inundatae

[inundatae]

Far from the toils of his position as Chief Justice, there is no scenario in which Neuvillette would not consider himself relaxed, especially when at the side of his beloved. It is as he has always desired – to travel the lands and to see for his own eyes what this world has to offer. Mondstadt first and then so many others, all of them traversed together with Wriothesley even if perhaps the work that it takes to allow them time away has come with its own price, Neuvillette considers it one worth paying.

“Tomorrow, we could perhaps make the trip to Springvale and discern for ourselves the accuracy of the local legend?” He has heard tell of the spring fairy said to reside within its tranquil waters, which would make for a diverting mystery to solve. He hums as he slides closer to Wriothesley, taking full advantage of their anonymity and allowing himself to be more indulgent of his affections in the public eye.

Beneath the golden glow of lamplight, he rests his head against Wriothesley’s shoulder. “It would be an idea to retire here. Mondstadt is quieter than Fontaine. No doubt we could lead peaceful lives here.”

For all his apparant ease, Wriothesley won't deny the big and bustling crowd of Mondstadt set him somewhat on edge. It's not as contained as Meropide, not as familiar as the halls of the Palais Memornia or even the streets of Fontaine the few times he decides to walk around topside. It's loud, lively, and though everyone's been kind so far and no one has tried to start trouble with the pair of obvious outsiders, Wriothesley's nerves aren't so easily settled.

Maybe it's that which Neuvillette is picking up on too, alongside the myriad of other inputs that's assaulting their senses. At least the food is nice and the city absolutely gorgeous in it's quaintness. And despite his senses on higher alert, Wriothesley is still enjoying this vacation with his lover to the fullest; the only strange looks they receive here down to the fact that they're obviously not from around.

" Quite so, " He agrees, perking up at the prospect of visiting the local tavern, maybe soothe some of that restless energy 'neath his skin with one of the local wines. He's heard a lot about the Dawn Winery from the traveler and its illustrious owner. He's eager to have the experience in person. " If I recall correctly, that tavern is called the Angel's Share, selling the renowned Dandelion Wine. " And hopefully some good quality water for Neuvillette, who's been equally eager to taste Mondstadt's water fresh, without the dilution of its long travel to Fontaine.

He reaches for Neuvillette's hand, twining their fingers together. " Let's relax some, hm? "

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝

[inundatae]

The doubt is much like a splinter embedded beneath his skin. A discernible irritation amid the myriad emotions that quite often suffuse the atmosphere. Neuvillette is no stranger to feelings of apprehension especially when out of his element and especially when embarking on new ventures when expanding the boundaries of personal relationship with Wriothesley.

Such an old and familiar feeling, but it settles uneasily in his chest. A mood that is likely apparent to Wriothesley who edges closer to him now. Perhaps to comfort him or simply perhaps to ensure that they remain together in the hustle and bustle of Mondstadt’s thriving city. Whatever the reason, having Wriothesley near always does wonders for his nerves. Enough so that he at last notes the waning daylight. “There is little else to do for the day before we retire. I believe part of your itinerary was a visit to one of the famed local taverns, was it not?” / @petrokhelidon

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝

[inundatae]

Careful.

What sparks in the air now is not just the power that Childe summons with all the reckless abandon an overeager youth, but danger that rides along the currents of the boy’s power. This time is it different than their last scuffle within the Opera Epiclese, when the true extent of his own strength had provided Neuvillette with a surprise advantage over the youth.

Even if Neuvillette has no doubt now with the full return of his authority that he could best Childe in a duel, but at what cost? There are too many innocent bystanders abound and even if by some miracle they’d managed to bring no harm to the civilians, Neuvillette is reticent to damage the surrounding property, not when Fontaine has toiled so hard to rebuild and recover after the flood.

“If you were searching for me then you know very well where I can be easily found, but given present circumstances, I cannot blame you for any apprehension you may have for approaching the Opera Epiclese.” He remains calm, even with so much strength brought to bear against his person, if not by this strange power that Childe wields then the blades could very well be his undoing. “But there is much that is still to be discussed. Concerning your wrongful conviction and concerning… other matters regarding our last encounter.”

