In the peaceful embrace of Neuvillette, you slumber soundly, nestled safely in his arms, his long dragon tail gently encircling your waist.
It's a moment of absolute tranquility, a perfect reflection of the connection between mates.
Neuvillette tenderly strokes your now-flat stomach with affection, his thoughts drifting to the upcoming weeks when your belly will swell with life, carrying the precious child you both brought into existence.
With a resigned sigh, Neuvillette reluctantly checked the clock.
It was time for him to head out to work, a prospect he was not at all excited about.
Staying home with you was infinitely more appealing than the duties that awaited him at the Palais Mermonia.
"Love," he whispered, leaning down to plant a series of gentle kisses on your lips, his warm affection evident.
You slowly roused from your slumber, blinking with tired eyes as you gazed at him.
"Hm? What's going on?" you mumbled sleepily.
"I just wanted to let you know I have to head to work now," Neuvillette said, and you responded by groaning softly and pulling him closer.
"Can't you come in a bit later? I don't want you to go," you protested.
"I wish I could, my love," Neuvillette murmured, his lips grazing your forehead as he spoke.
"But you know how demanding my position is. I have responsibilities to attend to."
He looked into your eyes with a tender smile, his hand gently caressing your cheek.
You sighed sadly and released your grip, reluctantly saying, "Alright..."
Neuvillette couldn't help but smile warmly, his eyes filled with affection.
"Whenever you're ready, love, my office at the Palais Mermonia is always open to you."
"Will do..." You tiredly replied.
Neuvillette pressed a gentle kiss to your lips.
"That's my mate," he whispered affectionately.
"I'll see you later. Take good care of yourself and our little one."
With that, he reluctantly got out of bed, dressed, and headed out to fulfill his duties, leaving you feeling warm and loved, cradling the tiny life growing inside you.
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As you stepped into the quiet, empty home shared with Wriothesley and Sigewinne, a sense of loneliness washed over you.
The Meropide Fortress had become their second home, and when duty called, they often spent days, if not weeks, away from the comfort of your shared life.
You made your way to the bedroom, the silence of the house weighing heavily on your shoulders.
As you changed out of Neuvillette's shirt and coat that you had worn to keep warm on the way here, you couldn't help but feel the absence of your beloved family.
A heavy sigh escaped your lips as you began to pack your belongings into a bag.
Guilt gnawed at your conscience like a relentless predator.
You had succumbed to temptation and slept with another man, a betrayal that weighed heavily on your heart.
Leaving Wriothesley, the man you loved and who had been your anchor in life, felt like the most terrible act of cruelty.
The thought of how he would feel, the pain he would endure, and the hurt you were causing Sigewinne haunted you.
Yet, you were trapped in a web of complexity, bound to Neuvillette by an unbreakable mate bond.
You wondered if Rukkhadevata, your confidant and mentor, might have the wisdom to guide you through this treacherous path.
It was a situation you needed counsel for, a decision that could shatter the lives of those you held dear.
With a heavy heart, you sealed the bag containing your essentials and hurriedly left the house, unable to bear the weight of your own guilt and confusion within its walls.
Your footsteps echoed with the resounding emptiness in your chest as you made your way to Neuvillette's home, a sprawling mansion that now held the burden of your belongings and the tangled mess of your emotions.
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Neuvillette sat in his grand office, his pen dancing across the paperwork that seemed endless, a testament to his role as the Ludex of Fontaine.
The weight of responsibility was a familiar companion, but today, mercifully, his schedule contained no trials.
It seemed like he might be able to leave work on time for a change.
However, a soft knock at the door interrupted his concentration.
"Come in," he called, not looking up from his work.
Then, his eyes flicked up as you entered, your face streaked with tears.
"Neuvi..." you whispered, closing the door behind you.
In an instant, Neuvillette was on his feet, the papers forgotten as he rushed to your side.
"Love, what happened?" he asked, concern etched on his face as he held you gently, your trembling form a stark contrast to the usually composed Ludex.
You buried your head deep into Neuvillette's chest, your sobs muffled by his clothing.
"I... I don't know, Neuvi... I- I- I'm such a horrible person..." you choked out between tears.
Neuvillette continued to stroke your hair soothingly, his worry deepening.
He lifted you gently and settled you onto his lap in his comfortable chair.
"Is this about Wriothesley?" he asked softly, his eyes filled with understanding.
You nodded, your voice barely a whisper as you confessed, "I- I cheated! I... Oh God, just how would Sigewinne feel??"
Neuvillette whispered softly, "You have done nothing wrong, we are destined to be together, we are mates after all."
He pressed a tender kiss to your head, his warmth offering solace.
You looked up at him, your eyes still brimming with tears, and he gently brushed them away.
"But still... I feel so bad... I-" you stammered, your voice quivering with guilt.
Neuvillette cut you short, his fingers cupping your cheeks as you leaned into his touch. "You don't need to feel guilty," he reassured you.
You were puzzled. "Why? What do you mean?" you asked, searching his eyes for answers.
