Warning: AU, pseudo-Historical Romance, Ran/Ken.
Author's Note Before: I'm afraid Ken is a little OOC in this one. I don't think he'd have a problem talking with anyone. Not from what I've seen in Weiss and Gluhen anyway. Oh, well.
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss, so I get nuthin' fer my troubles but my own enjoyment, and your reviews.
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Twelve
By mid-week of Ken's third week in Town the Prince, Ran, and Omi began to consider whether he was ready for a wider society. He'd been to Court successfully, as well as to many public outings where a few introductions had taken place. The young Duke was still uncomfortable in his new position, but for the most part people seemed charmed by his insecurity and somewhat rustic manners.
They began to see that a broader society could be beneficial in terms of exemplifying protocol and etiquette. Omi believed exposing Ken to social customs in action would help him learn them. Since Omi's suggestion had worked with the money it seemed likely that it would work in that instance as well. So, they turned to the social calender in the paper to find a suitable event.
On Thursday evening there was to be an evening party in one of the public houses. Dinner, conversation, and dancing were to be the primary entertainments with the possibility of cards later on. The only flaw foreseen in the plan was that they had failed to teach Ken any dancing. But this, they felt, could be avoided. So it was decided that they would attend and their dress clothes were ordered cleaned. When Thursday evening came they piled into one of the Grand Duke and Duchess's carriages, and set off for the party.
Ken had to admit that he was excited despite himself. He was to meet people Yohji called their "peers", and they could be very beneficial when it came to financial deals and information. But Ken was really just excited to be meeting more people. He'd met a few people besides Yohji's family, Hargrave, and the King, but not many. He'd tried, without success, to make friends within his Aunt and Uncle's household with the servants. They were more than willing to help him in anyway, but didn't seem to know what he meant by his friendly overtures. He'd even inadvertently frightened one of the maids who had jumped to the wrong conclusion, and he'd had to apologize.
They arrived at the public house, and were ushered inside. The dinner and ball were held on the upper floor, and so attendees were led up a staircase which allowed them to make grand entrances if desired. It had been agreed before hand that during dinner Omi would operate as Ken's footmen, so he would serve and advise him through dinner. This way he could point out various people and name them before they would meet.
The initial course through the ballroom and dinner went extremely well. Yohji and Ran introduced Ken to some of their school chums who were in attendance, and a few other people they knew. The line up by rank and the entrance to the dining room went well, and Ken had several interesting conversations during dinner. Omi kept him supplied with food and information which he enjoyed equally. The only disappointment was that both Yohji and Ran were seated away from him.
Ken was very careful not to stare across the table incase he was induced to talk across it, which was considered very rude. Omi had seemed surprised that Promiscuous Seating wasn't used, but Ken was relieved after he'd learned what it was. He was terribly shy around the sophisticated women they'd encountered, and he knew the evening would've been a disaster if he'd had them on both sides of him and been forced to converse with them during dinner. As it was, all the men sat on one side of the table and all the women on the other.
Several hours later they lined back up and filed back into the ballroom for conversation and dancing. Ken had learned that in someone's home this was the point where the women would leave, and the men would smoke. However, the point of a public party seemed to be the commingling of the sexes, so the separation was skipped.
Omi came to Ken's elbow as they filed from one room to the other.
"Ready to go it alone?" he asked in a whisper.
"I guess so," Ken replied.
"You did fine at dinner," said the younger man. "Just remember you're either equal to or outrank almost everyone here. Ran and Yohji will keep an eye on you, and I'm right outside when you want to leave."
"Right."
"You'll be fine," Omi smiled and with a wink moved off.
As they entered the ballroom Ken was surprised to find it full of people. Apparently many nobles had skipped the dinner and arrived in time for the rest of the evening. Within moments the dinner goers had merged with the new comers in the large room. Ken glanced around at them. All gaily dressed, many wearing wigs of all sizes and styles. The servants that had served dinner stood out in their bright green. They moved among the attendees serving finger food and drinks.
He spotted Ran not too far off involved in an intense discussion with two other men Ken had met earlier. The red-head looked up and met his eyes briefly. A quick nod and his attention was refocused on whatever his companions were saying.
Ken could hear, but not actually see, Yohji. The Prince's booming laughter came from a corner full of people, and was followed closely by the twittering laughs of several ladies. The young Duke chuckled and shook his head.
He moved around the fringes of the room catching bits of conversations, and punch lines to jokes. There was no one here that he recognized from his brief stay in Town, and he couldn't tell anyone's rank or position by their fancy clothes. So he just moved around watching and listening. It wasn't long before he wished Omi were still with him if just to talk to.
"Would Sir care for a drink?" came a voice by his elbow.
Ken turned to discover one of the green coated servants bowing and holding forth a tray with several tall glasses on it. The glasses were filled with a golden colored liquid that had slowly rising bubbles in it. He gently lifted one off.
"Thank you," he said sniffing the drink. The fizz from the bubbles tickled his nose. He took a cautious sip. It wasn't too bad, light and not too sweet.
The waiter moved away and Ken continued his travels. He decided to explore the center of the room before the crowds moved to make way for the dancing. He could hear the musicians beginning to set up, having quit the dining room where they had played during dinner.
As he moved forward Ken was suddenly confronted by a tall man dressed entirely in a shiney white material, with lace hanging from his coat sleeves, and satin ribbons around the tops of his stockings. His head was topped by a large white wig, which was parted down the middle, but teased up to monstrous proportions on either side. The man had painted his skin with a white cream which gave him a ghoulish appearance, and a huge black dot was fixed to one cheek.
Ken felt himself staring in horrified fascination and knew it was rude, but he couldn't look away.
"Well, well, well," said the man in a high affected voice. "And what have we here? A tasty morsel, is it not?"
Ken was about to reply when he realized the strange man wasn't speaking to him but to two other oddly dressed men standing off to one side. They giggled their answers from behind raised fans.
