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1.
The Chief Justice has lived his long, centuries old life without the knowledge of certain emotions.
Sure, he had grieved, he had cried (at least the sky did for him on most occasions), but he had always kept his emotions in check.
Afterall, that's expected of him.
As the Iudex and the Chief Justice, Neuvillette is required to keep his judgement impartial, lest he makes an unfair verdict when in court.
In conclusion, he shouldn't be swayed by emotion when he makes a decision. Logic and accordance to the law should be his top priority.
That carried through his daily life as well, unable to form proper connections with others.
However, a certain Duke made his way into his personal bubble, breaking the walls he had built to separate himself from others. Though, Neuvillette finds himself deciding that, against his better judgement, he was alright with that.
In fact, more than alright with it, but he wouldn't admit it.
Neuvillette would tell himself that his meetings with the Duke of Meropide is strictly for business, though slowly as their relationship grew further, it became more than just paperworks and obligation.
It has been 1 year since Wriothesley was granted the title as Duke, and Neuvillette has grown to fond of the man that he had taken notice the changes in their meetings since their first encounter.
Neuvillette would rather forget the actual first encounter. It was not a pleasant memory for both Wriothesley and him. Despite the fact that the Duke reassures Neuvillette that it was all in the past, the silver-haired dragon wished that the outcome could have been more different. That perhaps he Wriothesley did not have to spend majority of his life behind bars. Though, would they still know each other the way they do now if it weren't for that fateful verdict in court?
Neuvillette looks up from his papers to glance over at the sofa where Wriothesley was currently focused on his own set of tasks.
They did this rather often, and Neuvillette doesn't recall how they got to this point. But he certainly was grateful for it. The company was soothing, unlike Lady Furina's overwhelming presence. She wasn't terribly company, though Neuvillette would rather not hear her miscellaneous yapping about matters that don't concern work while he was trying to do his job.
"Neuvillette?" A gentle voice cuts through the silence, and it snaps the man away from his thoughts. His vision focuses properly on the latter who called out for him, a blush creeping up his cheeks when he realized that he had been staring.
Clearing his throat, Neuvillette gives the Duke a soft smile. "My apologies, I must have dozed off for a moment."
Perhaps he said the wrong choice of words because the Duke's brows furrowed more in concern to them.
"Dozed off? The Neuvillette I know would never sleep on the job," A lopsided grin crept up the other's face and Neuvillette was sure he was teasing.
"Oh? And the Wriothesley I am well acquainted with would have finished his third cup of tea by now." The Chief Justice glances at the untouched teacup, the contents now cold from hours of neglect.
"Ah crap.. you're right." Wriothesley groans as he reached out for his unfortunately cold tea, downing it anyway considering it would be a waste if he didn't.
"Is something weighing in your mind?" Neuvillette hums, his head tilting to the side ever so slightly.
"I should be asking you that," A laugh erupts the ebony's throat and the sound made the dragon's chest bloom with warmth. "Have you been sleeping at all, Monsieur?"
"You have yet to answer my own inquiry, your Grace." Neuvillette raised a brow, earning a chuckle from the man, watching as he raised his hands up as if he was caught in a crime.
"You first, then I'll spill."
Neuvillette huffs silently, though not in malice and mostly from amusement. "I had a sufficient amount of sleep."
"Oh yeah? How many hours might that be, your Honor?"
"A good three to four hours." Neuvillette hummed proudly, only to receive a stare from the Duke.
Before Neuvillette could ask, the Duke opened his mouth to speak.
"That's hardly enough! No wonder you dozed off."
"It is my usual amount of sleep yet I never heard you complain about it once," Neuvillette says, a bit puzzled with his words. Perhaps humans and dragons have different perception of sufficient amount of sleep. He might have to ask Sigewinne later if he remembers.
"Then it explains why you seem so exhausted all the damn time." Wriothesley retorts back, an arm draping over the couch as he pays full attention towards his direction.
"Enough of that now.." Neuvillette attempts to evade the topic. "Your turn, your Grace. What's clouding your mind?"
"We'll get back to your sleep schedule in a moment but to answer you, nothing much." Wriothesley shrugs and Neuvillette simply narrowed his eyes in suspicion.
"Okay, fine. You caught me again. This is why you're the Chief Justice huh? No lies evades you. Hey, are you a lie detector by any chance? Not saying I've ever lied about anything, just y'know-"
"Wriothesley." His voice seemed to lull the Duke back to their current topic, amusment dripping in Neuvillette's tone.
"Fine. Since it apparently interests you so much," Wriothesley paused, grumbling. "I received a love letter from an old acquaintance of mine from before I was sentenced in Meropide."
Neuvillette's teasing demeanor seemed to drop so suddenly. If he were smiling throughout, perhaps Wriothesley would have noticed his shift in mood immediately. If he did, he didn't mention it at least. Neuvillette wishes he didn't.
An unfamiliar emotion bubbles within his chest, a twinge of.. anger and sorrow in some capacity? Though, he is quite unsure whys he would feel that particular mix of emotions to the knowledge that Wriothesley has a potential admirer.
"A charmer you are, Duke. It's no surprise that you are admired by many." Neuvillette manages to say.
The Duke is a dashing, handsome man. It's something Neuvillette could be frank and honest about. His chiseled jaw, his well-endowed chest, his toned, scarred biceps.. It's difficult to disagree with the fact that Wriothesley is the definition of masculine beauty. His glacial, icy eyes so full of warmth, his mesmerising, infectious smile.. Oh the list of things that Neuvillette could think of to compliment and praise the Fortress of Meropide's administrator.
"Really, I'm nothing special." Heat flushes on Wriothesley's face, a rosy hue on those cheeks of his. Neuvillette held his tongue, as to not embarrass himself from voicing out his inner thoughts.
"May I remind you of your position? You're not 'nothing special'. You're my duke, a capable and respectable man. You have showed tremendous efforts and proof as to why you're here today. You should be proud of yourself." Neuvillette says so easily, words of praise for the other man had always come naturally.
