Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Neuvillette!” A high-pitched voice echoed in the Iudex’s office. Neuvilette looked up from his desk and saw Aether and a waving Paimon, the traveler holding a… big is an understatement for the basket he was holding. He couldn’t help but smile at the sight. It had been a while since the… events of the prophecy happened, the traveler and Paimon allegedly returned to Sumeru, and it had been a while since the Iudex last saw them.

“Ah, traveler, Paimon. It is certainly a surprise seeing you here. To what do I owe this pleasure? ” He signaled the 2 to sit on the couch beside his desk. “Please excuse me for a moment; I have some urgent matters to attend to. You may sit there as you wait.”

“Don’t worry about it! We did kinda just barge in here for no reason at all so…” Aether just giggled at his floating companion as they soon struck up a small conversation. Their voice was quiet enough for Neuvillette to continue signing, reviewing, and organizing the paperwork on his table. Although he was focused on his work, he couldn't help but observe the traveler's conversation with his guide. They seemed to be talking in a language he had yet to learn.

“Am I clear, Paimon?” Aether asks his flying companion, face looking serious. Paimon nodded and said,

“Mhm! But are you sure it'll work? Neuvillette can be kinda…”

“Just trust me on this! Look, if we fail, I'll buy you some Conch Madeleine. How does that sound?”

“Oh, you're on, traveler! And if Paimon loses, Paimon will—! Uh… Give you 500 more from Paimon’s secret stash!“

“Wh—that’s cheaper than my offer! You really are a freeloader, Paimon.”

“HEY!”

“Ehem.” Neuvillette cleared his throat, causing the two adventurers to stop bickering, sitting still and staring at the Chief Justice. “Apologies, I just had to finish some important matters. So, traveler, what is the reason for you being here?”

“Well, we heard from a few melusines that you hadn’t left your office ever since that day, so Paimon and the traveler decided to visit you! And maybe go out for a while,” the floating fairy explains, with the blonde-haired traveler just nodding along. Neuvillette couldn’t help but smile at the two. It was true that he hadn’t left his office, but he couldn’t imagine it reaching the two. As much as he wanted to go, he couldn’t just leave the work unattended, seeing as there were piles still left untouched.

“I… appreciate your concerns. Regarding my status, I am doing well, but as you can see, there is still some business I have to attend to and can’t easily leave it alone.” 

“Aww… Come on! It’s not like Palais Mermonia will collapse the moment you leave. It wouldn’t hurt to go out for a little bit! We even brought some water from the Avidya Forest. ” Paimon tries to reason with him; Neuvillette glances at the clock and sees it is almost time to have his afternoon tea. He sighs and finally concedes to the two travelers.

“Well, it wouldn’t hurt to go out for a bit. But need I say that I will have to be back by 3? I have a meeting with the Duke, so I’d prefer to be punctual.” 

“Wait, you’re actually gonna come? Paimon was confident you wouldn’t…” Paimon sighed; he looked at the traveler, who seemed to have a smug look. “Let’s go! The food will get cold, and Paimon doesn’t want any food wasted!” So that was what the basket was for.

The 3 walked out to the lobby; Sedene saw them and soon approached them.

“Monsieur Neuvillette! So all it took was a blonde traveler and his flying companion to get Monsieur Neuvillette out…” The blue melusine mutters to herself. Neuvillette couldn’t help but feel flustered, in the sense that he had the melusines worried.

“I will be heading out with the traveler for a while; if the Duke arrives ahead of our schedule, please do allow him to enter. It won’t be long until I’ll be back.” With that, they venture out of the Palais Mermonia, and he lets the traveler lead him to the location.

“We found this place a while back when we got lost going to Poisson. Paimon thought it was a great place to have a picnic with lots of food!”The flying fairy went on a rant about food; Aether looked exasperated, and soon they reached the site. It was a beautiful place indeed, plains topped with various types of flowers. It didn’t take long until the traveler finished setting the blanket and the food down.

“Thank you for accepting our invite, Neuvillette.” The traveler finally spoke; he seemed like he was still struggling with some pronunciation, but nonetheless, it was still progress. “How have you been?”

“I’ve been doing alright, the necessary repairs in Fontaine have given me more work, and even so, it has been going smoothly. Lady Furina has also gone back to the opera just recently, she seems to be busy rehearsing for a new show. I'll be sure to reserve some tickets.” Neuvillette sipped the Sumerian water before continuing, “Might I say, the water of the Avidya forest has a rich flavor, it seems close to the water of Liyue, less the enduring aftermath.”

“Neuvillette and his water… Paimon can't wait for the show! It's been so long, and Paimon is happy that she's returning to the opera!”The small fairy got back to eating the food in front of her, the traveler just sighed before Neuvillette started to talk again.

“Traveler, If I may trouble you. You and your sister had... Traveled to multiple worlds, correct?” the gold-haired boy nodded, he saw his eyes that showed nostalgia and endearment. “How exactly does it work?”

"Well… before we got trapped here, my sister and I had wings and extraordinary powers. We would fly through space, searching for new worlds and new life. It was exhausting, but she always managed to lift my spirits. Our ability to create portals allowed us to jump to any world we desired, though it required immense mana. Now, ever since we got trapped here, my powers disappeared. It's frustrating honestly, knowing what we were once capable of and feeling so powerless now. I often think back to those times, the thrill of discovery and the joy of exploration, I hope one day I’ll finally find her and we can continue our journey together." Aether just sighed as he remembered those days. Part of it is because he didn't know if he pronounced some words correctly, he's sure he did!

“Apologies, traveler you did say jump correct?

Uh oh.

“Yes… Did I say something else?” He glared at his flying companion who just kept laughing and went back to the Iudex.

“Do pronounce it with a bit of a… Push, the way you have pronounced it just now may… Offend others.” Aether never felt this much embarrassment ever since he accidentally cursed a certain yaksha in Liyue. That wasn’t a fun experience… At least he forgave him in the end.

“Pfttt—HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA YOU JUST SAID ‘BASTARD' TO NEUVILLETTE!” and Aether’s soul just dropped after that. Red tinted his face, his hands finding their way to his face. Neuvillette just huffed at the flushed traveler and smiled.

“It's quite alright, traveler, everyone makes mistakes.” They continued on different topics and enjoyed the food. “Can you tell me about one of them? By which I mean the worlds you have explored.”

“I do recall going to a world called 'Earth.' It’s kind of like Teyvat but more advanced. I remember owning this thing called a 'cellphone' it was like everyone’s needs into one device! You can send someone a message or call them, find some entertainment. There was also this thing called Google that had everything you can imagine! Although stories about dragons, mages, and visions that were called superpowers were all but just fabled stories.” Aether smiled as he reminisced. “It made me wonder if there were other worlds similar to Earth.”

“That does seem amazing, I am glad you enjoyed your travels.” Aether just giggled at that and continued sharing more things about Earth.” Everything seems to be going well, that is until Paimon decides to ask something.

“Well, Monsieur Neuvillette, how are you and the Duke? Have you guys talked hehehe…” That led Aether to slap the back of Paimon’s head, “Ow!! Paimon's just curious you didn't need to hit me that hard!”

“Ahh… That…” An old TCG match with the traveler had revealed his ‘feelings’ for the certain warden. Since then he would occasionally get letters from the traveler about it, and the Iudex never had the heart to truly confess how he feels. “I've been busy lately, and the duke and I hadn't spoken much. Maybe it's for the best…”

The sky was slowly turning dark getting the attention of the blonde traveler,

“Please don't rush yourself, we understand why you feel like this and it's okay!” Aether's broken speaking made him feel a lot better, as he saw the blonde staring daggers at his companion.

“Worry not, all is well. The food is getting cold so why not we all enjoy this.'' By that, the 3 started feasting. Neuvillette had to admit, the travelers' cooking skills were immaculate, he also put in thought the dragon’s dislike of fried food and cooked different soup-based food from different nations. “The broth of this soup has a splendid mix of a rich and steady flavor. If you can, may you give me the recipe for this?”

“Paimon can't wait! The Consommé Pureté you gave us last time was so good Paimon couldn't stop eating it!” she babbled more about food, the dragon did wonder how a fairy this small can consume that much food.

Just then, the Iudex saw a black-like orb with gold lines surrounding it. It was something Neuvillette had never seen before in his time around Teyvat. The orb grew larger until it turned into an oval, the middle part of it seemed to be glittered with what looked like stars.

“Traveler.”

“Yes?”

“By portal, you mean a black oval with gold lines decorating the structure and stars all over?” 

“Oh uh, yeah! Wow, Neuvillette, you should try being a clairvoyant it wouldn't hurt-”

“Look behind you.” As Neuvillette said that, Aether looked behind him and saw the very portal that he used to create. It had been centuries since he last saw it, not once had the portal amazed him. Wait but why is it here?

“E-eh? How did that even appear? That's not right, I've lost all abilities to do that!” Aether instinctively stepped closer, Paimon however instinctively stepped away.

“Paimon doesn't feel like it's safe to do that… How about you step away traveler?” she says cautiously as she hides behind Neuvillette. He couldn’t help but feel worried as well, it was something he wasn’t familiar with, thus having no idea what it may entail. 

Suddenly, a start force started pulling Neuvillette toward the portal. He looked at the traveler who seemed to also be experiencing the same time, “Gah! It’s… P-pulling me in!” He heard the traveler panicked yell.

“Eek! Traveler! Neuvillette! Why are you two going to the portal it’s dangerous!" Even with the force the Iudex was trying to do, he still hasn’t stopped himself from getting pulled in. He felt the small fairy trying to pull him away but miserably failing, she also went to the traveler and pulled on his scarf, but her efforts were worthless. 

“Traveler! Hold my hand!” Neuvillette reached his hand to the traveler, he instinctively held it, and Neuvillette pulled his hands, which only led him to get pushed to the traveler's position as the wind miraculously blew fast by that time.

The two were already directly in front of the portal, their arms getting sucked in. The last thing Neuvillette heard was the traveler’s yell in a language he recognized as Mondstat’s.

“GAHHHHH TRAVELER! NEUVILLETTE!”

“PAIMON, FIND DAINSLEIF!”

Neuvillette wonders if Wriothesley and Sigewinne would forgive his tardiness.

Chapter Text

Aether never thought he’d experience this feeling once again. How long has it been? 200 years? 500? Yeah… That sounds about right… The feeling of nausea seeps into his mind, the force that felt like tearing his body in multiple directions. 

Soon enough, the feeling ended as he fell to the floor. Squinting his eyes, Aether looked around and found himself on the street to what seemed to be a small housing subdivision, on the corner he caught vision of a familiar blue suited man.

“Ngh…” he heard Neuvillette grunt, Aether quickly got up to his knees, waves of nausea zooming through his head but he just ignored it and continued to walk to the dragon. While helping the Iudex be stable enough to stand up, he looks around to figure out where they were.

‘We're in the middle of a street, there are houses on both sides, it looks too modern to be in Mondstat, the structure doesn't scream Liyue, nor Inazuma… Definitely not Sumeru… This place definitely isn't anywhere on Teyvat.’

“T-traveler? Apologies for relying on you, but may you assist me in getting up?” Neuvillette broke his chain of thoughts and pulled the dragon up. “It seems I am not familiar with this location. Do you know where this is?”

Ahahahaha… Now Aether doesn’t know how to tell the dragon they weren’t in Teyvat. Okay how should he phrase this, the portal led us to a place that has yet to be discovered by anyone and we are the first-! Okay yeah no he wouldn’t believe that, this place looks too civilized to be abandoned. Hmm… Okay how about this is a collaborated prank by Fontanian researchers and Sumeru scholars. Yeah… Yeah! That should work-!

“Uhh… Sir, the convention is in Sunset Plaza just a few blocks ahead.” A man dressed in a not Teyvat like guard uniform approached. Oh no… This just confirmed Aether’s suspicion even more. “Hello? Sir? “

“Oh thank you! Forgive me and my friend here… We are just tourist here and got lost. We’ll be on our way haha…” Aether locked his arms with Neuvilette, dragging him away, “Come on Monsieur!”

“Monsieur..? Wait, sir, that's the wrong way! Sir! Ehhh…”

As they approached an alleyway, Aether ushered Neuvillette inside as he looked around to see if there was someone listening. Well now he had to actually explain the situation, thank you random guy! Looking at the judge in front of him, he looked… Confused, okay well his stone face doesn’t justify that but he knew that inside he was confused. Maybe.

“Okay so you might be confused on this whole… Situation… Promise me you won't freak out!” Okay his broken speech was ruining this tense mood, but it was important!

“Very well. You have my word.”

“Pinky promise me!” Aether held out his pinky, the judge looking amused at the gesture.

“What-”

“Please!” he sighs and also held out his pinky—reluctantly—as the traveler prepared what he was going to say.

"Okay. Do you remember that story I told you? The one about how my sister and I traveled to different worlds? This place we're in now... it's similar to one we visited before. Monsieur, this isn’t Teyvat anymore."

Silence.

Until Neuvillette finally said something

"Not in Teyvat... I see."

Okay now the silence is getting too much to handle for Aether. Normally Paimon would be panicking right beside them and just blabbering her mouth off. But now… Ughh, Aether just doesn’t want to imagine what would happen to them now. 

"You do possess a means to return... do you not?"

‘Ahahaha… Shit. Should I say this in a chill way, or in a more serious tone… Oh no look at that face! Okay just rip the bandage and get it over with!’

"So... I hate to say this, but... I can't feel any of my powers right now."

GGRRRRRRMMM...

Then suddenly, droplets of water started dripping from the sky. 

‘Okay. Damn it. He really should’ve softened that.’ Aether’s jaw tensed as he glanced up—still raining. Of course it was. Great, now they were drenched.

‘His tears… they still affect this world?’ That didn’t make sense. Elemental energy, resonance, everything else that had been involved with visions are back in Teyvat.

