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Chapter Text

The embodiment of perfection. The person encapsulating growth and resistance. The benevolent young woman watching over the Yashiro Commission and Inazuma.

Kamisato Ayaka goes by many titles and names. The most prominent one being Fortuitous Heron. Those titles do nothing except emphasise her presence on Narukami Island, and make anyone who dares to challenge her vaguely know who she is.

To the people, she is perfect Commissioner.

To the Yashiro Commission, she is the perfect leader.

To her enemies, she is the perfect storm.

To her chief retainer and brother, she is simply Ayaka.

To herself...she doesn't know what to make of herself.

She was put on a strict training regimen ever since she was forced to be the next Commissioner for the clan after her family had been taken away from her. It was a difficult and arduous process, one that took away bits and pieces of her old personality traits and re-crafting them into a glass painting befitting such a young lady like herself, beautiful and poise.

But glass is still glass, no matter how much you try and mould and craft it into being unbreakable. Eventually there will be something that will come along and can break the glass painting, exposing all the shards, jagged and sharp, used to create such a fragile masterpiece.

And so, Kamisato Ayaka sought to protect the glass painting that is her image, her position as Commissioner. It didn't matter what she had to do to maintain the painting's exquisite light. As long as the light overshadows the blood shed from the act of protection, it's enough for her.

But if there ever came a day she had to choose between the glass painting or those who helped her maintain its image, she would choose those people over anything else. Their safety coming first before anyone else's.

Regardless, Kamisato Ayaka did not come first.

Ayaka did not come first.

-

The first time Ayaka saw the Traveler was when Thoma fulfilled his part in getting her involved in ending the Vision Hunt Decree.

She had returned from the Grand Narukami Shrine, having finished up some business with Yae Miko (and by that she means indulging in the mischievous kitsune's plans for approving the next batch of novels for her light novel store) and was about to enter through the gates of the estate when two blondes beat her to it.

Thoma was the first one she noticed. With his tall stature and his crimson clothes, it was hard to miss him.

But the second one, she found that she couldn't keep her eyes off her.

She had golden hair and eyes, like the stories of the famous Traveler had entailed; they look like sunshine. An exquisite yet practical and lovingly crafted white dress was what she wore, followed by a small silver faired fairy with wide ocean blue eyes. They were talking about the high and well-crafted structure of the Kamisato Estate, the traveling duo finding themselves awed by the building, too distracted by its magnificence to notice a pair of grey eyes staring at them as they went through the gates.

Ayaka doesn't know what came over her. It was like cold water had been splashed on her face while she was asleep. Her heart was beginning to speed up a few paces, and her eyes just seem to be glued to the spot the Traveler once was, picturing her figure still being there.

She snapped herself out of it. No, this behaviour is simply unacceptable for a Commissioner. She shouldn't be standing here gawking at an empty spot, nor should she be paralyzed by the simple presence of a blonde girl. And Yoimiya doesn't count; they keep a professional relationship at all times.

But this strange and crushing feeling didn't go away even after she got her bearings.

What's happening to her? Was her drink poisoned somehow? Is this some side effect of poison?

But she doesn't feel like she's dying. If anything, this felt...good. Like a blanket of warmth had been wrapped around her, and she wanted to lean in and have a peaceful sleep with lovely dreams. Her face flushed, and she gets her fan out to cover her face, wondering if anyone was spying on her and were here to witness her in this flabbergasted state.

This is nothing, she rationalized to herself. This will go away as soon as the day's over. Besides, she has more important endeavours than to stand around and do nothing.

Oh if only it were so easy to brush it off.

-

"Brother, may I ask you something?"

Ayato turned to her, pausing in his excessive (and frankly unhealthy) sipping of the boba cup in his hands. "Of course, what is it?"

"How did you feel when you laid your eyes on the Traveler the first time?" Ayaka worded her question in a way that made it seem like she wasn't asking for herself, but for her brother. She knew that he wouldn't tease her for this strange, warm feeling in her chest, but she desires to not allow any vulnerability to seep into her and affect everyone around her like poison spreading through one's system. With her every move being watched by the public, even in the comforts of her own home (certain people who shall go unnamed snuck onto the property countless times for it to be remotely funny) it was a necessity.

This strange feeling persisted throughout the day. Ayaka found herself thinking of the Traveler's features as she went about her day, creeping into her mind when she least expected it. The business meetings, the paperwork...it was as if the feeling wouldn't leave her be.

Was the Traveler so powerful that she can put anyone into a trance with her presence alone?

Except, that hypothesis isn't true. Thoma seems to be doing fine during the day, and he interacted with the Traveler beforehand. Still, it wouldn't hurt to cover her bases.

"Hmm?" Ayato's gaze became curious. "Well...it's certainly an honour to come face-to-face with the Traveler. She radiates an aura that spoke of power, but also that of kindness. It wasn't difficult to truly convince her to assist us in our endeavours. What brought this up?"

Ayaka takes out her fan and flips it open, covering her face. Now having gotten confirmation that this 'trance theory' is false, it was a good time to go back to her office and have some silent contemplation about this matter. "I simply wished to ensure that it's the real Traveler. That's all."

