Chapter 213: When I'm a Big Girl, I Will Not Need You Anymore

Chapter 213: When I'm a Big Girl, I Will Not Need You Anymore

Senior, Axton is capable. Piers words made Tori smile just a bit. No matter how much he dragged Axton, when the matter was serious, Piers was Axtons number one supporter.

Do you believe that his mission will be successful? Kasen gave Piers a curious look.

I would not allow him to go to his death.

Tori was dragged off by her niece, thinking about when she wrote the charm on Axtons back. Piers obviously encouraged it though not with those exact words. In retrospect, Piers didnt have to tell her anything about Axtons mission.

He told her that hed be underground, in a cave network, and even described the steps he was to take once he was inside any smugglers tunnels. Usually, Tori had to ask him directly for such information, but he told her enough for her to know what kind of charm and crystal would be most useful.

The corner of her lip curled up. He was one of the few people who knew about the mem crystal and its capabilities. Hed seen her write on her brothers hands and experiment with the other crystal masters. She had told him about what she learned from Master Balan. Piers knew.

And he set her up to bless Axton.

She let out a small laugh. It wasnt as if she wouldnt if they had asked. In fact, shed already been considering it when she found out he was going to go to Osten on a sudden mission.

Auntie, are you listening? Fiona tugged on her arm and Tori refocused her attention on her niece.

What is it, Fifi?

Fionas cheeks blushed and she looked away shyly. Her eyes glanced towards the dresses laid across her bed. The familiar blue robes with the gold bells for wrists and ankles were placed side by side, a pair. One was small and one was large.

I said we match, Fiona said in a quiet voice. She looked up at Tori. Do you like it?

Tori restrained herself from hugging her niece and smothering her against her. I love it! Did you already try it on?

Fiona nodded. Yes, Grandma and Nanny said I had to so we are sure it fits.

All right, Im excited! Were going to be matchies! Tori clapped her hands together and Fiona beamed. She rushed to her bed and gathered the smaller costume.

Nanny, please help me dress! She called out to the elderly woman who had followed them. Nanny Rey chuckled and went to help her while Tori changed on her own.

She doesnt/t have a headdress yet? Tori asked as she fixed the larger headpiece on her head.

She has a circlet for now, my lady, Nanny Rey told her as Fiona stood like a statue with her arms out and her legs firmly planted, as if pretending to be a mannequin. The full headpiece is too large and will throw off her balance.

Ah...I remember that, Tori said with a nod. Original Victoria had been frustrated that she could not properly dance with a headpiece until she was older, but even then, shed started wearing headpieces for dances several years earlier than most other dance students.

The bells on Fionas wrists and ankles jingled and she jumped around, giggling at the sound. Tori adjusted the robes around her and Fiona stared at her.

Auntie, I remember when I saw you dance last year. My friends said you looked like a fairy, Fiona told her with excitement.

Well, now we both look like fairies, Tori said with a warm smile. I wish I could show you to the orphanage.

I will do a blessing dance for my friends there, too! Fiona told her with a face full of determination. Her shoulders fell a bit. When I can wear the headdress. The headdress would probably just make her look more official.

Tori chuckled. She took Fionas hand, and they walked out to the dining hall where the small reception was happening over a large meal. The soft jingling of their bells attracted attention with every step they took. Fiona marched forward, chin up and chest out, like a proud rooster.

Today, they would perform a shorter version of the dance. It was the first one Fiona learned and she had been practicing with an almost obsessive focus. Her stamina for the dance could only go so far, so it would be shorter than the one Tori performed inside the orphanage.

Still, everyone they passed would look at them, particularly at Fiona, with warm, sometimes amused, smiles. A few servants and knights wished her luck on her first performance and Fiona gave him a nod, thanking them and assuring them shed try her best.

It was comforting to know that Fiona was adjusting well to the Fortress and she was well-loved by everyone.

When they reached the entrance, they waited outside for a moment

Are you ready? Tori asked as she knelt down and straightened Fionas circlet.

Im going to bless Val so hard!

Thats the spirit. Tori stood up and led Fiona inside. They hadnt done anything yet, but the family members and friends inside all started clapping as soon as they entered. Fiona didnt expect it and jumped. Her face turned red and she rushed to hide on Toris other side.

