The afternoon sun illuminated brightly upon the tranquil waters of Fontaine below, causing it to shimmer with a glistening golden sheen. The waves whispering to the wind, with each ripple weaving across like a brush finely dripped into golden paint across a clear blue canvas. Nearby the waterfalls cascaded down from the rugged cliff sides, flowing into the serene pools below. Gently caressing the piers of the Romaritime Harbor. Far off on the horizon the silhouette of a merchant ship emerged, exuding a scene of elegance and nautical tales of adventure.
The ship's sails remained unfolded like the wings of a free bird, allowing the winds to guide it in perfect harmony. Accompanied by the melody of the crew diligently executing their duties, the ship sailed on. Below within its cargo hold, rested a man beside numerous barrels that creaked with the ship's gentle motion. He had long silky brown hair reaching down to his lower back, tied by a single bronze ring. His skin was of a fair complexion with a dash of freckles sprinkled upon his cheeks. Upon his chest bore a worn and tattered, brown vest that hugged snugly on top of his faded white blouse. Providing both warmth and style despite its weathered appearance and the tattered sleeves that whispered tales of hardships long past. His trousers hung loosely, adorned with lines of delicately hand stitched, golden embroidery. A subtle facade to deceiving others to believing he was a man of greater wealth. Below his dark knee high boots squeaked occasionally with every stride. Upon his shoulders rested a short cape, displaying his family's crest, now worn and faded. A symbol of a once proud and prestigious house now lost to the sands of time. His crown was adorned with a finely leather crafted, feathered hat, also bearing the same insignia. Gently it inclined providing sanctuary from the world above.
Suddenly, a loud creak echoed from the ship's corridor, shattering this peaceful symphony like a stone flung through a stained glass window. A tall, well–built sailor descended a short flight of stairs towards the cargo hold. He scanned the room till his eyes locked on a nearby barrel filled with freshly stored apples straight from the finest orchards of Mondstadt. After strutting towards it, he firmly grasped it and effortlessly hoisted it upon his broad shoulder. With a proud grin, he turned towards the exit until a familiar squeak reached his ears as he halted midway. Upon discovering the source, he gently placed the barrel onto the floor and stealthily crept toward his target. With each silent step, his desire for mischief continued to brew within him. Upon reaching the resting traveler, the sailor crouched beside him. Slowly, he leaned towards the man's exposed and whispered.
"Traveler...Oh, traveler…" He whispered softly, taking a momentary pause to amplify his voice. "...ARISE! WANDERER OF THE EAST!"
Shaken by the sailor's shouting, the man awoke to a rapidly beating heart. His feathered hat that once provided sanctuary now became a trap, impairing his vision as he struggled to regain his senses. The sailor roared with laughter as he returned to his feet, his eyes teary with joyous glee. Slowly, the man ceased his struggle. Swiftly he reclaimed his hat, revealing his hazel eyes now radiating with great, irritation and impatience.
"MARLIN, YOU SEA-BRAINED FOOL!" He shouted flinging his fat into the sailor's gaping maw. "What did I say about interrupting my sleep?! Didn't I say to only wake me when we've reached our destination?!"
Marlin's laughter subsided, leisurely removing the man's hat from his mouth. Plopping it back onto the man's crown, smugly twisting it upon the man's due. Spoiling his carefully combed hair.
"Arise, me lad! That be precisely why I've come!"
"Say again?"
"Ah, still deaf as a barnacle-covered hull. Eh? We've arrived, I tell ye!"
"Arrived? Now?!"
"Aye. Ye must've rested well by now. Eh, Lexei?"
Lexei swiftly regained his footing and began readjusting his hat to a more presentable state. With a single upwards flick of his feather, he secretly prayed that it remained undamaged. Satisfied, Lexei turned towards Marlin, secretly restraining his desire to deliver a single, precise punch to his torso.
"As refreshed as I can be on this tub of timber."
"Oi, quit yer whinin'. Remember, was I who bought ye passage here."
"Yes, as you've said many times. I'm tired of this, Marlin."
"Well, don't ye quit dawdling and let me get back to work?"
"Happily!"
