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The first time he laid eyes on Lord Commissioner Kamisato Ayato, Thoma was sure he was the most beautiful thing to ever grace this world. Of course, he wasn’t the Lord Commissioner yet- he was merely a fourteen-year-old boy, and the prettiest he had ever seen.
Ayato was the one to find him that day. It was always Ayato; it always will be. He had sat up from the burning sand, grit and salt in every crevice of his being. His lungs burned from the waves’ cruel assault, and every inch of his body was bruised, battered, and exhausted from last night’s pummeling. He still remembered the stars, bright and distorted, growing darker and dimmer as he sunk through the finally-calming foam. Down away from his last hope of life.
Except he had woken up here.
But he didn’t know where here was. He tried to call for help as he scrambled to his feet, only for a wave of dizziness to crash over him, sending him tumbling back down. His throat was hoarse from the salt and the screaming and the desperate struggle for air. He whimpered as his screams came out as mere whimpers. How was he ever going to get home? He couldn’t speak, couldn’t walk- could barely even stand!
And that’s when he rounded the corner. He didn’t seem to notice Thoma at first- he was staring at the ocean, at the waves sinking gently into the sand a foot or two from his freshly polished shoes. And then his gaze traveled down the coast; down down down until they caught on liquid gold, fiery in the sunlight. Until his eyes, pale orchid, met Thoma’s, emerald green. He was running down the beach now, his previously serene face morphed into panic.
He was shouting something too, though what, Thoma couldn’t quite make out. His ears were ringing, and his eyes were too focused on the graceful movements of the boy bounding towards him. When he finally reached him, he fell to his knees, his hands on Thoma’s shoulders. He shook him gently, then harder when he didn’t respond. His eyes seemed even more panicked then before, and all he wanted to do was run his hand across that cheekbone, to assure this beautiful boy that he was alright.
The world was fading, and Thoma struggled to keep conscious. He tried to read his lips- focusing was hard, though; he had just noticed the most charming little mole, right under his lower lip. Still, he thought he could make out the words- it was a question, he thought. The light shone so stunningly through his pale blue locks, silhouetting his form against the bluer sky above. Names.. what was his name? Was that it? Thoma, he thought.. Thoma.. he wasn’t sure if his mouth moved, though he willed it too. Thoma, Thoma, he tried to answer. His name was Thoma. He was starting to black out. If there was any way to go out, he thought, at least he would die in the warm hands of this gorgeous stranger, instead of the cruel and salty waves of the ocean behind him. It was with this last thought that he smiled, eyes fluttering shut.
* * * * * * *
When Thoma woke, he was gone. He couldn’t help but frown in contempt- what kind of afterlife couldn’t even provide him with the illusion of his blue-haired guardian angel? He sat up, if laboriously. His ribs screamed in protest, his joints cracking as if he hadn’t moved in days. Perhaps he hadn’t. He looked around his new life- or lack thereof- wincing at the brightness. The window next to his bedside was cracked open, wafting the scent of salt and brine through the breeze. The smell made his stomach turn. Thoma stood, wobbling, and made his way slowly over, leaning heavily on the wall all the way.
“You could’ve just asked, you know. I would’ve been much obliged to help.” Thoma spun, much to his chagrin, and nearly blacked out again from the sudden motion. He winced at the bright flash of pain through his ribs.
“Do be careful! You’re still recovering.” It was the blue-haired boy, smiling softly, though his eyes seemed more worried than happy. Carefully, he made his way to Thoma, shutting the window on the way. He held out his arm. An offering. Thoma warily placed his hand in his, allowing himself to lean heavily on the kind strangers shoulder as he lead him back to his bed. Once he was settled, Thoma rubbed the salt and sleep from the corners of his eyes.
“You said your name was… Thoma, right? Where are you from?” He barely paused before continuing, “Well, wherever you came from, you’ve made it to Inazuma.” He puffed his chest in pride. His cheek dimpled with his grin, the little mole moving slightly towards the ident. Adorable. Perhaps he was alive after all- he didn’t think ghost’s hearts could flutter like this.
“Oh, right! Sorry. Mother said to let you rest. She said that the physician said you might have ‘minor to extensive impairment of cognitive and vocal functions,’ and that we shouldn’t ask you too many questions.” He seemed sad at this- and it made Thoma panic. He worked up the courage to speak right as the other turned away.
“Mondstat. I’m from Mondstat. Who.. are you?” He winced at the sound of his own voice. It was raspy, dry, and somehow seemed more raw than before.
“Oh- yeah,” -He at least had the good graces to look a little embarrassed at the reminder that he had yet to introduce himself.
“Kamisato Ayato, first son and heir to the Kamisato clan, at your service.”
Now, Thoma didn’t know much about Inazuma, closed off as it was, but his mother had gone to great lengths to make sure he had at least passable knowledge about every country. Thus, Thoma knew about the Raiden Shogun, and he knew about the Tenryou, Kanjou, and Yashiro Commissions and their head families. So, to some extent, he knew about Kamisato Ayato. And his face immediately flushed as he was reminded of the formalities with which he was supposed to address the young master.
“So, what’s it like in Mondstat? Mother says we’ll visit someday.” Ayato settled onto the foot of the bed, leaning in. As Thoma was about to apologize for his dreadful misstep of etiquette, the room’s door swung open.
“Ayato, what did your mother say about pestering him? Let poor Thoma rest. Archons know he needs it.”
