Day 9

Miles away, across the frozen sea of Winter's  Pool, Furina sat alone in a lavishly decorated room, the glow of a single candle casting long shadows across the walls. The Hearth's estate was no less festive than Neuvillette's residence; garlands of holly adorned every banister, and the faint sound of carolers drifted through the halls. But to Furina, it was a hollow celebration.

She sat on the edge of the bed, her hands clutching the silver bracelet Arlecchino had gifted her the night before. The sapphires sparkled in the dim light, but the weight of the bracelet felt like a shackle around her wrist.

Furina had not left her room in days, and the confines of her gilded prison felt smaller with each passing hour. The walls, despite their elegance, seemed to press in on her. The bed, though luxurious with its silk sheets and feathered pillows, offered no comfort. She sat on its edge, still dressed in the blue gown Arlecchino had ordered for her. Its hem pooled around her feet, the silver embroidery catching the pale light from the window.

Her hands trembled slightly as she clutched the velvet ribbon tied around her wrist—a reminder of her status here. It wasn't a restraint in the traditional sense, but it might as well have been. The ribbon was Arlecchino's way of marking her territory, a quiet, possessive statement that Furina found both humiliating and terrifying.

She stood abruptly, the soft swish of fabric the only sound in the room. Her bare feet met the cold marble as she crossed to the window. The courtyard below was alive with activity. Fatui agents moved in disciplined formations, their black and crimson uniforms stark against the white snow. And at the center of it all stood Arlecchino, her dark coat billowing slightly in the wind, her gloved hands clasped behind her back.

Furina's breath hitched as her eyes lingered on the Harbinger. There was a cold elegance to Arlecchino, a dangerous allure that made it impossible to look away. She exuded control, every movement calculated, every glance piercing.

"Why am I here?" Furina whispered to herself, her voice trembling.

Her reflection in the glass stared back at her, pale and fragile. She had never felt so powerless, so small.

The knock at her door was sharp and sudden, breaking her thoughts. Furina flinched, her heart leaping to her throat.

"Come in," she managed to say, her voice barely audible.

The door opened to reveal Lyney, his ever-present smirk in place, and Lynette standing just behind him, her expression unreadable.

"Good evening, Lady Furina," Lyney greeted, his tone light and mocking. "Father has sent us to deliver an invitation."

Furina frowned. "An invitation?"

"For tonight's Christmas celebration," Lyney said, holding out a neatly folded parchment sealed with crimson wax. "It would be quite rude to decline."

Furina hesitated, her fingers hovering over the parchment. She knew better than to think this was optional. Arlecchino didn't ask; she demanded.

"She'll be expecting you," Lynette added softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Furina took the parchment, her hands trembling slightly. "Fine," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

Lyney's smirk widened. "Wonderful. Do try to dress the part. Father has a taste for... presentation."

.......

The grand hall of the Hearth's estate was a stark contrast to the cold, unwelcoming aura of its usual days. Tonight, it was adorned with the trappings of the season. Evergreen garlands hung from the walls, their leaves dusted with glittering frost. A massive tree stood in one corner, its branches heavy with ornaments of gold and crimson. Candlelight flickered in crystal holders, casting a warm glow that softened the edges of the room.

Furina entered the dining hall with an air of reluctance, her steps hesitant as though each one carried the weight of her unease. She felt every gaze in the room shift toward her, every Fatui agent's eyes lingering just a second too long. Her throat tightened, and she forced herself to keep walking, even as her knees threatened to buckle.

Her hair, short and softly framing her delicate features, was left loose for the evening. It shimmered faintly under the warm glow of the chandeliers, its silken texture catching the light. The decision to leave it down was unusual for her; it felt too casual, too vulnerable, but it was all she could muster in her current state.

Her gown, however, was anything but simple. It was a masterpiece of Fontaine's finest craftsmanship, tailored to perfection yet draped with a fragility that mirrored her state of mind. The dress was a deep, oceanic blue, its fabric glistening as though woven with the essence of water itself. It clung to her figure in soft, flowing waves, cinching slightly at the waist before cascading down to the floor in layers of gauzy, translucent fabric that resembled seafoam at the hem. Tiny sapphire embellishments were scattered across the bodice like droplets of water, catching the light with every hesitant movement she made.