Lexei retorted sharply, purposefully bumping his shoulder against Marlin's as he strode past. Yet much to his chagrin. Marlin merely chuckled at Lexei's attempted display of strength.
"Aye, Lexei me lad!"
"What now, Marlin? Haven't you tormented me enough for one morning?"
"Heh, heh! Always a sour sort with ye in the mornin'!"
Lexei slouched and sneered at Marlin with a somber grunt.
"Hah! Listen, you can't be strutin' around like that! You're in Fontaine now! And image is the game they'd be playin'!"
"And you're just the pinnacle of poise and dignity, aren't you Marlin?"
"Aye and don't ye be gettin' otherwise!"
His head shaking in disbelief, Lexei turned towards the exit. Running his hand down his face in frustration. 'At least I will finally be rid of him.' He thought to himself as the bright light from the corridor began to blind his vision. Slowly his eyes adjusted to the light as he took the final step off the stairway. His eyes widen at the breath taking sight that displayed before him, peering across the ship's bow was the Romaritime Harbor. He quickly rushed towards a nearby railing to get a better view. Gripping his hat tightly as he nimbly dodged the ship's crew. 'There it is! Fontaine, at last!' He thought as he closed his eyes and left out a lighthearted sigh. His heart racing within his chest. 'What adventures await me, here?' The smell and texture of the crisp clean sea air soothed his senses as he allowed himself a moment to indulge in the Fontainian atmosphere.
As the ship finally docked at the Romaritime Harbor. Lexei readjusted his attire using a nearby mirror leaning upon a pile of crates. Noticing a slight blemish from the Bamboo Shoot Soup he had for dinner. He wet his thumb with a quick lick of his tongue and erased the blemish from his cheek.
"Ahh, perfect! Now I'm ready!"
"As ready as a 'drifter' can be, eh Lexei?"
"Thank...you...Marlin…"
"Aye, anytime!"
Marlin giggled as he carried two wooden crates down the ship's gangplank. As he placed the last crate down. Lexei, slowly made his way down towards the docks, passing by another crew mate carrying a crate filled with Fontainian exports.
"Aye, now me lad. Let me give ye some partin' advice."
"Marlin, whatever it is you wish to tell me. I'm certain I can find out me-self!"
"Aye, me lad. I'm sure ye can, but! This is something every new newcomer should know. Do ye see those gracious falls? That luxurious deck over the pier and that delicious tootsie to boot? That's all but a wee taste of what Fontaine has to offer!"
"And you know this how?"
Marlin leisurely landed a friendly slap upon Lexei's back. Tipping his hat upon his brow as he readjusted. Marlin draped his arm around Lexei's shoulders like a proud father about to invoke his wisdom onto his son.
"Ye may think you're a roughin', toughin' and hikin' lad. But I've seen wonders all across Teyvat! And few ever compare to that of Fontaine! Aye…lad. Yee'd be in for a treat!"
"Yes, I hear that Fontaine is quite the spectacle."
"Not be any spectacle! For be one lass whose beauty outshines them all! Madame Furina, The Hydro Archon!"
"I've heard of her. She's supposed to be quite the celebrity. I recall seeing some posters about her before our departure from Liyue."
Marlin's tone and eyes silently shifted as he slowly turned his gaze upon Lexei.
"Oh...would little Lexei be lookin' to swoon the Archon of Fontaine?"
"Please, Marlin. I've got better things to do than squabble for the attention of some girl."
"This not be just any girl, lad! She's the -"
"The Hydro Archon, yes I know. All the more reason to avoid her. Besides...what interest could she have with me? I mean...look at me, Marlin! I'm not exactly "Fontaine Material' am I?"
"Arrgh, now don't be sellin' yeeself short! I've seen what ye can do, lad! And yee'd be a fine catch for some lucky lass. Maybe even the Madame." Marlin teased as he leaned in and winked.
Suddenly a crew member shouted towards Marlin from the merchant ship. Stating that there was still more cargo that needed to be hauled off.
"Aye, yeah! I hear yah! Just let me just say me goodbyes."
Marlin shouted back as the crew member rolled his eyes as he returned to his duties.
"I guess this bein' farewell, eh?"