Interestingly enough, he watches as those already pink cheeks deepen to a darker shade of crimson. And was it such a good colour on the Duke.
"Please.. you're putting me up on some fancy ass pedestal I don't deserve. Though, high praise from you, Chief. I feel honoured you think of me that highly." Wriothesley admits, laughing filling the room as he folds his arms, though the color never faded from his face.
"I'm simply telling you what I think." Neuvillette frowns a bit. Does Wriothesley really look down on himself this much?
"You're my equal, Wriothesley." He decides to add.
Silence filled the room, and he wasn't sure whether his statement made his esteemed guest feel uncomfortable.
Ah.. how shall he save this? Wriothesley wasn't talking at all. In fact, his mouth was slightly agape, his eyes wide and his face burning.. with rage perhaps? Neuvillette can't tell.. He tries to read his emotions, yet the Iudex doesn't understand it himself. Though he feels joy in some way?
How confusing..
"About that love letter." The Iudex glances back down on his papers, not actually reading through them, only using them as an excuse to not look Wriothesley in the eye.
"What about it?" Wriothesley finally answers, an indistinguishable emotion lingering in his words.
"Are you accepting it?" Neuvillette finds himself asking.
A smirk tugged on the other's lips and suddenly he's back to his usual carefree self.
"Oh? What's this? The Iudex of Fontaine is interested in my love life? Didn't think you'd care for trivial shit like this, your Honor." His eyes twinkled with curiosity, that teasing gaze made Neuvillette stare at his own papers harder.
"I'm only interested in the concept of romance. I was hoping you'd humor me about this mysterious woman and how your relationship might conspire." He grips onto the documents slightly without thought, crumpling the sheets.
"Oh, in that case." Wriothesley gets up slowly, footsteps making his way to Neuvillette's desk as he pressed his palms on the furniture, staring down the man.
Those silver-lilac eyes meeting his own cold blue.
"I'm gonna run off with her and leave my duties as the Duke of Meropide." Wriothesley whispers and Neuvillette heard the crackling sound of thunder outside his window.
Neuvillette stills, staring deep into those orbs for a second more before staring at his desk. His mind wandering off to imagine a world where Wriothesley does in fact choose this mysterious woman. He'd see them hold hands, laugh together, perhaps even wed and bear children..
Wriothesley does deserve a happy and fulfilling life...
Oh Archons above. What is this turbulence in his heart? Why does it ache imagining the Duke with someone?
A sigh slips through his lips.
"...If you insist on it. I'll ready papers of your resignatio-"
"Woah woah, woah!" Wriothesley backed away, his brows furrowing once more. "Hold your horses there, Neuvillette! I was joking!" He sputtered out in embarrassment, waving his hands.
"You.. were?" Neuvillette blinks, the rain outside receding in strength in accordance.
"Of course I was!" Wriothesley grumbles, a hand going through his ruffled locks. "What do you take me for, Neuvillette?? I won't run off with some woman I haven't seen in years!" He sighs, exasperated that Neuvillette even entertained the thought in the first place.
"All jokes aside, I wouldn't leave my position at all." Wriothesley chuckles softly. "After all, how could I when our dear Iudex fought so hard for it?"
"I don't wish for your position as Duke to hinder you from experiencing phenomenons such as romance."
"L-Look, I appreciate it but love isn't what I'm looking for right now. Sure it might be nice to settle down one day.. But I'm happy with what I got now. I don't need to seek for more, got everything I need right now." Wriothesley explains and Neuvillette slowly nods his head in understanding.
Though, he wonders...
Why is Wriothesley's face so red?
2.
It's been another year since Wriothesley's ascension to Dukeship and the man in question was strolling through the Court of Fontaine to run a little errand for Sigewinne, as well as to get fresh air for himself.
It has been a while since he had visited the surface, visited Neuvillette. (It has only been a week)
Their next scheduled meeting should be tomorrow for the monthly report of Meropide's finances and current status.
With a bag filled of medical supplies and other miscellaneous items requested by his Head Nurse, he wanders the streets as he ponders whether or not he should visit Neuvillette for a bit.
His mind always manages to think of their Chief Justice. And how could he not? He's so ethereal and beautiful.
Of course that's not the only things he likes about Neuvillette...
He could very well give a thousand reasons on the spot if he were asked to.
And his mind was just about to when he noticed something odd.
He had walked past a couple people and they seemed to be holding the newest edition of the Steambird paper.
Nothing unusual there. Fontaine do loves it's gossip and news.
However, what is unusual was that Neuvillette was on their front page.
Wriothesley might have been seeing things, his eyesight was not the sharpest.. He needs reading glasses for fucks sake.
And so, against all reason, he buys a copy of the Steambird paper. And who would have thought. Neuvillette's interview was conducted by none other than Charlotte herself.
He had quite a few encounters with the persistent journalist...
He'll give where credit is due. She was incredibly smart with her choice of words, and her persuasiveness is quite impressive. However, fancy flattery doesn't work on him. Not when it's from anyone but Neuvillette.
He quints his eyes a bit, grumbling at the choice of font but the title was as crystal clear, making him wonder if this was simply a clone of Neuvillette.
Why would he accept an interview regarding..
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: DOES OUR CHIEF JUSTICE HAVE A CRUSH?!?
Wriothesley would laugh at the absurd and absolutely straight forward title if it wasn't well-.. absurd.
Neuvillette finding interest in someone other than his work and duties?
He recalls a conversation from the past, where he had brought up a love letter he had received and Neuvillette seemed utterly confused with the concept of love!
No offense, but he really couldn't picture Neuvillette being remotely interested in anyone at all!
The man sits around in his office all day burying himself in mountains of work. Wriothesley doubts that Neuvillette has the time going around and falling in love!
Perhaps personal emotions were plaguing his thoughts. He should be happy Neuvillette has someone right? He had always looked so lonely before he came along to bother the quiet office the Iudex locked himself in...
He scans through the article, scoffing as he realized it's mostly a scam. Most of the topics mentioned was about other matters like his schedule, thoughts on Fontaine officials and other topics that Wriothesley should have already known.