"...Ayaka, you do know that using your fan isn't hiding your true feelings well, right?"

Of course. Even his more reserved and timid nature, Ayato is still her older brother.

Ayaka sighed, flipping her fan shut. There was no point in trying to hide it now. "I saw the Traveler before she went inside the estate. And the moment I did...I felt...strange."

"In what way?"

"I don't know how to describe it exactly, but my heart gave a flutter, akin to a butterfly's wings if you will. It was merely a glance, but it felt like everything was cold, but then it got warm again."

Ayato looked deep in thought, and for several moments the silence between them stretched on until he gave his response.

"Well, perhaps it could be a sign of you...having a crush, so to speak."

Ayaka blinked. "Excuse me?"

"A crush. I've read a few light novels, and those in the romance category usually depict something along the lines of your feelings." Ayato says, and Ayaka had to resist the urge of looking too dumbfounded at him using novel logic and applying it to real life logic. But with his...previous circumstances, she couldn't really blame hm. "There was this one novel that seemed to describe your feelings to an almost perfect degree. I believe it was called-"

"Pardon me for interrupting you, brother." Ayaka had to resist the urge to pull out her fan again, as it would only 'prove' that this 'crush' is true in Ayato's eyes. She had to disprove this theory at once. "However, I believe your theory is...in the nicest of ways, incorrect."

Ayato does not look convinced in the slightest. "And why is that?"

"Because it is not a 'crush'... as you put it." Ayaka stopped herself from physically cringing at the word crush. "For it to be a crush would imply that I am in...love, which is not true, because I have only seen her once. That is not grounds for a 'crush' whatsoever."

"And anyway..." Ayaka continued. "...there's no reason for me to love. Don't you believe my way of living would be too demanding for others to tolerate?"

It wasn't like she deserved to love in the first place. Any sane person who knows of her actions would want nothing to do with her anymore. And being in a relationship means that she would have to share all her secrets with her partner for communication purposes.

The closest thing to love she can think of that would be beneficial to her life would be an arranged marriage. And even then, she wouldn't want that unless there was no other choice. And if her partner doesn't enjoy the forced marriage either, then that would be the ideal scenario.

But with her status, and her reputation, who wouldn't be more than happy to leech off of her or to use her for their own gain? She couldn't allow that to happen.

"I don't think so. I-"

"Just...forget it, alright?"

Ayaka walks away, hoping that this whole ordeal would be forgotten about soon.

It was not.

-

The first time Ayaka spoke to the Traveler was on a late night.

She and Thoma were worried over Ayato's late return to the estate the longer the night dragged on and the sun disappeared from the sky. While they know it is not their place to constantly monitor where he is everyday (because how would that be different from how he was treated all those years ago?) but that doesn't mean they can't worry and wonder over where he is. Ayaka especially was becoming antsy, her anxiety becoming so high that nothing could take her mind off of it. The thought of her brother being in danger again creeped and crawled on her back like little insects.

That is until she had enough, and decided to investigate, ordering Thoma to remain at the estate. She traveled through the forest, hoping to find at least a trace of her brother, praying to the gods above, especially to the Raiden Shogun that he would be safe and that she's simply overreacting.

In the forest, she heard voices conversing with one another. Those voices were ones she recognized, and one of them belonged to her brother. Relief washed over her in an instant, and she immediately set off to find him. No looming sense of danger was in the air, and it sounded like he was having a good time.

Ayaka eventually found him and the Traveler and her fairy companion, chatting away the night as they sat on a small cliff that overlooked the river. Though his happiness was more common than ever, she can't help but smile at how happy he sounds. He deserved that much.

Her attention was drawn to the Traveler once again, and that strange feeling came back once again. That feeling apparently being described as a 'crush'. And if that's the case, then...

...no, she shouldn't be indulging in a silly 'crush'. It's not like her to be stunned by a wholly beautiful and radiant person like her. There were more important matters to attend to, and it wouldn't do good to just stand here because of that 'crush'.

She stayed out of sight for now, watching the three talk until she decides to make her presence known.

"I see you all are having a pleasant time in each other's company."

Apparently, her addition warranted a short-lived scream from the little fairy as she whipped around to find her standing a few feet away from them. The Traveler looked at her with wide eyes, while her brother gives a gentle but awkward smile as he waved at her.

"Oh you scared the daylights out of Paimon! Who are you and what are you doing here?!" The fairy - Paimon - threw what seems to be a tantrum a child would have only...it was in the air. "Wait, don't tell Paimon you're here to do something bad..."

Ayaka felt a little insulted by the assumption.

"No, of course not." Ayato says, shaking his head, intervening before she can, or any more assumptions can be made. "This is my sister, Ayaka. I should take the initiative to apologize that this is your first meeting with her. I must've stayed out too late."

"It's quite alright." Ayaka responds. "I'm just glad to have found you were unharmed."

Paimon winced at that, her big blue eyes looking away. The Traveler looked to the ground, her arms crossed, appearing to be muttering something under her breath.

