I'll manage. [ The Iudex replies, watching as the flickering of the flames casts long shadows throughout the room. ] I do prefer to maintain my personal space, but in present circumstances I don't mind a little discomfort if it means conserving heat more effectively.

[ It's not ideal at all, but it's not like he has much choice in the matter. They're trapped in a cabin with a howling blizzard outside and a limited quantity of food and firewood inside. Pragmatism is the only way ahead, especially if it takes a long time before the weather relents and slows to a mild scatter of flecks. But if things take a turn for the worse, Zhongli's wellbeing should take priority, even at the expense of his own—although Neuvillette can't quite tell what manner of creature he is other than not a human or a true dragon, it's not unreasonable to assume that he is a being more fragile than himself. ]

Your words paint quite the picture of Qingce Village and take my attention away from the cold, somewhat. [ So he can't say he minds his rambling; he'll gladly take anything that helps him think about other things. The timbre of his voice is rather pleasant to listen to, as well. ]

I hope I get the chance to visit the village before it's time to return to Fontaine.