.Warning: AU, Pseudo-Historical Romance, PG-13, Ran/Ken.
Author's Notes: "Its not as it appears...well, it is...sort of...Oh! Its all so complicated!" Hee-hee! That's a quote from one of my all time favorite movies! I just thought I'd throw it out there. Thank you for all the reviews. They make me giddy! Replies follow the fic, and please enjoy! Lots more Aya for everyone!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Once I Was Loved
Chapter 4
To the Honorable Earl Ran Fujimiya
From the Countess Eriko Misekake
My Dearest Ran,
I hope this letter finds you well and with improved spirits. It has been more than a year since our dear Richard's passing and although my circumstances are altered I do not find them as unbearable as I had feared. I wish nothing more from you than the pleasure of your company. Dare I hope that you will allow me to make amends for my behavior when last we met? Surely you, with your benevolent heart, would not deny me. Please allow me this opportunity. I am available at your convenience.
With Great Affection and Love,
Eriko
Ran glanced over the contents of the letter again before folding it up and thrusting it into his waistcoat pocket, which he then straightened roughly. He paused to look at himself in the mirror. There were dark circles under his eyes from lack of sleep and he was unconsciously frowning. Sighing, he endeavored to look more cheery. Ken would notice and the Earl was hoping to get by without involving the Duke, although he wasn't sure why. There was no logical reason to maintain a separation between his present with Ken and his past with Richard, but he felt he must spare the Duke from his former feelings. Sighing again he grabbed up his coat and pulled it on.
Down the hall and around the corner in the guest wing Ken was also getting ready to face the day. Omi had already been to his room and laid out his clothes. All he had to do was wash and get dressed.
Unlike his red-headed lover Ken had slept fairly well through the night, although he did miss the warmth of another body beside him. The young Duke had decided to sleep in the bed incase Ran came to join him, but he hadn't been too surprised when the Earl failed to appear. Ran had had a rude awakening the day before. Aya wasn't the sweet delicate flower he'd imagined or remembered her being. Or, rather, she was trying hard not to be.
Ken pouted at his reflection. Was it his imagination or had she aimed much of her attention at him? Perhaps he was reading too much into her looks and touches. She had been isolated, as he had, and his was the first new face she'd been introduced to. That was bound to incite interest. Hadn't he been that way himself when he'd first met his cousin, Ran, and Omi? Nodding decisively he quickly dragged a comb through his hair, and decided that must be it. She was excited, nothing more.
His deep thoughts were interrupted by a quiet knock at the door.
"Its open," he called, and smiled when Ran entered.
The Earl looked extra pale and tired, but was endeavoring to smile cheerily.
"What's wrong?" Ken asked in concern, his own smile fading.
Ran gave up the pretense of cheer and slumped against the door.
"I didn't sleep well," he admitted.
"Because of Aya? She had to grow up sometime," Ken said sagely. He attempted to tie his cravat, but pouted at the result.
Ran watched him pull it out and try again. A little frown of concentration on his face. When the results the second time proved worse than the first the red-headed Earl moved from the door to stand behind the pouting Duke. He attempted not to laugh when he thought of what Ken had just said about Aya in contrast to the childish look on the younger man's face.
Kissing the top of his head Ran reached around and undid the messy knot. With practiced ease he quickly tied and arranged the folds of lacy material. Ken sighed in frustration at their reflections.
"Why can't I do that?" he muttered.
"You will someday. Keep practicing," Ran answered, then he wrapped his arms around the Duke's shoulders and buried his face in the soft chocolate locks of hair.
"You know I'm right about Aya," Ken said softly, watching the Earl in the mirror.
"Yes," came the muffled reply.
Suddenly, the look in the young lady's eyes flashed across Ken's mind and he began to fidget. Ran looked up, arching an eyebrow.
"Yes?" he asked.
"Do you...do you think she was...flirting with me?" Ken asked uncertainly.
His large brown eyes clearly showed his discomfort and Ran had to fight down another laugh.
"Yes," he answered, smirking. "She was."
Ken frowned.
"You think that's funny?!" he demanded.
This time Ran did chuckle. His eyes glinted mischievously.
"Yes," he replied somewhat huskily. "I do."
Caught between being indignant and aroused Ken wasn't sure what to do. The emotions chased themselves across his face, much to Ran's delight. The Earl chuckled again and squeezed the Duke closer.
"She's practicing," he murmured in Ken's ear. "And quite frankly I'm relieved she chose you."
Ken stopped frowning and blinked at him.
"She's practicing?" he asked.
"You remember that "game" you were so fond of in Town? She's practicing so she can get it right. I've been remiss in my duties to her and she's been without anyone to try herself on until now."