"For now, I'm sure." Lexei replied leaving a gentle pat upon Marlin's shoulder. "I'm sure we'll see each other again. Perhaps not too soon."
Marlin giggled as he opened his arms for a warm and hearty hug. Not wanting to leave without a proper goodbye, Lexei reluctantly opened his arms. Seizing the opportunity, Marlin embraced Lexei with a swift, firm hug. As tears began to roll down his cheeks, he lifted Lexei off his feet as onlookers gazed in confusion. Feeling as if he was being crushed within Marlin's arms. Lexei whimpered for an immediate release. Realizing his strength, Marlin swiftly set Lexei down as he wiped the tears from his eyes.
"Now, don't be a stranger now! Ye come back whenever ye be needin' a ride!"
"Hah, I won't forget. Take care of yourself, Marlin. And thanks for the ride!"
Lexei shouted as he pivoted towards the sprawling elevator that towered before him. Marlin waved goodbye with his bulging arms as Lexei slowly disappeared from view.
"Aye, lad! Be careful now!"
Marlin cried as he wiped the last tear from his face. With quick sigh he turned towards the merchant ship and proceeded to make his way up the gangplank. 'Me lad, I do hope ye find some happiness here. I pray with all me heart.' He murmured softly to himself. Upon reaching the base of the elevator Lexei stopped and allowed himself to gaze upon the towering waterfalls and structures before him. As a series of small water droplets hit his face. His eyes glistened with anticipation for what awaited him.
"First time in Fontiane, monsieur?" Cried a small voice from below.
"What?! Who said that?!"
Taken aback by what had he just heard, Lexei peered across his surrounding trying to locate the source of the call. The tiny voice let out a heavy sigh as it shouted again.
"Down here!"
Lexei stopped, shifting his eyes downward to a bipedal creature of small stature. The creature seemed to resemble something like a faun. It had a long, tufted tail; long, ear- or horn-like head protrusions that resembled the rhinophores of sea slugs with mitten-like hands and stubby feet. For she was one of the Melusines, who patrolled the streets of Fontaine. Lexei stood in silent awe of the Melusine before him. His mouth slowly opened like that of a fish fresh out of water.
"Please, close your mouth monsieur. You're not a fish."
"My apologies, my fair lady. I'm simply not accustomed to…"
The Melusine crossed her arms with a hint of disapproval in her gazes sending a chill down Lexei's spine.
"Accustomed to what, monsieur?"
"To seeing such a magnanimous and dutiful officer of such...stature." Lexei said, tipping his hat towards his face in a futile attempt to hide his embarrassment. "Please forgive my ignorance, madame. I have yet to meet any of your kin in my travels."
"Hmph, since this is your first arrival. I will excuse it just this once. But you'd best get accustomed to seeing us. For there are many more patrolling these streets. And make no mistake. If you become a cause for concern. We will not hesitate to have you thrown in prison! For this is the city of justice, monsieur!"
The Melusine lifted her head as she placed her paws on her hips. She felt a sense of pride for her position as the harbor master. Even though she knew Lexei meant it half heartedly. Then she pointed to the entrance of the elevator.
"If the monsieur is interested in entering please proceed to the elevator above. It should be just above the stairs."
Lexei's hat remained as he quickly bowed and strut past the harbormaster, hoping that she didn't noticed his silent laughter. 'Oh, my heart! That was adorable!' he thought to himself. His face blushing brightly from his snickering. Upon making it halfway across the stairs he glanced back to the harbormaster who was guiding her staff. Directing the cargo hands to be careful with their crates. Informing that she would not tolerate any loss or damages done to it. At the corner of her eye the harbor master noticed that Lexei hadn't moved. Sensing her gaze Lexei immediately continued to rush up the stairs with blazing speed. The harbor master shook her head and placed her paw upon her brow.
"Tut, tourists...what a nuisance."
Lexei entered the magnificent elevator with its dark turquoise glass windows, slowly and with great care. As the doors closed, Lexei couldn't help but be captivated by its quality.
"Such exquisite craftsmanship," he said, gently tracing the golden railing with his hand.
