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Chapter Text

That the people of Fontaine are born with sin that cannot be absolved;

One day, the waters of Fontaine will rise and the sinful people will all be dissolved into the waters,

and only the Hydro Archon will remain, weeping on her throne-

Only then will the sins of the people be washed away.

Those were the words of the Heavenly Principles, the words that spelt doom for Fontaine. Not five seconds later, they ordered the Hydro Archon to complete their bidding.

All because Egaria wished for her people to be happy. To be human.

It wasn’t fair.

It really wasn’t, Egaria thought. But thought wouldn’t save her people. She needed a plan.

She had no idea when the Heavenly Principles would carry out their threat prophecy. Perhaps while she completed her task, they would strike. It could be years from now, centuries, even. But to defeat the Heavenly Principles, she would need to be more cunning than the Dendro Archon herself.

It didn’t take long for a plan to form, but she couldn’t do it alone. Luckily, Egaria knew just the person- or oceanid- for the job.

“You wished to see me, Lady Egaria?” Egaria turned to the voice and smiled.

“Focalors. Yes, I did. Please, have a seat. The young woman obliged, taking a seat at the small table. They were in Egaria’s private quarters, high up in the highest building in Fontaine.

Although Focalors had frequented Egaria’s quarters as the most prominent of the god‘s retune, she could tell that today would be entirely different than the many other meetings she had attended.

Egaria began. “You might’ve noticed that I’ve been… a bit off lately?” Focalors nodded. “Of course. Anyone could see that, my lady.”

“Please- don’t call me that. If the Heavenly Principles have their way, you won’t ever be able to call me that again, and I can’t bear that thought any longer.”

The sudden outburst suprised Focalors. “I- I’m afraid I don’t quite understand, La- Egaria.” She pushed, quickly correcting herself.

What could Egaria do, except explain to the poor girl the situation she- no, ALL of Fontaine had found themselves in? She had to tell Focalors everything, before she set off on her task, before the Heavenly Principles destroyed everything she held dear, all because of a stupid mistake- no.

It wasn’t a mistake, no matter what the Heavenly Principles claimed it was.

“Fontaine is in danger. I know how to save it, but I can’t do it alone.”

Focalors straightened immediately. “I will do anything that you ask. Please, how can we save our home?”Egaria sighed. There was only one way she could see. Focalors wouldn’t like it. But it was the only way. She opened her mouth to begin-

And a bolt of lightning struck just outside the building.

The two women jumped at the sudden flash, and a few seconds later, the thunderous roar was heard.

Egaria quickly rushed to the windows, Focalors right behind her. All they could see was the pouring rain. Egaria quickly paled at the coming rain.

Now…? Why now? Just when she thought she would have time, her task had caught up with her.

Focalors turned to her archon, confusion clear on her face. “What’s going on-“

“I need to leave.”

…

“…what?”

Egaria turned to Focalors. “We’ve run out of time. I’m so sorry. I need you to stay here and protect Fontaine. The Heavenly Principles have called me.”

Now Focalors was even more confused. Egaria said she needed to tell her something, and now she was leaving? This was quite unlike the archon. She pleaded, “Please, just trust me. Hopefully, I will return soon, and I will tell you everything.”

“Now? My lady, please-“

“But before I do…” Egaria fumbles around, then pulls out a bright blue object that looked like a chess piece. Focalors eyes widened as her Archon handed over her Gnosis.

The Oceanid-turned human stumbled back. “What are you-“ 

“Just-“ Egaria says. Softly. “Trust me. Please.”

For a moment, it seems that time stood still. If it weren’t for the drops of rain and the occasional thunder strike outside, perhaps they would have believed it so.

Then, Focalors sighed. She extended her hand, and gently grasped the Gnosis. She looked down at it for a moment, then looked up at Egaria.

“…alright. But please, return safely.” Focalors sighs. Egaria smiles. “Thank you. I promise, we’ll see each other again. I don’t know how long this will take, but I will return. And I will explain everything. I promise.”

…

It would end up being a promise she couldn’t keep.

Chapter Text

“Furina! We need more flour!”

Furina’s head jerked up, only to immediately bonk it against the shelf above her.

Wincing in pain, she called out, “O-okay! I’ll go get some, just hold on one moment.” She quickly counted the boxes in her hand, and after confirming the correct amount was in her arms, she quickly rushed out of the pantry.

“Here, I found some more berries in the pantry! I’ll go get some more flour now!” She called, barely giving Sofiya, the owner, a second look before dashing out of the building.

She ran out of the little cafe, and down the road, towards the street market. She would find the flour there, as well as the other ingredients she needed to get.

She slowed down, fumbling for the list she had written a few hours prior. Finally finding the list, she quickly scanned it over.

“Okay, milk, butter, vanilla extract, coca beans… and flour! Gods, we’re missing quite a bit…”

Well. No time like the present!

“Aaaand lastly… vanilla extract!”

Furina shuffled around the store, looking for said item. It was an essential ingredient for almost anything Sofiya made at the cafe, and though the shop was currently closed, Furina knew Sofiya wouldn’t be ecstatic at the lack of customers. The lady was old, but she still was quite fierce, and even for a lady of her caliber, Furina was quite scared of her, especially when she was angry.

She picked up a small metal bottle, looking for the label. She then paused when she saw her reflection.

Mesmerizing blue eyes stared back at her, and in the center of those eyes, droplets of contrasting color. Not to mention her matching white-blue hair and strange attire, it was no wonder the villages were skeptical of her when she first arrived.

Those concerns were largely dismissed upon seeing the vision on her hip, and her skills with Hydro. Thanks to the constant snow and chill, she could reliably defend the little village she found herself in, and thus earned the respect of the people.

Plus, vision users always had strange appearances anyways! They came from all walks of life, and all sort of strange places. Furina couldn’t be much different.

Except that she didn’t remember how exactly she got her vision in the first place. Although the encounter was rare, occasionally an adventure with a vision would wander by, either due to a commission or simple wanderings. Furina was always eager to talk to them, hoping to make some sense of her own vision. They all could remember everything clearly about the day they were blessed by the gods.

But Furina couldn’t.

It frustrated her to no end. She was so sure that the mystery of her identity was hidden in her vision. Alas, no amount of effort could conjure up any of her memories.

“Furina… are you alright? You’ve been standing there for quite a while…” Hearing the sudden voice, Furina blinked, and realizing who was speaking, she quickly straightened up and smiled. “Well, if it isn’t the Shopkeeper! Apologies, I was deep in thought.”

“Clearly.” Said the shopkeeper. “Really, dear, we all know you tend to lean towards the theatric, but spacing out in the middle of a grocery? It’s quite unlike you.”

Furina scoffed. “Me? Theatric? Says the one who insists on going by Shopkeeper.”

“Touché.”

“Anyways, how much for this?” Furina holds up the small bottle of vanilla extract.

“Hmm, that? 15 mora.”

“That’s it? Alright, I’ll pay now.”

Furina hummed to herself, balancing the many bags she was preoccupied with. Now, she just had to make it back to the cafe and her task would be complete! Simple as that.

Except not quite. Unbeknownst to Furina, she had already dropped several bags, and hadn’t even noticed. Good thing someone nearby had.

“Pardon me, but it looks like you dropped these?”

Furina turned towards the voice. She quickly glanced down, and saw that those, in fact, were her bags. “Ah yes, those would be mine! My apologies for the trouble, and many thanks!”

The woman chuckled. “Certainly. Though I would hope that a vision user would be more aware of her surroundings? Especially one so far from home.”

Furina bristled in confusion. “Pardon? I am home.” She took a closer look at the woman. She didn’t recognize her, and in such a small village she was quite familiar with everyone.

She was quite tall, most likely due to her heels. Her hair was multi-colored like Furina, except in black and white. In fact, now that Furina took her in, she was almost like a darker version of her. Her eyes were also quite peculiar, a jet black. Even stranger were her pupils, which were blood red. Even stranger was the shape, which was in the shape of x’s.

Which wasn’t terrifying. At all.

Furina shivered under her gaze. As she continued to stare, the woman began to speak again.

“Home? Here? I doubt it, with your Fontanian vision.”

Furina blinked. Fontanian? That couldn’t be right. “I-is that right?”

The mystery woman chuckled. “It’s certainly not a Snezhnayan vision, that’s for sure. I would know.”

Furina was more concerned about the strange woman’s appearance than the new clue she had just been gifted. “I’m sorry, did you introduce yourself, or…?”

The woman laughed. “Ah, you must pardon me. Most people I meet usually already know who I am, and so introductions are typically unnecessary. I assume you are not one of those people?”

Furina shook her head, and asked again, “Please, what is your name?”

The woman smiled. For such a solemn figure, she sure seemed so oddly cheerful. “I’ve been referred to as many names, unfortunately. Mostly I’m referred to as The Knave.”

Furina blinked. What kind of name was that? Although, she couldn’t shake the feeling that the name was familiar…

The woman- The Knave, as she referred to herself- simply smiled again. “I see the name is unfamiliar to you. Oh well. You will become far more aquatinted with me in the coming days.

Furina stilled. “What does that mean?”

“What do you think?”

The Knave sighed. “Well as… enlightening as this conversation was…” she glanced once again at the vision on Furina’s hip. “I must be going, as I have business to attend to. We will meet again. My… boss will ensure that.”

And so the mysterious woman walked away. Furina could do nothing but stare in total confusion.

“… what the heck was that?”

Chapter Text

Furina stumbled into the cafe, completely bewildered. To say the day had been the strangest she’s had in a while would be an understatement. Frankly, she didn’t know what to make of it.

“Furina? Did you bring everything?” Sofiya was clearing the counter, humming to herself when she noticed Furina walking in. She immediately stoped what she was doing, and walked over. “Is everything alright? Did the prices increase again?”

Sofiya was exactly what you pictured an old lady to look like. Snow white hair, tied up in a bun, with a small hunch to match. With her cliché appearance and the Shopkeeper… being the Shopkeeper, Furina sometimes wondered if she stumbled into a Snezhnayan fairy tale.

“Oh… I’m fine! And the prices were fine! Don’t worry Sofiya. The prices actually decreased!” Furina said brightly.

Sofiya studied her up and down. “Are you sure, dear? The cafe will be opening again soon… If you’re not up for work today-“

“No, I’m fine. Really. You worry too much.”

Sofiya sighed. “If you say so. But if you ever feel overwhelmed, you can always take a break, okay?”

Furina nodded, smiled, and went off to find her apron.

If there was one thing she could do, Furina could pretend.

“I have said it once, and I’ll say it again: Lady Egaria, the probability of Lady Focalors surviving the flood is next to nothing. We have been searching for so many years, and nothing has come up. Are you sure what you are feeling isn’t a flu-“

“If you ask me that one more time, Neuvillette…”

Egaria looked up from her papers in annoyance. Despite being a god, she looked utterly exhausted. “You know what, I don’t even have the energy to finish that.”

She was quite frustrated, but not just at Neuvillette. He might have been a handful, what with his… unique characteristics, but ultimately he was trying. No, what really frustrated Egaria was how long they had been searching for, and to no avail. The Hydro Archon was certain she could still sense Focalors’ hydro energy, albeit quite faint.

How could she possibly be eluding them? Was it possible that she simply didn’t want to be found? They couldn’t know for sure until they did find her. If that was the case, she would leave her alone. But Egaria needed to see Focalors, at least one last time.

While Egaria was lost in her thoughts, Neuvillette was studying their intel. Since he had been recruited into finding Focalors, he was determined to do everything he could to find her. If the Hydro Archon wanted to see her again, he would find her, even if it meant searching all across Teyvat.

But the likelihood of finding her was too low. Neuvillette simply couldn’t believe she was still alive, and waiting for someone to find her. But with Focalors gone, Egaria was gloomy. Had she control over the weather the same way Neuvillette does, Fontaine would be under constant pours.

Neuvillette looked up from the documents. “My lady, will you at least get some rest? You may be a god, but that does not mean you can neglect your health like this.”

Egaria was clearly spacing out, but at the

mention of rest, she turned her attention towards Neuvillette. She shook her head.

“While I appreciate the concern, I’m perfectly fine. A few weeks with no rest won’t kill me.”

“A few WEEKS? Even for an Archon that’s completely unreasonable, and you know that, my lady. I am insisting that you take a break.”

“And do what, Neuvillette?” Egaria stood up, not angry, but simply exhausted.

“Fontaine is at peace, and at this point you do more for this nation than I do. We both know that my ‘divine throne’ is built upon nothing but deceit, so what exactly do you expect from me, Neuvillette? Stand by when someone I failed so many years ago could still be out there?”

“No.”

“Alright, then what would you have me do, Neuvillette?”

Neuvillette thought. Soon, a plan began to form in his head. But first, he needed Egaria to listen to him.

“Not you, but me.”

Egaria’s head snapped towards Neuvillette in confusion. “You? I believe we agreed that we would split our duties to Fontaine between us, and one part of my duties relates to the catastrophe that lead to Focalors’ disappearance.” She paces around the office anxiously. “You don’t need to worry about-“

“I have reason to believe that Lady Focalors might be outside of Fontaine.” Neuvillette interrupts. He hopes that that this will get the Archon to listen to him.

Sure enough, the mention of Focalors was enough to stop Egaria in her tracks. She immediately turned to Neuvillette with surprise clear as day on her face. “You… but weren’t you the one who said she might not still be… alive?”

Neuvillette winced. “I never said that, exactly… but you’re right. I did say… something along those lines.”

“So why-?”

“-did I suddenly change my mind? Yes, I understand your confusion. However, I’ve seen how important this matter is to you, and so I’ve decided to look into it myself.”

Egaria simply plants in place, hands folded across chest. “…Well? Aren’t you going to tell me-“

“Yes, yes of course.” Neuvillette hastily interrupted once again. Had he not been so focused on his task, he would have chided himself on constantly interrupting his boss, his god, his archon, but right now there were more important matters at hand.

“As I said, I have come to the conclusion that Lady Focalors is simply not in Fontaine. But rather, in another nation. Since you, as the archon, cannot leave the nation as you please, and we are trying to keep this investigation under some sort of secrecy, I believe it would be best for me to go out into the world and find her. Meanwhile, you will retake your duties and hopefully get some rest. It will certainly be difficult, but you will certainly get more rest than you have been for the past… few months?”

Egaria ponders for a brief moment, leaning against her work desk. She chews the inside of her cheek, and sighs.

“… I suppose. It is an… interesting proposition. But I’ll have to think about this, alright? Don’t go anywhere.”

Neuvillette simply nods. At least she’s considering it.

“For now, we’ll keep doing what we’re doing. I will let you know about my decision soon. Now, you’re dismissed.”

Neuvillette obeys.

The Knave kneels, head towards the ground. Of course, a harbinger like herself wouldn’t just kneel before anyone.

The Tsaritsa wasn’t just anyone.

The entire series of events she found herself in was almost laughable. Months ago, her archon had told her to begin a search, and though she utilized her resources as much as she could, she found nothing.

And then on a return trip she stumbled right upon the very person she was looking for. Or so her hunch told her.

The Tsaritsa was quiet in thought, having yet to speak since allowing The Knave in. After what feels like an eternity, she finally speaks.

“Arlecchino, do you swear on your life what you told me is true?”

Arlecchino raised her head, making eye contact with the Tsaritsa. “I swear on my life and the life of the House.”

The Tsaritsa stares back, and abruptly stands up, walking over to a large window in her chambers.

Arlecchino stands up as well, hands clasped behind her back, watching the Cryo Archon’s every move.

“… I believe it is about time I explain why exactly I sent you on this search. You would like an explanation, I imagine?”

“An explanation would be nice.” Arlecchino chuckles. “But I will complete my mission, regardless of what you tell me.”

The Tsaritsa turns around, studying the Knave up and down. Perhaps trying to figure out if she should really tell, or more likely, what she can tell.

“There is not a lot that I can tell you, unfortunately. What I can is not the full story, but it is enough.”

Arlecchino nods.

“Please, have a seat. This will still be quite a story to tell.”

Chapter Text

“Here is your order, and thank you for visiting our little shop! Have a great day, and we hope to see you again soon!”

Furina smiled at the customer, and waved goodbye as they exited the cafe. She then turned her attention to the coffee machine behind her. She was about to start on another order…

When she immediately sneezed all over the machine. Noises of disgust could be heard behind her, most likely from the next customers, now reconsidering their breakfast choice.

“Ah, m-my apologies, everyone! Don’t worry, I’ll get this cleaned up before I make any coffee!” Furina quickly piped up.

And with a smile, she dashed off to the storage room.

Furina had only been helping Sofiya out for a few months, but she quickly got comfortable in the warm atmosphere, completely different from the cold world on the outside. Granted, it was all she knew, or more accurately, all she remembered.

The villagers were kind, too. Especially Sofiya. She offered Furina room and board in exchange for help at the cafe. And the Shopkeeper, who also doubled as a director, often asked for Furina’s assistance with his shows. She apparently “had an eye for these things”, despite the fact that Furina never did theater in her life. At least, as far as she could remember.

Furina really couldn’t think about anything without thinking about her memory loss, could she?

She also couldn’t focus either, as she ran straight into a wall.

Furina pulled away from the wall immediately, rubbing her nose absentmindedly. She thought she practically had the layout memorized, how had she walked face first into a wall. She must’ve been-

“Distracted?”

Furina, still rubbing her nose, turned to Sofiya, currently preoccupied with rolling the pie dough. Her face was towards Furina, but she still rolled the pie dough effortlessly.