‘Does that mean it’s still raining in Teyvat, too?’ The thought made his chest tighten. Whatever this place was, it clearly hadn’t broken every connection. Not yet. Now he has to prioritize helping him calm down, looking at his face. Yeah…  He wouldn't get anything from looking at his face.

“I didn't think it would rain even in this place… My apologies, traveler.” 

“Don’t worry! I’m sure it would just be temporary.” Now that the Unknown God isn’t here… Aether isn’t even sure if his theory is right. They weren’t in Teyvat anymore so that must mean his powers can come back now, right? 

Ssssshhhhhhhrrrrrrr

Okay, well, that didn’t work. The thunder cracked louder, the rain pounding harder with each passing second. This isn’t going great for them… 

“Hydro Dragon, Hydro Dragon! Don’t cry!”

…

Silence fell. Aether felt his cheeks flush from humiliation. Then, the rain stopped, he looks up and saw the clear sky. That worked?!

"Ah, so you are familiar with that piece of folklore as well?"

“Please don’t speak, I’m humiliated just thinking about it.”

“I think it’s quite endearing.”

Well atleast it calmed him down. Pushing that aside, they needed to talk about how the finer details of their current situation, for example, their shelter. Aether pulled out a satchel out of his pocket, if he remembered it correctly he should have place it here… Hmm… Maybe he misplaced it…

Suddenly, He turned it upside down, and gave it a good, undignified shake.

Pshhhh. Thump. Pwat.

Neuvillette stood a few steps away, watching the growing pile of oddities with a steady, unreadable gaze. A pine cone rolled to his feet. He looked down at it, then back at Aether.

“…Is this a common method of organization you normally do?”  His tone was polite, but Aether could swear he heard judgment tucked neatly between the syllables.

CLINK. CRANK. CRRRKKKKKK.

A bunch of dull sword, slingshot bows, and clubs started falling out. Neuvillette was now concerned at the amount of weaponry instore in that small satchel… Neuvillette gave a quiet sigh, folding his hands behind his back.

“Do you require any aid?” 

“Nope! Don’t worry, I got this!” CLACKKKKK

Neuvillette didn’t believe him one bit. Then, a small stack of rectangular papers toppled onto the growing pile of items, held together by a single rubber band. It was no thicker than half a thumb.

“Is that what you’re searching for?” Neuvillette points at the stack, Aether poked his head out from the satchel and looked down.

“Hm? Ah! Thanks Neuvillette.” Aether picked up the stack and started counting it. Neuvillette looked at the object with silent fascination. He'd never seen anything like it before: rectangular, thin, and fashioned of an unusual fibrous material. Each piece had the same pattern: muted green ink, delicate linework, and the serious expression of a guy he didn't recognize. However, despite their uniform appearance, the numbers printed on them differed. 

“If I may—what is that, exactly?”

“75… 80… Huh? Oh, These are dollars.” That didn’t help Neuvillette understand it, his squinted eyes showed confusion. “Well to put it simply, it’s mora. We can’t really use our mora since I don’t think it exists here so I’ll try these dollars. Almost every world we go to use these stuff anyways. Right, how much am I at again?”

“Okay so I finished counting. We got 150 dollars We should find shelter first, after that, we’ll shop for new clothes.”

“Is there a problem with the attire we are currently wearing?”

One guy was dressed in who-knows-how-many layers like that was just everyday fashion, while the other was wearing armour with a sword sheath? Yeah they’d stick out like sore thumbs.

“Well this place is… Different. The things we wear in Teyvat is far more different here. I’ll explain it when we find a place to stay. Now come on Monsieur!” The 2 exited the alleyway and and went the opposite direction from where the came from. Now, their priority was to find a small hotel or inn that can take care of them while they were here.

Little did they know, a guy wearing a blue suit and a girl wearing a traditional medium outfit were standing a few feet away from them

“Hey Nick, look at those 2 weirdos!”

“Maya! Don’t be rude.”

—

After a few minutes of walking around and some odd looks from civilians, they ended up standing infront of a building which looks like an architecture that came right out of Inazuma. It had a huge board ontop with some text on it. ‘Shirosakura Inn’ Neuvillette was… Confused, it was some sort of text. It doesn’t look like Remurian, nor Teyvat’s language.

“Finally! It looks pretty cheap too. If not I can just haggle them.” Aether went inside and closed the door, not realizing that Neuvillette wasn’t behind him. The place was just like something he’d see in Inazuma, on the left were a bunch of sofa and chair, while on the right was almost like a miniature library, there were brochures on the table. Infront was a reception desk, there stood an old man wearing a black yukata.

“Oya? Our first customer?” An English speaker! Okay, he has to admit, his sister nagging to learn the language was worth it.

“Hi, me and my friend were looking for a room. Is there any available?”

“Hm… Is your friend a ghost by any chance?”

“Huh?” Aether looked beside him only to find no one there, he started to look around everywhere but saw no one.

“Traveler? How do you open this door?” Neuvillette’s muffled voice behind the door. Aether quickly walked back and opened the sliding-door for the dragon. The blonde looking very embarrassed while his companion had his normal resting face.

“Hohoho! You must be tourists then. Anywho, we have a honeymoon suite. Our rooms also have kitchens inside, but if you don’t want to go through the trouble of cooking, my grandson has that little cafe of his over there.”

“H-hold on! Honeymoon suite?! Sorry Mr you misunderstand us we’re-”

“You aren’t a woman?”

“No!”

“Are you sure? You kinda look-”

“No! My voice doesn’t even sound remotely close to a woman. I don’t even look like one!”

"Well now, we still welcome those... uh, homo–homo sapiens? Homosexuals! Right, right, those. Can’t for the life o’ me figure out why some folks got a problem with it." Aether was just flabbergasted at the man before him. Okay he should just suck it up and explain it calmly.

“Monsieur Neuvillette is neither my husband, nor my lover. Can we just have a room with 2 beds.” It took awhile for the old man to respond again, finally giving them a room. Good thing Neuvillette was clueless about the whole charades, speaking of clueless, he should teach Neuvillette some English just incase he needs to leave him alone.

“Oi kid!” A man came from the room behind the desk, who looks 19 years old. Seemed to be an employee since he was wearing the same black yukata sa the old man. “Lead these 2 gentlemen in their room, its room 8” then the old man turned around, he was about to leave before Aether stopped him.

“Wait sir! I havent paid you yet!”

“Oh? First night is on the house. Go now!” Seems like he doesn’t need to bargain. The man lead the 2 to their rooms, it was on the 3rd floor. 

“What are the entertainment here?” Aether asked the boy infront of them

“Eh? Boss hasn’t told you yet?” 

‘No, he was too busy assuming his relationship with Neuvillette’

“Oh right, I heard what he said. Don’t mind him! He can’t really see well with his glasses so he probably didn’t see you well.” 

‘Was he deaf aswell?’ 

Anyways, we have a bathhouse downstairs, it’s near the cafe so it wouldn’t be hard to miss. I’m guessing you already saw the mini library. Uh… Oh! There’s a mall just a few blocks away, though I assume you’ve already been there seeing your… Costumes.”

Ah great, now they think they were cosplayers. That’s a better outcome. They arrived infront of the door and the employee gave them their key. 

“Please just call the front desk using the telephone in your room. My name is Cole.” The man left and the 2 outlanders went inside the room, the room had Inazuman interior,  there were 2 beds, on the left was a door, Aether opened it and saw the bathroom. There was also a rectangular device on the wall right infront of the beds, right beside them was the kitchen. It was small but good enough for the two of them.

“Traveler… You were speaking an entirely different language, one unfamiliar to me.” Aether totally forgot he was there

“It doesn't exist in Teyvat. I'll teach you some other day, come on! We need to get new clothes.” He replied, switching back to his broken Fontainian speech. Before Aether could walk out the door, Neuvillette spoke again, stopping him from doing another step

“Hold on for a moment, traveler, before we go, I'd like a retelling of what the nice gentlemen had told us.” 

“He told us about the accommodations here, there's a small library, then a cafe, then a bath house, you might like that one.” Neuvillette just nodded in regards and the two headed back down.

The rest of the way down was quiet, the 2 still processing their current situation. Their thoughts were only broken when they heard the familiar voice of the old man.

“Oya? You're leaving already?” 

“We're just heading to the mall. Where are we gonna leave the keys?”

“Mm? Just bring it with ya’”

‘Is this man serious?’ they stared at each other for a few seconds, Neuvillette was composed when Aether glanced at him. Of course, he didn’t understand anything that was happening. Is the man plotting something? He already gave them the room for free for the night, now he’s just letting them keep the keys? “Aren’t you afraid we'll lose this?”

“Will you lose it?”

“No?”

“Who cares then! Go go, you'll scare off customers with those clothes.”

‘Rude?’ Aether just sighed internally, exiting the inn with Neuvillette following behind. However, the moment they stepped out, the worlds temperature grazed their skin. It was so fucking hot.

‘Maybe I should've had Monsieur Neuvillette take off his coat…’

"Traveler, this is your first time here, is it not?  Do you know where we’re going next?"

“No, but! They said it’s nearby, so that should make things easier for us.”

‘Mmh… Is this why it has taken you and Paimon 5 years to traverse Teyvat?’ Perhaps he should also try the bath house in the inn later, the weather was… Less than adequate. 

The walk to the mall was short, but stepping inside felt like entering a completely different world. Fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, casting a sterile glow over polished tile floors that reflected every footstep. 

“So, uh… Monsieur Neuvillette, do you have any kind of preference when it comes to clothes?”

"I do not typically shop for clothing myself, as my current attire often suffices for both formal and casual occasions. On the rare occasions I acquire something new, it is usually from the Melusines or Lady Furina." 

‘This just made it harder.’  Aether sighed internally. He side-eyed Neuvillette, who stood impossibly composed in the middle of a shopping mall, completely unaffected by the sensory overload, both from the lights and noise. “Wow Neuvillette, you’re handling this much better than I thought you would.”

“Are you saying that because this is my first time going in a ‘mall’? The streets of Fontaine bear a similar atmosphere. Admittedly, I prefer being inside right now considering the heat.” Neuvillette looked around their surroundings. Different stalls having different neon signs, ‘Common cloth’ ‘M&H’ ‘THINK’ ‘New Navy’ and much more. "There are quite a few stalls, all having the same design of clothes. Do you know where we should start?"

“Easy! Whatever signage that looks cheap or something that you would never see Chiori sell. Like that one over there!.” Aether pointed towards ‘Common cloth’ and the two journeyed over to the store. Neuvillette slowed down, just a few feet from the store entrance. His eyes had caught something.

A small crowd had gathered near one of the decorative fountains, chattering excitedly. At first, it seemed ordinary, until Neuvillette realized the clothes they were wearing. Long cloaks, oversized weapons, horns as long as a palm, ears so pointy it might poke someone, and vividly styled wigs.

“Traveler.” Aether looked back at the man behind him, before looking at the direction he was staring at. “Do you think they’re in the same situation like us? They seem to come from Teyvat.”

“No, no!” Aether chuckled “They’re cosplayers.”

“Cosplayers?” Neuvillette placed his hand on his chin before having his right hand raised with his fingers elegantly splayed, “Is that the name the tabletop troupe use here?”

“Not exactly.” Aether scratch his head “Cosplayers are people who wear costumes of characters they like or idolize. Let’s say, someone dress up like Furina because they idolize her.”

“Dress up like Lady Furina? That sounds… strange.”  Neuvillette stared at him, expression unreadable. “This world grows increasingly bizarre by the minute.”

“Heh, you don’t say.” Maybe a world with a confusing and long history consisting of dragons, gods, descenders, and witches is much more bizarre, but Aether can’t say anything. The 2 continued to walk inside the shop, The store smelled faintly of cheap fabric softener and industrial carpet. Racks of discount clothes stretched down narrow aisles, graphic tees, questionable patterns–by Neuvillette’s terms, and colorful clothes. In the center, there was a circular rack with different kinds of clothes hanging, in the middle was a sign boasting “3 for $10!”.

Neuvillette took a step, bumping onto a mannequin. He turned and stared at the black shirt with a… not so delicate pattern on the shirt, there was a giant moon and in the middle of it was some kind of werewolf. It was a kind of shirt that he’d leave at the bottom of the ocean floor never to be seen again. (It was a kind of shirt a certain warden would show him to poke fun at it just to make his mood become better.)

Neuvillette blinked at the shirt, unsure if he should arrest it or critique its artistic symbolism.

“Is this… considered fashionable here?” Neuvillette asked the traveler, not paying attention to the mannequin he was pointing at and focusing his attention at the clothes, using his hands to melodically move the hangers and look at the design of each clothes.

“Debatable. But it’s comfy.” Suddenly, the traveler lifted up something as if he found treasure. It was a white, short-sleeves crop top with a beige star in the middle. He draped it along his torso and placed it in the basket on the floor. (Where did he get that?) “Here, try this.”

The traveler tossed him a white graphic tee, the design had a circular wave in the middle, he tossed him another piece of cloth, this time being black pants. 

“Come on, follow me.” The traveler picked up the basket on the ground and lead him to another section of the shop, “Go and change inside. I’ll wait over here. Make sure to tuck in the shirt!”

Minutes had passed, Aether stood just outside the dressing room, arms crossed and one foot tapping idly. 

“Monsiuer Neuvillette? What’s taking you so long?”

“Apologies, traveler, it seems as if I had underestimated the amount of layers my attires have once again. Give me but a moment to do this.” Ah. He totally forgot about that fact, maybe he should look around while Neuvillette is still changing.

Aether was in the middle of poking at a rack of crop-tops when he heard the soft swish of the curtain sliding open behind him.

He turned around—and paused.

Neuvillette stepped out, now dressed in the modern outfit Aether had picked: holy shit he’s handsome.

“I’m not sure if I wore this correctly. It also feels rather tight on my… upper area, though I must admit, it is considerably lighter than my usual attire.” 