The gears behind the walls of the elevator began to turn at a steady pace, as small puffs of steam covered the exterior of the elevator. As it began to ascend, Lexei gently grabbed the railings and peered upon the gorgeous landscapes and seas around the city. As the elevator continued to lift, Lexei's awe and wonder grew. Gazing across the sea, he could see the very ship that had brought him here. As it gradually shrunk in the distance, Lexei lifted his index finger and thumb towards the ship, as if he were gently taking hold of it and lifting it up to his eyes. Finally reaching its destination, the elevator began to slow as the gears wound down. The doors slid open to reveal a pathway leading to the city's entrance, with a single canal gently flowing across the center.
"Look over there! It's her!" a bystander said with a hint of excitement.
The crowd, which included both humans and Melusines, began to gather on the nearby streets. Lexei, caught up in the moment, followed them. But was unable to see what they were cheering for. 'Blasted crowds! I can't see a thing,' he thought to himself. 'I wonder what has captivated everyone so much.' Determined to find an answer Lexei tried a new tactic. Searching around him for any advantage that would give him a higher point of view. As if an answer from above, Lexei saw a bronze lamppost with a lantern-like top that was high enough for him to obtain a more scenic view. Seizing the opportunity, he carefully shimmied up the lamppost until he was finally able to see above the crowd. His vision now clear, he began scanning for the source of the crowd's bewilderment. Past the sea of fanciful hairdues and fanciful hats walked a young woman.
As if she were the epitome of elegance, she adorned herself in an attire that whispered of regality. She was draped in a dark azure attire reminiscent of the deepest seas. A tailored suit-like garment enveloped her form, its luxurious fabric enveloped over her figure, while a pristine white vest adorned with a delicate jabot. Each element of her attire was embellished with azure-hued gemstones thatsparkled like dewdrops, evoking the beauty water in motion. A cerulean sash, securely tied into a bow and adorned with a resplendent gem at its center, accentuated her slender waist. Her sleeves were cuffed and adorned with brass-like accents, imbuing her ensemble with a sense of whimsical charm. Perched jauntily atop her head sat a dark blue top hat adorned with intricate metal flourishes. Fabric ornaments of azure and ivory trailed behind her, lending an ethereal quality to her ensemble. While her contrasting gloves adorned her hands. Her attire was further adorned with obsidian bands wrapped around her thighs. Completing her look was pair of dark heeled leather shoes adorned with her emblem on the soles, while ruff-like collars encircling her ankles.
The response from the citizenry erased any doubt from Lexei's mind. 'So that's the Hydro Archon of Fontaine… Lady Furina. She's…' Lexei thought to himself firmly gripping onto the lamppost.
"Hey! You there!" Shouted an angry and commanding voice from below.
Startled by this Lexei's grip faltered, causing him to teeter on the edge of the lamppost's perch. Swiftly, he seized the top of the lamppost by intertwining his legs around it to anchor himself. Pausing briefly to steady his racing heart, he turned toward the origin of the commanding voice. Beneath him stood a stern officer of Fontaine, his arms crossed and his voice unwavering in its tone.
"Monsieur, I must ask you to come down this instant!"
"Ahh! Yes, officer! You see I was just trying to -"
"I won't ask you again! Come down or I will be forced to take you into custody."
As the scene continued to unfold, a myriad of curious bystanders turned their gaze. Drawing the attention of two additional guards. In the distance the Hydro Archon paused her interaction with the crowd. Her eyes were drawn to Lexei and the encroaching guards struggling to remove him. A smug smirk crept upon her lips as she redirected her focus. 'What have we here? An outlander? And in trouble with the guards. My, oh my, doesn't he look foolish? Haha, it seems it's up to me to rescue this damsel in distress.' Making her way towards Lexei and the three guards, the crowd uttered softly amongst themselves. The guard who called out to Lexei, halted and saluted to Furina. After he explained his actions, Furina let out a sudden laugh, as she lowered her upper body slightly. Once regaining her composure, she politely indicated to the guards to release Lexei.
"Lady Furina! This rogue has been a causing a great disturbance. Surely you must see-"
"Officer Cooper, if you'd please. Release this gentleman. I'm sure he has no intention of causing harm." Furina said with a cheerful smile.