"Yes, it does look tasty, doesn't it?" the strange man asked, his black eyes glittering. "And I intend to have a taste."
Brow furrowing in anger Ken was about to reply that he was NOT a tasty treat when the room gave a sudden lurch and began to spin. The glass slipped from his numb fingers. He watched as it slowly, slowly fell to the floor and shattered. Its pieces bouncing and skittering soundlessly away. As he looked back up the strange man seemed to grow very tall, looming over him. His white face with the black dot came very close and floated in the air before him. He had the urge to flick the black dot away, but couldn't make his arm move.
Ran glanced around the room as he suddenly became aware that he couldn't see Ken anymore. He realized that they'd agreed to let Ken out on his own, but he just didn't feel comfortable with the young Duke out of his sight. He excused himself from his school chums and moved slowly through the room. There was some type of commotion taking place almost in the center of the room and he moved toward it instinctually. What he saw caused him to dash forward in alarm.
Ken was sitting on the floor looking up into the white painted face of a man that filled Ran with loathing. The man's folded fan was under Ken's chin holding his head up as if he was incapable of supporting it himself.
Ran pushed through the crowd of twittering and giggling onlookers. As he reached the center of the ring of onlookers he drew his sword and thrust the tip under the loathsome man's nose. Several ladies in the crowd screamed, and there was a general widening of the circle.
"Don't you touch him," Ran growled, staring down the length of his sword directly into the man's eyes.
The man pulled back his fan which caused Ken's head to fall forward, and he stood to face Ran. The red-head adjusted his sword to point at the man's throat, and they faced off for several seconds without speaking. The only sounds around them tight whispers and fans waving. With reluctance Ran withdrew his sword and sheathed it. He crouched next to Ken, pulling up the young man's head so he could look into his eyes.
"Well, if it isn't the honorable Earl Fujimiya. Returned to Court at last," said the man in his high voice. "And with a new toy, I see."
Ran ignored him and focused on Ken who was blinking owlishly at him. His pupils were dilated making his large eyes appear even larger.
"Really, Lord Ran," pouted the strange man, "you should learn to share your toys."
"My dear Count Kase," came Yohji's voice from directly behind the man. A long arm draped itself lazily over the Count's shoulder and the Prince leaned into his side. "You know my cousin never keeps toys. Unlike some people."
There were a few giggles in the crowd. Ran hefted the nearly unconscious Ken to his feet and braced him there. All the while scowling at the Count.
"I'm afraid I haven't yet had the chance to introduce you to my other cousin, Duke Hidaka," Yohji said dryly, indicating Ken.
Ran was sure by the look on his face that if it hadn't been painted the Count would've visibly paled.
"But it appears tonight is not a good time." The Prince leaned in very close to the Count's ear and spoke very softly. "I need not mention that he is the King's nephew. I believe the King took a rather dim view of your pursuit of his favorite page two years ago. Be grateful Lord Fujimiya came upon you when he did. Otherwise you may not have survived this."
Yohji released the Count and moved to help Ran support Ken. The Count seemed to sag a bit before regaining his composure.
"Good evening, Count Kase," Yohji said amiably. "If I were you I'd be more careful in the future."
The crowd parted and they left the ballroom. Once in the hall they stopped at the top of the staircase to look at Ken again. He was humming to himself. He smiled lazily at them, but was totally unable to support his own weight.
"He's definitely intoxicated," Yohji said. "I wonder what they used."
"I only let him out of my sight for a minute!" Ran stated, his voice tight.
"This isn't your fault, Ran. I never thought the King would let that thing back in," the Prince spat.
"Kase married last year and acquired a large fortune. I think the King feared he could become a powerful enemy," said Ran coldly. He looked at Ken and was seized with such fury it was all he could do to keep from returning to the hall and skewering the Count.
Yohji sensed this and pushed Ken at him.
"Here," he said, "you take him. I'll go tell Omi to have the carriage brought."
Before Ran could protest Yohji was halfway down the stairs. Ken looked up and blinked at him.
"Hey, you look like Ran," he said and smiled brightly. "I like him."
Ran shook his head. Without too much effort he lifted the youth in his arms and started carefully down the stairs.
"I like you too, Ken," he muttered.
By the time he reached the front entrance Ken was dozing lightly. Yohji and Omi were waiting with the carriage. They all bundled in and started off home.
"So much for a night of society," Omi commented.
Yohji snorted. He'd never met anyone with worse luck. He hated to think what Ken would've done inheriting the estate at twenty-one.
Ken murmured something and rolled in his seat until he was resting against Ran's shoulder. Yohji couldn't tell in the dark of the carriage, but it almost seemed like Ran blushed.
It took all three of them to get Ken into his nightshirt and bed. He revived a little when they set him on his bed and he remembered the Count. He thought they were attacking him for "the white faced man" and he put up a valiant fight. Ran was finally able to calm him down and keep him calm so Omi and Yohji could change his clothes. Finally they manged to get him into bed.
Ken was convinced "the white faced man" would get him if Ran left, so the red-head was forced to remain until the young man fell asleep. Ken clutched onto Ran's arm and pressed his face into his sleeve.
"Don't worry, Ken. Go to sleep," Ran said perching on the edge of the bed.
"No, he'll get me," Ken's muffled voice replied.
"Count Kase won't get you. We're safe at home."
"Don't go!" Ken pleaded through Ran's sleeve.
The red-headed Lord sighed.
"I'm not going anywhere," he said softly. He gave into his desire to touch the younger man and gently stroked his hair.
"Caroline used to do that," sighed Ken. "I miss her."
"Have you received a letter yet?"
"No." Ken unburied his face a little and looked up at Ran. "I'm afraid she won't write."
"She will. Give her a chance to get settled," Ran said continuing to run his fingers through Ken's soft hair.
"Do you swear you won't leave me?"
Ran looked down into the large brown eyes that were earnestly observing him.
"I swear," he said.
Ken released his sleeve then tensed to see what Ran would do. He didn't do anything except continue to stroke Ken's hair. The young Duke began to relax. He sighed deeply.
