Embers

by ChonkCatto

Summary:

In the aftermath of the flood, Arlecchino finds herself interested in Furina once again. Perhaps she'll learn something about herself along the way.

Furina, attempts to figure out her life and finds herself entagled with the Knave once again. However, she has a new ambition this time.

Notes:

• Translation into Français available: Embers (by ChonkCatto) by AkaruiKagerou

Chapter 1: The First Logs to a Fire

Prisons and detention centres in Snezhnaya were freezing. They were to express the wrath from breaking the heart of the Tsaritsa. The dear beloved God whom graces the land and spares humanity from the harsh call of winter. Or that's what Mother says.

 

Peruere sat imprisoned for the murder of a high-ranking official. The Knave. While Snezhnaya called her a traitor, Peruere was never surprised that death came for Crucabena. You are to reap what you sow. Crucabena had sown the land with innocent blood. So she would reap the destruction born from it. The balemoon in her dreams taught her that. It taught her many things that she could understand. The rest was gibberish. A blurry mess. She willfully accepted her imprisonment from the moment she was captured to the moment she was imprisoned. She'd sown this fate of hers. No matter how discontent she was with it. It is a dangerous game to defy fate. To succeed is far worse. To defy it more would result in calamity.

The spider cupped in the palms of her hands, twitched as warmth filled it. It was also an insignificant thing to fate. It didn't matter whether she saved it from the cold or not. It could do little to alter the grand web of fate. The spider knew it, too. I would take her warmth and give nothing in turn.

"Peruere."

An agent.

"You are hereby pardoned from the murder of a high-ranking government official, The Knave. You shall be temporarily stationed as king of the House of the Hearth. Further clarifications of your new position shall be decided at a later date. May her majesty guide you."

A Mother? No, a Father? At her age?

She was barely eighteen. However, it was Clervie's dream. Clervie.

The entrance to her cell was opened, freedom at last.

"Follow me. We shall begin the formal procedures for your release."

 

––●––

 

The mirror was a lonely place. Furina was living a lie. She wasn't Focalors. She wasn't the weilder of justice. At most, she was a lamb, following Focalors' instructions until the end. Whenever that was. The stage, the spotlight, was so unbearably lonely. She wanted to crawl into the shadows, away from all the attention. Yet the shadows didn't want her.

A lamb wouldn't survive for long outside the pasture. The moment she would touch the shadowy woods, would she be forsaking her duty, abandoning Fontaine to the prophecy. She would have to bear this burden until Fontaine was saved. No matter how lonely it got. No matter how tired Furina was. It was for Fontaine and everyone within it.

But a break would be nice.

She was only human after all.

Who knew becoming God was the loneliest achievement of all. Especially when you're nothing but a facade, an actor.

Just when will her curtain fall? When will she be free?

"My dear Furina, you are doing so well. Keep up the act. All shall be over soon, my greatest star."

Ah, Focalors.

 

––x––

Peruere was at the House of the Hearth's main operation centre. The Orphanage of Snezhnaya, home to the disgraced and abandoned and welcomed into the arms of the Tsaritsa.

What a pitiful place it was.

The moment you entered, you entered purgatory. Repenting for the sin of being a disgraced child. Crucabena made sure you became worthy of her Majesty's love. Celestia wouldn't offer any respite, Celestia was more willing to destroy than love. Peruere dispised this land, this place. She hated how these gods allowed the lives of innocent children to be thrown away. However, a grand opportunity had been to change this place for the better now that Crucabena is dead. Well, as good as one could make it.

How does one know how to create a family if you have never experienced family?

Clervie wanted a happy family. It was Peruere's duty now to attempt said family. Rework the old into something greater.

 

––●––

 

"Ah, what lovely cake this is. A nice break from all the law is so pleasant. Dont you agree, Monsuier Neuvillette?"

Furina greedily ate the rare cake with only 16 slices per day. What a joyous luxury.

"Indeed, Lady Furina." Neuvillette is indifferent as ever. Perhaps even a little hostile. He always had his reservations against the Seven. Furina wondered how he felt at the news of Morax's death. Or perhaps even the new formal trade agreements with Inazuma. The Raiden Shogun had overruled the decrees. A visit to Narukami Island would be a truly joyful break. Perhaps even a visit to see the illustrious Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine and Chief Executive Editor and Owner of Yae Publishing House.

Furina dearly enjoyed the light novels she could purchase from Inazuma. Especially the romance ones.

"Ah Neuvillette, indifferent as always. You seem to be enjoying your water over there, so perhaps you'll indulge me in how you feel about the new Duke of Meropide."

Furina always indulged in idle conversation to distract herself from the prophecy.

From her own loneliness.

 

––x––

 

"Her Majesty, The Tsaritsa has decreed as follows: I hereby pardoned you of your crimes and bestow upon you a new name. This title and legacy of bloodshed are now yours to bear, my poor, mad, cursed Knave."

Peruere is dead.

She is Arlecchino now. Father and Fourth of the Fatui Harbingers, as her Majesty decrees. She may be free from criminal charges, but a debt is due.

Pierro, the original Harbinger, announced her Majestys' words. There was something strange about him. He was Khaenrian, his eyes gave it away. The Crimson Moon had let its thirst for revenge known. It would swallow more than just the Eclipse Dynasty but the world also. Its fearful eye representative of the destruction its omen-self would bring. Pierro likely knew she wasn't typically either. A sixteen year old killing the Fourth? Wielding cleansing flames and bearing a curse? Such untypical things.

However, he wasn't the only one here. A puppet boy stood to the left in front of her. If there was one good thing about her eyes, it was their unique perceptability. While not the most perceptive, they still were better than the average human. To the opposite was a woman of flames and The Captain. First of the Fatui Harbingers. An honourable man who deserved respect.

The lady, however, was a different case. A smug facade hiding something. Yet what a beautiful facade it was.

Now, there's no time for idle watching. Love was the greatest weakness and strength of a person. In a family, it brought cooperation and understanding. Good for efficiency. Yet it made you hesitant, made you weak.

Arlecchino, The Knave, didn't have time to spend on idle luxuries.

 

––●––

 

Furina was terrified. The Knave had attempted to take the gnosis and perhaps even kill her. Furina didn't even have the gnosis. The Oratrice did. It had everything that should be hers. She had nothing but her weak human hands. The warm skim that was so easily broken.

Yet now she had the Knave to meet. A tea party, well more like interrogation. The Knave was a swift diplomat. She operated with profound efficiency and little care for things that got messy in her path.

What a terrifying individual.

Furina wished she could be as indifferent as The Knave. So punctual and swift. A true steadfast leader. Rather than the fraud, she was now.

A fraud that was letting the prophecy slip through her hands. Made worse by the sudden disappearance of the Eleventh Fatui Harbinger and his wrong conviction.

Her tightrope was wearing down. She couldn't keep up the act for much longer.

Just when will it end?

 

––x––

Chapter 2: The First Match

Summary:

They finally meet. With a bit of a challenge before setting the stage for their new beginnings together. However, Arlecchino doesn't seem so keen to indulge her more emotional part for it's caused her lips to be rather loose. Furina is learning being human isn't easy.

She's free. Furina is free. It's been a while since it all happened. Time had become rather meaningless after she had confined herself away in her bed. At least until Clorinde had showed up. That's when she finally chose to begin living again. As herself this time. No curse, no prophecy, no Focalors, just Furina.

A new start. She no longer lived in the Palais Mermonia, which was now solely inhabited by Neuvillette now. She was also no longer an Archon, no more justice and case work for her. Furina smiled at that. Sitting and doing paperwork for hours was boring, but she still had to do her share.

Yet Furina felt rather nostalgic feelings towards that time. Despite the ever-present threat of the prophecy, it took 500 years. A very long time and during that time she experienced many good things and bad things. She watched heroes rise and fall. Children grow and mature.

She could even enjoy cakes and other delicacies that evolved and changed over time. She experienced things no human could ever dream of. Even if it came at an expensive cost.

Its hard being free of her old duties.

To be able to truly express sadness, joy, anger, and pride, unadulterated and true.

It's Furina's life now. She's got a second chance at life to make it count.

However, not all of her new life is completely different than before. She used to eat cakes and deserts daily when she was an Archon. Furina experienced some of the grandest deserts, and now she tried to hold back. Furina dreaded to think how she'd feel after eating that much dessert in a single weak. However, that doesn't stop her from indulging in a daily cake. Especially considering how she has been receiving a suspicious supply of it from her audience. Furina had yet to catch the person leaving them behind. They were as diligent as a cat.

But you can't let good cake go to waste. Especially when it appeared to be hand-made.

To whomever made these cakes shall have Furina de Fontaine's eternal gratitude for how delicious they are and how it saved her some mora.

 

––x––

 

One of the many duties a father must undertake is teaching the children how to be independent and self-sufficient. For as good as a family is, you won't always be around them. Those key life skills are invaluable.

Perhaps that's one thing Arlecchino and Crucabena could agree on. Even if they took vastly different approaches.

The current lesson for the younger children is baking and cooking. Perhaps the most important skill to have. For it is the foundation of many other skills and talents. To be physically strong, you must first have a good foundation in health and lifestyle.

However, the cause for these lessons isn't as practical as Arlecchino would have liked. Something within her made her want to earn Furina's forgiveness. For whatever reason, perhaps even just the benefits of being on the good side of someone such as Furina. She may not be an Archon, but those towards the top of the social ladder are always good targets. The best way to achieve being on Furina's pleasantries, of course, was to use something she liked. Cake served as quite the convenient excuse.

She first began by having the children bake a selection box of desserts, all with varying skills involved. Then Lyney would deliver it to her troupe.

However, that soon spiralled out of control. Arlecchino would have to reign in this weakness. A certain distance between friends and enemies needed to be maintained. She couldn't cross it, she had learnt her lesson many moons ago. Arlecchino was not one to repeat mistakes. But for now, she settled on having daily desserts made. They would be part of a batch, so the children's efforts didn't go unrecognised and rewarded. They could enjoy their share, and Furina could enjoy hers.

Still, even she couldn't deny that simply serving cakes and desserts wasn't enough, that ever present feeling was growing...

A small experiment wouldn't hurt. After all, she had nothing to lose if she lost favour with Furina. Any diplomatic matters are solely handled with Monsuier Neuvillette now.

 

––●––

 

A new development involving the daily cake situation happened recently. Furina had been invited by some very mysterious figure to meet in Café Lutece. They had rather fancy handwriting. It would be great to finally know the face behind the cake rather than just the delivery person.

The meeting was to happen at 3 pm, on a Wednesday. So Furina had plenty of time to prepare. She had to look her best. She was Fontaine's greatest star, of course. It would be a total disaster if she appeared as though she had just woken up.

Besides, it made her feel good caring for her appearance. Even if it is an everlasting remembrance of Focalors. That didn't stop her from making it her own. Focalors wouldn't wear Coronated Prima Donna. Nor would she cut her hair short, and Focalors most certainly didn't have access to any of Chiori's wares either!

But most importantly, Focalors didn't have her Salon Solitare; Madamoiselle Crabaletta, who always was there for her. Keeping her entertained and happy. Gentilhomme Usher, who takes care of her when she's down and has a truly brilliant performance. Last but most certainly not least, Surintendante Chevalmarin who made sure she was happy and gave the warmest hugs.

Thankfully, they were also good at keeping her on track. It's hard to stay on target when thousands of ideas that would make truly brilliant plays occupy your mind all the time and when you're currently obsessed with a popular light novel. Ah, time was slipping away. She better head off to the Café it wouldn't do her appearance any good if she was late.

 

––●x––

 

The weather was rather pleasant. Perfectly suited to having a friendly discussion at a café over some confectionary. Furina strolled towards the Café, the warmth of the sun upon her made her happy like that of a basking cat. She was blissfully unaware of her own nightmares.

"Lady Furina. Please take a seat."

That voice.

Those hands.

Those eyes.

Arlecchino.

"Wah, The Knave!?"

Furina stiffed like a frightened deer staring down a big bad wolf. Except this was no wolf. No, this was far worse. A walking bad omen, one that targeted her specifically.

"Indeed, that is my title amongst the Fatui Harbingers. You may call me Arlecchino instead." That straightforward, uncaring woman! Oh, how Furina wished she could forget her. Put out the fire, burning her sweet dreams and memories.

"Why are you here? What do you want from me? There is nothing you can have on me. This vision is my ambition and mine alone! You'll have to strike me down before you take it, but it won't be an easy fight!"Her Salon Solitare soon burst into life beside her. She couldn't care less about what the media would say about her. She was facing her walking nightmare. A wolf masquerading as a sheep.

"Lady Furina, would you please listen." Arlecchino tried to peacefully maintain a respectable face. However, it was getting increasingly more difficult the more Furina acted out.

"No, I refuse. You can't hurt me anymore! I won't allow it!" Furina was consumed in her emotions. If this was meerly a stage, she would applaud herself for such a heart-wrenching performance. Sadly, this was far from a stage.

"Lady Furina."

There's that tone again. The one she used to pressure her over her lack of action. The one she used to humiliate and manipulate her in front of the Traveller. It was a scary tone, befitting of a stern Father.

"I invited you here so I could learn how much you've enjoyed the cakes and various other desserts I have provided to you over these past few weeks. I did not come here to listen to some insolent child sulking. Would you please calm down. Uncontrolled emotions are not a pleasant display." Of course, she would compare Furina to a child. All Arlecchino did was belittle and undermine her. Ever since her 'tea party' with her. Furina refused to stand for it.

"No."

"Pardon?"

It seemed her strong conviction confused the Harbinger.

"No, I will not attend this tea party with you. I appreciate your effort and gifts, but I will not be spending any unnecessary time with you. Good day, Arlecchino."

The sudden shift in confidence surprised Arlecchino. However, it was a pleasant surprise. Seeing Furina so strongly convicted in her beliefs. Unfortunately, now wasn't the time to admire the prowess of Lady Furina.

"Lady Furina. The children would like to know how their favourite actress reacted to the treats they made. You wouldn't let the children down, would you. It could cause unwanted problems." If targeting someones likes wasn't enough then manipulating their weakness, their humanity would do.

Furina stopped.

She could see the sad faces of the children. Oh, how it pulled at her heartstrings. She was such a sucker for cute things.

"Fine. You better not try anything, however, or I'll.....I'll...I'll call Clorinde on you! And tell gardes!"

Such a pitiful threat. The chances of Clorinde or any of the gardes doing something to Arlecchino was almost null. However, for Furina, that was the strongest person she knew, well considereding that Monsuier Neuvillette's relationship with Furina was rathee rocky currently, but getting a bad diplomatic relationship with Fontaine would cause Arlecchino unwanted troubles.

"Very well. You have my word. I shall not dare challenge Fontaine's brightest star. Now please sit down, would you? The desserts are another gift from the children."

Arlecchino's experiment could truly begin now.

"Hmph."

Furina stubbornly sat. Her salon followed suit, turning what would've been a one on one conversation into a one on four.

"Now, how have you been, Furina? I'm sure the flood and trial must have taken a lot out of you." The way she spoke deeply unsettled Furina. She so easily flipped from commanding to pleasant. A harbinger should be nothing but danger, not pleasant and kind worded.

"I've been quite well, thank you. I would be even better if someone hadn't tried to, oh you know, kill me." Furina was rather spiteful. She wouldn't let the Knave get under her skin so easily. This time, the 'interrogations' will be in her hand.

"Hmm, is that so?" Then I duly apologize for harming you. My goal wasn't to assassinate you. Merely take the gnosis and save Fontaine myself. I had to protect my children. You understand, don't you? After all, you acted for five hundred years, all for your ungrateful nation." The Knave sipped her tea in a similar manner to how Lynette did. What a nice implication.

Furina snapped back to reality.

"Why, of course, but it doesn't mean I agree with your methods. I'm sure you are deeply thankful to me. Indeed, indeed." Furina giggled pompously. Her past still lingered on in her personality. Or what she thought was her personality and person.

"Indeed, it's one of the reasons I wanted to meet with you, Lady Furina. While I myself wouldn't have been affected by the flood, it would have pained me to see my children dissolved. You were truly a God worthy of devotion. It's more worthy than any heavenly being."

Furina blushed. She was used to compliments. Her performances always brought in compliments by the dozens. However, to be complimented by someone like Arlecchino was rather pleasant. To be recognised by those above that she Indeed was commendable.

"Ah yes, thank you, thank you. That reminds me, Knave, where exactly are you from. Your hands and eyes give quite the other worldly impression." Arlecchino just confirmed Furina's hunch that she wasn't fontainian. So, if Furina couldn't overcome her nightmares through forgetting, then confronting and understanding the source would have to do. Hmph perhaps being playing a key role in law and some cases truly did her wonders.

However, Arlecchino was less pleased. That information, even though seemingly insignificant, considered anyone could just look at her and garner that she was of some other worldly entity, explaining that cause for her appearance wasn't something she wanted known publicly. Especially not the Steambird.

"If you must know, then why don't we meet again else where. You and I are very aware of prying eyes. I will send you a letter with some cakes detailing the meeting spot. It was a pleasure meeting with you again."

With that, Arlecchino took her leave. Furina was stumped. Meeting with the Knave again? Doing it just once made her nerves go into overdrive. Besides, she never did ask about how much she enjoyed the cakes and how grateful she was of the children.

Mademoiselle Crabaletta cracked her claws. Furina quickly became aware that she had been left to eat all the desserts left by Arlecchino. Second thoughts be dammed. She can consider it when the time comes around. So much for her plans to interrogate the Knave.

At least she had dessert to make her happy, and her dearest companions.

 

––●––

 

Of course, Arlecchino would drag Furina all the way out to some random ruins in the middle of nowhere. Well, it was only northwest of the Court of Fontaine, but that didn't excuse anything.

However, Furina felt off. Ever since she received the invitation and desserts, she's been off. The desserts themselves were delicious. They had lumidouce bells as decorations on the packaging and macarons. While not as good as Navia's macarons, they were still delicious. However, the letter, the writing although similar to her first, felt ominous. The location seemed to remind her of something in the past. She just couldn't quite nail it.

Perhaps the fact there were fatui around. Sparse but still around. There was even the local legend Ysuet, literally right outside the ruins. However, all the Fatui simply nodded in respect and paid no attention to her.

Yet the big scary villain was awaiting just ahead of her in the centre of the crumbled ruins.

"Greetings, Lady Furina, I'm hope the journey from the city wasn't too rough for you. I made it sure it would be a pleasant day when we met here." Ugh. Furina hated being referred to as a lady. She left that behind, so why wont people accept that.

"Enough with the lady it's already annoying enough that you forced me up to this place. Now come on, get talking. I want to know all the secrets of the Knave." Furina was too exhausted after the trip to maintain dignities even if she had acted for hours on end in productions.

"Yes, very well. I'm sure you remember a night long ago where a flash of red illuminated the city?" Ah ha! That's why this place felt so familiar, it was these ruins, the very same ones from that night and the following weeks. The night that was suddenly coloured red and the following period when the fatui seemed more active than normal.

"Why, of course, who could forget such an event as that?"

"I'm sure you also remember Crucabena then. The former Knave. You rarely met because she never really liked you after all. She knew she wasn't a real human, that she was a facade of one." Furina wasn't sure which Knave scared her more. Crucabena's twisted smile or Arlecchino's constant displeasure. Ugh, the Knaves were always the worst people she could meet.

"I remember her, though I preferred when I didn't." Dread crawled up her spine.

"You would also then remember the sudden tragedy that Snezhnaya faced following that incident. You were likely unaware of the legal aspect of it. The Fatui wanted that under lock and key. Far away from yours or Monsuier Neuvillettes' gaze."

What was it with Arlecchino's memory game she was playing. Furina easily told her Crucabena's death, and the red light went hand in hand. Far too obvious, really not to think it was more than just coincidence. "What are you playing at here, Arlecchino?" Furina scowled. This day couldn't get any worse now, could it.

Arlecchino, however, just offered a passing glance towards her. Uncaring of Furina's displeasure.

"Those events all link to a child named Peruere."

Furina's stomach dropped. Child?

"The house as it is now is a far cry from what it was before. Any and all memory of Crucabena has been erased, as I've personally assisted in ensuring her erasure. That woman was rather vile, so to speak. Orphans were just her dolls to play with. She had favourites and would throw away a child regardless of their connection to her. All her vile deeds occurred right under the God of Justice's nose." Furina felt smaller than she was before. She may not have truly been the Hydro Archon, but she was the one acting.

"I'm sorry."

"Whatever for? Don't be foolish. Deeds are done and in the past. There is no point wasting energy mourning them.The Fatui are good at running operations in foreign nations and hiding them. Especially when they are important operations that are key to her Majesty's plans. Crucabena was looking for special orphans, the best of the best. All so her Majesty would have an army of loyal soldiers at her command. Peruere was one of them. Her most special."

Arlecchino was her stereotypical straightforwardness even as she was retelling a tale that made Furina's stomach churn. She was always weak to tears.

"She found Peruere. Peruere looked as if they had crawled through an abyssal corridor. Covered in ashes and a mess. Crucabena promptly took in the child and raised her with the other orphans, including the one connected by blood to her. Clervie. However, blood doesn't guarantee any special privileges. Clervie was Peruere's most special companion even as they withered down and rotted. It was all to weed out a new King."

Arlecchino didn't cry. There were no tears, no ounce of sorrow or remorse. This was just a tale to her. Furina cried. She felt remorse and sorrow. It was more than a tale.

"Peruere watched Clervie's eyes fade here. Her blood coats her blade. They had murdered their best friend. The one who fought the hardest, yet most peaceful to become King. Peruere would go on to see Mother perish here as well. Brought to her end in the very same place her own child was murdered. Crucabena was murdered by Peruere, consumed by the balemoon and its flames."

It was obvious who Peruere truly was. Arlecchino had such a beautiful name. Even as Furina sobbed.

"Arlecchino.."

"Save it."

Furina was snapped out of her pitiful state.

"Pardon?"

"I seek no pity from you. There is no point reminiscing the past. The future is more important now."

Furina sobs had quietened. However, the tears didn't stop flowing. It was like she was mimicking the waterfall not too far from here. However, before she could speak, the Knave interrupted her.

"Well, there you have my origins. I'm not Fontainian. That was a lie I used to pressure you. In fact, to some calling myself, Fontainian would be mocking my ancestors. Those of Khaenri'ah."

Furina piped up sharply. She knew of Khaenri'ah.

"That's the nation that that heart of the cataclysm five hundred years ago. Just before my birth."

"Indeed. If you wish to know more about my origins, might I recommend you a book? I wouldn't read it before bed however, might keep you up far too late."

Arlecchino pulled out a book from a nearby bag. A frightened eye adorned its cover. Perinheri. The pristine copy was handed to Furina.

"I have business to attend to now, it was pleasant to see you again, Furina." Arlecchino passed by her, leaving a lingering touch upon her shoulder.

"Wait."

Wait. What was Furina doing!?

"Why do you trust me knowing your origins? We're enemies."

Arlecchino huffed a laugh.

"I know very well you wouldn't tell a soul."

 

––●––

 

Furina's nightmares changed. Evolved. Gone were the twisted recounts of her assassination attempts. Instead, she was surrounded by constant darkness with the Knave staring her down as fire slowly consumed her. Reading Perinheri and listening to Arlecchino recount her past certainly didn't help her overcome her trauma. At least she could wake up to cakes.

Arlecchino hadn't stopped the constant baked delivery. However, she received no further communication with the Harbinger. Part of her felt disappointed. Who would just end a play like that on a cliffhanger? It was like teasing a dog with a tasty snack and then not letting them have it. How could you not with the pitiful face they'd give. If only Furina's face could spark something out of Arlecchino. Something other than an uncaring mask.

'Ugh, Focalors wanted me to live a good life, yet here I am pondering over some book. Focusing on Arlecchino. Living an overall not great life.'

She looked to her Salon from where she laid, mostly bare, upon her bed.

"What should I do? No, we are not threatening Arlecchino. Hehe.. I don't really wanna think about that.... how scary." Mademoiselle Crabaletta was far too comfortable with using her shell to smash into people and things. The others were as well. Sometimes, a simple walk would turn south just because they saw a few hilichurls about and had to kill them so Furina would be safe.

Then Gentilhomme Usher bubbled up a fantastic idea.

"You are a genius, Gentilhomme Usher! How brilliant! We should send a delivery ourselves. Perhaps even a good apology to the twins for putting them on trial. That way, we can finally learn more about her curse and powers!" How exciting, well so long as those flames didn't fan out and burn her.

"Let's get baking, shall we!"

 

––●––

 

Furina was a rather messy baker, flour somehow managed to cover every part of her. Yet the pure domestic bliss of baking and constructing a cake was something that filled her with such childish joy. Laughing at her Salon getting messy until her cheeks hurt.

Her Salon was her family.

Yet even if her kitchen was a mess that would take ages to clean up, she was proud of the cake she made. She called it 'Pour la Justice' featuring her iconic blues and fashion style. Oh, how proud she was of her creation.

"Look at this, isn't it magnificent!"

Furina bubbled with joy as her Salon cheered with her.

Now it was to deliver it in the morning to the magical twins.

 

––●––

 

Trepidation ran up Furina's spine. She wasn't too sure of her plan anymore. She could eat her cake all by herself instead. She didn't need to offer it to the magical twins, and Arlecchino.

Lyney and Lynette were currently arguing over some flowers.

"I just don't think she'll like them."

"Brother, if you do not buy these flowers, I'll be taking her away from you."

"Lynette! You wouldn't dare, right? Right?"

Lynette just stared before looking past Lyney's shoulder, noticing a rather special individual.

"Miss Furina."

Furina jumped at the mention of her name. Lyney promptly turned around to face her.

"Ah, if it isn't Miss Furina. A rose for the greatest star in Teyvat? Now, what brings such a star like you out to see us? Is it perhaps related to the cake you are carrying?"

Lyney pushed past Lynette, who admired the cake box with fervent desire. Offering a pruned rainbow rose.

"Ahh, I was hoping to apologise properly for the false trial and wonder if you could perhaps pass on a message to your Father?"

Furina meekly passed on the cake to Lynette, who seemed rather tempted to eat it then and there.

"Ah, don't worry about it, Miss Furina. I'm sure Father and the rest of us will greatly enjoy your cake. No apologies needed. it's all in the past. Now, we most certainly will pass on whatever message you have for Father."

Here it goes.

"Could you tell your Father to meet back at the ruins in two days' time around 3pm."

There it was.

Lyney laughed. "My is that a date with Father? Why we most certainly will ensure that she knows."

Furina blushed. Hard.

"What! No! Preposterous! It was just an inquiry into what she mentioned to me previously."

Lyney laughed harder. This was truly embarrassing.

 

––x––

"Father. Miss Furina requests your presence at the ruins in two days' time. At around 3pm."

"Is that so. You are dismmised. I'll mark it in my calendar."

 

––x––

Notes:

The first arc has begun. I want to spend it exploring the Arle's curse and how Furina slowly grows more confident and overcomes the nightmares plaguing her. Hopefully the pacing thus far hasn't been too rushed. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated (edit: 25/5/24 I've took the liberty to combine chapters 2 and 3 into one because I was unhappy with the length). Woe girl prince Furina be upon ye.

Chapter 3: The Threatening Water

Summary:

Furina tries to delve deeper into the mystery of Arlecchino forgetting shes human now. Testing her new found confidence and desire to know the unknown. However, Arlecchino doesn't take to well to being exposed. Her fate doesn't allow it. Yet she cannot deny her own humanity.

Arlecchino was trying and failing to understand what made her be so vulnerable with Furina. The only time she had been so open about her curse was with Clervie. Clervie, who kept her curse at bay the most. Clervie, the one who should have grown up.

However, her chest felt lighter, and the feeling within her was sated. She had gotten all she needed from Furina. Now, she just had to ensure she didn't go and spread unwanted rumours. She could tolerate the rumors surrounding her character and manipulate them for her benefit. Yet she dread to think what Charlotte the little news agent would publish if she found out she was of Khaenri'ah descent and worse yet if she knew about her 'royal blood'. The speculation around Arlecchino's hands and eyes was annoying enough. No matter how quiet she made sure it was.

Yet despite threatening Furina's safety, insulting Fontaine's law, and keeping up with cake deliveries, the girl had the gall to request a meeting with her. Did she lack so much as even a grain of self-preservation?

Nevermind how much that feeling longed to see Furina, the girl was still foolish. Engaging with any Harbinger is a dangerous business. Even the less physically strong ones, they may have traded it for intelligence, but intelligence alone can only get one so far.

The meeting with her would take place at the very same, rather personal ruins, Arlecchino had invited Furina to the previous meeting.

At least Arlecchino could admire the newfound confidence.

 

––x––

 

The journey still sucked. Furina had even gone out of the way to wear a more simplified version of her regular outfit. However, that didn't even help a single bit. She really should have thought about a new location rather than this one.

However, at least she was prepared to meet Arlecchino this time round. She was an hour early just so she could investigate the ruins a bit more. Furina could feel the lingering presence of some other-worldly power. It was a midly unsettling and deeply intimidating presence. She wanted to get to the bottom of this curse, this entity. She, Furina de Fontaine, would learn all about the Balemoon. It would make a good dramatic play, perhaps. That's definitely the only reason she's getting to know Arlecchino.

"Lady Furina."

"Waaaah!"

Where'd she come from!? Furina jumped as she turned and faced Arlecchino. Who was standing, dressed the same as she usually did. She had a rather stiff posture.

"Um, uh... Hello Arlecchino, I have been investigating you and the Crimson moon. I've read that book countless times and even managed to find out some stuff from Neuvillette. He came to visit me recently. He didn't know much personally, but he offered some tid bits and mentioned how he couldn't feel any of your emotions." Furina nervously offered Arlecchino. No wonder Lyney and Lynette were such good magicians of their father seemed to appear so suddenly and quietly.

"I work to ensure that it remains that way. I bow to no God or sovereign. I will work with them for a common goal. However, they'll never be nothing more than a means to an end."

"Spoken like a Khaenri'an!" Furina giggled. Arlecchino certainly continued on the godless belief of the Khaenri'an nation. Even taking it a step further to include sovereigns. "Anyways, I've also spoken with the twins to learn more about you."

Arlecchino was rather impressed with Furina's desire to learn. Some of her children ought to take a page out of Furina's book, and it would certainly make her life easier.

"Quite the sleuth, aren't we. Now tell me what Lynette has told you. Something about my dreams and glitching, perhaps." Furina jumped. How did Arlecchino know it was Lynette specifically and what she shared with Furina?

"Um, well, yes. It was Lynette who told me about the dreams and stuff. How exactly did you know it was Lynette? I could've sworn my tea party with her at a cat cafe was private." Lynette didn't break their agreement. Did she?

"Lyney might be good at reading people and collecting information. However, he hasn't seen the true reality of me. The other children, Lyney included, plus the Traveller, have seen my more destructive form. However, only Lynette has seen me glitch or be aware of my nightmares. I revealed them to her when she was younger and was still facing the worst of her own nightmares. I believed it would provide comfort, knowing she wasn't alone in facing unpleasant dreams. It worked after a while. She's known of my glitching from the day we met. I had unintentionally glitched as I snapped her abusers out of existence. I wanted the process to be as smooth as possible not to traumatize the poor girl further. Hacking and slashing, no matter how graceful, wouldn't have helped. A quick death no matter how undeserving of one they were."

How can this woman speak of such actions with grace and tact? It's like Arlecchino's talking about the weather, not how she snapped people out of existence!? Furina gaped.

"Ah, well, I suppose that's fair. Anyway, me and the Traveller also met. They mentioned how you were the 'cinders of two world's flames'. They also mentioned the spiral abyss that they visit to undertake trials. I was wondering if they had something to do with your story." Furina felt fear creep up her spine as a droplet of sweat ran down her face.

Arlecchino stared at Furina, watching her face twitch. What a smart girl. Arlecchino supposed there was no harm in the Traveller and Furina communicating. They both knew they were no match just yet.

"I can not personally confirm whether or not you are correct regarding the spiral abyss. My memory is hazy and almost non-existent for anything prior to my stay at the House of the Hearth. The most I can remember is the day Crucabena found me. I was a mess, starving and tired. She promptly took me. No questions asked. She would present me to the Tsaritsa to gain favour all because I was special. The entirety of the Harbingers are misfits. Outsiders. Even the most normal looking are far from it."

"Why are you Fourth?"

Furina piped up without thinking.

"Well, in terms of my strength to the Tsaritsa's plan, I'm 4th in line. Cleansing flames are quite handy. It's what makes me strong in her eyes, especially for her goal. Crucabena was also Fourth but for a different reason. I'm sure you can figure out why. Especially with the book I gave you." Well, Furina unlocked a new fear. Thank goodness she wasn't an Archon anymore she'd dread to see the Tsaritsa.

Whatever could that God be planning? Something destructive and worldwide. Just what would the Tsaritsa be planning to do with the gnosis?

"There isn't much about how the Crimson moon worked, and I've always wondered just how strong you were. Not that I would want to challenge you, hehe... definitely not." Furina nervously chuckled. Why was it so hard to stay confident around this woman!?

"Not as strong as I could be."

"WHAT!?"

Furina panicked. Dear Focalors, this woman couldn't get any scarier! What does she mean 'not as strong as she could be'?!

Furina paled as she gaped and panicked in front of Arlecchino. All while Arlecchino remained steadfast and un-bothered by the display before her.

"Now how about we focus on you, Furina?"

This was not what Furina had in mind.

"Well, Um, what do you mean, Knave?"

Furina tried to calm her nerves as the spotlight shifted directly onto her.

"Well, I'm very aware you don't like me. You even have nightmares over me and wish you could forget all about me. So pray tell, why are you investigating me more? Do you not listen to your instincts? Was knowing my past not enough to drive you away, content?" Arlecchino bored holes into Furina's soul. She felt like a rabbit staring into the eyes of a wolf. Watching as the wolf was deciding whether to not to bite.

 

"....Something draws me to you. Like I could understand you, help you with your curse."

Arlecchino's eyes sharpened.

"You wouldn't understand. You escaped your curse. I will never escape mine. I'm bound to this fate, I owe the moon my existence. I am destined to be a monster. You got a second chance. Don't waste it on me."

Furina curled into herself as Arlecchino spoke sharply. Her words felt like daggers digging deep into her skin. She could feel her heart ache as Arlecchino scolded her. Why did it hurt this time?

"Then let me understand. I want to know you, Arlecchino. I don't care what teeth you bear at me, I won't run away." This was Furina's life. She could do what she wanted with it. No matter how scared she was of Arlecchino. She couldn't forget her. Not now. Not ever.

"Then what a fool you are. You've been granted an unconditional second chance at life, and you aren't valuing it. So run along now, Lady Furina. Our business here is complete. I owe you nothing, and you owe me nothing."

Furina stared into Arlecchino's eyes. No matter how much she wanted to point out, the sadness buried beneath the malice. She wavered first and backed down. Perhaps she ought to live her life without Arlecchino and grow content with the dreams that haunt her. Even if she desperately wanted to cling to their fragile relationship.

"Farewell, Furina." Arlecchino bid Furina goodbye. Watching her walk down the hill and past. Heart clenching as she did so. Her arms burned ever so slightly. However, Furina struck a cord in her. How dare she waste this second chance, so many people deserved one they couldn't get. Clervie deserved a second chance at life.

 

Clervie.....

 

––x––

 

Arlecchino didn't have time to for love. It was such a painfully beautiful thing. The idea of being sp bare and vulnerable with someone, only for them to reciprocate, made Arlecchino sick. Love made you impulsive. Weak.

She had loved Clervie, but then she was gone, murdered and erased, at the fault of her own hands. The very same hands of which a seemingly forgotten curse would spread up them. Arlecchino supposed it was her punishment. Watching as her arms became a canvas to inky diamonds. Returning her to her originial plan before she let love change it.

However, even if she had abandoned simple pleasures, her comrades hadn't. Her affairs with two other Harbingers were never out of love but rather out of raunchy desire for touch. They couldn't love her. One sick over her lost lover that no one else could replace. Where Arlecchino merely soothed an ache. The other so beyond this world, blissfully unaware of love. Arlecchino was their doll to indulge in the more explicit interests of humanity. Arlecchino could care with nothing to lose. She could control the dynamic. She could stay in control. Her curse couldn't spiral. Arlecchino couldn't let it happen again.

Furina was dangerous. How she so easily went from spurring malice inside Arlecchino to seeping into her walls. No wonder she could worm her way into the hearts of Fontaine and deceive them all.

She couldn't risk anything. Not when her future was so dark.

 

––●––

 

Stupid Stupid Harbinger! Ugh, Furina couldn't believe she opened up so easily. What happened to controlling the situation, to standing your ground? Furina despised Arlecchino more than ever. That woman always managed to get on her nerves. Like some pesty fly that wouldn't leave you alone.

Bribing her with cakes, then being so open to her about her past only to tell her to go away. Ugh, how horrible.

Wait.

Why was Furina so affected by this?

Ugh, Furina refused to allow the Knave to live rent-free in her head.

Now she had to walk all the way back to The Court, and she got hardly anything out of this stupid journey. Furina couldn't decide what she was more angry at Arlecchino or the journey it took just to get to the stupid ruins. One one hand, it felt like she was at the tea party once again, the diplomatic punching bag of Arlecchino. The other felt like she was walking through the desert with not a drop of water.

Ugh! Furina kicked at the sand, creating little burrows where her foot had been. She'd gone on a detour towards the shores of Fontaine. If she had walked all the way out to here, she would most certainly make the most of it. Here, Furina could look out and coo over the cute chubby faces of the blubberbeasts. Such adorable creatures soothed all her worries, especially when she squished their chubby cheaks. It was a thousand times better when it was a little baby.

Fuirna was startled away from her obsession over the blubberbeast by the clicking of clockwork meka behind her. The meka didn't tend to get too close to the shores. The waters would damage their clockwork.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't the great Hydro fraud." A gruff voice was muffled by the fabric of a bandana.

Furina turned and saw treasure hoarders alongside two clockwork meka. Their large looming frames cast shadows over her. Cornering her.

"What do you want?"

Furina drew her sword. Only for an electro charged weapon to appear in front of her face. Electro sparked out violently in front of her, threatening to jump and shock her. The clockwork meka was pinned and poised to jump out the moment she made any harsh movements. Furina felt fear course through her as her sword felt less like a weapon and more like a numb arm.

"Well, we're here to bring justice to Fontaine and deliver the death sentence."

Death... sentence?

Furina's chest felt heavy. Why couldn't she breathe? The sword of the clockwork meka pointed directly at her. The fine point so perfectly carved a held with artificial experience. Justice? Death sentence? No, no, no. The clangs of the mecha parts echoed through her ears, the mecha's sword inched ever so closer to her face. Unwavering. Just like..... the sword of Clorinde.

She was pushed backwards into the water by some force before a wave of heat brushed against her skin.

The water lapped at her ankles and hands. Her clothes slowly soaked up the water weighing heavy upon her soul. Was it happening again? Did she fail?

Her vision began to blur as tears clouded her face. The past and present blurred together in a horrible mix. She couldn't win against Clorinde. She couldn't win. She's lost.

She could hear only the announcement of her death sentence. Neuvillette's voice haunts her very being. Words echo throughout her very being. She did what she was told. Why was she being punished?

She was going to die. Focalors promised her reprieve eventually.

The treasure hoarder groaned Arlecchino's scythe ripped through them. Shovel dropping firmly to the ground in a clang. Fire spreading through their bodies. Cooking them alive. The bodies cleaved in half with vibrant blood pooling out of them. It flowed towards the water, staining the water and the sand it dampened to get to it. Tainting it with lost lives.

The treasurer hoarder gaped as they were impaled by the spikes Arlecchino erected from the ground. Body laying still as holes revealed their internal workings. Glass potions shattered around them

The clockwork meka clicked and clanged before an electrical screech echoed out. The machine fell to the ground in an indecipherable mess.

Furina could only stare into oblivion. She was too overwhelmed. Her body was numb. She couldn't feel anything. It was as though she was a weight sinking to the floor of the sea. A vast and empty sea. There was no world now. Fontaine would be drowned in retribution for their sins.

"Lady Furina, you need to breathe. This is only a memory you understand?"

Who was that?

"Hold onto your salon for me, please."

Oh, right, her salon. Her friends. They couldn't dissolve.

"Breathe with me, understood."

"In. One. Two. Three." Furina inhaled deeply. Furina couldn't feel any water enter her lungs as she breathed in through her nose and out her mouth.

"Out. One. Two. Three." There were no bubbles that came whenever you blew air into water.

"Miss Furina, could you tell me five things you see."

Furina looked up and saw vibrant red crosses.

"I see... vibrant crosses....grey hair... mixed with black."

"Two more, please, Lady Furina."

Furina could see her Salon.

"Look, it's Madamoiselle Crabaletta and Surintendante Chevalmarin."

Furina weakly smiled.

"I can feel her shell and his skin." It was smooth. Almost like jelly, however, it wouldn't budge no matter how hard she squished her friends.

"Very good, Lady Furina."

"You have.... a very warm hand.... Sharp nails, too."

Furina smiled. The warmth was nice. Soaked clothes were a pain. She didn't enjoy how the flood made them so heavy. She wasn't even at the Opera. She was on a beach.

"Now what can you hear?"

"You. My Salon. The water."

Furina was okay.

"Smells really damp as well. You can taste it. Eughlck. How unpalatable."

Furina complained as she cuddled into Mademoiselle Crabaletta. She was such a good rock to lean on. Surintendante Chevalmarin bubbled next to her. She giggled at his antics. Before politely smiling at Arlecchino.

"Thank you for grounding me. I don't know what happened there."

Arlecchino slightly smiled in turn. She looked so very much like Clervie. Her smile was the same as the one Clervie would give her once she stopped panicking.

"There is no need. I do this for my children whenever they need it. Poor unfortunate things."

Arlecchino was best at familial love. As a father, she could be the pillar the children could lean on and learn from. A Father wasn't vulnerable with their children.

"It's funny that you tried to kill me. You are actually quite soft sometimes. How nice."
Furina had such a sweet giggle.

Arlecchino frowned. She was going back on her words. Their business was concluded. "No. I'm not soft. You must head back now, Furina. I'm sure you have business to attend to just as I have."

Arlecchino aided Furina in standing. Before turning away. Lifting the bodies of the treasure hoarders before throwing them into the water where a beast could have its fill if so desired.

"Goodbye, Lady Furina."

"Wait."

Hmm. How oddly convicted Furina sounded. Despite the carnage she was trying to desperately ignore.

"You said you wanted me to stay away, yet you can get close. You bribed me with cakes even after you'd explained yourself once. Now you save me and help me when I'm most vulnerable when you were the one who attempted to assassinate me! It doesn't make sense!? You can't toy with me, Arlecchino. Something changed within you, Knave. Something you seem content to bury. All to contine this facade of an unfeeling monster."

Furina's voice wavered, but she stood beside her judgement. She couldn't let this opportunity slip.

Arlecchino was impressed at how perceptive Furina could be. However, she supposed that came along with the acting. To see through the masks of others and know how to create the masks. Furina was right. She tried to solve her problem by using Furina. However, that only exacerbated her issue. So she'd resolve to burry it. Drown it.

"What astute observations, Lady Furina. Tell me more." Arlecchino drawled out to prompt Furina to give her more ammunition to use against her.

"You're a Father before you're a Harbinger."

How surprising.

"You knew your children would dissolve if I didn't do something. So you went for the gnosis because you know you could wield it. You plan to weild another. You love your children. You love them so much you've accepted your fate, the moons fate for you, you know you'll need everything you can get to protect them. That why you're a harbinger. You do it out of love. Yet you deny yourself it."

Furina's voice grew stronger as she came down from an emotional high. Arlecchino was shocked. Furina had decoded her with so little information.

"What strong words. Now, what do you plan to do with the weight of those words? A harbinger is a dangerous enemy." Arlecchino pressured Furina, like a cat playing with a trapped mouse.

"I don't know. But that's okay. It's human, not to know. Like how in a new play you don't know the ending you must watch to learn so. You may be able to predict if you take the time to recount the play, but you won't know until it's over."

Furina was slowly accepting her humanity and the unknowingness of it all. Something she so deeply despised during her godhood. However, now she couldn't help but notice that perhaps this world's idea of justice is flawed. Arlecchino's story made her so very aware of Fontaine's flaws in justice.

Furina may not be a god, but she has every right, as any living thing, no matter how they were born or what they were conceived from, to judge the world.

Arlecchino's will, thus far, hasn't been an unjust one. She's had every right to hold loyalties with humanity and the Hearth alone.

Perhaps Arlecchino's own life would be a good contrast to her own. No matter what happens. Furina wants to live. To be human. Arlecchino isn't a perfect guide, but she's drawn to her, and she shall not deny herself this chance.

"Hmm. Well, you best decided now. Uncertainty is a flawed outcome."

"Well, I hope you'll be there to lean on." Furina weekly smiled at Arlecchino.

"Very well. I suppose this is only a natural progression from cakes."

"Stay with me for a while?"

"Very well, Lady Furina."

 

––x●––

 

The sun was beginning to set over Fontaine. Furina and Arlecchino had sat idle for a while. Far beyond what either party thought they'd be spending with one another. Former enemies don't make quick friends.

Furina stood up and stepped out onto the water. While Arlecchino stood on the shore.

"I'm still scared. Of you."

Furina confessed as she walked upon the water, peering down at the world below.

"Then take that fear and sharpen it. Do not let anyone use your past against you."

Furina looked back over to Arlecchino and watched her slowly step forwards balancing on thin fibres reflecting the setting sun's glow.

"Look me in the eyes, Furina."

Furina felt fear creep up her spine.

"You fear me. So, use that fear as a weapon against me."

Furina stared, droplet eyes growing large. Her breath quickened, but not for the reason she believed. Gathering her will, she shoved Arlecchino towards the shore. It was a weak push in reality. Pushing Arlecchino was like pushing a bolder.

"More."

Furina wretched her hand through the crystal water and tossed it towards Arlecchino. The wave crashed over Arlecchino soaking her.

"Again."

Furina tried harder. She smacked the water and threw her arms through it. Never once losing balance upon it.

Until she felt water hit her. A small splash.

The she burst out laughing. Furina soft giggles serenaded the sun as it finally set. Tears of laughter streaked down her face as she couldn't help laughing. Her clothes were fully soaked just like before. However, she didn't panic. She could breathe. Her salon stared up at her.

"Very good. We shall practice your confidence and fighting skills."

Furina supposed she looked forward to it.

––x●––

Notes:

A headcannon of mine is that Arlecchino slightly resents Furina. Arlecchino in her story quest goes on a very convoluted journey to prove to Clervie the House has changed. To prove Clervie is free. Arlecchino throughout is clearly shown not to be expressing how she feels about Clervie. So taking the troupe Arlecchino sees Clervie in Furina a step farther, she resents Furina slightly for getting a new chance at life. Something she wishes Clervie got. She wishes the ghost could experience what the traveller described to her. The next chapter is going to focus on how the curse affects Arlecchino's love and also making Furina hurt. (25/5/24 edited to combine the original chapter 4+5 together)

Chapter 4: Flickering Flames

Summary:

Furina under the instruction of Arlecchino spars against a myriad of different fighters. With each one she learns something about her relationship with Arlecchino. To both her chagrin and pleasure.

Furina was wrong. Real fighting was nothing like fake fighting! She groaned as the fake wooden sword smacked into her.

"Again."

Ugh what a strict person Arlecchino was. Furina felt like she was made out of jelly. She couldn't take much more of a beating.

"I know how to fight, why are you making me train?" Furina whined as Arlecchino made her get back into a proper stance. They had been sparring against each other using fake swords for a few hours at this point.

"Your technique is interesting, but your will falters too often. I hope to harden it by having you face me and some others in sparring matches. You like competition, yes? It'll do you good."

Furina must admit she was right. Furina loved a good competition, especially when it was a film competition. She could show just how great of a director she was and blow the audience away with a stormy of glory. Fighting competition, however..... Furina was certain she wasn't one for them.

"Ugh, I don't wanna. It feels horrible being all sweaty, and you aren't an easy partner, you know! Not even a tsunami could budge you!" Furina stuck her tongue out towards Arlecchino.

Arlecchino replied with a strike.

"You will. This world doesn't care for your status. You'll face something bad in the future, Lady Furina. You best prepare yourself or regret the time you didn't."

Arlecchino was a harsh instructor. Good intentions, horrible execution.

"What do you want me to become one of your child soldiers!? A cold-blooded killer."

Furina cursed how easy it was for her lips to spill how she truly felt whenever she was angry or upset. Especially when Arlecchino was in front of her. Especially when Arlecchino had a weapon in hand. Especially considering how much force Arlecchino hit her stick with to send it flying out her hands.

"Eh he...sorry?"

"Furina. Be as it may you are a capable fighter, I'm not here to coddle you nor am I here to coddle my children. However, unlike my children, who understand the need to prepare themselves and grow stronger in the eyes of the Tsaritsa, you are content to get killed. What would you have done if I wasn't there when the foolish treasure hoarders attacked you? You freeze up Furina. When something doesn't go as planned, you freeze up and accept it. What would happen if you freeze up at the wrong time?"

Furina hadn't thought about that.

"I don't know."

"Exactly. I'm not asking you to forget it all, I'm asking for you to either fight or run."

 

––x––

 

Arlecchino's grip of the training sword faltered. It clattered to the ground, leaving her hands shaking. How pitiful. Her claw like nails dug into the fleshy plam of her hand as she stared down at Furina, droplets of blood appearing around the indentations in her skin. She breathed in deeply, feeling air enter and fill her lungs. Then she breathed out, feeling the air leave her lungs. Clawed nails unfurling from the plam of her hand, reaching out towards Furina, who stared at the hand with nervous eyes.

However rather than reaching towards her heart, the hand rested firmly on her shoulder.

"You've done good work. Progress will come so long as you keep this up. Understood?"

Furina gaped. She was being praised by Arlecchino of all people.

"Thank you, but why are you being nice all of a sudden?"

Arlecchino picked up her discarded sword and carried it along with Furina's back to the case they were contained in.

"A simple bit of praise is not kindness. Surely, someone like yourself who had to deal with pompous aristocrats understands. They do enjoy coating their words even if their actions speak a thousand words of the opposite."

Furina was certainly a stickler for praise. Perhaps that was a trait all performers shared. Well, those in the lead at least.

"I know that, but it's you, Arlecchino. You're the big bad wolf, and I'm a little blue riding hood."Arlecchino huffed. Being compared to a wolf, a furry mutt. For all their prowess as hunters and pact nature, a wolf was never something Arlecchino saw herself as. A snake, perhaps. A spider, most definitely.

Spiders were such interesting creatures. The sight of them could spawn so much hatred, yet they did their duty well. Under appreciated and deeply hated.

"There's a saying is there not? About keeping your friends close and enemies closer. I think that's a good descriptor of our situation. Lady Furina."

"Hey! I thought we were getting closer!" Furina looked like a stunned puppy that was denied a treat.

"I'm merely making sure you don't let any information slip to that little reporter friend of yours. She'd do anything to get her hands on a good story, and you are Fontaine's loveable star. Who wouldn't want the star of the show to take down the big bad villain."

"Hmph. One way or another, Knave, I'll get closer to you. You'll see!" Furina pouted as she watched Arlecchino tidy and clear their little training area they had borrowed from the duelists.

"Keep dreaming, and perhaps you'll end up with another vision." Arlecchino spared a glance towards Furina's Hydro vison.

"Hey! ...That's an interesting story idea!"

 

––●––

 

It's rather terrifying to see a claymore fly towards you. Especially when it was kicked. Even if it is being kicked by one of the nicest people Furina knew. Navia.

"Ahh!" Furina scurried away from Navia towards Clorinde, who observed their friendly spar. Arlecchino recommended she spar with Navia. She believed that someone such as Navia, a strong yet kind soul, would be a good person for Furina to practice with.

Furina, while agreeing that Navia was a kind person, didn't agree to the idea of a claymore flying towards her. An elegant yet deadly move.

"Sorry!" Navia called to Furina as she gripped her axe once again.

Clorinde stepped forward and steadied Furina, who jumped slightly. "You are an admirable fighter, Furina. You too, Navia."

Navia preened at Clorinde's praise. "Thank you, Clorinde! Sorry Furina, you were a great sparring partner!" Navia voice switched between joyful to slightly remorseful rather quickly as she addressed Furina.

"I'm fine, I just didn't know you could do that, Navia."

Navia beamed. "Impressive, right? You should have seen the flushed face of Clorinde when she saw me do it in front of her, her cheek -"

"Navia, that's enough." Clorinde coughed out, cheeks speckled with a slight blush.

