#apocryphis: neuvillette

[daybreakrising]

"oh? pray tell, vautrin, how do you handle a dragon?" arms crossed, eyes expectant, brow arched. the dragon in question is waiting. (i'm sorry i had to -)

There's a moment of fluster, a subtle dusting of colour upon the captain's cheeks, the tips of his ears. How did he know? He wants to ask, but perhaps it's better not knowing.

Well, nothing to do now but own it.

"Would you like a demonstration, Monsieur?" Arms snake smoothly around his dragon's waist, coax him closer. Lips skim lightly, teasingly, along the line of his jaw, up to the soft skin behind his ear. He can't even blame the wine for his boldness this time - he is drunk now only on Neuvillette. "Only I fear you may be late for your next appointment."

[resolutepath]

"Straight into the fire, a favorite pastime of mine." (wriothesley to neuvillette)

"Wriothesley."

A stern edge accompanies The Duke's name as The Iudex levels him with a piercing gaze, the weight of it filled with exasperation and perhaps a glint of fondness. "One should not refire to Lady Furina's parties as walking into the fire. Social events hardly warrant such extremities of language." A shake of the head follows as he lifts his hands to adjust his cuffs, though privately he considers there may be some measure of truth in the other's assessment. Perhaps not for those who are simply there to indulge in the festivities, but for he, who must also be on his guard for potential threats, and watching over Lady Furina herself, there certainly is a handful to be managing.

When finally set, he lowers his arms and gestures towards the door, letting The Duke take the lead into the vast ballroom where all the upper echelons of Fontaine mingle and chat and he takes a moment to stand in the doorway and contemplate the idea of retreating to his office instead, giving himself the reprieve to finish his paperwork.

Ultimately, it is but a wistful thought so he steps purposefully into the room and turns to look towards his companion with a wry look. "Try not to cause too much trouble when ruffling feathers, as they say..." He does not assume it will not happen, but that is less on Wriothesley's part and more amongst those they mingle with. He is not ignorant to whispers and he knows Fontainian society well enough to recognise where trouble might occur.

He is certain he'll hear about any happenings eventually, they usually do find each other at intermittant moments throughout the night. It is perhaps the highlight that gives him reprieve from his vigilance, seeing a friendly face.

[lunaetis]

▸▸ [ @apocryphis ( neuvillette ) || date thread starter ]

─「クロリンデ」─  there was a certain topic that was brought to her attention recently that had been occupying her mind for a few days now. the CHAMPION DUELIST showed a rare hint of hesitation even when she stood before the man who she had pledged everything to. it was almost embarrassing to realize the fact that the two of them had never engaged in a quality time spending outside of work. granted, they were both busy people ( though she argued his presence was required much more than hers ), but for an INTERSTELLAR VISITOR to be so surprised at the idea of them being lovers yet never gone on a date was almost eye-opening ( and a little embarrassing. )

                " monsieur — " clorinde bit back that title. a habit she adapted in addressing him with respect even when they were alone. her lips thinned as she took a step forward. she felt her hands positioned somewhat awkwardly. for some reasons, she had become so self-conscious. how shameful. " neuvillette ... " her tone mellowed in a way it never did with anyone except him. it was so easy to take his hand and placed a kiss out of devotion and love, yet ... why was she feeling so out of place approaching this topic. " forgive me if this comes out rather unexpected, however — i was wondering if ... " another pause. her cheeks felt warm. really, commencing a duel was easier than this, she felt.

                " ... if you'd be interested in spending a day with me, just the two of us. " she heard her heart thump a bit too loud for her liking, and her posture straightened out of reflex. " only if you could spare the time, of course. "

[twilightichor]

✧ @apocryphis asked: "may i ask you something?" the voice of the sovereign does little to disturb the gentle drumming of the rain against the high windows of his chambers, pearls of water shimmering under moonlight and bathing them, near-asleep lovers, in healing silver glow. they are meant to drift to sleep, though neither one really needs it (but it is a pleasant ritual, to fall asleep with dainsleif in his arms, and his hand resting over his heart - one he has come to cherish as much as letting rainfall wash over him after too long a time cooped inside the walls of the palais) - and neuvillette almost feels the need to apologise for delaying that respite for his lover. almost. he is quite certain that once he hears what he has to say, dainsleif will understand where the dragon's thoughts have wandered too.

"you are much better travelled than i am, and must have heard your fair share of tales about them. certainly more than i have." neuvillette sighs, fingers absently grazing over his companion's shoulder as he speaks, shimmering eyes gazing over to the windows. " ... for many centuries, i thought i knew what to expect of the gods of this new world but... fontaine's recent developments and focalors'... demise - " neuvillette pauses, briefly. " ... have made me reconsider all that i had taken for granted."

eyes leave the falling rain trapped outside, and trail back to seek blond hair and the half-lidded sapphires shimmering underneath; an affectionate kiss pressed to the bough keeper's head as if to apologise for the odd timing of his questions. "you have seen what they have made of this world, good and worst - perhaps even met some of them... what do you make of them?"

Were Dáinsleif be asked what time of the day he favors, he wouldn't doubt to say night. Its darkness has never bothered him, having lived in a kingdom where hardly any light that bathes Teyvat in penetrated its deepest layers. Stars, countless as creatures in this world shimmering in the blanketed night sky keeping company to a moon coated with curses of the realm of death first, then a sun too ominous for those who never once saw its luster behind an entirely dark canvas. It is also the moment where dreams are born, dreams that people of that dreamless land wished to have. Night is the element Twilight Sword feels at ease the most, without that light he had no choice but get used to that can blind him when he's at his darkest moments.

