wearing a mask that she had so carefully created over all those years.

dramatically and glances back to Wriothesley.

But her gaze quickly averts to the teacup when the mention of her neighbours get brought up.

❝ Not exactly no.. I've maybe exchanged a greeting once or twice... it's- ❞

It's just about getting herself back out into the world、without hiding and

+

After all、she had presented herself in a very particular way; it was necessary though to keep everyone at arm's length. To ensure her people were safe and she fulfilled all that was asked of her.

That little jab makes her pout for a moment、glancing away before she sighs almost

+

❝ I'm glad. ❞

She offers a small timid smile、taking a sip from her own porcelain teacup and humming quietly — more so to herself.

Furina knew that... in recent years perhaps the idea of the two of them sitting drinking tea together would've been unheard of.

+

I will likely continue to be lonely or at least a little. It's not as though I expect people to offer their friendship to me. ❞

myself after putting on an act for so long. Though.. it is odd to not.. act as the Archon. Everything that happened was a lot. ❞

She moves、bringing the Duke's tea over to him.

❝ I know that I was alone for five hundred years whilst fulfilling what was placed upon me — but I know

+

Furina offers a small nod — adding in two cubes of sugar carefully to Wriothesley's tea、making sure it brews nicely as she works on her own too.

She looks over her shoulder once more when Wriothesley brings up the topic.. one she has been dreading.

❝ It is nice to be able to take the time for

+

Furina is already making work of preparing tea for the both of them、glancing back at Wriothesley.

❝ You know... you're the last person I would've expected to visit me. But you can make yourself at home.. do you take sugar in your tea？❞

She hums out、focusing on the Duke's cup first.

the kettle.

❝ Well — it hasn't exactly been smooth sailing. It's lonely.. but also quite peaceful I suppose. ❞

Carefully she closes the door behind her、and hums quietly with a small nod.

❝ It's nice enough for just a girl like me. ❞

The sight of Wriothesley having to duck a little... it does almost make her giggle.

That question makes her go quiet though、shuffling into the kitchen and already preparing

+

❝ Oh.. ❞

She gestures inside、silently telling the Duke that he's welcome to come in if he wants to.

❝ Well I appreciate that. I can't.. say I've had much company. ❞

since she went into hiding.

A ring at her doorbell is the last thing that Furina expects、anxiously peeking out of the window when she spots who it is...

The Duke？

Slowly、that door opens and she peeks out — looking a bit shy.

❝ Hello Duke.. ❞

Her voice quiet、stepping aside a little cautiously. She hasn't spoken anyone

+

visage.