"Anyways, why exactly did you agree to the Knave's request, Furina? Last I checked, you two didn't seem to be on the best of terms." Clorinde faced a lightly flushed Furina who was recuperating her general persona.

"Ah well, we've been meeting with one another recently, and I had a little incident which prompted the Knave into training me in my confidence." Furina didn't expect Clorinde's shocked face or Navia's sly smile. A smile she didn't feel sat right with her.

"Meetings hmm? Are you and the Knave going on romantic dates? What an interesting relationship." Navia innocent questions made Furina's heart jump. Face flushing a deep crimson as her heart fluttered out excuses after excuses.

"No, no, no! Nothing of the sorts here! It's just... casual meetings! Yes, casual meetings! I wouldn't dare date the Knave, not in a million years!"

However, much to Furina's chagrin, Navia didn't seem convinced.

"Why would the Knave have casual meetings with you? Last I checked, she only cared about people whom she needed to cooperate with for an operation or the children of the Hearth. Do you know if the Knave has ever had such relations, Clorinde?" Navia smile dropped entirely. She had a more inquisitive look on her as she tried to remember from any of her encounters with the Knave and if the former had any relations similar to Furina's.

"No, my brief encounters with her gave me the impression that unless you had business with her or you were one of her targets, then she didn't care." Clorinde recovered effortlessly from her shock.

"Well, I suppose we have the answer to the Steambird's latest hit on Furina. I wonder what the Knave is planning." Navia pondered as she recalled the Steambird's latest hit. Charlotte had recently written an article speculating on Furina's recent trips out of the Court of Fontaine and her first meeting with Arlecchino at the Café Lutece.

Furina panicked. "Wait, hold on, what news!?"

Navia looked back at Furina from staring at Clorinde. "Oh, Charlotte recently published an article speculating on your trips outside the city and date with the Knave. She speculated you and the Knave were having a secret affair with one another."

Furina's stomach dropped.

"What! Preposterous!" Furina stared wide-eyed at both Clorinde and Navia. Heterochromatic droplets filled with trepidation.

"Hey, now we don't judge. If you want to date Arlecchino, then go ahead. It's your life now, Furina. Live it to the fullest!" Navia comforted Furina before Clorinde spoke up.

"Fontaine will be by your side if she tries anything. We will be by your side." Clorinde pulls her sword to her chest on a salute like motion.

Furina weekly smiled. "Thanks, l need time to think about this." That was a lot to process. However, the more she thought about it, the more it made sense. Arlecchino didn't show interest in any other parts of Fontaine after the flood besides Poisson. Nor did the Knave hold any meetings with anyone other than herself or Neuvillette. Two people who are deeply involved with diplomatic matters. Furthermore, Arlecchino literally has her own special operatives beneath her who follow her every command. Why would someone as busy as the Knave waste time to personally mentor and watch Furina when she could use any of her operatives or children to do so for her. Unless something was happening beneath the surface. Hidden intentions, like those in a romantic drama. Furina had a new goal in mind now. Operation: reveal the Knave's intentions! Why did Furina feel like this was going to be harder than she expected it to be. Oh, Focalors, why couldn't you give Furina some of your godly wisdom or something like that?

 

–—●––

 

Furina's next sparring partner was Lynette. It appeared Arlecchino was drawing from a manner of all different sources and fighting styles. First, it was Furina against Arlecchino. Then it was Furina verses Clorinde and Navia, respectively. Now it was Lynette. Lynette fighting style was largely identical to Arlecchino's style when she used the training sword.

"Miss Furina, why did Father request that I spar with you?" Lynettes monotone voice was slightly muted by the clang of two swords against each other.

"Your Father wants me to get stronger." Furina blocked graceful blow after graceful blow.

"Father's been acting strange recently. Perhaps you are the cause. The Hearth admires how strong you are already." Lynette appeared out of nowhere behind Furina, prompting quick action from her.

"Really?" Furina puffed up in pride at her amazing skills and praise from Lynette.

"Yes. It's quite sickening to see Father like this." Lynette bemoaned in a monotone voice before creating space between them.

"Sickening?"

"Furina, does imaging Monsuier Neuvillette in a relationship not also make you feel sick?"

"... I can understand now." Furina was mildly uncomfortable imagining someone like Neuvillette in a relationship. However, it would make for a great romantic drama. A distant judge falling in love with an ex-convict prison warden.

"I think we can call an end to this match, don't you think Lynette?" Furina put her sword away as she thanked Lynette for her time.

"Yes. Father promised me a trip to the cat café." Lynettes eyes sparkled ever so slightly as she recalled Father's promise to her. However, just before Lynette could depart from the arena, Furina asked one final question.

"Do you think your Father cares for me?" Furina felt vulnerable. She wished she could take back what she had just said.

"Yes."

What. Before Furina could inquire more about the situation, Lynette was gone. Her hydro vision glowed slightly, and her salon burst into life around her.

"What am I mean to do?" Furina bemoaned towards her salon, who looked at her before looking at one another. Then, each of them bubbled up an idea.

"Mademoiselle Crabaletta! We are not harming Arlecchino!" Furina couldn't understand why Mademoiselle Crabaletta expressed such disdain for Arlecchino. At least the others at least had more respectable ideas.

"Surintendante Chevalmarin, I don't think taking Arlecchino out on a date will really work. She'll just do the same as she did last time. Refuse to answer unless in a place without any watchful eyes. I can't exactly interrogate her either. It's the Knave she keeps anything personal to her, so burried down. It's hard to even believe she's human."

Arlecchino was such a complex character, Furina believed that talking to a brick wall would be easier than understanding Arlecchino.

"Gentilhomme Usher, your idea might just work! If we corner Arlecchino next time we spar with one another, I might just have a shot at asking Arlecchino how she feels! Operation: reveal the Knave's intention is a go! Hey, what do you mean that's not a great name. Well, why don't you come up with a better one!"

Mademoiselle Crabaletta proceeded to bubble out a better name than Furina even could have come up with.

 

––x●––

 

"Lady Furina, I'm glad to hear your training with the others is going well. Clorinde and Navia seemed impressed by your skill. My dear Lynette was also impressed."

Ah ha! That was Arlecchino. They had agreed to meet up just outside the Court of Fontaine, right behind the Palais Mermonia. The Knave wanted to see just how well Furina had progressed and also to start up the next phase of training.

"My what high praise from the Knave! So what's next?" Furina was in a great mood recently. Her Salon had been helping her with planning her mission. She was ecstatic to see it come to fruition. She just needed to know what the Knave planned for her. A spar between them, or a competition between her and some other House members.

"Bounties. On my way to handle some business with the Steambird, I picked up a few bounties for us to handle together. Sparring can not provide a similar variety and randomness that a true fight can." Arleecchino presented her the bounties. It ranged from dealing with some Mecha to Ruin machines. This wasn't what Furina expected, but it'll work just fine.

Operation: Cake Slice is a go!

––x●––

Notes:

Thank you all for 200+ kudos. If you have any questions I'll try answering them in the comments. Anyways, Arle defo wants Furina to train and be strong not only because she thinks it would benefit Furina whose been at the whim of a god and basically helpess if it wasn't for her acting for 500 years. But also because Arle doesn't want another Clervie. She wants Furina to be strong to preserve her life any way possible. On a lighter note Clorinde defo appreciates Navia's fighting style. Clorinde deserves to be a bottom.

Chapter 5: Duality of Fire

Summary:

Furina begins Operation: Cake Slice however it doesn't go as planned.

Furina was learning a lot about the Knave, yet hardly any words were exchanged.

The first bounties were against some clockwork meka and treasure hoarders. While Furina could overload the meka's systems by applying ousia, Arlecchino didn't. Her attacks were quite loud, too. Bright red tearing through treasure hoarders. Arlecchino was quite an athletic marvel. While Furina's attacks were graceful as she allowed her Salon to target the Meka, while she handled the few remaining treasure hoarders, she was nothing compared to Arlecchino.

Her polearm was also a marvel. Furina deeply adored her own personal sword. It was a beautiful symbol of authority. However, the only physical changes it underwent was correlating with the wielders' ousia or pneuma alignment. Arlecchino's polearm turned into a scythe that was just as intimidating as its wielder. Truly a marvel. If only Furina could get some props like that. Some of her performances would be more brilliant than they were originally.

Besides their weapons, their elemental reactions worked well together. Both were astoundingly strong on their own, yet when combined, they made any foe cower. Her salon would apply hydro, and Arlecchino would vaporize it with ease for a strong blow.

First Bounty down what a breeze.

 

––●––

The Ruin Machine bounty went smoothly. Well, mostly. Furina got to show just how strong she was. Arlecchino continued to support her. Yet she was no closer to finishing Operation: Cake Slice than she was when she first came up with the plan with her Salon.

Her Salon were bothering her about it as well. However, Furina didn't feel it was appropriate to bring up just yet. Even as they engaged in idle conversation between targets. Arlecchino was quite the stiff and focused fighter. She seemed in her own world of sorts. While Furina realized she was most certainly not paying as much attention since her Salon did most of the harm.

As the Ruin Machine began to twist their arms, a horrible tornado of an attack, something bad happened. Furina was not its target. Arlecchino was. She watched in shock as Arlecchino got hit but didn't falter, she disappeared?

Bright red spiked erupted and interrupted the Ruin Machine's path.

"Arle! Are you okay. Let me help you." Furina called out before she dismissed her salon in favour of another member. A special one.

The Singer of Many Waters.

"Do not falter. Bring back your salon."

How strange, Furina watched as a droplet of blood fell to the floor and burned it. She was left standing there quietly. She recalled her Salon continued to attack the Ruin Machine as Arlecchino adjusted herself. Why didn't Arlecchino accept her help?

Even upon completing the bounty, Arlecchino refused to be healed.

 

––●––

 

The final bounty was some breacher primuses. Arlecchino encouraged her to take them down herself. She stood off to the side, watching an analysisng Furina. It was far different from how it felt to be on a stage now. Where everyone stared at her with bated breath and in awe. Yet with Arlecchino, Furina felt quite exposed.

Goosebumps lined her skin as hair rose up on the back of her neck. She slowly approaches the breacher primuses. She couldn't tell if she as more nervous to fight them or to be judged by Arlecchino.

The breacher primuses notice her and quickly get ready to fight her. Mademoiselle Crabaletta quickly responds to the aggression by smashing into one. The others soon follow suit with their own attacks. Furina watches and waits. The breacher primuses create a dendro shield around themselves. This was her time she quickly interrupted it with a surging blade. Then she's free to release as much damage as she so desires, and it's paralyzed.

With a dramatic flourish, Furina bows before Arlecchino as the breacher primuses perish behind her. A show stopping moment indeed!

Furina was indubitably impressed with her own performance. She may not be a champion duelist, but she was a force to be reckoned with.

Then Gentilhomme Usher interrupted her thoughts, it was approaching night, and she hadn't made any progress with Operation: Cake Slice. Trying to conceal her panic as she watched Arlecchino approach her from the shadows, discretely trying to come up something that would give her at least some progress in her operation.

"Very good, Furina. Please remember these accomplishments and use them to drive yourself in a time of fear. You are far greater than those beggars who weild weapons and claim to be warriors."

The Knave placed a hand upon her shoulder. That seemed to be a signature thing of Arlecchino. Furina smiled, who knew being recognized for her own strength felt so good. So uniquely different from the thrill of a performance yet so similar in how they made her blood rush.

Her Salon quickly bubbled to her about her operation.

"Arlecchino, would you indulge me in star gazing tonight?" Perfect. Under the light of the moon, will Furina break down the walls of Arlecchino and lay her intentions bare.

"Very well, let us head up to a hill with a clear view of the stars." Well, that was easy. It's not a single rebuttal. Not even a downright rejection.

"Are you sure? It's alright if-"

"Furina, let's go, star gaze, shall we. Look upon the constellations of fate." Arlecchino spared a passing glance to Furina before walking off towards an ideal spot to star gaze.

 

"Don't leave me behind! How dare you!"

 

––●––

 

Stargazing with Arlecchino's was quite comforting. The silence between them was nice. It was a shame she had to break it. Even if someone once said brevity is the soul of wit, she would have to indulge in a long conversation with the Knave.

"Look, right there! It's my constellation. Animula Choragi!" Furina marvelled at how clearly she could see her constellation. The weather was perfect. Not a cloud or polluting light to be seen anywhere nearby. She was the director's little soul. Her past would forever be a part of her. No matter how much it hurt, Furina was slowly growing to accept it.

"So it is. You've a good eye, Furina." Arlecchino looked towards her constellation. Gazing upon it with just as much admiration as Furina.

"Where's yours Arlecchino?" Furina lowered her hand that was pointed towards her constellation as she turned to admire the Knave who was laying down upon the grass. Uncaring of any stains that might befall her clothes.

"Ignis Purgatorius, right over there." Arlecchino nodded towards the director rather than point at it with enthusiasm ljek Furina. Though Furins wished she had, it would save her straining her eyes just to look at a constellation. However, when she saw it, she was enthralled by it.

"Even your constellation sounds scary." Furina chuckled towards herself.

"Indeed, my fate isn't a good one. You know already by now." Arlecchino didn't have as much awe towards her own constellation. Instead, it was with something like malcontent. Or rather, mere acceptance.

"You've got time before your fate, don't you?" Furina looked towards Arlecchino. Droplet eyes peering into crosses that didn't move to acknowledge her.

"I'd rather nor tempt it. It would be a bad thing to tempt it now. Anger makes you impulsive, and sorrow makes you wave. I can not afford either. For should I tip the balance of fate, I might find myself in a tricky scenario." Well, Furina wasn't surprised by that motto. She supposed in some philosophical play someone my write that anger sorrow and happiness are the sovereign masters of humanity. Where all else is merely a mixture of the three. Yet, part of her felt uncomfortable at the sound of it.

"It doesn't stop you from being human, though. Fate is going to happen. I doubt being a little emotional will really affect it that much. You're really just gonna accept that and just wait patiently for it to happen. You not going to at least make the most out of the time you have?." Furina didn't plan for Operation: Cake Slice to derail like this. Her just tightened too much for comfort.

"Hmm, just as I mentioned before, you don't understand. When Clervie died, my curse spread more than it ever did before, and it was made worse by my anger for Crucabena. Only when she died did I eventually manage to control my curse. Anger and sorrow plague me. My fate is tied to my curse. Unlike you, there is no room for humanity." Arlecchino stood up. Her crosses burned brightly in the night. They watched and targeted every one of Furina's movements.

"You don't get to talk down to me, Knave." Furina looked up towards the Knave. If the Knave wanted her to use her strength to cover her fear, then Furina would give her a first hand demonstration.

"On that note, you don't get to assume you know me, Furina." The Knave bored holes into Furina's defenses. This was just like the night the Knave laid her hands upon Furina. To steal the heart of god from her. The gnosis.

"I yearned to know what it was like to be human. I looked upon people like Navia and wondered what life would be like if I could be more than just a fraud. You, Arlecchino, refuse to make a bet with fate. So what if grief and malice make your curse spread because that's what it is! I may not know what it is exactly, but all I know is that you are still human! Malice and grief are not the be all end all of humanity. I don't know how important Clervie was to you, but I know she had an impact on you. So tell me, Peruere. Are you really living the life she would've wanted for you? Does being a distant force really make you happy? Don't you want to love a little it wouldn't hurt!"

Furina felt tears stream down her face. It seemed like crying was her signature thing. Whether she was angry, happy, or sad. However, when she looked into Arlecchino's eyes, all she saw was a stunned face staring back at her. Operation: Cake Slice be damned. She wouldn't get an answer from the cold-hearted Knave on whether she cared for Furina or not.

"Farewell, Arle." Furina didn't wait for an answer before she stormed off. Right now, she wanted to get home and curl up in bed with her salon. Arlecchino could stay out and freeze for all Furina could care.

––x––

Arlecchino was stunned. Furina made quite the decisive blow against her defences. She was thankful in part that Furina stormed off. Yet part of her wished she stayed. Even if Arlecchino couldn't answer any of Furina's questions.

Notes:

Anyways, something I realized is Arlecchino doesn't really act until push comes to shove. Her story quest is the best example. Clervie's 'ghost' clearly had been lingering for a while, Arlecchino proposes she could just kill the ghost and be over with it. However due to how much she cared for Clervie she let her linger and only when Clervie posed a threat to the house did she finally act and come up with a convoluted plan to free her. Now for Furina, humanity and her godhood are deeply intrinsic to her character, so I placed emphasis on these ideas because it makes her a good contrast to Arlecchino's inhumanness. Anyway, kudos and comments are deeply appreciated!

Chapter 6: Warmth of a Fire

Summary:

Arlecchino and Furina are lesbians.

It rained, not due to any divine influence, it was purely nature. It poured, and many of Fontaine's streets were covered in puddles. Furina would've loved to splash in them to feel that childish glee, yet she stayed inside for what felt like eternity. 

 

Her mood matched the weather on the first night after her fight with Arlecchino left her sobbing till her face felt raw. The second day, she received a knock at the door, yet couldn't be bothered to answer, and it seemed whoever was behind it understood that. They didn't announce themselves after the knock. Instead, the sounds of heels clicking against the floor faded as the individual left her door. 

 

Her salon had been awfully quiet. They didn't mention much about Arlecchino or her stupid operation. Furina didn't know what compelled her to even try to get to know Arlecchino. She had friends and plenty of people interested in becoming a suitor. Mostly because of her fame. Some were genuine. Yet, Arlecchino's blatant disposition to fate to love affected her more than she realized. 

 

This was all because of that stupid article Navia mentioned. Furina's career lived and died by the media. Yet she absolutely despised Charlotte right now. Despised the stupid, nosy, and too critical for their own good reporters. While Furina was a mostly reasonable person, when she recalled Arlecchino mentioning her visit to the Steambird, she hoped they faced the wrath of the Harbinger. Normally, she wouldn't wish for anyone to be at the mercy of the fatui, yet the boiling resentment within her was more than willing to make an exception. 

 

It's the seventh day now. She's been in her home, ignoring everyone for seven days straight. A full week. She was grateful she didn't have any business because she would be well behind any deadlines. However, her salon has come to the conclusion that a week to seclude herself away is more than enough, and that's its time to rejoin society. Part of her bad for Neuvillette and his allocated spendature targeted just for her, a more selfish and pompous part of her couldn't care. She was the one who acted. She helped save Fontaine just as much as he did. This was her thank you. 

 

"Usher nooooo, I don't want to get up. Let me lounge around for just a little bit longer.... please?" 

 

Furina's begging was answered by a swift attack of bubbles aimed towards her face. Surintendante Chevalmarin had decided to take action. If they couldn't get Furina up by persuading her with words, then actions would have to do. It was her duty as one of Furina's salon members.

 

"Fine, I'll get up. Better check the door first. All that knocking must mean something good." 

 

Furina was correct. Depending upon who was asked. As she approached her front door wearing shark-print pyjamas, Furina braced herself with what would be behind it. Upon opening the door, Furina was greeted by a blockade of gifts. It reached up to mid shin and ranged from cake boxes to flowers. A large variety or flowers that look as if someone had robbed a florist and dumped it outside her door. 

 

However, from what Furina could see, there was only one card from the person behind all this. 

 

Reaching down, Furina gently lifted the small card from where it was attached to a box of desserts. There it was. The same old handwriting all her other cake deliveries had with them. It's sharp yet flowing form, detailing poise and refined talent. There was no one else behind this. No one else wrote her cards quite like this one. Only it was the one person Furina had a rather strained relationship with currently. 

 

Arlecchino. 

 

The cards message was as short and succinct as all the others of its kind. The message was an apology of sorts, a plea. 'I apologise, Lady Furina, I hope you forgive my transgressions.' Even without a signature, Furina knew it was most certainly Arlecchino. Yet seeing the piles and piles of gifts and cake made Furina's heart clench. She had deliberately ignored every knock that came her way. Now, knowing what those knocks meant was a continued attempt at an apology. 

 

Furina felt like she also ought to apologise. For leaving Arlecchino on edge to know whether she accepted the apology and for her outburst. Arlecchino lived a different life and was bound by different laws. Furina felt selfish for her demands. Her outburst. While she had good intentions, does it really matter if the words hurt? She'd obviously pushed Arlecchino far. Even if Arlecchino remained steadfast. Unwavering. She reminded her of Neuvillette in a sense. However, their motives for staying distant and unwavering were different. There was a similarity of sorts. Both acted this way for others. 

 

Neuvillette wanted to be as just as possible. To be the most fair, so he would be distant and unwavering in the face of conflict. However, whenever it rained spontaneously, she knew he was still affected. Arlecchino was steadfast for her children. To allow the children a formidable figure who guided them, that wouldn't waver. Yet, unlike Neuvillette, who could still succumb to the burden of justice, Arlecchino didn't seem to. Arlecchino seemed unaffected. Not a crack in her facade. However, Furina supposed that Arlecchino's actions spoke for her. Why else would she be currently blockaded by a wall of gifts. 

 

Yet, a small, vocal part of Furina stood by her statement unwavering. Perhaps it was her flair for drama and performance that made her wish Arlecchino did choose to live a little bit more. Yet perhaps throwing Clervie in, someone she knew little about, to pressure Arlecchino was a distasteful move. If she wanted a relationship with Arlecchino, even just a friendship, they needed a mutal respect. One built upon mutal understanding.

 

Maybe then, she might be able to coax a little more of Arlecchino out while also respecting her boundaries. 

 

Perhaps Operation: Cake Slice wasn't abandoned. Maybe she just needed to approach it in a less confrontational manner. 

 

First, though, Furina needed to transport and organise this wall of gifts into her home. Well, at least she had the salon to help. 

 

 

––x––

 

 

Arlecchino everyday life hadn't changed much. However, that part of her continued to linger. It claimed she was a liar for declaring herself unaffected. Which, even she would admit was right. Arlecchino had left a gift after a gift at Furina's door. Re-watched films that Furina had participated in. Lingered around spots Furina liked. Read any newspaper Furina was in. Just to have some sort of connection. 

 

Arlecchino felt guilty for pushing Furina away. For whatever reason, she instinctively did so. Yet she still realised that Furina was pushing her a tad too far. Arlecchino wasn't one to be a pushover. She stood her ground. She spread rumours of herself as a monster. She would never admit to having a soft side. The children need a figure to lean on. Not cry upon. Furina was bold to claim she didn't live enough. Arlecchino bowed to none. Not even the balemoom. It screeched and cried at her. Its coagulation of voices echoed within her as she slept. It's displeasure known if not through words, then through action. 

 

Her curse. It had burned upwards a bit more recently. This turmoil caused by her relationship with Furina needed to end. Whether Furina liked it or not. If she wanted to ensure Furina didn't spill any of her secrets, she'd have an operative handle her. Arlecchino was half tempted to let Ysuet handle Furina. However, perhaps that was a tad extreme. 

 

Especially when she rewatched films featuring Furina. Those fake yet happy smiles affected her more than she'd like. What would Clervie wish for her? Her ghost was proud. Yet what would a truly grown Clervie wish for? Perhaps fate would allow Arlecchino one break. After all, perhaps it's naive of Arlecchino to believe that Furina and Clervie were alike in fate. Furina, whether she realised it or not, had a sovereign indebted to her. She had ties to the authorities of Fontaine. Furina could receive the justice that Peruere and Clervie were never able to get.  

 

Arlecchino looked towards the small gift wrapped up on her desk, awaiting delivery. Tomorrow, she would visit Furina again. Perhaps this time, there'll be a response. 

 

 

––●x–– 

 

 

This was the eighth consecutive day of giving Furina gifts. Yet unlike the previous seven days of gift giving, the forming wall was gone. This meant that either Furina or someone else removed them. 

 

Arlecchino rapped her knuckles against the door. However, before she could place the gift in front of Furina's door, it opened rather violently. Behind the door was Furina. 

 

"We need to talk. Like grownups." Furina was wearing shark-print pyjamas, and her salon was floating right behind her. With how quick the response was, Arlecchino was inclined to believe Furina had been waiting for her. 

 

"Indeed. Will you be wearing this or someone more appropriate?" It was rather adorable seeing Furina's face flush in embarrassment. The way her droplet pupils shrunk and mouth opened slightly agape. She bore resemblance to a hamster. 

 

"Um, come in. I'll be back in a moment." Furina rushed back into her home. Her salon, however, did follow. Instead, Gentilhomme Usher ushered her in. As Mademoiselle Crabaletta closed the door with a harsh clack. The salon surronded Arlecchino. Beady eyes staring at her. 

 

Ignoring them, Arlecchino approached Furina's couch. It was a pale cream colour and had a beautiful blue throw over quite literally thrown over it. The couch wasn't occupied by any typical pillows one would find upon a couch, no it instead was home to two distinct plushes. A seal and an otter. The coffee table in front of the couch also had a plush upon it. This plush was pink kitsune that sat upon a pile of light novels imported from Inzauma. 

 

Just as Arlecchino sat down upon the couch, Furina burst out of her room wearing a white t-shirt with a pale blue sweater vest on top of it. To go with it, Furina wore deep blue shorts. 

 

"I'm ready!" Furina sign-songed as her salon bubbles up compliments. Furina plopped down right next to Arlecchino.

 

"Indeed, you look very nice, Furina." Arlecchino nodded towards her, and Furina beamed back at Arlecchino. 

 

"Yes indeed I do! Do you not wear anything besides your work clothes, Arlecchino? Oh, would you like a drink? Tea? Coffee?" Furina gestured towards Gentilhomme Usher to prepare some beverages. While Furina kept their very special guest entertained. 

 

"Coffee, make it black. Now Furina, let us talk." Furina nodded towards where Gentilhomme Usher disappeared to. The way Furina and her salon communicated was deeply intriguing to Arlecchino. 

 

"Yes, let's talk. I'd like to say I'm sorry for talking to you like I did. I'm aware now that perhaps I came across a little rude. I just. You know, I wanted to know how you felt about me. You've been so confusing. You're a harbinger. A force of terror, and yet you've delivered me gifts and cakes. You've revealed your story to be, saved me, and helped me grow a bit stronger. Yet you claim there's nothing. You say I should fear you. Yet you should hate me. It doesn't help the Steambird's been on our case. They never seem to leave us alone." Furina couldn't help the words that poured out of her. 

 

Arlecchino soaked in every single one. "It is understandable that you are confused. I've not been entirely truthful towards you either. I'm secretive by default. Regardless of my employment. I must say I do think of you less of a work obligation and more of a friend perhaps. However, I will not deny that you have pushed my temper recently. I accept blame for my harshness, but Furina, you ought to be careful when poking a sleeping bear."  

 

Gentilhomme Usher returned with their drinks. A black coffee for Arlecchino and a sweet tea for Furina. Both cringed at each other's tastes. Yet they said nothing. 

 

After taking a sip of her sweet tea, Furina interrupted the brief pause between them. "I'd like to be friends, Knave. I'll be more respectful towards your past if you'll be more respectful towards me." A compromise. A reasonable one. 

 

"Very well. Let us be friends." Friends. Hmm. Arlecchino felt that word wasn't sufficient for what that part of her desired. "Now, let's discuss the finer intricacies. You still fear me, don't you. You've done well to use that fear to sharpen your teeth. However, I don't think we necessarily want to be biting each other constantly. Unless you are into that Lady Furina." Arlecchino sipped her coffee as she watched Furina cheeks flush slightly, but before she could admire any more, Mademoiselle Crabaletta cracked her claws together. 

 

"I Um. Eh. Let's not talk about biting anymore, please. You're right. However, I do still have apprehensions. I don't like how you sometimes talk down to me. I don't like how your claws seem sharper whenever they point towards me. I don't like how threatening your eyes can be Arle." Furina placed her sweet tea back upon the coffee table. Surintendante Chevalmarin floated towards Furina and offered what appeared to be a hug. Furina's eyes were filed with sadness.

 

"I apologise for making you feel any lesser than you are, Furina. I can not change my eyes. However, I could trim my nails." Arlecchino looked upon her nails. While she appreciated their sharpness, she was willing to temporarily dull them. 

 

"Please don't." A rushed confession slipped from Furina's lips. 

 

"Very well, would you like me to show you some more pleasant things my hands can do?" Arlecchino was unaware of the implications of her statements. Until Furina frantically tried to deny her request. 

 

"Arlecchino! I Um, don't you think you're going a little fast, not that I would mind but, no?" Furina's hands waved about erratically as Arlecchino processed the situation. 

 

"I didn't not mean that in a suggestive manner. I was thinking more along the lines of head pats. Lynette, when she was younger, enjoyed my nails when they scratched gently across her scalp and ears. It comforted her whenever she was stressed." Furina was about to combust. First, she took it the wrong way now that she was imagining a smaller Lynette purring at being given pets. 

 

"Yes, please." Furina asked weekly. Bowing her head for Arlecchino to rake her hand through. When Arlecchino began to scratch gently at her scalp, Furina quickly understood why a small Lynette would've loved this. She could practically purr at how pleasant it was. Maybe those claws were good at something, after all.

 

Arlecchino watched as Furina leaned into her hand. Before laying on top of her. Blissfully unaware of how close she was to her nightmare. Furina was perhaps less of a hamster, more a cat. A spoiled cat. "Furina." Arlecchino gently rugged Furina, who melted on top of her. The salon watched with beady eyes. Surintendante Chevalmarin was currently squished between Furina and Arlecchino. 

 

"Nooo, let's talk more later. You're really comfy, and I had to wake up soon early to catch you." Furina complained into Arlecchino's shoulder. Hmm, Arlecchino could spare some extra hours for Furina. The children could handle themselves for a while. She'll rewards any particularly good behaviour when she returns. Besides, it was rather nice having Furina lean on her. It stated that part of her. 

 

However, the salon seemed suspicious of Arlecchino. Mademoiselle Crabaletta and Gentilhomme Usher stared holes into her soul. Arlecchino puffed out a laugh. "Shh, don't want to disturb your master now, do you." That caused Mademoiselle Crabaletta to try barrel into Arlecchino how quickly popped Crabaletta's bubble with a singular claw. "Don't forget I two hands. One spare to deal with you lot." Arlecchino challenged the salon while keeping Furina undisturbed and absorbed in her ministrations.

 

Yet, Arlecchino couldn't deny her eyes felt heavier, like little sand bags were weighing down upon them. Furina was a pleasant cool against her. A cool wash over unending flames. Looking over at Furina, Arlecchino saw the ex-archon slumbering against her. Eyes closed and mouth very slightly open, letting out breathy snores so quite they almost escaped Arlecchino awareness. An old talent of Arlecchino that was rusting from a lack of use since Crucabena's death. Whenever Peruere and Clervie wanted to go out to star gaze, Peruere would listen by Crucabena's door to head if she was asleep or not. Listening for quite tells that Crucabena was actually slumbering. 

 

Arlecchino had no need for the skill. If any children were awake at night, they could either visit her or handle it amongst themselves. Arlecchino saw no need to punish children for such pety reasons that Crucabena did. Crucabena's reasons for punishment were as sporadic as Furina's laws were when she was playing god. 

 

No one is permitted to release any flying objects within Fontaine city limits during the first three days of each month. 

 

No child may wave a white flag of surrender during any of the 'games' or else they shall be punished. 

 

Arlecchino closed her eyes as she contemplated her newfound friendship with Fuirna. This was unlike her relationship with her colleagues. She hated most of them and faked pleasantries when needed. Threatened a good few of them into doing as she commanded. The Tsaritsa wouldn't mind replacing any of her Harbingers. Her affairs were loveless and changed little about her work life back in Snezhnaya. However, with Furina, it'll be a unique experience. Furina's flare for the extravagant. Her strong, sweet tooth. A sharp contrast to Arlecchino's brutally honest and cruel personality. Her more 'bland' taste. 

 

Arlecchino's breathing slowed. Hand slowly stopping its ministrations. She was falling asleep, just like Furina. Yet unlike Furina, her dreams did not promise good tidings. No, what awaited her was the twisted amalgamation of the 'god' that wound Arlecchino's fate around its body. Stitching her fate into the cocoon made from the fate of many Khaenri'ans. 

 

Furina's dream was much nicer. Dreaming of a tea part with all her plushes. The monster that plagued them originally was joining in as well. Sipping a cup of tea while sitting upon a chair far too short for their looming frame. Furina poured more tea for her plush friends. 

 

Furina's salon slowly disappeared. Arlecchino and Furina had fallen asleep together on the couch. However, the moment the Harbinger dared to lay a finger upon Furina in a threatening manner would be the day Arlecchino learned just how it felt to have a crab shell ram directly into your skull. They were still sceptical about how the pairs relationship went from fighting every other moment to cuddled up on the couch. So what if there was a level of mutal forgiveness and trust. So, what of both had horrific sleep schedules. Mademoiselle Crabaletta was highly against this game. Even if Surintendante Chevalmarin and Gentilhomme Usher tried to negotiate with her. Mademoiselle Crabaletta disproved of this affair. 

 

 

––x●––

Notes:

So you've probably noticed two chapters disappeared. I've merged them together because I decided that I wasn't happy with the length. I will warn you all now I'm very awkward. Anyways Arlecchino clings to false hopes cuz I say so. She willingly followed Clervie's plan even though her more realistic personality wouldve gone with the route Crucabena read out from the story book. So take this as you will. Anyways I deeply appreciate all your support. Woe shark Furina be upon ye

Chapter 7: Danger of a Fire

Summary:

Arlecchino deals with more personal aspect of her curse while Furina suffers along with her

Arlecchino was dreaming. The world was painted in the crimson moon's glow. The world was stripped of its vibrancy and reduced to nothing but red.

The balemoon glowed violently above her head. Its eye glared directly at her. The sky it found it self suspended and looked like a misshapen honeycomb. The hexagonal cells were malformed and bleeding, losing their structural integrity. The inside of the cells was a pitch black that bled outwards into a deep red. The eye of the moon was angry this time. However, she wasn't in a decaying city this time. No, Arlecchino was in Fontaine. Specifically, she was just outside the Palais Mermonia. The buildings architecture stood challenging the sky. Its pale whites stained a pinkish red. The blues were gone, replaced by a deep crimson instead. The golds were similar yet of a lighter shade.

Towards Arlecchino's left was what should have been a statue of Focalors. The Statue of the Seven was empty. It had no archon upon it. There was no ethereal glow or presence. It was just an empty podium. Decayed and cracking. Each crack was stained by the balemoon's glow. Arlecchino didn't know what to make of it. The destroyed city features no such statues. It had fetishes of an Eclipse but never a god. Perhaps Arlecchino was to take this as a sign. Symbolic of an upcoming disaster, perhaps?

Looking down upon Fontaine, Arlecchino saw a frozen nation devoid of any inhabitants. It was empty. Lifeless. The world was silent. Not even the ever-present ambience of flowing water was present. Arlecchino couldn't hear anything. Arlecchino could see books and manuscripts floating, food perfectly preserved.

Arlecchino walked towards the waterway hub devoid of all its usual inhabitants. As she approached the elevator, she was impressed to find it still functioning. However, just as she went to call the elevator, the silence was replaced by quite murmurings of children. Arlecchino couldn't make any eligible words.

The lift opened in front of her. Stepping into the life, Arlecchino felt off. Her intentions were right as the elevator descended past the Navia and Clementine lines towards the lowest level, station main hall.

Upon the opening of the elevator doors, Arlecchino was greeted to louder murmurings. However, they were still illegible. Turning into the main section of the station revealed it to be just as empty as the Palais Mermonia entrance and bridge were. Normally, it was filled with people and melusines. However, Arlecchino could make out the foot of a child moving to leave the station. Rushing towards the exit, Arlecchino tried to find the child. Upon entering Vasari Passage, the murmurings became a collective singing.

Mirages of children lined Fontaine as Arlecchino wandered throughout the streets and passages of Fontaine. The children stood as the only colourful things that lined Fontaine's streets. The children were all unaffected by the Crimson Moon's glow. The light and shadows that coated them were born of a more natural light. They were singing an unrecognizable tune, yet Arlecchino could make out a few of the words sung by the children: freedom and sin.

Every one of the children had been scorched by her flames. Some were the ones she stepped upon to reach the throne of King. Some were those who had ingested her bottled flames. Yet all were ghosts of Arlecchino's past.

Arlecchino had tamed her emotions. Anger makes impulsively, and sorrow makes hesitancy.

Yet, something weighed down up her. Looking upon these children who followed her.

The way some would dance, hands intertwined and in a circle. Others stood peeking around objects, doors, and pillars. Yet one child imparticular stood out.

Arlecchino found herself outside of Furina's apartment. The building looked untouched. It wasn't stained like the rest of Fontaine. It was its regular old white, blue, and gold. Except for the child that stood peeking around its door. Peruere.

As Arlecchino stared into Peruere identical eyes, she could feel heat rising within her. Flames crept up within her. The balemoon began crying. She could feel the tears evaporate against her skin. The pain rippled across her body. She was slowly being consumed by flames, the embers of two worlds reigniting from within her. The balemoon began to swallow her view, having fallen from its throne in the sky. It stretched and reached out towards her. The children holding hands and dancing were gradually consumed. Leaving just Arlecchino and Peruere.

Yet even young Peruere was engulfed into the crimson moon.

Leaving her the sole audience of the balemoon as it twisted and turned. The balemoon was divided between the amalgamation of wills.

What was the point of this dream?

What was the moon telling her?

 

––x●––

 

Arlecchino slowly opened her eyes. Her back ached, yet that was the least of her concerns. Her breath was strained and heavy. Her body was burning. Arlecchino was burning alive. It felt as though someone had poured oil upon ybe flames boiling in her blood. It was agony. This nightmare clearly was a punishment from the balemoon. She may weave it's cocoon but it would punish her distraction.

A muffed groan vibrated against Arlecchino's side. Looking towards the noise, she was Furina, brows cutely furrowed, nose scrunched and mouth slightly repulsed at the heat waving off of Arlecchino. Furina pushed herself weekly away from Arlecchino. Moaning in discontent at being awoken from her slumber.

"To... warm... Arle.."

Arlecchino wasn't the only one affected by her broiling blood. Arlecchino pinched the bridge of her nose as she tried to settle the flames while Furina slowly awoke.

Furina's whole brain felt numb. It felt like there were sandbags were weighing down her entire body, making it so hard to get up. Yet she couldn't stand sleeping because she felt too warm, unbearably so.

"Mmm... Crabaletta.... Usher..... make me a coffee... please." Furina rubbed her eyes, slowly clearing away the blur that blankedted her mind and eyes. Her salon quickly reappeared. Usher rushed off towards the kitchen while Surintendante Chevalmarin came and cuddled up against Furina.

 

Mademoiselle Crabaletta had other ideas. Rather than assisting her dear Furina, she stared daggers in the ailing Arlecchino. Arlecchino sat eyes scrunched shut as her blood refused to stop boiling, caressing her nose-bridge to try to release some of the pressure building up in her head. A headache was sure to permeate through the day. Arlecchino's claws dug holes into the throw. Mademoiselle Crabaletta temper boiled as she witnessed this fatui damage Furina's precious belongings. As her anger boild, Mademoiselle Crabaletta threw herself into Arlecchino's chest, smashing into it, causing a loid groaned to pass through Arlecchino's grit teeth.

"How dare you. Crab." Arlecchino growled as her red crossed eyes glowed brightly down onto the crab stuck between her claws. Furina was quickly shocked awake at the sound.

"Mademoiselle Crabaletta!" Furina wretched the squirming Crabaletta that was slowly being boiled from Arlecchino's hands. Arlecchino glared up to Furina, who stood in front of her slightly hunched form.

"Arlecchino... are you okay." As Furina redirected her attention towards Arlecchino, she noticed the other woman's obvious discomfort and anger. Worry filled Furina's gut as she recalled the time just before her impromptu nap. She was cuddling Arlecchino. That meant the sudden warmth came from Arlecchino.

"Miss Furina...." Arlecchino let out a breathy growl of agony. "Excuse me, I... need to attend to something." Arlecchino stood up shakily before tearing off her jacket, uncaring of the large tears that now ran across its chest. Her breath was laboured, and the fewer layers didn't help her temperature at all. She dragged the jacket behind her as she walked towards the door of Furina's apartment. Shakily walking away from a deeply flushed Furina.

"Wait!" Furina ran over to stop and support the trembling figure of Arlecchino. Arlecchino tried to shove Furina away, but her arms rapidly trembled, and any strength she put into the shove evaporated. In the end, Arlecchino's hand rested upon Furina's chest, knuckles pressing into the soft flesh as her hand scrunched around her jacket.

"Furina....let me go." Arlecchino's voiced lacked all its strength as the fire within her roared beyond her control. Her fingertips glowed a bright crimson that ran up all the dark marking carved into Arlecchino's skin. Thankfully, it was only her blood that boiled. The curse didn't spread any further. Arlecchino collapsed to her knees. Furina let out a gasp, and she dismissed her salon in favour of the oceanid member. A hydro ring surronded her and Arlecchino.

"Arlecchino!" Furina's hands began to tremble, never in her life has she seen something like what Arlecchino was suffering through. Furina's breathing became more tense, and she felt tears pool around her eyes, collecting together before becoming too heavy and falling down her face. Furina's mind raced as she watched Arlecchino pant and claw against her floor. Ideas of what could be wrong flashed quickly throughout her mind. Was she poisoned?! Was she having an allergic reaction?! Furina jumped from conclusion to conclusion as tears began to cloud her vision. She never felt more useless than she did right now. And Arlecchino promised not to make her feel like this! Her chest heaved out silent sobs.

Arlecchino could slowly feel her body cool, breaths slowly but still erratic and inconsistent. Normally, she could handle her blood boiling. It happened whenever she got a little, carried away per say when fighting. For some reason, it burned hotter this time. It must be a side effect from he dream. After all, her fate was stitched within the cocoon of the balemoom. Her sense slowly cleared, and she could hear quite noises.

She could slowly begin to hear sharp breaths to the side of her. Shakily, Arlecchino twisted her head to face the flushed face of a crying Furina who gripped tightly into torn her jacket. Furina's cheeks were raw from tears, eyes pink and wet from the tears streaming down her face. Arlecchino hated tears. Especially when they were wasted on her. Tears were a sign of weakness, Crucabena would punish the especially loud criers. Their pathetic, whiny noises drove her mad. Arlecchino hated them for a different reason. Tears made people too vulnerable. Yet hearing the noise and seeing them streak down Furina's face tore deeply into her soul. The noise always tore at her whenever the children would cry. Yet for Furina, it felt a thousand times worse.

However, when Arlecchino reached a shaky hand out towards Furina, she watched as the ex-archon yelped and jumped away. Cowering and wrapped around Arlecchino's jacket. So Arlecchino let her hand fall to the floor as she looked up towards the oceanid shaped summon. Pooling flames towards her hand, Arlecchino evaporated and destroyed the summon, the hydro ring that surronded and eased her boiling blood dissapered. The trio returned following the bursting of the oceanid member.

Surintendante Chevalmarin cuddled into Furina's body, and the rest surronded her. They whispered comforting words as Arlecchino looked upon them too weak to do anything.

Arlecchino reigned in the anger that slowly boiled within her. She felt angered at her display of weakness. Tearing her gaze away from Furina, Arlecchino looked up towards the window of Furina's apartment. It was late in the afternoon.

Pushing herself up from the ground, Arlecchino kneeled in front of Furina. Pupils stared into the watery droplets that seemed like they would fall with how much they were shaking. Arlecchino sat there. She couldn't find it within herself to scold Furina for crying. She promised that, after all, she wouldn't make her feel any lesser.

"Furina." Arlecchino received a hum in reply.

"Are you okay?" Arlecchino was unsure what she was doing. Typically, when handling children, she would wait for the incessant tears to stop once she scolded them for crying. Next, rather than comfort, she would find the root cause. If it was something like bullying, she'd handle it herself. If it was something more personal like grief, she'd instruct the child to spend time alone or with someone they trusted. Then Arlecchino would simply return to instructing the children. However, with Furina, she doubted this approach would work. Arlecchino supposed Furina's alignment to hydro makes her more inclined to cry. It certainly was the case for Neuvillette. She may respect aspects of the dragon, but in the end, Arlecchino sides with humanity and bows to none.

Arlecchino huffed a small laugh, thinking of Neuvillette.

For a sovereign determined to get justice for his kin against the usurpers, he certainly knew how to cry. Oftentimes, for reasons Arlecchino believed were childish. His crying over Callas' unjust death was pathetic. He had no right to cry. If it was his inaction that caused it, he held the authority to act. It also wasn't like Neuvillette wasn't able to make any laws or legislation. He made one for the melusines. To think he suggested taking on the duty of judge for even minor cases made Arlecchino laugh. Neuvillette ought to get out and speak to the more cunning individuals inhabiting Teyvat. Perhaps then, he'll make a better judgement. After all, are gods really loved truly or it merely out of respect for their authority?

Furina was different, however. Arlecchino couldn't deny that she had every right to cry till she withered. Five hundred years strung along the plan of an Archon who refused to spill any of her plans. A puppet. Furina truly made Arlecchino feel confused. The girl went against all her principles. Was emotional but not in a negative way. However, when Arlecchino watched Furina weekly shake her head no, something within her twisted. Something that denied the heat.

Arlecchino hummed.

"Furina, if you are upset at my outburst, then I shall inform you now not to worry. While I shall admit this wasn't a typical experience, it wasn't completely random. It's merely my curse acting up once again. You need not worry about my health. I would've eventually extinguished the flames till embers remained." Arlecchino didn't have the energy to maintain her usual poise and in difference, no she just felt tired. A bone deep exhaustion.

"But..." Furina weakly began. She had been having one too many emotional highs recently. "Are you sure? It was terrifying." Furina slowly untangled herself from Arlecchino's jacket. Instead, she now sat crossed legged, holding Surintendante Chevalmarin within her lap. Her face felt raw with tears. Her breathing was shaky. Maybe if she received a different element, she wouldn't cry as much. Furina stared into Arlecchino's eyes. Watching as the glowing crimson of Arlecchino's fingertips and markings slowly faded. The woman seemed to be doing no better than her.

"Yes. I am certain." Arlecchino steadied herself. Slow deep breaths.

"Oh, okay." Furina murmured into Surintendante Chevalmarin's head, ocean blue eyes stated into the floor. What the hell did Arlecchino go through if that was considered normal?

"Was that your curse?" Furina let Arlecchino's gently pick up her frail frame and lead her back towards the couch. Leaving Arlecchino's torn coat upon the floor. Upon reaching the couch, Furina promptly curled into herself, back resting against the arm of the chair. Arlecchino sat similarly. Back resting against both the arm and back of the chair. However, rather than curl up, Arlecchino sad with one leg crossed onto of the other, with one foot firmly planted upon the floor. She leaned her head against her fist as her elbow dug into the back of the chair. Were Furina not emotionally drained, she would have thought the sight was rather flustering.

It reminded her when she watched Clorinde finish a round of intense training, the way she dropped all decorum and class. The way she sat so domineering, no wonder Navia obsessed over Clorinde's physique. Or even the way Navia's back muscles stretched when she flung that gorgeous claymore around. Except this time, it was someone even more domineering.

"Yes, that was the Balemoom's influence upon me. Saying fire burns through your veins is unfortunately not a figure of speech for me." Arlecchino was exhausted. Simply lifting Furina up was more than enough to tire her out. At least she wasn't making such an annoying sound. Her doe eyes have stopped their streams.

"What is the balemoon?" Furina's questions were short and simple. If only the answer were as simple.

"It's the weapon of a long dead nation. The culmination of wills of outsiders and fellow men. The balemoon seeks up upend all that came before, cleanse the world and make anew where humanity's sovereign master is themselves." Furina's spine trembled wether from awe or fear. Arlecchino's grand description of this otherworldly entity. Her eyes grew wider as a question burned at the tip of her tongue.

"Then your curse is?" Just as the world's slipped from Furina's lips, Arlecchino answered.

"My curse is to bear the wills of a thousand outlander merged to become the greatest descender of all. To rise equal to that unconquered master."

Furina held Arlecchino's gaze. This was turning out to be one unfathomable day. Furina went from cuddling on the couch with Arlecchino. She had a panic attack as she watched Arlecchino writhe in pain and burn. Then, to hear the strangest confession of all time. Some of these plays were put to shame by reality.

"Oh."

"I hope you aren't overwhelmed so quickly." Arlecchino's tone shifted just an inch, more teasing than purely done with the world.

"No, no! I'm just contemplating yes! I am contemplating the very meaning of your words. Soaking in all to create the greatest understanding of them." Furina's more confident side burst back into the ray. She could do with some confidence.

"Is that so, I'd advise you not to spend too much time looking at the finer intricacies. Instead, you ought to go outside for a while, hang around with those close to you. It does the children wonders whenever they've had a bad day or week." Arlecchino shifted to sit properly upon the couch, back to back with it. Staring down at Long forgotten tea and coffee.

"Don't you worry about that, Knave! I've already rearranged my schedule around this week of tears! I've got a nice café trip with Navia, and then I'll be directing a new, never before seen play. It'll be my next greatest success." Furina proudly admitted in front of the Knave. She'd entirely forgotten about all upcoming plans. If it wasn't for Chevalmarin's quick whisper to Furina about her upcoming plans, Furina was sure to embarrass herself.

"Hmm, was that you who did that, or was it your salon, perhaps?" Arlecchino was pleased at hearing Furina had planned to explore the world after spending seven days trapped inside a singular apartment. She couldn't help but notice the small nudge Chevalmarin gave Furina. Those small tricks that often occur between the children who were coming up with an elaborate lie. Or between the elder children who were communicating with as few words as efficiently possible.

"I'll have you know that I, the greatest star in Fontaine, are always busy with dates and events. My salon is an extension of my brilliance. You'll be taking up more of my schedule, Knave, so don't act so coy." The title Knave to Furina appeared to hold less and less weight. It was instead used to mock Arlecchino. Furina deeply enjoyed the change in tone and conversation. While she was still tired, of course, a little banter made her feel so much better.

"I suppose I will." Arlecchino hummed in agreement. That also meant Arlecchino would have to be more open to spontaneous schedule changes. Focalors knows if Furina actually has a reasonable schedule herself or does things in an orderly manner. Arlecchino prayed the salon kept her in line.

"Hehe, I'm already looking forward to our next 'date'. You'll have front row seats to my next big play!" Furina couldn't wait to not only impress Arlecchino but all of Fontaine. She had a good feeling about this play. It wouldn't dare flop. Not on Furina's watch. Arlecchino huffed a laugh. Furina reminded Arlecchino of a couple of her children. Such as when Lyney would visit her to demonstrate a new trick he had learnt or when Lynette would ramble on about her House of Cats. Perhaps even when Freminet, despite his meek personality, would explain to her his latest development in whatever he was tinkering with.

However all good things must come to an end. It's what makes them good after all.

"Now I must bid my goodbyes. I have a Hearth to operate. This confidence does, you wonders Miss Furina." Arlecchino stood and headed to the door, sparing a brief moment to compliment Furina. Arlecchino didn't have as free of a schedule after all being a father took up most of her time. Being a harbinger came second. While she didn't appreciate how loose her lips here lips had become, it wouldn't benefit her relationship with Furina if she hadn't been as forthcoming.

Furina was overjoyed at the compliment.

"Did you hear that Crabaletta the Knave thinks my confidence does me wonders! How brilliant. Of course it would look good on me but I want to take another nap..... wait what do you mean I'm running low on groceries..oh yes of course." Looks like Furina wasn't going to nap away the exhaustion that came with crying, instead she would be making a brief trip out.

 

––x●––

 

Furina was briefly browsing the latest releases at Hubel's shop. There had been an update to the Pretty Please Kitsune Guuji novel series and Furina was dying to read it. Despite her salon recommending her not to spend too much on books. There was also a new book, well it wasn't necessarily new it had been at the store for a few weeks by now but it had escaped Furina's purview. Treasured Tales of the Chouken Shinkageuchi. It was overshadowed by its twin Shogun Almighty: Reborn as Raiden With Unlimited Power.

Furina was reading the first chapter to decide wether this would be the other book she would purchase along side the new entrance to Pretty Please Kitsune Guuji. It was a more serious book, it came from the Yae Publishing House. The first few pages despite the more serious tone caught Fuirna's eye. She felt like she could connect to one of the characters within it. The Kagemusha.

"Ah Miss Furina." Furina knew that voice. Drawing her nose out from the pages Furina turned to see Captain Chevruse.

"Ah greetings Captain Chervuse!" Snapping the book shut, Furina turned to face Chervuse. Although they never met much, Furina held a lot of respect for the Captain. Especially after her help during the Fontaine Film Festival.

"What brings you to Hubel's store?" Furina hadn't broken any of her laws which she really hated making now. At least she thought she hadn't. Why did Neuvillette keep them. Surely his more sensible personality would've had them appealed.

