Warning: AU, Historical Romance, Ran/Ken.
Author's Note: Wow! So many reviews! I'm so happy! I've answered them at the end like I did last time, and thank you so much (bows respectfully)!!!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss. Me? I'm no one of consequence.
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Seven
Ran sat at the dining table quietly finishing his breakfast. He'd briefly seen Caroline before she'd left to take food to her sisters who had decided to remain in their rooms in protest of their father's treatment. Just as well, since nobody really wanted to see them anyway. The two serving women had come through to clear dishes, but neither had spoken to him. He'd gotten the distinct impression that they were afraid of him, but he couldn't imagine why. So, he was relieved when Yohji finally stumbled in yawning widely.
"Morning, Cousin," he said flopping down in a chair.
"Morning."
Molly poked her head through the door and smiled.
"Mornin, Majesty, Sir. I'll be right up wi your breakfast," she chirped. Then she cast a long glance at Ran before departing.
"Ah, winning over the ladies with your charming personality, I see," smirked the Prince.
Ran scowled. "I think they're afraid of me. I've no idea why."
"Its no wonder," Yohji stated bluntly.
Ran fixed him with a glare. "What do you mean?"
"Cousin, last night the second you heard Sir Sneller's raised voice you drew your sword and charged down the hall like an enraged bull," Yohji informed him. "I had my doubts whether I'd be able to prevent you from killing the man. It was all I could do to catch up to you."
Ran scowled and huffed into his tea.
"You knew, didn't you?"
"Hn?"
"You knew about Sir Sneller and the beatings?"
"Aa," Ran nodded. "I saw Ken's back at the pond. Its covered in scars. I've never seen that kind of damage on a man."
Yohji watched his cousin for a moment. He was wearing his emotionless mask again, but the Prince wondered about the reason. He shook his head.
"Where is Ken?" Yohji asked just as Molly entered with his food.
"I haven't seen him. Still abed, I imagine," Ran shrugged.
"Who? Master Ken? Oh, he's up and gone already," Molly said cheerfully.
Ran and Yohji blinked.
"Gone? Gone where?" the Prince asked.
"Well, he went out this morning to collect some dried thatch he had stored and I expect by now he'll be repairin' the barn roof."
"What's wrong with the barn roof?" Ran asked.
"Its got a hole in it."
Molly turned on her heal after setting down the plate and left the dining room. Ran and Yohji exchanged glances. Seconds later they were racing out of the house toward the barn. Ken was indeed on the roof just finishing the repairs. He smiled and waved when he saw them coming.
"Good morning!" he called down cheerily.
"What do you mean 'Good morning'?!" Yohji cried up at him. "Have you gone mad?! Get down here!"
Ken frowned down at him in confusion. "What are you so upset about?" he called down.
"What part of 'get down here' didn't you understand?!" Yohji cried angrily.
Ken's expression soured. "I'm coming!"
Yohji paced around fuming while Ken collected his tools and descended the tall ladder Old Shoop was holding. He stopped near the bottom to take a quick glance at Ran and was startled to discover the stoic red-head hiding a smirk. He stepped off the ladder and faced Yohji.
"What's the matter?" he asked, concerned.
"Ken, you can't just go up on a roof," the Prince said scowling fiercely.
"But there was a hole in it."
"So? We'll get someone else to fix the hole."
"But I'm right here and-"
"Ken, you are the future Duke! Dukes don't fix roofs," Yohji cried in frustration.
Ken smiled patiently. "Don't worry, Yohji. I do this all the time. Just the other day I cleaned the chimneys."
Yohji paled and Ran stopped smirking. They both turned and looked behind them at the manor house. Its three tall stone stories and its steep slate roof.
"Those chimneys?" Yohji asked quietly.
"Yup, but don't worry, I won't have to do them again until the fall," Ken's cheery voice said behind them.
The Prince almost fell over. "You won't be cleaning them at all," he stated sternly. "We'll hire someone to do them."
"I was fine," Ken said getting irritated. "I had a rope."
"What if you'd fallen?"
"That's what the rope was for," Ken said bristling further.
"What good is a Duke who hangs himself?!" Yohji shouted.
"I haven't fallen since I was ten!" Ken cried in defense.
Yohji and Ran stared at him agast.
"You fell off the roof when you were ten?" his cousin asked.
Ken nodded. He wasn't sure why Yohji and Ran were so upset, but he didn't like the Prince yelling at him. After all, he was still alive, the fall hadn't killed him. The past was done and over with. There was no sense in getting upset now.
"What broke your fall?" Ran asked. "The rope?"
Ken blinked at him before shaking his head. He pointed at the corner of the house where a tiny out building was connected. "I didn't use a rope back then. That's why I do now. There used to be a big tree right there. The branches slowed my fall and then I hit the roof of the summer kitchen. It used to be thatch like the barn. Didn't even go through."
Ran looked to where he was pointing and judged the distance. It had been a miracle the boy had survived.
"Why were you on the roof?" he asked.
Ken looked at him blankly. "I was cleaning the chimneys," he said.
Yohji turned away shaking with rage. Ran approached Ken and placed his hands on the young man's shoulders. He looked deeply into his large brown eyes. Ken blinked up at him blushing.
"Promise me you'll never go up there again," he said softly.
"I-I promise," Ken stuttered, still blushing.
"Are you through with the barn?"
"Yes."
"Good," Ran smiled a small smile and, releasing him, stepped back. "Let's go finish breakfast," he said to Yohji, who merely nodded and strode off. Ran followed.
"Hunh, I guess they don't want me on the roof," Ken shrugged.
"Is dangerous. And you a Duke 'n all," Old Shoop said by the ladder.
"I'm not a Duke yet, and there's lots that needs doin. Well, let's go."
Ken helped Old Shoop take down the ladder and store it in the barn.
Yohji stomped his way into the house with Ran close behind.
"Imagine sending a child onto a roof to clean a chimney!" the Prince cried throwing up his hands. He paused when he realized that four days ago Ken had been covered head to toe in soot. He shuddered, then fixed his cousin with a glare. "Why aren't you upset about this?"
"Ken is hardly the first boy employed in the dangerous task of chimney sweeping. However, I am upset that his stepfather would expect such a thing of him."
Yohji nodded. "I say we have a glance at those papers."
Ran nodded in agreement.
"Molly!" Yohji bellowed.
"Here, Sir!" she cried, her head appearing round a nearby door.
"Bring my breakfast to the study, please."
"Yes, Majesty!"
* * *
The Prince and Ran spent the morning going through the papers in the desk and safe. They found several wills, the books to the estate, and the original document gifting the estate to Ken's great-grandfather. Yohji studied that with particular interest.
"According to this," he said, raising his head, "the estate, its grounds and contents, are entailed away from the female line. Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't that nullify Aunt Mei's will?"
Ran looked at him.
"That would mean," the Prince continued, "that Ken inherited and became Duke upon the death of his father. The estate's been his all along. In fact, if he had died in that fall, with no other male descendants, then the land and its holdings would've reverted to the King."
Yohji blinked at Ran who scowled.
"Its worse than that," said the red-head.
The Prince waited for Ran to continue.
"Mei didn't leave Ken in his stepfather's care upon her death," he said.
"What?" breathed Yohji. "Whose-?"
"Your father's," Ran stated quietly.
Yohji stared at his cousin. He remembered the state his father had been in after his mother's death. Although their marriage had been arranged they had happily discovered many similar interests, and temperaments. Over time they had developed a mutual affection that quite surpassed any Yohji had seen in a marriage since, with the exception of his father's second marriage. The Grand Duke had entered a state of grief as profound as the one the Prince's cousin had recently left. His father had been in no condition to handle his own affairs, let alone the affairs of others. But even so Mei had relied on him and he had failed her. In so doing he had failed Ken. Yohji turned mournful eyes on Ran.
"There's nothing we can do about it now," his cousin said, "except help Ken to what is rightfully his."
"She must've known," the Prince murmured almost to himself. "In the short time they were married she must've seen something."
