𝐹𝑢𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑎

> It appears as though no one is home.❞

The Knave really didn't have to go that far! It's actually completely unnecessary for her to reserve the date. She wouldn't want Arlecchino to feel obligated if she already had other plans. That's definitely the only reason!

After taking a deep breath, she knocked on the door.

❝Oh, well. >

> yesterday!

❝Please make yourself at home.❞

His smile was truly a wonderful sight to see. It warmed her heart.

❝Thank you very much, Neuvi. You know you didn't have to get me anything, right? Would you like to come in?❞

Encouraging the Hydro Dragon to enter, she pulled the door further open. Thank goodness she just cleaned up >

> still had a habit of slipping into her public persona. She's trying to be more honest, though.

❝As ready as I'll ever be. I hope I'm appropriately dressed for the surprise.❞

Happy birthday...? As the gears turned in her head, a slow-dawning realisation crossed her face.

❝Ah, that's why you sent the letter! Thank you for remembering my birthday, Wriothesley. Though I'd expect nothing less since I'm your favourite superstar.❞

Despite the time that had passed, Furina >

> mansion herself to avoid that terrifying scenario. Just a quick visit to express her appreciation, then she'll leave.

Her eyes widened in surprise as she read the invitation, the name at the bottom leaving her utterly speechless. Did the Knave really plan on celebrating her birthday every year? That's... a truly scary thought.

Aware that Arlecchino would come for her if she didn't arrive, she went to the >

> Fortunately, she was able to get dressed for the occasion thanks to Mademoiselle Crabaletta.

Once reaching the intended destination, she took a moment to collect herself before walking to Wriothesley.

❝My apologies. I hope I didn't keep you waiting.❞

After the Salon Solitaire brought the letter over to her, Furi had to wait for it to dry before she could read the message.

❝Oh, it's from Wriothesley. Hmm, let's see... Meet me at the main plaza of the city of Fontaine at... Now?!❞

With a quick glance at the clock, she rushed to get ready. >

> for you?❞

❝Coming!❞

Hearing the knock, the former archon walked over to the door. Now that she's thinking about it, the voice sounded exactly like Neuvi...

After confirming her suspicions, she smiled. Over time, Furina had gotten used to his frequent visits.

❝Good morning, Neuvillette. What can I do >

Why would Arlecchino say that? There's no way she gave off the impression that she wanted to see the Knave more, right? That would be a nightmare!

❝How considerate of you to offer... but you don't have to go through all that trouble. I'm sure your fellow Fatui members wish to celebrate with you.❞

> going out on this day from now on.

... Not again. Is she always going to bump into @thxharlequin.bsky.social on her birthday? Breathe, Furina. Breathe. Despite the current anxiety, she decided to put on a strong front.

❝What a coincidence. Do you always spend this particular day in Fontaine, Knave?❞

If so, she's going to avoid >

Blinks.

> door, she walked into the room and spun around on her heels to face him. Come on, Furina. There's nothing to be worried about.

❝Good morning, Neuvillette. Are you busy? I was hoping you'd accompany me today.

What do you say?❞

It might be an ordinary day for him, but to Furina, it's special. She really wanted to do something memorable.

Since he was unfamiliar with human customs and feelings, the former archon hoped it would help Neuvillette understand them better. He deserves to be appreciated.

After he opened the >

> she's not mistaken, it's his first time visiting.

Furina equally divided the presents between them, wanting to share the load evenly. It wouldn't be fair for him to carry everything.

❝Is everything alright? It's unusual for you to visit the surface.❞

Walking through the streets of Fontaine, she carefully guided him towards her apartment. If >

> express my gratitude at least a little.❞

> plate. Despite it being an informal meeting, she knew the importance of good manners.

❝Thank you, Wriothesley. I truly appreciate your concern.

If that's your preference, I'll be happy to oblige. I can never thank you enough for your help during the flood, but I hope the autograph will >

❝I'm glad to hear that. The Salon Solitaire are always happy to receive guests, so I'm sure they'll be looking forward to your visit. Just make sure Mademoiselle Crabaletta doesn't accidentally cut up your coat.❞

Picking up a napkin, she gently dabbed her mouth before placing it on her empty >

It's his special day, after all. It's the polite thing to do! Besides, it's no trouble at all.

❝It must be difficult to find peace and quiet in the Fortress. I imagine it's quite lively inside.❞

After pouring the liquid into the teacup, she placed it in front of him.

❝Yes, you can. I'd like to apologise for interrupting you, but this is for you. Please enjoy it.❞

Clearing her throat, the former archon raised the cake box. Hopefully, he'd like the sweet treat.

... Now that she's thinking about it, she should have asked his favourite flavour first.

> notice.

❝This is sufficient enough, yes?❞

That's open to interpretation. From Furina's perspective, the door is open wide enough.

❝... That's very kind of you, but I'd say that the Tsaritsa is your beloved archon now. I wasn't expecting anything.❞

She hesitantly granted the Knave's request, but she was ready to close it at a moment's >

It wouldn't surprise her if Arlecchino did take lives for fun... She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but the Knave seemed like a wolf in sheep's clothing.

❝I'm sure you value your alone time, after all.❞

> Lyney, Lynette and Freminet.❞

❝They're my acquaintances. Members from the theatrical troupe, in fact. We were just discussing their performance.❞

Clearly pleased with her acting, Furina crossed her arms over her chest. She'd like to see the Knave refute that!

❝In any case, I'll take my leave so you can enjoy yourself with >