Warning: AU, Pseudo-Historical Romance, PG-13, Ran/Ken.
Author's Notes: Yay!!! Lots of reviews!! Thank you so much! I forgot to mention last time, but there's no Schwarz in this fic. Sorry. I have plans for them to have a big intro. In the next one (although, two members were briefly mentioned in ch.1). Also, no Sneller for those of you that want him dead. Sorry, not this time either. You'll just have to wait for him to show up again. Personally, I don't miss him. There's gonna be someone even more awful in this story, so you can hate him instead. Please enjoy!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Once I Was Loved
Chapter Two
Mrs. Hudson, along with the rest of the household, was not happy to hear of their intentions to be off on another trip. Ran tried to assure everyone that they'd be back long before Christmas, and spent their two weeks at home not only tending to estate matters with Ken, but doing anything he could to make it up to Ken's family.
Ken didn't seem as disappointed about leaving again as the Earl feared he would be. The Duke had been glad to return to his home and family, but he seemed excited about the prospect of meeting Ran's family and seeing his estate. The stoic red-head had told him about his sister and mother, who now handled the estate's affairs in his absence. He'd inherited the estate upon his father's death when he was fifteen, but had relied quite a bit on his mother. He'd found her a confident and brilliant partner, and had come to leave the managing of the estate in her hands.
For his part, Ran was hoping the visit would be as short as he hoped. Not that he didn't want to see his family, but he was tired of feeling unsettled.
They made their plans and a letter was sent off in reply to the one Ran had received. They spent two weeks at home seeing to Ken's estate, making sure things were as well as they appeared, and packing enough things for a months visit. At the end of the two weeks a coach would be ordered from the village. They would need quite a bit of luggage for a month's visit and had no desire to bring a wagon. Therefore, a coach was ideal.
Ken was excited by the whole idea. He'd only ever traveled in carriages in Town, but never long distance. Omi assured him he wouldn't like it, but he was still eager to try. He was also thrilled with the idea of meeting Ran's mother and sister. He'd known that they would meet eventually, but Ran hadn't been in much of a hurry. Ken didn't like to push him about things, he was simply grateful for every moment Ran could give to him. He was very careful about not taking the Earl for granted.
"Do you realize," Omi said as he helped Ken pack, "that as of this month Ran and I have been traveling for nearly a full year?"
Ken stopped sorting his shoes and looked at Omi who was folding his clothes into neat piles on the bed in order to place them into the open trunk set on the floor. It was early evening and they could feel the nip of fall in the air.
"It was a year ago that Yohji and I removed Ran from Town and began our trip," the young servant explained. "Little did I realize. Our only significant break was the six weeks we spent in Town for your introduction."
"No wonder," Ken muttered. "Ran hasn't been thrilled about leaving again. I knew he wanted to settle, but I forgot all about your other traveling. Maybe we shoulda postponed the tour for a season."
Omi shook his head.
"No, that was important."
"And fun," Ken smiled.
Omi chuckled. Ken had certainly had fun.
"What is Lady Fujimiya like?" the Duke asked suddenly.
"She's nice. She's very confident, but quietly so. She's a lot like Ran, but not as reserved, and her sense of humor is very similar to your aunt's, the Grand Duchess."
"Do you think she'll like me?" Ken asked a little sheepishly.
"Ken, everyone likes you," Omi said. "She'll love you. Look what you've done to Ran. He's like a new person. I've never seen him this happy."
Ken blushed and smiled. He sorted a few more shoes before giving up and turning the whole lot over to Omi. Try as he might he could never quite understand fashion. Probably because he really couldn't care less about it, and with Omi right there it wasn't essential for him to learn. Omi started packing his trunk by laying his shoes in the bottom while Ken looked through the piles of shirts, breeches, waistcoats, stockings, and nightshirts the young servant had folded.
"What about Ran's sister?" he asked.
"Aya? Hmm, let's see," Omi thought a moment. "She's sweet. He dotes on her. I think before you came along she was what kept Ran going. She made him promise he'd return to her."
Ken stopped looking through the neatly stacked piles of clothing and blinked in surprise. Ran had told him some things about his life before they'd met, including some of his time with Richard, but he hadn't told him that.
Omi glanced up and noticed Ken's expression.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
"Nothing. I just didn't know that," Ken answered.
"Don't worry you will. He probably just hasn't gotten around to telling you. Its been a busy four months for you two," Omi reminded him.
Ken nodded and handed over the pile of breeches nearest him. Omi placed them in the trunk on the shelf he'd inserted over the shoes. The Duke had grown almost an inch over the summer and they'd had to stop over for several days in a little village to have all his shoes replaced and his clothes let out. Ken was actually relieved. He'd been afraid that he was going to be short forever. Omi had inherited all his shoes. Ran was sure it wouldn't be long before the young servant followed in Ken's foot steps.
"Well, that does it for you," Omi said laying in the last of Ken's nightshirts and stockings. He glanced around the room before he closed and locked the trunk. "Tomorrow we leave."
Ken smiled in anticipation.
The next day dawned cool, but clear. The entire household turned out once again, and Ran apologized again for their having to leave. Mrs. Hudson shushed him saying there was nothing he could do about family obligations. They were to enjoy themselves and hurry home.
It was generally thought that the trip would take four days to complete, but since Ran had never made it from the manor he had to admit he was guessing. The route would be different until they came within a few miles of the estate, and they had no idea about the state of the roads.