"When you live with someone everyday its hard to hide things from them."
Yohji looked at his cousin and smiled. "Too true, Cousin."
* * *
Ken came bounding in like a happy puppy to eat lunch with them.
"I rushed through the rest of my chores," he declared happily, glad to be in their company once again.
"You shouldn't be doing chores," Yohji said peering at him.
"Someone's gotta do 'em," Ken shrugged.
Yohji rolled his eyes.
Mrs. Hudson entered with a large tureen of soup and smiled to find Ken there.
"Well, Master Ken, it is good to see you at the table like a proper gentleman," she said. "Napkin in your lap, Dear."
"Sorry, Mrs. Hudson," he smirked.
Mrs. Hudson began serving the soup as Caroline entered and took her seat.
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Hudson, but Justine and April still refuse to leave their rooms. If you leave some food out I'll take it to them after lunch," she said.
Mrs. Hudson tutted. "Molly and I can handle it, Miss. Don't you worry none."
Ken ate his soup like a starving man, startling everyone and secretly amusing Ran and Caroline.
"Ken, don't slurp your soup," Yohji admonished. "Hasn't anyone ever taught you to eat properly?"
"Nope."
"Ken's been eating with the servants for eight years, your Highness," Caroline gently reminded the Prince.
"Don't they have manners?" he asked.
"Too busy," Ken said with his spoon in his mouth.
"Don't speak with your mouth full, Ken dear."
"Sorry, Caroline."
When they were finished with the soup and the bread that accompanied it Ken threw his napkin on the table and moved to get up. Everyone looked at him.
"Ken, we're not finished yet," Caroline smiled .
"There's more?" he cried, his big brown eyes going wide.
Mrs. Hudson and Molly entered. Molly cleared the soup dishes, winking broadly at Ken, while Mrs. Hudson laid out the main course. Mutton and spring vegetables, cheese, more bread, and a selection of jellies. Ken's eyes got even wider. After serving them Molly and Mrs. Hudson disappeared again.
"We should invite them to eat too," Ken said.
"The staff doesn't eat with the family," lectured Yohji.
"Why not?" Ken asked bristling slightly.
"It just isn't done, Ken dear. Not in our circles at any rate," Caroline explained.
"Well, it should be," he pouted. Caroline blinked at him. "We don't eat nearly as well as this," he said expressively. Caroline's face softened and Ran stared at him, his expression unreadable.
"Ken, you're not one of the servants any longer. You're a Duke now and Duke's don't eat with their servants," Yohji stated rather imperiously.
"You eat with Omi!" Ken pointed out hotly.
"That's different."
"How?!"
"He's Ran's," Yohji said stuffing mutton into his mouth. Ran rolled his eyes. Ken's jaw set stubbornly.
"There is no difference, and I'll always be one of them Duke or no Duke," he exclaimed. "And when this house is mine they'll eat up here with me!"
"Fine. But for now will you just shut your mouth and eat?!"
"I think I liked you better when we were fishing," Ken pouted.
Their argument was abruptly ended by Ran choking out a loud laugh which surprised everyone. Yohji and Ken exchanged glances and smiled.
* * *
After lunch Ran pulled Yohji aside and suggested that it might be easier for Ken if they allowed him to continue in his normal routine until the solicitor's arrival. Yohji grudgingly agreed, but insisted on drawing up a list of things he couldn't do. Ken may have promised not to go up on the roof, but Yohji had a horrible vision of coming around the side of the house and finding him up a ladder washing the third floor windows.
The three of them spent the afternoon in the study. Two of them reading over the rest of the papers, and the third trying to pretend he wasn't bored. Ran finally looked up from the document he was reading and looked at Ken. The young man was sprawled out between two chairs, his body in one and his feet in the other. He was leaning back and appeared to be counting the cracks in the ceiling.
"Ken," he said.
The young man turned his head and looked at him.
"If you're bored you don't have to stay. We're not going anywhere."
Ken looked a little embarrassed. "I know. I just...," he blushed. "I like being with you."
Ran clamped down on the emotions Ken's simple statement had caused to rise in him. He mentally shook himself. Smiling softly he put up the document he'd been reading. "How about a riding lesson?"
Ken's eyes got big and Yohji looked up.
"Excellent idea, Cousin! Off you go," said the Prince, waving them off. "I shall see you at supper."
Ken, smiling broadly, followed Ran out of the house to the stable. The tall red-head decided to use his horse for Ken's lesson, and he would ride Yohji's. Within a few minutes the horses were saddled and ready. Ran showed Ken how to mount, hold his reins, and taught him some simple commands. After Ken had practiced in the yard Ran suggested a brief ride and Ken eagerly agreed.
"So, does this mean that I'm your cousin too?" Ken asked when they'd been riding for a few minutes.
"No," Ran answered. "I'm related to the Prince by marriage through his stepmother. My mother is her cousin, so it is a distant relation."
"Am I really related to the King?"
"Yes," Ran said smiling. "Your mother, Yohji's mother, and the late Queen were sisters. And I believe your father was the King's cousin through your grandfather. So you are related on both sides."
"Wow," Ken said, his eyes wide once again.
Ran chuckled. "Last night," he asked carefully. "Did you lie to your stepfather?"
"No I told him the truth...mostly. I said I'd been fishing."
"He didn't believe you?"
Ken shook his head. "He thought...," he blushed fiercely. "He thought I was meeting one of the village girls to...um...you know."
"Ah," Ran said, nodding.
"But I don't even know them. The only people I know are the one's in my house." He sounded a bit bewildered, even to his own ears. "I've never seen him so mad."
They rode in silence for a time just enjoying each other's company. Neither one brave enough to admit it to the other.
Ken wasn't sure what the difference was between what he felt for Yohji and Omi, and what he felt for Ran. But he realized there was a definite difference. He'd been glad to see the other two appear in the study, but when he'd realized Ran was there he'd been filled with relief and joy. Not to mention the things he'd been feeling after saying good bye to the stoic red-head. Ken also knew he wanted something from Ran, but he had no idea what and no idea how to find out. He decided that he would simply be happy that Ran was there and be satisfied with that.
Ran, on the other hand, knew exactly what it was he was feeling for Ken, and he was deeply troubled by it. He knew he should leave, but couldn't bear the thought of it. He had believed he'd only know love once, and that it would last forever. When that hadn't proven true he'd wanted death. If Yohji and Omi hadn't been there he probably would've harmed himself. Now, now what he felt in the past seemed to pale when compared to what Ken inspired in him, and he felt guilty. His feelings for Richard should have been stronger, deeper, and lasted forever.
Ran suddenly blinked and looked around. They were on the boarder of the orchard. He reined in his horse and looked at Ken.
"Yup," he nodded, reading Ran's question in his eyes. "Its actually closer than it seems. The trip from the road is longer."
"I thought the road was nearly straight."
Ken smiled broadly. "No, though it does seem it. The road follows the wall of the valley which curves toward the east." Ken seemed inordinately pleased by this and Ran found it impossible not to smile.
It seemed as though Ken were pleased by the simplest things, and his joy and enthusiasm were contagious. Ran shook his head.
"I'm glad you were here last night," Ken said suddenly. "I'm probably still alive because of it. Thank you."
Ran nodded. "You're welcome. Shall we head back?"
"All right. Thank you for the lesson."
"We'll have another one tomorrow."
"When...when do you think the solicitor will be here?"
"Another three days. Perhaps four," Ran answered thoughtfully.
"Oh," Ken studied his hands.
"What is it?" Ran asked.
"Do you...do you really think things will be different?" he asked worridly.
"I guarantee it."
* * *
Dinner was almost as entertaining for Ran and Caroline as lunch had been. Ken ate ravenously, Yohji reprimanded him, an argument ensued. When dessert was served Ken's eyes almost fell out. Even Yohji had to laugh at that. After dinner they adjourned into the sitting room for the evening's entertainment.
"What do you do for entertainment, Miss Caroline?" Yohji asked lounging on a sofa.
