Chapter Text
"AETHER!!! Where in the seven archons did you disappear to?! Do you have any idea how absolutely worried Paimon's been, you big, inconsiderate lummox?!" the floating fairy yelled, her high-pitched voice cracking with emotion.
Her face flushed a bright crimson, her eyes glistening with unshed tears of worry and anger. She stomped her tiny feet midair, kicking and flailing in frustration as she confronted Aether. "Poor Paimon just finished buying her snack and you were GONE! No note, no message, not a single clue about where you vanished to! I thought... I thought something terrible had happened to you!"
Paimon's eyes flashed with a mix of relief and irritation as she hovered before Aether, her small hands clenched into fists on her hips. “What were you thinking, disappearing like that without a word?!” She huffed, her voice shaking slightly with pent-up emotion. “Do you have any idea what it's like when you just disappeared?! Oh, poor Paimon couldn't even eat properly…” she exclaimed, her brows frowning as she struggled to maintain her composure. “You better have a VERY good reason for putting me through this! I swear, if you ever pull a stunt like this again, I'll... I'll…” Her voice trailed off, leaving the consequences of his actions hanging heavily in the air between them.
As Aether came to Furina's aid and followed her home, poor Paimon found herself all alone in the crowded streets. She frantically tried to locate the familiar blonde traveller's image in the sea of foreign faces as she floated randomly, but to no avail. Left with no mora, shelter, and any idea where Aether is, she had no choice but to float to Navia in Poisson crying for help. The blondie, after hearing her distress and complaint, gladly took her in and made sure to feed her well.
“I figured you'd be here, looks like I was right.” Aether muttered, giving himself an approving nod, as if oblivious to Paimon's outburst, much to the fairy's exasperation.
Paimon's eyes twitched in disbelief as she clutched on Aether's scarf, her tiny fists balled up in anger as she shook him for all she was worth. "Did you hear Paimon?! Don't ever scare Paimon like that again, you big dummy! You're all I have... I can't lose you... Please, don't make me worry like this again, okay?" she adjured, her voice breaking slightly with each plea.
Aether softened his gaze, turning to face the distraught fairy with an apologetic smile that tugged gently at the corners of his mouth. He scratched the back of his head sheepishly, a look of remorse and realization dawning on his features as he took in the sight of Paimon's distress.
"Ahh, Paimon, I'm truly sorry... I didn't mean to worry you so much. There was just something incredibly important I had to take care of..." Aether explained gently, his deep voice laced with remorse.
He reached out, his large hand gently cupping Paimon's tiny form as he drew her close, allowing her to clutch at his chest. "I'm here now, and I promise... I won't ever disappear like that again without letting you know." He promised, before an idea surfaced.
"How about I make it up to you properly later, hmm? I was thinking I could take my favorite traveling companion out for delicious desserts in the city. My treat, of course," Aether offered warmly, his eyes crinkling at the corners with a friendly smile.
Paimon huffed softly, still puffed up with lingering displeasure but starting to feel soothed by Aether's gentle touch and words. But hearing Aether's proposition, a smile inevitably creeped up her lips. "Well... since you offered so nicely… I want a big, huge ice cream sundae! With rainbow sprinkles!" she demanded, her voice a bit more cheerful as she started to come around. "It's the least you can do for scaring Paimon so much..."
A creak could be heard as the door to a room opened. "Well, well, well... isn't this a touching little reunion?" a voice called out as none other than the leader of the Spina di Rosula emerged from the half ajar door with a knowing smile.
Sauntered before the two, Navia tucked a stray lock of her hair behind her ear, her golden eyes twinkling with amusement at the scene before her. "Afternoon, partner," she greeted casually, eyeing Aether with a slight smirk. "Looks like you found your way here after all. How's your sleepover at Furina's, hm?"
Aether blinked in surprise at the sudden appearance of the blondie. "Hello Navia! I apologize for troubling you with Paimon…” he greeted back, before realizing. “Wait... how did you know where I was?" He froze, his eyes widened in shock.
Navia just laughed, a melodic sound that seemed to echo through the room as she stepped closer to Aether. She reached out, playfully straightening his scarf with a smirk.