"Did something happen?" Ayaka asked, noticing the way they acted after she said that. One look at her brother confirmed that it was true, and she struggled to keep herself composed as she wondered and fretted over the possibilities.

Ayato shouldn't have been injured in any way. If that was the case, the Traveler would be responsible enough to bring him home at his behest after some first aid. And from where she's standing, she can't see any first aid work done on him. And if something did happen, then it's most likely at least a few hours ago or they wouldn't be this relaxed.

Before Ayaka's mind can spin out of control, Ayato spoke up.

"I have something to show you."

He stood up from his place on the cliff, and Ayaka noticed he didn't pick up his cane that was laying right beside him. Ayaka only registered a few seconds later that he was walking without his cane, and without any visible pain.

The reason for this lies in what was now clipped to the top of his glove.

A glowing Hydro Vision. Not unlike the fake one that woman uses as a decoy, but an authentic one.

Ayaka was hit with several emotions all at once upon seeing such a small but significant trinket. First came happiness, as this means that Ayato can finally walk and run again without his old injuries getting in the way. She never thought she would miss the sight of her brother running around this much until now. He can finally learn more complex combat techniques whether with Thoma or the instructors, and this means Thoma and Yoimiya can finally start wearing their Visions around him more openly.

Then soon, a sense of dread settled in.

What would the Tenryou Commission do if they find out he acquired a Vision? Kujou Sara was already generous enough to keep Ayato's true identity a secret, but would she cross that line for the sake of serving her god? Would she reduce him to a hollow husk of a person to abide by the will of the Raiden Shogun?

Loyalty can be such a hinderance.

Indeed, this new development has its own set of problems as does its wonders. Ayaka has no qualms in believing that the Traveler can bring an end to the Vision Hunt Decree soon, but for now, she'll need to find solutions to those problems until the wind has settled.

"It's beautiful." Ayaka ends up saying, a wide and proud smile on her face. While she knows that not all Visions are obtained from dramatic and heroic feats, she doesn't care how it was given to him.

"Thank you." Ayato mirrors her smile almost perfectly. He looks so content, so happy, so carefree. "It's the Traveler who helped me with earning it." Ayaka felt her eyes landing on the person in question, her golden eyes holding sincerity, looking like stars in the night sky.

"Hey, give yourself some credit too!" Paimon stated, hovering around him. "Paimon would've been toast if if weren't for you!"

The Traveler nods. "Paimon's right."

Even her voice was lovely to hear.

Ayaka felt curious about the day's events for the three of them. It was clear some hardship must've been involved, but it didn't seem to be too difficult for them. At least, she hoped so. The expressions they wore when speaking about it briefly suggested that quite strongly.

In the event it's a sore spot to speak about...

"Traveler." Ayaka says, finding a slightly surprised look in her golden eyes when she looks to her. "May I speak to you alone?"

The Traveler was quiet for a moment, turning to her brother and the little fairy for silent support. Paimon looked hesitant, anxious even about the though of her companion leaving. Ayato gave a brief glance at his sister before looking back at the Traveler with a nod.

"If you're concerned about my intentions, please don't be concerned." Ayaka looks to Paimon with a reassuring smile. "I simply wish to speak to her about the events that transpired."

Though she still seems hesitant about it, Paimon eventually nods. "O...Okay, but don't take too long, alright?"

"Of course." Lumine says.

After that, the two went off to an area in the forest that isn't too far away from the others, but just far enough to be out of earshot.

"First of all, I should properly introduce myself to you." Ayaka says, giving a sincere smile to the Traveler once they were in a suitable area to discuss this. "My name is Kamisato Ayaka, the Yashiro Commissioner, and the Head of the Kamisato Clan." She bows as a gesture of respect. "It's an honour to finally meet you in person."

The Traveler mirrors her smile. "Likewise. You're a lot different than what the public suggests."

"Oh, do tell me about it." Ayaka chuckled, taking out her fan and flipping it open to cover her face. "What of your name, distant Traveler?"

"I'm Lumine."

Lumine.

What a beautiful name. It rolls off the tongue nicely, radiating an air of elegance.

"What a lovely name you have." Ayaka giggles from behind her fan, thankful it covered the red that is likely growing on her face.

"Thank you." Lumine nods in agreement. "Now, what is it that you wish to talk about?"

"I simply want to extend my thanks to you." Ayaka says, snapping her fan shut. "You didn't have to help my brother, and yet you did. I may not fully understand what had happened, but either way...

Thank you for taking care of him."

"It's no problem." Lumine responds, smiling bittersweetly. "I couldn't let either of you suffer from separation. It's...a pain no good siblings should go through." Her tone grew weaker at the end, a soft sigh of longing leaving her lips.

Ayaka recalls overhearing a pair of her guards talking about the Traveler's quest while they were on break. Tales of dragons and gods, of winds and stone, all weaved together by the sole motive of the search for a lost sibling.

She pities Lumine even now. A heartache like that is one that should never befall any well meaning and good siblings. It was a miracle Ayaka was able to reunite with Ayato; she prays that the same miracle is given to Lumine.

