(Chapter 83 Welcome to Fontaine II)
"Make sure to raise them well, talented people like these two are rare."
Tempest said to the nobleman, his tone steady but carrying a hint of authority.
"Of course, Your Grace. I'll ensure they are given the care and opportunities they deserve."
The nobleman nodded respectfully, clearly understanding the weight of Tempest's words.
Lyney and Lynette exchanged a glance, their faces lighting up with bright smiles. The decision had been easy for them. No longer would they have to endure life on the streets. For Lyney, the greatest relief came from knowing that his sister, Lynette, would finally be safe and sheltered, no longer exposed to the hardships they had faced together.
With a sense of hope filling their hearts, the pair moved to stand beside the nobleman as he led them toward a carriage waiting nearby. The future seemed brighter now, and the weight of uncertainty lifted from their shoulders. As the nobleman helped them into the carriage, Lyney gave one final glance toward Tempest.
"Thank you for attending our performance, Your Grace!"
Lyney called out, his face lighting up with a bright, genuine smile as he stood by the carriage.
"You both have a gift, make sure to use it well."
Tempest gave a brief nod, acknowledging the young magician's gratitude.
Lyney's smile widened even further, his eyes gleaming with both relief and excitement. This moment marked a significant turning point in his and Lynette's lives. As the carriage door closed and they began their journey toward a better future, Lyney waved once more, his voice full of enthusiasm.
"We won't disappoint you, Your Grace!"
Shortly after, Tempest extended his hand to the nobleman, who graciously accepted it. Their handshake was firm but brief, a mutual gesture of respect and agreement. With one final bow from the nobleman, he stepped back toward the awaiting carriage where Lyney and Lynette were seated.
Tempest stood there for a moment, watching as the carriage disappeared into the bustling streets of Fontaine.
"Let's go."
Tempest said, turning to Nahida. He began walking, fully expecting her to follow. However, when he noticed her absence by his side, he stopped and turned around.
Nahida remained rooted in place, her eyes fixed on the departing carriage. There was a quiet thoughtfulness in her expression as if something about the scene tugged at her heart. Tempest sighed softly, stepping back toward her.
"Young Pasha?"
He prompted, his tone more curious than impatient.
But still, she didn't move, her attention drawn to the carriage until it finally disappeared from view.
"I'm sorry, Tempest, but I couldn't help but read his mind... He has ulterior motives..."
Nahida said, her voice tinged with concern. Her eyes narrowed slightly, reflecting a mix of worry and determination as she glanced back at the spot where the carriage had vanished. Tempest frowned, feeling a shift in the air around them.
"Is that so?"
Tempest replied, his tone seemingly unfazed. He glanced back toward where the carriage had disappeared.
"Aren't we going to do something, Tempest?"
Nahida asked, her concern evident in her tone.
"Like what? I can't act without concrete evidence. It's not my responsibility to oversee and dictate the actions of every noble in Fontaine. Yes, I could intervene, but I have my own duties to attend to. As Duke, I already have a lot on my plate. Stormwind is not an orphanage, Young Pasha."
Tempest replied, a hint of weariness creeping into his voice.
"I understand, but it just feels wrong to stand by."
Nahida looked down, absorbing his words, her heart heavy with the knowledge of what lay beneath the surface.
"Not everything is rainbow and butterflies. Young Pasha. You haven't seen what mortals are truly capable of. Your observations through the Akasha have only allowed you to scratch the surface of their nature. Beneath the façade of civility, there lies ambition, greed, and sometimes, darkness. People can be driven by desires that overshadow their morality, leading them to make choices that harm others."
Tempest remarked, his tone growing more serious.
"Let's not waste any more time here, my coffee is going to get cold..."
Tempest said with a hint of impatience, though his tone remained gentle. He extended his hand toward Nahida, inviting her to take it.
"Okay..."
Nahida replied, taking his hand, but her brow remained furrowed with concern. Tempest sighed in response, sensing her unease.
"I promise, if I hear anything suspicious, I'll have someone investigate."
He assured her, his grip on her hand firm yet reassuring.
Nahida smiled in response, the warmth of his reassurance bringing a sense of comfort to her.
Shortly, Tempest and Nahida returned to their table in Café Lutece.
"You really shouldn't drink too much caffeine, Tempest, it's not good for you, especially since you're still a growing teenager."
Nahida said with a gentle smile, her eyes sparkling with concern as she watched him sip his coffee. Though she couldn't physically consume food or drink in her vessel, the simple act of watching Tempest enjoy his coffee brought her a sense of comfort.
"Perhaps, you're right. I don't even know why I had such a craving for coffee this morning. My Mother loves to drink it, so I thought I might give it a try, and see what all the fuss is about."
Tempest paused, looking at her, setting the half-empty cup down on the table.
"You don't have to mirror everything your Mother does, she's a great role model for you, that is a fact, but you have plenty of time to develop your own tastes."