“It’s nothing… just off my game today, I suppose. I sneezed all over the coffee machine earlier, so…”

“Did you forget to wear your jacket yesterday?” Sofiya chuckled. “Dear, a little thing like yourself wouldn’t survive in the cold on your own.”

“You know, sometimes I wish you would sympathize with me just a little bit.” Furina mumbled. Sofiya simple smiled in response.

“Ah, but you are a young lady, are you not? And a vision holder too! Surely you don’t need the emotional support of an old lady like me.” The old lady smiled. “Besides, you have quite the strong constitution. Even walking out into a blizzard couldn’t keep you down for long.”

“Don’t remind me.” Furina mumbles again. When she first awoke, determined to find answers, and not getting them from Sofiya, Furina decided to take a walk towards the capital, not knowing the danger. Luckily, she figured out how to use her vision, and was able to return safely, with the help of some of the villagers.

Quite an embarrassing introduction, to say the least.

Sofiya sighed, and stoped working on the pie dough. She marched over to Furina, as fast as an old lady like herself could, grabbed her hand, and dragged her into the break room.

Before Furina even realized what was happening, she found herself seated right across from Sofiya, in a strange sort of interrogation.

“Alright. You’ve been acting strange since yesterday. Of course that’s not entirely like you, but this is on a completely different level. Did something happen yesterday?”

Furina stiffened at the question. Frankly, she was still reeling from the strange woman yesterday, who read her like an open book, despite just meeting her. She was also quite embarrassed by how she handled the encounter, and wanted some time to recuperate.

Though perhaps Sofiya would know who the mystery woman who called herself “The Knave” truly was. It would certainly put her mind at ease.

“… I met someone yesterday.”

“Oh?” Sofiya straightened up with a smile. “So it’s finally happened. I figured a suitor would make an attempt sooner or later-“

“W-what? No, no that’s not what- it was a woman!” Furina cried out, standing up. Why on Teyvat would she say something like that?

“Ah, so it was a woman? Indeed, I’m sure men aren’t the only potential-“

“Sofiya, please! Her intentions with me were nothing like that! She just wanted to talk! I swear!”

Furina was well aware that Sofiya was the teasing type, but now wasn’t the time for this!

“Alright, alright.” Sofiya laughed, and sat back into her chair. “Tell me everything. And I promise I won’t interrupt.”

So she did. Thankfully Sofiya did manage to stay quiet, even when she looked like she wanted to say something.

Furina finally finished, and looked towards Sofiya expectingly, hoping for her to say something, anything to help her make sense of it.

Sofiya simply stared back, with an unreadable expression on her face. Almost as if she was debating something in her head. Finally, she sighed.

“Yes, that certainly was a… strange encounter, to say the least. I also don’t know what to make of it.”

“But surely you must know something? You’ve lived in this village your whole life, you must at least know who she is? ‘The Knave’?”

Sofiya shook her head. It was then that Furina noticed how pale she had suddenly gotten. What was going on? Did she know something?

Before Furina could say anything, Sofiya stood up suddenly. “I believe we should get back to work, yes? I’m sure our customers are wondering what’s been going on, and that wouldn’t do for business, now would it?”

“Wait-“ Furina interjected, but Sofiya had already left.

What was going on?

For the rest of the day, whenever Furina attempted to bring up their previous conversation, Sofiya found numerous ways of avoiding her questions. Frustratingly, Furina couldn’t do much but indulge her, as the two of them were far too busy to have a real chat. Running a cafe between the two of them was not a simple task.

To say it was maddening was a bit of an understatement.

Sofiya is always willing to talk, at least she is normally… but clearly something is wrong today. It must’ve been about what I told her. What could I have possibly said? The only thing I can think of is the Knave… but she didn’t say she knew her!

What could possibly be going on?

Furina didn’t get an answer until the end of the day. Sofiya had an errand, or so she told Furina. Furina, for her part, was to close shop.

As Furina did her duties, she was quietly fuming over Sofiya’s odd behavior. She was about 50% sure that Sofiya’s “errand” was simply another excuse to avoid her questions. Sofiya was usually so easy to talk to. And yet, here they were.

As Furina continued to muse to herself, the chime of the doorbell was heard, and someone entered.

“Apologies, but we’re closing up shop soon. You’re going to have to leave in a few minutes.” Furina said, not looking up from her current task, which was clearing tables near the back.

“My business here will be quick, I assure you.”

The voice was familiar to Furina. It wasn’t any of the villagers she was used to chattering with, so who could-

Oh.

Furina’s head lifted slowly… and met the terrifying gaze of The Knave.

She smiled. Furina swallowed.

“I believe we have a few things to discuss, yes?”

Neuvillette wandered the streets of the Court. Though he was a famous figure in Fontaine, his nightly walks were well known by the people, and so he was left alone for the most part, though he was sure there would undoubtedly still be people hovering around him. He was the Iudex of Fontaine, after all.

As he continued to walk, he spotted a young child with her parents, perhaps doing some evening shopping. Whatever the case, the child seemed solemn.

Neuvillette realized that he’d seen the child before. She had once run into the Palais Mermoniaa a few days ago, saying she wanted to report a missing toy. A stuffed dog, he recalled. At the time, he simply said he would do what he could for her, but she didn’t seem satisfied with that answer. It took her parents practically dragging her out for her to give up, said parents embarrassed and apologizing profusely.

At the time, Neuvillette found the situation simply perplexing, but recognized what was going on, with the help of Lady Egaria.

The child was sad because she missed her toy, who she clearly saw as a friend. Similar to what Lady Egaria felt about Lady Focalors, though there seemed to be guilt as well as sadness.

Neuvillette continued to study the group, who by now had stoped in front of a store. It was a toy store.

He continued to watch, in fascination, as the child began to cheer up simply by being in proximity to the various stuffed creatures. Among them, was a stuffed dog. As soon as the child clasped eyes with the dog, she squealed and grabbed it, hugging it tightly.

Neuvillette continued to observe as one of the parents, the mother, handed money over to the toy salesman, the child continuing to happily clutch the dog.

The group then continued onwards, the child now happily bounding along.

Not a few days ago, the child was miserable, trying to find her missing toy. And here she was, as if the original toy had never existed.

She was happy with a replacement.

Perhaps the same would apply to Lady Egaria and Lady Focalors?

Soon, Lady Egaria would make her decision, and would let Neuvillette know.

If she approved, then Neuvillette knew what he would do.

He wouldn’t find Lady Focalors.

Rather, he would find a new Lady Focalors.

Chapter Text

To say that Arleccinno was conflicted would be ignorant of the full situation.

To be sure, she was quite back and forth on her mission, especially considering that Furina didn’t pose any threat, at least in her mind. Orders were orders, but as the fourth ranked harbinger, she was allowed a little… deviation, once in a while.

And so, Arleccinno decided to do a little more investigating before doing anything rash.

It wouldn’t hurt.

It was done. Lady Egaria had approved Neuvillette’s trip.

“With your… abilities, I’m sure this will certainly be faster than anyone else I could send. That being said, you must hurry back as soon as possible, understand?”

He did. And he swore he would.

Sofiya knew that nothing good could come from what Furina told her. She knew that she should have told her something, anything.

But she was frightened. Frightened for herself, for Furina, for her village… a village so small it didn’t even have a name. Even in their homeland, among their people, the Fatui were dangerous. Sofiya didn’t know why a Fatui member would take interest in Furina, much less a harbinger.

But she said and did nothing.

The past few days were exhausting, and as the days turned into a week, Furina found herself in a perpetual cycle of confusion. It seems that that would be the word of the week, with how often she felt it. She just wanted things to get back to normal.

Or whatever normal was. She would take anything. Anything except this.

The constant looking over her shoulder, her unwillingness to leave the shop, the fear of something… happening.

At least she was worrying over something new.

“I am sure you would like some… answers?”

“….”

Furina couldn’t respond.

How did I get here?

Sitting across from the Kna-

“I didn’t tell you my more… common name. It is Arleccinno.”

Ah. That made far more sense than “The Knave”.

“W-well, I am-.”

“Furina.”

She looked up, finally making eye contact with Arleccinno.

“You… know my name? Did you… ask around or something?” Furina stuttered.

Arleccinno smiled. Not a pleasant smile, not a happy one. Just a smile.

“Something like that.”

Furina wanted to press further, but ultimately decided against it. If her instincts were right, she was dealing with a very powerful, very dangerous woman. She wouldn’t stand a chance. Better to just go along with what she said. At least then she would be safe (?) and have some answers.

That was better than nothing, at least.

Furina’s mind went back and forth on the encounter, combing it over in her mind, trying to find any sort of clue. All she found were hunches.

Still, this is the closest I’ll ever get to answers! Gotta count your blessings when things get tough!

She now knew, at least, where she might be from!

“You said my vision was… Fontanian?” Furina questioned. While she sounded simply skeptical, in her mind, she was ecstatic for some true answers.

Arleccinno nodded. “Yes. It is… a bit different than any other ones I’ve seen. Certainly different than my children.”

Furina choked. She was glad she wasn’t drinking or eating anything, otherwise she might have really choked on something. “I-I- I’m sorry… your children? I didn’t-“

Arleccinno laughed at Furina’s reaction. “I suppose I don’t fit the image of a mother? Well, I, for my part, prefer the title of Father.”

Furina simply blinked. “Ah.” She didn’t know what else to say.

Granted, she learned a lot more about Arleccinno than she did about herself, but that was still better than nothing, she supposed.

Of course, it would also helped in protecting herself. Despite what she saw from Arleccinno, as well as what she told her, Furina couldn’t shake the feeling that this woman, was dangerous.

She had to be ready for anything.

After a week, Furina was finally ready to go outside. Although she was still completely a little frightened, she was determined to continue doing her job. Furina also hoped that her clear meekness would be a sign to Arleccinno, and whoever her boss is, that she isn’t a threat.

Arleccinno stared back at Furina, currently busy trying to decipher Arleccinno previous revelation. “I believe we are past the pleasantries. I have deliberately approached you for a reason.”

Furina straightened up. “…pardon me?”

“I have reason to believe that you are a threat.”

“What? Me? A-a threat? You have to be joking!” Furina bellowed, standing up immediately, slamming her hands on the table.

Arleccinno studied her reaction, suddenly silent.

“Answer me! You said you would give me answers! That was nothing! You’ve given me nothing but more questions!” Furina nearly yelled. This woman had gone too far!

Arleccinno finally was about to talk again, except-

“Furina? What are you doing?”

They were interrupted at the worst time possible.

Furina sighed. Even if Sofiya hadn’t walked in, something told her that Arleccinno wouldn’t answer her anyways. Perhaps it was a good thing Sofiya came in when she did. Furina doubted Arleccinno would do anything to her, at least not now, but it didn’t hurt to be cautious. Especially since she now knew who she was dealing with .

“Fatui? She’s… Fatui?!?”

Sofiya sighed. “Yes. I believe you are aware of who they are, yes?”

How could Furina not know? Even if she wasn’t a native to Snezhnaya, she was very keenly aware of who the Fatui were, what they did, and how they conducted their… business.

Most importantly, why did Sofiya not tell her this earlier?

“I’m sure you’re wondering why I didn’t tell you sooner.”

“Yes.” Furina said. “I would like to know. And you better give me a full answer this time.”

Sofiya sighed again. “I didn’t tell you, because that woman is especially dangerous. Are you familiar with the Harbingers of the Fatui?”

Furina pondered for a moment. The title was familiar, but she couldn’t recall much of else. “Yes. But not very.”

“That explains it.” Sofiya fidgeted. “I suppose I should just be blunt.”

“Arleccinno is a Harbinger. Not only that, but  she is the fourth highest ranked Harbinger.”

“In other words, she’s quite dangerous.”

Yeah. “Quite dangerous” was the understatement of the century. Furina was also “quite” upset that Sofiya had withheld such information. She had avoided conversation with Sofiya for about half a day before her resolve collapsed.

Furina understood that Sofiya avoided the topic because of the inherit danger of anything related to the Fatui, but she still couldn’t completely let it go.

That was why Furina insisted on running their errands on her own, while Sofiya worked the cafe. Sofiya initially protested, keenly aware that Furina was not ecstatic about having to be alone, outside of the cafe.

But Furina insisted. And so, here she was.

She took a deep breath, taking another glance at the list. Thankfully, most of the needed items weren’t necessary ingredients, like flour or sugar, but they still were fairly important.

Alrighty. First, I’ll go to Shopkeeper’s place, and while I’m there, maybe he can give me a hint on what his latest play was… although I’ve heard murmurings that he was looking into musical theater! Oooh, wouldn’t that be fun…

Unfortunately for her, Furina wasn’t looking where she was going, and walked straight into someone.

Whoops!

“I’m so sorry. Are you alri-“

And then Furina stoped in her tracks, because the man in front of her was the strangest man she’d ever seen.

He was tall, far taller than Furina, certainly. His attire was very thin for the weather, yet he didn’t seem cold. His hair was actually quite similar to hers, yet it was his eyes that she was particularly drawn to.

They were almost like starlight, as if Furina was looking up at the stars.

Speaking of looking , she had been staring for a long time, hadn’t she?

Furina quickly snapped out of her stupor. “Are you alright?”

The strange man seemed to be in a trance as well, starring at her. He seemed almost… shocked?

I suppose my appearance is strange, but isn’t he aware that his is as well?

Before Furina could say anything else, he blinked.

“Yes, yes I’m fine.”

The man looked refined, yet he seemed so frazzled. Furina had walked straight into him, but it wasn’t like she hit him very hard!

“Ah, if you’ll excuse me…” The stranger said, quickly darting around Furina.

Furina couldn’t help but watch as the stranger walked away.

What a strange man.

Chapter Text

Furina tried her best to pry her mind away from the strange man, but her mind kept drifting back to him again.

She’d never seen him before, certainly. The tiny village had less than 20 people living in it. Could it even be called a village?

Furina found herself quite curious. She desperately wanted to know more about the mysterious figure? But, why? She wasn’t the type to be afraid of strangers, but thanks to Arleccinno, her opinion had certainly changed.

Just focus on your tasks. So far, so good. You’re fine!

And lo, Furina’s shopping trip was as uneventful as she half hoped it to be. The prices for a few items went up, but luckily Furina brought extra change with her.

And Shopkeeper did , in fact, have a new show lined up. He refused to tell Furina what it would be, but eventually caved and told her a little bit about it. Any by a little bit, he just said where the story would take place.

Fontaine.

How peculiar , Furina thought. She’s been hearing about the place a lot more recently.

But she put it to rest. There would be plenty more time later for her musings.

Furina hummed a simple tune to herself as she walked through the back door of the cafe. Setting the bags down, she called out to Sofiya.

“I’m back! And I brought the stuff we needed!”

No response.

Odd. Maybe she’s busy with a customer? Furina reasoned with herself.

Or maybe she was talking with-

Furina immediately dashed towards the main area at the thought of Arleccinno here, again. She didn’t think she would do anything to her, Arleccinno had said so, but what about Sofiya? She hadn’t said anything about her, but what if that meant she was in danger?

Furina’s thoughts continued to race as she nearly tripped over a large bag of flour.

“Ack!”

She quickly adjusted herself, and look up to see two people with vastly different expressions on their faces, currently watching her stumble around.

The first one she saw was Sofiya. She seemed to be trying to hold in a laugh, but also seemed worried. About her little falls no doubt.

Was she talking about me to a customer? I hope she didn’t say anything weird, or embarrassing…

Furina turned to the customer, embarrassment written all over her face, about to say something to the customer.

She stopped, simply staring at the familiar face.

When Neuvillette went out in search of a new Focalors, he didn’t expect to find a doppelgänger. And especially not one so quickly.

He had never meet Lady Focalors, at least that he remembered. But from what he heard from Lady Egaria, he could form an image.

Neuvillette then walked straight into that image.

He hadn’t expected such an encounter, let alone one so quickly into his journey across Teyvat.

The plan was to start from the northernmost  point of Teyvat, and continue southwards until he found a suitable substitute.

It appears that plan was now obsolete.

Yet there lies in the rub: how was he supposed to convince someone who regarded him as a complete stranger to leave her home and travel thousands upon thousands of kilometers away to pretend to be a Oceanid familiar to a god?

That was a tall order for anyone, even the ever capable Neuvillette.

He put the thought aside. He needed to start. Otherwise, Lady Egaria might work herself too hard. As hard as a god can work themselves, anyways.

He had walked around the small village for a while, and he had to admit he was charmed by it. A small, sleepy village nestled in the heartland of Snezhnaya. Cozy and warm. The people were kind, though they did seem a bit wary of him. But that was to be expected. He did, after all, cut a strange figure.

Currently, he found himself in a dainty little cafe, run by an equally dainty-looking old lady. She had seen him wandering around, and suddenly pulled him inside.

“Come, come! You must be freezing, especially in those clothes. Have something to warm you up!”

Neuvillette tried to decline politely, but he was glad to be inside. The lady, Sofiya was her name, was whipping together… something. He couldn’t tell what it was.

“Do you want anything to drink, dear? Perhaps something warm?” Sofiya asked, moving the dough she was mixing previously onto a small pile of flour, rolling it into a round.

“Ah, no, no thank you, I’m quite alright.” Neuvillette then hastily added, “I’m already quite warm just being in here. You have a lovely shop here.”

Sofiya smiled, continuing to work the dough. “I’m glad. We try to make this place very comfortable, considering the weather outside.”

“We? So you have coworkers?” Neuvillette asked. Considering how quiet the shop had been, he half expected it to solely be run by Sofiya.

“Yes, it used to be just me. But I’ve since picked up a little helper.” She chuckled. Finishing up the dough, she carefully patted it down into a pan.

