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The Prosecutor’s office was a typically icy room to say the least. Dramatically large windows were shielded by heavy curtains draping to the floor, allowing just enough light into the room to see. The furthest wall was coated in casket upon casket, their dark wood absorbing the light into them like a sinkhole. Drapes dramatically hung around the room, suffocating the atmosphere as they hid the corners of the walls. Centrepiece to the whole room was a large portrait, the man inside it stood proudly, his stare looking over on any who dared sit themselves on the desk below it. On most days, the ever-vigilant Kazuma Asogi would not be affected by a slightly scary stare. On this day however, Kazuma was a little less relaxed than what he typically was. The pressure from the other Van Zieks was not particularly helpful to begin with, but working under a portrait of his brother? With their almost identical gaze of judgement, it wavers the attention slightly.
“Prosecutor Asogi, I’m hoping you will have gathered some potential leads in this smuggling case you are working on by now?” A voice called from behind Kazuma, as a tall man emerged from within the shadows, the shade following him as his dark cape swept dramatically through the room. Kazuma felt every hair on his body go on end as he stared up at the austere figure now lingering over his documents, his face in its resting position of displeasure. They met eyes for a moment, the looming man raising an eyebrow before Kazuma sighed him off in ignorance, turning his attention instead to the document he’d been angrily scribbling on and continuing to do that in silence.
“Pray forgive the discourtesy of going over your head in this case, but I’ve arranged for your attendance at a masquerade party, being held by a local aristocrat. Rumour of a deal of some kind occurring at the event itself has been shared with me by an acquaintance.” Van Zieks said as he placed a letter on top of where Kazuma had been working. The writing on it had overly-exaggerated curls coming off of the end of every letter and a bulky wax seal on the back with an equally ornate emblem. Kazuma begrudgingly picked it up and slipped the letter open.
Dear Lord Van Zieks’ disciple
We are delighted to hear of your interest in attending our masquerade this Saturday evening for cultural enrichment purposes. To be chosen by both yourself and Lord Van Zieks for such a flattering purpose is truly an honour.
Our dress code for the event dictates you must dress in appropriate purposes with a mask on the upper part of the face. We also require you bring a companion with you for the event, upon the request of our dearest Lady Sutherland. We have been assured you will be able to meet these expectations. A confirmation of your attendance and of the who you choose to accompany you is requested at the earliest that conveniences you.
Kindest regards,
Lord and Lady Sutherland
Kazuma placed the letter down in front of him lightly, staring in a state of shock at the words. Lord Van Zieks looked across from him, arms crossed as he waited for a reaction.
“Cultural enrichment?”
“I needed a viable reason for you to be in attendance and not myself. Lord Sutherland seems to be happy enough with the explanation to extend an invite to you.”
“And, pray tell, why will you not be in attendance?” Kazuma asked, his tone dripping in bitterness
“Because I am recognised in the community widely as a prosecutor. The Reaper of the Bailey. Any attempts of mine to covertly investigate such insidious goings on would be ultimately fruitless. However, you, Mr Asogi, are unknown enough yet to blend in with the crowd.” Lord Van Zieks said, finally seating himself in front of Kazuma and looking at him on an equal level, the shadow he cast now reduced.
“In addition, this is your first case as a prosecutor in which you are in complete control of the investigation. I am placing complete trust in you to take the best course of action independently.”
“What about the case I made against you, Lord Van Zieks? I was leading the investigation then.” Kazuma said, finally giving up on his mindless scribbling and looking up at the man sat across from him.
“You intend to convince me, and yourself, that Lord Stronghart had no hand in the direction the investigation was led?” Van Zieks asked poignantly, Kazuma’s eyes darting elsewhere as his teeth ground in frustration.
“I’m willing to cover any costs required for this, including transportation and anything you or your companion of choice may need-“
“Yes, about that.” Kazuma cut in. “Who exactly can I invite?”
Lord Van Zieks sighed, mulling carefully over his words
“Someone you trust deeply and who would be able to be of assistance to you in this espionage of sorts. I do not believe Lord and Lady Sutherland are bothered about traditional rules of inviting one of the opposite sex, if that is what you were trying to imply with the question.” Kazuma slammed his arms on the desk as he rose
“And you said you would cover all costs required, correct?” Kazuma asked, excitement and caution in his tone
“I feel as if that may prove to be a mistake, but yes.” Van Zieks sighed
“I will get straight to work informing my companion then.” Kazuma grinned, striding out of the room, leaving the other man alone.
“I regret this already.” He grumbled to himself, staring at his brother’s portrait in desperate pleading
***
When studying old, dusty law books all day, there’s not a place quite as comfortable as home. Ryunosuke looked up from his current page to see a blonde man spinning in circles as he waved coloured vials of liquid in front of his face, muttering to himself as he went.
