Author's Note: Wai!!! More reviews!! I'm so happy! Someone likes it!! Yay! Thank you, thank you for reading and reviewing. Definite Ran/Ken. Ummm...incest...O.o...Ummm, no. They are NOT related. Ran explains all in chapter...well, in some future chapter. I can't remember which one. Okay, please enjoy chapter three!
Disclaimer: I do not own Weiss. They belong to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Three
The afternoon moved towards evening. After supper was served and consumed by the family, and they had settled into their evening pursuits, the servants gathered in the kitchen downstairs. Ken had spared it from the soot and Rosie was in good spirits when he came in from the barn. He moved wearily to the table and sat on the bench beside Molly.
"Did ya wash up, hey?" the large woman asked from the metal oven on the floor before the fireplace.
"Yes, Rosie." He felt exhausted. Cleaning the chimneys always took all his energy, and today he'd cleaned the yard, and the stable after those horses had left. Ken leaned on his elbow on the table.
"Elbow, Master Ken," Mrs. Hudson reminded gently from her position at one end of the table. She and Shoop enjoyed the use of the two kitchen chairs due to their ages and years of service.
"Sorry, Mrs. Hudson."
Rosie placed a plate of food in front of him and he began to eat ravenously.
"Ya did a good job wi' the chimney, hey? No soot in here," Rosie grinned.
"Too bad I covered the sun room in soot just as two visitors arrived," Ken growled.
"Hey?"
"I'm sorry, Master Ken. That was my fault," Molly said, sounding genuinely contrite. Her mother smiled softly at her. "When do you go for your "discussion"?"
"I don't. Sir said we don't have to have it," Ken said around a mouthful of bread.
Eyes widened around the table. Ken nodded.
"That was my reaction. I don't know why, but he seemed like he was in a really good mood. Maybe my sisters managed to impress those noblemen."
Molly smiled.
"All I have to do is help you two clean up the sun room tomorrow," Ken smiled around his spoon.
Molly felt her smile fade.
"You can't do that! You have to take Prince Yohji and Lord Ran to the lake tomorrow!" she cried.
Everything at the table stopped as all eyes fixed on Molly. Ken stopped chewing and stared at her with a furrowed brow.
"What?" he asked.
"I've arranged for you to be their guide to the lake tomorrow," she said sheepishly.
"Who? Those two men who were here?" When she nodded Ken felt his eyes widen in alarm. "Molly, you know I can't do that!! I'm not allowed near visitors!"
Ken's cry of alarm made Molly cringe.
"Molly, how could you do this?" Mrs. Hudson asked scowling darkly.
"It was Miss Caroline's idea, Mam," Molly said in self defense. Mrs. Hudson shook her head. "He's a prince! He can help you!"
"Help me what, Mol?! Lose my only family?!" Ken jumped up and began to pace the room in agitation. "You know Sir's rules! You know I can't cross him. He'll send you all away! How can I live for five years without you? How would I find you all again?"
Ken flopped back into his seat with a sigh of despair. Molly looked at him helplessly. Mrs. Hudson cleared her throat.
"Molly, you should've discussed this with Master Ken first, but as you were following Miss Caroline's wishes I suppose its not entirely your fault. Master Ken, obviously Miss Caroline has a reason for wanting you to meet these two men. I suggest you speak to her."
Ken pouted, but nodded. His pleasure at escaping a beating had faded to a memory.
"Don't worry, Master Ken. Mam and I will cover for you tomorrow. Sir will never know you're gone. Right, Mam?"
Mrs. Hudson gave her daughter a disapproving glance then settled her kind eyes on Ken. "Although I disapprove strongly of lyin', I believe in this case it would be for the best."
After the supper dishes were done, and the kitchen cleaned, Ken headed upstairs. He moved quietly through the halls and up the backstairs to the bedrooms, pausing often and listening intently. Ken wasn't allowed upstairs in the evenings, or any other time, unless he was doing chores. On his way by the library he paused and looked wistfully at the doors. In the library hung a portrait of his mother, the only one in the house. He used to sneak in there and stare up at it, but he'd been caught when he was eleven. That had been one of his worst beatings. He still bore the scars, and from then on the library had been locked. Despite his many attempts he'd never been able to find a key that would open it. The only one seemed to exist on the ring of keys in his stepfather's pocket. One more reason to look forward to his twenty-first birthday. Then those keys would belong to him.
Ken arrived outside Caroline's door and knocked softly.
"Come in."
Quickly he slipped inside and closed the door behind him. Caroline sat at her desk with a book. She set it aside and smiled at him softly.
