As the crowd in the streets of Fontaine began to thin out, Lexei stood still, fixated on the poster given to him by Lady Furina. As he read through its contents meticulously, he pondered how he would afford such a spectacle. Retrieving his wallet from his pocket, he tucked the poster under his arm and began to count the Mora inside. To his disappointment, he found only enough for a single ticket and perhaps a few weeks at the most economical hotel. Lexei sighed heavily, his heart sinking at the realization.
"How am I going to make my mark here in Fontaine? Perhaps I was better off with Marlin." Lexei muttered to himself.
"Listen up, monsieur. Whatever you're planning, any more trouble and you'll find yourself in Meropide before you know it." Officer Cooper warned sternly, his unyielding gaze remained fixed on Lexei ever since Furina had departed.
"Don't worry, officer." Lexei replied with a slight chuckle as he delicately stowed the Mora back into his wallet. "I assure you, I'll keep a low profile."
"See that you do! We have no tolerance for troublemakers in Fontaine! Now, move along!"
Officer Cooper pivoted swiftly towards his comrades, a commanding gesture urging them to recommence their patrols. As the guards dispersed like leaves in the wind, Cooper bestowed one final, penetrating gaze upon Lexei, a silent promise of unwavering vigilance.
As Lexei deftly secured his wallet, another voice chimed in from behind.
"That was quite the spectacle you caused back there. Yes, I dare say you'll find yourself right at home here."
Remarked a middle-aged man with lustrous brown locks cascading to his shoulders. Clad in a verdant tunic complemented by ebony sleeves that elegantly enveloped his wrists, the lower portion fastened by four sleek obsidian buttons. Adorning his neck was a modest black neckerchief, while upon his countenance rested a meticulously groomed mustache, its tips gently curled. His breeches descended to his knees, meeting polished black leather boots that gleamed with a flawless luster. Lexei turned towards the stranger, his movements imbued with a refined grace as he executed a genteel bow and gallantly tipped his hat in greeting.
"Hah! What can I say, sir? If one is to make an entrance, it should be a memorable one!" he chuckled, his voice carrying a hint of mirth and charm.
"Oh, I doubt the guards will be forgetting you anytime soon." The man quipped. "Don't mind Cooper. He can be stern, but his heart is in the right place. He simply carries the weight of duty a bit too heavily at times."
"Admirable, could've used him back in my homeland. Certainly would have kept the ruffians at bay—except perhaps for myself." Lexei remarked with a smile, gladly joining in the merriment.
The stranger chuckled softly and Lexei mirrored the amusement.
"Lexei Rovich, and you are?" Lexei inquired, adjusting his hat with a courteous nod as he extended his hand in greeting.
"Wolsey, my good sir."
Their hands met in a firm clasp, accompanied by warm smiles exchanged between them. Suddenly, Lexei sensed the poster slipping from under his arm. With deft reflexes, he released his grip and intercepted it before it could descend to the ground. Wolsey's interest was instantly piqued as he caught a glimpse of the poster's contents.
"What's that?"
"Ah, Lady Furina gave me this." Lexei responded, his gaze gracefully sweeping over the intricacies of the poster's text.
Sensing Wolsey's curiosity, Lexei gently angled the poster toward him, inviting him to peruse its contents as well.
"Hmm, it looks like it's not scheduled for another couple of weeks."
Wolsey remarked, his hand poised in contemplation upon his chin. As he continued to study the poster, his gaze eventually settled upon the ticket prices. His countenance tightened with dismay and a subdued grunt of surprise escaped his lips. His fingers instinctively twitching with nervous energy.
"Ah, well. Lady Furina's shows are never known for its affordability, is it? Can't say I'm surprised."
"...Indeed…"
"Hey, come on now. Surely someone of your caliber must have some Mora to spare!"
"Not as much as you'd think."
Lexei reached for his wallet and casually flipped it in the air, catching it deftly as the coins jingled within its leather confines. Wolsey discerned that Lexei's financial situation did not match his outward appearance. As he contemplated a solution to Lexei's predicament, he stroked the edge of his mustache. He remained deep in thought until a spark of inspiration struck him.