Yohji had decided to tag along despite Ran's adamant rejection of the idea. The Prince insisted that he owed a visit to his mother's cousin, and said with a wink that he wanted to lay his eyes on Aya before the rest of the wolves at Court. That had almost brought the two men to blows but for Omi stepping between them. And so Ken learned that Aya was due to come out and be presented at Court as an eligible young woman that season, and that was one of the reasons for their meeting them in Town in January.
Ken shifted in his seat again and tried not to wince. Omi had been right about the coach. Despite his initial enthusiasm after a few hours the young Duke had to admit he agreed with Ran's servant. The seats were hard and unforgiving, the space inside was cramped even though the coach appeared large, with a high seat in the front for the driver and a shelf in back for groomsmen to stand. Their trunks were piled and tied on the roof. It didn't help that the roads were verging on dangerous in terms of their upkeep, or lack there of. Every few minutes the occupants were pitched either one way or the other. Ken reflected that it was a good thing they were all fond of one another since at any given moment you could end up in someone's lap.
They were traveling east toward the coast and had to climb and descend several mountains which afforded spectacular views into the valleys. It was interesting to note that in places the trees had completely lost their leaves, while in others they were just beginning to turn. Every town and village offered its own points of interest, and they stayed the nights in inns which although rustic offered a variety of new foods and local music for entertainment.
But after three days Ken felt cramped, soar, and slightly tense about being confined on beautiful clear sunny days. The almost constant bickering between Omi and Yohji didn't help, and even Ran tested his patience with his silent reading. The Duke decided he much preferred riding whether there was room for their luggage or not. By the fourth day he was ready to scream. So he was not happy when they hadn't arrived at Ran's estate by nightfall, and they were forced to find yet another inn.
"We're fairly close," Yohji said over supper in the dining room of the inn they had settled on. It was small, but well furnished and had rooms enough for all of them. "I expect we'll get there by late afternoon tomorrow or possibly sooner."
"Good," Ken grumbled. He stared sulkily into his soup as he ate it.
"I tried to warn you," Omi said.
Ken glared at him until Ran gently squeezed his arm.
"We'll take our walk after supper," he said quietly.
Ken nodded, still pouting. He felt a little guilty for his bad temper, but not too guilty. As supper progressed he began to look forward to his walk with Ran, a habit they'd developed since the first night when Ken had been too full of pent up energy to relax enough to even sit still through their evening meal.
As they stepped out into the cool, crisp air of the October night Ken felt his tension dissipate and his mood lighten. He stretched and fell into step beside Ran who began strolling toward the stables. Ken caught up his hand and leaned into his side. He could almost feel Ran's smile as their feet crunched through the fallen leaves.
"I love the fall," Ken said softly. "The air seems so fresh." He took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
Beside him Ran chuckled. It was a pleasant deep rumble which filled the night around them.
They moved past the stables and walked into a small orchard a little further down the road. The apples had already been harvested, but there were a few on the ground which filled the air with their sweet scent. It was almost a new moon, so there was little light and almost no chance of being seen. Ran wrapped his arms around Ken and pulled the Duke against a tree trunk and kissed him thoroughly. Their lips pulled reluctantly apart and they both sighed. For long minutes they just held each other. Content in one another's arms and listening to the sounds of the night.
"I have to tell you something and ask a favor of you, but you aren't going to like it," Ran said at last, rubbing his chin over the top of Ken's head.
"What is it?" the Duke asked softly, snuggling closer to the warmth of his lover.
"You understand that what we share isn't conventional, and so we are careful about how we behave in public," Ran spoke quietly. "Although there are many people who would accept us without question there are many who would be outraged, and even try to harm us in some way."
"Yes, I know."
"What I need to tell you is...there are some people close to me I've been afraid to tell about myself," he said. "And so..."
"They don't know about us," Ken finished pulling back to look up at Ran, but in the dark he couldn't really see him. "Who haven't you told? I thought you said your mother..."
"My mother knows," Ran said. "Its Aya."
"Aya? Your sister?"
"Yes," Ran answered. "She doesn't know."
"What?" Ken asked, eyes widening. "At all? What about Richard? Omi said she made you promise that...that..."
Ken could feel Ran shaking his head.
"No, I kept it from her," the Earl sighed heavily. "She thought my grief was for a very dear friend, nothing more."
"But...why?"
"After our father died she was very ill. We were afraid we'd lose her too. It was years before she fully recovered. She's so delicate. A dear, innocent little thing. Ken, she means the world to me. I just couldn't bear her rejection," Ran's voice was pained, desperate.
Ken had never heard him like this, and pulled him close.
"Please tell me you understand," Ran asked. "Say you forgive me."
"There's nothing to forgive," Ken answered him. "I love you. I do understand, but...you are going to have to tell her someday."
"I know," Ran mumbled, burying his face in Ken's shoulder. "I keep hoping it'll get easier. Or I'll become brave. Like you are."
"Me? You are brave. Are you alright?" Ken asked. "You're not making any sense."
Ran chuckled into his shoulder, and sighed. Ken sighed as well. He'd never seen Ran like this before and wasn't sure what to do.
"So, let me guess, this means separate rooms?" the Duke pouted.
"Sorry, Love, but I'm afraid so. Do you still forgive me?"
Ken sighed expressively.
"I suppose," he said. "We can see how long we can last."
"Leave your door unlocked," Ran said huskily.
They smiled at each other in the dark before coming together for a deep kiss.
"I love you so," Ran whispered when they parted.
"Prove it."
It was a long while before they made it to their rooms for bed.
Yohji's prediction proved true as they turned from the road they had been following and onto another shortly before lunch. About tea time they entered a little village.