“You should know better than to underestimate the reach of Spina di Rosula's intelligence network." she said with a chuckle, winking suggestively. “Besides, you're sort of a celebrity now, catching word of your whereabouts isn't hard.”
Paimon stared at Aether incredulously, her eyes widening to the size of saucers as the realization sunk in. "Wait just a second! Are you seriously telling me that while I was running around like a headless chicken, worrying myself sick about where you might be, you were cozying up in Furina's house and having a grand ol' time?!" she chastised, her voice shrill and shaking with new-found anger, her thoughts about ice creams temporarily halting.
The fairy crossed her arms over her chest, her bottom lip trembling slightly as she struggled to rein in her emotions. "I can't believe it... After I spent who knows how long searching high and low all over Fontaine, begging Navia for help, almost crying on the streets... you were just off gallivanting with Furina?" she exclaimed, her voice pitching higher with each point.
“Wait…that's not…'gallivanting' isn't the correct word here!” Aether quickly retorted, trying to calm Paimon down but achieving little success.
“Ops…did I say something I shouldn’t say…?” Navia covered her mouth with her fingertips, watching the back and forth before her.
Paimon floated around Aether with agitation, stomping her foot in mid-air as she hovered in front of Aether's face, jabbing a small finger against his chest. "I thought something terrible happened to you! I was so scared... and you were off having a sleepover?!"
After a combined effort from both the blondes, they were finally able to calm the fairy down somewhat(not without more treat promises). Paimon crossed her arms and pouted, looking away with a huff.
Navia glanced over at Aether, her golden eyes narrowing slightly as she studied his expression. She could sense the remaining tension lingering in the air between the two. "Speaking of Furina, how is she faring? I trust she's recovering well after her ordeal?" she inquired, changing the subject to lighten the mood, yet with an undercurrent of genuine curiosity.
Aether let out a soft sigh, his golden eyes flickering with a mix of relief and lingering concern as he met Navia's gaze. "She's doing better than before, at least... but I think she still needs some more time to fully heal. What she went through... it's going to take a while to get past that." He paused, absently rubbing the back of his neck before continuing. "I'll keep checking in on her though, make sure she has someone to talk to and lean on. She shouldn't have to go through this alone."
His voice was soft but steady, reflecting the compassion and dedication that had earned him the title of a renowned hero in so many nations. Despite his own troubles and mission, he still made time to help those in need, an innate kindness that had become a trademark of his character.
Navia watched as Aether's gaze drifted away, a faraway look in his eyes. "You have a gift for this, partner. An innate ability to lend aid and comfort to those who need it most." She reached out, gently squeezing Aether's shoulder. "Never forget the lives you touch, the hope and strength you inspire in others." She reminded, before continuing.
"I'm glad to hear Furina is recovering, truly. She's been through an immense amount, pretending to be someone she’s not for so long... It's a miracle she held it together as well as she did." Navia sighed, then gave Aether an encouraging smile. "Pass along my heartfelt well wishes to Furina the next time you see her, won't you? I want her to know that she's not alone and that the people of Fontaine are thankful to her."
She then pulled out a meticulously wrapped box tied with a delicate ribbon, passing it to Aether. "I have something special for you to deliver to Furina as well. These are my signature rainbow macarons. I thought a little sweet treat might bring some light and cheer to brighten her day," Navia said with a suggestive wink. "I know you'll take good care of her. After all, you have a knack for these sorts of things."
Shifting her stance, Navia took a step closer to Aether, her voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "Come to think of it, I have heard some rather... intriguing rumors about you lately. Whispers of a certain blonde figure being in intimate situations with a certain actress..." She chuckled softly, her eyes glinting with mischief.
"I must admit, I'm quite curious about the nature of your relationship with Furina myself. I imagine it must be quite the story, hmm?" Her lips curled into a playful grin, awaiting Aether's response with bated breath. "Come on, tell us~ What kept you so... preoccupied at her place?"
Hearing Navia's implications, Paimon darted back instantaneously, her high-pitched voice calling out, “You WHAT now?!”