“Are they here? I imagine that they would be helping you...” Neuvillette felt awkward, simply standing next to the counter, watching Sofiya baking, so he simply said what he thought, without thinking about it.

Sofiya, currently filling the dough with a fruity mixture, smiled. “They are. She’s currently picking up my groceries while I restock our baked goods.” Once the tart was filled, she proceeded to place it into the oven. Neuvillette could see that there were a few other things still in the oven.

“Truthfully, she’s still adjusting to it all. She’s always had a hard time adjusting. Why, a few weeks ago she ran out into the cold without a jacket, or anything to protect her from the elements! She didn’t end up catching anything, thank the gods, but she was sneezing something fierce all the while.”

Neuvillette smiled at the story. This employee seemed a bit scatterbrained, but he was sure she had a good heart. She seemed to try her best in everything.

As Sofiya continued to tell more stories, Neuvillette slowly began feeling less awkward, and began contributing to their conversation more and more. Perhaps Sofiya could tell him more about the Focalors look-alike he saw before.

He didn’t have to.

“Mother of Celestia! What on earth are you doing?” Sofiya cried out, rushing over to help Focalors the lady he was just thinking about.

The lady seemed embarrassed, judging by her flushed face, and her refusal to make eye contact with him once she noticed he was staring.

Neuvillette cleared his throat, and took a  tentative step towards the two. “Are you alright?”

The woman, seemingly frazzled, simply laughed it off. Gently nudging Sofiya away, she dusted herself off.

“Aha, don’t worry about me! This isn’t the first spill I’ve taken! Or, nearly taken…” she mumbled under her breath, still looking anywhere but at Neuvillette.

Sofiya clicked her tongue. “I would certainly say so! Here I was, busy working, talking to this nice young man, and here you are.” Sofiya continued to chide her, as the young woman finally looked towards Neuvillette, looking quite sheepish.

She seemed to stare for what felt like hours, but could only have been a few seconds, and finally spoke.

“I… asume you’re a customer?”

Neuvillette blinks. “Of sorts.”

Even more silence thrums between them. Awkward silence, at that.

Sofiya apparently doesn’t notice. “Furina, did you get everything we needed?”

Focalors Furina startled. She quickly nodded, eyes briefly flickering to Sofiya, before returning to Neuvillette’s.

Sofiya, still seemingly oblivious, continued. “Well then, why don’t you entertain Mr. Neuvillette here? Something tells me today will be a slow day, so I won’t need any help back here. And I’m sure you can tell him all about our little village here!”

Furina was going to kill Sofiya.

Really, she knew that Sofiya wasn’t as dense as people would assume. She had to be doing this on purpose, she had to be! Why she was doing this, Furina intentes to find out later.

But that was a problem for future her.

Right now, present her was busy with a different situation.

Namely, the man in front of her.

Furina had never been so humiliated before.  Certainly not in this fashion, either. Granted, Furina was well aware that she tended to be a bit… “over dramatic” as Sofiya constantly told her. But Furina was sure that she wasn’t being dramatic here.

While Furina was still musing, Neuvillette began to speak.

“Truthfully, and this will sound suspicious, I’ve wanted to talk to you about something… important.”

Furina narrowed her eyes at his words, but didn’t say anything. She decided to let him talk.

“Well, out with it.” She quips.

“Have you ever acted before, Furina?”

Of all the questions she was prepared to answer, this wasn’t one of them.

“Um… yes?” Furina answered apprehensively. Why was he asking her this?

And then it hit her. He must be a director! Wait, why was he searching here? He’s definitely not from Snezhnaya, that’s for sure… so why was he here?

Neuvillette folded his hands on the table. He seems nervous too. Furina thought.

“Then…” he sighs. He breathes in, and out. Furina was getting impatient; was he waiting for something? She tapped her finger on the table and leaned forward.

“Well? Do you want me to audition for your show or something?”

Neuvillette’s face morphed into confusion. “Pardon? No, no, that’s not what I meant.”

“Then..?”

Neuvillette sighs again. “Alright, but first, I should explain a few things. This… might take a while.” He looks around the cafe, still deserted. “Should I come back later or..?”

“No.” Furina said firmly. “You are going to tell me everything, right here, and right now.”

Chapter Text

Furina wasn’t quite experienced enough with this sort of situation, so she probably should have been paying attention to the man’s words. 

So obviously she wasn’t. Instead she preoccupied herself with coming up with a variety of backstories for Neuvillette. 

He was from Fontaine, obviously. He had told her as much, and even if he didn’t, his attire certainly gave away his foreignness. He wasn’t even wearing a coat!

Wait a minute, he wasn’t even wearing a coat! How was he not freezing? That’s pretty impressive. Though, Furina supposed he still could be cold. Just very good at hiding it. 

Perhaps he had an incredible constitution! That had to be it. Obviously! 

Though, why was he all alone? He said he had a sort of proposal for her. So perhaps Neuvillette was a producer? There was no way he would travel all the way to Snezhnaya all by himself! Don’t rich businessmen have bodyguards or something?

Was he not very rich after all? Maybe he couldn’t afford bodyguards! She could ask-

No no, what is she thinking? Asking him of his financial status while he’s talking about a business deal would be incredibly rude! Plus, it would make her seem like some sort of brat!

Oh!

Maybe he didn’t hire bodyguards, not due to money reasons, but because he didn’t need them in the first place

By day, he was a theater producer, or something like that. By night?

He was a vigilante, protecting the nation of Fontaine from all sorts of evil!

Furina suddenly wondered if he had a vision. Sensing elemental energy wasn’t exactly a skill she focused on in her training, but she could still sense some sort of energy from Neuvillette.

She peered closer to him, scanning him for any sign of a vision.

”…Miss Furina? Are you alright?”

Furina didn’t account for the fact that Neuvillette was, in fact, right there in front of her, currently extremely puzzled.

Well. There goes that. 

Furina quickly shook her head, clearing her throat in the meantime. “O-of course! And I’ve been listening the entire time!” She laughed nervously.

Neuvillette studied her for a moment, then continued on.

”So, in short- and I know this is abrupt, so please feel free to think about it- I would like to bring you to Fontaine and meet with Lady Egaria.”

…

Who?

Neuville simply stared back, expecting some sort of reply.

”Ah… well, I will… certainly think about it…?” Wow Furina, what a well-crafted and interesting response.

That appeared to be enough for Neuvillette though. Relieved (from what?), Neuvillette stood up. “Thank you. I will be in town for a week perhaps. When you make a decision, please let me know.”

For the rest of the day, Furina simply did her job, quietly thinking it over. 

She should have asked more questions, she realized. Furina didn’t know Neuvillette well, but she had a feeling that unlike a certain someone, Neuvillette would be clear and transparent with her. 

And she didn’t. Sure, Furina could seek Neuvillette out, and ask him questions. He did say he would be around, after all. But, Furina was reluctant to admit she hadn’t been paying attention. Neuvillette seemed so excited that Furina was “hearing” him out, much less that she was thinking about it. She couldn’t bear the thought of disappointing him. Especially since he made such the long trek here.

Furina needed a second opinion. 

She immediately thought of Sofiya, but dismissed it as soon as she thought of it. Yes, Sofiya was her sort of… guardian (Landlord? Roommate?), but she also would take any opportunity to tease Furina, as Sofiya demonstrated earlier today. Plus, Sofiya had lived in Snezhnaya her whole life. Could she offer any helpful advice about traveling so far?

Then the name- or rather, the title, popped into her head.

Furina immediately increased her work speed, glancing at the clock on occasion. As soon as she was off work, she would seek them out. And hope that they would say something serious for a change.

Furina shivered in the Snezhnayan freeze. Luckily, this time she remembered to wear her coat this time. 

Before she knocked on the door, she hesitated. Was she really about to spill her guts to someone she really only knew for… huh. How long had she known them?

Eh, she had nothing to lose! Except maybe her pride. Furina quickly knocked before her nerve failed her.

Almost immediately, the Shopkeeper opens the door. They raised their eyebrows at Furina, stiffly standing on their doorstep. “Furina? What are you doing here?”

Furina adjusted herself before speaking. She hadn’t thought of what exactly she would say, so she just hoped that it would all come out naturally.

”I know this is sudden… but I’d like to ask for your opinion on something. May I come in?”

Furina gently blew on the steaming cup in her hands. In front of her sat the Shopkeeper, who was stirring their own drink. 

After what seemed like a few minutes, the Shopkeeper met Furina’s gaze. “Alright, what did you want to speak to me about?”

Instead of responding, Furina elected to take a tentative sip of her drink first. Quickly swallowing, she put the cup down on the table between her and the Shopkeeper, she began. 

“I received a… interesting offer earlier today. And since it pertains to what you do, I figured you would be the best person to ask about it.”

The Shopkeeper nodded, taking a quick sip of their own drink. “Alright. Give me the rundown.”

Furina quickly summarized Neuvillette’s offer, at least what she remembered of the conversation (though it couldn’t really be considered a conversation). 

When she finished, the Shopkeeper was silent, more silent than Furina had known them to be, except maybe during one of their shows. 

At last, they spoke. “That… is a lot to take in.”

Furina nodded. “A bit of an understatement, but yeah.”

”Who did you say this man was?” Furina blinked at the question. She had forgotten to mention names. 

“Oh… Neuvillette, I think?”

The Shopkeeper choked on their drink. Alarmed, Furina attempted to help, but they simply waved her away.

”Are- are you sure that’s his name?”

”Positive.” Furina replied. “Please don’t tell me that he’s a harbinger too!”

”No no, thank the gods. But that doesn’t mean he isn’t powerful. …what do you mean by-“

”So who is he?” Furina quickly interrupted. She came for advice, not to dump her past few days on them.

The Shopkeeper sighed. “Long story short, he’s a very influential figure in Fontaine. I don’t quite know what he does, but Neuvillette clearly is important.”

”Good to know, I suppose. But, what should I do?”

”Well, did he offer you anything for this?”

Furina shrugged. “He just said to name any price and he would meet it.”

If the Shopkeeper was still drinking, they would’ve undoubtedly choked on their drink again. “Any price?” Furina nodded.

“…” The Shopkeeper was silent for a while, then finally spoke.

”Do you want to do this?”

Furina bristled at the question. “I-“ She quickly stopped. “…I don’t know. I think so? I think I just want someone to tell me what to do right now.”

”I can’t do that for you, Furina. No one can. Only you can make that choice. If it were me… well, I have to many responsibilities here.”

Furina sighed, standing up, walking towards the door. “I see. Thank you for your time, anyways Shopke-“

”Ivan.”

”Hmm?” Furina responded, turning towards them.

”My name. My real name. I suppose I never told you.”

”No… you didn’t.” Furina mumbled, a bit surprised. It was only a name, after all.

So why did it feel like a goodbye?

Furina walked in the quiet night, thinking to herself. 

She had quite the conundrum on her hands. Stay here, where she was missing a part of herself? Or journey into the unknown? 

Furina was so busy mulling it over, she hadn’t realized she was currently in the town square. Despite the village’s small size, they still had decided to build a small plaza.

Furina walked over to the plaza, sitting down. She sighed, staring at the ceiling. Thoughts were racing in her head, as she pondered on her next move.

Suddenly, her vision began to pulse. Furina quickly looked at it, watching in fascination as it flickered, slowly building up speed. 

Almost as if it were detecting something. Furina immediately surveyed her surroundings, looking for any signs of life. 

Sure enough, another figure was walking nearby. A familiar one.

Furina didn’t know why her vision was reacting in such a fashion, but it was as if something clicked inside her.

Abruptly, she stood up, racing towards the visitor, her mind suddenly made up.

”Mister! Mister Neuvillette!”

Neuvillette turned towards Furina, surprise clear on his face. But before he could respond, Furina had stuck out her hand.

”I accept!”

For a moment, it felt as if the world had stood still. Then, finally, Neuvillette smiled. A soft one, entirely different from a certain someone’s. 

“I’m glad to hear that, Furina.”

He reached out and shook her hand. 

A strange energy flowed between them, almost like a transfer of something. But neither noticed.

Chapter Text

Although she had confirmed her agreement, Neuvillette still couldn’t help but worry that Furina wouldn’t show. What if she changed her mind? It was a possibility.

Nevertheless, he waited patiently. Neuvillette was used to this. 

Eventually, he heard the crunching of snow, and turned to see Furina walking in his direction, along with that cafe owner. Sofiya, he believed her name was. 

The two continued to chat as they made their way over, but before they reached Neuvillette, Furina looked up towards Neuvillette. She seemed apprehensive, and understandably so.

He cocked his head to the side in response.

Are you coming?

Furina hadn’t been more excited in her life (well, at least from what she remembered). Just like many in the village, she had never left before except for that one time.

As such, she had no idea what happened next. Furina had to pack, she understood that much. The essentials, for sure. So, clothes… and bathing supplies? Maybe she should bring food too?

Thankfully, Sofiya was more than willing to give a helping hand, without (too much) teasing about the situation. Furina was sure that her face was as red as a tomato by the time they finished up.

It didn’t help that the Shopkeeper Ivan joined in. He dropped by to say farewell, only to help Sofiya in her quest to befuddle Furina. At least he helped her pack.

Before he left, Ivan pattered her on the shoulder and wished her luck on her future endeavors. Well, more precisely, he said, “Break a leg.” 

After biding him goodbye, Furina began to wipe down the counter while Sofiya counted stock and their profits. Or, her profits now.

Furina bit her lip, then sighed. Better now than later. Or never.

”…will you be fine running the shop on your own?” Furina tentatively asked. 

Sofiya raised her eyebrows. “Shouldn’t you’ve asked this question before you made a decision?”

Furina chuckled. “I thought about it, of course, but something told me that you would’ve just said to follow my heart.”

Sofiya smiled. “Yes, that does sound like something I’d say. And it’s true. I’ve been running this cafe for a long time before you came along. It’ll still be going even when you leave!”

Relief flooded Furina’s brain. That meant she wouldn’t have any regrets.

Definitely. 100%. 

“What if I regret this?” Furina blurted out. After all, she was leaving home! Traveling almost across the entire continent! “What if something happened here, and I can’t help you? What if Arleccinno returns? What will you do then? What if-“

”Enough!” Sofiya bellowed. Furina immediately closed her mouth.

“This isn’t about me, Furina. This is about you and what you choose to do with your life. While I appreciate you asking me about it, albeit a bit late on the matter, I don’t want you making a choice you don’t want just because you think it might inconvenience me!”

Well. She hit the nail right on the head, didn’t she?

Furina didn’t say anything, electing to silently listen to Sofiya. Sofiya, for her part, seemed to also not have anything else to rant about say, so she instead walked over to Furina, cupping her cheek in her hand.

”Furina, you are the closest thing I have to family now. And the last thing I was is to see my family make a poor choice they’ll regret.” 

Family? She sees me as her… family?

Furina wasn’t a crier, rarely allowing herself the privilege to do so, but she could already feel small tears running down her face. 

Furina smiled. A true smile.

”Thank you.”

Even with Sofiya’s thoughts ringing in her head, Furina continued to doubt her decision. 

As she walked with Sofiya towards the edge of the village, Furina thought about… well, a lot of things.

So nervous was Furina, she didn’t pay any attention to her environment (which in hindsight, was not a good idea with what had been happening around her lately). Instead, she grounded herself in her conversations with Sofiya as they strolled along.

At last, they neared the meeting spot, and Furina spotted Neuvillette at the edge. He almost seemed… nervous? As if he was worried that she wouldn’t show, or perhaps tell him she changed her mind. Which to be fair, she had been considering ever since she agreed to this.

Almost as if he could read Furina’s thoughts (which she wouldn’t put past him), he tilted his head, a nonverbal question.

Are you coming?

Nervously, Furina bit her lip in contemplation. 

Then, she felt a quiet hum. Glancing around, Furina couldn’t find the source of the sound. Until she looked down at her vision. 

Just like a few days ago, it was pulsing, and now giving off a strange hum.

There we have it, then.

Furina straightened, nodding to Neuvillette. He sent back a reassured smile.

Furina then turned to Sofiya, watching the exchange with a smug smile on her face. “Don’t even think about it.” Furina warned. Sofiya smiled warmly in response. 

Without warning, Sofiya embraced Furina, with surprising strength. Furina blinked in surprise, before quickly returning the hug.

”I hope you find what you’re looking for.”

Furina pulled away, a smile on her face. She ran towards Neuvillette, bags in hand, before stopping halfway.

”Me too!”

Unbeknownst to the trio, they were not the only ones aware of the departure. An eavesdropper, wearing a familiar mask, had also been listening, on orders of the Knave.

“So she had made her choice.” Arleccinno mumbled. The Fatui agent reporting to her only nodded in response, their mission complete.

”What a shame. I hoped she would be content with this quiet life. But I suppose that was not in the cards for her. Or me, either.”

She nodded to the agent, who stood at attention immediately. 

“You and your squad are ordered to follow Furina and her… companion as far as you can. And either of them pose a threat to our goals…”

”Pull them aside for… a chat, of sorts. You understand, I’m sure?”

The agent was unsure of her meaning, but either way as long as the two were dealt with the Knave would most likely be satisfied with the outcome. They nodded.

”Good. Now, off you go. And do stay hidden. We wouldn’t want a scandal to be made of this, now would we?”

The agent nodded again, and scampered off to inform their fellow agents of their next move, while the Knave finished up her current task. Finishing, she puts her quill down and stares out the window, the aurora gleaming through. 

“I believe it has been a while since I have seen my children. Perhaps I should pay them a visit.”

Chapter Text

Neuvillette wondered, very briefly, if he had made a mistake.