The harbinger may have been walking with far less care than he should have - especially for someone who was still considered a criminal within the nation’s borders. But it wasn’t exactly a new situation for him. After all, the Qixing would be just as displeased if he were strutting the streets of Liyue Harbor…

He comes to a stop a few feet away from the figure in his path. He can’t help the way electro crackles at his fingertips at what he instantly sees as welcome opportunity, with dual blades being summoned and held within his grasp.

“Come to offer me a rematch? Wow, Fontaine sure is great to its tourists! I didn’t even have to go looking for you, Monsieur Neuvillette,” Tartaglia’s grin is all teeth, with empty blue eyes focused on what he’d deem a worthy opponent. After all, their last encounter hadn’t nearly satisfied his thirst for battle.

#fevercode #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝ #hush i am soooooo slow with replies so take as long as you need!

[inundatae]

With barely a wave of his hand the spilled contents of the sunglo tea is arrested before it manages to drip and therefore ruin his pristine rug. Little can be done for Wriothesley's vest and shirt without professional cleaning. A shame, Neuvillette is overfond of that garment on his beloved and had he known his actions would inspire such a reaction, he might have given it more due consideration. Another flick of his finger and the tea is sent back to the cup, but it is little more than a brief distraction before he can gather his thoughts.

"Is that not…" He already knows the answer. Wriothesley would not be so scandalized if assaulting one's derrière was considered proper conduct between loved ones. Which comes as a relief - for all of Neuvillette's draconic enhanced strength, the act had left his palm smarting. "Ah, I see. I have once again misread a situation."

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 and the experience he has, Wriothesley can safely say that he doesn't often get taken by surprise. Too keen an eye for mischief and wrongdoing, too honed and alert his senses. All that said, though, not even his experience could've prepared him for this: the resounding smack of a palm meeting his behind hard enough the sting of it lingers and Wriothesley startling hard enough the contents of the cup of tea he'd been holding end up all over the front of his jacket.

The culprit? Looking at him with his usual poise and elegance, giving him only a mildly confused look as Wriothesley rounds on him with wide eyes and a slack jaw. " Neuvillette... did you just slap me on the ass? " / @inundatae

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #SJJKSEF #your ass is too firm

[inundatae]

mother? 🥹 /gets shot

In a gesture that is wholly second nature though it has been years since he's had the opportunity, Neuvillette pulls a handkerchief from his pockets and strolls forward. He reaches up and pulls his child down to an appropriate height and begins rubbing the smudge of dirt from Boothill's cheek. "There's a meal within though you'll have to change into fresher clothes first, your current garments are filthy. Come on, your father and I have missed you."

#duelmarks #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤles poisson les poissonㅤㅤ◟ㅤcrackㅤ◝ #SJDFKJLSEJKLFJKLSF #trust the fucking boothill leaks to get me back here

[inundatae]

can i just say that neuvillette being terrible at tcg is so hilariously lore accurate.

while i've always seen him as being incredibly smart in a very bookish way, he takes everything at face value. being able to conceptualize strategies that require an understanding of how to predict the way people think is so beyond him.

#❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤfrom the depthsㅤㅤ◟ㅤoocㅤ◝ #this coming from someone who never touched tcg again after doing the quests to unlock them cuz i just wanted to yeet them out of my journal #so i only had the starter deck they give you #and i still managed to beat him #now... wriothesley on the other hand. i want him to be scary good at tcg.

[inundatae]

The storybooks would tell of dragons that are possessive of their hoard. Territorial to a startling to a bestial degree that would be insulting in its depiction were Neuvillette not cognizant of the fact that it is all fiction. That the greater world knows so very little about his kind that what they put to paper is little more than whimsical fantasies reflecting little of what is real. He has always scoffed at such ideas. After all, what need would a sovereign dragon have for a hoard?