The neckline was modest but elegant, lined with intricate silver embroidery depicting flowing currents and tiny waves. The sleeves were sheer, made of delicate lace that gave the impression of mist clinging to her skin. Around her neck rested a thin silver chain with a single blue gemstone, faintly glowing with a soft light—perhaps a leftover symbol of the power she once wielded.

As Furina moved through the hall, her dress whispered against the polished marble floor, but the sound felt deafening in the silence of the room.

At the far end of the table, Arlecchino sat, her crimson eyes immediately locking onto Furina as she entered. The Harbinger's expression was an unreadable mask at first, her gaze slowly and deliberately taking in every detail of Furina's appearance.

Arlecchino's usual smirk curled at the corner of her lips, but her eyes betrayed something more—a flicker of something darker, deeper. It wasn't admiration, not in the conventional sense; it was the satisfaction of seeing something beautiful that could so easily be broken.

She leaned back in her chair, her arms draped over the armrests with a casual confidence that only made her presence more intimidating. Her own attire was sharp and striking—a black, high-collared suit with crimson accents that matched her eyes, tailored to perfection. A subtle silver chain hung across her chest, and the cuffs of her sleeves were embroidered with faint, almost imperceptible patterns of knives and flames. Her gloves, always pristine, were a stark contrast to the warmth of the room, emphasizing her cold, calculating nature.

Her gaze lingered on Furina's hair for a moment, taking in the way it framed her face and exposed the vulnerable lines of her neck. Then her eyes traveled down to the dress, the faint glimmer of its fabric reflecting in her pupils. There was no mistaking the way her gaze lingered, predatory and assessing, as though Furina were a prize she had already claimed.

At the head of the room stood Arlecchino, her commanding presence impossible to ignore. She wore a sharply tailored black suit, its crimson accents perfectly complementing her dark hair. A faint smile played on her lips as she watched Furina approach.

Well, look at you," Arlecchino finally drawled, her voice cutting through the tense silence like a blade. "You're almost unrecognizable. If I didn't know better, I'd think Fontaine's little songbird was trying to impress me."

Furina stiffened at the remark, her cheeks flushing a deep red. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides, the delicate lace of her sleeves trembling slightly as she fought to maintain her composure.

Arlecchino's smirk deepened, her crimson eyes gleaming with amusement as she watched the Archon's discomfort. There was a cruel delight in the way she leaned forward slightly, resting her chin on one gloved hand as though savoring the moment. "What's the matter?" she teased. "Cat got your tongue? Or are you just too stunned by the company you keep these days?"

Furina's gaze dropped to the floor, her short hair falling forward to shield her face as her breathing grew unsteady. She had no retort, no witty comeback to mask the turmoil Arlecchino's words stirred within her.

Arlecchino's smirk softened ever so slightly as she straightened in her seat, the predatory glint in her eyes giving way to something more contemplative. For a brief moment, it seemed as though she might say something else, something less biting. But instead, she leaned back in her chair once more, lifting a glass of crimson wine to her lips with practiced ease.

"You're late," Arlecchino said, her voice low but carrying easily across the room.

Furina stopped a few feet away, her hands clenching the fabric of her gown. "I didn't realize punctuality was a requirement for captivity," she shot back, though her voice lacked its usual fire.

Arlecchino's smile widened, but her eyes were sharp. "Everything I request is a requirement, dear Archon. But it is Christmas, so I'll overlook your tardiness... this once."

The evening passed in a haze for Furina. She barely touched the food laid out on the banquet table, and the laughter and music around her felt distant, almost unreal. Arlecchino, however, seemed to be in her element. She moved through the room with ease, her presence commanding attention wherever she went.

Furina's discomfort only grew as the evening wore on. She felt like a fragile ornament, placed on display for Arlecchino's amusement.

As the festivities began to wind down, Furina found herself cornered near one of the grand windows. She had been trying to slip away unnoticed, but Arlecchino was nothing if not attentive.

"You look uncomfortable," Arlecchino said, her voice smooth as silk.

Furina turned sharply, her breath catching as she realized how close the Harbinger was. "I... I'm fine," she stammered, taking a step back.

Arlecchino chuckled softly, closing the distance between them. "You're a terrible liar, Furina."

Furina opened her mouth to protest, but Arlecchino reached into her coat pocket and pulled out a small, intricately wrapped box. She held it out, her crimson eyes glinting with amusement.

