-

Fontaine's streets glittered under the soft glow of lanterns as Furina and Yoshika strolled through its winding pathways. The city seemed to hum with life, its canals reflecting the vibrant energy of its people. Furina led the way, her steps light, her voice animated as she spoke of Fontaine's beauty.

"This, my dear Yoshika, is the Place des Fontaines," Furina said, gesturing dramatically to a grand plaza with cascading fountains. "The heart of Fontaine, where art and culture thrive!"

Yoshika's dark pink eyes scanned the scene, her expression unreadable. "It's... lively."

"Lively?" Furina huffed, placing a hand on her hip. "That's all you have to say? This place is a masterpiece!"

Yoshika's lips quirked into a faint smile. "It's different from Snezhnaya, that's for sure. Less ice, more water."

Furina chuckled, her dramatic demeanor softening. "That's one way to put it. Come, there's more to see."

They wandered through the artisan district, where craftsmen displayed their wares-delicate jewelry, intricate automata, and vibrant paintings. Yoshika paused before a stall showcasing beautifully carved wooden flowers.

"These remind me of the gardens back home," Yoshika murmured, her fingers lightly brushing a golden-pink bloom.

Furina watched her, a flicker of curiosity in her blue eyes. "You're surprisingly sentimental."

Yoshika glanced at her, smirking. "Don't read too much into it."

They continued their journey, eventually reaching the Grand Theater of Fontaine. Its towering columns and ornate façade loomed over the square, a symbol of the nation's love for performance. Furina's eyes sparkled as she gazed at the building.

"This was my second home," Furina said softly. "Before... everything."

Yoshika glanced at her, sensing the vulnerability in her voice. "Do you miss it?"

"Every day," Furina admitted. "But it's not my stage anymore."

Yoshika nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Perhaps it's time for a new stage."

Furina looked at her, surprised by the insight. "You're full of surprises, aren't you?"

Before Yoshika could respond, a commotion erupted nearby. A group of performers argued with a man dressed in official attire.

"That's my stage!" one performer shouted. "You can't just take it away!"

"The city has new regulations," the man replied coldly. "This venue is no longer yours to use."

Furina's eyes narrowed. "Not on my watch."

She marched over, her blue sword glinting as she drew it slightly from its sheath. The crowd parted, and the man turned pale as Furina approached.

"Is there a problem here?" Furina asked, her voice cold yet commanding.

The man stammered, "N-no, Lady Furina. Just enforcing the new rules."

"Rules that harm Fontaine's art and culture?" Furina said sharply. "I don't think so. Fix this."

The man nodded frantically and hurried away, leaving the performers relieved. Furina sheathed her sword, her usual confidence returning.

Yoshika watched silently, impressed despite herself.

"You still have the heart of a leader," Yoshika said as they walked away.

Furina glanced at her, a hint of a smile on her lips. "Maybe. Or maybe I just hate seeing people silenced."

Yoshika didn't reply, but the respect in her eyes spoke volumes.

---
𝖠/𝖭: 𝖲𝖮𝖱𝖱𝖸 𝖥𝖮𝖱 𝖳𝖧𝖤 𝖫𝖠𝖳𝖤 𝖴𝖯𝖣𝖠𝖳𝖤!! 𝖨 𝗁𝖺𝖽 𝖺 𝗅𝗈𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝖾𝗑𝖺𝗆𝗌 𝗅𝗈𝗅 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍𝗌 𝗐𝗁𝗒𝗒