Tori resisted the urge to creep out of the classroom and call Piers to ask him what exactly he and Axton had told Gideon that caused the scene that morning. She was certain that where the conversation had ended when she left the night before wasnt enough to cause such a change in Gideon.
Guevera. Agafonova. Gideon greeted them with a small nod of his head as he looked over his shoulder.
Ilyana sat in place with disbelief and horror all over her face. She looked at Tori and Tori let out a low breath. She shrugged her shoulders. She picked up her pencil and wrote in the corner of her notebook.
He broke up with his best friend. Perhaps he is grieving?
Ilyana read the little note and slumped forward. She looked at Tori and seed to imagine being in Gideons position. Tori was her best friend, and from Ilyanas expression, the thought of such a breakup was devastating. Despite her usual distaste of the second prince, Ilyana looked at her bag of potato chips and pushed them towards him.
Good morning, Your Highness, she said in a strained voice. Would you like so potato chips? We sell them at the delta, and I brought so back yesterday.
Gideon sat up straight and looked over his shoulder once more. His eyes were wide, and he drew his head back, suspicious. Youre offering food?
Ilyana didnt et his eyes and simply shrugged her shoulders. If you dont want any, dont take them.
Tori could hear the hint of sympathy in her defensive voice. She lifted her hand and stroked Ilyanas back to soothe her. She turned her head to Gideon. If youre going to sit here from now on, lets make it clear. If you dont say or do anything hurtful to us, we wont say or do anything hurtful to you.
Peace offering, Ilyana said, noticing Toris words. She nudged the bag forward. You are His Highness Prince Piers brother, and he is very good to us.
Tori nodded in agreent and gave Ilyana a comforting stroke on the back. Our Ilyana is magnanimous.
Gideon looked at the peace offering on the edge of Ilyanas desk. He was quiet for a mont before he lifted his hand and reached for the bag.
Gideon! Fabians voice rang out and Gideon jerked his hand back. He snapped his head to the side as Fabian reached him and grabbed onto the edge of Gideons desk. A frantic look was on his face. What are you doing? You dont need to move seats!
Tori furrowed her brows. Since when did Fabian call Gideon by his na and not Your Highness? Did they call each other by their given nas when they werent in school or a formal occasion? Her brows rose slightly. Or was Fabian panicked at the sudden distance Gideon was putting between them?
I dont mind, Gideon replied with a wry smile. Its quiet back here and I can focus a bit more. My ranking has dropped from where it was when I entered. Agafonova and Guevera are ranked first and third, respectively. Maybe sitting here will help focus, as well.
Thats not why our ranking is so high, but sure, grasp at them straws. Tori wrinkled her face, but didnt speak out.
Fabian looked past Gideon and at Tori and Ilyana. The two of them quickly turned their heads away, as if they werent watching the two in front of them. Fabian scowled. He gritted his teeth and tried to calm himself before speaking again.
Gideon...I didnt an to disappoint you, Fabian said as he lowered his voice. I dont want any harm to co to you by staying at your side.
Gideon swallowed hard and nodded. I know. I understand. He lifted his arm and patted Fabians arm reassuringly. You are no longer my knight, but we are still friends. It is important to that the burden is lifted from your shoulders. This is all I can do for you. He offered Fabian a small, kind smile. My brother also has plans to release Axton from his duties. A duke cannot be a personal knight, but I have no doubt that they will remain close. Sotis, this is the fate of a prince and his knight. They dont all end up like my father and Chamberlain Thorpson.
Fabians eyes fell and his hands clenched. Tori didnt know what he expected to happen. He was the one who decided this was for the best and requested a dismissal. He took a step back, his head down and a regretful look on his face.
Gideon, dont be upset with Fabian, Alessa said from her desk several rows ahead. She wore a distressed look and held her hand over her heart. He cares about you. We all do.
Gideon gave her a small smile and then reached back to take a potato chip from Ilyanas bag. He put it into his mouth and crunched into it. Tori almost thought it was an act of defiance.
Potato - one. Alessa and Fabian - zero.
