the collapse?

I dont know, I have not received word, Piers said. We will know within a week if it was a success or not.

Kasen inhaled a low breath. If it isnt, then weve decided. Sebastian and I will go there ourselves.