Chapter 116: He Targeted Me First

In retrospect, she should’ve expected something to change when she turned sixteen. After all, Gideon started to be treated as, and given the responsibilities of, an adult member of the imperial family when he turned sixteen. It was expected that she, as the daughter of a march, would also start to take part in the responsibilities of her family’s domain.

She didn’t know how much that would change now that she had her own county to deal with, but as the Empress still considered herself a daughter of a march in her current position, Tori felt that the identity and sense of duty remained no matter what.

“But is there a benefit to me knowing?” Tori asked. If there was a benefit and she could be of minor assistance to Kasen, she didn’t mind finding out the details. She just hoped it wouldn’t bring her heavy emotional burden.

Her parents and brothers exchanged looks, as if silently discussing. Her father looked back at her.

“It would be good for you to be wary.”

“We’re not asking you to go out and join the investigation,” Sebastian told her. “Just to be aware of what goes on around you.”

“I am also concerned that since you know some of the parties involved, you could be pulled into it unwillingly,” Kasen told her. “Ignorance can leave you unprepared.”

Tori frowned more so. “All right, then if it would be safer to know rather than continue being ignorant, tell me.”

“We have recently discovered that there are individuals who are using the identities of dead and missing soldiers to move around Soleil,” her father told her. “As a large empire, it is impossible for us to guard every length of our borders and territories. People slip in and out through unofficial channels despite our best efforts to regulate entry and exit. We’re not the only country that experiences this.

“The poachers captured are a prime example. A few of them have been using false identities. We had those identities checked and as expected, they were missing and presumed dead soldiers at the eastern border.”

Tori’s eyes squinted. “How did you know to check against military records?”

“Fabian von Dorn’s instructor was going by Peter Ladis. While trying to arrest him, he confessed that he was using a fake identity. Since he was a swordsman, we checked military records. There were three Peter Ladis,” Kasen replied. “One is an older former soldier who lost part of his arm. He now oversees one of the stables at a fortress. Another is a young man who just enlisted the year before. The last one went missing in a battle seven years ago. People still remembered him, and their descriptions did not match up to von Dorn’s instructor. I don’t doubt that there are more Peter Ladis who aren’t in the military, but those who had contact with von Dorn’s instructor all said he was a former soldier and from the same place as the real Peter Ladis who went missing.”

“The poachers were the same?”

“Yes,” Kasen replied. “They may not have been related, but we believe that the Duraga Federation is using the stolen identities of our dead to infiltrate Soleil.”

“It wouldn’t be that difficult,” Antonia said as she sat on a chair. “We’ve shared a border with them for thousands of years. There are plenty of Duraga people who can pass as someone from Soleil. If they can rid themselves of their accents, it’s just a matter of playing the part. They wouldn’t be questioned.”

“We don’t know how many people have infiltrated Soleil and it’s likely impossible to find out,” her father told her. “As your mother said, we have shared a border with them for so long. In addition, there have been people from Duraga who defected to Soleil across the centuries for legitimate reasons, whether they were fleeing war zones or oppression from the Federation. Smaller groups have been exploited by the more powerful ones; this happens in many places. Soleil had alliances with some groups, as well, but the Federation found out...it was genocide. The only thing we can do is investigate connections to those we’ve already arrested to identify the network.”

“We suspect that someone has been passing the list of our dead and missing to the enemy to be used for infiltration and other illegal activity,” Sebastian told her. “Their records are kept within the military, so this is our responsibility. The other marches are also involved.”

“This is where we want you to be aware of your situation,” Kasen said. “Since you know von Dorn and were involved with the poachers.”

Tori nodded her head slowly. “Have you traced von Dorn’s instructor to a network of infiltrators?”

Kasen’s look darkened. “He was a vagabond of sorts. He picked up work where he could find it. It seems that merchant Adrien Rosiek, really did put out an ad looking for a suitable sword master and von Dorn’s instructor contacted him for the job.”

Tori narrowed her eyes once more. “But you suspect Adrien Rosiek?”

“He’s a bit too much of an unscrupulous businessman to be completely innocent. He doesn’t have to be a Duraga agent. He could just be collaborating with the enemy for profit, so we’re watching him,” Kasen replied. He gave her a curious look. “Do you suspect him?”