The question briefly mentioning romance had only been mentioned at the near end of the paragraph and it didn't even reveal much!
When asked whether or not he would settle down, Monsieur Neuvillette's face brightened. "Not anytime soon. Perhaps one day." Was his reply. Despite our journalist's relentless efforts to ask who the Chief Justice has in mind, he bashfully shakes his head and mentioned he had to take his leave.
"That didn't answer shit.." Wriothesley groans softly. That didn't give away the fact that he had some silly crush! It just implies that Neuvillette wishes to settle down like a normal person!
And that's good for him.
"Damn it.." Wriothesley crumples the magazine into a ball, his chest clenching in an emotion that the Warden had figured to be jealousy.
What was he feeling jealous about? That someone else could make Neuvillette happier than he could? Tsk.. What was he thinking. He shouldn't be so self-centred! Neuvillette deserves to be happy and if that person does a better job than him, then to hell with it!
He decided against visiting the Palais Mermonia, deciding it's better for his mental health to not see Neuvillette right now.
Once he reaches the Fortress, he tossed Sigewinne's items on the empty patient's bed and the Melusine winces when an item fell out of the bag and fell onto the ground with a loud clank.
"Geez. What got you so worked up today, your Grace?" Sigewinne grumbles out as she picked up the equipment she requested for.
"You're close with Neuvillette right?" Wriothesley glances over at the nurse who irked a brow in hopes of a further explanation.
Because surely Wriothesley should know the answer to his own foolish question.
While close is not the word, all Melusines has a special place in Neuvillette's heart. He views them as daughters if Wriothesley were to make that analogy and connection.
"I'm uh.." He scratches his chin. "Just curious y'know?"
"Uh huh." Was Sigewinne's unimpressed reply as she sanitizes her equipment. For safety and health protocol reasons of course. "Just spit it out, your Grace."
"Is he seeing anyone right now?" Wriothesley blurts out, the question weighing in his mind.
A smirk tugged onto her lips but she kept facing her back against the Duke.
"I don't recall Sedene mentioning that he has any scheduled meetings today." She says, know full-well that it wasn't what Wriothesley implied. She just wanted to embarrass him further.
As expected, a groan left his lips, his hand covering half his already-reddened face.
"Not like that Sigewinne.. I meant is he seeing anyone?"
"Your change of tone for a singular word doesn't change my answer your Grace." She teased and that's when Wriothesley picked up her little game.
"Cut it out Sigewinne! You know what I'm trying to say.." He fell back onto his seat, leaning his head against the rest behind him.
"Hmm.. Do I?" The nurse finally spun around to grin at him.
"Yes you do."
"Fine fine. It's quite amusing to see the duke all flustered like some lovesick teen for his boss." A devilish giggle shot his way.
"Oh for Furina's-! You don't have to phrase it like that!" Wriothesley scowls half-heartedly, knowing his Head Nurse is teasing him.
"Okay okay! But really. Monsieur Neuvillette doesn't share his romantic interests with us." Sigewinne shrugs, and the hopeful breath Wriothesley had been holding left his lungs.
"But maybe he is interested in you, Duke Wriothesley~!" A knowing glint in her eyes and the Warden wishes he could believe her but he physically and mentally can't.
"Don't bullshit me, Sigewinne." He grumbles, rubbing his temple as he swoops up his tea that he had prepared not too long ago. He needed to clear this incoming headache.
"I'm offended that you'd think I'd lie to you in such a critical conversation." She rolls her eyes, her hand now on her hip.
"Shut it, Sigewinne. Playing with people's emotions isn't nice y'know." Wriothesley groans into his palm, his migraine is relatively getting worse.
"Here you go." Sigewinne pushes a milkshake towards him with a grin.
"Not in the mood for one." He muttered.
"It's for that headache you're getting." She huffs, narrowing her eyes.
"I'll be fine without it."
"I'm going to tell Monsieur Neuvillette that you hurt my feelings-"
At the mention of Neuvillette, his body moved on it's own, grabbing the milkshake and downing it like he would chug a teapot full of tea.
Wriothesley tries his back to hide the gag that's bubbling up his throat, his eye twitching as he pressed the back of his palm to his lips.
"D-don't you-.. fucking dare." Wriothesley manages to cough out. "Archons.. what even is in that?! Why does it taste like- You know what I don't even what to think about it!... Oh what do you know, my headache's slowly disappearing."
"Question my expertise again and I might poison you," Sigewinne scoffs playfully, smiling at the duke.
"But really, your Grace. About Monsieur Neuvillette," She paused, tinkering with a needle. "You mustn't worry yourself about it. You're his closest friend. If he ever had anyone in mind, wouldn't you be the first person he'll inform?"
"We all have our secrets, and I'm sure Monsieur Neuvillette is a man of many."
"And that he is." Sigewinne nods her head. "Yet you know his deepest one."
But he didn't reveal his identity to me.. Wriothesley fights the urge to argue, sighing softly as he decides its better off to lose a conversation with Sigewinne this time.
"Damn it.. Whatever, I'll see you later. Those reports ain't gonna do themselves." Wriothesley sighs, making his way out of Sigewinne's office and towards his own.
Sigewinne watches the duke until he's totally gone, chuckling to herself.
"I swear those two are hopeless." She muttered, glancing down at her own edition of the Steambird newspaper.
Wriothesley failed to read to read through it properly.
The Iudex described Furina to be stubborn and hardheaded but a character that meant well behind her strong act and strong personality. When asked about the Duke of Meropide, he paused for a moment before saying "Around him, I experience emotions I have not felt before." He refuses to elaborate any further than that.
3.
Two months after the end of that horrid prophecy, Furina nagged at Neuvillette that he should throw an event for the celebration of Fontaine's survival.
"Lady Furina, it is uncharacteristic of me to throw parties. Matters such as those are- were given to you." Neuvillette reasons.
The ex-Archon was sitting before him in his office claimed she made this appointment to discuss important matters with him.
He didn't expect she came all this way to request that he threw some sort of gala.