"Oh," Ken said, flooding with relief.
Ran chuckled again, able to feel the tension leaving the body he held close against him.
"Well, as long as she's only practicing," Ken said. "Then I guess its okay."
"Thanks, Love."
"For what?"
"For putting up with all of us," Ran said. "For putting up with me."
Ken's expression revealed his confusion. Shaking his head he turned in Ran's arms and wrapped his own around the Earl's waist.
"Are you sure you're okay?" he asked, still concerned.
"I'll be fine," Ran answered, "as long as you're with me."
"Then you should be okay for the next eighty years or so," Ken replied and gave him his good morning kiss.
The breakfast room was alive with the activity of eating buttered toast and drinking hot chocolate with good cheer when they arrived. Aya was telling Omi and Yohji about her ideas for a grand ball with much animation. The two young men seemed quite amused and Lady Fujimiya was chuckling along with them. When Ran and Ken entered Aya bounced in her chair. It was all the young woman could do to remain seated.
"Niisan, good morning," she cried, then bowed her head to Ken. "Ken."
"Good morning, Aya," Ran said, smirking. "Mother."
Ken bowed to the two ladies and muttered a quiet good morning.
The breakfast room was smaller than the dining room and done in red paper with spindly gold trees painted on it. They were seated in the same arrangement as the evening before but the table was round and slightly smaller than that in the formal dining room. Gulping silently Ken took his seat between Aya and Omi. She blinked up at him coyly.
"Shall we begin your dancing lessons today, your Grace?" she asked smiling.
"W-what?" he asked.
"I meant what I said yesterday, Ken," Aya stated pleasantly. "There are certain aspects of your education that have not been properly seen to, and I intend to see to them. How do you expect to win the hand of your future bride if you can't lead her round the dance floor?"
The pleading look Ken had been casting in Ran's direction turned to one of panic. The Earl choked on his chocolate, and Omi dropped his toast.
"You're absolutely right, Cousin Aya," Yohji said, leaning slightly in her direction and into Omi. "I can see how remiss we have been. Although, land management is important the Duke should remember that he is a gentleman farmer, and the more delicate arts are necessary to show one's refinement."
"Exactly, Cousin," Aya agreed.
Ran recovered from his coughing fit and glared at the Prince, who was shoved back in his seat by a scowling Omi.
"I told you we should hire a dancing instructor while in Town, but you said...," the young servant began.
"Omi, an instructor would've been wasted without a proper partner," Yohji interrupted.
"I'm sure the Grand Duchess...," Omi started.
"Is an old married woman who no longer has a desire for such frivolity," Yohji said.
Omi looked at him skeptically.
"And why waste the funds on an instructor when here you have both instructor and partner in one," Aya stated and every eye fell on her.
"Um...," Ken said.
"Perfect," Yohji agreed, smiling grandly with a glint in his eye. "When do you propose to begin?"
"Yohji. Aya. Enough," Ran stated sternly. He gave his cousin a particularly severe glare before turning somewhat softer eyes on his sister. "Aya..."
"Ran, he does need to be taught," she said unfazed by his demeanor. "Why not here, away from the prying eyes and gossip of the Court? Unless you have someone who can dance better than I can stashed away on his estate."
The Earl paused and thought.
"No," he finally conceded, sighing. "There is no one."
"Well, then," she said, turning to Ken. "What time should we begin?"
The Duke felt his mind spinning. He cast a desperate look around the table and saw no help coming from any quarter. Setting his jaw he turned to face the young woman on his left.
"I'll have to let you know, Aya," he said. "Ran promised to show me the estate today."
"Oh," Aya said, disappointment evident in her eyes. "Perhaps later this afternoon?"
"Maybe," Ken hedged biting forcefully into his toast.
"Aya," Lady Fujimiya said quietly, "the Duke is set to stay for several more weeks. There is no rush. This is only his first full day here, after all."
"Oh. Yes, of course, Mother. You are right," Aya said regaining her cheer. "I'm sorry, your Grace. I didn't mean to pester you."
"That's okay," Ken smiled a bit. "You didn't...really."
He frowned pointedly at Yohji. Ken wasn't sure whether to be relieved or not. Aya wouldn't give up the idea, he was sure, and Lady Fujimiya had looked far too amused throughout the entire conversation. When breakfast was over he beat a hasty retreat toward the stables with Ran, Yohji, and Omi in tow.
Aya watched them leave and glanced at her mother as the butlers began removing the remaining food and dishes.
"The Duke seems very...," she paused in thought.
"Shy," Elinor said helpfully.
"Yes," Aya agreed. "I wasn't expecting that. I thought all young men were determined and gregarious."