…

“..Traveler?”

“It’s unsettling to see you wear something like that… It’s also so unfair because how do you still look good?!”

“Is being presentable not the goal here?”

“No– well yes, but!” Aether then swinged his hands, doing random gestures at Neuvillette “I didn’t expect you’d look good in casual clothing, much less one that isn’t from Teyvat.”

“Well, I appreciate the compliment.” Neuvillette chuckles, “Although what do you mean by unsettling?”

“It’s just… weird seeing you in pants and t-shirt.” The traveler then tossed him 2 more pieces of clothing, “Wear this one next!”

Neuvillette just internally sighed and went back inside the changing room. This will be a long day.

—

Their shopping ended with Neuvillette and Aether still wearing their usual outfits. According to the traveler, it’s best to save what they have now because their options for clothes is limited.

“We have $110 left, what do you wanna do Monsieur Neuvillette–” 

“Can we take a picture with you?” “Aiko!” 2 ‘cosplayers’ were behind them. The girl who spoke had a pink pig-tail hair wearing a frilly, pastel—pink, white, and yellow dress with puffed sleeves, red ribbon accents, and a petal-shaped skirt. Paired with white gloves, knee-high socks, and red shoes. The shy one was wearing a black and grey pleated skirt, a white blouse with dark diamond trim, and a purple ribbon tied at the collar. Black tights and low-heeled shoes complete the look. “-come on! We already asked, it would be embarrassing to take it back, right?”

“Traveler.” Aether hears Neuvillette whisper to him “What are they saying?”

“They want to take a picture with you.”

“A picture? I don’t believe I’m wearing a ‘cosplay.’ Do you suppose they recognize me as the Iudex?”

“I don’t even think that’s possible, they aren’t from–” Before he could even finish his sentence, he got pushed aside by the pink hair girl, having the black haired girl stand beside Neuvillette. You know what? Maybe Aether should take a photo of this. A little souvenir of the time someone mistook the Chief Justice of Fontaine for a cosplayer. Iconic.

“Thank you so much for letting her take a pic with you!” ‘More like forcing him’ “Aiko’s really grateful for Phoenix Wright. He saved his sister in a trial once, It didn’t hit the papers unlike the others but hey, didn’t change his good deed right?”

Wow, Aether couldn’t help but feel pity on the girl, not because of the trial but because Neuvillette did not understand a single thing she said. 

“It’s fun to see your grandpa indulge in cosplays with you.” HIS GRANDPA? “So who are you supposed to be? That medium companion of his? Yours doesn’t hit the mark though…”

“Aiko I don’t think that’s his grandpa…” The timid girl spoke up from behind her, thank goodness for her huh–

“No? He does look young to be a grandpa…” 

Oh thank archons 

“His Father then!”

WHAT–?!

Aether was still reeling from being called Neuvillette’s child , when he noticed the Iudex slowly tilt his head, eyes narrowed in quiet thought as the girls skipped away.

“Is everything alright? You seem to be in a shock state. Did those girls say anything?” Neuvillette thought about something, “I did recognize that they said a name. Phoenix Wright if I recalled correctly?”

“I honestly don’t even know who that is…” Aether couldn’t even face the Iudex in a straight face. “Let’s go back to the inn. I’m sure you’re dying to experience their bath house.”

“I hadn’t realize you noticed that.”

Aether could only he hoped he hadn’t said any profanities to Neuvillette accidentally. He wouldn’t want to go to court the moment they got back to Teyvat.

…

Right, Teyvat. He can only wish that Paimon had already started searching for Dainsleif. 

—

Neuvillette and Aether walked inside the entrance of the inn. The old man was gone—replaced instead by Cole, who was giving them a weird look.

“It seems like Mr. Cole is giving us a look,” Neuvillette murmured. “Have we done something wrong?”

Cole was staring at Neuvillette specifically, looking down at his hands, then back up at the Iudex.

“Traveler,” Neuvillette added, “can you ask what’s wrong on my behalf?”

“Is there something wrong—?” Aether began, but before he could finish, Cole suddenly started to giggle, then descended into full-on laughter.

‘What is wrong with this guy? Is he making fun of Neuvillette?’ Aether thought.

“You guys haven’t checked Tweeter yet?” Cole asked through his laughter.

“We don’t have a phone…” Aether replied flatly.

“I’ll ask you about that later. Look at this first!” Cole said, turning his phone screen toward them. It was a picture of Neuvillette and the cosplayer from earlier. The caption read:

  “Saw someone’s Dad cosplaying Phoenix Wright earlier #animeexpoLA #dilf”

“What the fuck,” Aether muttered instinctively—maybe swearing in Fontainian wasn’t the best idea, because Neuvillette took a concerned step toward him.

“Is there something wrong?” Neuvillette asked, peering at the screen. “I don’t see anything wrong in this image. I believe both of us look good.”

Cole blinked, then turned to Aether. “Does your friend not understand English?”

“Oh, uhh… yeah. No need to worry, I’ll translate—” But before Aether could continue, Cole cut him off.

“Hey sir, my name is Cole. Do you understand me?” he asked, speaking in perfectly fluent Fontainian.

“You—know how to—?” Aether began, surprised.

“Speak French?” Cole grinned. “Yeah, my parents forced me.” He switched back to English to speak to Aether. 

‘So French is what Fontainian equals to in this world?’ Aether thought. ‘Interesting… Then does that mean the other languages exist here in this world but just under different names?’

He noticed Neuvillette looking at him, a silent question behind his eyes: Is this man from Teyvat? Aether shook his head slightly, and Neuvillette gave a small nod of understanding in return.

“It is great to see another person who speaks our language,” Neuvillette said sincerely.

“I can finally talk to you, Mr. Neuvillette,” Cole replied.

“Likewise,” Neuvillette nodded.

‘At least there’s someone who can understand us now,’ Aether thought, watching the two converse. ‘ But now we need to figure out our cover. I don’t think they’ll believe us if we said we’re from another world.’

Tap tap tap.

‘Huh?’ Aether turned his attention to the window and stepped closer. It was raining. He looked over at Neuvillette, but the man didn’t seem distressed.

“— Gewinne must mean a lot to you, huh?” Cole was saying. “You even made an entire law regarding her!”

“Yes,” Neuvillette said with a soft nod. “She and her friends must be respected, and I will do my utmost to see it through.”

“The way you’re talking,” Cole continued, “I’m betting she’s your daughter?”

“Daughter?” Neuvillette blinked.

“Exactly, dude! Using your position to create a law that protects her and her friends, needing to be in touch with her to make sure she’s okay—”

Neuvillette just stared at him.

‘Daughter…’ The word echoed in his mind, accompanied by a heavy sorrow. ‘ He does hope his ‘daughter’ would forgive him for being late to their meeting…’

“How about you show Monsieur Neuvillette where the bathhouse is?” Aether cut in quickly before Neuvillette could continue spiraling. “He’s been excited to check it out.”

The traveler glanced back at the window to check if it was still raining.

‘Good, it’s only just droplets now.’

“Sure, dude!” Cole said. “Come on, Monsieur Neuvillette.”

“Just ‘Neuvillette’ is fine,” the man corrected politely. “The traveler has some habits of calling me that.”

“Nahhhh, ‘Monsieur Neuvillette’ is cooler.”

Aether let go of the breath he didn’t even realize he was holding. He turned and made his way to their room.

He still needed to come up with a cover story for the two of them.

—

“And here’s the bath house.” Cole stopped dead in his tracks, turning back to Neuvillette. “Do you need anything? Towels? Facial stuff?’

“No need. I must say, whoever the person incharge of creating this did an excellent job.”

“That crown goes for the owner of this inn, the old man you saw earlier?” Neuvillette remember that man, he was the one that made the traveler embarrassed, he still didn’t know the context of what happened, “He designed everything in here, then he got some of his old pals to make it.”

Neuvillette nodded and walked around to take a tour at the different pools.

“I’ll just leave this here alright!” Cole dropped the towel at the chair nearby and left Neuvillette by himself.

Neuvillette sighs, looking at the closed door before embracing the water around him. It wasn’t the ocean, no, but he still felt calm around it. He removed his boots and stepped inside the pool of water before fully sitting inside it. After everything that happened in just a span of a few hours, he couldn’t help but feel… Adrift.

The world they had stumbled into was extremely loud. Flashing lights. Strange equipment beeped and buzzed. People dressed in too-tight or too-loose clothing, with some boldly bearing symbols or names he couldn't read. There was no rhythm here. There's no balance. There is no recognizable current of law and order. Everything felt quick, fractured, and spontaneous.

It was a kind of chaos he could not preside over.

He sat, allowing his sleeves to soak, It isn’t any different from what he would do in Fontaine. Although he could only wish that the same laws would work here just like it did back in Teyvat.

—

“Monsieur Neuvillette!” Aether greeted the Iudex as he entered their room, “I readied some clothes for you so you could change in– why did you not remove your clothes.”

The Iudex, was dripping. 

“My apologies traveler, it seems like the laws of Teyvat doesn’t follow in this world”

“You can just change in the bathroom, I’ll place the clothes here.” Aether walked inside the bathroom and placed the clothes on the sink, going out and letting Neuvillette in.

Aether was waiting on the kitchen counter when Neuvillette walked out, wearing the same white t-shirt with the wave design in the middle, this time, tucked out, and black sweatpants.

“These clothes are very comfortable, If we get back I should ask Sedene if she can find me something similar to this.” Neuvillette took one of the chair and sat across from Aether, “Maybe Wriothesley will also appreciate something like this.”

“Valentines day is still in a few month Monsieur~”Aether teased, when he saw the Iudex cheeks dusted off with pink, really falsified his blank face. he couldn’t help but giggle at the sight. “Speaking of which, we need to talk about our cover up story.”

“Cover up story? Wouldn’t it be better for our situation to be lay out? It will be easier for us to find accomplices.”

“I don’t think they’d believe us, seeing as I haven’t seen anyone use any magic or powers or anything.”

“I’ll follow your lead then, go on.”

“I’m going to introduce myself again. ‘Traveler’ isn’t really a regular name here so it’s better if you call me by my… real name. My name is Aether.” Silence struck the room, Neuvillette grinned and nodded at him. He was glad that the traveler– Aether trusted him with his name.

“Thank you for trusting me with you name, Aether”

‘It wasn’t like I was hiding it anyways… No one listened to me whenever I introduced myself so I guess just going with the flow is better.’

“So, we are 2 friends that traveled abroad for a small getaway. Until our luggage got lost and our items got stolen by thieves. Our wallets, phones, and necessities are all stolen, we don’t have any communication with our family and have to start from scratch. How does that sound?”

“…That is quite the elaborate tale, Traveler. Though I find it difficult to believe anyone would steal from the Chief Justice of Fontaine without consequence… I trust your judgment in this matter. If this is the story we must uphold to avoid suspicion, then I shall follow your lead.” He pauses, thoughtful. “Are you sure we are able to go back home?”

…

“Yes.” Aether inhaled before continuing, “If Paimon listened to my instructions and find the person I told her to search for. Then rest assured we can get out of here.”

Of course, Dainsleif was his only connection to his sister.

‘Well, there is this other guy, but he has been MIA ever since they traversed Enkanomiya.’

Chapter Text

“TRAVELER! NEUVILLETTE!” The portal closed the moment Paimon reached its former position, leaving only a shimmer in the air where it once hovered. In a panic, Paimon whipped her head around in a frenzy, scanning the area. Left, right, even up—, trying to find if there was someone near that could help them. 

“Someone! Help!” Tears were starting to form in Paimon's eyes as she flew around in a crazed frenzy. “Traveler…”

Paimon didn’t know what to do; they were just having a nice picnic, then WABAM! This portal forced the traveler and Neuvillette in, and Paimon doesn’t even know where they were. It didn’t look like the spiral abyss portal, Paimon had already seen it a few times to know it wasn’t it. Still feeling panicked, Paimon decided to go back to Palais Mermonia to find help.

“Why did Paimon choose this place…” They were far from the Court, being closer to the Research Institute, she had to fly all the way to Marcotte Station and ride the Aquabus. Finding new found determination after formulating the plan, Paimon started to fly to Marcotte Station, leaving their picnic items forgotten. ‘No time to think. Come on Paimon!’

—

She stepped into the halls of Palais Mermonia, each click of her heels echoing through the polished halls. It was silent, maybe because the people inside were awestruck at the sight before them. Furina hadn’t set foot in the Palais ever since her reign as the Hydro Archon. Instead, she’s been participating in the scripts of the Tabletop Troupe with Clorinde, Navia, and Lyney in their spare time.

Besides that, during one of her walks, she overheard some of the Melusines saying that the Iudex hasn’t gone out for days on end. Tsk tsk, how utterly irresponsible! Had she not made it crystal clear that one’s health is not a suggestion but a priority? Honestly, that dragon should know better. She was about to knock on the door until

“Ah! Lady Furina! It has been a while since we saw each other.” Sedene greeted warmly, walking toward her with a polite smile and a slight bow. Unaware of the startled state, she left the star.

‘Okay, it’s just Sedene… She really made me jump there, how embarrassing… I hope nobody noticed.’ Furina regained her composure before replying to the Melusine.

“Likewise! For why I’m here, I heard about–”

“Monsieur Neuvillette?”

“Monsieur Neuvillette– Yes! Eh… How did you know?”

“It was the only reason you’ll come here. You had already gathered your personal belongings the day you left, correct?”

‘She caught me!’ Furina let out a light laugh. “That is indeed, correct! Well done Ms. Sedene.”

“Monsieur Neuvillette isn’t in his office right now.”

“Oh? But from what I heard he hasn’t been leaving his office frequently.”

“Yes but the traveler and Paimon arrived here earlier.” Sedene thought back to the scene that she overheard and saw earlier, “They invited him to go on a picnic. I can only give every gratitude to them. Monsieur Neuvillette hasn’t been taking care of himself, ‘Paperworks won’t finish themselves’ he said.”