"Ah, its not long now," he said winking at Ken. "Ran's estate is not five miles from here."
Ken breathed a sigh of relief and began to feel his anticipation rise again. He looked at Ran and grinned. The Earl looked apprehensive. Ken took his hand and squeezed it before leaning toward the window nearest him. He eagerly watched the passing countryside, awaiting the first view of Ran's home.
"After the next bend direct your eyes forward. There'll be a parting in those hills and you'll catch a glimpse of it," Ran said, leaning into him slightly.
Ken nodded.
They were passing through some beautiful country. Long rolling hills covered in tall grasses or the cropped stalks of harvested hay, wheat, barley, or oats. His own estate, outside the valley, was rather flat, so even the slight change in scenery was of interest to him. They were nearing the coast, and the air seemed a bit sharper, slightly salty. Ken knew from studying the map that if they kept going in the direction they were traveling they'd eventually ride off the cliffs that made up the kingdom's eastern boarder.
The coach drove around the next bend and Ken gripped the window edge to keep from falling back against Ran. Just as the road straightened out the hills in the distance seemed to part and the tall pointed roof of a stately home became visible. Ken could make out four chimneys, and some stone walls before it disappeared behind the hill again. From what he'd seen it didn't look too different from his own manor. He turned to Ran.
"Its stone with a slate roof like our house," he said.
Yohji and Omi chuckled.
"Wait until you see it, Cousin Ken," the Prince laughed. "Those are the only similarities, I can assure you."
Ken looked at his cousin with a puzzled frown, but at the feel of the coach turning to leave the main stretch of road he was drawn back to the window.
The road followed the base of the hill around to the north. Ken kept a close eye out but once past the hill they entered a small wood which contrived to hide any view of the house. He could feel his companions' eyes on him, watching in amusement, but he ignored them.
Ran shifted nervously in his seat. He was trying not to show exactly how anxious he was, but he knew they could all sense it. Something hadn't been right about his mother's letter, but just what he hadn't been able to define. Also, he had to own part of his nervousness to the inevitable conversation he would most likely have to have with his sister. He had no idea how she would react. She'd been living in virtual isolation on the estate with only the tiny village nearby for society and diversion. She knew almost nothing of the variety that existed in the world, and he was convinced she wouldn't like it.
Ken could feel Ran moving around behind him as he continued to watch out the window. He was about to turn around and give his lover another encouraging smile when the trees suddenly parted to reveal a long expanse of lawn. The young Duke pressed his face against the glass in the hopes of viewing the house, but to no avail.
"Cousin, I suggest you rein Ken in before he breaks that window with his face," Yohji remarked with a smirk.
Ken glared at the Prince over his shoulder before sitting back in his seat.
"The drive circles around in front of the house, Ken," Omi said smiling. "You can see it then."
Sure enough, within moments the coach began to turn as the drive circled around. Ken leaned over Ran to stare out his window, and gaped in awe.
The house looked enormous. Larger than his Uncle's in Town, and much larger than his own. It was very tall in the main body, but had two sprawling wings that extended forward and back on either side. Its tall windows were many paned, and added to the look of height. It was stone, with a slate roof, but it sported eight chimneys. Around the edge of the roof was a low iron rail with spikes and decorative curls. In the center of the main part was a large entrance which also extended slightly forward, but not nearly as far as the wings and sported a vestibule of windows. The whole place seemed austere and almost menacing. Like a large capital "E" laying on its side.
Ken sat back and stared wide eyed at Ran who shrugged. Yohji and Omi laughed.
"That's where you grew up?" Ken asked in disbelief.
"Yes," Ran answered with a small smile of amusement.
"Explains a lot, doesn't it?" Yohji chuckled.
Ran glared at him scowling.
Moments later the coach came to a stop before the front doors, which were up above the drive several steps. They appeared to be massive, heavy objects, but as Ken watched a smaller door cut into the larger one on the right opened to let several people out.
Ken leaned back in his seat and nervously looked at Ran, who looked nervously back at him. Yohji paused a moment to observe them and smile before throwing open the coach door and stepping out. Omi followed him smirking.
Ran took a breath and composed himself. As he stepped from the coach he frowned to discover Yohji bending over to kiss his sister's hand. Aya looked quite pleased. Too pleased.
Ken slowly descended the steps of the coach and looked at the group assembled in front of Ran's home. There were several austere looking men in dark colored coats and breeches with white wigs on their heads who were obviously butlers, and a few women in blue dresses that came to just above their ankles, and white caps on who must be maids. At the center of the group, receiving the attention of Yohji, Ran, and Omi, were an older woman with brilliant auburn hair the color of a fine wine or brandy done up in tight knots on the back of her head, and a younger woman with black hair also in knots but with ringlets falling to her neck, and eyes a more bluish shade of purple than Ran's. They were both dressed very elegantly in full length gowns, the bodices of which were tight and would've been rather revealing but for the lacey scarves they both wore. The sleeves went to their elbows and were edged with lace. Lady Fujimiya's gown was a deep red and complemented her hair, while Aya's was a light green with a tiny print forming stripes down its length. Both women wore folded fans hanging from their right wrists. Ken recognized that they were dressed at the height of fashion from his time in Town with his Aunt.
Ken fidgeted nervously as Ran spoke sharply to Yohji about something he'd said to the younger woman, Ran's sister Aya. Ran's mother finished kissing Omi on the cheek and Ken found her intelligent hazel eyes directed toward him. With an effort he stopped his fidgeting.