"Have you been to see, Pa-pa?" she asked.
He shook his head.
"Sir said I didn't have to, but it doesn't matter. Tomorrow he'll kill me when he catches me with those noblemen," he frowned.
Caroline's soft smile never faltered. She held her arms out to him. Ken moved from the door, knelt at her feet and rested his head on her knees. She brushed her fingers through his hair.
"Do you trust me?" she asked.
"Yes," he answered immediately.
"I believe fate sent these men here, and that you were meant to meet them. I know you wait anxiously for your twenty-first birthday, but what then? You will need supporters at Court and advice on the running of the estate. If you don't quietly make connections now you'll be lost."
"But how can I? I can't tell them who I am. They think I'm a servant," Ken pouted. "I am a servant."
Caroline smiled and continued to stroke his hair.
"Just spend the day with them. Show them the best fishing spots. Have some fun. It may be a small thing, but you must start somewhere. And Yohji's a prince. He can't be without influence."
Ken sighed.
"Okay, Caroline. I'll do it, but I don't see anything but trouble coming from it."
Ken rose and moved toward the door, but turned back when Caroline called to him softly.
"Don't forget to change your clothes and clean your teeth," she said, still smiling.
The next morning he rose early and took a bath in the water basin outside the barn. He'd decided Caroline was right and he should make the most of it. He washed his hair, cleaned his teeth, and dressed in the best clothes he had. They weren't, he realized, that great. They had fewer holes than the others due to various patch jobs, and less stains. He'd never paid attention to his clothes before, and now he wished he'd set some aside for special occasions. He grabbed some bread and an apple, and headed up to the roadway to wait where Molly had told him to.
* * *
As the sun rose over the hillside the two noblemen and their servant entered the small village.
"I still think I should've remained with our things. I tell you those two are shifty-eyed," the small blonde servant complained. He rode slightly behind the other two, but they could plainly hear him. Prince Yohji rolled his eyes.
Ran hid a smirk. For some reason he couldn't fathom he'd awoken in a better mood than he'd been in for over a year. His shoulders felt lighter and he found himself looking forward to the day. Of course, he didn't feel the need to share this with his cousin who was in a tempestuous mood, so his emotionless mask was carefully in place.
"Omi, the inn keeper and his wife aren't interested in stealing our clothes," groaned the Prince.
"We should've found someone to stay with, then there'd be no worry," the youth complained.
"Yes, but then we'd be saddled with a host and the obligation of being good guests. You know that didn't fit in with our plans. And if you're now intent on launching into your list of complaints about this trip you can save your mighty breath. I've heard them. All of them," Yohji said crossly, staring straight ahead. "And may I remind you that you gave me your approval for this trip?!"
The Prince shut his mouth with a snap. Ran's eyes widened. He looked to his cousin before turning in his saddle to blink at his servant. Omi let out a squeak and tried to make himself even smaller than he was. Ran turned back to Yohji.
"Don't look so surprised," the Prince grumbled. "You had us scared to death. We had to do something."
"Thank you," Ran said quietly.
Yohji's head snapped around to look at him. He glanced briefly back at Omi, who raised his eyebrows in surprise.
"You're welcome," Yohji said with a sudden smile. His bad mood disappeared and the day seemed brighter. As they left the village behind he began to hum. Omi stopped complaining and began to admire the countryside.
It wasn't long before they were approaching the view of the manor. Where Molly said he would be, a youth leaned against a tree chomping on an apple. When he heard them coming he straightened up. He threw his apple into the bushes and fidgeted nervously with his clothes.
Yohji smiled. He liked the boy on sight, now that he could see him. He had large brown eyes which hid nothing. His hair was a mop of brown on his head which hung into his eyes, but was cropped short in back. The clothes, which he pulled at compulsively, were tattered almost beyond repair. He shifted nervously as they stopped before him.
"You must be Ken," Yohji smiled pleasantly.
"Y-yes, sir." The large brown eyes swept over the group nervously before settling back on the Prince, who introduced himself and his companions.
"I hope we haven't kept you waiting long, Ken," the Prince said.
"N-no. Not long, sir." Ken gulped and glanced nervously over his shoulder at the house, then shuffled a bit to one side until he was effectively hidden behind a tree.
The Prince glanced at Ran who raised an eyebrow.
"Well," he said, "if you're ready we can be off."
The boy looked visibly relieved.
"S-sure."
"Well, I see you don't have a horse. Do you mind sharing with Omi?"
The question seemed to renew the youth's fidgeting.
"Have you ever ridden before, Ken?" Ran asked quietly.