Aether was taken aback by the sudden shift in nature of the conversation, flushing a deep crimson. His heart pounded in his chest as he looked sharply at Navia wide-eyed, before averting his gaze from her probing stare. He shook his head vigorously, blonde braid bouncing with the motion as he tried to regain his composure.
“H-hey…! Don't read too much into it! Furina simply needed someone to talk to, to help her… I was just there as a friend, nothing more…” His voice trailed off slightly as memories of intimate moments flashed through his mind unbidden, causing his blush to deepen.
Aha, read you like an open book! Navia thought, smiling slyly to herself. Like heck I believe your “friends” story, I knew something was up…
Though she was ultimately happy for Aether and encouraged him, a deeper, more selfish part of her felt a little unsettled, a pinch of unease and jealousy buried deep inside her heart. Seeing his rather flustered reaction and poor attempts at composure, she decided not to press on further.
If I was faster, more truthful to my feelings… Nah, who am I kidding…? Maybe it’s for the better… She thought, watching the two retreating figures after waving goodbye, a playful banter passing between them. Looks like I got some shipping to do, don’t underestimate wingwoman Navia! She let out a silly laugh.
Furina plopped onto the couch with a heavy sigh, her mind still reeling from Aether's sudden departure. She stared up at the ornate ceiling, her mind wandering to thoughts of Aether and their intimate moments together. A soft sigh escaped her lips as she recalled the feeling of his strong arms around her, holding her close.
"I can't believe how much has changed in such a short time..." Furina muttered to herself, her voice barely above a whisper. She sat up slowly, running her fingers through her white hair, pushing it back from her face.
As she gazed around at the modest furnishings and meager decor, Furina felt a pang of loneliness and emptiness wash over her. For so long, she had been trapped in a gilded cage of her own making, forced to play a role that had left her feeling hollow inside.
"But now that I'm free... I don't know what to do with myself," she confessed, her heterochromatic eyes unfocused with ennui. Furina hugged her knees to her chest, resting her chin on top of them as she pondered the uncertain future that lay ahead.
She glanced around the empty living room, her gaze lingering on the remnants of their shared breakfast that still sat untouched on the dining table. A wistful smile played at the corners of her lips as she recalled the easy conversation and laughter that had filled the space just moments before.
With a sigh and a shake of her head, Furina tried to distract herself by reaching for one of the many books scattered on the coffee table. She flipped it open, hoping to lose herself in the pages of a captivating story. But after only a few minutes, her mind drifted back to thoughts of Aether, making it impossible for her to focus on the words before her.
Growing more restless by the second, she stood abruptly from the couch and began to pace around the room. As she walked, Furina couldn't shake the feeling of unease and confusion that settled heavily in her chest.
What am I gonna do now? She thought, strolling mindlessly. She had longed for escape, for liberation… But now that she’s free, she’s at a loss, unsure of how to experience her new life. Do I even have dreams and aspirations?
Furina paused mid-step, a sudden realization dawning on her. She realized that in the short time they'd spent together, Aether had somehow become an integral part of her life. His kindness, his patience, the way he saw her for who she truly was... it had all woven itself into the fabric of her very being. The thought of losing that, of losing him, sent a cold shiver down her spine and a sharp pain through her heart.
Spinning around, Furina found herself face-to-face with her own reflection in a nearby mirror. She hardly recognized the woman staring back at her - eyes dark with uncertainty, full lips pursed in a frown, a stark contrast to the confident, unshakeable archon persona she had once donned without hesitation. In her place stood a woman filled with doubt and longing, desperately seeking the truth of her heart.
“Give happiness a shot…” Aether’s words echoed in her head.
Furina stared at her reflection, a look of deep contemplation etched on her delicate features. She pondered the question that had been pestering her mind ever since Aether's words rang in her ears. What did she want now that she was finally free from the shackles of her past?
Happiness , Furina whispered, trying the word out on her tongue like it was a flavor she had long since forgotten. Give happiness a shot . Aether's voice resounded in her mind once more, urging her to embrace the freedom she had fought so hard to obtain.