Ran's mother smiled sweetly and reached for her son's arm. She redirected his attention from his cousin's antics with his sister to the fidgeting Duke. The Earl smiled in apology and moved to him with his mother in tow. As they approached Ken became aware of the fact that Ran's mother was nearly as tall as her son, which meant she was slightly taller than he was. He sighed, then straightened as they reached him.
"Mother, I would like you to meet the Duke of Hidaka, Ken Hidaka," Ran said in introduction. "Ken, this is my mother, Lady Fujimiya."
Ken bowed as Lady Fujimiya curtsied. She looked at her son and her smile widened, then she reached forward and caught Ken's hands in her own.
"No such formalities of address should exist between us," she said, her voice was smooth and cultured, and Ken felt completely captivated by it. "You may call me Elinor and I shall call you Ken. I am so very, very pleased to meet you."
Before he could say anything Lady Fujimiya leaned forward and pressed a lingering kiss to his cheek. When she pulled back her eyes were suspiciously moist and she appeared to be blushing. Ken felt his own cheeks heat up in pleasure.
"Th-thank you, Elinor," he stammered, slightly dazed.
Her smile broadened and she released his hands to cup his face. She beamed at Ran. "He's so sweet," she commented. She felt her relief as a physical wave. For a year she'd been worried about her son. His brief visit in the spring had done nothing to alleviate her worries, and had in fact made them temporarily worse. She smiled brighter.
Ran simply arched an eyebrow at her. His nervousness apparently gone. Lady Fujimiya released Ken's face and captured his arm, leading him toward Aya.
"Come and meet my daughter."
Yohji, it seemed, had stopped pestering Aya as soon as Ran wasn't there to disapprove. He stood beside his female cousin raptly watching Ken's introduction to Ran's mother. He winked at the Duke as they approached. Aya straightened her dress and eyed Ken with an unreadable expression very similar to her brother's.
"Aya, my dear," said Lady Fujimiya. "This is Duke Hidaka, the young man Ran has been teaching estate management to since the spring."
"Lovely to meet you, your Grace," the young lady said, dipping in a most proper curtsy.
"Yes...a pleasure," Ken said, bowing. "Please, call me Ken."
"And you must call me Aya," Ran's sister said, bowing her head demurely and peering at him through her dark bangs.
Ken wasn't sure he liked the look she was giving him. He felt himself blushing again and it made him uncomfortable.
"Come inside," Lady Fujimiya said brightly. "Tea should be ready by now, and then Ran can show you around."
Ken allowed himself to be led into the large house. He noted Ran taking Aya's arm and following while Omi and Yohji followed them. Yohji still keeping a keen eye on Ken, and smirking. Behind them the servants carried in their trunks.
Author's Note: Really Ken would have a steward to see to his estate so he could be free to come and go as he pleased. Maybe someday. Ran's manor is Elizabethan in style. I wanted something old and austere and that style fit the bill.
Okay, lots of people wanted to know when I'd be updating. It'll be the same as last time. Every Tuesday evening when I get home from work. I'm in Vermont, so that's EST (Eastern Standard Time).
Allis: Yes, you're first! I love you too! Knuffl!
Celeste1: I'm glad you're so excited. I hope I don't disappoint. O.O I promise to keep the updates coming! Thanks!
Mondtanz: Wah! Don't say its already the Fall! I posted early!!! Weeellll, you will get more info on Ran's family, and there will be still more info on Richard. Some things still need to be resolved. I hope you'll enjoy it. Thanks!
Akimoto Kin: I'm glad you think they're adorable. I tried. A lot will happen when they go to visit Ran's mother, so just sit tight! Thanks!
Sandy: Did I update fast enough? This is as fast as I can go! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks!
Velvet Copper: I'm glad you liked my pervious story and now this one. I hope I won't disappoint. Thanks!
Darkfireofforbiddensouls: Great name! Thanks, I'm glad you liked the first one. I hope this'll be just as enjoyable. Thanks!
Manx16: Yep, a sequel. All these great people wrote me reviews and inspired me. I'm glad it made your day! I love it when that happens! I hope their adventures will be interesting. I guess we'll see. And you're welcome for the PG-13. That's about all I can handle with my writing style. Thanks!
Marsupial: Hi! Yeah, a sequel! salutes Party started, ma'me! Thanks!
LoneCayt: I know, I know. I've taken great liberties with the eighteenth century. If this were even close to the truth they could in no way go public with their romance (in Amsterdam they were still burning homosexuals at the time of this story). You'll have to wait and see what I do with Yohji, but please don't hold your breath. Aaagh! I'm sorry, but I'm going to have to go look up that other character you mentioned. Is that a good anime? I just have always thought that under his icy exterior Ran is a big marshmallow. Thanks!
Zeto: Yay! Yay! You liked the fanservice! Me too! Married? They just started their relationship! Give them some time! Thanks!
Tearlesereph: Wow! You spent the whole day? Thanks! points at you You guessed it! gives you a thumbs up You get an Eighteenth Century Ken plushy! Dead on with the impersonator. I'm not sure which I want for the Prince. I had one in mind, but now I'm considering the other. Thanks!
Murasaki-yanagi: Oh, you're welcome. It was my pleasure actually. I was really touched that people wanted to be told when the sequel was coming out. Well, they have no inhibitions in front of Ken's family, Omi, and Yohji. I'm glad you liked the fanservice, and I couldn't resist the old church. When I thought about it there was no other place Ken would want to go. And I'm glad you liked hearing about Richard, because there will be more. Thanks!