But upon forming a relationship built in respect and trust above everything, with love thereafter... suddenly, his cold nights became warm; the dangers associated with this world's darkness melted with protection and a feeling of safety when he's in the dragon's arms; all the wrongs in the world that he works incessantly to right fade away if only just for a moment's repose.

Lunarescent knight nearly falls asleep if it weren't for Neuvillette's voice, softer than every calming raindrop hitting the windows outside. Sapphire irises look through albescent lashes at him, patiently in quiescent wait as a means to urge him to speak up his mind. Of all the topics they have addressed for the past centuries, the gods was, without a doubt, a prominent one. Except not in a manner of reflection upon encountering a crude reality right before their very eyes— in Neuvillette's more than his own, after watching the fall of a god. Not because of an act of rebellion from the humans' part as past instances in history, nor being slain by another god in a dispute for power.

Just as Leviathan conveys struggle in a moment when his beliefs are shaken by unexpected turns of fate, so Dáinsleif finds conflict in admittance of truths hard to utter.

◜In Khaenri'ah I met people of all walks of life with different ways of hatred towards gods, locals or outsiders who abandoned their faith and their homeland to find repose in another where they could find people with similar beliefs.◞ Suffice to say, as an aristocrat of high social standing and Twilight Sword, he was exposed to all, even absorbed some of it. ◜Due to their incessant pursue to find truths that discredit the gods and the kingdom's unique location nearby the Abyss, some of them were found and thus turned into the foundation to loathe these lying gods even more.◞

Even to this day, some of their arguments still stand true after having glimpsed into the truth of this world— the genesis of fate. In Dáinsleif's eyes, gods are no more than another kind of creatures that live in Teyvat with aptitude for higher power. But in essence, that is all these is about them: power. Not even they can understand themselves at times, even less humans nor realize when divine and mankind share more than they would believe. If only their delusions of grandeur didn't get in between.

◜Seizing the opportunity I had to look into the memories of this world, I have met all manners of gods, each with different ambitions and of different moralities. That, in combination with the existing gods at this moment of time, I can claim that not all of them can be of a kind.◞ His head accommodates on the pillow in a brief moment of contemplation, a sigh emerges from his nose. Similarly as Neuvillette has grown to like to do, Dáinsleif's bare hand reaches out to touch his beloved's chest, right over the post of his heart.

◜There are those who in their awareness of this world's imposed injustice by their own divine creators fought to the last to do something about it. Remus, God King of the olden Remuria is one such example: he sought to free everyone from the chains of fate with the creation of a symphony. Upon realizing the grave mistake he committed, everything he had caused... he didn't hesitate to forsake his life in order to mend his wrongs. Rhukkadevata, God King of Sumeru saw potential in humanity and used their dreams as a means to liberate this world from forbidden knowledge. Upon realizing that the last shard of forbidden knowledge was her, she forsook her life in order to eliminate the last remnants of defilement and herself from Irminsul. Focalors...◞ Another sigh follows, his hand snakes its way to cup the side of the Iudex's neck. ◜In order to save her people from an unjust curse and restore your missing dragonhood, she sacrificed her own life and her corresponding throne in the heavens.◞

◜What can I offer to gods like these, if not words of praise for their deeds?◞

Hard as it is to admit, it is the truth. No matter how much time he had spent in a kingdom that abhorred the gods or his personal beliefs on them, he can and will give credit where it's due. ◜Just as there are noble gods that are no more among us, or have lost the luster they held in the past...◞ Namely Nahida for one, young as she is for a god, she's doing what others weren't capable in millennia. ◜There are those who in their awareness of the higher divinities' deeds do naught for reasons that I cannot see beyond mere self-preservation.◞ Despicable in its own right, if he were asked. Too meek to do anything that could endanger their own lives, yet they behave even more timidly in their small revolts against the heavens. All their efforts insufficient if they truly seek a change unless what they fear is to become powerless or stop existing completely. ◜Little if anything can be said of those who aren't willing to make sacrifices to unfetter themselves from this unjust world.◞

Ultimately, seraphic hand reaches out to cradle Leviathan's face. Tender and encouraging, amorous and understanding. ◜It is hard to come to a solid conclusion when everything your beliefs are shaken. Nevertheless, I have faith in your judgement, that one day you will find your answer and act consequently. Until then...◞ Dáinsleif scoots closer to the dragon's body to press their foreheads together, albescent lashes flutter close. ◜Remember thus: the world won't stop for a decision to come, nor the examples I gave you make it any less constricted by unjust laws imposed by usurper gods. Nothing has to remain stagnant, either.◞

The same can be said for your king, whom no longer held animosity for us humans, creations of the greatest Usurper King... isn't that right?