Nothing quite like it. The background noise of whatever it was Mr Sholmes had decided to occupy himself with for the day began to be of comfort to Ryunosuke. It meant Mr Sholmes was still in the house and not out causing mayhem, so the sound of his shenanigans offered a sense of relief to the soul.
Heavy strikes were heard from the door, stopping the detective mid-motion. He stopped whatever he was doing and went to the door, with Ryunosuke staying focused on his reading. Of course a consulting detective would receive regular visitors from far and wide. So long as nothing went too wrong, it needn’t concern him.
“Ah, Mr Asogi. To what do I owe the pleasure?” Ryunosuke’s fingers became limp, the book he’d once been holding slipping through them and colliding straight with the floor with an echoing bang. Mr Sholmes leaned back as he raised a singular eyebrow, Ryunosuke sure his eyes were wide with the guilt of being caught. He joined Mr Sholmes at the door, confirming that he was really there. Stood proudly, his smile one of confidence and warmth, was his best friend, Kazuma Asogi.
“I was hoping to discuss something with Ryunosuke.” Kazuma said, watching the detective as a still moment of silence passed. “Alone.”
The detective gave the pair a grin, tilting his hat as he bowed out of the conversation and barely out of sight, just beside the front door.
“He’s still right there, isn’t he?”
“Basically.” Ryunosuke admitted, his gaze firmly on the detective’s ‘hiding space’. “This is as much privacy as we’ll be granted. What do you need, Kazuma?”
Kazuma shifted his weight awkwardly, weighing his words carefully as he did.
“As part of my current investigation, I’m going to be attending a masquerade ball as suggested by Lord Van Zieks, which requires I bring someone to accompany me. My hope was that you would accompany me to the event and maybe, um-“ Kazuma had begun to ramble with very little conviction
“Yes.” Ryunosuke blurted out
“What?”
“Yes, I’ll attend the event with you..” He repeated, before pausing and backtracking slightly.
“Oh, but I’ve never attended an event like it, and I won’t have anything suitable to wear. If it is for your work, maybe it would be best if you invited someone else to accompany you, like Lord Van Zieks himself.” Ryunosuke thought aloud to himself
“Nonsense, Ryunosuke. I’ve never attended such an event either, so we’re both equal in that sense. Besides, Lord Van Zieks cannot attend with me and requested I take someone whom I trust wholeheartedly. You are the only person I would trust with this.” Ryunosuke felt his warming cheeks begin to melt away, yet his heart rate did not settle.
“You’ve still not addressed the issue of attire, Mr Asogi.” Sholmes helpfully called from his hiding spot as Ryunosuke sighed in embarrassment.
“Lord Van Zieks has generously offered to cover any necessary costs, so we can get something fitted before the night. It’s this Saturday, so we could go and get the fitting now to give ourselves the best chance of being ready in time.” Kazuma said, his smile growing to be coy
“You’re not planning to take advantage of Lord Van Zieks’ offer, are you?” Ryunosuke asked disapprovingly
“No…” Kazuma lied as the pair stood in an awkward silence.
“…Maybe. Not that much, just enough to make my investigation a success. The main point is, you needn’t worry about the cost of accompanying me. I just really need this to go well, and I trust you and your observation abilities above all. So…” Kazuma bowed his head sheepishly. “will you accompany me, partner?”
Ryunosuke could feel his cheeks growing redder as his heart fluttered furiously.
“I’m sure that I already said yes, Kazuma.” He joked
“Just making sure. I’ll arrange everything. All you need to do is be available on… Saturday….” Kazuma began to say, trailing off as the hand of the man hidden behind the door began to extend in front of his face, a piece of paper in hand.
“Mr Sholmes?”
“The measurements, for Mr Naruhodo. Save you all the hassle of going to a tailor” He said, his voice muffled as he was still pressed against the wall.
“Mr Sholmes… how and why do you have my measurements?” Ryunosuke asked, defeated.
“You’re a heavy sleeper, Mr Naruhodo.”
“That doesn’t really answer my question.” He mumbled to himself as Kazuma tentatively took the slip of paper and unfolded it, scanning it quickly before re-folding it and slipping it into a pocket.
“I’ll bring the necessary attire with me on Saturday then.” He smiled, giving a quick wave before he stepped away from the house. Ryunosuke shut the door behind him, before swerving on his feet and turning to Sholmes.
“Really, Mr Sholmes, how and why do you have my exact measurements?”
“I’ll repeat myself, you are a heavy sleeper, and I am a curious man.”
***
Kazuma crumpled back into the chair he’d been working in. The outfits were in the making, transport arranged, everything else that needed to be done was done. For the first time in hours, he relaxed.