The red flip-flop: Great name! I'm glad you like it so far! Thanks!
Author's Notes: Yay!!! Lots of reviews!! Thank you so much! I forgot to mention last time, but there's no Schwarz in this fic. Sorry. I have plans for them to have a big intro. In the next one (although, two members were briefly mentioned in ch.1). Also, no Sneller for those of you that want him dead. Sorry, not this time either. You'll just have to wait for him to show up again. Personally, I don't miss him. There's gonna be someone even more awful in this story, so you can hate him instead. Please enjoy!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Once I Was Loved
Chapter Two
Mrs. Hudson, along with the rest of the household, was not happy to hear of their intentions to be off on another trip. Ran tried to assure everyone that they'd be back long before Christmas, and spent their two weeks at home not only tending to estate matters with Ken, but doing anything he could to make it up to Ken's family.
Ken didn't seem as disappointed about leaving again as the Earl feared he would be. The Duke had been glad to return to his home and family, but he seemed excited about the prospect of meeting Ran's family and seeing his estate. The stoic red-head had told him about his sister and mother, who now handled the estate's affairs in his absence. He'd inherited the estate upon his father's death when he was fifteen, but had relied quite a bit on his mother. He'd found her a confident and brilliant partner, and had come to leave the managing of the estate in her hands.
For his part, Ran was hoping the visit would be as short as he hoped. Not that he didn't want to see his family, but he was tired of feeling unsettled.
They made their plans and a letter was sent off in reply to the one Ran had received. They spent two weeks at home seeing to Ken's estate, making sure things were as well as they appeared, and packing enough things for a months visit. At the end of the two weeks a coach would be ordered from the village. They would need quite a bit of luggage for a month's visit and had no desire to bring a wagon. Therefore, a coach was ideal.
Ken was excited by the whole idea. He'd only ever traveled in carriages in Town, but never long distance. Omi assured him he wouldn't like it, but he was still eager to try. He was also thrilled with the idea of meeting Ran's mother and sister. He'd known that they would meet eventually, but Ran hadn't been in much of a hurry. Ken didn't like to push him about things, he was simply grateful for every moment Ran could give to him. He was very careful about not taking the Earl for granted.
"Do you realize," Omi said as he helped Ken pack, "that as of this month Ran and I have been traveling for nearly a full year?"
Ken stopped sorting his shoes and looked at Omi who was folding his clothes into neat piles on the bed in order to place them into the open trunk set on the floor. It was early evening and they could feel the nip of fall in the air.
"It was a year ago that Yohji and I removed Ran from Town and began our trip," the young servant explained. "Little did I realize. Our only significant break was the six weeks we spent in Town for your introduction."
"No wonder," Ken muttered. "Ran hasn't been thrilled about leaving again. I knew he wanted to settle, but I forgot all about your other traveling. Maybe we shoulda postponed the tour for a season."
Omi shook his head.
"No, that was important."
"And fun," Ken smiled.
Omi chuckled. Ken had certainly had fun.
"What is Lady Fujimiya like?" the Duke asked suddenly.
"She's nice. She's very confident, but quietly so. She's a lot like Ran, but not as reserved, and her sense of humor is very similar to your aunt's, the Grand Duchess."
"Do you think she'll like me?" Ken asked a little sheepishly.
"Ken, everyone likes you," Omi said. "She'll love you. Look what you've done to Ran. He's like a new person. I've never seen him this happy."
Ken blushed and smiled. He sorted a few more shoes before giving up and turning the whole lot over to Omi. Try as he might he could never quite understand fashion. Probably because he really couldn't care less about it, and with Omi right there it wasn't essential for him to learn. Omi started packing his trunk by laying his shoes in the bottom while Ken looked through the piles of shirts, breeches, waistcoats, stockings, and nightshirts the young servant had folded.
"What about Ran's sister?" he asked.
"Aya? Hmm, let's see," Omi thought a moment. "She's sweet. He dotes on her. I think before you came along she was what kept Ran going. She made him promise he'd return to her."
Ken stopped looking through the neatly stacked piles of clothing and blinked in surprise. Ran had told him some things about his life before they'd met, including some of his time with Richard, but he hadn't told him that.
Omi glanced up and noticed Ken's expression.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
"Nothing. I just didn't know that," Ken answered.
"Don't worry you will. He probably just hasn't gotten around to telling you. Its been a busy four months for you two," Omi reminded him.
Ken nodded and handed over the pile of breeches nearest him. Omi placed them in the trunk on the shelf he'd inserted over the shoes. The Duke had grown almost an inch over the summer and they'd had to stop over for several days in a little village to have all his shoes replaced and his clothes let out. Ken was actually relieved. He'd been afraid that he was going to be short forever. Omi had inherited all his shoes. Ran was sure it wouldn't be long before the young servant followed in Ken's foot steps.
"Well, that does it for you," Omi said laying in the last of Ken's nightshirts and stockings. He glanced around the room before he closed and locked the trunk. "Tomorrow we leave."
Ken smiled in anticipation.
The next day dawned cool, but clear. The entire household turned out once again, and Ran apologized again for their having to leave. Mrs. Hudson shushed him saying there was nothing he could do about family obligations. They were to enjoy themselves and hurry home.
It was generally thought that the trip would take four days to complete, but since Ran had never made it from the manor he had to admit he was guessing. The route would be different until they came within a few miles of the estate, and they had no idea about the state of the roads.