“But father-”
“Ah. No buts. If it is so difficult for you to redirect, perhaps some extra lessons could keep your mind occupied.” Though the man’s tone was firm, it was full of fondness. With a dramatic sigh, Ayato bounced up an out of the door- pausing in the doorway to hold a finger up to a cheeky grin. Then, he was gone. Lord Commissioner Kamisato turned to him, a sad smile on his face.
“My deepest apologies, young Thoma. That boy just can’t tell when to stop talking sometimes. Unfortunately, we’ve not been able to trace you to any relatives just yet, so my wife and I thought it might be best to keep you here, as a ward of the Kamisato clan. If that’s alright with you, of course.” Thoma nodded, slowly. He smiled, though it was a sad one. He wondered, for a moment, if he should tell the gracious Yashiro Commissioner that he was getting himself into something bigger than he knew. It wouldn’t be fair, of course, for him to expect less work then fostering this particular ward would be.
“With all due respect, my lord, you won’t find any family to send me back to. My mother died shortly ago, and my father disappeared many years before that. You may want to rethink your very generous offer. I wouldn’t want to burden you, especially not after you have been so very kind to me.” The Commissioner’s eyes were sad, though still he smiled.
“That’s alright. I’m not surprised, though I do extend my apologies. But, my offer stands, Thoma. As it is, my son and daughter both are already quite taken with you. Perhaps you could become part of the family as well.” Thoma’s eyes glistened- not that he was crying.
“Well, my boy, I won’t trouble you much longer. I would ask that you think it over, though. If you prefer, we can return you to Mondstat and place you under the care of the Knights of Favonius-” His sentence was cut short by a small Thoma clinging to his waist. He smiled warmly.
“I would love nothing more than to stay here with you and your family, Lord Commissioner.”
“Well, in that case Thoma, welcome to the family. No need for such formalities as titles. You may call me Mr. Kamisato, or father, if you wish.”
“Surely there’s some way I can repay you for all your kindness, my lor- I mean, ah, Mr. Kamisato. Perhaps I can sweep and dust, or help in the kitchen. My mother always told me I was a very good cook.”
“Unnecessary.”
“But, sir-”
“-Kamisato.”
“-Mr. Kamisato. Isn’t there anything I can do? I’ll be restless if I must sit around all day.”
“I suppose.. maybe if we paid you for the occasional chore. If you insist, that is. Perhaps you could start with dusting, as safe as it is.”
“Of course, Mr. Kamisato.” The Lord Commissioner simply shook his head.
“I admire your dedication, Thoma, but you will have to wait until you have recovered, at least. If only Ayato could take a page or two out of your book..” His eyes glowed from the praise, the desire to prove himself and earn his keep shining brightly in his soul.
“Rest well, kiddo. The sooner you do, the sooner you’ll be up and running around again.” With that and a smile, he left, the door clicking quietly shut behind him.
* * * * * * *
Two years passed. Thoma grew up alongside Ayato, and his sister, Ayaka. He grew to love their parents as his own- on occasion, he would even slip up and call them “mother” and “father” instead of Mr. and Mrs. Kamisato. (The few times he did, he apologized profusely, though Mr. Kamisato simply smiled and called him son, and Mrs. Kamisato nearly teared up.)
But tragedy struck, as it so often does, as fleeting as lighting. But the thunder, as always, shakes the ground for long afterwards. Ayato was only sixteen when he became the new Lord Commissioner of the Kamisato Clan and the Yashiro Commission. Thoma was fifteen, and Ayaka only fourteen. Mr. Kamisato had died, and Mrs. Kamisato followed shortly after.
The happy days, those filled with lighthearted laughter and bickering, faded. While Thoma soothed Ayaka every night, Ayato was nowhere to be found. Every time Ayaka had a nightmare, she would run to Thoma, not Ayato. Every time she had a panic attack on the verge of breaking down, it was Thoma who would squeeze her hand and help remind her to breathe. Ayato, while he was never as close with Thoma as his sister, had never simply disappeared like this. He didn’t leave his room for nearly a week. He turned away every plate of food that was served to him, and refused any company offered. He wouldn’t even speak to Thoma or Ayaka when they stood at his door begging, begging him to come out. Or even to speak, to say something, anything.
When he did emerge, he was stoic- Ayato looked like he’d lost several pounds and yet aged many years. He bore a hydro vision at his waist. His first press announcement was made only ten days after his parents death. His first official meeting as the Lord Commissioner, only a day after that. He left his room rarely, if at all, and slept even less. He had started eating again, at least, even if the only thing he’d eat was Thoma’s special miso soup. Thoma didn’t care if he burned his fingers on the stove a thousand times over, because at least his lord would be eating.
Slowly, he began returning. Bit by bit, Ayato came back. Four months after their parents’ death, he sat down for dinner with Thoma and Ayaka. They were having hotpot. Thoma made sure to always invite Ayato on hotpot nights after that.
He began sparring with Ayaka six months after their death. When she beat him for the first time, a cryo vision descended from Celestia to present itself to her. They went out for milk tea that night, to celebrate. And if people gave Thoma dirty looks the whole time, he wouldn’t want to tell the siblings anyway. They’d suffered enough- surely, he wouldn’t be the one to burst their bubble.
A year and a half after the deaths, he’d been promoted to Head Housekeeper and Fixer of the Esteemed Kamisato Clan and the Yashiro Commission.
“You’re already doing it all, anyway,” said the Lord Commissioner, “You might as well be getting properly reimbursed.”