"C'mon Neuvi! Pleaaaaase... I really want to celebrate Fontaine as a region!" Furina whines loudly, her body slumped on his desk.
"Don't address me so casually, Miss Furina.." Neuvillette sighs softly. "We're discussing important matters here, try to be mindful."
Furina huffs softly, folding her arms as she sat properly across him. "Better?" She grumbles in annoyance.
The Hydro Dragon, however, smiled and nodded his head. "Now, regarding your request. I do think it's a wonderful idea to let the people know that their lives being spared from the primordial sea is significant in Fontainian history."
"YES! Thank you, Neuvi-"
The Chief Justice held up his hand to silence her for a while, he didn't have any I'll intentions. He simply wishes to finish his statement before she goes off celebrating early.
"However, I truly do think I'm unfit to proceed with the preparations required for such a grand and significant event." Neuvillette continues. "That is why, if you're truly determined to make this event a reality. Would it be alright for me to recruit you? As the ex-Archon, I also expect you to deliver the opening speech for the program. That will be one of the many conditions I have for you, if you'd like your request to be granted."
Suddenly, all color drained from Furina's face, a nervous chuckle leaving her lips. "W-wha..? But-! I'm merely a human."
"Who was our acting Archon for over 500 years. You're the reason Fontaine is still standing."
"No." Furina declines strongly, pointing at Neuvillette dramatically as if they were in the trial room. "You are the reason of Fontaine's survival. If you didn't do those dragon-y powers then-.."
"Do refrain calling my abilities that.. And to add to your statement, the only reason I was able to save Fontaine is because you played your part perfectly for the last few centuries. We should be celebrating in your honor as well." Neuvillette tries to keep his explanation simple and short for Furina to get it in her head, but she continued to look skeptical.
"Furina.." He says, his voice soft and unlike his voice he normally uses in court or serious settings.
The other lady was stunned that the honorifics were dropped, blinking owlishly at Neuvillette.
"I truly meant it when I say we are grateful towards you and your efforts. We survived a prophecy that we thought would wipe our existence from Teyvat. It's an astonishing feat and you are one of the sole main characters that made it possible. I'm sure the people will agree." Neuvillette says again, slowly and Furina was silent for a moment.
She was in a state of vulnerability but her resolve was strong. She wanted the people to feel significant, that their lives are worth celebrating.
"I'll plan the best party Fontaine has ever seen." Furina announced with conviction, slamming her hand on the desk and Neuvillette didn't seem to be bothered.
"I'm counting on that." Neuvillette nods in approval, a small smile on his lips.
Everyone in Fontaine had been invited, and the traveler had pulled a few strings for other significant guests to join in the first annual Fontaine Gala.
Neuvillette had never been good in social environments, but he did know how to maintain his composure.
He took a glance around him from the corner he was rooted in to observe the guests. They seem to be enjoying themselves quite nicely. The theme was a masquerade ball. It was a bit over the top but considering it's their first ever gala, Neuvillette is willing to let it slide.
The speech had already concluded and Furina was off mingling with the folk that wish to thank her and other guests who wish to see Fontaine's human ex-Archon.
"Hey," A voice cuts through the regal music and Neuvillette instantly spun around to greet them.
Even behind a mask, it was quite obvious to tell who was standing before him from his physical attributes. A warm blush crept through Neuvillette's expression as he watches the Duke strud towards him confidently with his hand up to wave at him.
Despite the fact that the Duke was already dashingly handsome in his usual attire, seeing the male dress up in a proper suit was a treat.
His hair was more tamed than usual, perhaps styled with care, his bandages were new and the black colour matches with the black dress shirt he wore wonder a corset and a dark red necktie. The blazer the same colour as the tie hugged his torso so tightly, Neuvillette was astonished a few buttons were keeping it from being shredded by Wriothesley's movements.
"You look stunning as ever, Monsieur." Wriothesley cocks his head to the side, a playful grin on his face. "As do you." Was Neuvillette's calm and immediate response.
"You flatter me, your Honor! But no one in Fontaine is close to being as gorgeous as you," Wriothesley grins widely at the Chief Justice, his words pooling heat in the older man's chest.
"You truly are such a master with words, your Grace." Neuvillette smiles, keeping his composure despite the fact that his face felt like someone had used their pyro vision to burn him.
"Flirting already?" A voice belong to a mature and dignified woman darted in their direction and if Neuvillette wasn't busy looking at his wine glass, he would have spotted Wriothesley glaring the the Champion Duelist.
"What? Want compliments too?" The Duke scoffs playfully, a hand on his hip and Neuvillette stared harder at his glass full of Fontaine's finest and purest water to avoid staring at how the other's clothes seemed to- Archons, Neuvillette. Focus. His eyes are up there.
"I'm sure I'm not as pretty as the Chief Justice in your eyes, your Grace." Clorinde replies with an amused tone. The woman herself was in fact gorgeous, her body slim yet shows a bit of muscle from her extensive training. She wore a simple and tight navy dress, most probably picked by Navia with Clorinde's own personal taste in interest.
"Aw, don't be jealous. You're still a fine woman." Wriothesley laughs and Clorinde hums at the compliment, looking over at a Neuvillette who was just far too interested in that wine glass.
And for the rest of their chat, he certainly was so interested in it.
Wriothesley had tried to stick around him after their conversation with Clorinde where they talked about miscellaneous things with Neuvillette listening in the background.
When Wriothesley tried to spark a conversation afterwards (Navia had dragged her girlfriend away to who knows where), another few young women came rushing to greet the Duke.
One of them, Neuvillette distinctively recalls, had their arms wrapped around Wriothesley's own muscular one, pressing their.. cleavage onto him purposefully.
While he saw no ill-intent, he was quite sure the woman was trying to seduce the Duke into spending the night with her.
Neuvillette had to do try so desperaty not to let out a growl in distaste at the way she spoke with his Duke.
...His?
He shook his head. No, no. He can't be selfish. If Wriothesley is interested in her.. he couldn't possibly interfere. They weren't even courting each other!
Wait. Courting?