"Whatever gave you such an idea? Certainly your brother wasn't so."
"Books," Aya answered honestly. "Histories, plays, novels, poems. They all are full of such young men."
"Perhaps the authors write what they would like rather than what is," Elinor said. "At any rate, you shouldn't judge people by what you've read, but rather what you find. And you must remember that the Duke was raised in isolation as a servant. His position is still very new to him, and he is still learning what is expected."
"I have not forgotten that fact, Mother. Indeed, I was expecting a certain meanness in his manners which I did not find. I thought he would exhibit an interesting crudeness in his speech and movement."
"If that was what you were expecting than I dare say I am glad you were disappointed," Elinor stated.
Aya sighed.
"Ran is too good a teacher," she said, pouting. "Or perhaps the Duke isn't interested in the things I'd be interested in if I were a young man."
Lady Fujimiya arched an eyebrow at her daughter but withheld any comments until the two servants were gone.
"And what, pray, would that be?" she asked, chuckling softly in amusement once they were alone.
"Well," Aya said, considering. "I'd be off on my Grand Tour like a shot."
"You know he couldn't leave his estate unattended for so long," commented Elinor.
"Well, I'd lose myself completely in the delights of Town."
"I expect you're in a fair way of doing that already, my Dear," said her mother. "And the Duke's given you his opinion of those delights."
"Well, I expect you'd have to pry me out of the brothels with an iron bar," the young woman stated.
"Aya!" Elinor cried. She rose and moved from the table greatly aggitated by her daughter's comment. Sometimes the girl was more than trying. "I've had enough of this conversation. It would be best if you would remember the proper behavior of young women, and stop puzzling over that of young men. I advise you to spend the morning reading and contemplating your Bible, and perhaps practicing your etiquette. It seems you could use some."
Aya sat very still until her mother had left the room. Then a tiny self-satisfied smile pricked the corners of her mouth and lit her eyes. Baiting her mother was easy. It no longer afforded the young woman any thrill. No, the challenge she sought was even now saddling a horse for a morning's ride.
Her smile faltered and became a puzzled frown. The Duke was different than she'd anticipated. Very different. The strategies she'd drawn up in her mind wouldn't work. No, she'd have to rethink the game and move very carefully. There was a whole new set of rules to learn. The smile that graced her mouth then was one of anticipation. This would be fun.
Ken's flight lasted to the stables where he stopped and turned to Ran pouting.
"Do I really have to learn to dance with her?" he whined.
The red-headed Earl was caught between the attraction of Ken behaving like a petulant child and anger at the unintended offense toward his sister.
"Yes," he stated, attempting to avoid both.
"Are you sure she's just practicing?"
"Ken," he said, this time his voice held a hint of warning.
The Duke understood it and turned on the Prince instead.
"And you!" he cried. "Why are you encouraging her?!"
"Because," Yohji answered undaunted, "you make it so much fun. With your stammering and blushing one would think you were the inexperienced virgin."
"Yohji!!" both Ran and Ken cried at once.
"Its true," the Prince said accepting a dappled gray horse from the groom and mounting. "And now you're in trouble, Cousin Ken, because you've presented Aya with the one thing a young woman absolutely can't resist."
"W-what's that?" Ken asked once he was seated in the saddle of the horse provided for him.
"A challenge," Yohji said archly.
Ken glanced nervously at Ran and Omi each settled upon their own horses. The red-head was scowling darkly at his cousin from the saddle of a trim black stallion. The young blond servant looked thoughtful, and that scared Ken more than anything else.
"O-Omi?" he asked.
The servant blinked out of his thoughts. He took a quick look at his master before settling his large blue eyes on the Duke.
"Sorry, Ken, but I think Yohji may be right. My suggestion is just to give into her. Once she gets her way she'll be satisfied and leave you alone," he stated plainly, avoiding Ran's glare which had refocused itself on him.
Ken frowned at his young friend as he felt his ire rise.
"You just want me to learn how to dance," he said accusingly.
Omi grinned broadly.
"True, that would be a side benefit," chirped the servant.
Ken snorted in disgust and turned to Ran.
"Are we 'gonna see the grounds or not?" he demanded.
"Aa," answered the Earl turning his horse. He dug in his heels and the animal responded instantly. Charging down the drive with the others close behind.
The Fujimiya estate was nowhere near as extensive as Ken's own, but they did not suffer for it. There was plenty of farmable land and no shortage of families to work it. The few places they stopped the tenants were at ease with the red-headed Earl, exemplifying Ran's desire for no distinction between the classes. Although, Ken noted with interest that the tenants asked after his mother and sister with solemn respect.
