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A violent snow dances in the swirling wind
[Zhongli had never been particularly fond of Mondstadt's weather. It was a stark contrast to the ever-temperate climate of Liyue. The relentless chill in the air, the gusty winds that cut through his layers of clothing, it all felt foreign to him. He pulls his coat tighter, seeking refuge in the warmth it provides. He couldn't help but wonder how the people of Mondstadt managed to cope with this daily.
As he gazes up at the snowy hills of Dragonspine that loom over the lodging, he recalls the stories the Traveler had shared, tales of a thrumming heart buried within the tallest mountain. It's an idea that has been etched into his mind ever since, a concept that captivates his very being. He can't help but think of it as if it resonates with the depths of his soul.
With a sigh, Zhongli begins to unpack his sparse belongings, silently marvelling at the novelty of it all. Travelling with a small suitcase was an unusual experience for him, a reminder of the human existence he had chosen to embrace after retiring from his position as the Geo Archon.
The snow outside makes him shiver involuntarily, a spine-tingling idea of the biting cold outside. But as frigid as the air must be, it's not as chilling as the presence of his new roommate, Neuvillette.
Zhongli has observed Neuvillette from a distance, graceful and enigmatic. Familiar, in a way, and yet entirely foreign. He had not expected the Chief Justice of Fontaine to look fondly upon him—in fact, he had no expectations at all except how great and fair the Iudex is. However, he can't help but note how much of a contrast to his own essence he may be, one that exudes the warmth of earth and stone. As he unpacks his belongings, he can't help but feel a certain unease in the room, a tension that seems to emanate from the silent figure across from him.
Why Venti had suddenly decided to room them both together is beyond him. Venti had merely narrowed his eyes in mirth, tittering as he mentioned something about sturdiness, keeping his tangential and vague whenever he wishes to escape from between Zhongli's fingers.
The blizzard outside begins to intensify, the relentless howling of the wind making itself known, A sudden reminder that perhaps, isolation is frequent in this place. Zhongli glances at the window, his eyes narrowing as he senses something beneath the turmoil of the blizzard, a heartbeat, a pulse of something ancient and powerful. In the midst of the storm, he wonders if he's the only one who can feel it, the hidden heart of Dragonspine, echoing through the very foundations of their temporary shelter.]
As he gazes up at the snowy hills of Dragonspine that loom over the lodging, he recalls the stories the Traveler had shared, tales of a thrumming heart buried within the tallest mountain. It's an idea that has been etched into his mind ever since, a concept that captivates his very being. He can't help but think of it as if it resonates with the depths of his soul.
With a sigh, Zhongli begins to unpack his sparse belongings, silently marvelling at the novelty of it all. Travelling with a small suitcase was an unusual experience for him, a reminder of the human existence he had chosen to embrace after retiring from his position as the Geo Archon.
The snow outside makes him shiver involuntarily, a spine-tingling idea of the biting cold outside. But as frigid as the air must be, it's not as chilling as the presence of his new roommate, Neuvillette.
Zhongli has observed Neuvillette from a distance, graceful and enigmatic. Familiar, in a way, and yet entirely foreign. He had not expected the Chief Justice of Fontaine to look fondly upon him—in fact, he had no expectations at all except how great and fair the Iudex is. However, he can't help but note how much of a contrast to his own essence he may be, one that exudes the warmth of earth and stone. As he unpacks his belongings, he can't help but feel a certain unease in the room, a tension that seems to emanate from the silent figure across from him.
Why Venti had suddenly decided to room them both together is beyond him. Venti had merely narrowed his eyes in mirth, tittering as he mentioned something about sturdiness, keeping his tangential and vague whenever he wishes to escape from between Zhongli's fingers.
The blizzard outside begins to intensify, the relentless howling of the wind making itself known, A sudden reminder that perhaps, isolation is frequent in this place. Zhongli glances at the window, his eyes narrowing as he senses something beneath the turmoil of the blizzard, a heartbeat, a pulse of something ancient and powerful. In the midst of the storm, he wonders if he's the only one who can feel it, the hidden heart of Dragonspine, echoing through the very foundations of their temporary shelter.]
no subject
Ah, you have a rather intricate job in your hands, Monsieur, [he can't help but sigh at it, even if he remarks with a thoughtful smile.] It is a delicate balancing act of tradition and evolution. Even gods seem to have trouble with it, with what we know of them. Such endeavors must demand a careful examination of the societal fabric and an understanding of the changing of times. I must say, I do not envy your position but admire it nonetheless.