And now he finds himself collecting treasures of a different sort. The kind that are intangible, visible only through the lens of memory. Every moment shared with Wriothesley is a moment he adds to a vault in which he keeps secret and safe. Theirs was a courtship kept private. Where none in the world would know of their relationship as they’d agreed upon.

Frankly, he’ll miss having the quiet moments. Neuvillette is certain the moment they reveal such truths that there’ll be no end to the journalists and reporters that will hound them day and night with questions. “I suppose then we should consider what to tell the public when the inevitable deluge of questions come. For reasons beyond me, there seems to be this perception that the people of Fontaine are entitled to knowledge of our private lives. Especially any of our romantic entanglements.” Even having made his own disinterest with relationships clear, there’d still been no end to the scrutiny he’d faced during certain moments of his long life. With a sigh, he shifts closer to Wriothelsey, wishing for more than a mere touch at the moment. “But given the occasion, I would be best to consider that dilemma on a day not meant for joyous celebrations. There is still more I would show you, if you’ve finished your breakfast?”

" I know so, " He retorts, his smile only growing wider at the pleasure he sees his words bring to Neuvillette's eyes, the knowledge that he's gotten in right. Always so careful, so dilligent in his learning, so conscientious in approaching human sentiments and traditions, emotions and connections, because it doesn't come entirely natural to him. Wriothesley sees that drive to try in every little gesture he does for him, in every step they've taken together in this relationship from small to large. Whether it be Neuvillette buying him tea when he doesn't necessarily drink it himself, preparing him breakfast when he doesn't really eat often, to offering to share his space, his home.

Wriothesley loves him so much it sometimes feels like it will consume him, like the primordial sea would have.

" Hm, you've a point, " Though Neuvillette's next observation does serve to temper that bright excitement just a little, it's not nearly enough to dim his grin. His hand lifts, wrapping around Neuvillette's own before brushing a kiss over his knuckles. " But I recall we agreed to keep it private mainly to give ourselves time to see whether we could make this, us work before we allow the public to cast their judgment, " To give themselves time to grow into this without the outside eye following their every move ( not that they didn't already ). " If we're at the stage where you're confident with me moving in, I think we can handle public opinion just fine. "

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝

[inundatae]

𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬. 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐮𝐩𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬. Through his years, Neuvillette has learned and sympathized with those who would rather turn and flee than to face the ugly and horrible truths presented before them. As Chief Justice, he’s seen it far too many times, in the faces of the accused, in those who would sit as spectators in the audience and even at times reflected in Furina’s large eyes. For all that she would play at being unaffected, even bored, of the performances upon the stage, he is certain that she’s never quite as shallow as she would have others believe.

Even if Neuvillette still harbors misgivings with the necessary evil of how justice has become nothing more than another form of entertainment within Fontaine. Perhaps that was why back then, so many years ago, Wriothesley had been more of a blunt and inexorable force in the opera house. Refusing to allow his own trial to be anything more than a formality for a punishment that he was already so willing to accept.

He sentences them as innocent or guilty and allows the rules of the court to determine their fate. The guilty must face their punishment in some form or another. Often it is time spent in Meropide. And though Fontaine and the prison within the depths have always operated together, Neuvillete has always been adamant in allowing the Fortress of Meropide to have its autonomy. That has been the way of this nation for centuries and who is he to interfere with such customs?

But as he stares at Wriothesley, who slings the question more as an arrow loosed at his very soul, he wonders at what he’s overlooked through all these years. Just long has Beranger acted as administrator? He frowns and steps up to Wriothesley’s desk, one hand raised as though this man could conjure evidence of Beranger’s misdeeds before his very eyes.

“If it is as you say then Beranger has committed a grave injustice and it would therefore warrant an extensive investigation for the man to be brought to justice.” But he has fled from Meropide and who knows just how far he has run. Perhaps by now he’s gone beyond the borders of Fontaine itself. “Regardless… I would have you show me what he’s done. The embezzlement aside, you are also implying the method in which he acted as administrator was dubious as well. And… if that is so then that too was also a failure on my part for having overlooked something this dire for this long.

𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬, that impeccable memory at play just like the rumours predicted. Wriothesley's lips turn up to a wry smile, his expression turning a little more guarded as the question regarding his identity arises at last. Yet as he's bracing himself for the need for justification about why a convicted murered like he would ever be fit to call himself Administrator, it is Neuvilette that apologizes, Neuvilette who gives him the out, leaving Wriothesley once again blinking in bemusement. In his many years walking the Fortress both as inmate and Administrator, there haven't been many that can still take him by surprise; the fact that Neuvilette has managed not just once, but twice in the span of so short a conversation tells him it'd probably be better to let go of his preconceived notions of who the Chief Justice is or what he is like.

A soft huff of amusement escapes him, the sensation of being read so quickly an unfamiliar and not entirely pleasant one. The topic of his past and who he was back then isn't one he likes to discuss even on the best of days, but that won't mean he'll shy away from speaking his truth. He may be many things, but he won't have anyone consider him to be a coward. " Bearing or not, I am indeed that Wriothesley. Sentenced over a decade ago for the murder of my foster parents. " An open and shut case, dry and to the point and so unlike what the Fontainians love in a trial and in court. He still remembers the whispers of discontent, the disappointed look on the Archon Furina's face when his verdict had been spoken not even five minutes after the accusation.

" You're also not wrong about my timing. I'll confess I have little interest or motivation in returning to the overworld. " Though neither does he want to be a prisoner forever. Which is why he'd been so reluctant to tarry any longer when it came to challenging Beranger and calling him out on the way he treated the people in the Fortress; only ever caring about the Mora, rather than the wellbeing of the people under his care, giving them little to no rest, denying them food and water if it turned out they hadn't the means to pay for it. He's seen it once before in the very same care him and his siblings had received from their fosters and he still wasn't going to stand for it now. " Though in truth it merely sped up my plan to take over this position. I didn't do it only to prevent from leaving the Fortress if that's your worry. "

No, he has ideas. He plans on reforms, some of them already pushed through. Though most of it depends on the goodwill from the man now sat in front of him. He shifts, folding his hands and carefully keeps any hint of accusation from his tone when he continues. " If I may, Chief Justice━ How much do you truly know of the people and the conditions they live in here? Or maybe better put, did you know Beranger was white washing the funds used for maintenance and resources in his reports and pocketing more than half for himself? "

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝

[inundatae]

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠. A strange sensation that more and more has begun to coalesce within, quickening into something almost tangible and discernible. For so many centuries has he dwelt within Fontaine, knows the lay and make of the land as much as he knows the layout of his own home, his own office. Where each and every pen and sheath of paper that lies upon his desk is known to him as much to the lakes and eddies that swirl through the nation of hydro.

He senses it in the distance, the span of rivers that extend from his lands, the brief pulse of his own heart’s blood, but it is no more than the vague after images left behind by a flash of light than anything of substance. And so, he hungers now to learn more of this world. He wonders if this longing that has always lain dormant within, but now has awakened to some sense of wanderlust has any correlation with the restoration of his power.

“Perhaps… when I journey to Sumeru, you could do me the honor of conveying the wonders of your lands in turn.” Always a ‘when’ now and not ‘if’. He will see this world and learn for himself of its merits and follies and come to his own judgement of its peoples rather than the preconceptions he once harbored from a nearly forgotten past.

“But on the matter of seeking the archives of the Fortress of Meropide, I believe my journeying through your deserts is more likely to happen sooner than for that to be possible. Though it is true that the Court of Fontaine and the Fortress of Meropide have always operated together in harmony through the years, even as Chief Justice, I can exert only so much influence upon the administrator. It is at his discretion should he choose to allow access. With that said, however, rest assured that I will do my utmost to ensure that your trip here has not been done in vain.”