Nahida's smile deepened, filled with warmth, she said softly, in her usual calm manner.
"Guess I'll save the coffee indulgence for later in life then."
He said, folding his arms.
"For now, I suppose I'll stick to something more... age-appropriate."
He leaned back in his chair, looking out toward the lively city, feeling a rare moment of relaxation.
The atmosphere around them hummed with the buzz of Fontaine's morning energy, yet their small table seemed to hold a quiet peace of its own as if the world had slowed down just for them.
"Tempest!"
"Hm?"
A familiar voice called out, snapping Tempest from his daydream. He blinked, momentarily disoriented, before turning his gaze toward the source. Approaching him with quick, energetic steps was a young girl with bright blond hair, her blue eyes shimmering with excitement. Her radiant smile seemed to light up the bustling café, and Tempest couldn't help but smile in return, a rare softness coming over his stoic expression.
"Well, this is a surprise, I wasn't expecting to see you here."
He said, standing up slightly from his chair as she closed the distance between them.
The girl came to a halt right in front of him, almost breathless from her rush, but her excitement was palpable.
"It's good to see you again, Navia."
Tempest said, his smile widening as the girl finally reached him.
"Likewise, Tempest! You've been away for too long."
Navia replied, catching her breath.
"Navia, slow down."
A deep voice called out from behind her. Turning around, Navia spotted her Father, Callas, walking steadily toward them.
"It's good to see you again, Your Grace."
Callas said, offering a short, respectful bow.
"Oh please, no need to do that. Just call me Tempest, like you always have. You're one of the reasons I'm in this position in the first place."
Tempest replied, waving his hand dismissively.
"Still, it's important to show respect where it's due. You've earned your title."
Callas straightened, his expression softening with a touch of pride.
"Maybe so, but it doesn't change the fact that without your support, I wouldn't be standing here. I owe you a great deal, Callas."
Tempest replied.
"I wouldn't decline a call for help from a Proudmoore, seeking change after five hundred years."
Callas shook his head humbly.
"And who's this, Young Lady?"
Callas asked, his gaze shifting to Nahida, who stood quietly by Tempest's side.
"Yeah, Tempest, who is she?"
Navia chimed in, her curiosity getting the better of her as she eyed Nahida with an inquisitive smile.
"This is... Kusali."
Tempest said, improvising quickly as he glanced at Nahida.
"My sister, Father's bastard."
There was a brief pause as the words hung in the air. Callas blinked, slightly taken aback by the bluntness of Tempest's introduction, while Navia's eyes widened in surprise.
"Your... sister?"
Navia repeated, trying to process the sudden revelation.
"I didn't know you had another sister."
Tempest nodded casually, keeping his expression stoic.
"I only recently discovered her after digging through Father's affairs. Turns out he was no stranger to playing around with women, but she's here now, and that's what matters."
Tempest said with a casual shrug, keeping his voice steady.
"Well, it's always good to see family reunited. Welcome to Fontaine, Kusali."
He said with a warm smile, though there was a flicker of curiosity behind his eyes.
"Thank you. It's… nice to be here."
Nahida, playing along with Tempest's hastily crafted story, offered a shy smile and a slight nod.
Navia, ever the optimist, gave Nahida a reassuring smile.
"Yeah! Fontaine is a great place for new beginnings. You'll fit right in, Kusali. Maybe I can show you around the city sometime?"
Nahida nodded gratefully, doing her best to maintain her role.
"I'd like that."
She said softly, her eyes flickering toward Tempest for reassurance.
"She'll need some time to get used to things, but I think she'll like it here."
Tempest gave her a subtle nod, grateful that the conversation was shifting into more comfortable territory.
"Callas, can we talk?"
Tempest asked, his tone low but serious, gesturing for him to step aside for a private conversation.
Callas raised an eyebrow, sensing the shift in Tempest's demeanor.
"Of course."
He replied, giving a nod before turning to his daughter.
"Navia, could you entertain our new friend for a while? But don't stray far."
Navia smiled brightly, eager to help.
"Sure thing, Father!"
She turned to Nahida, her enthusiasm bubbling over.
"Come on, Kusali, let's grab a table! I can tell you all about Fontaine."
Nahida, staying in character, gave a polite nod, following Navia with a soft smile.
Once they were out of earshot, Callas followed Tempest to a more secluded corner of the café. The clinking of glasses and the soft murmur of other patrons drowned out their footsteps as they distanced themselves from the two girls. When they stopped, Tempest turned to face him, his expression growing more serious.
He said, glancing back briefly to ensure they weren't overheard.
"What's on your mind, Tempest?"
Callas asked.
"About Kusali, I need you to keep quiet about her, at least for now. I'll be releasing an official statement to the public in a few days, but until then, I'd appreciate it if you didn't mention anything to anyone. Things are already complicated enough, and we both know how the nobility tends to treat matters like this. Bastard children... they're not exactly well-received in Fontaine's high circles. I can't afford any unnecessary gossip or scandal while I've already got so much on my plate."