Was he that interested in the Duke that he considered courting him?
A flush made way to his face but it didn't last long when the woman's seductive voice drew him out of his thoughts.
"What do you say, your Grace? Me, you, my apartment?" The woman whispers, but loud enough for Neuvillette to overhear.
"My apologies to cut in, but his Grace and I have important matters to tend to after the gala." Neuvillette finds himself replying in place of Wriothesley and he tries his hardest to ignore the confused and puzzled look the Warden was giving him.
"Huh? Oh. Yeah, sorry miss. Kinda busy." Wriothesley grins at her not-so-apologetically, managing to free his arm from her needy grasps.
The woman's face was red from presumably shame and slight resentment yet she curtsey's politely before taking her leave.
Neuvillette was hoping he didn't have to suffer the consequences of his own actions but he found the duke smirking at him.
"I don't recall having plans with you after the gala. Is Monsieur Neuvillette preventing me from getting laid?" Wriothesley's voice laced with a smug and teasing tone and Neuvillette might have taken it the wrong way from how he seemed interested on the ground.
"My apologies for driving your opportunity away, your Grace." Neuvillette whispers.
Why did he say that?
Did Wriothesley hate him?
Rain slowly poured outside the Palais walls and Wriothesley glances out to notice it.
"Neuvi.." A nickname Neuvillette found to be endearing from Wriothesley's tongue.
"I was kidding, I wasn't interested. Thank you for getting me out of that uh.. awkward situation. Now, if another woman dares flirt, I'll just say I have plans with you." He smiles, winking at the Iudex and almost as suddenly as it came, the rain came to a halt.
Before the man had any time to reply, an arm draped around Wriothesley's shoulders and a laugh echoed around them.
"Duke! It's been forever!" A man nudged him, failing to notice the presence of the Chief Justice.
"Oh? Andre, what a pleasant surprise." Wriothesley grins before looking over at Neuvillette. "Neuvi, this is Andre. We knew each other from.." He clears his throat. The past wasn't something to bring up in a bright setting such as this. "He's like a brother." He decided on saying and looking on the expression on Neuvillette's face, he seemed to have understood.
"T-the Chief Justice..?? Ah.. sorry, sire. I didn't mean to intrude-" The man sputtered and the dragon could tell he was a bit tipsy. His eyes glances down at the other's hand, noticing a silver band around his ring finger before looking at him directly once more.
"Not to worry, the Duke and I weren't discussing anything of importance." Neuvillette nods his head politely and Andre seemed to calm down after that.
"Then may I borrow my dear brother for a moment to talk over drinks?" Andre grins and who was Neuvillette to decline? It wasn't his place to keep Wriothesley chained to him the entire party.
"Wait Neuvi- care to join us?" Wriothesley asked as he was attempted to be dragged away, but he was rooted in place, unmoving.
"I would rather not intrude, I'll be around." Neuvillette pressed his lips together for a smile and Wriothesley seemed to reluctant to leave, yet he proceeded to anyway.
Neuvillette busies himself at the buffet, Furina had been kind enough to have a wide variety of water from all over Teyvat and he wasn't about to waste the opportunity to try them all.
"Neuvillette." A voice called beside him, glancing over to question who would address him so casually if it weren't Furina and Wriothesley.
He was a leader of the gardes, at least one of the top divisions, and Neuvillette immediately recognized him despite the black mask used to hide his features.
He seemed too intoxicated and Neuvillette was amused to see such a serious individual result into this from alcohol.
"Raphael, a pleasure to have an audience with you." Neuvillette says, a bit amused but he doesn't show it. He was sure if the other man were to remember their encounter, he would apologize profusely. If Neuvillette recalls properly, Raphael made sure their relationship was strictly professional. And the Iudex has no arguments against it.
"No, the pleasure is all mine really." The man laughs, an unusual sound from him but Neuvillette accepts it all the same.
"Your Honor.." Neuvillette looks up from his water, tilting his head. "Has anyone ever told you how beautiful your eyes are?"
The judge was rendered speechless, blinking in confusion. "Pardon?" He manages out.
"You're gorgeous, and if I had no self-restraint, I would have pinned you on any day we locked eyes."
"You guard the Palais Mermonia. We cross paths almost daily." Neuvillette comments and the garde gave him a stare.
Then it dawns on Neuvillette.
Is he... being hit on?
"My point exactly, Monsieur."
"This.. is rather sudden," Neuvillette finds himself, not uncomfortable, just.. rendered speechless.
"If I may, your Honor," And Neuvillette was about to question when he felt an arm around his shoulders and that he was being rugged closer to the taller man.
A flush crept up Neuvillette's face, his eyes widening because he had never been touched in such a way. The only man who dared try (and is granted permission) was Wriothesley.
"Raphael. This is highly inappropriate," Neuvillette tries to pull away, only to be tugged closer.
"Monsieur.. Allow me to be selfish, I have had my eyes on you for so so long." The Garde whispers and Neuvillette frowns in response.
Is it normal to feel guilty that he does not return the same sentiment? That he wishes to tear himself away? Raphael is no means an evildoer, but Neuvillette has no intentions of continuing intimate acts like these.
"Raphael. Unhand me." He finds himself saying, attempting to shove the other away by the shoulder with his hand. If he uses his raw strength, he fears he might break a bone.. But Raphael didn't seem to budge.
"You smell of the pleasant ocean breeze, and your hair is soft to the touch.."
Neuvillette was starting to get uncomfortable, jerking when he felt the other's hand through his hair and this time, the Chief Justice snarled. Who was he to touch him in such a manner?!
Before Neuvillette could make a scene, someone else did it for him.
"Get your hands off him." A stern, nearly frightening voice growls in their direction. Neuvillette was relieved to hear the the familiar voice, but the tone he used was extremely unfamiliar to him.
"Ah, it's you." Raphael spun around, immediately letting go of Neuvillette. To the man's relief.
"Duke Wriothesley to you." He folds his arms, glancing over at Neuvillette. "Taking advantage of your boss' kindness and tolerance aren't you?"