Gideons eyes widened and looked at the remnants of sea salt and chip crumbs on his fingers.
Is this new? he asked as he looked towards Tori. What is this?
Potato chips, Tori said with a wave of her hand. Just a little sothing weve developed in the delta. She paused and glanced at him. Are you going to Axtons birthday? Gideon thought for a mont and then nodded. Tori wasnt sure if Axton invited him, but knowing Axton and the situation the night before, he had probably extended an invitation to Gideon. Then you can have more; weve gifted Axton so newly harvested vegetables from Cosora for his birthday. He also likes these.
Axton had been introduced to hash browns for breakfast by Ewan. When he had learned that an entire al of potatoes had been prepared for Ilyanas birthday, he had bothered Tori for potatoes for his birthday, too. Ilyana had generously allocated so of the potatoes from the test farm that she personally funded with gift money from her parents for the sake of having access to her new favorite food.
Gideon nodded and took one more potato chip, giving Ilyana a nod. Thank you.
Ilyana lifted her head and gave him a small, civil nod in return. Youre welco, Your Highness.
Gideon looked back at Fabian and then at Alessa and smiled once more. Dont worry yourselves. Fabian made a choice that I respect. Alessa, Im not upset at or blaming anyone.
Actions speak louder than words, Dimitri said as he passed by. He didnt look at them as he walked down the steps to get to his seat behind Alessa. His was just loud enough for them to hear.
Yes, you would know, wouldnt you? Her mocking words left Toris lips before she could stop herself. Dimitri stopped at once, just beside his desk. He snapped his head around, frowning as he t her smug face.
Do you have sothing to say to , Lady Guevera?
Ive already said so many things to you, Guthry, Tori said, sounding exhausted. No need to repeat myself if youre unwilling to listen.
He grit his teeth and put his bag on the top of his desk. He looked at Gideon. You should choose your company more carefully, Your Highness. You dont want to be influenced by questionable individuals.
Ilyana lifted her hand to her mouth and barely held back a snort. She shook her head and Tori crossed her arms over her chest.
I would say the sa to you, Guthry. Id hate to see you face more corruption charges. Your parents are good people. They really dont deserve it.
His face heated up as it twisted with humiliation and resentnt. Alessa gasped and looked towards Dimitri with worry. Ilyana still had her hand over her mouth, covering her smirk, and Gideon looked taken aback that shed said such a thing aloud. Everyone knew what was happening with the Guthrys, and there were whispers about it amongst the students, but most tried to avoid speaking about it in front of Dimitri.
Dimitri seed to struggle to contain himself, but he couldnt stop his face from reddening with fury. More students had arrived in the tense room, and no one spoke as they crept to their desks. Just as Dimitri appeared to give in and want to yell at Tori, Instructor Rosemund arrived to begin class. Dimitri had no choice but to smother his words and take his seat.
Fabian also returned to his seat, unable to look back at Gideon.
The rest of the class continued as usual. She didnt have any further contact with Gideon, as he seed to simply focus on schoolwork. During the breaks, hed review his Lyce project notes. His lunch was a familiar wrapped sandwich that he had brought with him. Piers and Axton mustve taken him to Cafe Fortuna for breakfast before they brought him to Lyce.
Fabian had looked back nurous tis, but didnt seem to dare get up and approach Gideon. Alessa approached Fabian and chatted with him. She also looked back at Gideon with so trepidation.
Once class was over, Tori and Ilyana packed their things and split up to their respective electives class. Everything was normal and Tori dropped her guard.
At least until Fabian entered the dance class. Tori felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise as she loosened her muscles in preparation for the class. She could feel him looking at her all through the stretches and the intense look burning into her back didnt leave when they were in the smaller adjacent room so she could practice.
The door to the room closed and Fabian grabbed her arm. He pulled her back against the wooden door and stood in front of her with a heated look. His hands went on either side of her head to keep her place.
If you hurt him, he said in a low voice. I will never forgive you.
For a mont, Tori was surprised. Piers and Axton were right: Fabian likely didnt ask for dismissal in an act of malice, but because he didnt want to risk hurting Gideon with his negligence. It really was a bit admirable.