At two years, Ayato turned eighteen. They celebrated with sakura mochi, milk tea, and by sorting through the sudden influx of marriage proposals. Even with all three of them, it took the whole night and early into the morning. The Lord Commissioner had a very strict set of guidelines, rendering nearly every candidate improper. On the off occasion that Ayaka or Thoma would find someone, the Commissioner would find some reason to turn them down anyway.
At three and a half years, the Raiden Shogun herself announced the Sakoku decree, banning all travel to and from Inazuma, without an express and hard-to-obtain permit. It was then that Thoma was called into the Lord Commissioner’s office.
He knocked quietly on the study door, waiting for permission to enter. Though it was something he’d been scolded plenty over, Thoma refused to forgo formality. Ayato might be his best friend, (beside Ayaka, of course, but she was different,) but he was also the Lord Commissioner and head of the Yashiro Committee.
“Thoma?” His voice was muffled, but also quiet. Tired.
“Yes, my lord?”
“Come in.” Thoma entered, shutting the door quietly behind him. He hadn’t seen Ayato for near a week now, besides brief glimpses of the Lord Commissioner and meals slipped under the door.
He sat at his desk, his nose pressed between two fingers, staring at the table below him. He didn’t look up as Thoma entered, nor as he spoke.
“Would you say you are satisfied with the work you do here at the Kamisato estate, Thoma?”
“Yes, my lord.”
“And would you say you are loyal to this clan, Thoma?”
“Of course.”
“And myself?”
“I would give my life to serve you, Lord Commissioner Kamisato, as would any servant here.” Ayato winced.
“But that’s the thing, Thoma. You aren’t just any servant here.”
“No, sir. I’m the head housekeeper.”
“That’s not what I meant.” Ayato’s lips were pressed together firmly. His gaze still bore down into his desk.
“Apologies, my lord, but I don’t think I understand.” Ayato stood now, his chair pushed aside. He picked up an envelope from his desk as well, and handed it to Thoma.
“This is a travel permit.”
“Whatever for?” Ayato finally met Thoma’s eyes, and they were full of such pain that he nearly stepped back.
“Thoma,” he said, he voice wavering and yet reinforced with steel, “I think it is best you return to Mondstat.”
“..what?”
* * * * * * *
“..what?” His voice was so small when he said it. Ayato stared at him, helplessly, begging him to understand. What he wanted, no, needed to say was that he needed Thoma to be safe. He needed Thoma to be happy. But what came out instead was,
“The troubles the Kamisato clan faces will only increase from here on out. If you want out, now is the time.” There was a small pause. “Also included in that envelope is a check for several million mora and a letter of resignation. Sign it, and I’ll make sure you get back to Mondstat- or wherever else you wish to go- by the end of the week. The check should provide you with enough to live comfortably for the rest of your life, but if you need more for any reason, you are welcome to contact to the Yashiro Commission’s financial manager. Otherwise, I would suggest that you do not write or return to Inazuma ever again.”
“My lord, do you.. no longer require my services?” An innocuous question, but Ayato saw the true meaning behind it. When Thoma asked about his services, what he really meant? Him. Ayato, do you not need me? Do you not want me here, by your side? Yes, he wanted to scream, yes, I do! And that’s exactly why you need to go, Thoma.
“While the loss of such talent would be a temporary blow to the Estate and the Clan, we would recover. We are at no lack of housekeeping committee.” He saw the quiver of Thoma’s lower lip, the smallest of his tells. While Thoma looked put together on the outside, (if a bit shaky,) his lip never quivered like that, not unless he was desperately holding back tears. Ayato’s own eyes had started to well too, watching his best friend’s heart break just a few feet away from him.
Thoma was silent. For a few painful seconds, the world stood still. Slowly, his hand reached out, his fingertips brushing Ayato’s as he accepted the envelope. Ayato’s eyes widened, and choking back a sob, he turned away-
“With all due respect, my lord, this is the one request I must deny. You know I would move heaven and earth for you, and that is exactly why I cannot leave your side.” He turned just in time to see the envelope ripped in half, the pieces fluttering to the floor. And Thoma was bathed in a lovely glow, fire reflected in his eyes, as a pyro vision appeared in front of him, sparks disintegrating the last paper curls of the envelope, as if to prove a point. As if to prove no god would have him moved from Ayato’s side.
Ayato was too shocked to do much else but stare, though he wished to rush to Thoma and swing him around. His emerald green eyes, glittering like gemstones in the warm light, finally overflowed, and the tears streamed down his face. He ran to Ayato, all status forgotten. It was not a mere housekeeper hugging his lord, it was Thoma and Ayato. And, in his joy, he hugged back.
“I will never leave you, Ayato. I will never leave you.” His voice was muffled from Ayato’s shoulder, but he heard nonetheless.
“…promise.”
“What?” He lifted his head, to look at Ayato, who was near tears now himself.
“..promise.. promise you won’t leave me.“ his voice was quiet, barely audible.
“Swear it..”
“Ayato,” he managed to choke out, “I will never leave you. I promise. I swear it.” So they held each other, and they cried. Thoma did not leave. They cried until their eyes were red and puffy, and even then, Thoma did not leave. Not even when Ayato fell asleep, still crying, did Thoma leave. He simply lay Ayato into his bed and settled himself into the chaise lounge, where he had comfortable views of the windows, the door, and Ayato. And, eventually, he too fell asleep.
* * * * * * *
Eighteen months later, life had returned to normal. Or, well, as normal as normal can be. Ayato and Thoma were closer than ever, and it seemed like the siblings’ relationship was nearly repaired.