Perhaps this is the real reason as to why she felt so strange around Lumine. Yes, that must be it. That silly prospect of a 'crush' is not true at all. She still adores her brother, but there is no feasible way he is correct in this 'crush'.

...what was this about 'separation'?

"...I understand your heartache." Ayaka places a hand over her heart. "You must have heard it from my brother, but it is still not my place to speak of past events without provocation. Still, I wish to extend my most sincere sympathies. You shouldn't have suffered through such a tragedy."

"My motives for my achievements even penetrated the isolated nation, huh?" Lumine asked, tilting her head to the side. Ayaka can't help but laugh a little at the motion.

"We have our ways of knowing information."

"Mhm, I suppose." Lumine nods, then went silent like she's contemplating something. Soon enough, she gives her response.

"Thank you...for caring."

Ayaka was a little surprised by that, in all honesty. It was to be expected, but it still managed to catch her off guard. She recomposed herself quickly. "Don't mention it." She nods in understanding before preparing herself for a long and lengthy explanation. "...now, care to tell me what you three were up to?"

Lumine grimaced. "Honestly, I was going to suggest telling you in private before you beat me to it. It's...not a pleasant story, even when everything worked out in the end."

And true to her word, the story Lumine retold was far from the most heartwarming. It started off normal, but it quickly escalated into horrifying and dangerous territory as the reappearance of her came into the tale. Ayaka felt her blood boil at the mention of her, mentally slapping herself for not noticing the signs that she had came into Inazuma. She had promised her brother that she would never let her anywhere near him again, and it all happened without her knowledge.

She's so glad that Lumine was there with him. The thought of losing her brother again would be too painful for her to bear, the last semblance of family she has since that awful day in the forest.

Emotions were running high, though there was no action happening currently. The story alone was enough for that. In the span of several minutes, Ayaka felt despair, horror, but also hope, and satisfaction as the tale reached its conclusion. She already knows the outcome, and yet Lumine manages to make it all seem like the ending was going to be bleak.

She wonders if this storytelling ability is a good thing considering the circumstances.

When the tale has concluded, Ayaka was speechless. All in the span of a few hours, those events happened so fast with little to no provocation.

"...I don't know what to say." Ayaka eventually settled on this, her frame trembling with several emotions as she fought to calm herself. There was a stranger in front of her after all. She can't let her see her in such a pitiable and emotional state. "..."

"Ayaka?" Lumine looked at her, concern painting her features.

"I'm fine." Ayaka responds. "I...simply wish to thank you again for being there for Ayato when he needed it most. I'm not sure if he would still be here if it weren't for you."

"Don't mention it. As I've said before, I couldn't let you go through the pain of separation."

Ayaka knew she owed Lumine so many favours for this one act alone. One of the two most important people in her life could've been taken away from her again, and Lumine was the reason why that hadn't been the case. There was no feasible way for her to pay her back for such a grand gesture, but Ayaka is willing to try.

"If you need an ally for your future adventures, then by all means, you are free to enlist the services of the Yashiro Commission and the Shuumatsuban if you wish. Whatever you need, we'll do our best to provide it for you."

"Please, there's no need for that."

"I insist. You did so much from this one gesture alone. Please allow me to pay you back in any way possible, within reason of course."

"...very well then." Lumine became silent for a moment, and after a few seconds passed, she spoke of what she desires. "...can you spare some time to look for my brother?"

"Of course."

Normally, Ayaka would've taken more time to think about it, going over the advantages and disadvantages of going along with what they're asking for before settling on the most reasonable course of action. But here, Ayaka, knowing the pain of losing a sibling once, prompted her to immediately accept without any further thought or consideration. Lumine deserves that much. Even if she's relatively mainly confined to Inazuma, she still has resources to perform more widely conducted searches, and even to the other nations.

It's only fair for what Lumine had done for her brother.

"..." Lumine smiled. "Thank you."

"You're most welcome." Ayaka bowed, deciding that this would be the end of their conversation, seeing that she has gotten what she wanted to hear and everything that needs to be addressed has been addressed. "Well, I suppose I must be going now. It's late enough as it is, and I do not wish to worry Thoma any further. Rest assured, I will do my utmost to search for your brother, and if anything comes up you will be the first to know."

"Thank you again. This...means a lot to me."

"It's the least I can do."

They then went their separate ways once they got back to their respective companions and goodbyes were exchanged. If Ayaka felt a little saddened by having to part from Lumine, then that is simply a misinterpretation on her feelings. Besides, wasn't it normal to feel that way?

Her brother did not see that whatsoever.

"So..." Ayato smirked at her. "...not a crush, hmm?"

"Ayato, you know exactly what happened and it is not what your brain is thinking." Ayaka subtly glared at him, though she isn't angry at him. She doesn't think she can ever be mad at him. "Besides, aren't you the one who's hopelessly enamoured with-"

"We do NOT talk about it. Especially NOT here." It was amusing to see how Ayato's face grew red the moment she turned the tables on him. Moments like these make her feel happy that he's feeling this love and also satisfied to have gotten back at him for earlier, even if she doesn't fully understand the feeling and is just going off on brief instances of seeing how her brother acts around that certain someone...or two. She doesn't have much evidence to confirm that yet.