"I'm simply patrolling after a visit to the Steambird. They had reported some findings to the Garde, I went to collect and record their findings during my patrol. Which reminds me, they certainly switched from focusing in your relationship with that Harbinger to something else. I suspect that Harbinger was involved in it and these findings from the Steambird."

Oh right. Arlecchino mentioned she visited the Steambird to handle some business while also collecting some bounties for them to handle. Why would Arlecchino jump to dispell rumors such as those so quickly and if it was as serious as Chervuse implied then... What was that business Arlecchino had with them?

Notes:

Theres a lot of philosophical ideas that could be applied to both Furina's and Arlecchino's characters. There's just a lot of potential.

Are we approaching the end of act one? Soon. I wanna start focusing on Furina more now since I've done most of Arlecchino's exploration by now for this act specifically so prepare for more angst and fluff.

Chapter 8: Complexities of Storms

Summary:

Furina begins planning her play, however she can't quite get the characters right. So she turns to her new friend Arlecchino for help. What Furina learns from Arlecchino leaves her wondering.

Furina has had a horribly busy schedule. Interviews with the Steambird, arranging auditions for the play she was directing, and tea parties. Thankfully, she was only directing a small feature film meant to celebrate the anniversary of the Steambird's creation. However, when paring that with the play she was writing, Furina was exhausted. It's been two weeks since her 'meeting' with Arlecchino, and they haven't met up once since then. Apparently, Arlecchino had been called back to Snezhnaya for important business. Lynette hadn't been too forthcoming about what it entailed. Not even bribing her worked this time. A shame truly.

However, that's not surprising. It's the House of the Hearth. What was Furina expecting.

Yet Furina couldn't deny Arlecchino bringing a certain something to her daily life. Clorinde was a calm and reliable friend. Navia was a cheerful and clever friend. One Furina questioned how much she deserved to have. Their relationship was tumultuous at the start. Navia very reasonably held doubts and resentment towards Furina. After all, she didn't have a hand in causing the death of someone of Navia's closest allies. Yet Navia was forgiving, she brought a cheer to Furina's life. One Furina missed having. Her depression plagued her a lot.

Neuvillette was something like a friend. It was clear he felt pity for Furina. He wanted his authority back, but he just didn't realise the cost at the time. So their relationship suffered. Furina can not deny that the trial lingers and torments her. It was the other recurring nightmare that plagued her. It happened more often now since her nightmares surrounding Arlecchino had slowly faded. She couldn't say they stopped, of course. They just weren't as bad. More often than not, the scary monster out to get her became this little child who resented the world with a burning passion.

Moving onto Arlecchino. She was difficult. It was like standing next to some embers of a fire. The parts that glowed hurt when touched. Which left the extinguished sooty remains cold to the touch. Arlecchino's curse and past felt like the embers. If Furina touched them, she got burnt. Like when Arlecchino smacked the training sword out of her hands. Or when she snapped back when Furina's carelessly weaponized the little knowledge of Arlecchino's past, she knew. Then, the sooty remains felt like the cool in between. When Furina and Arlecchino handled bounties together or the constant cake deliveries.

This relationship was probably the most interesting thing in her life. Especially since she had writers block.

"Ugh, why can't I just write a stupid sentence?" Furina's head lolled backwards, staring upside down towards the other side of her room. She'd been stuck trying to figure out the character dynamics. Unlike in the two musketeers where she could easily notice where a small change could impact the whole meaning and influence the character dynamics had upon the audience. For her play, she just couldn't decide upon a dynamic.

"Ugh." Furina felt sick as blood rushed into her head, forcing her to face her scrawled script. "Do you three have any suggestions?" She looked to Usher specifically. He was the sensible one and could always come up with sensible advice. Crabaletta was good at entertaining, but Furina was slightly scared of just how violent she could be. Chevalmarin was a sweetheart but couldn't provide Furina insight on character dynamics.

"I don't know what the problem is, Usher! It's just one simple interaction between two characters meant to move the plot along! No, I'm not worried. The audience will hate it! I'm just not able to grasp the personality of the character I'm trying to write. Ugh, how is it so hard to get into character!" Furina banged her hands gently against the table.

"Chevalmarin! I will be doing no such crude act! I Furina de Fontaine wouldn't dare stoop down to such a level!" Furina's face flushed at Chevalmarin's innocent suggestion.

"Hmm, that's genius, Crabaletta! I'll go see if I can ask Arlecchino if I could watch over her children and analyse their dynamics! Arle should be home now!" Well, at least Furina hoped Arlecchino would be. She wouldn't be in Snezhnaya forever, right?

 

––x●––

 

Arlecchino had a deep appreciation for the snow. It hardly affected her. Her bloodflames would stave of the cold without much effort. However, when it came to the sun, she couldn't say the same. She'd rather spend the time in the shadows admiring the minor lives found within it than bask in the sun like some of her children would.

Fontaine had interesting weather. The constant ability for it to rain sporadically often annoyed Arlecchino. The sun still had benefits, after all. She couldn't easily dry off any of her children or guests as she could herself. The children couldn't spend as much time in the sun as they'd like to. Especially the more hyperactive ones. Furthermore, it made the world more depressing than it needed. Natural rain added a flourish to an artificial world. It continued Mother nature's true rule. However, divinely influence rain was the sorrow of a singular being spreading and growing a nation. An annoying phenomena.

Thankfully, she was fast approaching the court once again. If Fontaine could claim one thing that marked it above the rest of its nations, it had to be the sophisticated transport system. Other nations, while also having a central city where most business was carried out, lacked a central and organised system of transport. The most each nation had was dirt roads made by the constant use of the unwritten pathway. However, that was probably the only thing Fontaine claimed to do better than other nations.

It couldn't claim its law and justice to be far superior to any other nation. Liyue could perhaps claim that, after all, it was the most prosperous nation, and Arlecchino hadn't had a single orphan enter her care from Liyue. The Qixing was far too good at their duty. Especially that Tiaquan. However, far too many children in her hearth were of Fontainian descent. Arlecchino accepted all children, but when a staggering number of orphans come from a single nation, you can not help but wonder.

That same staggering number was the sole reason the Fatui set up a house within Fontaine. While Arlecchino ran more than one orphanage, Fontaine and Snezhnaya housed the largest and most sophisticated of them. Arlecchino hoped that perhaps a new law would come to pass that would allow for the Fontainian Orphanage to scale back its operations, so Snezhnaya would remain as the sole key operation centre. However, she wasn't about to make bets upon it. The last time she met with Monsieur Neuvillette, she left on a pretty sour note.

'Before you cast judgment upon the others, perhaps you should cast judgment upon yourself for the woes of the land which beckons beneath you.'

Arlecchino was quite impressed with her quick critique of Neuvillette. He was watching his face fall ever so slightly. It satisfied an ache that tormented the young child still within Arlecchino. Peruere so dearly enjoyed letting authority know she was alive and had every right to live. Even if the child's methods were not as bold as some more extreme folks. The child longed to make sure the supposed supreme justices knew just what atrocities were happening in the land they reigned over. After all, a god or dragon would have no problem dealing with the fatui since the fatui didn't want an early war.

"It was my honour to serve as your tour guide -" Arlecchino drowned out the overly peppy voice of the melusines. She has business to attend to. Typically, Arlecchino spends half of the year on Fontaine and the other half in Snezhnaya while sporadically visiting the other smaller orphanages throughout the year. Currently, Arlecchino's has spent more than the expected time in Fontaine. The Tsaritsa, upon noticing this, allowed Arlecchino to focus upon Fontaine and delay her stay in Snezhnaya until the next year. Allowed was perhaps too generous. Ordered was more fitting.

Not that Arlecchino minded. She quite enjoyed walking down the streets to Hotel Bouffes d'ete. It was the Hearth's commercial front, one of a series of buildings near to which where the children of the Hearth could stay.

As Arlecchino approached the main entrance to Hotel Bouffes d'ete, the sound of prominent giggling was heard only slightly muffled by the buildings architecture. Whatever could the children be up to?

"Father!" A small gathering of children cheered her name, what a strange greeting. The younger children did enjoy greeting their father, but it was never as excited as this. Yet it was clear the reason why they were so excited. Lady Furina sat kneeling upon the floor surrounded by some of the less energetic and outgoing children.

Hurried footsteps approached Arlecchino. Turning her head, she saw the flushed face of Lyney. He seemed rather embarrassed.

"Lyney, I would like a summary report for what happened during my absence, then a detailed one later." Arlecchino ushered the children back to Furina so she could have a brief conversation with Lyney. The children were quite happy to return to whatever Furina was entertaining them with.

"Father, the operating of the house went as smoothly as possible during your absence. Regarding Miss Furina's presence, she came just a few hours before your arrival, requesting to meet with you and to watch over the children. I found no harm in allowing her in since you have been spending a lot of time with her father." Lyney eyes pleaded with her to reveal whether she was impressed or upset at the report.

"Well done, I shall entertain our guest. Go attend to your duties." Arlecchino brushed off Lyney's presence as she approached where Lady Furina sat. Furina had a large smile upon her face as she told a tale after tale to the children. The current one fascinated even Arlecchino herself.

"The young princess ran to the queen who was badly wounded. Here, she bestowed the crown from the dying queen and told to save the people. However, that crown carried a hefty burden to it. The princess turned queen would go on to sacrifice her life for that burden. To ease the hearts of her nation even if they would never know what she sacrificed. But she didn't mind because she loved her nation with all her heart." Furina voice became rather sombre in comparison to how it was just before Arlecchino approached.

Arlecchino sat the couch just behind Furina. That tale felt rather familiar. Like she herself had been involved with it somehow.

"Children allow me some time alone with Lady Furina. Run along and play with one another." Furina's face never lost that smile etched upon it. Even as she pushed herself up from the floor to sit next to Arlecchino on the red couch as the children slowly dispersed to play somewhere else. They sat in silence for a brief while Furina's hands sat neatly upon her lap with both feet planted firmly upon the ground. Just like when Arlecchino visited her over two weeks ago. Arlecchino sat with her legs crossed, one arm slung across her lap, and the other stretched along the back cushions.

"Miss Furina, would you care to explain the reason for your visit?" Despite talking in a relatively calm voice, Furina jumped at Arlecchino's words.

"Why do you hate gods?" Furina blurted out. She had been dying to know the reasons ever since she started writing a play featuring a character who hated the gods of their world. So far, Furina had a few ways to explain their opinion: 1. Gods are just kinda evil, 2. They were usurped by a God, 3. There's no need for gods anymore. However, Furina wanted to know how someone who does hate gods thinks so who better than her dear Arlecchino. After all, this had to be the best play she's ever directed.

Arlecchino laughed slightly. A huff of a laugh. "Do you typically visit your friends and ask such heavy questions?" Furina flushed as she realized just what she was asking from Arlecchino.

"Ah well, not entirely. It's just that I'm writing a play you see, and it features a character who hates the gods. I want to make the character feel realistic, so who better to ask than you. After all, what's more realistic than drawing from life itself?" Furina seemed rather bashful at revealing the leaps she would go for her work. However, it reminded Arlecchino of her own children when they would ramble to her about something they were interested in. That glee of watching someone be purely themselves.

"Very well. Lyney also mentioned you wanted to observe the children? Is there a reason behind that?" Arlecchino was eager to learn why Furina chose to care for her children. Her earlier display certainly made Arlecchino more willing to entertain her whims to be with Furina.

"I never had a childhood," Furina voice was heavy with longing. It was rather melancholic, too. "I just existed one day because all I am is the humanity of a god devoid of its divinity. So I don't know what it's like to be a child. To have a childhood. For me, it was just to act eternally and deceive the world for as long as Focalors needed me to. I envy people like Navia. She's so human. She's lived through misery and joy so much, and look at her she shines. I don't know how much about being human so I came here. I want to explore the world through my plays and stories. Which is what I'm doing."

Furina's voice wavered, but she was filled with pride. Filled with confidence. Especially as she approached the end of her rambling. Arlecchino admired Furina. More than she ever thought she could even if Arlecchino didn't know how she felt about that realisation regarding Furina's lack of childhood. Childhood is a strange phenomenon. For everyone, it defined the rest of their lives, and yet it often felt as though your child-self wasn't actually a part of you. Rather, they were their own seperate being. Arlecchino's own childhood certainly defined a lot of her adulthood. Yet Furina lacked that very stage. Deprived of it.

"You're a very admirable character, Lady Furina." Arlecchino watched as Furina wiped a singular tear. Her face was flushed, but she was smiling. A precious smile.

"To answer your earlier question, Furina, the reason for my lack of faith in the gods comes from a variety of sources. However, if we are to ignore the balemoon, then we should look to Peruere. Peruere was raised in Fontaine and taught to worship the Tsaritsa. We are the children of snow, after all. So, in theory, I should be more devout. However, I'm not. Peruere and children in general may not be intellectuals, but it is foolish to treat them as less than a person. They learn very quickly about things like authority. Mothers and Fathers are above children because they know more. Gods then are above humanity because they have a quality that goes beyond the limits of humanity. A child can realise that. However, lives are not simple. Childhoods are not simple. If they were, I wouldn't be running an orphanage first and foremost."

The blue and red pair watched as two children began to play a game of pretend. Dolls fill in the extra spots as they play either the villain or the hero. They ran around and pretended to fight one another. Furina's story clearly had an influence upon them. Inspiring their minds to pretend.

"So when a child lives in a nation supposedly the precipice of justice but lives on to experience many injustices, they form conclusions. Especially when there is a prominent God, an Iudex, and a machine that could automate verdicts."

Furina watched as the pair that was playing began to squabble over who got to say who as they approached the next part of Furina's tale. However, before it could escalate, an older child walked over to interrupt the argument and assist the children to come to a compromise or solution to their problems. Furina's mind followed along the clear path Arlecchino was setting out for her.

"Then when the child watches a friend of theirs fail every single time they reached out to said authority, something clicks. These supposed epitomies of justice aren't as great as they claimed to be. Children oppose suffering. Everyone does. These failures breed distrust and distaine. Which linger as the child grows and becomes more 'wise'. A child isn't necessarily reasonable. So even if you tell them it was always going to fail because of this or that. The child will still be affected. It takes a long time to overcome scars."

The children were still playing with one another, but it didn't have the vigour it had before. It lacked the energy and excitement from before the argument. However, they still played with utmost joy nonetheless.

"Peruere's opinion only soured the more they grew. They could witness more from the gods. After all, people spout that we are doomed to repeat history should we forget it. Now it's not as if Peruere believed that gods can't make mistakes, no, they know mistakes happen, and some acts are simply not mistakes. There was plenty of time to help Poisson, but the gods didn't act. There were plenty of things that could limit the number of children suffering at the hands of gods. However, rather than help as many of the suffering as possible, the justices pick and choose who to help based on personal thought. Especially now. That's just Fontaine alone. There is more beyond these watery borders."

Arlecchino stood from the couch. The children were preparing to get lunch, and Arlecchino was to join them. Not before sparing Furina one last glance.

"My lack of faith comes from the gods themselves. They've given me no reason to worship them. They have given me the opposite. Humanity has proven it can exist without the influence of the gods. So are gods loved because we love the individual, or are we respecting their authority? In fear of what they could do." Furina watched as Arlecchino dissapered into a separate room. Leaving her alone with her thoughts and the weight of the conversation.

Furina felt burdened by it. She was one of those 'justices' at one point. Regardless of whether or not Arlecchino said her name or not. The implies were right there. Furina supposed she hearing how being an archon could impact so many lives indirectly was shocking.Yet it was perfect for the play. For the character. A play that could bring up a storm in Fontaine.

Just as Furina stood up, she was offered by a fatui operative whether she would like to stay for lunch. Furina denied the request her head just felt too busy to comfortably eat anything. She was then informed that Arlecchino sent her regards. That's nice, Furina supposed.

The temperature outside was cooler than inside Hotel Bouffes d'ete. It sent a shiver down Furina's spine. Hopefully, the clear weather would help clear her head. After all, how does anyone react after hearing about how their inaction caused so much pain.

Furina may not know the extent of suffering that Arlecchino faces, but it was certainly implied to be a lot. Killing your best friend? She thought killing your best friends dad was hard. That seemed even worse. It clearly impacted Arlecchino.

Furina knew she wasn't a perfect God. She knew now and probably even then there was so much she could've done. Furina could've done something to prevent the Poisson tragedy. She could've implement laws and regulations. She could've done something. However, now she lacked that authority. Stuck bearing the guilt of her inaction. Unless, if she's to strike up a storm in the hearts of Fontaine then she could bring them all together for a common matter. After all Monsuier Neuvillette was sure to respond should the media and people start making a fuss about it. It's better late than never, no?

That's it! She'd do just that! However that meant the play had to be especially good or else people will just focus upon her fame and stardom rather than the plays meaning.

 

––x●––

 

Furina finally felt like she wrote the character perfectly. Not only that, she had managed to write a whole chunk in no time. Maybe having such heavy conversations with Arlecchino was useful. Well, Furina still had to revise the play and ensure it actually made sense. Then she had to have someone review it because a second opinion always helps. Finally, she could make a final version of it that should would have produced. Ugh.

Furina wasn't lazy per-say she just didn't like paperwork. She preferred the drama, the energy over doing mundane tasks. Even when she was a young Archon and was desperately in search of a solution to the prophecy. Her mind could just wander far too easily when she did. Furina didn't like it when her mind wandered. Well, that wasn't always the case. You could have the most brilliant ideas when wandering, but wandering has no set direction. You could wander into the abyss. When Furina played as god, she often did. Her mind drifted to the prophecy, her own failures, and to whatever her Focalors told her. She'd then end up twisting herself into an anxiety ridden mess.

Which was never pleasant.

While she acknowledged she couldn't run from paperwork altogether, she could at least make it more fun for herself now. She would do anything to see this play reach into the hearts of Fontaine. Her salon could also help her whenever she got bored. After all, a vision is an extension upon the bearer.

However, who would be willing to beta read her work. She didn't want to bother anyone, so someone like Neuvillette or Clorinde wouldn't do. Charlotte definitely not. Lyney and Lynette? No, they'd spill it to their father. Furina didn't want Arlecchino to read her play. At least not yet. Who else did she know? Chiori is a no. She's a tad too sharp sometimes. Navia? Navia might be willing, but she's someone like Clorinde. Busy with duties and responsibilities. Navia was the head of the Spina de Rosula.

Next time she runs into her, she will just have to ask. Perhaps even bring an offering of cake. Huh. Arlecchino's ways are rubbing off on Furina.

Regardless, it was time to get this show on the road! Well, after some good macaroni. She bought some new ingredients and seasoning to try with her macaroni. Oh, she just couldn't wait!

Notes:

Arlecchino wasn't raised not to like archons and stuff, in fact she was raised the complete opposite. This means her ideologies surrounding gods and humanity come purely from her own observations and experiences. Rather than a cultural belief. This chapter is probably one of the most thought intensive chapters I've ever wrote. Purely because of these implications. That's not getting started on Furina. Someone who lacks a childhood, a defining stage in human development. She just spawned in one day and had to learn to play god as soon as possible. That's a lot to explore. Imma be putting yall through the wringer. Regardless I'm sure all of yall who have been so kind to leave kudos and comments, even the few who have bookmarked this work, will probably enjoy what the future chapters hold because I am determined to explore these intricacies. I appreciate all the support.

Chapter 9: Sustaining Water

Summary:

Furina's minds ponders over some thought provoking ideas as she eats desserts with Navia. Arlecchino is nowhere to be seen.

Furina was exhausted. She had spent the entire night working on her play and didn't even sleep a wink of sleep. Yet she needed to get groceries once again. She had also remembered she didn't ask Arlecchino what business she had with the Steambird. Which quite frankly annoyed her. She was currently reading an article written by the Steambird when it hit her. The article itself was detailing how a Fontainian noble had been doing some illegal business with the Gardes and some outside sources. They were scheduled for a trail within the coming days. This drama quickly spread across Fontaine. Furina could hear whispers around her talking about it as she sat at Café Lutece.

Furina wasn't necessarily shocked. She recognised the man in the photograph. Gabriel Allard. He was an unpleasant man to be around. The brief times she had met him after a stellar performance always dampened the night. A truly disgusting man. Furina was glad misfortune had befallen him.

However, it only raised questions on how they uncovered these illicit acts. The photos and evidence provided had come from a 'reliable, outside source' the Steambird had connections with. Furina knew there were plenty of spy organisations. She was currently involved with a leader of one. However, something felt fishy. Before the article was a disclaimer that discredited and redacted a previous article.

The one involving Furina and Arlecchino.

Did Arlecchino provide this evidence? Why?

Yet before Furina could think too much about it, her ears twitched ever so slightly. There were some children and Navia coming to visit the Café. Navia! She needed to speak with her. Hurriedly placing the newspaper down, she rushed over to where Navia was buying some children fonta.

"Navia!" Furina watched as blue eyes flicked towards her, widening in joy, and Navia noticed just who it was.

"Furina! Hello! Would you like a fonta?" Navia smiled down at Furina. She hadn't bought herself a fonta, only the various children who had followed her.

"No, thank you! Are you free anytime soon?" Furina watched as Navia led her to where the children had run off too. That sat at their own table chugging down their fonta faster than Furina could eat a slice of cake.

"I'm free tomorrow if you'd like, what's the occasion?" Navia smiled. Tomorrow, Navia hadn't planned anything besides doing what the wind told her.

"I'd like to ask that you peer reviewed my play I'm currently working on."

"I'd love to!" Navia eagerly answered Furina. Navia loved stories and novels, and getting the chance to be a part of the making of one made her heart soar. Even if it was only reviewing it.

Furina smiled. Of course, Navia would like to. Furina had participated in a campaign with her and Clorinde before, and the sheer amount of joy and fun Navia had that day should've made her the most obvious choice. Even if Furina's play wasn't going to be the happiest of ones. Tomorrow was going to be brilliant.

 

––●––

 

Furina has felt slightly off all day. She had been out and about Fontaine all day running errands. Normally, she'd catch a glimpse of the magician twins or see some children from the Hearth running around since they had been granted pocket-money to spend from Father. However, since her meeting with Arlecchino, she hasn't seen any Hearth members. It's been an entire week since then. She knew that the fatui needed to be secretive, but the House of the Hearth was still an orphanage. It shouldn't just go silent randomly.

That worried Furina. She couldn't help it. Her stomach would twist and turn every time she came up with a new explanation for the silence.

Even as she sat with Navia, discussing over macarons and tea, the back of her mind whispered to her. Whispers about how something went wrong. Something bad happened. That Arlecchino has chosen to abandon her. Perhaps she delved too deeply once again.

However, even Navia didn't have an answer to the Knave's sudden disappearance.

"The Knave is a formidable presence, so I doubt she's gotten herself into any harm. More than likely, something happened within the House of the Hearth. She's a caring leader, so I don't doubt that if something happened to the Hearth, she'd do whatever it takes to resolve the mess."

Navia was that constant wave of optimism. Her constantly cheerful voice. Furina was always in awe at her. Furina could admit she could be a bit uptight. Mean and pompous. So when looking at Navia, her golden yellows made her challenge the glory of the sun. Her warmth and care challenged it as well. Her hugs were especially warm. Her words helped ease some of Furina's nerves.

"I suppose I can agree to such claims. Besides, that's not why we are here, after all. Now, would you do me the honours and sing me the praises for my upcoming play." Furina was only slightly desperate for feedback. No matter how critically acclaimed she was, Furina needed someone else to review her work and tell her about it. It had to meet her standards. Getting reviews, comments, and critiques helped her reach. She could improve the work herself but another opinion would always be good. Especially since the focus of the play is on childhood. Something Furina couldn't tell how she felt, knowing she didn't have one.

One one hand, she was glad she didn't have a childhood. A childhood meant sacrificing some of what she experienced. Children are honest, but Furina knew they didn't always appreciate what was right in front of them. Once a child came up to her, while they knew she was their God, they didn't care and asked a rather strange question: Do gods also bleed sometimes like their mother did? When asked that question, Furina remembered the dread that ran down her spine until she realised they were asking if she had periods. Periods. Furina would never be able to live with the sheer embarrassment being a child brings you. The mess, the ick, the stupidity that a childhood could consist of, made her deeply uncomfortable. Furina held herself and others to high standards. Standards were the last priority of children.

On the other hand, Furina longed for those experiences. She could relate to other people. She could relate to Navia or Clorinde whenever they mentioned something from their childhood. Maybe being a bit embarrassing or messy wasn't bad. The way Navia described running around and playing hide and seek in Fleuve Cendre with so much longing affected Furina more than she admitted. Navia sounded so nostalgic. That she'd do anything to experience something like that again. Something Furina wouldn't ever be able to experience. After all, being an adult taints the ignorant bliss that childhood is. Furina was always meant to be an adult. Maybe acting is her way to play pretend. Just like a child. Just like what Navia and Clorinde would do.

Furina wished she could experience what it's like to be a child.

Even if it was just a wish.

"It's quite a gripping story so far! The relationship between the two main characters reminds me of my relationship with Clorinde." Navia's voice fell slightly as she began to ramble longingly about memories of her and Clorinde. Furina felt jealous almost. Almost. Knowing Clorinde's and Navia's relationship of childhood friends to lovers made Furina's heart warm. However, whenever she tried to imagine herself in such a situation, it never worked. Something felt off.

Maybe it was the unnamed person she would imagine herself with, or maybe it was her lack of childhood. Furina leaned more to the unnamed person. Perhaps she ought to get her affairs a bit messy. She's been single for five hundred years. Five. Hundred. Years. You've got to let a girl live a little eventually. She's earned it.

"Gosh, when Clorinde was younger, she was so stiff around me to begin with. I reckon it had something to do with that master of her. Clori was obedient, so whenever I demaned something, she would agree wholeheartedly. Even as we got older."

Furina sipped her tea as she soaked in the information. It didn't shock Furina one bit. All you had to do was take a look at Clorinde and Navia to see just how whipped Clorinde was for Navia. Gosh, when she encountered the duo during Lantern Rite, she felt like she was third wheeling them. Intruding on such a personal moment.

"If you asked her to jump, she'd respond how high." Furina mumbled into her tea.

"Pardon?" Navia took one of the macarons she baked as she paused her rambles about her and Clorinde's memories together.

"Nothing! Now, how else do you feel about it? I will graciously take any criticism." Furina would make an exception for Navia. If it was any other person, she'd go and embarrass them as she out performs whatever they had criticised her on. She was the greatest star, after all. No one could best her at acting. No one could pull off acting as a God for five hundred years without a single person being suspicious. Well, till the very end, Furina had grown tired of the role.

"Hmmm, l suppose this relationship feels like it's missing someone. You know?" Navia couldn't quite put her finger on it. It was like when Navia was so close to solving a case, but she was just missing one last piece of evidence. Or when Clorinde was planning a surprise but just wouldn't tell Navia what it was. The dynamic between the two main characters was missing that one key link or dynamic.

Furina nodded, nor entirely sure what was missing. Her muse for the dynamics wasn't an open muse. Furina's muse was probably the most difficult woman out there. "I suppose so. It's inspired by a real person, after all." Furina offhandedly commented as she schemed a way to learn more. What? Furina liked to be extravagant, and where's the fun in simply asking?

"Oh! Then why don't you ask them, I'm sure they'd be willing to be interviewed by you, Furina." Navia seemed to glow at the suggestion. However, Furina was much the opposite. All her information so far came from following the flow of things. Which so far has been rather rocky. So getting information getting information directly from them was going to be like talking to a brick wall.

"Well, that might be difficult. They're like Clorinde when it comes to being open about themselves and their emotions. It's probably worse." Furina giggled as she saw the dread that filled Navia's face. They may be close, but Navia would fervently deny that Clorinde was emotionally open.

"Yikes, well, I'm sure you'll succeed. You're Furina. After all, there's no challenge you can't overcome." Furina smiled just like how Navia did. Navia always believed in the good of people. She always knew how to look on the bright side. Even in her worst moments, she never gave up. Something Furina found admirable. Focalors once mentioned that Furina was perfectly human, but Furina thought that Navia was perhaps even more perfect than Furina was.

"Navia, could you tell me about your childhood?" Furina watched as Navia gave her one last emphatic smile before beginning her tangent about Clorinde all over again.

"Well, where to begin. Oh, there was this one time on Clorinde's eleventh birthday where we wanted to make this one better than the last because that one sucked so mean, and dad spent all night preparing a surprise for her. It was a challenge since we needed to keep it from her, so I eventually ended up dragging her all around the Belleau region. I spent the entire day hiding the main surprise from her anyway, but when I revealed it to her, she already knew. Can you believe it! I was shocked but she said that this birthday was the best one she'd ever had and so ever since then I've been trying to one up the previous one. Even when we were distant."

Furina giggled at Navia's story. She wasn't surprised someone like Clorinde had already guessed the surprise. Even when she could be rather dense, Furina knew Clorinde was conscious of those around her. It's why she stayed away from Navia. Clorinde had let it slip to her when she was off her usual one day. Then Furina promptly ordered the duelist to go home with no 'buts' or refusals. Furina kmew how much Clorinde mourned Callas. It was a cruel joke to make her duel him, but the court had to acquiesce to his wish. Which left Clorinde to grieve alone as she ran away from Navia. Perhaps that's another thing Clorinde got from her master.

Ah, that was another thing Furina had noticed about childhoods. Sometimes, it felt like you were an amalgamation of all those who impacted your childhood and made an individual.

Take Lynette, for example. You could see just how much she took after Arlecchino. From how she swung her sword , to how she drank her tea, and even what Lynette's palate was. Then she was a mix of some other parts... Like how she took after cats. The concept of childhood confused Furina so much in her five hundred years of life.

"Oh, there was this other time when I was learning just what weapon I wanted to use. I was stuck between a claymore and a sword. I had a polearm phase once but never enjoyed it. It felt off, and according to Clorinde, a sword just wasn't my style. Since she's a marechaussee hunter I took her words to heart and went with a claymore. For a while, at least. It was just so clunky and annoying to bring an umbrella and a claymore with you everywhere. So I combined the two into my dear gun-brella."

Navia smirked at that. The gun-brella perhaps was her greatest achievement of all time. Furina was proud of Splendour of Tranquil Waters, but even she couldn't compare to how pround Navia was. The gun-brella was mighty when it was in action. Furina couldn't imagine using a gun. She always felt like they weighed too much in her hand whenever she held one.

 

––x●––

 

Furina strolled through the streets of Fontaine. It was dark now. She had essentially spent a 'girls' day' with Navia. Which she would most certainly be doing again should their schedules sync up. Sitting around eating desserts and gossiping was something Furina would definitely participate in again.

However, she did have to deal with the fact that she had talked long enough for the sun to begin its descent. Furina would need to hurry home then, well, a few stops wouldn't hurt. There were cats out and about again tonight. Furina couldn't help but stop to pet each and every one. They were just so cute. They were also brilliantly smart pets. Furina preferred them over dogs. They taught you a lot of lessons without ever saying much. When Furina was just getting used to being god just a few days after she had been 'born,' she had encountered her very first cat. When she approached it, it hissed and growled in fear. That was certainly scary to a young Furina. However, when she cowered back and stopped approaching its hisses and growls stopped. It slowly approached her and rubbed its body against her. It then allowed Furina to pet it within reason, of course.

Furina hated to admit this, but that cat helped her perform better. It taught her something valuable about relationships. Which she used in her favour.

Yet as she stroked the silky back of the feline, some noise came from behind her.

Twisting around, Furina saw nothing. Nothing at all. Just empty space.

"Sorry, kitty." Furina hurriedly left the spot, glancing over her shoulder constantly.

She twisted down an alley way. It was a shortcut towards her apartment. However, just as she approached the end, she heard the whispering of voices.

"What do you mean we can't?" The first voice was definitely male and definitely angry.

"Someone let it slip to the Steambird! The fatui are also on our case!" The other voice was nervous.

We're they connected to the article somehow?

Furina stepped back. However, she bumped into a stiff frame.

Whipping around Furina saw something she wished she didn't recognise. That dark masquerade mask covering the eyes. The white and black hair slicked back to avoid blocking any already limited vision. The deep red that surronded the frames head, that converted into a black as it facef the night. The sharp metal pin that held the hood in place. The exposed arms that had the night crawling up them. The few nails that seemed dripped and stained in red blood. That oh so familiar pattern.

Was the world repeating itself?

Wait.

Notes:

I'd like to ask something of my readers. If you could take the time to either leave some feedbacks here on the fic i'd greatly appreciate it. I've been wondering recently if my work is too thought heavy. At the end or the day I'm writing lesbains and I wanna make sure my readers enjoy the experience. I appreciate all the love yall have given this fic. Apologies for the shorter chapter.

Chapter 10: The Truth Blurred by Steam

Summary:

Furina has grown. Yet before she can celebrate it, Furina is thrust admist a mess that's been building over the course of a month. To find her way out of the mess Furina must interrogate her way to the truth. Watching as new steps are taken forwards in one of her close friendships.

Furina stared into the glowing crosses. This was Arlecchino. Arlecchino! She was okay. Furina felt relief wash over her, her body sagged as the tension left it.

"Arle-" Furina was quickly hushed by Arlecchino. Eh? Furina watched as Arlecchino gently pressed her into the wall as she peered around the corner. A clawed hand resting upon Furina's shoulder. Furina's face flushed. It was suddenly rather warm. This position was rather compromising. Especially when Arlecchino was more bare than usual. Furina, control yourself. These thoughts are not appropriate for your current predicament.

Well, maybe her thoughts could wander just a little.

Arlecchino stared around the corner, eyes locking onto the two figures hunched around the outside of Beaumont Workshop. They were digging through various documents taken from the workshop, looking for a particularly incriminating order. It was a shame it wasn't there any longer.

"Damn it! Where is the order!" The first voice huffed out in anger, discarding various documents to the side in a hunt for particular document.

Furina felt she shoulder grow hot. Arlecchino's hand felt like it was burning. Yet just as Furina felt her shoulder get uncomfortably hot, the hand disappeared. Then, the sound of choking filled the air.

"Cur-,sed Fa-..tui." The male voice croaked out as blood filled his mouth. The other more stressed voice was entirely silent. Until Furina felt a wave of warmth pass by her shoulder. Rushing out of the alleyway, Furina saw Arlecchino standing there bathed in a red light that slowly faded. There was no sign of any else being there besides them.

Furina watches as Arlecchino stood above the burning embers of a blood red fire. Before she stomped the embers out. Furina stood. She didn't know what to feel. She wasn't scared for her life, but she knew that Arlecchino had murdered people.

"Arle-."

"Furina." Furina was interrupted as Arlecchino turned to face her. The slow stiff steps towards her made something broil in Furina's stomach. The warm hand was back on her shoulder. It wasn't burning hot this time. Yet Furina's face was as Arlecchino bent down to whisper into her ear. "Have no fear."

What?

Furina watched as Arlecchino returned the mess in front of her. The strewn about papers slightly singed from the flames. The way she leaned down to place the papers back into their boxes didn't help Furina's chaotic and wandering mind. Arlecchino returned them to Beaumont Workshop, placing them with their siblings. Restoring things to how it was before. Just as Arlecchino walked out from the dark workshop, Furina watched Arlecchino seem to be consumed by shadows.

"Wait! Please!" Furina didn't know why her mouth suddenly cried out. Why did her chest seem to collapse in on itself? Why was she calling out to the thing that birthed so much fear inside her?

"Furina." What is it with Arlecchino and choppy sentences all of a sudden? Furina's head hurt.

"How dare you suddenly prop back up after leaving a woman wondering! Don't you know how rude it is to tease!" Furina's felt her chest as it heaved up and down. How dare Arlecchino leave her all alone after all this mess! Furina couldn't stand feeling lonely. She hated it with a burning passion. Furina felt herself collapse onto her knees. The sharp pang of pain was lost amongst the hurricane of her mind.

"Furina."

"Would you just finish your sentence already!" Furina burst out as she pushed against Arlecchino's chest. When did she get so close? Never mind, Furina felt anger take hold over here. Thick angry tears rolled down her cheeks, mocking Arlecchino.

"Furina. Enough. I can not read minds. You have to explain to me why you are upset." Arlecchino felt her head ache slightly. She struggled handling people whenever they were emotional. Their irrational thoughts made it hard to correct the problem at hand. Arlecchino could never comprehend it. Not even with Clervie.

"Why did you leave me!" Arlecchino was shocked at that. Confused and bewildered. What did Furina mean? Arlecchino hadn't left her? All their previous meetings ended upon an agreed farewell. Regardless of if both said goodbye or not. Why was this one any different? Why was Furina acting different upon seemingly regular circumstances.

"Pardon?" Arlecchino wasn't prepared for Furina's sudden outburst.

"You just dissapered for a week straight after we had that talk! Don't you know how worried I was? I thought I did something wrong again! I thought that you realised you didn't like me anymore because of what I allowed to happen to you!" Furina's chest heaved. Her mind raced. Tears poured down her face as she held her head within her hands. Arlecchino sat silent next to her. For whatever reason, Furina couldn't help bursting out at her again.

"Answer me!"

Arlecchino stared at Furina. It was just like looking at one of her children having at outbursts at life. Seemingly fine one moment, then everything spirals down hill faster than you could blink. It was like placing an electro slime on top of a pyro slime in a bottle. So long as they didn't get stimulated, their elements would remain dormant. However, if you were to shake the bottle or press more slimes into it, despite it being full, then it would trigger the slimes and cause an overload reaction. The slimes in themselves did nothing wrong, the world itself had. Furina had likely been unaware of the building emotions within her. Then, when faced with a scenario that prompted her flight or fight response, the logic and instinct parts clashed. Thus causing her current state.

"Furina. I apologise for dissapering, but my house was out of sorts, and I needed to grant time for peace and mourning." Arlecchino stiffly consoled Furina. She wasn't the most empathetic person. Nor was she the most sympathetic.

Mourning?

Furina felt her head clear sharply as she focused upon what Arlecchino had said. Arlecchino was mouring? A sickness filled Furina.

"I shall make myself clear, Furina. I do not resent you, I have not chosen to abandon you. You've made mistakes, and I am not unreasonable to expect perfection in a crooked world. Do not waste tears upon the past. There is a future still to focus upon."

Arlecchino truthfully did not care whether Furina pitied her or felt guilty due to her childhood. It defined who Arlecchino was. She wouldn't run from it. Her bottled flames couldn't work upon the source itself. Even if they could, Arlecchino wouldn't erase the precious few memories she had. Arlecchino would only care if there should be no change in the future. The coming of a new era was the perfect time for any change to occur. When Arlecchino would cleanse the world of all that came before and burn together the two firmaments. Build a world that could nurture all children.

"Mourning?" Furina's voice was ever so weak. A pity. Arlecchino liked its bravado.

"Indeed, those individuals were related to an unfortunate incident that befall the house. I lost a few of my children that day. So, I sought to honour them while the house grieves." Arlecchino held her Hearth close to her chest so that any who dare encroach upon her hearth shall face her flames should any of the Hearth come to harm. Even burning the hands of gods.

"Oh."

Furina felt a tad foolish now. Arlecchino was allowed some distance between them. Furina couldn't monopolise her time or always be aware of what's happening in the house.

"Indeed. Now miss Furina, may I leave you be?" Arlecchino treaded carefully with her question. She didn't wish to make Furina feel like a burden, nor did she wish to disregard Furina's emotions. She had promised that. A fickle and weak promise that defined their whole friendship.

"Don't leave. Please." Furina conceded to wanting Arlecchino to stay. She couldn't bear being lonely. Not any longer. She feared the past would crawl up and eat her whole.

"Very well. Shall we return to your apartment considering its right behind us."

Oh. Furina's apartment was right behind her. Right near Beaumont Workshop.

"Ah yes." Furina allowed Arlecchino to assist her in standing. How chivalrous.

Furina led Arlecchino through the familiar plain walls until they reached her door. Furina felt so happy to be home. Why was it that when a day seems to be going good, something bad must come to ruin it? Ugh. Furina felt so tired. She just wanted to cuddle up to Monsuier Sealster and sleep for a thousand years. It was a shame she couldn't. She'd miss Navia, Clorinde, and maybe even Arlecchino.

"Would you like tea, coffee, anything?" Furina limply gestured towards her kitchen. She didn't have the energy to cook or care for any of her basic needs. However, Furina valued being a good host, especially in front of Arlecchino.

"No, thank you." Arlecchino watched as Furina plopped down onto her couch and pulled the pink fox from the coffee table into her lap. How cute? Arlecchino dictionary seemed to be failing her. It was like admiring one of those miniature spiders whose eyes took up most of their tiny frame. The wonder held within them. Furina wasn't a spider, but Arlecchino couldn't help compare sights.

An awkward silence filled the air between them. Both sat on the couch doing hardly anything. There was only the choppy breathing of Furina to disrupt the natural ambience. The salon was shockingly not present. Furina hadn't called upon them. Yet a burning question lingered between them. One Arlecchino could easily guess was held back by Furina's lips.

Yet Arlecchino let Furina speak on her own time.

Furina took a deep breath in. Holding it for a few seconds before expelling the air. Expelling the anxiety. The dread. The sorrow. It's time to put her judge skills to the test.

"Arlecchino. Answer me truthfully. What on teyvat happening?" Furina began, standing with poise and excellence. The pink fox squeezed between her elbow.

Furina pointed a finger towards the ceiling, pacing in front of Arlecchino as she prepared her first accusation and its evidence.

"First, when we went out on our bounty trip, you were the one who stopped by at the Steambird. There, you said to me that you had business to attend to. Am I correct, Lord Arlecchino." Furina stood proud in front of Arlecchino. Awaiting her confirmation.

"A trial or shall I say interrogation since you haven't accused me of anything just yet? Very well. Indeed, I did have business with the Steambird." Arlecchino mouth twitched into a smirk. This was the bravado Arlecchino enjoyed out of Furina. Confidence was oh so appealing.

"I'm getting to my accusation. Don't rush the court." The missing salon burst into life behind Furina. The court has formed, it seemed. Arlecchino wasn't sure whether she missed the salon or not. She was leaning on not liking them. This court will be far too biased. However, Furina felt quite proud of her performance. The drama of summoning her salon, as Arlecchino admitted to her question.

"Now! The Steambird recently released a retraction of a previous article. Navia's own personal testimony described the article as being a scandalous article, questioning the true nature of our relationship. Chevruse also backs up this claim in her own testimonial as she mentions how the Steambird switched from focusing on us to something else. She also so kindly mentioned that she was patrolling the court after a visit to The Steambird. Which had received some evidence! Lord Arlecchino, was it you that handed over said evidence?"

Furina and her salon turned to point at the seated Harbinger. Watching the subtle motions, the twitch of a finger. The slightly shift of hips.

"Indeed. I visited The Steambird to give it some evidence to draw its eyes away from our relationship. Now, what do you plan on doing with my confession, Lady Furina?" Arlecchino accusing voice poked a hole into Furina's confidence. No! Furina will not waver! She will get a confession out of this fatui one way or another!

"The most recent Steambird release contains a redaction for a previous article. The article in question? None other than the one detailing the rumours surrounding our relationship! Suspicious! Arlecchino, did you or did you not provide the evidence necessary for the Steambird to write its article but also to threaten it into redacting its article about us!" Furina's boldly declared. Mademoiselle Crabaletta claws cracked in cheer. Surintendante Chevalmarin and Gentilhomme Usher bubbled up their own accusations. No, Arlecchino doesn't hold affection in that manner! Shush, you two! This is important! Furina brushed aside her companions in favour of staring at Arlecchino.

Arlecchino slowly applauded Furina. Leaning back into the couch, knees crossed and eyes peering up from beneath her eyelids.

"Indeed. I used the evidence as a leverage to threaten them to pull the article from distribution. I am guilty. However, you're missing a couple of key events. How exactly will you explain the situation with the two individuals outside your apartment?" Arlecchino found a certain charm in how Furina played her role. Yet the Knave does not acquiesce so easily.

"How indeed! It's obvious, Knave. You gave The Steambird the evidence, but it was not enough for them to make too much of it, so they didn't redact the article until now! They merely focused upon other scandles and news. Over the three-ish week period, all was operating normally. Until as you stated before, an incident befall your house, causing it to go in mourning a week ago! This incident had to involve Gabriel as not a day prior did The Steambird redacted it's article and Gabriel was taken into custody! Those individuals were involved with Gabriel!"

Furina took a deep breath. Time for the finale!

"The timeline is as follows: four weeks ago, you visited the steambird in response to an article. You request the article be redacted in exchange for evidence. The article is not yet redacted but is buried under a week's worth of different news articles. However, before you can press further, you were called back to Snezhnaya for two weeks on official business. So The Steambird released the evidence to the Garde. While there is no update, the Gardes keep hold of the evidence. Upon your return, you and I have a meeting with one another. Afterwards, an incident befalls the House. This incident draws you away from Fontaine, and the Hearth shuts it's self away in mourning. During this period, you gathered enough information and finished the business your children were handling before the incident. You gave this to The Steambird. After four weeks of deliberation, the Garde are presented with enough evidence to present a case, and Gabriel Allard is placed on trial and The Steambird published its own article on the matter. The assassinations were of two people connected to your investigation! You were simply ensuring that whatever illicit acts Monsuier Allard had undergoing were truly finished once and for all."

That was exhausting. Furina breathed a deep sigh. This was no way as clear as what happened normally, but it was good enough!

"I'm impressed, Lady Furina. You are correct. I am the one behind all that has happened recently. I may not have been able to deny my children of their fate in the fatui, but I can honour them. Closing this case is exactly that. It's what they deserve, after all. They aren't merely toys to be used and replaced." Arlecchino conceded. Furina still had her touch for the court. Even if she was playing a more serious role than her usual dramatics.

"My only question now is why?" Furina was glad it was Arlecchino's turn to monologue.

"Why?" Furina stared blankly at Arlecchino. Eyes glared daggers into Arlecchino's soul as Furina slumped down onto her couch in exhaustion.

"Why did you bother dealing with The Steambird in the first place?" Furina tone was only slightly condescending. Only slightly.

"I allow certain misconceptions about me. Prejudice has a way of concealing the truth, and that is hardly to my disadvantage. However, certain misconceptions I do not allow. They are truly to my disadvantage. It would benefit us both should The Steambird keep to itself. That's why I threatened them and bothered to make an exchange with them. You won't lose face because you are associating scandalously with a fatui harbinger. I won't have to deal with the prying eyes of the other Harbingers. They are annoying enough as is."

Arlecchino scorned the thought of someone like Dottore or the Rooster prying into her business.

"What does it matter if the people talk?" Arlecchino was bewildered at that. After all their companionship had endured, Furina still wouldn't acknowledge just how special she was!? Arlecchino schooled her temper and breath.

"Furina. I've mentioned this before, but my stance hasn't changed. I respect your autonomy. I don't respect The Steambird. You may be fine and dandy standing in the news agency's spotlight. I prefer being in the shadows, and if I'm covered, it's to my benefit. That article was a thorn in my side, waiting to dig in deeper. So it indeed matters if the people talk. I don't need to deal with The Steambird making any outlandish claims that you have joined the Fatui and was spilling secrets to the Harbingers." If Furina couldn't accept how special her second chance was, then Arlecchino would simply frame it in a different way. They had agreed to a higher mutal respect after all. It's would be respectful for Furina to accept that Arlecchino conducted this business because it caused her difficulties.

"Hmm. Are you sure it's not because you are ashamed of our relationship, Arle?" A nickname? Seriously? Arlecchino preferred it when Furina used her titles more mockingly and disrespectfully. It was even paired with an outlandish claim.

"I am not ashamed, Furina. Enough with the outlandish claims." Arlecchino dismissed the ex-hydro Archon. Eyes wandering off to stare at some random decor found in Furina's home.

"Then it's because you want me to preserve and cherish my second chance." Arlecchino faced Furina once again. A singular eyebrow raised in shock.

"You mentioned before that you believed I was wasting this special second chance upon you. I don't believe that's the case, Arle. I've chosen this path. I want to be friends with you regardless of what happens or who talks. You thought you hid it well, didn't you. Good actors hone their craft to mesmerise the whole crowd. However, a master could see through another facade." Furina giggled it was kind of fun being ominous.

Especially when seeing that shocked face that painted Arlecchino's facade.

"I've learned a lot about you, Arlecchino. You never do things for a simple cut and dry reason. You complicate your word and make your actions confusing. Hiding away your true intentions. I know I can't give you the second chance I received. I know im guilty for allowing injustice to plague my home when I could have done something and I know I can"t do much anymore, but I can share your burden. It is absolutely horrible to be alone.

Furina stared at Arlecchino's face. It was a mixture of many emotions. Like a storm rumbling. This day has been quite the educational experience.

"If that's what you desire, then I shall reveal more of myself in exchange for something of yours."

Furina giggled.

 

––x●–—

Notes:

This chapter took a while because I didn't actually know how it word it. Anyways this officially marks the end of Act 1 and the beginnings of Act 2. I shall see you all for the next stage in Embers' Arlefuri relationship. Woe Shark Furina be upon ye.

Chapter 11: Joy of Water

Summary:

Furina and Arlecchino spend breakfast together before parting ways. Yet Furina's mind would be stuck on Arlecchino where she would realize something new. Her relationship had changed.

Ugh. Why did the sun have to rise so early, and why Teyvat did Furina have to live in an apartment directly opposite Beaumont Workshop. That obnoxious clanging ruins an already poor night of sleep. Anyways, Furina needed to get up today. According to Usher, today was something important that she couldn't sleep in and miss.

Furina slowly untangled herself from her sheets somehow. She always seemed to end up in a tangled mess when she slept. She'd be graceful resting under the covers just before falling asleep, to waking up as if she had fought the bed in her sleep. Legs tangled beneath various sheets, plushes, and pillows moved from their neat organization. Arm coiled around the chosen plush that she'd strangle in her sleep. Regardless, as long as she had enough hours of rest, she didn't care too much.

"Usher..." Furina let out a yawn as she stood and stretched her arms above her head, pulling her back along with it. "Could you please start boiling some water for tea..." Furina pulled her arms inwards and stretched her shoulders taunt. What should she have for breakfast today? It was a busy one, so perhaps something filling. Unless it was a party or a meeting at a restaurant, she'd have to eat light them.

"Hmm?" Furina murmed still half asleep as she heard Usher's desperate shouts for her to come look at something? The other salon members began shouting as well. Whatever could be so important, it had to interrupt her routine?

"Yes, yes, I'm coming. I haven't forgotten my name, you know." Furina murmured after another yawn. She really was tired. Just what was she busy doing last night? It wasn't working on her play. That was still neatly tucked away beneath other paperwork. Did she really spend that much time with Navia?

"Oh, would you stop shouting!" Furina snapped at her salon, rushing out her to confront whatever had the salon so up in arms.

The Knave was asleep on her couch.

The Knave. Sleeping on her couch.

Arlecchino.

Furina felt her heart rate rocket.

"No, I don't remember!?!?" Furina stared at her companions as they stared down at the sleeping Harbinger. Who looked rather peaceful and un-bothered. The usual creases and wrinkles were softened. Arlecchino looked youthful. It's a shame this wasn't a time for admiring.

Furina's eyes darted between her companions. Why on Teyvat was a harbinger sleeping on her couch. What did she do last night? Furina face felt awfully warm. Cheeks a rosy colour as her mind raced. Some thoughts were appropriate, others, not so much.

"Yes, Usher, this is different! Last time, I was getting head pats! Um." Gosh, why was it so awkward now! Furina internally debated with herself all while her salon berated and questioned her.

Mademoiselle Crabaletta was the most angry. Furina feared she would evaporate with how angry she was. Mademoiselle Crabaletta scolded Furina on how it was a dangerous thing to associate with someone as depraved as that Knave. Suggesting they ought toss the woman out of the window as a good lesson to stay away. If Furina didn't get rid of the Knave, then Crabaletta would take it into her own hands.

Surintendante Chevalmarin was happy yet concerned. Furina's happiness was their greatest priority. The Knave was a friend of Furina and brought some joy into her life. However, a reasonable seahorse would know that it's quite strange to suddenly have a harbinger asleep on the couch and remember nought of what happened last night.

Gentilhomme Usher was the most reasonable. The best course of action was to be an honourable host. Allow the Harbinger to awake on her own time and invite her to breakfast. Then, engage in conversation to figure out just what happened and to answer certain questions that were lingering between the three.

Furina closed her eyes to breathe. Okay. Yesterday, she ran some errands before meeting up with Navia. Then she spent the rest of the day having a tea party with Navia. Last night, she was up later than intended because the tea party ran on. What was next?

"Furina."

Oh, that's her name.

Wait.

Furina's eyes darted downwards to stare at red crosses that glowed dimly. Arlecchino stared blankly up at her in return. Yet before she could greet Furina further, an ear aching scream filled the room.