"Say, Monsieur Lexei, are you currently seeking employment?" Wolsey inquired.
"Heh, at this point, I'd shovel pig slop for Mora," Lexei replied with a wry smile.
Wolsey chuckled softly and placed his hand reassuringly on Lexei's shoulder.
"Maybe I can help. I know someone who could use you, if you're interested. Rest assured, there won't be any pig slop involved."
Lexei's soft chuckle resonated faintly as he carefully rolled up the poster in his hands. With a thoughtful nod, he exhaled a gentle sigh of contemplation. Wolsey gestured gracefully for Lexei to follow, guiding him through the meandering labyrinth of Fontaine's streets. Along the way, Wolsey painted a vibrant tapestry of the city's essence, weaving tales of its diverse districts, storied past, and the distinctive character each enclave possessed. Lexei absorbed each detail attentively, mentally cataloging the knowledge to ensure his conversational prowess would not falter.
Their odyssey eventually led them to the Beaumont Workshop. Just beyond its threshold stood a young woman, her brown hair fashioned in a ponytail crowned by goggles. She exuded an air of industrious elegance, clad in a pristine white blouse adorned with a bold yellow ribbon encircling her collar. Over this, a brown dress cascaded gracefully, accompanied by a sleeveless blue vest cinched by a single belt and a pouch with a leather strap at her side. Her attire was completed by brown stockings, fingerless gloves, and boots of a lighter hue, fastened by a solitary lace and crowned with a luminous golden button.
Wolsey waved anxiously to catch the young woman's attention, smiling broadly as he called out to her.
"Mademoiselle Estelle! You're looking as radiant as ever."
"Ah, Wolsey. To what do I owe the honor?"
"Just wanted to introduce you to a new acquaintance. He's new to Fontaine and appears to be quite the sensation."
Without delay, Lexei bowed gracefully, one foot elegantly placed behind the other. His arms extended to his right, delicately clutching his feathered hat, while his head inclined modestly. His words were imbued with a confident flair, spoken with a hint of proud provocation.
"Greetings, my fair lady! You can call me, Lexei, swashbuckler, wanderer, and slayer of Hilichurls and Abyss Mages alike! It is a pleasure."
Lexei declared, taking hold of Estelle's hand. With a graceful lean, Lexei aimed to place a gentle kiss upon it, but Estelle swiftly withdrew her hand, playful laughter escaping her lips at his attempt.
"Nice try, but you might want to reconsider unless you enjoy the taste of oil and leather for days." Estelle quipped with a sly smile.
"Ahem, duly noted, mademoiselle." Lexei responded, his tone slightly chagrined.
"Well, Wolsey. You certainly have a knack for introducing interesting people." Estelle added, glancing teasingly at Wolsey.
Wolsey chuckled heartily, arms crossed and head thrown back. Estelle joined in, her laughter mingling with his. While Lexei straightened up and readjusted his hat before placing it back on his head. Not wanting to be left out, Lexei joined in the merriment with a soft chuckle of his own.
"Well, Monsieur Lexei, what brings you here?"
"Mora."
"Ah, dwindling funds are we?"
"Scarcely, but... I'm broke."
Lexei reached into his pocket and retrieved his wallet, presenting it in his palm. The once-proud wallet now lay almost flat, devoid of even a trace of Mora. Estelle's eyes widened in astonishment at the sight before her, struggling to grasp the extent of Lexei's destitution. She turned to Wolsey, who nodded sympathetically. Estelle placed a hand on her chin, her elbow resting on her other arm, balancing each other gracefully.
"Well, at least you're honest. Look, I understand what you're getting at. Unfortunately, I'm not hiring at the moment. Perhaps you could take on some commissions from the local Adventurer's Guild."
"Yes... about that. I'm not exactly on speaking terms with the guild." Lexei replied nervously, scratching the back of his head with one hand placed behind his back. Wolsey and Estelle turned toward Lexei, their curiosity piqued by his statement.
