[The Film Theater Was Packed—And the Subject Was a Phantom Thief?
Yesterday, the film directed by Lady Furina and starring Ladies Clorinde and Luna finally premiered at the Film Theater after overcoming numerous obstacles.
Producer: "When the sea surged and flooded the tapes, our hearts nearly stopped. Fortunately, we managed to complete the project in the end."
The theater was packed on opening day, and audiences showered the film with praise.
Audience Member 1: "I never imagined Miss Clorinde's acting could be so exquisite! She portrayed such a cold-faced character with such remarkable precision!"
"Beautiful, truly beautiful..."
"The cinematography is top-notch, the acting superb, the costumes exquisite, and the aesthetics impeccable! But the real highlight was the intense fight scene in the middle and the intimate interactions between the two Phantom Thieves..."
"If there's one downside, it's that it's not exactly suitable for children!"
"To release such a daring work at this critical moment... Lady Furina is truly bold."
The box office is staggering, potentially shattering Fontaine's all-time record!
However, members of Lady Luna's former troupe, the Dark Moon Troupe, have revealed that she willingly breached her contract and paid a substantial penalty to leave the group.
Could this be related to Lady Furina?
"They're always inseparable," said an unnamed Magician.
"Uh... they're very close," said an unnamed diver.
-
"Whenever Lady Furina is with Lady Luna, her face is always beaming with joy. Could it be that she left the stage entirely because of Lady Luna?"
Melus and Silver finished reading the newspaper and fell into a mutual silence.
"If things continue like this, the Young Miss is going to lose," Silver murmured, shaking his head.
"The Young Miss may seem cheerful and direct, but she's actually quite perceptive and thoughtful," Melus analyzed. "While this makes her endearing, it's a major disadvantage in matters of love."
They looked up to see Navia guiding Luna and Furina around the premises.
This venue had been meticulously selected as one of the finest among several Troupe locations, thanks to Navia's extensive network.
Originally intended for a House, it could be converted into the Troupe's base while preserving some of its original decor to save costs.
"What do you think? Excellent quality at a reasonable price! This is one of the best locations the Spina di Rosula could find!" Navia beamed.
Furina narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing her surroundings.
"Hmm... indeed, it's quite impressive!" she declared, satisfied.
"What do you think, Lulu?" Navia asked.
Luna thought the layout was somewhat similar to the House of the Hearth, which gave her a sense of familiarity.
"As expected of Nana," she said approvingly. "You found a place that suits my tastes so quickly."
Navia planted her hands on her hips, her face beaming. "Of course! I'm your partner, after all. I know exactly what you like."
"But you could praise me more often, you know," she added. "I never get tired of your compliments."
Seeing Navia's bashful pose and the rosy blush on her cheeks, Furina shot Luna a silent, piercing glare.
It's just a compliment! Luna signaled with her eyes.
"Hmph..." Furina turned away.
For every compliment Luna gives another woman, she'll have to shower me with ten times as many when we get back!
"Nana has impeccable taste."
"Mmm-hmm."
"Nana's voice is enchanting."
"Ha ha, you're much better!"
Navia said contentedly.
But it would be even better if she praised me when we're alone together, so I could respond properly without holding back.
Navia glanced at Luna's lips, her heart skipping a beat.
No, no! Others are still here!
She quickly composed herself and smiled. "Back to business. Is this address settled then?"
"Yes."
"What about the name? What's the troupe's name? Once that's decided, we can apply!"
The name... Furina and Luna exchanged glances.
Furina: Does it even need saying?
Luna: As expected?
After their brief wordless exchange, they announced in unison:
"Fufu Theater!"
"Masked Troupe!"
Huh?
Furina exclaimed in shock, "What kind of name is that?! Why would you use the nickname you gave me as the Troupe's name? No way! It's too embarrassing—I refuse!"
Luna smiled gently. "But isn't it adorable? After all, I am quite adorable."
"To think she'd call herself adorable so directly... though I do agree," Navia remarked subtly.
Luna raised her index finger. "Then how about 'Chinanana Troupe'?"
After all, the founding members were the three of them—all with "Na" in their names—plus Chiori.
"That's way too weird."
"Yeah, it's a bit strange."
The suggestion was unanimously rejected.
If Chiori heard this, she'd definitely glare at me with that piercing look of hers, Luna thought.
Though that might be quite amusing in its own way.
Navia suggested, "I think 'Moon Rose Troupe' sounds nice!"
"No, no! A troupe name can't just sound pretty—it needs meaning. 'Masked Troupe'! Every actor must wear an invisible mask on stage, and we've all worn masks in the past."
"This name is perfect!" Furina declared, nodding vigorously.
Luna casually tossed out, "Ugh, this is such a hassle. Why don't we just call it the 'Blubberbeast Troupe'?"
A sudden silence fell between the two.
"...You're not actually considering that name, are you?"
Furina said defensively, "Aren't Blubberbeasts just adorable?"
Navia nodded. "Indeed! I love petting their bellies too—so smooth and soft."
"It's decided then! We'll call it the Blubberbeast Troupe!"
With a flourish of Furina's pen, the name "Blubberbeast Troupe" was inscribed on the document.
Luna was at a loss for words.
Seriously? That's the name you want?
But she had no real objections. A name was just a name. As long as Furina could keep a straight face when introducing the troupe, Luna didn't mind.
Furina reminisced, "Ah, Blubberbeasts... Thinking about it, I really should thank it."
"How so?"
"Have you forgotten how we first met?"
Wasn't it on that beach one night, when Luna had gone to pet a Blubberbeast?
Understanding dawned on Luna. This name does carry a special meaning.
Then let's call it the Blubberbeast Troupe.
"I wonder if we could get that Blubberbeast to be our mascot? I'd treat it to all the fish it could eat!"
Furina pondered seriously.
"We can look for it later."
"What if we can't find it?"
Luna grinned. "We'll just drag one over."
Furina chuckled. "You're so whimsical. Let's forget that idea. Who knows? Maybe that Blubberbeast has already settled down and started a family."
Just like her.
What kind of career could a Blubberbeast even have?
She couldn't fathom it. Perhaps... a fishing business?
In any case, the troupe's name and residence were settled. Once the renovations were complete, the Blubberbeast Troupe would be ready to open its doors!
It was time to give Fontaine a little Blubberbeast shock!
We'll conquer Fontaine with our talent!
Navia: "..."
She glanced at Furina, then at Luna.
The heavy feeling in her chest made Navia realize she couldn't wait any longer. Even though she hadn't figured out how to make her move on Luna these past few days, she had to act.
Otherwise, she would definitely regret it.
With this resolve, Navia called out, "Lulu!"
"Hmm?"
"Come here for a moment."
As Luna leaned closer, Navia leaned in and whispered in her ear, "Can you come see me tomorrow? I'll be at the hideout."
Luna grinned slyly. "A date?"
"...Yes! It's a date."
"Alright then."
Navia's anxious heart finally relaxed.
Great!
Tomorrow, I'll definitely confess my feelings!