Neuvillette held your gaze and spoke gently, "Would you really be happy if you were with Wriothesley? Every day, the Duke comes home late at night, sometimes he won't return for days... Don't you feel lonely?"
You nodded, tears still streaming down your cheeks, "Sometimes... yes," you confessed, your voice filled with sorrow.
Neuvillette gently tilted your chin up, his eyes soft and understanding.
"As the Ludex, I know very well about Wriothesley, the Duke of Meropide Fortress," he began, his voice low and serious.
"I noticed lately that he had paid the best champion duelist quite a sum and spent a significant amount of time with her deep underwater..."
Neuvillette's words hung heavy in the air as he continued, "Don't you think, he was the one that cheated on you? Even before you dated him?"
Your eyes widened in disbelief, and you couldn't hold back the gasp that escaped your lips.
"... I... This can't be true... Oh God... Then the reason he was coming home late from work was..."
You couldn't finish your sentence, feeling like you might vomit from the sudden rush of emotions and revelations.
Neuvillette tenderly licked away your tears, his strong arms wrapped securely around your trembling form.
"It's alright, love. You don't need him, and he doesn't need you," he whispered, his soothing voice a balm to your shattered heart.
"You are my mate, and I'll never leave you. We will live together forever..."
Neuvillette continued, pressing your head against his chest.
His words were comforting, but the sinister smile that played on his lips sent a shiver down your spine.
Neuvillette held you close, his embrace warm and protective.
You felt the steady beat of his heart beneath your ear as he whispered sweetly, "I promise you, my love, that I'll cherish you for eternity. We'll build a life together, full of love and happiness."
Your eyes met his, searching for sincerity in his gaze.
"I want that, Neuvillette. I want to be with you," you confessed, your voice filled with longing and hope.
He leaned down, capturing your lips in a tender kiss that spoke volumes of his affection.
"Then it's settled," he murmured against your mouth.
"We'll face whatever challenges come our way, together, as mates."
You beamed with gratitude, "Thank you, Neuvi. And I'm really sorry for taking you away from your work..."
Neuvillette just chuckled softly, "Don't worry about it. Remember, my office is always open for you."
"Can I stay in your lap a little longer? I just want to be close to you," you requested with a sweet smile.
Neuvillette nodded, "Of course, love. I'd love that."
He gave you a tender kiss before returning to his mountain of paperwork, holding you close all the while.
As Neuvillette diligently worked, your curious gaze wandered around his office, landing on a particular set of old books in the bookshelf that looked strangely familiar.
A thought occurred to you.
"Neuvi, those books over there, are they... the former Hydro Archon's original rules?" you inquired, your voice laced with intrigue.
Neuvillette glanced at the books with a fond smile.
"Indeed, they are," he replied, his tone filled with excitement.
"I was fortunate enough to acquire these from Lady Furina. These are Zepar's handwritten volumes, containing all the rules of Fontaine and the essence of Judgement."
You couldn't help but giggle, a warm blush spreading across your cheeks as you realized the Hydro Dragon held you in such high regard.
"It's quite rare for someone to still hold the memory of a deceased god in such reverence," you commented with a thoughtful expression.
Neuvillette couldn't help but chuckle softly.
"You see, as the Ludex, I hold Zepar in the highest regard. She embodies Judgement and honor, an exquisite blend of wisdom and sternness," he explained, his voice carrying deep respect and admiration.
Your curiosity piqued, and you turned to him, intrigued. "So, you've always looked up to Zepar for guidance and wisdom?"
He nodded, his hand gently caressing your thigh.
"Indeed, I've often wished for the opportunity to converse with her about matters of justice and Judgement, to gain insight from her unique perspective."
You considered his words for a moment.
"But, as we know, she has sadly passed away. I can only dream of having that conversation and hope that her spirit watches over Fontaine, especially looking after Lady Furina." He spoke with a touch of wistfulness in his voice.
A tender smile graced your lips as you reached for Neuvillette's hand.
"You are a kind person, love," you said, pressing a kiss to his cheek.
"A truly kind person... for admiring a forgotten Deity who aspired to perfection."
Your words carried a hint of melancholy as you murmured, and Neuvillette looked at you with a furrowed brow.
"Forgotten Deity? What do you mean by that?" he inquired, genuinely puzzled.
You stayed silent, your gaze drifting to his glass of water.
You stared at your reflection in it with a sadness in your orbs that Neuvillette couldn't quite fathom.
"Then... What happened to your eyes?" he pressed, sensing there was much more to your story, including who you really were.
You cupped Neuvillette's cheeks, your eyes filled with sincerity.
"I'll tell you everything soon, Neuvi. I promise," you assured him with a gentle smile.
Neuvillette's hands gently wandered down to your waist as he leaned in closer.
"I understand, love. I can wait as long as it takes for you," he whispered before sealing his words with a sweet kiss that made your heart flutter.
As you retreated from the tender kiss, you offered, "Sorry again for interrupting your work. Is there anything I can help you with?"
Neuvillette chuckled softly, his fingers brushing a strand of hair from your face.