“I’m not particularly fond of him and always suspected that he was a dirty merchant,” Tori said with a wry smile. “He stole my designs and has been very rude to me when we’ve crossed paths. Even if he isn’t involved with the Duraga Federation, I know he’s exploited someone.”

“Then, continue to keep your guard up.”

Tori nodded once more and the air around her family eased a bit.

“Since I’m leaving tomorrow, Mama will take over for the time being,” Kasen said. “We have split the duties between administrative count and governing noble. We find it’s a better system and works well in Sur. When there is a larger population and more villages and towns, I recommend installing administrative viscounts, but that’s further along in the future.”

“About a larger population, I expect that more refugees will be sent here in the future,” Tori said as her father pushed her close to her desk. “The Emperor wants to use me and I’m sure resettling refugees is one of the ways. Also, people do not live in isolation. The villagers here have relatives who are still in border areas being attacked.”

“You would need more resources to support another village and Viclya is still struggling in its infancy,” her mother told her with a frown. “Will you be able to support another group?”

Tori shook her head. “I’m realistic. I don’t think we can with where we are right now. I don’t want to turn people away, either. If they have family here, then I’d require that family to support them. If they don’t have any connections, at best, I can give them lodging and food allocated with approval from the village. We need to make money fast to build a suitable infrastructure to support a new group.”

Sebastian raised a brow. “But you’ve already submitted your budget for your Lycée Project.”

Tori stuck out her lips and thought for a moment. “My Lycée project was to resettle the 1,500 or so refugees in the Cosora Delta. It has nothing to do with my position as the Countess of Cosora. Technically, resettling additional people would be up to my discretion.”

The corner of Kasen’s lip curled up. “Where are you going to get the money?”

“I’ll just have to make it.” Tori shrugged. “This is a good excuse to pay back Mr. Rosiek.”

“You want to target his business?” Sebastian smirked.

Tori narrowed her eyes. “He targeted me first.” That asshole was dangerous, but if he lost financial resources, he’d have some limitations. Tori didn’t want to get involved, but things just kept happening and she found herself somehow dragged in. It wouldn’t hurt to be a little more proactive, would it?

It’s not like she wanted to kill Adrien Rosiek, though the thought did cross her mind. Multiple times.

Killing him financially and restricting his resources was her next best option. She didn’t know how or if this would affect Alessa, but since Adrien was supporting Alessa in some manner, his suffering would ultimately cause Alessa some distress.

Alessa got off light after the entire poaching debacle. Not only did she get what she wanted: her father not marrying Madam Voss, but there was little in the way of punishment. At most, it was house arrest and no allowance. She ran away from home and caused a near weeklong search and nearly got herself and two other students killed. Someone was killed. Tori and her brother were both injured, and several people had to recuperate from poisonous gas.

Was Alessa injured? Hardly. Whatever protagonist halo surrounded Alessa was working well. Even those idiots within her circle, like Dimitri and Montan, escaped relatively unscathed.

As for the destroyed carriage, dead horses, and the murdered carriage driver. Who was going to let the family of the carriage driver know and compensate them? Who was going to pay for the damages and dead horses?

Sure as hell not going to be Alessa. Tori clenched her jaw just thinking about it. She didn’t find out about the carriage driver until they got back to Horizon. Piers said he would investigate the carriage driver to make sure suitable compensation was at least made to the family. Tori knew it was technically an accident, but she still blamed Alessa.

The only positives to the whole debacle, if they could be counted as such, were that this was a lead in Kasen’s mission and a poaching ring was ended.

Kasen tapped his finger on the desk. “I’ll send you what we know of his businesses.”

Tori nodded. “I look forward to it.”

“All right,” her father said as he put his hands on her shoulders. Tilted her head back to look up at him. “I’m pleased you have a goal in mind. If there is anything we can do, let us know.”

“I know, Papa. For now, Kasey’s information should be enough to at least target, isolate, and cut off Rosiek’s sources of income.” She doubted she’d get all of them. Tori wholeheartedly believed Adrien was shady and had underground dealings. Those weren’t something she was prepared to get into. She’d just have to cut off the top of the plants and hope the roots wither.