“Based on your return, I imagine you have arranged everything you need to for the masquerade?” The voice of Van Zieks echoed from the shadows as the figure turned the corner not much later.
“Of course.”
“And you have invited who you wish to accompany you?” He asked
“Yes. He said he would be happy to come.” Kazuma said, now smiling a bit. Lord Van Zieks raised a brow, before sitting himself across from Kazuma. They sat and worked in silence, not because of an exceptional focus, but because they simply did not enjoy talking to each other that much. Their settled silence very rarely lasted long however, as they were interrupted by a scruffy girl, her green jacket coated in patches and her blonde hair surprisingly neat.
“Inspector, you bring good news and not just distraction, I hope?” Lord Van Zieks said as he didn’t look up. Kazuma did, seeing Gina’s worryingly happy grin
“Sure do. For, um, ol’ Soggy anyways. That bloke you ‘ad Toby sniff out from the rag ya found? Turns out, ‘e’s been at all these fancy parties, probably sellin’, and ‘e’s at one this Saturday.” Kazuma felt his jaw hit the floor. He turned to the still static Van Zieks, not looking up at either of them.
“Why the shocked expression, Mr Asogi? None of that information is truly new to you.” He said flatly, before looking up, annoyed. “Or were you under the impression that I was sending you on some sort of wild goose chase with a companion of your choosing?”
“I was ‘under the impression’ that I would be fully informed about who I was chasing to this party. Perhaps, someone who has seen my face?” Kazuma spat, feeling his hands begin to shake furiously
“So you are deeply concerned about someone recognising your face. At a masquerade party.” Van Zieks voice was dripping with mockery as he spoke, each word slower and more methodical than the last as he watched Kazuma shrink into his seat.
“Oh, that’s them parties with the masks an’ everyfin’.”
“Yes, Gina.” Kazuma mumbled
“Oh.” She paused for a moment, looking at him as he sank deeper into his chair
“Not ya best moment there, was it?”
“No it wasn’t, Inspector Lestrade. Now, if that was all, you are dismissed.” Van Zieks waved, waiting for the sound of footsteps to fade before resuming his work. Kazuma just stared at him the whole time.
“Out with it, Mr Asogi.”
“If it’s a masquerade, why are you sending me?”
The room fell silent as Van Zieks leaned back in his chair
“I’d be recognised.”
“With a mask on?”
“Of course. My demeanour and general stature are infamous among the elites. Even with a mask, my presence would quickly spread. Besides, is it not more beneficial for the prosecutor of the case to be the one gathering such leads?” He said, looking down on Kazuma in an instinctual manner. They sat in silence for another moment, this one less comfortable than the last, until Kazuma broke it this time.
“Are you… not going to ask me who I invited? To assist me with the case?”
“I do not believe it necessary. It is your case, not mine.” He paused, his muscles inches away from contorting themself into a smile. “Pray forgive the discourtesy of insulting you so, Mr Asogi, but as adaptable as you are in court, you are predictable at heart. I needn’t ask who you would trust in this matter, I already know.”
***
Ryunosuke couldn’t help but run his fingers along the seams and fabrics he had been put in. The measurements had been completely correct, it all fit perfectly. How accurate the measurements had been was something he did not want to linger on for long, instead focusing on how ill-fitting the outfit was. The luxury of the vest he was in, silky and ornately decorated with elegant swirls, the gentle grey fabric being that of pure quality. The coat itself was a gorgeous blue colour, the depths of which could rival the most breathtaking oceans. The ruched tie had been a nightmare to put on, the fabric so smooth that it had kept slipping through his fingers. It took a good bit of assistance from Miss Susato to get it to sit right in time for Kazuma’s arrival. The trousers were a similar blue to his coat, with short black boots hiding under them, the leather of them polished to the point of reflectiveness. It all felt too fancy for him, far too expensive for a student living off of a small stipend.
Kazuma sat beside him, his outfit just as well-fitting and expensive looking. His long, flowing coat and vest were a matching deep red, with a jet black tie neatly poised beneath his neck. The materials looked just as luxurious, although as much as Ryunosuke wanted to touch them, to hold him, he wouldn’t. That would be strange, even for him. Besides, with the situation at hand, it would be inappropriate?
“Um, Kazuma?” He asked
“Yes, Ryunosuke?”
“I remember you saying that Lord Van Zieks couldn’t accompany you tonight.”
“Yes, that’s right, what about it?” Kazuma asked
“Well, I don’t mean to be rude, but… if he cannot attend with you, why is he sat directly across from us?”
Sat across from Ryunosuke, slouched over and in a dark cloak and top hat was Lord Barok Van Zieks, the former Reaper of the Bailey. He was staring at the pair of them in deep thought, his face resting in his signature displeasure. He turned to fully stare at Ryunosuke, making all the blood in his body freeze under his stare.