"Everyone leaves," he said. "I guess I don't mind, but I don't want the white faced man to get me."
"He's far away," said Ran softly. "He wouldn't dare to come here."
"Good."
They were silent for a time. Ken's eyes began to droop.
"Do you want to come back home with me?" Ken asked sleepily.
"Yes, if you would like me to."
"I do want you to. Then we can take our tour."
"Oh, yes," Ran said smiling softly.
"H-h-how long will you stay?" asked Ken in a quiet voice.
"I don't know. We'll have to see."
"W-would you...would you stay forever? I...would like it if you did."
Ran blinked down at Ken in surprise. His heart began to thud in his chest as he recognized the emotion in Ken's eyes. But he couldn't allow himself to believe it. No, Ken was under the influence of a foreign substance. Not to mention he was completely innocent, in some ways little more than a child. The events of the evening a testament to his inexperience. In the morning when he woke he probably wouldn't even remember this moment, or understand what he was asking of Ran. The red-head looked away.
"We'll have to see," he repeated. "Go to sleep now."
Ken blinked up at him a few times then allowed his eyes to close. After a few minutes his breathing evened out and deepened. When Ran was sure Ken was asleep he rose from the bed and pressed a hand to his chest. His heart was aching. He was in love with Ken. He knew he had been since not long after they'd met. But Ken couldn't possibly love him in return.
Ran looked down on Ken's peaceful face. The Duke was curled up on his side with one hand still reaching for Ran's sleeve. He looked so young. Too young. How could Ran continue to be with him day in and day out when already it was starting to wear on the stoic man?
Ran pulled himself away from the bed containing the sleeping figure and exited the room. He closed the door and leaned against it. What he needed was to get away for a bit. Get away and clear his head. He hadn't seen his mother or sister in several months. He should go home. He would go home.
Ken warily walked down the hall toward his room. He wasn't physically tired, but he felt drained in every other way. He was tired of late dinners, of entertainments, of high teas, of all good society. In short, he was tired of playing the game. And he missed Ran.
The stoic red-head had been gone a week already and Ken wondered whether he would come back. He didn't remember anything about the night he'd been drugged after meeting Count Kase, but he had the feeling something had happened. He'd awoken late the next morning with a splitting headache, and been told that Ran had departed for his own estate to pay a long overdue visit to his mother and sister.
Ken could understand Ran's need to see his family, but his heart ached at how the man had left without saying goodbye. Any sense of loss he'd experienced before paled to what he felt at Ran's abrupt departure. The young Duke thought it odd that Ran never mentioned any intention to visit his family, which led him to believe that the decision was reached suddenly. What really concerned him was the fact that as of today he'd been in Town a month. It was time for him to return home as well, and Ran was supposed to go with him.
Over the course of the week Yohji and Omi had kept him busy visiting places and meeting people. Asuka and the Aunties consumed his time at the house. Still he missed Ran, but he endeavored to hide it. He'd slapped a cheery smile on his face and presented a happy Ken to everyone he'd come into contact with. But when he'd finally received a letter from Caroline he couldn't hide from himself. He'd written her back immediately about how Ran was gone and how much he missed him.
Ken shook his head sighing, and entered his bedroom. Just inside the room he froze, staring. In his bed sat a scantily clad young woman. She stared back at him for a moment then recalled what she was about and dropped the top of her nightshirt.
"Good evening, your Grace," she said enticingly.
Ken's mouth fell open as he tried to form an answer. He forced himself to take a breath.
"Please, excuse me," he finally said and bolted out of the room and down the hall.
Ken slid to a stop outside of Yohji's room and pounded on the door in near panic. After a few minutes the door opened to reveal the Prince in his nightshirt. When he saw Ken he stepped out into the hall and closed the door behind him.
"Ken, what's the matter?" Yohji asked in concern.
"Th-th-there-th-th-there's a-a-a-a..."
"Slow down, Cousin," Yohji said gripping his shoulders.
Ken took a breath and swallowed.
"Th-there's a...w-w-woman in...in my b-bed."
Yohji's eyebrows shot up and he blinked at his younger cousin before bursting out in hardy laughter. Once he got himself under control the Prince beamed a big smile at the blushing young man, and shook his shoulder.
"Good for you!" he chuckled. "Nothing personal, but I didn't think you had it in you. Congratulations, and have fun. As it happens I'm similarly engaged, so-"
"No, Yohji! Its not like that!" Ken cried.
The Prince stopped and looked at him.
"How...h-how do I ask her to leave?"
"You want her to leave?"
Ken nodded.
"You don't want to have relations with her?"
Ken shook his head adamantly.
The Prince gave him a hard look.
"There's nothing to be afraid of, Ken-"
"I'm not afraid. I'm just not...interested."
The Prince continued his hard look.
"I think," he said slowly, "that we need to have a talk, but now is not the time. Simply tell the young lady thank you, but not tonight. That ought to do the trick."
Ken nodded as he listened. Of course, nothing simpler. Why had he panicked? It wasn't like she was going to jump up and attack him. He nodded again.
"Thank you."
"No problem," the Prince said. "I'll see you in the morning."
"Yes. The morning. Good night."
"Good night, Ken."
Yohji watched his younger cousin move away down the hall. Shaking his head he entered his room softly closing the door behind him.
Ken marched back down the hall to his room. He could do this, he just had to be polite. He set his jaw in determination, and opened his door. The young woman sat back up and started to drop her top again, but stopped when Ken waved at her.
"I'm sorry, but...ummm...what's your name?" he asked.
"Yuriko, your Grace."
"Yuriko, nice to meet you. I'm Ken," he said. "Umm, look I'm sorry, but I'm too tired for...ah, thank you very much."
He bowed for effect. When he faced Yuriko again he noticed how worried she looked.
"What's the matter?" he asked concerned.
"I-I was sent by the Count."
"The Count? Kase?"
She nodded.
