The Second Archon War: Animula Choragi 8

Animula Choragi 8: Scales and Arpeggios

Emptying out the trash wasn’t Furina’s favorite thing to do, but it was a part of the job. Grimacing at the smell, she opened the dumpster, then hoisted the bag up, preparing to sling it in. She paused, hearing a faint sound. Peering inside, Furina couldn’t see for a moment, but she did hear a gasp. 

Oh, that poor dear! There, in the corner, atop that bag. Yes, do you see it?

Furina blinked, then gasped herself as she saw what Focalors had. A tiny, filth-covered lump, with two big eyes that looked up at Furina. 

Ignoring the rubbish, Furina reached in and hauled out the little kitten that couldn’t have been more than three weeks old, and it mewed softly. “Oh you poor creature!” 

With one hand, Furina flung the trash in, then hurried back inside. The lunch rush had just ended, so it was quiet, but there was a mountain of dishes. Ignoring them, she hurried over, washing the kitten off in the sink. Its fur was so filthy she couldn’t tell what color it was, and the poor thing was shivering. 

“Hey, Furina, whatcha got there?” Ling asked, peering over from the stove. 

“Um, I…I found a baby kitten,” Furina admitted. 

Ling gasped and hurried over, even as Chef Mao frowned at them. “A cat?”

“Oh, you poor baby!” Ling cooed as Furina used warm water to wash the creature, then hastily wrapped it in a clean towel Ling handed her. 

“A cat? What are you two doing?” Mao demanded. “We’ve got work to do!” 

“Yes, I just…she was in the dumpster,” Furina said, cradling the kitten to herself. It sucked at her fingers, and Furina knew that it had to be starving. “I don’t think she’s weaned yet…”

“How do you know it’s a girl?” Ling asked curiously. 

“She’s a calico, they’re always female,” Furina explained, now that the coat was revealed. Only…she’d know the cat was female since she first laid eyes on it. 

You see to the soul, not the body. How interesting. Though you are fully mortal, you also have the traits of a god…I’ve never heard the like before. 

I’m not a god, you are, Furina shot back. She went over to the fridge, pulling out a bottle of milk. “Can we heat this on the stove?”

Ling instantly did so, even as Chef Mao grumbled about, ‘damn fool cats.’ Though he did get out a latex glove. “Fill it with the warm milk, and prick a hole in the finger so she can nurse.” 

Furina was soon curled up with the kitten, who nursed greedily as Ling washed the dishes. “You’re a hungry little one, aren’t you?” 

“Don’t let the health inspector see you with that thing in my kitchen,” Mao huffed, though he didn’t badger Furina to get back to work. 

“Why ever not? Cats keep down pests, and we have plenty of those,” Furina pointed out. Wanmin restaurant was immaculately clean and well maintained, but Furina knew perfectly well there wasn’t a kitchen in the world that didn’t get roaches, rats, and other pests. There were traps and the place had been treated by an expert according to what Furina had seen of the safety records. She’d read them all as a matter of course, but still. 

“Cat hair and the like. So keep her out of sight,” Ling said. 

Once the kitten had drunk its fill, Furina put her in a box with some warm towels near the stoves, and the little dear promptly went to sleep. She got back to work, washing the dishes with extra vigor to make up for lost time. 

The rest of her shift proceeded as normal, though Ling did nurse the kitten again halfway through the dinner rush to her father’s irritation. “Oh come on, Dad! You wouldn’t want this little baby to starve, would you?”

He huffed, but smiled and stroked the kitten under the chin, making her purr. Furina grinned, and went back to taking orders. 

After dinner was over, the staff sat around one of the tables with some food, along with a bottle of wine. Ling had whipped up something she called Black-Back Perch Stew, which while a tad spicy for Furina’s taste, was still delicious. Julie was nursing the kitten, smiling and cooing at the baby. “Oh, Furina, before I forget again, I have something for you. Reach into my purse and grab the papers there, would you?”

“Sure,” Furina agreed, and pulled out a large flier. She looked it over, a pang filling her heart. “Oh, Julie, this is…”

“You have to try out, Furina! You’re wasting away here!” Julie said emphatically. She pointed to the paper, which was a casting call for what seemed to be a musical drama known as Les Misérables at the Théâtre de l’Ondine. “This would be perfect for you!” 

“I, I don’t know, we’re so busy…” Furina said, swallowing. The poster had an image of a young waif with a broom, and a tricolor behind her. 

“When is it?” Mao said, leaning over. “Ah, Friday? Good. Julie, you and Furina take the night off, go audition.”