With a heavy sigh, she turned away from her reflection and resumed pacing around the room, her mind racing with errant thoughts. She paused by the window, staring out at the bustling streets. The laughter and chatter of the citizens below assaulted her ears, a stark reminder of the life she had been denied for so long.
“I want…” Furina began, her voice barely a whisper as she voiced her deepest desires aloud for the first time. “I want to feel alive. I want to experience the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and heartbreaks that come with a life lived authentically. I want to be seen, to be known, to be loved for all that I am… like how any normal girl would…”
Her eyes narrowed as she watched two young lovers stroll by hand-in-hand, their laughter carrying up to her perch high above. “They look so happy…” she muttered, realizing something. “Love… Right, I haven't really experienced anything like that…” The idea of romance, the topic always associated with happiness.
“Can I really…? Can someone broken like me really be loved?” she whispered with doubt as she continued to eye the passing couple. The image of someone staying by her side forever, providing care, support and happiness flashed in her mind. She can’t help but feel drawn to the idea of having someone to lean onto, a surge of warmth blooming in her chest.
However, she’s aware of her inexperience with the subject of romance. Turning away from the passing pair, Furina folded her arms and rested her head on the window sill with a sigh. “Who would love someone like me…” she trailed off, a blush creeping up her cheeks as she recalled Aether's gentle touch and the warmth of his gaze. He had seen through the facade she had once donned, glimpsing the fragile soul that lay beneath and offered support without hesitation. The knowledge filled her with a sense of peace and belonging that she had never known before.
“I’m happy when he’s with me…” she instinctively murmured, gazing mindlessly at the outside world, as if searching for a long lost key to unlock her true emotions. “And I want to be happy…” she continued, her voice filled with hope, “So… I want him to be with me…” She blushed again realizing what she subconsciously just mumbled. It sounded logical but absurd at the same time, a perplexing blend that made her head spin. She shook her head vehemently, trying to shake off the intricate thoughts but to little success as her mind pictured a heroic and majestic figure with a blonde braid cascading behind his back.
Oh, how she wished for a distraction, for someone to take her mind off the whirlwind of lonesome thoughts. And in that instant, she heard someone knocking at the front door, the sound jolting her back to reality.
Furina rushed to the mirror, her heart pounding in her chest as she quickly tried to make herself presentable. She smoothed down her white and blue hair, pushing the lock that always seemed to fall in her face. With trembling hands, she adjusted her clothes, straightening her blazer and smoothing out the wrinkles in her vest.
Who could be visiting me now...? Did Aether leave something behind? She thought to herself, a mix of anticipation and nervousness coursing through her veins. The thought of seeing the kind-hearted traveller again sent a flurry of butterflies dancing in her stomach, their wings fluttering wildly with each passing second.
With a deep breath, Furina reached out and turned the knob, pulling the wooden door open to reveal the visitor standing on the other side. She blinked in surprise as she took in the sight of Clorinde, the champion duelist and her former bodyguard.
"Greetings, Lady Furina, how're you doing?" Clorinde greeted with a small wave, a gentle smile pasted on her face. “I have the luxury of some free time, so I figured I’d check up on you. May I enter?”
"C-clorinde...?" Furina stammered, not expecting the sudden visit but relaxing slightly knowing it’s someone trustable. It had been a long time since she had spoken to anyone outside of Aether. She clutched at the door handle, her knuckles turning white as she tightened her grip.
She hesitated for a moment, the memory of her earlier thoughts about Aether still fresh in her mind. Did she really want to let anyone else see her like this? But the gentle smile on Clorinde's face and the kindness in her voice made Furina feel a little more at ease. "I... I'm doing alright," she replied softly, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she stepped back, allowing the duelist to enter. "Please come in…and just ‘Furina’ please…"
As Clorinde stepped inside, Furina closed the door behind her and turned to face her guest. She fidgeted nervously with the hem of her blazer, suddenly feeling self-conscious about the state of her attire. "Thank you for checking up on me," Furina said, her voice still tinged with a hint of uncertainty. "It's... it's nice to have someone to talk to. I've been feeling rather... lonely lately."