The Earl led them in a wide arc, pointing out various sights he thought would be of interest and providing a running commentary on the estate's affairs as they went. Ken marveled at the sheer volume of words coming from his usually stoic lover. By mid-day he found his mood significantly improved and Ran seemed more relaxed as well.
The Prince managed to restrain his teasing, with Omi's help, and so they made quite a cheery group as they came pounding back up the road toward the estate. They slowed their horses to a walk and took in the views. The village was visible just down the hill behind them and long rolling hills past that. Their various shades of green and gold coloring the countryside. Ahead the road branched. Heading down the hill back toward the house to the left, and up another hill back into the woods to the right.
"Its beautiful, Ran," Ken commented, smiling. "We have hills, but not like these. Must be really pretty in the spring."
"Yes, it is. But I prefer your valley and its orchard, ponds, and lake," the Earl stated decidedly.
"That wouldn't have anything to do with the company, would it, Cousin?" Yohji asked, smirking.
"It would indeed," Ran answered, smiling broadly at Ken, who flushed with pleasure.
"What's up that way?" Ken asked, trying to cover his pleased embarrassment. He pointed up the hill.
"That goes to...," Omi started to explain before Ran interrupted him.
"More fields," the Earl said. "We should head home. Its time for lunch. We can explore the rest later if you wish. Tomorrow I have an errand I need to attend to, so its best to do it today."
Yohji and Omi frowned and exchanged a glance. They looked hard at Ran who ignored them and pulled ahead with Ken.
"What's your errand?" Ken asked.
"Nothing important," Ran answered. "I have to do a favor for my mother. Do you think you can find something to do while I'm gone? A dancing lesson perhaps?"
Ken pouted at Ran's teasing.
"I'll write to Caroline," he stated firmly. "I wrote her that we'd be traveling here, and promised to send directions for her letters."
"Good idea," Ran smirked.
He took the drive back to his house, ignoring the other road and the little woods it entered. Omi and Yohji silently followed the Earl and his lover. Their faces set in concerned and confused frowns.
Author's Note After: What does everyone think of Aya? Good? Bad? Indifferent? I tried to have fun with her. The mystery of the Countess will be revealed in the next chapter...I think. Just remember the quote from above and think happy thoughts. And please review!
Fiery-icicles: Was there enough Ran/Ken fluff in this chapter? I tried to do a little in each, but there are some without just because the story wouldn't allow it. But those are always my favorite parts to any fic! I'm a sap. Anyway, thanks for reading!
Mondtanz: Yeah, I sorta forgot what it was like when school dominates your life. Anyway, I'm glad you like all the descriptions. I try to see the place in my head. And there will be twists and turns, but who will get in the way of who? Hmmm...thanks for reading!
Celeste1: Okay, I'll tell you it all. Well, most of it anyway. A good chunk. Thanks for reading!
The red flip flop: I'm so glad you like Aya! Yay! dances I can't wait for you to read the part where she figures it out too! I guess we'll all have to be patient. That part isn't for a few more chapters. sigh Oh, well. Thanks for reading!
Darkfireofforbiddensouls: Yay! You love it! Thank you! That makes me so happy! And there are a few plot twists...just a few. There not too terribly evil though...well, not all of them. grins I'm glad you're enjoying it! Thanks for reading!
Akimoto kin: Yes, more trouble for them. You didn't expect their lives to be completely smooth sailing, did you? What would I write if that were the case? Anyway, just think happy thoughts and try not to get too stressed. pats your head Thanks for reading!
LoneCayt: Triangle? Are you so sure? Hmmm. I'm glad you can visualize it. Jane Austen wrote about eighty years after this story's timeline, but I needed something to help me see different rooms. I was running out of imagination. I never thought about Ran and Darcy being the same, but I think you're right. Although, Darcy's tactitern nature was due to his pride and Ran's is due to his fear of people seeing who he really is. I think he's afraid because he's soft and he feels like he needs to be strong. What do you think? Thanks for reading!
Tearlesereph: Yay! I'm glad you'll give Aya a try. I promise much more amusement to come! What did you think of her this time? And I'm glad you like Elinor. As you can see despite her niceness she and Aya still have some conflict. I think that's just life, but it gets better...usually. Thanks for reading!
Murasaki-yanagi: I'm glad you like the descriptions too! Phew! No, Aya doesn't hate Ken! Hee-hee! How could anyone hate KenKen? Can anyone really make Ran do things he doesn't want to do? Hmmm, I wonder. Hey! Women aren't that bad! I must defend our gender! sticks out tongue Thanks for reading!
Allis: Well, we'll just have to see whether Aya can actually get Ken to dance or not. And what the Countess wants? Hmmm...just have to wait and see! evil grin Ha-ha-ha-ha! Relax, its only a week. Thanks for reading!