[He tilts his head, his amber eyes gleaming in the firelight.] I'm sure you have any memorable moments in your work. Perhaps for their uniqueness or perhaps their historical significance?
no subject
[ Crossing one outstretched leg over the other, Neuvillette considers the question posed to him. He's handled tens of thousands of cases over these past centuries, with many of them standing out in one way or another. When it comes to historically significant cases, Vautrin standing trial for murder comes to mind—it was through his actions and Carole's self-sacrifice that the Melusines began to solidify their place in Fontainian society.
Ah, but perhaps that might be a little too dark to tell in front of a fireplace like this. He'll have to think of something less significant but still memorable in some fashion... ]
Sixty years ago, a man was charged with shooting another man in the stomach during a bar fight. His defense attorney, Beaussant, posited that victim had actually shot himself trying to withdraw his pistol while rising to stand. To prove his theory, Beaussant decided to give the court a visual demonstration of what he believed had happened. Selecting a pistol he believed to be unloaded, he then accidentally fired it into his abdomen as he pulled it out of his pocket.
no subject
As Neuvillette recounts the events, Zhongli can't help but marvel at the intricacies of the human condition—the lengths to which individuals will go in the pursuit of truth and justice, or defend their own pride. Despite the seriousness of the situation, there's a certain irony in Beaussant's accidental self-inflicted wound, a twist of fate that adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
He sighs softly, a fleeting wish for a cup of tea to accompany this moment of shared storytelling crossing his mind. His gaze briefly drifts to the small kitchen in the corner of the cabin, contemplating the possibility of warming some water over the fire. However, the warmth of the fire and the enthralling tale being spun keep him rooted in his seat, fully immersed in the present moment.]
An accidental discharge in the courtroom, [Zhongli muses, his voice carrying a note of curiosity.] What happened next? Was Beaussant injured severely, or did the demonstration lead to a revelation in the case?
no subject
[ He still remembers it clearly—Beaussant getting up on the stage, pistol in hand as he explained the sequence of events as he believed had occurred. Neuvillette had given him permission to proceed and watched him slide the firearm into his pocket. Seconds later, a loud gunshot cut through the air and everyone in the audience gasped as the man collapsed to his knees in agony, hand pressed against his abdomen in an attempt to stem the bleeding.
A member of the Gardes had been quick to administer first aid and he was then moved to the side room that had been converted into an infirmary for medical emergencies. The trial was suspended until immediately and Furina had simply watched in silence as the scene unfolded before her eyes; Neuvillette couldn't tell if she had been too shocked to say something, or if there was more to it.
Keeping his tone neutral, Neuvillette continues. ]
But although he was fatally wounded, his demonstration had proven his point and the defendant was acquitted of the charges brought against him.
no subject
What a dramatic turn of events. [He shifts slightly on the cushion, his gaze returning to the dancing flames of the fire as he reflects on the implications of the story. The crackling of the fire fills the cabin with a comforting ambiance, enveloping them in its warmth while the snow raged outside. The sunset fills the snow at the peaks with orange light, gold, and reds. It's a beautiful scenery, and Zhongli can't help but appreciate it for a moment.]
Would you like some tea? [Zhongli inquires, his curiosity piqued.] I am curious as to how life proceeds after the trials in Fontaine. Do most people find themselves absolved of all suspicion, or do the trials leave a lasting impact on their reputation? I understand that the media are quite present in those, as well.
no subject
(If convicted, however, the criminal record becomes like a millstone around the neck. Those who serve time in the Fortress of Meropide frequently find themselves unable to reintegrate with society and end up living in the sewers beneath the city.) ]
Tea would be lovely. [ There's the slightest curve to his lips as he nods. He may prefer water above all else, but Wriothesley has helped him cultivate a fondness for tea as well. ]
I brought a few bottles of water from Chenyu Vale. The high quality and purity of the springwater in the region should make it an excellent choice for tea brewing.
Now I wonder if he avoided him here lMAO
[The warmth in his voice rivals that of the fire before them.] Have you ever visited Chenyu Vale yourself? It's a place of incredible natural beauty and tranquillity, not to mention the source of some of the finest views this world has to offer.
I happen to have tea from the very same region. This is most fortuitous timing indeed. [He withdraws a small bag with herbs, and heads to the small stove at the corner of the cabin.] Would you be so kind as to bring the water, then?
