Tori Transmigrated

Chapter 170: Die, Pinecones!

You are studying very well, but you dont have to push yourself. Youre only eight. There is plenty of time for you to become more than proficient with charms and energy. If you have any questions, ask. There is no shame in struggling or not understanding the first time, Kasen said as they stood beneath the shade of the tree, beside the Sword Associations outdoor kitchen.

Robert was picking up charms almost alarmingly quick. Kasen had also discovered he was sensitive to energies and wanted to encourage, but at the same time not overwhelm or put too much pressure on his son. Tori knew Robert studied a lot on his own and while the nuns had been impressed, Tori couldnt help but be worried that he was pushing himself because of the family he had been adopted into and the weight the Guevera name carried.

If Robert was some sort of charms fanatic, it was different than having an obsession to become a master because he felt it was expected of him. Kasen was particularly worried. Robert and Fiona had been adopted a few months earlier and he wanted his new children to be at ease.

Several paces away, Fiona was dressed in the smallest gambeson and helmet they had and was getting pointers for Sebastian in preparation for her first time trying the pinecone challenge. Lyce was starting to close and all around them, students were cleaning up, but everyone was happy to let Fiona try the pinecone challenge before they left for the day.

Of course, it was modified a bit and the students tossing were kneeling or seated on the dirt so the pinecones would be within her hit zone.

I like studying charms, Dad. Its interesting, Robert said. Tori glanced over from where she was cleaning up the kitchen. She could see some longing in Roberts eyes as he looked at his little sister, and she could only guess that he thought that if he could walk, he could also use a sword.

Kasen seemed to understand this as well. You dont need to use a sword as part of a marquis family, Robi. Our martial arts are important, but ones mind is even more important. And even as my son, youre not required to dedicate yourself to the family. Not all our relatives do work for the march.

Robert's little brows furrowed. I want to. Im a Guevera now. You picked me.

Kasens lips tugged into a slight smile. You picked me. It is my honor to be your father.

We are lucky.... Robert said in a quiet voice.

Kasen touched Roberts head once more. I am luckier. Robert leaned his head into Kasens hand. Tori could see that he was so proud to be Kasens son.

Robi, for us born into marches, listening to our intuition is a matter of survival, Idunn said from where she was seated on the ground next to Roberts wheelchair. When something inside us tells us to listen, we listen. When your father called Presidio about adopting, this is the feeling he cited. This means that Kasen knew you were to be his son and daughter.

Regardless of the circumstances, you were probably meant to be a Guevera, Tori said as she lifted a wooden crate of clean utensils and plates and slid them beneath the makeshift counter. And when youre a bit more stable and are able to use a prosthetic, you can still learn some weapons, though dont ignore how useful charms and crystals can be.

Robert looked at his legs. One shin was missing, and his pant leg was neatly sewed beneath the knee. When can I get a prosthetic?

It is a delicate process and I want to make sure your leg is healed enough to support one. It wont be long. Ive already scheduled medical craftsmen in Presidio to look at your leg, Kasen told him.

Roberts face lit up. Really? When I go to Presidio?

Kasen gave him a nod. It will be fitted and as you grow, it will be replaced with a better fitting one. When you are comfortable with it, we can teach you some basic weaponry and arts. I think you may be more suitable for a dagger, like your Auntie Tori.

Its easier to defend from a seated position than a sword, too. Its very flexible. Its so much easier to stab if someone is close enough, Tori replied. It is also much more convenient to hide against you and keep under your pillow or near your bed.

She saw Gideon giving her a strange look.

Kasen, shes ready! Sebastian said as he jogged up. Idunn rose to her feet as Kasen pushed Robert towards the ring. In the center, an incredibly determined little girl was holding a large dagger in place of an actual sword.

Daddy, are you watching? Fiona shouted.

Daddys watching, Fifi!

All right! Ready! Captain Kowalski started. Go!

To the students and adults, the pinecones were thrown much more gently than normal, but to Fiona, who was swinging and growling like she were personally fighting each one to the death, they likely seemed faster.

Shes so cute, Ilyana said beside Tori.

A childs shrill scream filled the area. Die, pinecones!

Ilyana covered her face. How is she so cute!?

Piers nodded as he watched the little girl go feral. She is a Guevera.

Tori squinted. ...Im not sure how to take that.