“Me?” Julie yelped. “But, Uncle Mao, they always tell me no! I can’t-”

“You absolutely should, Julie! You’re a great singer and actor as well! And Furina, of course you have to audition!” Ling declared. 

“But, what about the restaurant?” Furina said plaintively. 

“I’ve been looking to hire help. I was going to hire one of the people I’ve interviewed, but I’ll go ahead and hire two. We’re so busy, they can cover your shifts and pick up another half shift everyday to boot,” Chef Mao said with a fatherly smile. Seeing that made Furina feel all warm inside. No one had ever looked at her like that before…

“It’s your dream! Both of you! You can’t just abandon your dreams!” Ling said, wagging her finger at them. “You have to pursue it with passion above all!” 

“You sound like a real Pyro,” Furina said with a chuckle. Ling recoiled, and the others appeared baffled and horrified. 

“Oh, um, I mean, like a Pyro Vision…Um, n-never mind. Just an expression,” Furina stammered. She was feeling so overwhelmed she’d actually broken character! Stupid, stupid, stupid! There were no Pyro Visions in Paris.

Though frankly, if there were, Furina would have expected Ling to get hers long ago. She always threw herself into every project and was a never-ending bubble of joy and passion. Over her long life she’d met plenty of Pyro Vision Holders, and Ling was a classic example if she’d ever seen one. 

Ah yes, I can already see the shape where she will bear hers. I can’t tell you with exactness when the Pyro Archon will arrive, only that it will be within two years. Which one I cannot say, but something tells me they will be one from your own age. I’ve been studying the Fate of this world and watching the flow of Time. There are odd currents and disturbing implications for the future, but it is clear to me that two more Archons will arrive. 

Truly? What about the Hydro Archon? When will she arrive? Will it be you, or Egeria, or another?

Why, Furina. The Hydro Archon will arrive when she is good and ready. You simply need to tell me when, and show me what your Justice is. 

You make it sound like I’m the Hydro Archon. That’s preposterous. 

Her response to that was gales of laughter and a few snorts. How utterly undignified. 

“Eh, I like lighting things on fire, but only to cook them,” Ling said with a wink to show Furina she was forgiven. Then Ling turned somber. “But seriously, you two. You have to go and at least try. And make sure you sing, Furina! If they hear you sing, they’re sure to hire you!” 

Picking up the flier, Furina studied it, not certain what to do. Did she really wish to take the stage again?

You could always decline. I was an Archon from the Shadows, hidden from everyone. You could operate much the same way. 

That’s not what this is about. But…no. I could never hide from the world. They have a right to see their Archon on the stage, and applaud or boo as they see fit. 

“I’ll think about it,” Furina said, and tucked the flier in her own bag. Then, cradling the kitten, she hurried back home. 

The next morning, Furina was shaken awake, and instantly sat up, heart pounding. “NAVIA, NO!” 

She blinked, realizing it was Yennifer hovering over her.”Oh, um, sorry. I just…a nightmare. What is it?” 

Pursing her lips, Yennifer held up a small furry bundle.  “Do you mind telling me where this came from?”

“Mew!” the kitten cried, and nipped at Yennifer’s fingers, obviously hungry. Yennifer was already dressed in her pantsuit, so she was clearly getting ready to go to work. 

“Oh! Sorry, she must be hungry,” Furina said, taking the kitten from Yennifer and hurrying to the kitchen. 

“Morning,” Charlotte yawned, then did a double take as Furina hurried to the fridge and got out some milk and poured it into a cup. “Wait, hold on, is that…?”

“Furina, where did you get a cat?” Yennifer asked, sounding exasperated. 

“Um, in the dumpster at work, actually,” Furina admitted. “The poor dear had been thrown out like rubbish! Her mother was nowhere to be found, so, um, I sort of…adopted her.”

Charlotte's eyes had gone wide, and a grin tugged at her lips as she turned to Yennifer. “Oh come on, you have to let us keep her! We can have pets, it said so in the rental agreement!” 

“Mmmm,” Yennifer examined the cat, then sighed. “Oh, very well. But I’m not taking care of her. That’s your responsibility.”

“Of course, we’ll get supplies from the store, I’ll do some research at school!” Charlotte said eagerly, then took the kitten and helped Furina nurse her. 

As they sat at the table, Furina noticed a large book in front of Charlotte with a familiar title. “Oh, that’s funny, is this book popular?” 

