-

The Kamisato Estate was abuzz with preparations. Servants hurried about, setting up the grand banquet hall, while the Yashiro Commission ensured security was tight. Despite the elegance of the event, there was an undercurrent of tension-Pulcinella's presence alone was enough to put everyone on edge.

Yoshika stood near the balcony, adjusting the golden accents on her outfit. Though she was used to grand events, this was different. This wasn't a performance; it was a political game.

Furina, on the other hand, seemed positively thrilled. "Ah, what a glorious return to the stage! Fontaine's former biggest celebrity, now playing the role of diplomat!" She twirled in her regal outfit, shades of blue and silver accentuating her dramatic movements.

Neuvillette sighed. "This is a serious matter, Lady Furina."

Arlecchino, leaning against the wall, smirked. "Let her enjoy herself. It won't last once Pulcinella starts talking."

Yoshika's expression darkened. "That's what I'm worried about."

-

The banquet hall was grand, the tables adorned with Inazuman delicacies and lanterns casting a warm glow. Representatives from various factions mingled, but all eyes turned as the Snezhnayan delegation entered.

Pulcinella walked at the front, his old yet sharp eyes scanning the room. Behind him, several high-ranking Fatui agents followed, their presence a silent warning.

The tension was immediate.

Yoshika remained still as Pulcinella's gaze found hers. His usual grandfatherly smile was there, but she knew better. He was studying her, calculating.

"Ah, Lady Yoshika," Pulcinella greeted, his voice smooth. "It has been some time since we've spoken."

Yoshika returned the pleasantries, keeping her tone neutral. "It has."

Furina, ever the dramatist, placed a hand on her chest. "And what brings the illustrious Mayor of Snezhnaya all the way to Inazuma?"

Pulcinella chuckled. "Oh, simply matters of diplomacy. Strengthening ties, ensuring stability... the usual." His eyes flickered toward Yoshika. "And, of course, checking on our dear allies."

Yoshika held his gaze. "How considerate."

As the banquet continued, the conversations grew more layered. The Fatui made subtle implications, testing the waters. Ayato countered with strategic deflections, always maintaining control.

Arlecchino barely spoke, but her presence alone kept the Fatui from pressing too hard.

Then, as the night seemed to settle, Pulcinella finally dropped his façade-just slightly.

"You know," he mused, swirling his drink, "Celestia has been quite the topic of discussion lately. Strange occurrences, rumors of unseen forces..." His eyes locked onto Yoshika. "Wouldn't you agree?"

Silence.

Yoshika kept her expression neutral, but inside, alarms were ringing.

Furina, however, laughed. "Oh, rumors! Nothing more than the whispers of those who crave drama."

Pulcinella's smile lingered. "Of course."

But Yoshika knew. He knew something.

And he was waiting for her to slip.

-
𝖠𝖭 𝖭𝖮𝖳𝖤: 𝖨𝗄 𝗉𝗎𝗅𝖼𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗅𝗅𝖺 𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝗈 𝗋𝖺𝗇𝖽𝗈𝗆😭 𝖻𝗎𝗍 𝗁𝗈𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗍𝗅𝗒 𝗂 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝗂𝗆 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗌𝗈 𝗒𝖾𝖺