GOOD QUESTION...
[ Perhaps one day he will consider actually taking a day off to go somewhere beyond Merusea Village or the opera house; with how busy he is carrying out his duties as the highest judge in the nation, it's unlikely that it will come anytime soon, however. Despite having lived for centuries in the human world, this ancient dragon still has reservations about actually engaging with it. He wouldn't even be in this cabin right now if Furina hadn't insisted on having him come along to the poetry festival. ]
Yes, of course—just give me a moment to retrieve it from my luggage. [ Blanket still wrapped tight around his shoulders, the Iudex stands up and steps over to where he'd left his leather trunk. After a few moments, he pulls out a glass bottle from a padded wooden box. (Furina had scolded him a bit for stopping to buy these bottles after getting off the boat at Yilong Wharf. "You're seriously going to lug those all the way to Bishui Plain?")
He too heads to the stove and after uncorking the bottle, he hands it over to Zhongli. ]
Damn, Venti, making peepaw unable to avoid the other peepaw
The beauty of Chenyu Vale is indeed remarkable. It's a rare sanctuary in our fast-moving times. [Does he sound proud? Loving? Maybe it's just a trick of his focus as he waits for the water to heat up.
He doesn't allow the water to reach a boil, knowing that the perfect temperature is crucial for brewing Chenyu Vale tea. The ideal heat must coax out the tea's delicate flavors without scalding the leaves. His eyes, reflecting the flicker of the stove's flame, monitor the water's tiny bubbles, indicators of the approaching moment.
As the water heats, Zhongli meticulously measures the tea leaves, opting for a precise quantity that promises a balanced infusion.]
I hope, in time, you find a moment to return and experience its wonders at a more leisurely pace. The world has much to offer beyond the confines of our duties. [Zhongli turns his attention to the cups. He understands that the vessel's temperature is as critical as the water's. With a practiced motion, he pours a small amount of the hot water into each cup, swirling it around to ensure the ceramic is warmed. This step, often overlooked, preserves the tea's warmth, ensuring that the first sip is as perfect as the last. He discards the warming water, and finally, places the measured quantities of tea into the cups.
With the water just shy of boiling, Zhongli gently pours it over the leaves. He does so in a circular motion, allowing the water to evenly cover the tea, encouraging a harmonious blend of water and leaf. As the infusion begins, a fragrant aroma fills the cabin, mingling with the crackling fire's warmth and the storm's muted roar outside.
Zhongli watches the leaves unfurl, timing the steep with an internal clock honed by centuries of practice. When the moment is right, he carefully pours the tea, ensuring an equal distribution of flavor in each cup.
He presents a cup to Neuvillette with a respectful nod.] Please.
venti, probably: he's your problem now, old man
It really is a fascinating process that goes far beyond just steeping tea leaves in hot water, he thinks to himself as Zhongli moves on to swirl the water he'd just poured into the cups. He makes a mental note to pass this part to Wriothesley next time they meet; he doesn't understand the importance of this step, but his friend might appreciate it nonetheless and start doing the same. ]
Thank you kindly, Monsieur. [ Taking the cup, the Iudex wraps his fingers around the handle and brings it to his mouth, watching the ripples chase across the surface when he blows on it before taking his first sip. The liquid coats his tongue and he closes his eyes for a moment to properly assess the taste. He definitely prefers water without the addition of leaves, but he does enjoy a good cup of tea as well. ]
It has a refreshing and smooth flavor, as though you've captured the essence of spring in a cup. The crispness of the water plays nicely against the tea, elevating the overall flavor profile.
no subject
[He takes his own cup, feeling the warmth seep through the ceramic into his hands, a gentle reminder of the fire crackling nearby.] It is an excellent way to keep warm, not just from the chill outside, but also to warm the spirit within. [Zhongli allows himself a moment to savor the tea, the steam rising in gentle swirls before taking a thoughtful sip. The complex interplay of flavors unfolds across his palate, each sip as rewarding as the first.
To find a kindred spirit who appreciates these finer subtleties of flavor and life is a rare and cherished occurrence. Setting his cup down with a quiet reverence for the moment they're sharing, such experiences remind him of the beauty in the world, often overlooked in our pursuit of duty and responsibility. It's moments like these that enrich people's lives, providing a tranquil harbor amidst the tumult of their duties.
Perhaps Neuvillette feels the same.