"Reading mostly. Some evenings my sisters enjoy cards, or playing and singing when the music room is open in the summer. I'm sure our pursuits seem tame to one used to Court life."
"Not at all," he smiled. He was distracted by Ken who strolled by trying to stare at everything at once. Yohji just shook his head. "I fear this will not be easy."
Caroline watched Ken wander away from them as if in a daze. She sighed sadly. "No. I worry most about how isolated he has been," she agreed quietly.
"I swear, my Lady, we'll take good care of him."
"Thank you," she smiled. "Just keep in mind that this will be far harder on him than on you."
Ran suddenly materialized from nowhere and joined them.
"Miss Caroline, I must confess, I'm curious," he said in his soft deep voice. "The library here is most extensive. I don't believe I've ever seen its equal outside of the university."
"The library was here when Pa-pa married the Duchess. She told us the late Duke had added significantly to a collection his father had started."
Ran looked thoughtful.
Ken wandered back over and sat down in a chair. He was beginning to look bored again.
"Were all those little things in here before?" he asked.
"Yes, they were your mother's," Caroline answered kindly.
"Haven't you been in here, cousin Ken?" Yohji asked half jokingly.
"Of course I have," Ken said crossly. "Just not in the last year or so."
"Ken wasn't allowed upstairs unless he had chores," Caroline clarified for the Prince and Ran.
"Gods," Yohji muttered angrily. "I'm sorry, Ken."
Ken shrugged.
"Have you moved your things back into your old room yet?" Caroline asked.
"Not yet."
"You mean you're still sleeping in the servants' quarters?" Yohji demanded causing Ken to frown in anticipation.
"Yes," he answered tightly.
"Cousin, I beg you. I'm allowing him to do chores, but I simply can't have him sleeping below stairs!"
"All right, Yohji," Ran sighed. "Shall I help you move your things, Ken?"
"Fine." Ken scowled at Yohji, who scowled back, then led Ran out of the room.
Ken's things consisted of two other full sets of clothes in worse condition then the ones he had on, an old set of boots, a pair of heavy winter socks, and a half burned down candle. Ran looked at the meager collection in Ken's arms and shuddered.
"Oh, wait." Ken pulled up his straw matrice and yanked out an old book. He held it out for Ran to see. It was an old book of prayers which was very worn and ill used.
"Was it your mother's?" Ran asked.
"I don't know," Ken answered. He glanced briefly at the cover then left the room with Ran in tow carrying the lantern. "I suppose it must've been. I used to practice my reading on it, but then Caroline started sneaking me books. Lately though I've had no time to read."
Ran wouldn't have said it out loud, but he felt a great surge of relief when he heard Ken could read.
* *
"Has he mentioned the fall?" Caroline asked once she was sure Ken was gone.
"Yes. A miracle he survived," commented Yohji, but he could see she was going to say more.
"He suffered from a terrible fever. Pa-pa had the physician come from the village. They bled him," she shuddered. "When he finally recovered he was changed. He used to tell these stories before, about his mother. Even some about his father which I suppose he learned from her. After the fall the stories stopped."
"Well, it was a very serious illness. I've found many people altered after a life threatening experience," the Prince reasoned.
"True. Very true. I've always been afraid that its more than that."
"What are you saying, Miss Caroline?"
"I believe his memory may have been affected. I asked him once about the stories and he told me he didn't remember them. In fact, I'm not sure there's much before the fall that he does remember," her face changed to one of regret. "I used to feel that perhaps it was for the best since his present circumstances had declined so. He did seem happier. Now I regret my former feelings. Perhaps I should've tried to help him remember, or written the stories down for him to read. As it is now I can't recall anything but the barest details."
Yohji watched her struggle for a moment before reaching out to grasp her hand. "Perhaps they'll come back now that he's returned to a semblance of his former life."
"Perhaps," she said with a faint smile.
"Why are you telling me all this, Miss Caroline?"
"Because I want you to understand him. Where his mind is. You expect him to rise to his rank, but all he knows is service. The half of his life he lived as a Duke's heir, except for bits and pieces, is lost to him."
Yohji sighed and released her hand. "Just my luck one of those pieces was the one in which I tried to feed him worms."
* *
Ken walked up to the door of the room that had been his. Like most of the rooms in the manor it had been locked until that morning. Mrs. Hudson had informed him of her intention to air it out and prepare it for him. Ken grasped the handle and thrust the door open then allowed Ran to enter first with the lantern. Ken followed. Ran found several candles in the room and lit each before standing back to look around.
The room was quite large and elegantly furnished. There were twin dressers of a delicate, but practical style. A large bed flanked by tables on either side, and a low settee against the end. On the far side of the bed was a wardrobe. The fire place was across from the bed. There was an intricately embroidered screen before it depicting wild roses and song birds. The far wall held two large windows which were both open and letting in the cool fresh air of a spring evening. Before the windows were two arm chairs and a small writing table. the room felt aired and the bed clothes had been changed. Everything was uncovered and dust free.
"A nice room," Ran commented, glancing at Ken.
The young man nodded. "Its big," he said quietly, remembering the closet sized room he'd just left.
"What's through there?" Ran indicated a door in the corner on the far side of the fireplace.
Ken dumped his things on the bed and moved toward the door. "I don't know."
Ran followed along behind taking a candle with him. "You don't remember?"
Ken shook his head. He reached for the door knob and discovered it open. Cautiously they moved forward. Ran cast the lantern around the inside of the room and felt his eye brows rise in surprise.
A table with slates and books on it was in the center of the room. there were shelves with a few toys, but mostly books along the walls, and a large slate board with chalk letters written on it in a delicate hand. Several games were on the floor as if abandoned. It was clearly a little school room, and it had not been cleaned or touched for years. Against the inside wall was the locked door leading out to the hallway.
"I suppose this was mine," Ken stated quietly. He glanced around curiously.
"Don't you remember it?" Ran asked in surprise.
"Nope. I don't remember using my room either, except when I was sick. Caroline thinks I forgot things after the fall," he shrugged and moved to the table picking up the first slate.
"Its possible, I believe." Ran moved over and looked at the slate Ken was holding. It was most of a paragraph copied from an open book on the table. The hand writing was struggling to be neat and failing.
Ken chuckled. "Looks like something I'd do," he said, looking around. "You know, I don't remember what's in half the rooms in this house, and most of them are locked."
Ran studied him patiently while waiting for him to continue.
"Would you like to come with me tomorrow? I want to look in every room."
"I'd be delighted," Ran smiled softly.
"Good," Ken smiled back.
They moved back into the bedroom and Ken went to put his things away in one of the dressers. He was surprised to find it already full. He pulled out a tiny shirt and held it up for Ran to see.
"Guess this won't fit anymore. Everything I own could fit in half this one drawer."
"Perhaps tomorrow we should send for a tailor," Ran suggested.
Ken regarded him skeptically.
"You need new things, Ken. Lots of new things. I'm surprised Yohji hasn't sent for one."
"How come he's so changed?" Ken asked quietly.
Ran smiled a bit sadly. "He's back in his element and he's got his teeth into some injustice. He won't let go until you're lord of the manor."
Ken thought about that, his face worried.
"What will happen to Sir?" he asked.
"I don't know. What do you want to happen?"
Ken frowned and looked at his feet. "I don't know," he said. He looked around the room. "It sure is big."
"You'll get used to it," Ran smiled.
"I suppose."
* * *
The next day began much the same as the previous one. Ken was already out doing chores by the time Yohji and Ran arose. He was nowhere to be seen all morning and was late to lunch. When finally he did come he arrived covered in mud, leaving foot prints behind him.
"Halt!" Yohji cried leaping from his seat to prevent Ken from coming any further into the room.
Even Ran and Caroline seemed shocked by Ken's appearance. He stopped near the door and fidgeted nervously.
"What?! Happened?!" the Prince demanded.
"I fell," Ken stated morosely.
"And why didn't you clean yourself off?"