"He wanted to make sure there were no hard feelins from the misunderstandin."
"So, he sent you here to me to...?"
When she nodded he scowled. He definitely did not like that Count. Ken glanced back at Yuriko. She looked frightened.
"What's wrong, Yuriko? You can tell me."
"He-he's not expecting me back until mornin. He won't be pleased."
Ken sighed, then smiled.
"You can sleep there if you want," he said indicating the bed she was in. "I don't sleep there anyway. Its too soft. I've been sleeping on the settee."
Yuriko smiled shakily and her eyes got suspiciously moist.
"Thank you. You are...very kind."
"No," he shook his head. "Good night. Have good dreams."
"You too, your...I mean, Ken." She sniffed and laid down.
Ken blew out the candles and sat on the settee. He blinked at the dark fire place before him. The events of the last half hour running through his mind. Through the open window he could hear crickets chirping, but not as loudly as at home. Behind him Yuriko sighed and rolled over.
Yohji had seemed surprised that Ken had refused her. But he wasn't interested and neither was she really, so wasn't it right to refuse? Ken thought for a minute. Why wasn't he interested? Shouldn't he be? Wasn't it natural? Was it Yuriko he wasn't interested in? She was quite pretty. Ken tried to think whether there was anyone he wouldn't have refused.
The image of sparkling purple eyes and red hair flashed through his mind. He blinked in surprise as he felt his heart begin to race, and his cheeks heat up. Ken pressed a hand to his chest. The tingles he'd felt in unmentionable places after Ran had held him in the saddle returned with a fury. Ran. He wanted Ran. Was that why he felt his loss so keenly? Is that why he wanted to be with Ran all the time?
With a start Ken realized it was more than physically wanting the red-head. He wanted to be there when Ran ate, read his books, wrote his letters, practiced at his club, and when he slept. Ken wanted to hear him laugh, make him laugh, and hold him if he cried. He loved him. He loved Ran.
Ken felt himself smile. He was in love. He knew he was. He knew it like he knew he was breathing. Suddenly he felt like laughing out loud, like jumping up and running around the house.
He loved Ran. But would Ran love him? Could he? Ken knew he'd loved Richard, so it was possible for Ran to love another man. But Richard had been someone important. He'd been able to figure that out from some of the things he'd over heard. Although Ken was a titled Duke he was really just a farmer. A Duke who'd been raised as a servant without an education. Education was important to Ran. The red-head was cultured and Ken was...Ken. Could Ran ever love someone who'd never be his intellectual equal?
And was Richard really dead? Ran had discarded his black clothes, but his emotionless mask was firmly in place. Would he be willing to risk his heart again after losing his first love?
Ken curled up on the settee and hugged himself. All he could do was try, and he would if Ran would ever come back from his estate. With thoughts of the red-head filling his mind Ken found it impossible to sleep. Instead he made decisions, and remembered what it was like being held in the arms of the tall, stoic man.
Author's Note After: Phew! That was long. Was that long? It seemed long to me typing it. Of course, I'm a two fingered typist. Well, originally that wasn't Kase, but I couldn't resist. I really don't like Kase at all, so it seems appropriate that I fit him into the potential rapist role. This character is a common occurrence in literature, and mine was inspired by one found in "The History of Tom Jones" by Henry Fielding, and he looks like this vision I have in my head of Terry Jones (Monty Python) but I'm not sure from what. The drug was most likely Ether, which if taken orally is highly intoxicating and extremely addictive. And of course Yuriko follows Kase. Well, I hope you liked it! Please R & R!
Akikaze-san: Yay! All my hard work paid off! That's what I was trying to do! I'm so glad you liked it. Yeah, they shouldn't be afraid. I think this chapter (hopefully) showed that Ken didn't realize his own feelings, but poor Ran is terrified of his and the whole guilt thing. Wow. Well, I hope its as memorable as it should be. I guess we'll see won't we? (Author creeps away to check her story and possibly rewrite - Ha-ha!) Thank you so much for reading and reviewing!
Mondtanz: Well, the poser kid wasn't Kase, but now you know why! I hope you enjoyed that. I would've had Ran slice him in two, but then he'd be arrested and go to jail and no more Ran/Ken. I'm glad there were enough "moments" for you. I like those too. Umm...cringe...there won't be any for a bit I'm afraid. (Author flees while shielding her head from flying objects). Thank you so much for reading and reviewing!
Lychee2: Yeah, there is a lot to hate there, ne? Well, you'll probably see him again...someday. And the dancing lessons are coming...someday. I'd never want to disappoint a large crowd of people...then again (Trick! I wouldn't!). I'm glad you like the life at Court stuff. I had a lot of trouble trying to keep track of all the details. The 18th century was complicated! Portia at Sanity's End has a much more accurate 18th century story, but its only highlights. Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!
Allis: What can I say? Great minds think alike! But...(author puts on a cowboy hat and large mustache)...that there's sequel territory. I'm working on it! But I should warn you that they didn't waltz in the 18th century. The waltz was invented in the 19th century and considered a scandle for most of that. You did get my first mail? Okay, I sent you a second one. I'm a dunce. Thanks for reading and reviewing and where's my mail?! - Never mind! I got it! Thanks!
Celandine: I'm glad you like the moments too, I love all Ran/Ken moments in all fics. Sigh Okay, obviously I need to go back and add something or rewrite that whole lineage thing. I think I confused everyone which isn't all that surprising. Never ask for directions from me. I hope you liked this chapter as well, but I think pretty much everyone will hate the way it ended. Thanks for reading and reviewing!
Chaosdreamer: Thank you so much for the review at the end of your wonderful fic "Light Meets Darkness" over at mediaminer. Anyone who hasn't read it and likes fantasy/horror should! So good! I was so psyched when I saw that you read my fic and liked it. I think I actually ran out of the room squeeling, and I'm not sure, but I may have been hopping up and down when I told my husband. He puts up with so much! Anyway, thank you again and I hope you can figure out how to get it up over here!