Yohji had decided to tag along despite Ran's adamant rejection of the idea. The Prince insisted that he owed a visit to his mother's cousin, and said with a wink that he wanted to lay his eyes on Aya before the rest of the wolves at Court. That had almost brought the two men to blows but for Omi stepping between them. And so Ken learned that Aya was due to come out and be presented at Court as an eligible young woman that season, and that was one of the reasons for their meeting them in Town in January.
Ken shifted in his seat again and tried not to wince. Omi had been right about the coach. Despite his initial enthusiasm after a few hours the young Duke had to admit he agreed with Ran's servant. The seats were hard and unforgiving, the space inside was cramped even though the coach appeared large, with a high seat in the front for the driver and a shelf in back for groomsmen to stand. Their trunks were piled and tied on the roof. It didn't help that the roads were verging on dangerous in terms of their upkeep, or lack there of. Every few minutes the occupants were pitched either one way or the other. Ken reflected that it was a good thing they were all fond of one another since at any given moment you could end up in someone's lap.
They were traveling east toward the coast and had to climb and descend several mountains which afforded spectacular views into the valleys. It was interesting to note that in places the trees had completely lost their leaves, while in others they were just beginning to turn. Every town and village offered its own points of interest, and they stayed the nights in inns which although rustic offered a variety of new foods and local music for entertainment.
But after three days Ken felt cramped, soar, and slightly tense about being confined on beautiful clear sunny days. The almost constant bickering between Omi and Yohji didn't help, and even Ran tested his patience with his silent reading. The Duke decided he much preferred riding whether there was room for their luggage or not. By the fourth day he was ready to scream. So he was not happy when they hadn't arrived at Ran's estate by nightfall, and they were forced to find yet another inn.
"We're fairly close," Yohji said over supper in the dining room of the inn they had settled on. It was small, but well furnished and had rooms enough for all of them. "I expect we'll get there by late afternoon tomorrow or possibly sooner."
"Good," Ken grumbled. He stared sulkily into his soup as he ate it.
"I tried to warn you," Omi said.
Ken glared at him until Ran gently squeezed his arm.
"We'll take our walk after supper," he said quietly.
Ken nodded, still pouting. He felt a little guilty for his bad temper, but not too guilty. As supper progressed he began to look forward to his walk with Ran, a habit they'd developed since the first night when Ken had been too full of pent up energy to relax enough to even sit still through their evening meal.
As they stepped out into the cool, crisp air of the October night Ken felt his tension dissipate and his mood lighten. He stretched and fell into step beside Ran who began strolling toward the stables. Ken caught up his hand and leaned into his side. He could almost feel Ran's smile as their feet crunched through the fallen leaves.
"I love the fall," Ken said softly. "The air seems so fresh." He took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
Beside him Ran chuckled. It was a pleasant deep rumble which filled the night around them.
They moved past the stables and walked into a small orchard a little further down the road. The apples had already been harvested, but there were a few on the ground which filled the air with their sweet scent. It was almost a new moon, so there was little light and almost no chance of being seen. Ran wrapped his arms around Ken and pulled the Duke against a tree trunk and kissed him thoroughly. Their lips pulled reluctantly apart and they both sighed. For long minutes they just held each other. Content in one another's arms and listening to the sounds of the night.
"I have to tell you something and ask a favor of you, but you aren't going to like it," Ran said at last, rubbing his chin over the top of Ken's head.
"What is it?" the Duke asked softly, snuggling closer to the warmth of his lover.
"You understand that what we share isn't conventional, and so we are careful about how we behave in public," Ran spoke quietly. "Although there are many people who would accept us without question there are many who would be outraged, and even try to harm us in some way."
"Yes, I know."
"What I need to tell you is...there are some people close to me I've been afraid to tell about myself," he said. "And so..."
"They don't know about us," Ken finished pulling back to look up at Ran, but in the dark he couldn't really see him. "Who haven't you told? I thought you said your mother..."
"My mother knows," Ran said. "Its Aya."
"Aya? Your sister?"
"Yes," Ran answered. "She doesn't know."
"What?" Ken asked, eyes widening. "At all? What about Richard? Omi said she made you promise that...that..."
Ken could feel Ran shaking his head.
"No, I kept it from her," the Earl sighed heavily. "She thought my grief was for a very dear friend, nothing more."
"But...why?"
"After our father died she was very ill. We were afraid we'd lose her too. It was years before she fully recovered. She's so delicate. A dear, innocent little thing. Ken, she means the world to me. I just couldn't bear her rejection," Ran's voice was pained, desperate.
Ken had never heard him like this, and pulled him close.
"Please tell me you understand," Ran asked. "Say you forgive me."
"There's nothing to forgive," Ken answered him. "I love you. I do understand, but...you are going to have to tell her someday."
"I know," Ran mumbled, burying his face in Ken's shoulder. "I keep hoping it'll get easier. Or I'll become brave. Like you are."
"Me? You are brave. Are you alright?" Ken asked. "You're not making any sense."
Ran chuckled into his shoulder, and sighed. Ken sighed as well. He'd never seen Ran like this before and wasn't sure what to do.
"So, let me guess, this means separate rooms?" the Duke pouted.
"Sorry, Love, but I'm afraid so. Do you still forgive me?"
Ken sighed expressively.
"I suppose," he said. "We can see how long we can last."
"Leave your door unlocked," Ran said huskily.
They smiled at each other in the dark before coming together for a deep kiss.
"I love you so," Ran whispered when they parted.
"Prove it."
It was a long while before they made it to their rooms for bed.
Yohji's prediction proved true as they turned from the road they had been following and onto another shortly before lunch. About tea time they entered a little village.