“Since Kasen is going to Horizon tomorrow, let’s enjoy a nice family meal. I saw Bridget and Lucia by the resort tents, and they said they’ll come for dinner,” Gregorio said.

“Papa, if you need to work, I’ll have another table moved here. However, you must take some time to rest and enjoy Viclya,” Tori told him. “We worked very hard to create an enjoyable, relaxing environment.”

Her father chuckled and patted her head. “Of course, of course,” he assured. “I have plans to do so.” He reached into his coat pocket and took out a few folded sheets of paper. Tori recognized it as the activity guide that Ilyana had to give them. Gregorio placed it on the desk and smoothed it out. He gave his daughter a big, toothy grin. “Tell Papa what you’d recommend.”

“No.” Lord Kasen’s voice was firm, and his blue eyes looked down at his younger sister without a hint of pity. “You should remain here until you can walk again. Idunn’s cousin will be arriving soon to help you recover.”

Ilyana stood to the side with Henrik, watching the two siblings without a word. She didn’t expect that Lord Kasen was going to Horizon that day, but at dinner the night before, Tori told them her brother had to go back to work, so he’d accompany them on horseback back to Horizon.

Ilyana barely contained her excitement. She knew she didn’t have a chance with Lord Kasen. He was older, handsome, and intelligent. There were plenty of people who were eyeing him. In addition, she was his little sister’s best friend. That was a sacred position. Ilyana had no hope, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t look.

“I haven’t seen the new store,” Tori said, frowning. “I’ve only seen the facade, but when we bought it, the building had yet to be renovated. I just want to see how far they’ve come.”

Lord Kasen shook his head. “A construction site is no place for you right now.”

Tori looked affronted and threw her arms in the air. “The entire delta is a construction site!”

“You know what I mean.”

Tori’s face showed her displeasure as she sat in front of them, right beside the carriages. Her eyes were narrowed, and she leaned back against her wheelchair with a frown across her lips. Ilyana took a deep breath and tried to remain reasonable.

“Don’t think of it as remaining here for your safety,” she said, ignoring Lord Kasen’s initial argument on why Tori should remain in the delta until she could walk again. “Think of how troublesome it is to get in and out of the carriage and around on a wheelchair. We don’t know what the interior is like; there are all sorts of debris all over.”

“Ilyana’s right.” Henrik jumped in. “Duel has two stories. They’re still gutting the buildings and the ramp hasn’t been built. You won’t be able to go up to the upper floor without having someone to carry you. Not to mention, the presses just came in and the storefront is still under construction. It won’t be much to look at.”

“It’s cumbersome and dangerous,” Ilyana told her. “You’ll be able to inspect Duel in a month or so, once you can walk again.”

Tori let out a heavy breath and blew some stray curls out of her face. “Fine.”

“Guild Master Blomgard is trustworthy. He’ll follow your requirements and he’s worked with the interior designer you recommended before,” Henrik said. “Ilyana and I will take careful note of what we see and anything that may need a change.”

“Oh! Even better, why don’t we call you during the walk through?” Ilyana said, perking up. “Guild Master Blomgard will be guiding us himself and you can ask questions in real time.”

Tori seemed almost surprised at the suggestion, but there was satisfaction on her face. She nodded. “That’s a good idea, Ilyana. Let’s do that. Call me when you start the walk through.”

Ilyana’s smile bloomed. “Great! We’ll reach the city this afternoon.”

Tori gave them a nod as Ilyana gave her a hug. Henrik climbed into the carriage first and as Ilyana reached it, a hand waited for her. She froze and stared at the hand, quietly following it to Lord Kasen.

He was looking at Tori, reminding her to be patient with her recovery and not overexert herself. As Tori sighed and rolled her eyes, Lord Kasen looked back at Ilyana and gave her a winning smile.

“Lady Agafonova.” He extended his hand once more and Ilyana swallowed hard as she put her hand on his. She pried her eyes away from his face and focused on the carriage as she pulled herself up and took her seat inside.

The warmth of his hand was fleeting, and the carriage door closed. She heard Tori speaking to Lord Kasen some more before glancing out the window and watching him climb on his horse in a smooth motion.

He looked so gallant.

