No Longer Human | Arlecchino

Chapter 9: Court

The next morning, Ren and Rin lay low and observed as Fontaine's bustling city streets went about their daily lives. The word was out that Traveler was in town, and whispers of the prophecy seemed to spark an underlying friction between the citizens. People passed by uneasily, their eyes darting at people, and the other citizens were discussing rumors of impending judgment.

As Ren noticed that anxiety growing, a little smirk couldn't help but form as he was satisfied with the fact that, indeed, the plan had already sprouted.

Later, he joined Arlecchino to report his findings. She crossed her arms, her gaze shifting around as if she wanted to make sure no one overheard them.

"The Traveler's presence is most definitely stirring things up," he began, his tone casual with calculated underpinnings. 

"Already, the people speak of the prophecy. With a few well placed rumors, we can easily fan the flames."

Arlecchino lifted an eyebrow. "And you think you are able to keep this under control? It's easy enough to light a fire, Ren. But reining one in is an altogether different matter.

Ren leaned back, a cocky glint in his eyes. "You worry too much. Fontaine is already primed for chaos, we're just giving it a little nudge in the right direction."

Arlecchino didn't bat an eye, though for a moment, her eyes seemed to sparkle with intrigue. "It would work, but let me be clear, if this doesn't pan out, it won't be the only one in for an explanation-the Traveler won't be alone."

Ren grinned harder. "Oh, I'm betting on it. The more flak they catch, the less anyone'll be watching us.

Arlecchino finally let a cold smile cross her face. "Fine. But if it goes south, it won't just be the citizens of Fontaine you have to answer to. You'll have all of Fatui eyeing your every move, just waiting for you to screw up."

Ren actually chuckled at this. "Then it's a good thing I like the spotlight."

He didn't

They exchanged a nod, some silent understanding flashed between them. Their next steps clear, they parted company, each melting back into the thrumming life of Fontaine, hidden yet ever present, waiting for the storm they'd set in motion to unfold.



News of the Traveler and Paimon's arrival spread like wildfire, and it wasn't long before whispers of excitement summoned them to court. People congregated around the courthouse, some craning necks for a glimpse and others murmuring anxiously about the prophecy and what role the Hydro Archon might play in judgment. Ren and Arlecchino exchanged a look, the both of them hidden among the crowd.

Well, that didn't take long," Ren purred, clearly enthralled. "They're no more than arrived to Fontaine, and they're right in the middle. Perfect."

Arlecchino wondered. Her eyes never left the tall courthouse. "You really think this whole dance is going to stick to the beat?"

Ren shrugged. "We're counting on that. All eyes will be on them, especially if they challenge the Archon. It will only add fuel to the people's fear and untrust, making her position more precarious."

They watched as the Traveler was escorted into the great hall of the court, flanked by the guards of Fontaine, with Paimon floating around their head in a nervous hover. The Hydro Archon Furina sat in her throne, waiting in silence like an enigma. There was an air of gravitas because she was there, and the electric tension in the room was almost palpable.