[gemkun]

@apocryphis said : listen. the sender disobeys and you swat their curious hand away. (that feels like a wriothesley and neuvillette scenario -) ↬ ⭒˚｡���‧₊˚ 〖 down these mean streets . . . 〗

      ⸻       among   his   usual   duties   ,   with   a   crisis   averted   following   the   dissection   of   a   looming   prophecy   ,   the   iudex   is   assigned   to   new   heights   —   assuming   the   responsibilities   of   their   former   ruler.   a   seemingly   daunting   feat   ,   but   for   neuvillette   ,   it   is   simply   another   task   to   accomplish.   and   one   he   undertakes   with   the   intent   to   complete   to   the   best   of   his   ability.

  which   meant   ,   he   was   to   uphold   the   usual   principles   of   hospitability   and   pleasantries   ,   with   the   only   difference   being   the   absence   of   one   ,   unique   subject.   even   now   ,   the   stark   deficiency   sinks   into   him   —   were   it   not   for   the   phonograph.

  someone   ,   however   ,   had   taken   advantage   of   a   fleeting   moment   ,   and   with   a   light   strike   ,   he   dissuades   an   intrusive   hand   from   snatching   the   arranged   treats.   ❝   i   apologise   ,   wriothesley   ,   but   those   are   for   an   important   client.   if   you   are   peckish   ,   i   am   more   than   happy   to   summon   pastries   that   are   suited   to   your   liking.   ❞

  of   course   ,   his   preparations   are   in   advance.   a   habit   that   is   well   —   known   between   the   pair   who   idle   in   the   palais   mermonia.   for   that   reason   ,   the   chief   justice   suspects   this   must   account   for   the   duke’s   presence   ,   and   furthermore   his   knowledge   that   swiping   a   baked   good   would   hardly   desecrate   the   scene.   but   perhaps   ,   the   ordainer   views   this   as   an   opportunity   to   traverse   beyond   his   office   with   the   prison   guard   by   his   side.

  ❝   shall   we   visit   café   luteceto   to   browse   their   selection   ?   with   a   wide   variety   ,   there   will   surely   be   something   that   appeals   to   you.   ❞

[zorkaya-moved]

No one lays a hand on Nahida because the Abyssal Serpent is having its eyes on her. Zarina doesn't like letting her allies get harmed when they've got her loyalty. Only she is allowed to play rough with them once in a while. She's selfish. // @apocryphis

[predvestnik]

「 @apocryphis ✦ 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐞 」

you have keen eyes , mr tartaglia . (from neuvi!)

Does he now?

A connection has been formed with enough substance for Tartaglia to know Neuvillette doesn't entertain cheap flattery nor sarcasm. The observation, passing as it might've been, prompts the young warrior's throat to rumble with the force of a discreet chuckle.

He doesn't dare to transgress in the office or presence of the Iudex by touching the kamera set on one of the shelves, yet his attention remains fixed on the item, scanning how it's distinctly configurated to suggest use rather than serve purely as an ornament.

     ❛ I won't take all the credit, there's a lot to learn about you by paying attention to this room alone. Besides... now I wonder what you've got recorded, kameras are a great tool to understand how its users see the world. ❜

[iniziare]

✿ for xiao and yelan, and neuvillette and yelan!

The Chasm.

Though this would take some time to actually take effect, I think that after the events of Perilous Trail, Yelan would 'request' him to accompany her (entirely of her own accord, too) into the Chasm at times, when there's odd activity in it outside of the Fatui, or anything else. And I think that may just be the first time that she properly visits him at Wangshu Inn. Now don't get me wrong, I don't think it's because she's afraid or feels as if her capabilities are lackluster (in general or in comparison to his own)— nothing has changed, the Chasm is still primarily hers, or that's how she sees it in terms of responsibilities at least. But it's that, for the first time in a long time, she recognizes that this may actually be too much for one to digest on their own, the 'bed' of the Chasm is something that apparently neither of them can independently explain, but maybe two minds are able to.

Social.

Continuing on the topic of Wangshu Inn for a second (because Lantern Rite made me feral): I mostly want to point out the heartwarming aspect of it: the familiarity between them, and the ability to poke one another in jest. I don't think that Yelan particularly is like the others who want him to frequent Liyue Harbor more, and interact with people overall— I think she simply does so herself because she's come to enjoy it. Perilous Trail created a sincere, deep respect from her to him, and with someone like her, I think that creates the best foundation for a willing social connection that is constant. But she's also not a 'pushy' social creature, she would go— she would eat, if he joined, she'd engage with him (though conversation may even be minimal), if not, then it's of no matter. But, never would he quite be free of her jests. If he never joined her for instance (which I could see early on) but stayed remotely near her, even if out of sight, it's Yelan, she'd know, so it'd be a simple 'Thank you for the company, Conqueror of Demons,' with a little warm smile that followed.

Sorry Neuvillette,

But once she knows about Navia, you're not free from her playful banter. She may not be Wriothesley, but if she gives you tips on how to 'deal' with him (shh, Min, don't read this), then rest assured that she may take his place in some way, at least until his stomach has recovered. And she may not be as open and obvious with it, but there'd definitely be some sort of repercussions. Perhaps a little comment made when in company of both, followed by a little 'Hm, was I not supposed to...' (don't worry, nothing big, and nothing early on, it's just— you know). I think that sadly for Neuvillette, Wriothesley may be a bit proud of her. Granted, if it makes you feel better, I think the main victim would actually be Miss Navia.

Prior meeting.

This may just be a little silly thought on my end, but I think it's likely for them to have crossed paths before. Perhaps when Yelan was there in a bit of a less professional capacity, or even when she was there in a professional capacity, but she would have borne another name, and another appearance. Would he remember her? Or have an inkling? I like to think of that possibility sometimes, and that she sits there and remembers him from possibly numerous years prior, and he would've had a slightly younger Yelan in front of him— perhaps even before the loss of her team. So a lot about her would be different, even if 'personas' have always been her expertise. But she'd actively remember him, and occasionally bear a smile that'd be proof of it.