"Ah, its not long now," he said winking at Ken. "Ran's estate is not five miles from here."
Ken breathed a sigh of relief and began to feel his anticipation rise again. He looked at Ran and grinned. The Earl looked apprehensive. Ken took his hand and squeezed it before leaning toward the window nearest him. He eagerly watched the passing countryside, awaiting the first view of Ran's home.
"After the next bend direct your eyes forward. There'll be a parting in those hills and you'll catch a glimpse of it," Ran said, leaning into him slightly.
Ken nodded.
They were passing through some beautiful country. Long rolling hills covered in tall grasses or the cropped stalks of harvested hay, wheat, barley, or oats. His own estate, outside the valley, was rather flat, so even the slight change in scenery was of interest to him. They were nearing the coast, and the air seemed a bit sharper, slightly salty. Ken knew from studying the map that if they kept going in the direction they were traveling they'd eventually ride off the cliffs that made up the kingdom's eastern boarder.
The coach drove around the next bend and Ken gripped the window edge to keep from falling back against Ran. Just as the road straightened out the hills in the distance seemed to part and the tall pointed roof of a stately home became visible. Ken could make out four chimneys, and some stone walls before it disappeared behind the hill again. From what he'd seen it didn't look too different from his own manor. He turned to Ran.
"Its stone with a slate roof like our house," he said.
Yohji and Omi chuckled.
"Wait until you see it, Cousin Ken," the Prince laughed. "Those are the only similarities, I can assure you."
Ken looked at his cousin with a puzzled frown, but at the feel of the coach turning to leave the main stretch of road he was drawn back to the window.
The road followed the base of the hill around to the north. Ken kept a close eye out but once past the hill they entered a small wood which contrived to hide any view of the house. He could feel his companions' eyes on him, watching in amusement, but he ignored them.
Ran shifted nervously in his seat. He was trying not to show exactly how anxious he was, but he knew they could all sense it. Something hadn't been right about his mother's letter, but just what he hadn't been able to define. Also, he had to own part of his nervousness to the inevitable conversation he would most likely have to have with his sister. He had no idea how she would react. She'd been living in virtual isolation on the estate with only the tiny village nearby for society and diversion. She knew almost nothing of the variety that existed in the world, and he was convinced she wouldn't like it.
Ken could feel Ran moving around behind him as he continued to watch out the window. He was about to turn around and give his lover another encouraging smile when the trees suddenly parted to reveal a long expanse of lawn. The young Duke pressed his face against the glass in the hopes of viewing the house, but to no avail.
"Cousin, I suggest you rein Ken in before he breaks that window with his face," Yohji remarked with a smirk.
Ken glared at the Prince over his shoulder before sitting back in his seat.
"The drive circles around in front of the house, Ken," Omi said smiling. "You can see it then."
Sure enough, within moments the coach began to turn as the drive circled around. Ken leaned over Ran to stare out his window, and gaped in awe.
The house looked enormous. Larger than his Uncle's in Town, and much larger than his own. It was very tall in the main body, but had two sprawling wings that extended forward and back on either side. Its tall windows were many paned, and added to the look of height. It was stone, with a slate roof, but it sported eight chimneys. Around the edge of the roof was a low iron rail with spikes and decorative curls. In the center of the main part was a large entrance which also extended slightly forward, but not nearly as far as the wings and sported a vestibule of windows. The whole place seemed austere and almost menacing. Like a large capital "E" laying on its side.
Ken sat back and stared wide eyed at Ran who shrugged. Yohji and Omi laughed.
"That's where you grew up?" Ken asked in disbelief.
"Yes," Ran answered with a small smile of amusement.
"Explains a lot, doesn't it?" Yohji chuckled.
Ran glared at him scowling.
Moments later the coach came to a stop before the front doors, which were up above the drive several steps. They appeared to be massive, heavy objects, but as Ken watched a smaller door cut into the larger one on the right opened to let several people out.
Ken leaned back in his seat and nervously looked at Ran, who looked nervously back at him. Yohji paused a moment to observe them and smile before throwing open the coach door and stepping out. Omi followed him smirking.
Ran took a breath and composed himself. As he stepped from the coach he frowned to discover Yohji bending over to kiss his sister's hand. Aya looked quite pleased. Too pleased.
Ken slowly descended the steps of the coach and looked at the group assembled in front of Ran's home. There were several austere looking men in dark colored coats and breeches with white wigs on their heads who were obviously butlers, and a few women in blue dresses that came to just above their ankles, and white caps on who must be maids. At the center of the group, receiving the attention of Yohji, Ran, and Omi, were an older woman with brilliant auburn hair the color of a fine wine or brandy done up in tight knots on the back of her head, and a younger woman with black hair also in knots but with ringlets falling to her neck, and eyes a more bluish shade of purple than Ran's. They were both dressed very elegantly in full length gowns, the bodices of which were tight and would've been rather revealing but for the lacey scarves they both wore. The sleeves went to their elbows and were edged with lace. Lady Fujimiya's gown was a deep red and complemented her hair, while Aya's was a light green with a tiny print forming stripes down its length. Both women wore folded fans hanging from their right wrists. Ken recognized that they were dressed at the height of fashion from his time in Town with his Aunt.
Ken fidgeted nervously as Ran spoke sharply to Yohji about something he'd said to the younger woman, Ran's sister Aya. Ran's mother finished kissing Omi on the cheek and Ken found her intelligent hazel eyes directed toward him. With an effort he stopped his fidgeting.
