Tori Transmigrated Chapter 144: Destabilizing the Opposition Was an Important

Her weekend went well. Too well.

Lions Gates autumn and winter release party went smoothly. The guests had been excited about the new products and designs. Tori had been able to share so more information on Viclya for the coming months, as many guests invited to the release party had also visited the delta at least one during the sumr.

The deltas tourist season was ending, and Tori had to explain that the reason was mainly weather conditions. The late autumn and winter weather conditions along the coast werent ideal for tourists to stroll around in, so Tori and the village council decided it was best to close the shops catering to tourists and turn their focus on to developnt.

However, they were planning to start the tourist season at the next Spring Festival. Reservations for resort tents and dining would be available a month before, at Henriks travel agency, Lions Gate Travel, in the Fifth District. Notices would also be posted at all the Lions Gate stores, including Duel.

Ilyana had taken on most of the hostess duties for the release party. Henrik focused mainly on coordination and branding. The two had tried their best to relieve Tori of the burden of hosting the event as much as possible and she was grateful for their hard work.

After Tori had done a final inspection of the showroom floor and upper level, she went outside to formally greet the guests, and then lingered around chatting with them as they waited. Tori had occasionally checked on their other friends, who had co to support them and get free drinks from Cafe Lumiere, and Piers and Axton, who unofficially hosted guests in discussions on recent changes in the Chamber.

Tori had sat for a few minutes with them to gain so insight, as she was still planning to attend the joint Chamber sessions co the new year.

The only thing out of the ordinary, at least it shouldve been, was that Nanny Rey found that at least a half dozen people were watching Lions Gate. Shed observed each individual and found that they didnt seem to have weapons, but were rely watching the release party intensely.

Tori wasnt sure if they were trying to steal designs or ideas or simply keep track of her whereabouts. She supposed she was relatively high profile in Horizon at this point, so it wasnt strange to have people watch her movents, but she still wanted to know who was watching.

Nanny Rey had disabled each individual watching, except one and then followed that person to their handler. Nanny Rey had returned in the evening to join them for dinner at the Three Queens and reported.

He went into an alley and entered the back door of the Thorn and Rose in the fourth district.

Tori had taken a deep breath and leaned back against her chair when she heard this. So, we were watched by Nicole Neil.

It wasnt a secret that she had a hand in Axtons inns renovations; however, the exact details of her involvent were purposely kept vague. She and Axton had made it common knowledge to the construction workers and renovators that she helped with the interior designs and suggested the new additions.

They didnt advertise her work in the in-room comcrys.

As far as they both knew, such a thing was the first in its kind, and the convenience it made for guests added a lot of value to the inn. Tori and Instructor Ignatius had developed them specifically for Lunar Inn. Preparing the exact Old Sulfae to use to program the crystals was complicated and not easily replicated.

If soone wanted that technology, theyd need to either figure out the Old Sulfae themselves and design the programming system from scratch, or go directly to Tori. The combination of charms and crystals was a lost art. Tori would be their best resource.

If they knew Tori wasthe resource. This was kept hidden so as not to trouble her. She already had so much to do, she didnt want to deal with trying to sell her crystal technology yet. Her goal was to make sure it was installed and commonplace in all of Axtons properties and hers before going public.

By then, the programming, installation, and use should be much smoother, and theyd have less troubleshooting to deal with.

Regardless of the confidentiality, it was possible that soone theorized she was involved. She had expected that eventually, either Rosiek or Neil would co find her to get more information. She didnt expect that shed be under their surveillance so soon.

As of Lions Gates release party, the renovated Lunar Inns had only been reopened to the public for six days. This ant that soone had been watching the renovation and booked a room to study the changes as soon as it reopened.

Part of Tori had been a bit excited. To be watched so soon ant that the rival party couldnt sit still and felt threatened by her work, which is what she wanted. Destabilizing the opposition was an important part of any battle.

And Nanny Rey had done her part to ensure that Neil, and possibly Rosiek, knew that Tori knew she was being watched, as five of the six people watching her were incapacitated and could not report back as expected.

This all brought Tori so glee, but life couldnt always go smoothly.

As soon as Tori entered the horoom class the next school day, Fabian was waiting by her desk, agitated and with a dark expression on his face. His hair was a bit tousled and there were noticeable bags under his eyes. She didnt know how long hed been waiting there, but she wondered how long hed regretted the breakup once he found out she was Gideons new guard.

Guevera, you tricked !

I expected many things, but this was not one of them. Tori didnt shy away despite his murderous look and put her things on her desk. How did I trick you, von Dorn?

It was the first day of a long school week and she was too lazy to verbally spar with him.