"Certainly I will, though not by your recommendation alone." The towering building in question stood like a fortress amidst the Court of Fontaine, a beacon of justice and all its proclivities towards the most fanciful DRAMATURGY and art.

"Travellers from Fontaine are quick to speak of its esteem and renown. Why, I would harbour no disbelief in seeing it proclaimed the finest stage in all Teyvat; its reputation VASTLY precedes it."

Let nobody say that the marvels of the nation of Hydro were sequestered within its borders. Though the journey across the desert was a treacherous and oft impassable one, tales of the court were quick to reach the avenues of Sumeru City with more convenient passage procured across the route which spanned the distance between Lumidouce Harbour and the rolling hills of Liyue's Chenyu Vale as of late.

"That aside, thank you for accommodating me." Cyno cleared his throat. "I'll be sure to ENLIST your help in the matter where it should not divert you from your duties - else, perhaps interrogating the records within the Fortress of Meropide should suffice."

#ninebow #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝

[inundatae]

𝐓𝐨 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 over a battlefield. And Neuvillette supposes in way, that he can make the connection. If one were to reduce the lives of many into simple objects upon a map. But that has never been his way and he has never had to worry about war save for the one. The only one that mattered, really. And perhaps another that might loom upon the horizon, but such a prospect is so far flung as to not matter in the moment. How strange it is to divide one’s life, where the beginning and the end are so similar and what sits between is merely a play at war.

He looks down at the cards upon the table again, so visibly confused that his consternation shows. Frustration that become cracks upon his normally placid visage. He does not understand. But there are a myriad of rules, so many he wonders if they could possibly be encompassed within the far too thin rule book. So many cards and only a limited number of pages, how could one person be capable of understanding the complexities of this game?

There is a wistful part of him that remembers when these cards first started gaining popularity so many long years ago. He presumes it to be a simpler time, as nearly all beginnings tend to be. “I believe… I understand in a way the difference between a fast action and a combat action. Yet how am I meant to have predicted that you would make this decision? Is there perhaps a rule that exists for it? And if so, where am I meant to find such a rule?”

To those outside these walls, the assumption is that the General Mahamatra of Sumeru is meeting with the Iudex of Fontaine on important and official business. There are surely whispers about the subject matter - a liasion between the bordering regions? Some mastermind criminal escaped into Fontanian waters? Is the Chief Justice seeking to expand his knowledge of foreign justice systems? No one would ever suspect the truth.

It is not Cyno's wisdom on justice that Neuvillette seeks, but his masterful art of tabletop card games.

He sits cross-legged in the chair across from him, cards in hand, dice neatly lined up by type beside his active cards. At the question he smiles - patient, understanding - and leans over the desk between them. He taps a finger on the Katheryne card sitting beside his character cards.

"It's simple, really. This card allows me to switch my active character as a fast action - normally, switching a character acts as a combat action, which ends your turn, but with this card, I can switch my character and still continue on with my turn. In this case, it allowed me to switch to a character that can deal an elemental reaction to your currently affected character, thus dealing more damage. Normally, you might have predicted this strategy and taken the chance to switch to a different character after I made my switch, thus negating the elemental reaction."

A pause.

"Did that make sense?"

#daybreakrising #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝ #neuv and cyno bonding over tcg was not on my bingo card jalkjeklajfaf

[inundatae]

"But there would be nothing for you to consume there."

" Open your legs and I'll show you. "

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤles poisson les poissonㅤㅤ◟ㅤcrackㅤ◝

[inundatae]

" ⸻ How can you eat something that is wet?"

#❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤles poisson les poissonㅤㅤ◟ㅤcrackㅤ◝

[inundatae]

𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐡𝐞’𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐮𝐩𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦. Five hundred centuries within the Court of Fontaine itself. And no creature, no living being upon this world, has ever managed to inspire the emotion within him now. Wriothesley is pressed so close, always so warm for the power that he wields, and Neuvillette finds himself leaning into it, a small sound escaping him. Something not quite a gasp, not quite an exhale of relief. No sound that he’s ever really truly made save for when he committed himself with Wriothesley. It inspires a smile despite himself and he looks up, searching his beloved’s beautiful eyes. He’s never tired of admiring the color of them, the piercing quality of them that can soften in a moment.

