Just because she was nice to people did not an she was seducing them. If Sebastian wanted to lecture soone on being careful with their words and actions, so as not to mislead another party, he shouldve lectured Piers. Tori had huffed that she was not seducing Piers, or anyone for that matter, but her brother just looked at her with concern, as if he knew sothing she didnt.
Thankfully, Andy was still there at the ti and she complained to him. Unfortunately, Andys response was Im sure she doesnt an to do it. Which only increased Sebastians worry.
They had a nice al on Anahata Island so Tori could show Andy so of her and Instructor Ignatius experints. Andy had been particularly interested in the carnelian hot plates and comnded their efforts. Tori wished he could stay longer; having Andy around was like having a third brother who wasnt as ridiculously biased in her favor, but his leave from the navy was up.
If he didnt go back, his sisters would hunt him down.
He had left at dawn the day after they arrived. Tori gave him a big hug, presenting him with a carved obsidian charm from her test batches.
Old Sulfae? Andy had asked as he held the smooth, rectangle shed enveloped in a leather case. It was half the size of her palm and Tori had seen it in Kings Harbor. Shed bought a bunch of pieces, cleared them, then carefully scraped the Old Sulfae on them. She had Master Ramos check when she charged it on Anahata Island.
Yes, its clarity in battle and I added awareness of surroundings, Tori had told Andy. Just keep it on your person and it should continuously gather energy to be used later. Let know if it works.
She, Sebastian, and Piers sent Andy off and they lingered on the loading island until the Ocean Queen was a speck on the horizon.
To Tori, Andys departure signaled the official end of her vacation. She dove back into working on her project and various Lions Gate concerns fullti, which included their anniversary event. After spending another day at the delta, Piers had to return to Horizon, much to Sebastians pleasure.
Sebastian then accompanied her around an inspection of the islands, stood to the side and watched as she had various etings with project leads, and attended the weekly village eting. Half of his ti was spent on Anahata Island, collaborating with Master Ramos as they completed the orders for the crystals to be installed around the island.
In between accompanying her and working on the island, Tori had arranged for him to go upriver to admire the scenery, paddle along the coasts to do birdwatching, and then go look for whales. She then interviewed him for an hour on what he thought of the nature-based activities.
After several days of getting back into the routine of the delta, Tori and her brother left for Horizon for the polo tournant. Sebastian had been calling people he knew in Horizon daily, asking if they had seats to the tournant, but he had no luck.
As of breakfast that morning, Sebastian had no tickets to the tournant.
Tori affixed her headband on her head as she sat in the parlor of their Aunts house, waiting for Piers to pick her up as Auntie Lucias house was on the way to the Imperial Stadium.
Are you sure you dont want to ask Piers if you can co with us? Tori asked. He said there are plenty of seats in the box. I dont think the Empress or Emperor will mind.
I know they wont mind. We are the children of the Empress best friend, Sebastian said. But Ive got plans.
Tori drew her head back as she watched her brother eat a piece of fruit while he leaned against the door fra to the parlor. What plans? I thought your plan was to go to the Imperial Stadium to watch the tournant.
He nodded. Yes.
She narrowed her eyes. Youre not going to try to sneak in, are you?
Sebastian lowered his hand and let out a scoff. Sneak in? What kind of person do you think I am?
Her suspicion doubled. Then...how are you going to watch the tournant?
Her brother wiggled his brows and smirked. Before Tori could ask, there was a knock at the door. The butler opened it and appeared at the doorway, beside Sebastian.
My lord, my lady, His Highness Prince Piers has arrived. He stepped back and bowed as another man entered the room.
Piers was dressed in a casual outfit; black pants, boots, and a cream-colored shirt with his sleeves rolled up just below his elbows. His hair was a bit ssy, and he gave Sebastian a small nod.
Master.
Sebastian looked him up and down and sneered. He turned towards Tori. Rember to have the knights around you at all tis.