"Just what exactly did you do, Lexei?" Wolsey asked, his tone tinged with curiosity.
"Now that's a story for another time." Lexei chuckled in response.
Estelle massaged her forehead, shaking it with a slight scowl at Lexei's response. She then turned towards the two gentlemen before her.
"So, the Adventurer's Guild is a no-go. I can't afford to risk having a potential criminal in my workshop; it could spell disaster."
"Please, fair lady, there must be something I can do for you? I'm at my wit's end here."
"Wait, Lexei! Do you have any experience with smithing?" Wolsey interjected.
"I know a fair bit. I forged these twin blades myself. Not too shabby in my humble opinion."
"Wait! You made those yourself?" Estelle asked incredulously.
"Indeed, fair lady. My parents always stressed the importance of mastering one's craft. These beauties have served me well over the years. I couldn't bear to part with them."
Estelle examined the twin blades held in Lexei's hands, marveling at the craftsmanship. They gleamed brilliantly in the light, flawless and unmarred by any chips or scratches. The sheaths were equally pristine, smooth and polished to perfection, mirroring the impeccable state of the blades themselves.
"Estelle, take a look at these! He clearly knows his craft!"
"Hmm… Perhaps you could be of use. Monsieur, how well-versed are you with machines?"
"Not much, honestly. I've dabbled with some machinery back home, mostly to lighten the workload for my attendants. But I'm eager to learn!"
Seeing an opportunity to test Lexei's skills, Estelle rested her hands on her hips, a smile curving her lips as she nodded encouragingly at him. Wolsey offered a reassuring gesture, his hand resting gently on Lexei's shoulder.
"Well, it seems you're in, Lexei."
"Truly?! I can't believe it! This is such fantastic news!" "
"Welcome aboard, Monsieur Lexei. Let's see how you fare. When can you start?"
"Whenever you need." Lexei replied assuredly with a radiant smile. Smoothing his hat and dusting off his sleeves with meticulous care.
After a firm handshake and an extensive exchange between Lexei and Estelle, the two negotiated a contract for Lexei's employment. Graciously granted a brief respite, a scant few days to acclimate to the bustling embrace of the city and to seek out a sanctuary amidst its labyrinthine streets. As their negotiations concluded, they bid each other a cordial farewell. Lexei and Wolsey then made their way to the nearest and most affordable inn. Upon being assigned a room, they were escorted to it.
Upon opening the door, they were greeted by a warmly illuminated chamber, softly lit by wall-mounted brass lamps. The room featured a single bed adorned with pristine linens, adjacent to a well-appointed restroom. Across from the bed stood a pair of windows, their curtains drawn to reveal a tranquil view, while a set of drawers provided ample storage space nearby.
"Better than a night on the streets, that's for certain." Wolsey remarked, his gaze sweeping across the room.
"It's perfect, Wolsey! I couldn't ask for a better room." Lexei replied with genuine satisfaction.
"No accounting for taste, I suppose." Wolsey quipped lightly.
"What was that?" Lexei inquired, a slight challenge in his tone.
"Oh, just a passing thought. I mean, there are other accommodations. Are you absolutely set on this...place?"
"Heh, if there's one thing I've learned in my journeys. It's to cherish the simple comforts of life. A cozy bed and fresh linens? A rare luxury indeed." Lexei remarked sagely.
Wolsey merely shrugged at Lexei's response, glancing at a timepiece adorning the hall's walls. Sensing the urgency of his own responsibilities, Wolsey bid Lexei a swift farewell with a brisk handshake. As Lexei closed the door behind him, he allowed his facade of bravado to melt away, sinking wearily onto the edge of the bed. With deliberate care, Lexei removed his hat, revealing the intricate familial crest embroidered upon its worn fabric. His gaze lingered upon the emblem, eyes heavy with contemplation before he reclined back onto the bed. The warm embrace of the sheets enveloped him, conjuring memories of his childhood sanctuary – a room filled with sturdy wooden furniture and tables adorned with cherished keepsakes. The spaciousness had once promised all he could desire and need, a haven of solace and security.