“Hmm?” Charlotte glanced at the book, then shrugged. “I mean, I guess. It’s assigned reading in school, though just the abridged version. I adored it, but the play is so much better! It’s considered a classic French novel.”

“Oh, Les Mis?” Yennifer said, sitting down with a cup of coffee and a cup of yogurt and fruit. “Yes, I suppose so. I never read the book, but I did see the play in the West End with…well. With my girlfriend at the time.” 

“Would you mind if I borrow it? Or do you need it for school?” Furina asked nervously, nodding to the thick volume. 

“Oh, go ahead, I already finished it. If I need a copy they have the short ones in class,” Charlotte said, and Furina picked up the hefty tome. 

A bit of light reading, eh? You must be serious about that audition. 

Oh, hush. I’ve done plenty of reading of thick volumes. Besides, this seems to be a cultural touchstone of sorts, so it would be good to read it even if I don’t audition for the play. 

Soon, Yennifer and Charlotte departed, and the unnamed kitten fell asleep. Furina picked up the book and went over to the couch with a cup of coffee, thick with creamer and sugar, and began to read. 

So long as there shall exist, by virtue of law and custom, decrees of

damnation pronounced by society, artificially creating hells amid the

civilization of earth, and adding the element of human fate to divine

destiny; so long as the three great problems of the century--the

degradation of man through pauperism, the corruption of woman through

hunger, the crippling of children through lack of light--are unsolved;

so long as social asphyxia is possible in any part of the world;--in

other words, and with a still wider significance, so long as ignorance

and poverty exist on earth, books of the nature of Les Misérables cannot

fail to be of use.

From that first part of the preface, Furina was completely and utterly enthralled. Focalors was silent as well, both of them drinking in the words of Victor Hugo’s masterwork. She didn’t move for three hours, and when she finally had to get up to answer nature's call, Furina glanced at the clock and realized in a panic that it was twenty minutes past ten, and she was due at work in ten minutes. And it took her twenty to arrive at Wanmin by train. 

Dressing in a hasty panic, Furina scooped up her kitten and placed her in her purse, along with the large novel she had been so enthralled by. Then she scampered off to the subway, arriving at Wanmin restaurant just before they opened at 11:00. 

“I’m sorry!” Furina gasped as she barged in. “I’m so sorry! I…I simply lost track of time!” 

“Mew!” the little kitten said loudly, as it was well past the time she should be fed, and she was growing impatient. 

“This little dear keep you up?” Julie asked, coming over. “Or was it- oh! You’re reading the book!?”

“Um, yes,” Furina admitted. “That ah, might be why I’m late…”

“You were just caught up in the moment!” Ling poked her head in, a wide grin on her face. “I knew you’d agree to try out! Won’t you need to practice?”

“I, ah, well, I haven’t decided yet, but perhaps,” Furina admitted. 

“DAD! JULIE AND FURINA ARE TAKING TOMORROW OFF, CAN THE NEW HELP START?!” Ling yelled back into the kitchen. 

“What!? Why are they- Oh! Fine, I’ll call them and have them start a day early. Worthless workers, can’t even keep a steady job,” Chef Mao grumbled, but then he grinned at Furina and winked. “When you get famous, make sure to tell everyone to come and eat at Wanmin Restaurant!” 

The rest of Furina’s shift passed in a blur of washing dishes and waiting tables, as well as nursing the kitten while she read. She had to set an alarm on her phone to remind herself to go back to work, so invested in the story of Jean Valjean, Inspector Javert, the kindly Bishop, poor Fantine…it was delightful!

I am going to have to audition, won’t I? I must see this book brought to life…

Oh yes, and I simply have to see how this ends. Surely Javert will be punished for his miscarriage of Justice! 

Yes, but sadly, I have seen officers of the law who like him, become blind to the spirit and follow only the letter…

An all too common condition. The man would never receive a Hydro Vision. He’s one of the hidebound sorts who get a dusty old Geo Vision. Stubborn old fools. I met Morax once, you know. The man was impressive of course, but to call him intractable would be an understatement. No give in that one. 

There has to be mercy in real justice, Furina agreed. 

She and Julie made plans to meet at the apartment that the Mao family shared to read over scripts and practice some songs, then Furina headed home early at Chef Mao’s insistence. 

It was barely 8pm when Furina got home, though she did text Yennifer to let her know she was coming with takeout for her and Charlotte. Vegetarian, of course. Both sisters were firmly committed to animal rights, which Furina found admirable. Barbara was apparently over as well to study with Charlotte, so Furina brought her some food too. 