"Merry Christmas," she said simply.

Furina hesitated, her eyes darting between the box and Arlecchino's face. "What... what is this?"

"A gift," Arlecchino replied. "It's customary to exchange them during this season, is it not?"

Furina reluctantly took the box, her fingers brushing against Arlecchino's gloved hand. She quickly pulled away, her cheeks flushing. Carefully, she unwrapped the box, revealing a delicate silver bracelet inlaid with tiny sapphires.

"I don't understand," Furina said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Consider it a token," Arlecchino said, leaning in close. "A reminder of your place here."

Furina's heart raced as Arlecchino's proximity overwhelmed her senses. The Harbinger's breath was warm against her ear, and Furina felt her knees threaten to buckle.

"I... I should go," she managed to say, clutching the bracelet tightly.

Arlecchino straightened, her smirk returning. "Of course. Sweet dreams, Furina."

Later that night, unable to sleep, Furina wandered the halls of the estate. The bracelet dangled loosely around her wrist, its weight a constant reminder of her earlier encounter with Arlecchino.

The halls were quiet, save for the occasional crackle of a distant fire. Furina's bare feet made no sound against the marble floors as she explored, her heart pounding with every shadow that seemed to move.

She turned a corner and froze, her breath catching as she overheard voices coming from a nearby room. Pressing herself against the wall, she inched closer, straining to hear.

"It's all in place," Lyney was saying, his voice low and conspiratorial. "The guard we tipped off has already passed the information to The Chief Justice."

"And he believed it?" Lynette asked, her tone quiet but firm.

"Of course," Lyney replied. "It's a convincing lead. By the time he realizes it's a trap, it'll be too late."

Furina's heart sank as the weight of their words settled over her. They were deliberately misleading Neuvillette, sending him into danger.

Before she could process further, another voice joined the conversation, this one colder and more authoritative.

"Are you three still scheming?"

Furina's blood ran cold as Arlecchino's voice cut through the air.

"We were just finalizing the details," Lyney said smoothly.

"Good," Arlecchino replied. "I want no mistakes. And remember, failure is not an option."

Furina pressed herself further into the shadows as the group began to disperse. She held her breath, praying they wouldn't notice her.

Once the others had left, Furina remained frozen in place, her mind racing. She needed to warn Neuvillette, but she had no idea how to escape.

"Eavesdropping, are we?"

The voice made her jump, and she turned to see Arlecchino standing just a few feet away, her crimson eyes locked onto her with a predatory glint.

"I... I wasn't," Furina stammered, backing away.

Arlecchino advanced slowly, her movements deliberate. "You're a terrible liar, Furina."

"I wasn't doing anything!" Furina protested, her voice trembling.

Arlecchino stopped in front of her, leaning down until their faces were inches apart. "Careful, little Archon. You're playing a dangerous game."

Furina's breath hitched as Arlecchino's hand brushed against her cheek, her touch surprisingly gentle.

"Remember," Arlecchino said softly, her voice almost a whisper. "You're mine now."

Furina shivered, her fear and helplessness threatening to overwhelm her.

"But, though do enjoy the evening, Furina," she said, her tone smooth and almost dismissive, though the words carried an edge of warning. "It might be the last bit of civility you'll see for a while."

As Furina took a glance at her as she looked away, she could feel the weight of Arlecchino's gaze on her, lingering like a shadow. The room seemed colder with every passing moment, the warmth of the holiday feast suffocated by the tension that hung between them. Furina began to walk away, feeling the sharp gaze upon her as she closed the door behind her,walking into the unfamiliar house.

....

Back in Fontaine, the snowfall had turned into a light flurry, and the city was alive with the glow of lanterns and the sound of carolers. Neuvillette stood at the window of their sitting room, his arms crossed as he watched the snow drift lazily to the ground.

Wriothesley approached him from behind, wrapping an arm around his waist. "Penny for your thoughts?"

Neuvillette leaned into the embrace, his gaze distant. "I was just thinking about how different this Christmas feels. Even with all the joy around us, there's a part of me that feels incomplete."

Wriothesley pressed a kiss to Neuvillette's temple. "We'll bring her back. I promise you."

Sigewinne appeared at the doorway, holding a plate of cookies. "Come on, Papa! We still have to leave out cookies and milk for Santa!"

