Arlecchino was casually lounging on her seat in the grand throne room, her form elegantly draped over the elaborate chair like a regal panther. The room was dark, lit only by the few candlelight casting dancing shadows on the stone walls.

Beside her was a young nun, named Furina, who knelt silently on the cold floor. The girl's small frame trembled ever so slightly, her eyes downcast.

Arlecchino glanced down at the trembling girl for a moment, a hint of amusement flickered in her eyes. She leaned slightly forward, resting her chin on her hand.

“Do not be scared, my dear Furina,” her voice was a low, smooth murmur that echoed in the silent room. “I will not hurt a single strand of your hair. So long as you would be on your best behavior, of course.”

The door to the throne room swung open with a low creak, the sound of heavy footfall breaking the silence. Arlecchino turned her gaze toward the newcomers. Her three “children”, Lyney, Lynette and Freminet, entered the room.

“Father,” Lyney, the eldest and Arlecchino's successor, addressed her with a slight bow. His eyes landed on the trembling girl and raised an eyebrow. “Um, what's with the nun?”

Lynette and Freminet, both looked at Furina too, their eyes also showing curiosity.

“Ah, this is Furina. She will keep us company from now on,” she replied calmly, gesturing slightly with her hand towards Furina. “Her father is the hunter who killed your sibling. It is only fair that I take something of equal value to return the favor.”

The three “children” looked at each other, then returned their gazes to Arlecchino. They knew better than to question her decisions, but the sudden introduction of a human into the fold was peculiar.