Furina couldn't help but feel a pang of embarrassment as she gazed around at the modest furnishings. It was a far cry from the grandeur of the Palais Mermonia with its opulent halls and lavish decor. She wondered what Clorinde would think of her new living arrangements, now that she was no longer the reigning Archon of Fontaine.
Still, despite her nervousness and self-consciousness, Furina felt a surge of warmth at the sight of her friend. It was comforting to know that even after everything that had happened, there were still those who cared for her wellbeing, even if it was only on a superficial level. She knew that she had a friend in Clorinde, someone who would stand by her side through thick and thin.
Clorinde set down some bags and boxes on the dining table, the rustling sounds filling the brief silence between the two women. She gestured to them casually, a small smile playing on her lips. "Here, I picked up a few things at the market, fresh produce. Figured you could use a little boost to your diet," she said, her tone light and friendly.
"Oh, and Wriothesley sent you this tea as well," she continued, nodding towards the two small boxes tucked neatly beside the bags. "He was running behind schedule, so he asked me to pass on his regards." Clorinde shrugged nonchalantly, acting as if the minor gesture was of no effort as she casually eyeing the remnants of breakfast on the table.
Furina glanced at the bags and boxes strewn across the table before looking back at Clorinde with a soft smile, her eyes widening slightly at the thoughtful gesture. "A-ah, you didn’t have to… but thank you so much for thinking of me, Clorinde..." she murmured, feeling a warmth bloom in her chest at the preclinical concern.
"Your thoughtfulness truly means a lot to me," Furina continued, hesitating before approaching the table and inspecting the fresh produce. She picked up a crisp apple, turning it over in her hands as she admired its perfect, unblemished red skin. "And please pass on my gratitude to Wriothesley as well... I know he's a busy man."
As she placed the fruit back down, Furina's gaze fell upon the remnants of her earlier breakfast, a faint blush rising to her cheeks as she recalled the intimate companionship she had shared with Aether. "You needn't have gone through such trouble... but I'm truly grateful for your company," she thanked, her voice softening as a mix of emotions swirled within her.
Furina suddenly realized that they were both standing, sighing internally at their own awkwardness, she mentally scolded herself as she quickly showed Clorinde to the living room. "H-here, take a seat, I'll go make us some tea!" she uttered with a sheepish laugh as she scurried to the kitchen, keen to show her shared gratitude for the visit through the simple act of offering refreshment, her delicate hands already reaching for the tea boxes that Clorinde brought.
Clorinde watched with an amused smile, settling herself onto the plush couch. "Quite a change of scenery, isn't it?" she mused, her gaze wandering the humble living room. Gone were the once-pristine walls of the Palais Mermonia. Instead, the space was warm and inviting, filled with simple yet comforting decor, the walls bearing a few scuffs and marks with a worn carpet on the floorboards, a testament to the new life Furina was facing. She marveled at how quickly her friend had adapted to her new surroundings, leaving behind the gilded cage of her past for a space far more intimate and true.
Furina returned shortly, carrying a modest but charming tea set gingerly. The porcelain cups and saucers rattled slightly as she placed them down on the small coffee table before the couch where Clorinde sat. "Sorry for the wait," she apologized softly, her cheeks still slightly flushed from the exertion of her hurried actions. As she poured the steaming tea into the cups, the fragrant aroma of the leaves filled the room, the comforting scent a stark contrast to the tension that was palpable in Furina's movements.
"I hope this is to your liking," she murmured softly, pouring the fragrant liquid into the teacups with thoughtful care, her slender fingers eagerly grasping it as she leaned forward to offer it to Clorinde.
As Furina settled herself onto the chair across from Clorinde, she couldn't help but feel a pang of unease. Her gaze drifted downwards, inadvertently taking in her humble attire - the once-pristine fabric of her blazer now marred with a slight wrinkle, the white vest that was now slightly misaligned. She realized then, with a jolt of self-awareness, that her appearance may not be as polished or put-together as she usually liked to portray herself to be.
Furina glances up at Clorinde, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she blinks rapidly. "You know... I never imagined myself ending up like this," she murmured, her voice raw with emotion. She wrapped her trembling fingers around the warm cup, seeking comfort in its radiating heat. "But... I am trying to embrace it," she added, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "Try new things... learn new ways of living. Because... I realised that I have so much left to experience and discover in this world."