He slamd his hand on her desk and glowered, leaning in towards her. Tori was about almost a head shorter than him, but as she was used to being towered over, she didnt shrink back. After all, what could von Dorn do to her? She wasnt afraid to get hit and wasnt worried that hed get away with doing so.

You told that I should rethink my position as Gideons personal knight to make give up my position!

Toris neutral face didnt falter. I told you to rethink your position so you could reaffirm your focus on it, not so youd quit. That was all your doing, von Dorn. I didnt make you quit.

Hearing her say it only seed to infuriate him further. His face reddened as he scowled. I wouldnt have quit if I had known youd replace !

Tori tried not to look too exasperated. She jutted out her hip and crossed her arms over her chest. Im not replacing you, as Im only an on-campus guard, not a personal knight. And even if I were to replace you as a personal knight, it was not my decision. I was given the position by the Emperor. I didnt volunteer for it. I didnt even consider that Prince Gideon would have a guard assigned while on Lyce grounds.

Fabian sneered and shook his head. I find it hard to believe that you didnt know.

Well, whether you believe it or not, a fact is a fact. If you want confirmation, you can request an audience with the Emperor to confirm that I was assigned the position. Tori narrowed her eyes. And while I may feel unqualified to be a personal knight, I am not helpless. She smirked. At least I can stop him from being hit in the face.

You-

Fabian, what are you doing? Gideons voice spoke up behind them. He paused as he ca down the stairs to get to his desk in front of Toris. His brows were furrowed as he looked at Fabian, confused. Is sothing wrong?

Fabian grit his teeth. I didnt know that she would be assigned as your guard.

I didnt either, Gideon said. His movents had slowed, and he stood beside his desk, looking from Fabian to Tori and back. Father made the decision.

Are you all right with this? Fabian snapped his head towards Gideon and Gideon jerked his head back with so surprise. He blinked and lowered his gaze, contemplating for a mont before nodding.

Aside from Father, my brother and Axton also discussed her appointnt with . Gideon lifted his head and t Fabians eyes. So far, Guevara has been diligent in doing what is expected of her and the escort knights are satisfied with the arrangent.

Tori nodded, satisfied with his answer even though he didnt outrightly say that he was all right with the situation. Im his guard only when he is on campus. When he is outside of Lyce, the escort knights take responsibility for his safety.

Fabian was still scowling. Gideon lifted a hand and put it on his shoulder.

She is a Guevera and has the trust of my family, Gideon said, trying to placate his forr knight. No matter our personal grudges, she has a duty.

Fabian didnt stop glaring at Tori even as Ilyana arrived with their breakfast pastries in hand. Ilyana slowed down as she reached her seat beside Tori and put the pastries on the desk first. She looked at the three of them, noting the tension, and seed hesitant to speak.

Von Dorn, no matter how much I dislike Prince Gideon, it is not enough for to betray the imperial family and be lax in my responsibilities, Tori said. She caught Gideon giving her a stunned expression at the word dislike. Also keep in mind that Piers is very close to , and Prince Gideon is his younger brother whom he cares about. If not for the duties placed upon , I would still protect Prince Gideon as an extension of Piers. If you are concerned that I will not do my job properly, you are welcod to continue guarding him whilst in Lyce. I will not stop you as long as your actions do not harm him.

Why would I harm him!? Fabian nearly snarled at her and Ilyana gasped, lifting her hand to her chest before looking at Tori with worry.

Tori didnt flinch. I dont know, von Dorn. What reason would you have to harm him? Her deadpan tone seed to make Fabian grind his teeth together. He lowered his shoulders and took a heaving breath.

As long as I am in Lyce, I will also keep guard over Gideon.

Fabian, you dont have to-

I need to, Fabian said, turning to Gideon with a sour expression. I know I gave up my position, but that doesnt an I want to leave you unprotected. If I can, even if it is in a minor capacity, I will ensure your safety where I can.

Gideons eyes reddened and he nodded. He squeezed Fabians shoulders in acknowledgent. Thank you, Fabian.

Additional eyes and hands are always welcod, Tori said. However, you cannot lead him away without notifying first and you must report the company he will be with. Even if he trusts you, we should be cautious of other parties.

Fabian frowned deeper as he gave her another glare. What do you think Ill do to him, Guevera? Ive known Gideon longer than you. Ive been his knight since we were children! What do you think Id do to harm him?

Maybe you wouldnt do anything, Tori replied with a shrug. Maybe you would just stand there and do nothing. In so circumstances, no reaction is worse.

A look of confusion crossed Gideons face. Fabians hands clenched at his sides.

Whats going on? Fabian, why are you so upset? Alessa seed to appear out of nowhere. Her pale hand grasped onto Fabians sleeve and gave him a small pull back.