Author's Note Before: I'm afraid Ken is a little OOC in this one. I don't think he'd have a problem talking with anyone. Not from what I've seen in Weiss and Gluhen anyway. Oh, well.
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss, so I get nuthin' fer my troubles but my own enjoyment, and your reviews.
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Twelve
By mid-week of Ken's third week in Town the Prince, Ran, and Omi began to consider whether he was ready for a wider society. He'd been to Court successfully, as well as to many public outings where a few introductions had taken place. The young Duke was still uncomfortable in his new position, but for the most part people seemed charmed by his insecurity and somewhat rustic manners.
They began to see that a broader society could be beneficial in terms of exemplifying protocol and etiquette. Omi believed exposing Ken to social customs in action would help him learn them. Since Omi's suggestion had worked with the money it seemed likely that it would work in that instance as well. So, they turned to the social calender in the paper to find a suitable event.
On Thursday evening there was to be an evening party in one of the public houses. Dinner, conversation, and dancing were to be the primary entertainments with the possibility of cards later on. The only flaw foreseen in the plan was that they had failed to teach Ken any dancing. But this, they felt, could be avoided. So it was decided that they would attend and their dress clothes were ordered cleaned. When Thursday evening came they piled into one of the Grand Duke and Duchess's carriages, and set off for the party.
Ken had to admit that he was excited despite himself. He was to meet people Yohji called their "peers", and they could be very beneficial when it came to financial deals and information. But Ken was really just excited to be meeting more people. He'd met a few people besides Yohji's family, Hargrave, and the King, but not many. He'd tried, without success, to make friends within his Aunt and Uncle's household with the servants. They were more than willing to help him in anyway, but didn't seem to know what he meant by his friendly overtures. He'd even inadvertently frightened one of the maids who had jumped to the wrong conclusion, and he'd had to apologize.
They arrived at the public house, and were ushered inside. The dinner and ball were held on the upper floor, and so attendees were led up a staircase which allowed them to make grand entrances if desired. It had been agreed before hand that during dinner Omi would operate as Ken's footmen, so he would serve and advise him through dinner. This way he could point out various people and name them before they would meet.
The initial course through the ballroom and dinner went extremely well. Yohji and Ran introduced Ken to some of their school chums who were in attendance, and a few other people they knew. The line up by rank and the entrance to the dining room went well, and Ken had several interesting conversations during dinner. Omi kept him supplied with food and information which he enjoyed equally. The only disappointment was that both Yohji and Ran were seated away from him.
Ken was very careful not to stare across the table incase he was induced to talk across it, which was considered very rude. Omi had seemed surprised that Promiscuous Seating wasn't used, but Ken was relieved after he'd learned what it was. He was terribly shy around the sophisticated women they'd encountered, and he knew the evening would've been a disaster if he'd had them on both sides of him and been forced to converse with them during dinner. As it was, all the men sat on one side of the table and all the women on the other.
Several hours later they lined back up and filed back into the ballroom for conversation and dancing. Ken had learned that in someone's home this was the point where the women would leave, and the men would smoke. However, the point of a public party seemed to be the commingling of the sexes, so the separation was skipped.
Omi came to Ken's elbow as they filed from one room to the other.
"Ready to go it alone?" he asked in a whisper.
"I guess so," Ken replied.
"You did fine at dinner," said the younger man. "Just remember you're either equal to or outrank almost everyone here. Ran and Yohji will keep an eye on you, and I'm right outside when you want to leave."
"Right."
"You'll be fine," Omi smiled and with a wink moved off.
As they entered the ballroom Ken was surprised to find it full of people. Apparently many nobles had skipped the dinner and arrived in time for the rest of the evening. Within moments the dinner goers had merged with the new comers in the large room. Ken glanced around at them. All gaily dressed, many wearing wigs of all sizes and styles. The servants that had served dinner stood out in their bright green. They moved among the attendees serving finger food and drinks.
He spotted Ran not too far off involved in an intense discussion with two other men Ken had met earlier. The red-head looked up and met his eyes briefly. A quick nod and his attention was refocused on whatever his companions were saying.
Ken could hear, but not actually see, Yohji. The Prince's booming laughter came from a corner full of people, and was followed closely by the twittering laughs of several ladies. The young Duke chuckled and shook his head.
He moved around the fringes of the room catching bits of conversations, and punch lines to jokes. There was no one here that he recognized from his brief stay in Town, and he couldn't tell anyone's rank or position by their fancy clothes. So he just moved around watching and listening. It wasn't long before he wished Omi were still with him if just to talk to.
"Would Sir care for a drink?" came a voice by his elbow.
Ken turned to discover one of the green coated servants bowing and holding forth a tray with several tall glasses on it. The glasses were filled with a golden colored liquid that had slowly rising bubbles in it. He gently lifted one off.
"Thank you," he said sniffing the drink. The fizz from the bubbles tickled his nose. He took a cautious sip. It wasn't too bad, light and not too sweet.
The waiter moved away and Ken continued his travels. He decided to explore the center of the room before the crowds moved to make way for the dancing. He could hear the musicians beginning to set up, having quit the dining room where they had played during dinner.
As he moved forward Ken was suddenly confronted by a tall man dressed entirely in a shiney white material, with lace hanging from his coat sleeves, and satin ribbons around the tops of his stockings. His head was topped by a large white wig, which was parted down the middle, but teased up to monstrous proportions on either side. The man had painted his skin with a white cream which gave him a ghoulish appearance, and a huge black dot was fixed to one cheek.
Ken felt himself staring in horrified fascination and knew it was rude, but he couldn't look away.
"Well, well, well," said the man in a high affected voice. "And what have we here? A tasty morsel, is it not?"
Ken was about to reply when he realized the strange man wasn't speaking to him but to two other oddly dressed men standing off to one side. They giggled their answers from behind raised fans.
"Yes, it does look tasty, doesn't it?" the strange man asked, his black eyes glittering. "And I intend to have a taste."