With everyones eyes on them, Tori released Fionas hand and took a position behind her, as they had practiced. Music was not mandatory for this particular blessing, but it was always good to have someone keep the beat.

Nanny Rey counted them off and clapped her hands. One, two, three!

Tori moved her foot forward and began the blessing dance, keeping one eye on Fiona. Her little niece followed, doing her best to keep up with Tori. Knowing that she wasnt as fast, Tori slowed down.

Where her movements were much more refined and smoother, Fionas were full of energy. Her arms were flung and her stomps were heavy. What Tori loved best was that Fionas cute little face was twisted with a look of angry concentration. Eyes narrowed, cheeks puffed, lips pursed tight.

All of Fionas thoughts and energy where on the dance. Sweat began to collect on her brow as they reached the midpoint of the dance and by the end, Fionas forehead was glistening. They both ended with kneels bent, arms out, and head bowed in in the direction of Valeria, who was in Sebastians arms.

The room exploded with applause. Tori clapped as well before putting a hand on Fionas back and smiling. You did a great job!

The little girls chest was going up and down as she panted a bit. Her entire face was rosy as she rushed to Sebastian and craned her neck to look at the baby.

You are blessed now, Val, she said. You are invin...invis...invisible?

You mean invincible and thats not what the dance does, Robert said with a slight roll of his eyes.

The group chuckled and Kasen knelt down to use his handkerchief to wipe the sweat off Fionas face. In a soft voice, he praised her efforts and hard work, and told her he was proud of her. Fiona seemed to be overtaken by her shyness and buried her face in her fathers chest.

Shes doing very well with her dancing, Tori said as she took a seat between to Fionas highchair and Piers. What did the instructor say?

They praised her for her hard work and dedication, Antonia said. But we have been making sure she does not tire herself out.

You used to practice until your feet were hurt, her father said in a firm voice that lightly reprimanded her. And you would try to hide it.

If I told you, youd make me stop. Tori shifted her eyes to the side, guilty. But Fifi is a good girl. She will practice in moderation.

Yes. A little being crawled on her lap and pulled herself up so she was seated. I will practice in modern...modify...slowly.

Tori stroked her hair. Kasen sighed. Fiona, youre getting big now. You should sit on your chair.

I dont see Auntie Tori often. I want to sit here.

Youve been using that excuse since she arrived, Robert said. How is she going to eat if youre sitting on her lap?

She can eat around me, Fiona replied, as if the answer were clear.

What if I spill something on your hair? Or your dance costume? Tori asked in a careful voice.

Fiona froze for a moment. Without a word, she wiggled off of Toris lap and then raised her arms to her father. Chair, please.

Kasen smirked and picked her up, putting her on her chair so they could eat.

Tori happily took in spending time with her family. Grammy had come from Nazaria for the trifecta ceremony and was staying for a few months as a break from her research.

In the evenings, she liked to sit down with Robert to review his Old Sulfae and even introduce him to another writing system used in southern Nazaria around the same time. She took time to watch Fiona practice dance and booked an hour each day to hold Val. Tori couldnt help but feel that Grammy had forgotten about her grandchildren now that there were great-grandchildren.

The day after the trifecta ceremony, Tori saw off Ewan on his week-long training exercise. The last time shed seen him so nervous, hed been preparing for the La Garda exams.

Sebby approved of you going on this exercise, Tori told him as he fidgeted at the meeting point where young knights were gathering into a wagon to be taken to the exercise location. If he didnt think you could handle it, he would not have approved for you to go.

La Garda does not prohibit exercises with a regulated imperial force, either, Sebastian said as he stood beside her. Kasen and I were sixteen when we first went on training exercises with the Guevera knights.

Master, you and Lord Kasen both count as master swordsmen.... Ewan said with a reproachful look.

Exactly. Thats why you should trust my assessment of your current level, Sebastian said with an air of confidence.

The exercise focuses on teamwork and strategy for infiltration. Its more involved than the war games before Sebastians wedding, Kasen told Ewan. But there will be more instruction as the training commanders heading the mission are experienced. This is more to test your adaptability in a situation than it is your battle ability.