‘The traveler and Paimon? Of course, I should expect that from them.’  Furina gave a soft sigh, folding her arms loosely as her eyes flicked to the side.

“Well, at least someone managed to pry him from his tiny prison,” she muttered under her breath. “Though it is mildly vexing that it wasn’t me.”

Sedene gave a knowing smile. “Would you like me to tell him you visited when he returns?”

Furina hesitated. Part of her wanted to say yes, make it known that she came all this way, concerned, worried, maybe even a little frustrated. But another part of her…

“…No,” she said after a pause, “No need for that. I’ll go find him myself.”

“Alright then!” Sedene placed her hands on her hips before moving to a thinking pose, “Although, I don’t think I know where their location is. They never mentioned it.”

‘Huh?! It must’ve been a surprise…’ Furina thought for a bit before shaking her head, ‘No! You need to find them, it will be easy! After all she knows this nation like the back of her hands! Right…?’

“That’s alright! I know I can find them easy peasy!” She turned on her heel with dramatic flourish, before she can take a step, the doors suddenly bursts open. Everyone in the hall jumped to their feet, staring at the tiny floating silhouette at the door. Immediately, that same silhouette moved almost at the speed of light towards each workers. It was the travelers companion.

“HELP! Help Paimon please!” Paimon cried out, eyes wide and voice shrill with panic. She flew frantically through the streets, shaking every person she floated to by the shoulders—or their sleeves, or their bags, or whatever she could reach., “It’s about the traveler and Neuvillette!”

Furina was about to step in before Paimon locked eyes with her and appeared right infront of her in an instant.

“Furina! You have to help me it’s—!”

“I heard you, It’s alright!” Furina pushed the floating fairy away, she stared at Sedene and the Melusine just nodded. “This discussion isn’t appropriate outside! Uhh– we should head in the office, shall we?”

Paimon just nodded and solemnly entered the room with Furina, it was honestly such a disheartening sight to see.

“Get back to what you’re doing earlier! None of this will be leaving the Palais, we will provide you a confidentiality agreement later and it is a requirement for everyone to sign it.” Everyone in the hall nodded to Sedene’s announcement and immediately head back to what they were doing earlier, but the tension left by Paimon earlier was something unforgettable. What happened to the traveler and Neuvillette?

—

“W–we were just having a picnic and then–!” Paimon was hyperventilating, oh dear, she didn’t know what to do. Normally Clorinde would be the one helping her through panic attacks!  

“Uh-uhm! Paimon look at me.” The white haired fairy stared at her, her eyes were dilated, shaking, “Take deep breaths. Good? Okay, list 5 things you can see.”

“Uh… Books! The– the giant vases with flowers in it, that tall old clock… couches! There’s couches and then uh… Neuvillette’s desk.” Paimon’s breath was still frantic but it was an improvement from earlier.

“You’re doing great, now 4 things you can feel.” Paimon started floating around, calmer than earlier

“My shirt… Neuvillettes desk.” She floated to the side and touched the bookcase. “This bookcase, and the old tall clock.”

“That’s good, now list 3 things you can hear.” Paimon floated back to her, fidgeting her fingers but still, a great improvement from her condition earlier.

“Your voice, the people from outside… hiccups Then the ticking of that old clock!”

“2 things you can smell?”

“The flowers on the vase, and um… You’re cologne that smells like elegant wood.” Furina would thank her for the compliment but now was not the time!

“And lastly, 1 thing you can taste.”

“The sweet creamy taste of the Blubber Profiterole I ate earlier at the picnic with the traveler and Neuvillette.” Paimon was breathing a lot better, her eyes weren’t shaking anymore so that was good. 

‘Good job me! You helped someone through a panic attack.’ “Soo… Can you tell me what happened to Neuvillette and the traveler?”

Before Paimon could respond to her question, there was a knock on the door.

“Lady Furina? Paimon? It’s me, Wriothesley, oh and Sigewinne too.” The Duke? What was he doing here? “Ms. Sedene told us the base of what happened. Can we come in?”

“Yes, yes! Come in.” The larger door opened and there was the duke and Sigewinne, they walked towards the duo. Seeing the 2 white heads grim expressions, Wriothesley immediately cuts into the case.

“Right, so what happened? Everyone outside seemed to still be in shock, there was also this weird feeling of tension.”

“Paimon here was about to explain before you arrived, it's good she hadn't, we can all hear what happened in one go.” Furina couldn't help but feel awkward, she's never interacted with Wriothesley with Neuvillette before or Clorinde. She could only put a strong front.

“Well then, care to explain?” They all faced Paimon. She recalled everything that happened with the traveler and Iudex, they couldn't help but feel anxious. They hadn't heard of incidents like this, none the less, Wriothesley already thought about their next course of action.

Wriothesley spoke firmly, arms crossed as he gave the order “I'll inform the Gardemeks to search for those two. They might've ended up somewhere nearby. Most likely, the Research Institute is behind all of this.” He paused, then added with a thoughtful nod “After that, we'll head to the place where you had your picnic. It might give us some clues.”

Sigewinne’s ears twitched slightly as she looked up at Wriothesley, concern lacing her voice.

“Do you really think the Research Institute is involved...? That’s serious...” She fiddled with the end of her sleeve, then gave a firm nod—well, as firm as Sigewinne could manage. “I’ll prepare some emergency kits just in case we find them hurt or exhausted.”

“Paimon will lead the way! Come on!” Sigewinne and Furina looked at each other before nodding and followed Paimon.

‘If the Research Institute is behind this, we’ll need more than Gardemeks. The Institute has never been subtle in their... ‘curiosities.’’ Wriothesley could only sigh before following the 3, he shouldn’t assume without any evidence. 

It didn’t take long for the aquabus to arrive, while they were waiting, he had already sent a guard from the Fortress to release some of the Gardemeks to conduct a search. Of course, he didn’t tell her who to search for explicitly, Wriothesley had prepared long ago just in case something like this were to happen, he created code names to all of his confidants and coded it in the Gardemeks. Seeing her face when he told her to make them search for a “Leisurely otter” and a “Gold pocket watch” was priceless.

It was only them on the bus, probably because everyone is already at their workstation. Sigewinne and Paimon talked about the state in the Fortress of Meropide, even sharing different rumors about the inside. Furina’s gaze never left the water, her reflection staring back at her, eyes full of worry.

‘Mm… I should’ve checked on him sooner… What if they’re hurt? No. Neuvillette is the dragon sovereign, and the Traveler is very strong! No one would dare mess with the Chief Justice and Hero of Teyvat. Is this the punishment of celestia? They didn’t have to include the people I care about–’

“Lady Furina.”

“Huh?!” Furina looked beside her and saw Wriothesley staring. “Your Grace! Uh… Just Furina is fine.”

“I hope you enjoyed the tea I sent you awhile back.” Furina recalled back to the box of tea Wriothesley had sent her, it was quite exquisite from ones she had tasted before. “The weather today is nice, it would’ve been a great time to sit down and drink tea.”

“It is, though may I ask. Had someone informed you of the situation back at the Palais?” The timing of their arrival was on point, Furina couldn’t help but wonder if someone disobeyed Sedene.

“Oh, no, you don’t need to worry about that. Actually, Sigewinne wanted to visit Monsieur Neuvillette after her Melusine friends told her about his well being, I decided to tag along since I also had paper works to forward.” The 2 talked about different brand of teas until they reached the Marcotte Station. The moment the group stepped off the aquabus, the intensity of the situation once again, came crashing down

The walk to the location was quiet, there were no topics to discuss after all. Furina couldn’t handle the silence, it just made her overthink even more. 

“So Paimon,” Paimon looked at Furina, her eyes showing curiosity, “How did you two find, and why did you 2 choose this place? You know there are other more popular picnic spots.”

“Oh! Well Paimon can tell you the entire story about that!” She recalled her adventure with the traveler, when they investigated the institute, helping the researchers there, jumping into the different blocks of the Allogravity-Condensed Water Bodies. “Oh and–! Wait, what was the question again?”

Sigewinne and Furina giggled at the confused Paimon, and before they knew it, the group reached the spot. Until they noticed 2 familiar figures.

“Navia? Clorinde?! What are you guys doing here?” Paimon’s high-pitched voice sounded out, and there standing over the forgotten picnic set.

“Oh, Paimon, Furina, Sigewinne, and Wriothesley. Greetings.” Clorinde greeted the newcomers with a polite nod, while Navia stood and gave them a cheerful wave.

“Hello there everyone!” Navia greeted them with a smile, “I’m assuming these are yours? You know I’m very disappointed that you didn’t invite me, my macarons will be a great addition to this small feast!”

Navia looked around, counting the people present before realizing there was someone missing.

“Huh, well this is new. My trusty partner isn’t with Paimon?” Navia asked in an innocent way, the 4 couldn’t help but look at each other. “Is there something wrong?”

“Ehh…”

“Hmm…”

“I guess I’ll volunteer to do the explanation.” Wriothesley retold the tale of what happened, “Our theory is that the Research Institute might have something to do with it. Of course, there’s still no proof, we also cannot release out to the public that the Chief Justice of Fontaine is missing. That might stir up some panic that we do not want to handle.”

Navia’s cheerful expression gradually faded as Wriothesley spoke, her eyes widening with every word. By the end of his explanation, her hands had clenched into fists at her sides.

“They’re missing?!” she exclaimed, her voice barely holding back her alarm. “And… you’re saying there’s a chance the Research Institute is behind it?! That’s– no, that’s outrageous! How could they even pull something like this off without anyone noticing?”

Furina stepped in, placing one of her hands on her chest, her tone calm but resolute. “We don’t have all the details yet. What matters now is that we find them.”

“I’ll ask the Marechaussee Phantoms to help us with the search.” Clorinde then pointed to Navia, “I’m sure Navia will have some of the Spina di Rosula to escort us during the search. Since the Gardemeks has been disputed–” Before Clorinde could finish what she was saying, she felt a water drop on her head. She looked up and one at a time the others followed.

“Ugh... It's raining again…” Navia groans in annoyance, Paimon however, looked panicked.

“Oh no! The food!” Then, from light tapping turned into a thunderous storm. Sigewinne’s ears twitched at the sudden rumble of thunder.

“Oh dear… This weather isn’t good for searching at all,” she murmured, lifting her small medical bag over her head like a shield. “If they’re out in this, they could catch a cold… or worse…”

‘This will definitely hinder us in searching…’ Furina sighed and groaned, she didn’t know if it was because of annoyance or worries. That’s when something popped up into her memories. ‘ Wait… Raining? But that could only mean… Neuvillette!’

Sigewinne already understood when Furina looked at her, recognizing the same worry reflected in her eyes. Of course, Fontaine’s rain is caused by the Hydro Dragon’s weeping, they needed to find them, immediately. If whoever is behind this able to make Neuvillette this distressed then that should already be a red flag. Before Furina realized it, Wriothesley was leading them to take shelter, the storm was raging, nothing like they’ve seen before. Lightning were hitting the ground left and right, winds blowing right onto their faces, making their body unstable.

“I don’t think we can rely on the Gardemeks alone. We need to locate them as soon as possible.” Wriothesley’s voice cut her train of thoughts, Clorinde nodded in agreement before responding with a plan.

“We should split up, it will make the search faster if all of us spread around Fontaine. Assuming they are here. I’ll take Paimon and Navia with me, you should take Sigewinne and Lady Furina” She was gonna correct her on the ‘Lady Furina’ thing but figured now wasn’t the time.

“I’ll make some of the member of Spina come with you, more eyes the better! Haha…” Navia added a force laugh in the end.

“I don’t think it would be a great idea to send one of us to investigate the Institute, considering how all of us are known figures. Some of the old prisoners I’m sure are also there.” Wriothesley said grimly, his gaze shifting toward the direction of the Research Institute. “If this is something they're hiding, they'll close their doors the moment they catch wind that we’re involved.”

“I can help there, the Spina can go in disguise as a curious researcher and ask them about it.” Navia offered with a firm nod, crossing her arms confidently.

“Great, now if only this storm–” When he turned around, the sky suddenly turned clear. “Well looks like the someone heard me. Let’s go.”

—

Navia’s group had to go back to Poisson to inform some of the more trusted members in Spina about the search. They also had to somewhat distract Paimon because she became more distressed because of the storm. Navia didn’t know how to comfort her at this point.

She was also paranoid, whoever got the traveler and Neuvillette weren’t ordinary people. Of course! Who would’ve gotten the Chief Justice and hero of Teyvat in just a mere matter of seconds. The people she appointed for the mission were already gone. Navia also didn’t know what to do because apparently, the spy she was supposed to send in the research institute was sick. No one else was fit for the task, she couldn’t just pass this info to anyone else.

Right now they were climbing back up to the deck near Poisson. Paimon had calmed slightly, though her voice was still tight with anxiety. She hovered close to Navia, stealing glances at the horizon, as if somehow the Traveler might come walking out of the sea. Clorinde was waiting at the shore when she heard the sounds of footsteps.

“You’re back. How was it?” Clorinde was already expecting bad news when she saw Navia’s face. Hiding emotions were never is forte. The pouting made it obvious.

“The agent we were going to send to the Institute is out of commission. Sick. Of all the times…”

“That complicates things…” Clorinde mutters, footsteps trailed behind them as they crossed the quiet shore. “Do you have no other contestants?”

“No… The Spina doesn’t really have anyone else in line when it comes to stealth missions.” She heard the regret in Navia’s voice. All they could do for now is continue with the search. Silence grazed upon the group until they heard distant chattering, walking a bit closer, they saw the bodies of familiar faces.

“Lyney and Lynette?!” Paimons high-pitched voice cut through the silence they created.

“Oh? Who do we have here, Paimon, Navia, and Clorinde.” Lyney looked around, search for a certain blonde traveler. “Where’s the traveler?”