To be sure, he had stumbled upon a great mystery: a human who had an uncanny resemblance to the late Lady Focalors. However, at the end of the day, she was still human- that would never change.

It wasn’t Furina’s actions he was worried about- far from it, Miss- oh, he would probably have to start referring to her as a lady, wouldn’t he?- Furina had been quite pleasant and understanding the whole time.

No, what he was really worried about was Lady Egaria 

Wouldn’t Lady Egaria know immediately that
Furina was human? Would she then reject her? 

That would be awful, not just for him, but for Furina as well. She had made the long journey from Snezhnaya to Fontaine, and if she was rejected, what would become of her? Would she stay in Fontaine? Would she return home?

So many questions bubbled up in him. But he had to focus on their journey.

Maybe this was a… poor decision.

Furina was beside herself with glee. Today was possibly the best day in her life (that she remembered)! 

She was traveling out of not only the village, but Snezhnaya, and she would learn more about her past. 

Furina’s eyes continued to roam around her surroundings, drinking it all in. 

“Wow, even the snow looks different!” Furina exclaimed, examining the snow. “Is it?” Neuvillette asked, peering closer at the snow as well. 

On further examination, the snow did have a slightly different color than in the village, and a bit of a shine to it, but it was so subtle that you wouldn’t notice. 

Unless you were Furina.

Neuvillette hummed in appreciation. “So it does. Very impressive, Miss Furina.” 

Furina puffed out her chest in pride. “Of course! You can’t live in Snezhnaya and not be acquainted with the snow!” 

“Of course.”

As the pair continued on the path, the silence between them continued to grow. It wasn’t an awkward silence, though. It was an almost calm, peaceful silence.

Until Furina decided to break the ice.

“So… we really don’t know a lot about each other, huh?”

Neuvillette, didn’t respond, instead electing to silently listen to her. He nodded his head in a sort of reply.

”Well…” Furina fidgeted with her hair, smoothing it over and over again. “I guess… we could…” She trailed off.

Perhaps she was waiting for Neuvillette to respond. The ebb and flow of conversation was something Neuvillette had yet to master.

”Yes, I suppose you’re right. Is there anything you want to know about me?”

Furina pursed her lips and nodded. “Is that okay? To ask you things about yourself, I mean.”

“Of course.” Neuvillette replied.

”Then…” Furina trailed off in contemplation. “…I need to think about it. I’ll ask later!”

Neuvillette raised his brows quizzically. “May I ask why?” Furina chewed the inside of her lip.

”Well, it’s the first thing I’m going to learn about you! It should be a good question, you know?”

Neuvillette cocked his head. “But you already know things about me-“

”No, I mean things about you! Not about Neuvillette who works for Egaria, I want to know things about Neuvillette, the man.”

Silence bloomed between them. For a moment, nothing.

Then Furina’s laughter cut through.

”I-I didn’t realize how strange that sounded!” She bubbled, clutching her sides.

Neuvillette wasn’t laughing, but he was smiling, appreciating Furina’s ability to recognize these things.

And she’s quite wrong. For one thing, I’m not a man. Not a human one, anyways.

After a minute or so, Furina’s laughter finally calmed down. 

“Haha… well, that was a good laugh!” She smiled. Neuvillette smiled back and nodded.

”Yes, it was. Thank you, Mis- ah, Lady Furina.”

Furina’s smile simply stretched, and she quickly turned back towards their destination.

Lady Furina. Lady Furina. 

Neuvillette’s words continued to surface over and over in Furina’s mind. 

Why would he call me by such a title? Does he do that with all his friends? Is “Lady” simply not as large of a title as it is here in Snezhnaya? Is it a part of the role I’m to play?

Best not to dwell on it, Furina decided. Pushing forward and finding a place to rest for the night seemed far more important right now!

Luckily, they found a small clearing near a cave that was perfect for making camp. Setting down their things (mostly Furina’s) they began their work.

Furna’s honestly not sure Where Neuvillette pulled the tent out of, but she’s certainly not complaining. Considering the cold of Snezhnayan winters, and the room of the tent (seriously, where on Teyvat did he get that from?), coupled with the blankets he also had, and there was no way the two would freeze to death tonight.

Or at least to death.

”Why did you have so many things prepared if you were so worried I’d say no?”

Neuvillette looked up from the vampire Furina had whipped up. “Is that your first question?”

Furina waved her hands in protest. “No, no! Don’t be ridiculous, that’s a terrible question! Plus, this isn’t about you! Or, not about you you.”

Neuvillette chuckles. “If you say so. Well, I prepared so much because I was determined to not come back empty handed. I needed someone to play the role of Lady Focalors, and you happened to be the first person I asked. I was expecting you to say no, honestly, especially considering you met me that day.” He sighed. “I suppose that was why I was so happy when you accepted my offer.”

Furina brightened. “Well, let me say, I am quite honored to hear that! Of course-” she rose to stand, and in a dramatic pose, exclaimed “I am the greatest actress in all of Teyvat!” She smiled, expecting Neuvillette to smile like he usually did. Maybe he would laugh this time.

Not quite. Instead he looked… pleased? 

“I’m very glad to hear that! Does that mean you’ve acted before? What sort of roles have you played? Many, I’m sure.”

Well. This wasn’t the intended outcome.

”Oh, no- I-“ Furina stammered. Neuvillette looked concerned as Furina mustered up her courage to tell this man that he had hired a woman who had no acting experience to speak of to act. 

“I’ve actually… never acted before?”

Once again, a brief moment of silence. And once again, Neuvillette had a reaction Furina wasn’t expecting. 

He smiled. 

“Well, I suppose we’ll have to teach you then?” Before Furina could respond, Neuvillette stood up suddenly.

”Well, I think it is getting quite late. I will be retiring for the night. I would recommend the same for you, my Lady. Please take care, and wake me if you need anything.”

And Neuvillette disappeared into the tent, leaving a stunned Furina outside.

Chapter Text

“Alright, let’s try again. Straighten your posture, move your shoulders back, and walk. Try to give it the appearance of you floating.”

Furina took a deep breath in, and attempted to do just that. 

She didn’t understand. She was normally so good at things like this. Pretending, anyways. Furina’d given plenty of good advice to the actors in Ivan’s troupe. Advice that, as they told her, improved their performance. She knew her stuff, clearly.

So why was she so bad at this?

It was their 4th day of travel, and Neuvillette had been coaching her on her role of Lady Focalors. So far, she’d been taught quite a lot, from manner of speech to dinner etiquette. Currently, they were working on her style of walk, which Furina wasn’t even aware was something she needed to worry about as a noblewoman. Then again, it wasn’t like she knew anything about that. 

What am I missing?

Perhaps she needed a break. They had been working on this for 4 days straight, after all. They hadn’t even crossed the border yet! 

“Neuvillette, can- may I take a break? I fear that I am in no mood for any more lessons.” Furina quickly asked, changing her question to sound more lady-like. Neuvillette nodded in response. “Of course, Lady Furina. My apologies for neglecting your wants. Perhaps you would like something to eat?”

“That would be delightful.” Furina quipped, sliding down against a tree, content with watching the trees rustle with the wind, and listening to the call of critters running amok in the forest. 

According to Neuvillette, they were nearing the border between Snezhnaya and Fontaine. Once they crossed the border, their travel would be far easier. 

Furina wasn't sure why, but she trusted Neuvillette, despite knowing him for... only a few days now. Perhaps that was stupid of her. No, it was stupid of her. She'd heard, albeit very much fictional tales of these kind of things happening to young people like her. Yet, there was a deep feeling in her gut that told her Neuvillette could be trusted. No, it wasn't just a gut feeling. It was almost... familiarity? No, that couldn't be it. It wasn't Neuvillette that she felt familiarity with. Rather, it was... well. Something quite difficult to explain, to be sure. And this new sensation had to be related to their travel.

In Snezhnaya, Furina couldn't recall a thing. She had nothing in terms of clues. Now, as they neared the border between here and Fontaine, she felt a strange pull towards the border. Not a literal pull, rather a mental pull, her inner self practically begging her to run as fast as she could towards Fontaine. To say it was an odd feeling was an understatement, but it wasn't an unpleasant one. This only served to prove to Furina that she had made the right decision. She hoped so at least. 

But now, as the swirling sky darkened with night, and as Neuvillette set up their camp for the night, Furina, finding else nothing interesting to do, found herself watching Neuvillette. 

The man was an enigma, completely foreign to Furina. That wasn’t a surprise, but she felt that there was something else to him. Right now, however, that wasn’t a concern. Either way, Furina as odd as it was, trusted him. 

"If I may," Furina calls out, "why did you come alone? If I were you, I would have brought bodyguards with me, especially so far from home. Perhaps this is a...secret mission of some kind?" Neuvillette finishes up with his work, gesturing to Furina to sit down next to the fire pit he had begun to attempt to light up. By the time Furina made her way there, the fire had already been lit, spreading a comforting warmth across the makeshift campsite. 

Neuvillette cleared his throat. "As to your question before, while I wouldn't say it's... secret, exactly, it is a very important, ah, mission, as you describe it. Lady Egaria very much looked for someone like you for a long time. I'm sure that this is. lot of pressure on you, but Lady Egaria is far more understanding than you might believe her to be, I assure you. I have worked with her for a very long time." Furina nodded along, and suddenly realized that she still knew little to nothing about this Egaria. She clearly must be influential and powerful figure in Fontaine, if she was being referred to as a Lady.

"Well, this might be a bit invasive, but who exactly is Lady Egaria? Is she a member of the aristocracy in Fontaine? I must admit that I had many things on my mind when you initially made your offer." Furina admitted. She wasn't sure if saying such a thing would lower Neuvillette's trust in her, but now that she was on this journey, Furina might as well collect all the information she could. 

Neuvillette seemed taken aback by the question, almost confused. "You.. were not listening to me? And you still accepted my offer?" Furina nodded, which only caused Neuvillette to sigh. Rubbing his temples, which wasn't a great sign, he eventually spoke.

"Lady Egaria is not just anyone, she's our archon."

Neuvillette didn't know how Furina would react to this new information. Surprise, to be sure, perhaps a general state of confusion. 

But Furina showed neither of those emotions. Instead, she seemed to be paralyzed in shock. Then, abruptly, she began to laugh. A haughty laugh. One that 

"Ahahahaha! Well, it seems there are far more things at stake for this role than I anticipated! Well, it seems that I must practice more, yes?" She gets up with an unusual flair. "Now, if you excuse me, I must take my leave."

Well. Neuvillette thought as he watched Furina head towards the temporary shelter. That went... better than I thought. He concluded with a relived smile.

Furina screamed into her pillow. Loudly. Though it was undoubtedly muffled by the pillow, she was sure that Neuvillette could at least hear it partially. 

An ARCHON?!? OF ALL THE THINGS, SHE'S AN ARCHON?????

After continuing to scream for what felt like hours, she finally got up from her bed, leaving the comfort of her cot, and left the shelter. 

I'm already here. And with what I've been feeling, there's no way that I'm turning back now. I'll just have to practice even harder now! She walks to the edge of the clearing, finding a semi-private area nearby. 

Let's do this!

Neuvillette continued to roast their rations over the campfire, nothing but focused on the food. As he finished up , he wrapped the food in paper, and called out to let Furina know that their food was ready. "Food is done, if you'd like some, Lady Furina."

Silence.

Perhaps she didn't hear me? She did say she wanted some rest... but she needs nutrients more. I should wake her. Undoubtedly she's hungry. Neuvillette was about to make his way over to the shelter, taking the food with him.

Then he heard an explosion in the distance.

Chapter Text

Neuvillette wasn't sure exactly what the unexpected explosion was about, but judging from Furina’s absence, her general wariness (though thanks to him that was pretty justified), and wanting to leave her home so quickly, despite it being all she knew, it was easy enough to deduce that she was running from something. 

Thus, this must be who she was running from. Were they dangerous? Clearly, if the explosion was any indication, their intentions clearly weren't friendly, and Neuvillette wasn't sure if Furina could adequately defend herself. He recalled the vision Furina had on her hip, but he didn’t know how experienced Furina was with it. She didn’t have any other sort of weapon, and even if she did, he had no way of knowing if she had defensive experience.

Either way, he ran towards the ruckus, hoping his intuition was wrong.

Furina ducked behind a tree, silently praying to whatever gods were listening. 

How did I get here?

Chewing the inside of her lip, Furina peered from behind the tree, carefully studying the three attackers, who were preoccupied with searching for any form of life. In particular, her. 

Breathe. Remember, you have a vision! Sure, you’ve only used it once… and you don’t entirely know how you did it, but you have an advantage! Somewhat! You got this! 

As Furina continued to hype herself up, two of the attackers split away, leaving one behind. Must be splitting up. Now you have even more of an advantage! Furina assured herself of her definite impending victory as the intruder continued scanning the area. 

Furina had simply been practicing, not too far away from their camp, when she was nearly hit by… something. She wasn't entirely sure what it was, though it wasn't like she had the time to look. She just ran. Now though, she had some time. Furina brushed her shoulder gently, but that didn't stop the pain from rearing its head, and she had to suppress the involuntary hiss from escaping. 

It burns. What in Teyvat was I hit with? It's a miracle my clothes didn't burn either. But how is that possible? Do they have Visions too? That means my advantage is gone!

Despite somehow managing to stay hidden, Furina found the mystery attacker nearing her hiding spot, and knew that she couldn't maintain this for long. Quickly, and quietly, she found a branch that she prayed would be enough to knock the attacker out, give her enough time to run away, at least. Furina wished she brought a weapon with her. Sofiya brought it up a few times, said it would be a good idea to have something to protect herself with, but Furina had been to focused on other matters. Now, she wished she had listened to her. 

As the attacker drew near, Furina noticed the weapon. It seemed to be a sort of firearm. How fitting. She had seen a few in person a few times, when the odd traveler passed through their village, though this one seemed different. It was bright orange in color, and it didn't seem to be that way for aesthetic reasons. Furina remembered the burning she felt in her shoulder, and she peeked again at the attacker, this time taking a closer look at the person themself.

They seemed to be a man, as far as Furina could tell anyways. He was wearing a strange face covering, so she couldn't tell if she recognized him. After all, he, and his companions, seemed to think they knew who she was, or at least had an idea. Why would they attack a random stranger, in the middle of the woods, with nothing of value on them? 

Then she noticed a familiar symbol on the man's clothes. It was a almost flower-like pattern, though it was clearly no such thing. It gave Furina a unnerved feeling. Where had she seen such a symbol-

Ah.

That's right. Arlecchino. The Knave. 

Fantastic. Of all the people to be attacked by, the Fatui was certainly one of the worst. And why her? Furina dismissed these thoughts. There was little she could do now, other than fight back. 

So she raised the branch above her head, and as the Fatui finally neared, she stepped out, and swung the branch down, straight onto his head.

As Neuvillette neared the source of the large explosion, he mentally and physically readied himself for another fight. After running into not just one, but two Fatui agents, he had an idea of what might be happening. For whatever reason, the Fatui had deemed him, and perhaps Furina as well, a threat. Why they saw him as a threat was obvious, but why would they target him now, when there was a Snezhnyan citizen accompanying him? Was that the issue?

He wasn't worried for himself, he dealt with the first two easily, and Neuvillette was sure he could handle another. No, he was far more concerned for Furina. He had still not located her, and if she was harmed, or worse, he would lose one of the best leads for his little "show" that he would have to put on, for the sake of Lady Egaria, and perhaps for all of Fontaine. Neuvillette had promised Furina she would be safe, and he wouldn't fail.

Finally, Neuvillette closed in on the site, and spotted the Fatui agent, who seemed to be searching for something (or someone), and was carrying a firearm, which seemed to be infused with Pyro energy. Although he could easily take on the agent, he decided to observe the gunner, and perhaps discover some intel. Then again, he would have to keep this one alive, at least for a while, to get some information out of them. 

And then he saw Furina, suddenly appearing from behind a tree, swinging a tree branch down onto the gunner.

He attempted to react accordingly, but was unfortunately too late, as the branch made contact, promptly knocking the gunner to the ground. Furina stood over him, breathing heavily, staring down at him, shock on her face. Neuvillette decided to walk over, making sure to make some noise as to not catch Furina by too much surprise.

At the sound of movement, Furina whirled, holding the branch out, threateningly, in Neuvillette's direction. As soon as she recognized him, she lowered the branch, and began glancing around, but her gaze still strayed to the man on the ground. 

"Are you alright?" Neuvillette asked. Furina nodded, though he had a feeling she wasn't quite being honest. "Mmh, yeah, never better!" She cleared her throat, and gestured to the gunner, still knocked out on the ground. "Did you-" "Deal with the others? Yes, we won't have to worry about them for now. In the meantime, we should bring this one back to camp."

"To question him, right?" Furina asked. She gingerly poked the Fatui agent with the branch, which somehow still had not broken, despite the force Furina must have used on it. Neuvillette nodded, and slung the unconscious agent over his shoulder. "Do you know anything about these Fatui agents, why they attacked us?" At the question, Furina frowned, and cocked her head in contemplation. "..." 

"Well, we have someone here who will certainly have answers, so let's not dally. We wouldn't want him to wake up here, would we?" Furina swallowed and nodded. "Then let's get going."

Neuvillette watched, arms folded, as the Fatui agent stirred. As soon as he could see that he was awake and aware, Neuvillette stepped forward and peered down at the man, who, as soon as the agent saw he wasn't alone, quickly stopped any attempt of escaping, and peered up at Neuvillette. Judging by his body language, he clearly recognized Neuvillette.