Tori nodded as she rose to her feet in a pale yellow and white dress with matching wide-brimd hat. Are you sure you dont want to go with us, Sebby?
Unfortunately, I will be unable to co as sothing has co up. Sebastian casually stepped between them and took his sisters arm before Piers could even offer his. He led her outside, leaving Piers standing by the entrance to the parlor, looking at his empty arm. It shouldnt take long.
What about from the banquet tonight? Tori asked as they stepped outside. Sebastian snorted.
Of course, Ill be there. Soone has to make sure questionable individuals dont cling to you when they see you arrive.
Tori narrowed her eyes. Piers will be with .
I stand by my statent. They reached the carriage and he helped her step inside before moving back. Piers approached the door to the carriage and gave him another nod.
Master.
Rember that. Sebastian sent him one last glare of warning as Piers climbed inside. The footman closed the door and Tori waved out the window as the carriage moved forward.
Tori perched on the bench, watching her aunts house get smaller as her brother remained standing outside. She couldnt help but remain suspicious. Considering Sebastians behavior whenever Piers was involved, Tori didnt think that hed even let them be alone in a carriage together. But he did...and it unnerved her.
Are you all right? Piers voice drew her attention, and she lifted her head.
Tori nodded. Im just surprised Sebby didnt co with us. I was sure he would since he couldnt get tickets.
Master knows what he is doing.
She supposed he did.
They arrived at the Imperial Stadium where the three-day equestrian competition had been held, except that instead of being dropped off along the street, their carriage went through a gated alleyway and rounded the stadium to get around the back, near where the stables were. When the carriage stopped, they were right beside a thick wooden door with a half dozen imperial knights standing guard.
Tori didnt know why she was surprised; it made sense that the Emperor and his family had a private entrance. Just across from the entrance were the stables. However, she couldnt just wander over and bother people. She followed Piers into a brightly lit corridor and seed to go beneath the stands before they reached another door. Imperial knights also flanked it, and they opened the door, revealing a large stairwell with narrow, arched windows that overlooked the park.
Judging from the stonework, it was a more recent addition to the ancient building. Tori was certain they were at least on the zzanine level when they reached another door guarded with more knights that opened to a wide hall. There were knights standing around and a table with food and beverages, along with servers standing at ready.
Across the hall were two double doors and upon entering, the Emperor and Empress were already in the cushioned chaises just behind a window. The noises from outside were muffled and Tori saw two light blue crystal spheres in each corner of the box, already glowing.
Lady Tori! You ca! The Empress shot to her feet and quickly rounded her seat, where she was resting against her husband, and ca to greet her. Where is Sebastian? I thought he was coming, too.
Good afternoon, Your Majesties, Tori said, picking up the sides of her skirt to curtsy. Sebby was unable to make it. He said he had a prior engagent.
Oh, thats a sha. Well, well see him at the banquet. The Empress bead as she reached for Toris hands. Co and sit! Gideon is playing in the ga today, so its just us four. We can talk before the match starts.
Tori, do you want to see the horses? Piers lingered by the door. We have ti before the match starts.
Tori looked over her shoulders, her eyes wide. Can we do that? We wont get in the way? He shook his head. Tori looked back at the Empress and smiled. Your Majesty, if youll give a mont, Id like to go see the horses.
Take your ti! The Empress eyes seed to turn into pleased slits as she smiled widely. You two enjoy yourselves!
Tori headed back outside with Piers, and he led her back across the hall and to the private stairwell.
Do you want to ride a horse? he asked as they reached the door to the outside.
I do, but you know my family wont let ride alone after the accident. The knights opened the door for them and they stepped outside. Piers walked beside her, falling into her pace as they walked towards the long, wooden building just across a pathway.
He nodded. What if you had an instructor?
I suppose its fine as long as Im not trying to ride a horse by myself, Tori said. Knights were also guarding the entrance to the stables. Once they stepped inside, it was a flurry of movent as n and won in uniforms were rushing from place to place while grooms were preparing the horses.