Clorinde met Furina's gaze, her eyes softening with understanding and compassion. She reached out, gently placing a comforting hand on Furina's as she listened to her friend's heartfelt confession. "Change is never easy, Furina," she murmured, giving her a reassuring squeeze. "But it's in these moments of vulnerability and unknown that we often discover the truest version of ourselves.”
Clorinde's voice was warm and sincere, her words a balm to Furina's frayed nerves. "Embracing this new chapter is a testament to your strength and courage. And in doing so, you might find what truly matters to you." she added with a gentle smile, nodding towards Furina, “Sometimes you have to let go of your past grandeur to become a more authentic and genuine version of yourself.”
“Speaking of that,” she continued, “what are you planning to do now Furina?” Blowing at her steaming tea, Clorinde took a quick sip before asking with genuine curiosity. “Have you found what you truly desired?”
Furina's gaze drifted downwards, her slender fingers fidgeting with the hem of her blazer as she pondered the question. The fabric was worn and faded from age, a stark reminder of the passage of time and the weight of her past burdens. "I... I don't know," she murmured softly, a wistful tone to her voice. "I spent so long being someone I wasn't, playing the role of an Archon... I'm not sure what I desire anymore.”
She paused, her brows furrowed in contemplation as she gazed down at her half-empty teacup, the remnants of the liquid inside shimmering like the ocean's waves underneath the dim light of the living room. "I suppose... I want to be happy," she confided, her words barely above a whisper. "Not the fleeting, transient happiness I usually sought, but the deeper and more meaningful kind... The kind of happiness that comes from being true to myself and living without lies.”
Furina turned back to face Clorinde, an uncertain smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "I want to discover what makes me happy. Not what others expect of me, or what I think I should want... but something genuine. Something that comes from within me that I deeply yearn for…"
Her mind drifted to Aether, to the way he had seen through her facade and made her feel seen, the way he stayed by her side, supporting and caring for her. "I think... I think I want to learn to love. To be loved. Truly and deeply, not as an Archon or a symbol, but as Furina," she whispered, a fierce blush rising to her cheeks.
Noticing the red hues on her cheeks, Clorinde let out a small smirk as she knew her words hit the spot. It's as if she was guiding her thoughts from the very beginning. Playing along, she nodded with an understanding smile as Furina continued.
"But beyond that... I just want to live. Truly live. Experience everything I've missed out on for so long. Discover my passions and pursue them fearlessly. I want to create my own destiny now.”
Placing her empty teacup down with a soft clink, Clorinde fixed Furina with a warm, approving gaze. She leaned forward slightly, her voice low and sincere as she spoke, "Well said, Furina. Remember, you're not alone anymore in navigating this new chapter of your life. Whatever challenges and obstacles you may face, know that you have my unwavering support."
A small, playful smile then crept onto Clorinde's usually stern face, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint as she continued, "Even if one of those challenges happens to include capturing the heart of a certain charming blonde traveller..." she paused, letting the implication hang in the air before punctuating her words with a playful wink.
Furina's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Aether, a fierce blush spreading across her cheeks and down to the base of her slender neck. Her eyes widened at the implication in Clorinde's playful words, and she quickly averted her gaze, suddenly feeling the need to hide her burning face. "C-Clorinde!" she stammered, a mix of embarrassment and flustered delight bubbling in her voice as she tried to regain her composure
Despite her flustered state and the way her heart raced at the mere mention of Aether's name, Furina couldn't help but feel a flicker of warmth spread within her chest. She had grown so accustomed to keeping her true feelings locked up in the dark recesses of her mind that the idea of someone else knowing her secret desires felt both terrifying and thrilling.
A small, shy smile crept onto Furina's face, and she shyly peeked at Clorinde through half-lidded eyes, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... I don't know what you mean..." she lied unconvincingly, her lower lip trembling slightly as she tried to maintain the facade of innocence.