At the present moment, Thoma was brewing tea. His pyro vision lit a gentle flame below the kettle as Thoma gently polished the Lord Commissioner‘s favorite tea set, making sure to remove the small tea stain from the side where he’d accidentally overfilled and spilled some tea down the side and onto his hand a few days earlier. He winced as he brushed the still tender skin. He scooped one-and-a-half tablespoons of Ayato’s favorite loose leaf tea blend into the cup as the kettle whistled, before carefully extinguishing the flame and carefully pouring the boiling water. Thoma swirled the liquid around the cup a few times, before cautiously straining the leaves and adding two sugar cubes. They would dissolve by the time he reached Ayato’s room, but if he didn’t leave soon, the tea would get cold.
Carrying the tray with both hands so as not to spill, Thoma made his way to the Lord Commissioner’s office, really hoping that Ayato would not be there. Then, at least, it would mean he was asleep. He reached the door, and precariously balancing the tray along one arm, he knocked softly.
“My lord? Are you awake?” A soft chuckle.
“Yes, Thoma. You may enter.” Though he shook his head, Thoma pushed the door open, nudging it closed with his foot. He crossed the room and set the tray down on the desk, head bowed as was custom.
“No need for such formalities, Thoma. You need not bow- we’re friends, are we not?” Sheepishly, Thoma raised his head. Ayato stared back at him warmly. Instead of his more stiff day-clothes, He was wrapped in a navy silk yukata, ivory and gold accents drawing attention to his wider shoulders and slim waist. The dark fabric really accentuated his more attractive features, Thoma thought, before immediately regretting it. In no way did he wonder what the Lord Commissioner would look like if he were to peel the fabric back, just slightly.. Nope! No! Not going there, not when he was beet-red already.
“Thoma?” Saccharine mirth filled Ayato’s words. “Are you alright? You seem quite flushed.”
“Of course, my lord.”
“Please, Thoma. Call me Ayato.”
“Why are you still awake, sir?” Ayato simply sighed, some of the laughter slipping from his tone.
“I could afford to ask you the same question.”
“I was bringing you tea. Be careful with it, please, the cup is hot. I wouldn’t want you to burn yourself.”
“While I appreciate the notion, Thoma, it was completely unnecessary.”
“..I know how you are about your work, but perhaps you could head to bed soon? It’s nearly a quarter-past-two, and you have meetings at eight.”
“Bold of you, Thoma, to insinuate that I cannot handle my work. You yourself have work even sooner, no doubt, and yet you are here, scolding me for my lack of sleep.” Though Ayato was still smiling, Thoma recoiled slightly, the expression of hurt that flickered across his face almost instantly disappearing behind his servant’s mask.
“Sincerest of apologies, my Lord Commissioner Kamisato. Forgive me if I stepped out of line. If I am excused?” His voice was icy as he turned for the door.
“Wait, Thoma-” Ayato’s hand flicked out to grab Thoma’s wrist; unfortunately, it happened to seize around a burn from earlier that week. Thoma let out a hiss as he yanked his wrist away, tears welling in his eyes. The delicate skin over several of the blisters had torn, leaving several large and painful open wounds.
“Thoma? Are you alright?” This time the concern in his voice seemed genuine, so, when there was no response, Ayato stood, coming to face Thoma again. He tried to inspect Thoma’s wrist, but it was clasped in his other hand and held close to his chest.
“What- was that a burn? It look pretty serious- how long have you been hiding this?”
“I haven’t hid anything. You didn’t notice, nor ask, and I saw no reason to bring it up.”
“Thoma-” Ayato’s voice sounded oddly strangled in measure to Thoma’s even timber as he lifted his wrist to better examine it, “-How did this happen?”
“I spilled some tea while pouring two days ago. I made sure to meticulously bleach those particular tiles, so you needn’t worry about a stain, my lord.” Ayato made some sort of choked noise.
“A stain? Thoma, your arm is blistered, this- this must be incredibly painful-”
“-It really isn’t that bad-”
“-And to think you’ve been continuing your normal duties with this caliber of injury-”
“-really, I wouldn’t worry about it-”
“Thoma, please! Sit down and let me tend to this!”
“Ayato-”
“That’s an order!!” His voice boomed, echoing across the walls and down the corridor. It was much softer when he spoke again.
“Please- refrain from making me tea again in the future. I will arrange for one of the kitchen maids to do it instead.” A small tendril of water snaked its way around Thoma’s wrist, gently removing flakes of dead skin and serum. A trickle of blood ran down his arm before quickly being absorbed. While the process wasn’t incredibly painful, he definitely had to bite his lip a couple of times to keep from whimpering or pulling away.
When it was all done, Ayato wrapped Thoma’s wrist in loose bandages, careful not to pull too hard.
“You should take a few days off, Thoma, as well as regular visits with the house physician.” Thoma smiled ruefully and shook his head.
“Apologies, Lord Kamisato, but there simply isn’t time. There’s too much work to be done.”
“Then make time,” Ayato snapped, “You are not the only housekeeper, and I can do without an errand boy for a day. Your health is more important.”
“With all due respect, your words are hypocritical, my lord. Those circles under your eyes betray you, and you’re barely eating or drinking.”
“I’m head of the Yashiro Commission, Thoma. There is simply no one else to do my work when I am gone.”
“Forgive me for speaking freely, but Ayaka-”
“Ayaka is a child.”
“She’s eighteen!”
“She has enough on her plate!”
“Yeah, like worrying whether her only brother will work himself to death?”
“I’m fine.”
“No, Ayato, you aren’t.”
“That’s enough, Thoma.”