He released a weary sigh, his hand dragging down his face in a futile attempt to stave off exhaustion. Turning his gaze, he caught sight of the rolled-up poster that Furina had pressed into his hand earlier that day. After a few deliberate blinks to restore his focus, he rose from his seat and approached the poster, unfurling it with deliberate care. As his eyes scanned the vibrant contents, a spark of determination rekindled within him. The date of the upcoming performance seared into his mind, fueling his resolve. With steely determination, Lexei pledged to amass enough Mora to attend Furina's next spectacle and to carve his mark in Fontaine. By aiming to impress its Hydro Archon.
"A few weeks. Heh, plenty of time."
For the next several weeks, Lexei dutifully reported himself to Estelle each morning at the stroke of ten. With unwavering commitment, he seized every opportunity to glean the inner workings of the esteemed Beaumont Workshop. Following Estelle's meticulous guidance, he steadily honed his skills in the art of smithing. Assisted by the workshop's advanced machinery, Lexei and Estelle not only completed commissions swiftly but outpaced their rivals.
Yet, despite his prior experience alongside his family's personal smith, Lexei found the demands of his new role taxing. Beads of sweat adorned his brow as he used his well-worn smithing apron to dab them away. Though the rough leather offered scant comfort, it was a welcome relief in the throes of labor. Occasionally granted moments of respite, Lexei savored a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee graciously provided by Estelle. Amidst managing client orders and diligently correcting Lexei's occasional missteps, Estelle maintained a watchful eye over their progress. Intermittently, Wolsey would visit, assessing their performance and offering encouragement. A testament to his vested interest in their success. At day's end, Estelle would shutter the workshop while Lexei retired to his quarters at the inn. There, he would cleanse himself of the day's toils and exchange his work attire for sumptuous, silk-like pajamas.
"These Fontainians certainly understand luxury. Even the modest accommodations surpass those of others." Lexei mused appreciatively.
Each night, before sinking into the embrace of his soft pillow, he granted himself a fleeting moment by the window. Gazing out upon the bustling city streets below, he found solace in the tranquil vista. Sometimes, he would close his eyes and drift into cherished memories of his past travels, reliving moments etched in the tapestry of his adventures.
As the days drew nearer to Furina's anticipated performance, Lexei completed his final commission of the day and embarked on a journey towards Estelle. She was in the process of closing her workshop, delicately maneuvering a series of levers to power down the machinery. Yet, one obstinate lever resisted all of Estelle's efforts, unmoved by her determined strength. Observing her predicament, Lexei stepped forward with purpose, his hands enveloping the stubborn lever. Estelle glanced over, a flicker of recognition crossing her features. With shared determination, they synchronized their efforts, hands clasped firmly around the lever. Together, they summoned every ounce of strength, a silent bond forming between them as they triumphantly overcame the obstacle before them.
"Well, glad that's over. Blasted contraption clearly needs a lesson in manners," Lexei remarked with a snarky grin.
"There's still a lot of room for improvement with this. Nonetheless, I appreciate your assistance. I assume you're expecting your payment?"
"Heh, my fair lady. I simply I couldn't bear to watch you struggle. It was my duty." Lexei quipped, attempting to lighten the mood.
Estelle's brow raised slightly, a small smirk playing on her lips as she crossed her arms and tilted her head. Lexei quickly cleared his throat and covered his mouth with a fist.
"Yes, well. I'd greatly appreciate any Mora you have for the day." he added hastily.
Motioning for Lexei to follow, Estelle guided him through the workshop's threshold. Inside, a hidden floor safe lay concealed beneath a weathered chest adorned with accents of deep azure. With a subtle twist of the knob, a faint click resonated through the air, heralding the unveiling of its contents. Estelle deftly pulled the lever, revealing vast stacks of Mora nestled within, some cascading from single-strand pouches.
Delving into the depths of the safe, Estelle withdrew a substantial sack brimming with Mora. With a deft motion, she hurled it towards Lexei, who caught it securely in both hands. Hastily untying the string that sealed its wealth, Lexei meticulously counted the coins within. Upon completing his tally, a radiant smile of triumph graced his face, knowing he now possessed enough to procure a ticket to Furina's eagerly anticipated show.
