The Secrets of Death [P]

There was a certain curiosity within him, even more so now that he had taken another person's life. It wasn't as if he desired more or wanted to repeat it as soon as possible, but being able to control how and when someone died left quite the impression on him. Even if it wasn't the case, Ashborn felt like he practically controlled life and death. Perhaps the true power of the Pact Eternal slowly started affecting the Yamaguchi, his necromancy powers beginning to seep through. He had done his fair share of experiments, pushing the boundaries more and more as time went on. In doing so, he was able to create a variant of techniques that allowed him to defy the laws of human nature.

The image of Hoshigakure, or at least what it stood for, couldn't be any more different from the way people would look at him. The village was pure, while corruption always followed Ashborn around. Wondering if he could use his darkness as a strength instead of a weakness, the Yamaguchi ended up at the Unseen University, the center of the City Blessed by the Stars. It was where he hoped to find some guidance, reassurance that despite his wicked ways or peculiar powers there was still hope that he could use them for the greater good. Ironic, thinking that evil could maybe save the day. Nevertheless, for now the emissary simply stood there, waiting for someone to show up and give him what he was looking for.

(WC: 252)

Ayato stood in the hallowed halls of the Unseen University, his thoughts as complex as the intricate jutsu scrolls that lined the shelves. His recent acquisition of the Edo Tensei technique had plunged him into a moral quagmire. The very essence of the jutsu clashed with his principles, manipulating the souls of the departed to serve the living. It was a dark art he would have once viewed beneath him.

But as he considered the possibilities, a notion began forming in his mind's recesses. He could dress up this forbidden technique and present it as a means of summoning noble spirits back to fulfill a higher purpose. The bodies of deceased traitors could serve as hosts for these revered souls, a way to turn a macabre practice into a force for justice.

Lost in thought, Ayato's contemplation was interrupted by the presence of Ashborn, a fellow shinobi who shared the struggle between their abilities and the greater good. The young emissary hailed from the Yamaguchi clan, renowned for their intimate association with the realm of the undead. The heritage uniquely suited him to delve into the intricacies of manipulating life and death.

Approaching Ashborn, Ayato couldn't help but recognize the potential in their partnership. Yamaguchi's expertise in matters of the afterlife and necromancy could provide invaluable insights into the delicate art of Edo Tensei. With a measured tone, Ayato acknowledged their shared path and the complexities they faced.

"Ashborn," he began, "Your clan's connection to the world beyond the living is a wellspring of knowledge. If we are to explore the possibilities of techniques like Edo Tensei, your expertise is the key. Together, we might find a way to use these powers to better Hoshigakure while respecting the spirits of the departed."

He extended his hand, a silent offer of partnership in their quest for understanding and mastery over their abilities. Ayato knew their journey into the shadows would be filled with challenges, but having Ashborn's unique talents by his side was a formidable advantage.

[WC: 341]

He did not need to wait too long as the highest authority of the village himself approached, perhaps a sign that even Ayato caught wind of the young necromancer's recent endeavors. Well, not that it came entirely as a surprise, after all, Ashborn did have  a couple of previous encounters with the Hogokage's siblings so it only made sense that Toneri and Natsuki kept their brother updated on certain matters. That and the worrisome connection between himself and his fellow Yamaguchi, Kharjo could be all the more reason for the Hyuuga to keep a close eye on the mystery that was the Undead.

As he was joined by the Hogokage, something that still felt surreal even though he could witness it with his own two eyes, Ashborn offered a polite bow before listening to what Ayato had to say. Paying close attention, attentively as one should be when in the presence of their Kage, the Yamaguchi prodigy made sure not to miss any words that were being said to him. Doing so, their conversation started and the two of them would touch on the subject of a technique called Edo Tensei as well as the part his own heritage could play in the connection to the world beyond the living.

It was interesting to say the least, to think there would come a day or time when the Yamaguchi's help was required. "Most spirits don't like to be used and would rather be left alone" the young emissary replied in his unique manner, a lack of emotion in his voice and almost as if on autopilot. However, that didn't make it any less true. Majority of them simply wanted to rest, no longer bound by an oath or promise that they had already since long fulfilled. Nevertheless, Ayato's words held truth as well. If they were able to find a way to respect the undead's wishes or perhaps even remove the odds of them possessing such feelings, then Hoshigakure would indeed have gained a formidable ally.

And so, as their conversation continued, it was time for the two of them to discuss how to proceed. "What can I do to make us succeed? I will use my abilities as well as those of my clan to hopefully guarantee our success". Accepting the Hogokage's hand, the young necromancer formed another pact, not with his ancestors but with the leader of their village.

(WC: 401, TWC: 653)