In the end, Fiona hit about a dozen, which wasnt bad at all for a child her size doing this for the first time. Both Sebastian and Piers praised her, and she puffed out her little chest.

Daddy, did you see?

I saw, Kasen said as he picked her up. You did amazing.

Do you want to take classes in Presidio? Sebastian asked. Fiona wrinkled her nose and then shook her head.

I want to learn to dance! She looked at Tori and beamed as she threw her little arms in the air and waved them around. Like Auntie Tori. Auntie Tori is like a fairy when she dances.

Sebastian and Kasen both nodded their heads proudly in agreement.

She does. Piers agreed as well, and two heated glares were fixed on him at once. He lowered his eyes.

Tori saw off her tired relatives, confirming that they would meet her at the delta on the weekend to partake in the festivities there.

Mother and Father also expressed their wishes to go to Viclya, Piers said as he stood by the entrance of his carriage. Tori froze as she saw him off. I have denied them, citing security concerns.

She let out a low breath of relief. Thats good.

Axton and I will come, and will bring our brothers and Fabian.

Accommodations are already prepared, but food must be paid for, Tori told him. Piers gave her a nod. She expected him to climb in, but instead he opened his arms. She sighed and stepped in to give him a good-bye hug. Ill see you this weekend.

He touched the mop of haphazardly bunned hair on her head as he stepped back. Tell JP and Miss Sonia good luck for the Spring Three-Day. I am sure they will continue to show the skill of Lyce du Soleils Equestrian Association.

He climbed into the carriage. Tori looked around. Axton was supposed to go with him, and she found him a few paces away talking to Montan.

I will speak to him to talk to you about using charms and you will listen to him. Senior Kasen is one of the foremost charms user in the empire. Look at his son. Hes only had his son for a few months, and he can already read energy signatures. Axton seemed to be rambling and Tori knew it had something to do with how both Kasen and Robert had eyed Montan earlier that day.

Axton wasnt sure why, so he had asked Kasen. The curious look on Axtons face had darkened at once. Whatever Axton was telling his half-brother, it was in relation to how Montan was using charms.

Im sorry...I didnt think-

This is a serious matter. If you created a charm that harms others, even inadvertently, you are liable. Do you understand?

Tori watched Montans hands clench at his sides as his pale face reddened with shame. I understand. I only wanted to help her.

There is nothing wrong with helping your friends, but it is harming innocent people. I am disappointed in you.

Tori grimaced and held back a low hiss. It wouldve been kinder if Axton stabbed Montan. A pained and ashamed look filled Montans face, and his head dropped. His entire body seemed to deflate. He nodded and Tori could see his lip shaking. Part of her wanted to interject, but couldnt find the words.

Montans quiet, trembling reply made her suck in a sharp breath. I wont do it again. I wont make any more charms.

Toris brows shot up. That was it? That was all it took to stop him? Axtons expressed disappointment? What was more interesting was that Montan didnt sound as if he were swearing he wouldnt, but pleading to Axton not to abandon him. While the thought that Axton could stop Montan from creating charms was wonderful, knowing why Montan would stop: so, Axton wouldnt throw him away, was a bit heartbreaking.

Axton let out a heavy sigh as he ran his hand through his hair. Thats not...just talk to Senior Kasen. Axton lifted his hand and seemed to want to put it on top of Montans head, as Toris brothers did with her and the children. However, Axtons hand hovered and lowered before he could touch Montan. Im not angry. I know you dont want to hurt people. I just dont want you to do so accidentally or be tricked into doing it. I want you to be careful. To be safe.

Montan nodded his head. He didnt reply again, and Axton let out a low breath.

Axton, were leaving, Piers called from the carriage.

Axton lifted his hand and nodded. He looked back at Montan. Remember to pack what I told you. Piers and I will pick you up at the end of the week, right after the schools festival closes. You dont need to worry about things like soap and food, everything is provided at the resort. Tori will give you a snack card for food.

Tori narrowed her eyes. What...when did I say I would give him a snack card...? First, those were mainly for children and Ewan so they wouldnt lose their money while running around. Second, she never agreed to such a thing.

Ill pay for it, Piers said behind her. And one for Gideon, as well.

Im going to overcharge you.

I have money.