Neuvillette turned, his expression softening as he looked at her. "Of course, my dear. Let's do that."

As the family gathered around the fireplace to prepare for the morning, the warmth of their love and hope carried them through the coldest of nights.

From the towering windows of Neuvillette's private residence, the warm glow of flickering candlelight spilled out, a stark contrast to the chill outside.

Inside the residence, a roaring fire crackled in the hearth, casting long shadows across the room. The smell of freshly baked pastries wafted through the air, mingling with the faint aroma of pine from the carefully decorated Christmas tree that stood proudly in the corner.

Neuvillette sat at his desk, his posture rigid as he stared at a collection of papers spread before him. His pale fingers traced the edges of one parchment absently, but his mind was elsewhere. It was the third day of Furina's disappearance, and the weight of her absence bore down on him like an unrelenting tide.

"You're supposed to be relaxing."

The deep, familiar voice pulled him from his thoughts, and Neuvillette glanced up to see Wriothesley standing in the doorway. The Duke of the Fortress of Meropide was dressed in a dark sweater, his usual stern demeanor softened by the faintest of smiles. Behind him stood Sigewinne, their adopted daughter, holding a tray with three steaming mugs of hot cocoa.

"I made this for you, papa!" Sigewinne chirped, her small horns bobbing as she walked over to him.

Neuvillette offered her a faint smile, accepting the mug she handed him. "Thank you, Sigewinne. It smells wonderful."

Wriothesley closed the distance between them, setting a hand on Neuvillette's shoulder. "Come on, love. It's Christmas Eve. If you keep drowning in work, you'll miss all the joy this season brings."

Neuvillette sighed, leaning into Wriothesley's touch. "It's difficult to feel joy when Furina is still missing. Every lead we've followed has brought us no closer to finding her."

"Worrying won't bring her back any faster," Wriothesley said gently. "You've done everything you can for today. Let it rest for tonight, for Sigewinne's sake if not for your own."

Sigewinne tugged at Neuvillette's sleeve, her wide eyes brimming with concern. "Papa, you promised we'd decorate cookies together. Please?"

Neuvillette's resolve wavered as he looked between his husband and their daughter. Finally, he nodded, setting the mug aside. "Very well. Let's decorate some cookies."

The kitchen was alive with activity as the small family gathered around the counter. A tray of freshly baked sugar cookies lay in the center, surrounded by bowls of icing in every color imaginable. Sigewinne's enthusiasm was infectious as she carefully selected a cookie in the shape of a star and began applying bright yellow icing to its edges.

Wriothesley stood beside Neuvillette, his hands deftly icing a cookie shaped like a snowflake. "You're awfully quiet tonight," he remarked, glancing at Neuvillette.

"I suppose I'm simply... reflecting," Neuvillette admitted, his voice soft. "The holidays always remind me of the importance of family, and yet, this year, I feel as though I've failed someone dear to me."

"You haven't failed her," Wriothesley said firmly. "Furina may be difficult, but she's resourceful. She'll survive this, and so will you."

Neuvillette nodded, though his expression remained clouded. He picked up a cookie shaped like a crescent moon and began icing it with a steady hand.

Sigewinne piped up, her voice cheerful. "Papa, can you make one for Furina? When she comes back, she'll want to see we saved her some!"

The simple suggestion brought a flicker of hope to Neuvillette's heart. "Yes," he said, his lips curving into a faint smile. "I'll make one for her."

As the family worked together, the weight of their worries seemed to lift, if only for a while. The warmth of their love filled the room, driving away the cold that lingered beyond the walls.

....

Meanwhile, miles away, Furina sat alone in a lavishly decorated room, the glow of a single candle casting long shadows across the walls. The Hearth's estate was no less festive than Neuvillette's residence; garlands of holly adorned every banister, and the faint sound of carolers drifted through the halls. But to Furina, it was a hollow celebration.

She sat on the edge of the bed, her hands clutching the silver bracelet Arlecchino had gifted her the night before. The sapphires sparkled in the dim light, but the weight of the bracelet felt like a shackle around her wrist.

A soft knock at the door startled her, and before she could respond, the door creaked open to reveal Arlecchino. The Knave stepped inside, her dark coat trailing behind her like a shadow.

"You left in the middle of the dinner..," Arlecchino remarked, her tone neutral but her eyes sharp.