Ken's wide eyes settled on him and he shook his head with a frown. Yohji felt his eyebrows rise in surprise, but smiled reassuringly.
"Omi is an excellent horseman. He'll take good care of you. Omi?"
Ken looked to the young man who moved his horse forward. He was about Ken's age, but obviously shorter, with blond hair and big blue eyes. Omi smiled brightly at him, and stretched out a hand. Ken grasped it and was surprised when Omi easily hauled him up onto the horse's back, where he settled in behind him.
"There now," said Yohji in satisfaction. "Let's be off. Lead the way please, Omi."
Omi spurred his horse which shot ahead at a gallop. Ken gave a yelp of surprise and clutched onto the younger man who laughed. Yohji and Ran fell into pace behind them. Yohji sporting a huge grin, while Ran hid another smile.
Omi slowed their pace a mile or so later and glanced back at his passenger. Ken's initial death grip on his waist had loosened almost immediately and he'd shifted forward to enjoy the feeling of wind on his face. Omi grinned at him and Ken returned it.
"Sorry, but I couldn't resist," he apologized.
Ken nodded amiably, still smiling.
"So, you work at the manor?"
"Yes, sir. Since I was eight."
Omi giggled and shook his head. "You don't have to call me sir. Just Omi is fine. I'm Ran's gentleman and companion."
"He...he doesn't make you call him "sir"?" Ken asked tentatively. He knew his experience was limited at best, but he'd never heard of a servant being on such familiar terms with his master.
Omi shook his head. "No. He doesn't like it. He finds it 'appallingly irksome," Omi put a hint of disdain in his voice, then giggled. "He's not your typical nobleman."
Ken peeked over his shoulder at the stoic red-head dressed in black. As if he could sense Ken's perusal his purple eyes swung around and fastened on him. The young man felt as if those eyes could see clear through him to his soul. He gulped, but tried a tentative smile.
Ran felt his expression soften when graced with that sweet smile. He didn't seem able to prevent the corners of his mouth from curving upward. Ken's smile brightened, then he faced forward again and continued chatting with Omi.
"Strange," Yohji mumbled softly so only Ran could hear. "Why keep a boy and train him as a stable hand, but then not train him to ride?"
"Hn."
"And he's hardly a boy. A young man more like. He's older than I realized, now that I've gotten a proper look at him. Very odd."
"He was hiding," Ran stated, so low that Yohji almost missed it.
"Yes. He didn't want to be seen from the house," the Prince paused to think. "There's a mystery here, Cousin."
This seemed to please the tall blond greatly, and he looked around with satisfaction. Finally, good sport and a puzzle for the mind. Perhaps the trip would finish up on a better note than it began.
Once clear of the house Ken's mood improved greatly. After a few words from Omi, his nervous shyness vanished, and he began chattering away. He happily pointed out areas of interest and places they might want to visit. His knowledge of the estate grounds was extensive, and it readily impressed his three companions who listened attentively. The young man's natural cheeriness washed over the group like a warm breeze. Coupled with Omi's good humor Yohji found it impossible to stop grinning like a fool, and he caught Ran valiantly fighting a smile.
"Cousin, if you don't give in your face will crack," the Prince laughed. He was joined by Omi, and Ken peeked behind him again.
After they'd gone about seven miles Ken pointed off to the left, where an opening appeared in the bushes and trees lining the road.
"If we head through there and follow the track it will take us to a little hill overlooking this end of the lake. There are several trails from there leading to good fishing holes."
Omi nodded and guided his horse through. The track wasn't wide and they were forced to ride single file for a bit as there were tall brambles on either side. But within minutes the brambles thinned and they emerged out onto a long field which ended at the lake. The lake itself stretched out before them sparkling in the sun. They paused to admire the view then followed Ken's directions to the appropriate trail.
He guided them down along the right side of the lake where the trees along the edge were denser. He had Omi stop beside a pool and slid from the horse's back. Omi tried to hold in his laughter as Ken almost fell to the ground, and began gingerly rubbing his backside. He hobbled over to the edge of the pool and inspected it, then looked up and squinted at the sun. Ken hobbled back over shaking his head.
"We're too late for this one. The sun's too high now. It's best here at dawn and dusk. There's another spot a bit farther on that'll be better."
"All right." Omi held out a hand to assist Ken in remounting, but he waved his hands and backed up a step.
"Its not far. I think I'll walk," he said with a grin.
"Suit yourself," Omi smiled.