"Sure...sure..."

Though now that she's thinking about it...

...would light novels be her answer to this strange feeling? Just to prove that it is not a 'crush'.

Yes, that would be a good start.

-

Sometime after that, Ayaka found the time to read some light novels approved by Yae Miko, something she rarely did unless at the insistence of someone else, mainly Miko. But this time around, she does it of her own free will. Yes, she did have a servant go and purchase them for her, but it was better than being seen buying light novels herself in person. The public would never let her live it down.

Especially since those light novels are in the romance category.

On one of her less busy days, Ayaka took the opportunity to read the light novels provided to her, finding tales of ordinary people finding love with their 'soulmates' after much trials and tribulations. Obstacles would be in the way of their destined, blissful life with the chosen one of their affections, whether it'd be parents, their environment, or simply bad luck.

In one novel, it detailed the story of a simple person seeking the love of a beautiful princess. But the statuses between them gets in the way, and the expectations the people have for the princess was a major factor throughout the story, adding much tension as to whether or not the pair can get together in the end when fate seems to be against them every step of the way.

Was this the novel her brother was talking about? It seems the most accurate to Ayaka's life. The princess even acts a bit like her, now that she thought about it. Someone who thinks of her own duty and family above all else.

If that's the case, then there was no feasible way for this story to end well. There were too many factors present that get in the way of the relationship. Even as the princess is beginning to get interested in the protagonist, her duty comes before everything else. There's no way for her to have romance in her life without everything falling apart.

So realistically speaking, if this story were to applied to her, Ayaka wouldn't be able to enter a relationship with Lumine even if she wanted to (not that she actually wants to of course). Their differences in positions and goals would clash too much for the relationship to be stable.

"What are you reading, my lady?"

Thoma's voice snapped her out of her thoughts, her head looking up at him almost immediately as she snapped the novel shut with a loud 'snap'.

"Thoma, what a surprise!" Ayaka did her best to appear normal to him, her smile appearing more forced than normal. "What is it that you require?"

"...I simply wish to ask you on what you're reading, my lady." Thoma says, squinting his eyes at the cover of the novel even as Ayaka tried to hide it. "Oh, it's that novel Lord Ayato has been reading recently."

"What about it?" Ayaka deadpanned.

"Well, he once said that the novel's love interest reminded him of you and the Traveler. So..." Thoma's expression became more curious than anything. "...I suppose it's true then?"

"What are you insinuating?"

"That you're having feelings for the Traveler?"

"No. Impossible." Ayaka shakes her head. "She has a journey to complete, doesn't she? Wasn't the reason for her search is for someone she knew? It would never work between us. Besides, I haven't met her yet, and even if I did desire a partner, it would have to be one who actually piques my interest for more than a few months, and one who can stay by my side." And also one who isn't slimy, despicable, and just wants to get close to her because of her status. And also one that isn't because of an arranged marriage if she can help it, and if that arranged partner does not wish to be malicious to her.

"I don't know, my lady, the world has a strange way of operating." Thoma responds, continuing to sweep the floors. "At the very least, you can give it a-"

"Thoma." Ayaka whips around and narrows her eyes. "I appreciate you and your efforts and your loyalty, so I mean this in the nicest way possible and I would like to kindly ask you to shut your mouth and continue on like none of this happened."

Thoma was too stunned to think of a response.

Chapter Text

Two days have passed since her improper and unplanned meeting with the Traveler.

And Ayaka was still getting harassed by both her brother and chief retainer about her supposed 'feelings' about her.

It was equal parts frustrating and exhausting. It had only been one meeting, and yet they still found ways to convince themselves that she does have 'feelings' for Lumine.

Doesn't help that they still persisted even after the time apart from her.

Although her work has succeeded in helping her distract herself from her 'feelings' with the Traveler, she still felt this hole in her heart that continued to plague her, begging to be acknowledged as her mind supplied her with images of golden, luscious hair and a flowing white dress and...

...what was happening to her?

Ayaka's reading of that light novel has not helped whatsoever. All she managed to obtain after reading was a big pile of nothing, with more questions and less answers than before.

But that was only one reading. One session wouldn't be enough to help her gain the knowledge she seeks regarding this strange phenomenon. She just needs to read more, and get more insight into what this feeling truly looks like.

That was all. She'll find the root cause of this illness that plagued her soon enough.

-

The second time Ayaka spoke with Lumine was in the aftermath of the Vision Hunt Ceremony.

Ayaka was away for an important meeting when it all happened. She wished she weren't.

She only learned of what happened when she arrived at Komore Teahouse after the meeting ended. Taroumaru was pacing around, clearly troubled, while Ayato was at the counter, trying to calm the shiba - and by extension himself - down.

When asked about their troubles, Ayato said that Thoma was whisked away for the Vision Hunt Ceremony, and Lumine had gone to get him back and told him to stay here.

The news turned and twisted in her head like the cogs of a malfunctioning machine, desperately trying to get the machine working again to no avail. Even when those news were coming from her own brother and he had no reason to lie about this, Ayaka can't bring herself to believe this.