Author's Notes: "Its not as it appears...well, it is...sort of...Oh! Its all so complicated!" Hee-hee! That's a quote from one of my all time favorite movies! I just thought I'd throw it out there. Thank you for all the reviews. They make me giddy! Replies follow the fic, and please enjoy! Lots more Aya for everyone!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Once I Was Loved
Chapter 4
To the Honorable Earl Ran Fujimiya
From the Countess Eriko Misekake
My Dearest Ran,
I hope this letter finds you well and with improved spirits. It has been more than a year since our dear Richard's passing and although my circumstances are altered I do not find them as unbearable as I had feared. I wish nothing more from you than the pleasure of your company. Dare I hope that you will allow me to make amends for my behavior when last we met? Surely you, with your benevolent heart, would not deny me. Please allow me this opportunity. I am available at your convenience.
With Great Affection and Love,
Eriko
Ran glanced over the contents of the letter again before folding it up and thrusting it into his waistcoat pocket, which he then straightened roughly. He paused to look at himself in the mirror. There were dark circles under his eyes from lack of sleep and he was unconsciously frowning. Sighing, he endeavored to look more cheery. Ken would notice and the Earl was hoping to get by without involving the Duke, although he wasn't sure why. There was no logical reason to maintain a separation between his present with Ken and his past with Richard, but he felt he must spare the Duke from his former feelings. Sighing again he grabbed up his coat and pulled it on.
Down the hall and around the corner in the guest wing Ken was also getting ready to face the day. Omi had already been to his room and laid out his clothes. All he had to do was wash and get dressed.
Unlike his red-headed lover Ken had slept fairly well through the night, although he did miss the warmth of another body beside him. The young Duke had decided to sleep in the bed incase Ran came to join him, but he hadn't been too surprised when the Earl failed to appear. Ran had had a rude awakening the day before. Aya wasn't the sweet delicate flower he'd imagined or remembered her being. Or, rather, she was trying hard not to be.
Ken pouted at his reflection. Was it his imagination or had she aimed much of her attention at him? Perhaps he was reading too much into her looks and touches. She had been isolated, as he had, and his was the first new face she'd been introduced to. That was bound to incite interest. Hadn't he been that way himself when he'd first met his cousin, Ran, and Omi? Nodding decisively he quickly dragged a comb through his hair, and decided that must be it. She was excited, nothing more.
His deep thoughts were interrupted by a quiet knock at the door.
"Its open," he called, and smiled when Ran entered.
The Earl looked extra pale and tired, but was endeavoring to smile cheerily.
"What's wrong?" Ken asked in concern, his own smile fading.
Ran gave up the pretense of cheer and slumped against the door.
"I didn't sleep well," he admitted.
"Because of Aya? She had to grow up sometime," Ken said sagely. He attempted to tie his cravat, but pouted at the result.
Ran watched him pull it out and try again. A little frown of concentration on his face. When the results the second time proved worse than the first the red-headed Earl moved from the door to stand behind the pouting Duke. He attempted not to laugh when he thought of what Ken had just said about Aya in contrast to the childish look on the younger man's face.
Kissing the top of his head Ran reached around and undid the messy knot. With practiced ease he quickly tied and arranged the folds of lacy material. Ken sighed in frustration at their reflections.
"Why can't I do that?" he muttered.
"You will someday. Keep practicing," Ran answered, then he wrapped his arms around the Duke's shoulders and buried his face in the soft chocolate locks of hair.
"You know I'm right about Aya," Ken said softly, watching the Earl in the mirror.
"Yes," came the muffled reply.
Suddenly, the look in the young lady's eyes flashed across Ken's mind and he began to fidget. Ran looked up, arching an eyebrow.
"Yes?" he asked.
"Do you...do you think she was...flirting with me?" Ken asked uncertainly.
His large brown eyes clearly showed his discomfort and Ran had to fight down another laugh.
"Yes," he answered, smirking. "She was."
Ken frowned.
"You think that's funny?!" he demanded.
This time Ran did chuckle. His eyes glinted mischievously.
"Yes," he replied somewhat huskily. "I do."
Caught between being indignant and aroused Ken wasn't sure what to do. The emotions chased themselves across his face, much to Ran's delight. The Earl chuckled again and squeezed the Duke closer.
"She's practicing," he murmured in Ken's ear. "And quite frankly I'm relieved she chose you."
Ken stopped frowning and blinked at him.
"She's practicing?" he asked.
"You remember that "game" you were so fond of in Town? She's practicing so she can get it right. I've been remiss in my duties to her and she's been without anyone to try herself on until now."
"Oh," Ken said, flooding with relief.