"Lucky me, meeting face to face with the Iudex of Fontaine himself. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Enough. I care not for anything other than how and why you came to attack us." Neuvillette replied coldly. He wasn't overtly familiar with the Fatui's tactics in an interrogation setting, but for sure the agent would attempt to avoid any and all questions. And Neuvillette needed answers. 

"I suggest you stop playing coy, and give me answers. However patient I may be, I will not tolerate any delay in information. So, I hope you will not make any foolish mistakes."

Neuvillette leaned in towards the man, who flinched at the sudden closeness. The Fatui agent maintained eye contact, albeit with eyes darting around, perhaps looking for an escape route. Neuvillette's job would be to ensure it never happened.

"Talk. Now."

Furina sat by the campfire, silently contemplating things. Life has really become this strange, huh Furina? She had to agree. In over a little of a week, her life had turned completely upside down. She was traveling to play the part of a noble lady, a noble lady who was important enough to be introduced to the Lady Egaria, and she had been chased by the Fatui thanks to a certain harbinger. Furina knew things couldn't really go back to things the way they were, but she still couldn't help but hope that things would at least quiet down.

That didn't seem likely with the Fatui agent in the tent, currently tied up. Neuvillette was supervising him, to ensure he didn't escape under their watch, and to question him when the agent awoke,  while Furina was standing guard outside to ensure he didn't have any other allies nearby to break him out. Furina was now also equipped with a simple broadsword, her trusty stick being retired in the forest were she found it. 

Furina was glad to have a proper weapon now, but she still wasn't quite sure what to do with it. She would have to ask Neuvillette about it. Add another thing onto the training agenda. She sighed to herself, and looked up towards the stars. Furina had been through far more than ever, and she was absolutely exhausted. She wanted nothing more than to sleep, but she had job to do.

She was determined to stay awake. For her sake... and for Neuvillette's too.

"Is this some kind of joke? Because it's not funny. At all."

The Fatui agent scoffed. "Do you see me laughing? We Fatui have no time for jokes. Nor do you, Monsieur Neuvillette" The agent practically spat at Neuvillette, with no respect, despite the title being used.

Neuvillette didn't respond, electing to ponder in silence. What the Fatui agent told him was incredibly ridiculous, but that didn't mean the information was entirely useless. 

He now knew that the Fatui were aware of Lady Egaria's search for Lady Focalors. This was dangerous. Only he and the archon were to know of the specifics, but Neuvillette figured this wouldn't stay under wraps forever. After all, people would begin to question the search parties Lady Egaria kept ordering. They would begin to talk, and Lady Egaria would have to come clean, or at the very least come up with an excuse, and explanation, for all of this.

But that has yet to happen. So how did the Fatui, a group not even originating from Fontaine, figure out the reason for the searches?

The Tsaritsa. Of course. Who else could, except for a fellow god?

Neuvillette turned to the Fatui agent, who had been uselessly struggling against his restraints while Neuvillette had been thinking to himself. Perhaps he still hoped that escape would still be possible, since he given all the information he could. 

Hmm. Now that he has betrayed the trust of his mission, he won't be welcomed back with open arms. Can I trust that he won't reveal anything that will hurt us and our mission?

Abruptly, Neuvillette grabbed the agent by the collar, and dragged him out of the tent, and towards the edge of their camp. Leaning the agent against the tree. He studied him for a moment before-

"Monsieur Neuvillette! What's going on?" Furina runs up to him, still clutching onto the broadsword tightly. Her eyes widened at the agent, still tied, but out of the tent, and inched closer to Neuvillette. He turned to Furina, and asked a seemingly simple question.

"Should we release him, or should we... dispose of him?"

Furina's eyes widened at the question. It should've been an easy answer, yet she struggled with coming up with one. On the one hand, leaving him to his own devices would undoubtedly be dangerous, but if Neuvillette was talking about what she thought he was talking about, and she was fairly certain he was, killing a person, just like that, was hard, even if it was someone who may have been trying to do the same. But more importantly-

"Why are you leaving this decision to me? Wouldn't you be far more suited to decide than me?" Furina asked. Neuvillette gestured to the side, and the two lowered their voices, turning slightly away from the agent, who was surprisingly quiet, simply electing to study them. Neuvillette, under his breath, replied, "Perhaps, but if you are to play the role of Lady Focalors, then you must learn to make decisions like this. Consider this a trial run." 

Furina took a deep breath, and turned towards the agent. Okay then. 

"I think..."

Chapter Text

“Do you think I made the right choice?”

Rather than respond, Neuvillette elected to focus on his cooking. After all that had happened tonight, he and Furina needed good food. After a moment, he finally responded. “Why do you ask? The choice has already been made. There is no reason to think about it anymore.”

Furina frowned at Neuvillette’s seeming indifference. “Maybe so, but that doesn’t mean it doesn't matter! If I made the wrong choice, then I could put us in danger!

”Let him go.”

Neuvillette’s face didn’t betray anything, but Furina had an inkling that he wasn’t surprised.

The agent, on the other hand, seemed shocked by her choice. He was even more so when Neuvillette obliged and released his hold on the agent.

Before the two could change their mind, he dashed off into the dark of night.

“…so, please be honest with me, Neuvillette. I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t want to truly know.” 

Neuvillette finally looked away from the fire and his cooking, making eye contact with Furina. He sighs at her expression. “…I don’t think it was the… wisest decision you could have made.” Furina nods at his response. Part of her expected this answer, but another part hoped he would reassure her. 

“…Well, what are you making?” Furina leaned towards the fire, watching him stirring the pot. Perhaps due to her vision, fire wasn’t a big fear to her. Or maybe it was due to the cold of Snezhnaya making the warmth a necessity. Either way, she was far too close to the flames.

Neuvillette cleared his throat and gestures pointedly towards the fire. Furina instantly got the message, and drew back. “But seriously, what are you making? I’d like to know what I’m about to put in my body.” She inquired. He smiles. “I’m currently making a specialty dish of mine, a consomme. It’s a soup, but thanks to the water I’ve chosen, the purest waters found from the highest mountains, it gives it a exquisite and masterful flavor-“

Furina held up her hand. “Alright, I get it. So on top of your duties as the Iudex, you’re also a master chef, huh?” Neuvillette smiles and shakes his head.

“Not quite, I save my cooking skills for this dish alone. I rarely need to cook for myself, and I don’t have the time to practice other dishes.” 

“Perks of being the Iudex, huh?” Furina smiled. “Though, I can’t wait to try Fontainian cuisine.” She once again peers into the cooking pot, watching the soup bubble with anticipation. 

“It should be nearly done.” Neuvillette looks over the soup, nodding to himself. “It’s done.”

“Finally!” Furina leaped up from where she sat and dashed over to grab her bowl. Neuvillette couldn’t help but chuckle at her sudden outburst, and grabbed his own bowl. She eagerly took her portion, and rather than finding a spoon, elected to drink straight from the bowl.

It’s only Neuvillette here, who cares? I’m starving!

Neuvillette raised his eyebrow, smiling, but didn’t comment on her strategy, somehow finding a spoon himself and beginning to slowly eat.

”…hmm?”

Neuvillette looked up towards Furina, who was staring at the bowl with a foreign expression on her face. “Not to your tastes?” He asked. It was a shame, but there were many more dishes she had yet to try. But Furina shook her head.

”No, no, it’s lovely, it’s just…” She trailed off. Neuvillette prompted her to continue, and she sighed. “Okay, this’ll sound strange, but… I think I’ve had this before.”

”…have you?” 

“I don’t think so. I don’t know quite what it is, but it feels… familiar. In a comforting way.” Furina smiled down at the bowl, then glanced upwards, meeting Neuvillette’s eyes. 

“Truthfully, it’s how I feel when you talk about Fontaine.” And it’s how I feel when I’m around you, but that’s way too embarrassing to say out loud. And something I need to think about.

”…” Neuvillette was silent, pondering the implications of this revelation. “That’s… quite a bit to take in.” 

“Yeah, maybe it’s just me becoming more familiar with Fontaine? Either way, it’s not a big deal, right?” Furina smiles at Neuvillette, who return it graciously. “Now, let’s dig in before the soup gets even colder!” 

Familiar and comforting, hm? That doesn’t seem like the feelings of someone who had never been to Fontaine, more like someone who missed it. 

Neuvillette continued to turn Furina’s words over and over in his mind. The woman in question had already retired for the night, and since he didn’t need as much sleep as a human, he volunteered to take first watch. And no doubt, Furina was exhausted. 

But it was curious. How did someone who had allegedly never left her little village all the way in Snezhnaya know what consomme taste like? And why? 

He wasn’t sure how long he sat there, thinking it over, as well as thinking up new things he would have to teach Furina, until he heard rustling behind him. Neuvillette quickly whirled around, meeting Furina’s gaze. 

“I believe it’s my turn? For… watch duty?”

”Furina, there is no need for you to-“ “But I want to.” She reassures him. Furina plops down next to Neuvillette. She turns to him, with an expression of what are you still doing here? 

But Neuvillette didn’t want to leave. He certainly didn’t feel comfortable leaving Furina alone, and he wasn’t tired. He also did enjoy her presence quite a bit.

”Your hair is getting longer.” He blurted out. Furina’s eyes widened and she quickly moved her hands to check. “Oh, yeah. It grows in really fast. I cut it a few weeks ago, and it’s already nearly grown back to its old length.”

When Neuvillette first met Furina, her hair barely touched her shoulder. Now, it was halfway down her back. “Grows fast indeed. Why did you cut it, if I may ask?”

Furina shrugged. “Not like it’s a secret, but baking with long hair isn’t exactly professional. I hated having to tie my hair up all the time, so I just chopped it all off one day. Weirdly enough through, it doesn’t keep growing forever though, it always stops around my back.” She rambles.

”I ask because with your hair so long…” Neuvillette hesitates. “It makes you look like Lady Focalors.” Furina pauses. 

“…really?” He nods. “It’s an uncanny resemblance. It’s actually why I approached you about this in the first place. And now that I’m on the topic, Furina, are you sure you’ve never been to Fontaine?”

Furina remained silent, and Neuvillette worries he went overboard. “Furina, I-“

”I wouldn’t know.” 

“…pardon?”

”I wouldn’t know. I… I lost my memories.”

Neuvillette was silent, but motioned for her to go on. “I- I just woke up in the village, with no memory of who I was. It was Sofiya who found me. I freaked out, and I ran into a blizzard.”

”I think I must’ve run for ages, and I stumbled upon some... thieves. They saw me, must’ve thought I had something valuable on me. So, well, I had to fight back.”

”It was the first time I remember using my vision. I don’t remember much about how… but I think I fended them off for the most part, but I’m sure I had some help. Eventually I realized that the village was my best bet, and I ran back, and found Sofiya. From there, the rest is history.”

For a moment, there was pure quiet. Not a sound came from the woods, nor the pair sitting side by side. 

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

He had been pondering that ever since Furina admitted she had amnesia. It wouldn’t have made him change his mind, though then again Furina had no way of knowing that for sure. “I understand why you didn’t tell me initially when we met, but I’d think this would be important enough to mention when we were leaving, or on the way?” Noticing Furina’s face, he quickly added, “I’m not upset, nothing like that. I’d just like to know, as it seems I haven’t been exactly great at earning you trust it seems.”

”I’m telling you now, aren’t I?” Furina said, softly smiling, and gently elbows him. Neuvillette returns the smile. “I suppose you did.”

For the rest of the night, the two didn’t say a word to the other, deciding to simply sit in the quiet of the night. 

By the time the Fatui agent finally stopped running, he had already run a considerable distance away from the targets (well, target.) At that moment, it would be unwise to continue attempting to monitor them.

He had all that he needed anyways. 

Now, he just needed to report to his superior, and his mission would be complete… for the most part.

Curious how the Iudex of Fontaine would listen to someone not even from Fontaine, much less an ordinary human. 

The Knave would surely find all this as intriguing as he did.

Chapter Text

The aurora slowly faded from the sky as Arleccinno made her way through the snow towards Fontaine. Though she would never admit why, she always found herself looking up at the sky of Snezhnaya. She ignored the memories that bubbled up and pushed them down.

Arleccinno hadn't originally planed on visiting the House so soon. She still had some work to finish up at Snezhnaya, at Zapolyarmy Palace no less, but she could always finish them while on the road. Besides, she was sure the Fatui could-and would- understand.

My loyalty to the Fatui may be tenuous at best, but I wouldn't betray them at a snap. 

She briefly wondered for a moment how the House was doing in her current absence.

Lyney would keep everything running smoothly, no doubt, especially with Lynette's and Freminet's support. Those three were always inseparable, and undeniably powerful together. A shame they can't all become "king..."

Now that she thought it over, she should ask Heloir if she had any more bottled flames left after their recent executions. And perhaps she should recruit Chapleau and Foltz to utilize their skills to keep track of her… current “targets” while they were in the Court. Yes, that would work. Arleccinno certainly trusted her children more than the average Fatui agent.

Now that her current work was in Fontaine, she could once again rely on the House to assist in her work. That assured her greatly. Perhaps things would actually get done now.

And then her thoughts drifted to her conversations with Furina. Was she truly related to the prophecy, as the Tsaritsa seemed convinced of? She wasn't sure.

It was a rare thing for Arleccinno to be unsure of something, but here she was. Of course, it was reasonable. Even with her abilities, she was still a human, a mortal. This was a thing of the divine, of gods, of archons. Hesitance was justified.

Or at least that's what she told herself. 

It didn’t matter. She was no judge. She was a servant of the Cryo Archon. She completed her missions and didn’t question them. That was her role in the world.

Except when she was in the House of the Hearth. In which case, she became a “Father”. Soon, she would take up that role once again. 

And soon, she might have to take on yet another new role in Fontaine as well.

Egaria didn't know what she was thinking. 

Sending someone of her own out in the world to search for Focalors made sense, but of all people, why did she send the Iudex of Fontaine?

Of course, Neuvillette was very insistent on going, and as the God of Justice, she could handle his duties, but along with her own?

Running the nation, fulfilling her social appearances quota, and even more. Though she supposed Neuvillette's job as the Iudex technically used to be hers...

Egaria shook her head, and peered down from her judge's chair, trying to refocus on the trial. It didn't matter much anyways. She had already had all the facts of the case, and the defense and prosecution had devolved into petty arguments. Plus, the Oractrise would undoubtedly make the correct decision, regardless of whether she declared guilty or not.

Egaria sighed and rubbed her temples. As much as she loved her... "humans", she had to admit they were exhausting.

No wonder Neuvillette was so eager to leave. She chuckled to herself. 

Egaria nearly forgot she was still on stage, still visible to the whole room, and more importantly, the people in the house.

Why was the court room designed like a theater anyways? It was a multi-use theater, but it's main purpose was for trials! 

Ah, that's right. Focalors always loved the theater. 

When Focalors first became human, the first thing she wanted to do was to see a theatrical performance. She always seemed so interested in the arts, but it was especially theater that had Focalors’ heart. 

Archons.

Here she was wallowing in the past while the present flew by! Her people needed her, needed their god. Perhaps that’s why Neuvillette went himself on that journey in the first place. How clever that dragon was.

Her people didn’t need Focalors, they needed Egaria. She was the God of Justice, not Focalors.

As the trial finally came to end, Egaria reached her own conclusion. She would focus on her duties as Hydro Archon. It would hurt, and take some effort, but she had to leave dreams of being reunited with her retainer behind. Egaria would live in the present.

After all, the prophecy had already taken effect. The Heavenly Principles had granted mercy once. Egaria couldn’t see them granting it a second time.

No more would she fantasize about what could’ve been. Starting today, Egaria would cease her fruitless search.

As soon as she returned to her office in the Palais Mermonia, Egaria gently looked down at a notice in her hand. Had she submitted the form, it would announce to the whole of Teyvat that Focalors was missing, and that Egaria would offer just about anything in exchange for her safe return. 

Now, it was no longer needed. 

Egaria tossed the paper into her fireplace, and though her heart begged her to douse the flames, to grab the paper, salvage what she could, she ignored it, and continued to watch the document smolder.

Goodbye, Focalors. Wherever you are, if you’re still even alive, may you live a happy life as a human, just as I wished we could together.

Chapter Text

“We’re almost to Fontaine.”

“Hm?” Neuvillette turned his gaze from the pot to look at Furina, who was staring off into the distance. 

“We’re almost to Fontaine.” She repeated, seemingly elsewhere. “I can feel it.” Furina placed her hand to her Vision.

Neuvillette was intrigued. “Are you implying that your Vision is telling you? I’ve never heard of such a phenomenon before, but then again, it could be possible.”

He got up and walked over to Furina. She finally turned to him with a strange expression on her face. “May I?” He gestures to the Vision. 

“Oh!” Furina sheepishly nodded. Neuvillette then proceeded to _kneel_ and gently take hold of the Vision. Furina couldn’t help but let out a squeak of suprise, but quickly covered her mouth before Neuvillette could pick up on it.

She then looked away, hoping that she wouldn’t- no,  couldn’t dwell on this anymore than she was right now. 

It’s not that big of a deal. Just relax!

As if it was that easy.

Neuvillette was completely unaware of what he was doing to Furina, and was totally focused on Furina’s Vision. It looked similar to a Fontanian Vision, but not quite right. It wasn’t a Pneuma Vison, nor a Ouisa one. 

Curious.

He continued to study it closely, until he leaned in a bit too close for comfort.

“T-too close!” Furina squeaked, and jumped at the sudden proximity.

At which point  Neuvillette _finally_ realized what he’d done. His eyes widened, and the dragon adverted his gaze and cleared his throat, standing up, and taking several steps away from Furina.