"AAHHH!" Furina lept back in fear. Her heart raced faster than Clorinde could move. Adrenaline ran through her, flowing through her veins. She did not expect Arlecchino to awake so suddenly. She hadn't finished her detective work just yet.

Arlecchino lept up instinctively. Body racing to silence the screaming. Mind lagging behind. Arlecchino shoved Furina against the wall and pinned a hand against her mouth. The scream was muffled until Furina understood that resistance was useless. Arlecchino could do without Furina screaming in an apartment that stood along and near some of the busiest streets of Fontaine. It would be challenging to explain it to Garde. Especially if someone like Clorinde or Neuvillette got involved. Their protectivenes would make them difficult. Perhaps it was a bad idea to stay last night. She ought to have ditched Furina.

The memories of last night slowly invaded Furina's mind. She had asked the Knave to stay. Now Furina felt rather silly for screaming. With the look on Arlecchino's face, she certainly agreed. Her brow was furrowed, and annoyance clearly painted the Harbinger's face.

"Lady Furina! Are you okay!" One of her neighbours fist knocked against the door as panic coursed through their words.

A simultaneous panic rushed through the pair. Arlecchino head turned towards the door as a frown painted her lips. Murder was an appealing option, even if it was the last resort.

Furina retched the hand down away from her mouth and held it in a crushing grip.

"I'm alright! I saw a spider, that's all!" Furina wasn't necessarily wrong. Furina prayed they accepted the excuse. She really didn't want to explain why she was currently pinned to a wall by the infamous Arlecchino. Charlotte would love to cover a headline like that. Lady Furina pinned to a wall by a fatui harbinger! How scandalous! Not that Furina minded the fact she was pinned to a wall, but even she could agree that the Steambird's nosiness could get rather annoying.

"Ah! Alright, Lady Furina! I'm glad to know you are okay!" Phew.

Arlecchino huffed out a breath. Impressed by Furina's improvise. It certainly made sure Arlecchino didn't have any extra dirty work. A cough pulled Arlecchino's attention back to Furina.

"So, Arlecchino, would you like to have breakfast with me?" Furina smiled, her grip on Arlecchino's hand slowly relaxing. It's time to get her morning back in order. Arlecchino eyed Furina. As Father, she needed to go attend the Hearth. However, her children knew well enough not to cause trouble while Father was gone. She could also deal with the work that was piling up within her office. However, if Arlecchino stayed, she could scrutinise Furina. Last night left a shocking impression, and Arlecchino needed to adjust. Furina couldn't escape now.

"Very well." Furina beamed a glowing smile up at Arlecchino. Releasing Furina's pinned wrist, Arlecchino released Furina from the wall she was pinned upon. Stepping back to allow the beaming girl to lead her towards the kitchen. The hardly tolerable salon following suit.

Furina's kitchen was basic for the most part. However, Furina had made sure to decorate the place with random items of sentimental value. Photos encased by frames decorated the various shelves. One frame in particular was coated in trinkets and stickers. It was a photo of the Fontinalia Film Festival. Everyone was smiling and celebrating a well-deserved victory. The photo was at the centre of it all, demonstrating its owners' deep love for it. All the other silly decorations were nothing in comparison to this singular photo.

"Would you like tea, coffee, macaroni. Ooo macaroni." Furina felt her stomach grumble and mouth water. Furina deeply desired macaroni. It would be a perfect comfort to make up for her chaotic morning if the Knave didn't mind, of course. Furina may slowly be developing some more sophisticated cooking skills, but macaroni would hold a special place in her heart.

"Coffee, I am not hungry." Arlecchino dismissed the Ex-hydro Archon's mumbling, taking a seat at the small dining table just off the kitchen. Arlecchino breathed a sigh, eyes falling shut. Her morning often consisted of making a cup of coffee before watching all the children gather for breakfast. Ensuring every single one of them ate something. It would do their health no good should they skip meals. Arlecchino would then either eat breakfast herself alone or skip it to begin a busy day just a little earlier. A morning with Furina would be something interesting.

"Alright! Usher, could you help me please!" Furina began to prepare a small dish of macaroni for herself, watching the water come to a boil. The silence between her and Arlecchino was somewhat comforting. There was a nice domestic feel to it. A feeling that could soothe all worries and doubts. Usher could handle the Knave while Furina handled her appetite.

The clink of a mug and plate against the table pulled Arlecchino from her meditation. A steaming cup of black coffee sat in front of her. The corners of her lips flicked up a little. It appeared Furina or Usher, for that matter, had remembered just how she liked her coffee. Furina sat before her smiling and glowing as she ate at her macaroni. It was like sparkles were falling off her frame. Her warm glow is consumed by Arlecchino's broodiness. Every bite taken was deeply appreciated, and the smile stuck throughout the chewing.

"Furina, if I may ask you a question, how exactly did you guess my intentions?" Arlecchino took a slow sip of her coffee as she watched Furina slowly comprehend the question.

"How did I know you didn't act just on your own behalf? Why it's simple of course. Our old 'tea parties' weren't so cut and dry. You said you were speaking as a Fontainian, concerned her dear Archon wasn't doing anything. We both know you aren't Fontainian. Yet your children are." Furina held a brief pause as she considered her words. Furina may know more than the average person about Arlecchino, but that didn't mean she knew everything.

"You wouldn't have dissolved, but your children would have. Know before you say a word, I am very aware you were born and raised her, but from what you've told me, you don't really hold much national pride. So you lied about being Fontainian because you wanted to save your children. I'm correct, yes?" Furina smiled at Arlecchino before diving back into her macaroni. It's best enjoyed hot after all.

"Hmmm." Arlecchino couldn't disagree. After all, Furina was right. Arlecchino wouldn't have dissolved and could care less about Fontaine as a nation. It was the orphans of Fontaine, her children that Arlecchino cared about. Yet it was better pressure to claim she was personally affected by this. Arlecchino had realized she made the same decision twice. No wonder Furina was able to guess. Furina had gotten increasingly more personal with Arlecchino. As well as being the greatest actor of all time. If Furina wasn't so nobel, then she'd certainly make a good fatui. Arlecchino would need to make adjustments. She couldn't have something like this happen. Maybe add a tad more prejudice and lies to her image.

"Quite an impressive observation. I thought I scared you enough back then that you wouldn't have been able to make such astute observations." Arlecchino sipped her coffee once again. This was some rather enjoyable coffee.

"I Furina de Fontaine do not cower so easily! I'll have you know Knave. I've done plenty of my own observations! You may think you are challenging to understand, but I shall not back down at a challenge. One day, Knave, I'll know you inside out!" Furina proudly declared. A tad unaware of the implications of her words.

"Oh? To know me inside out would require a rather personal relationship with me. Are you sure you could handle that?" Arlecchino smirked as she watched the gears turn in Furina's head. Then that typical blush painted Furina's cheeks as she realized just what she said. How embarrassing.

"I Um, not like that." Furina huffed as she ate another fork full of macaroni. "Anyways, Knave! I'm not afraid of you! If anything, you seemed more embarrassed by that article than I did. I most certainly wouldn't mind if those rumours were true." Furina proudly declared.

Arlecchino huffed a laugh, Furina would certainly be an interesting partner. Her personality was nothing like Colombina's or Rosalyne's. Colombina had an other-worldly personality. The relationship was strained when it came to the more human aspects. Colombina just couldn't quite grasp humanity. No matter how interested she was. Rosalyne was never truly able to love anyone other than Rotsam. It was always obvious that she longed not for Arlecchino but for Rotsam. Furina was nothing like that. She was human and could love and hate.

"If you had read that article, you'd understand just how outlandish they were." Furina looked oddly cute when she ate. Her cheeks puffed up, and Arlecchino felt tempted to bite them. Chew the squishy flesh. Devour the source.

"It's truly a shame I didn't get to read it. All I know about it is from second-hand sources. Why don't you spill what you know, Knave?" Furina threw a cheeky smile towards Arlecchino. Watching the glint that appeared so suddenly disappear. Furina had tempted the beast.

"If you must know. One paragraph tried to spin the tale that I was getting soft. Believing that the reason you were receiving constant cake deliveries was because I was charmed by you. Of course, now they know the Knave hasn't gone soft. My claws are still quite sharp." Arlecchino flexed her hand and studied her nails. Perhaps they were getting a little dull. They'll need a sharpening soon.

"Why do you give me cakes still?" What an innocent question. Surely the Knave won't be upset.

"You do not need to be privy to that information." Arlecchino felt a blush heat the tips of her ears. That was not a favourable question.

"Awe, Arle, are you embarrassed?" Furina felt a childish joy built up inside her. It was weirdly funny to see the friends of hers who were usually so stoic be embarrassed. It was like watching Navia embarrass Clorinde but without the flirting.

"Nonsense. Do your other friends not provide gifts? I was under the impression that Miss Navia was quite the gift giver. Every meeting I have had with her, she always brings freshly baked macarons with her." Arlecchino's quickly shot back. This was unbecoming how her. How could she slip up so easily, yet that other part of her was rather ecstatic to share this moment with Furina. It was better when that part was silent.

"But Arle, you're the only person who gifts me cakes daily." Furina beamed, she had finished her macaroni and set her full attention upon Arlecchino. She was enjoying seeing Arle squirm. Even if it wasn't much.

"Of course, I'm making up for past wrongdoings. You are my friend, after all." Arlecchino felt like young Peruere once again. A hormonal mess. Always floundering around to see Clervie smile. It was hard for Peruere to remain distant. Clervie was like the sun, Peruere was Teyvat eternally orbiting around her.

"Aweee, you really do care for me!" Furina didn't think she could smile any harder. The muscles in her cheeks slightly aching at how happy she was. It was so nice knowing someone cared. It made doing anything just a little easier.

Arlecchino huffed. This morning was a disaster. The only benefit to it so far is that she had learned her weakness and how to improve it. Arlecchino's eyes flicked towards the closest clock in the room. A chance to escape. Her Hearth required her.

"Furina, it was a pleasure to spend the morning with you. I shall deliver a copy of the article alongside your daily cakes. I must leave and tend to my children. I'm sure you also have a busy day considering things." Arlecchino stood from her chair. Watching the smile fall from Furina's lips ever so slightly.

"Ah, okay! It was a pleasure to be your most graceful host!" Furina gave a slight bow as she led Arlecchino to the door.

"Farwell, Furi."

Furina stood, mind blank. What did the Knave call her? Furi?

A moment passed before Furina burst into giggles. Her previously dismissed salon appeared around her. Furina felt like bubbles were bouncing around inside her. Bursting at her seams.

"Arlecchino gave me a nickname! Arle gave me a nickname! Arlecchino, The Knave, Fourth of the Fatui Harbinger, gave me Furina de Fontaine a nickname!" Furina jumped and hoped around her apartment. This was a grand achievement! This day would be the best one she's ever had!

"Usher, tell me what's on my calendar!" Furina shifted the imaginary spotlight onto Gentilhomme Usher.

Furina's smile grew. Today, she would be spending it with Clorinde and Navia baking and doing all sorts of fun things together. It was to prepare for the celebration of the anniversary of the Spina de Rosula's creation. It was to be a grand celebration. A party that was to be a charity event where even the Steambird would chip in.

"Well, I best dress to impress!"

 

––●––

It was a bit awkward baking with Navia and Clorinde. Being the third wheel is never fun, but Furina was still having a laugh.

They had made their first batch of cupcakes. Which Furina was currently decorating as that was her assigned duty. Navia was handling the mixing and oven. Clorinde was packaging and storing all the cakes.

Furina was carefully icing a yellow rose on each cupcake. Each petal is so carefully placed on top of the cupcakes. They had to be perfect. Then Furina would sprinkle down a shimmer of gold to make them even more special. It would contrast beautifully with the black cupcake cases. Then Furina would hand them over to Clorinde, who would carefully place them into a plain box.

"Furina! Did you ever find out how the Knave feels. Please tell me!" Navia whisked the batter with surprising vigour, arm not aching at all. However, I suppose whisking is a lot easier than swinging a heavy weapon around. Navia enjoyed listening to any of her friends, learning all about the gossip. Navia would always lend an ear.

"Ah no, not yet, but we are definitely friends. We had breakfast together today, and you should've seen how defensive she got when I asked about the daily cake deliveries!" Furina giggled as she recalled Arlecchino's face. Hands not faltering while she slowly pipped another rose.

"You still receive the cake deliveries?" Clorinde queried. It was rather impressive that the Knave could keep up with them all. Perhaps the Knave could do something honestly good rather than for the sake of image.

"Oh yes! Each and every one is delicious as the last!" Furina dusted the perfect rose in some gold glitter before holding it gently in the light. The sparkle made Furina bubble up in joy. It was always brilliant to see hard work pay off. Especially when it was glittery and grand.

Navia and Clorinde shared a look. Furina's friendship with Arlecchino is certainly something unique. Navia never would've expected the Knave of all people to fall to Furina's charm.

"Furina, how do you feel about the Knave." Clorinde turned to face Furina. Is Furina really experiencing what Clorinde thought she was?

"The Knave? Well, she's quite nice when you truly get to know her. We've had some rough patches, but that's to be expected. Our friendship didn't get off the ground without some hitches. Other than that, you can clearly tell Arle cares for me. I quite enjoy our friendship!" Furina was naive to the looks shared between Navia and Clorinde. Far too absorbed in her cake decorating. It was clear there was something more between the two.

"Furina, are you certain this is just a friendship? This is the Knave, after all. She isn't to be trusted." Clorinde gently pressed the actor. Abandoning her duties in favour of questioning Furina. Navia also abandoned her whisking. It was adorable to see Furina call the Knave by a nickname. It was just like her and Clorinde! It was so fun to realize just how far Furina had developed.

"Of course. Arle has done nothing to try to get anything out of me." Furina was confused.

Arlecchino and her were just friends. What was with the sudden questioning. Navia and Clorinde were really close friends before they started dating. Why was it so strange that Arlecchino and Furina were friends. Arlecchino was still a person, after all.

Wait.

Clorind and Navia were close friends before they started dating.

Furina and Arlecchino are good friends from Furina's perspective. Furina deeply appreciates the time she has spent with Arlecchino. Furina loved all the cakes Arlecchino got her. Yet Furina couldn't claim this friendship was like her friendship with Navia or Clorinde. However, that was just because this was with Arlecchino. Arlecchino was nothing like Clorinde or Navia.

Surintendante Chevalmarin bubbled up a thought within Furina's mind: Did Furina have a crush on the Knave?

Oh Focalors.

"I think I like Arlecchino."

 

––●––

Notes:

I am deeply thankful for 400+ kudos and all the comments and bookmarks made on this work. To celebrate I have made some art and a thread detailing some of the thoughts put into this work. I hope you enjoy the fluff.

Chapter 12: Old Fires

Summary:

Furina in the wake of realising her crush on Arlecchino invites her to the anniversary party of the Spina. Though she intends to find out all about how to properly court Arlecchino, things at the party don't go as planned. Leaving Arlecchinn to have complex feelings.

Furina's week has been hectic, to say the least.

First, Furina had to deal with the pestering of Navia and Clorinde. The moment she had accidently murmed her confession, they jumped on it faster than Clorinde could mention Navia. Clorinde seemed hestiatant, whereas Navia jumped at the opportunity to begin giving advice about dating and romance. While also telling stories all about her and Clorinde. That was only the beginning of Navia's unsolicited advice and being Furina's wingman.

Next was preparing for the anniversary of the Spina di Rosula's creation. Which was perhaps the most chaotic part of Furina's week. It had to be perfect. They had rented a hall within the Court of Fontaine, meaning it was already grand, but it wasn't good enough for the celebration of the Spina. So Furina's, under the permission of Navia, was in charge of decorating the hall for the celebration.

To begin, Furina had the plain curtains replaced. Their old dusty forms fell car below Furina's expectations. Furina was also deeply grateful for being an actor with many connections, so it was easy to get the perfect curtains. They were black embroidered with gold flowers and leaves. Furina almost felt like some princess in a castle. Next, Furina laid down a golden fabric across the tables that lined the walls. These would hold the food so perfectly decorated and hand-made by some of Navia's friends. Navia's own desserts would be at the centre of all. The magnum opus of all the food and drink.

Next it was just to hand small lights around the place, after all this was a celebration party. Then, when night falls through the skylight, the various lights would make this place truly sparkle. After all, Furina planned to have the upper-class Fontainians enraptured in her work of art so that the charity would go off without a hitch. The rest would be handled by Navia personally even if Furina mentioned she had other connections she could use.

Apparently the Fatui had offered a bit of financing. An ode to a good relationship. Furina didn't have a doubt about who was actually behind the financing. It most certainly wasn't Monsieur Tartaglia. That man only seemed to think about fighting, and well, that seemed just about it.

Which led Furina to the final headache of her week. Arlecchino. Furina was a lady of class, so that meant she had to court Arlecchino. Even if all she knows about courting is from books and Navia's advice. Furina, in five hundred years, hadn't taken up a partner. This meant Furina had no experience what so ever. Not even acting helped her this time. After all, acting was only reading and performing the lines someone else made for you. Doing this alone was rather intimidating.

It didn't help Mademoiselle Crabaletta had a riot about the news. Crabaletta was vehemently against all of this romance with Arlecchino. Frequently moaning and complaining in Furina's ear about how horrible a woman that Knave was. Or how that Knave would bring nothing but tragedy. No one could stop Crabaletta tirade. Not even Usher or Chevalmarin. Crabaletta refused to acknowledge anything other than how this was a terrible idea.

Furina was tired, to say the least. To think this crab was a manifestation of Furina's will.

Even if it was nice to see someone so protective of her.

Furina had planned to invite Arlecchino out to the anniversary event. However, it seemed as if the woman had disappeared entirely and was already aware and interested in the event. Making this whole courtship dilemma so much harder. Ugh, why couldn't they just have naturally progressed into it the same way Clorinde and Navia had. Well, that would make things rather awkward. Regardless, Furina was currently wracking her brain for ideas. Should she just invite Arlecchino to come dance with her or find her during the night and offer to dance and then court her?

Furina didn't even if it was even worth trying after all. It was hard enough coming to a compromise with a friendship. The whole curse business and all. Furina groaned as she lay upon her bed. Strangling her seal plush as she consulted with Surintendante Chevalmarin and Gentilhomme Usher. Just what was Furina meant to do? Furina was half tempted to leave behind the semantics and punctuality of actually courting and just straight-up confessing to Arlecchino.

"Usher, what do I do?" Furina moaned. If only romance seemed as simple as some stories made it out to be.

Gentilhomme Usher silently swayed as he floated next to Furina, pondering her question. Perhaps in order to court Arlecchino, one must come to understand Arlecchino's interpretation of romance. It wouldn't be any use to take Arlecchino on a date similar to what Navia takes Clorinde on. Furina doubted Arlecchino would enjoy a date reminiscing on her childhood or Furina's lack of childhood. What would Arlecchino even enjoy? Has Arlecchino ever dated herself? Now that was interesting. Furina felt her curiosity be snagged by that question. What if Arlecchino was just like her, or perhaps was more experienced and knowledgeable about relationships.

"That's it! I will invite the Knave to the celebration. Then I shall dance and learn as much about how to romance her as possible! Now I need my beauty sleep." Furina tossed the covers over her head as her grip upon the seal plush tightened. Thankfully, the celebration would be in a few days' time. Enough time to catch the Knave's eye.

 

––x●––

 

Furina approached the doors to Hotel Bouffes d'ete with an invitation in hand. It was different from the usual invitations. It wasn't gold lined it was lined with a deep royal blue. The handwriting upon it wasn't Navia's it was Furina's beautifully curse handwriting in a deep blue ink requesting Arle specifically.

Furina felt oddly nervous. Was this the feeling of butterflies that build up in your stomach whenever you're around your crush? Furina couldn't help but let out a childish giggle as she knocked upon the doors to Hotel Bouffes d'ete. Knuckles wracked against the door in Furina's signature thrice knock. Patiently waiting, Furina listened in on the subtle footsteps heading towards the door. Someone was coming. The large oak doors peeled open as a head poked out between the gap. It was Lyney!

"Miss Furina! A pleasure. What can the House do for you today? Another play date, perhaps?" Lyney warmly welcomed Furina. Growing rather used to her constant appearance.

"I was wondering if your Father was in." Furina was slightly embarrassed at asking Lyney to see his father. It sounded so strange.

"Father, is few for a couple of moments if you'd like to drop off something or arrange a proper meeting. If you don't mind waiting, the House can host you until Father is free for longer." Lyney held the door open for Furina. Shutting out the world behind her.

"Ah, I'd just like to drop something off."

"Let me lead the way then."

Furina was led through some rather decorated halls. It looked just like a hotel. A regular old Fontainian hotel. Nothing seemed amiss. The occasional portrait decorated the wall bit besides that Furina couldn't see much difference between this hotel and Hotel Debord. Perhaps some parts of the Fatui are human.

Lyney came to a stop before a large wooden door. The air went tense. Lyney's knuckles wracked against the door once.

"Father. Lady Furina wishes to give something to you."

A brief pause as Lyney seemed to listen out for his father's response.

"Very well." Lyney slowly opened the door wide for Furina. Before bowing as he left. It was now just Furina and Arlecchino alone once again.

Arlecchino certainly looked busy. Upon a dark oak desk, Arlecchino stood tall above piles of documents and paper. Her shoulders were taunt, and a small crease in her brow gave Furina the impression Arlecchino wasn't too pleased at the moment.

"Furina, what is it that you wish to deliver me?" Arlecchino held one of her clawed hands out as she leaned across the desk as she awaited the delivery. Those eyes look exhausted, with heavy bags weighing them down.

"Arlecchino, I'd like to personally invite you to the Spina di Rosula's anniversary party. You will be my honoured guest." Furina placed the decorative invitation into the palm of Arlecchino hand. Watching as it withdrew as Arlecchino read the invitation.

"Yes, I'm aware of this event. Very well I shall attend with you. Be ready an hour before the event starts. I shall collect you." Arlecchino dismissed Furina, gently placing the invitation amongst the other papers.

Furina felt like she could burst out of her skin. Operation: Court the Knave is a go! Furina bounced out of Arlecchino's office as she rushed to prepare for the night of the party.

 

––x●––

 

Furina eagerly awaited Arlecchino's arrival. She had dressed up on one of her best suits. Furina had ditched her various blues in favour of some blacks this time round. The fabric of her tail coat was bared a damask pattern. It looked like she had harvested smoke and turned it into a fabric. The slow gradient from black to pearlescent white was gorgeous. To embrace the yellows of the Spina, furina wore a golden brooch upon her ruffled colar. The jem is blue to call back to her usual attire.

The dress pants she wore were a simple black. Same with her shoes that swapped out the black laces for another dash of gold. Although the party wasn't necessarily fancy dress, Fontainian society was always focused on being well dressed. As seen in even the most common clothing.

Furina couldn't help but ponder what Arlecchino would wear to the party. Would it be her regular work outfit? Furina had come to realize that she had never seen Arlecchino in any other outfit besides her work one. The most different Furina had seen Arlecchino dress was her simply taking the upper layers off. Just how many copies of her work outfit did Arlecchino have?

Furina thinking was interrupted by a harsh wrack of knuckles against her door. Arle!

Furina rushed over to the door, bubbling up in excitement. She couldn't wait to see I'd Arlecchino had chosen to dress differently.

Yet upon opening the door, Furina's mind went blank. There, Arlecchino stood, her usual bangs that decorated the right side of her face were neatened up to be more presentable while the rest of the hair that typically flowed around her left was slicked back. Arlecchino's seemed sharper than usual, too, but the greatest shocker to Furina was the brand new outfit.

First, it was a wine red blouse with a small v-neck. Which made Furina's mind wander just a little. She couldn't help it! The blouse, despite being rather voluptuous, flowed around Arlecchino's frame. It was quite obvious that Arlecchino knew how to dress. The rest of the outfit was plain black, a sash cut through the middle of Arlecchino waist.

"Furina." Furina's eyes shot up to Arlecchino's eyes as she was startled out of her staring.

"Yes?" Furina pondered face heating up rapidly. Furina hoped and prayed that Arlecchino wouldn't mention her staring. It was embarrassing enough for Furina to acknowledge it herself.

"Shall we go attend that party?" Offering an arm to Furina, Arlecchino ignored Furina's flustered mess of a composure. It was quite charming to see the Ex-Hydro Archon so enraptured.

Furina smiled as she linked arms with Arlecchino.

"Yes, my lord."

 

––x●––

 

Entering the party, Furina and Arlecchino were immediately bombarded with the presence of Navia and Clorinde. They had literally watched Navia drag Clorinde by the arm to greet them.

"Furina! Lord Arlecchino! It's truly a wonder to see you both in attendance!" Navia beemed. Clorinde simply nodded to acknowledge their presence.

"There's plenty of food and desserts, so help yourself! There'll be plenty of games later on, so enjoy yourself!" Just as Navia was here, she was gone again. Whisking Clorinde away onto the dance floor. It seemed Navia was certainly enjoying the night while it lasted.

"Well then, Miss Furina, shall we dance?"

Furina felt her face blush before composing herself she was sure to enjoy the dance for all it was worth.

"Of course, my Lord."

Arlecchino led her towards the centre of the dancefloor. Furina hard work had paid off, so wonderfully, the entire space was light up in a brilliant yellow light. The curtains pulled back to reveal the setting sun. The gold lining the curtains glittered and shone so beautifully. It appeared Navia had done some of her own decorating, and yellow roses seemed to decorate the entire space. It made the choice for black curtains lined with gold even better. Golden banners were strung up across the room, embroidered with the Spina di Rosula's logo.

As they stopped in the centre of the dance floor, they turned to face each other to begin the dance. Navia and Clorinde had long dissapered from the centre spotlight. Arlecchino stared deep into Furina's eyes. Slowly and carefully, Furina reached up to place her hand upon Arlecchino's shoulder. Feeling the warmth of her skin through the blouse. Arlecchino's hand then rested gently, yet firmly upon her waist, it was so warm. Furina watched, heart fluttering as their fingers entangled. Her heart fluttering as they began to twirl.

Furina doe eyes starred deeply into Arlecchino's face. Though her face seemed so serious, Furina knew Arlecchino was having fun. The gentle twitch at the corner of her mouth every time Arlecchino dipped Furina told Furina just enough.

Arlecchino gently spun her around, never once letting go of her hand. Furina felt herself pressing herself against Arlecchino's pillowy chest. It was too intimate that Furina felt her heart was going to explode. Furina loved dancing. Then she was forced away again. Away from Arlecchino's embrace and back to twirling and dancing again. How annoying.

Furina had never felt the way she did just now. It was always useless pinning with no hope of love ever blooming. But now, as Arlecchino lifted her up in the air, hands gripping tight upon her waist, Furina felt like there was a chance. A chance found between those hands that held embraced her.

Then Arlecchino bowed Furina. They were so close, Furina heart felt like it would flutter out of her chest. Her mouth was open ever so slightly as she stared up into Arlecchino's eyes. Maybe she could be able to associate them with something far nicer.

"Furina, would you care for a beverage?"

Just as the moment had begun, it ended. Furina was no longer embraced beneath Arlecchino's arms. No, she was being led towards the various beverages Navia had prepared. It seemed Fonta had even decided to sponsor the event, considering the number of bottles lined up on one of the tables.

"What drink would you like, Furina." Focalors, why did Arlecchino have to say her name like that. This was already antagonising enough. Arle better be aware of what she's doing to her. This can't be purely coincidental.

"I don't mind. You choose." Furina gently leaned her back against one of the pillars as she slowly composed herself. Looking between the crowds to see if she could spot anyone familiar. There was Wriothesley and Sigewinne. Then there was the famous trio of Lyeny, Lynette, and even Freminet. All dressed up nicely, likely under the orders of Arlecchino. It seemed like she could see Neuvillette as well, but she wasn't too sure. Surprisingly, though, Furina hadn't seen Navia or Clorinde around at all. It was like they vanished the moment they crossed the dance floor. That was strange since this was celebrating the Spina's anniversary. You'd think Navia would be at the forefront of almost everything.

"Furina." Furina turned her attention to Arlecchino, who had returned from getting them drinks. It appeared she had been offered some kind of punch.

"Thank you. I've been looking at some of the familiar faces, and I can't seem to find Navia or Clorinde anywhere." Furina took a careful sip of her drink as Arlecchino came to stand beside her.

Arlecchino hummed. "They ran off somewhere then. To enjoy the party more privately."

Furina choked on her drink.

"Pardon?"

"Surely you saw how Navia was acting around Clorinde. She could hardly keep her hands to herself. It's impressive that they came to welcome us." Arlecchino murmured clearly unfazed by everything.

"Oh. They're really intertwined with one another. Have you ever had anything like that, Arle?" Furina watched as Arlecchino took a long look at the swirling liquid within her cup. It seemed like this wasn't a particularly pleasant topic to broach upon.

"While I can not say that I've had a relationship such as theirs, I have indeed had partners in the past." Oh, that intrigued Furina. Just who had the Knave been in a relationship with?

"Who have you been in a relationship with, Arle?" Furina's innocent eyes stared into Arlecchino's as she politely inquired. Arlecchino seemed to be reminiscing upon a different past.

"The first of which was with someone known as The Damselette. Another Fatui Harbinger. She wasn't human. She may look like one, but she was never fully there. You'd ask questions, and she'd never give the one you were expecting. She could grasp the more explicit parts of love rather well, but never the finer parts."

She sounded interesting.

Furina wasn't too sure how to feel about this other Harbinger. The Damselette sounded quite frightening.

"The other was also a harbinger. La Signora was mostly human aside from the fact she was liquid flames. La Signora could love and indeed did love. Yet it wasn't for me. It was for her old lover. One that was taken away from her far too soon. She enjoyed indulging in that need, that desire for love. She'd often visit the kids, promising gifts to those who cared for her. It was beneficial to have another Harbinger care for the children."

Arlecchino's voice sounded awfully nostalgic. Like she was mourning a lost love as she was hypnotise by the dark liquid filling her cup.

"Did you love them?" That seemed to shock Arlecchino out of her stupor. Gone was the more wistful facade, and in its place was Arlecchino's stern facade.

"No. If you'll excuse me, I'd like to get a breath of fresh air." Furina watched silently as Arlecchino slowly dissapered, abandoning her within the crowd. It felt like cold water had been poured directly on top of her.

 

––x––

 

Did Arlecchino really not love them? Or was she simply lying now since she got a taste of love? Arlecchino mind seemed to conflicted between the two answers. Perhaps this whole affair was really a mistake, after all.

Arlecchino leaned over the balcony. The sun had long since set, and the only light decorating her was the lights of the party. A chill air brushed against Arlecchino's cheeks, biting at the warm blush decorating them. When had she gotten so hot?

"Lord Arlecchino." Ah, it was Monsuier Neuvillette. How surprising it was to see him here and not cooped up in that little office of his. Now, what did he want.

"Monsuier Neuvillette. A pleasure. I'm afraid I have brought any water with me today, perhaps another time." Arlecchino bowed her head in respect to the dragon stood before her.

"I'm not concerned with receiving any gifts. I'd like to inquire about a couple of things with you, Knave. If that is no bother." Neuvillette came to stand beside Arlecchino, overlooking the balcony down at the rest of the world that had come alive following the setting sun. Neuvillette was surprisingly wearing something other than his usual dress, a bit more simplistic but formal none the less.

"What is that you wish to know? I'm willing to trade certain secrets with you." Arlecchino sipped her drink. She had a feeling it had something to do with the recent case. After all, she had made that agreement with Neuvillette.

"I noticed you had arrived with Mademoiselle Furina. I wish to know whether or not you are trying to coerce information out of her." The old dragon expressing concern for Furina how shocking. It surprising Arlecchino that was his first concern. Did he really feel remorse for the sacrifice made so he could get his authority back?

"My relationship with Lady Furina is purely a mutual friendship. I assure you we have set plenty of boundaries with one another. I have no intentions of sourcing information from her. Now, what else?" Arlecchino was interested to see if Neuvillette would say anything different than what she expected or whether this was just a one-off.

"Another concern of mine is to do with the recent court case. You haven't been conducting any Fatui operations within Fontaine's border, have you. After all, the main clause for our agreement was that you would gradually remove your forces from Fontaine and that you would no longer carry out any "special missions" here." Ah, what a shame he didn't ask about anything other than what she expected.

"I can assure you, Monsuier, that all my operations have occurred outside of Fontaine. Monsuier Allard was conducting illicit business within Sumeru. Which if I am to presume correctly is the Dendro Sovereign's territory. The only thing happening here was me simply reporting to the Steambird, which, if I may remind, is a global corporation based in Fontaine. You need not worry. The Fatui are not planning nor are conducting anything illicit here in Fontaine." Arlecchino sipped her drink. Neuvillette didn't need to know about the assassinations as they were merely out of self-defense for Lady Furina. She said she'd slowly withdraw her forces, but they haven't completely dissapered just yet.

"Very well. Moving on, I'd like to ask something more personal if I may. I was wondering if you had any advice as the father of the House of the Heart. An influencial orphanage within the court. I believe that you'll provide some valuable insight on how to improve Fontaine as a nation. " He seemed like he was remembering something unpleasant when mentioning his duty. Arlecchino had a feeling it might have something to do with a particular court case.

"Advice on how to improve Fontaine? You perceive yourself as a Father to the melusines, yes, and have included legislation that protects them. A parent helps nuture the world for their children, yes. Fontaine is said world for many children. However, I fail to see how you have helped nurture a better world for the children of Fontaine. Should you nurture their world, the world of Fontaine will also improve. As seen by your melusines. I speak as Father to various orphans of this nation. I speak on behalf of those who didn't get to grow up into this world. Goodnight Monsuier."

Arlecchino moved past a silently stunned Neuvillette and allowed herself to be consumed by the party. Neuvillette had unintentionally sparked some old fires that had burnt inside Arlecchino. It seemed this night had made Arlecchino more vulnerable than normal. But Arlecchino couldn't quite grasp just what had caused this.

What a sour note to leave things upon.

 

––x●––

 

Furina felt something coil within her. Just where was Arlecchino. Had she been abandoned here? Alone.

Arle. Please be okay.

 

––●––

Notes:

Sorry this took a while but it's here (been working on a new series). We get to watch girlfailure Furina attempt to woo Arle. Furina defo knows all the courting techniques but nothing on how to put them into practice.

Chapter 13: Fire Yearns

Summary:

Furina is given the encouragement to find Arlecchino and learns plenty about the person she's trying to court.

Arlecchino yearns and gambles upon fate.

Furina leaned against the pillar. Perhaps it would've been smarter not to invite Arlecchino, and it would've saved all this unnecessary anxiety and stress. Just where had Arlecchino gone. Furina couldn't see her anymore. Furina had noticed Neuvillette leave and then return just a tad sombre than before. Perhaps that was also linked to Arlecchino's disappearance, after all he had left in the same direction Arlecchino had left in. Maybe it wasn't all her fault.

"Furina." Oh, Clorinde has returned... well, it certainly seems she has had fun. Clorinde looked far messier than when Furina first saw her. Clorinde's cheeks were dusted pink, and the collar of her shirt was ruffled and pulled out. Compared to before, where Clorinde looked like she had spent time putting herself together, now she looked like she had rushed to piece herself together again.

"Hello Clorinde! You look quite warm, are you okay?" Clorinde's cheeks flushed even more at Furina's comment, silently cursing Navia.

"I am fine, Furina. What about you? I can't help but notice the Knave's absence." Furina couldn't help but pity Clorinde's attempt to draw the attention away from herself. Even if Furina's gaze was drawn to small smudges of lipstick that covered Clorinde.

"Arlecchino went to take a short break. She hasn't returned just yet." Furina took a sip of her drink. Okay, maybe she was willing to embarrass Clorinde a bit more if it meant she didn't have to acknowledge the pit slowly forming in her stomach. Furina would probably do anything to ignore that pit.

"Perhaps you should go look for the Knave. After all, you look quite lonely over here." Furina was shocked. Clorinde of all people was encouraging her to seek out Arlecchino. When Furina had first confessed to herself, Clorinde was hesitant to even speak upon the matter. Clorinde kept the Knave at arms distance, close enough to watch the fatui's actions, but far enough, keep Arlecchino out of any of Clorinde's personal business.

"I don't know..." Furina tried to take another sip but noticed that she had drank it all. What unfortunate timing.

"Furina." Clorinds stern tone was rarely ever used. She was always more soft-spoken, which was surprising for a duelist. Typically, Furina saw more bold individuals turn out as champions, but when Clorinde became a champion, it was quite a nice change of pace. To see someone who truly understood the balance of life and death but didn't let it twist them too much.

"Ah ha, yes?" Furina let out an awkwards laugh.

"Furina, I may hold my reservations against the Knave, but it is not my right to make a choice for you. I can not halt your freedom to act. However, I can offer you my advice. Go after the Knave. If Navia and I spoke of anything when we finally agreed to talk, it was communicating that was the issue we focused upon. No running away and no concealing. So go find the Knave it'll do you good." Clorinde placed a welcoming hand upon Furina's shoulder. It's warmth seeping through the fabrics.

Furina couldn't help the small smile that curled upon her lips as she pulled Clorinde into a hug.

"Thank you, Clorinde. For always being there for me."

Clorinde's eyes widened. A giddy feeling crawled up her body and towards her face, a smile twitching upon her lips.

"I'm your friend, Furina. Of course I'll be there for you."

 

––x●––

 

Furina was only mildly regretting renting this particular hall in Fontaine. Only mildly. The hall itself was part of a fancier manor in Fontaine, which meant that there were plenty more rooms, corridors, and balconies to find yourself lost in. Which Arlecchino had obviously exploited.

Furina had walked up so many flights of stairs and lopped through various hallways. She was beginning to think Arlecchino had physically left the party. Which would be disappointing. It's really disappointing.

"Ugh, where could one harbinger be!" Furina huffed as she shoved open another door.

"Ah, Gentilhomme Usher! Have you seen the Knave?" Furina had ordered her salon to help her find the Knave. Surintendante Chevalmarin and Gentilhomme Usher took their duties with pride, but Madamoiselle Crabaletta had a twinge of more violence when taking up her duty. Furina prayed silently it wasn't Crabaletta who found the Knave first.

"She's on a balcony...I've walked past three times." Furina felt herself collapse to her knees. Three times. No wonder her cake deliverer was so silent and quick if this was their Father.

Gentilhomme Usher laid a cool, comforting tentacle onto Furina's shoulder.

"Alright. Let's talk to the Knave!" Furina stood with renewed vigour. At least she knew where the Knave was.

"Lead the way, Gentilhomme Usher!" Furina watched as Usher dashed forward. Operation....umm.... Operation talk to the Knave? Good enough! Operation talk to the Knave is a go!

 

––x●––

 

Furina carefully stepped a foot onto the balcony. Watching as Arlecchino barely seemed to acknowledge her.

Arlecchino leaned across the balcony, hands dangling over the edge. Fingers entwined as she calmed herself. A cool breeze underneath the stars always seemed to help Arlecchino calm down. She had done something similar after La Signora's funeral. Seeing Dottore's smug face and listening to the drawl come from the business, too idle to actually step foot outside the comfort of the own homes, had raised Arlecchino's temper. She had more respect for La Signora, so she held her tongue just a tad longer. Even if La Signora herself would've found great humour in watching Arlecchino knock the businessmen down a peg.

However, this time, she had drawn the attention of Furina rather than Columbina. Well, Arlecchino had been quite the rude partner, having left Furina's side for as long as she had. However, Arlecchino couldn't deny the headache building between her temples.

Arlecchino typically was unaffected whenever she mentioned or spoke of her duties or what she had seen. She had grown a thick skin to deal with what cut her. There was no time for hesitance when witnessing humanity's most deplorable acts. However, when Neuvillette asked for advice, something within her felt rubbed raw. Sore to the touch and Monsuier Neuvillette just happened to graze it.

Perhaps it was the old wounds that didn't quite heal properly because they were never loved or cared for.

Not that Arlecchino really knew how to love after all.

Arlecchino knew love when it was familial. She cared deeply for the children she had saved. She didn't look at a young Lynette and see only a tool. No, she saw a young, desperate child. A child in need of care. To which Arlecchino could provide.

Arlecchino knew love when it was unshared and unspoken. When love used. She may have cared for La Signora, for La Signora could've been a good motherly figure for the children. The constant gifts in exchange for love to fill a motherly void.

Arlecchino knew love when it was unconditional. Childish love seemed to be unconditional. After all, what could Clervie or Peruere ask from one another? For as long as Crucabena stalked the shadows, the House of the Hearth was a prison. Everyone was in chains from wrist to wrist and ankle to ankle. So Clervie cared for Peruere for nothing. Peruere cared for Clervie is the most embarrassing of ways. Fishing, fighting, and wavering to Clervie's various whims. Peruere was such a strange child.

Furina, however, Furina loved differently. Unconditionally loving all of Fontaine. A true God. A God not for divinity but for humanity. No wonder Furina was the perfect human. She could experiment with a whole range of emotions so many couldn't. Many Arlecchino couldn't. Furina's love was so human. It wasn't always unconditional. It wasn't always selfless. It was human love. It was perfect. It was everything other than what Arlecchino preferred.

Yet it was everything Arlecchino's desired.

But what would reason think? Arlecchino was reason before emotion. For emotion and sense could be fooled.

"Arle." Oh, Furina's charming voice. What a siren song it is.

"Miss Furina, apologise for my behaviour." Arlecchino bowed her head as Furina carefully shuffled to stand beside her. Furina didn't lean over the edge like Arlecchino did, Furina held onto the railing, unlike Arlecchino.

"It's alright, Arle. I'm sorry if I pushed you too far." That's right, Furina knew how to apologise for her mistakes. Arlecchino, what the in the abyss is wrong with your head?

"My mood has only faltered because of a combination of events. Don't blame yourself singularly. Blame Monsuier Neuvillette, as well." Arlecchino watched Furina intently, a shame she wasn't being watched in turn. Furina's eyes were locked onto the horizon, onto the constellations.

"Ah, what did you and Monsuier Neuvillette speak of if you don't mind me asking?" So they did indeed speak with one another, well that confirmed one of Furina's suspicion.

"Monsuier Neuvillette asked for a lot of things. Some of it was casual business talk. He had his suspicions that I was conducting new special operations within Fontaine. While not the last thing he asked for, the most interesting request was whether or not I'm sourcing information from you." Arlecchino huffed a laugh when looking at Furina's suddenly shocked face. The sudden widening of eyes, the shrinking of those little droplet pupils. All crafted in the image of a god yet placed upon a mortal frame. What transient beauty.

"Monsuier Neuvillette asked about me?" Arlecchino was mildly interested in Furina's reaction. Her voice had lost its pompous tone and revealed a softer edge.

"Indeed, I had to assure him that while you are indeed a great source of information, I have no interest in extorting any from you. You are a close companion, and I have great respect for you." The only person Neuvillette should be worried for would be the Traveller. It's quite intriguing how a singular person has had so much business with the elites of the nations. The Traveller made such a good information exchange. It's no wonder Charlotte took such great interest in them.

"Ah, that's really nice to hear. I'm grateful to know so many care for me. I'm glad I have your respect, Knave." Furina's smiled a sweet little smile towards Arlecchino. Arlecchino face went slack. The small smirk that had crawled upon her lips had disappeared as Arlecchino found herself staring at the face of Furina. Something was bubbling within her.

"Yes indeed, the only other thing he asked of me was if I had any suggestions to improve Fontaine. I'm quite sure that I left quite a bad taste in his mouth once we were finished with the conversation." Arlecchino eyes returned to night sky above her. Perhaps she'll see some notable constellations tonight.

"Improve Fontaine?" Furina meekly asked. This wasn't exactly part of her mission, but she had a feeling it would lead her to learn something valuable.

"Yes, the current leaders of every nation are all striving to improve. Competition breeds advancement. Since Monsuier Neuvillette now holds the highest authority in all of Fontaine and a new duty to the people of Fontaine, it is his responsibility to improve and regulate Fontaine. Of course that although my interests are not strictly for the betterment of Fontaine, there is an orphanage stationed here. Thus, do I still hold political interest despite not being able to leverage my fatui authority."

"So what advice did you give him? Was it taking a breath outside of his office more often." Furina giggled. Although he most certainly did take time out of his office, Furina thought Neuvillette could still stand to spend a little more time outside that office.

"No, I merely suggested he did something regarding the astounding amounts of orphans and children suffering all kinds of abuse in Fontaine. However, it unfortunately upset me more than normal." Arlecchino felt something sharp stab into her chest. Hmm, she should be over it by now.

"Oh, is it because of Clervie?" Furina gently moved her hand along the railing to gently rest upon Arlecchino forearm. Her arm was rather chilling. Simply touching it, it sent a chill up Furina's spine.

"Partially, I suppose my childhood lingers as part of me no matter how much I try seperate myself from it." Arlecchino picked at one of her nails, perfectly sharp as they should be. Swallowing felt like a chore suddenly.

"Why do you want to separate yourself from your childhood?" Furina couldn't help but find herself curious about Arlecchino's troubles. She has such a different reaction to her childhood than either Navia or Clorinde. Navia absolutely treasured her childhood, even the bad moments saying they helped build who she was and that she'd never trade them for anything. Clorinde also wouldn't trade her childhood for anything as she valued her time with Navia far too much to let it slip away. However, Clorinde had regrets. Clorinde knew that she had been damaged by her master. Clorinde knew her duty impacted her regardless of how many repairs she tried. However, neither seemed to want to separate themselves from their childhood.

"Peruere was a fool. Arlecchino is not. I will not make the same mistake again." Was Arlecchino really that different from Peruere currently?

"Why is Peruere considered a fool?" Why did Arlecchino consider her child self a fool? It seemed like to Furina that Arlecchino clearly despised her past.

Arlecchino stood there silent. She couldn't run, nor could she pretend.

"Arle, tell me about your childhood more, please."

Furina slipped her hand down towards Arlecchino's claws. Soft fingers gently curling around long, boney fingers and sharp nails wrapped and decorated with silver.

"I suppose I can speak of Peruere more. In exchange, I will be asking something personal of you." Arlecchino briefly turned to face Furina, watching as she nodded her head, that curled lock of hair bouncing up and down. Arlecchino's felt the familiar urge to try pat the ahoge down.

"Peruere had a singular friend. Most others were quite intimidated by them. Clervie wasn't. They had become friends on a whim. Purely by chance, but it was perhaps the closest friendship Peruere ever had." Arlecchino never understood what drew Clervie to continue to stay by her side. Perhaps it was Peruere's stupidity that allowed for it. "Either way, Peruere was loyal to Clervie. They would often be found not too far apart from one another. Like an invisible rope connected them to one another. However, it is obvious now to Peruere that, that rope couldn't keep them together forever. It was slowly loosening on Clervie's side."

It's a shame Peruere never saw it then. Foolish.

Arlecchino felt her hands twitch. The embers of a long, worn-out fire seem to come to life once again.

"Clervie had a different approach to being in the Hearth. She desired a family where a mother didn't 'argue' with their children. Where the children didn't have to fight to survive. Where mother was actually as kind as she appeared to be. Where a mother loved unconditionally. Clervie would never see that reality. She chose to die. It wouldn't matter what happened to Clervie. For mother didn't care, she was more than willing to let her die or send her off to the doctor to let him make use of a worthless child. So she let Peruere kill her so Peruere could achieve their original plan."

Arlecchino hands became warm. Furina felt drawn to the warmth it was a rather cold night tonight. Thankfully, it hadn't rained.

"Peruere had been prepared to kill the rest of her family to become King, was more than contented to be alone while they grew. However, Clervie changed something within them. Rather than follow the system, they chose to deviate. To kil Crucabena. Peruere succeeded at a cost. For failure would bring a punishment far worse than anything Crucabena had done to them before. Wounds and scraps can heal, but you can not heal from a fate worse than death. After a tiring battle, it became their duty to never allow the past to happen again. They would stay loyal to Clervie's wish, their ambition. Even if Crucabena offered one last chance to be raised a true king under her guidance."

Arlecchino gently untangled her hand from
Furina's grasp, before letting a small flame burn bright in the darkness of the sky. Clervie's ambition was forever with her. Perhaps not in the way Clervie ever intended, but it was. Just as Crucabena's existence was a permanent blight to remind Arlecchino just what she had worked hard to erase.

"Peruere and Clervie seemed like really close friends. I wonder what it would've been like to meet Clervie. She seemed so sweet." Furina watched the flames as they danced before her. It was so intriguing to see the powers of someone else. The way fire dances just as neatly as water did.

"Indeed, I have no doubt she would've loved to have met you. She often enjoyed listening to your singing. So much so Peruere would often sneak out to help Clervie listen to your signing." Arlecchino gently let the flame extinguish itself. The glowing light between them fading.

"Now I believe it is my turn to ask something of you." Ah, Furina had forgotten about her end of the deal.

"Of course! What is it you wish to know? Ask away!"

"Tell me about Focalors." Furina seemed shocked that Arlecchino would ask about Focalors. Out of anything personal Arlecchino could have asked for, she asked about Focalors? Why couldn't it be some secret information? Why does it have to be about Focalors?

"Focalors?" Furina meekly tried to confirm. Perhaps she should've been more careful when accepting a deal.

"Indeed. I'd like to know a little more about the Archon of Fontaine. The person operating the stage, not the actor." Arlecchino wanted to have a chance to get to know someone so intergral to Fontaine. After all, not just anyone could somehow cause that dragon to suddenly switch courses or give him a new duty.

More about the person in the mirror? Furina didn't really know what to say.

"Ah well, Focalors was loving." Furina couldn't help the smile that crawled upon her lips. Remembering all the time she spent with Focalors. Remembering her first companion. Dear Focalors, the stage write.

"Loving? Was she not the one who placed a curse upon you?" Arlecchino was intrigued. While the Tsaritsa was a person of true sincerity and compassion, it didn't mean the Harbingers were any less of tools for her goals, especially not Tartaglia. Whether he knew it or not.

"She did, but she loved me. I was her perfect human. She loved me no matter what i did." Furina felt her hand wrap around the jewellery upon her throat. Focalors loved Furina will all her heart. Focalors seemed entranced by whatever Furina had to say to the mirror. Aways so happy to see Furina. Always there to give a nice word. There to love Furina unconditionally.

"She was the only person I had, I was the only person she had. Even if I knew nothing of her plan, I knew she loved me." Arlecchino stared at Furina. No wonder Focalors was able to get that dragon to shift courses, make him dedicated to Fontaine and its people. Focalors played a long gamble and won.

"Focalors seemed like quite the impressive person. Loving too." Furina blushed. Sometimes, she was able to forget the pain. Focalors' love made it easier to bear with the fact that the past would always be with Furina every time she looked in the mirror.

"Indeed, Focalors was truly quite brilliant." Furina smiled, Focalors prevented the prophecy after all. She saved the people Furina loved oh so dearly.

"Someone who seemed to truly love unconditionally. You must treasure that experience. Memories are more important than many give them credit for." Especially when you could erase them. Burn them away, leaving a gap between now and the past. No fatui secrets could be let out.

"Of course. Regardless, do you feel better now, Arlecchino?" Ah yes, they were out here for a reason.

"Indeed, I suppose I found myself mourning the past. We can return to the party. I'm afraid we will have missed a lot of the fun Mademoiselle Navia had planned." Furina grimaced, remembering the 'fun' Navia had already.

"I think the fun has only just begun. Let's go, Arle!" Furina wrapped a hand around Arlecchino's wrist, pulling her along. Now, they just had to get out of this maze and go back to the party. This night was only beginning!

 

––x●––

 

Arlecchino watched with mild amusement as Furina participated in one of the various games Navia was hosting. Lyney was also taking the opportunity to participate in the fun events. Showing of his magic.

"Um, Father." Ah, Freminet.

"Yes, Freminet, do you have something to report?" Arlecchino wasn't surprised to see Freminet not participating. It was a congratulatory moment when he asked to come to the event of his own accord. It was his choice whether or not to participate in the chaos his siblings were currently finding themselves.

"I, Um, was wondering if you, Um, liked Lady Furina. You've been spending a lot of time with her after all, and, Um, you stated you weren't holding any more special operations here." Freminet eyes dashed between looking at his father and somewhere random in the room. Pers was held within a tight, crushing grip.

"I suppose it's only natural for children to be curious. I also know that some of you aren't too keen to leave things alone. So I will tell you this I do, indeed, like Miss Furina. However, it'll only be me handling this, so please inform your siblings." Well, it appears there's no going back now.

"Ah yes, Father, thank you." Arlecchino watched as Freminet shuffled over to his siblings to inform them as well. Whispering to them, Arlecchino watched as Lynette's tail twitched, and a smile grew upon Lyney's face. How amusing.