"Could you not smile like that? It's rather unsettling."
In response, Lexei swiveled toward Estelle. His lips forming a sardonic arc while his eyes widened with mock incredulity, his brows arching gracefully. Estelle, with an audible sigh, rolled her eyes in mild exasperation at this rather uninspired attempt at wit. Swiftly diverting her gaze in another direction to avoid seeing Lexei's disingenuous expression, she was met with a familiar chuckle that resonated softly in the air, catching both of their attention.
"Ah, good to see you two getting along." Wolsey remarked with a grin. "Lexei, with a face like that you'd fit right in at the Opera Epiclese."
Lexei's face lit up and he threw his arms wide, embracing Wolsey warmly. "Wolsey! What brings you here? I thought you'd still be at Meropide."
"Estelle asked me to come, and now I understand why." Wolsey replied with a chuckle.
"Excellent timing." Estelle said, wiping her hands with a cleaning cloth. "The lever's been sticking more frequently. I suspect it's rusted. Could you take a look?"
"Of course, it should only take a moment."
"I didn't know you were handy with machinery, Wolsey."
"Well, I can be quite the mechanic. I wager I could teach those kids at the Fontaine Research Institute a thing or two."
Wolsey knelt gracefully, his keen eyes tracing the intricate lines of the lever and its delicate components. Estelle and Lexei stood in attentive proximity, poised to lend their assistance should he beckon. As Wolsey delved deeper into his meticulous examination, Lexei shifted his gaze towards the distant spires of the Opera Epiclese, his fingers instinctively tightening around the pouch brimming with Mora.
"Say, mademoiselle, might you be attending Lady Furina's upcoming show?"
"Truth be told, I've been eagerly anticipating it. Lady Furina never fails to impress. I make a point to attend each one. Sometimes I will temporarily close up shop to ensure I don't miss out."
"And you, Wolsey? Have you had the pleasure of seeing Lady Furina?"
"Afraid not. My duties at Meropide keep me from such things." He replied regretfully, his tone reflecting a hint of longing for the freedom to join them.
Suddenly a loud clang echoed throughout the workshop as Wolsey pulled up the lever he was tinkering on. Firmly grasping the lever once more, Wolsey pulled down the lever with ease creating another loud clang. Gingerly rising to his feet, Wolsey dusted off his hands and turned towards Estelle with an exhausted expression.
"Ah, regrettably, you were right about the rusting issue. Some of the gears have succumbed to rust and will require replacement. On the brighter side, it's not going cost much. So count your blessings."
"Thanks, Wolsey. I knew I could count on you."
"You're certain there is no way for you to join us?" Lexei interjected hopefully, expressing a glimmer of hope that Wolsey might still be able to join.
"I'm afraid so, don't worry about me. You two go and have fun. I'm sure I'll hear about it at work." Wolsey smiled back reassuringly.
Wolsey set forth on his journey homeward. Lexei glimpses at his pouch full of Mora and extended a wave to ensure his words would reach him.
"How about we grab a few drinks sometime? Just the three of us!"
"I'll take you up on that, someday." Wolsey replied, his voice trailing off as he continued on his way home.
Lexei smiled warmly and turned towards Estelle, who was giggling softly. Her eyes twinkling with amusement. Playfully shrugging, he asked why. She simply waved away his question with a serene smile, returning to the task of closing up the Beaumont Workshop. Standing alone, Lexei gazed down at the freshly acquired Mora in his hand. 'Finally, I can see her again.' he thought to himself, gripping his Mora with tightening resolve. He then rejoined Estelle, lending a hand to complete the workshop's closure.
Finally the date of Furina's performance had arrived. As crowds of spectators lined up to purchase their tickets for the show. Among them was Lexei and Estelle, who was containing her excitement behind a tightly seal smile. Meanwhile Lexei readjusted his hat, blouse, sleeves and a newly purchased vest to a more presentable state. Taking in a deep breathe to calm his nerves. He reached into his person and clutched onto his wallet.