Prompt: Trade you 2 HCs for a ✿ // @apocryphis // Selectively still accepting

[csial]

❛ in spite of everything, you’re still you. ❜ + ❛ what on earth… have i become? ❜ combined, from neuvillette!

A lazy tip of the head returns the ancient god's heavy gaze upon the Iudex, an amused smile curling at the corner of his mouth, despite the emotion of the statement given. He ought consider it a compliment, that after so many years he is recognisable, unchanged at heart from the brash, emotive creature he always was, but there is a voice that reminds him he is little more than a creature of habit, outdated in this current world. A being of a time long since eroded, trapped in a world that no longer belongs to his kind.

"Oh, I would not judge yourself upon my standards, Neuvillette..." he murmurs, one hand stretching out to beckon the other to join him in his perch. He has found Fontaine a soothing nation, one that lessens the thrum of anger within him. He knows not if it is simply the expanses of water, or the one in control of it, but either way he likes to linger when he can have to excuse. Perching upon one of the benches that over look the glistening blue, the kingdom that these humans will never know as well as them, and letting the soothing sound lull his being into ease.

"You are what you needed to be for the time you needed to be it. Would you have traded our positions?" He scoffs after, for there is no one who would have taken his position. To be pinned beneath the waves within his own realm was insult enough, under the weight of Morx's spears that left him only able to churn the seas in a storm's tempest, it was galling. He was shackled, restrained, and left to rot. Had the Harbinger not been audacious enough to summon him, he would likely still be there. The scars across his back will remain testament to that time.

"Have you diminished yourself, perhaps..." That sharp tongue does not hold back as he muses aloud and yet, though cutting it is not fraught with intention to insult. "But you see what has happened to those of us who refused to conform. You kept us alive, gave us hope and now you can find your way between worlds..." And guide those of us too stubborn to change. "You are still the creature I knew, no matter what form you take. Are you not a being of hydro? It is in your very nature to change and craft your vessel, your entire being to fit the container needed, to be what is required. That is the beauty of our element." One he had forgotten.

He waits then letting it sink in, before audacious fingers curl beneath the sovereign's chin, guiding their gazes to meet. "In spite of everything, you are still you. No matter how distant you feel. The truth lies within the pulse of the waves and the beat of the tides. Nothing can take that from you." His touch is gone then and his gaze returns to the sea before them, a content smile sitting upon his face. It is not much of a pep talk, Beisht was always better than he at such things, but it is crafted to make the other think. He can only hope it is taken as intended, but he will weather the storm if it is not.

@apocryphis.

[immobiliter]

       Yes — I suppose this should be expected, after all that you have witnessed on Erinnyes.

       It was... not a refusal. Not a refusal at all, in fact.

       Navia didn't know why she was so surprised. She was now friends with her nation's Chief Justice, even if that still felt like a strange statement to make. But maybe, in truth, her surprise had nothing to do with Neuvillette specifically — and everything to do with just how many times she had asked questions of others and had been met with a proverbial door shut in her face. From her father. From those who were supposed to have been investigating his case. From the man before her too, once: though what lingered more clearly now in her memory was that this was the second time Neuvillette had defied her expectations.

       The first was, as he'd mentioned, his choice to involve her with the abyssal contamination in Erynnes when he could instead have refused her offer of assistance.

       The second... seemed poised to offer her answers that were an even more closely guarded secret, hidden behind the imposing walls of the tallest building in the land.

       Just as he'd earned her full attention that first time, his explanation now was listened to with sky-blue eyes that refused to tear themselves away from his face. She said nothing, and offered no interruptions, letting the story he chose to tell ( and the way he chose to tell it ) speak for itself. Besides, given some of the unbelievable things that she had read during her forays into the Steambird archives, she wanted — no, needed— to hear this in his own words.

       Once Neuvillette had finished, Navia took a moment to collect her thoughts, before a slow, careful smile crept onto her face. “ They do. ” She didn't move to rise from the sofa opposite him. She didn't choose to walk away and out of his office. Instead, she stayed where she was and continued to watch him with an intensity that didn't waver. In all the time she'd known him, both as a personal acquaintance and as the imposing, impartial figure of justice conducting trials at the Opera Epiclese, Navia didn't think she had ever seen him so clearly as she could in this moment. And what she could see now... was as nervous and vulnerable as he had ever been in her presence. Forget a door opening, these carefully worded revelations had taken the door off of its hinges, along with a part of its frame and the surrounding wall.

       “ You seem... nervous that telling me this might... well, I'm not sure exactly... but might make me think less of you? ” And yet here he is, telling me anyway. All because I asked. The realisation made something inexplicably stir within in her ribcage — and for a brief, fleeting, entirely fanciful moment, Navia wished that there wasn't a table separating them.

       “ I could never believe that you would cause Fontaine or its people active harm, Monsieur Neuvillette. As for... before Miss Furina found you, before the Cataclysm — ” she was still trying to put this together in her head as she spoke, hundreds of years of weighted history summarised in but a few sentences. “ You say you were without your senses. In that case, you must have been afraid. All creatures, humans included, lash out when they're scared. I... I can't imagine what that must have been like, even if you don't remember it very well, but it doesn't make me think any less of you. ”

       It was hard to imagine: a man — no, a being — as considered and articulate as Neuvillette blindly lashing out at humanity. But if she had been alone, afraid, without senses or even identity... it was surely enough to make anyone hostile to others. No wonder he speaks so highly of Miss Furina if she came along and offered him an alternative all those centuries ago... A place to belong. He did feel as though he belonged here, right?

