The tourist season can only last for so long here. Places like Tres Arcos and Karap are warr, so the weather for the activities we offer here can continue for a longer period. I have the choice of either transitioning to more cold weather activities or shut down tourism for the winter, Tori said as she sat on the wicker basket swing with her mother and Alexander.
The craftsn from Den set it up near the walkway close to her tent, but with a pleasant view of the shore and pronade. Her wheelchair was beside them and several knights stood at a distance to give the mother and daughter privacy. Tori was happy to relax, as shed already had a long day of welcoming guests. Tomorrow, shed spend most of her ti in the kitchen of the restaurant, helping prepare the dinner al.
Her mother had tried to follow her as she rushed around, but Tori felt that her mother should relax more after her rushed journey. Thankfully, Sebastian dragged their mother away to give her a tour of the area and even took her around the islands. Antonia was finally able to pry herself away from her son at the welco dinner, where Tori told their guests about the spy ga.
Nearly everyone was participating, but the Marquess wanted to stay with Tori, insisting she could help cook as well. Despite growing up in a scholars family and then becoming a noblewoman, Toris mother was skilled in cooking regional food. She personally made the Marquis favorite sausages.
Tori couldnt really talk her into being idle, but if she rested, then her mother would rest, like they were doing now.
Shutting down for the winter would an that the storefronts and hospitality staff would have nothing to do. Isnt that a waste of their training? her mother asked. One of her arms was around Toris shoulders, holding her only daughter close, while the other was petting Alexander on her lap.
Not necessarily. The artisans will still be working and building up a stock of goods to be sold in Horizons stores and in the spring. My main concern would be the staff for the resort, salespeople, and Henriks restaurant. If we transition to cold weather activities, the tents will suffice, but they dont seem fitting for the season.
When Tori thought of wintry weather vacations, she thought of warm hearths, thick throws, and snow lightly drizzling outside of a cabin with snowcapped peaks in the background. Of course, it rarely snowed in the delta. Last winter, Horizon got a handful of snow, but Viclya and the area around the water were dusted with snow that lted as soon as it hit the ground.
There also werent any tall mountains suitable for skiing and the river didnt freeze over, nor were there large lakes suitable for ice skating. The delta was cold, gray, and wet in the winter. Morale dropped and there was a seasonal depression amongst the villagers and workers.
Can you reassign them for the season? You have the budget to continue their pay through the winter, dont you? Antonia asked.
Tori nodded, but looked ahead of them, in thought. I do. Villagers who work for us get a modest pay depending on their position and skill. She pursed her lips. Most of the adult villagers worked for them in so capacity. Id like to take the lull period to start sectioning off the area behind the pronade for villagers who want to remain inland, as well as put more focus on planning the farms and hosteads in the allocated land further upriver. I also want to start moving the supply yard onto the east shore, where the workers and knights are lodging. Split the shores by residential and comrce, and industrial, if you will.
Have you discussed this with the civil planners from Universit?
Yes, weve been working on plans, as phase two buildings will be permanent residences and work areas inland. The construction to build over the islands will slow, with focus on the main plaza on Roi and the buildings around it. We have enough hos for fishern for the ti being. Two islands specifically being used for local artisans are almost complete.
What does phase three include?
Transport hubs, Tori said. Depending on the size and use of the island, there will be one to four docks built especially for transporting people and cargo with set routes to go from island to island, dock by dock, at specified tis. While slower and less convenient than hiring a private vessel to take you directly to the mainland or another island, it will be useful for those who cant afford a private vessel or dont have access to one. A good example right now is from the workers dock on the east shore. There are three large boats that each go to a different construction site. They co and go at specified tis, so workers know when they co and dont have to wait long.
Antonia nodded. Thats a promising idea.
Constantine did most of the work. He says they do sothing similar for mbers of the church going from the monastery to Temple Mountain. Tori gave credit where it was due. The first of the mills has been built near our test farm and we plan to build a few more along the river, if we can get more land.
Idunn said your test crops are doing well.
That is a credit to her, the farrs, and the farrs brought over to help guide our people, Tori said. She chuckled. All I do is space out land and pay for things, Mama.
I feel you do more than that. Antonia smiled gently and stroked her hair back. Otherwise, there would not be a mountain of papers for you to review on your desk and you wouldnt spend hours at etings and making calls.
The finer details are left up to project leads, I only need to make large, financial decisions, give instructions, and periodically review. If the project leads werent capable, Id have a nightmare of a ti. Not to ntion all the help from Universit. Its nothing short of a miracle how theyve been able to work together so smoothly.
Speaking of Universit, do you plan to continue on?
Tori snickered. You think Ill get accepted? Universit du Soleil was the best graduate and research institution in the empire.