Tempest's gaze was unwavering, making it clear this wasn't just a casual request but something he expected to be honored.
Callas nodded, his expression serious as he processed the weight of what was being asked.
"I understand, Tempest. My lips are sealed. You can count on me to handle this with discretion."
He replied, his tone respectful yet sincere.
"Good, I trust you, Callas. When the time is right, I'll handle the rest."
Tempest said, a flicker of relief passing over his face.
Shortly after their conversation, Callas and Navia were preparing to leave. Their main purpose for coming had been to meet someone, and now that business was calling them elsewhere, it was time to part ways.
Before leaving, Navia, with her characteristic bright smile, gently took Nahida's hand, her eyes sparkling with the excitement of making a new friend.
"It was so nice to meet you, Kusali!"
Navia said, her voice full of warmth.
"I hope we can spend more time together next time. Maybe we'll have some real fun!"
Nahida returned the smile, nodding slightly as she replied.
"It was nice meeting you too, Navia. Take care."
As Navia let go and waved, her enthusiasm lingered in the air. Callas gave Tempest a respectful nod before turning to leave with his daughter.
Tempest watched as they disappeared into the bustling streets of Fontaine, before glancing back to Nahida.
"I apologize if my words hurt you, Young Pasha"
Tempest said, his tone softening after the quick lie he had just fabricated, claiming that Nahida was his Father's illegitimate child.
"It didn't bother me one bit, Tempest."
Nahida replied with a lighthearted smile, her voice filled with warmth.
"In fact, thank you for covering for me. Hehe, I suppose I'm your sister now!"
She giggled softly, her emerald eyes sparkling with amusement.
Tempest sighed deeply in response, shaking his head slightly as Nahida continued to giggle beside him.
'What in the seven hells have I gotten myself into?'
He thought to himself, his inner voice laced with exasperation.
Tempest allowed Nahida to explore the Court of Fontaine for a while, but only within his line of sight. Her curiosity was almost tangible as she flitted from one sight to another, eyes wide with wonder at the bustling city around her.
As the minutes passed, Tempest checked the time.
"It's about time we head to the Penacony."
He called out to Nahida, who was still examining the intricate fountains nearby. She looked up and nodded, returning to his side.
"An opera awaits us. I'm sure it'll be something worth your curiosity."
Tempest said, knowing the show would offer Nahida a new experience, unlike anything she had ever seen in Sumeru.
Tempest furrowed his brow in concern, stepping closer to Nahida as she placed her hand on her head, clearly troubled.
"What's the matter?"
He asked, his voice low but laced with worry.
Nahida looked up at him, her face softening with an apologetic expression.
"My connection is getting unstable... I'm sorry, Tempest, but I think I should go. Sorry..."
Tempest remained quiet for a moment, considering her words before nodding slowly.
"I understand."
He said gently, already thinking of how to handle the situation.
He knelt down to Nahida and placed his hand on her shoulder.
"Return your consciousness to me for now, and I'll handle the rest."
Tempest said softly, his voice calm yet commanding.
Nahida nodded in understanding, her eyes full of trust. Without hesitation, she stepped closer, gently placing her forehead against his. For a moment, Tempest's golden eyes flickered, shifting to the same ethereal green as Nahida's, signifying the transfer of her consciousness.
After a brief pause, his eyes returned to their usual golden color. Nahida's vessel stood still, now inactive and peaceful, as if in a deep, quiet slumber. Tempest, with a calm yet protective demeanor, knelt down and gently lifted her into his arms, cradling her like a child. With one arm, he supported her light form effortlessly, her head resting gently against his shoulder.
"Let's return then."
Tempest muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible as he adjusted Nahida's small form in his arms as he made his way back toward the Waterway Hub.
As he passed through the busy avenues, a few passersby couldn't help but cast curious glances at him. Whispers began to ripple through the crowd, as the sight of the Duke of Stormwind carrying a mysterious child drew attention.
Tempest entered the elevator of the Waterway Hub, intending to take an aquabus from the Callas line and head back to the Fontaine Research Institute.
As the elevator doors slid open, Tempest stepped out. He paused for a brief moment, his eyes drifting toward the Palais Mermonia.
"My Lady..."
As Tempest was about to walk away, the grand doors of the Palais Mermonia creaked open.
"Your objective is quite straightforward, Clorinde. All you need to do is accompany me to the café. That's it. Simple, isn't it?"
"Yes, Lady Furina."
The young, Champion Duelist accompanying Furina replied.
"Hm? Tempest!"
Furina's eyes lit up as she spotted Tempest, a smile formed across her face.
"My Lady."
Tempest said with a bow.
"Oh my, who's this Young Lady?"