Ran chuckled again, able to feel the tension leaving the body he held close against him.
"Well, as long as she's only practicing," Ken said. "Then I guess its okay."
"Thanks, Love."
"For what?"
"For putting up with all of us," Ran said. "For putting up with me."
Ken's expression revealed his confusion. Shaking his head he turned in Ran's arms and wrapped his own around the Earl's waist.
"Are you sure you're okay?" he asked, still concerned.
"I'll be fine," Ran answered, "as long as you're with me."
"Then you should be okay for the next eighty years or so," Ken replied and gave him his good morning kiss.
The breakfast room was alive with the activity of eating buttered toast and drinking hot chocolate with good cheer when they arrived. Aya was telling Omi and Yohji about her ideas for a grand ball with much animation. The two young men seemed quite amused and Lady Fujimiya was chuckling along with them. When Ran and Ken entered Aya bounced in her chair. It was all the young woman could do to remain seated.
"Niisan, good morning," she cried, then bowed her head to Ken. "Ken."
"Good morning, Aya," Ran said, smirking. "Mother."
Ken bowed to the two ladies and muttered a quiet good morning.
The breakfast room was smaller than the dining room and done in red paper with spindly gold trees painted on it. They were seated in the same arrangement as the evening before but the table was round and slightly smaller than that in the formal dining room. Gulping silently Ken took his seat between Aya and Omi. She blinked up at him coyly.
"Shall we begin your dancing lessons today, your Grace?" she asked smiling.
"W-what?" he asked.
"I meant what I said yesterday, Ken," Aya stated pleasantly. "There are certain aspects of your education that have not been properly seen to, and I intend to see to them. How do you expect to win the hand of your future bride if you can't lead her round the dance floor?"
The pleading look Ken had been casting in Ran's direction turned to one of panic. The Earl choked on his chocolate, and Omi dropped his toast.
"You're absolutely right, Cousin Aya," Yohji said, leaning slightly in her direction and into Omi. "I can see how remiss we have been. Although, land management is important the Duke should remember that he is a gentleman farmer, and the more delicate arts are necessary to show one's refinement."
"Exactly, Cousin," Aya agreed.
Ran recovered from his coughing fit and glared at the Prince, who was shoved back in his seat by a scowling Omi.
"I told you we should hire a dancing instructor while in Town, but you said...," the young servant began.
"Omi, an instructor would've been wasted without a proper partner," Yohji interrupted.
"I'm sure the Grand Duchess...," Omi started.
"Is an old married woman who no longer has a desire for such frivolity," Yohji said.
Omi looked at him skeptically.
"And why waste the funds on an instructor when here you have both instructor and partner in one," Aya stated and every eye fell on her.
"Um...," Ken said.
"Perfect," Yohji agreed, smiling grandly with a glint in his eye. "When do you propose to begin?"
"Yohji. Aya. Enough," Ran stated sternly. He gave his cousin a particularly severe glare before turning somewhat softer eyes on his sister. "Aya..."
"Ran, he does need to be taught," she said unfazed by his demeanor. "Why not here, away from the prying eyes and gossip of the Court? Unless you have someone who can dance better than I can stashed away on his estate."
The Earl paused and thought.
"No," he finally conceded, sighing. "There is no one."
"Well, then," she said, turning to Ken. "What time should we begin?"
The Duke felt his mind spinning. He cast a desperate look around the table and saw no help coming from any quarter. Setting his jaw he turned to face the young woman on his left.
"I'll have to let you know, Aya," he said. "Ran promised to show me the estate today."
"Oh," Aya said, disappointment evident in her eyes. "Perhaps later this afternoon?"
"Maybe," Ken hedged biting forcefully into his toast.
"Aya," Lady Fujimiya said quietly, "the Duke is set to stay for several more weeks. There is no rush. This is only his first full day here, after all."
"Oh. Yes, of course, Mother. You are right," Aya said regaining her cheer. "I'm sorry, your Grace. I didn't mean to pester you."
"That's okay," Ken smiled a bit. "You didn't...really."
He frowned pointedly at Yohji. Ken wasn't sure whether to be relieved or not. Aya wouldn't give up the idea, he was sure, and Lady Fujimiya had looked far too amused throughout the entire conversation. When breakfast was over he beat a hasty retreat toward the stables with Ran, Yohji, and Omi in tow.
Aya watched them leave and glanced at her mother as the butlers began removing the remaining food and dishes.
"The Duke seems very...," she paused in thought.
"Shy," Elinor said helpfully.
"Yes," Aya agreed. "I wasn't expecting that. I thought all young men were determined and gregarious."
"Whatever gave you such an idea? Certainly your brother wasn't so."