Her chin rose. She lifted her hand and pushed one of his arms away. She turned her head to the side and took a step from him.
Aside from our argunts, when have I hurt him when he did not try to hurt first? Tori asked with a raised brow. Dont worry, von Dorn. The second prince has nothing to fear from . Besides, hes not my responsibility. At least not in the sa sense as he was yours. Im not going to go out of my way to protect him, but Im not going to cause trouble, either.
She brushed Fabian off and proceeded with her practice. He continued to scowl. Tori readied herself for any aggression or snide remarks from Fabian, but he was more disciplined than she gave him credit for. At least when Gideon was involved. She didnt know where that discipline was when he was harassing Ewan.
The rest of the week flew by. Gideon continued to sit in front of her in their horoom and Fabians words to her were limited to dance in elective.
Its really not as bad as I thought, Tori said as she walked with Ilyana to et with the others at Cafe Fortuna to pick up their road trip snacks. Every now and then, he ntions the second princes habits. I think Axton and Piers were right; him asking for dismissal may have been done in the best interest of the second prince.
Ilyana nodded. I suppose even the worst of people have good points. Tori nodded.
They crossed the central courtyard and heard a voice calling out for Tori. They both turned their heads and saw Mr. Legaspi, the headmasters assistant, calling for them.
Tori and Ilyana exchanged looks. They both nodded and headed towards the administration building.
Good afternoon, Mr. Legaspi, they greeted.
Good afternoon, Miss Guevera and Miss Agafonova. Im glad I was able to catch you before you left.
Tori knit her brows and tilted her head to the side. Can you help you with sothing, Mr. Legaspi?
Miss Guevera. Mr. Legaspi handed her an envelope and bowed his head. You have been summoned.
Tori accepted the envelope and felt her stomach drop. It bore the seal of the Emperor. She took out the card with a simple note requesting to see her imdiately, alone.
Oh...this cant be good....
A carriage is waiting for you, my lady. Mr. Legaspi motioned towards the gate. It wasnt rare to see an imperial carriage outside, but Tori had assud it was for Gideon. She took a deep breath and looked at Ilyana.
You go to the cafe first. I dont know how long this will take, but I should be out before we leave. Ill et you back here, Tori told her. Ilyana nodded.
When they walked out the gates, Tori asked one of the imperial knights, who had co to escort her, to instead escort Ilyana to Cafe Fortuna before climbing into the carriage. She played with the idea of calling Piers, but the Emperors note said alone, aning this was a confidential eting. She leaned back against the carriage as it moved forward.
It didnt take long to get to the imperial palace. Chamberlain Thorpson was waiting to escort her to the Emperors study.
Youre not being summoned for sothing you did wrong. Its nothing troubling, Countess, he said with a slight chuckle upon seeing her despondent expression.
Tori raised a brow. Oh? When have you had a private eting with the Emperor that didnt trouble you, Chamberlain?
She dared ask only because this man, for his honorable rank, was terrified of her mother, and she was annoyed. The Chamberlain flinched.
The Countess is humorous.
Tori took a deep breath and followed him. The Chamberlain brought her to the Emperors study and let her in before stepping out.
Good afternoon, Your Majesty, Tori said as she stopped in front of his desk and grasped the sides of her uniform skirt to curtsy.
The silver-haired man on the other side of the desk lifted his hand to remove his thin-rimd glasses and gave her a nod.
Rise, Countess Guevera. Tori heeded his order and straightened up. She clasped her hands gently in front of her and waited. I apologize for the sudden summoning. I am aware that you are to leave for Axtons birthday celebration at Millers Row this evening and this eting will hinder your preparations. However, I had a rather urgent matter to discuss with you.
Tori kept her back straight, but gave him a small, understanding nod. There is no inconvenience, Your Majesty. All our travel preparations are already in place. I do not need to be present until tomorrow afternoon to assist with the al preparation.
The corner of the Emperors eye twitched. Yes, I heard you were going to make a cream puff tower for Axtons birthday. My wife is quite envious.
