Chapter Text
Ayato was called frequently for Shuumatsuban activities. His own father had taken on the mantle of a strategic leader, with a fair martial prowess, with young children at home and work to keep him chained to the desk.
But Ayato possessed a vision, and he was the few amongst the Shuumatsuban ranks to do so. The agents were skilled in non-elemental arts, but Ayato couldn’t deny his unique utility. Even more so when the time came for him to remain one of the only people to retain his vision, and it became a position he could not step away from - as their numbers dwindled, in the war, and the Decree.
It was there they met. “You need to stop trying to break in to Tenshukashu.”
“Ayato?” Tomo’s expression melted, from surprise, to fury. “Are you one of the people whose been taking visions?”
“I am not,” Ayato said. “Whatever you are doing, stop it.” He tried to reach for Tomo’s arm, but he pulled away.
“You are dressed like-”
“I am not,” Ayato repeated, “Part of the Shogunate.”
Tomo was not convinced. “All those stories, about people being taken in the middle of the night-”
It was pouring around them, to conceal their faces, and dampen their voices. It was then Ayato said, “I’m part of the Shuumatsuban.”
Tomo’s expression was grim, but scepticism leaked into his tone. “They’re a fairytale.”
“Folklore often holds some modicum of truth,” Ayato reasoned. This time, when he reached for Tomo, he allowed him to grab him by the wrist. “Please return with me.”
Tomo jutted out his lip. “I need to speak to the Raiden Shogun.”
“She will not see you,” Ayato said. “Not in the rain, at midnight, and definitely not if you break in.”
“I’ve tried every other option. The people have!” Tomo’s voice raised with frustration. “She is not listening! What will it take for her to see the truth-”
Thunder rumbled above them. They both fell silent, and let the storm drench them.