“I won’t take a break if you refuse to-”
“I said. That’s. Enough.” Though he was near silent, there was a steel in Ayato’s voice that Thoma knew meant he wouldn’t budge. He stared quietly for a few seconds, before he bowed quietly and left. If he was to be up on time, three hours of sleep would have to be enough.
* * * * * * *
Ayato woke slowly, gentle light seeping in from the overarching windows. He dressed slowly, layer after layer of soft, flowing silks in pale blues, whites, and golds. He brushed slowly through his hair, taking time to remove the small knots and fix stray hairs.
While he was growing up, he’d been offered servants to help him dress and bathe around every corner. He’d turned them down steadily every time. Kamisato Ayato was a man of practicality, and people spending precious time tying his shoes was simply a waste.
By the time he left the estate, he had only five minutes to get to his meeting. Guilt was heavy in his mind- he always regretted it the morning after a fight with Thoma. Partially because he could never get anywhere on time without him. (The other part was something he would never admit, not if he wanted to uphold every unspoken rule he’d ever been taught.)
The day was meeting after meeting. When they were all over and done with, Ayato patted himself on the back and sat down for his ten-minute lunch break. Only, of course, for a maid to come busting in mid-bite.
“L-Lord Commissioner Kamisato sir! There is an urgent meeting requested of you!”
“Who?” Said Ayato, annoyance thinly veiled in his clipped response, “I’m on my lunch leave.”
“It’s- it’s-”
“Guji Yae, at your service.” The pink-haired kitsune strolled in at her leisure, robes fluttering gently behind her, even though there was no breeze. A corner of her mouth quirked upwards, a small flash of canine peeking out.
“So glad I’ve caught you at a good time, Commissioner~” Ayato glared at her, chopsticks still in hand.
“I bring word from the Glorious Shogun herself, otherwise I needn’t have bothered you personally, what with all this,” she gestured around the office at the stacks of paperwork cluttering every surface, “-work, you clearly have.”
“It just so happens that Snezhnaya’s archon, the Tsaritsa, is sending some of her precious harbingers and diplomats to Inazuma in two weeks time. The shogun, of course, would like them to receive a welcome warmer than the nation from which they hail- of course, I’m sure you can gather the rest.”
“I believe I’m misunderstanding, Lady Yae. You want me to plan and execute a party for the arrival of major foreign political figures.. ..in two weeks?”
“Seems you have it crystal clear, Commissioner. The shogun will, of course, provide any mora needed for the purchasing of food, decor, or invitations, due to the short-term notice and urgent nature of this event. Also, the venue is settled; She wishes to use the palace in Inazuma City. That, I believe, is all.”
“Guji Yae, I’m not sure you quite grasp what you are asking of the myself and the Yashiro Commission.”
“Oh, I’m well aware Lord Kamisato~ I have full faith you will be able to properly execute our shogun’s orders. For any further questions, I will have a list forwarded to you soon, darling.”
“Lady Yae-”
“If it’s too much work for you, perhaps you could call upon your subordinates to help? I’m sure he would be most inclined~” The kitsune laughed, a sound akin tinkling bells- if somehow menacing.
“Thank you for your time, Lord Commissioner. I won’t keep you any longer.” And with that, Yae Miko strolled out of the room, as leisurely as when she arrived. Ayato was left dumbfounded. Hurriedly, he ushered the dazed maids and guards from the room, all except for one.
“Spread the news,” Ayato told him.
“Gather everyone in the main hall and tell them. We’re all going to have to double our efforts if we want this done.” And then he too left. And it was Ayato again, alone. He checked the time- and sighed when he saw he was already two minutes overtime for his break. With an agitated huff, Ayato sat at his desk and got to work. If the way he slammed the door after the last guard had left was any indication, he would not be bothered by any staff.
* * * * * * *
Thoma stood outside Ayato’s office door, a tea tray in one hand and a letter from the head shrine maiden Yae Miko in the other. The last guard who had tried to approach Ayato acted as if he’d nearly had his hand bitten off, so it fell upon Thoma (as it so often did) to deliver. Tentatively, he reached out and knocked.
“What?” Ayato snapped, his voice annoyed and clipped.
“Your letter from Guji Yae has arrived, Lord Kamisato.” There was a pause.
“Slide it under.”
“What?”
“The door. Slide it under the door.”
“With all due respect, my lord, this is ridiculous.”
“This is not the time, Thoma.”
“I’m afraid I cannot slide a cup under the door, it will not fit.” The door swung open abruptly, and he was glad he wasn’t leaning on it too heavily- because otherwise he would’ve fallen right into a very angry Kamisato Ayato, and most likely spilled scalding hot tea on the both of them.
“I thought I ordered you not to bring me any more tea.”
“You forbid me from making it, not delivering it. Thus, I cannot ensure the quality, only that it is hot. I have also checked it for poison, just in case.”
“And what if you had been leaning on the door and fallen?” Spilled the tea and burned yourself was implied.
“Then I would hope you were spared of the majority of the resulting burns.” Ayato frowned, taking the tray and letter from Thoma’s hands. He pushed down the flutter in his stomach when their fingertips brushed. He really needed to have breakfast. Ayato began to shut the door.
“Wait!” Ayato stopped, staring at him for a moment.
“I- Don’t you need help? Planning a festival in two weeks is- look. I may not have had the proper upbringing, or even the Inazuman upbringing, but I know the people here. I know how to haggle each merchant down, I know how to compromise, and I know how to pull on a network of favors to work miracles on short notice. Let me help you.” Ayato stared at him, unconvinced but wavering.