       Another moment or two passed in silence before she spoke again. “ Thank you for telling me all this. Although, the longer I sit here and think about it, the more questions I have. ” Her smile was somewhat sheepish this time, her head still swimming with all that she'd learned. “ Such as — the vishap we encountered at the loch. You could... communicate with it. Does this... does this mean you're one of them? Disguised as a human? ”

@apocryphis / cont.

[daybreakrising]

Dawn has not yet broken across Fontaine, the Palais blanketed in the soft quiet of early morning. A solitary figure slips through the shadows of the dimly lit hall of an upper floor, steps brisk and muted upon plush carpet. He moves quickly not out of any concern for being caught sneaking around in what might still be considered night, but because if he lingers, he worries he may succumb to fear and doubt, and retreat back the way he has come. There is only a single stretch of hallway between his chambers and his destination, but it feels as though an eternity has passed by the time his steps falter outside a now familiar door.

A warm glow of light shines through the crack beneath the exquisitely carved wood, a sure sign that the occupant within is awake, as he had already known to be true. They are, after all, both early risers. More, he can feel the other behind the door, this curious tether between them affording him a sense that is attuned only to him. He hesitates, his gaze dropping to the box he carries in his hands, and the first whispers of doubt begin to creep into the corners of his mind. His jaw tenses with stubborn determination, and he tucks the box beneath one arm so he can free up a hand with which to knock gently upon the door – three soft raps with his knuckles, an unintentional signal that has developed over countless late nights and early mornings.

And, of course, he is at once granted entry – because who else would it be knocking upon his door so early? A Melusine, perhaps, but a Melusine's knock makes quite the different sound, and their reach is not so high. He slips quickly through the door and is treated to the rare sight of the Iudex at rest – though not so rare a sight for his eyes in particular – not yet adorned in the full mantle of his office, but still breathtaking to behold. Briefly, Vautrin wonders if there will ever be a time when he can look at Neuvillette without his heart immediately stuttering within his chest and finds himself hoping that such a time never comes to pass.

Neuvillette's comfort is mirrored with his own – though he himself spent much of the previous night agonising over his clothing choice, whereas he suspects Neuvillette's pick this morning involved far less overthinking. He settled, eventually, upon a soft silk shirt in the same deep blue often adorned upon the Iudex (a shirt that was amongst the new wardrobe Neuvillette helped him select when he first returned to the Palais), paired with trousers in smart black, but with subtle pinstripes in matching blue. Understated, simple perhaps, and certainly not something that should have taken hours to decide upon. It would sound ridiculous if he voiced aloud the process involved, but this was… important.

"Morning," he smiles with gentle ease as he pads quietly across the room to join Neuvillette upon the couch where they have spent many long hours together, conversing through night and day. "I know it is early, but… I wanted to be the first to wish you a happy birthday." He sets the box down upon the coffee table, being careful not to jostle the contents too much. "I imagine this day can be… complicated, for you, but I hope I can provide some joy, at least. And I have some gifts for you." He flushes slightly, dips his head until the long fringe of his hair shields his face briefly from view. "Small things, nothing special, I..." Nothing special? Gods, hold it together, Vautrin.

He turns to the box – the lid of which is adorned with a bow made of shimmering fabric that blends vibrant blues, pinks, and purples, dotted with sparkling silver that perfectly mimics the waters of the ancient sea with which they are both connected. Any discerning eye would be able to tell at once that this is surely custom material, and that a certain Inazuman designer must have been involved in its creation.

Within the box are three items, each wrapped carefully in deep blue tissue paper to protect them. The first is a glass paperweight blown into the shape of a conch shell, and two-thirds filled with a shimmering liquid that clearly represents the sea, which sloshes back and forth over a bed of sand and pebbles and trailing green fronds each time it is moved about. Drifting within the liquid are the small, moulded and delicately painted shapes of otters at play, one clutching a pretty stone to its chest, another mid-backflip, a third seemingly dozing away. With each manipulation of the shell, the otters come to life, rocking back and forth within their ocean home.

The second is a music box, though certainly nothing that can be found in shop windows. It is from a time now long passed, still slightly weathered by time, imperfect from its long rest at the bottom of the ocean. "I had some help with that one," Vautrin explains, his voice wavering slightly with nerves as he speaks. "I found it during a swim and hoped to fix it up if possible. I went to Serene in Merusea Village, and she was able to help me source the components I needed. As for the rest…" He reaches forward, gently lifts the lid of the music box to show the interior. Above a bed of metallic waves, an oceanid sits entwined by a serpentine dragon; behind them, inside the lid, another draconic being is painted amidst the deep sea. "I paid a visit to Scylla for… inspiration." He carefully cranks the mechanism, and music slowly filters sweetly into the air, a tune carefully crafted using the ancient magic of the Bygone Sea, recorded by his own hands at the piano, to be replicated perfectly in music box form.