"Books," Aya answered honestly. "Histories, plays, novels, poems. They all are full of such young men."
"Perhaps the authors write what they would like rather than what is," Elinor said. "At any rate, you shouldn't judge people by what you've read, but rather what you find. And you must remember that the Duke was raised in isolation as a servant. His position is still very new to him, and he is still learning what is expected."
"I have not forgotten that fact, Mother. Indeed, I was expecting a certain meanness in his manners which I did not find. I thought he would exhibit an interesting crudeness in his speech and movement."
"If that was what you were expecting than I dare say I am glad you were disappointed," Elinor stated.
Aya sighed.
"Ran is too good a teacher," she said, pouting. "Or perhaps the Duke isn't interested in the things I'd be interested in if I were a young man."
Lady Fujimiya arched an eyebrow at her daughter but withheld any comments until the two servants were gone.
"And what, pray, would that be?" she asked, chuckling softly in amusement once they were alone.
"Well," Aya said, considering. "I'd be off on my Grand Tour like a shot."
"You know he couldn't leave his estate unattended for so long," commented Elinor.
"Well, I'd lose myself completely in the delights of Town."
"I expect you're in a fair way of doing that already, my Dear," said her mother. "And the Duke's given you his opinion of those delights."
"Well, I expect you'd have to pry me out of the brothels with an iron bar," the young woman stated.
"Aya!" Elinor cried. She rose and moved from the table greatly aggitated by her daughter's comment. Sometimes the girl was more than trying. "I've had enough of this conversation. It would be best if you would remember the proper behavior of young women, and stop puzzling over that of young men. I advise you to spend the morning reading and contemplating your Bible, and perhaps practicing your etiquette. It seems you could use some."
Aya sat very still until her mother had left the room. Then a tiny self-satisfied smile pricked the corners of her mouth and lit her eyes. Baiting her mother was easy. It no longer afforded the young woman any thrill. No, the challenge she sought was even now saddling a horse for a morning's ride.
Her smile faltered and became a puzzled frown. The Duke was different than she'd anticipated. Very different. The strategies she'd drawn up in her mind wouldn't work. No, she'd have to rethink the game and move very carefully. There was a whole new set of rules to learn. The smile that graced her mouth then was one of anticipation. This would be fun.
Ken's flight lasted to the stables where he stopped and turned to Ran pouting.
"Do I really have to learn to dance with her?" he whined.
The red-headed Earl was caught between the attraction of Ken behaving like a petulant child and anger at the unintended offense toward his sister.
"Yes," he stated, attempting to avoid both.
"Are you sure she's just practicing?"
"Ken," he said, this time his voice held a hint of warning.
The Duke understood it and turned on the Prince instead.
"And you!" he cried. "Why are you encouraging her?!"
"Because," Yohji answered undaunted, "you make it so much fun. With your stammering and blushing one would think you were the inexperienced virgin."
"Yohji!!" both Ran and Ken cried at once.
"Its true," the Prince said accepting a dappled gray horse from the groom and mounting. "And now you're in trouble, Cousin Ken, because you've presented Aya with the one thing a young woman absolutely can't resist."
"W-what's that?" Ken asked once he was seated in the saddle of the horse provided for him.
"A challenge," Yohji said archly.
Ken glanced nervously at Ran and Omi each settled upon their own horses. The red-head was scowling darkly at his cousin from the saddle of a trim black stallion. The young blond servant looked thoughtful, and that scared Ken more than anything else.
"O-Omi?" he asked.
The servant blinked out of his thoughts. He took a quick look at his master before settling his large blue eyes on the Duke.
"Sorry, Ken, but I think Yohji may be right. My suggestion is just to give into her. Once she gets her way she'll be satisfied and leave you alone," he stated plainly, avoiding Ran's glare which had refocused itself on him.
Ken frowned at his young friend as he felt his ire rise.
"You just want me to learn how to dance," he said accusingly.
Omi grinned broadly.
"True, that would be a side benefit," chirped the servant.
Ken snorted in disgust and turned to Ran.
"Are we 'gonna see the grounds or not?" he demanded.
"Aa," answered the Earl turning his horse. He dug in his heels and the animal responded instantly. Charging down the drive with the others close behind.
The Fujimiya estate was nowhere near as extensive as Ken's own, but they did not suffer for it. There was plenty of farmable land and no shortage of families to work it. The few places they stopped the tenants were at ease with the red-headed Earl, exemplifying Ran's desire for no distinction between the classes. Although, Ken noted with interest that the tenants asked after his mother and sister with solemn respect.