Why wouldnt you? Her mother raised a brow and gave her a questioning look, as if wondering why she wouldnt. I dont doubt that your exam scores will et the requirent. As for references...Im sure all you must do is ask the various professors, instructors, and masters affiliated with Universit who are aiding you here.
Tori laughed and grinned. Do you know how many of them have asked if I was interested in joining their departnt in a few years?
Antonia t her grin with one of her own. Are you interested?
I want to study crystals. Id also need to study a bit of civics and business, but mainly crystals, Tori said.
Antonia tilted her head back and slowly nodded. I see. Then...Universit would give you access to the largest crystal reference library, depository, and master network in Soleil.
And charms, Old Sulfae, and historical text on ancient thods combining the two, Tori replied before biting her lower lip. Master Ramos told . Only students, professors, and alumni have access. If I want to build up Anahata Island, I will need to gain more knowledge on the subject, as well. I cant always depend on Instructor Ignatius and Master Ramos.
Her mother squinted and looked out towards the islands. Your brothers said that they dont leave the island.
Tori took a deep breath. They only leave the island when I make them. The Bishop of Karap is also there right now. I invited him to my birthday celebration, but I dont know if hell leave the island for it.
Antonia laughed once more. Im sure theyll co. How many people are coming? There were so many people introducing themselves to today; I dont think I caught them all.
My friends families, especially Ewans, since were celebrating him, too. Prince Emil and his wife arrived while you were on an island tour, people I have professional relationships with, business partners, and three of the five duchies were invited.
I saw Vanessa earlier, yes, Antonia said with a nod. She said she arrived earlier and is already staying at the resort tents with her husband and son.
Are you familiar with Duchess Fekete?
We are of the sa generation, and I went to school with them. Genevieve was the oldest of the future duchesses, then Delilah, and Vanessa, who is Lucias age. Duke Sinan is your fathers age and Duchess Donatella Servana is of your grandparents generation. A wry smile tugged at Antonias lips. Duchess Servanas children fought for succession since the eldest beca ill as a child and never fully recovered. They thought hed die too soon and wasnt fit to be heir. Due to the infighting of the family, there were multiple accidents and two sons and one daughter all passed, leaving only the sickly eldest. He married the girl who saved his life. Shes a Nordursin and they have four children, the eldest of whom is a twelve-year-old boy who is the Duchess heir.
Tori wanted to laugh. So, they thought he was useless and instead, he had four children. Is he still alive?
Yes. Aside from getting sick more often and being prone to the cold, hes doing well. His wife is distantly related to Idunn, and they are on the guest list for your brothers wedding.
Tori smiled a bit. Its going to be a big wedding.
Im already dreading the logistics of it, her mother said with a dramatic sigh. Your brothers assistants have been running around booking venues for guests to stay and planning activities for the event. She glanced over at Tori. Do you want to help since you have so much experience?
Tori snorted and shook her head. No, thank you. Im already dancing for them.
Its been a while since Ive seen you do a blessing dance. Antonia jutted out her lower lip pitifully.
Then, its sothing to look forward to at Sebbys wedding, Tori said. She furrowed her brows. Is the imperial family invited?
Of course; they are always invited to these large events. Its only a matter of if they can co. At most, there will be a representative from the family, her mother said. I expect it to be Prince Piers, as he is your brothers pupil.
That made the most sense. Tori grinned. Are you sure the Empress wont want to co? She misses you a lot.
Antonias eyes narrowed. Because shes clingy. If she were here, Id never-
Toni!
Oh no. Her mother tensed against her.
A high, musical voice seed to float towards them. It was filled with affection and joy, but from the cold annoyance on her mothers face, Tori was sure the feeling wasnt completely mutual. Antonia was still, as if hoping the woman calling for her would bypass her if she didnt move. But, the Empress was a person, not the tyrannosaurus from Jurassic Park.
There you are! The Empress appeared beside the basket swing with a wide smile. Why didnt you tell you were coming?
I didnt tell anyone I was coming, Antonia said in a cold voice. Her narrowed eyes bore into the Empress. How did you know I was here?
Piers ntioned it when he called his father. I was in the room at the ti and ca imdiately! The Empress sounded almost proud.
Monica, you know with your status, you need to be much more cautious about leaving Horizon, Antonia said in a stern voice. How could you leave on such short notice?
The Empress waved her hand. There are plenty of knights here and Im not doing much right now. Besides, its your daughters birthday and it sounds fun.
The Marquess looked at her as if she were an idiot. None of those are good reasons.
The Empress almost choked on her own breath. Toni, I wanted to see you. You hardly ever visit Horizon.
There is no need for to.
Thats why this is a rare event that I needed to take advantage of.
So, you are aware that you are taking advantage.
Yes, do you want to go outrigger racing tomorrow?
No.