Brow furrowing in anger Ken was about to reply that he was NOT a tasty treat when the room gave a sudden lurch and began to spin. The glass slipped from his numb fingers. He watched as it slowly, slowly fell to the floor and shattered. Its pieces bouncing and skittering soundlessly away. As he looked back up the strange man seemed to grow very tall, looming over him. His white face with the black dot came very close and floated in the air before him. He had the urge to flick the black dot away, but couldn't make his arm move.
Ran glanced around the room as he suddenly became aware that he couldn't see Ken anymore. He realized that they'd agreed to let Ken out on his own, but he just didn't feel comfortable with the young Duke out of his sight. He excused himself from his school chums and moved slowly through the room. There was some type of commotion taking place almost in the center of the room and he moved toward it instinctually. What he saw caused him to dash forward in alarm.
Ken was sitting on the floor looking up into the white painted face of a man that filled Ran with loathing. The man's folded fan was under Ken's chin holding his head up as if he was incapable of supporting it himself.
Ran pushed through the crowd of twittering and giggling onlookers. As he reached the center of the ring of onlookers he drew his sword and thrust the tip under the loathsome man's nose. Several ladies in the crowd screamed, and there was a general widening of the circle.
"Don't you touch him," Ran growled, staring down the length of his sword directly into the man's eyes.
The man pulled back his fan which caused Ken's head to fall forward, and he stood to face Ran. The red-head adjusted his sword to point at the man's throat, and they faced off for several seconds without speaking. The only sounds around them tight whispers and fans waving. With reluctance Ran withdrew his sword and sheathed it. He crouched next to Ken, pulling up the young man's head so he could look into his eyes.
"Well, if it isn't the honorable Earl Fujimiya. Returned to Court at last," said the man in his high voice. "And with a new toy, I see."
Ran ignored him and focused on Ken who was blinking owlishly at him. His pupils were dilated making his large eyes appear even larger.
"Really, Lord Ran," pouted the strange man, "you should learn to share your toys."
"My dear Count Kase," came Yohji's voice from directly behind the man. A long arm draped itself lazily over the Count's shoulder and the Prince leaned into his side. "You know my cousin never keeps toys. Unlike some people."
There were a few giggles in the crowd. Ran hefted the nearly unconscious Ken to his feet and braced him there. All the while scowling at the Count.
"I'm afraid I haven't yet had the chance to introduce you to my other cousin, Duke Hidaka," Yohji said dryly, indicating Ken.
Ran was sure by the look on his face that if it hadn't been painted the Count would've visibly paled.
"But it appears tonight is not a good time." The Prince leaned in very close to the Count's ear and spoke very softly. "I need not mention that he is the King's nephew. I believe the King took a rather dim view of your pursuit of his favorite page two years ago. Be grateful Lord Fujimiya came upon you when he did. Otherwise you may not have survived this."
Yohji released the Count and moved to help Ran support Ken. The Count seemed to sag a bit before regaining his composure.
"Good evening, Count Kase," Yohji said amiably. "If I were you I'd be more careful in the future."
The crowd parted and they left the ballroom. Once in the hall they stopped at the top of the staircase to look at Ken again. He was humming to himself. He smiled lazily at them, but was totally unable to support his own weight.
"He's definitely intoxicated," Yohji said. "I wonder what they used."
"I only let him out of my sight for a minute!" Ran stated, his voice tight.
"This isn't your fault, Ran. I never thought the King would let that thing back in," the Prince spat.
"Kase married last year and acquired a large fortune. I think the King feared he could become a powerful enemy," said Ran coldly. He looked at Ken and was seized with such fury it was all he could do to keep from returning to the hall and skewering the Count.
Yohji sensed this and pushed Ken at him.
"Here," he said, "you take him. I'll go tell Omi to have the carriage brought."
Before Ran could protest Yohji was halfway down the stairs. Ken looked up and blinked at him.
"Hey, you look like Ran," he said and smiled brightly. "I like him."
Ran shook his head. Without too much effort he lifted the youth in his arms and started carefully down the stairs.
"I like you too, Ken," he muttered.
By the time he reached the front entrance Ken was dozing lightly. Yohji and Omi were waiting with the carriage. They all bundled in and started off home.
"So much for a night of society," Omi commented.
Yohji snorted. He'd never met anyone with worse luck. He hated to think what Ken would've done inheriting the estate at twenty-one.
Ken murmured something and rolled in his seat until he was resting against Ran's shoulder. Yohji couldn't tell in the dark of the carriage, but it almost seemed like Ran blushed.
It took all three of them to get Ken into his nightshirt and bed. He revived a little when they set him on his bed and he remembered the Count. He thought they were attacking him for "the white faced man" and he put up a valiant fight. Ran was finally able to calm him down and keep him calm so Omi and Yohji could change his clothes. Finally they manged to get him into bed.
Ken was convinced "the white faced man" would get him if Ran left, so the red-head was forced to remain until the young man fell asleep. Ken clutched onto Ran's arm and pressed his face into his sleeve.
"Don't worry, Ken. Go to sleep," Ran said perching on the edge of the bed.
"No, he'll get me," Ken's muffled voice replied.
"Count Kase won't get you. We're safe at home."
"Don't go!" Ken pleaded through Ran's sleeve.
The red-headed Lord sighed.
"I'm not going anywhere," he said softly. He gave into his desire to touch the younger man and gently stroked his hair.
"Caroline used to do that," sighed Ken. "I miss her."
"Have you received a letter yet?"
"No." Ken unburied his face a little and looked up at Ran. "I'm afraid she won't write."
"She will. Give her a chance to get settled," Ran said continuing to run his fingers through Ken's soft hair.
"Do you swear you won't leave me?"
Ran looked down into the large brown eyes that were earnestly observing him.
"I swear," he said.
Ken released his sleeve then tensed to see what Ran would do. He didn't do anything except continue to stroke Ken's hair. The young Duke began to relax. He sighed deeply.