The 3 were hit with Deja vu to what happened earlier. Navia’s shoulders tensed. Paimon visibly shrank back, her expression faltering again.

Clorinde glanced between the twins and the others. “We… have a situation.”

Lynette stepped forward, already sensing the shift in atmosphere. “What happened?”

The Champion Duelist looked between Navia and Paimon, they thought for awhile before nodding. Taking that as the indicator, she explained the story to the twins. “We have some theories, one of them is that the Research Institute made the portal. Right now we’re trying to locate on where they might’ve end up.”

“I– I can look in the ocean…” The group turned in surprise as a quiet voice rose from the nearby waves. A figure emerged from the water, dripping wet but calm as ever.

“Freminet! How much did you–?” Paimon

“I heard everything…” He looked at his siblings, waiting for them to say something. The 3 communicated through their eyes until it seemed like they made and agreement.

Lyney was the one who spoke up for the 3 of them, “We offer the help of the House of the Hearth.” It didn’t really surprised Clorinde, she already knew that the Traveler had been friends with the 3. However, what she didn’t expect is them offering the entire house. Lyney continued, placing a hand over his chest. “Father will do the same thing if she was here… The traveler… he’s like family to us. I’m sure the other children will never forgive us if we let this slide.”

Lynette and Freminet nodded beside him, silent but she could see the determination in their eyes.

“Very well–” Clorinde felt a tap on her shoulder, she looked beside her and saw Navia staring. Ah. “We do have a problem that only you could solve.”

“Oh? That would be?”

This time, Navia took control with the explanation. If Clorinde had to guess, no, she knew that Navia felt guilty about the stealth mission. “We need someone to investigate the institute. All of us are well know so we can’t do it. If you can get a member of–”

“We’ll do it” Lyney said before facing his sister, “Lynette, can you go back to the Bouffes d'ete and inform Chapleau about the situation.”

"Understood. I’ll let him know right away." She gives a small nod before turning, she was about to leave when Navia stopped her.

“We’ll be regrouping with Wriothesley soon, I believe you 3 should come just in case there’s a plan switch.” Navia suggested, it was with pure intentions. What she didn’t realize, however, was the slight stiffness that settled over Lyney at the mention of the Duke. Lynette’s ears twitched subtly, and even Freminet, usually unreadable, seemed to grow unusually still.

Clorinde, ever observant, noticed immediately. Her gaze shifted between the siblings, lingering briefly on Lyney’s forced smile. Of course she knew why, she was apart of that afterall.

“We’ll be there,” Lyney replied after a short pause, masking whatever he was thinking with his usual charm. “Shall we get going?”

The group started to venture back to the Court of Fontaine. Paimon was still strangely quiet, staying at the back of the group when she would normally in front. Lynette took notice of this and stayed back, walking beside Paimon the moment she caught up.

“Is there something wrong Paimon?” The mentioned fairy was startled at the sudden noise, it was clear she wasn’t paying attention, “You seem to be a lot more quieter. You barely spoke back there, it was only when you first saw me and brother.”

Paimon just awkward chuckled, she glanced at Lynette before looking back to the ocean, “Paimon was just worried about Neuvillette and the Traveler! Hehe…” She paused before continuing, “It’s just… After the Traveler fished Paimon up in the lake, Paimon had never left his side. Of course there were times that we were forcefully separated but it was only twice! Seeing him disappear along with Monsieur Neuvillette, when they never had control in the first place… It scares Paimon, even if Paimon shouldn’t be because they’re both strong and– and a lot of people are looking for them too.”

Lynette listened intently, taking in every word Paimon said. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with being scared.” Lynette paused when she saw Paimon look at her. Good, she was listening, “I would feel the same way if that ever happened with my brother and Freminet. Even if they’re capable, even if Lyney could just stir up a plan. That kind of fear could never go away.” Lynette then smiled, imagining her brothers doing everything they can to go back, “It means you care, and that… is enough.”

Paimon was taken back at everything she said, she didn’t expect Lynette to say so much, let alone with that much sincerity. Paimon sniffled and wiped away the tears she didn’t even notice off her face.

“Paimon guesses you’re right.”

“Let’s go catch up to them, shall we?”

—

While Navia, Clorinde, and Paimon went back to Poisson, Wriothesley, Furina, and Sigewinne went back to the Palais Mermonia. The Fortress duke thought of a plan while they were in the aquabus back to Fontaine, Lady Furina and Sigewinne were already doing said plan as he speaks. He sat on the couch of Neuvillette’s office for what seems like the hundredth time. The cushion was very comfortable it was almost nice to sleep on it, he should ask the Iudex where he got it, it would be a nice addition to his office. 

…

Maybe he should also ask him on another picnic after they find him and the Traveler. The door opened and he heard the Melusine doctor’s voice.

“We have spoken with the Marchaussee Phantoms.” Sigewinne spoke while Furina was tailing from behind. Beside her was another Melusine. “Liath proposed that we collaborate with Ms. Chevreuse of the Special Patrol.”

Laith nodded, continuing to explain her suggestion. “We have collaborated with Ms. Chevreuse numerous times already and I can assure you that she is trustworthy.”

“Don’t worry I know about that. My only concern is the size, we need less people in this search party. No one in the Court should find out about this due to the drawbacks it may cause.”

“We have also conducted confidential searches similar to this. I’m sure you’re familiar with them, Your Grace?”

Of course he was familiar with them, he had provided aid with some of them, and obviously with the Fortress stuff aswell. Glancing at Sigewinne and Furina, they already seemed to be onboard. Neuvillette did tell him that Furina and Ms. Chevreuse had been getting along after some event that happened at the overworld.

“Alright then,” Wriothesley finally said, exhaling a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “Let’s keep it small. Just a few trusted people, no one who can’t keep a secret.”

Liath smiled in response, “I’ll go inform Ms. Chevreuse now.” then the Melusine walked out. Furina and Sigewinne also took a seat when noise of the door closing was heard.

“After the members of the Special Patrol arrive here, Sigewinne and I will go with them to search in the Beryl Region.” Furina tilt her had when she wasn’t included in the people who’ll go to the said region, “As for you Ms Furina, you can stay here just in case Ms. Clorinde and her team arrive early.”

‘Wait, I’ll just stay here? Doing nothing? That’s insane, I won’t just sit here and…”

Furina stood up once, the tone in her voice made her mood obvious, she was angry. “Absolutely not! There is no chance I’ll remain idle while you 2 go search for them.” Her hands balled into fists at her sides, trembling slightly “I may be the former archon but that doesn’t mean ill just sit back and do nothing!” Furina paused, breathing deeply before continuing, “Monsieur Neuvillette helped me with a lot of things… Traveler too. I owe them my sanity and freed– life, so if you think I’m just gonna stay here, then you’re wrong.” Her voice cracked just slightly as she finished.

There was silence in the room for a moment before Wriothesley nodded, his expression softening slightly. “Then let’s bring them back.”

Sigewinne smiled “And when they get back, someone can finally ask about that picnic–”

“Ehem!” Wriothesley immediately turned away, there was slight redness in his ears that Furina took notice of. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door and a familiar purple haired woman came inside with 10 people behind and Liath. “Looks like our company is back, let’s continue, shall we?”

“Your Grace,” Chevreuse walked up and saluted, “It’s nice to see you again. Although it is a shame it’s within circumstances like this.”

Wriothesley nodded his head in agreement, “I could say the same Ms. Chevreuse. Let’s start talking about the plan, shall we?”

“The first course of action we could take is to send the Marchaussee Phantoms in the area where Monsieur Neuvillette and the Traveler went missing. I’ll have some of my squad come with them just in case of back up.” Chevreuse hand signaled 2 people to come closer, “If this is indeed an experiment done by the Researchers, then it’s better for my crew to be there immediately and arrest them.”

“Great, let’s go with that plan. We should also split up with Group A, Group B should search in the Beryl Region while Group C can search the Liffey Region. Ms. Navia and her team had already gone to the Belleau and Morte Region.”

That peaked Chevreuse interest, she didn’t expect that Navia would already be on the case. “An aid from the Spina Di Rosula?”

“Indeed.”

“Then we should follow your plan. Ms. Sigewinne will come with me and these 4 others to the Beryl Region.” Sigewinne nodded as Chevreuse said that and moved closer to the Captain “While Mr. Wriothesley shall come with the rest at the Liffey Region. Let’s reconvene at noon–”

“Actually,” Wriothesley cut the captain off before pointing to the former archon, “Ms. Furina will be coming.”

Chevreuse eyed Furina before nodding, signaling her 8 members to split up and move closer to the people they were designated to be with. Chevreuse and 4 other members headed out, Sigewinne however went to Wriothesley and signalled him to come closer.

“Your Grace, I’m not certain the Marchaussee Phantom can find anything at that place.” She whispered, “I didn’t sense any trace of Elemental substances, Arkhe, or any sorts of energy. I don’t think the Research Insitute is behind all this.”

Now that stunned Wriothesley, and he totally didn’t forget that the small doctor was a Melusine, it just slipped off his mind. “Let’s stick to the plan, we aren’t sure if they used substances unknown to Melusine senses.”

Sigewinne nodded and ran to follow Chevreuse. Wriothesley sighed and looked back at the Special Patrol members. “Let’s go, shall we?”

—

It’s been a while since Sigewinne had stepped foot here in the Beryl Region. She was planning on taking a one day off to visit some of her Melusine friends in the Merusea Village, now that she was here… Maybe she should put aside that plan for a bit.

The other Melusines and people from the Special Patrol already started searching. Chevreuse ordered them to stay into pairs, One officer and the other a Melusine. Sigewinne was partnered with the Captain.

Chevreuse walked behind her, “Do you sense anything?”

“No, not yet.” Sigewinne continued jogging, trying to search for something, anything honestly. She was starting to get desperate aswell, when she didn’t sense anything out of the ordinary at that picnic spot versus the details Paimon told them. It was… nauseating. Melusines can detect things humans can’t easily notice, but Sigewinne didn’t detect anything.

Her worries only deepened when the storm rolled in, violent, relentless... She had long since linked the rain to Monsieur Neuvillette’s emotions, and for it to pour with such intensity… it was terrifying.

‘Monsieur Neuvillette… we’re coming to find you. Your Grace will be insufferable if you become missing for a longer period.’ Sigewinne paused in her thoughts and stood still, before giggling to herself, ‘What am I saying, I know you can do this.’

Sigewinne glanced at her left and changed her course of direction, while Chevreuse took the opposite way. They can– they will bring them home.

—

Furina adjusted her vest while they traversed the hills in the Liffey Region, going from one ruin to another. They split up into 2 teams so right now they were with 2 Marchaussee Phantom and 2 people from the Special Patrol. Furina was getting tired to say the least.

“Getting tired Ms. Furina?” Wriothesley’s voice made her jump as he appeared behind her.

“What? No… I’m just… saving my energy!” Wriothesley just had a dead panned face as Furina looked away with her hand scratching her head. “Uh, right, is there any progress so far with the Marchaussee Phantoms?”

“So far none, related to the case that is. They have picked up on some things but nonerelated to our current issue.” 

Furina huffed and crossed her arms. “Hmph, figures. It would be too convenient for the answers to just fall into our laps.”

Wriothesley gave a small chuckle, walking a little ahead and scanning the mist-covered terrain. “Convenience doesn’t often show up in our line of work. But we keep searching.”

“I just hope Sigewinne and Chevreuse has more luck…” Furina sighs. Wriothesley didn’t voice it out but he was hoping the same thing. 

—

A few hours had passed and the sun was already setting. Navia and her team got inside Palais Mermonia first, there was barely any people inside at that point. Just like the rest, they didn’t have any luck in the Morte Region. She also sent some of Spina Di Rosula along with Paimon and Lynette but they didn’t see anything there aswell.

The door opened and walked in was Wriothesley, Furina, Sigewinne, and Chevreuse. “Ah, you’re already here. Apologies.” said Wriothesley when he walked towards the 6 sitting on the couch, “And I see you have recruited 3 new people?”

Lyney stood up, removing his hat and placing it on his chest. “Your Grace, it has been awhile.”

Wriothesley nodded before cutting back to the chase, “Our group hasn’t found anything. Same with Ms Chevreuse, the Marchaussee Phantoms hadn’t detected anything in the area they went missing.”

Navia was the one who spoke for their team, “We didn’t find anything in the Morte Region and Erinnyes Forest. Unfortunately, the member that I was going to send to the Institute got caught with a flu.” Navia paused for a second before pointing at the 3 fatuus, “However, Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet had offered the help of the House of the Hearth’s for this mission.”

That alarmed Furina, she didn’t want to see the Knave. Not again! She looked down, her mood shift caught Clorinde’s eyes before whispering to the red magician.

“Father isn’t currently in Fontaine. She went back to Snezhnaya after Her majesty the Tsaritza had called for all the Harbingers to come back.” That made Furina calm down, “We had already sent her a letter about letting the house provide our aid.”

“Oh! Is that why you and Freminet went back to Bouffes d'ete.” Paimon said “Well then that’s good, Paimon doesn’t wanna get in trouble with the Knave.”

“No need to worry Paimon,” this time it was Lynette who spoke, “I’m sure Father would help even if she was here.”

Wriothesley gave a small sigh, the weariness in his shoulders visible as he leaned against the back of one of the armchairs. “Then that brings us all to the same conclusion. Every region we’ve searched has led us nowhere.”

“The probability of them still being in Fontaine is thinning,” Sigewinne added quietly. “Even we couldn’t pick up any trace. That’s… not normal.”

Chevreuse nodded. “And if the Research Institute wasn’t involved, then that only confirms the worst-case scenario. We’re dealing with something or someone with access to means beyond our jurisdiction.”

Navia frowned, arms crossed. “What are you suggesting?”

