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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
[ 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.]