"I was late," Ken pouted. "I wasn't sure which was worse."
"This," said Yohji indicating the mud, "is much worse. Mrs. Hudson!"
"Yes, your - Holy Mother!" Mrs. Hudson stopped just inside the entry and stared at Ken who was now feeling very foolish. "Master Ken...," she said in awe.
"Mrs. Hudson, I want you to take this youth to the nearest bath and scrub him until he's so clean he shines. While you're doing that send Shoop to the village after a tailor. You, young man," the Prince exclaimed, fixing Ken in a fierce stare, "are through with chores."
Ken would've argued but Yohji spun him around and thrust him at Mrs. Hudson who dragged him off.
"Yohji," Ran said from his seat.
"No, Cousin. I'm sorry, Miss Caroline. He will have to learn sometime. Better sooner than later." Yohji sighed expressively and resumed his seat. "He's a Duke, Ran. A Duke. I know he doesn't know it, but he will when the solicitor gets here. We need to start preparing him now." Yohji scowled down at his plate.
"You're right," Ran said quietly.
"Your Highness, what do you mean?" Caroline asked slowly.
"Miss Caroline, I'm sorry. I should've told you. According to the documents gifting the land to Ken's great-grandfather the property is entailed away from the female line, which means Ken inherited the estate and the title upon the death of the Duke, his father," Yohji explained.
The young woman paled noticeably. "I...see," she said and rose. "Gentlemen, if you will excuse me? I am suddenly...unwell."
They stood and she silently left the room. Sighing heavily Yohji sat again.
"What do you propose we do with Ken once his bath is finished?" Ran asked taking his seat.
"What do you mean? Surely he has other clothes. We'll put him in something better than what he's come out of."
"Begging your pardon, Yohji, but he doesn't have anything better."
Yohji glared at Ran unbelievingly. Moments later they stood in Ken's room before the dresser he'd stored his things in the night before. Yohji stared, appalled. Then he faced Ran and sized him up. Ran frowned.
"He can't be too much shorter than you," the Prince said.
Ran's frown deepened.
* *
Ken sat wrapped in a blanket in a chair in the bathroom. Despite the warm fire which had been started in the fireplace next to him he shivered. His bath had been miserable, but it was over. Mrs. Hudson seemed to have taken a maniacal delight in her use of the scrub brush. She had said something about finally getting down to the skin, and hoping he stayed that way before she'd left. She'd seemed very pleased with herself, even nodding in satisfaction. Ken pouted. It had been embarrassing. Not to mention he'd just had a bath not a week ago, as well as that unplanned trip into the pond. He wasn't that dirty, was he? Well, except for the mud.
The door behind him opened and Mrs. Hudson came back in carrying an armful of cloth. Ken frowned at her.
"What's that?"
"These are clothes. Proper clothes, Master Ken. They're Lord Ran's. The tailor can't come until tomorrow, and the Prince burned your old tatters," she informed him with a satisfied glint in her eye.
"W-what? He burned them?" Ken felt a pang. Maybe they were just tatters, but they were his. The only things he had. "How'm I supposed to wear these? Ran's so much taller than me."
Mrs. Hudson's face softened. She reached out and brushed his hair out of his eyes fondly.
"Those things weren't worth keeping, Master Ken. Its past time that you took your proper place. I know everything's different, and a little scary, but this is right."
"I guess...you're right," Ken sighed. "I just wish...I don't know what I wish. A week ago I was wishing this."
Mrs. Hudson smiled kindly and nodded, handing over the clothes.
"Do you need help, Master Ken?" she asked kindly.
"No, thank you. I can manage," he tried to smile.
She smirked and left. He didn't want to be naked in front of her anymore than he already had been. Ken sighed again. He stood, dropping the blanket. Setting the clothes in the chair he sorted through the pile. The thought of putting on Lord Ran's clothes made him blush, but he didn't have any other choice. They were nicer than anything he'd ever had. Their textures soft and slippery. He pulled out the shirt and examined it before putting it on. It was black, of course, with tine black buttons of some kind of stone. They glittered in the light of the fire. Ken had to struggle a bit with them, but eventually the shirt was on. He liked the feel of it, smooth and soft against his skin.
The breeches were slightly too big. They sagged to his hips and hung below his knees, but they were still the nicest pair he could ever remember wearing. They were of a fine sturdy material, but still comfortable. Mrs. Hudson had included a leather belt which he put on after tucking in the shirt.
There was also a waist coat which was something he'd never had to wear before. Black with delicate embroidery in black floss, so you wouldn't see it unless you were very close to Ran, or now him. He ran his hand over the heavy linen material. It was also soft and comfortable, if a bit too long in the sleeves.
Ken moved cautiously to look in the mirror which stood near the window. He blinked at the young man that looked back. Was that really him? Is that what he looked like? He touched his face, and stared at himself. A soft knock at the door startled him and he turned away from the mirror quickly.
"Come in."
The door swung almost hesitantly open and Ran looked in. He stopped dead in the doorway and stared at Ken. After a few silent moments Ken began to fidget and blush. Ran visibly shook himself. He had not been prepared for the stunning vision before him. Ken was beautiful. Ran's dark clothing perfectly complimented Ken's tanned skin and dark hair and eyes. Ran cleared his throat in an effort to get his voice back.
"I came to see if you needed any assistance," he said quietly. "But I see you're finished. You look very nice, Ken."
"Thank you. And thank you for lending me your things. They're very nice."
"You are welcome." Ran allowed his eyes to quickly travel over Ken and take him in. He stopped at his feet and frowned. "I'm sorry I didn't give you any stockings, but my shoes I'm sure are too large."
"I'm used to going bare foot. Do...do you want to go around and open rooms with me now?" Ken asked hesitantly.
"Why don't we find you some lunch first. Then I'd be happy to accompany you," he smiled softly. Ken smiled and they left together.
***
Author's Note: Phew! Another Chapter down! Ummm, I'll take a moment to explain why I had Sneller so abruptly change. Historically he could've been imprisoned and/or hung for what he did. In my mind the only reason he didn't bolt immediately is his daughters, who would've been left defenceless. We know Ken would've cared for them, but I figured he wouldn't trust that. Legally Ken wouldn't of had to care for them if he didn't want to. And Sneller was caught red-handed, as it were, by someone way above him in rank. Basically, he was over, but he's still there, so we haven't seen the last of him yet. Also, I gave Ken a traumatic head injury because I wanted him to be not so resentful as he would naturally be in this situation. I think it makes him a bit more like Omi than I'd like, but I couldn't help it. Thank you for reading! Please R & R!
Zeto: So, Ran's explained how they're all related, and not related, so I hope your fears are laid to rest. This is definitely Ran/Ken! Thank you! I'm glad yopu like it so far!
Mondtanz: Yeah, I still thought he gave too easily too, but I couldn't figure out what else to do. I needed that to be over so I could move forward. No, this isn't the end. There's actually thirteen chapters, so there's a bit left. I just hope it won't get boring! Thanks for reading! I'm glad you're enjoying it.
Neko: Aaagh! I missed a review! Waaahh! I wonder if I did something. I'm not a genious when it comes to computers. To me they're a big cool type writer. Glad you like it though! Thanks for reading!
Raine: Thanks, I'm glad you like it!
Celeste1: *Sigh* I think they need eachother too! I'm glad you liked it. I'm such a sap even my own writing makes me cry. Thanks for reading!
Murasaki_yanagi: I'm glad you liked the last chapter, and hope you enjoyed this one as well. Yeah, some angst is good, but I can't take too much. I actually cry at death fic, I'm so lame. Oh, well! Thanks for reading!
Lynn: Thanks so much! I'm blushing! I'm glad you don't mind the OC, and I hope you found the other chapters as enjoyable as the first one! Thanks for reading!
Misao-The-Weasel: I'm glad you like it! The Ran/Ken will build slowly. I tried to sprinkle each chapter with sweet scenes while continuing the plot. I guess we'll see if I was sucessful. Thanks for reading!