Tori rolled her eyes and Axton got into the carriage. Tori saw them off and turned around to go back through the gates as they were closing. Montan quietly followed behind her.

How much is a snack card?

Dont worry about it, Tori said with a wave of her hand. She looked over her shoulder. It would be insulting to your brother if I made you pay. Montan opened his mouth and she cut him off. Listen, of the two of us, Im the one with two older brothers, and if I tried to pay for them when they were taking me somewhere, they would be upset. If I took Fifi and the others to the delta, Id be upset if they tried to pay because I invited them and feel I am responsible.

But Ive disappointed him, Montan said in a low voice. I shouldve known. He hates my mother-

You are not your mother, Tori told him in a firm voice. You are Montan Alvere and if you must have an identity in relation to a family member, then you are Montan Alvere, the younger brother of Duke Axton Alvere whom he wants to protect. I dont know how many times I have to tell you, but Axton doesnt hate you.

I dont want him to be disappointed. Montan clenched his hands once more.

Tori sighed. She knew Montan was so sensitive to his brother that Axtons words were more soul crushing than they shouldve been. Then when you get to the delta, talk to my brother.

Montan gave her a hesitant, suspicious look. Will your brother talk to me?

Im sure he will.

And then Kasen said no. Tori lifted a pork hock and tore off a piece with her mouth. After she chewed and swallowed it, she looked back at her friends as they feasted on Spring Festival delicacies in the Imperial Stadiums seats while waiting for the cross-country competition competitors to return and finish the second day of the competitions events.

Ilyana sighed and nodded. Fiona is too young for a snack card. She should be at least Avas age. Even then, someone is supervising.

Everyone agrees except for Fifi, Tori said.

How did she take it? Albert asked as he and Sonia tore a piece of meat and cheese stuffed bread between them.

Same as always. Dramatically threw herself into her dads arms and proclaimed life was unfair. She refused to walk out of the carriage, so they had to carry her into Daybreak Garden for her dress fitting like a ragdoll.

At least she doesnt throw a tantrum, Sonia said.

Ewan sighed and shook his head. Tantrums are hard.

Henrik threw tantrums when we were kids, Sonia said with a grin. Behind her, Henrik froze in mid bite of a roasted chicken leg and frowned.

I have never thrown a tantrum.

Yes, you have. Once, you wanted to ride Uncles horse by yourself and when your mom wouldnt let you, you threw yourself into a stack of hay and started crying, Sonia said as Henriks face reddened.

That was one time! And Id hardly call that a tantrum.

You were throwing your arms and legs in the air and only stopped when you accidentally hit Ewan, and then you both started crying. Sonia sighed and gave the others a knowing look. They werent allowed into the stables for another year.

I dont remember this, Henrik said before biting into his chicken.

You probably repressed it, Ewan said. What about that time your dad wouldnt let you go with him to the farm because he was worried that youd be afraid when you saw them slaughtering pigs, so you threw a tantrum.

And then he let you come, and you couldnt stop crying when you saw the pigs being slaughtered. You had nightmares for weeks and didnt eat pork until you were twelve, Sonia added.

I was too young! My father shouldve been firmer! Henrik insisted. For wealthy children born and raised in the city, seeing animals slaughtered was relatively rare.

Speaking of them, how are they feeling? Ilyana asked in a softer voice. Henriks parents had returned to Horizon for a few weeks, but had gone to the countryside for the Spring Festival to see Annika.

Henrik took a deep breath and lowered his food. My parents are better now, but Dad still wants to give up his position at the guild to re-focus on the family business. Annika is still depressed.

I understand why she would be, but the Cowbastard is really not worth it, Tori said. Hes trash and I regret not kicking him harder.

I regret that you didnt have a dagger on you at the time, Sonia said.

Murder is illegal, Sonia, Ewan told her before taking a big gulp of fruit juice. But there are considerations for self-defense.

Just eat, Henrik said, rummaging through their bags of food.

I have to admit, its very different being on this side of the stadium. Sonia grinned as she looked over the festival food. Its much more comfortable sitting here and eating than riding for several hours through forest and mud. Its...refreshing. She smiled, relaxed, and tore off some roasted bread.

Was the Equestrian Association upset that youre not participating in the cross-country this year? Ilyana asked.

Sonia chewed her bread and swallowed. Not upset enough to make me participate.