“Hey, why’re you home so early?” Charlotte said as soon as Furina arrived. 

Yennifer smacked her sister lightly on the head. “You mean, ‘thank you for dinner, Furina.’” 

“Yeah, yeah, but what’s the juicy details!?” Yennifer said, rubbing her head and grinning. 

“Thank you, Miss Furina,” Barbara said politely, accepting a take out box. She waited patiently while Furina passed out the dishes, though Charlotte opened hers and took a bite, grinning cheekily. 

Once everyone had food, Barabara bowed her head, as did Furina, and then they recited along with Yennifer, “Bless us, O Lord, with these thy gifts, which we are about to receive. From thy bounty, through Christ our Lord, Amen.”

“You could be more respectful,” Barbara told Charlotte as they ate. “You did receive a Divine Gift yourself.” 

“Pff, I got mine from the ice bitch. She’s no more divine than I am,” Charlotte said with an irreverent smirk. 

“I have read in some texts that those who receive Visions are…what was the word?” Furina pondered aloud. 

Allogens, Focalors supplied. 

“Allogens, that was it! Yes, that they have the seed of divinity in them, and could ascend to godhood. Like happened with the Tsaritsa when her Mother died,” Furina said with a nod. Then froze. Wait. Was that something she should know?

“Been reading Frozen Heart propaganda, eh?” Charlotte said, making a face. “Well, she’s on ice now. But anyway, why are you home early?”

“I, um…” Furina pulled out the flier and showed it to the others. “Well, there is an audition for Les Misérables, and, well, when I told Chef Mao…he told me to go home and practice…”

“Ah!” Barbara gasped, her eyes lighting up in delight. “You’re auditioning for Les Mis?! That’s my favorite musical! What part do you want?! Oh, you would be perfect as Cosette!” 

“Um, well, I don’t…I’ve never actually seen the play,” Furina admitted. 

“WHAT?!” Barbara actually jumped up at that, her eyes wide. “You’ve never seen-!? Lotte, you have a version of the stage play here, don’t you?!” 

“We’ve got the Robert Hossein film and the stage recording!” Charlotte said, standing and hurrying to the television, Charlotte hot on her heels. 

“Oh, you simply HAVE to watch it!” Barbara said, turning to Furina eagerly. “My favorite song is Do You Hear the People Sing!” 

“Do you hear the people sing?” Charlotte began, and Barbara joined in. 

Singing a song of angry men?

It is the music of the people

Who will not be slaves again

Furina could only listen with tears in her eyes as the two girls dug out a betamax cassette and turned the TV on. Yennifer sighed and came to stand beside Furina, an amused smile on her lips. “It’s a bit late to be putting on a two hour musical, girls. It is a school night.”

“But she HAS to watch it, Yennifer! I need to see the Hydro- I mean, I need to see Furina watch this! It’s about Truth! About refusing to let society dictate to you what is real and demanding that they speak the Truth!” 

“No, it’s about Justice!” Barbara argued. “About people standing up for what is right against a corrupt system and refusing to bow down to evil men!” 

“It’s about both,” Yennifer said. “Barbara, your car will be here soon to pick you up…”

“No! I’m calling mère and letting her know we have important research to do! Why, I think I will audition as well!” Barbara declared, sticking her nose up in the air. 

Yennifer raised an eyebrow, and then turned to Charlotte, who folded her arms over her chest defiantly. “I’m staying up to watch it with Furina too! This is important, Yen! You told me how wonderful it was when Furina sang! Just think about it! This…this could be the French version of the Tone Deaf Bards!” 

“The military group?” Furina asked, confused. “The ones who are fighting in Finland?” 

Barbara looked at Furina like she’d grown a second head. “You don’t know the Tone Deaf Bards? They only have the most amazing music ever, and they’re led by an Angel of the Lord, Barbados himself!” 

“They are more or less a military group as well, seeing as they fought the Gesselschaft, an Endbringer, and now the Fatui in Poland and Finland,” Yennifer said. 

“Well, you would know, Sir Lustria,” Barbara said with a shrug. She pulled out her phone and dialed. “Jacques? Yes, it’s me. Tell mère I’m spending the night at Charlotte's. It’s very important. Oh, and tell her I’m going to audition for a play on Friday, Les Misérables. Yes, that’s why I’m staying over. Oh, that woman, Ms. de Fontaine? Yes, she’s an actress. We’re going to audition together. Yes, I know it’s a school night. Look, tell mère I’ve had perfect attendance since I was in primaire and this won’t kill me. I’ve been in plays before! This is just more serious. Yes, yes, she can call Ms. Lustria. Mhmm. Yes, of course, she’s working late. Well, then there’s no problem if I stay with a friend, is there?” 