“Ahem. I apologize, Lady Furina. Please excuse my poor manners. I was so enthralled by your peculiar Vision, I forget myself. Please forgive me.”

Furina, not looking at Neuvillette, simply nodded, her hand covering her face. 

Awkwardly, Neuvillette clears his throat. “Well then, I believe dinner is ready.” Furina, still refusing to look at him, nodded again. “Wonderful.” She says stiffly.

Their dinner is just as awkward, with the two sitting opposite to each other, Furina’s eyes glued to her bowl, and Neuvillette looking into the fire pit. 

Eventually, they broke the silence.

“Neuvi-.” “Furi-“

The two look at each other before quickly averting their gazes, with Furina once again looking down at her bowl and Neuvillette clearing his throat.

“You first, my Lady.” He offers, gesturing for her to continue. She looks up as him, then nods, puts her bowl aside, and continues.

“I… wanted to apologize for being so rude before. I-“ But before Furina could elaborate, a flabbergasted Neuvillette cut in. 

“Pardon me, but you have nothing to apologize for, Lady Furina. It was my own error that caused you to be uncomfortable.”

“That’s not true! I wasn’t uncomfortable at all!” Furina blurts out. “If anything I was too comfortable.” She mumbled under her breath. As soon as those words registered, her eyes widened, and Furina turned beet red, hiding her face in her hands. 

Neuvillette had a similar reaction, though his face didn’t take on quite the same appearance as Furina’s. 

The two yet again fell into silence, this time a more awkward one. Neuvillette tries to speak, but finds his voice caught in his throat. 

“…” 

“…Can we agree to never speak about this again?”

“Indeed, I think I can agree to that.”

Chapter Text

Furina couldn’t believe it. 

It seemed like they’d be traveling through Snezhnaya’s winters forever. She had gotten used to the cold forest, the peace, looking over her shoulder for any Fatui, the quiet, Neuvillette, and the sounds of nature.

Yes, she had to admit, she had gotten quite comfortable with their routine. But as the temperature warmed up, Furina had to take notice. The snow melted, the warmth returned, and the green arrived.

In short, they had finally reached Fontaine. As used to the pure white snow of Snezhnaya as she was, Furina, despite being in Fontaine for only a few hours, found that she far preferred the atmosphere of the nation of Hydro. Plus, that feeling was back in full force. The feeling of familiarity that had pervaded during their journey. It had finally reached its peak, undoubtedly because she neared her answer. At least Furina thought hoped so. 

It's almost like... I'm returning home. 

Furina hadn't felt that way in a long time. 

"Are you alright?"

Furina snapped out of her inner monologue and turned sheepishly to a concerned Neuvillette. "Ah, yes, I'm fine. Don't worry, I'm simply in the habit of being in my own head. Nothing to concern yourself with." Neuvillette nodded understandingly. "Sometimes, I get stuck in my own thoughts as well." He confesses, and Furina smiles, glad he understands. 

"So this is Fontaine, huh? It's beautiful." Furina says, as the two gaze at the horizons beyond.

"Indeed."

They sit in silence for a few moments.

"Ready to head to the Court?"

"Ready as I'll ever be."

They begin walking along the forest path, side by side, Neuvillette talking about many of the local specialties along the way, with a delighted Furina 

"Fontaine is home to a wide variety of fauna. For example, that's a marcotte. It's one of the many flowers native to Fontaine. I believe they all have some sort of meaning, but that is a field I am not as knowledgeable in, I'm afraid."

"That's alright, I can simply learn another time. But I appreciate the thought." Furina thinks for a moment, then stops in her tracks. Neuvillette continued to walk, but noticing Furina stop, he turns to her with confusion and worry. "Are you alright? Lost in your thoughts again?"

Furina looks to him, then blinks and shakes her head. "Nothing." She mumbles, and continues forward. Neuvillette shoots her a concerned look, but doesn't press her any further. 

The two continue on, this time in silence. 

They set up their camp near the shore, the waster glistening in the sunset. This would be, if everything went to plan, the last time they would be camping in the woods, Furina realized. I'd almost miss it, but I miss being comfortable even more than that. 

She gazed at the water, and felt a sudden urge to dive in. Walking over to Neuvillette, who was slaving away at the cooking pot, she let him know of her plans, and he agrees to wait by the pot. "I'll fetch you when it's done."

Furina nods with a smile and makes her way to the shore. She took a breath and dove in.

And she entered paradise. 

Furina had thought that the surface of Fontaine was beautiful before, but it paled in comparison to what lay beneath the surface. The pale blue of the water, the sunlight streaming through, the deep green of the many underwater plants. Furina was mesmerized. 

She didn't quite know what she wanted to see exactly, but the comfort she felt swimming around was irreplaceable. As if she was now in her element.

Oh. Yeah, I am in my element.

She gazed down at her Vision, still pinned on her hip. She smiled down at it. Despite never being able to use it except for that one time, she took great comfort in it. Now that she thought about it, with the Fatui possibly still posing a threat, it would definitely be helpful to her and Neuvillette.

Though he can clearly defend himself, but it'd be good to have a  second option, in case something happens, Celestia forbid. 

Maybe this little dip would help her connect with her element, and remove whatever was blocking her Vision from being used. Furina continued pushing her way through the water, and admired the creatures swimming around her. One of them, what looked like a baby seal, even swam a lap around her before returning to the side of its mother. Or father. Furina wasn't knowledgeable in the culture of these seals. Still, she couldn't help but softly smile and wish she could pet the small creature before it swam away. 

How happy she was, in this beautiful place, one that took her breath away. Not literally, of course. Furina had heard from rumors that Vision users could dive into Fontaine's waters and not have to worry about air, but she wouldn't have believed it had she not been here, swimming, far from the surface, with her lungs not clambering for air. 

How amazing and wonderful Fontaine is.

Furina didn't know how long she spent swimming in Fontaine's waters, but it had to have been long enough for dinner to be finished, so she readied herself to head back up to the surface. She sighed (part of her still couldn't comprehend she could do that underwater!) and wished that she could stay for a little while longer, but alas, she didn't have the time. Looking back at the unexplored depths, she began her ascent to the land. 

Just as she neared the surface, she couldn't help but notice a strange silhouette above the water, and decided to stop and make way for whatever (or whoever?) this was. Which was the right call to make, as Neuvillette himself dove into the water.

Neuvillette's swimming was something to behold, and Furina couldn't help but admire Neuvillette the technique as he made his way towards her. "I've finished dinner preparations, Lady Furina." For a second, she was confused by the title. Then, quickly remembering her job, she nodded and followed him back up to the surface.

Surprisingly, Neuvillette didn't have any towels on hand or packed with him, so they had to use spare bedsheets instead, which Furina was fine with. They were soft as a regular towel, and got the job done well enough. She hummed to herself as she served herself a portion of the soup Neuvillette had prepared. 

"That song sounds quite lovely. Where did you hear it, Lady Furina?"

She looked up towards Neuvillette in surprise. "Huh? Oh, I don't know... its just a song I'm in the habit of singing sometimes. Maybe I made it up sometime ago... I wouldn't remember."

"Hm."

They ate, this time making conversation between them, as the night sky shone above them.

"So they're in Fontaine now, hm?"

A solemn nod, but the one in the shadows spoke not a word.

"Hmm, I do hope that the Knave won't hesitate. That sounds nothing like her, of course. Oh, how I wish I could take apart that little brain of hers. Perhaps the Doctor would be up to such a task..."

Silence again.

"Well, we'll have to be more careful now that they are outside of our jurisdiction. Send a message to Arleccinno, and tell her that she must take decisive action now. Time is running out, and our window is closing."

Yet another nod.

"We must ensure the prophecy has been fulfilled. At all costs."

Chapter Text

Neuvillette had never been so stressed before.

He gripped his seat tightly as he watched Furina dash around the aquabus, making small talk with the Melusine tour guide answering her questions, albeit a bit unenthusiastically. 

As much as he was happy to see Furina so excited, Neuvillette couldn’t help but worry that she would topple off the side of the bus. 

“Lady Furina, please try to maintain calm as we travel along. It would be a shame if you fell off the bus.” He said sternly. At that, Furina, realizing her position, quickly adjusted herself and sat down across from Neuvillette.

”O-of course, you’re right, Monsieur Neuvillette. My excitement at… seeing Fontaine again simply was overwhelming.” She said coolly. The Melusine gave her a strange look, but shrugged and continued with their tour spiel. 

“And if you look to the left, you’ll have one of the best views of the Opera Epiclese. Though considering where you got on from, you already saw the building in a far nicer view…” the Melusine muttered under her breath.

Neuvillette frowned slightly at Elphane’s indifference. He wondered if she liked this job, or perhaps found it boring. Perhaps he should look into finding another job for her, one more to her tastes. The last thing he’d want is for a Melusine to be unhappy at work.

”Pardon me, but what… exactly are you? It has… uh, been a long time since I’ve been in Fontaine, as I’ve said, and your… kind is not familiar to me.” Furina cleared her throat and turned to the Melusine.

Oh, did I never tell her about the Melusine? I guess they’ve been a part of Fontaine for so long I didn’t think…

The Melusine cocked her head. “You must’ve been gone from Fontaine for a long time if you don’t know. We are the Melusine, a young race born in Fontaine. Though, we are quite different from humanity, from the obvious reasons like our appearance.” Furina nodded along.

“Do you have a name?”

“It’s Elphane.”

The girl continued to ask questions, and Neuvillette smiled as he saw the two’s back and forth, his gaze settled on Furina’s attempts at hiding her pure curiosity, and his smile softened. Unfortunately, the bus ride ended far too soon.

“We’ve arrived at the Court of Fontaine. Please wait until the aquabus has fully stopped before disembarking. Thank you for joining us, and have a nice day.” Elphane waved them off they hopped off the aquabus, Furina waving back, this time in a calm and refined manner.

As soon as she turned, her face morphed back into the excited tourist she was. “Wow, this is Fontaine? It’s incredible! Where do we go first?” Her eyes were sparkling, and Neuvillette smiled. 

“Are you hungry? We can stop at a cafe. I know a quite a good one, it is a bit far, but we can look at shops around.” Furina’s grin widens. “That sounds perfect! I’d love to.” 

As the two strolled around Fontaine, Neuvillette couldn’t help but notice the Fontanians around them staring. After all, the Iudex of Fontaine wasn’t a common sights in the streets of the courts, and especially since a young woman was accompanying him.

He immediately realized that gossip would surely ramp up now. By tomorrow, the tabloids would be stumbling over themselves with rumors and material to print. 

Well, there was no real way to avoid this. He sighed to himself as Furina browsed ahead of him. 

She then dashed over. “There’s a bookstore nearby, I think I’ll take a look. Want to join me?” She offered. “That’s quite alright. I think I’ll browse the stalls around here instead.” He replied with a soft smile. Furina nodded and walked into the store.

Neuvillette continued walking the street, looking over the products-

“Monsieur!”

Neuvillette almost didn’t respond. Regardless, he eventually turns to see a young man working at a flower shop. Once it was clear the man was talking to Neuvillette, he approaches the stand reluctantly. 

“I couldn’t help but notice you were walking around with a beautiful young lady. Would a kind man like yourself perhaps like to buy her a bouquet?” Neuvillette may not be the most socially savvy, but even he understood the implication. He was sure his face had gone red.

“Ahem, well you see, I’m afraid I- ahem, well-“

”I’ll buy a flower.”

Neuvillette whirled around to see Furina holding out some Mora. When did she get that? The young proprietor was getting paid either way, so he happily took it. Furina pointed to a bright, multicolored flower. She was promptly handed the flower, and she smiled as she turned to Neuvillette.

A rainbow rose.

”Hold still.”

Gently, she tucked the flower behind Neuvillette’s ear. Once her task was completed, she took a step back and smiled softly.

“Perfect.” She murmured.

Furina screamed into her pillow.

I can’t believe I did that! She kicked her legs as she continued to whine to herself into the poor pillow.

Currently, she was in her room at the hotel that the source of her agony had booked for her. She was supposed to be unpacking the little she brought with her, but she figured that shrieking into her bedspread would be much more productive. 

How is Neuvillette supposed to act around me now? How am I supposed to act around him?!

It was almost just like when they-

No! We agreed to never speak of that!

Furina continued to release her emotions into the pillow, now adding her fists into the equation. Eventually, she calmed down enough to clamber off the bed and begins the task she should have been focusing on.

As she gathers her (very few) personal items, she sighs to herself and thinks it over. Maybe it’s not the end of the world. Flowers have languages, right? Maybe the… what was it? Well, whatever it was, maybe it means, like, friendship, or respect or something! She had to hold onto that hope. Maybe nothing will change between them.

Though part of her wouldn’t mind that

Ahem!

She continued her task, blankly holding onto- what was she holding? Furina looked down to see her old apron from Sofiya. For a moment, Furina stared down at it, an unreadable expression on her face. 

Eventually, she gently folds the apron, placing it on the bed. Smiling down gently at it, Furina patted it softly, and walks toward the door. Placing her hand on the door handle, she turns back to look at the apron, the smile returning to her face, before turning back and opening the door. 

To meet face to face with Neuvillette.

Furina balked and stepped back in surprise. “Ah, Monsieur Neuvillette! What brings you here?”

He says nothing, only holding up a small bouquet. “For you.” He says simply, and leaving as soon as it was in Furina’s hands.

She blinked, and just like that, the Iudex was gone.

She looks down at the bouquet in her hands, full of beautiful, multicolored flowers.

Just like the one I gave him.

Looking around to make sure no one was nearby, she gently closed the door, gently placing the flowers on a nearby table, then ran over to the bed.

Flopping down face-first, she spent the rest of the night releasing her emotions yet again into her poor pillow.

Chapter Text

Neuvillette got up early like he always did, though he did get up a little later than he did on the journey to Fontaine proper. 

He and Furina had decided on a plan before reaching the Court: Neuvillette would meet with Lady Egeria in order to arrange for an appointment for the two of them to meet, while Furina would walk around the Court in order to find as much information as possible about Focalors.

That was the plan, and they followed it to the letter. He planned for everything that could prevent a meeting between his Hydro Archon and her disappeared successor.

Except for one thing.

“What do you mean, you won’t see her?”

Neuvillette chased after his Archon in the Palais, calling out to her, as Egeria continued on with her duties, completely ignoring the Hydro Dragon.

“You heard me, Neuvillette. I’ve decided to stop my fruitless search for Focalors. Isn’t this what you wanted?” She responded curtly, refusing to look at him.

“Well, I did once, but-“ Before Neuvillette could protest any further, Egeria whirled around and finally faced the dragon. 

“I know that you weren’t planning on finding Focalors out there. If I had to guess, you either were going to find me a replacement in order to make me feel better, or perhaps you simply wanted to destroy all my hope by coming back empty handed. All to get me to pay attention to my nation.” She snapped. “Don’t worry, I understand why you did it. I’m thankful. Really. Can’t you tell?”

Neuvillette stepped back, swallowing. “I-“

But Egeria held her hand up, silencing the dragon. “No. I’ve had enough of this meaningless farce. You’re still on leave, so why not walk around the Court, hm? Spend some time with people. Archon knows you need it.”

“What does that mean-“ By this point the two were outside the Hydro Archon’s office.

“Figure it out yourself. Maybe ask your new friend.” With that, she promptly entered, and slammed the door behind her, right in Neuvillette’s face.

…did I do something wrong?

Furina walked around the Court, eyes caught by every little thing, and nearly bumping into any Mecka out on patrol. 

“Oh, I’m sorry.” She apologized, actually bumping into one, only for the machine to simply continue walking, unfazed. “Oh, right…” Furina mumbled, red dusting her cheeks.

Thank the Archons Neuvillette isn’t here to-

No. Don’t even think about it.

Furina shook the thoughts away, and pressed onwards. Stopping suddenly, she realized she was at the same book stall she was at yesterday, when she-

Stop. That.

She once again shook her head to clear her mind, then walked in. 

“Oh, madame! It’s you again! Where’s the monsieur?” The woman at the register called out. Thankfully, no one was in the store, otherwise Furina probably would have been mortified. 

“Hello, Amelia. I was walking around the Court, alone , and I realized I had stoped here again. A habit, I suppose.” Furina said with a simple smile. 

“Hey, more potential business for me. You won’t see me complainin’. So, what are you looking for this time?”

“Hm, do you have any books on Fontanian history? Particularly, pre-prophecy?” Amelia cocked her head in contemplation. “Pre-prophecy, huh? Not a lot of people interested in that period of history these days. You got a project or somethin’ going on?”

Furina shifted nervously. It’s just an innocent question! Don’t freak out! “Something like that. I’d appreciate anything you can find.” She said.

“Alright, well, I’ll see what I can find, m’alright? Just sit tight, and I’ll be back in a jiffy.” Amelia disappeared into the storage room, and Furina began looking around the store.

It was incredibly cozy, and it reminded her of Sofiya’s cafe. Furina smiled at the memories, but put them aside. 

“Whelp, I got nothin” Amelia popped her head from the storage room, a resigned look on her face. “Nothing?” Furina repeated. “Not even one?” 

“Not even one, m‘fraid. Sorry ‘bout that, but is there anything else I can find ya?” Amelia asked.

“No, I’m afraid that’s all… thank you though. See you another time?” She responded, and waved goodbye.

“See ya! Come back now, ya hear?” The woman called out as Furina left the small store. Well, that was a bust. Maybe there are other bookstalls that have something helpful?

She had to try.

“Sedene, are you sure that’s what Lady Egeria said?”