Furina raised her voice again. “What she’s suggesting is that this might be a threat beyond Fontaine… beyond us. I hate to admit it, but… I’m beginning to think the same.”

“We can’t cut to that assumption yet.” Lyney stopped the ongoing convo, obvious that he didn’t wanna come to that conclusion. “We will send one of the children to investigate the Insitute. He can pretend to be a young researcher that’s interested.”

“Brother…”

The silence was deafening. Every person in the room was lost in their own thoughts, rain drops were tapping the windows of Neuvillette’s office. It wasn’t as harsh as earlier but it still brought Furina, Sigewinne, and Paimon chills. Suddenly, Paimon yelped.

“Paimon?” Freminet being the closest to Paimon placed his hands on her shoulder.

Paimon placed her hands on her chin as of thinking of something. “Paimon remembers something the traveler said before they got sucked into the portal–”

“Ah yes, you told us that right after we ran around, searching half of Fontaine,” Wriothesley muttered before Clorinde bumped his shoulder. “Right, what did he say?”

“He said to look for Dainsleif. Dainsleif is our friend!” Paimon said estaticly, “Although, we haven’t seen him in awhile now…” 

“You don’t know where he went or where he is?” Chevreuse asked.

“Nope.” Paimon sighed. “But if the Traveler said to find him… then maybe he’s the only one who knows what’s going on.”

Wriothesley breaths in heavily, annoyed at their current situation and spoke “Where did you last see him?”

“Sumeru… But right after that just disappeared completely!” Paimon stopped, like she was processing something, then and idea popped into her head. “What if we ask Nahida? She should have tabs with everyone in Teyvat.”

“Na.. hida?” Navia asked confused, it didn’t seem like a Fontainian name.

“Nahida! Lesser Lord Kusanali? The Dendro Archon.” Paimon started listing all of her titles, unaware of the shock her had caused in the entire room.

Wriothesley muttered, shaking her head. “Right… I should expected you were buddies with the Archons.” 

“Facing the Archon of another nation… Up close–!” Freminet threw on his helmet, Clorinde thought of the idea, Navia was stunned at the suggestion. Lynette looked at her brother, Lyney… he was in on the plan already. Lynette closed her eyes before nodding to herself, looking confident and stood with Lyney.

“What if we split up?” Chevreuse suggested, “Some of us should come with Paimon to Sumeru to ask Lesser Lord Kusanali, while some stay here in Fontaine to continue with the patrol. I’ll stay here.”

Navia thought for a moment, she wants to come with the floating fairy because it has more chances to find her dear partner and Monsieur Neuvillette, however no one would be left to handle the Spina… She took a glance at Clorinde, she was already looking at her and shared eye contact.

“...Me and Clorinde will come with Paimon. I can just ask Florent to guard them, and I’m confident they can handle this.”

Paimon was stunned, “Are you sure Navia?”

“Of course I am!”

“There are other Champion Duelist that cn substitute for me. I’ll also be her to guard Navia because I’m sure she wouldn’t bring any of her guards.”

“Aw come on! I can handle myself, and, you’re here too so I don’t really need to worry, right?” Clorinde’s blushed ears didn’t go unnoticed by Paimon, Furina, and Wriothesley.

‘Are Clorinde and Navia together…? No… they’d tell me otherwise!’ Furina shocked her head before raising up her hands, “I’ll also come with Paimon, I don’t think I can be of any use here…”

“Lyney and I will join you, Freminet however would stay here. He’d go in the ocean to search for them.” Lynette said while munching on some cake, wait, cake?”

Lyney double looked at his sister before scolding her “Lynette! When did you even get that?” She shrugged her shoulders and sighed, “Yes, we’ll come with you.”

“Unfortunately we can’t come with you.” Wriothesley crossed her arms, there was a bit of a growl in his voice. Sounding like he was upset, “There we be no one to handle the Fortress, while our Head nurse over her has no other co-workers that can take on her shift.”

“It’s fine! Paimon didn’t expect that a lot of us will come to Sumeru.” Paimon giggled, she placed her hands on her hips and declared, “Paimon will be the best guide!”

Lyney laughed at her antics, “We’ll trust you on that Paimon.”

Chevreuse clapped her hands together, “Looks like it’s settled, Paimon, Navia, Clorinde, Lady Furina, Lyney, and Lynette are going to Sumeru while the rest will stay here and continue patrolling.”

“When will you guys leave?” Sigewinne asked the group.

“Tomorrow morning! The journey there will be kinda time consuming because of the desert.” Paimon declared, Sigewinne smiled at that.

“Great! I’ll still having time make you guys some juice, it can help you guys with your travels.” Wriothesley raised his eyebrow at that before moving to cover her.

“I don’t think they’ll need it Sige, you don’t have to go through such troubles.”

“You just have’t tried it yet Your Grace! You always drink your tea instead.” Sigewinne poked her head out, her face being deadpanned. The Melusine stepped out, “But we will come with you all the way to the harbor. It’s the least we could do.”

Navia smiled at that, Clorinde then ended their discussion, “Let’s meet each other in the harbor at 8 am tomorrow.”

They all said their farewells and each gone on their own ways. Paimon went with Navia to the Spina Di Rosula base underneath the Court. The rest went to their own house, preparing for their travel to Sumeru.

—

Bonus!

The walk back to the Fortress of Meropide was silent. Sigewinne noticed that the Duke wasn’t in the mood, it was like he was thinking of something.

“Your Grace?” Are you alright?” The Duke looked down at the Head nurse, “You haven’t spoken since earlier, is there something bothering you?”

“It’s nothing, today was just tiring.” Silence was brought back once again, few moment later, Sigewinne realized what might be the probem.

Sigewinne had to ready herself before telling him, “Is it because you can’t go with Paimon and the others to Sumeru?”

“Hm? What makes you say that?”

“Your Grace, I’ve been with you ever since you came to the Fortress of Meropide. Humans tends to go quiet when there’s something wrong.” Sigewinne paused, “And it’s also because of Monsieur Neuvillette, right?”

“You got me there.” Wriothesley chuckles, “Earlier when it stormed, something felt strange. I’ve never saw it rain that hard, even when the prophecy was being fulfilled. It felt too… Real, like someone was actually shedding those tear. I also can’t help but think of Monsieur Neuvillette.”

“You also want to get news about their searches right away.”

“Exactly. But I still have a duty back here at the Fortress, I have a feeling that their journey wouldn’t last in just 1 day.” They got in the elevator, when they reach their designated floor, the 2 went inside the Warden’s office.

Sigewinne also wanted to come with them, but as the Duke said, there was no one else that could replace her here in the Fortress. How should she comfort him in this situation… “Why not go with them? Meropide wouldn’t collapse right away you know?”

“Like I said, I don’t think it would take a day. Maybe 5 or so.” Wriothesley just sighed, they were supposed to go fishing today with Neuvillette. Maybe if they got there earlier then… “Go back to the clinic Sige and rest, there might be someone there who needs your help.”

Sigewinne nodded, she took a final glance at Wriothesley before finally going down.

‘I still have these paperworks to finish…’

Chapter Text

December 7, 10:38 PM

Shirosakura Inn

Aether, to make it simple, couldn't sleep. He promised Neuvillette that he'd find a way to get them back but it hasn't been going great. First, every single element he got suddenly disappeared, only Hydro was the one active. The mixture of different elements no longer lingering inside his body was weird, he already got used to it after all.

Second, he couldn't feel any of his former powers. The Portal that got them here was the very same portal he and his sister used to summon whenever they explored a new world. It may have been a few ‘centuries’ since he saw it but that doesn't mean he'd easily forget about it.

Aether stood near the window, flexing his body before raising his arms to his shoulders.

‘Breath in… out… Go!’ The traveler pushed his arms forward resulting into…! Nothing. 

‘Worth a shot.’ Aether sat back down on his bed, scooching to the board of the bed and folded his knees to his chest. 

“Neuvillette, are you still awake?” Aether turned his head to the side to check on the Iudex only to find him already sleeping.

‘Damn how did he sleep that fast.’ Aether buried his face to his knees, ‘Ah… Paimon would’ve loved this place. She would also scold me now to “Hey! Sleep already, adventure awaits us tomorrow!” Ha…’

Tears slowly trekked down his face, before he realized it, his body moved automatically; he laid down and fell asleep.

‘When did I get this close to Paimon…?’

—

December 8, 5:00 AM

Shirosakura Inn

When Aether woke up and looked to his left, that woke him up in an instant because to his surprise, he didn’t see the mop of white hair. He was about to get off the bed when the voice of the Iudex came around.

“Ah, travel– Aether. You’re awake.” That made Aether calm down, he looked up ahead and saw Neuvillette sitting on the couch, a mug in hand. “I woke up a few hours ago and saw that there was tea in the kitchen. I couldn’t help myself and got one.”

Still processing the moment, Aether let out a tired breath. He stretched his arms overhead with a long yawn before trudging over to the couch in a half-awake shuffle.

“I do apologize for last night.” Aether tilted his head, confused “I fell asleep early. I didn’t expect that pur current situation would take a heavy toll on me.”

Of course. They weren’t at Teyvat. 

Aether sat beside him, the couch dipping slightly under their combined weight. He glanced at the steam rising from Neuvillette’s mug.

"Does it taste any good?" he asked softly, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

Neuvillette gave a quiet hum, then held the mug up slightly. "It is... calming. Though I find it rather different from the brews I am accustomed to."

Aether leaned back, resting his head on the couch cushion behind him. The silence that followed wasn’t uncomfortable. If anything, it was strangely grounding. He didn’t know if he should tell Neuvillette about his attempt last night, or his missing elemental abilities.

… Alright who was he kidding, he didn’t want this place to flood. It was already raining outside. Aether sighed, thinking he should save the news for another day. The blonde glanced and jumped at the mans sudden change of clothes. He was wearing a white dress sleeve shirt and black formal pants. It was as if he was in his normal clothes, just remove every single layer of blue.

“You… Already took a shower?”

“It is apart of my routine.” Neuvillette placed the cup on the coffee table before using his fingers for counting, “At this time of the morning I would take a shower, after that I’d make my way to the Palais Mermonia. I’ll spend the rest of my afternoon in my office, except if I had a trial on schedule, of course.”

Aether blinked, “…You really brought your whole Fontaine routine here, huh?”

Neuvillette looked at him, head tilted slightly. “It is a matter of discipline. Without order, one can easily fall into disarray, especially in unfamiliar environments.”

The blonde traveler snorted softly, rubbing at his face. “You sound like Jean.”

“Who?”

“Captain of the Knights of Favonius. Also a very... schedule-loving person.”

Neuvillette gave a short hum in response. “Then she must be a highly effective leader.”

“Yeah,” Aether replied, “She is.”

Aether did one last yawn before forcing himself to stand up, “Guess I’ll take a quick shower too,” Aether muttered. “We probably need to figure out what to do today, huh?”

“Yes,” Neuvillette said, still sitting comfortably on the couch “And I believe you mentioned… a ‘job hunt’?”

Aether groaned loudly as he shuffled toward the bathroom. “Ugh, don’t remind me…”

Behind him, Neuvillette blinked, then called out mildly, “Consider it your scheduled duty for the day.”

“…You really are like Jean,” Aether muttered under his breath before disappearing behind the bathroom door.

—

December 8, 7:15 AM

Shirosakura Inn

“Yo! Aether, Neuvillette, what’s up my dudes! You guys going somewhere again?” Cole yelled out from the desk, he still spoke in fontain– french. The 2 approached him and did some polite greetings.

Aether looked around, “The owner isn’t here?”

“Old man? Yeah, he’s out on some errands. Need something?

“I’m here to pay for our stay for tonight.” The blonde looked around to check for any signs indicating the price. “How much is it?”

“$50.” Cole leaned back in his chair, arms crossed behind his head, legs on the desk.

Aether blinked “Eh? Just 50? Are you sure?”

“Yep,” Cole shrugged “that’s what the old man said.” 

Without questioning further, Aether grabbed $50 in his pocket and handed it to the young man, eyes still looking at him in wary.

“Thanks man, so! Where are you 2 headed?” The man asked as he placed the money in the drawer

“I was just about to look for a job. We needed extra money

“Don’t you have any identification? How’d ya find a job with your current situation?”

‘Shit right…’ Aether just gave the guy a comforting smile,  “I’ll find a way.”

“If you say so…” Aether and Neuvillette were about to go out before Aether froze mid step.

‘Wait, Neuvillette can’t survive this place if he doesn’t learn the language used here. I let him suffer here!’ The blonde traveler turned around walked back as he loops his arms around Neuvillette. They were now right infront of Cole.

“... While you’re here can you tutor Monsieur Neuvillette here some couple English phrases? You will?” Aether didn’t wait for a reply before running out the door. “Thanks Cole, I’ll be back later!”

“WAIT!” Cole almost leaped out of his seat before going back to his former position. Burying his face in his palms before looking up at the Iudex. “Ngh… Uh, hey there dude.”

Neuvillette blinked slowly, his expression unreadable as he watched Aether vanish through the door, leaving him alone with this "I’ll entrust you with this Monsieur Cole."

‘That boy…’

—

‘Great, now that Monsieur Neuvillette is preoccupied, how can I find a job…’ Aether thought as he walked along street. ‘This wouldn’t be too hard.’

Few hours later

He underestimated it too much…

‘I am this close, THIS CLOSE to giving up and resort to stealing.’ His hands were crossed together as he walks along a cemented path. ‘This place is lucky they have explicit rules about stealing.’ Aether stopped, he was about to break down right then and there when his peripheral vision saw a signage,

“Looking for cooks. $12/hr.”

‘Is this Venti looking out for me and giving me a job?’ He ran to the door before slowing down his steps. Taking a deep breathe, he opened the door. There was… no one inside, not even a customer in sight. ‘Was this a prank?’

On cue, someone walked from behind the desk. It was a young girl, if she had to compare ages, most likely her age was close to Xiangling’s.