"I wasn't hungry..," Furina replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Arlecchino crossed the room, her boots clicking softly against the marble floor. She stopped in front of Furina, her gaze piercing. "You're missing out on quite the celebration. It's not every day one gets to spend Christmas with the Fatui."

Furina looked away, her grip on the bracelet tightening. "Why are you doing this?" she asked, her voice trembling. "What do you want from me?"

Arlecchino crouched down so they were eye level, a faint smile playing on her lips. "What I want," she said, her voice low and dangerous, "is for you to remember who holds the power here."

Furina's breath hitched as Arlecchino reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "But it's Christmas," Arlecchino continued, her tone softening. "Even I can't ignore the spirit of the season."

She reached into her coat and pulled out a small velvet box, holding it out to Furina. "A second gift. Open it."

Furina hesitated, her fingers trembling as she took the box. Inside was a delicate necklace, its pendant a teardrop-shaped sapphire that matched the bracelet.

"I... I don't understand," Furina stammered.

Arlecchino smirked, rising to her feet. "Consider it a reminder, dear Archon, of how generous I can be. But don't mistake kindness for weakness."

Furina's heart raced as Arlecchino turned and left the room, leaving her alone once more.

.......

The mansion was eerily quiet the morning after Christmas, the festive air long dissipated. Furina had spent the night tossing and turning, her mind replaying Arlecchino's taunts and probing words during the feast. The delicate trinket Arlecchino had gifted her—a silver bracelet with a single blue gem—sat untouched on the vanity. It felt like a chain rather than a gift, a constant reminder of the Knave's grip over her.

Furina stirred awake, the faint glow of the morning sun filtering through the heavy curtains of the room. Her body felt heavy, weighed down by exhaustion and an overwhelming sense of dread. The silk sheets of the bed clung to her skin, a stark contrast to the suffocating atmosphere of the mansion. Every corner of this place reminded her that she was no longer in control, no longer the Hydro Archon who commanded respect and authority. Instead, she was a captive in a gilded cage, her every move shadowed by those who sought to unravel her secrets.

Draped in a loose ivory gown, Furina paced her room, her bare feet brushing the cold hardwood floor. Her hands fidgeted at her sides as she muttered to herself, trying to make sense of the fragments of her situation. The threads of Arlecchino's plans were still tangled in her mind.

Furina stirred awake, the faint glow of the morning sun filtering through the heavy curtains of the room. Her body felt heavy, weighed down by exhaustion and an overwhelming sense of dread. The silk sheets of the bed clung to her skin, a stark contrast to the suffocating atmosphere of the mansion. Every corner of this place reminded her that she was no longer in control, no longer the Hydro Archon who commanded respect and authority. Instead, she was a captive in a gilded cage, her every move shadowed by those who sought to unravel her secrets.

She sat up slowly, her fingers trembling as she brushed her disheveled hair out of her face. The room was opulent, with deep red walls and dark wooden furniture that exuded an air of power and wealth. Yet it felt more like a prison than a sanctuary. The faint aroma of expensive incense lingered in the air, mingling with the metallic tang of her anxiety.

Sliding off the bed, Furina moved cautiously, her bare feet sinking into the plush carpet as she crossed the room. She approached the window, hesitating for a moment before pulling back the heavy curtains. The view outside offered little comfort—a sprawling courtyard flanked by high walls, patrolled by Fatui agents whose cold stares sent a shiver down her spine. Freedom felt like a distant dream, one she wasn't sure she'd ever wake up to.

As she turned away from the window, the sound of the door opening startled her. She froze, her heart pounding as Arlecchino stepped into the room. The Knave was dressed impeccably, her crimson coat billowing slightly as she moved with an air of effortless confidence. Her crimson eyes locked onto Furina, a predatory smile curling her lips.

"Good morning, Furina," Arlecchino said smoothly, her voice dripping with mockery. "I trust you slept well?"

Furina's throat tightened, but she forced herself to speak. "What do you want?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Arlecchino chuckled softly, taking a few steps closer. "What do I want? Such a broad question," she mused, tilting her head. "But for now, I simply want your cooperation. Is that too much to ask?"

Furina took a step back, her back pressing against the wall as Arlecchino closed the distance between them. "I've told you everything I know," she said defensively, her voice trembling. "There's nothing else."