That is not to say that you should let your guard down. Sebastian gave him a serious look. You must treat this exercise as a serious mission.

Ewans head was bobbing up and down, trying to absorb all the information he was being given last minute. Tori craned her neck and saw a familiar face amongst the young knights. She took a deep breath and shouted.

Sir Navarro!

The young knight had already seen her and was walking over. Good morning, my lady! My lords! Ewan! I heard you were here! Sir Navarro seemed to have grown taller and wider than when she last saw him. His skin had also taken on a healthy tan from all his outdoor training. He slapped Ewans shoulder. This is a good experience and youre lucky to be able to take part. Dont overthink it.

Ewan nodded his head once more, but the look of worry didnt fade.

Artemisia hasnt agreed? Kasen asked as the carriage, after three days of leisurely travel, finally rolled into Tres Arcos.

Tori shook her head. Shes very tempted, but hasnt accepted my offer letter.

Do you want me to talk to her?

No, I want her to make her own decision. However, we cant really leave that position open indefinitely. Tori rubbed her chin. Ill have to tell her that we can only wait a few more weeks before we try to fill it. There will be a fresh set of graduates from Universit and Viclya is apparently the first choice for many.

Everyone wants to live in Viclya, Ewan said as he played a game with Robert across from him. Knights, students, crystal fanatics.

Tori rolled her eyes. Speaking of that, Ive been invited to an academy focusing on crystals in Hong. Unfortunately, the trip would take some time, so I cant go anytime soon.

It doesnt hurt to have all your travel documentation ready, Kasen said.

I already have them ready, Tori replied. I have class one travel privileges. Class three was specifically for merchants and business, class two was for military and emissary work, and the relatively rare class one was for long term travel, specifically for individuals like ambassadors who stayed in locations for months, if not years, at a time.

When did you get that done? Kasen furrowed his brows.

Piers helped me get approval a while back.

Kasen looked out the window towards the carriage behind them. The carriages they were traveling in were smaller than SIG One, so with two children and Kasen added to the group, Kasen made Piers sit in another carriage with imperial knights. Every time they stopped; Piers had a cold look on his face.

Once, he had tried to bribe Fiona to switch carriages with him, but Fiona had refused, citing that he would have Tori all to himself once they were on the boat. She only had her auntie until Tres Arcos. The reminder seemed to please Piers and he patted the childs head, calling her a smart girl.

Daddy, where are we going for dinner? Fiona sat closest to one window and was looking outside.

Bodega del Mar. As Kasen said it, Fionas face lit up. She scooted eagerly to the door.

Fried shrimp, here I come.... Tori heard her whisper under her breath. Kasen lifted his comcry to call their uncle and confirm the reservation at the cliffside restaurant northwest of the town. It was an ancient fortification built into the cliffs by a sea-faring people pre-Soleil conquest. It had several levels, but their wine cellar was in a cave that led to an opening that looked out into the water.

It was very old, private, and boasted a small but specialized menu of dishes famous through the coast and Sur. Thus, it went without saying that it was expensive. Tori had first come with her brothers and Andy, and Bodega del Mar was as upscale as upscale could get in Sur. She was sure the only reason theyd welcomed them when she and her brothers and cousin were dressed so casually was because of who they were.

Uncle Dom is already there, Kasen said. Theyve been seated.

In the cave? Robert asked, perking up.

In the cave.

Thats the best place to sit. Its quiet and the view is amazing. Roberts smile widened. Im going to order the oxtail.

Thats a good choice, Tori said with a nod.

Ewan looked intrigued. Is it good?

It is smoked oxtail slow simmered in red wine, Tori said. Its very tender-

I will have that, too!

Tori sighed. They hadnt taken Piers to the restaurant yet. When they arrived, the street entrance was very modest. It appeared to be a moderately large house behind a dilapidated stone wall half covered with vines. Plenty of trees surrounded it and all the neighboring buildings on the ancient stone street were private homes to old and wealthy Tres Arcos families.

Do you see that house further up that looks out into the water? Tori asked as the group got out of the carriage. The children and Ewan nodded while Piers followed her hand. Thats Auntie Marias.

Piers narrowed his eyes. Thats a former imperial residence.