“..Look, I’m sure I can be of some use. If you don’t want me in here, brainstorming and planning with you, I can run into town, get started on placing orders-”
“Thoma- it’s not that I don’t want you in here- I mean, not that I want you in here, just- well, you know. I do my best work in silence. So, I suppose, if you would quietly assemble a guest list and start drafting invitations..” Thoma grinned.
“Of course, my lord. I would be honored.”
* * * * * * *
Damn him. Thoma would be the death of him, Ayato was sure of that. That stupid crooked grin he casually flashed as he walked into the room and settled in the loveseat. The way he hummed quietly as he worked, because he knew Ayato didn’t actually work best in silence. The way he’d occasionally bounce a problem off of him, a casual back and forth until they figured out a solution.
Ayato sipped his tea quietly. It wasn’t quite as good as when Thoma made it, but satisfactory nonetheless. There was a small stain on the inside of the cup, opposite to the rim he was drinking from. He wondered, for a moment, where it could’ve come from- Thoma was meticulous in his cleaning, even down to the smallest teacup. Someone else must’ve taken a sip from this tea then- perhaps the kitchen maid who had brewed it? Except.. didn’t Thoma mention he had taste-tested it?
He felt his face flush as he peeked up at Thoma from over the rim of the cup. His hair shone gold under the afternoon light streaming in from the window. His tongue poked out of the corner of his lips as he scribbled something down on the paper. Suddenly, he lifted his head with a questioning hum.
“Is something wrong, Ayato? You’ve been staring off into space for a while now.” Thoma’s head was tilted slightly. His face reddened even more. He covered it up with a cough. This boy would be the death of him.
“Yeah- yeah, I’m alright. I’m good. Just thinking, I guess.” Then he smiled, as a realization dawned on him.
“Thoma- you used my name!” Immediately, Thoma went beet red and stock still.
“I am so sorry, Lord Commissioner Kamisato. I will take my leave immediately, with your permission.”
“No! I mean, no, you may not leave. I’m not mad, Thoma- if anything, I’m happy. You never just use my name, not even when I ask you. Honestly, I think it’s the only direction of mine you’ve ever disobeyed.”
“Well, sir, honorifics and tradition trump orders, even from the top.”
“Are you insinuating something here, Thoma?”
“What?!”
“Relax, I know what you meant. Innuendos aside, it’s nice to see you relax for once. You don’t have to be so uptight when it’s just the two of us, y’know.” Ayato turned back around in his chair and returned to his paperwork.
“If it pleases you.. I’ll try to use your name more, Ayato. When it’s just us, of course.” Ayato smiled.
“It pleases me greatly, Thoma.”
* * * * * * *
Two weeks had passed in a flash of lighting, and the day of the party had fast approached. To better honor their guests, Thoma and Ayato had decided they’d forgo Inazuman traditional clothes for suits, and Ayaka a more northern-style dress. So Ayato struggled uncomfortably with the stiff fabric- it seemed determined to suffocate him. Though it was still silk and custom made, it was nothing at all like the normal and flowing robes he would wear day-to-day.
As he sat in the carriage on the way to the palace, Ayato re-ran through the guest list in his head. All of the Clan heads and Commissioners would be present, along with Guji Yae and a few of her shrine maidens; and all that was without mentioning the Snezhnayan diplomats. It was such a high-profile event, that it required both Kamisatos’ presences. Not that Ayato was complaining; it felt like ages since he last spent time with his sister. The thought sent a guilty pang through him.
Ayaka had already flicked his hands away from the folds of his suit several times. She glared at him again now; his hand was fidgeting with the rigid collar.
“Brother,” she hissed, “You mustn’t wrinkle your suit any further. Thoma will have a fit if he sees you put one more crease where there shouldn’t be!”
“And yet,” Ayato smirked, “I can find no Thoma in sight- only you, dear sister..”
“Well, I’m not the one who so carefully steamed that suit-jacket so many times, now am I?” Ayaka pouted, head turned away and slightly up, refusing to look at him. It was a habit she hadn’t indulged in in many years.
And yet, Ayato slipped into silence. His mind was too occupied with the last-minute preparations and pleasantries quickly drilled into his head. A gentle hand was placed over his. He looked up into Ayaka’s reassuring face.
“Listen, brother. We’ve all seen how incredibly hard you’ve been working- how hard we’ve all been working. This party will be amazing. You should try to enjoy it.” His sister, so genuine in her feelings, made Ayato brighten up, at least a little.
“I will,” he spoke softly. “Thanks, little sis.” Ayaka smiled softly and leaned back in her seat. The rode the few final minutes in silence.
* * * * * * *
The party was in full swing. Ayato had greeted what felt like every citizen of Inazuma on his way through the room- though, from his calculations, it seemed he still had a few more necessary people to meet before he could slink off to some balcony somewhere to watch later’s fireworks.
As it was, social gatherings had never been his scene. Ironic, of course, that the head of the Yashiro committee had never enjoyed a festival in his life, but mingling with the public was always more up Ayaka’s alley.
“Lord Commissioner Kamisato, right?” Ayato turned slowly, feigning interest.
“Yes, that is correct. And you must excuse me, but I don’t think we’ve been previously acquainted..?”
“Tartaglia, the Eleventh of her Majesty the Tsaritsa’s Harbingers. But you can call me Childe, Commissioner.” At this, Ayato’s interest was actually piqued.