Arlecchino's smile widened, a dangerous glint in her eyes. "Oh, I think there's plenty more you're not telling me," she said, her tone turning cold. "But don't worry, we have all the time in the world to get to the truth."

Before Furina could respond, Arlecchino reached out, her gloved hand brushing a stray strand of hair from Furina's face. The gesture was disarmingly gentle, but the intensity of Arlecchino's gaze made Furina's blood run cold. "You're quite the enigma, you know," Arlecchino murmured, her voice low. "Such power, yet so fragile. It's almost... endearing."

Furina recoiled slightly, her cheeks flushing with a mix of fear and indignation. "Don't touch me," she said, her voice cracking.

Arlecchino laughed softly, withdrawing her hand but not stepping back. "Still feisty, I see," she said, her amusement evident. "Good. I'd hate for this to get boring."

The tension in the room was palpable, the air thick with unspoken words and unrelenting dread. Furina's mind raced, desperate to find a way out of this nightmare. But before she could dwell on her predicament further, a knock at the door broke the silence.

"Enter," Arlecchino called, her tone sharp.

The door opened, and Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet stepped inside. The siblings moved with practiced ease, their expressions carefully neutral as they approached. Lyney's usual charm was subdued, replaced by a seriousness that made Furina's stomach churn.

"We have news, Father" Lyney said, his voice steady. "The false lead has been planted. The guards are scrambling to investigate the location as we speak."

Arlecchino's smile widened, a look of satisfaction crossing her face. "Excellent," she said, nodding approvingly. "And Neuvillette? Has he taken the bait?"

Lynette stepped forward, her quiet voice cutting through the tension. "Yes. He and Wriothesley were seen leaving Fontaine Palace earlier this morning. If all goes according to plan, they'll waste valuable time chasing shadows."

Arlecchino's gaze shifted to Freminet, who stood silently at the back of the group. "And you?" she asked, her tone expectant.

Freminet hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Everything is in place," he said quietly. "There won't be any loose ends."

"Good," Arlecchino said, her tone final. "You've done well."

The siblings exchanged brief glances before bowing their heads and leaving the room. As the door closed behind them, Arlecchino turned her attention back to Furina, who stood frozen in place.

"See?" Arlecchino said, her tone almost playful. "Everything is falling into place. Soon, we'll have everything we need."

Furina's heart sank, her mind racing with thoughts of Neuvillette and Wriothesley walking into a trap. She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she fought back the tears threatening to spill.

Arlecchino seemed to sense her turmoil, her smile softening slightly. "Don't worry, Furina," she said, her voice deceptively gentle. "You're safe here. As long as you behave."

Furina didn't respond, her gaze fixed on the floor as Arlecchino stepped closer. The Harbinger reached out, lifting Furina's chin with her gloved hand. "You're stronger than you think," she said softly. "But strength means nothing if you don't use it."

Furina swallowed hard, her throat dry. "Why are you doing this?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Arlecchino's smile faded, replaced by a cold, calculating expression. "Because I can," she said simply. "And because you have something I need."

Before Furina could respond, Arlecchino stepped back, her commanding presence filling the room. "Rest for now," she said, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You'll need your strength for what's to come."

As Arlecchino turned and left the room, Furina sank to the floor, her body trembling with a mix of fear and frustration. She hugged her knees to her chest, the weight of her situation pressing down on her like a crushing tide.

......

Meanwhile, back in Fontaine, Neuvillette sat in his office, his hands clasped tightly on the desk as he stared at the pile of reports before him. The false lead had been a devastating setback, one that had left him questioning everything. Wriothesley stood nearby, his arms crossed as he watched Neuvillette with concern.

"We'll find her," Wriothesley said firmly, his voice cutting through the silence. "We just need to keep looking."

Neuvillette sighed, his shoulders slumping. "I should have seen it coming," he said quietly. "I should have known it was a trap."

Wriothesley moved closer, placing a reassuring hand on Neuvillette's shoulder. "You're not alone in this," he said gently. "We'll bring her home."

Neuvillette looked up at him, his pale eyes filled with worry. "I just hope we're not too late," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Wriothesley squeezed his shoulder, his grip firm. "We won't be," he said confidently. "We'll do whatever it takes."

As the rain continued to fall outside, the two men shared a moment of quiet determination, their resolve unwavering despite the challenges ahead.