“There is some information about this operation that you both need to know.” Van Zieks cleared his throat, plunging the small carriage into silence before speaking again.
“The story behind it is that you are sent on my behalf for cultural enrichment, both of you. I would have preferred to keep it separate from myself completely, however I could not. You are both to keep these masks on at all times. Should police intervention occur during the party, Scotland Yard has been informed as to what you both look like and what masks you shall be wearing, so it will prevent any misunderstandings.” He reached into his coat, searching around for a short while before withdrawing two elaborately decorated masks, their main bodies white with blue and red decorations respectively.
“You are also not to split from each other during the event. This is mainly directed at you, Mr Naruhodo.” Ryunosuke’s posture straightened as he felt more attention on him.
“As much respect as I have for you, if this were to go in an… undesirable direction, I do not believe that you would have the skills to look after yourself.” Ryunosuke went almost as red as Kazuma’s jacket, looking down at his feet as he prayed for the seat he was sat on to just swallow him whole.
“Your belief is incorrect, Lord Van Zieks. He is more than capable of handling himself.” Kazuma said confidently, reaching one hand out and resting it on Ryunosuke’s knee, his thumb stroking it affectionately.
“Unarmed?” Kazuma bit the inside of his lip, exchanging looks of apology with Ryunosuke.
“You are also not to alert anyone as to the true reason for your presence except Lord Sutherland.” Lord Van Zieks stated
“Not even Lady Sutherland?” Ryunosuke pushed himself to ask. He’d skimmed through the letter of invitation Kazuma had received, giving him a fairly good grasp at what was going on.
“No, Lord Sutherland seems apprehensive about her involvement. I’d advise paying particular attention to her. Something like this does not go unnoticed by a diligent hostess.” Lord Van Zieks said. The importance of this was starting to dawn on Ryunosuke. A smuggling ring of opium, a potent substance which ruined the lives of many English gentlemen. When unregulated, opium dens were dangerous, breeding more crime around them as they grew. Although he’d only ever worked on murder cases, the scale of this one felt bigger than them somehow. It would affect more lives and it was important to Kazuma. He couldn’t let him down.
“I’ll be returning for you both at midnight. I won’t linger long, so make sure you are both swift in your timings. Should one or neither of you return on time, I will assume something has gone amiss, so please try to save me unnecessary trouble and be on time.” He continued as Ryunosuke inspected the mask in his hand. It felt just like the mask Kazuma wore, a similar weight to it, looking as if it covered around the eyes and the nose itself. They continued their journey in an uncomfortable silence, Ryunosuke opting to focus on the floor rather than conversation. Kazuma cleared his throat, looking around at Ryunosuke as he did.
“It’s a relief in some sense that Mr Sholmes’ measurements were correct. You, um, you look great.” He said, making Ryunosuke feel warmer as he did.
“O-oh, thank you! You look nice as well… as in your clothes also fit well!” He yelped, sinking deeper and deeper into his seat as he felt the two sets of eyes on him. Kazuma just laughed, leaning in closer to him.
“Why, thank you. Although it is slightly unnerving how well your clothes fit, Mr Sholmes must have had really accurate measurements. Did he offer you any further explanation as to why he had them?”
“Outside of me being a heavy sleeper? Just that he was curious.” He said, shrugging as relaxed as he could.
“Well, you are quite the heavy sleeper. When you slept in my wardrobe, it was a task to wake you up every morning.” Kazuma joked. Ryunosuke forced out a laugh.
That wardrobe, where he’d slept through it all. His mere presence in that wardrobe meant that Kazuma had been…
No. Time had passed. Things were different. He wasn’t going to drag Kazuma down this time, he was going to help, he had to.
Their carriage pulled into the winding, gravel driveway, with the pair of men putting on their masks as it slowed to a halt.
“Remember. Stay together and stay alert. As important as this is to your case, Mr Asogi, should anything go wrong you must prioritise your and Mr Naruhodo’s safety.” Van Zieks said as they stepped out of the carriage, watching as it pulled away, leaving the two of them alone.
“Lord Van Zieks seems well.” Ryunosuke finally said
“As well as a barely functionally alcoholic can be. Shall we go in?” He asked, both turning to finally look up at the manor house looming over them. Its main body was made of a browning brick, grand windows with ornate trimmings running along the rim of the house. The two men just stared at it for a moment.
“No matter how long we spend in England, buildings like this never fail to astound me.” Kazuma said, looking up in awe
“I always thought some of our university buildings were impressive. These are just some people’s houses.” Ryunosuke thought as he looked up, past the house and to the darkness of the night sky. He then redirected his attention to eye level as the sound of footsteps on gravel approached them. A middle aged gentlemen hobbling and smiling was making his way closer, his trimmed beard lying close to the long face with soft streaks of grey, with stocky shoulders and a slight limp in his step. Part of his face was already covered with a black mask, with golden thread spun around the sides.