The melusine nodded grimly. “My apologies, Monsieur Neuvillette, but I have specific instructions to not let anyone, especially you, unfortunately, inside Lady Egeria’s office. I’m sorry.” 

“That’s alright, it’s not your fault.” Neuvillette sighed. That’s a dead end. What now… Well, standing around here certainly won’t do anything. Perhaps I’ll come back later. He sighed and began to walk away.

As he passed the threshold, he noticed a poster by the door. It was advertising a new show being held at the Opera Epiclese. 

The Little Oceanid?

Neuvillette paused for a moment.

…aha!

He grasped onto the poster and scanned it for more information. 

A plan was forming in his head.

Furina was quite frustrated, to say the least. 

She had traveled up and down the Court, anywhere she could think of, and still could barely find anything about Focalors, let alone about the pre-prophecy era.

She’d even resorted to asking people directly what they knew of that era. They all gave her quizzical looks and simply ignored the question. 

By the time Furina finally threw in the towel, the sun had made its way through its path in the sky and it was now dusk. She sat in her room and simply sighed to herself, bemoaning her failure. 

No matter. I’ll just have to try again tomorrow. 

…

I hope Neuvillette had more luck today…

She simply shook her head. No need to dwell on it. Better to get some rest. So she laid down, and elected to sleep instead.

’Everyone follow the Guardes! Don’t bring your belongings with you!’

Furina looked around the Court, through the crowd. Screaming and other such noises accompanied it, with the people running, far, far away from… something.

’████ ████████, this way!’ Furina turned towards the voice. ‘Where are you?’ she called. No response. She turned and turned, but found no face to match the voice.

All of the people were still running, but they didn’t seem to be actually moving. They ran in almost slow motion, before slowing down completely, as if time had stopped.

She couldn’t make heads or tails of this. Of all the dreams Furina had, this was the strangest of them all. Vivid, yet still just as confusing. She turned around once again-

to be met by a large mirror.

Furina stumbled back, then looked around. Once she regained her courage, she stepped forward. Peering into it, she saw nothing. ‘Hello?’

’It’s a shame, how it all happened.’ Suddenly, a voice reverberated through the Court.

And a figure appeared in the shadows of the mirror.

A woman, identical to her, stepped out, a soft smile on her face. 

The same one that always appeared in her dreams. Furina leaned in, laying a hand on the mirror. The figure mimicked her action, laying her own hand ontop of Furina’s. ‘Who are you?’

The figure tilted her head, the same smile still on her face. ‘I think part of you knows.’ The same answer, then. Furina looks back to the frozen people. ‘What will happen to them? WHAT happened to them?’ She corrected herself.

The figure’s smile turns sad, as she looks beyond Furina to the people. ‘Do you really want to know?’ Furina nods, not looking back to the mirror. The reflection sighs. ‘They’re dead. Most of them, anyways.’ Furina turned to the mirror, a horrified expression on her face.

’No…’ she said weakly, ‘that- that can’t be it! I have to save them! I HAVE to!’ The figure shakes her head. ‘This is has already happened. It’s a memory, my dear.’

’It CAN’T be a memory, because I don’t have those, remember!’ Furina screamed suddenly, throwing her hands onto the mirror, but it doesn’t crack. Her reflection’s smile turned sad once again. She leans in to Furina.

’I think you have more of them than you realize.’

And with that, she disappeared into the mirror once again. Furina reached for her. ‘No, don’t go!’ She looks up, and sees a large wave, heading right for her-

“WAIT! DON’T LEAVE ME!”

Furina screamed, her hand reaching out. Her eyes widened as soon as she realized where she was. Breathing heavily, she curled up into herself, willing herself to calm down.

“Furina!”

Suddenly, the door slammed open, and Neuvillette ran in. “I heard you scream, are you alright, is everything okay??” As soon as he saw Furina’s face, he dashed over to her side instantly. “What’s wrong?’ He asked gently.

Furina sniffled. “I-it’s nothing, just a nightmare. I’m sorry to wake you.” Neuvillette shakes his head. “You don’t need to apologize. Do you want to talk about it?” She shakes her head, and moves to sit next to Neuvillette. 

“You’re okay.” He reassures, and Furina says nothing, simply sitting in silence. That silence pervades for a few more moments. 

“Do you really think I’m capable of this? Of… pretending?” Neuvillette looks to Furina. “Of course, why would you ask that?”

“I mean, after all, I’ve caused you nothing but trouble. The Fatui, constantly burdening you on the journey, not able to get the information you wanted…” she trailed off. “You get the point.”

“No, I don’t.” 

Furina looks back to Neuvillette in suprise. “Despite what you may think, you are far from useless. And though it may not be any consolation, if Focalors lived long enough, I think she would have been like you.”

Furina shakes her head. “How would you know? Have you met her?”

“I did. Once.”

Once again, Furina nearly experienced whiplash as she turns to Neuvillette. “…what?” 

“As I said. It was only once, and at the time I did not know who she was. I think I didn’t tell anyone because I wanted to keep it between us, just the Hydro Dragon and Focalors.” 

Furina eyes widened, and said nothing, but gestured to continue.

“Back then, I was still quite young, and had yet to find my place in the world. But she… she gave me my place.”

“She encountered me along a pond that I had been wandering. I did not want conflict, and planed to leave, but she laughed it off and invited me to sit with her.”

“She talked about all sorts of things, all about Fontaine, and I’m afraid I did not do a good job at keeping the conversation going. But the things she talked about enraptured me so, and I eventually began to open up.”

“At the end of it all, I said that I’d love to visit someday, and she abruptly told me, ‘Why don’t you come with me and live in Fontaine?”

“I told her that it would be impossible for a Sovereign such as myself to live amongst humans, and she told me of her true Oceanid form, and said it wouldn’t matter. I continued to fret about it, but then she told me something I wouldn’t ever forget. She said-“

“You will see much in the human world, from the delightful to the depressing.”

Neuvillette looked to Furina in shock at what she said. 

Furina simply stood up and walked forward. “But, despite it all, I think you’ll agree once you see it all…” she stopped, still facing away from Neuvillette.

“…you would still choose to be human.”

The dragon was shocked. “H-how… I didn’t tell you that.”

Furina turned to Neuvillette, tears springing from her eyes. 

“You didn’t have to.”

“I remember.”

For a moment, there was silence once again. Then, Neuvillette got up and walked in front of Furina. He held out his hand, and Furina gave hers to him. 

At once, he kneeled and kissed the back of her palm.

“My lady.”

Chapter Text

“What do you mean, she doesn’t want to see me?” 

Furina (Lady Furina? Lady Focalors? He didn’t know what to call her anymore) paced up and down the hotel room, increasingly gaining speed. 

“That’s… what she said, yes, but don’t worry-“

“Don’t WORRY?!” She screeched. “How am I supposed to NOT worry?! Did something happen to her? Does she hate me?! Oh Archons, she hates me, doesn’t she?! Because I broke my promise? To protect Fontaine. To protect its people-“

Neuvillette stands up, walks over to the frantic Furina, and gently places his hands on her shoulders. Almost immediately she calmed down enough to stop and look at him.

“Lady Focalors-“

“Furina.” She interjected. The dragon tilted his head. “Hm?” 

“Please, call me Furina. It’s… the name that I’ve gotten used to being called.” She said, her voice small. Neuvillette nodded, leading her to sit down on the bed to maintain her calm.

“It’s far from your fault.” The dragon continued his previous conversation trail. “If anything, it’s mine.” He sighs, shaking his head. She tilted her head at him. “How- how would it be your fault?” She asked with slight disbelief in her voice. 

“…I-“ The dragon sighed. “I used to look for you just as hard as Lady Egeria did. But over time, I couldn’t help but see the writing on the wall. Or, what I _thought_ was the writing on the wall, I suppose I should say.” He smiled softly at Furina, and she returns the smile easily. 

“Eventually, I began to worry for Lady Egeria’s mental health, as well as her physical health. I told her that she needed to prioritize other things, but of course she didn’t want to listen to me.”

“I eventually attempted to come up with a plan to stop her.” Neuvillette sighed in embarrassment. “I… wanted to… find a new Lady Focalors. A sort of… replacement?”

Furina was silent, and the dragon was worried he’d offended her. “I-“ Then she started giggling. Hard. She continued to laugh until she had to take several gasps of breath. Neuvillette held a hand over her back just in case. 

“Ha… ah, that was a good laugh.” She smiled at him. “Silly dragon, did you think that would really work? Replacing little ‘old me?” Furina shook her head in disbelief. Neuvillette stared blankly at her. “You’re… not mad?” He asked.

“Mad? No, of course not! It’s hilarious!” She giggled again, and the dragon worried she might fall into another laughing fit, reaching out to hold her steady.

“You never quite changed, did you?” Furina murmured, reaching out and tucking a strand of hair behind Neuvillette’s ear. His eyes widened at the sudden contact, his cheeks flaming. 

Furina then realized what she did, and her hand snapped back. “Sorry! I, um…” She mumbled something incomprehensible under her breath, scooting away from Neuvillette. The two sat in awkward silence for a few moments. 

“Monsieur-“

“Furina-“

The pair shot looks at each other, then Furina cleared her throat. “Um, well, if Lady Egeria won’t see me, how will I…” She gestured absentmindedly towards… well, nothing in particular. 

Neuvillette cleared his own throat and began. “Yes, about that. I have a plan.” Furina gave him a side-eye. “Another one?” She teased. The dragon chuckled at that. “A better plan, for sure.” 

It was simple: they would “arrange” a meeting between Furina and Lady Egeria at a show that was happening at the Opera Epiclese. It was definitely a smarter plan than “find random person to pretend to be Focalors.” 

“Alright, sounds like a plan. What’s the show about, anyways?” Furina asked earnestly. Neuvillette thought for a moment. “It was called ‘The Little Oceanid’ I believe it’s called. As for the plot… that’s lost on me.” 

“Hm…” She hummed to herself in contemplation. A yawned suddenly escaped her, and her head lobbed to the side. 

“Are you tired? We did talk for quite a while…” The dragon studied her for a moment. Will you be alright on your own, or should I-“

“Yes, yes… I’ll be fine.” She mumbled. Flopping onto the bed, she passed out almost immediately. 

Neuvillette chuckled at Furina’s antics, then tucked her properly into bed. Once she was properly into bed, he made his way to the door.

The dragon spared one last look at the sleeping figure, then left, gently closing the door behind him.

Furina wasn’t ready for this. 

Pacing around her room, she absentmindedly pulled at her clothing. Breathing in and out, she gazed in the mirror. Biting her lip, she sighed, and tightened her grip. 

Breathe. If everything goes well tonight…

You’ll be back home.

Well, she technically was already home. Furina’d felt that ever since she crossed the border between Snezhnaya and Fontaine. 

A knock at the door broke her out of her stupor, and she turned to the door. “Furina? Are you alright?” 

Neuvillette. She began to breathe far easily, knowing he was right there, beyond the door. Rubbing her arms up and down, she approached and placed her hand on the handle, but didn’t turn it.

“I’m fine! Don’t worry about me, I’ll be out in a moment.” She said cheerily. She heard shuffling around, and eventually he replied again. “Alright, but please let me know if you have any difficulties.” More shuffling. 

Furina pressed her forehead to the door, sighing. Once you step through the door, everything’s gonna change. And once that happens…

She stepped back for a moment, looking around the resplendent hotel room whilst leaning against the door. Things have already changed so much over the past few… what was it? Weeks? Time seemed to fly by in a haze.

Was she ready for this?

“…Furina? Are you sure you’re alright?” Neuvillette’s worried voice cut through the silence. Furina blinked and returned to reality. 

“Am I ready for this? Returning to my old place in Fontaine? Do I even deserve this?” She whispered. Somehow, the dragon still heard. 

“…Of course you do. Maybe you don’t remember it well, but you did, somehow, ensure Fontaine’s safety. You protected Fontaine, Furina. That’s no small feat, for anyone. Once everything has been smoothed over with Lady Egeria, then Fontaine will be your oyster. Whatever you wish, you can do.”

Furina sucked in a breath, chewing the inside of her cheek. Closing her eyes, she sucked in a deep breath, turned around, placed her hand on the doorknob-And pulled the door open.

She was met with a concerned Neuvillette, who upon seeing Furina, visibly relaxed. “Ah, you’re…” He trailed off, staring at her. Confused, she looked down at herself, then remembered that she wasn’t wearing her usual attire.

Opting out of the typical dress, Furina instead chose to wear a modern blue and white short-suit that was all the rage in Fontaine currently. She had even decided to match it with a top hat, and pinned her Vision to the side of the trousers.

Neuvillette eventually cleared his throat. “You… look nice.” Furina coughed. “Um, yeah, I heard that these were making the rounds in Fontaine, so…”

The two stared at each other awkwardly for a moment, until she cleared her throat. “Um, anyways, so shall we head over to the Opera house?” She asked, her voice slightly shaken.  

The dragon nodded, before offering his arm. “Yes. Shall we?” Furina nodded along, and grabbed his arm. 

“Then let’s head off!” 

Chapter Text

This is it. No turning back now. You’re going to see Lady Egeria again.

“…ina…”

So she might think you’re a fake. It’s okay, you know you’re not! And Neuvillette believes in you. That’s the most important thing.

“..rina…?

Maybe this was a mistake. What if Neuvillette was wrong, and she really is upset with me? What if she doesn’t believe me? Wait, I don’t…

“…Furina-!”

I don’t have any proof.

She snapped out of her stupor and turned to the concerned dragon beside her. “Huh?” She murmured, her eyes slightly glazed over. Neuvillette, frowning, places a hand on her forehead. “Are you alright? You don’t have to do this today…”

“No. I NEED to do this. As soon as possible.” Furina insisted. “That feeling, of not quite being all right… I don’t ever want to feel it ever again.” She shivered at the thought of returning to said state.

The dragon lowered his hand to cup her cheek, the same sympathetic expression on his face as he studied Furina’s face. “…I understand.”

“Ahem.”

The two abruptly turned to Elphane, who was giving them an unamused look. “We’ve arrived at the Opera Epiclese. If you would, please disembark at your convenience.” The Melusine said simply, gesturing to the exit of the Aquabus.

Bashfully, Furina quickly stood up and quickly hopped off the bus, Neuvillette right behind her. “Apologies.” He mumbled to her. “I didn’t mean-“

“It’s alright.” Furina cut in quickly, turning away from the dragon. “Anyways, we should head to the Opera Epiclese now.” The dragon nodded, then held out his arm once again.

Despite her previous embarrassment, Furina immediately linked her arms with him, a soft smile on her face. Her eyes darted over in the direction of the opera house, eyes flashing with excitement.

“Let’s go!” And they headed off.

It was no surprise to Furina that Neuvillette heading into the Opera House caused quite a stir.

What was a suprise, was that she was also included in that. She nervously tucked a strand of hair behind her ear as she and Neuvillette headed into the building.

“Are you alright?” The dragon murmured in her ear, and Furina had to suppress the blush that was sure to creep onto her cheeks. “Y-Yes, I’m fine.”

Neuvillette looked unconvinced, but he gave her a soft smile, and they continued on into the Opera Epiclese.

“How recently was this built? From what I remember, the Court didn’t have a dedicated opera house for trials, much less shows…” Furina whispered to the dragon.

“Yes, it is new. It was built a little while after the… flood. When you… disappeared. I believe it was meant as a memorial to you, as well as serving as a reminder of the propechy and the people’s ability to survive.”

“…” She didn’t say anything, and the two continued inside.

As soon as she entered, Furina was spellbound by the opera house. The inside was just as magnificent as the outside, and she couldn’t help but let her eyes wander over every little thing.

Heading inside the theater itself, it was even more stunning.

“I was able to get front row seats to the show, but that means we’ll be far from Lady Egaria. We’ll most likely have to see her during the show, or perhaps during intermission.”

Furina blinked. She had been so wrapped up in looking around at the incredible theater, she hadn’t realized that Neuvillette had led them to their seats. “Oh, yes!”

That’s right, we’re here to talk to Egaria! Focus on our mission, Furina!

That proved to be incredibly difficult.

The show, “The Little Oceanid”, was incredible, and Furina couldn’t help but be absorbed in the story.

Neuvillette was similarly very impressed by the show, but he seemed to be quite distracted and kept peering over to the back of the house.

“Neuvillette, are you alright?” She whispered to the dragon as the curtain closed for intermission. He blinked, and nodded his head. “Yes, I’m fine, Furina. Don’t worry.”

She studied him for a few moments, then stood up. “I’m going to take a quick stroll around the lobby, alright? I’ll be back soon.”

Neuvillette nodded, but before she could go, he gently placed his hand on top of hers. “Be careful, alright? I’m sure since you came with me, people will have lots of questions for you…”

Furina waved his concerns away. “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine! And I’m sure I can handle a few nosy Fontanians.” She joked, and then headed up the aisle towards the lobby.

“Excuse me!”

As soon as Furina entered the lobby, she turned to see someone holding a Kamera, and a wide eyes expression on his face.

“I apologize if I’m interrupting, but- we have to know! What’s your relationship with Monsieur Neuvillette?”

Rather than ignoring the man, Furina elected to change the subject. “We?” She asked, fidgeting with her cuffs.

“Oh, yes! I’m sorry, I didn’t introduce myself! I’m Charles, a reporter! And by ‘we’ I mean of course the readers! Do you mind if I take your picture?”

Before she could respond, Charles held up his Kamera and snapped a picture, blinding Furina for a brief moment.

“Wonderful, wonderful! You’re very photogenic, mademoiselle.”