"Tsk. As if you don't do the same, Duke." Raphael spat back.
"I don't take advantage of him. I would never." Wriothesley huffs, taking a step forward as his fists clenched. "I cherish Neuvillette's trust deeply."
"Oh really?" The Garde challenges but before it escalated any further, a cane slammed onto the ground.
"Cease this at once, Raphael." Neuvillette sighs sternly, making his cane disappear once he has his attention.
As if following orders, Raphael bowed his head and grumbled, making his way out without any other fuss.
"Neuvillette.." Wriothesley's whispers, much gentle than the tone he had used earlier. "Did he assault you?" He asked, walking closer towards him and Neuvillette shakes his head.
"I was uncomfortable, but I won't sue him for it. He was intoxicated," Neuvillette mumbles, averting his eyes away from Wriothesley.
This encounter only made Neuvillette more sure of his growing feelings for the Duke. After all, Rephael held him the same as Wriothesley did, told him the same compliments. Yet it did not stir the same emotions as it did for the Warden of Meropide.
Same could be said with Wriothesley. The fiery wrath and strong sense of jealousy building within him when he saw the Iudex in someone else's arms.. Oh, he's got it bad.
They both do.
4.
Wriothesley finds himself wakening up with a soft groan, wanting to move to shift his position when he felt a weight on his arm and limbs wrapped around him as if to trap him down.
A light chuckle left his lips, the sun shining in his face yet he doesn't seem to care.
He directed his attention on the sleeping Iudex in his arms, kissing his forehead gently.
Oh Celestia.. he was so lucky.
To be able to hold Neuvillette and see him like this every single day. (Well. Not everyday, they have responsibilities and Meropide is quite the journey from the Court of Fontaine.)
He noticed those beautiful lashes fluttering open, and he couldn't resist the urge to lean in to press his lips fondly on the Iudex's, his calloused hand finding it's way to his rose-tinted cheek, caressing the soft skin with his thumb.
Neuvillette moves against their kiss, hoping to bring Wriothesley closer.
"Mornin', sweetness." Wriothesley says so quietly, just for them to hear.
"Good morning, my love." Was Neuvillette's gentle reply and despite the fact that they have been a couple for a month or so, the petname sparks so much warmth within him.
"Oh Archons.. I love you so much," He laughs gently as he scoops Neuvillette closer and squeezed him tight.
"I love you too," A smile on Neuvillette's lips and it took everything to not kiss him again. Though, the dragon had other ideas, leaning in to peck him eagerly.
They both had the day off, a non-work holiday in Fontaine decreed by Furina was she was still in acting as Archon.
Usually, they'd deny the holiday and still continue to work, however, that was before they started dating.
Nowadays, they will take any chance to have time for each other. Considering their extensively long work hours and long distances apart, it was rare to find time to spend the night like this.
"So. I was learning about Melusine history from Sigewinne the other day," Wriothesley starts, unsure if this was a sore topic for his dragon lover but he was curious.
"Were you and Elynas a thing?" He puts it rather bluntly and from the absurdity of the question and phrasing, Neuvillette's eyes widened.
"Wherever did you get that? And how did Elynas ever enter the conversation! Well, he is the father of all Melusines.. But how does your question relate with that bit of history?"
"Well.. he's a dragon.. you're a dragon.. so.." Wriothesley found himself to be quite unreasonable now. He felt stupid.
"We aren't ruffians, my love. I won't mate with another just because they're a dragon." Neuvillette answers, still baffled at the question.
"Y-yeah, it started to sound dumb in my head." Wriothesley mumbles, his face turning pink from embarrassment. "Did you know him though?"
"To answer you, I have never met Elynas. At least, not.. me in a sense. Perhaps a predecessor of mine." Neuvillette wonders in thought. "I'm.. certain I am a direct cause of his death in a way, but I can't be too sure. I don't remember and there are only too few books about the topic, most having differing tales. So I am unsure of the truth behind it."
"I see.. sorry to bring it up, sweetness. I was just wondering.. if you had anyone before me, that is." Wriothesley blushes sheepishly, his hand finding it's way to Neuvillette's waist, caressing the area there with his thumb.
"In this lifetime, I'm afraid not. I busied myself in my occupation as Chief Justice of Fontaine and I kept quite the distance from many who tried to court me." Neuvillette answers, humming as he leans in to peck Wriothesley's cheek. "What let this on, my love?"
"N-nothing.. I just thought, wow, am I really your first?"
"You are. My first and only," Neuvillette smiles softly as he nuzzles his cheek onto Wriothesley's shoulder.
"So uhm. What are your thoughts on the Geo Archon-? Is he like- your type or-"
"Wriothesley!" He chided, growling at his lover as he playfully seats his chest.
"Whaaat? Just asking.." He pouts, bringing Neuvillette back into his chest and hugged him tighter, as if he didn't want to let go at all.
"Really, what is your true motives behind all these questions?" Neuvillette huffs quietly, though affectionately since.. he could sense something in Wriothesley's emotions that were close to self-doubt and insecurity.
"Were.. you hoping to mate with someone of your own kind?" Wriothesley muttered softly, his eyes darting away nervously.
"What about you? Would you rather be with a human instead of me?" Neuvillette inquires and immediately Wriothesley jerked.
"W-what?! Sweetness, that's not what I was saying! I love you truly and I wouldn't want anyone else!"
Neuvillette finds Wriothesley's panic to be humorous, giving him a light kiss to reassure him further.
"It is the same for me, my love. There is no one else I'd love more than you." Neuvillette cups his cheek and peppered him with more affectionate pecks.
"I love you too.." Wriothesley says sheepishly and Neuvillette could feel his mate's nerves calming against him.
"Were you really so jealous at the mention of another dragon?" Neuvillette hums curiously, finding Wriothesley to be quite adorable.
"Was just curious!" Wriothesley whines, pushing his face into Neuvillette's white locks.
"Mm.. in that case, it's my turn to interview you. Am I your first as well, Wriothesley?" The Iudex tilts his head curiously, looking up at his lover.