“Ah, you must be Lord Van Zieks’ disciple and his companion. I recognised his carriage just there. Lord Sutherland, it is truly a pleasure.” He said, extending his hand to Ryunosuke first. He looked over as Kazuma, slightly bewildered, before taking and shaking it firmly.
“I think it would be appropriate for us to discuss the, well, aims of your visit in a more private place. If you would be inclined to follow for a moment, get out of the way of any foot traffic as it were.” He said as he shook Kazuma’s hand, not giving him time to speak before releasing it and gesturing for them to follow. They went down past the entryway onto a dirt path, turning on it and following it down the side of the house until they came to a small parting in the brick wall, leading into a small garden with flourishing bushes and vibrant flowers. The older man looked around, before sighing and turning to the other two men.
“I imagine Lord Van Zieks has alerted you as to what I believe to be going on, but I like to cover my bases either way. I have reason to believe that there have been some unsavoury dealings in my parties of opium, in its purest form. I also have great reason to believe my wife to be involved.” He said, a rambling tone to his voice.
“Why would that be, sir?” Ryunosuke managed to cut in, regretting his interruption almost immediately.
“Well, I and my accountant are responsible for overseeing the books, including for the allowance I give my wife. However, I’ve noticed that she is buying items such as silks and jewels which would usually be far outside of her budget at too high a frequency that she could be saving up for them. At first I suspected her to be withdrawing money from elsewhere, such as our savings, however as I have stated, myself and another oversee the books for the household and my businesses. I can confidently say there hasn’t been a penny misplaced.” The older gentlemen rambled
“Why did you ask that?” Kazuma whispered
“Sorry, I was just trying to help.” Ryunosuke whispered back
“By what, having him talk our ears off?!”
“She is unaware of the true reason of your attendance and cannot help how nosy she is, which is why I had to be discrete in my correspondence with you. Luckily, I ran into Lord Van Zieks a few days ago hoping to obtain some wine for the event, as he was shopping for himself. Explained the whole situation to him, which he’d already suspected. Still, I am a man of due diligence, so I thought it best to take a short moment to explain things fully to you.” He finished, taking in a deep breath
“I cannot offer you my protection or company all night.” He continued. “And as dearly as I hold my Elizabeth, she is an unpredictable and temperamental woman at times, especially as of recent. Keep your wits about you, my dear fellows.” He actually finished, patting Ryunosuke on the shoulder before leaving them to make their own way in. They stood in silence for a moment.
“That was… a lot to take in.” Ryunosuke thought aloud.
“Yes, but we can use Lady Sutherland’s supposed newfound wealth to easily identify her, should she already be mingling.” Kazuma said
“Not necessarily. Lord Sutherland seems to be very observant, he took notice of Lord Van Zieks carriage.”
“And yet, he seems to have mistook you for me.” He scoffed
“How was he meant to know? Anyway, if he is extra observant, then this excess wealth Lady Sutherland may be wearing might be rather insignificant. She also might not be flaunting it too much tonight if she has any reason to suspect she’s being observed. We also have to consider that the wealth of the other ladies attending the party may exceed Lady Sutherland’s. As good of a starting point as that is-“
“-it’s not the most solid approach we can take to discovering who she is, I get that.” Kazuma sighed, leaning against a nearby wall and sighing in frustration. Ryunosuke watched him for a moment, the gentle night breeze weaving its way through his dark hair, pushing it around softly, before clearing his throat.
“I’m sorry for overstepping there, I suppose Mr Sholmes is rubbing off on me.” He said, chuckling a bit to himself.
“You’re not overstepping at all. I invited you for your input. I’m just- a little bit concerned about this case.” He admitted, looking his partner in the eyes as he took off his mask and pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration.
“Because it’s the first one you’re really leading on your own?” He asked, leaning next to him as he also took his mask off
“Yes, that is part of it. The first case that is truly mine, nobody trying to alter the direction of the investigation, like what Lord Stronghart did.” He said
“Well, you were resistant to Lord Stronghart’s suggestions on how the prosecution should be led, even ignoring him. This isn’t as large of a step as you perceive it to be.”
“You’re right. I can’t be flying into a frenzy over this anyway.” He smiled as he put his mask back on, with Ryunosuke pausing for a moment, flipping his words over in his head.
“Ryunosuke?”
“Lord Sutherland, he mentioned something about his wife being easier to anger in recent days, didn’t he?” He thought aloud
“Yes, do you think there’s something behind that?”