Tori stopped two steps inside, hesitant to enter further. She didnt want to get in the way and cause an accident.
I can teach you. Tori turned around and looked up at Piers, who was standing just behind her. As soon as their eyes t, he diverted his. Im very good with horses.
Tori is not allowed alone on any horse. I thought Kasen made that clear.
Tori looked back towards the stables again and her eyes went wide. Sebby? She looked him up and down. He wasnt wearing the clothes shed last seen him in at their aunts just minutes earlier. He was now in olive riding pants with thick, leather guards on his shins and forearms. He had on a loose, white shirt with an olive collar and cuffs. He even had a black helt on, though it was unlatched. Tori drew her head back. Are you going to play?
Sebastian stood in front of her and crossed his arms over his chest. The two teams playing today are the central district, and the twelfth district, of which Armando is the captain of. One of the players had a family ergency last night in one of the villages north of here, so they needed another player on reserve, he told her. Armando knew I was in town and had been asking for tickets, so he offered this instead.
Tori couldnt help but be a bit aggrieved. Why didnt you tell ?
I wanted to surprise you when I win the match and dedicate it to you, Sebastian said, as if it were obvious.
Tori let out a heavy breath. Arent you only playing as a reserve, and only for one match? You cant dedicate it to .
Ill win the match and dedicate it to who I want. Whos going to stop ? Sebastian said, arrogantly. It wasnt worth arguing with him. Hed do whatever he wanted. Sebastian uncrossed his arms and his expression softened. The central districts team includes the second prince. Ill make him taste defeat today, Tori.
Her eyes grew large. Now that she thought about it, if Sebastian was playing in the ga, then shed have to cheer for him. He was her brother. Which ant, she could actively cheer against Gideon in the guise of rooting for her brother. It was petty, but she didnt want Gideon to win. At anything.
My brother is a very skilled player. He may surprise you. Piers spoke up once more and Tori gasped. She turned around with betrayal on her face before her eyes narrowed.
She stood up straight and looked at him with defiance. So is mine. Piers blinked and lowered his head, appearing taken aback by her defense.
Sebastian smirked and leaned forward as he put his arm around his sister. He gave Piers a goading look as he tilted his head and rested it atop Tori's. Since my little sister has so much faith in , I cant let her down, can I?
Sebastian! Lets go! Soone shouted. Oh, its our little Lady Guevera!
Hi, Armando! Good luck! Tori threw the designer a wave before her brother jogged over to et with the rest of the team.
Piers! She snapped her head to the side and saw a young man in a black helt wearing cream riding pants with a dark purple shirt with a white collar and hems. Gideon looked ecstatic to see his brother as he almost ran across the stables to et them. Piers, did you co to see ?
Tori was sure that if Gideon had a tail, it would be wagging madly.
No. Once more, Piers answer was to the point. Tori wanted to see the stables. Gideons face fell and Tori bit her lip to keep from smirking. Piers held out his arm and Tori automatically took hold of it. She thought they were going to simply walk away, but Piers gave his brother a nod. I will be watching you from the box.
Gideons face lit up. Piers might as well have told a puppy he was a good boy.
Ill make you proud, Piers! Ill win this for you!
Piers gave him another nod as he led her away. Tori kept her mouth shut, not wanting to bring up Gideons enthusiasm as they walked back to the stadium. When they reached the booth, the trumpets began to sound announcing the entrance of the players.
Tori took a plush, cushioned seat to the side and Piers sat down next to her. He lifted his hand and a servant rushed forward.
Fruit with sweet cream, chilled sweet wine, and puffed pastry balls.
Yes, Your Highness!
Tori was busy keeping an eye out for her brother until a small table was propped up between her and Piers. A tray of food and wine was placed on top of it.
Do you see Master? Piers asked as he stabbed a cut strawberry with a fork and dipped it into the thick dish of sweet cream.