She couldn't bring herself to believe that Thoma was in danger, and that Lumine had willingly placed herself as responsible for saving him.

And before she can process that fully, twin shouts came in the forms of familiar voices in distress.

"My lord! My lady!"

"Please help her! I- I..."

Thoma and Paimon came into the teahouse, the former carrying Lumine in his arms, a pained expression on her face. Some parts of her clothes were torn, revealing several small wounds that oozed a crackling purple glow - Electro energy.

The air became stiff. Ayaka can feel her throat tighten, her eyes widening.

The siblings rushed over to them, and the three got to work with helping Lumine. Setting her down on a futon in one of the spare rooms, grabbing all the available medical supplies and gave her the care she needed. Paimon hovered over their shoulders the whole time, worried and crying. At one point, Thoma had to pause to comfort her.

Ayaka was fully focused on Lumine, concern overtaking her senses as images of scenarios flashed through her mind. The Raiden Shogun's blade coming down upon Lumine, fully prepared to kill her.

How relieved she was, when she found a faint pulse still beating.

The wounds stretched across her stomach and back, deep cuts infused with Electro energy. Neutralizing the elemental energy was the first step, as though many elements can fade away when applied to someone, there was no risking this when the energy had seeped into the wounds, and would likely fester and cause severe infections and complications if left unchecked. All three of them still had their Visions intact, but the least dangerous reaction to remove the Electro energy at the moment was superconduct, and even then it was risky to do this.

But Ayaka was willing to take that risk. She had promised Lumine that she would help her find her brother - she can't do that if she's dead.

Ayaka pushed her feelings to the side, focusing on conjuring a concentrated amount of Cryo energy necessary to remove the Electro. She can feel everyone else staring at her, worried about something going wrong with this, her nerves standing on end because of this attention.

Once she was certain she had just the right amount of energy, she gently places her hand filled with Cryo on the wounds that marred Lumine's skin.

The elements reacted. Lumine jolted at the touch, the elemental reaction taking place. Some of the Electro went away from this, but there were still remnants left for her to take care of.

The second time, Lumine gasped in pain.

Ayaka winced.

Seeing Lumine like this, so vulnerable and injured...it felt wrong. Seeing her in pain sends a thousand blades into her heart.

Those tales of purifying a corrupted and pained dragon and taking down a long forgotten god of the sea built her up to be powerful, untouchable even. Her innate ability to control the elements with no Vision only adding to this notion of a legendary hero from those stories of great warriors she used to hear about.

But all stories keep forgetting one thing.

Heroes are still human. And humans are fragile little things.

"Please hang on." Ayaka whispered, deciding to speed up the process so Lumine won't have to be in pain any longer than she needs to be. Cryo and Electro danced together in sync with each and every reaction that took place. Lumine jolting every time it happened, Ayaka apologizing over and over again for the necessary pain, those pained gasps slicing into her heart until all the wounds have been taken care of.

When Ayaka's part was done, the others did theirs. Wrapping her body in bandages, disinfecting the wounds, until Lumine's condition was stable again. A wet cloth wrung dry was placed on her forehead, a sudden fever having been developed. Ayaka stayed behind to watch over her. Paimon volunteered almost immediately, but the little fairy ended up passing out from exhaustion from the amount of crying she did, and the others decided it was best to take her out of the room to a different area so she can rest. As they did that, Ayaka looked at Lumine with soft and worried eyes.

Just what could have happened in that ceremony for the Shogun to do something like this?

Soon, Lumine's eyes began to flutter open, a soft groan leaving her lips. Ayaka took notice of this almost immediately, placing a gentle and tender hand on her forehead. The fever's still there, but it's not as intense from before.

"Lumine?" Ayaka did not take notice of how soft her voice was.

Another groan. "...Ayaka?"

"Shh. Don't get up now. You'll need time before your wounds can heal."

"What happened...?"

"You were injured by the Raiden Shogun at the Vision Hunt Ceremony. Thoma managed to bring you back and we patched you up before any real damage can be done. The worst are the wounds on your stomach and back, but with the right amount of healing, you'll be able to go back to fighting without much issue."

Lumine sighs in relief. "That's good." She raised a hand to where her stomach would be, lightly tracing the bandages that now adorn her abdomen, wincing. "Where's Thoma?"

Ayaka's gloved hand found hers. Even through the silk of gloves, Lumine's hand felt calloused. But in its own way, it felt so warm. It must be the fever. "He's in the teahouse, safe. Thanks to you."

"Good."

A solemn look and thought passes through Ayaka's face before she can stop it.

This was the second time Lumine placed her life on the line to save one of her loved ones, with little regard for her own safety. She faced that monster who hurt her brother with a firm grasp on her blade, and she went against the Raiden Shogun with nothing but conviction and determination to prevent her from stealing her friend's Vision.

Ayaka doesn't understand.

"...why?"

Golden eyes blinked. "What do you mean?"

"Why would you...do this?" Ayaka's grip tightened slightly. "You don't know us. You only wish an audience with the Raiden Shogun; and you threw that opportunity away. Why?"

Lumine grew silent, her expression becoming more thoughtful. Then, a smile appeared.

