( wriothesley isn't wrong; there's a certain appeal in being just 'neuvillette' rather than the chief justice that tugs at him. it's only unfortunate that he still doesn't have a clear grasp of who 'neuvillette' is. meanwhile, the role of chief justice and the role of hydro sovereign have become a part of him after so many centuries, as natural to him as breathing and diving through the cold depths of the ocean.

he exhales, gaze lowering momentarily to the floor. )

I...am not certain.

( he thinks of coquelic, and the easy drawl of her voice as she'd so casually thrown about all those licentious suggestions during their brief party game. they are all things he will eventually have to face during his time here. better he investigate them now than be caught unawares. )

But I suppose there is only one way to find out.

( who will be the first to call neuvillette 'your honor' in bed, stay tuned.

but more important than the discussion of kinks is the unconditional kindness he has been shown thus far, with no expectation waiting at the end of it all. he has handled many things alone and will no doubt continue to do so at times, but it is nice to be reminded that he is not alone here, and that there are those who will accept him if need be.

his eyes sweep back up, lavender eyes squarely meeting ice blue ones. )

Thank you again, Wriothesley, for all the assistance you have offered thus far. ( he's already said as much, first upon waking and then during breakfast, but it bears repeating again in earnest tones, his chin tipped upwards. ) I am unsure how I will be able to repay your kindness, but if there is ever anything I can do for you while I am here, you need but ask.

( for all his honesty in each and every one of his conversations, it is not often he willingly gives in to uncertainty, vulnerability. he has a duty, after all, to oversee the entirety of fontaine. if the people of fontaine cannot look up to him, then who? )