“This, this is all happening so fast,” Furina said, wringing her hands. “It’s not what I’ve planned at all?”

Fate, my dear, often sweeps up both mortals and gods in its plans. Besides, it’s been too long since I got to watch a proper play. Go on, enjoy yourself. 

And so, Furina curled up on the couch with Yennifer as Barbara and Charlotte made popcorn, and sang along to all the songs. Charlotte’s voice wasn’t bad, but Barbara was clearly trained and naturally gifted to boot, with a clear, sweet alto that was surprisingly deep for her age. 

As for the play itself…Furina was completely absorbed in the music and story. Rain pounded against the window, and Furina wept at nearly every other song. She went through an entire box of tissues, blowing her nose and loving the entire thing. 

At the end of it, Furina found herself singing along with the refrain of “Do You Hear the People Sing.” To her surprise, the little kitten that had been sleeping in her lap sat up and mewed along to the music. It was a wonderful, transcendental experience, and at that moment, Furina knew. 

She simply had to be a part of this play. Even if she was only a member of the chorus, even if only a stage hand, this was something she needed to be a part of. This message of redemption, revolution, and most importantly, Justice, strongly resonated with her. This was it. This was the Justice she sought. 

Liberté, égalité, fraternité.

Liberty, Equality, Brotherhood. Yes, I do think that is a Justice I can get behind. The Justice of the small people who stand together, arm in arm, in the face of oppression. The Justice of kindness, mercy, and redemption. Very good. But, I do not think the time is right for Visions. Not yet. 

Then when will it be?

Oh, you’ll see. I think I’ve found the perfect time. We’ll just have to wait for it to arrive, my dear. 

Cryptic as always…

No no no! You’re a fellow artist, Furina. You understand that one must wait for the climax of theshow before the grand reveal. 

Once the musical was over, Yennifer stood and clapped her hands. “Right, it’s after midnight. Bed for everyone.”

Charlotte and Barbara yawned and stood, saying goodnight and heading for bed, but Furina got up and warmed some milk, before feeding her hungry little kitten. 

“Well, what did you think? I take it you enjoyed the play,” Yennifer asked, taking a seat at the kitchen table across from Furina. 

“I adored it,” Furina admitted. “It was…powerful. A truly wonderful story. Its portrayal of Justice…it’s exactly what I would wish Justice to be.”

“Really? I was always a bit annoyed at it, especially with Javert. He’s supposed to be an officer of the law and court, and yet, he’s a single-minded maniac. Then he kills himself. A waste,” Yennifer said, grimacing. 

“True, but Justice prevailed in the end. Javert’sJustice was the false kind, and when faced with true Justice, it was banished. How things should end,” Furina said with a smile. Her kitten yawned and smacked its lips, then curled up in her arms and started snoring. 

“Well, time for bed, then. We’ll put out a towel for the little one tonight, and get her a little box tomorrow. She’ll have to be trained to use it,” Yennifer said, and she and Furina went back to the bedroom.

In her dreams, Furina saw herself on stage, singing before an adoring audience. Strangely, not only Yennifer and her sister were there, along with Xiangling, Julie, and Chef Mao, but Neuvillette, the Travelers, and even Focalors herself. 

I think dearest Neuvillette would be proud of you, Furina. Don’t underestimate the crotchety old lizard. He’s got a softer heart than you think. 

I always thought he resented me, for being the symbol of his stolen authority…

He’s not so petty as that, I think. Besides, he did Judge you, don’t you recall? And he forgave you. 

If only I could know that for certain…

Well. We’ll simply have to ask the Hydro Dragon of this world. Though I’m afraid she won’t arrive for a while yet. I’ll have to see what I can concoct to speed up the timeline. For now, I’ll simply identify what mortals match your ideals of Justice. And divine suitable moments to acknowledge them. 

Furina awoke at the same time Yennifer did, largely to feed her still unnamed kitten. To her worry, the kitten had gotten up and left, and though a quick search located the cat in the kitchen, batting around a small roach. 

“My, a fierce little hunter you are,” Furina said, crouching by the kitten as Barbara and Charlotte stumbled out, bleary-eyed and groaning. “Good morning you too?”

“Good morning,” Barbara yawned, blinking furiously. 

“Mmph,” Charlotte grumbled, and pulled out a bowl and poured canned peaches and cottage cream into it. 