Yohji's laughter floated over to them making Ken blush. He ducked his head and started off up the trail. He liked the look of the next pool better and they stopped there for a bit. When he judged it was time he moved them along to another location, and then another. They had lunch under the trees, enjoying a nice cool breeze off the lake. The spot was serene and soothing. Ken secretly enjoyed the mutton, cheese and dried fruits that had been provided by the inn keeper's wife. Rosie seasoned her cooking differently, and he found the change interesting.
After lunch he moved them again to a deeply shaded cove with outcroppings of rock that reached into the lake. They looked like fingers. Two people would just fit comfortably on one. Omi suggested he and Ran take the first so he could also keep an eye on the horses. Yohji agreed, so Ken led him around to the next. The prince settled in and cast off while Ken sat beside him watching. He'd forgotten his pole, but didn't really regret it. So far he was enjoying the day.
"So, Ken," Yohji began amiably. "Do your folks work at the manor as well?"
"No, they're dead."
"Oh, I do apologize. I suppose that was rather rude of me," the Prince glanced at the young man, but Ken
seemed undisturbed. "Do you enjoy working here?"
"Its all right. I get to be outside a lot and I like that." Ken looked off across the lake. Yohji considered that thoughtfully. "Why is your cousin all dressed in black? Is he in mourning?"
Yohji smiled. It hadn't taken them long to realize that Ken was thoroughly unused to dealing with people of rank. He was completely blunt, as well as honest, when asking questions or answering them. They had so far avoided asking too much regarding the manor due to his obvious discomfort with the topic, but Yohji hoped to employee Omi in the pursuit of information.
"Yes, he is. Although, I'm hoping he's finally over the worst of it," the Prince answered, glancing over at his cousin. "Today was the first time I've seen him smile in over a year."
"Who...who was it? His wife?"
Yohji caught himself chuckling. "No. No, not a wife. He lost a very dear, dear friend. Omi and I were afraid we would lose him, so great was his grief."
"I'm sorry for his loss."
"Thank you, Ken. I'm sure he'd appreciate that."
The young man stared fixedly into the water for a few minutes before glancing back up at Yohji's cousin. He found himself fascinated with the stoic red-head.
"When did his friend die?"
"Last spring," the Prince answered quirking a brow at the young man's curiosity over his cousin.
"And you've been traveling all that time?!" Ken was shocked.
"No. Not quite," Yohji chuckled again. "I fetched him to court right after Richard's death, but that turned out to be a mistake."
Ken turned to look at Yohji. The Prince was looking out over the lake. His face had turned solemn.
"Richard was his friend?"
"Yes," the Prince's eyes narrowed for a moment, but then he seemed to shake off whatever he was feeling. he turned his smile back on Ken and Ken smiled back.
"I hope he cheers up soon," said the younger man.
Yohji smiled wider and couldn't resist ruffling Ken's hair. The youth ducked his head and laughed. It was a rich and hardy sound vibrating with life. Omi and Ran glanced over. Omi giggled.
The rest of the afternoon passed quickly and pleasantly. Ran managed to catch a large trout to take back for the inn keeper's wife, and soon they were on their way back to the manor and the village.
Ken shared Omi's horse again and the two talked and laughed as if they were life long friends. Yohji and Ran followed along behind them speaking quietly.
"Well, Cousin, what say you? Has this been the best day of the trip?"
"It was very pleasant, Yohji."
"Indeed. Shall we return tomorrow?" Yohji watched Ran closely.
The quiet nobleman rode silently for a few moments, watching the two youths chatting a little ahead of them.
"Aa," he nodded.
Yohji grinned and spurred his horse up beside Omi's. "So, young Ken, are you available tomorrow as well?"
Ken started. His large eyes going wide.
"To-tomorrow? I...I'm not sure." He wanted to say "yes". He wanted to tell them everything, and beg their help. But he couldn't. There was nothing they could do, and he would lose what little he had. But another day in their company was too alluring. He'd never just spent time with anyone, and the camaraderie was addictive. he screwed up his courage. "I mean, y-yes. That'll be fine."
Yohji looked at him searchingly for a moment before nodding. "Shall we meet at the same place and time?"
"Yes, that will be fine, Sir."
"Now, now. I'm Yohji to my friends," the Prince winked and Ken beamed. "Would you like us to deliver you to the village? We have to pass that way."
"No," Ken replied. "The manor will be fine."
Yohji mock bowed and dropped back beside Ran who looked deep in thought. They glanced at each other but said nothing. When they reached the spot overlooking the manor Ken left them with a wave, and a promise to see them in the morning. He disappeared over the hillside into the dusk.