Ran's mother smiled sweetly and reached for her son's arm. She redirected his attention from his cousin's antics with his sister to the fidgeting Duke. The Earl smiled in apology and moved to him with his mother in tow. As they approached Ken became aware of the fact that Ran's mother was nearly as tall as her son, which meant she was slightly taller than he was. He sighed, then straightened as they reached him.
"Mother, I would like you to meet the Duke of Hidaka, Ken Hidaka," Ran said in introduction. "Ken, this is my mother, Lady Fujimiya."
Ken bowed as Lady Fujimiya curtsied. She looked at her son and her smile widened, then she reached forward and caught Ken's hands in her own.
"No such formalities of address should exist between us," she said, her voice was smooth and cultured, and Ken felt completely captivated by it. "You may call me Elinor and I shall call you Ken. I am so very, very pleased to meet you."
Before he could say anything Lady Fujimiya leaned forward and pressed a lingering kiss to his cheek. When she pulled back her eyes were suspiciously moist and she appeared to be blushing. Ken felt his own cheeks heat up in pleasure.
"Th-thank you, Elinor," he stammered, slightly dazed.
Her smile broadened and she released his hands to cup his face. She beamed at Ran. "He's so sweet," she commented. She felt her relief as a physical wave. For a year she'd been worried about her son. His brief visit in the spring had done nothing to alleviate her worries, and had in fact made them temporarily worse. She smiled brighter.
Ran simply arched an eyebrow at her. His nervousness apparently gone. Lady Fujimiya released Ken's face and captured his arm, leading him toward Aya.
"Come and meet my daughter."
Yohji, it seemed, had stopped pestering Aya as soon as Ran wasn't there to disapprove. He stood beside his female cousin raptly watching Ken's introduction to Ran's mother. He winked at the Duke as they approached. Aya straightened her dress and eyed Ken with an unreadable expression very similar to her brother's.
"Aya, my dear," said Lady Fujimiya. "This is Duke Hidaka, the young man Ran has been teaching estate management to since the spring."
"Lovely to meet you, your Grace," the young lady said, dipping in a most proper curtsy.
"Yes...a pleasure," Ken said, bowing. "Please, call me Ken."
"And you must call me Aya," Ran's sister said, bowing her head demurely and peering at him through her dark bangs.
Ken wasn't sure he liked the look she was giving him. He felt himself blushing again and it made him uncomfortable.
"Come inside," Lady Fujimiya said brightly. "Tea should be ready by now, and then Ran can show you around."
Ken allowed himself to be led into the large house. He noted Ran taking Aya's arm and following while Omi and Yohji followed them. Yohji still keeping a keen eye on Ken, and smirking. Behind them the servants carried in their trunks.
Author's Note: Really Ken would have a steward to see to his estate so he could be free to come and go as he pleased. Maybe someday. Ran's manor is Elizabethan in style. I wanted something old and austere and that style fit the bill.
Okay, lots of people wanted to know when I'd be updating. It'll be the same as last time. Every Tuesday evening when I get home from work. I'm in Vermont, so that's EST (Eastern Standard Time).
Allis: Yes, you're first! I love you too! Knuffl!
Celeste1: I'm glad you're so excited. I hope I don't disappoint. O.O I promise to keep the updates coming! Thanks!
Mondtanz: Wah! Don't say its already the Fall! I posted early!!! Weeellll, you will get more info on Ran's family, and there will be still more info on Richard. Some things still need to be resolved. I hope you'll enjoy it. Thanks!
Akimoto Kin: I'm glad you think they're adorable. I tried. A lot will happen when they go to visit Ran's mother, so just sit tight! Thanks!
Sandy: Did I update fast enough? This is as fast as I can go! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks!
Velvet Copper: I'm glad you liked my pervious story and now this one. I hope I won't disappoint. Thanks!
Darkfireofforbiddensouls: Great name! Thanks, I'm glad you liked the first one. I hope this'll be just as enjoyable. Thanks!
Manx16: Yep, a sequel. All these great people wrote me reviews and inspired me. I'm glad it made your day! I love it when that happens! I hope their adventures will be interesting. I guess we'll see. And you're welcome for the PG-13. That's about all I can handle with my writing style. Thanks!
Marsupial: Hi! Yeah, a sequel! salutes Party started, ma'me! Thanks!
LoneCayt: I know, I know. I've taken great liberties with the eighteenth century. If this were even close to the truth they could in no way go public with their romance (in Amsterdam they were still burning homosexuals at the time of this story). You'll have to wait and see what I do with Yohji, but please don't hold your breath. Aaagh! I'm sorry, but I'm going to have to go look up that other character you mentioned. Is that a good anime? I just have always thought that under his icy exterior Ran is a big marshmallow. Thanks!
Zeto: Yay! Yay! You liked the fanservice! Me too! Married? They just started their relationship! Give them some time! Thanks!
Tearlesereph: Wow! You spent the whole day? Thanks! points at you You guessed it! gives you a thumbs up You get an Eighteenth Century Ken plushy! Dead on with the impersonator. I'm not sure which I want for the Prince. I had one in mind, but now I'm considering the other. Thanks!
Murasaki-yanagi: Oh, you're welcome. It was my pleasure actually. I was really touched that people wanted to be told when the sequel was coming out. Well, they have no inhibitions in front of Ken's family, Omi, and Yohji. I'm glad you liked the fanservice, and I couldn't resist the old church. When I thought about it there was no other place Ken would want to go. And I'm glad you liked hearing about Richard, because there will be more. Thanks!
The red flip-flop: Great name! I'm glad you like it so far! Thanks!