“I warned the two of you. You’re not missing school just because you stayed up all night watching a musical with Furina,” Yennifer yawned, making an extra large pot of coffee. She glanced over at the kitten, who was still batting at the now very dead roach. “My, my, what a little huntress. Not even weaned and she’s already defending the house.”

“She’ll earn her keep, before long she’ll be catching rats,” Furina said, taking out a bit of string and waving it for the kitten to play with. 

“Did you name her?” Barbara asked, taking a bit of leftover rice and tofu from the night before.

“Ah, no, I just found her yesterday, and I haven’t thought about it,” Furina admitted. 

“Artemis,” Charlotte said around a mouthful of food. 

“The Greek Goddess of the Hunt?” Yennifer said. “That’s a bit of a mouthful for such a little kitten.”

“What about Diane?” Barbara suggested. “That’s the French version.”

“Mmph,” Charlotte said with a shrug, apparently not caring. 

“I like it,” Furina said with a nod. “She will be Diane, my little huntress.” 

“Mew!” Diane agreed, batting at the string. 

After the others left, Furina took a short nap, then departed for Wanmin Restaurant, as the Mao apartment was located just a block away. She brought her copy of Les Misérables, the Betamax tape of the stage play, Dione, and a liter of milk. 

The Mao apartment wasn’t much different than Yennifer’s, and Furina found it easily enough. She knocked on the door, and Yennifer opened it a moment later. 

“Good morning! Come in, come in. Oh! You brought the kitten I see. Did you name her yet?”

“Diane, she was hunting bugs this morning, so we decided to name her after the god of the hunt,” Furina explained. 

They made a little nest for the kitten, though Diane scampered about the apartment for a bit before Julie rigged a ball of cotton on a string for her to play with.

“I’ve got copies of the script, I’ve tried out for Les Misérables before, though I’ve never gotten anything other than the ensemble,” Julie said with a grimace. 

“What role would you like?” Furina asked curiously. 

“Well, the dream is Fantine, of course, she has the best song, but that’s the role you should try for. I’d be happy with anything really, even one of the factory girls or part of the ensemble.”

“Me? You really think I’m cut out for a leading role?” Furina asked nervously. It had been some time since she’d taken to the stage, and never in such a fashion. 

“Yes, absolutely. Here, just try singing I Dreamed a Dream,” Julie urged. 

Furina glanced at the script, but she didn’t need to see it. The words came to her mind instantly. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath, then began to sing. 

I dreamed a dream in time gone by

When hope was high and life worth living

I dreamed that love would never die

I dreamed that God would be forgiving

When she was done, Furina opened her eyes. Julie was grinning, even as she had to dab at her eyes with a tissue. Diane had stopped batting at the cotton and was looking at Furina expectantly. 

“That’s perfect. No notes,” Julie croaked. “You’ll get the part for sure. I’m not even going to attempt it.”

“Well, what part should you practice then?” Furina asked. 

“I suppose I should practice Lovely Ladies, I might get a role as a whore,” Julie said with a sigh. 

Oh I think not. She’s suited for much more. Tell her to sing Éponine’s song, ‘On My Own.’ I checked, they’re using it for this version, even if it’s not in the original French production. 

And how do you know that?

I simply glanced at the future, dear. And I can quite clearly see where this girl’s destiny is headed. With a bit of a nudge.  

“What about…Éponine. Could you do ‘On My Own’?” Furina asked. 

“I don’t know if they’re even doing that one. Usually in French productions, she sings ‘L'un Vers L'autre’. Let me check,” Julie said, and looked over the casting call. “Oh! They are doing a version of ‘On My Own’. Hmm, let me see, I haven’t practiced that one…”

“Let’s try,” Furina urged. “I think you have a better shot at it than you might think.” She didn’t add, ‘If the imaginary voice in my head is correct.’ 

You still think I’m a figment of your imagination? My my. I shall have to prove myself to you, won’t I?

They spent the rest of the day practicing, though not straight through. Furina was able to give Julie some pointers, and she really did have a wonderful singing voice; classically trained, and with no small amount of natural ability. 

“I’m sure you’ll get the part,” Furina told Julie. “I’ve barely practiced at all myself!” 

“Trust me, you’ll get it. They’ll take one look at you and hear you sing and it’s yours,” Julie told her emphatically. 

“Well…the rehearsal is tomorrow,” Furina said with a sigh. She wanted this. She needed this, but…how could she know what the future holds?

Don’t answer that. 