You already did the pairs dressage yesterday and are doing the target run tomorrow, Tori said as she moved aside the cloth banner with JPs name so as not to get any food on it. Most students participating in the competition do one event unless theyre aiming for a high rank.

Its also expected that youll do well on the target run, Albert said. He paused. Ah...no pressure, of course.

I also expect to do well, Sonia said with a confident shrug.

JPs never participated in the cross-country event, though. What are his chances? Albert asked. In the rows behind them, other Lyce students were also eating and engrossed in their conversations. It had been some time since the cross-country event started when the competitors shot out of the stadium.

In the time since, most of the spectators had spread out the picnics they brought with them or went to buy food so they could eat and socialize while they waited for the competitors to return. The stadium was almost full again. If what Tori estimated based on the previous two years was right, the competitors were nearing the stadium and would arrive soon.

JP has always been more focused on speed and efficiency than technique. His endurance for cross-country is probably better than mine if Im honest. I expect him to score well, Sonia told them.

The biggest competition Lyce du Soleil had was against the Southern Riding School, where Toris godfather graduated from. They were well known for their high proficiency in long endurance racing. That was what todays event was about.

Tori was going to bring the kids the next day to watch the target run, as she thought it was much more exciting.

As she wiped her lips with a small napkin to get rid of some of the oils from the roasted meats, a mans voice came from the blue crystals acting as speakers at the top of stadium columns.

The competitors have entered the sight of the stadium watchtower and reached the adjoining trail! As the voice echoed through, Tori and the others looked through the gate to one corner of the stadium. The decorated iron gates were pulled open, connecting the trail outside to the inner ring of the stadium, which would be the final lap.

Tori almost shuddered with anticipation as she wiped her hands and began to clean up around them. There was a buzz in the air as the spectators were getting ready and murmurs of who was likely to break through first came from all around her.

Of course, for the Lyce students around her, they were all hoping it was JP; however, this was JPs first cross-country. They didnt know if he had any skill in it and could only base it off Sonias performance in the previous year, which wasnt fair to JP.

Still, their group put their food away and began unfurling their banners.

Sonia shuffled past Henrik to spread out her brothers banner when she froze and snapped her head up. Her eyes were wide, and she pulled against the banner to keep it taunt. Theyre coming.

Sonia wasnt the only one who went quiet. The entire stadium that had been moving around and getting ready for the final lap seemed to go mute. All eyes were fixed on the gate and Tori held her breath.

She could hear the rapid, steady beat of the approaching horses growing louder and louder.

Come on, JP...you can do it....

A white horse with muddy legs shot through the gate with a mud-splattered young man in a Lyce du Soleil riding uniform.

JP! Ilyana was probably the first person to let out a scream as the stadium crystal speakers announced that the rider in the lead was Jean-Paul Vissage of Lyce du Soleil, followed by Gabriel Ortiz of the Southern Riding Academy.

Tori couldnt hear her own screams through the roaring stadium. Two horses, one white and one brown and tan, were neck and neck with two riders leaning forward and staring straight ahead. JP almost lifted himself off the saddle and Tori couldnt remember when he had such a concentrated look.

The yelling was deafening, yet Tori could still feel her heart slamming in her ears. The horses rounded the final curve.

Strong and mud-cake Nuage crossed the finish line with the nearest competitor less than a head behind them.

First! Jean-Paul Vissage of Lyce du Soleil!

Their section of the stands exploded with screams and began jumping up and down as JP slowed Nuage and entered the center ring to allow her to rest. He leaned forward and rubbed the side of Nuages neck, appearing to praise his horse before he turned towards their direction and waved at the Lyce crowd.

Thats my brother! Sonia yelled as she clapped and pointed.

Tori wondered if the reason Sonia didnt want to participate in the event that year was also to give the spotlight to JP. Perhaps Sonia didnt want to compete with her brother.

Is his time faster than yours last year? Ewan asked as he looked at the information board.

Tori drew her lips inward. Then again, perhaps Sonia didnt want to lose to her brother.

After checking, JPs time was faster than Sonias, and Sonia was certain it was because JP was a bit more reckless. Still, both proved their mastery in the target run with both getting perfect scores the next day.