Arlecchino took a sip of her new drink. It wasn't as pleasant as her previous, but it would do. Perhaps Furina was right. Maybe Arlecchino had to live a little. Clervie would've wanted that, and Arlecchino had indulged before with La Signora, and her death caused no trouble. Furina would be no problem.

Now, how to handle such a problem, Arlecchino wasn't too sure.

The only certainty was that Arlecchino desired Furina.

 

––x●––

Notes:

I was sick so that's why this is late. Anyways than you for the continued support!

Chapter 14: Warmth

Summary:

Arlecchino and Furina go on various dates with one another, delving deep into feelings and learning more about one another.

Arlecchino sipped her coffee slowly, feeling the bitter taste wash over her tongue. In front of her sat Furina eating at one of the premium slices of cake where only 16 slices were sold daily. Furina had hardly touched her tea but had almost completely eaten her cake. This had been Furina's first date attempt, and Arlecchino to presume that's her intentions.

After all of Furina wanted to know about love, Arlecchino was certain she asked Navia or Clorinde. They had quite a strong bond and relationship. Their hidden display at the anniversary party hadn't gone unnoticed, Clorinde never appeared so hastily put together, and Navia always took great pride in applying her make-up. However, Arlecchino wasn't too surprised. Clorinde had once appeared at one of the meetings and held quite the distrusting visage. Ever time, Arlecchino handed a different document to sign, Clorinde watched her hand like a hawk, seeing if Arlecchino would attempt to harm Navia. Navia, too, was quite obvious sometimes, too. They had quite a relationship.

"Oh!" Furina seemed as if she had been shocked by an electro slime with how fast she jumped up. Clearly, she had remembered something.

"Arle! I have a gift for you!" Furina held her hand out as Mademoiselle Crabaletta carefully placed a gift into Furina's palm. No leaving until a silent threat had passed between Arlecchino and the crab. Just what would it take to appease that crab, Arlecchino couldn't simply be rid of it, considering how important it was to Furina. Perhaps she'll have to try her more dirty methods.

"Thank you, I shall repay you in kind." Arlecchino accepted the small box from Furina, watching the excited and happiness grow in Furina's face as a smile stretched across her face.

"It's a gift! Accept it and move on!" Furina sharply scolded Arlecchino. Urging her to simply open the gift and tell her all about how much she likes it.

"Hmm." Arlecchino dragged a claw across the tap, slicing through it before slowly opening the small box to reveal a small trinket. A simple blubberbeast, relaxing and stretched out. It screamed Furina, yet it held immediately dug a special place into Arlecchino's heart. As she carefully held the trinket, awaiting Furina's explanation.

"I didn't think you'd appreciate a large extravagant gift, so I got you something small. Something to remind you of me." Furina voice trailed off towards the end as embarrassment took over her features. Cheeks flushing and eyes darting and landing on everything other than Arlecchino.

"There is no need to be embarrassed. It appreciated the meaning behind this gift." Arlecchino gently placed the blubberbeast besides her own plate.

"Brilliant!" Furina beamed an awfully wide smile towards Arlecchino, filled with teeth.

Arlecchino stared towards the miniature seal. It's chubby cheaks and relaxed expression, yet seemingly permanently crying eyes didn't mar the contented look upon the seals face. Little horns are dull and useless. Such seedling harmless creatures. Yet when provoked, they played you to your own death or their own. Quite the musicial defence mechanism, yet intriguing to Arlecchino nonetheless. She had seen stranger mechanisms used by smaller creatures such as ants.

"The seal type Fontemer Aberrant or more formally known as the Blubberbeast are one of the friendlier species of Fontemer Aberrant. Have you researched much about them?" Furina hummed around her dessert fork as she pondered the question.

"Not much, I found myself more enthralled with the arts over the ages. Do you know a lot, Knave?" Furina titled her head in curiosity, was the Knave secretly interested in nature and all that stuff. Well, that wouldn't surprise Furina. Arlecchino gave the impression of a spider sometimes, lurning her prey into her web before striking. The Traveller had also mentioned that Arlecchino had grown spider-like legs during their fight. Perhaps Arle was just like Monsuier Neuvillette in how he looked so similar to an otter.

"I myself don't know much, but some of my children happily share the things they have learned about the species, so I have learned a few things from them." Furina felt like she would perish from how cute that sounded. Who would've thought the big bad Knave cared so much for her children.

"Awe, I didn't know you cared so much for your children. Well, actually, I did, regardless of the message." Arlecchino hadn't threatened Furina or gotten heated in their tea parties together simply for herself. That revelation that Arlecchino couldn't dissolve was quite the eye opener. Yet it didn't mean it didn't hurt.

"Of course, now would you like more cake?" Furina looked down towards her now empty plate. Hand reaching out to grasp her tea, breathing a sigh of relief when it was still warm.

"Ah, no thanks." Furina declined as she sipped at her tea with plenty of sugar in it.

"Are you certain? It's my treat." Furina jumped at the mention of it being Arlecchino's treat.

"No, thank you! It's my duty to treat you, Arle, on our date!" Furina paused briefly. This was a date, yet why did it feel so awkward to announce that aloud.

"Furina." Arlecchino levelled her a stern gaze. " I wouldn't be bothered if you'd like another slice of cake. It is a treat enough that you have offered me your time." Arlecchino sipped her coffee, placing the empty cup down upon the tray alongside her empty plate.

"Alright then. I'm sure you can choose for me, right Arle." Furina's eyes pleaded at Arlecchino, just like the blubberbeast, trying to manipulate Arlecchino's feelings.

"Indeed. I shall return with cake for you and another coffee for myself." Arlecchino took Furina's dirty plate away from her, placing it upon the table as she cleared up after them. Furina let out a giggle. This has been a really fun date so far. She couldn't wait for the next one.

 

––x●––

 

Furina arm brushed against Arlecchino's as they walked beside one another around Mont Esus. Carefully stepping around the various flowers that decorated the mountainside. They wandered both on the small path and off it, afterall the Palais Mermaid is hardly too far, and neither is the court. It was refreshing.

"Arle, you always seem to invite me here." Furina noticed as she stared up towards the ruins. There was less fatui around, but there was still some. Furina supposed some would still linger around the grave of Crucabena.

"Yes, this place holds value to me. You must understand its importance. Besides, there is no denying that simply taking a calm walk is good for you." Arlecchino simply strolled besides Furina, breathing in a cool, fresh breath. It was nice to get away from work every once in a while. Arlecchino always preferred to be solitary or have few around her at once. Furina was a pleasant company.

"Arle, is this not the place you killed Crucabena? Does it not bring up bad memories?" Furina watched as Arlecchino leaned down to pick a rainbow rose, claws piercing through the stem as it was plucked from its roots.

"For it to bring back bad memories, I'd have had to feel upset or something similar at the time. When I faced off against Crucabena, the feeling I felt when she perished was relief. To finally have overcome someone who had caused such misery." Arlecchino gently held the rose within her grasp, gently dragging a claw down the side of the rose to remove any thorn.

Furina watched as Arlecchino pruned the rose until it was left as a delicate flower rid of any means of causing harm.

"Arle, are you sure you want me here? I don't mind spending time elsewhere with you. Poisson has good views." Furina could help but be worried. It didn't help that Arlecchino wasn't the most expressive. Furina had begun to question whether she could truly cry or not.

"Furina, I assure you that I want you here. I am not ashamed of what I have done here. It was necessary in the name of a better future. If we are to be close, then I have no trouble sharing my past with you." Arlecchino conceded as she twirled the flower in the sun. Watching the petals gleam and shine, a truly beautiful flower.

"Very well. Oh! A lady bug!" Furina watched as the small creature crawled along Arlecchino finger. It was so small.

"Hmm, so it is." Arlecchino stared intrigued as the lady bug crawled along her hand, twisting around her palm. Tiny little legs scuttling about aimlessly, as it tried to figure out what it was crawling upon.

"What should we do with it?" Furina stared at Arlecchino's face. It looked strangely serene. Even as Furina approached Arlecchino's hand, she didn't even notice Furina's presence. It almost reminded Furina of a child who was absorbed in digging through the mud to find whatever bugs and insects they could. Fingers muddied and dirtied, same with their legs. Yet no scolding from their parents could discourse their fun.

Arlecchino seemed so innocently happy.

"It'll decide that on its own." Arlecchino eyes trailed after the small bug as it trailed its way towards the tip of her index finger. Legs crawling atop the nail, it's reds blending into the bright red of her nail. Then it fluttered away.

"Oh!" Furina gasped as she watched the bug dissaper from sight, buzzing away rapidly to wherever it wished to be. "That was interesting."

"Indeed, bugs are quite fascinating creatures. They are much smaller than us but can complete impressive accomplishments. Ants, for example, can lift many times their own body weight." Furina felt something arm within her, but also something that curled up in disgust. It was amusing to see The Knave of all people be so nerdy about bugs. However, it was bugs, which Furina herself wasn't a big fan of. Bees were cute, kind of, but most bugs made Furina squeamish.

"You seem quite interested in bugs, Arle." Furina noted as she watched Arlecchino carefully. This wasn't how she expected the day to go, but it wasn't entirely bad.

"Indeed, I once had a pet spider named Bambi. They were quite the fascinating creature as unlike cats or dogs, they can not be domesticated. Yet Bambi was harmless. A bite would cause a little irritation but no more than that. However, observing Bambi wasn't as interesting as observing spiders within their natural habitat. It was far too controlled of an environment. The unexpected nature of the world is perhaps its greatest quality." Arlecchino hummed. It was surprisingly pleasant to speak with Furina on matters such as this.

"Is that so..?" Furina felt sick to her stomach. A pet spider? Furina could hardly handle the odd spider that had made its way into her apartment. Owning one was an entirely different matter, Furina was set on never experiencing. It didn't matter how much she was offered. She would never, ever own a spider.

"Yes. I have owned a multitude of different pets. Once, the children gave me a lizard as a gift. It had been caught by Lynette after it had given Freminet quite the scare. I kept it around for a few days. It was quite interesting to watch as it stayed within my care for a few days. However, it had attempted many times to escape, so I had freed it. Unfortunately, nature took its course, and it found itself a meal for a bird." Furina was mildly startled by how blasé Arlecchino was at explaining the death of one of her pets.

"How sad."

"No, it was perfectly natural. Though the lizard had an indomitable spirit to escape, it was given unfortunate timing when it chose to escape. It is simply fascinating to see such dynamics unfold." Well, Furina supposed that made sense. It didn't seem like Arlecchino was too attached to her pets or overly affectionate for them, so having one die wasn't likely to affect her. Especially when Arlecchino seemingly spent a lot of time around death.

Furina watched as Arlecchinos slipped the rainbow rose gently across her ear and through the hair. Blood flooded across Furina's cheeks as butterflies fluttered in her stomach, eyes wide as she stared at Arlecchino's face.

"Hmm." Arlecchino hummed again as her eyes trailed across Furina's complexion.

"Is it not good?" Furina hurried out as she stared back at Arlecchino, awaiting whatever words Arlecchino had to say.

"No, you look pretty regardless. However, I believe a lakelight lily would compliment you better." Furina blushed as Arlecchino lightly adjusted the flower from where it sat. Arlecchino thought she was pretty, Furina could burst from the joy she felt hearing those words.

"Thank you, Arle!" Furina felt her cheeks ache as a smile divided her face.

"You're welcome, Furina." Arlecchino let a small slight crawl upon her lips as she looked down at the cheerful lady before her.

 

––x●––

 

The stars were pretty tonight.

Arlecchino watched the stars as they twinkled in the reflection of Furina's eyes. They were sat atop a mountain in the Beryl region. They were surrounded by small flowers as they leaned against a sharp peak. They could see the entirety of the Court of Fontaine before themselves, and perhaps even a peak towards Elynas.

"Look, my constellation can be seen so clearly from here!" Furina marvelled at the stars. She could make out so many different constellations. The stars were so bright tonight.

"Indeed, it is quite a marvel to see Animula Choragi so vibrant." Furina was consumed by the sight of the stars. Everything was just so peaceful, whereas Arlecchino seemed uninterested. Staring off into the distance.

"What do you think, Arle?" Furina drew her eyes away to look towards Arlecchino, jumping ever so slightly when seeing her staring directly at her. Did Arlecchino not want to see the stars.

"It is a pleasant sight. The stars and the moon clear in the sky. Some would say the moon is like an eye that we've grown used to." Arlecchino hummed as she looked towards the moon, how fitting it was a full moon tonight. The moon truly looked like an eye now.

"That is quite the interesting interpretation, Focalors once spoke of something similar." Furina wondered if Arlecchino would get along with Focalors of they ever met. At the same time, Furina didn't want them to meet, doubting Arlecchino would be able to maintain her cold diplomatic appearance.

"Mmm, Focalors. Furina, what did you know about your fate?" Arlecchino watched as Furina laid down against the grass, gently tugging upon Arlecchino's ruffled sleave to pull her down with her.

Arlecchino felt her head crush soft grass as she laid, acquiescing to Furina's whim, the sky consuming all of her attention. There were simply the stars. If she looked carefully, Arlecchino could see the constellations of her children. Felis Fuscus stood high up in the sky, followed behind by Felis Alba. Then drifting close but not as centre staged was Automaton. A family of constellations tied close together.

"What did I know of my fate? Not much, really. Focalors simply said I had to play as a God." Furina conceded as her eyes trailed the sky looking for familiar constellations. Rapperia was shining brightly next to Rosa Multiflora. It seemed that even the constellation in the sky tied Navia close to Clorinde. Yet Furina wasn't looking for those familiar constellations. Instead, she was looking for one in particular.

"So you were unaware of the trial that was destined to occur." Arlecchino folded her arms against her chest as she turned to face Furina.

"No. It was scary, I thought I had failed Fontaine." Furina chuckled sadly. The trial thinking back on it more while not surprising was perhaps worse than the five hundred years total. The whale, Monsuier Tartaglia, and the Oratrice overwhelming every one of Furina's senses. She remembered feeling numb.

"Furina." Arlecchino sat up abruptly, glowing red crosses staring at Furina. "It is truly a marvel that you withstood all the suffering fate had planned for you. I apologise on behalf of my children and myself for all the harm you suffered at our hands." Arlecchino offered a palm for Furina to hold, to use to bring herself up from the grass.

"Thank you, Arle." Furina smiled as she pulled herself up from the grass. She had found the constellation she was looking for, Ignis Purgatorius.

"Now allow me to take you home." Arlecchino entwined her hand with Furina's, bathing in the sound of the giggle Furina released at whatever she found humorous. It was quickly becoming a sound Arlecchino would commit to memory and store for all eternity.

"This certainly a better end to a night than the last time we did this." Arlecchino couldn't help but agree. It certainly was far better than the last time they star-gazed. It reminded Arlecchino of the time she spent with Clervie. Except this time, it was a far sweeter experience. One Arlecchino was finding herself quickly becoming addicted too.

 

––x●––

 

Furina jostled her keys around in her hand, fingers twisting around the various key chains she had attached to the key. Slipping the key into the lock, Furina quickly unlocked her apartment. She was more than prepared to jump into bed.

Opening the door, Furina found herself greeted by a black abyss. All the lights in her apartment were off.

An intrusive thought bubbled into Furina's head. Arlecchino has rather special eyes, so was she able to see in the dark? Those crosses glowed quite frequently.

Slipping into her home, the salon burst alive to assist in Furina's bed preparations. Usher and Crabaletta would ensure the apartment was neat and tidy. Chevalmarin would be there to keep her company as she did her nightly routine.

"Furina." Ah, she had nearly forgotten Arlecchino was behind her.

"Ah, Arle? Thank you for walking me home. Please make it home safely yourself." Furina smiled, but Arlecchino seemed dejected when Furina wished her a safe journey home. Was there something Arlecchino needed?

"Furina, may I come in and talk." Oh? Arle wanted to talk. Butterflies fluttered within Furina's stomach as her mind bounced between ideas. What could Arlecchino possibly want from Furina now?

"Yes, come in." Furina watched as Arlecchino sat down upon her couch. She looked far stiffer than she had the entire night. Shoulders straight and taunt, knees crossed and face concealing any and all emotions. Furin felt strange as she sat beside Arlecchino, knees touching, and feet spread apart. Hands folded neatly upon her lap as Furina patiently awaited whatever Arlecchino had to say. An awkward silence floating between them.

"Furina." Furina was shocked to hear so much hesitance within Arlecchino's voice. Yet before she could respond, Arlecchino continued her flood of words. "Furina. I have come to realise that I seek more from you. I wish to be more than your friend, for I have grown to care exponentially for you." Arlecchino felt a blush cover her cheeks. She was warm, a different kind of warm from the balemoon that burned within her. It felt like she was wrapped in a suffocating hug.

"Arle," Furina felt a smile crawl up her face, as little tears pricked the corners of her eyes."I Furina de Fontaine would love to be more than friends with you." Furina felt so happy. Like a party was happening within her stomach. Arlecchino liked her just like how Furina liked her.

Yet nothing could prepare Furina for what happened next.

Furina felt herself be wrapped in a warm hug. Furina giggled as she buried her face into Arlecchino's shoulder. Breathing in Arlecchino's perfume. It was such a comforting smell to go with just how warm this hug was. Furina never would have guessed Arlecchino would enjoy hugs.

"Arle." Furina cooed as she buried her nose deep into Arlecchino.

"Furina, we shall take this slow. I wish to make the most of this relationship." Arlecchino felt something bubble within her. She was thankful Furina couldn't see her face. Why was she acting like this? This is childish. Arlecchino should have more poise than this. Arlecchino felt like she was Peruere again.

"Alright. I'm so happy, Arle."

"Yes. So am I."

Arlecchino would wait till morning to speak more upon the finer intricacies of their relationship. Right now, she felt content to bask in the warmth of this new relationship with Furina for as long as possible. Allow for that part of her to settle for where it raved within her.

 

––x●––

Notes:

Yippee! They finally did it but don't think it's all sunshine and rainbows. My goal is to make someone cry which is either myself or one you dear readers. Anyways I am really thankful for 540+ kudos and all the comments left on this fic. Also btw although this chapter is short I want to know if any of you notice anything about the dates besides the fact Arle gets to be touchstarved and hestiatant to have a relationship with someone who can actually reciprocate.

(Bioluminescence is on temporary hiatus while I work on my arlefuri week submission and as I write the write the entire au).

Chapter 15: Settling Tides

Summary:

Furina and Arlecchino talk.

Furina yawned as she lifted herself from her face from the pillows. Hazy eyes came to focus upon one of the various plushes that piled up upon her bead to form a mountain of comfort. Weakly pushing herself up, Furina wobbled slightly as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

Sitting up, Furina stretched her arms above her head. Feeling the muscles in her back and arms tense as they were pulled awake. Furina let her arms drop to her sides as she slid out of bed, allowing the recently summoned Mademoiselle Crabaletta to assist her in pulling her sheets back up the bed. Her bed wasn't entirely neat and tidy, but it would do for being made in a sleepy haze.

"Good morning," Furina stopped to yawn, "Crabaletta." A cool feeling brushed against her arm as Surintendante Chevalmarin encouraged her into taking slow, messy steps forwards to begin her morning routine.

Furina wobbled as she stepped upon something that wasn't the ground. Looking down, Furina saw the squished body of a plush beneath her foot. Its tiny little fungus body curled up around her foot, and it's cap rubbing against her ankle.

Guilt surged through Furina, waking her up abruptly, as she saw tiny little doe eyes peak up at her, wondering what it had done to be walked on, what it had done to be treated so poorly.

"Ah! My apologies, Monsuier Hydropuff!" Furina yanked the plush from the floor as she removed it from beneath her footing. Turning, Furina rushed back to the head of her bed. Furina gently placed Monsuier Hydropuff amongst the mountain of plushes and planted a few light pats to the top of its head to comfort its imaginary feelings.

Stepping back, Furina gave all her plushes a warm smile as she bounced out of her room.

Furina was more than ready for a relaxing day. After spending a night star gazing with Arlecchino, Furina knew she wouldn't appreciate being woken up early to do some boring paperwork. Furina wanted to get the most out of the brief time she could spend with Arlecchino. Who would have guessed being the most famous star in all of Fontaine and 4th of the Fatui Harbingers meant that your schedules were always so busy.

Furina laughed with Chevalmarin and Crabaletta as they proposed various ideas for the day. Some ideas ranged from relaxing in bed to baking something to having a wander around Fontaine. Maybe even gossip with Navia.

Yet none of those thoughts would linger as Furina found her attention shift focus.

An idea intruded deep into Furina's thoughts as she caught a glimpse of white and black hair resting on the arm of the couch. Arlecchino was still asleep. Which means Furina could pull her own joke against Arlecchino. A little bit of revenge for all the times Arlecchino has made her jump.

"Hush, my dear Chevalmarin and Crabaletta." Furina quietly began to stalk towards where Arlecchino lay unaware of the looming danger.

Quiet, little footsteps towards the arm of the chair. Breaths shallow and silent as Furina approached the mess of hair on the arm of the chair.

"What a pitiful attempt at a scare."

Furina yelped as a plush came and bonked her on the head, eyes squeezing shut tightly as it bounced against her head.

"Arle!' Furina moaned as she felt the cold floor beneath her.

"Good morning, Furina." Arlecchino murmured to her as she sat up from where she laid upon the couch. Bare arms on total display, revealing the musculature beneath. The distance the curse had spread clear upon Arlecchino's arms, it was shocking to see just how far it stretched.

"Good morning, Arle. When did you wake up?" Furina huffed out as embarrassment and disappointment slowly replaced the fear that had coursed through her. It was unfair that the Knave could so easily scare her, Furina would get her revenge. Mark her words, she would!

"Not too long ago. I had been awakened rather rudely by the balemoon once again." Furina felt worry immediately replace her embarrassment the moment the word 'balemoon' slipped from Arlecchino's lips. Dreadful memories returning to her as she remembered the last nightmare Arlecchino had. The burn of her skin, the pain Arlecchino seemed to be in, how weak she seemed. It was horrifying to be so powerless when watching someone usually so high and mighty so weak. The way Arlecchino shook and trembled like a leaf at whatever had taken a toll upon her. And how useless Furina felt.

"Are you okay!?" Furina leaned over towards Arlecchino, inspecting and observing her face. Letting a small, cool hand rest against Arlecchino's forehead. Arlecchino didn't feel too hot, warm, yes, but it wasn't as burning hot as it had been last time. That was good, Furina exhaled a sigh of relief. This time wasn't as bad, that was good

"The balemoon wasn't as angry this time. It was more tolerable, but of course, a nightmare is still a nightmare." The balemoom had feelings, Furina thought it was just a weapon? Perhaps it's the fact that its multiple wills? Furina watched as Arlecchino gently pealed away the hand from her forehead, dragging it towards the space beside her.

Furina sat beside Arlecchino, a feeling of déjà vu overcoming her. Surintendante Chevalmarin floated into her lap as Furina cradled her, eyes staring off into the distance as she recalled just how similar this felt to the last time Arlecchino was around her apartment. Both times, actually.

"The balemoon has feelings?" Furina queried. Eyes refocusing upon Arlecchino, watching the slow breaths slip out from her. Arlecchino looked peaceful.

"Not entirely." Arlecchino murmured, eyes closed as she rested them, exhaustion refusing to let go of her. "I just assume how it feels based on how it affects me. If my blood boils without me controlling it, then I assume the balemoon is angry or something similar. If my dream is 'peaceful,' then I presume the balemoom is calm or something similar. Most of the time, I'm unsure of what the balemoon feels, so to speak." Arlecchino hummed, allowing her head to tilt slightly as she focused upon Furina's breaths and the small splashings sounds coming from the various salon members around the home."

Furina was intrigued. Perhaps Arlecchino's curse is more complex than first thought.

"So this time it was calm? Do you know why?"

Arlecchino pondered the dream that had made as much sense as the other one did. Whatever the balemoon had tried to tell her, Arlecchino didn't know. "No, it is difficult to understand the balemoon and its motives," Furina slumped in disappointment. "The balemoon can merely influence my dreams and the curse upon my body. It's up to me to decipher its meaning." Arlecchino creaked and eye open as a cool tentacle touched her arm. Gentilhomme Usher had kindly prepared them some cups of coffee.

"I'm grateful I could speak to Focalors. It would've probably been much worse if I hadn't had her." Furina hands warmed as she held the cup between her hands, a nice cup of coffee to her exact order, to prepare herself for the day.

"Indeed, to be made the supreme authority of Fontaine and yet be naïve in your understanding of the world would've been a fate worse than perhaps my own." Arlecchino sipped her coffee, the long used to the bitter taste. If Furina hadn't been able to talk with Focalors, then Arlecchino could see a similar thing happen to her that had happened to a supposed previous harbinger.

"I suppose you are right." Furina sipped her coffee, Usher had done a brilliant job making it.

"Of course. Now Furina, let us finish discussing what happened last night." Arlecchino straightened her posture and took a quick sip of her coffee. She was awake enough to handle this conversation now, and she wouldn't be leaving without it.

"Yes! Of course!" Furina had nearly forgotten the good news that had happened last night. How could she almost forget that Arlecchino had confessed to her!? That would be a memory Furina would cherish forever.

"Furina. I don't wish to make you uncomfortable, nor do I wish to push my own boundaries. Please let me know if you have any worries." Arlecchino watched as Furina pondered that question. She had never realized how awkwards this conversation could be when Arlecchino had contemplated it. It seemed like a natural progression. In comparison to her affairs, where there was a baseline agreement that it was nothing more and nothing less than a satisfying of urges. This was far more complex. Arlecchino had the desire to protect and control it. Keep it safe. However, Arlecchino knew that wasn't fair to Furina. Furina who had fought hard to carve out an individual identity separate from that of Focalors.

"Please, tell me if something happens. Don't keep secrets from me, Arle. I don't want to feel abandoned again." Furina stared down into her coffee, feeling all her salon nudge against her as she spiralled down into past memories.

"I have no intentions to abandon you, Furina." Arlecchino moved a hand to carefully wrap around one of Furina's, prying it away from the warm cup and being mindful of her own claws.

"I know, and I feel silly for thinking like this, but I worry. Before the trial, I thought I could trust the Traveller, yet it turns out they were just luring me to my own trial. I thought Clorinde was on my side. She had defended me with life and limb before, but she was willing to point her sword against me. Even you, Arle." Furina paused her aimless rambling as she watched Gentilhomme Usher take the cup of coffee from her and place it upon her coffee table. "I spent five hundred years alone, I want to live without the fear of being lonely."

Arlecchino stared at Furina's depressed face and found herself missing that silly moment they had before. Yet Furina continued to spill her fears.

"I don't want to simply be used until my purpose is fulfilled. I want to be loved as Furina, not as the star of Fontaine or as the previous Hydro Archon." Furina felt a small tear slip down her cheek. She had never realized how much she truly desired a relationship where she was equal in all means. Where she wouldn't have to worry about watching everything slip through her hands.

"I apologise for my actions. I shall be more forthcoming." Arleecchino could understand Furina. The isolation Clervie must have felt but never revealed to Peruere for whatever reasons was something Arlecchino swore to never let happen again. Not with one of her own children or with Furina. Problems don't get solved unless they are acknowledged to begin with.

"I forgive you, you've proven you don't intend to hurt me. You've been very kind, Knave." Furina gave Arlecchino a very small smile and was surprised when Arlecchino gave her one in return. Who knew the Knave could smile so innocently.

"If I were to cause you harm Furina, then I shall gladly accept the judgment of Fontaine." Arlecchino wondered what sentence the Oratrice would have given her if Focalors was still alive. It was a shame she wouldn't get to know, but she supposed Neuvillette's judgement would have to do.

Furina giggled at Arlecchino's dramatic flare, arms squeezing around Surintendante Chevalmarin's body.

"Are you certain you're the Knave? The Knave I knew would've challenged any judgement." Furina teased, watching as a look of indignation pass briefly over her face.

"Perhaps I have learned that maybe I should make more out of the time I have been now and my fate." Arlecchino challenged Furina, watching as a look of shock passed over Furina's face.

"I didn't think you'd take what I said to you in an emotional haze to heart, Arle." Furina's confessed as she leaned over to grab her coffee once again. Furina didn't want to let Gentilhomme Usher's efforts be put to waste.

"I have come to realise that I would regret not attempting something with you. The balemoon holds no sway over my decision here." Arlecchino conceded. Perhaps Arlecchino could reason with herself that maybe the balemoon was accepting of her relationship after all it had the chance to torment her once again and choose to instead just give her a plain dream. It was a confusing dream, but it was better than the burning agony some would cause.

"Thank you, Arle." Furina smiled it felt oddly heartwarming to hear Arlecchino devote herself to her regardless of her curse. It worried Furina, but she trusted Arlecchino knew what she was doing. No book or text would be able to understand Arlecchino's curse more than Arlecchino herself.

Arlecchino felt strange smiling like she was right now. It felt childish, unbecoming of a harbinger such as herself.

"I desire to make the most out of this relationship." Furina laughed. There was Arlecchino's gloom again.

"I don't have any plans to run away from you, Arle." Furina felt the air suddenly get thick, the more hopeful atmosphere suddenly becoming suffocatingly tense.

"Furina. The more gnosis the fatui has, the closer we are to the Tsaritsa's wish. Her Excellency has not hidden what she has planned for me. I grow more concerned as more gnosis falls into our hands. I," Arlecchino paused, this is perhaps the most emotionally forefront she has been in a while, "fear how fast fate is approaching." Arlecchino conceded. It both felt like a weight had fallen from her chest and a new one placed upon it.

"Arle." Furina squeezed the hand wrapped around her own. Furina didn't know what to say. The similarities of their curses and fates ended at their most basic links. Furin was perfectly human now, and her use in the prophecy was over. However, Arlecchino's had barely even started just yet. Who knew what Arlecchino's curse may do.

The nameless ruins were the first thing destroyed by the curse awakening within Arlecchino. The Court of Fontaine could be next if the curse awakens again.

Arlecchino wouldn't stand to put the Hearth in more danger than it already was. She wouldn't allow it.

A silence fell between them as neither could find the words to say anything. Furina's salon, having settled around them, quiet within Furina's head.

"Arle, I want to be with you regardless of your duties." Furina gave a tight squeeze of reassurance to Arlecchino's hand, the silence between allowing unpleasant thoughts to pass between them.

"Furina." Arlecchino paused, anger filling her as the words mystify her. Why was it so hard to tell Furina how grateful she was. Yet Furina's warm smile and happy face were so placating and set Arlecchino's nerves at ease. Peruere certainly seemed happy to be loved.

"Furina, how did you realise you liked me?" The question came from seemingly nowhere, but Arlecchino found herself intrigued by how Furina seemed nervous or perhaps embarrassed when considering her answer to the question.

"It wasn't exciting at all, I was baking with Navia and Clorinde for the party and suddenly I realised that maybe I liked you." Furina blushed, words trailing off as she resented her density. A small part of her resented the fact that it wasn't like how it was in the books, this large extravagant moment, so dramatic and pivotal to the plot.

Arlecchino was amused.

"It appears that Mademoiselle Navia has unintentionally caused both of us to realize that we desired one another." Furina's perked up at that, curiosity over taking her as she began to imagine the various scenarios that could have caused the stern Knave to realize she was in love.

"How did you realise then, Knave?" Furina teased as she sipped the remainder of her coffee, handing off the empty cup to an awaiting Gentilhomme Usher.

"I formally recognised it at the anniversary party. Freminet, on behalf of his siblings, had inquired about our relationship. However, I do believe part of me has yearned for you for far longer." Arlecchino had to give credit to that mystifying feeling that had avalanched into her crush on Furina. Without it, Arlecchino was certain she would be doing paperwork instead of indulging herself in Furina's company.

"Ah!" Furina jumped at the mention of Freminet and his siblings. Did Arlecchino wish to keep their relationship a secret? Arlecchino had shown previous distaste for the Steambird knowing, but if Freminet knew, who else did too? "Arle, do you plan on telling anyone?"

Arlecchino hummed. She hadn't bothered to consider how the public would view this news. Arlecchino would simply handle it when the time comes with her typical methods.

"Let them talk." Furina didn't expect such a simple answer from Arlecchino.

"Pardon?" It was so simply that Furina found herself confused.

"Furina, I'm certain my children will be eager to jump at any changes in our relationship, Lyney has always had a flare for the dramatics . I don't doubt Navia would wish to indulge in any gossip about our relationships with you, so let them talk."

Furina felt another worry appear within her.

"What about the rest of the Harbingers?" Arlecchino paused. It was easy to brush off those such as Clorinde and Navia or even her own children. However, her colleagues were another matter.

"So long as I'm loyal to them, they can not complain. My relationship with them will forever be conditional." Arlecchino had a feeling she would be receiving an impromptu visit from one of the other Harbingers soon. Either to speak more of her Tsaritsa's plans or of her new relationship.

Furina nodded. Although she was worried Arlecchino would get into a conflict with her fellow Harbingers, the Tsaritsa was the Goddess of Love, surely she'll understand. Besides, Furina wasn't too keen to meet another Harbinger any time soon, Monsuier Tartaglia was more than enough, and he seemed the most normal out of all the Harbingers, which was a tad concerning.

"I'm certain Charlotte will be eager to make a new article on us." Furina laughed, lightening the mood, Charlotte would probably jump at the opportunity to detail their relationship faster than you could blink.

"Indeed, however The Steambird will likely be careful with how they word their article." Arlecchino would tolerate their being some talk about her relationships, but if the Steambird tried to stir something up, then Arlecchino may have to step in again to ensure they don't push their limits

A comfortable silence overtook them. Furina was discussing with the salon in her head about the various plans she could make for the day. Gentilhomme Usher kindly reminded her of any duties she had, such as grocery shopping. Surintendante Chevalmarin reminded her to take care of herself and Mademoiselle Crabaletta being unwillingly supportive of her relationship. Crabaletta felt far too reluctant to let go of the grudge she had against Arlecchino. It was her duty to protect Furina, and a Harbinger was never good news.

"Furina, if you have no plans today, might you consider spending time at the House of the Hearth with me. The children speak fondly of you." Arlecchino hoped Furina was indeed free for the day. Arlecchino felt the need to bask in the revelation of their relationship for as long as possible. After all, it seemed like an impossibility for it to have occurred.

Furina was overjoyed at the opportunity to spend more time not only with Arlecchino but also with some of the children of the house. They were so sweet, and even the creepier ones were nice in their own ways. The grown children, too, were well-mannered.

"Of course! I need to get ready!" Furina rushed off to resume, getting ready for the day, Arlecchino watched with great amusement. Seeing Furina dash around reminded her of her own unfavourable appearance. A quick tidy of her hair and brush down of her clothes would have to do until she could return to the Hearth and actually tidy herself.

Arlecchino was eager to see the development of this relationship.

After all, unlike her previous affairs, she had been more thorough with Furina. She would ensure this wouldn't collapse like those affairs did.

Furina was a good influence upon her.

 

––x●––

Notes:

Preemptively I want to say thank you for 600+ kudos I am eternally grateful. I promise to serve better food I'm just struggling with writing atm.

If yall didn't notice but the previous chapter was structured as a mirror to the beginnings of Embers as each of the dates referenced the various dates the duo had in the beginning of Embers.

Chapter 16: Sparks

Summary:

Arlecchino and Furina bond with the children but Arlecchino grapples with the possibility that neither her or Furina truly comprehend the reality of their fates as time seems to be slipping through her fingers once again.

The was certainly bright today, Arlecchino inwardly sighed as she briefly looked out of the window. Though Arlecchino would willingly take it over rain.

"Woah," Furina stared enamoured at Arlecchino. Heterochromatic eyes wide as they fixated upon Arlecchino's hands, watching as they slipped up towards her hair, pulling down the typically invisible hair band and allowing the surprisingly long hair to flow naturally. Gone was the typically ponytail.

"Ah," Arlecchino almost let out a laugh at Furina's shocked face, "Could I borrow a hair brush?" Red strands mixed with black and white ones slid between darkened fingers, each movement entrancing Furina.

"Of course!" Arlecchino stared confused at Furina's sudden burst of energy. However, all that mattered was the pale blue hairbrush in front of her face.

"Thank you." Arlecchino gently took the brush and began parading it through her hair, occasionally pulling it at nots until it eventually was left flatter than normal. The swoops of hair normally pulled to the left side, and the more chaotic elements of her fringe were calmed. Furina seemed as though she was under a spell, wide droplets staring directly at Arlecchino. Though Arlecchino couldn't recall casting a spell upon Furina, especially not one that could seemingly put an end to the frantic mess Furina was earlier.

"I wouldn't stare into my eyes for too long. I can't promise you'll like what you see." Arlecchino hummed out the familiar phrase she said to anyone who seemed far to keen to stare into Arlecchino's eyes for longer than necessary. The Traveller certainly thought twice when staring far too much ever since their battle. Far too scared of seeing what exactly could have happened if Arlecchino had gone through with the attack.

Far too scared of the Balemoon.

"I'm not staring at that, I'm, ahem, looking at your long hair." Furina coughed awkwardly into her hand. Furina had never truly comprehended the length of Arlecchino's hair. Yes, she knew it was long, but she was just subconsciously committing it to memory it had never been so apparent before. Yet Furina liked it. Part of her wanted to braid it, but another part of her didn't think it would suit Arlecchino.

"Hmm? It's only been this long for a few years now." Arlecchino hummed and pulled her hair back in a low but not too tight ponytail. Her hair was like a simplified version of its typical self. Perfectly suited for a day spent around the children.

"This is new?" Furina was surprised to hear it was a new look for Arlecchino. Well, not technically knew but Furina had lived a long life and a few years pales in comparison, so she gets to call it a new look.

"Yes, most of my childhood and teenage years, I had rather short hair. I decided to keep it long after I was declared the new Harbinger." Arlecchino stared at the cold hair peice in her hand before deciding to simply keep hold of it.

"So you grew it out to be rebellious?" Arlecchino paused mid standing. Perhaps it had been an act of rebellion or freedom.

"Yes. Now, if you are ready, let's go." A warm hand was offered before being joined by a rather cool one.

 

––x●––

 

"Father!" Came the first cheer from the children.

"Lady Furina!" Came the second cheer from the children as they crowded around the pair that had just walked in.

The Hearth was seemingly spotless, and not a single mess was to be found. All of the children seemed neat and tidy as well. The grown children also appeared rather calm, well as calm as they could be, instead of apprehensive and scared when they needed to confess to some trouble that had occurred at the House.

"Hello again!" Furina cheered as the children moved to crowd around her instead. A myriad of questions flying around, all fighting to catch Furina's attention.

"Report." On of the elders stepped up at Arlecchino's sharp command, though Arlecchino kept her eyes upon Furina.

"Not much has occurred, Father. Everything happened according to your plan." The elder child stepped away, bow slightly before disappearing off to carry out their own duties. It was good to hear that nothing had happened. Even if it's such a short period of time, it only takes a second for the future to shift dramatically.

"Father." Arlecchino attention snapped down towards a young girl, Amélie. She seemed nervous considering the way her hands tangled together and how she refused to maintain eye contact with her father, instead choosing to stare at the ground.

"Speak."

Amélie seemed to shift on the spot uncomfortably, the gaze of father heavy upon her shoulders. "You promised we would be able to bake cupcakes today."

"What a wonderful idea!" Furina butted in suddenly, "I'm sure Arle wouldn't mind baking some cupcakes with us!" Furina pleaded silently. It could be such a wholesome bonding experience! Furina wouldn't dare miss out on such a prized opportunity as this!

Arlecchino paused to stare at Furina's pleading face as well as the other children who seemed to have jumped at the idea. Even Amélie seemed more confident. Finally willing to look her father in the eye.

"Very well."

 

––x●––

 

Arlecchino was far messier than she had originally intended to be. Furina had kindly tossed a small handful of flour at Arlecchino, so anything that wasn't white was suddenly coated with snow. Yet Arlecchino couldn't bring herself to be too mad at Furina's giggling face and the impressive smarts of choosing to attack specifically when Arlecchino was distracted.

"Would you look at that? It is snowing." Furina jumped and moaned half-heartedly as Arlecchino gently sprinkled flour down atop her hair. Now they both matched having a snow like dusting, though at least Furina's didn't look as though she had gotten into a fight with the flour.

"Arle!" Furina beamed before being dragged away towards the children who swarmed the kitchen island, all eager to continue on with the next steps of baking cupcakes.

"Now, we need to make icing!" The rest of the words flew over Arlecchino's head as she stared at Furina, subconsciously obeying commands. Furina seemed genuinely happy, and the children did too. It was a sweet sight that Arlecchino found herself becoming addicted to. Perhaps this is the consequences of her rules. Yet time would tell whether this risk would be worth it.

However, Arlecchino was content with living in the moment until there came a knock upon the door.

"Father," Ysuet gulped as Father's piercing gaze locked onto her. Suddenly, Ysuet felt rather guilty for interrupting this rather domestic moment. "The Marionette is wished to see you."

Arlecchino stopped, mind halting at the mention of the Marionette. There was nothing in the calendar that mentioned a visit from a fellow Harbinger, much less a visit from the most antisocial one of them all.

Whatever had convinced Sandrone to visit had to be important.

"Very well. Children, Furina, please continue without me for a while." Arlecchino did her best to ignore the worried and sad face of Furina. It almost felt like looking directly at a soaked puppy that was whining and crying for help. The children didn't seem to mind too much as one happily took over, mixing the blue icing from Arlecchino.

The curtains were half pulled back in the corridor Arlecchino had stepped out into. Pale light seeped through the opening and illuminated Arlecchino left. She could feel the warmth on her cheek. White hair shone and and the light reflected against the metal of Arlecchino's suit, a complete contrast to Sandrone.

Sandrone who stood beside the closed curtain. Darkness covering her body with barely any light touching the fragile frame. Inhuman eyes stared up at Arlecchino. Her doll-like appearance and delicate form always seemed to annoy Arlecchino. Perhaps it was her arrogance. Though Arlecchino preferred the Marionette out of all the other scientifically inclined members of the Fatui, it wasn't hard for that to be the case, considering the bar was six feet deep.

Sandrone could toy with her puppets as much as she liked so long as it brought no harm to her children.

"Hello, Marionette." Arlecchino spoke as politely as she could. However, Sandrone's lack expression gave little away. A dull expression perhaps caused by a mutual feeling of 'not wishing to be here'.

"Greetings, Arlecchino." Sandrone paused to stare at Arlecchino for just a moment longer. "I won't be here too long, but her Majesty requested I give you the updated version of her plan." Arlecchino noticed the thick envelope of documents held within Sandrone's hands watching as they stretched out to offer them for taking.

"I would give you a verbal summary. However, we dont know what prying ears could be listening in." Brows shot up in intrigue as Arlecchino's gaze shot to Sandrone's neutral face.

"My children are not a concern." Sandrone scoffed at Arlecchino's quick reply.

"You would take care of the defiant brats. I'm speaking more about the certain ex-archon you've been entertaining recently." Anger began to smoulder within Arlecchino as she stared at the lower ranking Harbinger. "Don't you wonder how she would react knowing exactly what you're getting into." Sandrone stepped closer, challenging Arlecchino to act. Shadows reeling as Sandrone slowly began to be bathed in light. Dull, fake eyes gleaming as light shone in them. If Arlecchino stared close enough, she could see her own reflection within them.

"How would the poor, little droplet react to the second person to ever get closer to her in such a personal way, abandoning her." Sandrone spit, the words sending the anger boiling in Arlecchino to release in a frenzy.

"Silence. Know your place beneath me, 7th of the Fatui Harbinger. Why don't you return to your dolls, your out of place here." Arlecchino snarled, pushing Sandrone away, watching her stumble over her heels. The small amount of light gracing Sandrone's skin gone, as she was forced back into the shadows away from the sparce light within the decorated hall. Part of her wished to do more to the doll before her, like shatter the porcelain skin or deface and ruin its dainty beauty.

"No need to get so aggressive. Besides, the Tsaritsa supports whatever you have going on with that puppet, so long as your loyalties remain with the Fatui." Sandrone turned away from Arlecchino, walking further into the dark corridor, far, far away from the flames she had stoked. A sigh was released as Arlecchino found herself alone in the corridor. The only company was her thoughts, which was not a pleasant company.

Though Arlecchino and Furina had discussed her fate, be it briefly, did they really comprehend the magnitude of the situation? Were they prepared for what was to come? The moment that pyro gnosis slipped into their hands, Project Stuzha was to be carried out according to the envelopes content. Not a moment before or after. Arlecchino was to act as she was ordered, the consequences of which were unknown, but Arlecchino's had a feeling she knew exactly what would happen. Arlecchino had two options for fate to pick from.

The folder was heavy in Arlecchino's hand. It was a simple brown envelope with a special fatui sigil adorning the front. The one which included all of the sigils of the Harbingers. The moth, the crying dove, the familiar clawed hand, and various others. Arlecchino's dark, warm hand was a strong contrast against it. She had to take special care not to tear into the back of the envelope with her claws.

"Ysuet, take this to my office." Arlecchino held her hand out, the envelope slipping from between her fingers with a 'Yes father' mumbled out as Ysuet rushed off to obey their father's order. Arlecchino paid no mind to their receeding from as she did Sandrone. Instead, she turned back towards where Furina was.

Furina looked as though she was perfectly at home with the children. Though they were messier than Arlecchino would have liked, she accepted that cost to see the smile upon all of their faces. The various giggles echoed out as the children and Furina laughed as they decorated a cupcake each. Furina seemed so natural as she told tale after tale to tell children who took every word they could hear to heart. The scene before Arlecchino seemed so domestic, symbolic of what could've been or of a better future.

Arlecchino hated this debt the children unknowing had. This scene before her made Arlecchino more aware of it than she would've liked.

"Arle!" Furina cheered as she noticed the figure standing in the doorway. The smile reached up to her eyes as she beckoned Arlecchino to join her back into the kitchen. The kitchen island was covered in flour, icing, sprinkles, and various other decorations used by the children to decorate. Yet what caught Arlecchino's attention was the cupcake carefully cradled between Furina's hands. It wasn't decorated how Arlecchino had come to expect. It wasn't covered in blue icing. There wasn't any gold, silver, or blue sprinkles. Instead, there was a flattened swirl of black icing that handed a spider web carefully iced on top. Then there was what looked like a red spider on top of that. It seemed odd to even consider it as seemingly Furina had created.

"Everyone here has had fun, it seems." Arlecchino hummed as she came to stand close to Furina, though she was still a distance away from the mess on the table. Although her clothes were already dirty, white had the tendency to stain far too easily, and Arlecchino had no intention of ruining her clothes further.

"Arle, you need to decorate your own cupcake!" Furina revealed a blank cupcake that didn't have a single bit of mess upon it.

Arlecchino hummed as she stared at the blank cupcake, and then she reached over towards the mostly used pale blue icing. Hands shaking, Arlecchino gently pipped a pale blue swirl of icing. Then, the peak of icing was smushed to a flat surface, as Arlecchino gently piped a small droplet shape. Well, it mostly looked like one.

"Done." Arlecchino leaned back, watching as the children looked in awe at what their father had created. "Now, children, before you head off to eat the cake, we must tidy up. I will not tolerate leaving a mess behind." The children groaned, and Furina looked rather sheepish suddenly. Having been caught up in the moment, everyone here had forgotten their sensibilities and responsibilities. Looking at the mess, Arlecchino let out a small huff of laughter when taking in the full scope of it.

Besides the obvious mess on the table before them all, the rest of the kitchen wasn't in a better state. There were plenty of dishes in the sink, either filled with batter or icing. There was flour on the floor and on the walls, it almost seemed as if there was a hand print on of the walls. Furthermore, there weres the general rubbish that has been accumulated from the various ingredients. However, so long as the children work together, alongside their Father and Lady Furina, the mess wouldn't take too long. Well, as long as they behaved but none of the children were particularly rowdy when experiencing the consequences of their own actions.

"Miss Furina," Furina sheepish expression shifted as she stared, awaiting what Arlecchino had to say. Hopefully, Arle wouldn't scold her too harshly, dread pooled in Furina's stomach as she imagined it. "Would you like to join me in the office after we finish cleaning this mess." Furina exhaled a breath, silently thanking Focalors she wasn't scolded.

Though Furina loved hanging around the children, she must admit dealing with so many was rather tiring all of a sudden.

"Of course, Arle." Arlecchino loved that smile on Furina's lips.

 

––x●––

 

Walking into the office, Arlecchino was greeted by a cool wave of air over her. Neither is too warm or too cold to bear. The officer itself was shrouded in shadow, and the tall curtains pulled shut across the window, shunning all the light.

"Phew, that took less time than I would've expected." Furina moaned as she entered behind Arlecchino, watching as Arle walked across the room. Then Furina was suddenly blinded.

"It would've taken less if we had been careful when making the cupcakes."

The curtains screeched slightly as Arlecchino wretched them open, blinding herself with the sudden brightness. Quickly blinking, the curtains were pulled open and tied back, as Arlecchino adjusted. Light seeped in to reveal a rather plan room. Large book shelves decorated the walls opposite Arlecchino. Though they weren't used for storing books, while there was some on the shell, there were instead boxes and draws filled with documents pertaining to the Hearth. The occasional trophy or gift decorated it as well, such as the talent trophy Lyney had won when he was younger or even the one for mechanics that Freminent had won, much to his chagrin

"What's the thick envelope on your desk for?" Furina stared at the thick envelope. It was plain except for the strange fatui sigil upon its front. The centre of it looked familiar, the standard fatui sigil seen everywhere the fatui were. However, it was surrounded by eleven different sigils. Some were almost immediately clear and recognisable to Furina. The narwhal was Monsuier Tartaglia, and the claws were most certainly Arlecchino. Furina could hazard a guess that the dove was the Damselette. The rest were mysteries.

"Official Harbinger business, you should pay no mind to it." Clawed hands pulled the thick envelope from view before hiding it away in one of the drawers in Arlecchino's desk.

"It's nothing bad, right?" Arlecchino suddenly felt sick, fears and worries from before returning far harsher than before. Guilt rushed over Arlecchino as the next few words escaped her:

"No, it's likely just a report." Arlecchino lied through her teeth, watching as Furina brushed it off to investigate the office.

Arlecchino leaned on her arms as she sighed. Why did time seem to be slipping through her hands so much faster now? Or has it always been this quick?

"Oh, Arle, look at this cute plush." Furina grinned, holding an oh so familiar plush near her cheek. The sharp pointy ears stuck up and stuck together atop the bunnies head. Black puffs of fabric stick at the top and inside the ears. A curtain of fluff covered one of the black and red eyes. Its limp body handing within Furina's grip, black claws gently caressing the skin of Furina's arms. The bunny seemed displeased at the hug, yet it didn't back away.

Hello, Perrie.

 

––x●––

Notes:

It's returned! I hope you enjoyed this short and mostly sweet chapter!

Chapter 17: Drowning

Summary:

A childhood plush forces Arlecchino to face the reality that there is more in her life that must be considered when making plans for the future.

Arlecchino stared at the plush, the signs of wear and tear became more obvious the longer she stared at it. The subtle marks and the thin layer of dust Furina had missed when brushing it off to bring it into a forced hug.

"Indeed, it was my childhood plush." Arlecchino gaze shifted from looking at the plush to watching Furina instead or flicking to briefly stare at her nails as Arlecchino laid back against the plush office chair she had spend, arguable too long, of her life sat in. It was a struggle almost to stare at the plush for too long. It made Arlecchino wonder why exactly had it been given a home in her office. Her office.

"Really? I wouldn't have expected you to like these things as a child." Furina was genuinely surprised to learn Arlecchino had a childhood; she would never have guessed it was something she seemed interested in or had the chance to be interested in when considering all she knew of Arlecchino's past. Though taking a closer look at the seams and fabrics, there were clear signs of wear and tear of love that just couldn't be washed out or fixed entirely. Looking at it seemed to cause a budding feeling of nostalgia, a feeling of sorrow for some reason. Furina didn't feel so happy anymore.

"I made it myself. My 'siblings' had their own." The plush felt heavier now.

"You made it?" Furina gaze shifted to linger upon Arlecchino for a moment longer that needed.

"Of course, it was another of Crucabena's tactics. Every new child was assisted by her personally to make a plush that resembled them. It taught various skills, sewing, obedience, and independence. It was a symbol of your position in the Hearth. If you ever saw one in the trash or if it ever went missing, then you knew a 'sibling' had been removed."

Furina didn't want to hold onto the plush anymore. How Arlecchino could say such things so calmly, so blasé? How could Arle speak of such abuse so calmly?

"Oh," Furina was speechless..

"If you like to keep it, then feel free. I have no use to cling to the past when the future is ahead." Arlecchino waved off the depressing atmosphere that seemed to be creeping up between them. Brushing off the lingering claws of past regrets with ease.