Author's Note: Wow! So many reviews! I'm so happy! I've answered them at the end like I did last time, and thank you so much (bows respectfully)!!!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss. Me? I'm no one of consequence.
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Seven
Ran sat at the dining table quietly finishing his breakfast. He'd briefly seen Caroline before she'd left to take food to her sisters who had decided to remain in their rooms in protest of their father's treatment. Just as well, since nobody really wanted to see them anyway. The two serving women had come through to clear dishes, but neither had spoken to him. He'd gotten the distinct impression that they were afraid of him, but he couldn't imagine why. So, he was relieved when Yohji finally stumbled in yawning widely.
"Morning, Cousin," he said flopping down in a chair.
"Morning."
Molly poked her head through the door and smiled.
"Mornin, Majesty, Sir. I'll be right up wi your breakfast," she chirped. Then she cast a long glance at Ran before departing.
"Ah, winning over the ladies with your charming personality, I see," smirked the Prince.
Ran scowled. "I think they're afraid of me. I've no idea why."
"Its no wonder," Yohji stated bluntly.
Ran fixed him with a glare. "What do you mean?"
"Cousin, last night the second you heard Sir Sneller's raised voice you drew your sword and charged down the hall like an enraged bull," Yohji informed him. "I had my doubts whether I'd be able to prevent you from killing the man. It was all I could do to catch up to you."
Ran scowled and huffed into his tea.
"You knew, didn't you?"
"Hn?"
"You knew about Sir Sneller and the beatings?"
"Aa," Ran nodded. "I saw Ken's back at the pond. Its covered in scars. I've never seen that kind of damage on a man."
Yohji watched his cousin for a moment. He was wearing his emotionless mask again, but the Prince wondered about the reason. He shook his head.
"Where is Ken?" Yohji asked just as Molly entered with his food.
"I haven't seen him. Still abed, I imagine," Ran shrugged.
"Who? Master Ken? Oh, he's up and gone already," Molly said cheerfully.
Ran and Yohji blinked.
"Gone? Gone where?" the Prince asked.
"Well, he went out this morning to collect some dried thatch he had stored and I expect by now he'll be repairin' the barn roof."
"What's wrong with the barn roof?" Ran asked.
"Its got a hole in it."
Molly turned on her heal after setting down the plate and left the dining room. Ran and Yohji exchanged glances. Seconds later they were racing out of the house toward the barn. Ken was indeed on the roof just finishing the repairs. He smiled and waved when he saw them coming.
"Good morning!" he called down cheerily.
"What do you mean 'Good morning'?!" Yohji cried up at him. "Have you gone mad?! Get down here!"
Ken frowned down at him in confusion. "What are you so upset about?" he called down.
"What part of 'get down here' didn't you understand?!" Yohji cried angrily.
Ken's expression soured. "I'm coming!"
Yohji paced around fuming while Ken collected his tools and descended the tall ladder Old Shoop was holding. He stopped near the bottom to take a quick glance at Ran and was startled to discover the stoic red-head hiding a smirk. He stepped off the ladder and faced Yohji.
"What's the matter?" he asked, concerned.
"Ken, you can't just go up on a roof," the Prince said scowling fiercely.
"But there was a hole in it."
"So? We'll get someone else to fix the hole."
"But I'm right here and-"
"Ken, you are the future Duke! Dukes don't fix roofs," Yohji cried in frustration.
Ken smiled patiently. "Don't worry, Yohji. I do this all the time. Just the other day I cleaned the chimneys."
Yohji paled and Ran stopped smirking. They both turned and looked behind them at the manor house. Its three tall stone stories and its steep slate roof.
"Those chimneys?" Yohji asked quietly.
"Yup, but don't worry, I won't have to do them again until the fall," Ken's cheery voice said behind them.
The Prince almost fell over. "You won't be cleaning them at all," he stated sternly. "We'll hire someone to do them."
"I was fine," Ken said getting irritated. "I had a rope."
"What if you'd fallen?"
"That's what the rope was for," Ken said bristling further.
"What good is a Duke who hangs himself?!" Yohji shouted.
"I haven't fallen since I was ten!" Ken cried in defense.
Yohji and Ran stared at him agast.
"You fell off the roof when you were ten?" his cousin asked.
Ken nodded. He wasn't sure why Yohji and Ran were so upset, but he didn't like the Prince yelling at him. After all, he was still alive, the fall hadn't killed him. The past was done and over with. There was no sense in getting upset now.
"What broke your fall?" Ran asked. "The rope?"
Ken blinked at him before shaking his head. He pointed at the corner of the house where a tiny out building was connected. "I didn't use a rope back then. That's why I do now. There used to be a big tree right there. The branches slowed my fall and then I hit the roof of the summer kitchen. It used to be thatch like the barn. Didn't even go through."
Ran looked to where he was pointing and judged the distance. It had been a miracle the boy had survived.
"Why were you on the roof?" he asked.
Ken looked at him blankly. "I was cleaning the chimneys," he said.
Yohji turned away shaking with rage. Ran approached Ken and placed his hands on the young man's shoulders. He looked deeply into his large brown eyes. Ken blinked up at him blushing.
"Promise me you'll never go up there again," he said softly.
"I-I promise," Ken stuttered, still blushing.
"Are you through with the barn?"
"Yes."
"Good," Ran smiled a small smile and, releasing him, stepped back. "Let's go finish breakfast," he said to Yohji, who merely nodded and strode off. Ran followed.
"Hunh, I guess they don't want me on the roof," Ken shrugged.
"Is dangerous. And you a Duke 'n all," Old Shoop said by the ladder.
"I'm not a Duke yet, and there's lots that needs doin. Well, let's go."
Ken helped Old Shoop take down the ladder and store it in the barn.
Yohji stomped his way into the house with Ran close behind.
"Imagine sending a child onto a roof to clean a chimney!" the Prince cried throwing up his hands. He paused when he realized that four days ago Ken had been covered head to toe in soot. He shuddered, then fixed his cousin with a glare. "Why aren't you upset about this?"
"Ken is hardly the first boy employed in the dangerous task of chimney sweeping. However, I am upset that his stepfather would expect such a thing of him."
Yohji nodded. "I say we have a glance at those papers."
Ran nodded in agreement.
"Molly!" Yohji bellowed.
"Here, Sir!" she cried, her head appearing round a nearby door.
"Bring my breakfast to the study, please."
"Yes, Majesty!"
* * *
The Prince and Ran spent the morning going through the papers in the desk and safe. They found several wills, the books to the estate, and the original document gifting the estate to Ken's great-grandfather. Yohji studied that with particular interest.
"According to this," he said, raising his head, "the estate, its grounds and contents, are entailed away from the female line. Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't that nullify Aunt Mei's will?"
Ran looked at him.
"That would mean," the Prince continued, "that Ken inherited and became Duke upon the death of his father. The estate's been his all along. In fact, if he had died in that fall, with no other male descendants, then the land and its holdings would've reverted to the King."
Yohji blinked at Ran who scowled.
"Its worse than that," said the red-head.
The Prince waited for Ran to continue.
"Mei didn't leave Ken in his stepfather's care upon her death," he said.
"What?" breathed Yohji. "Whose-?"
"Your father's," Ran stated quietly.
Yohji stared at his cousin. He remembered the state his father had been in after his mother's death. Although their marriage had been arranged they had happily discovered many similar interests, and temperaments. Over time they had developed a mutual affection that quite surpassed any Yohji had seen in a marriage since, with the exception of his father's second marriage. The Grand Duke had entered a state of grief as profound as the one the Prince's cousin had recently left. His father had been in no condition to handle his own affairs, let alone the affairs of others. But even so Mei had relied on him and he had failed her. In so doing he had failed Ken. Yohji turned mournful eyes on Ran.
"There's nothing we can do about it now," his cousin said, "except help Ken to what is rightfully his."
"She must've known," the Prince murmured almost to himself. "In the short time they were married she must've seen something."