Tori raised a brow. Alessas entrance was quite convenient.

There was a bit of an organizational change and Mr. von Dorn has so reservations about it, Tori said as she took her seat. We were just confirming the changes.

Alessa looked confused and turned to Fabian, as if asking him to confirm Toris words. Fabian took another deep breath and nodded. He gave Alessa a gentle smile.

I was just telling Guevera that I will continue to support Gideon, he said, his voice calr than earlier. Hes still my friend, after all.

Alessas face blood. She looked towards Gideon with a warm smile. Fabian has been very worried about you. He doesnt seem to know what to do with himself when youre not with him.

Tori tilted her head to the side and narrowed her eyes. Does von Dorn spend a lot of ti with you?

Fabian seed to be suspicious of her sudden interest and gently moved Alessa to the side with one arm. He t Toris curious look with defense. Who I spend my ti with is none of your concern.

Tori lifted her hands, her palms facing him to ward him off. Its not, so long as Prince Gideon is not with you. If he is, then Im afraid it is my concern.

Gideon looked towards Fabian with so distress. Are you no longer going to the Sword Association?

Fabian lowered his head and shook it. I am no longer a knight. I dont see the purpose of continuing practice.

Gideon frowned at once. Fabian, even if youre not a personal knight, you can still join the imperial knights as a future career path. Youre one of the best swordsn in this school; you cant give it up!

Fabian gave him a sad smile. I have started to think that perhaps I am not ant to be a knight at all.

Gideons eyes crinkled up and he shook his head in dismay. But youve spent so long training....

There are other options available outside of being a knight that can make use of my sword ability, Fabian said.

Alessa nodded. There are escort guards that are often hired for trade route caravans, guards for stores, and even personal guards. My friend hires many guards for his company, either for his rchandise or when he travels. Ive seen Fabian with a sword. Hes very skilled. Im hoping to introduce them in a few days.

A wry smile crossed Fabians face. While this years tuition has been paid and I have so money saved up from being a personal knight, it will be exhausted once I pay for next years tuition.

Tori furrowed her brows. Personal knights were paid a suitable amount if she used Axtons pay as asurent.

It must be difficult with your grandfathers expenses, Gideon said as he lowered his eyes. She wasnt sure if he was guilty or sympathetic.

Fabian nodded once. The old manor is still in need of repairs. I told him I wanted to go back after this year, but he insisted that I finish my education at Lyce.

A Lyce education will give you opportunities, Gideon said. I agree with your grandfather. Will you go stay with him during breaks?

Fabian shook his head. He looked at Alessa with a fond smile. I am hoping to be hired as a guard during breaks. The additional inco would be good to have.

Toris eyes crinkled up. Oh, this cant be good.

Alessa bead. I am certain you will be hired, Fabian. Dont worry about it! I will talk to Adrien if I need to.

Gideon didnt seem to know how to respond, but nodded. If there is anything I can do, if you need a recomndation or anything of the sort, dont hesitate to tell .

Fabian nodded. Thank you, Gideon.

Tori picked up one of the wrapped pastries that Ilyana had set on their desks and unwrapped it. If were all settled here, everyone should return to their seats. Its awkward to eat when people are standing next to you, staring. She bit into her croissant and looked up at the two love interests and Alessa, bored.

Fabian glared at her once more before leading Alessa away by the elbow. Gideon let out a heavy sigh and watched them move to their seats at the front of the class.

Tori swallowed her piece of croissant. If you want to return to your old seat, Im not going to stop you. What is important is that I know where to find you if needed.

Gideon stared at his friend and Alessa a mont longer. He lowered his head and turned around. He took his seat in front Tori.

No, if I sit there, Alessa will try to speak to , and I dont want to continue being rude to her. Guthry is also nearby, and it seems hes seen as unpleasant as of late. Gideon said the last sentence with a hint of bitterness.

Tori looked at Ilyana, who pursed her lips. She looked down at the breakfast pastries still on their desks. Your Highness, I brought several pastries this morning. If youd like one, please help yourself. Mr. Tobias dropped them off this morning from Cafe Fortuna.

Gideon sat up straight. He turned his head to look at him with surprise on his face. His eyes moved to the several pastries wrapped in paper.

Is this another peace offering?

Tori is taking care of you, and I support Tori, Ilyana said as she lifted her chin, proud.

Tori smiled a bit and patted Ilyanas head. If you cant find or get a hold of , go to Ilyana or the others; they may be able to find first. She paused and furrowed her brows. Except for Sonia. Dont ask Sonia for help.

Gideon picked up one of the pastries and paused in the middle of unwrapping it. Is she too busy?

No, Ilyana said as she bit into a puff pastry with cream. She just doesnt like you.