Tori nodded. I see him! Hes on reserve, so hes in the back. I hope hell get a chance to play. Andy said hes really good.
Strawberry. Tori turned her head and saw the strawberry held out in front of her.
I can feed myself, she told him in a dull voice.
So, you can cheer on Master. The ga moves quickly, Piers said. He moved the fork closer. You love strawberries best.
She did, but his parents were right next to him, and she was sure the Empress was trying her hardest not to watch them. Do you see this, Sebby? Who is seducing whom? Who is seducing whom?
But she did love strawberries. Tori leaned forward, quickly snatched the strawberry in her mouth and turned her eyes to the pitch. The ga began and as Piers said, it did move quickly. From the distance they were in, it was a bit difficult for her to keep track of the ball.
If she didnt keep her eyes on it, shed lose it amongst the eight polo ponies and would need to figure out where it was. After missing two goals while picking up a cream puff, she gave up and let Piers feed her so she could keep her eyes on the pitch.
After the third chukker, Tori caught sight of soone familiar just a few rows below the booth. She gasped and leaned forward, wanting to call out, but the glass would only muffle her voice.
Is sothing the matter? The Empress asked as she looked over.
I see my brothers godson, Istvan, and his mother. Theyre the twelfth districts captains wife and son, Tori said with a bright smile. From what she could see, the baby was wearing a replica of his fathers uniform, along with a little black cap with ribbons on the side. He looked so cute, it almost physically pained her. Is there a way to go into the stands from here?
Yes, there is a door out in the hall that will let you enter the general seating walkway, the Empress said.
Piers, you stay here. Its loud outside. I wont be long, Tori told him as she patted his arm and stood up.
You must take knights with you. Pier stood up and he walked her out into the hall just outside their booth. After assigning two knights to her, he stood back as Tori and the knights slipped out. As soon as the door opened, yelling and cheering filled the room and Tori beca even more excited.
She wove through people standing and walking around in the general walkway in order to get to the stairs that would take her to where Csilla was. Before Tori could call out, Istvan turned in his mothers arms and reached out for her. Csilla looked down at her son and followed his eyes, her eyes widened.
Lady Tori!
Hello! Tori greeted them happily as she knelt down by the side of the walkway to stroke Istvans cap. I saw you from where I was seated and ca to say hello to this adorable little man.
Do you want to sit with us? I was supposed to be here with Cordelia, but her husband was a player who had a family ergency last night and they couldnt make it.
I heard from Sebby, Tori said as Csilla scooted over to make room. Istvan reached for her, and Tori happily accepted him on her lap. She lowered her head and kissed the side of his head. Did you miss auntie? Auntie missed you! The baby laughed as she gently bounced him on her knee as her arms secured around him.
She chatted with Csilla about the hairstyle she was thinking in between cheering for the twelfth districts team. Gideon scored a goal and Tori booed.
Its a close ga. The central district was last years tournant champion, Csilla said. They beat us by three points.
Well, not this year, Tori said, assured. New year. New match. She clapped Istvans hands in front of them as they watched. A gasp filled the crowd and Tori sucked in a sharp breath. Beside her, Csilla shot to her feet.
Armando!
Tori stood up to try to get a better look as a tiout was called. Armando was on a dark gray horse and was leaning forward, teeth clenched as he grabbed on to his left leg. The ball slamd into the side of his leg, displacing the shin guard. Several people rushed out into the pitch to check on him.
Overhead, from the blue crystals hanging above them, the announcers voice spoke up.
Captain St. John of the twelfth district is being escorted off the pitch with a leg injury.
Tori looked towards Csilla, whose hands flew to her mouth. Csilla, I can watch Istvan if you want to go down to check on Armando. I have knights with , well be fine.
Thank you! She briefly pointed out the bag that had so of Istvans things before rushing up the steps to get across the stadium. Tori rocked Istvan against her as he began to choke out a cry.