.....

The mansion was eerily quiet the morning after Christmas, the festive air long dissipated. Furina had spent the night tossing and turning, her mind replaying Arlecchino's taunts and probing words during the feast. The delicate trinket Arlecchino had gifted her—a silver bracelet with a single blue gem—sat untouched on the vanity. It felt like a chain rather than a gift, a constant reminder of the Knave's grip over her.

Draped in a loose ivory gown, Furina paced her room, her bare feet brushing the cold hardwood floor. Her hands fidgeted at her sides as she muttered to herself, trying to make sense of the fragments of her situation. The threads of Arlecchino's plans were still tangled in her mind.

Furina was alone in her room, her mind racing with thoughts of escape. She knew she couldn't stay here forever, but the weight of Arlecchino's words lingered in her mind. Strength means nothing if you don't use it.

She stood slowly, her hands clenched into fists as she made her way to the window. The courtyard below was bustling with activity, Fatui agents moving about with military precision. Furina's heart sank at the sight, but she forced herself to focus. She needed a plan, and she needed it fast.

As the door creaked open behind her, she turned quickly, her breath catching in her throat as she saw who it was. Arlecchino stepped inside, her crimson coat billowing slightly as she closed the door behind her. Her gaze locked onto Furina, a predatory smile curling her lips.

"Planning your escape, are we?" Arlecchino said, her tone laced with amusement.

Furina swallowed hard, her pulse racing. "I... I was just—"

"Save it," Arlecchino interrupted, her voice sharp. "You're not going anywhere, little Archon. Not until I say so."

Furina's hands trembled, but she refused to back down. "You can't keep me here forever," she said, her voice cracking slightly.

Arlecchino chuckled softly, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Oh, I think you'll find I can," she said, her tone cold. "But let's not dwell on the situation .... I trust you've had plenty of time to sulk after your dramatic little exit yesterday."

Furina tensed, her jaw clenching. "What do you want?" she snapped, her voice harsher than she intended.

Arlecchino's smirk deepened. "Straight to the point today, aren't we? I came to see how you were holding up after such an emotional evening."

Furina's fingers curled into fists at her sides, her eyes narrowing. "I don't need your pity or your concern," she spat. "Why don't you just leave me alone?"

Arlecchino chuckled, the sound low and mocking. "Oh, but I can't do that," she said smoothly, stepping closer. "You're far too important to my plans, Furina. And besides..." Her gaze flicked over Furina's trembling form. "I quite enjoy our little chats."

Furina recoiled as Arlecchino stepped into her space, her breath hitching. "I don't enjoy them," she shot back, her voice shaking.

Arlecchino raised an eyebrow, her expression turning more predatory. "No?" she said, her tone light but dangerous. "Then why don't you tell me what's really bothering you, hm? Is it your guilt? Your fear? Or perhaps..." She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "You're just afraid you'll never measure up to what you once were."

The words struck a nerve, and something inside Furina snapped. Without thinking, her hand shot out, and the sharp crack of her palm meeting Arlecchino's cheek echoed through the room. The force of the slap left her own hand stinging, and she stared in shock at what she had just done.

Arlecchino's head had turned slightly from the impact, her hair falling over one eye. For a moment, there was silence, the weight of Furina's actions hanging heavy in the air. Then, slowly, Arlecchino turned her head back, her crimson eyes locking onto Furina with an intensity that made the Hydro Archon's blood run cold.

"Well," Arlecchino said softly, her voice laced with venom. "That was... bold."

Furina took a step back, her breath coming in shallow gasps as panic set in. "I-I didn't mean—"

"Didn't mean to?" Arlecchino interrupted, her tone icy. She took a step forward, and Furina instinctively backed away, her legs hitting the edge of the bed. "Oh, but you did. Didn't you, Furina?"

The smile that spread across Arlecchino's face was anything but warm. It was sharp, calculated, and dripping with menace. "You've got fire in you after all," she said, her voice dangerously calm. "I was starting to wonder if the Hydro Archon had any fight left."

Furina's back hit the bed, and she sank onto the mattress, her trembling hands clutching the sheets. "Stay away from me," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Arlecchino tilted her head, her gaze never leaving Furina. "Stay away?" she repeated, her tone mocking. "Oh, my dear Archon, you should know by now... I don't back down from a challenge."