“Possibly. If she is really involved in this smuggling scheme, it would make sense for her to be more frustrated, especially if she was aware of a police investigation.” He said as he put his mask back on, both men making their way back into the evening air as they trekked down the dirt path, back towards the entryway. They both exchanged serious looks before entering with a crowd of other guests. Kazuma instinctively reached out his hand towards Ryunosuke and dragging the pair closer together within the crowd.
“Stay as close as you can, Ryunosuke.” He said as their bodies pressed closer, Ryunosuke feeling the warmth of his breath against his neck, the hairs pricking up in anticipation. They stepped out together into a grand room, walls decorated in various golden strings. The floor was swarming with people, all with half of their faces as masks filled the room. A gathering of masked men with instruments were stood away from the main crowd, playing, the bottom parts of their faces knitted with concentration. The pair skirted around the crowd, finding a quiet corner to stand in for a moment.
“This is your investigation. What should we do?” Ryunosuke asked in a hushed tone, his eyes scanning the crowd with great concentration.
“Our strongest approach would be through Lady Sutherland. Even if she is not directly involved, she is the lady of the house and the hostess, she could still be a valuable source of information.” Kazuma said, watching as the different masked people danced, weaving their feet and bodies in between each other, slipping from one dancing partner to the next.
“How will we identify her though?” Kazuma smiled to himself, taking tighter hold of Ryunosuke’s hand and leading him into the crowd, his grip remaining tight as they parted their way through a sea of people.
“We need to socialise around with the other party guests, find out more about our hostess, about this event and any more like it.” Kazuma said as they began to dance, their feet close together as they stepped in unison, Ryunosuke watching at his feet and following Kazuma’s as they moved seamlessly.
“I trust you are able to do this on your own. We need to be as efficient as we can.”
“I can, Kazuma. I won’t let you down.” He said, pace quickening subtly to match his partner’s
“I never doubted that. But, if things do start to go south, please come and find me, alright?” He asked, genuine concern in his voice
“And you, me?”
“Yes. I promise. Are you ready to split here?” He asked, his hands loosening their grip. Ryunosuke just nodded, trying to push down the lump of nerves gathering in his throat as he did. They pushed away from each other, floating among the sea of ladies and gentlemen gathered, passively searching for someone else to dance with. Kazuma moved precisely, making his way towards a noble lady, her long navy dress coated in frills and bows. She smiled coyly at him, seizing his hands and leaning into his arms.
“Your stance, your composure, you do not frequent these parties often, no?” She said.
“Oh, no miss. I’m a student from abroad, I’m very interested in learning of the culture of these events.” He lied, smiling innocently as he did.
“You’ll be wishing to familiarise yourself with Lord and Lady Sutherland then. They are infamous for their masquerades, you know?” She giggled
“So they have these gatherings often?” He asked
“Oh, yes. More so recently. My husband adores them, allows him to relax a bit. Meanwhile I get to socialise unattended.” She said, twirling herself around in his arms, stretching herself out. Kazuma grimaced internally, spinning her away from him and then darting to find another to dance with.
“Simply put, Lady Sutherland is a master at people pleasing. Everyone finds something at these events, you know.” The second woman said gleefully, wrapping Kazuma’s arms around her waist. He laughed with her as he removed her arms from him and placed them onto someone else, before dashing away to the next woman.
“Lady Sutherland was a truly delightful woman to be around.” The third lady cooed, leaning into Kazuma’s shoulder
“Was, ma’am?”
“Oh, oh yes. Was. Not anymore sir, believe me. Her ill tempered outbursts are truly deplorable at times. And over the silliest of things. She finds her way to make up for it at these little parties she throws though.” She said before moving away of her own accord. Finally having a moment to breathe, Kazuma slunk his way through the guests and to the side of the room, keeping an eye on the floor for his partner. He followed not far behind him, stumbling a bit as he did, leaning against the wall as he took large gasps.
“Learn anything?” He managed to ask between his breaths.
“Lady Sutherland’s parties are exceptionally popular. The ladies get to socialise, the men relax. They’re being held quite frequently and the temper that Lord Sutherland noted? Noticed by other ladies, so we have a solid basis for it. You?”
“Wow. That’s a lot.” Ryunosuke thought aloud before clearing his throat.
“Numbers on the dance floor fluctuate, men in particular disappear into the various rooms of the house, return by the end of the evening to their wives. Lord Sutherland very rarely dances, he chooses to chat in the corner and you’re lucky if you can pinpoint where the lady of the house is at any time.” He said, his breathing coming to a more steady rate.
“Never to be outdone Ryunosuke, impressive.” He said, grinning at his friend.
“Oh, um, there was another thing actually…” he said, trailing off as he did.
“Yes?”
“It’s not really related to the case, but..” he looked up cautiously at Kazuma, who had his arms crossed in impatience.
“…do I have dimples?”
“What?”