My lady. A knight bowed his head as he reached her. The Empress instructs you to bring the child to the box.
Tori hesitated, but it was an order. She nodded and the knight helped her collect the baby's things before she clutched the child against her shoulder and climbed up. When they got to the private hall, Piers was waiting.
Go to the twelfth districts team area and inform Captain St. John and his wife that their son is here with Lady Guevera. If one of them cos to collect the child, escort them in, Piers said. A knight bowed and turned on his heel to go deliver the ssage.
Inside the booth, the Empress and the Emperor were standing. Is everything all right? the Empress asked, worried.
Csilla went to check. I apologize for the trouble.
Its no trouble, the Emperor assured her. Have a seat. Tori nodded and returned to her seat with Istvan on her lap. He looked around his new surroundings, appearing either curious or confused.
Lady Tori, do you like children? the Empress asked as she looked over.
Yes, I- Piers sat down in his chair between the two and lifted up a strawberry to let the baby taste it. Piers....
He cant chew?
The announcers voice filled the room. Captain St. John will be replaced by reserve player, Lord Sebastian de Guevera.
Sebby! Tori sat up straight and scooted to the edge of her seat. She gave Istvan a little squeeze. Istvan, your godfather is going to play! Lets cheer him on! Istvans answer was nonsensical baby talk, but Tori pretended she understood him anyway.
She craned her neck as she caught sight of a new horse entering the ring with her brother riding. He took his position and as soon as the match comnced, he was off. Sebastian was agile on a horse, as if he were raised riding one. He balanced his body well and whenever he swung his mallet, he hit the ball.
It didnt take long for him to score a goal. Then another.
Tori had a gleeful look on her face, and she raised Istvans arms as he sat on her lap. Look at your godfather! Hell win this tournant easily!
She heard a sigh to her left and caught the Emperor shaking his head in disbelief. I forgot that Antonias eldest is a monster....
Hmm....I hate to admit it, dearest, but I dont think our team will win uncontested this ti, the Empress said with a sigh of her own. She reached over and gently patted her husbands knee.
Toris eyes sparkled as she looked towards the pitch with pride. Is there nothing my brother can do?
Get a girlfriend.
She shot Piers a glare. She lifted her hand and covered Istvans ear that was closest to Piers. She leaned down, towards his other ear, and whispered. Dont listen to his negativity, Istvan. Lets keep clapping so Sebby wins!
Together, the two of them cheered for her brother and openly booed the central district. They had just reached the halfway point and the start of a rest period when a knight knocked on the door. Csilla had co to collect Istvan and Tori got up.
My lady, Im afraid I cant co to do your hair tonight, the woman apologized as she took her son from Toris arms.
Tori shook her head. No, dont worry about it. How is Armando?
They are concerned there is a fracture. His leg is being bound right now and hes not allowed to walk, Csilla said with a pained look. Ive contacted our mothers for assistance while hes recovering.
Good, Tori said. Please tend to him and Istvan. I will be fine.
Im sorry, Lady Tori.
Its not a problem. Tori smiled and shook her head. She reached out and gently pinched Istvans plump, red baby cheek. Ill see you another ti. The baby gurgled and reached for her once more, only to be pulled away.
Two knights escort Madam St. John back, Piers said from the doorway. Csilla bowed her head and bent her knee as much as she could while holding a baby. A knight held the baby bag and walked behind her while another knight led the way.
Its nothing too serious, is it? the Empress asked. Once more, she was on her feet and had co to the door.
Tori shook her head. At most, it seems to be a fracture. He wont be able to walk or stand on his own while it heals, but their mothers will co to help. Unfortunately, Csilla wont be able to do my hair for tonight.
She couldve sworn the look on the Empress face turned predatory. Oh, my dear girl, dont worry yourself. She lifted a hand and pressed it against her chest. I will take care of everything!
A voice echoed in the room from the communication crystals. Another goal for the central district!
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