Tori turned her head to the side and tried not to laugh. Her mothers sharp and imdiate responses left little room for argunt. The Empress, however, did not appear deterred. She was completely used to this cold side of Antonia.
Then, what are you doing tomorrow? I will join you.
Denied. Youll only burn down Henriks restaurant.
The Empress looked affronted and denied it imdiately. What? What are you talking about?
Antonia turned to Tori. On our first-year excursion, she started a small forest fire while trying to roast at.
Toris eyes crinkled up and she slowly turned to the Empress, unable to restrain her judgntal look.
That was one ti, and it was so long ago! the Empress balked.
Then, how many more tis have you stepped into the kitchen since then? Antonia asked with a knowing look.
Both Antonia and the Empress had married young; Antonia as soon as she graduated Lyce and the Empress as soon as the Emperor graduated Lyce two years after them. Toris mother was already pregnant with Sebastian when she started at a university in Presidio and the Empress returned from her familys seat in Buchenberg to marry the Emperor. Throughout that ti, the Empress never had to do her own cooking.
The Empress curled her lips inward and looked away, unable to defend herself.
Mother. A deep voice ca from behind them. Why did you not tell you were coming? I wouldve co to et you.
Piers! The Empress defeated face imdiately brightened at the sight of her son. I ca to find Toni. Have you already greeted the Marquess?
Yes, Mother, the other night, when she arrived, Piers said in a calm voice. He reached their side and turned to Tori and her mother, still seated in their basket swing, and bowed his head. My apologies for troubling you. I was not aware that my mother had left Horizon.
The Empress stared at him with disbelief. Why are you apologizing?
You are an unexpected guest and accommodations need to be made at once. Piers glanced at Tori before looking away. You are troubling them.
I dont need fancy accommodations. I can stay with you. The Empress pretended she didnt see Piers look of utter rejection.
Tori sighed. Axtons tent is vacant, Your Majesty. If you dont mind staying at the encampnt, then please stay in Axtons tent. The furnishings are not as nice as the resort tents, and there is a lot of foot traffic outside, but its location is next to Piers tent, which is across from mine.
The Empress smiled wide. Im not a stranger to rugged furnishings, Lady Tori. I am still a marquis daughter. Axtons tent is suitable.
I will ask for soone to prepare it, Piers told Tori. Please rest and leave my mother to .
The Empress frowned. Wait-
Mother, please follow . I will show you to your tent.
The Empress sighed and looked at Antonia. Ill be back later! Dont leave! She rushed off to follow her son and Antonia watched them go with critical eyes.
Tori, does Prince Piers often assist you like this?
Yes, I get help from all my friends, Tori replied.
Antonia looked at her daughter and raised a brow. The first prince of Soleil should not bow his head in apology for such a small thing.
The first prince of Soleil is Piers. Hell do whatever he wants, Tori sighed with a shrug. Mama, are you sure you want to help cook tomorrow? The Empress is here; she must really want to spend ti with you.
Do you think Monica and I are like you and Ilyana?
I think the Empress wants that to be so.
Her mothers look softened a bit. I love her, but she makes tired sotis. Such boundless energy...shes likely why I was so patient with your brothers. Tori held back a snort. Her mother soothed her hair back once more. Are you sure you dont need to help you?
Im sure, Mama. So volunteers from the village are assisting with the activity tomorrow; I can focus on cooking, Tori said. This is what I want to do for my friends and family.
Mamas sweet girl. Antonia leaned forward and kissed the top of Toris head.
I knew it. Shes the favorite, Sebastians voice reached them with a hint of jealousy. Were just trash in comparison.
Tori turned her head and her eyes lit up as she saw another man approach alongside Sebastian. Kasey!
Happy birthday, Tori. Kasens blue eyes were filled with gentle affection as he reached them. He leaned down to embrace her. How are your legs?
Still cant feel them, but Im starting to feel the tingle of energy over the vein, Tori said with a bright, excited look. I have high hopes. She gave her brother a tight squeeze before letting him go.
Kasen, what are you doing here? Arent you working? their mother asked as Kasen turned to embrace her. Kasen looked suspicious.
Why is that the first thing you ask? Sebastian said the sa thing; its as if you dont want here.
How can I monopolize Tori if you two are here, Antonia replied easily. She brought her son close and tilted her head to kiss the side of his head. Gods have blessed to keep you safe.
Papas going to be upset when he finds out were all here except for him. Sebastian wore a smug grin as he crossed his arms over his chest.
Lets call him, Kasen said as he slipped out of their mothers embrace. Sebastian looked even more excited and nodded.
Call Gregorio de Guevera. Tori snapped her head towards her mother, who already had her comcry out.
RIP, Papa. You are missed. Tori made a little prayer for her father.