"No need to apologize, my dear. But if you'd like, you can assist me in gathering some information on these old cases related to this person," he suggested, and the two of you spent your time together working side by side until lunch break.
A soft knock on the door interrupted your conversation, and Neuvillette called out, "Come in."
The door swung open, revealing a young Melusine dressed in a Garde uniform.
"Monsieur Neuvillette, it's time for lunch break," she announced.
Her curious eyes then shifted to you, and she asked, "Who might you be? A guest?"
Smiling warmly, Neuvillette introduced you, "This is Y/N, my partner, and soon to be my wife.
Y/N, meet Sedene, one of the Gardes working here at Palais Mermonia."
Sedene's eyes widened in surprise. "I didn't know you had a girlfriend!" she exclaimed.
Neuvillette chuckled, his affection for you evident.
"It's alright, Sedene. But could you please order fitting outfits for my love to serve as my secretary? I've already left the necessary information on my desk."
Sedene beamed and nodded enthusiastically.
"Of course, I'll do it right away! Enjoy your lunch break!" With that, she quickly grabbed the note and hurried out of the office.
You turned to Neuvillette, a bit surprised. "Are you sure about this, love? I'm not entirely certain I'll fit as a secretary-"
"My personal secretary for Palais Mermonia," Neuvillette corrected with a loving smile. "You're more than perfect for the position."
Blushing, you chuckled softly. "So that's why you asked about my measurements."
Neuvillette smiled, took your hand and led you out of his office and across the hall to the cafeteria.
You marveled at the beauty of the cafeteria, but instead of heading there, Neuvillette gently led you into another room, which turned out to be an elegant private dining space.
The table was already adorned with an array of dishes, from savory soups and meats to a tempting assortment of pastries and cakes.
It seemed as if there was every imaginable delicacy set before you.
Neuvillette pulled a chair out for you and gestured for you to take a seat.
You couldn't help but smile at his gentlemanly gesture and settled into the chair.
"Wow, this is amazing, Neuvi," you said, your eyes lighting up as you scanned the feast before you.
He took a seat across from you and grinned.
"I thought we could enjoy a quiet lunch together, away from the hustle and bustle of the cafeteria. Plus, I wanted to spoil you a little."
You chuckled, feeling truly lucky to have him. "Spoiling me with food? You know the way to my heart."
As you both indulged in the feast before you, the flavors were nothing short of extraordinary.
The meat was incredibly juicy and tender, practically melting in your mouth with each bite.
The soup was flavorful, with a rich broth that warmed your very soul.
The pastries and cake were like sweet, heavenly delights, leaving a delightful sweetness lingering on your tongue.
Between bites, you shared stories and laughter, your connection growing stronger with every passing moment.
Neuvillette reached across the table to gently take your hand.
"Y/N, being here with you like this... it makes me incredibly happy," he admitted, his eyes filled with affection.
You smiled, your heart feeling as light as air.
"I feel the same, love. I believe, moments like these are what make life truly beautiful."
The two of you continued to enjoy your private lunch, basking in the warmth of each other's company and the delectable flavors of the meal.
The door swung open abruptly, causing you to nearly sputter the water you were sipping, while Neuvillette let out an exasperated sigh.
Furina stood in the doorway, hands on her hips, wearing a smug, all-knowing grin on her face.
"Ohoho, I heard from a little bird that our dear Neuvillette has acquired a girlfriend," Furina announced dramatically, her voice dripping with theatrics.
Then, her gaze landed on you, and her eyes widened in shock.
"YOU?!"
She exclaimed, clearly taken aback by your presence.
"Hm? Is there something wrong?" you inquired with a faint smile, setting the cup of water aside.
"Of course!!! Uh..."
Furina cleared her throat, regaining her composure.
"Well, I certainly didn't expect to see you again after the magician trial."
You nodded at the self-proclaimed Hydro Archon.
"Nor did I," you replied, your tone cool, clearly not appreciating her attitude.
"Lady Furina, if you've had your questions answered, Y/N and I should return to my office. The lunch break has officially ended," Neuvillette stated, rising from his seat.
Furina let out a startled yelp, reluctant to linger in the shadows any longer.
She quickly mumbled something under her breath, "Wait! I still have one more question!"
Her voice carried an air of dramatic theatrics as she turned to face you, her rival.
With a grand, sweeping gesture, she dramatically pointed at you.
"Then, as the Hydro Archon, I demand to know your true identity!"
Your eyes widened.
You hadn't anticipated that this seemingly unassuming and powerless deity could possibly discern your true self.
Could she truly perceive your concealed energy?
'Does she know who I really am?' you wondered.
Meanwhile, Furina was panicking internally, cursing herself.
'WHAT AM I EVEN SAYING?? Wahhh, Why did I blurt that out?' Furina thought.
You crossed your arms and glanced at Neuvillette, who understood your unspoken request.
He nodded in agreement.
"Very well then, let's carry on in my office," Neuvillette declared, recognizing that you preferred to have this conversation in the privacy of four walls.
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P.O.V. Of Author-chan