And spoil the fun? It’s much more interesting if the players don’t know the twist before it happens. 

Oh, so am I a mere player on the stage while you’re the director, then? 

For now, my dear. Though I am afraid your time in the director’s seat will come, no matter what you desire. 

Her phone buzzed, and Furina found a text from Yennifer. 

Finished up here. You want to get dinner? Charlotte is over at Barbara’s. Apparently, she’s serious about auditioning for a part with you. 

That would be lovely! We’ve sung about as much as is wise for tonight. Where would you like to go? 

There’s a proper German bar not too far from here. I’d like to show you the cuisine from the other half of my heritage. Meet you there? 

Certainly! Juile says she’ll cat sit for me, we can get the things you said Diane needs after dinner. 

Julie let Furina freshen up in the bathroom, before she headed to the place Yennifer had indicated with some texted directions. Yennifer was waiting for her outside, and smiled at her when Furina arrived. 

“Well, how was practice?” 

“I’m not sure,” Furina admitted as they headed inside. “Julie says I’m a shoo in for the part, but I can’t share her confidence. I’ve never had to audition for a part before, and I have no idea how it works here in Paris anyway.”

“Oh, I think you’ll be fine,” Yennifer said with a laugh. 

They stepped inside, and several people looked up, then waved and called greetings to Yennifer. 

“Sir Lustria! We thought you’d been deployed to the frontlines, with how long you’ve been gone,” the waitress said, hurrying over to Yennifer and Furina. “Who’s your friend?”

“Furina de Fontaine, my new roommate,” Yennifer said. “She’s an actress.”

“Really? Ah, sorry, I should say Bonjour instead of Gutten Tag, Ms. Fontaine.”

Furina blinked, realizing that Yennifer and the waitress had been speaking German, and that the waitress had switched halfway through. “Oh, that’s no trouble. I’m fluent in German. I toured there with a theater company. Yennifer and I met through a pair of mutual acquaintances, actually, Chaim and Malka Goldstein. They knew I was returning to Paris, and introduced us.”

“Ah, wonderful! Well, I have a special seat reserved just for you two, right this way!” 

Once they were settled, the waitress offered Furina a drink menu, but she just looked to Yennifer. 

“A pair of Schneider Weisse Hefeweizen. And I’ll have Kartoffelpuffer.”

“Do you have vegetarian stew?” Furina asked, thinking of her tired singing voice. 

“Of course! We can whip that right up for you,” the waitress agreed, and departed with their orders. 

“Well, you asked about my day, but how was yours?” Furina asked. 

“Not very interesting, I’m afraid. I’m working through discovery for a client in a criminal defense case, and while it is related to a violent crime, the discovery itself is mostly about procedural nitty gritty details that would bore you to tears.”

“Oh, not at all! Procedure is one of the most important parts of the law! Cases are won and lost based upon the chain of evidence and establishing things like frame of mind!” Furina said eagerly. 

Yennifer’s eyes sparkled, and she nodded. “True enough, but it’s an ongoing case, so as much as I’d love to talk shop about it, I really can’t.”

“I understand,” Furina said, though she did feel a bit disappointed. They chatted for a bit, before a big man in an apron came over with the beers and some bread. 

“Sir Lustria! Good to see you, though I am surprised you’re here. The war hasn’t been going well, has it?” 

“Hello, Klaus,” Yennifer said with a nod as the man set down the drinks and food. “It’s not from what I’ve seen, but I know as much as you. I’m retired, and frankly, this battle is so far above my pay grade I wouldn’t be of any use.” 

“Hmm, I suppose.” Klaus shook his head and grimaced. “I hear they’ve taken Lappeenranta and are marching on Kotka. Is it true the government has evacuated Helsinki for Oulu?”

“I can’t speak to that. As I said, I’m retired. All I can do is pray for the defenders,” Yennifer said with a sad smile. 

“Hmm. Well, hopefully old Barbados wakes up soon. Seems the Tone Deaf Bards couldn’t stop the Prince this time. Well. Enjoy your food,” Klaus said, then headed back to the bar. 

Furina and Yennifer both sat quietly, peering into their drinks. Yennifer looked pained, and Furina wasn’t certain what to say. What could she do, in this situation?

Not much, I’m afraid. As much as I hate to say it, even at my best, I was no match for a Harbinger in a direct fight. This Prince sounds even more dangerous than even the Captain, let alone the Knave or Tartaglia. 