He looks out towards the window, where the snow paints the world in hues of tranquillity and peace. There is warmth and richness to be found even in the coldest nights. It's a lesson that the essence of life is to savor these moments of calm and connection.
Zhongli turns back to Neuvillette. The weight of what he's about to say is not lost on him. Hopefully, the Iudex won't find the solemnity of it all garish.] I'm hoping we can share more cups in the future.
no subject
(Still, his thoughts keep coming back to that aura of his. What exactly is Zhongli?) ]
If you ever decide to visit Fontaine, I would be delighted to share another cup with you.
[ Taking another sip, he likewise casts his gaze toward the window to watch the snow fall down in thick, unceasing flurries. In the distance, the sun is rapidly dipping below the horizon, its last embers spilling onto the land of desolation that is Dragonspine. ]
Have you been to Fontaine before? You mentioned earlier that you've had plenty of opportunities to travel.
no subject
[He pauses, reflecting on his responsibilities back home.] The Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, where I find my duties, has seen a notable increase in demand since the Rite of Parting for Rex Lapis, which I'm sure has reached your ears. It has become quite difficult to stay away for an extended period. The work is fulfilling, but it ties me closely to Liyue.
[Zhongli then follows Neuvillette's gaze, enjoying the serene view outside the window, allowing the tranquility of the moment to envelop them. The snow continues to fall, blanketing the world in quietude, a stark contrast to the warmth that fills the cabin and themselves.
After a moment, Zhongli sets his cup down gently.] The storm outside does not seem to be abating. It may be wise for us to prepare for the evening.
[He stands, stretching slightly, feeling the gentle pull of muscles not used to such prolonged sitting.] Is there anything specific you require for the night?
no subject
—abrupt passing at the Rite of Descension. It must have been a very difficult time for you.
[ He may not particularly like the Usurper of Geo, but he can sympathize with Liyue and her citizens. He recalls how Fontaine was still grappling with the loss of Egeria when he first arrived, Focalors' letter in hand as he stepped out of the coastal elevator; it's not like the people disliked Furina for taking up the position, but the sense of mourning that permeating the nation lingered for a long time.
At the question, he thinks about it for a few seconds before shaking his head. ]
There is nothing I require.
[ Finishing the last sip of his tea, Neuvillette then summons a small amount of Hydro and makes it rinse the inside of the cup as he sets it down. ]
no subject
[He watches with a subtle fascination as Neuvillette skillfully manipulates the element of Hydro to cleanse his cup—an elegant display of Fontaine's renowned proficiency with water. Zhongli's expression softens into a smile.] Your mastery of Hydro is quite remarkable. [He comments with a smile, making to wash his own cup and set it to dry the normal way.
With a nod, Zhongli goes and makes sure everything is ready for the night. He ensures that the firewood is sufficiently stocked near the fireplace at a safe distance, that the embers glowing warmly stay close to make the most of the heat they provide. He folds the blanket they had brought to the center of the room, pats the pillows to their proper spot. He ensures that everything needed for a comfortable night is within easy reach.]
Our rest must be as replenishing as possible, especially with the storm showing no signs of easing. Do you truly not mind if we share the bed?
no subject
[ It's spoken matter-of-factly in a neutral tone of voice; he is simply sharing a fact about himself, not trying to brag about the strength he possesses. Over the years, many people have suggested that he should don a counterfeit Vision, something he has always scoffed at. His power is his own, not a scattered fragment of the power stolen by the usurpers, and he will not wield it under false pretenses.
While Zhongli busies himself with checking the fireplace, Neuvillette takes a quick round around the cabin to make sure nothing is amiss and check if all the doors and windows are properly closed to minimize the cold air entering the building and heat escaping.
Once that is done, he heads over to the bed. Sitting down on the edge, he begins to undo the straps on his thigh-high spats, easing them off his legs so he can remove his shoes. ]
It's not ideal, but I truly don't mind.
Promptly ignores canon here (or am I)
He retrieves as many blankets as possible, layering them across the bed to ensure warmth for the night. His meticulous nature shines through in how he smooths out each layer, ensuring no corner is left untucked. He arranges the pillows at the head of the bed, fluffing them with a precise motion, folding the blankets out just enough for them both to slip into the bed without much of a fuss, before stepping back to assess his work.]
Your abilities are quite extraordinary, [Zhongli remarks as he also prepares for sleep with the methodical grace he applies to all his actions. First, he gently pulls the ornate pin holding his hair tie in place, allowing his long, dark hair to fall freely down his back. He runs his fingers through his hair, shaking it loose, a small personal ritual that marks the end of the day's formalities.