"This is so exciting! Lady Furina's show are simply amazing!"
"So you've said many times already." Lexei chuckled, gently teasing. "But I suppose enthusiasm suits you."
"Oh, if you only knew! Trust me, you're in for something truly delightful!"
Lexei responded with a nonchalant shrug, masking his burgeoning excitement mirroring Estelle's. Their journey led them to the ticket booth, where a poised receptionist awaited. With graceful gestures, Estelle and Lexei tenderly presented their Mora. The receptionist's face lit up with a knowing smile upon recognizing Estelle.
"Good to see you again, Estelle. It looks like you brought a date!"
"Oh no! I'm not -"
"No, no! He's not with me!"
The receptionist chuckled softly at the duo's stumbling words. After meticulously tallying their Mora and presenting them with their tickets, she leaned in close to Estelle and whispered conspiratorially.
"Finally, you've brought someone along! It must have been lonely watching these shows all by yourself." teased the receptionist.
Lexei turned towards Estelle with a flicker of intrigue sparked by the receptionist's remark. Estelle deftly snatched the tickets placed before her. A smile spread across her face tinged with annoyance and continued forward. As they strolled towards the entrance, Lexei leaned in and whispered, seeking clarification on the receptionist's comment. Estelle swiftly advised him to dismiss it with a wave of her hand.
Upon stepping into the grandeur of the Opera Epiclese, Lexei and Estelle found themselves utterly captivated by its opulence. The interior unfolded before them like a scene from a dream woven in gold and velvet. Crimson carpets, unfurled flawlessly underfoot, exuded a rich, regal hue, their surfaces untouched by even the faintest of creases, leading the eye toward the heart of the auditorium. The stage, a gleaming centerpiece of polished wood, impeccably polished, mirrored its surroundings with a near-perfect reflection. Each curve and detail catching the light in a mesmerizing play of shadows and highlights. Soft, amber-hued lights bathed the space, casting a mood of subtle drama and elegance over the ornate architecture.
Majestic pillars, tall and proud, adorned with intricate carvings and gilded accents, lined the walls with an air of grandeur. Their stately presence added not only structural support but also a sense of history and artistic excellence to the space. Each pillar seemed to whisper stories of performances past, echoing the harmonies and applause that once filled the hall. Above, a ceiling adorned with frescoes depicting scenes of myth and legend stretched out like a canvas of dreams, inviting gazes to wander among celestial figures and swirling clouds. The Opera Epiclese was not merely a venue but a temple of artistry, where every detail, from the delicate chandeliers to the plush seating, spoke of a commitment to beauty and refinement.
The walls reverberated with the hushed murmurs of the eager spectators as they navigated towards their designated seats. High above, the balconies adorned with opulent draperies began to fill with the elite patrons, each taking their place amidst a swirl of anticipation and whispered conversations. Desiring to capture Lexei's attention, Estelle delicately tugged at his sleeve. Turning his gaze towards her, Lexei followed the tilt of her head towards their seats, positioned in the middle of the second row. Understanding her silent request, Lexei gracefully bowed, extending his arm in a gesture for Estelle to lead the way. Touched by his courteous demeanor, Estelle accepted with a soft smile and proceeded towards her seat, Lexei following closely behind. As he settled into his seat, he was pleasantly surprised by its luxurious comfort. The deep red cushions enveloped him like a soft cloud, offering a sensation of unparalleled relaxation. Smooth wooden armrests and legs provided sturdy support without a hint of discomfort, enhancing the overall experience of indulgence and refinement.
Slowly, the ambient lights in the Opera Epiclese began their graceful descent into darkness, wrapping the theater in a velvety cloak of obscurity. The murmur of the spectators gently ebbed away, leaving a profound silence that seemed to resonate within the very walls of the grand hall. Suddenly, a solitary spotlight pierced the darkness from above, casting its luminous beam onto the stage. As the heavy curtains lifted, it unveiled Furina seated regally upon a bronze chair adorned with cushions of turquoise. Before her, a round table held court with an elegant lamp casting a soft glow, alongside a delicate tea cup and a slice of cake crowned with a solitary cherry.