“Ilyana, here.” Henrik reached forward and offered her a handkerchief. She drew her head back and gave him a quizzical look. She reached forward to tentatively take it from him.

“What’s this for?”

“Your drool.” A moment later, he cried out as she kicked his foot. She threw the handkerchief back at him as he snickered.

“It doesn’t hurt to look,” Ilyana retorted with narrowed eyes. “And I didn’t say a word when you were gawking at Tori’s mom.”

Henrik took in a sharp breath. His face reddened at once and his eyes flickered out the window nervously. “I just think she looks very young for someone over forty.”

Ilyana sneered. “I’m sure.”

“All right, fine.” Henrik flushed and he shrank back on the carriage bench. They moved forward and he shot her a small glare. “Don’t tell Tori.”

“We’ll see....” Ilyana sat up right, feeling a bit proud. To be fair to Henrik, Marquess Guevera was incredibly beautiful. She was almost fifty and looked as young as Ilyana’s stepmother, who was only in her thirties. Many of her friends’ mothers had commented that the Marquess didn’t look like she had a child as old as Lord Sebastian, although Tori told her that her mother had Lord Sebastian within a year of graduating from Lycée.

Ilyana leaned against the side of the carriage and looked outside. Lord Kasen was riding beside their carriage ahead of them along with two Guevera knights who had accompanied him to the delta. She squinted a bit.

Tori was right when she said that she and Lord Kasen resembled Marquis Guevera. They had the same curly black hair and blue eyes. Ilyana was convinced that Lord Kasen would only age well considering Marquess Guevera, who was almost fifty, barely looked forty.

Her own father, Baron Agafonov, was not yet forty, but already had some gray hairs.

Ilyana’s brows furrowed. Did the Gueveras have some sort of secret to retain their youthfulness? Was it the water in Sur? The sunshine? The active lifestyle and work-life balance that Tori advocated for, but often couldn’t get?

She settled back into the carriage and joined Henrik in reviewing their plans. They were to stay overnight, and Ilyana was staying over at Henrik’s family’s house. After the stalker at the inn in their first year, Ilyana had not stayed alone at any inn in Horizon. She’d stay with Sonia and JP or with the Skuldsens, since their house was large and there was always a spare room for her.

The guards that Tori hired, and were now in her employment, accompanied her that summer, but she had two of the six remain with her mother and brother. It wasn’t that she was worried that they would be attacked, especially at the delta, but if there was an accident, Ilyana felt it would be safer for a guard to be with them.

The two she left behind were accomplished swimmers. Riri was addicted to the ocean. The nearest sea to Gorask was several days north, and the coast was frozen half the year. There was a lake, but it was too cold. In the delta, her brother wouldn’t leave the water unless they were eating or had another activity to do.

There were plenty of village children to play with, but Riri recently became the unwitting sidekick to Tori’s little cousin Ava. Ava’s cousins were all older than her and didn’t want to bring her along when they were running around, citing that it was dangerous and she was too young, so Ava latched on to Riri. They were about a year apart.

Outside of Riri’s swim lessons, they would go play at the arcade, play on the floating wooden island near the shore, go horseback riding, go fishing, or strut through the promenade eating snacks courtesy of a round token carved with a lion head made of a green and blue crystal. All their snacks would be covered by her and Tori.

If it weren’t for their mothers stopping them from overeating, the two would be twice their original size before the end of the summer.

Riri originally wanted to go with them to Horizon, but since Ilyana was going for work and project purposes, she couldn’t take Riri and their mother around properly. She told them they’d go back later in the summer for sightseeing and purchasing souvenirs before they left.

By the time they reached the border of the Cosora Delta, Ilyana had slumped over and fallen asleep. Long journeys always made her sleepy.

She woke up just as they reached the city.

Duel would be Lions Gate’s third physical location in Horizon. While Tori had selected the multiple areas she wanted to put the third store, much of it depended on if a location was available in those areas. They were also looking for a large space and a building they could buy rather than rent.

Their flagship store was rented, but it was in the most prime shopping location in the city outside of the Central and First Districts. They couldn’t afford to buy a store there. Many of those stores were owned by wealthy local nobles. The Three Queens was a big example, as it belonged to Sir Axton.

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The second store was in the eighth district and was also rented, as at the time, they didn’t have enough money to buy a shop of the size they wanted.