Next, he methodically removes his outer garments. He starts with the intricate coat he always favors, setting it aside with precise care. The clasp of his vest follows, and he folds each piece neatly, placing them atop his neatly arranged coat. He is left in a simple, soft undershirt that contrasts with his usual formal attire, faint golden lines visible, tracing his arms like delicate veins of molten gold. The thin markings shimmer softly in the dim light, winding around his forearms and creeping up towards his shoulders.] In Liyue, such power without a Vision is usually the domain of the Adepti. You remind me of them—beings who are deeply tied to the elements themselves.
It’s fascinating to encounter similar traits here in Teyvat, so far from Liyue. [He sits on the edge of the bed and methodically removes his shoes, setting them side by side next to the bed, and then his trousers.
Finally, he slides under the thick layers of blankets, arranging them around his shoulders and tucking them in slightly to prevent any drafts. The layered blankets provide a comforting weight, a barrier against the cold that howls beyond the walls of the cabin.] Have you always possessed this ability, or did it manifest over time?
sometimes you just gotta take canon out back and shoot it
Neuvillette then takes off those blue robes that signify his position as the Iudex of Fontaine, setting them aside with the name degree of care Zhongli had given his coat. He stops briefly in his undressing as he notices those golden lines that run up Zhongli's arms; interesting, he thinks, quietly. He doesn't let his gaze linger for long—it'd be rude to stare.
His vest comes off next, folded over the back of a nearby chair. He pauses briefly before peeling his gloves off his hands, revealing a pair of hands covered in scales as blue as the ocean. They catch the light of the flames burning in the fireplace, radiating a soft, iridescent sheen. Neuvillette's white undershirt is thin enough that if one pays attention, they cover most of his arms and transition to human skin just below his shoulders. ]
It has been mine since birth. [ Leaving the undershirt on, he too removes his trousers, revealing the scales that stretch up his calves. ]
You aren't human.
[ Just an observation, an invitation for Zhongli to reveal as much or little as he is comfortable with. ]
no subject
Indeed, I am not, [Zhongli admits, his voice low and imbued with a serene calm that seems almost out of place in the otherwise howling wilderness outside.] I am one of the Adepti you've heard of, entrusted long ago with the protection of Liyue.
[His eyes, warm and contemplative, shift to Neuvillette’s scales, reflecting a scholar's curiosity and the poise of a gentleman not wishing to impose.] Your scales are quite remarkable, reminiscent of the azure depths of the ocean itself. [He pauses, choosing his words with care, his demeanor respectful and genuinely intrigued.] May I inquire if they bestow any particular abilities upon you, or are they a mark of your heritage?
[Zhongli's mind wanders briefly to the Archon of Mondstadt, Venti, wondering if his playful nature had a deeper intent in arranging their lodging together in this secluded, rickety cabin. It would be just like Venti to orchestrate such a meeting, not only to shelter from the storm but to blend two ancient beings from different lands, perhaps to see what wisdom or friendship might spark from their confluence.]
Of course, only if you are comfortable sharing. I would be honored to learn more about it and how it has shaped you, but do not wish to impose.
no subject
[ Neuvillette nods, processing this information. While he hadn't guessed Adeptus specifically, he had sensed since he first laid eyes on him that they were similar; two ancient, unaging beings who had chosen to wander among mortals. That Zhongli was reptilian in nature, but not a Vishap, because Neuvillette would recognize one of his kin. Rex Lapis, the Prime of the Adepti, took the form of a half-dragon, half-qilin whenever he appeared at the Rite of Descension; it wouldn't be a stretch if there were other illuminated beasts with similar forms even if they cannot be considered true dragons (from his point of view, anyway.)
He climbs onto the unoccupied side of the bed and arranges himself under the layers of blankets similarly to Zhongli. It's warm and comfortable, though he finds himself focusing more on Zhongli's aura than the warmth of the blankets. If he wasn't already familiar with Furina, he would say that this is what a god's aura is like, but it distinctly lacks the darkened presence of a curse that he's felt on her for these past five hundred years.