I see, Your Majesty. Tori tilted her head to the side slightly. Does the Emperor wish to request a cream puff tower for the Empress?
He shook his head a bit. That is not the purpose of your summons, Countess Guevera. His eyes narrowed. However, if that is an offer-
It is not. Tori grimaced at her quick response. It was an inquiry, Your Majesty. How can I be of assistance to Your Majesty? The Emperor looked at her with a hint of disappointnt.
He took a deep breath. As you are close to both my eldest and Axton, you must already be aware of Fabian von Dorns request for dismissal.
Tori gave him a single nod. Yes, Your Majesty.
You are aware that I had given him a week to rethink his decision.
Yes, Your Majesty.
The Emperor nodded, satisfied that she was aware of the situation. He is to make his final decision the day after tomorrow. While it is not yet certain, we must be prepared to deal with the aftermath. If Sir von Dorn wishes to remain as Gideons personal knight, I will allow him to. If he insists on a dismissal, then Sir von Dorn will imdiately be separated from Gideon.
He will be moved from the palace to a property in the First District temporarily. From there, he will have another month to get his arrangents in order. Arrangents to move him to a different dorm are in place, should they need to be done. He will be moved to a different dorm room on the first day of next week.
Tori nodded once more. None of this had anything to do with her, but as the Emperor was making a point to tell her, he mustve had so reason. While she didnt know what that reason was, she felt a sense of dread rising.
It was a surprise to hear about this, Tori said, trying to fill in the silence.
Indeed. We always were optimistic for Sir von Dorn. The Emperor frowned and tapped his finger on the desk absentmindedly. Piers has already requested that additional knights be assigned to escort Gideon. This is an acceptable arrangent. Unfortunately, those knights do not attend Lyce.
Toris eye twitched. That is unfortunate. I dont like where this is going.
It is. The Emperors violet eyes t her blue ones. While Sir von Dorn has requested dismissal, I believe he will continue to watch over Gideon. Sir von Dorns ti in Lyce is limited. Unless he can pay for his own tuition next year or manages to rank high enough for a scholarship, he will be unable to attend next year.
When the first prince attended Lyce and Duke Alvere transferred to La Garda his third and fourth year, what asures were made to ensure the first princes safety? Tori asked, trying to remain as formal and detached as possible.
The Emperor narrowed his eyes a bit. He seed to be trying to read her mind. Additional escort knights were added outside of Lyce. Piers was peculiar in that he ca ho often. The amount of ti he spent in Lyce was limited. In addition, Piers is also a skilled swordsman. Gideon has...limited ability.
In other words, Piers situation allowed him to be carefully protected outside of Lyce and when he was in Lyce, he could protect himself well enough. Gideon was much more social and lacked Piers swordsmanship. His project was within Horizon, and he would go to the site often. Piers project had been in Sur, and he was with Kasen and a hoard of Guevera knights.
Tori took a deep breath. She didnt want to stand there guessing any longer. She just wanted to get it over with. Why did you summon , Your Majesty?
Until Gideon graduates Lyce, I would like to request that Countess Guevera watch him as an acting guard within the school grounds.
If she had scread the no that echoed in her head at that ti, she was sure the Empress, who was in her study two wings away, wouldve heard her. Tori struggled to keep her face stoic as she faced the Emperor.
This damn old man! Havent you already thrown the delta at to take care of? Now you want to babysit your shitty second son? Do you know how much beef we have? Does it look like I have the ti or patience or want to do that? Fuck you, old man! Im telling Piers!
Tori swallowed hard as she tried to unclench her jaw. Have you discussed this with Prince Piers?
Why would I discuss the matter of Gideons safety with Piers?
Tori ntally cursed him again. They both knew if he spoke to Piers about her acting as a guard for Gideon, Piers would resolutely forbid it.
I accompany Piers often and he will be the first to tell you that I am currently lacking in ti, as I have many responsibilities, Tori said, as calm as she could. With my attention focused on so many different projects and events at once, Im afraid I cannot devote enough of it to the second prince. I would be no better than Sir von Dorn.
The Emperor raised a brow. Are you rejecting my order, Countess Guevera?