With a subtle tilt of her hat, Furina inclined her head towards the audience, exuding an air of poised anticipation. Rising gracefully from her seat, she glided to the front of the stage, executing a dignified bow before embarking on a vocal warm-up to test the readiness of her vocal cords. Satisfied, she nodded affirmatively and extended her hand, from which a sword-like manifestation of ethereal blue materialized. The blade, resembling a fluid current of water, flowed gracefully from hilt to tip, glistening with an otherworldly sheen. Furina's smile widened as she began to pirouette with the sword in hand, her movements fluid and mesmerizing. With playful elegance, she traversed stage right, her voice weaving a melodic tapestry as she addressed the audience.
"Vocal chords, ready! Blood Sugar, replenished. Let the show...begin!"
In a crescendo of triumphant melody, the opera house was ensconced within a tapestry of music that draped over its audience like a plush quilt on a winter's night. Furina pirouetted at center stage, a vision of grace, as three aquatic familiars materialized before her. One took the form of a crab, another a squid adorned with a distinguished top hat, and the third a majestic seahorse. Together, they commenced a dazzling display of their unique talents: the seahorse, suspended mid-air in Furina's hands, released a cascade of shimmering bubbles into the air. The bubbles, iridescent and delicate, drifted through the enraptured crowd, eliciting gleeful cheers and wonderment. Lexei, spellbound by the whimsical spectacle unfolding before him, couldn't resist the urge to reach out and gently pop one of the bubbles that danced tantalizingly close. In that enchanted moment, the opera house became a realm of childlike wonder, where music, magic, and joy intertwined in a symphony of delight.
Next, the crab took the stage, executing a fanciful array of tap dances around Furina, its claws clicking rhythmically in time with the music. Entranced, Furina released her hold on the seahorse, joining the crab in a lively dance. Their performance culminated in a playful game of rock, paper, scissors, with Furina triumphant in her choice of rock, much to the crab's comical dismay. Meanwhile, the squid burst forth like a fountain's pinnacle, its tentacles extending gracefully towards Furina, who deftly intertwined with them in a waltz that swept across the stage. The crab and seahorse added to the spectacle with a shower of bubbles and perfectly timed footwork, creating a harmonious tableau that enraptured the crowd. Applause erupted, hands clapped in rhythm to the music, and Estelle couldn't resist surrendering to a childlike joy, swept up in the merriment of the moment. In contrast, Lexei remained seated, his demeanor a testament to his reverence for the opera's decorum and etiquette. He observed with admiration, appreciating the artistry and skill unfolding before him while resisting the urge to join the enthusiastic audience.
Suddenly, a troupe of thespians adorned in vibrant aquatic costumes, reminiscent of the diverse inhabitants of Fontaine, burst onto the stage from the wings. Each taking their place with precision, the creatures pairing off with their human counterparts in a choreographed dance that depicted a whimsical battle between the denizens of the deep and the people of Fontaine. Amidst the lively spectacle, Furina gracefully settled onto a swing subtly lowered to center stage. As the swing gently ascended, she remained poised and serene, a tranquil presence amidst the dynamic performance unfolding around her. The supporting cast dazzled with their skills, seamlessly timing their movements to allow stagehands to swiftly remove the tea table and chair from earlier. Despite the mesmerizing display of choreography and theatrical prowess, Lexei's attention remained singularly focused on Furina. Entranced by her ethereal presence and the aura of magic she exuded, he couldn't tear his gaze away from her, captivated by her every subtle gesture and expression.
The choreographed battle raged on as the aquatic creatures appearing to gain the upper hand with their fluid and mesmerizing movements. However, as the tension reached its peak, the music abruptly ceased. As all eyes turned to Furina as she extended her arms, wielding a sword with grace and command. With a swift and elegant motion, she swung across the stage. With each swoop embodying a different Archon of Teyvat, showcasing their diverse powers and personas. The final swing culminated in a spectacular gesture of generosity as Furina tossed a large sum of Mora into the cheering crowd, their jubilation echoing through the opera house. As if signaled by this act of grandeur, the battle scene resumed seamlessly, while Furina's swing gradually returned to its original position at center stage.