“Like that little extra dip you get on the side of your mouth when smiling.” He said, forcing out a large smile as he did. Kazuma scoffed for s moment, then gave in and looked.
“Yes, I suppose you do, why?” He asked
“Just one of the ladies I was with said something about them. Said they made me look cute.” Ryunosuke said as he felt at his cheeks absentmindedly.
“So Lady Sutherland has the temper and all these fancy parties where people leave mysteriously happy and she’s elusive throughout the evening?” Kazuma asked, the weight of it all beginning to sink him down.
“I’m sure we’ll be able to find her throughout the evening. We have to.” Ryunosuke said comfortingly as the musicians drew to a close, repositioning themselves for the next song.
“You’re right. You wait here while I go back and look for some more answers, limit the chance of us getting separated.” Kazuma said, already having begun to move out into the dance floor, swerving naturally between masked figures.
***
Ryunosuke sat, watching as Kazuma talked and laughed and smiled at the ladies and the gentleman of the evening. Every time he smiled down at one of them, or laughed at them, or held them close he felt this awful twinge of jealousy travel through him, making him feel this vile bitterness rising up in himself.
He tried to look elsewhere in the room, make himself useful in some way, settling on another alone sole. Her hair was elegantly tied up and her face hidden behind a familiar black mask that Ryunosuke couldn’t quite place. He let his eyes look once again as Kazuma dipped a woman down, their faces inches from each other, before he cleared his mind and skirted around the room, making his way to her.
“Are you also intimidated by all of this, miss?” He asked softly as he approached her, her head looking up at him in fascination.
“No, but it seems you are. I don’t believe we’ve ever been acquainted.” She extended her hands, her nails painted a striking red with black residue hiding under them. Ryunosuke took her hand and shook it cautiously.
“I’m a student from Japan, here for cultural enrichment. I had not considered just how high class the event would be.” He joked, hoping she would surrender her name without him having to surrender his.
“Oh wow, you’re one of the students from Japan?” She looked him up and down, making him sink into his skin as he scanned the crowd to make eye contact with Kazuma.
“How absolutely adorable you are!” She squealed, pinching one of his cheeks and wobbling it around, her various rings scratching against the side of his face.
“Oh, forgive my manners. My husband is always nagging at me about this forwardness of mine, among other things. I’m Lady Sutherland, one of your hosts for the evening.” Ryunosuke froze. In shock, horror, something else entirely. This had to be too good to be true. Someone hard to find at her own masquerade, and Ryunosuke had basically stumbled onto her by accident. His eyes looked back into the crowd, searching for his partner amongst the anonymous horde to offer him a signal of some kind. Distress call may have been a more appropriate descriptor.
“You must be looking for the person who accompanied you this evening.” She said, making Ryunosuke jump.
“My deepest apologies for my rudeness. I just felt as if my companion for the evening would be delighted to meet you.” He said, continuing to search the crowd for his hair, his jaw or his suit. The lady giggled behind her hand at him, tilting her head at him innocently.
“You seem so stressed, sir. And like such a kind soul as well. As a hostess, I feel an obligation to help you enjoy this evening. A service which could help you… relax.” She said suggestively. She said something else afterwards, more directed at herself luckily as Ryunosuke couldn’t hear anything much anymore as the sound of his own heartbeat echoed through his head, deafening him as it threatened to burst through his rib cage in a blind panic.
“I appreciate the offer, but I will have to decline it. I should join back with my partner, prevent him from worrying.” He said, trying to move away from the conversation. The lady’s arm snatched at him, her nails digging into the skin as he dragged him towards her with surprising force.
“Now, now. I imagine you understand how rude it is to turn your hostess down in such a way. Your partner can wait, you’ve spent much of tonight separate, I’m certain you both can survive a little longer.” She said, her nails digging deeper and deeper as her grip tightened. Ryunosuke split his attention between wrestling out of her grip without commotion and searching for Kazuma. Wherever he was in this crowd, it was deep and far away. The lady in front of him was flanked by two new masked men, their clothes much more plain than the other guests. They positioned themselves behind him, one of them sliding a small blade out of his sleeve just enough so that Ryunosuke could see it.
“I’d recommend coming with us, with no fuss please, dear sir. I’d hate for the other party-goers to have to watch such a gruesome ordeal.” She said, watching Ryunosuke as his legs lost their firmness. He just nodded silently, following her, still trying to keep sight on the crowd for him. His lifeline. His Kazuma.
And yet nothing. He had to think quickly, do something that Kazuma would in this moment. They left the noise of the party behind them, fading away as they walked. His throat felt thick, but his voice cut through as he spoke.
“So, ma’am, what exactly are we… going to do?” He asked cautiously, looking back at the knife close to his side at all times.
“Oh, I’m simply going to help you relax a little with some… medicinal help.”