(As far as he knows, that is exactly how divinity is supposed to be. Maybe gods are just inherently cursed to him because the Archons are illegitimate rulers of stolen land.) ]
The latter. [ He replies, a pause following as he considers how much he wants to share. ] For reasons unknown to me, I was born in human form; these scales are a mark of my actual heritage.
no subject
Fascinating, [Zhongli murmurs, his voice soft yet filled with a scholar’s curiosity.] Could it be related to the vishaps of old, perhaps those from Natlan? [Voice gentle, driven by a genuine intrigue about Neuvillette's mysterious origins. Zhongli’s knowledge of the world’s myths and creatures is extensive, yet the presence beside him presents a puzzle that beckons like an unfollowed map.
He stays gently curious as Neuvillette settles under the blankets, and he senses that very something closer enough to lick at his skin, to make it roll with goosebumps, this ancient aura emanating from him, a depth that goes beyond even their significant lifespans, stirs a vague familiarity within Zhongli, resonating with a part of him that has been dormant, quieted by the centuries of peace and duty. This sensation in his chest is both suffocating and exhilarating, a reminder of dangers long forgotten but never truly gone.
Zhongli swallows, the action more pronounced than he intended. The close proximity to Neuvillette brings an awareness of power, a silent yet formidable force that, despite his calm demeanor and judicial fairness, suggests a potential for profound impact.]
I sense a rare depth in you, even among those who have walked this earth for millennia. [He carries on with an admission, his eyes, usually so calm and unyielding, flicker with the light of the fire, reflecting his internal stir of recognition and wariness.
Zhongli adjusts his position slightly, ensuring the blankets are snug around them both, a practical gesture mingling with his need to maintain a semblance of normalcy in the face of such revelation.] If I may, how have you reconciled these aspects of your identity in your role as the Iudex of Fontaine?
no subject
Of course, the truth is often stranger than fiction. Not all vishaps are dragons, but all dragons are vishaps. ]
I prefer not to disclose what species I am—all I will tell you that despite the rumors, I am not the sole male Melusine.
[ Normally he would simply not say anything at all and let him theorize freely, but there's about Zhongli that makes him decide to steer the conversation away from this particular topic. The man seems to possess a great wealth of knowledge and may even know a thing or two about Teyvat's ancient past, despite the Usurper-King's attempt to sweep it under the rug after establishing the present world order.
Then Zhongli poses him a question and he brings his hand up to his chin, watching the flicker of flames dancing in the fireplace as he considers his answer. ]
Reconciliation is an ongoing process, I believe. I... find myself at a loss with human behavior at times, because it's difficult to understand and don't come naturally to an outsider such as myself. Nevertheless, I strive to be impartial in all aspects of my conduct as the Iudex. Impartiality is the foundation of all judicial proceedings.
no subject
Indeed, impartiality is crucial, even when it looks as though humans need your involvement the most. [His own experiences have often required a balance between detachment and deep involvement, a duality that seems to resonate with what Neuvillette describes.]
Your approach to such a significant role is commendable. [He continues, warmly. Zhongli shifts slightly under the blankets, making himself more comfortable as he settles into the still-warming bedsheets around him. He may be intrigued by the undercurrents of something ancient and powerful in Neuvillette, something that connects deeply with the core of his own being, but he doesn't wish to pry too much. Once he's cozier, he can't help but glance at Neuvillette with a slight glimmer to his eyes.] Perhaps this is why you were invited to an event such as this one. To ensure that the judges themselves were impartial.
no subject
Not that Neuvillette particularly likes the idea of doing what the usurper wants by keeping quiet, but he values the lives of his and Furina's citizens more than elucidating them on the history of the Sovereigns. ]
How is one supposed to be impartial in a poetry contest? All creative endeavors are inherently subjective.
[ He adjusts his half of the blanket as carefully as possible to avoid disturbing Zhongli's half, then lays his head down on the pillow and rearranges his rhinophores so they won't be caught between his body and the bed if he turns in his sleep. ]
no subject
Indeed, the subjectivity inherent in creative endeavors such as poetry does present a unique challenge for impartiality. [Zhongli's voice is soft, barely more than a whisper, yet carrying the weight of genuine curiosity.] However, it's a fascinating juxtaposition to the types of decisions you must make as Iudex. Surely you have faced many moments where the lines between right and wrong are blurred by perspectives and human emotions?
[His inquiry is gentle, designed not to probe but to understand how Neuvillette navigates the complexities of his role. Zhongli recognizes the delicate balance required to maintain fairness in a position fraught with the potential for personal bias and emotional entanglement.]
How do you find clarity in such situations? [The notion of judicial impartiality, especially in a realm so riddled with personal interpretation as the arts, intrigues him deeply.]