Mr. & Mrs Meropide

Chapter Twenty-Nine: Testing Loyalties

A few days later, the atmosphere in the Fortress of Meropide was lighter, almost relaxed. In the infirmary, Maria handed Sigewinne the much-awaited magazine.

"I'm sorry it's wrinkly," Maria said apologetically. "I had a fight with an absolute b..." She caught herself as her eyes fell on Vire's daughter, who was quietly playing in the corner. "Very not nice person," she quickly corrected. "Afterwards, we de-wrinkled it between some heavy documents."

Sigewinne smiled warmly, accepting the magazine. "That's okay. It's very sweet of you to put in the effort. A few wrinkles won't make it any less readable."

As they chatted, Wriothesley and Vire walked in, their conversation seemingly focused on something important. Wriothesley handed a document to Vire, his expression pleased.

"Turns out you were right," the Duke said with a hint of admiration. "He cracked as soon as he knew we were onto him."

"Told you, I know my stuff," Vire replied, pride evident in his voice as he picked up his daughter, who eagerly wrapped her arms around his neck.

However, Vire's expression shifted as he looked at his daughter. "I still need to figure out what to do, though," he said, concern creeping into his voice. "Like I said, the fortress is no place for her. I'd love for her to spend more time above ground. Kids need other kids."

Maria, who had been listening quietly, suddenly spoke up. "Well, actually, why don't I take her to the surface?" Her voice was shy, and she glanced at Vire to gauge his reaction to the suggestion.

Vire's protective instincts kicked in immediately. "But what if you get attacked again?" he asked, clearly worried about his daughter's safety.

"Then how about we only take your kid when I'm there as well?" Wriothesley offered, his tone reassuring.

Vire hesitated for a moment, but then he nodded. "Yes, that sounds good," he agreed. There was no man he would trust more with his daughter's safety than Wriothesley.

The decision brought a sense of relief to the room. Maria smiled softly at Vire, her heart fluttering slightly. She was glad she could help, and even more so that Vire had agreed to let her take his daughter to the surface. It was a small step, but it felt like the beginning of something new and hopeful.

"I have some business at the Palais Mémoria later today," Wriothesley said, glancing at Vire. "If you tag along, I'll let you out for a bit." He paused before adding, "You should reopen your case."

Vire looked surprised but nodded. "Are you serious?" he asked, a mixture of hope and disbelief in his voice.

Wriothesley simply nodded in response. And so, they set off—Vire, his daughter, Maria, and the Duke. As they walked through the streets of Fontaine, Wriothesley trailed slightly behind the group, observing them with a thoughtful expression. Vire and Maria swung his daughter between them, the little girl's laughter filling the air as she enjoyed the playful attention.

The Duke couldn't help but think they already looked like a bit of a happy family. Not that he had much of an idea what a happy family was supposed to look like, but there was something undeniably warm and genuine in the way they interacted with one another.

"Excuse me, sir, would you be interested in the news?" a small boy called out, approaching Wriothesley hesitantly. The boy's eyes were wide with curiosity, and it was clear that he had mustered up all his courage to speak to him. After all, the Duke didn't exactly have the most kid-friendly appearance.

Wriothesley crouched down, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he reached into his pocket. He handed the boy some mora, buying a newspaper and even giving the boy a bit extra as pocket money. The boy's face lit up with surprise and gratitude as he took the coins.