The said young woman was rubbing her eyes, that was until her eyes landed on Aether “Huh? Ah!” she scrambled to stand straight, “Are you applying? I’ll get our manager, right away!” 

“Well that was fast…” He whispers to no one but himself, from the menu and interior designs, it seemed like the establishment was a fast food restaurant. It was clean too, like it had just been opened 5 minutes ago. There were a few people but judging on their attire, they looked like they were workers just standing idly.

Suddenly, the voice of an older woman appeared from behind the desk, there stood a woman who’s on her late 40’s, she seemed to be the manager based on the different design of her uniform. “Seems like that girl wasn’t lying… There is someone here.”

“Good morning! The sign outside said you were looking for a cook?” That peaked the interest of the other employees loitering around, the immediately looked at Aether. ‘Well this is unsettling’ “Ehem, I don’t have anything for identifi-”

“Well are you a great chef?”

“Huh? Well I’d like to think I’m a pretty great–”

“Alright, c’mere.”

…What? Aether just stared at her, dumbfounded. He just followed her order and jumped over the counter. “Are you sure Ma’am? Don’t I need to have like… an interview?”

“Oh, this is your interview.” They stopped infront of a stove. Panic arised in Aether’s mind.

‘THIS WAS A PRACTICAL INTERVIEW? I can still backout right?’

“Our old cooks were… Inexperienced, that’s the nicest way to say it–”

“Those fuckheads almost food poisoned us” A different voice chimed in. 2 guys were peaking through the small window where food were normally being served.

The other guy added a remark to the formers sentence. “Do you remember that bowl cut cook? Man, his food was SHIT!”

“Ehem.” Ms. Manger scoffed, making the 2 boys quiet down, “Don’t mind those 2 idiots. Now, I want you to cook our signature dish. The recipe is right over there” The woman pointed at a paper filled with text, “I don’t care about how you cook it. Just make it taste good. Me and the rest of the staff will be the judges, do you understand?”

“Y–Yes Ms.!” ‘THE REST OF THE STAFF?’

“Begin.”

‘Okay, breathe in, breathe out. You got this Aether. You’ve cooked several times now in Teyvat, and he’s pretty sure he did great at it.’ From the picture and ingredients alone, their signature dish was a burger with a side of messy fries.

“Buns, patty, lettuce, tomato… sauce with what kind of spices?!” he whispered, squinting. “What the fuck is ‘a generous slap of hell mix’ supposed to mean?!” Aether also made sure to curse in French, he wouldn’t want to immediately get denied because of terrible comradery.

He peeked over his shoulder. The two guys from earlier were now leaning fully through the window, watching him like he was on a cooking show, glancing behind them, there were 3 more including the girl from earlier. Seriously! How many people are in this establishment, why can’t none of them cook?!

“Yo, new guy! Don’t mess it up! We’ve got bets running!” one of them called, grinning.

‘Thanks for the pressure asshole…’ the blonde grabbed the nearest pan, whatever type it was didn’t matter, he cooked pizza’s on a damn wok before! 

“He does know that there’s a flattop grill just a few feet beside him right…?” The whisper of a woman fell deaf on the traveler’s ears as oil sizzled loudly as he tossed in the 6 beef patty. They don’t need to know he doesn’t know how to use the grill… He grabbed another pan, this time it was a… Wok. How convenient. The memory of him cooking Chevreuse some fish and chips during the filming months ago came back to mind, she was so tired that she couldn’t even walk to the restaurant.

“Is this idiot gonna cook fries on a fuckin’ wok?!” Another person piped up. “There’s a deepfryer right beside the damn stove!”

‘Watch me, I’ve cooked in worser conditions…’ Aether dumped the uncooked fries in the hot oil, simultaneously flipping the patties on the side. The blonde also placed the buns on the side of wok, toasting them until he deemed it good. When he glanced at the patties, he saw the crisp brown color he was going for, he turned down the heat on the fries, just enough so it wouldn’t overcook. Grabbing cheese slices and placing them on each patty. 

Aether removed the bun and grabbed the red basket like plate with white and red checkered paper, placing it there and building the burger. Finally, he added the little flagpoles on top and set the 6 plates aside. The blonde grabbed everything he needed for the cheese sauce and the bacon bits. 

He grabbed a saucer and added in a whole stick of butter, after it completely melted, he tossed in some flour creating a roux. Using his legs, he opened the fridge a grabbed– kicked the milk towards him, catching it mid air.

The staff was watching the new guy cook, to them it was a… rollercoaster of emotion to say the least, they never seen anyone cook fries on a goddamn wok, and use it to toast the buns at the same time. They also never saw someone who doesn’t use the deepfryer and grill that is already provided to cook the exact meal they were there for.

“Boss, do you think this guy can really be trusted? I mean, this is the first time you let someone do a practical test right then and there.”

“Calm yourself Meg. The moment I saw that boy, something in him was different.” 

“MERDE!”

“Even though he has some odd… methods.”

Aether was stirring the sauce when the smelled the fries already being done. He turned off the stoved then a focused back on the roux, he added the shredded cheese and stirred it as it melts, slowly combining with the former substance. A dash of salt and pepper later, he plated the fries with the burger and finished the meal.

‘Well doesn’t this look mighty fine.’ Aether thought proudly, he turned around and saw that the staff, including the manager were already sitting on the island bar. Two by two, he served them the meal.

The staff were, well, drooling. Atleast that’s what Aether thought, he remembered what was on the line and he stood stiff as a statue, watching them eat one by one.

“…Yo,” one of the guys said through a mouthful of burger, eyes wide. “This is actually good.”

“Actually?” Aether echoed in disbelief.

“Hell yeah!” The other mushed out inbetween his bites. The manager glanced around before finally taking a bite of the burger.

The girl who had greeted him earlier gave a small gasp after her first bite, slamming her hands on the counter. “Holy shit. I don’t even like burgers and I would marry this one.”

‘Then why work at a burger place?’

The manager let out a hum and finally said something that made Aether tense. “This is…” pause “Incredible! It is unlike anything I’ve tasted before. Tony, you should learn from this young man. Your cooking can improve more from him.”

Hell yeah, Aether the master chef wins again. This should mean he got the job right? “So um, do I get the job–?”

“If I hadn’t tasted this first hand, I would’ve cursed this kid out.” A buff man with an apron chimed in, so there was a chef here…

After a slow nod, the manager fixed her gaze on Aether. “You’re hired, the culinary skills that you have shown is quite exquisite. Something I have never seen before.” She took another bite, “You’ll start tomorrow, the uniform is at the back. If you have any more questions then you can ask–”

“Wait!” Aether stopped the woman mid-sentence, “Can I start now? I really need this…”

She thought about it for awhile before answering, “Alright then, get your uniform at the back.” with that, the manager left. Probably went to her office. Aether ran inside the backrooms where she pointed at earlier, he saw a cupboard with a little sign that labeled ‘Uniforms’ ontop.

‘Damn, now I have to wear uniforms. The Adventure Guild didn’t force me to wear one, this sucks.’ He thought dejectedly as he changed into the black cloth.

When he exited the room, he saw that the 5 staff members were still at their former positions,

“New guy! Lookin’ good huh.”

“Oh, uhmm, thanks.” Aether mutters, he looked at the cook who smiled at him.

“Now that we’re all co-workers, we should introduce ourselves!” A woman clapped happily, she wasn’t the girl who greeted him earlier so she was entirely unfamiliar, “My name is Rina, this litlle buble here is Tessa.” She gestured to the girl he saw earlier.

“You already know me, Boss already mentioned me earlier!” ‘Tony’ said, he was the cook that he guess, complimented him.

The guy– guys? Beside him spoke next, “I’m Jace.” “I’m Eli!”

“You 2 look…”

“Alike? We get that a lot, we’re twins after all!” Eli replied enthusiastically, they were easy to separate based on auras alone. Eli was more energetic compared to Jace.

“My name is Aether.” He got to know the group more, he asked some questions here and there and they answered most of them. “By the way, why is there barely anyone here?

“It’s because of the issue the restaurant faced due to a mistake of an old worker. Geez, it really took a toll on the business. Of course, we–” Rina gestures towards the other staff members beside her “stood by Boss and continued working for Rocket Burger.”

“That’s… Interesting.”

Silence hit the room, until a door let out a whoosh of wind, a loud obnoxious voice came out from the entrance, “HEEEELLLLLOOOOOOOOO!!” a brown haired man entered the restaurant. “I’m here to apply for a job!”

“You do not need to shout.” Boss’s voice came up from behind them. “Your loud voice could be of use to us.”

“Huh? But aren’t I applying to be a cook?” The weird man asked.

“You are but you do not look like you deem to be inside a kitchen.” Boss

“What?! I’ll have you know that I used to work at a hotdog stand–!”

“Well you aren’t working there anymore correct?” That seemed to silence him up as he pouted and looked away. The manager approached a sign that was placed on top of one of the tables, grabbing it and pushing it to the mans arms. “Go outside and use this.”

“Huh? What is this.” He turned the board to face him and there he saw “An advertisement board?! Not my first time but I’ll take it!” 

Boss just huffed and went back inside her office, Aether, being the nice guy he is, approached the guy.

“Hey there! My name is Aether, you are?”

“Oh hey, my name is Larry–!” The guy glanced at the blonde traveler and suddenly stumbled back. He turned around and fixed himself up on the glass door behind him. Finally he faced Aether and did some weird movements that seemed to be a flirtatious move? “Hey there baby, the names Larry Butz. You look very beautiful. How many customers do I have to get before I can get your number?” 

… Was this guy serious? Aether heard giggles from behind him and he was just 2 feet away from landing the hardest punch on this weirdo. Can’t he see he was a man?! “1. I don’t have a phone so no way, 2. I’m a man.”

“Huh?” Larry looked closer and jumped back “AHHHHHH! You’re a man!”

Aether just gave him a deadpanned stare, then, Larry dropped down to his knees and bowed “I’m so sorry dude! I thought you were a girl and–!”

Aether just sighed and forced the dude up, “It’s fine, just do what the manager told you to do.”

“You got it Boss!”

“I’m not the–” Before Aether could even retaliate, Larry already walked outside, sign in hand. Behind him, Tessa and Eli were almost doubled over laughing while Rina playfully smacked Tony’s arm.

“Do you think that dude will actually get us some customers?” Tony was already counting the coins in his wallet.

Aether just facepalmed, ‘They’re already making bets?’

Jace leaned against the counter, arms crossed and a smirk on his face. “Knowing our luck? He’s either going to attract a crowd… or scare one away.”

Tony tossed a coin into the pile “I’m giving him thirty minutes before he gives up and comes back in asking to flip burgers again.”

“Five says he brings someone in,” Jace added.

“I’m not encouraging this,” Aether muttered, but despite himself, the corner of his mouth twitched up into a smile.

Outside, through the glass, Larry was already spinning the board above his head like a street performer, waving at random cars and passersby with wild enthusiasm.

And somehow, just somehow, a couple of people actually paused to look.

“...No way,” Eli said, squinting.

“Is that… are those two people walking toward the entrance?”

Rina gasped. “No freaking way. He actually–?”

The bell above the restaurant door rang.

“Hello, uh… is this where the guy with the sign said the good burgers were?”

The staff collectively turned to Aether, who blinked. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Tony’s shoulders dropped as Jace took all of the money. “Guess the Butz works in mysterious ways.”

The others dispersed and went to their spots, Tessa got behind the registrar and served the couple.

—

December 8, 6:00 PM

“Bye!” Aether waved to the 5 and went their opposite ways. 10 more customers came in after the couple, how Larry managed to get them was a surprise in itself. He also got an early pay after a bit of begging. In total, they had $156. It was enough to last them at least 3 days. 

Aether also stopped by a small shop and bought some already made food, and a soup for Neuvillette.

The building of Shirosakura Inn came close as the sky was getting darker. Aether didn’t feel exhausted, may it was because of the flat surface in contrast of Teyvat’s hills and mountains. He opened the doors and saw Monsieur Neuvillette reading a book on the chair in the mini library. Wait, reading a book?

“Welcome back, dude .” Neuvillette greeted monotonically, in perfect and fluent English. 

“Dude…?”

“Indeed, I listened to how Mr. Cole would say greetings.” Aether eyes were still twitching, never in his long life would he think that the Hydro Sovereign and Chief Justice of Fontaine would use slang.

Cole chuckled, putting down his phone “Honestly, Neuvillette was a great student. I barely had to do anything, he’s a quick learner.”

“Thank you, bro” Then they fist bumped?!

Aether just stared, dumbfounded, “Shit… Sedene is gonna kill me.” he mutters, not knowing that the Iudex heard it.

“Oh? What is the translation of  shit?”

Maybe she’ll have his head too.

—

December 12, 8:30 AM

Wright & Co. Law Offices

Phoenix was still feeling groggy when he entered the office. No clients had been walking in, that’s why it ended with the TV flickering in the dim morning light, playing random shows the channel had. Phoenix Wright sat slouched on the couch, half-asleep, half-watching the screen, coffee cup in hand.

“Nick!” A loud voice jolted him fully awake. Maya Fey burst into the room, her cousin Pearl trailing close behind, eyes sparkling. They both ran up to him with a flyer and phone in hand. “Look! There’s this new restaurant that’s famous for their delicious burgers. Burgers Nick!”

Phoenix blinked. “Maya… it’s barely nine. Who eats burgers for breakfast?”

“But Mr. Nick! You should listen to Mystic Maya.” He would if Maya wasn’t plain stupid for eating burgers for breakfast. “You’re a bad partner if you won’t give her what she wants.” Right… Her and her weird obsession with shipping him with Maya…

“Come on! Get up Nick!” And just like that, Phoenix found himself being dragged out the door, coffee still in hand. He’ll end up broke from these 2 alone.