"When you live with someone everyday its hard to hide things from them."
Yohji looked at his cousin and smiled. "Too true, Cousin."
* * *
Ken came bounding in like a happy puppy to eat lunch with them.
"I rushed through the rest of my chores," he declared happily, glad to be in their company once again.
"You shouldn't be doing chores," Yohji said peering at him.
"Someone's gotta do 'em," Ken shrugged.
Yohji rolled his eyes.
Mrs. Hudson entered with a large tureen of soup and smiled to find Ken there.
"Well, Master Ken, it is good to see you at the table like a proper gentleman," she said. "Napkin in your lap, Dear."
"Sorry, Mrs. Hudson," he smirked.
Mrs. Hudson began serving the soup as Caroline entered and took her seat.
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Hudson, but Justine and April still refuse to leave their rooms. If you leave some food out I'll take it to them after lunch," she said.
Mrs. Hudson tutted. "Molly and I can handle it, Miss. Don't you worry none."
Ken ate his soup like a starving man, startling everyone and secretly amusing Ran and Caroline.
"Ken, don't slurp your soup," Yohji admonished. "Hasn't anyone ever taught you to eat properly?"
"Nope."
"Ken's been eating with the servants for eight years, your Highness," Caroline gently reminded the Prince.
"Don't they have manners?" he asked.
"Too busy," Ken said with his spoon in his mouth.
"Don't speak with your mouth full, Ken dear."
"Sorry, Caroline."
When they were finished with the soup and the bread that accompanied it Ken threw his napkin on the table and moved to get up. Everyone looked at him.
"Ken, we're not finished yet," Caroline smiled .
"There's more?" he cried, his big brown eyes going wide.
Mrs. Hudson and Molly entered. Molly cleared the soup dishes, winking broadly at Ken, while Mrs. Hudson laid out the main course. Mutton and spring vegetables, cheese, more bread, and a selection of jellies. Ken's eyes got even wider. After serving them Molly and Mrs. Hudson disappeared again.
"We should invite them to eat too," Ken said.
"The staff doesn't eat with the family," lectured Yohji.
"Why not?" Ken asked bristling slightly.
"It just isn't done, Ken dear. Not in our circles at any rate," Caroline explained.
"Well, it should be," he pouted. Caroline blinked at him. "We don't eat nearly as well as this," he said expressively. Caroline's face softened and Ran stared at him, his expression unreadable.
"Ken, you're not one of the servants any longer. You're a Duke now and Duke's don't eat with their servants," Yohji stated rather imperiously.
"You eat with Omi!" Ken pointed out hotly.
"That's different."
"How?!"
"He's Ran's," Yohji said stuffing mutton into his mouth. Ran rolled his eyes. Ken's jaw set stubbornly.
"There is no difference, and I'll always be one of them Duke or no Duke," he exclaimed. "And when this house is mine they'll eat up here with me!"
"Fine. But for now will you just shut your mouth and eat?!"
"I think I liked you better when we were fishing," Ken pouted.
Their argument was abruptly ended by Ran choking out a loud laugh which surprised everyone. Yohji and Ken exchanged glances and smiled.
* * *
After lunch Ran pulled Yohji aside and suggested that it might be easier for Ken if they allowed him to continue in his normal routine until the solicitor's arrival. Yohji grudgingly agreed, but insisted on drawing up a list of things he couldn't do. Ken may have promised not to go up on the roof, but Yohji had a horrible vision of coming around the side of the house and finding him up a ladder washing the third floor windows.
The three of them spent the afternoon in the study. Two of them reading over the rest of the papers, and the third trying to pretend he wasn't bored. Ran finally looked up from the document he was reading and looked at Ken. The young man was sprawled out between two chairs, his body in one and his feet in the other. He was leaning back and appeared to be counting the cracks in the ceiling.
"Ken," he said.
The young man turned his head and looked at him.
"If you're bored you don't have to stay. We're not going anywhere."
Ken looked a little embarrassed. "I know. I just...," he blushed. "I like being with you."
Ran clamped down on the emotions Ken's simple statement had caused to rise in him. He mentally shook himself. Smiling softly he put up the document he'd been reading. "How about a riding lesson?"
Ken's eyes got big and Yohji looked up.
"Excellent idea, Cousin! Off you go," said the Prince, waving them off. "I shall see you at supper."
Ken, smiling broadly, followed Ran out of the house to the stable. The tall red-head decided to use his horse for Ken's lesson, and he would ride Yohji's. Within a few minutes the horses were saddled and ready. Ran showed Ken how to mount, hold his reins, and taught him some simple commands. After Ken had practiced in the yard Ran suggested a brief ride and Ken eagerly agreed.
"So, does this mean that I'm your cousin too?" Ken asked when they'd been riding for a few minutes.
"No," Ran answered. "I'm related to the Prince by marriage through his stepmother. My mother is her cousin, so it is a distant relation."
"Am I really related to the King?"
"Yes," Ran said smiling. "Your mother, Yohji's mother, and the late Queen were sisters. And I believe your father was the King's cousin through your grandfather. So you are related on both sides."
"Wow," Ken said, his eyes wide once again.
Ran chuckled. "Last night," he asked carefully. "Did you lie to your stepfather?"
"No I told him the truth...mostly. I said I'd been fishing."
"He didn't believe you?"
Ken shook his head. "He thought...," he blushed fiercely. "He thought I was meeting one of the village girls to...um...you know."
"Ah," Ran said, nodding.
"But I don't even know them. The only people I know are the one's in my house." He sounded a bit bewildered, even to his own ears. "I've never seen him so mad."
They rode in silence for a time just enjoying each other's company. Neither one brave enough to admit it to the other.
Ken wasn't sure what the difference was between what he felt for Yohji and Omi, and what he felt for Ran. But he realized there was a definite difference. He'd been glad to see the other two appear in the study, but when he'd realized Ran was there he'd been filled with relief and joy. Not to mention the things he'd been feeling after saying good bye to the stoic red-head. Ken also knew he wanted something from Ran, but he had no idea what and no idea how to find out. He decided that he would simply be happy that Ran was there and be satisfied with that.
Ran, on the other hand, knew exactly what it was he was feeling for Ken, and he was deeply troubled by it. He knew he should leave, but couldn't bear the thought of it. He had believed he'd only know love once, and that it would last forever. When that hadn't proven true he'd wanted death. If Yohji and Omi hadn't been there he probably would've harmed himself. Now, now what he felt in the past seemed to pale when compared to what Ken inspired in him, and he felt guilty. His feelings for Richard should have been stronger, deeper, and lasted forever.
Ran suddenly blinked and looked around. They were on the boarder of the orchard. He reined in his horse and looked at Ken.
"Yup," he nodded, reading Ran's question in his eyes. "Its actually closer than it seems. The trip from the road is longer."
"I thought the road was nearly straight."
Ken smiled broadly. "No, though it does seem it. The road follows the wall of the valley which curves toward the east." Ken seemed inordinately pleased by this and Ran found it impossible not to smile.
It seemed as though Ken were pleased by the simplest things, and his joy and enthusiasm were contagious. Ran shook his head.
"I'm glad you were here last night," Ken said suddenly. "I'm probably still alive because of it. Thank you."
Ran nodded. "You're welcome. Shall we head back?"
"All right. Thank you for the lesson."
"We'll have another one tomorrow."
"When...when do you think the solicitor will be here?"
"Another three days. Perhaps four," Ran answered thoughtfully.
"Oh," Ken studied his hands.
"What is it?" Ran asked.
"Do you...do you really think things will be different?" he asked worridly.
"I guarantee it."
* * *
Dinner was almost as entertaining for Ran and Caroline as lunch had been. Ken ate ravenously, Yohji reprimanded him, an argument ensued. When dessert was served Ken's eyes almost fell out. Even Yohji had to laugh at that. After dinner they adjourned into the sitting room for the evening's entertainment.
"What do you do for entertainment, Miss Caroline?" Yohji asked lounging on a sofa.