The prospective building for Duel was in the fourth district. The fourth district had a mid-level shopping arcade and was popular with most people at all economic levels as the stores weren’t expensive, but of good quality. There were originally three small shops that belonged to two different families. Two shops were being sold next to each other and Henrik’s father thought that combining the two small shops into one big shop would fit their needs.

Tori daringly asked about the third shop. Henrik’s father inquired on her behalf and the family who owned it was willing to sell it to her, but it would be more expensive than the first shop. There was a lot of back-and-forth negotiation.

She, Henrik, and Tori weighed their options carefully. Though Tori had the bulk of the money, it was their shared business. Somehow, the families heard that the buyer was Tori. They knew she was Marquis Guevera’s daughter and tried to increase the price.

Henrik had balked and Ilyana was so irritated, she didn’t want to go through with the purchase. Tori agreed and spoke to them through Henrik’s father, saying that she will not do business with them again. They will simply find a different building.

The two families panicked. The shops had been on the market for some time, but no one was interested in buying in the fourth district. The reason was that the fourth district was also the headquarters of the Golden Cow, which had a decent monopoly on clothing and home goods in the fourth district.

Why would others want to compete? What chance would they have? Many smaller stores had significant turnover of renters who couldn’t compete with the Golden Cow.

Eventually, just before Tori went to the Tetri Duchy to look at crystals, the three stores were sold at just below the initial asking price.

Ilyana was concerned after finding out about the Golden Cow. When she and Henrik asked Tori, she replied with two words.

“I know.”

Tori had selected this area of the fourth district on purpose.

“Which ones are Golden Cow’s?” Ilyana asked as she looked outside the window. Henrik scooted over.

“His main store is on the plaza up ahead: Golden Cow Mercantile. It’s a general goods store we went to our first year to see the knock off vest and sleeping bag,” Henrik replied. “He has a store that sells wine, a print shop, and two cafes.”

Ilyana narrowed her eyes. “All here in the fourth district?”

Henrik nodded. “He settled here six or seven years ago, first opening a small trading store bringing in goods from other parts of the empire to sell here. He grew from there, adding new shops as he grew according to what I read at the merchant guild.”

“It would be good if we could find out his business contacts,” Ilyana said, more to herself than to Henrik. She looked over at him. “Do you think he’ll cause trouble for us? This is his territory.”

Henrik took a deep breath and crossed his arms. “Yes, I think he will. He clearly has animosity with Tori. We’re encroaching on his territory, even if we’re not doing the exact same business as him here. I wouldn’t put it past him to try to steal ideas and products from Duel.”

“Considering he stole Tori’s down vests, it’s pretty much a certainty, but we can’t hide it,” Ilyana said.

“We don’t need to. We must make sure that Duel is preferred. Tori’s plans go beyond selling adventure games that we play.”

The corners of Ilyana’s lips pulled up. “If we can secure two more shops next to what we already have, I think we’d be more than a thorn in his side.”

“My father is watching the area near Duel. If someone is selling, we’d be the first to know about it.”

Their carriage stopped along the main thoroughfare through the fourth district, just a block away from the district’s main plaza. The footman came down and opened the door for them, revealing the facade of three stores. Wood boards were put over the windows to keep construction inside private while the workers were tearing down the interiors and connecting the three buildings that were side by side.

Henrik came out and Ilyana prepared to jump out after him, but the same hand that helped her into the carriage in the morning appeared. Ilyana pushed down her flush and carefully put her small hand in Lord Kasen’s.

“This is a good location,” he said as she stepped down beside him. “The shop faces are of the same style, and they face a busy street.”

“Yes, we won’t have to do any remodeling to the front,” Henrik said. “They’re three stories right now, but the third floors are more attic storage spaces. Tori wants to make them two stories.”

“It will feel less cluttered that way,” Lord Kasen replied.

Ilyana took her hand off of his, lest it get awkward. “Will you be joining us on our walk through, Lord Kasen?”

“No, I have an appointment. However, I do have something to give to Tori. Will you be here tomorrow?” he asked, looking at both. The two nodded. “Then, I’ll meet you here in the morning to give you some documents to give to my sister.” Ilyana thought he’d step back and return to his horse, but instead, he took out his comcry. He opened the cover and held it out. “Would you mind registering?”