A chorus of singers glided forward on a wheeled stage, guided by shadowed stagehands dressed in dark attire. As the chorus of singers began their melodious song, their voices weaving together in harmonious splendor, Furina joined in seamlessly. Her voice, a delicate yet powerful addition, intertwined with theirs like a silken thread. Enhancing the richness of the musical tapestry without overshadowing the choir's collective brilliance. Together, they painted a mesmerizing tableau of sound and movement, captivating the audience with every note and gesture. Their voices, proud yet soothing, filled the air with melodies that stirred a sense of tranquility and joy within Lexei, despite not understanding the lyrics. Meanwhile, Furina descended onto the stage again, lifted gently by stagehands who then brought forth a street lamp prop. Furina seized the street lamp and began to twirl with playful elegance, a spectacle that captured Lexei's attention. He couldn't help but wonder if this display was a subtle, humorous reference to their first meeting, where his antics had perhaps left a lasting impression on her. As the opera continued to unfold with its blend of magic, music, and theatrical flair, Lexei found himself drawn deeper into the enchanting world that Furina and her companions had conjured, each moment unfolding like a chapter in a fantastical tale.
As Furina gracefully leapt off the street lamp prop, she glided across the stage with a confident stride. The actors parted to create a pathway for her, their movements synchronized to seamlessly guide her towards the center of the stage. Each step Furina took was a mesmerizing blend of poise and purpose, her presence commanding yet graceful. As she moved forward, the choreography of the actors around her continued unabated, their movements harmonizing effortlessly with her path. It was as though a silent understanding passed between them, enhancing the theatrical magic that enveloped the entire performance.
The audience remained spellbound as Furina glided towards the center of the stage, her movements infused with a quiet yet palpable intensity that captivated every eye in the theater. Her movement seemed to draw together the emotional threads woven throughout the opera's narrative, weaving together the emotions and anticipation that had been building throughout the evening. For Lexei, watching Furina's elegant progression felt like witnessing the unfolding of a masterful dance of destiny. He found himself swept up in the moment, marveling at her grace and the profound impact she had on the atmosphere of the opera house. With a final, graceful twirl, Furina extended her left arm skyward, her right hand firmly grasping her blade, a radiant smile illuminating her face. As the choir's melodious song reached its crescendo, the remaining cast members took their places, each pair striking a pose that mirrored the opera's themes of triumph and unity. In that fleeting moment, amidst the thunderous applause and the atmosphere charged with admiration, Lexei felt a profound sense of awe and gratitude. He knew he had witnessed something truly extraordinary. A testament to the transcendent power of music, dance, and the human spirit.
As if it was instinct, Lexei stood immediately and began to clap his hands with such excitement that it echoed throughout the entire opera house. As he shouted bravo to the cast he felt a tug from below, as Estelle continuously gestured for him to return to his seat. Confounded by her actions he continued to clap as he returned a questioning gaze. Estelle then responded as quickly as she could muster.
"Lexei, the show isn't over yet! This is just the opening act!"
Lexei's applause gradually faded into an awkward silence as he realized he was the only one standing among the seated audience. The theater around him filled with giggles and puzzled glances, making him aware of his inadvertent interruption. Clearing his throat softly, he raised his hands in a gesture of acknowledgment and apology. His discomfort palpable as he made his way back to his seat, murmuring apologies under his breath.
Onstage, Furina's smile widened slightly, a glint of amusement sparkling in her eyes as she struggled to stifle a laugh. With a subtle nod to a nearby stagehand, she indicated for the curtains to be lowered, gracefully moving the performance forward to the next act of the play. The audience, now settled and refocused on the unfolding drama, awaited the continuation of the enchanting tale woven by Furina and her troupe. Lexei, chastened but still captivated, resolved to maintain proper decorum for the remainder of the performance.