The last gift, sitting beneath these two precious items, is perhaps something even more precious still: a frame of understated elegance, within which sits a photograph – but not just any photograph. Three familiar faces peer out from within one of Vautrin's fondest memories, a celebration following the gift of Medals of Peace. The photograph was to document the occasion for the newspapers, something Vautrin had been reluctant over at the time but is now thankful for. The Steambird, after all, is meticulous with its archives, and so preserved this brief but meaningful moment for four hundred years.

It is an important moment for many reasons, but most of all – for Vautrin – because they each wear a smile upon their faces, a natural, genuine expression of warmth and delight. He stands at the back, smart and formal but happy; Neuvillette sits, elegant and serene. And, in the foreground, her smile the biggest and brightest, is Carole, her hand raised in friendly greeting. But unlike the original photograph, with its limited and muted tones, this one is in full colour. "I asked Charlotte if there was any way to restore and colourise the image, and she went above and beyond, truly she did. I know the original would have been more than enough, but…" I wanted you to see her again as she was, full of life and colour.

There is nothing else within the box, but Vautrin is not quite done just yet. He waits, patiently, whilst Neuvillette takes in each of his gifts in turn, whilst nerves brew within the pit of his stomach. His hands clasp together in his lap, fingers digging hard into his skin as he fights back the wave of anxiety that threatens to drown the words he wants to – needs to – say. "There is… something else." No turning back now. He has nothing to fall back on, nothing to give him an out. He is exposed, left vulnerable, by deliberate choice – no more excuses, no more second thoughts.

"Something I… have wanted to tell you for a long time." Gods, but his mouth is dry. He can feel the rapid beat of his heart, the quickening of his pulse. Blood pounds in his ears; heat creeps beneath his collar. He has never experienced a heart attack, as far as he is aware, but he imagines it must feel similar to this. "You have always meant a great deal to me, Neuvillette. Working alongside you was my greatest professional achievement, but getting to know you, to become your companion, to be allowed into your life in a way few others were… that was something else entirely. You were… everything, to me."

He pauses, shakes his head. "No, no… you are everything to me." He summons an ounce of courage, reaches to slide his hand into Neuvillette's. The cool skin is like a balm against the flushed heat of his own, but it is the connection that instantly grounds him, calms the maelstrom within. He lifts his gaze, meets those draconic eyes with his own primordial ones, and the air around them floods with a wave of affection, of adoration… and of love. "I have questioned, many times, why I was granted this second chance at life, when I have done nothing to deserve it. I may never understand it, but it no longer matters to me. What matters is that I am here, at your side where I have always felt I belonged – and I will not squander a second chance when it is given to me."

Fingers close tighter around Neuvillette's hand, lift it slowly, gently, to his lips – then guide it to rest upon his heart. His final gift. "This… is yours; has always been yours. And… I am yours, if you would have me." Despite the nerves that twist his stomach into knots, despite the frantic pounding of his heart within his ribs, he smiles – soft, vulnerable. It is a true smile, the smile of a man who is ready, at last, to speak the words he has kept buried inside for far too long. "I love you, Neuvillette. I have loved you all along."

@apocryphis | happy birthday neuvillette!

[resolutepath]

just be gentle with them. (neuvi to sedene)

"Gentleness does them no favours, Monsieur Neuvillette."

There's little remorse in the Melusine's tone as she turns to look upon the Iudex, shuffling her papers into a neat orderly pile. The number of people requesting the Iudex's time had increased of as late, their reasons ranging from the serious to the inane, and it had become a process to filter them all. In the end, Sedene had been given no other option when a pair walked in to get Neuvillette's opinion on a poll of cats vs dogs.

The ordainer of inexorable judgement had better things to do than give an opinion on an age old question that bears no real value.

"Your schedule is too full for such silly questions, that could be added in a memo to be answered when you have time. It is my duty to ensure you are not innundated." She's firm in her words, but kind, her amethyst gaze settling upon him. To ensure he got but a moment's peace in his calendar between managing justice across all of Fontaine, of being the Sovereign of the nation, of bearing the weight of all of Fontaine on his shoulders. It was all she could do to make his day easier, he would not allow her much more scope, and was more determined than even to continue to undertake his work no matter what the personal cost to himself.

"I'm sure a firm hand will soon dissuade those who seem determined to waste your time."

@apocryphis

[lunaetis]

@apocryphis asked :

🕯️ one for clorinde and neuvi!

send me 🕯️ to hear my character's inner thoughts about your character. || no longer accepting

─「クロリンデ」─  there had never been a time when HE was in the room and her eyes weren't instinctively searching for him. it became something innate, something much more than simple habit one would make with a conscious mind. it was like INSTINCT, how her eyes followed him, how her mind followed his, how her soul and every fiber of her being would follow his lead, his rules. him. ever since the FATEFUL DAY that he reached his hand out to hers, his frame towering over her smaller one since she was young. the hand that saved her from worser fate. from damnation.

                the very day she had sworn fealty to HIM and only him.

                the CHAMPION DUELIST wouldn't dare claim that she understood him, for the times she watched his eyes gazed out in the horizon line, she felt as though he was standing on a different plane than her and everyone else. there was a WALL separating them, a veil of water covering his form and it made his back so ... so alone. like he was going to be the only one left after everyone was gone.

                clorinde despised that idea greatly.