Maybe the real Hydro Archon will arrive and lend those poor souls some aid…

Ah, Furina. I think the time will come. Finland will suffer, yes, but there are more dire things afoot. There are shadows in Fate that I find…disturbing. But do not trouble yourself about them yet. The Tsaritsa may rage, but she is far from here. And it is unwise to meddle in the affairs of other Archons unless you must. 

“I’m sorry, are your friends…safe?” Furina asked quietly. 

Yennifer took a long pull for her beer, then shook her head. “For now. But Capri and Naomi are fighting on the front, and losing, sadly. I know some others, but…well. This was supposed to be a happy night. Drink, eat! For tomorrow you may die!”

Yennifer forced a laugh, and Furina managed a chuckle, but it wasn’t very convincing. 

The beer was interesting, though Furina much preferred wine. She had never been much of a drinker, and found the bitter taste of beer to be less appealing. The stew was good though, and it was pleasant enough to chat with Yennifer once they managed to get past the looming specter of the ongoing war for Finland. 

After dinner, they went back to the apartment and picked up Diane from Julie, who smiled as she handed over the sleeping kitten. “Here’s your little fur baby, she misses her mommies, I think.”

“Oh! Um, well, we sort of adopted her by accident,” Furina said with a nervous chuckle. 

“My mother always did said I’d turn into a lonely cat hag when I got older. Guess I’m proving her right,” Yennifer laughed. “Come on, we’ll stop at the pet store and pick up some things. The nice thing about living in Paris is everything is open quite late.”

They ended up splurging more than Furina or Yennifer had intended, getting a litter box, toys, cat tree, pet pillows, and a crate. Diane didn’t enjoy being put in the crate for the ride back to their apartment, mewing in discontentment, but it was for the best. 

“We’ll have to find a vet to give her her shots, and see about getting her spayed,” Yennifer said. 

Oh, dear. Ah, don’t do that, Focalors advised. 

Why ever not? 

Just a tip: Wait on that one. It won’t be much of a concern. Besides, she’s just a baby. You need to wait for that operation.

What is spaying, anyway?

Sterilization. They do it to avoid overpopulation of pets. 

What?! How horrid! 

Mmm. I understand the logic, but I do find the idea of living beings not being able to reproduce rather repugnant, considering our history. Still, I think we can talk dear Yen out of it.

I hope so! Though…how do you know what spaying is? Have you been reading books when I’m not looking? 

No, no, just the future. Prescience can make the world a tad dull, but it is useful at times. My oracular powers were never the most impressive, but I fear I would be the foremost oracle of this world if Buer wasn’t here already. 

“Shots and such sound good, but she’s rather young for spaying, isn’t she?” Furina said. 

“Hmm, a point perhaps, I honestly don’t know. We had a dog when I was a girl, but I was never very involved in her care,” Yennifer admitted. “Still, I’m fond of cats. I think Diane will be a welcome addition to our family.”

At home, Furina found she was rather tired, so she and Yennifer just read quietly in the bedroom until it was time for bed. 

“I really enjoyed this evening,” Furina told Yennifer as they got ready to turn in. “I admit, I’ve never been this close to anyone, but it’s nice. We almost feel like a real family now.”

“I…” Yennifer blinked, then blushed. “Yes. This is, um, well. We’ve grown rather close, haven’t we?”

“Yes,  you and Charlotte are like the sisters I never had,” Furina said, and on impulse gave Yennifer a quick hug. 

The other woman stiffened, then turned off the light. “Good night, Furina,” she said, somewhat coldly. 

Oh no, what was it that I said?

I…am not certain. This has been charmingly domestic. I am tempted to peer into her soul, but…well. That seems…wrong. I think you’ll have to navigate this one without my guidance, Furina. Though I lived for many long years, Oceanids are solitary by nature. I was a part of Egeria’s court, yes, but I was her head legal expert, and not involved in court life, such as it was. 

So, you never had a family, either?

Only you, daughter mine. And I was a rather horrid mother. 

Furina lay awake for a while, feeling a bit stunned. At last, she closed her eyes, and sent, I…I love you, mother. Even…even if you’re not real. I forgive you, just so you know. I chose to sacrifice myself. Even if…even if it was rather painful. 

Thank you, Furina. I…I love you also. Rest well, my dear. You have a big day ahead of you. 

With that, Furina drifted off to sleep. To her surprise, she dreamed of Yennifer. She was trying to say something to the other woman as they sat together, holding hands, but the words wouldn’t come to her. What was it? 

Not a sister…a…

But the words would not form, and Furina couldn’t find a way to put a smile on the lips of the one who mattered most to her.