"Reading mostly. Some evenings my sisters enjoy cards, or playing and singing when the music room is open in the summer. I'm sure our pursuits seem tame to one used to Court life."
"Not at all," he smiled. He was distracted by Ken who strolled by trying to stare at everything at once. Yohji just shook his head. "I fear this will not be easy."
Caroline watched Ken wander away from them as if in a daze. She sighed sadly. "No. I worry most about how isolated he has been," she agreed quietly.
"I swear, my Lady, we'll take good care of him."
"Thank you," she smiled. "Just keep in mind that this will be far harder on him than on you."
Ran suddenly materialized from nowhere and joined them.
"Miss Caroline, I must confess, I'm curious," he said in his soft deep voice. "The library here is most extensive. I don't believe I've ever seen its equal outside of the university."
"The library was here when Pa-pa married the Duchess. She told us the late Duke had added significantly to a collection his father had started."
Ran looked thoughtful.
Ken wandered back over and sat down in a chair. He was beginning to look bored again.
"Were all those little things in here before?" he asked.
"Yes, they were your mother's," Caroline answered kindly.
"Haven't you been in here, cousin Ken?" Yohji asked half jokingly.
"Of course I have," Ken said crossly. "Just not in the last year or so."
"Ken wasn't allowed upstairs unless he had chores," Caroline clarified for the Prince and Ran.
"Gods," Yohji muttered angrily. "I'm sorry, Ken."
Ken shrugged.
"Have you moved your things back into your old room yet?" Caroline asked.
"Not yet."
"You mean you're still sleeping in the servants' quarters?" Yohji demanded causing Ken to frown in anticipation.
"Yes," he answered tightly.
"Cousin, I beg you. I'm allowing him to do chores, but I simply can't have him sleeping below stairs!"
"All right, Yohji," Ran sighed. "Shall I help you move your things, Ken?"
"Fine." Ken scowled at Yohji, who scowled back, then led Ran out of the room.
Ken's things consisted of two other full sets of clothes in worse condition then the ones he had on, an old set of boots, a pair of heavy winter socks, and a half burned down candle. Ran looked at the meager collection in Ken's arms and shuddered.
"Oh, wait." Ken pulled up his straw matrice and yanked out an old book. He held it out for Ran to see. It was an old book of prayers which was very worn and ill used.
"Was it your mother's?" Ran asked.
"I don't know," Ken answered. He glanced briefly at the cover then left the room with Ran in tow carrying the lantern. "I suppose it must've been. I used to practice my reading on it, but then Caroline started sneaking me books. Lately though I've had no time to read."
Ran wouldn't have said it out loud, but he felt a great surge of relief when he heard Ken could read.
* *
"Has he mentioned the fall?" Caroline asked once she was sure Ken was gone.
"Yes. A miracle he survived," commented Yohji, but he could see she was going to say more.
"He suffered from a terrible fever. Pa-pa had the physician come from the village. They bled him," she shuddered. "When he finally recovered he was changed. He used to tell these stories before, about his mother. Even some about his father which I suppose he learned from her. After the fall the stories stopped."
"Well, it was a very serious illness. I've found many people altered after a life threatening experience," the Prince reasoned.
"True. Very true. I've always been afraid that its more than that."
"What are you saying, Miss Caroline?"
"I believe his memory may have been affected. I asked him once about the stories and he told me he didn't remember them. In fact, I'm not sure there's much before the fall that he does remember," her face changed to one of regret. "I used to feel that perhaps it was for the best since his present circumstances had declined so. He did seem happier. Now I regret my former feelings. Perhaps I should've tried to help him remember, or written the stories down for him to read. As it is now I can't recall anything but the barest details."
Yohji watched her struggle for a moment before reaching out to grasp her hand. "Perhaps they'll come back now that he's returned to a semblance of his former life."
"Perhaps," she said with a faint smile.
"Why are you telling me all this, Miss Caroline?"
"Because I want you to understand him. Where his mind is. You expect him to rise to his rank, but all he knows is service. The half of his life he lived as a Duke's heir, except for bits and pieces, is lost to him."
Yohji sighed and released her hand. "Just my luck one of those pieces was the one in which I tried to feed him worms."
* *
Ken walked up to the door of the room that had been his. Like most of the rooms in the manor it had been locked until that morning. Mrs. Hudson had informed him of her intention to air it out and prepare it for him. Ken grasped the handle and thrust the door open then allowed Ran to enter first with the lantern. Ken followed. Ran found several candles in the room and lit each before standing back to look around.
The room was quite large and elegantly furnished. There were twin dressers of a delicate, but practical style. A large bed flanked by tables on either side, and a low settee against the end. On the far side of the bed was a wardrobe. The fire place was across from the bed. There was an intricately embroidered screen before it depicting wild roses and song birds. The far wall held two large windows which were both open and letting in the cool fresh air of a spring evening. Before the windows were two arm chairs and a small writing table. the room felt aired and the bed clothes had been changed. Everything was uncovered and dust free.
"A nice room," Ran commented, glancing at Ken.
The young man nodded. "Its big," he said quietly, remembering the closet sized room he'd just left.
"What's through there?" Ran indicated a door in the corner on the far side of the fireplace.
Ken dumped his things on the bed and moved toward the door. "I don't know."
Ran followed along behind taking a candle with him. "You don't remember?"
Ken shook his head. He reached for the door knob and discovered it open. Cautiously they moved forward. Ran cast the lantern around the inside of the room and felt his eye brows rise in surprise.
A table with slates and books on it was in the center of the room. there were shelves with a few toys, but mostly books along the walls, and a large slate board with chalk letters written on it in a delicate hand. Several games were on the floor as if abandoned. It was clearly a little school room, and it had not been cleaned or touched for years. Against the inside wall was the locked door leading out to the hallway.
"I suppose this was mine," Ken stated quietly. He glanced around curiously.
"Don't you remember it?" Ran asked in surprise.
"Nope. I don't remember using my room either, except when I was sick. Caroline thinks I forgot things after the fall," he shrugged and moved to the table picking up the first slate.
"Its possible, I believe." Ran moved over and looked at the slate Ken was holding. It was most of a paragraph copied from an open book on the table. The hand writing was struggling to be neat and failing.
Ken chuckled. "Looks like something I'd do," he said, looking around. "You know, I don't remember what's in half the rooms in this house, and most of them are locked."
Ran studied him patiently while waiting for him to continue.
"Would you like to come with me tomorrow? I want to look in every room."
"I'd be delighted," Ran smiled softly.
"Good," Ken smiled back.
They moved back into the bedroom and Ken went to put his things away in one of the dressers. He was surprised to find it already full. He pulled out a tiny shirt and held it up for Ran to see.
"Guess this won't fit anymore. Everything I own could fit in half this one drawer."
"Perhaps tomorrow we should send for a tailor," Ran suggested.
Ken regarded him skeptically.
"You need new things, Ken. Lots of new things. I'm surprised Yohji hasn't sent for one."
"How come he's so changed?" Ken asked quietly.
Ran smiled a bit sadly. "He's back in his element and he's got his teeth into some injustice. He won't let go until you're lord of the manor."
Ken thought about that, his face worried.
"What will happen to Sir?" he asked.
"I don't know. What do you want to happen?"
Ken frowned and looked at his feet. "I don't know," he said. He looked around the room. "It sure is big."
"You'll get used to it," Ran smiled.
"I suppose."
* * *
The next day began much the same as the previous one. Ken was already out doing chores by the time Yohji and Ran arose. He was nowhere to be seen all morning and was late to lunch. When finally he did come he arrived covered in mud, leaving foot prints behind him.
"Halt!" Yohji cried leaping from his seat to prevent Ken from coming any further into the room.
Even Ran and Caroline seemed shocked by Ken's appearance. He stopped near the door and fidgeted nervously.
"What?! Happened?!" the Prince demanded.
"I fell," Ken stated morosely.
"And why didn't you clean yourself off?"