                " i wish to share his burden. " a soft mutter under her breath, one steep with loyalty and devotion. she was but a mere human, there were limited things she could offer to someone like him, yet, that wouldn't stop her. if her taking the BLADE as the champion duelist, as the executioner would aid in lightening what he took upon himself then that was what she would be. it mattered little how deep her hands must be drenched in crimson, nor the count of lives she must take in order to uphold the JUSTICE he governed.

                to her, he is justice, and she would be his SWORD until the very end. from the day he saved her, her life belonged to him and he could use her as he sees fit. if it ever comes a day that this blade must break, then so be it.

[twilightichor]

✦ @apocryphis asked: "i know you do not burden yourself with material possessions on your long journeys, so, rather than encumbering you with another one of my ceramic creations..." a joke - one of the very rare few to ever pass the threshold of the iudex's lips (perhaps that, in itself, is a privilege), before the dragon of water flips a file on his desk shut, and decidedly pushes it to the side. he rises to his feet, and joins up with his beloved seraph, draconic eyes softening at the clear moment of reserved confusion he sees in star-branded sapphires. gloved hands rise to cusp the curves of his face, admiring it as though contemplating the finest treasure in all of fontaine - perhaps in all of teyvat, if one were to ask him his humble opinion. "so, in my meagre attempt to follow a few human traditions here and there, i thought that for this day - albeit not a fontainian custom per se - i could perhaps take the day off and spend it with you." the palais mermonia will not collapse if he disappears for a few days! furina had once said. perhaps today is the day this theory is put to the test. "is there anything you would like to do, my dearest love? any sights not yet seen, any whims i could help satisfy? you keep following me into the depths of the sea whenever nostalgia strikes me, but what about you? what would make you happy?" (haha plot twist, what do YOU want mr i always put the world before myself very literally dainsleif)

It is said that sharing is caring. Dáinsleif could confirm this firsthand with every little trinket of the dragon's making in appointed moments in time. How could he forget the smile on his lips, the primordial sea hues dancing within the depths of his irises with renewed light every time he handed him one of his creations as he waited in anticipation to see his reaction? And the warmth that never fails to bloom from within his chest, spreading throughout his body as his own stellar pupils quivered with delight and joy at the gifts and the thoughtfulness behind Neuvillette's actions, the love and care he engraved in every sacred moment of theirs.

Twilight Sword is no obtuse man to not detect the jesting tone in Leviathan's voice, yet strong sentiments he reserves in the depths of his heart leads him to confusion, to wondering: were his reactions to the other's gifts insufficient for him to know how important they are to him, in order to consider a different approach for gift-making?

For all the intrigue he has, seraphic heart comes to a calmer stillness when his beloved's hands cradle his face with tenderness that soothes the most terrifying of nightmares. His own gloved hands reach up to hold the other's wrists gently, a manner to say he doesn't want him to let go as he looks at him through albescent lashes and leans a tad further into his touch in silent wait.

What does he want?

Truth be said, whatever answer he'd choose to give wouldn't be sufficiently satisfactory in view of this special occasion that Neuvillette dares to take off his obligations as the Iudex. Reason why Dáinsleif searches a bit deeper into his repertoire of answers. From all of them, the most earnest and genuine he could muster is given. ◜I would like to share with you what I do.◞ He knows about Leviathan's awareness of his deeds for the past centuries to the point where their first meeting was punctuated with one such deeds on its own. But the occasion, the timing merit it and not without reason.

Roseate lips curl in a reserved smile seconds before he places a soft kiss on one of his palms. ◜It will be a trip into the depths of the sea, ironic it may be.◞ A nigh muted chuckle follows thereafter as his gentle gaze turns towards the window, his mind imagining a spot under the great waterfalls that rise Fontaine closer to the sky. ◜There is something that must be done there, someone who might want to meet you and that needs help.◞ Namely the prince of vishaps, whom has taken the mantle that Leviathan would've taken otherwise if he were to be born sooner— and whom he might delight in meeting. He wishes.

Glacial sapphires return to Neuvillette, his hand gives his wrist a small squeeze. ◜If you wish to come with me, I have to warn you that you'll be stuck with me more than just this day... in the olden Remuria.◞

[gemkun]

@apocryphis said : a small package, impeccable wrapped in elegant blue and silver paper, is set upon the funeral parlor's consultant's desk; the gift-giver, on the other hand, never fails to look a little too stiff, too formal, for an occasion that should be little more than an amusing celebration. "while there is much i have yet to learn about the role you have played in this world for the past few millenia before i can pass proper -- please allow me this small gesture of goodwill." neuvillette gestures at the present - a hand-crafted tea set imbued with hydro power, certain to always purify and elevate whatever water zhongli will infuse his choice of tea into. "ancient dragons and gods have their history, but rest assured that whatever judgement i pass will not be born of resentment. happy white day celebrations, deus auri." ↬ white day asks.