"Well, considering I was a teen when I was sentenced to Meropide, romance isn't really my priority y'know? Then I earned my title from you, fell in love with you.. Yeah, no time for anyone else." Wriothesley laughs softly.
"Then how are you so proficient with your mouth? When we first kissed, it was like you have done it before." Neuvillette ponders aloud, and Wriothesley laughs in response.
"Damn, sweetheart. I didn't know you were that impressed with my skills." The man's tone dripped heavily with tease.
"I was deeply charmed and seduced." Neuvillette held the urge to roll his eyes playfully. "Now kiss me,"
"Someone's demanding~" Wriothesley grins, pulling Neuvillette in for a rougher, more passionate kiss.
"I simply wish to emphasize the fact that I'm yours as you are mine." Neuvillette cups his cheek and kissed the male softly before tugging him closer, his lips curling into a small smirk.
Wriothesley seemed to have caught on, returning the smug expression as he pins his lover against the bed, straddling him.
"Oh? I think I need more evidence that you're all mine, your Honour."
Neuvillette shivers in pleasure as his legs were slowly pried open, feeling heat pool in his belly eagerly.
"Enough stalling and take me."
"Gladly."
5.
Two, nearly three, years had passed since Wriothesley and Neuvillette became an item. Despite the lengthy time they have been together, their relationship stayed private and away from the public eye.
Though, many in Fontaine had already suspected a less-than-professional relationship between them. The Steambird had been actively trying to get on their tail on their romantic affairs but Wriothesley and Neuvillette refused to entertain such questions.
When questioned by close friends why they're keeping their relationship so secretive, both have differing answers with a similar goal.
If you were to ask Wriothesley, he'd tell you it was because they didn't want their relationship to cause any backlash towards Neuvillette.
And if you were to ask Neuvillette, he's say he didn't want Wriothesley to be accused of having special treatment.
Furina showed her frustration in the situation, eager to let the public know that her beloved Iudex had someone to rely on. (Perhaps she was just excited for a wedding for Neuvillette and Wriothesley and she wishes to be the maid of Honor.)
Currently, Neuvillette is, surprisingly, overseas. The Hydro Dragon of Fontaine away from the waters he was familiar with for over 500 years.
Furina was requested by the other archons for some sort of gathering despite the fact that she wasn't one herself any longer.
She had begged Neuvillette to accompany her and who was the Chief Justice to say no to someone he considered his sister?
Wriothesley had been there when Furina was on her knees crying to Neuvillette about being nervous but how she terribly wanted to attend.
Neuvillette was skeptical, considering that he wasn't really a big fan of Archons themselves because of Celestia... And to add the fact that, he hsd never left Fontaine since his birth and upbringing, he feared he might be a bit homesick.
And another issue came to light, if both Furina and Neuvillette were to leave, who was going to be in charge of Fontaine during his absence?
When the topic was brought up, Wriothesley was quick to volunteer. After all, he saw this as an opportunity to give his lover a well-deserved break. Against Neuvillette's protests, he used his charm and terribly good persuasion skills on his lover. (Furina is a victim)
Now, he's left to tend to Neuvillette's office, scanning through the many documents that had been stacked and compiled by Sedene.
Does Neuvillette really do this nearly every day? How torturous...
After a few grueling hours, Wriothesley finally finishes the last bit of paperwork he was required to scan through and stamp. He glances over at the clock, humming as he realized it was one past midnight.
Chuckling quietly to himself, he lets out an exhausted sigh. Perhaps this was why Neuvillette always finished work late.
Neuvillette..
Damn it. He misses his lover deeply.
The amount of documents earlier was enough to distract him from the lingering thoughts of his fiancé-to-be but now with nothing left to do, his longing returning back almost instantly.
He wonders if Neuvillette misses him all the same, though he assumes so, considering his draconic instincts to be protective over things that was his. He hoped another war doesn't happen, considering his beloved's hidden malice towards Archons because of the entire thing with the Heavenly Principles and all that..
To be frank, Wriothesley doesn't understand much, but he will always support his Sovereign lover even if he were to fight against the gods.
Neuvillette will be home in a day or two depending on the tides.. Does Neuvillette control the seas on other regions too? He wasn't quite sure to be perfectly honest. Well, his beloved was in fact the Hydro Sovereign.. Perhaps maybe he could.
He'll ask when he's back.
It was yet another day, and he was in his beloved Iudex's office, scanning through the trial and court reports along with Meropide's own financials and documents.
Today was their monthly meeting, so he was unfortunate enough to do the work of both Chief Justice and Administrator of the Fortress.
As if the archons were listening to his prayers, he heard a knock at the door. Was it Sedene? Damn it-! What if it was just more work?!
He sighs reluctantly at the thought of another stack of worthless documents to look through. "Come in."
Expecting a small figure of a Melusine to enter, his eyes widened when in fact a man with beautiful silver hair entered the room.
"Hello, your Honor." The corner of Neuvillette's lips tilted upwards teasingly and Wriothesley, in no exaggeration whatsoever, literally dashed towards his lover, laughing to is words as he pulled him in his arms.
"Sweetness.. I missed you," Wriothesley sighs, inhaling the other's scent for a brief moment before realizing there was another lingering smell on him that he knew wasn't Neuvillette. It was like a breeze, but certainly not the ocean's, more like the free ruckus of the wind.
"How was work as the Chief Justice of Fontaine, my love?" Neuvillette chuckles, glancing at the messy table with an amused glint in his eyes.
"S' okay." Wriothesley hums, burying his nose deeper in Neuvillette's shoulder. "Did someone touch you?" Wriothesley asked rather bluntly.
"Touch me sensually? No, no one is allowed to. Not unless it's you, my Duke." Neuvillette replies all too simply, holding Wriothesley's cheeks and caressed him.
"What do you sense, my dear?" He kisses his forehead and Wriothesley knows he only wishes to reassure him.
"A scent that isn't yours."
"I was in Mondstat if that answer's the question. After the meeting in Liyue, I asked Barbatos for a small request." Neuvillette had nothing to hide from Wriothesley, wanting to clear all doubts and insecurities in his mind.