Author's Note Extra: Let's see, I don't think I have any comments about this chapter. I was trying to use Caroline as the Fairy Godmother character, because Ken definitely needed some help. All the extra characters that aren't Weiss are completely made up, by the way. Any resemblance to anyone is accidental, etc. Okay, that's it. I hope you liked it! Please Review!
Disclaimer: I do not own Weiss. They belong to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Three
The afternoon moved towards evening. After supper was served and consumed by the family, and they had settled into their evening pursuits, the servants gathered in the kitchen downstairs. Ken had spared it from the soot and Rosie was in good spirits when he came in from the barn. He moved wearily to the table and sat on the bench beside Molly.
"Did ya wash up, hey?" the large woman asked from the metal oven on the floor before the fireplace.
"Yes, Rosie." He felt exhausted. Cleaning the chimneys always took all his energy, and today he'd cleaned the yard, and the stable after those horses had left. Ken leaned on his elbow on the table.
"Elbow, Master Ken," Mrs. Hudson reminded gently from her position at one end of the table. She and Shoop enjoyed the use of the two kitchen chairs due to their ages and years of service.
"Sorry, Mrs. Hudson."
Rosie placed a plate of food in front of him and he began to eat ravenously.
"Ya did a good job wi' the chimney, hey? No soot in here," Rosie grinned.
"Too bad I covered the sun room in soot just as two visitors arrived," Ken growled.
"Hey?"
"I'm sorry, Master Ken. That was my fault," Molly said, sounding genuinely contrite. Her mother smiled softly at her. "When do you go for your "discussion"?"
"I don't. Sir said we don't have to have it," Ken said around a mouthful of bread.
Eyes widened around the table. Ken nodded.
"That was my reaction. I don't know why, but he seemed like he was in a really good mood. Maybe my sisters managed to impress those noblemen."
Molly smiled.
"All I have to do is help you two clean up the sun room tomorrow," Ken smiled around his spoon.
Molly felt her smile fade.
"You can't do that! You have to take Prince Yohji and Lord Ran to the lake tomorrow!" she cried.
Everything at the table stopped as all eyes fixed on Molly. Ken stopped chewing and stared at her with a furrowed brow.
"What?" he asked.
"I've arranged for you to be their guide to the lake tomorrow," she said sheepishly.
"Who? Those two men who were here?" When she nodded Ken felt his eyes widen in alarm. "Molly, you know I can't do that!! I'm not allowed near visitors!"
Ken's cry of alarm made Molly cringe.
"Molly, how could you do this?" Mrs. Hudson asked scowling darkly.
"It was Miss Caroline's idea, Mam," Molly said in self defense. Mrs. Hudson shook her head. "He's a prince! He can help you!"
"Help me what, Mol?! Lose my only family?!" Ken jumped up and began to pace the room in agitation. "You know Sir's rules! You know I can't cross him. He'll send you all away! How can I live for five years without you? How would I find you all again?"
Ken flopped back into his seat with a sigh of despair. Molly looked at him helplessly. Mrs. Hudson cleared her throat.
"Molly, you should've discussed this with Master Ken first, but as you were following Miss Caroline's wishes I suppose its not entirely your fault. Master Ken, obviously Miss Caroline has a reason for wanting you to meet these two men. I suggest you speak to her."
Ken pouted, but nodded. His pleasure at escaping a beating had faded to a memory.
"Don't worry, Master Ken. Mam and I will cover for you tomorrow. Sir will never know you're gone. Right, Mam?"
Mrs. Hudson gave her daughter a disapproving glance then settled her kind eyes on Ken. "Although I disapprove strongly of lyin', I believe in this case it would be for the best."
After the supper dishes were done, and the kitchen cleaned, Ken headed upstairs. He moved quietly through the halls and up the backstairs to the bedrooms, pausing often and listening intently. Ken wasn't allowed upstairs in the evenings, or any other time, unless he was doing chores. On his way by the library he paused and looked wistfully at the doors. In the library hung a portrait of his mother, the only one in the house. He used to sneak in there and stare up at it, but he'd been caught when he was eleven. That had been one of his worst beatings. He still bore the scars, and from then on the library had been locked. Despite his many attempts he'd never been able to find a key that would open it. The only one seemed to exist on the ring of keys in his stepfather's pocket. One more reason to look forward to his twenty-first birthday. Then those keys would belong to him.
Ken arrived outside Caroline's door and knocked softly.
"Come in."
Quickly he slipped inside and closed the door behind him. Caroline sat at her desk with a book. She set it aside and smiled at him softly.
"Have you been to see, Pa-pa?" she asked.
He shook his head.
"Sir said I didn't have to, but it doesn't matter. Tomorrow he'll kill me when he catches me with those noblemen," he frowned.