I am rationalizing it, Your Majesty. And this is not an order; it is a request. You would not force soone to guard your sons life; a knight who is unwilling should not be a knight. But that didnt an the silver-haired jerk couldnt put pressure on her. I am rejecting your request as I believe I am incapable.
I, as the Emperor, believe you are capable.
Thank you for your confidence, Your Majesty, but I am not.
You are skilled in the sword and have proficient ability with the dagger. You can analyze situations quickly, and act and adapt to plans, especially security detailing and protocol. In addition, Ive been told that you have so skill in charms. Not to ntion that you are the pupil of our premier crystal master, Master Jorge Ramos. In these aspects, you surpass Sir von Dorns skills.
A bitter taste filled her mouth. All her hard work was recognized, but for what? For Gideon.
I hate this world.
Im not asking you to do this without paynt, Countess, the Emperor told her. You will be remunerated for your work.
Tori shook her head once. Your Majesty, I am in no need of-
I heard you purchased my grandmothers forr palace.
Fuuuuccckkkk. I have, Your Majesty. Rest assured, we are cautious to preserve the majesty of the palace. Ive instructed the guilds to be careful with any renovations and to contact several professors at Universit for assistance in the preservation of the buildings fine details.
No doubt it is very expensive.
Not really.
The Emperor smirked a bit. What do you want, Countess Guevera?
Tori drew her head back. I dont want anything, Your Majesty. I do not feel I am able to accept this request. I am insufficient.
I only ask that you guard my second son when you can, while he is on Lyce grounds. Only when he is on Lyce grounds. Once he steps outside of the grounds, his escort knights will be responsible, the Emperor told her seriously. Tori was still hesitant, and he thought for a mont. I sought you out because you are a Guevera.
Oh, co on. Pulling in my family? You dick old man. So, I am. Countess Guevera. I have a county I am responsible for running. By myself. At sixteen. While still in school, straddled with a three and half-year-long project, and trying to keep my businesses afloat.
I understand that you have many responsibilities, Countess Guevera, the Emperor said as he rose to his feet. He stood across from her and t her eyes once more. But in that school, of those students, you are the only one I can entrust my son to. This is not a conclusion I ca to easily. If Sir von Dorn resigns, I cannot depend on him, regardless of any lingering loyalties he may have. Even now, I am a bit concerned. However, I trust you.
You really shouldnt. I am humbled, Your Majesty.
I am very much aware of the amount of responsibility on your shoulders. And I admit that a good portion of that is due to my giving you a peerage. But this is my sons safety, and I can only humble myself to ask you.
Tori took a deep breath. I have never thought of myself as a knight, nor have I ever trained as such. I am severely lacking in experience and training. You cannot entrust your son to , Your Majesty.
I have already entrusted my eldest to you, Countess Guevera. Piers trusts you with his life, the Emperor told her with a firm look. We would trust you with Gideons. If you accept this request of mine, I am confident that you will not betray your duty. Na your price, Countess.
She narrowed her eyes. If I asked you to repeal my title and land? Give back my freedom, you silver-haired bastard.
The Emperors breath hitched, and he hesitated, as she thought he would. He stood stiffly on the other side of the desk. She watched his eyes glance towards a bookshelf on his right. Amongst several books and decorations was a crystal obelisk the size of her arm. If she wasnt mistaken, due to its violet color, it shouldve been blue zoisite.
He slowly moved his gaze back to her.
If you accept, I will arrange for the Cosora Delta to be made a temporary stewardship in your hands for a year and to be handed back on your next birthday. You may keep your title as a prestige title, and it cannot be inherited.
Tori raised a brow. This was unexpected. The Emperor was willing to play ball for his jerk son. He was desperate. Luckily for him, she had already co too far in settling her county and was mad with power.
But that didnt an she wouldnt make him pay so other way.
Toris lips pulled into a smile. She motioned for the Emperor to take a seat as she stepped forward. I have a few hours until we are set to leave for Millers Row, Your Majesty. May I have a mont of your ti to discuss what is expected, what can be done, and my possible remuneration?
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