The children in Toris family were so enthralled, they asked for some of the arrows as a souvenir. At the end of their third Spring Three-Day Competition, JP was the overall winner, making Lyce du Soleil the champion for the third year in a row.

Im going to say it, Albert said as their carriage reached the gates of the school that evening. The twins had to attend after event festivities, as usual, and wouldnt get a chance to go to the delta until the morning of that weekend.

Say what? Ilyana asked.

Its going to be really hard for the Equestrian Association when JP and Sonia graduate.

The four of them in the carriage all let out hums and nods of agreement. The pressure of such a legacy was daunting, and Sonia had told them before the Spring Festival that if they won that year, then it would be the first time Lyce du Soleil held the title of champions for three straight years. The only other school to do that was the Southern Riding School.

Tori could only imagine how their juniors would cry when JP and Sonia left.

The carriage came to a stop in front of the gates, just behind a familiar large, blue-gray horse. Blue River was standing lazily and once the door opened, and Tori came out, she went to rub his neck. She didnt tell Piers, but she liked Blue River more than Ice Queen.

She glanced near the fence and saw Axton standing there with Montan in front of him. Tori cocked her head to the side as she observed the two half-brothers. She didnt know if it was genetics of upbringing, but Montan was drawfed by Axton at first glance.

Axton was quite tall and imposing with broad shoulders. He appeared almost roguish at times if one didnt know him. His skin was rich tan and he exuded health and confident vitality. One glance at them made it clear who was nurtured with love and affection and who wasnt.

In comparison, Montan was shorter, thinner, a bit paler and he didnt carry himself with the straight back and engrained discipline Axton did. In fact, Montan seemed to be making a conscious effort to look up and meet Axtons gaze. His shoulders remained slumped a bit, even though Axton didnt seem to be admonishing him in any way.

Your Grace, good evening, Henrik said as he climbed down. Axton looked up and smiled.

Good evening. You all look happy. Did we win?

Champions for the third straight year, Ilyana said with obvious pride.

Axton let out a whistle. What were their scores for the target run?

Tori let out a snort. What else? Perfect. Both.

I knew it. Axton nodded, satisfied as a sharp gleam filled his eyes. I made some bets with the other knights. Looks like Lowell and Atienza owe me meals at the delta this weekend.

Why are you betting on food? Tori furrowed her brows and frowned. You dont pay when you eat there. Piers didnt want her to tell them, but hed recently been paying for Axton and his imperial knights meals whenever they went. Piers said he didnt want them to become spoiled. As if they were children and not elite knights protecting them.

I thought it was in bad taste to take their money.

Your Grace.... Albert squinted. Isnt this also similar to taking their money?

Axton pursed his lips for a moment. Shouldnt you be going to your dorm now, Albert?

Albert sighed and Tori prepared to follow them back on to campus. See you-

Oh, Tori, I want him to try the water activities at the delta. Its been hot for this time of year, and water activities are suitable. Are they open right now? Axton asked.

Tori motioned for her friends to go inside first before turning back to Axton. Yes. Weve arranged that under specific weather conditions, varieties of water activities will be available. We have the usual swimming, boating, some leisure rafts, and we recently made water hammocks.

Axtons eyes narrowed with interest. What?

We made these cedar frames with layers of cork, then attached thick canvas cloth inside so they dip into the water part ways. You can lay down in them and be partially submerged. Weve also attached little sunshades above and cup holders for maximum relaxation, Tori said. We found a good place to put them to float while tethered so as not to be swept away by the tide. They were released this week. Early reports have given us a positive reception.

All right, you will need swimming clothes, but we can get them there, Axton told Montan with a nod of understanding. Do you have everything else you need?

The corners of Montans lips tugged up a bit. I do. I packed everything you told me to.

Good. Then we will pick you up before dawn. Axton passed them and patted Toris shoulder before getting on Blue River and trotting away. Tori waited for him to leave before turning around and going through the gate.

Guevera, Montan said behind her.

Tori didnt stop nor turn around. What.

His Grace said that your brother, Lord Kasen, has agreed to speak to me, the young man said, sounding a bit hesitant. What...what kind of person is your brother?

Tori furrowed her brow a bit. Hes smart. Smarter than me and our eldest brother.

The Duke told me that I must be respectful of him.

You should be.

Does he really have a mastery of charms? There was uncertainty in Montans voice and while logically, he had every right to want to be sure of the ability of a man he didnt know, Tori was still insulted that he questioned her brother.