Tartaglia- or Childe, he supposed- was one of the major figures still eluding him. It was, of course, possible that this man had simply been in the wrong place every time Ayato had looked for him. After all, few were skilled enough to give Kamisato Ayato the figurative slip. But, if the lack of gleam in his eye was indicative of anything, it seemed more likely Tartaglia preferred to watch his prey before he caught them. He resolved to stay on his toes.
“Ah, Lord Harbinger! To what do I owe the pleasure?” Tartaglia’s lower lip twitched, though his expression of annoyance was short-lived.
“Oh, no need to bother with titles, comrade. I simply wanted to thank the man behind it all in person! I’ve never felt more welcomed. And on such short notice, too! How did you do it?”
“Just a lifetime of practice and a bit of hard work, I suppose. Besides, I couldn’t hope for any more than to serve my archon’s wishes. But I digress, surely a man such as yourself sympathizes.” There was a potent pause, static crackling through the air, heavier than normal.
“Are you in need of anything, Lord Harbinger? Perhaps I could fetch you a drink?”
“How very sweet of you, Commissioner, but really, I shouldn’t. Perhaps you’d like something, though?” Childe paused to wave at one of the passing waiters- the one carrying the tray of sake and champagne glasses.
“Back in Snezhnaya, we mainly drink a type of liquor called ‘fire water’. I’m sure you wouldn’t like it- it is too heavy for most outsiders’ tastes. Problem is, anything else tastes weak in comparison, so I rarely drink outside of my homeland.” The Harbinger handed him a sake flute.
Apparently, Childe liked to toy with his food as well- managing to (attempt to) intoxicate Ayato while leaving himself sober by unsuspicious means. Ayato sipped at the sakura-tinted beverage.
“Well, I’d love to try it some time. With the current restrictions in place, however, it might be awhile.” Childe threw back his head and laughed, as if Ayato had said something hysterical.
“Oh comrade, I don’t know how you could stand it. I could never stay in one place too long- the wind calls me. Ah, but I’m starting to sound like a Mondstatian. Ah! That reminds me.. I ran into the most charming servant of yours earlier.” Ayato tensed. Tartaglia continued.
“He had the most gorgeous green eyes, and the sweetest smile~ kind of like a golden retriever! Ringing any bells?”
“Ah, yes. Thoma, my housekeeper.” Ayato responded, if a bit tense. His knuckles were clutched-white around the glass’s needle-thin stem.
“I’ve never seen a housekeeper in such a fine suit! I told him as much, and he even responded that you were a most gracious master indeed! It was his praise, of course, that led me to search for you. A sweet one, him.”
“I hope you didn’t trouble him too much, Lord Harbinger. I value my employees dearly.”
“Oh, I don’t think so. I figured, however, a housekeeper important enough to attend such an event as this must be very good at his job. That, of course, or less.. savory reasons.” Ayato’s eyes darkened.
“Ah, but of course, I daren’t accuse your lovely sister of such an act. And you, of course, are far above such deeds- especially with someone of his status.” The glass shattered. The harbinger smirked. By some miracle, both men’s clothes remained untouched- except for a small droplet on Childe’s collar, which he flicked off with ease.
For a moment, it was silent.
“Oh dear! These glasses are so fragile! Are you alright, Lord Kamisato? Perhaps you should sit down~ You’re looking awfully red in the face.” Then, pushing through the small cluster of servants that had begun to form, came Thoma.
“Don’t trouble yourself, miss,” Thoma said to the girl currently trying to pick up the pieces of the shattered glass.
“I have plenty of experience with this kind of thing.” Gently, he scooped the shards into a dustpan that he’d pulled seemingly from nowhere, before using a flicker of flame (likely from his pyro vision) to dry what remained of the sake on the floor.
As he stood, Thoma handed off the dustpan to the still shaking servant girl, before making a shooing motion to the other attendants- until one by one, they trickled away. Childe didn’t wait before he slung his arm around Thoma’s hip. Ayato seethed.
“Quite impressive, comrade! I see now why your services are so valued!” Childe leaned in closer, his face practically nuzzled into Thoma’s hair. He spoke again, quieter- though still plenty loud enough that his words were no secret.
“Perhaps, sunshine, you’d consider.. ‘‘working’’ in Snezhnaya for a while. I guarantee I pay far better than whatever you receive here.. and you’d look so pretty in arctic blue~” Ayato watched, quietly. He looked at Childe, at his hand around Thoma’s waist, and then looked at Thoma. He watched him smile up at the Harbinger.
So, if he just so happened to jerk Childe’s arm away as he passed, if he accidentally paused as he walked by the Harbinger, well- it was late, and he was certainly drunk. And if you thought you saw Ayato whisper something into Tartaglia’s ear, perhaps you’d had a little too much to drink as well.
“Back off, ginger. He’s too good for you.”
And then Ayato was gone.
* * * * * * *
Thoma stumbled away from Childe, a smile and a promise to think about it trailing behind him. In the few seconds it took for him to break out of his shocked stupor, Ayato had disappeared in the crowd of multicolored silks. He made his way through the sea of fabrics with hurried excuse mes and sorrys, spinning and searching until he was hopelessly lost.
“Thoma!” He spun, just before an extremely drunk Ayaka clung onto his waist.
“Thoma,” she said again, her words slurred, “‘Miya showed me the cocktail bar- and told me all about the fireworks-” Of course it was Yoimiya that got Ayaka drunk. She never drank on her own, of course- both the Kamisatos were hopeless lightweights.
“Hey,” he cut her off, “My lady, have you seen your brother?”
“Onii-Chan? Haven’t seen ‘im, nope!”