"Yes. Right away, Madame. Release him!"
With swift obedience, the two guards released Lexei from their grasp as he gracefully descended from atop the lamppost. His cape billowed gently in the breeze, revealing his family's crest to the crowd. Lexei, maintaining a humble demeanor kept his gaze lowered as he rose to his feet. Then, with a single fluid motion he raised his hat and executed a courtly bow before Furina, with one leg extended behind the other.
"Salutations, madame! Tis an honor to cross paths with thee at last." Lexei spoke in a refined and dapper tone.
"Oh, aren't you quite the charmer? You certainly have a way with words." Furina said in a playful tone, giggling at Lexei's display.
"I am Focalors de Fontaine, but feel free to address me as simply, Lady Furina. I must admit, the sight of this rambunctious outlander's action was quite amusing, wouldn't you agree everyone? Might I ask your name? Surely someone of your calibur must have one that matches your fortitude."
"I am a swashbuckler from a distant land, known as the slayer of Hilichurls and Abyss Mages alike! A perpetual traveler, with no end in sight, and the last scion of a long-forgotten house. I am Alexei Rovich, though you may simply call me Lexei."
A hushed stillness enveloped around Lexei, as he stood tall with his head held high, eyes sealed shut and arms extended in anticipation. When his gaze finally met hers. He was met with an image of Furina struggling with a suppressed chuckle. The assembled crowd responded with a mixture of emotions, ranging from bewilderment to discomfort. Some watched on in confusion while others winced at his display of bravado. Furina, unable to stifle her mirth any longer, erupted into a cascade of laughter. With her hands pressed against her sides doubling over, her laughter so infectious it rippleed throughout her body. Finally, as her amusement subsided. She straightened herself up. Despite the apparent humiliation, Lexei remained steadfast in his resolve. Turning a deaf ear to the commentary around him.
"Oh, monsieur! You truly are a welcome addition to this nation. I can tell that you will make quite an impact here. Welcome to the nation of Hydro!" Furina retorted with a flourish befitting her own effervescent flair.
"Wow! Lady Furina always knows how to make an entrance."
"Indeed! And knows how to wrangle this jester."
As the murmurs of the crowd swirled around him, Lexei gave a graceful flick of his wrist as his hat ascended to its rightful place. His slender fingers tracing the rim of the hat with equal flare.
"Such finesse! The Opera Epiclese could use someone like you, monsieur Lexei." Furina said, her hands delicately entwined before her.
"Lady Furina, we really must depart." A gentle voice murmured behind her.
"In due time, Clorinde!" Furina replied in a whimsicaly. "It's not often we receive a guest such as he! A flyer, Clorinde. If you'd please."
With a subtle gesture, Clorinde snapped her fingers beckoning for an attendant. Swiftly, the servant responded, fetching forth a pristine copy of the promotional flyers that cradled within her arms.
"Here, monsieur Lexei! I do hope you'll find the contents to your intrigue." Furina said with a bright smile across her face.
Lexei graciously accepted the flyer. Eagerly he unfurled the document and began skimming with eager curiosity. Upon closer inspection, it revealed to be a promotional flyer announcing the debut of a new live performance by Lady Furina herself. Said to take place in the Opera Epiclese. It was scheduled to begin within just a few short weeks filling Lexei's heart with great anticipation. As Furina's observed Lexei's expression, she detected the unmistakable twinkle of intrigue dwelling within his eyes. Seizing the moment she placed her hands upon her hips as the surrounding throng gasped in collective admiration. They whispered with reverence and envy, exchanging various opinions of Lexei's luck.
"I do hope to see you there, monsieur Lexei. Anyone who is anyone will surely be in attendance. Perhaps I can secure you a front-row seat." Furina remarked, melodiously.
"Count on it, my lady." Lexei declared with absolute confidence.
"Hehehehe! Wonderful! I look forward to seeing you in the opera house. Please, don't be late and please, do enjoy the show. Too-ta-loo!"
With a graceful pivot, Furina turned her attention toward the bustling streets of Fontaine. Resuming her parade with each step a graceful dance upon the cobblestones beneath her feet.