Caroline's soft smile never faltered. She held her arms out to him. Ken moved from the door, knelt at her feet and rested his head on her knees. She brushed her fingers through his hair.
"Do you trust me?" she asked.
"Yes," he answered immediately.
"I believe fate sent these men here, and that you were meant to meet them. I know you wait anxiously for your twenty-first birthday, but what then? You will need supporters at Court and advice on the running of the estate. If you don't quietly make connections now you'll be lost."
"But how can I? I can't tell them who I am. They think I'm a servant," Ken pouted. "I am a servant."
Caroline smiled and continued to stroke his hair.
"Just spend the day with them. Show them the best fishing spots. Have some fun. It may be a small thing, but you must start somewhere. And Yohji's a prince. He can't be without influence."
Ken sighed.
"Okay, Caroline. I'll do it, but I don't see anything but trouble coming from it."
Ken rose and moved toward the door, but turned back when Caroline called to him softly.
"Don't forget to change your clothes and clean your teeth," she said, still smiling.
The next morning he rose early and took a bath in the water basin outside the barn. He'd decided Caroline was right and he should make the most of it. He washed his hair, cleaned his teeth, and dressed in the best clothes he had. They weren't, he realized, that great. They had fewer holes than the others due to various patch jobs, and less stains. He'd never paid attention to his clothes before, and now he wished he'd set some aside for special occasions. He grabbed some bread and an apple, and headed up to the roadway to wait where Molly had told him to.
* * *
As the sun rose over the hillside the two noblemen and their servant entered the small village.
"I still think I should've remained with our things. I tell you those two are shifty-eyed," the small blonde servant complained. He rode slightly behind the other two, but they could plainly hear him. Prince Yohji rolled his eyes.
Ran hid a smirk. For some reason he couldn't fathom he'd awoken in a better mood than he'd been in for over a year. His shoulders felt lighter and he found himself looking forward to the day. Of course, he didn't feel the need to share this with his cousin who was in a tempestuous mood, so his emotionless mask was carefully in place.
"Omi, the inn keeper and his wife aren't interested in stealing our clothes," groaned the Prince.
"We should've found someone to stay with, then there'd be no worry," the youth complained.
"Yes, but then we'd be saddled with a host and the obligation of being good guests. You know that didn't fit in with our plans. And if you're now intent on launching into your list of complaints about this trip you can save your mighty breath. I've heard them. All of them," Yohji said crossly, staring straight ahead. "And may I remind you that you gave me your approval for this trip?!"
The Prince shut his mouth with a snap. Ran's eyes widened. He looked to his cousin before turning in his saddle to blink at his servant. Omi let out a squeak and tried to make himself even smaller than he was. Ran turned back to Yohji.
"Don't look so surprised," the Prince grumbled. "You had us scared to death. We had to do something."
"Thank you," Ran said quietly.
Yohji's head snapped around to look at him. He glanced briefly back at Omi, who raised his eyebrows in surprise.
"You're welcome," Yohji said with a sudden smile. His bad mood disappeared and the day seemed brighter. As they left the village behind he began to hum. Omi stopped complaining and began to admire the countryside.
It wasn't long before they were approaching the view of the manor. Where Molly said he would be, a youth leaned against a tree chomping on an apple. When he heard them coming he straightened up. He threw his apple into the bushes and fidgeted nervously with his clothes.
Yohji smiled. He liked the boy on sight, now that he could see him. He had large brown eyes which hid nothing. His hair was a mop of brown on his head which hung into his eyes, but was cropped short in back. The clothes, which he pulled at compulsively, were tattered almost beyond repair. He shifted nervously as they stopped before him.
"You must be Ken," Yohji smiled pleasantly.
"Y-yes, sir." The large brown eyes swept over the group nervously before settling back on the Prince, who introduced himself and his companions.
"I hope we haven't kept you waiting long, Ken," the Prince said.
"N-no. Not long, sir." Ken gulped and glanced nervously over his shoulder at the house, then shuffled a bit to one side until he was effectively hidden behind a tree.
The Prince glanced at Ran who raised an eyebrow.
"Well," he said, "if you're ready we can be off."
The boy looked visibly relieved.
"S-sure."
"Well, I see you don't have a horse. Do you mind sharing with Omi?"
The question seemed to renew the youth's fidgeting.
"Have you ever ridden before, Ken?" Ran asked quietly.
Ken's wide eyes settled on him and he shook his head with a frown. Yohji felt his eyebrows rise in surprise, but smiled reassuringly.
"Omi is an excellent horseman. He'll take good care of you. Omi?"