"You still smell like the fresh Mondstat air, it's.. odd considering you'd need a lengthy amount of time to travel from there to here." Wriothesley finds himself questioning and Neuvillette lets out a light laugh, his cheeks tinted pink.
"Dvalin was kind enough to offer me a ride back," Neuvillette clears his throat.
"Dvalin?" Wriothesley tilted his head curiously.
"He's a dragon from Mondstat," Neuvillette answers and Wriothesley felt a pang of insecurity coursing through him. A dragon...
"It certainly is a bit odd, seeing someone of my own kind considering I've heard stories of the downfall of my kin alike." Neuvillette continues and Wriothesley could sense how important that meeting was for him as an individual.
He knew how many questions were in the back of Neuvillette's head about himself.. He shouldn't make it about him, so he lets out a toothy grin and hugged him tight.
"Glad to have you back sweetness." Wriothesley settled on saying, squeezing him and immediately Neuvillette senses a tight emotion in Wriothesley's chest.
"I won't fall for a dragon at first sight, you ridiculous wolf.." Neuvillette laughs softly, kissing his beloved's lips softly.
"I-I know! I don't doubt you, Neuv.. I just.. wish I could be a better lover for you." Wriothesley mumbles, rubbing the back of his neck with a sigh.
"My love, not to ruin the moment. But allow me to remind you that you took my responsibilities as Iudex of Fontaine just so I could take a 3-day vacation." Neuvillette reasons. "You're doing more than excellent as a lover. You're sweet, compassionate, gentle, honest.. You have all the traits of a perfect husband."
"Damn right I do!" Wriothesley felt his ego shoot up the more Neuvillette complimented him, his grin lovesick and affectionate. And Neuvillette wanted to keep his dear Duke happy.
"Not to mention, I'm incredibly good at se-" Wriothesley pauses before the Hydro Dragon can stop him, failing to notice the rising blush in his face. "Wait did you say husband?"
"Y-yes.. Yes I did." Neuvillette sighs shakily, his face still hot from Wriothesley's words.
"Now, I believe we have a meeting?"
"What?! You just came back!" Wriothesley whines at the thought of doing any more paperwork.
"Fine, what do you suggest we do?" Neuvillette hums, walking to his desk to pick up a random document, reading through its contents.
Arms slowly snaked around his waist and hot breath against his nape, immediately Neuvillette knew what his dear lover was trying to suggest.
They ended up not doing any work.
And they were greeted with a very embarrassed and angry Sedene the following day.
+1
Neuvillette lays in the cold, half-empty bed, hugging the sheets with a shaky sigh.
Wriothesley had been coming late recently. And Neuvillette could understand why, considering the fact that he was catching up with documents and other responsibilities as a Warden.
With the recent attempt of an assassination to his long-life, Wriothesley was busy with making sure the organization suffered greatly and was having a difficult time in the Fortress. It was hard for the Duke to show biasness, considering he wanted to strangle them with his own hands, but this is a great offense against the Iudex. Thus, Wriothesley had all the reason to torture and punish them as he sees fit.
A shaky hand reached his neck, flashbacks of the attempted murder flashed in his head.
How could he let his guard down?
He knew he was capable of dying. He was not prone to death by murder. His predecessors before him.. The countless of other dragons in Teyvat.. Their corpses blending into nature so naturally..
He shudders to the thought of being next.
To be quite honest, he wasn't sure what time it was when he heard the fumbling of keys at the front door. It always took Wriothesley about a minute or two to find the right key.
The door was shut as quietly as possible, and Neuvillette assumes that Wriothesley thought he was asleep. He pretends to be, not wanting to worry the love of his life further. He faced the door, his eyes closed shut as he hears his husband enter the room.
"..." Silence, no footsteps, just the door creaking as it closed.
Soon, shuffling could be heard, running water from the sink and it seems like Wriothesley was getting ready to join him in bed. He hears the man brushing his teeth and his heart warms to how domesticated this felt.
Sure, they had been married and been together for quite a while. But the Duke never fails to make him feel so happy.
There was a dip in the bed when a weight sat on it and he felt a calloused hand on his cheek. It took Neuvillette everything he had to not lean towards it.
"Hey," Wriothesley chuckles, rubbing the thumb against his cheek. "I know you're up, sweetness."
"Mm.." Neuvillette whimpered pathetically, opening his eyes to greet the man sitting before him. Oh Archons.. Was he still such a beautiful sight.
"Beautiful.." The dragon whispers, pushing himself up with a quiet groan, clutching onto his stomach.
"Hey, hey.. Take it easy," Wriothesley scoops the dragon into his arms, cradling him close as he pecks his forehead.
"I'm not so fragile, I won't break easily." Neuvillette laughs into his beloved's neck, inhaling the scent of leather and old metal mixed with the fragrance of their shared, floral soaps.
"Yeah.. but, I was so scared, Neuvi. Seeing you tied up.. and hurt-! And.. What if I wasn't fast enough? What if I genuinely lost you?" Wriothesley's voice broke and so did Neuvillette's heart for his lover.
"If anyone should worry, it would be me. One day.. I will lose you." He says, barely a whisper. "Forever."
The silence was deafeningly loud, as ironic as it sounds.
"I love you." Wriothesley says suddenly and Neuvillette was stunned but his worried frown melted into a smile. "I love you too, my dear Duke."
"Whatever happens, is going to happen.." Wriothesley starts.
"And we'll get through it together." Neuvillette finished, placing his forehead against Wriothesley's.
"You saved me, and that's all that matters. I'm here, breathing in your arms." Neuvillette whispers, pecking the tip of Wriothesley's ear.
"Right back at you, sweetness. I'm never leaving you." An exaggeration, the both of them knew that. But.. they'll be okay for now. As long as they had each other. The worries of the future shouldn't stop them from enjoying their present.
Through doubt, jealousy, insecurities and fear, no matter what happens, Neuvillette will always love Wriothesley.
And Wriothesley will always love Neuvillette.