It took a few monts for her father to answer. My heart? Whats wrong? Is Tori-
Guess whos here with them, Papa, Kasen said, smug as he leaned forward to speak into the comcry.
There was a long pause on the other side before a series of swearing could be heard. Tori cringed as her father shouted. Arent you supposed to be working? Why are you there!?
Its Toris coming-of-age birthday, Kasen said in a smooth voice. Why wouldnt I co?
You little-
Papa, if you can co, its not too late to arrive after the birthday party, Tori said, trying to appease him. She had a lot of affection for her father who yelled at the Guthrys and Baron Hart. Sebby isnt leaving for a while.
Ive been working for weeks, so Im going to take a rest, too, Kasen added.
Who said you can take a break-
You should co, Papa. I'll miss you if everyone is here except you. Tori made herself sound pitiful and got the desired effect. Her fathers voice imdiately softened and beca placating.
Papa will co as soon as possible. Dont worry, your uncles are here. I will be there soon! Gregorio told her. It appeared that Uncle Lorenzo and Uncle Rom would have additional work. Dont let your brothers leave. I will take care of them when I arrive.
Sebastian and Kasens smug looks fell. Sebastian turned to Kasen and smacked his arm. Whyd you provoke him?
Kasen rubbed his arm and shot him a glare. You agreed to call him!
Youre the one who suggested it!
Antonia ignored her sons, and her voice beca gentle. She looked at the comcry with so affection. Then, well see you soon. Be safe, my love.
The call ended and the quiet night was now filled with her brothers discussing where Kasen would sleep. Since Sebastian practically lived with Idunn, Kasen could stay in his tent, which was near Toris. It was near the tent Kasen had stayed in when he had co to pick her up the previous sumr. Antonia stood up and told them to keep quiet; it was getting late, and everyone had a busy day tomorrow.
Ill show you to your tents. I need to speak to Monica, as well, Antonia said in a firm voice. She looked at Tori and her voice softened. Do you want to go back?
No, Im going to sit here a bit longer. Tori looked at Alexander, who had jumped down. Alexander, are you going to stay with ?
The cat seed to look from her to her mother before jumping back on the swing. Antonia chuckled. All right. I will leave two knights with you. Do not stay out too long.
Tori gave her a nod, appreciating the autonomy her mother gave her compared to the n in the family. Tori remained seated on her swing, relishing the warm breeze and the distant sound of waves. She stroked Alexander on her lap.
Tori, may I ask for another tent to be allocated tomorrow night?
She didnt look over her shoulder. She knew it was Piers. Who else needs a tent? Havent we covered everyone? Dont tell your father is coming.
No, he would not leave on such short notice, Piers said as he rounded the swing. He stood in front of her, blocking her view.
Tori pursed her lips. Are you going to report or are you going to sit?
Piers lowered his head. Sit. He steadied the basket swing and sat on the far end. The space between them was enough for Alexander to stretch out in.
Another tent isnt a problem, but itll be in the encampnt, not the resort tents. The resort tents are filled with guests.
Encampnt is acceptable.
Whos coming? Tori asked.
Chamberlain Thorpson.
Tori jerked her head back. Why is Chamberlain Thorpson coming? The man only moved for the Emperor, aning he was coming as ordered by the Emperor. Tori felt her stomach twist. Is sothing wrong?
No, Father is going to give you the islands you asked for.
What? Tori sat up straight and disturbed her cat. She quickly put her hands down to calm him as he looked up, annoyed. She turned back to Piers. Hes going to give islands?
Piers gave her a nod. He has been considering it since he ca to visit. Father is extrely impressed with your work here, and the related materials youve compiled on refugees, resettlent, and works citing you from various Universit papers. He wanted to reward you with NE12 and Anahata Island.
Tori began to shake as a wide smile reached her face. Youre not joking? Hes going to give them to ?
Yes. At sixteen, you are legally allowed to buy, sell, trade, inherit, and be presented with property from the imperial family. It is not unheard of to be gifted with property from the imperial family at this age if suitable achievent for the benefit of the empire has been made, Piers told her. Chamberlain Thorpson will make the announcent at tomorrows dinner.
Tori bit her lips to keep from screaming in excitent. Two islands and I dont have to spend any money!
He wants to encourage your work with crystal research with Master Ramos and Instructor Ignatius. It is beneficial to the empire. NE12 is more of a personal gift, he said. Piers had a slight smile on his face as he watched her nearly shake the swing in excitent.
I cant believe this. Its too good to be true. I thought that Id have to at least apply to purchase the islands. Especially Anahata Island. Tori gritted her teeth and clenched her hands to try to contain herself. She looked at Piers with a hint of worry. Are you sure its a gift? I dont have to pay?
That is what my father said.
Tori bead as she gathered her cat and hugged him. This is going to be such a great birthday!
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