"Uh uh, what happened to not lying and living truthfully, hmm?" Clorinde chided, a small smirk playing at the corners of her mouth. "You didn't exactly deny it, did you? Looks like I was right."
Furina couldn't help but gasp softly as Clorinde's words struck a chord within her. Her blush deepened, her heart pounding wildly in her chest as she stared at Clorinde with a mix of shock and disbelief. "H-how did you know?" she uttered incredulously.
Clorinde folded her arms and leaned back in her seat, a sly smile playing at the corners of her lips as she leveled Furina with a knowing glance. With a nonchalant gesture towards the dining table, she spoke in a perceptive tone. "Now, now, Furina, don't underestimate the keen eye of a seasoned duelist..." she began, her voice laced with playful admonishment. "Not to mention one who's never lost a duel, if you catch my drift."
Her gaze flicked meaningfully to the remnants of breakfast still littering the table, the empty plates and utensils telling a story in their own right. "Come now, is that not clear evidence of a delightful meal shared between two? And given the packed schedules of most at that hour, I fail to think of anyone else who would have the leisure and inclination to embark on such an intimate morning activity with you."
Furina stared at Clorinde with wide eyes, her cheeks burning brightly as she sputtered for excuses that refused to coalesce into coherent words. Her hands fidgeted nervously, grasping at the folds of her clothes as if seeking to find some escape. "I... I... that's..." she repeated, her voice trailing off as she struggled to deny the obvious.
Clorinde stood up with a gentle smile, squeezing Furina's shoulder reassuringly as she prepared to take her leave. "Apologies, Furina, I didn't mean to tease you so mercilessly. I was simply trying to lift your spirits with a bit of playful banter," she said warmly, her voice filled with genuine care. "Sometimes, a little levity can be a powerful balm for the soul, don't you think?"
Furina couldn't help but pout slightly, little surprised by the casual behaviour of the duelist that betrayed the normal image of her while she was still her guard. “I didn't know you had this side in you, Clorinde…”
Clorinde let out a small laugh, “You didn't think I was always stern and professional did you? No one would be able to stand that, not even myself.” Glancing towards the window, Clorinde noted the advancing hour with a hint of regret. "Ah, I'm afraid my duties are calling. But before I go..." She turned back to face Furina, her blue eyes bright with sincerity and support. "Remember, at times when you're lost, just follow your heart's true call. Pursue that which brings you joy, fulfillment, and makes you feel most alive. And know that no matter where your journey takes you, you'll always have friends that support you." With those parting words of encouragement, Clorinde stepped back, offering Furina one last smile before turning to make her way to the door.
Furina gasped as she quickly followed her to the door to see her off, giving her a genuine smile as she spoke with gratitude, “Thank you for coming over today, you were able to clear my mind...”
Replying with a nod of acknowledgement, Clorinde took a step out before turning back. “Let me leave you with one last piece of advice…no, encouragement…” she began, fixing Furina's eyes with a half-hearted gaze, “The key to happiness always lies in love…” she winked as she strided off with meaningful steps and a hidden smirk.
Furina watched as Clorinde walked away, her heart pounding wildly in her chest as she processed the duelist's parting words. The mere mention of the word 'love' seemed to set her aflame with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.
Left alone with her thoughts, Furina wandered back to the living room, her mind swirling with images of a certain blonde traveller. She couldn't help but recall the way his eyes had sparkled when he smiled, or the warm, comforting feeling that suffused her whenever he drew near.
She dumped the used plates from breakfast into the sink absentmindedly, throwing the work for washing them to another day as she plopped on the couch with renewed thoughts.
Aether…the things you do to me…you make my heart flutter every time I think about you, and I can't shake you off my head…
She wanted to let him know, to pour out her feelings to him. But the thought of his reaction remained a seed of fear in her heart. What would he think? Would he reject her? What if he's disgusted?
“Just follow your heart's true call…” Clorinde’s words echoed in her mind, a clear reminder to not overthink things.
That's right, I can't hide from my feelings forever… Furina suddenly sat up with renewed determination. “Next time he comes over, I'll invite him out…to a secret date…!” She murmured, giggling to herself at her flawless plan, like an innocent girl truly in love.