"I guess it's because...you all reminded me of why I should take my time with this journey. Why I should see the beauty of this world and to help better it. Even if..." Her smile fell.

Ayaka tries to smile, even if she knows it won't bring Lumine's brother back. "Please do not fret; I will continue to search for him in Inazuma using the resources I have."

"I appreciate that, I really do." Lumine chuckles, more bitter than sweet.

"Are you quite alright?" Ayaka asks, refraining from holding Lumine's hand as a gesture of comfort.

"Yes, I am. Don't worry too much about me." Lumine smiles. It doesn't look all too real. Ayaka thought about pointing that out, but she doesn't want her to feel as if she's trying to invade her space. It doesn't curb her worry though.

"If you're sure..." Ayaka looks out to the other rooms in the teahouse. "I should go and inform the others you're awake and well now. They've been worried about you."

"Oh...yeah, that sounds good."

-

"LUMINE!"

Paimon darted into the room like a firework in the sky into Lumine's arms, seemingly forgetting that her companion was injured. Lumine didn't seem to mind, only grunting slightly in pain as she held the small fairy like she was her little sister. Ayaka had half a mind to go in and gently pull Paimon away, but stayed in her spot when she thought about how her small body wouldn't cause any further damage.

"Paimon, it's okay. I'm here."

The only response was a small whimper as Paimon continued to cry in Lumine's arms.

The other three watch the scene in silence, contemplating whether or not they should intervene or give the two some space. It wasn't until Lumine locked eyes with them and gave an inviting smile that they decided to enter.

"Are you feeling well now, Lumine?" Ayaka was the first to speak, giving the two of them a sympathetic look.

Lumine laughs. "You were with me just a few moments ago."

Ayaka can feel pink shading her cheeks from that comment. She doesn't know if it's Lumine's voice or the way she looks at her, but either way she was quick to hide it with her fan. "Yes, but it's always best to be cautious."

The trio sit themselves down at different angles to the futon Lumine is resting on, with Ayaka positioning herself in a way that allows her to have a full and clear view of Lumine herself. It's simply to monitor her condition more clearly. Definitely.

"I should've gone with you." Ayato mutters as he looks at the state Lumine is in.

Lumine shook her head, followed by a look of gentle disagreement by both Thoma and Ayaka. "I couldn't put you in harm's way. You just received your Vision."

"But-"

"My lord, she's going to be fine." Thoma asserts. "If the Shogun truly wanted her dead, she would have been so by now."

"That is true...does that mean the Almighty Shogun doesn't truly consider her a threat?"

The Raiden Shogun has protected Inazuma from countless calamities and disasters over the centuries. Any and all threats were swiftly neutralized by her without even a trace to attest to their existence except with recounts and records made by historians.

So the fact that Lumine is still here and not a pile of ash to be carried across the winds must mean something. Ayaka has always harboured a suspicion that something is going on with the Almighty Shogun ever since the Vision Hunt Decree was enacted, and perhaps this new development might give her the answers she was seeking for.

Ayaka is so glad that Lumine is still here. Whether by the mercy of the Raiden Shogun or her own resilience, she doesn't know if she can face herself should anything more permanent happen to her.

The feeling in her chest aches.

"Perhaps." Ayaka speaks up. "The Almighty Shogun has been acting rather strangely ever since the Vision Hunt Decree. There are things that don't add up, make little sense in scrutiny, but perfect to deceive the public eye." She looks at Thoma. "I believe your role in the Vision Hunt Ceremony was a part of such deception."

"But as of now, we don't have any evidence." Thoma says.

Ayaka reluctantly nods. "I'll investigate further into the matter. In the meantime, we need to keep you both away from the Shogunate until the dust settles."

She doesn't like this. She doesn't like any of this. She knows there's something wrong with all of this from the moment the Vision Hunt Decree began, but not knowing just how bad it is was a feeling she doesn't like, every part of her telling her that this was going to be so much worse than she originally thought.

But as she looks into Lumine's eyes, those thoughts seem to fade away ever so slightly and gently. The way how her golden eyes seem so much more alive than before, and how they compel her to stare into them like they were the sun's shining and glistening rays.

"And that means you will need to head over to the Resistance." Ayaka directs her gaze to Lumine's, eyes slightly wide at her statement.

Ayaka knows that this is for the best. All of this relies on Lumine supporting the Resistance and she knows that the Traveler can certainly handle herself on the battlefield with opponents that do not have the power of the Almighty Shogun.

And yet, she feels an ache in her heart that doesn't want to see her go. That part of her that doesn't want her to leave, to not potentially be sending her to an early grave despite knowing what Lumine has achieved in Mondstadt and Liyue.

She ignores that part of her, no matter how much it hurts to do so. She can't allow herself to be distracted by fleeting thoughts like these, she doesn't like how these thoughts were starting to affect her in situations like these now. She needs to focus.

"Huh, why?" Paimon asks. "Can't we just lay low here until we're in the clear?"