"Everyone leaves," he said. "I guess I don't mind, but I don't want the white faced man to get me."
"He's far away," said Ran softly. "He wouldn't dare to come here."
"Good."
They were silent for a time. Ken's eyes began to droop.
"Do you want to come back home with me?" Ken asked sleepily.
"Yes, if you would like me to."
"I do want you to. Then we can take our tour."
"Oh, yes," Ran said smiling softly.
"H-h-how long will you stay?" asked Ken in a quiet voice.
"I don't know. We'll have to see."
"W-would you...would you stay forever? I...would like it if you did."
Ran blinked down at Ken in surprise. His heart began to thud in his chest as he recognized the emotion in Ken's eyes. But he couldn't allow himself to believe it. No, Ken was under the influence of a foreign substance. Not to mention he was completely innocent, in some ways little more than a child. The events of the evening a testament to his inexperience. In the morning when he woke he probably wouldn't even remember this moment, or understand what he was asking of Ran. The red-head looked away.
"We'll have to see," he repeated. "Go to sleep now."
Ken blinked up at him a few times then allowed his eyes to close. After a few minutes his breathing evened out and deepened. When Ran was sure Ken was asleep he rose from the bed and pressed a hand to his chest. His heart was aching. He was in love with Ken. He knew he had been since not long after they'd met. But Ken couldn't possibly love him in return.
Ran looked down on Ken's peaceful face. The Duke was curled up on his side with one hand still reaching for Ran's sleeve. He looked so young. Too young. How could Ran continue to be with him day in and day out when already it was starting to wear on the stoic man?
Ran pulled himself away from the bed containing the sleeping figure and exited the room. He closed the door and leaned against it. What he needed was to get away for a bit. Get away and clear his head. He hadn't seen his mother or sister in several months. He should go home. He would go home.
Ken warily walked down the hall toward his room. He wasn't physically tired, but he felt drained in every other way. He was tired of late dinners, of entertainments, of high teas, of all good society. In short, he was tired of playing the game. And he missed Ran.
The stoic red-head had been gone a week already and Ken wondered whether he would come back. He didn't remember anything about the night he'd been drugged after meeting Count Kase, but he had the feeling something had happened. He'd awoken late the next morning with a splitting headache, and been told that Ran had departed for his own estate to pay a long overdue visit to his mother and sister.
Ken could understand Ran's need to see his family, but his heart ached at how the man had left without saying goodbye. Any sense of loss he'd experienced before paled to what he felt at Ran's abrupt departure. The young Duke thought it odd that Ran never mentioned any intention to visit his family, which led him to believe that the decision was reached suddenly. What really concerned him was the fact that as of today he'd been in Town a month. It was time for him to return home as well, and Ran was supposed to go with him.
Over the course of the week Yohji and Omi had kept him busy visiting places and meeting people. Asuka and the Aunties consumed his time at the house. Still he missed Ran, but he endeavored to hide it. He'd slapped a cheery smile on his face and presented a happy Ken to everyone he'd come into contact with. But when he'd finally received a letter from Caroline he couldn't hide from himself. He'd written her back immediately about how Ran was gone and how much he missed him.
Ken shook his head sighing, and entered his bedroom. Just inside the room he froze, staring. In his bed sat a scantily clad young woman. She stared back at him for a moment then recalled what she was about and dropped the top of her nightshirt.
"Good evening, your Grace," she said enticingly.
Ken's mouth fell open as he tried to form an answer. He forced himself to take a breath.
"Please, excuse me," he finally said and bolted out of the room and down the hall.
Ken slid to a stop outside of Yohji's room and pounded on the door in near panic. After a few minutes the door opened to reveal the Prince in his nightshirt. When he saw Ken he stepped out into the hall and closed the door behind him.
"Ken, what's the matter?" Yohji asked in concern.
"Th-th-there-th-th-there's a-a-a-a..."
"Slow down, Cousin," Yohji said gripping his shoulders.
Ken took a breath and swallowed.
"Th-there's a...w-w-woman in...in my b-bed."
Yohji's eyebrows shot up and he blinked at his younger cousin before bursting out in hardy laughter. Once he got himself under control the Prince beamed a big smile at the blushing young man, and shook his shoulder.
"Good for you!" he chuckled. "Nothing personal, but I didn't think you had it in you. Congratulations, and have fun. As it happens I'm similarly engaged, so-"
"No, Yohji! Its not like that!" Ken cried.
The Prince stopped and looked at him.
"How...h-how do I ask her to leave?"
"You want her to leave?"
Ken nodded.
"You don't want to have relations with her?"
Ken shook his head adamantly.
The Prince gave him a hard look.
"There's nothing to be afraid of, Ken-"
"I'm not afraid. I'm just not...interested."
The Prince continued his hard look.
"I think," he said slowly, "that we need to have a talk, but now is not the time. Simply tell the young lady thank you, but not tonight. That ought to do the trick."
Ken nodded as he listened. Of course, nothing simpler. Why had he panicked? It wasn't like she was going to jump up and attack him. He nodded again.
"Thank you."
"No problem," the Prince said. "I'll see you in the morning."
"Yes. The morning. Good night."
"Good night, Ken."
Yohji watched his younger cousin move away down the hall. Shaking his head he entered his room softly closing the door behind him.
Ken marched back down the hall to his room. He could do this, he just had to be polite. He set his jaw in determination, and opened his door. The young woman sat back up and started to drop her top again, but stopped when Ken waved at her.
"I'm sorry, but...ummm...what's your name?" he asked.
"Yuriko, your Grace."
"Yuriko, nice to meet you. I'm Ken," he said. "Umm, look I'm sorry, but I'm too tired for...ah, thank you very much."
He bowed for effect. When he faced Yuriko again he noticed how worried she looked.
"What's the matter?" he asked concerned.
"I-I was sent by the Count."
"The Count? Kase?"
She nodded.