"No, I don't want it, I was just shocked to hear more about what Crucabena was like." Furina was surprised by the number of her friends that had such horrible childhoods. Clorinde and receiving a sword at the age of 3, Arle and having a monster like Crucabena as a 'mother', at least Navia had a relatively normal one... well, for as long as they were alive, at least. Monsuier Callas' case still felt like a subject to avoid even if Navia was healing from it.

"Oh? I would've thought you would've been used to hearing Crucabena's villainous tendencies after all this time. Is the idea of Crucabena allowing us plush toys too outlandish?" Perhaps it was, Furina's barely hidden horror and bewilderment seemed to agree.

Furina stared at Arlecchino.

"No, it amazes me that someone could be so cruel. Ms. Petronilla, Clorinde's former master, almost seems like an average parent in comparison." Almost, it was still ridiculous to think a grown adult would reasonably think that handing a child a sword was a good idea regardless of the various excuses and reasonings Furina was certain Ms. Petronilla would give. However, Crucabena seems to always somehow be worse than Furina first thought. Discarding children at a moments notice had bad enough implications, but learning the modus operandi, even just barely made Furina feel far worse.

It was easy to comprehend an abusive mother. However, it wasn't easy to comprehend how the mother was abusive.

"Indeed. It is often a question I ponder myself but to little success. Though, a character like hers would make the duty of being a harbinger easier to tolerate." Multicoloured claws dragged along, digging small marks into the hard wood desk, forming a team of almost unnoticeable scratches.

"Arle," Furina swallowed; she felt nervous for some reason, "You can talk to me. We promised each other honesty."

Arlecchino felt nervous. It was a peculiar feeling, especially considering this was what she wanted. Arlecchino had spent time planning it and yet simply being asked to speak of it aloud, made her incredibly nervous and shaky. Desk being riddled with scars, only visible to her. Leg bouncing ever so slightly, the other twitching instinctively trying to pull itself atop the other.

"Furina," Arlecchino's steeled herself, "Promise me, you won't tell anyone about what I say."

Furina stared, shock evident upon her face at Arlecchino. Worries and doubts clouded her mind as she stared at the clearly uncomfortable Harbinger.

"I promise."

A silence filled the space between them as they both acknowledged Furina's promise.

Part of Furina wondered what Arlecchino would do to her if she did spill. Perhaps there was still part of her that indeed did still doubt Arlecchino. Part of her would always acknowledge the fact that Arlecchino was more than a mere human like Furina. Arlecchino, who was this heir to a destroyed kingdom. Arlecchino, who lived on the balance of humanity and monstrosity. Furina the human.

Whereas Arlecchino stared at Furina, worried. Scared. Perhaps Peruere, the naïve little child, was still too fearful of telling someone of their plans. Peruere had told no one of their plans to kill 'mother, though perhaps she already knew. However, could Peruere really risk telling someone else of their traitorous schemes? What if this time it was more than just 'mother' as an opponent? Could Peruere really rely upon the goodwill of the Tsaritsa again?

"Furina." Arlecchino began. "The Tsaritsa plans to go to war with Celestia. Thus, she will use everything at her disposal to achieve victory. Every Harbinger, of course, is 'loyal' to this plan. To her." Arlecchino paused, something about seeing the fear in Furina's eyes caused something to writhe within her. A twisted sick feeling. Yet there was also anger. And fear. Claws dug deep into the edge of the desk, clinging onto it for strength. For any sort of comfort.

"That includes the House the Hearth." The implications were obvious.

"I have no intentions to allow the Tsaritsa to use my children as fodder in her war any longer. I can not allow them to experience a tragedy far greater than the prophecy could've been." Each and every one of those words sent a chill down Furina's spine.

Furina's head spun a little. The Tsaritsa was planning a tragedy far greater than the prophecy could've been... and Arlecchino is a part of it!?

"And what exactly are you planning?" Furina didn't mean to sound accusatory. The words were harsher than intended, and the brief furrowing of brows made it known that Arlecchino certainly wasn't pleased by her tone.

"The Tsaritsa only needs me." Furina swallowed. "The Hearth is one of the many things Fatui uses to keep me loyal. I am the servant, after all." Arlecchino stood from her plush chair before strolling towards the window, desperate for a distraction. "All the fatui want is my curse. I've known that ever since I was an orphan." Cross eyes scrutinised the Court of Fontaine just outside the window, watching as people idly walked by and children run about.

"Arle…" that sickness that plagued Furina seemed to worsen as it was mixed with sadness. Arlecchino was only in her position because of her curse. Just like Furina almost.

"So if that is what they want, then they shall have it. However, i will be making sure my children are safe from their plans." Arlecchino felt her blood boil, and her arms shake slightly. There was no turning back now, and perhaps that's what made Arlecchino so nervous.

Arlecchino wasn't meant to be nervous.

"Crucabena would've been a better Harbinger because she wouldn't care what happened, right?" A white gloved hand came to rest besides a cursed one, just barely touching it. Furina could barely see the subtle shaking of Arlecchino's arms.

"Yes." It was that simple.

Arlecchino stared; it took a great deal of effort to control her emotions. Repeating her mantra of "anger makes you impulsive, sorrow makes you waver" until the very words seem to cease all, meaning Arlecchino was beyond this. Did all the time spent training mean nothing now!? Arlecchino was above Peruere. She was an adult, not a senseless child. So why was Arlecchino struggling to keep her composure now!?

Arlecchino never faultered when explaining her past to either the Traveller or Furina.

Arlecchino didn't falter in the face of her more graphic work.

Arlecchino didn't falter when killing Crucabena.

So why was she faltering now?

"Arle," Arlecchino's arm felt awfully warm beneath Furina's gloved hands. It was almost too hot to comfortably hold for too long. "Would you like a hug?" Furina didn't know what to do.

How do you comfort someone who seemed so untouchable. The very person who told you not to pity them, that it was all in the past and that it's the future that must be focused upon.

This nothing like comforting Navia and Clorinde. Both of them liked hugs and simply needed someone to lean on to talk to, but Arle, what would she need?

"Okay." Oh, a pale pink blush highlighted Furina's cheeks.

Arlecchino gently wrapped her arms around Furina, their height difference becoming quite prominent. Furina was, unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, given a rather soft place to rest her head.

However, Furina found herself more surprised by how Arlecchino seemed to cling to her. Arms holding Furina tightly against her torso where she could very clearly hear Arlecchino's heartbeat. Which was surprisingly comforting. Yet it also made Furina feel something she couldn't decide. It was nice and comforting to hear the beats of Arlecchino's heart, but at the same time, something seemed to worm at her feelings. It was almost an existential feeling. This heartbeat within Arlecchino's chest was similar to her own. Furina was alive just as much as Arlecchino's was. Furina wanted to keep ahold of that fact until she herself could no longer breathe.

"Arle." Furina could feel the arms slip slightly from where they wound around her. "I want to do something different."

"What exactly do you wish to do differently?" Arlecchino let her arms fall to Furina's shoulder. She would never grow tired of seeing Furina's face, nor the carefully crafted hair that fell across her face or the strange little strand that stuck up no matter how many times Arlecchino had attempted to brush it down. Or how it sometimes seemed to have a mind of its own, or how other times it seemed to gain an extra kink or two whenever Furina's was particularly happy with Arlecchino. Though Arlecchino was certain this was a new thing, during the tea parties or other miscellaneous opportunities to view Furina, it seemed like just another strand of hair.

"I want to swap our positions. I want to hug you." Furina wanted Arlecchino to listen to her heart beat, however what she didn't expect was how Arlecchino aimed to achieve that.

Rather than kneel briefly upon the floor, Furina instead found herself being carried rather abruptly in Arlecchino's hold.

"Arle!" The cry quickly accompanied by arms wrapping themselves tightly around the Knave's neck.

"Yes, Miss Furina?" Furina would get revenge against this pesky Harbinger, no matter how nice it was to hear Arlecchino say her voice is such an unnecessarily seductive tone it was not appreciated when Furina wanted to comfort the Harbinger.

"Why couldn't you have like kneeled or something why did you -" documents of varying importance were tossed onto a mostly near pile on the space besides Arlecchino's desk before Furina found herself plopped down onto the newly created space "put me on your desk!"

"I'm certain you would've liked to see me upon my knees. However, kneeling for too long would be rather painful, and I do not wish to ache anymore than I do currently."

Furina silently cursed any and all publishing houses, especially Yae Publishing House, for the thoughts she currently had.

Though, Furina wasn't opposed to imagining Arle on her knees.

"Arle!" Arlecchino smirked, "Just hug me already!"

Arlecchino felt Furina pull at her head, smushing her head against her chest. Forcing an ear to listen to the racing beat beneath the surface.

.

Cursed arms wound around Furina's frame and hands clinging tightly onto the fabric, silencing a comment that Furina was moments from making.

.

Arlecchino felt warm.

It wasn't the warmth she grew to associate with the curse within her. It neither burned silently in the background nor flared brighter than the sun that taunted the moon. It didn't bring the pain of a curse spreading more and more. Nor the deep seeded fear within her that only grew every time there was even just a single spark of the flames Arlecchino called her own.

The warmth seemed to follow the beat of the heart tucked deep in Furina's chest. A reassuring melody of echoing beats.

Something ever so simple and ever so meaningful.

It was perhaps the first hug Arlecchino had had in a long while. The first proper hug.

The last one had been the last one Clervie had ever given her.

Though Peruere couldn't hear the rhythmic beats, Peruere knew they were slowing. Peruere knew Clervie was dying faster than the pace of her own heart as adrenaline ran through her system.

Peruere could feel the beat as it was used to coat her in blood.

Peruere stopped enjoying hugs.

Arlecchino stopped enjoying a lot of things.

"Furina," Furina wasn't Clervie. "Promise me, you'll stay safe. With my children." Furina survived.

"Of course. I'll be there for you, Arle." It seemed like the only thing Furina could do to help Arle was promise her.

Perhaps the only thing Arlecchino needed was reassurance.

 

––x●––

 

It was dark now. The curtains were still open, however, untouched since Arlecchino had opened them even though both Furina and the sun had left.

Leaving Arlecchino alone to drown out he thoughts with work and more work. Signing documents here, writing reports there, and occasionally seeing something from the children directly. A drawing that slipped through or a piece of work considered incredible and worthy of praise. Arlecchino had an idea of how they slipped in. However, she wasn't feeling inclined to make its stop.

Arlecchino stared down at the papers, or perhaps at her own hands. Staring at the skin, recalling when it was once smooth and pale, the only traces of the curse hidden beneath her nails, imprisoned by childhood innocence. Now, it seemed to stretch so far.

Yet, perhaps these hands were not as cursed as Arlecchino had been lead to believe.

In fact, it seemed as if it had receded the lack of the burning in an area. Arlecchino was a sensation long forgotten.

It was something only Clervie had achieved.

Arlecchino was considering enjoying outwardly loving someone. Even if that person used to be someone, Arlecchino considered an annoyance. A nuisance and various other things born from a naive understanding and regrets pushed onto the wrong person.

What would Peruere think to knowing it was the Archon who would steal their heart?

 

––x●––

 

Furina didn't know where she was. Last she knew, she was falling asleep peacefully after a long day of work and spending time with Arle and her children.

Yet now she was somewhere entirely unknown.

It was a bright place, and yet it was filled with water. There was water beneath her bare feet, and there was water seemingly stuck in stasis. Flowing eternally.

It was also incredibly quiet. Silent almost.

Even when Furina's tapped her foot and splashed against the waves, they didn't make a sound. It was just silence.

The only sound Furina could hear was the ruffling of clothes and her breath. Yet even that was so quiet.

"Oh, don't you think it's beautiful." Suddenly, the waves did make a sound. They splashed violently as Furina cowered backwards, her body trembling as the sudden voice echoed around this watery haven.

Yet, the fear that ran through Furina dissipated as she stared at the crouched figure, a mere distance away. A flowing blue robe seemed to sparkle as it drapped itself across the figures frame.

Bare feet splashd against the floor as Furina subconsciously walked, ran, and sprinted her way towards the frame, seemingly drawn magnetically towards the person. Like a shell being carried by the waves towards some random shore, on some random beach, on somewhere random.

"It's so therapeutic and beautiful." Furina's eyes trailed from deep blue locks that flowed out from beneath the veil, down towards the three swirling fishes, all swimming and dancing around one another. They seemed to shine just beneath the surface, where they both stood.

"Oh, how they're everything I wish for." Furina stared deeply confused. Who would wish to be like three fishes swimming around aimlessly and eternally? It made no sense.

"Oh, how I wish to see things live." Her breath seemed to shake as the woman, whoever she was, collapsed inwards into herself. Body trembling beneath the fabric that seemed to drown her, an almost unending weight.

"Do you know, they speak of people, people, who refuse to accept us." Us? Who is us? "They refuse to acknowledge the mountain that protects against the shore that sought to sweep it all away. Or acknowledge the tree that connects all. Or even the thunders that roars in the sky yet quietens when bowing down." Furina felt like she knew who was before her.

Someone she knew but didn't. A vague memory you can't quite say whether it's true or something made up. A mix in the span of time.

"They're like fish in a storm. The waves around them are more violent and more destructive than they ever could be but look at them," Furina stared, fear pooling cold in her stomach, as a simply wave of their hand causes the waves around the swimming fishes to crash violently. White peaks reach up high, just barely brushing against her nose, and then they crash violently against the scales of the fish. Until a scale was ripped away.

The small black scale seemed to be consumed by the abyss as it sunk further and further away. Deeper in the depths just beneath Furina's fingers.

"They're just living," wide droplets stared at the black and white fish, now twinged with a little bit of red, "unless prompted, they won't bite. Unless we cast judgment upon them and make our assumptions based on nothing but our own fears, they will just live."

The water seemed to flow around Furina's wrist. Sounds of it moving filled her ears. Furina felt so confused.

"Oh," Furina gulped, the whine rocking the poisonous fear that welled within her, "how can I be a God of Justice if this world is born upon lies and injustice. Its rules are all written in it!"

Furina felt the waves beneath her consumed her. They were cold, and they stung against her cheeks. Yet between the bubbles of her breath, Furina could see a small teardrop spill between the calm fishes. It seemed to grow and swim alongside the fishes.

And the fishes swam alongside it even though it wasn't at all like them.

Furina didn't know if she was drowning or living.

 

––x●––

Notes:

I return with thoughts. Anyways I must as always say thank you for 700 kudos! We draw ever closer to the final act of Embers.

Chapter 18: Swimming

Summary:

Furina is sick after over working herself. Arlecchino is worried, and some intrusive thoughts come back to haunt her.

 

It gets a bit heavy at the end so please read with caution.

Furina wanted to die. Well, not literally. However, being sick was a horrible feeling. Maybe it was a bad idea to stay late writing, but that's when inspiration struck her! Ugh, simply thinking about it caused her to rehear Navia, scolding her after finding out why Furina and skipped out on meeting her.

'Furina! You need to take care of yourself. There's no use working yourself to the bone. Take it easy now, okay?'

I didn't help. Mademoiselle Crabaletta also jumped on her.

'I will not tolerate you being negligent of your health!'

Furina understood, more than she wanted to, how it felt to be a child who was being scolded by their parent. To be so weak and suffering the consequences of your own actions.

It didn't help that dream seemed to fog her mind. It had never really happened before.

The plush held between Furina's grasp felt itself chocked harder and harder the more its owner's mind was clouded and muddled.

Furina stared bleary-eyed at the painted wall in front of her. Analysing the cracks, groves, and textures before her. It seemed so ultimately boring. The sun was bright as ever when shining against the curtains. Only a sliver slipped through the gap Navia had left open. The folds and creases in teb curtains stuck in Furina's mind, ensnaring her eyes to look upon them as they seemed ever so similar to the pillars and peaks of water from that dream.

Was this how Arle often felt after dreaming?

Lost and confused, barely able to grasp anything.

Furina had run her mind across all she knew from the dream so many times that she could recite it without even thinking. What else could she do when lying in bed and dying? It certainly does not direct anything good.

They were a God - one clearly related to justice. They were upset about a judgment? Belief?

Was it Egeria?

Yet how was Furina dreaming of Egeria?

Why was Furina dreaming of Egeria?

It didn't make any sense, Furina let out a groan as a spike of pain rippled across her forehead. It blinded her momentarily, and the salon came rushing towards her. Water dripped across the paths as their forms melted slightly, the will that Furina held to keep them summoned, stumbling and slipping. Dissolving their viscous forms.

Tears slipped from the corners of her eyes, staining the sheets beneath her. This was torture.

Maybe if Arle was here, she could wring some affection from her. Furina didn't know whether she wanted to know what Arle was like when dealing with sick children. Surely they must get sick a lot, they were kids!

It made Furina rather aware of how apprehensive she was to see Arlecchino, The Knave, as a parent behind closed doors.

How she truly was.

Sure, she had seen it when they were baking, Arle seemed strict but rather fair. She was rather understanding to the stranger children in her care, she could handle the more excitable ones and she could encourage the quiter ones. Yet the fear Furina could see in the child, the anxiety and apprehension to simply as to spend time with her father, as they had promised no less, was depressing. Even the way Arle asked her to speak felt too harsh, harsher than it needed to be. Arle could've said yes or something along those lines.

Furina knew Arle loved them. The moment in the office proved that, but there were these doubts. Maybe it was just her sick mind, but maybe Arle should let them know how they loved were by telling them.

Had she ever said she loved Furina?

Furina couldn't recall Arle ever saying I love you.

Well, they are taking things slow and stuff, so maybe that's why. Perhaps Furina should say it first.

However, that'll have to wait till she was better.

"Crabaletta," Furina mumbled as she dragged her sheets up her, watching as Crabaletta gently carried up a lighter blue one on top. "If anyone knocks to handle it, would you?" Furina's eyes felt like they had small little sand bags dragging them down. A silent prayer slipped from Furina as she hoped she'd get better soon. Maybe the SInger of Many Waters would help a little bit.

Maybe when she wakes up.

Furina was so tired, and summoning the oceanid felt like far too much effort even though it was natural to her now.

Furina was just too sleepy.

.

––x●––

.

The bags dug into Arlecchino's hands as she stared at Furina's door. It had become a familiar sight recently. Typically, it was simply one of the children who delivered desserts and other gifts.

However, this time, something has caused her children to be braver than usual, refusing their father's orders. Thus, Arlecchino is the one standing outside the door, making a quick prayer that the Salon, particularly Crabaletta, is in a good mood since Arlecchino is interrupting their master's recovery.

Arlecchino gently balanced the bag containing hand-made desserts from Lyney and Lynette and the soup prepared by Freminet in one hand while the other came up to knock at the door. It was a careful balance made harder by the fact that the soup was kept at a reasonable temperature to consume. If it was cold, then the burning in Arlecchino's hands and fingers wouldn't be too noticeable. At most, it would only vary depending on if Arlecchino's mood shifted too much more than normal. However, with the extra heat, Arlecchino felt rather uncomfortable.

"Furina," Arlecchino began after wracking her knuckles against the door. "Are you in?" The question itself felt rather stupid. Arlecchino knew Furina wouldn't be leaving her house much since she was indeed sick. Furina was more than likely sleeping at the moment, just like most of her ill children would. Or Lynette in general.

It seemed more likely that she was indeed sleeping as there wasn't the sound of footsteps rushing across the apartment.

Something Arlecchino found herself missing as it didn't happen.

Furina, as much as she denied it, whenever Arlecchino came to her apartment, would rush over to the door like an excited puppy. A smile upon her face as the door separating them opened.

This wasn't something Arlecchino had happened in a while. The only person who would gleefully open the door to her was Clervie. Her children would often open it with a slight hesitance and fear burried beneath, opening it with respect to their Father. The salon would open the door, and only after giving Arlecchino a look of judgment would let her in to see Furina.

"Hmm?" Arlecchino stared at Usher, who peeked around the door. He seemed different to his normal poise.

Then he opened the door to reveal both a messy and somewhat tidy apartment. The table was clear, save for a couple of pieces of paper and a pen or two. The couch was perhaps the most different of all. It lacked its typically blue throw over and all the plushes that normally sat upon it and the table were gone. It was simply a regular couch you could find anywhere in Fontaine now. Which was almost depressing, Arlecchino wasn't one to focus on design and home decor that much. When it came to running an orphanage, the rooms were often kept bare, and the children were the ones to decorate it based on their own personal taste. Hotel Bouffes d'ete was decorated and operated by operatives. Though Arlecchino did sometimes indulge in decoration, it didn't have as much life as Furina's did.

Furina's home felt truly like what a home should be. There were picture frames everywhere containing photos of a wide variety of memories. Some were of Furina alone, other with friends, and others were older photos suffering from clear damage. Not only that, but there were trinkets and strange decor all over the place. It seemed that although Furina appeared as poised and proper, her home was cosy rather than lavish. However, everything paled in comparison to the rather expansive collection of plushes everywhere. Which would only grow more.

A cool tentacle gently rested against Arlecchino wrist as Usher guided her towards Furina's bedroom.

Arlecchino's eyes, while focusing heavily upon the salon member before her occasionally, drifted to look at any photo hung upon the walls.

Furina, preservation through memory.

Then, the tentacle slipped from her hand, leaving Arlecchino standing in the doorway of the bedroom. It seems the other summons were waiting here.

Arlecchino stared down at the sick Furina, her body almost entirely buried in covers. Plushies of various sizes surrounded the bed to the point that it almost seemed like they were watching Furina decay before them. What a strange sight it was.

"Furina," Arlecchino hummed out, her tone level as the bag in her hand weighed down on her. There was a sense of boredom in her tone as she stared down at Furina, her eyes briefly flicking toward the summons, observing their movements. It would be easy to get rid of them, with little soaking to deal with. However, Arlecchino wasn't in the mood to handle them and was perhaps more grateful that she couldn't listen to their voices.

To hear Mademoiselle Crabaletta scream continuously about how much of a monster Arlecchino was might just kill her.

Arlecchino could handle 'Crucabena,' but a manifestation of Furina's will... Arlecchino was scared.

"Furina," she said again, the bag becoming uncomfortable.

Arlecchino waited with bated breath, a small bead of sweat dripping down her brow as she listened to Furina's breathing. She awaited anything—a complaint or maybe just a mumble—that would settle the nervousness that had suddenly appeared. Her hand felt like it was buring.

Arlecchino had been feeling far too nervous recently.

Nervousness was a stranger who had suddenly started to bother her.

"Furina," Arlecchino pleaded. A hand twitched, wanting to drag at the white sheets to reveal the slumbering prince. to rip and tear until Furina was safe.

But who was she to save Furina from besides herself?

"Mhhm?" Furina grumbled, her sleeping body rising just barely from the plush bed. Various covers slipped from her frame as she stared bleary-eyed at a black-and-white figure. Sleep weighed heavily upon her shoulders as her mind processed the blur before her.

"Arle...?" Arlecchino shouldn't feel so relieved at hearing Furina.

So weak.

"Yes, I am here," Arlecchino said, gently sitting on the corner of the bed, almost slipping off.

"Why are you... here?" Furina voice was heavy with sickness and exhaustion. It worried Arlecchino to the core.

Arlecchino had never really understood what it was like to be sick. Arlecchino didn't understand a lot of things. Her children would be sick, have periods, and other personal things, but Arlecchino, their father, never truly understood them. Their father could simply stare and commend them for their performance and critique when she needed to. Arlecchino was grateful they had siblings to rely upon. They had siblings who could empathise with them, siblings who could lend a helping hand and a Father who could only offer approval or disproval.

"I heard you were unwell. I brought soup and some other things too." It almost felt like Arlecchino was confessing her sins.

Furina giggled, Arlecchino looked like a pathetic little puppy who was attempting to look big and scary.

"Thank you, Arle." Furina felt horrible, but it was nice having a laugh here and there.

"Thank the children. It was them who prepared it for you." Arlecchino placed the bag on top of the bed while instead placing the warm soup upon the bedside table beside.

"Awwe," Furina sniffled, her sickness playing into her act of sadness. "You didn't make anything for me, Arle..." Furina snuggled further into her sheets, eyes pleading up at Arlecchino like a sad puppy.

"The children were quite persistent that it was them who made you dessert and soup. Lyney and Lynette were both extra persistent and that you wouldn't like anything I would have prepared for you." Arlecchino coughed out after crumbling beneath the weight of Furina's rather pathetic gaze.

"What would you have made me." Furina croaked out before shuffling out from beneath her covers to sit back against the headboard. The soup certainly smelled interesting.

"Something simple. I'm not the best cook. Besides, I'm unsure my tastes would match yours." Arlecchino grabbed at one of the pillows on Furina's bed to place upon her lap before handing the warm soup over to Furina.

"Huh, this looks like someone's personal take on poisson seafood soup..." Furina trailed off as a spoon found its way into her hand. The smell of the dish made her stomach growl rather loudly as Furina realized she hadn't eaten much today despite being reminded by both Navia and Crabaletta to take better care of herself.

"Freminet made it. He requested personally to make it for you muttering something alone, the lines 'a thank you gift, and a get better soon one.'" Arlecchino could recall the moment he had walked up to her, it was just after the twins had decided to put it upon themselves to make Furina some desserts as a 'get well soon gift' and also to prevent their Father from making Furina something.

"Ah, he's a talented cook then." Furina hadn't really eaten poisson seafood soup much before, perhaps once or twice, but she was willing to try it especially since it was made by one of Arlecchino's children which Furina was slowly developing a soft spot for.

The soup was actually quite flavorful and had plenty of interesting textures. It also was the perfect temperature and warmed Furina pleasantly. It brought a very small smile to her face.

"Indeed, though you won't hear him admit to it." Arlecchino sat down besides the desserts paying close attention to Furina as she sat down as not to jostle the warm soup on her lap too much.

Arlecchino stared at the contents of the bag, she had omitted the fact that there was something else within the bag however it would be quiet obvious if Furina stated at it for a moment longer than a quick glance.

"So what are the desserts?" Furina watched the shock appear briefly on Arlecchino's face as she suddenly spoke up. Had she not noticed the silence between them? They had been silent for almost the entire time Furina spent eating the bowl of soup. Which she would consider having again in the future.

"Lynette made you her own version of conch madeleine, and Lyney made his version of pate de fruit." Arlecchino pulled the boxes, the desserts carefully manoeuvring them around the other thing she had in the bag before placing them before Furina. Then she took back the now cold bowl the soup was kept in. Freminent would be pleased to see it returned in good condition and happy to hear Furina had enjoyed the fish. However, it seemed that Furina was still waiting for something.

"What else is in the bag?" Furina's voice was hoarse, and her throat ached, but she was dying to know what was left in the bag even if it meant she had to deal with a little bit more pain.

Curiosity might have killed the cat, but satisfaction had brought it back.

Furina wasn't a stranger to defying death.

Arlecchino was nervous once again. Perhaps it had gotten too comfortable with her. As this game of nerves was growing quickly annoying.

"It is a gift from me. However, it is not edible." Arlecchino gently grabbed this gift. It was more special than any of the cakes Furina had received before. It had more failed attempts than Arlecchino could count on both hands. The first failed attempt made Arlecchino realise how rusty she was. The subsequent attempts were no better, but at least Arlecchino was slowly removing some of the rust. The last few were actually quite promising, but they weren't good enough to be given away, so instead, Arlecchino let the children do as they wished with them. Then the final, perfect attempted. Or as close to perfect as Arlecchino could get as an imperfect being.

The plush sagged as Arlecchino picked it up. Its blue eyes gleamed up at Arlecchino as it was slowly raised from the bag.

"Arle," Furina stared, shocked at the gift in Arlecchino's hand. It was reminiscent of the plush Furina had found in Arlecchino's office. It shared the same proportions, but it was nothing like the plush in the office. Instead of the bow tie, it had a ruffled collar almost identical to the one Furina would wear. It also had an ahoge similar to Furina's own ahoge. The plush was white with pale blue accents and looked just like what would happen if Furina had her own version of Arlecchino's plush. Yet she was a cat instead.

It even had her hat.

It brought Furina's sick and exhausted mind to tears.

"It's so cute." Furina sobbed out as she gently took the plush from Arlecchino's hands. Her hands ran across the plush, from caressing the tips of the fluffy ears to admiring the eyes of the plush. They, too, were heterochromatic, just like Furina's.

"I'm glad you like it." Arlecchino couldn't help but smile as the nerves plaguing her vanished. Originally, Arlecchino had planned to hand over the Peruere plush. However, a better idea crossed her mind when recalling just how much Furina loved to collect plushes and how adorable she had found the Peruere plush. Perhaps all the money spent making it was worth it after all, even if it meant Arlecchino had to have a very...pleasant conversation with one of her Harbinger colleagues.

"Of course I like it. You made it," Arlecchino cringed slightly as she listened to Furina's sobs of joy, as well as her sickness.

It wasn't ever going to be a pretty sight, but Arlecchino would prefer to see Furina resting rather than crying over a plush.

"Yes, now get some rest." Arlecchino stood from the bed, bag scrunching up in her hand until not even ashes remained.

"Can't you stay a little longer?" Furina croaked out as she wiped her tears and snot away. It was disgusting being so ill, and Furina was desperate for a little more comfort.

"Very well." Arlecchino sat back down upon the bed, clawed hand grabbing ahold of Furina rather warm one. Letting the former Hydro Archon squeeze it as much to her heart's content.

"Aren't you worried about getting sick," Furina laid her head against her pillows. She didn't feel like eating the desserts. She'd rather cuddle up to some of her plushes at the moment, but holding Arle's hand was nice, too.

"No, the flames in my blood make it hard for me to get sick, but I also developed a strong immune system during my childhood." Peruere's strange life had the unintended side effect of granting Arlecchino a strong immune system. Playing in dirt to fishing in streams and the constant duelling and training had exposed Peruere to a variety of things.

The other children were often jealous at how Peruere hardly seemed to get sick.

"Lucky.." Furina sulked quietly. She had once had that luxury.

"Perhaps." Arlecchino hummed out. The salon seemed relatively calm. Perhaps because Furina was ill, her salon didn't have their usual energy.

"That means we can cuddle!" Furina seemed ecstatic at the idea. Why cuddle with plushes when Arlecchino was right there. She seemed to like the hug, so why not take a step further to cuddling, which was kind of just prolonged hugging.

"Cuddle?" Arlecchino sneered. Brows furring in confusion as Furina suddenly made grabbing motions as though she was a toddler who wanted to be picked up.

"Yes!" Furina sat up quickly. Pausing as her head spun briefly.

Arlecchino felt Furina's arms wrap around her head and pulling her towars her chest until Arlecchino was able to hear her heart beat once again. A rhythm Arlecchino was growing to love.

It was quite nice laying upon Furina's bed. The excessive pillows, blankets, and sheets on it made it rather plush and far softer than most bed Arlecchino had slept on. However, Arlecchino couldn't say she was a fan of the number of eyes on her. They may be fake, but did Furina really need to sleep with so many plushes?

Yet, Furina wasn't concerned with that. No, she was currently melting against Arlecchino. A hug was nice, but this was so much better.

However, one thing was stopping her from melting away entirely.

Arlecchino was trembling. Furina could feel it.

"Arle," Furina mumbled into Arlecchino's hair, breathing in the scent of her soap. It was quite nice, and the faint smell of rainbow roses brought a smile to Furina's lips for some reason. "Are you nervous?"

Arlecchino didn't want to answer that.

"Yes." Arlecchino confessed.

"Why?" Furina felt really sleepy. It was as if Arlecchino was a sedative.

Arlecchino stared at the blur of skin, hair, and bedding before her. "You're sick. Of course, I would be worried." Arlecchino felt pathetic for even admitting that she was worried. It wasn't even the entire truth.

"It's not like I'll die," Furina let out what was meant to be a scoff but turned out to be more of a mix between a cough and a laugh. "A simple cold could never take down the great Furina de Fontaine!" Furina cheered and gave Arlecchino a tight squeeze. As if she was weakly fighting away the worries plaguing her girlfriend.

"No," Arlecchino felt her eyes become wet. She wasn't worried about that. "You won't die alone." Arlecchino feared death. She may walk hand in hand with destruction and death, but she too cowered beneath it with tears in her eyes. When seeing Furina sleeping, the simple fact of her being sick caused her mind to race with fear. It just felt so familiar. It was like looking at Clervie during their final days together, Clervie tried with all her might to be her normal self, just like how Furina was trying to keep up her normal act. Arlecchino, Peruere couldn't do anything.

Perhaps Arlecchino had unknowingly developed a fear of death.

What a hypocrite she was.

Arlecchino wasn't scared of a common cold. She was scared of not being there for Furina when she died. Clervie had chosen to die in her arms for a reason. Arlecchino would make sure she was there for Furina for that exact same reason. No matter the day, week, month or year.

"You won't die alone either silly." Furina didn't really understand what was happening. She was far too sleepy and sick to really know what was happening. If she wasn't sick, Furina would likely have reacted differently, but slumber was just too tempting.

"I don't believe that." Arlecchino's eyes twitched as Furina's quiet snoring was loud in her ears. Yet it was comforting in a way and made Arlecchino feel sleepy as well.

.

.

"I love you, Furina."

.

Perhaps a nap would do both of their minds some good.

.

––x●––

Notes:

It's been a long standing headcanon of mine that Arle can sew and stuff and eventually makes Furi a plush similar to her own one. I think it's cute. The plushes are gay too.

Chapter 19: Boiling Water

Summary:

Furina wakes up feeling much better but there's a strange weight on her bed making it harder to curl up and sleep in longer.

Furina awoke rather lazily. She felt better than before. However, her head still felt blurred with sleep and lingering sickness. It was an uncomfortable feeling, but at least her airways felt free. She was no longer fighting a losing battle just to get a gulp of air. Compared to before, simply breathing normally felt like a luxury experience, one Furina was going to treasure until she fell sick again. Or just forgot how disgusting she felt recently.

However, something was odd. Her sheets didn't drag across her as smoothly as they normally did. Her attempt to bury herself rendered a mountainous task. Furina's sheets didn't budge even an inch. It wasn't the salon weighing down her covers; they were resting quietly nearby but not suffocatingly close.

Shifting around, Furina dragged her lazy body to face the offending weight.

Furina blinked once, twice, thrice as she realised just what the offending weight was. Perhaps she shouldn't be surprise since this was perhaps the third time this had happened, but it was only reasonable! Furina found herself staring down at a largely monochromatic form, save for a few threads of burning red. It was Arlecchino.

Sitting up with a bit of a struggle, Furina stared in shock at Arlecchino. Eyes taking in the sleeping frame beside her. A small part of Furina was impressed that Arlecchino was comfortable sleeping in her business clothes. However, it was also quite humorous to see such a formal, dark, and brooding outfit and person laying in a bed surrounded by adorable plushes of all sorts of animals and characters. Yet Furina was surprised that Arlecchino seemed stiff even in slumber. Her body a tight line that seemed too close to the edge for it to be comfortable. Furina thought she simply slept stiff as bored and took up as little room as possible solely because Arlecchino was left to sleep on the couch.

However, Arlecchino looked more peaceful than Furina had ever seen her before.

Furina was enraptured by the sleeping form of Arlecchino. She was actually truly sleeping. Her white and black bangs spread messily across her face, and the typical sharp points and neat folds of her hair were tousled and barely recognisable. The bags typically found beneath her eyes seemed to have receeded slightly.

Furina was quickly becoming obsessed with this sight.

Heterochromatic eyes trailed across Arlecchino's face, analysing and taking in every detail Furina either missed or didn't pay much attention to. She had never noticed how dry it was yet also quite...pleasant. Yet Furina was most interested in the small scar that split across Arlecchino's lips. It wasn't the only scar Arlecchino had on her face. There was one just below the scar on her lips that bent around the contour of Arlecchino's jaw. There was also another one that split her brow in two and one that cut across her forehead. Furina could also make out another one hidden behind Arlecchino's hair, one that cut across her cheek and just beneath her eye.

Most seemed rather old, yet some unnerving thoughts still ran through Furina's mind, causing a frown to appear on her face. After all Furina had learned of Arle, it seemed that perhaps most of them were caused by the previous Knave, Crucabena. How a mother could be so cruel was beyond Furina. Even Focalors, who technically was part of her, was sure to let Furina know just how much she was beloved. From after a long performance to days, Furina had stumbled and cracked the most - Focalors loved her.

It was strange knowing Focalors was gone. Permanently this time. Furina was used to seeing Focalors in the mirror. Used to hearing her kind and soothing voice. The way she looked at Furina with so much care in her eyes as Furina rambled and rambled about anything and everything. Perhaps, in a way, they were both imprisoned in a way.

Furina didn't know when she had laid back down to stare at Arlecchino, nor did she notice the way her hand was reaching out towards Arlecchino.

Oh, it was the hand from the trial.

It, too, was scarred. Something Furina didn't look at often. It was an ugly scar. Compared to the clean cuts that made up Arlecchino's scars, this one was far from distinguished. It was scary.

Her hand was cold and stiff, and her fingers and thumb were stained blue and had an unending tremble to them as Furina held them in her gaze. The blue morphed across her hand, mixing into the blues and purples of her veins. The mottled skin looked as if it was permanently stuck in the state of a hand that had been in water long enough for the skin to become wrinkly.

At least she came away with a scarred hand rather than a missing head.

Furina felt nervous as she watched the hand move, hesitantly creeping towards Arlecchino. Fingers coming to brush away strands of hair away from Arlecchino's face. Watching as Arlecchino eyes twitched and clenched, her head moving away from the hand to burry against Furina's bed before returning to a peaceful slumber.

Furina wanted to stay like this forever.

Furina's hand dropped away from Arlecchino's face and slipped down to wrap around one of Arlecchino's hands. It seemed to pulse with heat. It would go from warm, to hot, to cool, and then back to its regular warmth. Furina wondered what Arlecchino was dreaming about.

Was it as strange as her dream? Or was it scary? Or was Arlecchino dreaming at all?

"Arlecchino." Furina didn't know who she was talking to. Arlecchino wouldn't have heard her.

Furina shuffled slightly. However, she had accidentally caused one of the plushed to land on Arlecchino's face.

Yet Furina didn't feel too bad. Especially not with the sight she saw next.

Furina watched in awe as Arlecchino's face scrunched up in annoyance as her hand wormed out of Furina's grasp to pick up the plush only to stare at it with such distain and malice. Yet before Arlecchino could throw it away, she jumped upwards like a cat as she accidently rolled over and became face to face with Crabaletta.

"Pft." Furina held back her laughter well until she watched Arlecchino claw a hand through Crabaletta before staring at the empty spot like a cat staring at some invisible ghost.

"Haha!" Furina laughed, watching as Arlecchino stumbled to grasp her bearings.

"Ah, very funny, Lady Furina." Arlecchino led back, allowing her hand to drop to her side. Taking deep and slow breaths as Arlecchino tried to calm down after such a horrifying awakening.

Arlecchino had many reasons to despise Crabaletta, but this had just added another reason to the list. Who knew looking at Crabaletta face on wasn't a pleasant sight. Her beady eyes came from out of her shell as she loomed over Arlecchino. It made Arlecchino wonder just how much of a toll pretending to be an Archon was on Furina if she would willingly wake up to that.

Maybe the balemoon's nightmares weren't so bad.

No, they were indeed horrible, but Crabaletta could certainly challenge them.

"You could say I've finally gotten revenge!" Furina cheered, offering Arlecchino a smile with a full set of teeth. Furina hadn't intended on this happening, but she would gracefully reap the rewards and celebrate her resounding success.

Arlecchino sighed, unwilling to reveal that she was happy for Furina. "Indeed, now moving on, it's good to see you in better health now, Furina." Arlecchino stared at Furina. The smile on her face wasn't at all forced and was one of pure joy. She also seemed to appear less sickly and pitiful. However, the lingering bags beneath Furina's eyes still hinted at her less than idea condition.

By the looks of it, it was a new day. The sun was climbing in the sky and hiding away the moon.

Arlecchino's brow creased in frustration as she realised she had accidentally spent an entire day and night at Furina's once again. Though Arlecchino felt better, a nap had indeed done her good, but Arlecchino hoped that Furina had forgotten about the display earlier.

Arlecchino wasn't sure if she was ready to confess anything just yet. Even if it was unfair to Furina.

"Indeed! You must simply let Freminet know that his soup did wonders! But~" Furina trailed off, leaning in towards Arlecchino, a smile still beaming upon her lips. "I feel much better since you're here!" Furina booped Arlecchino on the nose before laughing at expression oc cringe and disgust.

"I didn't take you for a cheesy romantic." Arlecchino scoffed tossing her body off the bed and far away from Furina's trembling frame that was immobile due to laughter.

"Aww, let a girl live a little Knave. I've spent 500 years waiting for this! I'm not wasting a second." Furina wiped tears from eyes as her chest ached from how much she had been laughing. Laughter was perhaps the best medicine.

"Hmm," Arlecchino simply hummed as she picked up her pile of clothes. Though she couldn't help but notice the desserts Furina had left uneaten were missing. However, Arlecchino simply reasoned it to the salon, storing them away until Furina would eventually eat them. Saving their master some guilt of not eating carefully crafted desserts by some of Arlecchino's children.

"Ah, I better get ready for the day. Do you have any plans, Arle?" Furina jumped off the bed with Arlecchino becoming her victim of small talk since it was better than speaking to her summons, which were technically just herself.

"I simply intended to do my regular business and planning." Arlecchino slipped on her coat, brushing down the wrinkles and fixing the ends of her sleaves. She also spared a glance at the messy bed and Furina, who stood before an open closet. Which had an oddly familiar jacket within it.

"I have a meeting with my- huh?" Furina felt her cheeks warm as Arlecchino stood behind her and leaned forward to grasp at something within her closet. Furina wouldn't mind if Arlecchino was intending something else instead.

"I thought I burned this." Arlecchino held a mostly identical copy of her business coat. Except for the various hastily repaired tears. Arlecchino was surprised that it was in Furina's closet. It should've been ashes, Arlecchino hadn't intended on keeping it. It should've been burned away the moment Arlecchino had ripped it off herself or when Arlecchino had regained her senses enough to handle things. It was rare for such an obvious thing to slip past Arlecchino. Even then, why had Furina kept it? Repaired it even?

"Ah..." Furina felt herself flush for an entirely different reason.

How was she going to explain why she chose to keep the coat when she really should've thrown it away!?

"Furina, why did you keep it?" It felt wrong for Arlecchino to burn it away now since it was clear Furina had taken it as her own, but the curiosity to know why was too much to simply let it go.

"I...Um...." Furina stumbled over her words as her eyes darted between the floor and Arlecchino.

"What?" Arlecchino pressed forward, leaning over Furina just a little bit more to coax an answer from the deeply flush actor before her.

"I just wanted to keep it.... and it helps me get into the role of a villain better....." The words were hardly audible, just barely above a whisper. Each carried a burdening weight of embarrament. Furina couldn't bring herself to look at Arlecchino.

"Oh?" Arlecchino had been privy to hearing something similar to the second excuse. The children had once taken one of Arlecchino's many spares, and each took turns seeing who could do a better impression of 'father'. Most simply did an over-exagerated impression. Either making her too stern or too mean or too quiet. None confessed to who actually stole the jacket, but all were deeply embarrassed to have been caught, especially the older ones who had participated against better judgement.

"Your jacket also made me...." Furina trailed off, buring her face deep into her palms as tears of embarrassment stung at her eyes.

Arlecchino stared down at Furina before sparing a glance to the coat in her hands. Then she slipped off the one she had just put on and swapped it with the one Furina had attempted to repair. The seams were obvious, as they were sown in a deep blue thread, but Arlecchino didn't care.

"There, a better one." Arlecchino placed it back into Furina closet before giving her some space to get changed, mostly ignoring the look of surprise upon Furina's face.

"But- what huh?" Furina was entirely overwhelmed. What on Teyvat was this morning!?

"I'll prepare you some breakfast." Then Arlecchino left, leaving a bewildered Furina behind and her salon that just floated around, as they too were entirely confused.

.

––x●––

.

Furina stumbled into the kitchen, where she watched Arlecchino take a bite of some toast while staring at seemingly nothing.

"Arle?" Furina still struggle to maintain eye contact with Arlecchino, the embarrassment of before still clinging on tight to Furina even after she had ranted and raved to the salon the entire time she spent getting ready for the day.

"Hmm?" Arlecchino finally pulled her eyes away from the photo frame she had been staring at. It was a sketch of Focalors. Focalors. Not Furina. It was clearly an old but deeply treasured drawing. It's yellow edges and the tears that could just barely be seen around the edges of the frame. So this is what Focalors truly looked like. Her hair flowed differently to Furina, and the dress she wore was certainly extravagant yet not to over the top. Something felt strange about the one tear that ran across her neck. However, Arlecchino didn't know what.

"Good morning?" Furina took a seat opposite Arlecchino, blocking her view of the portrait. There was a plate of toast awaiting her. Arlecchino had left her the choice of what to put upon the toast.

"Good morning." Arlecchino sipped her coffee as she stared blankly at Furina. She was watching as she nervously finished preparing breakfast for herself. Furina was wearing her usual outfit today. The familiar suit danced across the ranges of blue that it made even the sky and sea jealous.

"Um, so what was that about?" Furina watched as Arlecchino slowly chewed the bite of toast in her mouth before washing it down with a sip of coffee.

"What was what about?" Furina stared incredulously at Arlecchino, eyes bouncing between looking at her face to the deep blue stitches on the front of her coat.

"Seriously?" Furina wanted to wipe that look of of Arlecchino's face...well maybe not wipe.

"If you are referring to my suit, then it's simply because I appreciate the effort you went through to repair it besides, won't a fresher one be better?" Arlecchino stared at Furina over her cup of coffee, eyes watching intently as Furina's face flicked between various shades of pink.

"I suppose so.." Furina mumbled before taking a bite of her own toast. Arlecchino had chosen quite the boring breakfast.

"I do not mind that you choose to wear my jacket to get into the persona of that of a villain. However, I would recommend you have it tailored unless, of course, you like how big it is upon you." Furina chocked upon her toast. She was not going to stand for Arlecchino teasing her like this!

"Ahem, certain villains wear oversized or longer coats to appear more intimidating like a force of nature. Immovable." Furina didn't like the gleam that appeared in Arlecchino eyes as she looked up below her lids towards Furina.

"Indeed, though I do believe you look less intimidating and more pathetically adorable and charming." Furina grits her teeth. She was frustrated, but she was oh so weak to Arlecchino's attacks.

"Shoo! Get out!" Arlecchino laughed freely, Furina looked like a defensive hamster. "Stop teasing me!"

What was that saying again?

Ah yes, laughter is the best medicine. At least it was to Arlecchino's fears.

.

––x●––

.

Furina watched with beady, observant eyes the actors before her. There were some obvious mistakes and flaws. The stuttering on some lines where it shouldn't be or some empty pauses were lines were forgotten or someone who didn't know their lines were next.

Furina wasn't too harsh, but she needed this to be perfect.

It has to get perfect. For her.

"Cut!" Furina shouted before sparing a single glance to the clock strung high upon the wall.

Break time was coming up real soon. Wonderful.

"Miss Furina, there's someone who wishes to see you.' Oh? That peeked Furina's interested. Part of her hoped it was either Navia or Arlecchino. She doubted it was Clorinde as she was typically out doing some random work she had been assigned. Clorinde also would hardly ever visit Furina while she was at work instead choosing to show up when Furina was home. The only exceptions of course being when Navia dragged Clorinde along with her.

Arlecchino on the other hand seemed to stop by briefly but she never made her presence known.

Furina simply knew it was her because of the notes attached to the desserts Arlecchino would leave. Those notes were often the highlight of those days.

"Miss Furina," Ah, so that was who the visitor was. Neuvillette. "I hope I'm not bothering you." He was polite, but Furina knew he wasn't here out of the kindness of his heart. No, he was after something.

"We were about to go on break anyway, so what did you want to ask?" Furina watched, silently begging them not to, as her troupe disperse for a break.

"I wanted to inquire about your business with the Knave." Something about those words caused a sour feeling to form in Furina's mouth. She felt worse than when she was actually sick. Much worse.

"Oh? I didn't know you were one for gossip, Monsieur Neuvillette." Furina teased, watching as his calm demeanour slipped at the accusation. His hand coming to fiddle with his ruffled in a rushed attempt to compose himself. Along with the faint blush that coloured his skin.

"Ah, I'm simply inquiring for the purpose of the security of Fontaine." What a fancy excuse. Furina had heard many of these before, mainly from the press but also from Arlecchino as well. It was all a facade to make whatever they were inquiring about seem better than it actually was. In reality, their intentions were often to dig out some piece of information that either confirmed or denied a suspicion of theirs.

"Of course, of course. Now, what do you want to know?" Furina smiled. She was sure it was just some simple concern like Clorinde was. She knew the duelist had ample reason to doubt Arlecchino's intentions, but Clorinde had remained mostly open-minded but more openly suspicious than Navia. Navia seemed to welcome it quite freely. They could engage in lengthy discussions about their partners and plans for the future with them now without Furina feeling like she was intruding on anything.

"Is the Knave," Neuvillette paused as he considered his words. He neither wished to sound as though he doubted Furina's independence or the integrity of their relationship. "Treating you fairly?" Neuvillette was hesitant unsure if he was teetering the line he had drawn too closely. Furina look of annoyance and displeasure did little to ease his concern.

"The Knave, Arlecchino, is treating me well. Thank you for your concern." Furina stared at anything other than Neuvillette. From deeply analysing and mapping the walls of the room. Or simply staring at an invisible nothing upon the floor.

So that's what he wanted to know.

"Forgive me, but are you certain the Knave isn't using you or something similar." Furina was getting frustrated. She knew Neuvillette had mostly good intentions. It was viable to be concerned when a fatui harbinger is stationed in your nation regardless of their business there. Furina had ample concern herself when two fatui Harbingers showed up in Fontaine. Monsuier Tartaglia and Arlecchino. The 4th and 11th respectively. She had learned of some of Tartaglia's escapades in Liyue in search of the gnosis, and she was well aware of the rumours circulating around the 4th Fatui Harbinger and Father of the House of Hearth.

"Neuvillette. I'm fine." Furina huffed, hands coming to rest upon her hips as she stared up at the nervous form of the dragon before her. He was more than welcome to take his leave.

"I have spoken to the Knave before, but I wished to have your perspective on things." Neuvillette could recall how the Knave quickly dismissed his concerns and then proceed to provide a rather eye opening critique or observation of Fontaine that he was left pondering for quite a while before a court case demanded his attention.

"Neuvillette." Furina stared daggers into Neuvillette, her temper bubbling. "I understand your concern, but don't you think it is rude to involve yourself in private matters that do not concern you?" Heterochromatic eyes criticising each and every movement he made, from each breath to every blink.

"Furina, forgive me. I am simply distrusting of the Knaves' own words. She has a history of betraying those around her." Furina's anger only grew as Neuvillette attempted to reason his presence here. It was no longer just annoyance.

"So?" Furina stared incredulously at Neuvillette, "You have the entirety of the Fontainian judicial system behind you. You aren't under any obligation to report to me anymore. I'm a citizen now. Not a God." The anger that fuelled her rebuttal disappeared as Furina recalled her leave. The crashing weight she felt after all the relief. The way she stood before him, her usual attitude gone as she felt so tired. 'I'm done, Neuvillette.' Three simple words marked the end of her involvement. Three. Simple. Words. There was no discussion afterwards upon it.

"Miss Furina," Neuvillette began, voice pleading for Furina to listen to him. Let him explain his worries.

"No. It's too late to start caring for me now. You did your part. Now leave it." Furina felt tears prick at the corner of her eyes. Why was it that she could never truly hold her anger for long without suddenly bursting into tears.

"There's bigger problems in Fontaine now, and I'm sorry I didn't do anything during my reign to stop them, but that's no excuse for you not to do anything. So why don't you step out of your office for longer than half a day and look at yourself amongst your people." Every your carried heavy emphasis. "The Knave right now is the least of our worries. I trust her. She's held to her word." Furina sniffled. She wasn't intentionally trying to be cruel. She was desperate to get the Iudex off her back.

"Go help the people who hold you know as the epitome of their hopes." Furina hated that part of being a God. Being held to this impossible pedestal that no matter who you were or what you were the God of you could never reach it. How could Furina not feel affected by the cases she witnessed day in and day out. She loved these people, and she's witnessing them tear themselves apart.

Furina could pretend, but it didn't mean reality wasn't there.

It didn't mean reality didn't affect her.

"Very well, I hope you have a pleasure evening." Furina couldn't will herself to wish him one back over the rhythmic clicks of his shoe and cane upon the floor.

"Miss Furina?" Furina wiped the tears from her face harsher than she should have. Before turning to face one of the new members to the troupe, only recently hired because of the demand of Furina's play. When you're covering the life of someone, there's a surprising range of people who need to be covered.