She stopped in place and slowly turned around.

How long do you think it would take you to make a charm that not only detected traces of poison after several days, but allow you to track who had contact with said poison? Tori asked.

Montan had stopped behind her and lowered his eyes. He seemed to be doing calculations in his head. Its highly technical...Id say a few days if we know what poison and weeks, if not months, if we didnt.

And how long have you been using charms?

Since I was a child.

It took my brother a few days to figure it out without knowing what poison they were looking for. He was about nine. Guess how old he was when he started studying charms seriously.

If Montan started learning as soon as he could hold a writing instrument, it was likely that hed assume that was when Kasen would, as well. Four...no...three.

Tori shook her head. He was nine. He had brushes, paper, a book on Old Sulfae and knew how charms looked like...and he figured it out in several days. Every time I integrate charms and Old Sulfae with crystals on a new project, I go to my brother. She watched Montans eyes widen before she turned back around. Be respectful to him. My brothers dont like you, Alvere. Dont misunderstand.

Did you speak badly of me to your brothers? There was some stunned disbelief in his voice and Tori almost wanted to balk. Why was he surprised? He knew what he did.

Yes. But Kasey also knows youre reckless with your charms, Tori said. There are laws regulating them, you know. Small charms for minor things like heating, cooling, silence, and safety are considered tradable goods, but as soon as a charm can start to cause harm or put groups in danger, they become a problem. She paused and glanced over her shoulder.

She watched his face pale even further and despite any pity she may have for him, Tori almost skipped happily to her dorm after leaving him behind.

When she saw Montan the next day in Viclya, he looked as if he hadnt slept. Axton kept giving him strange looks and said he had asked what was wrong, but Montan had said it was nothing. He was only excited to come.

Tori let out a snort. She stood there to greet them in a dress from the Delta Collection. As expected, it was hotter than normal and everyone sane was wearing something breezy or already in the water. Ewan, and the children, had almost run directly from the carriage to the beach as soon as they arrived.

Kasen was beside her, tall and serious as the imperial carriage arrived and the imperial sons, Axton, Montan, and Fabian climbed down. His children were being watched by Nanny Rey and Toris cat, who had been waiting at the gate in the arms of an imperial knight when they left.

All right, here are your tent assignments, Tori said as she handed them little leather folios and motioned to some valets waiting by the drop off curb. These two will escort you and staff will take your things to your tents. Some chilled beverages are waiting in your tents to help refresh you.

The leather folios were given to the three young men her age and Gideon frowned. Where is my brothers? Montan looked at her with the same question on his face.

They have permanent tents in the encampment for the time being. Theyre staying where they always stay, Tori said. She looked at Gideon. You know where they are.

Gideon frowned. Why cant I stay in the encampment?

Because you will annoy Piers. Youre a guest.

Piers is a guest, isnt he?

I have invested in the delta; therefore, I am allocated one of the encampment tents, Piers narrowed his eyes. Are you complaining about your accommodations?

No! No! Gideon shook his head at once. I love the resort tents! Theyre convenient for food and the beach. Right, Fabian?

Fabian nodded obediently.

You four should go and rest before you look around, Kasen told them in a calm voice. His eyes drifted to Montan. Young Mr. Alvere, as I am trying to spend as much time with my children as possible, I only have a few moments to speak to you this morning. Are you available?

It was both a question and a threat. If Montan said no, Kasen would simply ignore him for the rest of the stay.

I am available, my lord! It appeared that Montan was not stupid.

Kasen nodded. Instead of taking Montan to a restaurant to discuss, they went to the encampment. Tori had already given him permission to use one of the small meeting rooms of the operations tent. Since it was a holiday, village officials and organization workers were off.

Tori held open a tent flap. Is this tent good?

Kasen looked around. You put silence charms in this room?

There are silence crystals around the individual rooms and the entire operations tent, Tori told him. Kasen nodded with approval.

Then this will do. He motioned for Montan to take a seat across a small table from him. Tori had some blank parchment, brushes, and inks prepared between them. Tori looked around and turned to leave. Before we start, Id like to see what youre capable of, she heard her brother tell Montan. The sound of papers being moved was heard. Make me that favorability charm that Baroness Hart wears.