The late Empress Henrietta left a lot to Auntie Maria, Tori said. There is a hill that overlooks the bay on the west shore of Viclya. I think a house like that will look nice.

I will build you one, one day, Auntie. Fiona squeezed her hand and promised her as Kasen picked her up.

Thank you, baby.

They followed Kasen into the lobby of the restaurant and Ewan was coaxed away by the knights, who were eating together on the upper level. After confirming that he could still order the oxtail, Ewan followed the knights elsewhere. Fiona pouted.

Why doesnt Uncle Ewan want to sit with us?

He wants to talk to senior knights. These next few months will demand a lot of Ewan, as instructors and commanders will be watching him to see if he qualifies to join as a first-tier knight, Kasen told his daughter as he carried her in one arm.

But he already went on a training mission, Fiona said.

Its different. Uncle let him go and only with Guevera knights. Imperial knights are different, Robert replied. Uncle Ewan probably wants to get more tips and ask about what to expect when hes being reviewed. Its his dream to become an imperial knight.

Oh.... Fiona nodded. Daddy, whats your dream?

To keep my family safe and happy, Kasen replied without missing a beat. They followed the host through some narrow stone halls only lit by light crystals to get to the lower-level cellar.

Robi, what about you?

Charms master with high proficiency in crystal work, Robert said.

Auntie?

Travel the world and eat lots of good food. Probably play with more crystals, too.

Fiona was quiet for a moment as she looked over her fathers shoulder. I like Aunties dream. I want to do that.

Youre going to travel and leave me? Kasen teased as they were led through the cellar. Fiona gasped and quickly hugged her father.

Daddy...dont worry! she said as she nuzzled his face. When Im a big girl, I will not need you anymore, so I wont be sad when Im away!

Tori barely held back a laugh as Piers smirked. Kasens lips tightened into a tight line and Robert looked at his sister as if she were crazy.

They saw a closed cellar door and as soon as the host opened it, a warm, humid breeze swept in along with the tell-tale scent of the ocean. The crashing of waves far below could be heard and on a flattened-out protrusion from the cave was an oval table with nine-chairs.

Uncle Dom and Auntie Anita rose from their seats and Artemisia, who was looking over the stone wall down over the edge of the cliff, turned around and beamed.

At once, Toris family started to embrace each other, leaving Piers standing awkwardly to the side, waiting for the touchy-feely Sur-style greeting to pass. Kasen motioned for everyone to sit around the table and begin ordering.

Fiona insisted on going to look over the edge, so after the orders were taken, Tori accompanied her to look down. The stone barrier only reached up to her hip, and Tori was petite to begin with. She held Fiona firmly as Fiona climbed on a low piece of stone to look over the edge.

Though it was almost dark, the last sliver of light in the horizon illuminated the base of the cliff and they could see the crashing waters below.

If we fall...well die, wont we? Fiona said in a quiet voice.

That is a high possibility, but were not going to fall, Tori told her. Fionas little hand tightened on Toris arm.

I wonder how many people have died falling off the cliff....

Tori squinted her eyes at her niece. What the hell, Fifi....

Piers appeared next to them, on Fionas other side and looked over the edge. There is some foliage, and the cliff is on an incline. If you roll down, the shrubs may slow you down allowing for survival.

What about the sharp rocks?

Try to avoid them.

Fiona looked at Piers with confusion and annoyance. I cant avoid rocks if I fall.

Then dont fall.

What if Im climbing and slip?

Tori raised a brow. Why would you climb up a cliff?

I dont know, Fiona said, shrugging. She pointed past Piers, at the cliffside further away. Why are they climbing up a cliff?

Both Tori and Piers followed her little finger and in the fading light, they could make out several figures moving up the cliffside, shaking bushes as they climbed up. Toris eyes darted to the water below and saw three small wooden boats slamming against the rocks, but tied in a way to keep them from jostling too violently.

Toris eyes went wide, and Piers put his arm around her and Fiona, pulling them away from the edge.

Senior, Piers said as he turned around, leading Tori and Fiona not just back to the table, but to the entrance of the cellar cave theyd walked through.

What is it? Kasen frowned as he looked up and watched as Piers passed him with Tori and Fiona. What are you doing?

Piers turned towards the cliff where they saw the men climbing up. Pirates.