“You really think so?” He’s never celebrated a birthday before or rather, never organized a celebration for one’s birthday. All this fumbling about in the dark as always when trying to form connections for Wriothesley, only to know in the end that his beloved will appreciate the gesture rather than the result. He huffs and leans forward, chasing after that all too brief kiss for something warmer and lingering, basking in the presence of the one he loves most.

When he parts, there’s a sobering thought that has him running a hand down the front of Wriothesley’s shirt, smoothing away imagined wrinkles. “You realize that should we start sharing living arrangements that we will no longer be able to keep the nature of our relationship hidden. Or rather, it’ll far more difficult to keep this secret.” He’s wondered how long they might continue this masquerade of theirs, knowing how their every move is shadowed by far too hungry reporters. Already the Steambird and the Gazette were riddled with articles speculating on the nature of their relationship. It is somewhat amusing to consider how they’d been right all along, that they’d known long before either he or realize had come to understand their own feelings.  

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 in Neuvillette's voice, his tone carrying a tentative hint, Wriothesley is up and in his lover's space, the key still firmly clasped in one hand while he cups Neuvillette's cheek with the other before he leans in to claim his lips in a kiss. There's no hesitation, nothing careful or even overly gentle about the touch other than the sweet sweep of his thumb over the swell of Neuvillette's cheekbone, but it speaks of heat, of want, of love nevertheless. Of joy, too, a deep and brimming elation only underlined by the way he beams when they finally pull apart for air.

" My dearest Monsieur Neuvillette━ sweetheart━ there's no scenario imaginable where I wouldn't be amenable to moving in with you, " Hell, half his stuff is already here anyway, things slowly having moved over in the course of his frequent visits to Neuvillette's place, it wouldn't even take him that many more to move everything else. More than that, he's started seeing this place as his home pretty much from the first time he's stayed the night, holding Neuvillette in his arms, sharing the peace of morning with him before either of them had to set off for their duties.

The fact that he gets to call it that officially━

" Honestly, just spending this day with you has been a most wonderful gift in and of itself, but this━ " Pale hues dip back down to the key in his palm, his smile widening all over again. " Heh, well, I'm not exagerating when I call this the best birthday I've had to date! "

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝

[inundatae]

𝐀 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐮𝐩𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. In truth, there is no place within Fontaine that is not crowded in some respect. A nation built upon water affords so little room for expansion though that space itself has started to become a commodity of sort. He himself has the luxury of a private residence, but in places open to the public there will always be the rising swell of the many peoples of the nation. Especially now, when the crisis of the flood has all but passed, when the need for diversion grasps at their hearts more than all else.

Once, he might have scoffed at this need, viewing it is little more than fleeing from reality. Now, he understands its necessity. A feeling of normalcy, no matter how much a falsehood is but the foundation to pave the way for a nation to know peace and stability. He is learning. He is always learning. It is to the great sorrow of this nation that the one meant to rule them now knows so little of such subtleties.

It then begs to question how much of such a philosophy applies to the woman who accompanies him now. How much of what defines her is a mask, how much of what she suggests is a need to run and hide? Not quite a puzzle that he should try to piece together, discerning the makings of a guest is hardly one might consider polite.

“Not so popular that we might need to dine elsewhere should all available seats be occupied, but should you choose to admire the sights of the city on the patio then I would be amenable to such an idea.” More often than not, he preferred to dine within, where less eyes were like to fall upon him. But as Chief Justice, one less prone to mingle with his people, no matter where he walked there will always be watchful gazes.

a small curve of her lips comes in response to the statement, and her gaze drifts back toward the iudex at last. "an insight worth taking to heart, i admit…" gazes cast her direction since arrival have burned with questions that remain unasked ( the clothing the foreigner wears unsuited for such elements ) & stung all the same with judgements decided upon appearance alone ( the scars upon the foreigner's neck / face / arms with rust-colored markings overtop, a description one may associate with danger ). she is not ignorant to the alienation her lack of conformity predisposes her to experience… but for others' sake, it is best.

she embraces accepts the condemnation to inherent loneliness, over the harm her prolonged presence will bring to most.

