Mr. & Mrs Meropide

Chapter One: The Beginnings

The Fortress of Meropide loomed large over the turbulent seas of Fontaine, an imposing structure of stone and iron that spoke of strength and unyielding authority. Within its walls, the atmosphere was a blend of order and tension, where the relentless rhythm of duty met the underlying hum of potential danger. The fortress was not just a stronghold; it was a prison, housing those who had crossed the line of law and order. Its corridors echoed with the footsteps of guards and the murmur of inmates, creating a symphony of control and confinement.

As Clorinde entered the fortress, she felt the weight of countless eyes upon her. The inmates, a mix of hardened criminals and unfortunate souls, watched her with a blend of curiosity and wariness. To them, she was an outsider, a reminder of the world beyond their metal walls. Her presence, marked by her regal bearing and the unmistakable aura of an Electro user, set her apart. Yet, she moved through the fortress with a confidence that belied any sense of intimidation.

The stares she received were varied. Some were filled with suspicion, others with open hostility. A few inmates even showed a spark of hope, perhaps recognizing her reputation as a protector of Fontaine. Clorinde met each gaze with calm indifference, her expression unwavering. She did not judge them for their pasts nor fear them for their present. Instead, she carried herself with the assurance of someone who understood the complexities of justice and redemption.

The guards, familiar with the routines of the fortress, treated Clorinde with a mix of respect and caution. They knew her reputation well and recognized the authority she held. As she made her way to the central chamber where Wriothesley awaited, the guards stepped aside, their eyes acknowledging her presence without question.

Wriothesley stood at the heart of the fortress, surrounded by maps and documents detailing the latest security measures. His presence was a stark contrast to the bleak surroundings—calm, composed, and in complete control. When Clorinde entered, his eyes lifted, and a subtle smile curved his lips.

"Clorinde," he greeted her, his voice a soothing balm amidst the fortress's tension. "Welcome. I trust your journey was uneventful?"

"It was," Clorinde replied, returning his smile with a nod. "Let's get to work."

"Follow me," Wriothesley said, leading her down a series of corridors. "We've kept the relic in a secure chamber. We didn't want to touch or move it much—it could be a hazard."

They arrived at a chamber where the relic hovered just above a pedestal. It resembled a crystal shaped like a triangle, seemingly woven into itself, emitting a dark blue or black aura visible only to those with a Vision. The relic glowed faintly, spinning slowly on its axis. "It's unlike anything we've encountered before," Wriothesley explained, his tone serious.

After her inspection, they returned to Wriothesley's office to discuss the necessary steps to fortify the chamber. "The room is stable, but it will need significant enhancements to ensure the relic's security," Clorinde stated, ready to strategize.

Their discussions were intense and detailed. Wriothesley laid out his initial thoughts on securing the newly discovered relic: a combination of magical barriers, physical traps, and round-the-clock surveillance. Clorinde, drawing from her extensive field experience, added her insights. She suggested an additional layer of defense using Electro energy to detect and neutralize any intruders. They both agreed that this was the ideal moment to upgrade the fortress's entire security system, ensuring it was equipped to handle any future threats.

"We need to consider all possible angles," Clorinde insisted. "The relic's power will attract not just thieves, but those who might want to use it for darker purposes."

Wriothesley nodded, impressed by her thoroughness. "Agreed. We'll also need to ensure that our guards are the best trained, and perhaps we should consider adding more trusted allies to the roster."

As they delved deeper into the plans, they found themselves aligning on many fronts – their strategic minds working in tandem. They discussed everything from the layout of the fortress to the potential threats that could arise. Their mutual respect grew with each passing hour, and by the end of the day, they had devised a comprehensive plan that satisfied both their high standards.

As the evening wore on, their work continued unabated. The fortress grew quieter as night fell, the murmurs of activity dwindling to a hushed silence. Clorinde and Wriothesley, however, remained focused, their dedication to the task at hand driving them forward. Their collaboration proved to be remarkably efficient, with their combined expertise allowing the work to progress faster than either had anticipated.

"Would you care for some tea?" Wriothesley offered during a brief lull, his tone light despite the gravity of their work. "It will help us stay awake."

Clorinde accepted with a grateful smile. "Thank you. I could use a little boost."

They shared a moment of quiet companionship as Wriothesley prepared the tea, the aromatic steam rising between them. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about the growing camaraderie and mutual respect that underpinned their partnership.

Returning to their work, they continued to fine-tune their plans, each suggestion and adjustment bringing them closer to ensuring the relic's safety. The hours slipped by, but neither seemed to notice the passage of time, so engrossed were they in their shared mission.

It was during these intense discussions that the first seeds of their connection were sown. Clorinde admired Wriothesley's ability to think several steps ahead, while he was captivated by her sharp intellect and unwavering determination. Despite the fortress's oppressive atmosphere and the constant scrutiny of its inhabitants, Clorinde and Wriothesley found in each other a kindred spirit and a partner in the arduous task of safeguarding their world.