Ken looked to the young man who moved his horse forward. He was about Ken's age, but obviously shorter, with blond hair and big blue eyes. Omi smiled brightly at him, and stretched out a hand. Ken grasped it and was surprised when Omi easily hauled him up onto the horse's back, where he settled in behind him.
"There now," said Yohji in satisfaction. "Let's be off. Lead the way please, Omi."
Omi spurred his horse which shot ahead at a gallop. Ken gave a yelp of surprise and clutched onto the younger man who laughed. Yohji and Ran fell into pace behind them. Yohji sporting a huge grin, while Ran hid another smile.
Omi slowed their pace a mile or so later and glanced back at his passenger. Ken's initial death grip on his waist had loosened almost immediately and he'd shifted forward to enjoy the feeling of wind on his face. Omi grinned at him and Ken returned it.
"Sorry, but I couldn't resist," he apologized.
Ken nodded amiably, still smiling.
"So, you work at the manor?"
"Yes, sir. Since I was eight."
Omi giggled and shook his head. "You don't have to call me sir. Just Omi is fine. I'm Ran's gentleman and companion."
"He...he doesn't make you call him "sir"?" Ken asked tentatively. He knew his experience was limited at best, but he'd never heard of a servant being on such familiar terms with his master.
Omi shook his head. "No. He doesn't like it. He finds it 'appallingly irksome," Omi put a hint of disdain in his voice, then giggled. "He's not your typical nobleman."
Ken peeked over his shoulder at the stoic red-head dressed in black. As if he could sense Ken's perusal his purple eyes swung around and fastened on him. The young man felt as if those eyes could see clear through him to his soul. He gulped, but tried a tentative smile.
Ran felt his expression soften when graced with that sweet smile. He didn't seem able to prevent the corners of his mouth from curving upward. Ken's smile brightened, then he faced forward again and continued chatting with Omi.
"Strange," Yohji mumbled softly so only Ran could hear. "Why keep a boy and train him as a stable hand, but then not train him to ride?"
"Hn."
"And he's hardly a boy. A young man more like. He's older than I realized, now that I've gotten a proper look at him. Very odd."
"He was hiding," Ran stated, so low that Yohji almost missed it.
"Yes. He didn't want to be seen from the house," the Prince paused to think. "There's a mystery here, Cousin."
This seemed to please the tall blond greatly, and he looked around with satisfaction. Finally, good sport and a puzzle for the mind. Perhaps the trip would finish up on a better note than it began.
Once clear of the house Ken's mood improved greatly. After a few words from Omi, his nervous shyness vanished, and he began chattering away. He happily pointed out areas of interest and places they might want to visit. His knowledge of the estate grounds was extensive, and it readily impressed his three companions who listened attentively. The young man's natural cheeriness washed over the group like a warm breeze. Coupled with Omi's good humor Yohji found it impossible to stop grinning like a fool, and he caught Ran valiantly fighting a smile.
"Cousin, if you don't give in your face will crack," the Prince laughed. He was joined by Omi, and Ken peeked behind him again.
After they'd gone about seven miles Ken pointed off to the left, where an opening appeared in the bushes and trees lining the road.
"If we head through there and follow the track it will take us to a little hill overlooking this end of the lake. There are several trails from there leading to good fishing holes."
Omi nodded and guided his horse through. The track wasn't wide and they were forced to ride single file for a bit as there were tall brambles on either side. But within minutes the brambles thinned and they emerged out onto a long field which ended at the lake. The lake itself stretched out before them sparkling in the sun. They paused to admire the view then followed Ken's directions to the appropriate trail.
He guided them down along the right side of the lake where the trees along the edge were denser. He had Omi stop beside a pool and slid from the horse's back. Omi tried to hold in his laughter as Ken almost fell to the ground, and began gingerly rubbing his backside. He hobbled over to the edge of the pool and inspected it, then looked up and squinted at the sun. Ken hobbled back over shaking his head.
"We're too late for this one. The sun's too high now. It's best here at dawn and dusk. There's another spot a bit farther on that'll be better."
"All right." Omi held out a hand to assist Ken in remounting, but he waved his hands and backed up a step.
"Its not far. I think I'll walk," he said with a grin.
"Suit yourself," Omi smiled.
Yohji's laughter floated over to them making Ken blush. He ducked his head and started off up the trail. He liked the look of the next pool better and they stopped there for a bit. When he judged it was time he moved them along to another location, and then another. They had lunch under the trees, enjoying a nice cool breeze off the lake. The spot was serene and soothing. Ken secretly enjoyed the mutton, cheese and dried fruits that had been provided by the inn keeper's wife. Rosie seasoned her cooking differently, and he found the change interesting.