      ⸻       interlaced   fingers   bear   a   heavy   head   ,   hoisting   regard   that   settles   on   the   intricate   bundle.   eyes   that   resemble   ,   the   very   same   that   the   iudex   utters   ,   gaze   as   if   a   mere   thought   might   dispose   of   the   finely   assembled   material   ,   encasing   the   token   assigned   to   this   special   day.

  but   that   is   a   fantastical   imagining   ,   for   a   mortal   possesses   only   his   tools   and   hands   to   construct   the   former.   the   likes   of   which   zhongli   utilises   ,   to   unravel   the   gift   tucked   beneath.   but   not   before   the   proclamation   of   his   gratitude   —   ❝   how   very   thoughtful.   as   to   be   expected   from   the   revered   and   noble   iudex.   ❞

  professionalism   exudes   in   their   quiet   exchange   ,   until   the   focus   dawns   upon   the   task   of   tearing   paper.   which   is   short   —   lived   once   the   crumple   of   blue   and   white   falters   ,   guided   by   a   taught   hand   in   even   the   art   of   gift   unwrapping.

  the   permeation   of   hydro   ,   is   the   first   detail   that   graces   the   consultant   ,   when   the   canvas   falls.   illustrating   an   unspoken   manual   ,   bereft   of   written   instruction   ,   but   enough   to   test   the   reservoir   of   knowledge   he   is   renowned   for.   it   is   .   .   .   exquisite.   truly   ,   a   craft   any   artisan   would   boast   proudly   of.

  but   neuvillette   is   a   humble   creature.

  ❝   why   ,   you   spoil   me.   this   is   a   marvel   to   behold.   ❞   perhaps   ,   he   loses   himself   in   the   brilliance   of   the   present   ,   to   comprehend   prior   words   attesting   to   a   future.   quite   near   ,   indeed.   he   had   a   penchant   for   such   things   ,   and   old   habits   ,   after   all   ,   were   difficult   to   unlearn.   ❝   its   worth   .   .   .   is   ineffable.   this   would   transform   the   very   constitution   of   liyue’s   tea   houses.   the   flavour   and   the   brew   would   be   unlike   any   other.   ❞

  amidst   scrutinising   ,   the   recognition   of   his   visitor   beckons   his   attention   once   more.   and   careful   deposit   ,   returns   the   plucked   piece   in   the   composition   of   his   treasure   to   its   rightful   place.   ❝   please   ,   ❞   a   hand   outstretches   ,   clad   in   ebony   ,   gesturing   in   invitation.   ❝   won’t   you   join   me   for   a   cup   of   tea   ?   ❞

[zorkaya-moved]

‘ no one would know better than i. ’ (oooh from neuvillette)

@apocryphis

It seems some of the misunderstandings have been cleared, but she dislikes the fact she needed a message from Lesser Lord Kusanali herself, it doesn't feel good but she needed to ensure her presence in Fontaine won't be interrupted by the Iudex himself. He's not someone who must be made into an enemy and she, sad as she to say this, must play better (play good) while studying the current changes within Teyvat. The Abyss is starting to act up and as someone who's been so intimately intertwined with it, Zarina Sokolova is one of the only people who can linger in and out of it without concerns. Then again, it is understandable why Neuvillette would wish for her to leave his region without ever returning. However, his wishes are unimportant. The fate of the world is on their shoulders and his little threat means nothing to one who cannot die. Not anymore. Not until she'll be killed hundreds of times. He doesn't have that time. No one does, not him and not Zarina herself.

They are all running out of time and Sokolova doesn't care if the Iudex wishes her dead or not. Currently, they are on the same team. As long as he is against Celestia and the Abyss taking over the world above (Teyvat), they are all good. He cannot judge her for she already was executed in the court of Sumeru. A slice to her wrists, a slice to her neck, she bled all over the courtroom floors and proved them her experiment's success. Wounds heal and even if her heart stops (or is destroyed altogether), she still returns to life as if new. Disgusting, isn't it? But so helpful in diving into risky situations where such important figures like Nahida or Neuvillette or Furina will ever step in.

These morally aligned good-natured people should learn to use others more often... Well, as if the owner of the Abyssal Serpent's powers will listen to anyone but Nahida's suggestions now. Plus, it seems now there is no need to pretend in front of the Iudex, no need to act silly and funny to avoid true issues.

"And yet, you did not even allow a possibility that an Abyssal Serpent can be defeated by a single human," she muses out loud, looking at the man with her eyes half closed. All too laid-back, the silverette stands next to the window, looking outside at the streets of Fontaine. A beautiful city destined to be drowned until someone will ensure it won't happen. Celestia is cruel, but so is the Abyss. The middle ground will always have something to fight against to survive. But does Neuvillette even allow a possibility of uniting with someone of less justice-aligned individuals? Sadly, the victory cannot be achieved with only good means. The judge and the judged will dance in the courtroom until the end of times. "The history is repeating itself in certain ways, but there is a new change in this day and age, Monsieur Neuvillette. The Traveler and his unknown little companion is something you should know to be a unique variable."

Why is she not talking about herself? The empty shell of an Abyssal Serpent only appears from the shadows, sliding up her leg until it would wrap around her waist until it would reach her arm and become smaller. So small that it would wrap around her fingers, eyes empty and devoid of any intellect as it hissed to show its presence. The shadows will be obedient.

"If no one knows better than you, then please, do share that information with me. We are on the same team," she looks at the snake wrapped around her arm and fingers, its dark scales with silver eyes make her remember how she tamed this beast and erased its 'ego' to make herself the sole winner. "Don't worry, the only things left of the one you've felt are its abilities and subtle hunger; it's primitive now, unable to deny me. I listen to the Dendro Archon, believe it or not. She's seen herself how the Abyssal Serpent has been consumed."

Perhaps, it would be better to find the other dragons and use them as fodder. The ones who do not live with humans. Azhdaha, Apep... The Serpent has shared some names before it was extinguished. As long as she can gather the necessary elemental energy, she can withstand far more than an Archon's wrath.

"Consider myself another variable to tilt the scales into our favor. But know that only Lord Kusanali can ask me for anything without paying the price."