Chapter Text
“We’ve been at the table for awhile, is this considered loitering?” I worried.
“Paimon doesn’t think so… but we should probably get going.”
“You’re right… let’s go. Thank you for the breakfast, Mavuika.”
According to the Traveler and Paimon, the hydro dragon is in Fontaine…. I don’t exactly remember a place called such a thing… I remember the hydro dragon being underwater…
Oh well. I’ve seen fish learn to walk on land before, perhaps he did too.
By the time we got to Romaritime Harbour, it was near lunch time. We boarded the next aquabus available, which had a kind Melusine running it who gave me a tour of this nation. I think I’ll like it here. “You’re lucky you’re with us!” Paimon said. “Not everyone gets to see the Iudex, especially during trials!” The… Iudex? Trials? Does the hydro dragon have other names? Does he practice law now? He always did seem to care about justice. It was quite charming. “Hey, I’m not just some random person coming into this nation! Surely he’ll know me by voice alone!” Suddenly, the Melusine on the Aquabus spoke up. “Well, we have arrived at the court of Fontaine! Oh! And, If you’re interested, you can hop back on later to see the upcoming performance at the Opera Épiclèse starring Lady Furina!” Hm! Interesting indeed. “Oh! Perle! Paimon should probably mention… The Iudex loves seeing Performances on his off time. He may be there, if you want a chance to talk with him!” “…Perfect,” I thought. “I have a chance.”
“One more thing, dear outlander!” The Melusine said. “If you see this criminal on the loose who looks a lot like us Melusines,” she pulled up a wanted poster of someone I immediately recognized. “Please don’t be afraid to let a member of the Maréchaussée phantom know!”
…Slug. I should’ve known that bastard of a creation would be here. He’s among one of my most regrettable lifeforms I created using what I have of my father’s power… and he’s come to resent me for not letting him get his way.
“I will not let him cause any more trouble.” I said to the Melusine.
Once we walked inside the Palais Mermonia, we were met with very disappointing news.
“We’re very sorry… you’ll have to make an appointment if you want to meet with Monsieur Neuvillette! It seems he’s also already on his way to the Opera Épiclèse for tonight’s show.”
Damn it. …wait… Neuvillette? But I don’t remember that name… is that him? Is that the same person? Wasn’t that his last name…?
“Oh… oh… oh no…” i started to panic. These last few milleniae he’s probably forgotten I existed, if I talk to him he’ll just push me away… if I call him by his first name… which I don’t even remember… maybe then he’ll remember me, but.. I… I don’t…-
“Are you ok?” Oh. I’m so used to breaking down on my own, I forgot it wasn’t normal to do in public.
“If you need a break outside, please do take one. I will make sure the Iudex sees you as one as possible.”
“Well…. Why don’t we just go for a walk?” Paimon asked me. “We could stop by Chiori’s boutique and get a fancier outfit for you to wear while you’re here!”
Alright, I do admit, I shouldn’t be wearing pajamas I’ve had on for about… however long I’ve been human, but has the traveler ever changed his clothes?
Anyway, I agreed, and we ended up with a very pretty outfit. Chiori was very nice to talk to aswell… and she has a natural talent for this. “I went for a Pastel-colored Paladin look. Do you like it?” She asked.
“Yes. Yeah. Mhm. Yeah. Yes. I do.”
“Don’t worry about the payment, this one’s on me.” Said the traveler. “Y-you really don’t have to-” I then realized I had no Mora on me. Yeah, I should thank him.
I walked out carefully, trying not to trip… when I suddenly spotted someone who looked very familiar walking by.
“Why is the Iudex walking to the aquabus unattended?” People whispered and gossiped.
He’s here. Before I knew it, he walked right past me.
“Wait! Hey!” I shouted, racing to him.
He had an inexplicable emotion on his face.
“Ahem… good day, Monsieur Neuvillette.”