"He wanted to make sure there were no hard feelins from the misunderstandin."
"So, he sent you here to me to...?"
When she nodded he scowled. He definitely did not like that Count. Ken glanced back at Yuriko. She looked frightened.
"What's wrong, Yuriko? You can tell me."
"He-he's not expecting me back until mornin. He won't be pleased."
Ken sighed, then smiled.
"You can sleep there if you want," he said indicating the bed she was in. "I don't sleep there anyway. Its too soft. I've been sleeping on the settee."
Yuriko smiled shakily and her eyes got suspiciously moist.
"Thank you. You are...very kind."
"No," he shook his head. "Good night. Have good dreams."
"You too, your...I mean, Ken." She sniffed and laid down.
Ken blew out the candles and sat on the settee. He blinked at the dark fire place before him. The events of the last half hour running through his mind. Through the open window he could hear crickets chirping, but not as loudly as at home. Behind him Yuriko sighed and rolled over.
Yohji had seemed surprised that Ken had refused her. But he wasn't interested and neither was she really, so wasn't it right to refuse? Ken thought for a minute. Why wasn't he interested? Shouldn't he be? Wasn't it natural? Was it Yuriko he wasn't interested in? She was quite pretty. Ken tried to think whether there was anyone he wouldn't have refused.
The image of sparkling purple eyes and red hair flashed through his mind. He blinked in surprise as he felt his heart begin to race, and his cheeks heat up. Ken pressed a hand to his chest. The tingles he'd felt in unmentionable places after Ran had held him in the saddle returned with a fury. Ran. He wanted Ran. Was that why he felt his loss so keenly? Is that why he wanted to be with Ran all the time?
With a start Ken realized it was more than physically wanting the red-head. He wanted to be there when Ran ate, read his books, wrote his letters, practiced at his club, and when he slept. Ken wanted to hear him laugh, make him laugh, and hold him if he cried. He loved him. He loved Ran.
Ken felt himself smile. He was in love. He knew he was. He knew it like he knew he was breathing. Suddenly he felt like laughing out loud, like jumping up and running around the house.
He loved Ran. But would Ran love him? Could he? Ken knew he'd loved Richard, so it was possible for Ran to love another man. But Richard had been someone important. He'd been able to figure that out from some of the things he'd over heard. Although Ken was a titled Duke he was really just a farmer. A Duke who'd been raised as a servant without an education. Education was important to Ran. The red-head was cultured and Ken was...Ken. Could Ran ever love someone who'd never be his intellectual equal?
And was Richard really dead? Ran had discarded his black clothes, but his emotionless mask was firmly in place. Would he be willing to risk his heart again after losing his first love?
Ken curled up on the settee and hugged himself. All he could do was try, and he would if Ran would ever come back from his estate. With thoughts of the red-head filling his mind Ken found it impossible to sleep. Instead he made decisions, and remembered what it was like being held in the arms of the tall, stoic man.
Author's Note After: Phew! That was long. Was that long? It seemed long to me typing it. Of course, I'm a two fingered typist. Well, originally that wasn't Kase, but I couldn't resist. I really don't like Kase at all, so it seems appropriate that I fit him into the potential rapist role. This character is a common occurrence in literature, and mine was inspired by one found in "The History of Tom Jones" by Henry Fielding, and he looks like this vision I have in my head of Terry Jones (Monty Python) but I'm not sure from what. The drug was most likely Ether, which if taken orally is highly intoxicating and extremely addictive. And of course Yuriko follows Kase. Well, I hope you liked it! Please R & R!
Akikaze-san: Yay! All my hard work paid off! That's what I was trying to do! I'm so glad you liked it. Yeah, they shouldn't be afraid. I think this chapter (hopefully) showed that Ken didn't realize his own feelings, but poor Ran is terrified of his and the whole guilt thing. Wow. Well, I hope its as memorable as it should be. I guess we'll see won't we? (Author creeps away to check her story and possibly rewrite - Ha-ha!) Thank you so much for reading and reviewing!
Mondtanz: Well, the poser kid wasn't Kase, but now you know why! I hope you enjoyed that. I would've had Ran slice him in two, but then he'd be arrested and go to jail and no more Ran/Ken. I'm glad there were enough "moments" for you. I like those too. Umm...cringe...there won't be any for a bit I'm afraid. (Author flees while shielding her head from flying objects). Thank you so much for reading and reviewing!
Lychee2: Yeah, there is a lot to hate there, ne? Well, you'll probably see him again...someday. And the dancing lessons are coming...someday. I'd never want to disappoint a large crowd of people...then again (Trick! I wouldn't!). I'm glad you like the life at Court stuff. I had a lot of trouble trying to keep track of all the details. The 18th century was complicated! Portia at Sanity's End has a much more accurate 18th century story, but its only highlights. Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!
Allis: What can I say? Great minds think alike! But...(author puts on a cowboy hat and large mustache)...that there's sequel territory. I'm working on it! But I should warn you that they didn't waltz in the 18th century. The waltz was invented in the 19th century and considered a scandle for most of that. You did get my first mail? Okay, I sent you a second one. I'm a dunce. Thanks for reading and reviewing and where's my mail?! - Never mind! I got it! Thanks!
Celandine: I'm glad you like the moments too, I love all Ran/Ken moments in all fics. Sigh Okay, obviously I need to go back and add something or rewrite that whole lineage thing. I think I confused everyone which isn't all that surprising. Never ask for directions from me. I hope you liked this chapter as well, but I think pretty much everyone will hate the way it ended. Thanks for reading and reviewing!
Chaosdreamer: Thank you so much for the review at the end of your wonderful fic "Light Meets Darkness" over at mediaminer. Anyone who hasn't read it and likes fantasy/horror should! So good! I was so psyched when I saw that you read my fic and liked it. I think I actually ran out of the room squeeling, and I'm not sure, but I may have been hopping up and down when I told my husband. He puts up with so much! Anyway, thank you again and I hope you can figure out how to get it up over here!