She reached out, her gloved fingers brushing Furina's chin, tilting her face up to meet her gaze. Furina flinched at the contact, but Arlecchino's grip was firm. "I could crush you," Arlecchino murmured, her voice low and menacing. "But where would the fun in that be?"

The door suddenly creaked open, and both women turned to see one of Arlecchino's agents standing in the doorway, their expression unreadable. "Kave..," they said carefully, "the siblings request your presence in the study."

Arlecchino sighed, releasing Furina's chin and stepping back. "Very well," she said curtly. She turned her attention back to Furina, her expression stern and had, something almost angry. "We'll finish this conversation later."

With that, she strode out of the room, leaving Furina alone once more. As the door clicked shut, Furina let out a shaky breath, her body collapsing onto the bed. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. She wouldn't give Arlecchino the satisfaction.

Hours later, Furina found herself wandering the halls of the mansion once more. The tension of the morning lingered in her chest, but she pushed it aside, focusing on her surroundings. She needed to stay alert, to find any clue that might lead to her escape.

The mansion was vast, its labyrinthine corridors lined with ornate tapestries and gilded mirrors. The soft glow of candlelight illuminated the dark wood paneling, casting flickering shadows that seemed to dance with every step she took. Furina's bare feet made no sound on the polished floors, and she moved as quietly as she could, her heart pounding in her chest.

As she turned a corner, voices reached her ears, and she froze, pressing herself against the wall. The familiar tones of Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet carried through the air, their words low but urgent.

"They're getting closer," Lyney said, his voice tinged with frustration. "Neuvillette's guards aren't as easily fooled as we hoped."

Lynette's quiet voice followed. "We need to act quickly. If they find us before we're ready..."

"They won't," Freminet interjected, his tone calm but firm. "Father has everything under control."

Furina's breath caught in her throat. They were talking about Neuvillette and the guards. They were still searching for her, still trying to bring her home. A surge of hope blossomed in her chest, but it was quickly overshadowed by the realization that she couldn't act recklessly. If she was caught eavesdropping...

"Let's go," Lyney said, his voice cutting through her thoughts. "We need to report to Father."

Furina heard their footsteps fade as they walked away, and she let out a shaky breath. She waited a few moments longer before stepping out from her hiding spot, her mind racing. She had to find a way to warn Neuvillette and the others, to let them know the danger they were walking into.

But before she could take another step, a cold voice froze her in place.

"Well, well," Arlecchino drawled, her tone dripping with amusement. "What do we have here?"

Furina turned slowly, her heart sinking as she saw Arlecchino standing at the end of the hallway, her arms crossed and a smirk playing on her lips. "Eavesdropping, are we?" the Harbinger said, her eyes gleaming with a dangerous light.

Furina swallowed hard, her mind racing for an excuse. "I was just... exploring," she said weakly.

Arlecchino's smile widened, and she took a step closer. "Is that so?" she said, her tone mocking. "How curious that you always seem to be in the wrong place at the wrong time."

Furina backed away, her pulse racing as Arlecchino closed the distance between them. The Knave's presence was suffocating, her predatory gaze pinning Furina in place.

"Let me make something very clear," Arlecchino said, her voice low and menacing. "You can wander these halls all you like, but if I catch you sticking your nose where it doesn't belong..." She leaned in close, her breath ghosting over Furina's ear. "You'll regret it."

Furina clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she fought back the tears threatening to spill. She refused to let Arlecchino see her break, even as fear gnawed at her resolve.

"Now," Arlecchino said, straightening and flashing a chilling smile. "Run along, little Archon. I have more important matters to attend to."

Furina didn't need to be told twice. She turned and fled, her heart pounding as she raced back to her room. Once inside, she collapsed onto the bed, her body trembling with a mix of fear and frustration. "I want to go home.." She whispers to herself before the tears in her eyes block her vision, and the sobs of loneliness drown out her thoughts.

—————
HELLO MY LAKE LILLIES!!! I hope you enjoyed the story so far and ty for 2k reads on "Apologies, Miss. Furina" that means so much to me<3!! Thx to LianisTired  for all the support!! And other friends too! This story is going to be longer than usual and hopefully I will have the next book out before the summer brake!!! Well I hope you enjoyed this Christmas/#12 chapter!!!

-Furina De Fontaine~!