Even If You Don't Know (Clorinde x OC)

Chapter 1: Initial Steps of Investigation

Inside the Iudex's office at Palais Mermoni, two prominent officials engage in a heated conversation. The two stood in a non-hostile stance, but the tension hung in the air, making the atmosphere dense.

"Lady Furina.. disappeared..?" Asked Clorinde, raising a suspicion gaze upon the Monsieur. "Above that, without any trace you say? And now you had no any leads about this case?"

But the ludex paid no attention. Maintaining his calm demeanor, he folded his arms and stared straight into her eyes, already expecting her response.

"Unfortunately, everything I told you seems to be clear. Which is why I want you, as her personal bodyguard, to lead the investigation team. No one suits better than you, I believe. I will leave the discreet upon selecting the members unto your care. Feel free to do things alone, but I'm afraid you'll be able to do this task by yourself."

"Now you're pushing everything to me." The tone of her voice seems to be exasperated despite appearing calm. Clorinde knits her brows and stare daggers at him which the Iudex replied in return.

"No, absolutely not. As much as I would like to be the one to do the work, please do understand that no one will be left to manage Fontaine if I do so. We are not only worrying about Miss Furina here; I also have responsibility to maintain peace and order upon the citizens of Fontaine."

Up until now, Iudex Neuvillette manage to fool everyone about Furina's whereabouts, but he's well aware that this facade won't last long. Soon enough, the fact that she disappeared will be brought upon the lights. In order to avoid unnecessary turmoil and conflicts within Fontaine, he needs to act fast, yet can't do anything due to his duties, thus asking Clorinde in return.

"Of course, you can always rely to me if you need support. I will give you the highest priority considering it is the Hydro Archon we are talking about. Worry not, your efforts will be compensated greatly. Afterall, the Archon must not be measured by a mere amount alone." Said Neuvillette.

Clorinde understood very well the gravity of the situation and the constraints faced by the Iudex. She isn't displease nor the other, but she knows it will lead to a far more troublesome matter if she were to ignore his request.

Right from the very start, she already had no means of refusal, thus making her brows furrow. Despite the unreasonable request, Clorinde sighed and reluctantly agreed, which Neuvillette can only do is to sympathize.

"Oh right, how about asking the Traveler for help? If you explain the situation, I'm pretty sure you will receive the Traveler's lending hand and grace. With his remarkable perception and wits, as well as exceptional strength, he will definitely going to be a huge help." He mentioned.

However, Clorinde seems to harbor some doubts regarding his suggestion. "That may certainly a good idea; however, is it fine to trust an outsider to know about the country's confidential issues? Specially you haven't told anyone about it aside from me if I assume."

"Worry not, Ms. Clorinde. He had already proven his self."

Neuvillette assured, his eyes reflecting certainty. Observing the Iudex's decisive stance, Clorinde sees no further need to persist. Afterall, Neuvillette understood what's best for Fontaine. If the Monsieur opts to place trust to the Traveler, Clorinde believes it must be for the greater good. Besides, it's not her duty to worry over such matters of governance.

"I'll accept it as a commission. After all, I can't refuse such a request from my own employer," she then inquired, trying to gauge what the Iudex feels. "You doesn't seem worried about her at all."

"Please do not be fooled by my exterior appearance. Self-expression is not one of my strong suit. Are not you also the same, Ms. Clorinde?"

However, he received no reply from her. Neuvillette couldn't help, but to stare as she try to change topic, obviously avoiding his question. Clorinde stood a little bend as her right hand placed on her hips.