“Um-“

“So!” Suddenly the reporter pulled out a notepad and pen, and began scribbling onto the paper. “How did you and Monsieur Neuvillette meet? Are you from Fontaine? Are you perhaps also a similar creature to him?”

“Creature?” Furina echoed. Charles nodded. “Yes, a species similar to the Melusine, perhaps? Or maybe something else?!” His eyes sparkled with excitement as he continued to scribble.

“Oh- I- I’m… um-“

“Ahem.”

The two turned to see a beautiful, and familiar, young woman walking towards them, a strange expression on her face. “I apologize, but I need to speak with this young woman here, so if you’d mind, monsieur...”

Charles blanched. “Oh, yes- Of course I- ahem!” He backed away, a strange exprsssion of his own on his face.

As the reporter retreated, Furina took a deep breath. “Thank you…” She turned, and looked closer at the woman.

She paled.

“L-Lady Egaria?!”

The two sat outside the Opera Epiclese, side by side in silence.

“…”

“…You really do look just like her.”

Furina turned to the Archon. “P-Pardon?” Egaria was looking at her, a sad smile on her face. She shook her head.

“I can see why Neuvillette picked you, is all.” She looked back to the stars. “I’m truly sorry you got roped into this. Rest assured, whatever he promised you, I will repay-“

“That’s not nessesary, my lady.”

Egaria sighed. “You even sound like her. He trained you well.” She turned to Furina. “He means well, I’m sure, but he shouldn’t have brought anyone into this. Where are you from?”

“…I came from Snezhnaya, my lady.”

Egaria’s eyebrows rose. “That’s certainly far, but…” Her eyes fell to the Vision on Furina’s hip. “You have a Vision. And a Fontanian one, at that. Though… I’ve never seen one that looked like that before.” She said plainly.

Furina placed a hand on it, looking down at it. “Yes… It’s quite precious to me. It was the only clue I had about… me?”

The Archon gave her a strange look, then her eyes widened. “You have amnesia.”

“Had.” Furina corrected. She cleared her throat. “…My lady, Neuvillette already told me about what you said… but I truly believe-“

Egaria held up her hand. “I know what you’re about to say, young lady, and I don’t want to hear it. I’ve already given up on her coming back… Mademoiselle…?”

“I go by Furina now.” She said. “But, Lady Egaria-“

“Please don’t, Mademoiselle Furina. I have been through enough. Enjoy the show.” And the Archon turned to go.

Wait! It can’t end like this!

Without thinking, Furina grabbed her hand.

A flow of power surged through them, and Furina let out a gasp and drew her hand back. “I-I’m sorry, my lady! Please forgive my rudeness, I-“

Egaria turned slowly to face Furina, a shocked expression on her face. “…Do you…?”

And suddenly Furina knew what she would ask.

And, readily, she pulled the Gnosis out of her chest.

There was silence, and eventually Furina held out the Gnosis. “I believe this belongs to you.” She softly smiled. “I’m sorry it took so long, my lady.”

“…”

Egaria’s eyes began to water, and she smiles.

“You don’t have to call me that, my dear Focalors.”

Chapter Text

It had been an interesting few days for Neuvillette.

One moment he was at the opera with Furina, and the next, the show had been the last thing on his mind.

For Furina had encountered Lady Egeria and proven her true identity as Lady Focalors.

The dragon almost felt bad for the performing troupe. Getting completely overshadowed by such an event, on their opening night, must’ve stung.

At least the reporters seemed happy with the news.

So much so that Neuvillette had to bar them before they stormed the Palais Mermonia and bombarded his Lady with countless questions he wasn’t sure she could answer. It had been a long time since she graced Fontanian society, after all.

He was still unsure, as he headed up to Lady Furina’s quarters in the Palais, the very same she had, alongside with the rest of Lady Egaria’s retinue.

Those rooms were still painfully empty.

Neuvillette stopped to stare at the empty rooms for a moment, then turned and continued on to his destination.

By the time he reached her quarters, the sun had nearly set over the horizon, the sky having turned a beautiful dark color, the stars appearing one by one, shining in the darkness.

Taking in a breath, the dragon held up his hand, holding it there for a moment, about to knock on the door, until it adruptly opened up, revealing Furina, eyes widened.

“Neuvillette! You’re here- oh, I should call you Monsieur Neuvillette, huh? I mean, if you’re going to call me Lady, I should probably call you that- or should I refer to you by your title-? Never mind, of course I should refer to you as-“

“Lady-“

“See, you call me Lady! I should refer to you as Monsieur Iudex, then-“

“Furina.” The rambling lady stopped, eyes wide, and looked at the Iudex.

“Please, call me Neuvillette, like you always have.” His voice softened. “Like you always did.”

Furina stared at him for a moment, then stepped aside, gesturing for him to come in. “Please.” She whispered.

Wordlessly, the dragon stepped inside.

Once inside, the two walked over to the windows of the room. Staring over Fontaine, they sat in silence for a few moments.

“Neuvi-“

“Lady-“

The pair looked at one another, a soft smile on their faces. Neuvillette gestured for her to go first. Taking in a deep breath, she began.

“It’s too quiet.”

Furina sucked in another breath. “It used to be so lively here. Me and my… my friends, it… it was rare that we would spend most of our time in our rooms.”

The Iudex looked around, and spotting a small table, led her to it. As they sat down, the woman fidgeted. “I- I don’t- it feels wrong, now.”

Neuvillette gently placed a hand on hers, and Furina immediately grasped it. “I miss Mary-Ann’s stories, I miss Callirhoe’s magic, I miss Ianeira’s bravery, Archons, I even miss Rhodeia!”

She laughed at that, and shook her head. “I- I really am the only one left, huh?” She said quietly, her voice slightly shaken. Looking out the window, the woman went silent, and Neuvillette couldn’t help but squeeze her hand.

“Do you feel something similar? As the Hydro Sovereign, I mean.” Furina adruptly asked. The dragon blinked in suprise. The lady attempted to draw her hand back. “You don’t have to answer that-“ She sputtered, eyes widened as she realized what she said.

Without thinking, the Iudex’s hand followed Furina’s retreating one, and he gently grasped it again, but left plenty of room for her to free herself.

She didn’t.

“I…” Neuvillette sighed. “Part of me does wonder about the other Soverigns, of course. Whenever I hear tale of strange… “creatures” all around Teyvat, I can’t help but be curious about it.”

He looked to his Lady. “‘May I say something… a bit… well, offensive to Lady Egaria? And… and to you now, I suppose.”

Furina bit her lip, but nodded anyways.

“That same part of me… he hates the Archons.”

The woman didn’t say anything, and Neuvillette decided to continue. “And yet, I was fine with being around and serving Lady Egaria. And of course… there’s you.”

“What about me?”

The dragon cleared his throat. “Well, that’s-“ Her eyes began to slightly sparkle, as she leaned forward. “Oh? Do elaborate, Monsieur. What about me is different?”

“I- well, it’s… I’m not sure myself.” He admitted. “It’s that, even though I know that you’re to be the next Hydro Archon, that you’ll be…”

“Holding power that should belong to you?”

“Yes, exactly. Despite all that, despite everything that I am and will be, and everything you are, I can’t help but feel drawn to you.” He sighed. “I’m really not quite sure how to describe it. Perhaps you-“ Neuvillette looked back to Furina…

…who’s face was being covered by her hands. “Lady Furina? Are you alright-“

“Alright? Oh, of course I am! Why wouldn’t I be?!” She half mumbled, half shouted through her hands. The dragon leaned slightly forward, reaching out to her.

His Lady stood up and bolted for the balcony. “Don’t follow me!” She bellowed over her shoulder. Neuvillette was simply left bewildered from the situation.

This wasn’t the first time she had done this. And at this point, the Iudex should have noticed the signs. Flushed face, attempts to hide said face, and the immediate attempt to assure him that she was “all right”.

Embarrassment was a common face on his Lady’s, it seemed.

Shaking his head with a smile, Neuvillette rose from his seat and followed Furina.

He found her staring down at the city, hands grasping the banister, as she listened to the hustle and bustle of the Court. A soft smile was on her face, and though it was still red, no longer was she as red as a tomato.

At the sound of the open door, he saw the woman flinch slightly, looking over her shoulder, before returning to her relaxed demeanor at the sight of him.

“You know, I’m going to be your boss soon. I’d think you should be in the habit of listening to me more often.” She smiled. Neuvillette returned it as he joined her.

“My apologies. I will be sure to keep that in mind for the future. However, right now-“ He leaned in, “-I’m more concerned with you, my Lady.”

Furina drew back, her cheeks once again blooming red. “Urgh- you…!” She tried to turn, but the dragon placed his hand on her cheek, and gently pushed her face towards his.

Once again, she didn’t turn away.

He opened his mouth to say something-

“Argh, you’re such a tease!”

…

“What?”

Furina laughed a haughty laugh as she suddenly placed her hand on her hips, the sudden movement displacing Neuvillette’s hand. “You heard me, Monsieur. Honestly, you seem to be above this sort of thing, and then you suddenly pull this stunt on me!”

“I-“

Holding up a finger to the dragon’s lips, the Lady gave him a look. “Don’t.” He promptly shut up.

“So let’s just make things clear, right here, right now: I like you, Neuvillette. A lot. I- gods, I think I even love you!” She declared, holding out her arms. “That’s how you do this, you know! You tell people how you feel about them, you don’t just make strange, slightly flirty comments and expect things to happen from there!”

The Iudex simply watched, completely bewildered, as Furina continued to rant.

…Is that what I feel towards her? Love? The dragon recalled what he knew of that emotion. Always thinking of that person, being happy while they’re around, and she makes me want to understand humans so much more-

…

Ah.

“…I mean, seriously! Okay, I don’t expect you to have a lot of knowledge about this area, I mean, who would have time to date with your job- And plus, you probably couldn’t anyways, because of your job, again! Honestly, you should-“

“I love you.”

“-really consider- I’m sorry, what?”

Furina cut herself off, staring at Neuvillette. “…Did you just say-“

“I love you.”

The world seemed to fall into silence, waiting for Furina’s response.

“…Oh.” Was all she was able to say, before she sprung towards him, wrapping her arms around the dragon’s shoulders. Letting out a happy laugh, and as Neuvillette arms encircled her waist, they stayed that way, embraced under the stars of the Court.

I could stay like this forever.

After a very long time, the two separated, both suddenly embarrassed by their declarations. At least we weren’t in public.

The dragon cleared his throat, a slight blush on his cheeks. “Well- I- um, should be going… people will wonder why I’ve been here so long-“

“Yes, yes, I agree, so-“

The two shuffled out of the balcony, muttering excuse after excuse. Once they neared the door, Neuvillette began to open it and head out, but not before Furina grabbed his hand and gave it a squeeze.

Softly, he smiled at her, squeezing her hand back, before leaving, closing the door behind him.

The woman stood there for a few moments, a big dopey smile on her face.

Did that really just happen?

She was practically floating all the way back to the balcony, and as she reached the banister, a breathy sigh escaped her.

Looking over the Court once again, she layed her head on the banister, that same smile on her face.

“And so, the prodigal daughter returns.”

The lady flinched once again, and slowly turned around.

That voice…

And she met face to face with eyes she hoped to never see again.

A moment of silence passed between them.

Then a blade went swinging towards Furina’s throat.

Chapter Text

A sudden clang echoes through the night, and Arleccinno’s eyebrows rose at the sight of Furina Focalors, welding a sword, blocking her attack.

“So, you know your way around a sword. That makes my job much harder.” She hummed.

The woman’s eyes bore into her own, and the Harbinger could feel the fear emanating from her. And despite that, she fights still? I suppose Egaria saw something in her in the first place to make her choose Focalors as her successor in the first place.

“What are you doing here? I could call the Guardes.” The lady threatened, her hands shaking as she continued to push against The Knave’s scythe with her weapon.

Adruptly, Arleccinno withdrew, and the blue-clad woman stumbled slightly at the loss of pressure. Finding her footing again, she held up her blade, blocking any potential attack.

“I won’t attack again like that, so you can put the sword down.”

Focalors scoffed. “As if I’d belive that.”

The Knave’s head tilted as she studied the blue-haired woman. “Fair enough.” The two continued their stare-off, until the monochrome woman sighed, folding her arms and leaning against the doorway.

“So.” She started. “You are indeed Lady Focalors. Congratulations on your return.”

“Thank you.” Her grip on her sword tightened.

“And now,” Arleccinno continued, “I am to complete my mission.” She took a step forward, and the lady flinched and once again pointed her sword towards the Harbinger.

“However.” She continued, looking down to the slightly trembling woman, “I can’t help but be curious about you.” Placing a clawed finger to her chin, the Knave smiled, one that made the blue haired woman shiver.

“Curious? About me? What for?” Despite the clear fear in her, the lady was able to speak without a single stutter. The Harbinger raised her eyebrows.

“Why, everything. Would you like an example?”

The monochrome woman began to circle Focalors. “You’re one of the last of a generation of Fontanians. Well, no. That’s not quite right, is it? You’re an oceanid.”

“I’m human.”

“Now.” The Knave countered. “Shall I keep going, or do you get the picture, Lady Focalors-“

“Furina.”

“…Fine, Furina. But my question still stands.”

“…None of that explains why you’re here.” Focalors- Furina insisted.

“Oh.” Arleccinno said plainly, stopping right in front of the banister. “I’m here to kill you.”

At that, the lady immediately got into a proper fighting position, her sword flashing in the moonlight as it was pointed at the monochrome woman. “What?”

“You have a lovely blade, by the way. Certainly matches you.”

“Why are you here to kill me?” Furina questioned, eyes narrowing as her grip tightened yet further on her weapon.

“You’re going to hurt your hands if you keep tightening your grip like that, you know.”

“Answer the question!”

Arleccinno sighed as she tossed one of her hands out of their crossed position. “Fine, fine.” Leaning on the banister, she stares at the blue haired lady as she backed herself into the wall.

“Of all the Archons still present today, the Tsaritsa is the most loyal to the Heavenly Principles. As the Hydro Archon’s closest confidant and successor, I’m sure you know all about them, correct?” The Knave said.

Furina bristled at the mention of the 1st Descender. “Of course.”

“Then, you will understand why, when she discovered that the prophecy bestowed onto Fontaine had not been… completed, she decided to take matters into her own hands.”

The lady blinked. “What does this have to do with me?” Arleccinno gave her a look.

“My Lady, you are the reason the prophecy didn’t entirely come true. The Tsaritsa ordered me, as I have dominion in Fontaine, to fix things as I see fit. And we both agree…”

The Harbinger tilted her head slightly as she gazed at Furina. “That involves your death. The death of Lady Focalors.”

“…”

The blue clad woman could only stare at the monochrome one with a strange expression.

“And so-“

Suddenly, the Knave revealed her scythe, and once again swung it towards the woman. This time, however, she was ready for the attack, and dodged out of the way.

Seeing that Arleccinno was no longer interested in talking, using her elemental power, Furina summoned a large hydro entity.

The Harbinger’s eyebrows raised, but she didn’t speak as she dodged the lady’s attacks. Jumping onto the banister, she swung her scythe, blocking any attacks even she couldn’t quite dodge.

Aside from the sounds of their attacks, the two women were completely silent, one in indifference and the other in complete concentration.

On the one hand, it was probably not a good thing that no one had come to help Furina. On the other, the last thing she wanted was for everyone to know that she had become entangled (against her will, yes, but all the same) with the Fatui.

And Furina had grown since her last encounter with the Fatui. Where fate had helped her overcome the battle.

This time, she was all alone.

And though her body quivered, though she flinched at every movement, though she was… still her, she somehow felt that everything would work out.

Somehow.

But right now, she needed to focus, and-

One of the lady’s ears was nearly sliced off as she was half thinking, and Furina quickly dodged the attack just in time, but still far too close for comfort.

Whoops.

Quickly taking in a breath, she cast a glance to the Singer of Many Waters (hmm, was that too long of a name? She’ll think about that later). If she was out, then Furina’s injuries would constantly heal, and there was no way she would be able to land a blow on Arleccinno.

In other words, a stalemate.

The Harbinger seemed to come to that conclusion as well, as she held her scythe out towards the lady, but didn’t move it any further.

“It seems we’re going nowhere with this.” The other nodded. “It seems so.” The monochrome woman’s gaze shifted to the Vision on Furina’s hip.

Faster than she could think, the Knave’s weapon swiped the Vision from Furina. Stunned, the blue haired woman watched as her Vision fell into the other’s hands. As soon as it fell out of her hands, the Singer of Many Waters disappeared.

“Wha-“

Arleccinno smiled. “There. Now we’re getting somewhere.”

“What- hey, wait-“

The Harbinger’s scythe began to swing towards Furina once again, but the lady’s blue blade was able to block the incomeing attack.

“I- I said wait-!”

Ignoring her pleas, the Knave continued her line of attack, causing the lady to have to stumble back into her room, the monochrome woman following her with continued barrages of attacks.

Furina found herself breathing heavily as she exhausted herself in her attempts to protect herself.

Not only that, but she was stretching her mind, trying to figure out a way out of this. Without her Vision, she certainly couldn’t survive for long, not against a Habringer.

So, that left her having to use not her blade, but her voice against Arleccinno.

Pondering her options, she continued to weave her way through the room, the sounds of their weapons making contact reverberating through.

Urgh, what can I do… Think, Furina! There has to be a way…

…

!

As she found herself pressed against a door, the lady took in a deep breath, preparing herself both physically and mentally.

Reaching into her chest, she once again removed the Gnosis and turned to her attacker-

Just as the blade came swinging down.