"… and thank you for the invitation. i'm happy to accept." the name is familiar, and a moment's taken to retrace her steps. the image of a friendly shopkeep comes to mind, alongside a melusine whose integument contained splashes of periwinkle. the location recalled, a hand gestures to invite the iudex to walk alongside her. the silence betwixt is neutral, and persists 'til they reach stairs & begin to descend…

"it's a popular place, correct?" only after response is received does she continue, "if it's busy when we get there… it's best that we take seats furthest away from all others, so long as you find it agreeable." her eyes lower somewhat, greater focus now paid to the ground most directly in front of them than the path they're intended for. "i don't wish to cause your civilians undue stress."

#valkyrrhic #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤrise from the soundless deepㅤㅤ◟ㅤmainㅤ◝ #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝

[inundatae]

If someone wanted to poke around and join the genshin rpc,, what advice would u give them?

oh. hello, friend!

and sorry for how long it took to answer this question, hopefully you'll still see it. to be quite honest, i wouldn't say i'm the best person to ask this question as i'm pretty low activity at the moment, so i mostly stick to writing with a very small circle of people to keep up with my drafts!

but honestly, my recommendation is to just go for it! what's the harm in creating a blog and testing the waters? i find most people in this rpc to be very friendly! i think the best advice i could give is to reach out to people if you'd like interactions and to form connections. don't be afraid to send in stuff to people's ask boxes, reply to their posts and hop into their DMs (if the person is comfortable with it).

otherwise, i hope you do go through with joining the genshin rpc! always love seeing new faces around!

#❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤfrom the depthsㅤㅤ◟ㅤoocㅤ◝

[inundatae]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. 𝐄𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 across a cloudless sky. But much like lightning is it a promise of something greater, a flood of power and the arrival of the divine. One by one do they arrive, adorned in the ornaments of their office, immediately mingling with those who have already gathered.

Neuvillette has no need for such artifice when he claims the Court of Fontaine as his residence. Merely needed to descend the stairs from the Palais Mermonia to merge with the flow of bodies. His hope is to be as unintrusive as possible, drawing no attention his way so that when he chooses to leave within an hour. Amidst an already swelling crowd, there is only one god he finds tolerable, the rest are as wretched and abhorrent as their forebears.

But as the tide is drawn to the moon, so too are the eyes of far too many drawn his way. He ignores the many gazes. As much as he could hope for one result, there is only the reality that a fallen sovereign will always be a novelty to those who have little interaction with one. And as far as he is aware, he remains the sole sovereign with any passing good will with the ruling archons. It is for her sake that he does not attempt to drown the lot of them.

There is another flash, this one different from the rest. Darker and more somber, bleeding in crimson. Normally caring so little for which god has chosen to attend, it is the difference that has Neuvillette looking on in with mild curiosity. There at the entrance is a god he has never lain eyes on, but he knows through reputation alone. For that deity could be no one else. And through the crowd of onlookers, their gazes meet. Wriothesley, Lord of the Underworld, a god who so rarely journeys to the surface. Whispers ripple through the crowd, the many gods parting to grant him a wide berth. Neuvillette remains where he is, lingering in the background, watching a spectacle unfold before him. No doubt Focalors will be taking much enjoyment from this unexpected turn of events. / @petrokhelidon

#petrokhelidon #❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤunto a serene seaㅤㅤ◟ㅤicㅤ◝ #verse tbd

[inundatae]

Soooooo would anyone like a one liner?

#❛ㅤ⚜ㅤㅤㅤ✦ㅤ:ㅤfrom the depthsㅤㅤ◟ㅤoocㅤ◝