"Watatsumi Island isn't just the main base of operations for the Resistance. It is also a place of refuge for Vision wielders to stay so they can remain safe from having their Visions taken from them." Ayaka says. "Though you do not possess a Vision, your ability to control the elements without one makes you a prime target for the Shogunate to capture compared to the average allogene. Other than that, your support for the Resistance would be invaluable for them in the long term."

Lumine nods her head slowly, a troubled look on her face. "What about Thoma?"

"Don't worry, I'll just stay here until the storm is over." Thoma shrugs. "Though...it's going to be a little boring having to stay here for a while."

"I'll bring you snacks and games." Ayato offers.

The housekeeper smiles. "I'd appreciate that."

"It would bring more unnecessary trouble if we were to have Thoma go to Watatsumi Island." Ayaka says. "But not to worry, so long as no attention is drawn here, the Tenryou Commission won't be able to investigate here even if they have their own suspicions."

Lumine still looks worried, but she nods regardless. "I'll leave as soon as I'm healed."

"Very well. When the time comes, please do be cautious." Ayaka says, her hand rising up slightly, contemplating whether she should place a hand on her shoulder.

Lumine notices this, and gently takes her hand to rest on her shoulder, managing a smile. "I will."

Ayaka, though surprised, allows her hand to remain there for a while longer.

-

The Vision Hunt Decree has been repealed, and the civil war is over.

Ayaka allows herself to breathe out a sigh of relief at the news. But only for a moment; there was much work to be done with the changes Inazuma will now be experiencing with the loss of two Commissioners from the Hiiragi and Kujou Clans, as well as to await the Almighty Shogun to see the damage the war has done that had been deceitfully kept away from her eyes.

Inazuma needs her now more than ever. And she can't simply stop just because of the events of the past few weeks that had taken their toll on her. She must assist the Almighty Shogun in repairing the damage the Fatui have done to the nation, and make sure that something like this never happens again.

But first, a victory feast was to be had in the Kamisato Estate.

Though she initially declined to be apart of it, neither Ayato nor Thoma would take no for an answer and dragged her away from work. She keeps a mental note on how much work she'll have to finish up later as they did.

Her mental note-taking was interrupted when she caught glimpse of golden hair and eyes together with a kind smile.

"Ayaka, there you are!" Paimon waves to her. "Now the feast can really get started! So many dishes to try..." She hovers over the multitude of dishes that cover the dining room table with a kind of hunger in her eyes that is equal parts adorable and frightening.

"I'm surprised you managed to keep yourself restrained, Paimon." Lumine says with a smirk.

"Hey, don't assume Paimon would just, eat behind your backs!"

The other three chuckle.

"You're adorable as ever, Paimon." Ayato says. Paimon puts her arms behind her back as she sends a beaming smile in his direction.

"Alright, I believe we should start eating before the food gets cold." Thoma gestures to the dishes. Ayaka knows just how badly he missed cooking in the estate while laying low in Komore Teahouse, so she wasn't surprised that he went all out the moment he could step back into the kitchen. He turns to her. "Join us, my lady. You've had a long day."

Ayaka sighs. "Well-"

"You were the reason the Traveler survived." Ayato's gaze is full of empathy and understanding. "Please allow yourself to rest, just for a while."

"Wait, huh?" Paimon looks confused, but Lumine appears to have understood the situation based on the look in her eyes.

Thank you, they seem to say.

Ayaka communicates a message back with her own eyes, Your very much welcome. It was the last set of precautions she had set, though she certainly wasn't expecting for Kazuha to be the one to block the Almighty Shogun's blade even if it was by a hair's breadth.

She sighs. "Very well, I suppose a bite or two couldn't hurt." Ayaka relents, earning multiple claps around the room in celebration. She looks at them with an unimpressed look. "Why is that cause for applause?"

"Never mind that." Ayato smiles. Ayaka looks at him with an unimpressed look.

The five of them settled into a peaceful rhythm of eating and making conversation, sharing tales of what had happened over the course of the few weeks that have passed since their last in-person meeting. Lumine shares stories of her time as a captain in the resistance, and the Kamisato siblings do the same for what they were doing on Narukami.

"You did what?!" Paimon flinches back. "That was so dangerous! You could've gotten hurt!"

"I couldn't sit by and do nothing when I have my own Vision." Ayato argues.

"Yeah and that would have gone to waste if you have gotten caught!"

Ayaka locks eyes with Lumine as the two of them began to get into an argument over the matter. It felt like all time was fading away when staring into those golden suns.

"They have grown quite close so quickly, haven't they?" Ayaka starts.

Lumine laughs. "I'm surprised Paimon moved past the boba tea incident that fast."

"Hey, don't put words in Paimon's mouth! She's still mad about that!"

Ayato covers his mouth with his hand. "Oh, why didn't you say so, Paimon? I could always get you another one."

"Now now, my lord, Paimon, there is no need to fight." Thoma says, taking it upon himself to be the mediator between them. Though Ayaka knew no such altercation, physical or verbal, would occur. She can see in their eyes that neither meant what they said, though there seems to be less of a case for Paimon.

Ayaka lets herself smile as she witnesses the scene that unfolds before her, the vivid imagery of Lumine's smile imprinted in her mind all the while.