“Of course not, my lord,” Henrik said politely as he took out his own comcry. He held the crystal over Lord Kasen’s until their names appeared. Lord Kasen turned towards her, and Ilyana held out her comcry with trembling hands.

Lord Kasen raised a brow. “Lady Agafonova, if you don’t feel comfortable registering, I won’t force you.”

“No!” Ilyana shoved her comcry forward. “It’s fine!”

Lord Kasen looked taken aback, but carefully moved his comcry over hers to register. Once it was completed, Ilyana carefully brought her comcry back to her, as if it had been blessed. She didn’t see Henrik’s eyes narrow with some distaste.

Lord Kasen didn’t seem to think anything of her unusual reaction and confirmed meeting them in the morning. He then got back on his horse and headed away with two knights.

“You look like you’ve just received a valuable treasure,” Henrik said as he looked at her. Ilyana shot him a sharp look.

“I’m just surprised that he was willing to register his comcry with ours!”

“Why wouldn’t he? It’s more convenient,” Henrik said as he headed towards the door of the middle house, which was open and guarded. “He can also reach us if he can’t get through to Tori. Think of it as an emergency contact.”

Ilyana puffed out her cheeks. She knew that, but she still treasured Lord Kasen’s comcry registration.

“Mr. Skuldsen! Miss Agafonova!” The cheerful voice of Guild Master Blomgard called out to them, and she looked up. Guild Master Kivinen was with him as well and Ilyana was glad to see him, as she was sure Tori would have questions.

“Guild Masters! Good afternoon!” Henrik greeted them as they reached the main door. Ilyana looked around and faced the other side of the street. The Cow Man’s cafe that Henrik pointed out wasn’t too far from where they were, and Ilyana frowned at the sight of it. Right beside it was the wine shop.

The Cow Man had a significant presence, but it only annoyed Ilyana.

As she turned around, she saw the door to the wine shop open. A wealthy looking woman came out, appearing pleased, and her maid called for their carriage. However, Ilyana wasn’t paying attention to the woman.

Her eyes were on the pretty young blonde behind them, directing a man carrying a crate of wine. She’d only seen the blonde a few times, as she didn’t go to Lycée.

“Henrik, is that your sister?” Ilyana said aloud and glanced over her shoulder.

Henrik turned around, already halfway up the steps to the store. He followed her gaze down the street and squinted behind his glasses. “She said she had a job at a shop in town this summer.”

Ilyana huffed and frowned with disapproval. “With the Golden Cow?”

Henrik shook his head and gave her a light shrug. “Annika doesn’t pay attention or care about our business dealings. Our father approved for her to get a job over the summer outside of our own shops, so she can be tempered and not depend on the grace of the family.”

Ilyana wrinkled her nose. “I suppose that makes sense. Nepotism could alter her work ethic.”

Henrik turned back and continued up the stairs. “Leave her be. It’s only a summer job.”

Ilyana nodded before sliding her thumb over her comcry and lifting it closer to her mouth. “Call Victoria de Guevera.”

“He what?” Tori looked up from her desk, where she was putting together a massive chart of departments for the Cosora Delta’s infrastructure. She stared at the open comcry on the corner.

“He left the city over a week ago and our people said he stopped in Chetterswickshire,” Kasen’s voice came over the comcry and Tori took a deep breath.

“What the hell is he doing in Chetterswickshire....” She whispered under her breath, but a small voice in the back of her mind screamed out ‘Alessa.’ She drew her lips inward and bit them.

“Do they know why he went?”

She heard her brother scoff. “Why do you think?”

“Alessa Hart?”

“He was spotted going to Hart Manor.”

“Of course, he was....” Tori tilted her head back and rubbed her forehead. “Do you know if he has any connection to what happened to Hart?”

“Such as?”

“Financially supporting her in some way, including paying for things.” Tori lowered her arm and narrowed her eyes at her tent ceiling. “Madam Voss told me she had guards with her when she came from Horizon. I highly doubt Baron Hart would be able to pay for a rental carriage, driver, lodging, food, and guards.”

“The Prime Minister’s son and Montan Alvere were with her. One of them could have paid for it.”