—

December 12, 8:40 AM

Rocket Burger

It was a good thing that Phoenix had some spare umbrella in the office. It was raining, once again. It was weird since the news said it was supposed to be sunny today, and yesterday, and the other day. Pearl was walking ahead Phoenix and Maya, they had been walking for 10 minutes already, Phoenix didn’t even know where the said restaurant is.

“Maya, are you sure you know where you’re going?”

“Of course!” She raised up the flyer again and pointed to the address below, “It’s right here, see?”

The walk was silent again, that was when Phoenix remembered to ask. “Hey Maya, what did you tell Pearl about me?”

“What do you mean?”

“You know, the way she thinks we’re together. Did you say something to her?”

“What? No! And don’t think I like you that way, I’m not going to ruin you and Edgeworth’s relationship!”

“Alright, but don’t bring him up again.”

“Edgeworth? What, you 2 got in a fight? Seriously you’re sounding just like those soap opera wife that got in a fight with her husband.”

“Maya.”

“Alright! Alright…” 

After the next turn, the sight of the restaurant came into view. Maya ran towards it, Pearl followed behind, even dropping her umbrella. “Maya, Pearl!” 

The inside had this retro aesthetics. There were discs hanging on the wall, checkered floors, some trinkets here and there. The place was packed with people, it was a unexpected since it was storming outside. Maya and Pearl were already ordering, Phoenix sighed check the menu if there was anything he like to that AREN’T burgers.

“Nick! What are you gonna get?”

“Huh?” He scanned through the menu before eyeing the ‘Chef’s choice’ option, handing the spirit medium his wallet “Just say whatever the Chef wants.”

Out of nowhere, someone mentioned his name. “Phoenix Wright?” He looked around and at corner of his eyes he saw a familiar sight. By that time, Maya was already done paying so he made his way to the table by the window.

“Detective Gumshoe! Nice to see you.” Beside him wasanother familiar face. “Ms. Maggey, it’s been a while.”

“Likewise Pal! I had enough saving to get a grub here. Maggey happened to be here when I was searching for a seat so I tagged along.” Maggey nodded along at his statement. Phoenix was about to sit across them when he saw someone already sitting there. He glanced at Gumshoe, good thing he figured it out and introduced the man infront. “Oh right, Pal, this is Newbi–”

“I’ll take the introductions from here.” Stopping the detective in the mids of speaking. “Greetings, you may call me Neuvillette. It is a pleasure meeting you, Mr. Wright.”

Neuvillette moved a bit, letting Phoenix sit right beside him. “Oh uhhh, yeah nice to meet you to.” ‘ So formal…’ Phoenix then saw a thick book infront of Neuvillette. “Is that a textbook on US Laws?”

“Ah, it is indeed so. How did you know?”

“It’s exactly just like my textbook back then.”

“I am guessing you are a lawyer?”

“I am, how did–”

“He’s a great defense attorney! Did you know he defended my boss? If not for him Mister Edgeworth would’ve been sentenced as guilty!”

“Ah… Detective Gumshoe…”

“Detective Gumshoe! And Maggey!” Maya greeted, she pulled an unocuppied chair from another table and squishing beside Nick, letting Pearl sit on the chair. She then noticed the white haired man beside Phoenix. She leaned in closer to whisper to the lawyer, “Pst, Nick, who is that? He looks scary…”

“This is Neuvillette, Detective Gumshoe and Maggey just let him sit there since there were no more vacant seats.” Completely ignoring the last thing she said.

“Ohhh! Nice to meet you uhh Mr, Neuvillette sir, I’m Maya Fey and this is my cousin, Pearly!”

“Greetings, Ms. Fey, and to you as well, young Miss Pearl,” Neuvillette said with a respectful nod.

“Wow… So respectful.” Maya whispered to Phoenix, Pearl however… She looked like she was in her won world.

“M-M-Mystic Maya! He’s like a prince!” Her hands were on her cheeks, shaking left and right, blushing uncontrollably. “He’s tall, he talks like royalty, and he’s so gentle! Did you hear how politely he greeted us? And that hair! It’s white, like snow”

Neuvillette, catching her gaze, blinked once and offered a small, soft smile. “Is something the matter, young one?”

Pearl immediately squeaked and hid behind Maya’s shoulder. “A-Ah! N-No, sir! I was just–just thinking you’re really cool!”

Neuvillette tilted his head slightly, visibly touched. “That is very kind of you to say. Thank you.”

Pearl looked like she was about to melt.

Maya nudged Phoenix under the table. “Nick, look!” she nodded down at the hiding girl on her sleeves, “She’s totally found her Prince Charming.”

Nick just looked at the 2, deadpanned. He faced Neuvillette once again, curiosity getting the better of him. “Are you studying law, Monsieur Neuvillette?” 

“Hm? Ah, please, don’t misunderstand. I am only using this book as a practice in reading ‘English.’ You see, I am quite new at this country and due to our current situation, I have to learn it’s language.”

“W–wait…” Maggey’s jaw dropped, pounding her hands on the desk, “You just recently learned how to speak English?!”

“Correct, I’d say about 5 days ago I suppose.”

“...And you’re using a law book to learn?!”

“Is there anything wrong with that?” Oblivious to the shock he gave the group, he continued reading the text below. A waitress came and placed the food the 3 ordered. They began to eat, chattering once every few bites.

Maya was keeling over, her eyes were shining as if a glass reflecting sunlight. She dropped the burger and shook the defense attorney beside her, “Nick… NICK!!”

“Maya calm down!”

“This is… this is the most delicious burger I’ve ever had!! I feel like going to heaven!” Phoenix chose to just ignore the spirit medium beside him. Atleast the money they spent was worthwhile. His food was also delicious aswell, it had the perfect consistency with each bite. He looked to his side and saw Neuvillette, just reading the law book infront of him. There was no dishes anywhere.

“Mr. Neuvillette? Aren’t you going to eat anything?”

“Ah, don’t mind me. I am not… A big fan of the food here.”

‘Why did you come here then’ He stared at him, this guy was starting to get weird the more Phoenix spent time with him.

This time, it was Detective Gumshoe who asked the question. “Why are you here then?”

“Well, I decided to visit one of my friends. He had recently taken a job in this establishment.” He glanced at all the food on the table. “I believe he was the one cooked those.”

“Huh?!” Noises of surprise circled the table. Maya jumped up and stared at Neuvillette.

“He-he’s the one who made this burger?!”

“Your friend is the one who made this, Mr. Prince?!”

Maya leaped over Phoenix and grabbed the white haired mans hands, “You gotta introduce me to them, please!” Neuvillette just smiled at Maya’s antics. Suddenly a familiar loud yell caught their attention.

“NICK!!!” Phoenix didn’t have to turn around to know who it was. It was Larry. He was running over to them, huge sign in hand, and drenched in rain. “Can’t believe you’re here man. How have you been?”

Maya, blinked as she looked at Larry. “Wait… Please don’t tell me… He’s the friend?”

“He is not. I don’t believe I had the pleasure of meeting this young man.”

“You work here?” Phoenix asked, Larry scratched his head before using his thumbs to point at himself. 

“Yeah I do! I’m the advertiser. They won’t tell you this but I’m the best at this!” He said with a big smile, which immediately dropped when someone yelled at him from the counter.

“Oi Butz! Stop chatting there and help me with the customers!” The waitress from earlier called out. 

“Oops! Gotta go.” There, the brunette ran back. Leaving the rest speechless.

Neuvillette was the one who broke the silence. “He is certainly quite the character…”

“Yeah… That was our friend, Larry Butz.”

A new voice called out again, a different name this time. “Monsieur Neuvillette?”

‘Who is it this time.’ Phoenix thought out, agitated.

Just then, the kitchen doors swung open, and stepping out, was a familiar blond-haired young man. Aether. His apron was slightly messy with sauce and flour, his hair a little disheveled from the rush of morning orders.

Phoenix watched as Neuvillette’s gaze visibly softened.

“There,” Neuvillette said simply, gesturing with his chin.

Maya followed his line of sight and practically gasped. “No way! Him?! That dreamy guy is the chef?!”

Pearl clutched her heart. “He looks like he came out of the fairytale Mystic Maya read to me…”

Aether approached the group, eyeing the man in the blue cardigan specifically, crossing his arms “You didn’t say you’d come here. You don’t even eat anything here.”

Maya faced Phoenix, legitimately vibrating from her seat. “I need to shake his hand. Or get an autograph. Or… make him give me lessons on burger-making?!”

“Maybe start by saying hi first,” Phoenix muttered, rubbing his temples.

 Aether looked around and noticed the big group around Neuvillette. “Wow, big day everyone. Monsieur Neuvillette is making friends! Ah… I should’ve known it was you from Tessa’s gushing.”

“Is it truly a day to celebrate?” Neuvillette chuckled. 

“So you’re the friend Neuvillette mentioned.” Gumshoe scratched his head before smiling at the blonde. “Heya pal! The names Dick Gumshoe.”

“Pft–”

“Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing wrong! …Dick.”

Maya nearly choked on a sip of her drink. Phoenix stared daggers at her, whispering, “Maya, please. ”

Gumshoe, bless his soul, didn’t seem to notice. “Nice to meet ya! That burger you made? Real top-notch stuff, pal!”

Aether smiled and bowed to the detective, “Thank you, I’m glad the experiments I did with the spices worked out.” he then looked at Neuvillette before asking, “Do you want anything? A glass of water?”

“Water would be sufficient.” Neuvillette, now quietly closing the law book before him, looked to Aether. “I trust your shift ends soon?”

“You really brought that here?” Aether placed a glass of water that came out of nowhere.

“Wait, you’re the one who made him learn english using US Law books?” Maggey asked while stroking her chin, before answering the question herself. “That’s so mean! There are a lot of complicated words in there. Right Mr. Wright?”

Phoenix, stunned at the sudden call from him just stuttered out an answer, “Oh uh yeah, there’s a bunch of words there.”

“You guys made me sound like this evil teacher. Monsieur Neuvillette did that himself, I had no participation there whatsoever.” Aether defended himself before adding, “Also, I don’t think it anything there is foreign to him.”

That caught everyones attention. 

Phoenix raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean by that? Mr. Neuvillette said that he wasn’t studying law.” And he also looks like he wasn’t at the right age to study it…

Aether placed his hands on his hips, Neuvillette chuckled before explaining, “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with what I said. I wanted to familiarize myself with this wor– country’s… laws.” Neuvillette paused, taking a sip out of the glass. “I am the Chief Justice, or "Iudex" of Font– from France.”

Aether let out a breath he didn’t know he held.  They had to rehearse that numerous times in their room. Of course, Fontaine doesn’t exist on this world. He searched that in Cole’s phone a few days earlier. 

“Umm… Nick, what’s a Iudex?” Maya whispered to Phoenix, he was about to explain until a certain woman beated him to it.

Maggey’s eyes widened. “You’re a judge Mr. Neuvillette?!” 

Neuvillette gave a soft smile. “Do I not fit the bill?”

“You—you do!” Maggey stammered. “It’s just…”

“You kinda look too young, Mr. Neuvillette,” Detective Gumshoe added, scratching the back of his neck.

‘Pft– wait till they find out he’s already 500 years old.’ Aether thought, barely holding back a snort. He then glanced at the small girl beside her. Oh dear, someone is awestruck. Aether sighed before walking back to the staff room so he could clock out.

Pearl was starry-eyed. “A beautiful prince who punishes bad guys… ”

Phoenix just huffed. They were infront of a judge this whole time, who knows what he’d do. He’ll just say to the court he doesn’t have any relation between these 2 spirit mediums… Mr. Neuvillette though.

‘I wonder if Mr. Neuvillette is better than the Judge.’ Phoenix thought for awhile before shrugging it off, ‘Although, isn’t Iudex latin? He did say he’s from France…’

Time flew by as the caught up with each other.  Phoenix didn’t even notice Aether leave until he came back in casual attire. They also already finished their food so they prepared to pack up.

Neuvillette stood up and slid his way out of the booth, “It was pleasant to meet all of you. We bid our farewell.”

Before the 2 could leave, “Wait!” Maya yelled at them, which was embarrassing if there were still a lot of people in the restaurant. It was a good thing that rush hour was over. “Can we get your number? Since, well, we’re friends now! Right?”

The 2 looked at each other, “We’re so sorry, but we don’t own a phone…”

“Oh…” Maya was about to give up before she reached in her pocket, grabbing a piece of paper and a pen, she scribbled something before giving it to the blonde, “Here! It’s the address to our office. So you can visit us any time! Oh, and I also wrote my number there just incase you get a phone by then.”

He accepted the paper and waved goodbye again to the group. Maya wanted to ask why they didn’t have a phone but Nick would definitely tell her off for being insensitive.

Phoenix stared at the window, looking at the 2 new ‘friends’ they met. He didn’t know what to think of them, they were nice but he couldn’t help but feel like there was something more to them.

“Wow, the rain finally stopped!” Maggey beamed, Phoenix looked back at the window and also saw the clear skies. That was strange, it stopped raining. In the morning, normally it would stop at night. Phoenix sighed and brought his attention back to the 2 spirit mediums, talking excitedly about the two people they met.

‘I wanted to talk to them more, maybe Maya and Pearls too. I hoped that I could meet them again soon.’

‘But I didn’t expect that it would be this soon.’

Bonus!!

When Cole left for the bathroom, he expected that Neuvillette would continue reading the Dr. Seuss book he tossed him and the French–English dictionary he found in the book shelf. 

“Neuvillette? What’s that?”

“Ah, welcome back.” Neuvillette sipped his water, “I already finished this literature you gave me so I tried finding another one. I came across this book dictating the laws here in this country. I must say, most of them are very… Obscure.”

Oh he just got a new book, that took a few things off his back. Wait.

“YOU’RE READING A LAW BOOK?”

“Shouldn’t I?”

Next thing Cole saw was darkness.