"I was late," Ken pouted. "I wasn't sure which was worse."
"This," said Yohji indicating the mud, "is much worse. Mrs. Hudson!"
"Yes, your - Holy Mother!" Mrs. Hudson stopped just inside the entry and stared at Ken who was now feeling very foolish. "Master Ken...," she said in awe.
"Mrs. Hudson, I want you to take this youth to the nearest bath and scrub him until he's so clean he shines. While you're doing that send Shoop to the village after a tailor. You, young man," the Prince exclaimed, fixing Ken in a fierce stare, "are through with chores."
Ken would've argued but Yohji spun him around and thrust him at Mrs. Hudson who dragged him off.
"Yohji," Ran said from his seat.
"No, Cousin. I'm sorry, Miss Caroline. He will have to learn sometime. Better sooner than later." Yohji sighed expressively and resumed his seat. "He's a Duke, Ran. A Duke. I know he doesn't know it, but he will when the solicitor gets here. We need to start preparing him now." Yohji scowled down at his plate.
"You're right," Ran said quietly.
"Your Highness, what do you mean?" Caroline asked slowly.
"Miss Caroline, I'm sorry. I should've told you. According to the documents gifting the land to Ken's great-grandfather the property is entailed away from the female line, which means Ken inherited the estate and the title upon the death of the Duke, his father," Yohji explained.
The young woman paled noticeably. "I...see," she said and rose. "Gentlemen, if you will excuse me? I am suddenly...unwell."
They stood and she silently left the room. Sighing heavily Yohji sat again.
"What do you propose we do with Ken once his bath is finished?" Ran asked taking his seat.
"What do you mean? Surely he has other clothes. We'll put him in something better than what he's come out of."
"Begging your pardon, Yohji, but he doesn't have anything better."
Yohji glared at Ran unbelievingly. Moments later they stood in Ken's room before the dresser he'd stored his things in the night before. Yohji stared, appalled. Then he faced Ran and sized him up. Ran frowned.
"He can't be too much shorter than you," the Prince said.
Ran's frown deepened.
* *
Ken sat wrapped in a blanket in a chair in the bathroom. Despite the warm fire which had been started in the fireplace next to him he shivered. His bath had been miserable, but it was over. Mrs. Hudson seemed to have taken a maniacal delight in her use of the scrub brush. She had said something about finally getting down to the skin, and hoping he stayed that way before she'd left. She'd seemed very pleased with herself, even nodding in satisfaction. Ken pouted. It had been embarrassing. Not to mention he'd just had a bath not a week ago, as well as that unplanned trip into the pond. He wasn't that dirty, was he? Well, except for the mud.
The door behind him opened and Mrs. Hudson came back in carrying an armful of cloth. Ken frowned at her.
"What's that?"
"These are clothes. Proper clothes, Master Ken. They're Lord Ran's. The tailor can't come until tomorrow, and the Prince burned your old tatters," she informed him with a satisfied glint in her eye.
"W-what? He burned them?" Ken felt a pang. Maybe they were just tatters, but they were his. The only things he had. "How'm I supposed to wear these? Ran's so much taller than me."
Mrs. Hudson's face softened. She reached out and brushed his hair out of his eyes fondly.
"Those things weren't worth keeping, Master Ken. Its past time that you took your proper place. I know everything's different, and a little scary, but this is right."
"I guess...you're right," Ken sighed. "I just wish...I don't know what I wish. A week ago I was wishing this."
Mrs. Hudson smiled kindly and nodded, handing over the clothes.
"Do you need help, Master Ken?" she asked kindly.
"No, thank you. I can manage," he tried to smile.
She smirked and left. He didn't want to be naked in front of her anymore than he already had been. Ken sighed again. He stood, dropping the blanket. Setting the clothes in the chair he sorted through the pile. The thought of putting on Lord Ran's clothes made him blush, but he didn't have any other choice. They were nicer than anything he'd ever had. Their textures soft and slippery. He pulled out the shirt and examined it before putting it on. It was black, of course, with tine black buttons of some kind of stone. They glittered in the light of the fire. Ken had to struggle a bit with them, but eventually the shirt was on. He liked the feel of it, smooth and soft against his skin.
The breeches were slightly too big. They sagged to his hips and hung below his knees, but they were still the nicest pair he could ever remember wearing. They were of a fine sturdy material, but still comfortable. Mrs. Hudson had included a leather belt which he put on after tucking in the shirt.
There was also a waist coat which was something he'd never had to wear before. Black with delicate embroidery in black floss, so you wouldn't see it unless you were very close to Ran, or now him. He ran his hand over the heavy linen material. It was also soft and comfortable, if a bit too long in the sleeves.
Ken moved cautiously to look in the mirror which stood near the window. He blinked at the young man that looked back. Was that really him? Is that what he looked like? He touched his face, and stared at himself. A soft knock at the door startled him and he turned away from the mirror quickly.
"Come in."
The door swung almost hesitantly open and Ran looked in. He stopped dead in the doorway and stared at Ken. After a few silent moments Ken began to fidget and blush. Ran visibly shook himself. He had not been prepared for the stunning vision before him. Ken was beautiful. Ran's dark clothing perfectly complimented Ken's tanned skin and dark hair and eyes. Ran cleared his throat in an effort to get his voice back.
"I came to see if you needed any assistance," he said quietly. "But I see you're finished. You look very nice, Ken."
"Thank you. And thank you for lending me your things. They're very nice."
"You are welcome." Ran allowed his eyes to quickly travel over Ken and take him in. He stopped at his feet and frowned. "I'm sorry I didn't give you any stockings, but my shoes I'm sure are too large."
"I'm used to going bare foot. Do...do you want to go around and open rooms with me now?" Ken asked hesitantly.
"Why don't we find you some lunch first. Then I'd be happy to accompany you," he smiled softly. Ken smiled and they left together.
***
Author's Note: Phew! Another Chapter down! Ummm, I'll take a moment to explain why I had Sneller so abruptly change. Historically he could've been imprisoned and/or hung for what he did. In my mind the only reason he didn't bolt immediately is his daughters, who would've been left defenceless. We know Ken would've cared for them, but I figured he wouldn't trust that. Legally Ken wouldn't of had to care for them if he didn't want to. And Sneller was caught red-handed, as it were, by someone way above him in rank. Basically, he was over, but he's still there, so we haven't seen the last of him yet. Also, I gave Ken a traumatic head injury because I wanted him to be not so resentful as he would naturally be in this situation. I think it makes him a bit more like Omi than I'd like, but I couldn't help it. Thank you for reading! Please R & R!
Zeto: So, Ran's explained how they're all related, and not related, so I hope your fears are laid to rest. This is definitely Ran/Ken! Thank you! I'm glad yopu like it so far!
Mondtanz: Yeah, I still thought he gave too easily too, but I couldn't figure out what else to do. I needed that to be over so I could move forward. No, this isn't the end. There's actually thirteen chapters, so there's a bit left. I just hope it won't get boring! Thanks for reading! I'm glad you're enjoying it.
Neko: Aaagh! I missed a review! Waaahh! I wonder if I did something. I'm not a genious when it comes to computers. To me they're a big cool type writer. Glad you like it though! Thanks for reading!
Raine: Thanks, I'm glad you like it!
Celeste1: *Sigh* I think they need eachother too! I'm glad you liked it. I'm such a sap even my own writing makes me cry. Thanks for reading!
Murasaki_yanagi: I'm glad you liked the last chapter, and hope you enjoyed this one as well. Yeah, some angst is good, but I can't take too much. I actually cry at death fic, I'm so lame. Oh, well! Thanks for reading!
Lynn: Thanks so much! I'm blushing! I'm glad you don't mind the OC, and I hope you found the other chapters as enjoyable as the first one! Thanks for reading!
Misao-The-Weasel: I'm glad you like it! The Ran/Ken will build slowly. I tried to sprinkle each chapter with sweet scenes while continuing the plot. I guess we'll see if I was sucessful. Thanks for reading!