After lunch he moved them again to a deeply shaded cove with outcroppings of rock that reached into the lake. They looked like fingers. Two people would just fit comfortably on one. Omi suggested he and Ran take the first so he could also keep an eye on the horses. Yohji agreed, so Ken led him around to the next. The prince settled in and cast off while Ken sat beside him watching. He'd forgotten his pole, but didn't really regret it. So far he was enjoying the day.
"So, Ken," Yohji began amiably. "Do your folks work at the manor as well?"
"No, they're dead."
"Oh, I do apologize. I suppose that was rather rude of me," the Prince glanced at the young man, but Ken
seemed undisturbed. "Do you enjoy working here?"
"Its all right. I get to be outside a lot and I like that." Ken looked off across the lake. Yohji considered that thoughtfully. "Why is your cousin all dressed in black? Is he in mourning?"
Yohji smiled. It hadn't taken them long to realize that Ken was thoroughly unused to dealing with people of rank. He was completely blunt, as well as honest, when asking questions or answering them. They had so far avoided asking too much regarding the manor due to his obvious discomfort with the topic, but Yohji hoped to employee Omi in the pursuit of information.
"Yes, he is. Although, I'm hoping he's finally over the worst of it," the Prince answered, glancing over at his cousin. "Today was the first time I've seen him smile in over a year."
"Who...who was it? His wife?"
Yohji caught himself chuckling. "No. No, not a wife. He lost a very dear, dear friend. Omi and I were afraid we would lose him, so great was his grief."
"I'm sorry for his loss."
"Thank you, Ken. I'm sure he'd appreciate that."
The young man stared fixedly into the water for a few minutes before glancing back up at Yohji's cousin. He found himself fascinated with the stoic red-head.
"When did his friend die?"
"Last spring," the Prince answered quirking a brow at the young man's curiosity over his cousin.
"And you've been traveling all that time?!" Ken was shocked.
"No. Not quite," Yohji chuckled again. "I fetched him to court right after Richard's death, but that turned out to be a mistake."
Ken turned to look at Yohji. The Prince was looking out over the lake. His face had turned solemn.
"Richard was his friend?"
"Yes," the Prince's eyes narrowed for a moment, but then he seemed to shake off whatever he was feeling. he turned his smile back on Ken and Ken smiled back.
"I hope he cheers up soon," said the younger man.
Yohji smiled wider and couldn't resist ruffling Ken's hair. The youth ducked his head and laughed. It was a rich and hardy sound vibrating with life. Omi and Ran glanced over. Omi giggled.
The rest of the afternoon passed quickly and pleasantly. Ran managed to catch a large trout to take back for the inn keeper's wife, and soon they were on their way back to the manor and the village.
Ken shared Omi's horse again and the two talked and laughed as if they were life long friends. Yohji and Ran followed along behind them speaking quietly.
"Well, Cousin, what say you? Has this been the best day of the trip?"
"It was very pleasant, Yohji."
"Indeed. Shall we return tomorrow?" Yohji watched Ran closely.
The quiet nobleman rode silently for a few moments, watching the two youths chatting a little ahead of them.
"Aa," he nodded.
Yohji grinned and spurred his horse up beside Omi's. "So, young Ken, are you available tomorrow as well?"
Ken started. His large eyes going wide.
"To-tomorrow? I...I'm not sure." He wanted to say "yes". He wanted to tell them everything, and beg their help. But he couldn't. There was nothing they could do, and he would lose what little he had. But another day in their company was too alluring. He'd never just spent time with anyone, and the camaraderie was addictive. he screwed up his courage. "I mean, y-yes. That'll be fine."
Yohji looked at him searchingly for a moment before nodding. "Shall we meet at the same place and time?"
"Yes, that will be fine, Sir."
"Now, now. I'm Yohji to my friends," the Prince winked and Ken beamed. "Would you like us to deliver you to the village? We have to pass that way."
"No," Ken replied. "The manor will be fine."
Yohji mock bowed and dropped back beside Ran who looked deep in thought. They glanced at each other but said nothing. When they reached the spot overlooking the manor Ken left them with a wave, and a promise to see them in the morning. He disappeared over the hillside into the dusk.
Author's Note Extra: Let's see, I don't think I have any comments about this chapter. I was trying to use Caroline as the Fairy Godmother character, because Ken definitely needed some help. All the extra characters that aren't Weiss are completely made up, by the way. Any resemblance to anyone is accidental, etc. Okay, that's it. I hope you liked it! Please Review!