Thoma was taken aback by Ayato's words. Amidst the bustling noise of the market, he struggled to comprehend the gravity of Ayato's decision to break the engagement between the clans. "Wait, are you serious? You broke the engagement between those clans? Have you lost your mind?" Thoma's shock was palpable.
"I didn't want to involve the forces of that pitiful wise girl, I know she loves someone else and it will be good if you lower your voice," Ayato's words echoed in Thoma's mind, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
"Are you saying that the wise girl in question... she's in love with someone else?" Thoma asked, trying to piece together the puzzle. Ayato nodded, his expression sombre. "Yes, and I couldn't in good conscience go through with the engagement knowing the truth. It would have been a sham, and I refuse to play a part in such deceit."
Thoma sighed, understanding the dilemma. "But breaking the engagement, won't that lead to more complications? The clans involved won't take this lightly. The preparation. How about the preparation? Oh Archon," Thoma stressed, feeling overwhelmed.
Ayato remained calm, his resolve unwavering. "I had to, Thoma. The engagement was based on a lie, and I couldn't let it continue. It would only lead to more pain and deception."
Thoma shook his head, struggling to comprehend the magnitude of Ayato's decision. "But what about the consequences? Breaking an engagement between powerful clans could lead to war! And, it's even more complicated that you are trying to help the guy she loves to get married," Thoma pointed out the potential fallout.
Ayato placed a comforting hand on Thoma's shoulder, his voice low but firm. "I know the risks, Thoma. But I can't let fear dictate my actions. Sometimes, we have to make difficult choices for the greater good."
Taking a deep breath to steady his nerves, Thoma said, "I trust your judgment, Ayato. But please, be cautious. We cannot afford to make any missteps, fortunately nothing happens."
Ayato nodded, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Thoma. Your support means everything to me. I will do everything in my power to ensure that this decision is carried out smoothly and with as little harm as possible."
As they navigated through the market, the noise and chaos around them seemed to fade into the background. Thoma knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but he also knew that with Ayato's determination and his own support, they would find a way through.
Thoma chuckled, "He's so unpredictable sometimes, I can never quite anticipate his next move."
"What's so funny?" Ayato asked, looking at his friend. Thoma, still chuckling, replied, "Sometimes, no matter how perfect you seem, you still have that streak of craziness in you." He continued to eat his noodles happily, savoring the moment. Ayato smiled, reminiscing about the times when they were younger, teasing each other and getting scolded by Thoma.
"I miss being scolded by you," Ayato admitted, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. Thoma grinned mischievously, "Well, I can scold you every day if you want me to." Ayato chuckled, shaking his head. "I think once in a while is more than enough, Thoma. Your scolding is quite effective, you know." Thoma laughed, feeling a sense of warmth and camaraderie with his childhood friend.
After enjoying dinner at the night market, they walked up to the hill. The night was windy, the breeze brushing against their skin, carrying the tantalizing aroma of street food and the distant sounds of laughter. They both walked in silence. Thoma looked at Ayato, his pale skin and purple eyes dazzling under the moonlight. "Everything reminds me of the past, the first time we met. Where do all the times go?" Ayato looked back at Thoma. Thoma smiled, but his mind was filled with thoughts of Childe, wondering if he had eaten yet or not. He genuinely missed his boyfriend. "What's wrong? You seem a bit distracted. Are you not enjoying our time alone?" Ayato asked Thoma. "No, no. Actually, I'm a bit tired. Oh, here we are. Sweet dreams, my Lord," Thoma waved to Ayato and rushed to his room.