“Where is Yoimiya when you need her.. Okay listen, milady, how about you sit right here..” Thoma guided her over to the nearest chair, in a darker corner, and beckoned over a maid.
“I’m so sorry to bother you, but one servant to another, Lady Ayaka had a little too much to drink, and I really should collect the Lord Commissioner so they may return home. Would you mind watching her for a while? Really? Oh, thank you. I owe you one.” And then, Thoma raced off.
If I was Ayato, where would I be? Thoma’s waist still burned where that Harbinger’s hand had clung. To think something Childe said had frustrated him to this extent.. The only thing he could think of that would’ve made Ayato that upset was his job offer.. but, surely, his lord didn’t doubt him that much? Surely, after all the times he’d stayed, the Commissioner didn’t think a hand around his waist and honeyed flattery would sway his loyalty?
Sure, it was nice to be touched so casually, and perhaps the way Childe had smiled at him like he wanted nothing more than for Thoma to smile back made his heart flutter a little, but, at the end of the day, he had Ayato and Ayato had him. Even if he didn’t have him in all of the ways he’d like.
Now he began searching more frantically. He looked in every lonesome corner, peeked behind every closed door, (though he shut them quickly the few times he’d looked in on something he shouldn’t have) and checked every balcony. He was about to head up another flight of stairs, when a slightly ajar door caught his eye.
Surely he hadn’t left one open? There was no light shining through, so, quietly, he snuck down the corridor to shut it. Through the crack, however, he saw a balcony, a lone figure silhouetted against the night sky.
Ayato swirled the new glass in his hand. This time, it was wine- perhaps because he needed something stronger. Thoma stood quietly beside him. They just stood there, for a while, listening to the quiet buzz of the beetles and fireflies and taking in the gentle starlight. Ayato spoke first.
“You know, the fireworks are due to start soon. Apparently, Yoimiya prepared quite the spectacle.”
“So that’s where she went off to.” Ayato took a big sip of wine, choking a little before regaining him composure.
“Pace yourself, my lord.” Ayato grimaced.
“You know, we should really return home soon. Ayaka had too much to drink, and it is a bit of a journey back to the estate-”
“If you wanted to go with him, you could’ve told me.” Once the sentence was out, there was no taking it back. The tranquil silence suddenly turned tense.
“And what would make you think that?”
“I don’t know, sunshine.” The way Ayato practically spit the pet name out was in such contrast to the way Childe had murmured it that he nearly recoiled.
“Look, it’ll take more than a flirty smile and a paycheck increase to make me move to Snezhnaya.” ‘And leave you’ was implied.
“I’m sure he told you all about his travels. Will you settle in Liyue? Perhaps you’ll return to Mondstat, and live in a little cottage with a nice white picket fence.” He spat, bitterness seeping into his voice.
“Ayato, you’re being unreasonable!”
“No, no, I get it! Why work a job that barely pays when you could cook and clean for the man of your dreams?”
“Ayato!”
“I’m sure Tartaglia would spoil you rotten.”
“Tartaglia? He said his name was Childe.” Ayato recoiled.
“I see how it is. You don’t have to lie to me, Thoma.”
“I’m not lying!”
“Like hell you aren’t!” Ayato snarled. Thoma was holding back tears- and it might have been a trick of the light, but so was Ayato.
“Why does this bother you so much? I’m not leaving!”
“It’s not about that!!”
“..what?”
“I know you’ll stay! I know you, Thoma, and I know you always put everyone else over yourself. I know that you always put me over yourself. I know that you’d stay, even if you were miserable. I know that you’d stay, even if.. if.. Even if it meant watching the love of your life sail away without you.” He laughed thickly, wet with tears.
“And I will stay here, in Inazuma, for my people, for my sister, for my duties. I will stay, even if you go. I will stay, even if it means watching the love of my life sail away.” Ayato turned back to the balcony, just as the first firework exploded across the sky. It was purple and silver, clearly meant to honor the shogun, and there was a lengthy pause before more fireworks painted the sky.
Thoma stepped forward, next to Ayato, and put his hand on his shoulder. He turned, questioning, and Thoma leaned forward until their faces were inches apart.
“Ayato,” he breathed, “You will never have to watch me sail away.. not without you, anyway.” His eyes widened almost imperceptibly. He leaned in a little more, before stopping, questioning. And Thoma nodded yes. And they closed the distance as colorful explosions ricocheted across the sky in streaks of blue and gold.
* * * * * * *
When the fireworks were over, and the sky faded to black once more, two men in love stood next to each other, fingers intertwined.
“You know, Thoma?”
“Hmm?”
“You’re not a very good kisser. Perhaps you should go with Childe.. he looks like he could teach you a thing or two.” Thoma smacked him on the arm.
“Ayato!”
“I’m very drunk.”
“Yeah, you and Ayaka both. Am I the only one who can hold my liquor around here?”
“No, you’re just the only stick-in-the-mud.”
“Very funny, my lord.”
“Hey, you don’t get to call me that now.”
“What, am I supposed to call you baby?” Ayato turned away, red flooding his cheeks. It was a second before he responded.
“Whatever you wish.. darling.” Now it was Thoma’s turn to blush.
“You- you’re too drunk for this. We really need to get home.”
“Anything for you, darling.”
“Stop! Someone might hear!” Ayato smiled, and Thoma smiled, and they walked together, their fingers intertwined.
The first time he laid eyes on Lord Commissioner Kamisato Ayato, Thoma was sure he was the most beautiful thing to ever grace this world. Now he knew for sure he was wrong. Because nothing else could ever compare to the sight of Ayato’s hand in his.