“It wasn’t Alvere. He wouldn’t be working part-time at a stationery store if he had money. Guthry is the likely suspect, but he had gone in secret. Guards would’ve notified his parents. I think it’s worth it to find out who paid for everything.”

“Do you suspect that he had something to do with the poachers?”

Tori snorted. “No, I don’t. I think that was an unfortunate accident.” Alessa was in serious trouble when poachers caught them. Adrien wouldn’t put her in such a situation. First, Alessa saved his life. Second, and more importantly, Adrien was a love interest. He wouldn’t put Alessa in needless danger.

Tori was convinced that the poaching was part of the game, but it went awry somehow. She just couldn’t tell her brother that.

“Then, I’ll have someone look into it,” Kasen replied. “By the way, how did you know that Montan Alvere works part-time at a stationary store?”

“Piers’ people are also watching him.”

Kasen scoffed. “Did the Alvere boy anger Axton?”

“No,” Tori said, lowering her eyes. “We suspect that Duke Alvere has been abusing him.” Her brother was quiet, and Tori’s eyes flickered to the comcry once more. Without being asked, she told her brother about what she’d observed and what the doctors found when they were checking Alessa, Dimitri, and Montan after they were saved.

Kasen remained quiet for a moment longer. “I’m not surprised.”

Tori cocked her head to the side. “Did you expect it?”

Kasen took a deep breath. “Duke Alvere lost his mind when Duchess Alvere died.”

Tori’s eyes crinkled up. “What do you mean?”

“His businesses suffered, including the one he brought into the marriage which his father had started. Sun Garden went into isolation. Duke Alvere wouldn’t see anyone. If he were meeting with others, he’d go to Horizon. He also tried to get Axton back from the Empress multiple times. I heard that the Empress took away everything of value to be saved for Axton, so he wanted Axton back so the things the Empress took away would be returned.

“You can imagine how angry he was each time he was rejected. While Axton was in Lycée, he’d crossed paths with Duke Alvere a few times and none of them were positive. The Duke seemed to be getting increasingly unreasonable. Erratic. I’d expect him to take his anger out on whoever he could get his hands on, though I didn’t expect it to be his second son.”

“Axton’s lawyers are taking back Sun Garden and his title,” Tori said. “We were concerned that Duke Alvere would lash out because of this.”

“The man’s such a fool,” Kasen said. “Mama was right about him.”

“What did she say?”

“That he was weak-willed and would be manipulated to ruin,” Kasen replied. “Mama said that she couldn’t trust him to be faithful to Duchess Alvere from the beginning.”

Tori let out a small huff. She’d been in that position and her warnings were ignored. She could only take so many two hour-long midnight phone calls trying to calm a sobbing friend who thought their partner was cheating on them. “You can warn a person that fire burns, but they’ll still want to touch the flame themselves.”

“I’ll look into Adrien Rosiek’s possible connection to Alessa Hart this summer,” Kasen said. “I’m going to stay in Horizon a few more days and then come back. I’ll send the folio with Rosiek’s business dealings with your friends.”

“All right. Thank you, Kasey.”

“By the way, when you said you were opening a print shop for your games, I didn’t think you’d buy three separate shops.”

“The area of the individual shops was too small, so buying three that are next to each other and turning it into one large shop works out best.”

“Is that why you asked for an advance on your birthday money?”

Tori pursed her lips. When he said it like that, she felt like a spoiled brat. “Yes, I wanted to buy the property. I’m not done either. I want some more property around it, but we’re waiting to see if anyone sells.”

“All of this just to print and sell games?”

“Kasey, you have to trust me and my vision,” Tori said. “Horizon has a large population that is looking for something new to do and if I can provide that, I can make money to support my county.”

“...with adventure games?” He sounded doubtful. Tori rolled her eyes.

“Did you have fun on my birthday playing the spy game?”

“Yes.” She’d seen him revel in beating others.

“Do you think everyone who played enjoyed it to some degree? At least before Piers took hold of the secret message and ruined everyone’s day?”

Her brother paused for a moment. “Everyone was excited, yes. Even Mama was having fun.”

“Exactly,” Tori said. “I’m going to build an empire of fun and leisure.”

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