"Begin from where we left off." Furina shrugged tha actor off yet before she returned to her seat upon the directors chair. She spared one last glance at the door.

He was gone now.

Furina had a play to practice.

A special play, dedicated to one beloved.

.

.

––x●––

.

.

.

Notes:

This was the idea I got after someone reminded me that Arlecchino's jacket was still there in Furina's house. Lesbians.

Chapter 20: Depths

Summary:

Furina meets up with Lynette after receiving an invitation out to a cafe they both enjoy visiting. However, nothing could prepare Furina for what was actually going to be said during that meeting.

Furina stared at the invitation in her hand. Part of her was apprehensive to entre the cafe. However, she knew Lynette was awaiting her inside. She was on time, of course but everything just felt odd. Though Furina knew she owed Lynette this meeting since she did often meet with her to learn about her father.

It was just strange as this meeting seemingly came out of nowhere.

The only recent interaction Furina had with the magic trio was when she came to thank them personally for the food and desserts.

Lyney was just pleased to see her in better help and Lynette simply nodded. Freminet on the other hand was rather nervous and instead thanked her for some strange reason. He ran off before Furina could truly ask him why he thanked her even though Furina hadn't done anything.

Well, there was no time to dawdle and keep Lynette waiting.

The bell that hung from the door jingled as Furina pushed open the door. A thousand, well, probably less than that, eyes turned and stared at Furina. Cats! Furina gently stroked the one just beside her, feeling its silky fur passing beneath her fingers as a slow rumbled buzzed out of it. Yet Furina wasn't here to simply spend time with some precious cats. No, she was here to see one particularly magical cat.

The Great Magician's Assistant: Lynette

Who wasn't that hard to find after all. The café was entirely empty, and not a single chair or table was occupied except for one. One that was in a corner but covered in a blanket of light. A black cat lay upon the table while another stood upon Lynette's shoulder, bumping its head upon her cheek.

"Hello, Miss Furina." Lynette sipped at her tea again. There was an empty cup awaiting Furina. There was a teapot with a trail of steam coming out of it on a sleek wooden tray. There was also plenty of choice between the type of tea Furina could have. As well as some milk and sugar, of course.

Pulling a chair out, Furina plopped down upon it before immediately beginning to be greeted by various cats. It seemed that when no one else was around, the cats seemed to either laze around or stick to anyone close by. There was a cat buzzing around her legs, slipping in and around them with ease. Another was stretching from the table behind her to sniff at her. Furina was loving all the affection.

"Hello, Lynette! I hope I haven't been keeping you long." Furina, nervously admitted. When the note slipped through her door, Furina found herself panicking because their meeting was literally the next day. Today. That was a habit she seemingly shared with her father. Though at least Arlecchino was nice enough to give Furina time to schedule it. They could both stand to actually tell Furina directly instead of slipping her a card detailing one. Honestly, what is Arlecchino teaching these children? For a diplomat who held such a formal front, her tactics of communication remain rather arcane.

A black and white cat hopped upon Furina's lap, its paws dug uncomfortably into Furina's thighs until eventually it settled upon her lap. Furina recognised this cat as being one of the more aloof ones who picked and chose favourites from the customers at the cafe.

It kind of reminded her of a certain someone.

"No. It's only been 10 minutes since I arrived." Furina paused. Was that meant to make her feel better? "The cats have been plenty company." Ah, that was one thing Furina wanted to ask about. Why were they alone in the café? How were they alone? Furina expected the cafe to have at least one other person in it. That's what made cafés interesting. The opportunity to observe the worlds around you see if there was a spark of inspiration and also see the bird attempt to thieve things. That was particularly funny.

"I'm glad, though if I may ask, why is there no one else here?" Ash blonde ears flopped and bent ever so slightly backwards, even if Lynette's face never seemed to change much from a general look of uninterest, her ears could certainly expresses their owners true feelings. It seemed like both father and daughter had tells to know how they truly felt.

"I wanted to speak with you alone." Furina was surprised at how simple of an answer it was and how ridiculous it also seemed. Of course, Lynette wanted privacy, but having an entire café to oneself seemed rather ridiculous. Arlecchino, when she wanted privacy, either had ways to ensure those around her wouldn't spill or dragged you somewhere in her favour.

"Couldn't you have spoken with me at the Hearth?" Furina watched as Lynette's claws gently clicked at the side of her cup. The sharp but quiet pitter-patter reveals something about Lynette. She was nervous.

"No. There would be too many prying ears. This is a matter strictly to be kept between us." Lynette's voice remained level and hardly revealed anything.

Well, that made Furina nervous. It felt similar to when Arlecchino invited her out to some nameless ruins. Though, when, knowing the story of such ruins and acknowledging the number of fatui around Furina can't help but feel like it was some kind of subtle threat despite Arlecchino's words. Thankfully, that was all in the past now, and the ruins had taken on a new meaning.

Yet, Lynette could remember how the children willingly betrayed their siblings to reveal to Father their true feelings. They couldn't risk that happening again.

"Ah, well, feel free to tell me anything." Furina felt grateful that Lynette was willing to be open with her. Lynette, too, was grateful Furina was willing to spare some time to listen. She was their only hope after all.

Father could be stubborn. Unchanging and strict. Those rules father followed to the exact letter, Furina was the only exception it seemed.

They depended upon this exception for their plan.

"I am dating Charlotte." The news was abrupt and caused the sip of tea Furina had taken to choke her as she gasped. Charlotte. The journalist from the Steambird. That Charlotte? Furina was surprised that it was someone so bubbly, energetic, and constantly in the news that Lynette had chosen to date. Well, perhaps Furina shouldn't be too surprised after all. She had ended dating Arlecchino.

"Ah, well, congratulations!" Furina wiped away her embarrassment onto a napkin as she stared at Lynette seemingly displeased face.

"Though, if I might ask, why are you telling me. Why not your brothers? Or your father? We aren't exactly close." Surely this wasn't what Lynette wanted to keep a top secret from anyone except her. It seemed so harmless to know.

"I have told my brothers. Lyney and Freminet were both supportive of it. Even if Freminet was a little surprised at who it was." Though perhaps that wasn't the entire truth. Lynette preferred to leave out how Lyney proceeded to tease her and only shut up when Lynette gave him a taste of his own medicine. Freminet just remained shocked but congratulated her nonetheless. Though, Lynette wasn't sure if she wanted to know how Father would react.

Ah, Furina was glad that Lynette's siblings were happy for her. Well, some of her siblings.

"However, I don't want to tell Father that I am dating Charlotte." The rhythmic clinking returned as claws began to tap at the tea cup again.

"Why not?" Furina felt anxiety leech into her as she stared at Lynette. Her stomach felt like a storming ocean, swirling and beating at a ship. Why didn't Lynette want to tell Arlecchino? It wasn't because Arlecchino wouldn't be accepting of Lynette dating another girl, so what was the reason? What would make Lynette apprehensive to tell her own father?

"I'm worried father won't like the fact I'm dating Charlotte."

There was a pause.

Then Lynette continued. It wasn't her idea to use her relationship as a tool to.... convince Furina to join them or at least tell them anything she knew about her father. Lyney was the one who suggested it first.

"Father has a complicated relationship with the media. Father accepts when they promote her cruelty and efficiency. When they hold her as some omen that plagues the city when she visits. However, father dislikes them any other time. She finds their way of trivialising truly important matters for the sake of the headline. The way they stir up a frenzy for the sake of it. I worry Father will disprove of Charlotte."

Oh. Furina hadn't considered that.

She really hadn't considered it. She was too distracted by how opposite the two seemed to notice the glaring issue.

Even though she had witnessed first hand Arlecchino's attitude towards the Steambird.

Yet, Furina clung to a thread of hope.

"I'm sure your father won't mind too much. Besides, what matters is how you feel. Do you feel happy with Charlotte?" Furina felt relieved when a brief smile and lax flick of a tail appeared before her.

"Indeed, I am." Lynette smiled weakly. "However, I still care what Father thinks." Furina drooped, a frown weighing upon her face. She let out a sigh before bringing her tea up for a sip. Part of her knew of Arlecchino's tendencies. She knew how some of the children felt about Arlecchino. The way the little girl seemed so nervous to ask for something so simple. The way the Traveller spoke of never feeling such fear or the weight of a father's disapproval burdening them. Part of Furina wished she could've been there when it all unfolded. She could've witnessed the HoH when it wasn't pretending a facade for their guest.

"Why?" The question was simple, yet the clinking of Lynette's nails showed it held more weight upon the mind than initially thought. That rhythmic clinking.

"Father is strict upon the rules of the House. Loyalty is key, and you can not be expected to waver. You can not abandon the house without a price." Something was off about Lynette. Furina wasn't buying it was just nerves about bringing someone home. Though Furina on part could understand having been sworn to silence for knowing Arlecchino's plan. However, Furina doubted Charlotte would really use Lynette for information. For as annoyingly persistent Charlotte could be, she certainly had a moral code. If a bit wonky.

So what was the true issue, and was Lynette speaking on behalf of others as well as herself.

Furina was quite impressed with her detective skills. Well, it was kind of obvious. Why would Furina, someone who admittedly wasn't close with the magic duo, be the person Lynette confides in? Surely, if it was simply fear of disapproval, then Lynette would handle it with her siblings. The people who can more accurately support and understand her. Not that Furina wasn't glad Arlecchino's children felt comfortable coming to her for something.

Well, she would be if she knew what it was. Without knowing, she felt rather nervous. It could be anything.

"I sure Arlecchino won't mind. Promise me. If she managed to accept me, then she'll have no problem accepting Charlotte. Well, after a little bit of 'discussion'." Furina didn't want to know what it would be like to be on the receiving end of Arlecchino's shovel talk. It was bad enough when both Clorinde and Navia threatened to do so with Arlecchino. Navia was more kind about it, but Clorinde seemed more serious.

It tool quite a bit of pleading to get them to hold off on it. She had to promise them she'll come to them if Arlecchino ever did something to harm her. It was Clorinde who insisted on that one.

"Understood." Furina looked at the small amount of tea in her cup; perhaps she could pressure Lynette into revealing it...

"Well, if that's all, I hope you don't mind me leaving. I'm quite busy." That was a lie. Furina had dropped literally everything for this meeting. Not that she had much going on in the first place, but that didn't matter.

Yet the moment Furina had tucked in her chair being mindful of the cats around, Lynette called out to her.

"Miss Furina, please wait." Furina smirked, feeling a cat brush around her ankle.

"Of course, what do you need from me." Furina pulled her chair out, listening to the groan of it being pulled across the floor. It seemed that she had successfully trapped the cat.

"We are concerned for father." Furina was assuming that the 'we' in this situation was Lynette and her siblings. Though Furina wondered why it was Lynette who was speaking up about this.

"Why?" Furina carefully poured herself another cup of tea. Though her did occasionally flick to Lynette's face. Watching and observing her for anything there was to gain.

"Father has been more stressed recently." Oh? Furina was certainly invested now. "Father has been pacing more within her office, and more reports than before have been arriving at the Hearth. All the reports have been for Father's eyes only. Father has also been spending more time outside her office late at night. We are growing concerned for father's health. It's normal for Father to do so occasionally but not as frequently as she does now."

Furina felt guilty. Incredibly guilty.

Furina knew why Arlecchino was so stressed. The sadness and worry were so clearly present in Lynette's voice, and the fact it wasn't just her who was worried made Furina feel sick.

How could she make them worry so much? But would they worry more if they knew?

Furina didn't want to know, but it wasn't as if she had a choice either.

Arlecchino was firm that she never told anyone of her plans. They were to be the only people in the world to know of Arlecchino's betrayal.

It felt like planning a murder.

"I'm..." Furina didn't know what to say. All she knew was that she would be lying. Omitting information. "Certain your father will be fine. After all, she's not one to lie down and take a beating." Furina felt horrible.

"We aren't too sure about that Miss Furina." Furina stared at Lynette, her face unreadable.

"Oh." Was that really all she could say?

How pitiful.

Furina felt her stomach twist as she watched Lynette suddenly wipe her eyes.

"I'm scared, miss Furina." Lynette choked on the words as she tried to suppress her tears, but she couldn't quite manage to suppress it all. The tea before her no longer seemed appetising.

Furina felt stiff as a statue. Her muscles and bones didn't seem to respond as she simply watched Lynette struggle to manage her emotions. Furina, in her ignorance, had forgotten that the Hearth wasn't just some business Arlecchino was tied to. It was an orphanage. It had children who had their own thoughts and feelings. The children who would be directly affected by whatever Arlecchino did. Children who cared for their father or hated her. One of those children was sitting before her right now.

Crying over being worried for a parent.

Yet, Furina, in that moment with Arlecchino, had forgotten entirely about those children. She was worried solely on behalf of herself.

Furina didn't like feeling helpless. She had felt that her entire life. Yet now she felt entirely helpless. If she told Lynette what she knew of Arlecchino's plans, what would Lynette do? The act itself would be a betrayal of Arlecchino's trust. Even then, what benefit would come from telling Lynette? If they knew, then that would only cause more trouble. The children would probably protest against their father's plan. They would also probably feel as helpless as she did.

Furina was beginning to feel grateful she was never a child to begin with

"I'm so worried for my family." Lynette wiped as tear as the cats around them suddenly shifted to stare at them. The one of Furina's lap stood its paws digging into her thighs once again as it lept upon the table. It just stared at Lynette crying. It seemed confused and startled by the noise of Lynette choking upon her breath and whimpering.

"I'm not sure we'll survive this time." The guilt within Furina was winding around her throat, choking her. Killing her. It felt like an evil monster plaguing and tormenting her, but it wasn't one she could defeat even with all that training she did with Arlecchino.

"Lynette, I'm so sorry." Furina bowed her head, ashamed. How could Arlecchino live knowing the worry she caused her children? Maybe Furina wasn't meant to play the role of parent.

Parents who have to lie because the truth would be too hard on the children. Parents who had to make troubling decisions because life delt them a poor hand. These children had already been through enough, and now they had to worry about a future they had no say in.

Perhaps this is what it was like to be Focalors. Lying directly to the face of someone who relied upon you for comfort.

"I'm so sorry." Furina repeated again, trying to clear her own conscience. Yet no matter what she said, no matter how many times she apologised, it wouldn't be enough. Furina wasn't Arlecchino. She wasn't the person who Lynette desperately needed words of comfort from.

"What for?" Lynette croaked out.

"I don't know."

Furina stared at Lynette before pushing herself out of her seat. The chair groaned against the floor as some of the cats that surrounded them scattered away, scared by the noise. Lynette's own ash blonde ears flicked and twitched at the noise, the sharp screeching an awful sensation. Yet what surprised her most was the hug she was given by Furina.

Furina wasn't particularly soft. The various metals and decoration to her outfits made the hug quite uncomfortable. Furthermore, Lynette was sitting down whereas Furina was standing, which created quite the awkward angle.

Yet Lynette found herself clinging onto Furina as she silently sobbed into her shoulder.

Lynette wasn't one to cry often, but the weight of the world was crushing. Their plan was hopeless. Every worry they had for their father, even the silly ones, were confirmed silently by Furina's apology. There really wasn't anything anyone could do. All anyone could do was await the storm and prepare for what's to come.

If only they weren't owned by the fatui.

If only Father wasn't trapped in a debt to the Tsaritsa.

If only... a lot of things.

"Listen to your father," Furina mumbled out above Lynette. A pounding headache was piercing through her skull. Her words were probably useless. "Don't worry your father too much, just continue being you. It'll make Arle happy knowing you all are okay."

"Okay."

Arlecchino, please let your children know you love them.

.

.

––x●––

Notes:

I'm sorry this is late and I'm sorry it's short but I am eternally thankful for the continued support and interactions Embers recieved. So I thank you in advance for 800 kudos. May you continue to join me as we now begin the final act of Embers.

Chapter 21: Tides

Summary:

Arlecchino meets with Neuvillette once again. Arlecchino also has a surprise encounter and finds herself in a rather embarrassing position.

Arlecchino stood before the entrance of the Palais Mermonia. She hadn't spent much time here, and part of her wished she wasn't here to begin with. Yet at least there was a comforting view of Furina.... or more appropriately, Focalors. There was a great irony in how the Hydro Sovereign worked in a building so close to a statue of the Seven.

Focalors. Arlecchino was curious about her, but she didn't feel like asking Furina about her. It felt inappropriately currently.

Arlecchino had been granted a decade or so to get over her grief. She could spare Furina that time, too.

Arlecchino let out a deep sigh as she adjusted the gift and documents she had in her arms. The sooner it was all over with, the better. Arlecchino didn't like being here. Not because of a guilty conscious or anything like that. There was no shame in standing here. Yet there was this burdening weight upon her shoulders currently that made them ache more than normal.

Arlecchino was in a good mood for a 'discussion'.

And this place, Palais Mermonia, was the heart of this so-called nation of justice. Everything ran through here eventually.

How unfortunate.

Stepping through, the usual clicks of Arlecchino's heels were muffled beneath the carpet that lined the entrance. She could see the melusine at the front desk jump at her sudden presence. Hastily reporting a quick "Monsuier Neuvillette is free!" Before staring bewildered as Arlecchino stalked into his office.

Arlecchino was here for business not to chat needlessly with people she has no concern for. Well, except when they could be her tool.

"Monsieur Neuvillette." Arlecchino voice was steady as she called out to Neuvillette. He seemed to be awaiting her. How familiar. His shoulders tense and arms stuck firmly to his desk. It seemed that those clouds Arlecchino saw recently weren't simply natural phenomena.

"Knave." A sharp clink and thud came from the bottles of Snezhnyan spring waters found themselves upon Neuvillette's desk. The water trembling from the force.

Arlecchino hadn't brought them here out of her own good intentions. No, she was simply setting up a desired atmosphere. Tensions would be high after all, so Arlecchino would need her target as lax and willing as possible. A little encouragement never hurt.

Though, the documents were kept to herself. She would hand them over when it was time.

"It has been quite some time since our last meeting, Monsieur." He wasn't subtle with how he wasn't exactly pleased with her presence. It's the same with everyone mostly. They respected and appreciated all the work she did to benefit them, but as long as Arlecchino remained a Harbinger with her complicated history that respect would only stretch so far. Everything was simply all inaccordance to how she was an esteemed diplomat.

"Indeed, our last meeting was a rather informal one. It was at the charity event hosted by Demoiselle Navia." Neuvillette noted, his eyes barely even shifting focus to spare even an inch of attention to the water before him.

"Of course. I've brought you two more bottles of that Snezhnyan spring water like before. I'm certain neither of us are particularly fond of the situation we have found ourselves in." Arlecchino watched as a brief look of joy passed over his face. Yet it dissapered as quickly as it came and was replaced by his usual stern attitude.

"Then you have my gratitude. However," Arlecchino was eagerly awaiting this, "I must ask just what are your intentions? The last diplomatic discussion we had was about your children." Arlecchino had to grit her teeth to hold back a snide remark that would only derail her from the task.

Arlecchino knew exactly what he was speaking of. She knew quite well all she had sacrificed already.

"Allow me to speak to you. Parent to parent." Arlecchino gestured to the couch opposite the one she was sitting at. Arlecchino would have to pull at a dragons heart strings. Hopefully, it won't be too hard... perhaps she ought to mention the Duke's own case to further guilt him.

Neuvillette stared before standing from his chair and moving towards the couch opposite Arlecchino. He was thankful that the chairs had been briefly moved closer together. Yet there remained a divide between them.

"Very well."

"Your daughters. The melusines. You fought quiet hard and exercised your authority as Iudex rather efficiently, did you not?" Arlecchino knew this topic was a rather sore spot for Neuvillette. However, if she had any hope to convince him easily without much sacrifice, then he'll just have to suffer a little bit. After all, he's become the centre of Fontaine politics. Crying Hydro Dragon will have to accept that everything falls upon his shoulders now. Furina has been forgiven by those whom she sought forgiveness from. Neuvillette will not receive that forgiveness. Not from everyone. Not yet.

It is better late than never to make an effort to right the wrongs. Even those unknowingly done.

"Indeed, I have done much work in ensuring their inclusion into Fontainian society. I have even passed various laws as well." Neuvillette smiled, though part of him believed he had fallen into the Knave's trap. Unknowingly confirming information and a collective understanding so that she can push her own argument.

As expected from a skilled diplomat such as the Knave.

"Then let us consider something." Neuvillette had indeed fallen into a trap.

"You have shown that you are willing to go to many measures to ensure that none of your daughters much suffer in any way that is similar to the past. They have equal opportunities as those around them." Arlecchino's face twitched, her brows itching to furrow in anger. Her mouth aching to morph into a scowl into a shout. Yet she bit her tongue. Something she had learned to do a while ago. Arlecchino had limits.

"Indeed." Neuvillette confessed his head bowed slightly as he looked up at Arlecchino. The weight of her gaze seemed unbearable.

Arlecchino was like a spider crawling over to her prey that was caught in her web. Monsieur Neuvillette had got himself caught in this spider's web.

"Our previous meetings, both formal and informal, have been in regards to my children or the various orphans around Fontaine. You were rather active in attempting to solve the problems faced by the melusines, since then you haven't done anything in regardless of the problems I have brought to your attention." Arlecchino's gaze was heavy as it levelled itself upon Neuvillette accusingly.

"I'm simply following Fontainian law." Arlecchino's nails dug marks into the couch as she stared down at Neuvillette. That excuse was incredibly weak. Even Neuvillette knew that excuse was weak. However, he hadn't brought himself recently to change it. Until recently, he had merely served as another cog in the machine that operated Fontaine. His contributions to law had only been very minor, unlike Furina or any of the previous Hydro Archons. When it came to ruling above humans and making laws, that task in itself wasn't simple. He had found himself pondering the questions posed by Arlecchino and even his own previous words. However, he had yet to come up with a way to deal with such a problem efficiently.

"You really think I will accept that Monsieur?" The words were slick from being drenched in malice and hatred.

"No." Neuvillette stared. If Navia was a challenge to face, then Arlecchino was an impossible war. "However, as I've stated before, not many are willing to drink from a tainted chalice."

"Monsuier Neuvillette, I am speaking on behalf of more than just my own children. You must understand the guilty sentence that weighs upon you, correct? When you look at everyone single one, my Fontainian children, I hope you feel guilty. Your continued innaction is inexcusable. This nation will never be one of justice if you do not make amendments to your law. I would've thought Duke Wriothesley's case might have sparked something within you pompous hypocrites. It appears, however, that I was wrong."

Arlecchino wanted to destroy every. Single. Person. Who stood above her. Who mocked her. She would prove she was alive. No matter if her hands got dirty or her mouth spread, nothing but filth.

They would bow down before Peruere.

Neuvillette sat silently. A sudden rain clouded Fontaine's sky, and thick grey clouds showed no sign of it ending. The rain beat against the window.

Arlecchino simply stared. Face morphed into a look of silent anger. He had no right to cry.

"I wish to present to you a solution. The first step in securing change. A means to earn the forgiveness of those this nation has failed." Arlecchino was calmer now, perhaps even a bit tired. After all, being angry was exhausting and brought no benefits.

"Knave, I hope you understand that I will not be participating in anything to which either goes against Fontainian law or my own morals. I will not be participating in such tainted water." Arlecchino could understand that

"I understand that every well, Monsieur, and I have no intention of forcing your hand." Arlecchino wanted to laugh. Perhaps her reputation really had begun to exceed her. "I'm simply offering you guidance on what the various dead children would've wanted from this nation. Most of them would've survived perhaps." Arlecchino smiled, though it was clearly a fake one. Mocking Monsuier Neuvillette.

Arlecchino was perhaps stretching the truth. Just a little.

Everything had its limits, after all. Some things she had dreamed of and collectively hoped for would remain just that. A dream. As she grew older, the more she realized and had to accept the childish dream of Clervie, was nothing more than that. No matter what, even if they had been given the opportunity to stay at a better orphanage, Clervie would've never been able to escape. Born the child of a monster.

"Most of them?" Neuvillette was regretting asking that. He already knew the answer to that question. Though he wished he didn't.

No matter how many laws and punishments were delivered, there would be no end to injustice. Only a reduction.

"It's harder to escape a monster when you're related to them Monsuier Neuvillette." Arlecchino's smile remained despite the horrifying nature of her words.

Neuvillette swallowed. The rain seemed to pour harder against the water.

"Very well. Please inform me of your plans." Perfect.

"I'm going to tell you something that will benefit you. In exchange you will help me with my Hearth." A thick envelope presented itself to Neuvillette, the Knave's sigil printed upon the front.

"The prophecy was simply a test for this nation," sharp blue eyes widened, pupils becoming nothing but thin slits, "A new disaster is on the horizon. Fontaine will have to prepare itself and recover from that, too. I can't tell you much besides that, but what I have to offer is more than enough to compensate for what I will ask of you."

The documents were proof of her claim. After all, you don't head to face justice itself without evidence for your claims. Arlecchino was doing this for the sake of her children. No matter what it costs, Arlecchino will simply find means to pay that cost no matter how dirty and immoral they are.

Arlecchino cannot rely upon the benevolence of a God any longer. Neither can her children.

"Very well. Now, what is it that you wish to do with the House of the Hearth. I'm very aware that it is an organisation owned by Fatui. I do not intend to be entangled with it."

"Imagine it as similar to our cooperation during Furina trial. In exchange for resources and information, you will ensure my Hearths security and a solution." Arlecchino hummed. Neuvillette strong will and morals were rather admirable. However, no matter how apathetic you may be, it wouldn't be enough to lead a country.

"I hope you do not expect me to take on the House of the Hearth. It is still a fatui organisation, after all." So much talk of it being fatui, Arlecchino was beginning to grow tired of hearing the same problem over and over again. If the fatui really had control over, then Arlecchino wouldn't be able to do half the things she currently does.

"No. Take this as me writing my will." Arlecchino smiled, watching the shock appear on Neuvillette's face.

"Your will?"

"Yes. My will. The House of the Hearth upon the aftermath of the upcoming storm will no longer be tied in any way to the Fatui. The fatui itself will also cease to exist. Miss Furina will become the owner of it, and Lyney will become its new 'father'." Arlecchino hoped Furina wouldn't mind this. Lyney, too. Arlecchino knew her children well, and nothing could truly prepare any of them for the upcoming storm. However, so long as they remain together, they can withstand anything.

"Will Miss Furina mind this?" Neuvillette stared Arlecchino. He knew of their relationship and had his own concerns, but this feels like a big deal when only one person is present.

"Miss Furina.... when the time comes, she can do whatever she wishes with the House of the Hearth. I'm simply ensuring it entirely out of any Fatui influence by that time." Perhaps that was a rather pathetic excuse. It would still have a Fatui history, but once it's under Furina's direction, it should lose all ties after a while. Furina also seemed entirely trustworthy.

Hopefully, Furina can forgive Arlecchino for this.

Neuvillette stared at the documents in hand and carefully considered Arlecchino's words before finally asking the question that had been burdening him."... Forgive me for asking this, but presuming the anger you felt for my innaction applied to Miss Furina as well, what brought you to forgive her?"

Ah, what an interesting question.

"Forgiveness is not something the court can decide on Monsuier Neuvillette. It is up to the victim and the aggrieved. And I have decided. She cares for the children. They depend upon her now. Some even call her mother. Furina will be there for the children when I'm gone. That is how she's been forgiven. For I'm placing a burden unfairly upon them."

There was a pause between them.

"Very well. I shall read through the documents and when can discuss them at a later date. Good day, Arlecchino."

Arlecchino stood from the couch. It had been a rather successful victory. "Thank you for your time today, Monsuier Neuvillette. I'm glad we could reach a mutual understanding. I will contact you soon. Don't try to contact me."

Arlecchino had a feeling she would be visited by someone unwelcome. If Sandrone's surprise visit wasn't enough.

.

––x●––

.

Furina felt about the same as the weather currently. Depressed. At some point during their meeting, it began pouring it down with rain. Thankfully, it had lessened and was more tolerable to walk through.

"Are you certain you're alright, Lynette?" Even if they had moved from discussing Arlecchino and onto more frivolous topics, the worry remained. Neither could forget the sounds and sight of Lynette bawling out worries, both reasonable and unreasonable. It weighed upon their talks even as more time passed.

"Indeed. Don't worry, Miss Furina." Lynette's ears twitched as a couple of droplets fell upon them. Normally, rain was pleasant, but having only a few droplets fall annoyingly upon your head ruined the pleasures of rain.

"Furina. Lynette" Oh.

"Arlecchino!" Furina jumped, spinning around to notice the approaching Harbinger. Yet, a thought crossed Furina's mind. Sparing a glance towards the slight bowed Lynette, Furina rushed towards Arlecchino.

"Ah, Miss Furina...please." Arlecchino found herself being squished into a hug by Furina. A faint blush tinted Arlecchino's cheeks, and her arms hestiatantly found their way around Furina. It was rather embarrassing to be hugged before one of her children. And to be displaying such affection.

"Lynette," Furina stretched out a hand towards Lynette, winking.

Lynette stared at the duo before her. It was awkward at first seeing Furina be rather affectionate with Father, with a slight hint of jealousy and envy. It seemed unfair that Furina could so freely receive Father's affection without much complaint. Yet seeing the open hand. It offered nothing but warmth, affection, and most importantly, love.

Lynette swallowed before throwing herself into Father and Furina's arms. Purring ever so softly at the warmth of the embrace whilst hiding the tears that pricked to the surface. A weak smile crossed her lips.

It took standing upon her tiptoes for Lynette to bury her face into the space between Arlecchino's neck and shoulder.

Furina smiled. Would this harm Arlecchino's reputation as the big scary father and Harbinger? Perhaps. Furina didn't mind too much. Family was more important.

"This is nice, isn't it Arlecchino?" Furina hummed, barely holding back from laughing at Arlecchino's flushed demeanour.

"Yes." Arlecchino chocked out.

They slowly broke apart, leaving a silenced Arlecchino, reeling in embarrassment.

"Well, have a good day, Lynette. Farewell!" Furina smiled, waving away a quiet Lynette. Even if getting Arlecchino to say 'I love you' would be a monumental task, a simple hug was a good place to begin.

"Lynette." Arlecchino began. Not turning to face Lynette.

"Yes, Father?"

"Tell your brothers to take care. And you too."

"Yes, Father." Lynette rushed off, a smile stuck upon her face.

Furina stepped closer to Arlecchino, gently wrapping her arm around Arlecchino's. Yet it wasn't too tight, and she held off just a moment to allow Arlecchino to slip her arm out from the grasp, but it never happened.

"Well? Shall we head back to my apartment?" Furina, thinking back on her words, realised that perhaps they weren't the best choice, but she couldn't think of any other. She was just desperate to get out of this depressing weather and get inside just in case it suddenly rained once again as neither her nor Arlecchino had brought an umbrella.

"Furina," Arlecchino began quietly, eyes locked upon the wet ground, relying entirely upon Furina to navigate them. "I love you."

Furina's mind stopped. She felt hallow. Empty.

Why was Furina feeling like this?

Where was that desire to hear Arle say 'I love you'?

Furina wanted this. Didn't she?

Her chest should be filling with joy, and butterflies sound be fluttering around uncontrollably within her stomach. Yet nothing was there. No bursting excitement. Nothing.

"Me too." Arlecchino smiled. Yet Furina felt sick. Why couldn't she say those godforsaken words back!?

.

.

––x●––

Notes:

Welcome to the final act! Anyways thank you for the continued support. Both kudos and comments are appreciated. Please forgive any mistakes and the length of the chapter!

The little inspo behind this chapter was actually me re reading Arlecchino's story quest specifically the encounter between Neuvillette and Arle. Neuvillette refers to Arlecchino's children as 'tainted water' and is unwilling to help them despite the fact that both his and Furina's inaction is what led them to this path. Running an Orphanage and to the extent Arlecchino does is expensive and costly. Especially when it seems the other option is prison which is no place for a child no matter how much Wrio has improved the place. Fontaine isn't a struggling nation either. This comes from a twt discussion I had as well as the thread I made linking Neuvi, Arle and Furi to the inconsistent triad.

Chapter 22: Sea Foam

Summary:

Diplomatic exchange of information is much stranger when you know each other personally.

"Are you not upset that I didn't say 'I love you back?' Furina felt incredibly guilty. The smile upon Arlecchino's face made it all worse.

"No. Even I was surprised that I said it to begin with." In light of it all, Arlecchino found herself rather embarrassed, saying such... embarrassing things out in public would no doubt damage her reputation. For once, though, Arlecchino finds herself grateful that Hydro Sovereign has some authority over the weather. It meant there were few roaming out in the wet city. Even if Arlecchino had been the one to make him cry.

"Oh?" Furina found a smile pulling at her lips. Was Arlecchino embarrassed at being so vulnerable?

"Beyond the fact I quite like spreading whispers about my malevolent actions and my fickle trust, I have a strange understanding of the word 'love'. Originally, I hated it. It was nothing but a calamitous force. It makes you submissive to unreasonable whims."

Arlecchino sighed. Looking back, she seemed rather ridiculous with how much she stressed her distaste for love. When now she was weak and pathetic before Furina.

"Then, there was you. At first, I was in denial. Yet with your persistence and the fact that I was indeed truly infatuated with you and could no longer deny it, and thus my stance upon the idea of love changed."

Furina was confused – not at the fact Arlecchino had changed her stance on love it was obvious way back when they had first began tolerating one another – but instead at how this related to her inability to say a three simple words. She's memorises entire scripts and long speeches. She's created entire arguments in the midst of a trial, and yet, she, Furina de Fontaine – she who has survived 500 hundred years of acting – can not even say 'I love you.'

"How does this relate to my inability to say I love you to someone important to me."

Arlecchino smiled. "We created this relationship upon trust, Miss Furina~. I understand better than most the significance of the meaning that word has. I have faith in your love for me, and therefore, I will wait as long as possible to hear your response." The words were teasing, yet their nature was nothing but good and pure.

Arlecchino knew love better than most.

A sudden warmth filled Furina's chest. It made her heart beat with excitement as doubts were cast aside with ease. Arlecchino could never understand the value of those words.

"Though I suppose if you wanted a proper suggestion, then perhaps it is because of Focalors."

Huh?

It felt like Furina had been drenched in a cold chill. Extinguishing the growing warmth within her and leaving her lost and confused.

"Focalors?" The confused seemed to pass through her entire body, leaving it stunned briefly as she tripped over her own feet.

"From what I have gathered, Focalors was the first person and only other person to be as close to you as I am. Perhaps your isolation has affected you in ways that were not so obvious to begin with."

Furina hadn't considered that. She spent more time laughing at her own lack of experience to truly consider it. Even then, her fears and doubts surrounded an entirely different problem. Maybe Furina was more broken than she first considered.

"Though, i do not have much on who Focalors was as a God. Not as much as I understand you."

Furina hummed, deliberately ignoring Arlecchino's not-so-subtle flirting. "Maybe I'll tell you what Focalors was like if you tell me what you were up to."

Furina slipped away from Arlecchino, but only briefly. They had arrived surprisingly fast back to Furina's apartment complex. The entire walk felt like a blur. The only thing Furina could recall was the warmth that radiated from Arlecchino and every word and sentence that left Arlecchino's mouth. Her voice was just so enticing – it was like a siren luring Furina away and making her terribly vulnerable.

"Hmm, well, considering we have returned to your apartment, I see no reason to deny this trade of information. However, i would prefer for you to tell me about your life during those five hundred years."

Arlecchino had to wonder whether those fins that fluttered and swayed with each movement Furina made were a part of her or not. She hadn't seen them when Furina wasn't dressed in her usual attire. Furthermore, it begged the question of how exactly they poked out of her clothes. Either way, it is truly puzzling. Perhaps they were just another piece of self-expression that was unique to Furina.

"I didn't take you as one for gossip, Arlecchino." Furina teased as she pulled out her keys. They jingled and clinked as the various charms that took up more room than the key itself. It only seemed to grow the longer Furina found consuming the various merchandise of her various series... much to her salon's dismay.

"I wouldn't call this gossip but instead the exchange of information."

Arlecchino was solely beginning to consider this place a secondary home. Or at least somewhere safe.

"Of course! Now, do you fancy anything?" Furina plopped down upon her couch. It was so nice to be back home.

"If it is no trouble, then a simple black coffee. Forgive me for not bringing any desserts." There was a brief pause as Arlecchino sat down besides Furina, "Now, why don't you share with me information regarding Focalors."

"Not if you don't tell me what you were doing first!" Furina pouted, arms crossed as she silently sulked before Arlecchino.

"Very well, I was simply talking with Monsuier Neuvillette." Arlecchino bowed her head before muttering out a small thank you to Gentilhomme Usher. The cup of coffee was rather warm. Yet it was nothing Arlecchino couldn't handle.

"Monsuier Neuvillette?"

"Yes. We were discussing many things related to the future and ended up agreeing on a couple of things." Furina found herself staring in shock and horror as she witnessed Arlecchino take a sip of the burning hot coffee. Did her tongue not hurt?

"Such as...?" Furina voice trailed off as she continued to star at Arlecchino. Even with her hydro mastery, Furina would never once deliberately try and drink a fiery hot cup of coffee. Maybe Pyro users just have a higher resistance to pyro.

"Do you recall when I informed you that I was planning to betray the Fatui? I was simply there to speak with Neuvillette on ways to truly ensure the House of the Hearth's safety. As well as allowing myself some 'therapy' of sorts."

Arlecchino felt more alive now that she had drunk a cup of coffee. Her will was enforced, and she would no longer be so vulnerable so publically again.

It doesn't matter if the newspaper doesn't cover it. It is more than hazardous enough for rumours to spread via mouth alone. Especially in a society such as Fontaine's. It'll forever bewilder Arlecchino as to how this is the nation that took upon the title of being justice. Perhaps a more fitting one would be utility. After all, everyone here was rather crafty and had the initiative to innovate in ways not yet seen before.

"Ah, so that's what you were up to..." Arlecchino couldn't help but notice a sense of disappointment within Furina's tone.

"If you're disappointed that I didn't come to you for aid, then I assure you that if you accept, then you will be a vital peace of my plan."

Furina wasn't sure whether she wanted to go along with this. She was already content with her own current plan, even if it was more passive.

Furina wasn't sure if she wanted to care much about politics and schemes anymore.

"Are you certain?" Furina was meek as she was hunched over her cooling cup of tea. It was difficult considering everything. Perhaps Focalors had an easier time being wholly divine.

"I am certain. Besides, it's mostly just a technicality. If you wish at any time, you simply have to pass on the duty to Lyney. He's already been prepared for his duty."

"I simply need someone to rely upon. I believe you to be that person. Not only are you beloved by my children, some even consider you their mother-to-be, but you are loved by those such as Navia and Clorinde. You won't be alone again. You'll make it through anything."

And Clervie will never happen again.

Those words went unspoken.

"Then I will be that person! I want you and only you, Arlecchino!"

Furina hadn't noticed the fact that she was drawing closer to Arlecchino. Not until a familiar, charred, and cursed hand appears between them. Stopping the slow inching, drawing them together.

"Furina," Arlecchino seemed more flushed than normal, Furina could also see the little details of Arlecchino's face like before. When they were lying together.

"Ah," Arlecchino sighs in embarrassment. She has spent plenty of time in this exact situation, mere breaths away from locking lips with her current 'lover', yet this time, this time was different. It seemed far more intimate this time, Arlecchino wasn't biting or clawing. She wasn't filled with rage but instead this bubbly feeling.

"May I," Arlecchino pauses once again, "Kiss you?" Arlecchino had never felt so pathetic pleading with someone for a mere kiss.

Furina feels a smile pull at her lips, she let's out a small breathy laugh as she stares enamoured by Arlecchino's hesitance.

How could she have ever seen those eyes as horrid or nightmarish?

Who would've guessed crosses to be so expressive?

"Yes," Furina sounds desperate as she pulls Arlecchino by her lapels towards her.

Then she has her first kiss.

Five. Hundred. Years, in the waiting.

It isn't a perfect kiss. It was never going to be, but the imperfections of it make it truly a memorable experience.

Furina finds herself submitting to Arlecchino. Following the slow, intimate tempo of their kiss. The way Arlecchino's hands slip to gently rest against her lower back. Furina's hands aren't as delicate or dominat as Arlecchino's. They stutter and shift before stopping upon Arlecchino's shoulders. Clinging onto them for some semblance of balance as her sense shift and emotions bounce and twist within her.

Furina was beginning to understand why Clorinde and Navia struggled with PDA.

That bubbly feeling, those butterflies within her all fluttering with joy as Arlecchino's surprisingly soft lips mould against her own. There's little rough patches here and there, but the comforting and frankly addictive warm that seeps from them into Furina's own rather cool lips leaves her weak and pliable.

Until those butterflies are suddenly fluttering too much. Suddenly, Furina finds herself thrusting Arlecchino away. Wide, doe-like droplets stare at Arlecchino's barely flushed face. They trail down to stare at the slip part between those lips that were connected to hers mere moments ago.

Furina's face burns with embarrassment and joy.

Arlecchino lets out a small puff of air. It sounded almost like a laugh as Furina burrows her face into Arlecchino chest. She can not bring herself to face Arlecchino.

"That was... quite the pleasant kiss. Wouldn't you say Furina?" Arlecchino murmured just above Furina's ear. The hot breath passing over them, making them burn even hotter.

Furina mumbles out a response. She doesn't dare look at Arlecchino's face. Her eyes suddenly become a little but wetter as she breathes in deep, heaving breaths. Kissing was nothing like how the books say. Not a single book, no matter how steamy and erotic, couldn't prepare Furina for how overwhelming it was.

"It was perhaps the best kiss I have ever had." Arlecchino gently rests her chin up in Furina's head. Breathing in the smell of her shampoo. It was pleasant. Comforting. Those subtle scents of lillies and roses. But the thing about Furina's hair that entranced her the most was the bold ahoge. It seemed so alive that the typical urge to smooth it down was nowhere to be seen. Instead, Arlecchino gently planted a kiss on the emotive thing.

"Haven't you kissed before?" It's a faint whisper that barely slips out as Furina adjusted to cuddle against Arlecchino. Bathing in the warmth that radiated from her.

It felt so familiar.

"Yes, but those were never out of love. It was nothing but carnal desire. Yet with you, I could feel the love upon my lips as my heart throbbed and burned. Love is truly as addictive and controlling as they say."

Furina wanted to silence Arlecchino for saying such embarrassing things. Yet, her heart swelled with warmth as those dark thoughts slowly dispersed away.

"I love you, Arle."

"I love you too, my beloved." Furina enjoyed being called beloved.

"Now, I believe I was promised information about your life." Furina wanted to shut that pretty mouth.

"Why did you have to bring that up now..." Furina moaned, flopping against Arlecchino in protest. It had been such a nice moment, but Arlecchino, the 'great Snezhnyan diplomat', had to get the information she wanted.

"I believe a certain someone was embarrassed, so I thought changing the topic was more appropriate." Furina was dragged across Arlecchino's lap as she twisted so she could rest her back against the couch. Not, however, did Arlecchino's hands ever leave Furina.

"Mm.... well, where to begin..." Five hundred years was a long time, Furina wasn't quite sure where to begin or what to even focus on. She's talked about Focalors and her birth more than enough, but what else does she talk about.

"Perhaps the experiences you've had with those around you?"

Brilliant!

"Hmm, let's start with Monsuier Neuvillette! He was such a grumpy dragon to begin with. He could hardly tolerate my presence at all! Eventually, he began to soften his ways, especially after taking in the Melusines as his daughters!" Furina couldn't help but laugh as she recalled Neuvillette's past behaviours. He had changed much over the years.

He'd also gotten more mature in a sense. After all, he had been a dragon who was on the outskirts of Fontaine... in a sense, Furina witnessed a child growing up.... Furina wanted to forget that.

"Hmm, so that dragon hasn't always been as pompous as he is now... interesting."

"And what exactly do you plan to do with that information?" Furina teased, flashing a smile up at Arlecchino.

"Nothing, word of mouth doesn't hold much credibility. If I had actual evidence of such things... then I may come to use them in a later exchange."

Furina laughed. Of course, Arlecchino would remember it solely for the sake of getting more information. If Furina had to guess, she'd probably exchange it with Wriothesley or the Traveller.

"I've also known many duelists and champion duelist. The most memorable one would have to be Madame Bellé.

Furina could remember her quite well.

Furina had met many a champion duelist and duelists alike, but none were like Madame Bellé or Clorinde. Many were too proud for Furina to stay around for longer than a few moments. It was always so awkward. The second-hand embarrassment almost killed Furina from time to time.

"Madame Bellé was like a poisonous flower. Her strikes were always quick and never too deep. Yet it was merely a battle of endurance. It was like a working poison. It slowly entered the system and silently broke it down until they conceded."

Arlecchino hummed. This Madame Bellé seemed like an intriguing character, but what strike Arlecchino more was Furina's seemingly expansive knowledge of poison. It was both intimidating but also deeply intriguing.

"She retired eventually, though. The last I ever saw of her was just before she decided to go on her own adventure. She was looking for someone or something. I don't recall. She never really said what it was..."

Furina had met a surprising number of people who were like that. People who entered her life but only briefly before departing upon an adventure of their own accord. Furina was bound to Fontaine. Those watery boarders serving as the walls to her prison. The only time she ever left Fontaine was to be a diplomat or simply appear for show. Others typically handled it, however, much to Furina's dismay.

"I've also met many store owners. Mostly those who sold books. There was one old man, I can't remember his name but he was the sweetest. He almost felt my own grandpa."

Furina was struggling to remember him.

Furina was quite sad when he died. She had personally delivered a letter of her condolences to his family.

The bookstore was later shut down.

"Then there were the books I've read! You know, ever since Yae Publishing House was founded, some of the novels I've read from there slowly became more and more explicit."

Furina couldn't remember the first book anymore. No matter how special it was to her.

"Perhaps that is due on part to Guuji Yae's own growth over these past five hundred years." Arlecchino mumbled out. She seemed almost asleep. So passive. Arlecchino seemed mostly harmless now. Just a tried father resting upon a couch, his partner in his arms.

"Hmm?" Furina felt tired too. But she wasn't sleepy.

"The Guuji Yae has a complicated relationship with the Shogun of Inazuma. Perhaps you know them as the Raiden Shogun, Electro Archon. Their surface level relationship is that of master and familiar. Yet, deeper down, they have a much more complicated relationship. It is no surprise that the desires and heart of the Guuji shifted and twisted over the years. Five hundred years of separation is truly a gruelling fate."

Arlecchino had seen its effects first and foremost with The Tsaritsa. Her Excellency simply couldn't let go of what she had lost. It had consumed her and left her heart frozen.

"Oh," there was a moment of silence between them.

Arlecchino couldn't help but notice the sudden melancholic shift in the atmosphere around her. Everything around her seemed cooler and more depressing. The home no longer seemed as warm and welcoming. Even the salon seemed more depressing.

"Furina?" Arlecchino's eyes opened and trailed down to barely see a few tears slipping from Furina's eyes. Yet she wasn't shuddering. There was no shaking or whimpering, just silent tears.

"What is wrong?"

"I feel so guilty. I don't know how to feel. I've seen people I never should've seen if I were a normal person. I've met people I never should've met. I have memories of people that seem like yesterday, but they're from five hundred years ago. I'm so conflicted, Arle. I'm the only person who remembers them, remembers this moment or that moment, this book or that book. I'm the only one, yet I'm forgetting them."

They were dying a second time in Furina's mind.

"Forgetting..." The bottles flames were the first thing Arlecchino thought of. The power to strip a person of their memories during a specific period contained pathetically within a bottle. On consumption, it is nothing but agony.

Furina wept silently as Arlecchino's arms wrapped around her. She had done nothing but cry today. How miserable.

"I don't think they mind Furina. Forgetting is natural. Everyone will be forgotten eventually. Don't mourn that. Appreciate the fact that you had those memories. Appreciate them while they last."

It is better than having them stripped from you.

"I don't know if I can..." Furina chocked upon her sobs. Arms choking an unfortunate Surintendante Chevalmarin.

"Would you have fallen so deeply in love with novels and stories without those books you first read?"

"No..."

"Would you have known the care of a grandfather without the old gentleman at the bookstore?"

"Probably not..."

"Yet you can't remember either. You may not be able to recall them, Furina, but they will always be a part of you in some subtle way."

Arlecchino knew this. Even if some of her children can not recall their time at the Hearth, it had never truly left them. Somewhere more fundamental could still recall these times. The subtle habits that were hard to shake due to how ingrained they were. They could withstand the flames of Arlecchino.

For those flames, hunger to destroy the brilliance and majesty of life. Not its primordial half.

"Yeah," Furina weakly laughed. She hadn't thought of it that way. "Maybe they will always be a part of me. In some way."

She may forget things, but at least she had the luxury of remembering them in the first place.

.

.

.

––x●––

Notes:

Thank you for the continued support! I made them kiss.

The part where Arle ponders Fontaine being know as utility was inspired by the fact that Fontaine as a whole seems largely influenced by utilitarianism. The indulgent nature of Fontaine, the way it reduces the importance and seriousness of things for the sake of it bring more 'pleasure' all screams Utilitarianism.

Chapter 23: Old Embers

Summary:

An unexpected vistor arrives at the House of the Hearth once again. Unfortunately, it is Furina who runs into them first. Take care.

Furina was currently spending a lot of time at the House of the Hearth. The reasons varied quite a lot: One was because she was here comforting Lynette and all the others who were worried, which was a surprising amount. Lyney and Freminet were concerned, too, in their own unique ways.

Lynette seemed on the surface to have forgotten entirely about the display, but in private, that sharp monotonous voice revealed its doubts and worries.

She still clung to the faint hope that maybe, just maybe, they won't have to worry so much about Father.

At least she had Charlotte to lean on. Furina had turned a blind eye to seeing a pink bob of hair just barely hidden from view on a few occasions.

Furina may have learnt that some of these children view her as a parent as a mother, and while she wasn't sure just how she felt about that, it wasn't her business what private magic shows Lynette had with Charlotte.

Freminent, too, was similar to Lynette. Though not entirely too alike.

It felt like Furina was looking at herself in a sense. Staring down at her own meek and pathetic self. The one that cried and hid. It seemed that both of them were just burdened by the reality of everything.

Freminet, unlike his siblings, only asked once if Furina knew anything and planned anything.

When Furina couldn't give an answer, he simply sat there in silent acknowledgement.

He didn't return to the Hearth for a while afterwards.

Lyney was more direct, attempting to convince Furina to perhaps change Father's mind and outlook just a little. Maybe even fishing for any hint of what their Father could be planning.

Furina had to admit, no wonder Lyney had been chosen as a successor. He was certainly a good candidate. Though Furina could tell him being the Father and Director of the Hearth was only in title. His siblings would have as much authority as him when it came to running the Hearth. Call Furina pessimistic, but she just couldn't see Lyney handling everything on his own. He could try, but no matter how much he tries to be like his father, no matter how much he tries to imitate her, he will never be like Arlecchino. He will never have the will and strength that Arlecchino has to stand through all that comes with being a father in their circumstance and handling their siblings.

Arlecchino simply understood a different aspect of parenting far better than anyone else could.

Besides the obvious attempts to gain information or further his own goals, Lyney, the sibling and child Lyney, was interesting. He still had his charms and wits. His determined positivity even when the Hearth was conducting business as normal.

It was especially fun and heartwarming seeing him and the rest of his siblings interact with one another. Even when considering the fact they're all soldiers and spies in one way or another, they seemed rather close. For the most part, at least.

It was clear, and perhaps Arlecchino knew that some children, despite all that had occurred, still hold malice at being in the House of the Hearth, particularly at being fatui.

Even just being associated with them once or twice seemed to send shock and doubt throughout even your closest of allies.

Furina was fortunate that because of her position because of everything she's done, she can escape this fate. Can escape being seen as nothing but an enemy and outsider that didn't belong in this so-called nation of justice.

Perhaps also due to some 'back-door' talk.

For the most part, though, Furina was here out of nerves.

It was hard being at home or on the stage practising or helping out. Every day, they drew closer and closer to the premier. Fliers and newspaper advertisements are just itching to be released.

It was just nerves staked upon nerves upon more nerves.

It was strange. It was both a familiar yet known feeling. This anxiety of impressing someone you care for even though you know they will love it regardless. It was like a mix of the fear of failing to deliver or meet up to standards and the worry of reception and the opinion of all those around you.

It was entirely irrational, and yet Furina couldn't help it.

It was suffocating being alone with her thoughts.

So Furina was in Arlecchino's office. Messing around with anything and everything she could get her hands on.

Currently, she was fiddling with the plush version of Arlecchino, Perrie, as she had come to call it. It was soft to the touch and was a rather large plush. The work that went into creating this plush wasn't a joke, and there was clear care put into the process. At least a little bit.

Even though it was a bunny, Furina felt it was more reminiscent of a hare or perhaps even a bat. It was nothing like what was associated with Arlecchino now.