The Earl led them in a wide arc, pointing out various sights he thought would be of interest and providing a running commentary on the estate's affairs as they went. Ken marveled at the sheer volume of words coming from his usually stoic lover. By mid-day he found his mood significantly improved and Ran seemed more relaxed as well.
The Prince managed to restrain his teasing, with Omi's help, and so they made quite a cheery group as they came pounding back up the road toward the estate. They slowed their horses to a walk and took in the views. The village was visible just down the hill behind them and long rolling hills past that. Their various shades of green and gold coloring the countryside. Ahead the road branched. Heading down the hill back toward the house to the left, and up another hill back into the woods to the right.
"Its beautiful, Ran," Ken commented, smiling. "We have hills, but not like these. Must be really pretty in the spring."
"Yes, it is. But I prefer your valley and its orchard, ponds, and lake," the Earl stated decidedly.
"That wouldn't have anything to do with the company, would it, Cousin?" Yohji asked, smirking.
"It would indeed," Ran answered, smiling broadly at Ken, who flushed with pleasure.
"What's up that way?" Ken asked, trying to cover his pleased embarrassment. He pointed up the hill.
"That goes to...," Omi started to explain before Ran interrupted him.
"More fields," the Earl said. "We should head home. Its time for lunch. We can explore the rest later if you wish. Tomorrow I have an errand I need to attend to, so its best to do it today."
Yohji and Omi frowned and exchanged a glance. They looked hard at Ran who ignored them and pulled ahead with Ken.
"What's your errand?" Ken asked.
"Nothing important," Ran answered. "I have to do a favor for my mother. Do you think you can find something to do while I'm gone? A dancing lesson perhaps?"
Ken pouted at Ran's teasing.
"I'll write to Caroline," he stated firmly. "I wrote her that we'd be traveling here, and promised to send directions for her letters."
"Good idea," Ran smirked.
He took the drive back to his house, ignoring the other road and the little woods it entered. Omi and Yohji silently followed the Earl and his lover. Their faces set in concerned and confused frowns.
Author's Note After: What does everyone think of Aya? Good? Bad? Indifferent? I tried to have fun with her. The mystery of the Countess will be revealed in the next chapter...I think. Just remember the quote from above and think happy thoughts. And please review!
Fiery-icicles: Was there enough Ran/Ken fluff in this chapter? I tried to do a little in each, but there are some without just because the story wouldn't allow it. But those are always my favorite parts to any fic! I'm a sap. Anyway, thanks for reading!
Mondtanz: Yeah, I sorta forgot what it was like when school dominates your life. Anyway, I'm glad you like all the descriptions. I try to see the place in my head. And there will be twists and turns, but who will get in the way of who? Hmmm...thanks for reading!
Celeste1: Okay, I'll tell you it all. Well, most of it anyway. A good chunk. Thanks for reading!
The red flip flop: I'm so glad you like Aya! Yay! dances I can't wait for you to read the part where she figures it out too! I guess we'll all have to be patient. That part isn't for a few more chapters. sigh Oh, well. Thanks for reading!
Darkfireofforbiddensouls: Yay! You love it! Thank you! That makes me so happy! And there are a few plot twists...just a few. There not too terribly evil though...well, not all of them. grins I'm glad you're enjoying it! Thanks for reading!
Akimoto kin: Yes, more trouble for them. You didn't expect their lives to be completely smooth sailing, did you? What would I write if that were the case? Anyway, just think happy thoughts and try not to get too stressed. pats your head Thanks for reading!
LoneCayt: Triangle? Are you so sure? Hmmm. I'm glad you can visualize it. Jane Austen wrote about eighty years after this story's timeline, but I needed something to help me see different rooms. I was running out of imagination. I never thought about Ran and Darcy being the same, but I think you're right. Although, Darcy's tactitern nature was due to his pride and Ran's is due to his fear of people seeing who he really is. I think he's afraid because he's soft and he feels like he needs to be strong. What do you think? Thanks for reading!
Tearlesereph: Yay! I'm glad you'll give Aya a try. I promise much more amusement to come! What did you think of her this time? And I'm glad you like Elinor. As you can see despite her niceness she and Aya still have some conflict. I think that's just life, but it gets better...usually. Thanks for reading!
Murasaki-yanagi: I'm glad you like the descriptions too! Phew! No, Aya doesn't hate Ken! Hee-hee! How could anyone hate KenKen? Can anyone really make Ran do things he doesn't want to do? Hmmm, I wonder. Hey! Women aren't that bad! I must defend our gender! sticks out tongue Thanks for reading!
Allis: Well, we'll just have to see whether Aya can actually get Ken to dance or not. And what the Countess wants? Hmmm...just have to wait and see! evil grin Ha-ha-ha-ha! Relax, its only a week. Thanks for reading!