The blood red wings of a bird of prey or the spindly legs of a spider weaving at fine, almost invisible silk.

Nothing that screamed harmless bunny.

Perhaps that's because of how Arlecchino was. On the surface, it appeared that she was a monster. Her eyes and arms were off putting at first and attracted a morbid sense of curiosity.

After all, it is not every day you meet someone cursed by something ancient and reminiscent of the abyss and Khaenri'ah.

Yet beneath all that, Furina could see Arlecchino as a bunny or, more accurately, a hare. She was built to survive when the world seemed to try and swallow her whole. Always accutley aware of her own surroundings. Despite that, however, Arlecchino was so docile sometimes. Just laying there, enjoying being in Furina's presence. Indulging in the peace she found in Furina's apartment.

Perhaps this is what Arlecchino would've been like without the title of Harbinger clinging onto her, drowning her with its thick shackles.

Maybe this was what Peruere was like.

Furina doubted she'd ever get to hear someone else's opinion on Peruere. They'd only account for what still lingered within. Arlecchino or for what suffering they felt personally responsible for allowing Arlecchino to experience. They'd never say what Peruere was like as a person.

It seemed like anyone who ever did know Peruere was either dead or hiding.

Just like all the companions this plush had.

They were all hidden by Arlecchino, somewhere left as mere storage and documents of people whose only lasting remembrance that they were ever alive were these plushes.

"Furina."

The plush almost flew out of Furina's hands as Arlecchino's voice suddenly registered in Furina's head. Before her cheeks became rather warm in embarrassment.

"Yes, Arle~?" Furina smiled, though it was rather forced as the embarrassment was killing her.

Did she really have to zone out and kiss the top of her partners childhood plush when she was in the exact same room with them?

Though at least Arlecchino didn't visibly look annoyed or judgemental.

"If you'd like to head else where to entertain yourself, I have no problems with. I am grateful that you've helped out as much as you have already. Perhaps even grab a bite to eat. It is unhealthy to skip meals."

Arlecchino barely looked up from her desk, Furina wasn't privy to what Arlecchino was working through. Something specifically to do with the Harbingers and whatever plan the Tsaritsa had.

At most, Arlecchino told her that things would go as expected.

When pressed further on if Arlecchino was going to be okay and manage this, there wasn't much of a response. Furina couldn't help but be a little worried and concerned over it, but she knew there was more to it than a simple 'yes' that she received.

Whatever happens to Arlecchino, no matter how she comes out of the tragedy, Furina will be there for her.

"Are you saying you don't enjoy my presence." A pink tongue stuck out as Arlecchino laughed at Furina childish sulking.

"No, however, I don't want you to feel as if you are stuck here. You have friends like Navia and Clorinde. It would be beneficial to spend time with them occasionally as they can provide help that I can not"

Arlecchino was right. She could always go to Navia, especially to help with some of her nerves since Navia did know about what she was planning.

"I like being here with you, Arle..." Arlecchino name was dragged out as Furina pushed the chair towards her to give the harbinger her best impression of a kicked puppy.

"I know... why don't you go purchase some confectionary of your choice. The House of the Hearth can take up the bill."

"As long as you promise to share them with me!"

Arlecchino paused for a moment, she wasn't one for sweetness but with that pleading look, "Very well."

"Yes!" Furina cheered, excitedly getting up and hopping towards the door of Arlecchino's office. "I'll be sure to pick some good ones!"

"Very well, my beloved." Furina smile reached up to her ears and was filled with teeth as she slunked out of Arlecchino's office.

The outside of Arlecchino's office was cool, a gentle breeze seemingly flowing throughout the dimly lit space.

Even with the grand windows and their curtains pulled back, the hallways appeared dark and ominous. The light, no matter how bright the sun shone, simply wasn't enough to brighten up this sombre place. Furina was surprised by this. Even if Fontaine's architecture featured taller buildings rising above the cramped spaces below, forming labyrinth-like structures; Hotel Bouffes d'ete was in a favourable position.

It served as both a place that the Fatui could easily control and monitor, as well as a comfortable haven, the opposite of Hotel Debord.

The sun would still be able to shine upon this place.

Perhaps the misfortune of the occupants had carried over, affecting the very essence of the Hearth itself.

The door let out a quick click as it was gently pushed shut. Yet the way Furina clung to it was anything but gently, as fear sent her heart leaping into motion.

There, just down the hall, bathed in rays of gold and glittering against the surrounding misery, was an angel. Or at least that's what it was at first glance.

They were relaxed as they gazed at Furina, their shoulders hardly tense, and a smile permanently etched into their features. The angel seemed to preen in the light. They seemed just as blinding as the light itself. Sticking out sorely, they were too divine to be walking these halls.

Various wings of pure white feathers, more so than Furina could count, fluttered and twitched at each quite breath that escaped them. There were six that adorned their head, like a crude halo, a mockery of divinity. The dark locks entwined with pink flowed down their back and brushed against their heels, bound occasionally by pale strips of silk. It was like observing a porcelain doll.

Tracing each finite detail and paying careful attention to the craftsmanship that when into the painting and decorating. Yet no matter how pretty and delicate the doll seemed, they were always so horrifying. An uncanny mockery of a human. A mockery of the time, with their eccentric styles and placid beauty. They were doe-eyed and pitiful. Like a damsel that wasn't a damsel but instead the very monster you feared.

Furina was grateful their eyes were covered by a thin veil. Even if she didn't know why.

The person, whomever she may be, almost seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. Perhaps Furina had been so distracted that she hadn't noticed the angel walking towards Arlecchino's office.

"Who are you?" Furina barely pushed herself away from cowering against Arlecchino's door like some threatened prey animal. Furina felt the urge to empty her stomach. The fear that ran through her seemed almost too much to handle. Whatever she was looking at, Furina wasn't looking at an angel.

She was looking at something malicious and capricious.

"Arlecchino," her voice was so soft and delicate, like a sweet melody. "Our servant might have mentioned me as the Damselette. Though my common name is Columbina." The fear within Furina only seemed to stur and worsen at the realisation of who this angel was.

A very reasonable fear.

This was the Damselette, Columbina, 3rd of the Fatui Harbingers. Otherwise known as The Tsaritsa's personal Angel of Demise.

They were the exact opposite of all that Fontaine stood for. Their water wasn't pure and righteous. It stood for all the decay and disease that water could bring.

She was famed or rather infamous for her twisted sense of love and curiosity for human-kind. There was more of a risk at dying in the hands of their master's own curiosity and love rather than serving in a mission for the fatui. Yet, every performance, every holy prayer and ceremony, was truly a most beautiful display. All of them were serenaded in a beautiful voice.

She was a dove who flew at funerals.

Furina wanted to beat the dove away as it slowly stalked towards her.

"You're the Third Fatui Harbinger... and one of Arlecchino's previous 'lovers'..." The last few words came out quieter than Furina had intended. They felt like sin to even speak of. The words were slick and covered in guilt. This was the one Arlecchino described as only being able to grasp the more explicit parts of love but never the finer parts. Yet it begged the question, why was she here?

What was the Damselette's will?
What exactly could she do?
Was Furina in danger?

"Are you not one of us now?" They were zo sweet and innocent! The Damselette acted as if she was some innocent little angel who wasn't Furina so much distress it felt like she was being interrogated once again. That stupid eerie smile that just wouldn't go away!

"No... I'm different..." Furina didn't seem to trust her own words. Her voice was hoarse, and her head felt clouded.

"We always say that, but no one can replace the first."

What did those words mean?

Who was the first?

Clervie?

Was it Clervie?

"Why are you here?" Furina shouldn't be feeling so weak. So sick to the core and trembling. Leaving upon a door and the meagre hope that it was Arlecchino behind the door. Arlecchino who could save her.

Everything was wrong.

Columbina was just trying to manipulate her.

Because there was nothing that prevented her from doing so. Columbina was no diplomat.

Diplomats have rules and customs. They may vary, but at the core of it, they all revolve around manipulating and controlling the means to achieve what is desired.

Be it corrupt. Or just.

The Damselette did not care for these things.

Furina had no choice but to withstand this again and again and again.

That's all she ever did.

"Arlecchino is always so interesting, don't you think? So prideful and determined. No matter how many times she's squashed or crushed, she never gives up. Even when I or the moth hurt her. She just withstood it all. She even bows down the God that was responsible for all her suffering. Arlecchino is so funny. What a funny, funny person. Everything she's ever done is because of that fickle heart within her."

The Damsel was standing before Furina. Despite being so short, she seemed to tower above Furina. There seemed to be no space between them, so suffocatingly close. It was like being a bug whose being observed, and yet there were no eyes upon her. Hidden beneath a veil.

What gaze was upon her if Columbina was blind to it all?

"Yes... Arlecchino is quite driven by love... she's a father after all...why are you here?"

'Unlike you, she's not a monster parading as a saint.'

Furina's hand tightened around the door handle. The door handle silently screeched as it inched ever so slightly downwards. Just a little more, and the door would be pushed open, and Furina would be safe. At least, Arlecchino would be there.

Arlecchino could handle Columbina.

"Arlecchino was so driven by that girl, Clervie, was it? Who cares? She's dead! Our dear servant wasn't just filling a whole within me and that moth. She was filling a hole within herself. A gaping hole. Both me and that burning moth always seemed to ge scratching at Arle's harsh exterior. The bite of teeth and the pricks of claws; yet you are indeed different."

A lace covered hand inched towards Furina, seemingly stuck in slow motion. Until a gloved blue hand gripped it with crushing force.

"Leave me alone. Why are you here?" Holding it in a knuckle-whitening grip as her breaths became shallow and whole body shook. Pulling together all her fear and anger to bite the hand that tried to reach her. It was no desperate plea.

"You've accomplished something even I could not. Look at you, so imperfectly perfect. So perfectly unique. How did you achieve it? No wonder Arlecchino loves you so much. So sickeningly. You share so much with that dead girl you know. Singing, dancing, and sacrificing so much for the feeble and meagre. Yet, most importantly, you guide Arlecchino. You teach her a new meaning of love. A new meaning to such a silly word. I am curious to know when she'll grow tired of your love."

The Damselette smiled even as she was shoved backwards into the golden light. The smile and innocent still sketched upon face.

The only thing dividing them were the shadows.

"Arlecchino..." Furina let out a trembling breath, "Please, why do you say these things." Furina felt like crying. The Damselette just seemed to have this aura of disregard to her. Or perhaps it wasn't because she didn't care, but she was ignorant of her own actions and their consequences.

"How are you so certain you aren't a replacement for Clervie? How are you so certain you love Arlecchino even through the doubts and tough times? Can you really withstand dealing with the grief that being with one of us causes? You've lost so much already. How much more are you willing to let fate rip from you?"

Furina could withstand the grief and stress they'll no doubt face.

Furina loved Arlecchino. She knew it like fact. She had to know it like fact. Furina was so sure of those words.

She told Arlecchino those words. She had kissed Arlecchino. Shared personal secrets with Arlecchino, so why would she doubt?

 

Did Furina trust Arlecchino?

 

"I don't care."

Columbina shifted slightly. Eyes twitching ever so subtly beneath the fabric, head nodding side to side in contemplation as she rocked back and forth upon her feet.

"My apologies. They always seem to mention to me that I'm inappropriate and have a negative effect on people. I tend to make them act out or uncomfortable. My own hydro manipulation isn't as pure or as nice as yours. If you don't mind me, I'd like to speak with Arlecchino. I'm curious to see how she feels."

Furina gulped. She had entirely forgotten about the hand clinging to Arlecchino door. It was the hand permanently mutilated by the trial, by her own desperation. It was numb, but now Furina could feel a pain running through it. The joints throbbed and ached. Removing her grip from the handle caused enough pain to shoot through her system for tears to prick at her eyes.

"Go ahead..." Furina murmured, rushing past the Damselette, clinging to the opposite wall of the hallway. Desperate to merge into it.

"Don't worry, it won't hurt too much when she's gone." The door clicked shut behind Columbina.

Furina gulped. Suddenly, the damn that held back her tears were beginning to break the moment she was alone in this forsaken hallway. It was just like old times when Furina would rush to her own room. Everyone would stay away to respect her privacy, leaving her isolated in her tower. Suddenly, it seemed as if she truly was the Hydro Archon with how much she cried.

Most times, she cried herself to sleep.

Old habits die hard, Furina guessed.

Her footsteps cracked against the floor as Furina darted away from Arlecchino's office, aimless and directionless in her heading, desperate to get far away from that monster masquerading as an angel.

The hallways blurred as tears slowly slipped down Furina's face until she came across her temporary suite in the hotel.

It seemed so bland and depressing compared to home, yet Furina couldn't bear to be there either. No matter where she went, it seemed like anxiety was sure to follow.

She slammed the door shut and slid down against it, not caring how loud it may be or how far it may have reverberated. Everything was just tears and sorrow.

Crying again, her chest heaved as she barely contained her sobs.

Why was it that no matter how strong Furina got, she was always hit with something worse!?

Why can't she just be happy!?

She's lost so much to fate itself and is bound to lose more again, so why does fate have to keep tormenting her!?

Was it fun!?

Was this what the heavenly principles wanted!?

Furina is trying so hard, so damn hard. She's trying to be a parent to these children who look up to her. Who suddenly cling to her even if she's culpable for the reason they're even here in the first place. She was trying so hard to cope with the constantly moving future.

It felt unfair that neither of them. Both Arlecchino and Furina had been handed such a cruel hand of cards.

Her hands were soaking wet from the ceaseless flow of tears that coated her face in a depressing shine. Her chest ached and so did her throat.

Her eyes felt heavy. Her body felt heavy.

Furina just felt heavy.

Why was this world so cruel?

Notes:

It may seem like dislike Columbina but I'm actually really excited about her character and when she releases. As well as I do enjoy ArleBina as a ship as well and I am very intrigued by their dynamic.

This chapter is meant to parallel the one with Sandrone. There's a reason however, that Arlecchino was bathed in light while Furina wasn't but I'll let you ponder that one.

Chapter 24: All Consuming Tide

Summary:

Arlecchino argues with Columbina and scolds her children. Yet there are some unforseen outcomes she never could have predicted.

Columbina's hand stung as it was slammed against the desk. Fingers being crushed in a tight grip with claws threatening to pierce fragile skin.

"You are not welcome here." Those words were drenched in venom as Arlecchino spat them out between clenched teeth. Red eyes staring daggers into Columbina's soul, silently wishing torment upon her, as Arlecchino's blood boiled.

Boiled from anger and fear.

It was aggravating enough to be around another Harbinger, let alone Columbina. But here within her office, where her planned betrayal could be discovered? It was a nightmare.

Columbina was not known for her ability to keep secrets. Always spilling them randomly at a moments notice.

"Did I make you mad?" Columbina cooed, eyes tracing over the wrinkles between Arlecchino's brows and the sneer upon her lips. Finding such pleasurable humour in watching Arlecchino seethe even as her wrist was at risk of being broken in Arlecchino's grip. Well, until she was shoved violently away from the dark wooden desk.

Tripping over her own heels, Columbina's grinned, watching Arlecchino towered above her.

It was so funny seeing how angry and unfiltered Arlecchino could become at a few words and maybe a couple of actions.

"It was agreed that after Sandrone's unprompted arrival that it would not happen again. I was to receive a three day warning minimum of the arrival of another Harbinger. Yet I find myself lacking one for your spontaneous appearance."

Arlecchino seethed, lips pulled back over, snarling teeth.

Like an injured stray dog. Barking and threatening anyone that came close, they did know after all who was friend or foe.

Though, something about the innocent and weak façade of the dove triggered some violent instinct within the stray dog. Causing its claws to sharpen and fire to ignite the markings embedded into cursed skin.

Just barely prevented from roaring to life in a grand blaze.

"Don't blame me. Per-"

"Do not speak my name. You have no right." Columbina paused, watching ad Arlecchino guarded that closed off secret within her. Carefully analysing Arlecchino's angry look and claws that scrunched up some unknown documents in her hand.

A frown only briefly painted her normally smiling lips.

"Don't blame me," Columbina shrugged, brushing off responsibility for her own actions once again, "Your children knew I was coming. They knew exactly a week in advance. I wonder if spending time with that actor had affected your performance for the worse..." Columbina cooed once again.

It was boring not being able to play or toy with Arlecchino. Her usual game was so much fun. It always elicited the most interesting of reactions.

Arlecchino spat out a muffled curse beneath her breath.

Silently processing the Damselette's words. If what was said is true then.... Arlecchino sighed.

The next Harbinger meeting was going to be awful. Listening as those pompose hypocrites tried dangling this affair over her head. Levying it against her to make her more complacent with their whims.

Arlecchino could hardly stand the thought of it.

"Very well.. I shall inform my children of their failure."

Arlecchino refused to look at Columbina. Instead, allowing her mind to trail off elsewhere. It would be nice to fall back into her cushioned chair before the thought of Furina welcomed itself into her mind.

It was a childish hope to assume that Furina had missed Columbina. That she hasn't encountered her on her way out. There was no reasonable doubt that Furina had to have encountered Columbina.

Arlecchino still wished that Furina was alright and returned beaming with that charming and sickeningly sweet smile of hers. Carrying some array of desserts, each with enough sugar to make the average person sick. Yet would be eaten with a blissful joy upon Furina's face as she fed Arlecchino a few bites to ensure that Arlecchino did indeed eat her own share of desserts. There would be more than enough so that the children could come and have some if they so wished.

Alas, Arlecchino wouldn't blame Furina if she had gone home after briefly encountering the Damselette.

Arlecchino would have to bring some apology gifts on behalf of her fellow Harbinger.

"I met that little actor in the hallway, you know~" Columbina trailed off, rocking back and forth upon her heels. Occasionally switching to swaying side to side as if dancing to her own tune, unable to stand still.

"What."

Arlecchino froze, fears confirmed as a cool, slick dread ran down her spine.

It was painful to conceive such thoughts. Arlecchino didn't mind Columbina's unpredictability and insensitivity. You get used to experiencing things when around children, and even then, Arlecchino just wasn't phased more often than not.

Arlecchino doubted Furina would've managed against Columbina... not to mention her rather questionable abilities.

Clawed hands reached out and dug small holes and stretched the thin fabric of Columbina's collar.

"What. Did. You. Do?" The amount of willpower it took not to harm Columbina. Yet Arlecchino knew not to test the Damselette, at least not when she didn't want it.

It was a fools errand to fight or challenge the Damselette. She hardly conceded and rarely ever listened to anyone's complaints or orders. Even the leash the Tsaritsa had upon the Damselette was a long one.

Columbina wasn't the strongest physically, but her psychological and elemental manipulation was unparalleled.

Arlecchino dare say Columbina had a fair chance of breaking down even Neuvillette's will.

Arlecchino knew she wouldn't end out physically wounded if she were to battle Columbina, but her psyche would be permanently scarred from whatever images and creatures Columbina mind could skew and birth within Arlecchino's own.

Arlecchino was scared to conceive what would happen if Columbina somehow connected to Balemoon.

Easy access to all the monsters permanently sketched into its cocoon.

There was nothing more terrifying than that thought.

"Nothing, though I don't think she liked our conversation. She seemed rather upset with me. I don't know why, though. Nothing lasts forever." Columbina shrugged, though she must admit those diamond and sapphire eyes soaked with tears looked like she was staring into the starry night sky. It was almost like Columbina could reach out and rip the stars from the sky.

Though Columbina doubted her hand would still be attached to her wrist. Columbina wasn't about to anger half of the Archons over such a pathetic reason.

Arlecchino let out a short growl of frustration, shoving past her own desk, listening as papers fluttered and fell to the ground. Air whistling past her as the door to her office retched open with no sight of anyone on the hallway.

"You will wait in the foyer. I'll personally escort you to a different place to stay once I am finished scolding my children. You are not welcome here."

Columbina stared surprised and deeply intrigued as Arlecchino ordered her movement. Humming slightly as she carefully made her way towards Arlecchino, antagonising her with the slow and steady pace.

Stopping to gaze Arlecchino directly in the eyes.

"Do you really care for her that much?"

A pain shot through Columbina's shoulder as Arlecchino's clawed hand roughly dragged her from the room as the door slammed shut behind them. The sound echoing down the quiet halls.

"Yseut!" Arlecchino's voice ran loud in Columbina's ears. Even as she slowly and quietly made her way towards the foyer.

Finished with her game of toying with the Knave.

This was perhaps the closest time Columbina had come to seeing true unadulterated anger from Arlecchino. It was a shame she still held onto that diplomatic poise. It would be so fun to see how far that curse could spread. See what monster could be born from Arlecchino's heart.

Her own footsteps, however, were soon drowned out by the thuds of heels and metal against the ground. Running toward the angry father, the Damselette was leaving far, far behind her.

"Yes!" Yseut gasped out, chest heaving up and down, as pain and fear rippled through her body.

Half cloaked in shadows, her father's tall figure loomed above her. Eyes gleaming in the shadows, stalking every little movement. From each twitch to every schooled breath. Piercing through Yseut's soul.

A trembe ran through Yseut's hand as they bowed before Father.

"Gather the children, I wish to have words. Have them wait in the foyer while I look for Miss Furina."

"There's no need to, Arle."

Arlecchino jumped, slipping out from the shadows as someone else walked down it. Small, quiet steps.

Furina.

She seemed so small, bathed in the shadows of the hallway. Everything seemed to loom above her. There was no joy or pride in her steps.

Nothing that Arlecchino had desperately hoped for.

Her eyes were red, and her cheeks sore as tear tracts were plastered upon them.

"Furina." Arlecchino's voice was soft and light, filled with relief; hands just itching to reach out and comfort Furina. To scower her frame and heal what brought her to tears.

Yet Arlecchino already knew what had brought Furina to tears. It was walking quietly down the hallway, carefully and quietly scaring away anything that lurked in the shadows.

A true monster lurking in the dark.

Arlecchino's hand brushed through the air, slipping past Furina's shoulder, only to be brushed away and met with furrowed brows and a tight-lipped frown.

"Let's go." Furina prompted, murmuring the reminder quietly.

Yseut jumped away, sprinting back into action, heels thumping against the floor as they collided rapidly against it. Rushing to warn the children that Father wanted to speak with them all.

A warning of what is to come.

"Yes." Arlecchino sighed, swallowing the nerves within her throat. She didn't press again. Arms seemingly bound by an invisible thread behind her back.

Mocking her sensitivity and binding her in place. Leaving her once again in a situation Arlecchino never wanted to be in once again.

Once was enough.

Twice might just kill her.

The walk towards the foyer was silent. The shadows mocked them, making Arlecchino as small as Peruere, until the blinding foyer revealed itself to them. Blinding and glittering off the metal decorations upon their clothes. Highlighting the situation.

Columbina was sitting at a table in the corner drawing with quick and rushed movements, whatever experiment or morbid day dream had come to her.

Arlecchino was likely going to get an earful of whatever malicious machinations Columbina had.

The children, all lined up, the tallest at the back and the shortest at the front. Patiently waiting to hear their father's words. Like obedient little soldiers.

Just like Arlecchino.

"Children. I am certain you are aware of the Damselette's arrival here at Hotel Bouffes d'ete. I'm also certain that some of you are aware of the agreement that the House of the Hearth and its various operational centres, should a harbinger be arriving there regardless of their business, would provide a notice to their arrival. However, I did not receive such a warning. So pray tell what exactly happened for such a notice to be lost?"

Furina watched from within Arlecchino's shadoe as she scolded her children, carefully interrogating them, observing each and every one of them.

Her hand twitching as her mind flickered between speaking up and staying silent.

They hadn't done anything wrong.

"It was me, father." Furina watched eyes shaking as some one of the mature children stepped forward, bowing before Arlecchino. Confessing their sins.

They hadn't done anything wrong.

"I received the report from a different fatui agent. The maiden handed me the letter but you weren't home at the time for me to deliver it and by the time you returned I had forgotten all about the small letter." Their words were confident. They didn't show an ounce of fear.

It was just a simple mistake.

"Then you understand the consequences of your failure, yes?" Furina could hear her own breathing in her ears. Sweat dripping down her face. She had felt like this before.

It was just a simple mistake.

A mistake.

A misunderstanding.

"ENOUGH!" Furina's hands immediately shot to her mouth. Covering her shock as the room became so quiet, a pin could be heard dropping.

Arlecchino stared, gaze focused upon Furina. Observing how her body seemed to shake so subtly, how sweat slipped between the strands of hair that hid away Furina's expression.

It was happening again.

It scared Arlecchino. The tremble in Furina's voice was so prominent and the twitch of her face; everything was a symbol of distress. Furina seemed so desperate and lost.

"Children, Columbina, grant me and Miss Furina some privacy. Do not attempt to spy on us, or else there will be consequences." Arlecchino gaze fell upon Lyney and Lynette's shoulders. They seemed especially guilty, knowing who those words were for.

All of her children may be spies, but there was a reason Lyney stood out from the others.

"Yes, father." A collective ring of voices as the children slowly dispersed. Columbina dissappearing off somewhere estranged from the rest of the children.

Toys were no fun when you could only look at them.

None could look at their Father in the eye or meet Furina's shocked gaze.

"Furina," Arlecchino began watching as the last of her children left them alone in the foyer. "Are you feeling alright?"

Arlecchino had a feeling she knew what was happening. Yet how to act was beyond her.

 

Furina couldn't stand Arlecchino's concern for some reason.

"You're too harsh on them." It was difficult getting those words out. Furina felt like a thousand eyes were upon her, even though there were only two softening eyes that stared with nothing but concern in them.

"They understand the rules, and I will not deviate from them. If I do, then more people will be hurt than necessary." Arlecchino reasoned softly. When everything was connected like a spider web, everything was in order. It was safe.

Furina's brows furrowed more. A sharp crease between the two as her hands clenched and stomach churned.

"I know, but you could at least let them know you care for them a little bit more." The words seemed to stumble out of Furina's mouth. A desperate attempt to rectify and explain her actions. Even if it felt like she was betraying Lynette's trust. Freminet's trust. Lyney's trust and who knows else. Betraying the effort they went through to speak with her, only to be disappointed as she lied directly to their face, there was nothing she could do... yet everything felt like lies. Despicable lies.

Furina may have lied all her life, omitting information and truths, but she never felt any pleasure when doing so.

It was just another notch in her side of guilt and fear.

"Furina, they'll only hurt more. I am their strict and unfeeling father, I am nothing more than a tool for their growth. For their sake, I will not let them feel the pain I felt." When Clervie died.

Arlecchino didn't day those words. This strange human fear that it would only make things worse.

"Well, they'll get hurt anyway, I know exactly what type of occupation this is. Even if I don't have the best understanding, I've seen how it affects people. I watched Clorinde silently mourn alone, drowned in work, and hurt so much more because of a self-imposed isolation. I watched Navia break down and cry in the court. Do you think I don't feel guilty? The only reason it wasn't so bad was because at least they all knew they cared for each other. Even if one was gone. They had the memories. Just like you said to me."

Furina was crying now.

Arlecchino swallowed.

"Furina."

"Why can't you tell them you love them directly? It's so much easier to cope when you can be open with your worried rather than hide them! Your children are worried for you, Arlecchino! They don't want you to die!" And neither do I.

"Furina. I am doing this for them. They will not feel as I have felt when I murdered Clervie!" Arlecchino suddenly spoke up. Voice cutting through Furina's tear soaked complaints.

Yet, neither stopped.

"It's always Clervie, isn't it!?" Furina regretted those words. The way Arlecchino's face morphed into one of visible shock, the small step back she took as if realing back in shock as if she was being slapped.

"Furina..." Arlecchino's voice seemed weak as her brows and face twisted into one of betrayal.

"I..I...I.. It just I feel like I'm nothing more than a replacement for her in your eyes. Columbina-" Furina needed a way out, "Columbina said that I was the most similar to Clervie.... you said it yourself that Clervie was the most important person to you, she's the reason why you are who you are now... and I just feel like I'm filling in her spot... I'm scared."

Arlecchino stood, hands shaking as that familiar burn reared its ugly head. Singeing the once healed skin once again. Creeping closer and closer up Arlecchino arms.

"She's dead."

 

"Clervie's dead."

 

"Clervie died, Furina." And I murdered her. And I am sorry that I led you to feeling this way.

"Arlecchino..." Furina muttered beneath her breath. Glacier eyes trembling as they looked at Arlecchino.

Arlecchino seemed so blank. Nothing on her face revealed how she felt, but her hands were clenched so tightly, Furina watched as droplets of blood slipped between her digits. Painting her hands red.

"I believe it would be beneficial if we take some time apart, Miss Furina. I believe this situation is too overwhelming for you. If you would like, feel free to contact one of my children if you wish to draw out of our arrangement. Do not sacrifice yourself to hold me up." Arlecchino swallowed.

"Arle, wait -" Furina attempted to draw closer to Arlecchino but only found more empty space between them.

"Yseut!" That same name was shouted again.

"Yes, father." Yseut seemed apprehensive to return to the foyer with Columbina in tow. Their shoulders were taunt, but their head didn't look straight ahead. Columbina didn't seem bothered at all.

"Escort Miss Furina back to her apartment. If she returns, then do not let her accept any work on behalf of the House of the Hearth."

"Arlecchino, please!" Furina was gently held back from running towards Arlecchino, being dragged softly towards the exit.

"Miss Furina, please." Yseut begged, being a fatui operative didn't prepare her for anything like this.

 

The sun burned as it shone upon Furina as she stared at the doors to Hotel Bouffes d'ete. They never seemed so impassable before.

"Ysuet," Furina's voice was weak, gaze still trying to focus upon the doors even as she was guided further and further way from Hotel Bouffes d'ete. Futher and futher away from Arlecchino.

"Yes, Miss Furina?" Yseut replied. There was some sense of ease talking to Ysuet. Her face was covered, but Furina was still talking to a person. Though perhaps Furina was desperate.

"Do you think Arlecchino will hate me?"

Yseut considered her words carefully.

"No, we dont know much about Father, but what we know for certain is that her way of caring is different but in no way less sincere. Father is surprisingly understanding despite being strict on rules and such. Many children have come and gone. Many have said they hated Father for taking them in. Resenting her. Yet Father, even when knowing her children hated her, has continued to love them. I believe you will be no different."

Furina swallowed. Tears pricked her eyes once again.

Furina felt guilty for breaking her promise to be more respectable towards Arlecchino past.

Arlecchino was right. In a time when so many nerves were building up on her, it was only reasonable to expect it to burst. Furina had made a mistake. A horrible one. Even if Arlecchino knew why that didn't forgive the guilt in Furina's heart.

Arlecchino had made good on her promise to be open and honest with Furina as much as possible.

Yet Furina hadn't.

Furina needed to visit Clorinde and Navia.

Furina had to fix this mistake.

 

And so did Arlecchino.

 

––x●––

Notes:

Angst! 🎉

Thank you all for 900 kudos and all the support that Embers has received.

I was initially worried about this plot point but I had it planned for ages so it was bound to happen. Habits that have lasted for 500 years will be hard to break and time will test any and all healing that has been done.

Chapter 25: Drifting

Summary:

Furina seeks out Navia and Clorinde for advice.

Arlecchino is struggling to handle her own thoughts.

Furina's lungs heaved and ached. Each breathe felt like she was inhaling knives as rain dripped down across her face. It was like a cage had wrapped around her chest, littered with spikes that stabbed into tender flesh each time Furina gasped for air. Simply living felt like torture.

Her hair was soaked and stuck to her face, and her clothes were also soaked. It felt like Furina had nearly drowned. The desperation to heave out air and the struggle to see through the spontaneous storm. Ugh, Furina was going to make sure whomever made Neuvillette cry know exactly how much they've inconvenienced her. Now was not the time for pathetic fallacy.

Furina had sprinted here, albeit foolishly, but she would repent for her sins. There was no need for the world to weep when it was still hopefully fixable.

The sand slipped and sunk beneath Furina's foot, tempting her to collapse into it. The urge was painfully strong as waves of relief and joy crashed over Furina the moment her foot sunk into the first bit of sand. She had arrived in Poisson, and her saviours were no further than a simple trip down into the heart of Poisson. There was hope still here, the fire that roared within Furina, the ambition that burned within her, the one that saved the cold from reaching her skin and freezing her, was burning bright. Dancing endlessly, fulled by determination and foolish hope.

Furina had overcome so much. Now was time to prove just how strong she was.

There was nothing wrong with getting a little help, Fontaine was not built alone, and the prophecy was not solved alone.

Their relationship was not built and maintained by a singular participant, Furina and Arlecchino both worked to build it into the beautiful mess, the tale that it was now.

Though, Furina did regret her choices just a little bit. Her legs felt heavy, and the muscles felt like the heavy clothing on her back. It was a monumental task to keep walking and staying steady.

Furina nearly had a face full of sand as she tripped and stumbled towards the rusting metal that welcomed everyone as equal into Poisson.

Furina hadn't been here in a while.

The anxiety that slithered down her spine as she stared down into Poisson, memories flooding back, the pain and hurt that swelled in her heart as Furina recalled just how desperate she was standing in that small room with the Traveller before placing on stage like mouse before a crowd of cats. Where her life dangled so precariously in the balance. Where her hand became the scarred mess that it was now.

Furina swallowed.

Willing her trembling frame into motion as her heels clicked down against the stairs, there would only be more grief to come, a preventable grief if Furina didn't try now.

Everything was at stake when playing with a Harbinger.

It was like playing a game of chess against an entirely different unknown game. What do you defend the king from when the unknown could have anything? Where do you send the pawns to be sacrificed for the measly chance to win?

Arlecchino could be anywhere. Especially if she was handling that accursed and malicious angel, the divinity that scared away even the abyss.

Furina stopped, eyes glancing out of the maw of Poisson, ignoring the rusting beams that micked the sharp teeth of whatever beast lurked deep enough. Her instinct, her heart, Arlecchino was somewhere.

Arlecchino would return home eventually. If not to Furina, then to her children.

Arlecchino was a father first and foremost and a Harbinger second.

Furina knew they wouldn't meet arms in arms. They would stand awkwardly before one another, waiting for the other to speak. It would be words before actions.

Stepping gently against the rusty stairs, the quiet clang sending a jolt of fear up her fear, Furina descended down to face her fears.

Poisson. A place as foreign to Furina as Snezhnaya's tundras or the ocean past Inazuma. Poisson was as welcoming as a frozen tundra as well, at least to Furina, that is, the place scorned and hated her. It would consume and eat her alive. It would extinguish her flames beneath its vibrant and vile hatred for her.

Yet the saviours, Furina's saviours, the burning sun, and its matching moon that melted the ice in people's hearts, they were here.

Navia and Clorinde were here.

They would greet Furina with open arms and crush her in a hug that filled her heart with nothing but warmth and hope. They would smile despite the doubts that spawned with each passing plan more bold than the last.

Furina was grateful that it was raining, even if it soaked her to the bone and sent a ceaseless chill through her. Everyone would be inside, even down here in Poisson. The rain seemed to halt everything and everyone, a temporary stasis.

After all, tears run dry eventually.

Furina was free to face her fears alone.

"Ah!" Furina yelped, foot slipping on the wet steel beneath her foot, her steps becoming a horrible song of clanging and clacks. A dance to save herself from falling to her hands and knees, save herself from being so vulnerable here.

Her hands ached, they were so stiff and cold, the handrail felt like ice beneath her grip.

It hurt.

It hurt so much.

Her hand was hurting, stinging. It was so numb, but the pain was everywhere.

The tremble and anxiety only seemed to spike.

Furina's eyes were clenched shut as she clung to the handrail, unwilling to open them and face the heart of Poisson.

She couldn't let this wave of bravery pass over her so easily. She was doing this for the sake of her relationship with Arlecchino. Furina wanted this. Furina needed to do this. Furina needed to reach Clorinde and Navia.

If she could accomplish this just once, then she would be happy. Furina could save herself from a bland future or something far worse.

If Furina did this, then her bed would be warmed by two rather than one. There would be a constant ambience and background noise as Arlecchino argued with Crabaletta over the simplest of things. Even after all this time, Crabaletta refused to warm up to Arlecchino, though at least she ceased with the endless threats.

For the most part.

Furina would be alone waking up to the sound of rhythmic clanging matching the own ache of her heart.

Those intimate moments between them, between Furina and Arlecchino. When Arlecchino leaned heavy against her chest in fear of the future, when Furina clung to Arlecchino consumed by her own aching heart, all those bittersweet moments that filled in the cracks, would be nothing more than memories.

Furina didn't just want memories. She wanted everything.

Furina loved Arlecchino.

Furina loved it all. Furina finally knew why Foçalors loved imperfections just as much as the prefections.

Furina would rather freeze now if mean her future was filled with warmth. She would stumble now and walk in the future. She would come here to spoil all the children. Clorinde and Navia would have wrapped around their ankles.

Furina would be the favourite aunt followed in tow by Arlecchino. Arlecchino, who no doubt wouldn't approve of her spoiling the children but couldn't bring herself to stop Furina.

Instead, joining in on the fun.

Furina would get through this. Then she could cradle Arlecchino to her chest, hide her away, and refuse to surrender her to anyone.

Furina would write this fate into the stars if she had to.

Huffing out a hot breath, Furina pulled herself to her feet, ignoring the biting pain in her hands. Legs stood with a shaky strength as she pushed herself into a run, Navia and Clorinde weren't too far away.

It was an awkward run, Furina's legs still felt like jelly after her last run. However, the moment she nearly face planted into their door was perhaps one of the most relieving moments of her life. Her hand beating against it in a poor mockery of her usual rhythmic nocking.

Then the door finally opens, bringing a blast of warmth with it. It almost seemed to sear her cheeks and ears, biting at them just as much as the cold did. The light that followed the warmth was also blinding as it silhouetted... Navia!

"Furina!" Navia sounded horrified, hand held over her mouth, eyes wide from the sheer dread of seeing Furina standing before her. The horrifying sight of Furina standing at her doorstep, soaked and trembling. A thousand probabilities rushed through Navia's mind as Furina unintentionally tested her motherly nature.

"Navia," Furina panted, seemingly unaware of just how difficult it had become, breathe, "I made a mistake."

Furina's words barely had any chance to register or leave her mouth as she was yanked inwars by Navia, listening as her voices shouted for Clorinde to get some warm towels. Their home, here in Poisson, was surprisingly domestic.

Some of the furniture was rather dated, but everything in here screamed family. A house continually passed down, and a thousand photo frames and achievements lined the walls and decor.

Just above the fireplace was a small little frame containing Navia and Clorinde.

Furina barely had the chance to look at it as Navia placed her down in front of the fire. It was so warm.

It reminded Furina of Arlecchino.

The way the flames danced and flickered before her, yet contained inside the fireplace. The way they shifted between brilliant yellows and deep oranges and reds, the tips flickering a blue hue warning Furina of their danger. It was just like Arlecchino. Arlecchino burned so brightly and brilliantly, warding off anyone who dared approach, yet whenever she was with Furina, she was just as warm as this fire.

"How'd you even get here?" Furina felt a warm towel wrap around her shoulders as Navia kneeled before her, worry painting each crease and wrinkle on he face. Eyes filled with nothing but concern for Furina.

Furina wanted to laugh. It was her own foolishness that dragged her here.

Yet she would accept this pity.

"I ran." Furina jumped as she overheard Clorinde chocking upon either her own breath or a drink. Even Navia seemed to jump up, though not out of shock. Instead, that concern on her face became one reminiscent of a parent about to scold their child.

Furina had seen that look before.

"You ran!? In this weather!?" Furina couldn't look at Navia in the eye, even as the pressure of Navia's hands upon her shoulders pressed her to.

"Yes... but I had to!"

That was a lie. For the most part.

Furina didn't need to run. She did so impulsively. In the blink of an eye, before Furina even comprehended her own decision, she was sprinting away. Dashing through the streets of Fontaine making brash leaps, she was barely able to hear Ysuet's shouts over her own heartbeat. The streets and people around her were blurs and smudges against a monochromatic background.

Yet it was exhilarating. So exhilarating.

The surprise and shock upon Ysuet's face as Furina briefly turned to face her, watching as she stood upon the shoreline far, far behind Furina, who stood upon the slowly treading waves beneath her. Seemingly in awe at Furina will and ambition in motion.

Furina had no doubt caused a stir, but her heart had never beat like that before. Never beat with such determination.

"Furina," Navia scolded slightly, mouth turned down in a frown, "nothing is worth doing something as dangerous as that." Navia knew, she had nearly died herself, thrice in recent history. Once, when nearly having a sip of tainted Fonta. A second, when the hoard of meka came for her throat. A third, when she nearly dissolved after falling into the primordial sea.

Saved barely by those who loved her each time.

Navia knew Furina had run here because of Arlecchino. Even if Furina hadn't said anything specific yet, Navia just knew. Something instinctual told her so. A little voice that told her from all she knew about Furina, that this desperate and foolish act was done because of love.

Furina has done some terribly stupid things for the sake of love.

This five-hundred year long act. The trial and going so far as to put herself in direct danger, Navia never wanted to concern someone into that. No matter how desperate Navia herself was.

Now, Furina was curled up before her, glancing longingly towards the fire, yearning for something, someone.

No one would dare run, sprint endlessly, from the Court to Poisson. Yet Furina would. Of course, Furina would.

"But it was! I messed up, and I need your help! You're the only people I know to have gone through something so ridiculous and unfair and to come out of it stronger than before!" Furina pleaded, hands curling and clinging to the wet fabric of her shorts. Eyes wide in fear as she stared at both Navia and Clorinde, who stood just barely visible in the corner of her eye.

They looked so guilty, but Furina didn't understand why.

"Furina," Clorinde began weakly, slowly coming to kneel behind Navia, hand gently rest against Navia's shoulder as she leaned over her, "I don't know Arlecchino nor do I particularly like her, but Arlecchino wouldn't want this."

Furina looked down at her own hands. The gloves seemed stuck to her skin.

"I know. I know it was foolish of me to run all the way here, but I want to fix things, I made a mistake, Navia, Clorinde. Please help me."

Asking for help. What a struggle that was.

"Okay," Clorinde sighed. She could hardly believe she had gone from playing relationship advisor with Navia to actually consoling Furina with her relationship. It seemed like a dream that Furina and Arlecchino had actually managed to make things work. It just seemed like a raindrop hitting a spike. Impossible. The raindrop would shatter into nothingness as the spike pierced through it.

Yet, Clorinde couldn't deny – Furina hadn't seemed so happy before.

If Clorinde believed her own relationship with Navia at one point to be an impossibility, then who was she to think the same of Arlecchino and Furina.

Maybe it would be okay, okay to let down this act of playing guard around Furina.

Maybe things would finally be okay.

"Thank you." Furina smiled. It wasn't a beaming one. Her teeth weren't showing, and it wasn't blinding either. It was just content, pleased, and grateful.

"So," Navia pushed, "What did you do?"

Furina sighed, clenching her hands once again, swallowing the lump in her throat.

"I messed up." It was a confession. "Back when I was just friends with Arlecchino, back when our friendship was just barely blossoming, we made a promise. We were still on edge from everything, but we agreed that we would respect each other. Be honest with each other. We wouldn't throw things in each other's faces. We would talk. Yet I broke that."

Furina really didn't intend to. It was all a mistake.

"I was unknowingly stressed and anxious. I didn't realise how all that anxiety was mounting again, I was worried for Arlecchino, the children too, but i was also so worried about my play. My performance. I also encountered the 3rd Fatui Harbinger the same day after all. She was truly horrifying."

Furina shivered. She wasn't sure if it was from the cold or the fear that simply came from just thinking about Columbina.

"Well, if it was a mistake, then why don't you talk to each other. You mentioned you promised to be clear with one another, so why not make good on that promise even if you failed one." Navia smiled. It was warm and comforting. Her hands too were warm as they engulfed Furina own. Gently peeling them from their iron-grip around her shorts.

"But–" Furina stopped when she watched Navia smile at her once again, eyes shut and head titled ever-so slightly as warmth and comfort radiated from her just as much as the heat from the fire did besides them did.

"Furina, you came to us, didn't you? Don't you think there's plenty of hope for you if we managed to pull through. It may be a little different since it's you and Arlecchino, but Arlecchino is quite the reasonable person. She's a father, too. No matter how 'strict and unfeeling' you are, you learn to accept and move on from a lot of things." Navia's words were soft as she gently caressed Furina's hand, trying to warm then. Her smile grew as Furina's own did.

Furina couldn't help but let out a little giggle. It seemed like Navia was mocking Arlecchino's semantic of being strict and unfeeling.

Until she remembered. She was in Poisson, Arlecchino was anywhere. Somewhere.

"There's one problem. However, I don't know where Arlecchino is. She's somewhere, taking Columbina away to some other fatui hideout. I don't know the specifics." Furina shrugged, the realisation that the premiere of her play was in a few days dawning sharply upon her.

A deep-seated anxiety crawled out from amidst her bones and into her skin and flesh.

"I don't know where Arle is...." Furina sounded so desperate, so distance. Eyes not looking at Navia or Clorinde but past them, off in the distance.

All of Furina's efforts, all of them, would be for nought.

All of them.

Furina did all this for one person. Furina didn't care what the Steambird said, what anyone said for that matter. All Furina cared about was what Arlecchino thought. It was a gift to Arlecchino. And that's all that mattered.

"Furina," Furina jumped as Clorinde spoke up suddenly, calm voice cutting through the air. "Rest for now, you're cold, and it's getting late. We will head to the House of the Hearth in the morning. Arlecchino can not run away for long. Someone will eventually spot her. A black and white hare is easy prey."

Clorinde didn't hunt rabbits often, but she would be sure to bring this one home.

No matter how much struggle there was.

"Exactly! You just rest, and tomorrow we will meet with the House of the Hearth and see if Arlecchino has returned. If she hasn't, then we will just look for her." Navia beamed, pushing herself up from numb knees to rush around the house once again.

Muttering and mumbling that there had to be a spare set of pyjamas or nightgown that would fit Furina, if just a tad too large.

Oversized things would be good for Furina, warm her up faster, and block away the chill of the Poisson nights.

"Thank you." Furina mumbled, staring into the fire, curling up even more into herself, "Thank you...."

Navia smiled, briefly turning to look Furina's huddled frame. The way the edges of her frame were illuminated so beautifully, even as they battled with the thick shadows that consumed the rest of her. She seemed so small, yet her ahoge stood so tall. Bouncing out away from the rest of her flattened and soaked hair. Furina was truly someone admirable.

Navia was glad Furina had come to her, even if she and Clorinde couldn't do much.

This was all Furina's efforts after all.

"You're welcome, partner."

.

.

––x●––
.

.

Furina was nervous as she stood outside Hotel Bouffes d'ete. Even though Navia and Clorinde were standing in front of her, quietly discussing between them various random things, the weather outside of the hotel, unimportant things.

Yet before her thoughts could spiral, the door cracked open to reveal a rather tired Lyney. There were dark bags beneath his eyes. His hair wasn't as clean as it normally was. His shoulders seemed to sag quite a lot.

He seemed so tired.

"Mademoiselle Navia, Champion Duelist Clorinde and Miss Furina!" His voice was thick with fake cheer. "What brings you here?" His smile wasn't as sincere as it normally was.

"Lyney!" Navia cheered, her infectious cheer spilling off her in troves and waves. "Is your father in?" Navia beamed as bright as the sun.

Though, Lyney seemed to sag and droop further. Crushed by some invisible weight dropped upon him the moment his father was mentioned.

"Father has yet to return home. We haven't heard anything either."

Furina swallowed. Her fears had come true. Arlecchino wasn't here. Arlecchino was somewhere anywhere. Furina wouldn't get to invite her personally to the play, nor would she be able to see Arlecchino's
reaction to it.

.

––x●––

.

Arlecchino elbows dug into the table, hands pressed over her eyes. She was alone here in this dingy room and disgusting hideout for the Fatui with the last person she ever wanted to be with. Columbina.

Her thoughts just kept spiralling. It felt like there was an ich on her arm, right where the curse seemed to stop its march, an ich Arlecchino wanted to scratch till it was bloody.

Everything was just about Furina.

It was all Furina.

Love was this horribly cruel but beautiful and brilliant prison.

"Why are you so upset? I hadn't realised you had gotten so weak during your stay here in Fontaine. Why does it hurt now and not then?" Columbina picked at the scratches and cuts in the wall. Peeling away little segments of rotten wood.

Arlecchino sighed, unable to peel back her hands from her face. The few tears she had shed had become glue, sticking her cursed hands to her face. Arlecchino couldn't show Columbina that she had been reduced to tears.

All the hypocritical nonsense she had spoken coming back to haunt her.

It always did.

It never just worked in her favour, Arlecchino always had to be hurt somehow.

"Do you really care that much for Furina. Are you really going to fool yourself, Arlecchino? I thought you were more interesting than this." Arlecchino wanted to shut Columbina up. Wrap her hands around Columbina's delicate neck and squeeze until she felt that signature crack. Squeeze until Columbina's body became lip in her grasp. That's what these hands were good for.

Those words stung, like alcohol to a wound.

Arlecchino wasn't fooling herself. Was she?

Had Arlecchino become so ignorant to her fate?

No, she can't have, Arlecchino did this willingly. She chose to take a gulp from the chalice of chance and won. She had become so close to Furina. So close that Arlecchino wanted to never let go, but it would be cruel to cling so tightly. It was too late for that, though, wasn't it?

Arlecchino's heart felt like it was in Furina's hands now. It was no longer in that icy prison cell that bit and chewed at her heart. Hidden away where no one could see it.

Furina had so masterfully slipped in. Had so carefully begun to un-thread each seam Arlecchino had sown to carefully build this guise of hers. A guise built to lock out the pain and misery of her life, a guise built so that she may carry out Clervie's dream to the fullest. A guise that would've allowed her to burn so brilliantly at the end. A guise that kept everyone away.

.

Clervie.

This had all become like this because of Clervie.

It wasn't technically her fault.

Was Arlecchino still in love with Clervie?

No. No, Arlecchino wasn't.

Yet Arlecchino couldn't deny that Clervie still haunted her. Arlecchino was afraid of dying and death for a reason. Arlecchino was Arlecchino because of Clervie. This entire façade was all built because of Clervie. Without it; Arlecchino was Peruere again. A small, helpless little child who simply followed the stream. Who accepted whatever line pulled her wherever.

Who was Arlecchino?

A strict and unfeeling father? No, Peruere had built that because of Crucabena. Peruere would not stoop to Crucabena's level and be a wolf masquerading as a sheep. Pulling in little lambs only to slaughter them.

A Harbinger? This is no different than following Crucabena's plan for her to slaughter her way to the top. To get the gnosis and serve whatever duty took her attention. Murder. Justice.

Was Arlecchino actually someone else? Had she fooled herself into thinking she was distant from Peruere?

The same flesh and body but a different mind?

Arlecchino didn't know anymore.

"You know, you're a prime example of when humans do that thing..." Columbina began, voice light as she pondered something. "You're like water that's slowly being frozen, I can put anything I want in there, and in some way, it'll be a part of you. Then, when it's frozen, even when you deny it or forget it, it's always there subconsciously. What's that saying those Oceanids had?"

Arlecchino stopped. Ignoring the way Columbina fired off various misrememberings of 'The power of water is its ability to take any shape'.

No, Arlecchino was Peruere. Everything and all of it, the way she was around her children to being around Furina, that was all her.

Maybe Clervie had an impact, but that didn't mean she loved her. Maybe at one point, but that point is gone.

It passed.

Arlecchino, Peruere, is in the present and the future.

Arlecchino wants to see Furina's smile, the little ways she's acts out when she's shocked or upset. The way here eyes gleam in absolute desire and joy when she sees desserts. The way they meld together by simply laying in bed. That comforting rhythm of Furina's heart beat as it thrummed within her chest. Her warmth wasn't too hot or too cold. They way Furina could talk and speak for hours yet also listen on end. All those silly little moments and all the moments where it hurt.

Arlecchino wanted it all.

"You can handle yourself, Columbina. If you don't like it here, then may I suggest hurrying toward Natlan. Maybe you'll find someone else to cling to." Arlecchino huffed, standing but refusing to look at Columbina as she approached the door.

Arlecchino wanted to go on a walk, consider things, and plan things.

A little bit of rain wasn't enough to stop that.

.

.

.

×●

Notes:

Angst! Only five chapters remain! Thank you all for the continuous support and love!

Arlecchino's whole debate of who she is is largely inspired by the wider idea of what exactly is conscience? What makes humans unique? Arlecchino 'divide' from Peruere feels largely based on what makes her human. The Arlecchino we know is a mask built up from years of experience. Arlecchino grappling with Peruere is her grappling with her own humanity.

Notes:

I have a twitter bluesky so I could interact with yall more! Feel free to interact or not I don't mind.