“And, what is that? I’m sorry, it’s just I’m new to these English ways.” He said, looking as confused as he could. She looked down on him dotingly, giggling a bit as she did.
“Yes, yes, of course. You wouldn’t understand. Well, have you ever heard of a little red plant known as a poppy?” She asked. He shook his head slowly, aware of the two men still following them as they went.
“Well, we can use the seeds from it to create a substance called Opium. You may have seen it listed on different medicines like children’s cough syrups. It’s harmless, I assure you. It has this amazing calming effect. I’m hoping it’ll be able to assist you, Mr…?” She asked, stopping the group in their tracks as she watched Ryunosuke expectantly.
“So, is this something that English people do regularly ma’am, or is this sort of arrangement unique to you?” He asked, hands quivering slightly as he slipped them into his pocket to hide them. She gave him a strange look before answering.
“It’s not something unheard of, really. As much as I hate to boast, I am rather infamous for this sort of thing.” She said, sharing a look of discomfort with the men following her. They huddled themselves closer to Ryunosuke, the metal of the knife now resting against his clothes. He let out a wobbly breath, looking at the woman’s face as he walked.
It was a risk, prodding someone who was known to be easily provoked. But this investigation meant a lot to Kazuma. So for him, he had to try.
“I’m really sorry, miss, but I don’t think I fully understand you.”
“How so?” She asked, her voice untrusting.
“I don’t have the best understanding of spoken English. Is there a way you could get that into writing for me?” He asked, his eyes firmly on her and not on the men surrounding him. She thought for a moment, looking him up and down, evaluating him before signing a removing a piece of paper and a pen. She signalled for one of the men to turn their backs, scribbling something onto it before handing the piece of paper to Ryunosuke.
My events involve the consumption of opium, a popular idea among Londoners of all classes. The aim is to relax my guests. It’s a harmless substance
Lady Sutherland
He examined the letter in his hand, muttering to himself for the audience staring at him before nodding.
“Is it possible for me to keep this? For future reference.” He asked, his grip on the paper causing deep wrinkles to emerge.
“I fail to see why you shouldn’t.” She smiled innocently, watching as he folded the paper and slipped it quickly into his pocket. They continued walking again, the weight of the note growing with every step in his pocket. It was evidence of her using opium at her parties. Not damning on its own, but it was still massively important.
So why did it feel like something was still missing?
“Ah, Lady Sutherland?” He asked, his last question for her
“Yes, my curious friend?”
“If this opium is meant to make me feel more relaxed… why am I being threatened?” They all stopped their movements, time seeming to freeze as the atmosphere plummeted in temperature. Lady Sutherland turned to face Ryunosuke, smiling coolly at him as she removed her black mask. He felt his blood run ice cold.
“For a man who asks so many questions, you certainly took your time asking the most important one.” His shoulders were clamped together on either side as the men towering around him closed in, dragging him across the carpeted floor. He tried to dig his feet in, claw out of their grip, scream for help. All for nothing, as he continued to be dragged forward.
“How very unflattering, tossing yourself around like that. If you were truly here to learn more about English culture, I would teach you about the manners of the English gentlemen.” She scoffed, any kindness in her tone now ground to dust beneath her heel as she marched on forward.
He felt sick, his head spinning as he kept squirming, the knife having moved from discreetly hidden in a sleeve to resting firmly against his neck, the cold metal cutting through any words he could scream.
“You must have noticed how far into the house we ventured. Out of the hearing range of the rest of the patrons. It keeps things like this much easier.”
“Things like this?” He asked in a whimper.
“You see, my husband is an observant man. He’ll take note of things like some new jewellery, a change in the bloom of his favourite rose, which I adore for him. I, however, am perceptive. So when the disciple of Barok Van Zieks himself supposedly took interest in my masquerade, not writing himself and right after one of my suppliers had been chased down by a similar such figure, I was skeptical to say the least. So I watched your little rendezvous with my husband, the way you led the conversation led to him believing you to be the disciple, however I saw though it.” She paused, scanning Ryunosuke up and down and scoffing at him.
“Foolish of him, quite frankly. Especially when Lord Van Zieks was so insistent on one of you being allowed to carry a sword with them. Does he truly believe that such a cold man would be so insistent about someone else’s companion?”
Ryunosuke had no words, staring haplessly at the cunning woman before him. He’d believed her some sort of victim, someone who had simply lost a grip of what she was doing, or someone who was purely focused on their own benefit. But this- this was cruelty. Cruelty above a lot of which he had experienced in London. They finally came to a halt in front of a door, Lady Sutherland swinging it open. The room was grim, the ornate furniture having rips in the cushions, with chipped wood. The floral wallpaper was peeling off, revealing the aging stains of the wall. The door slammed behind him, the knife being removed from his throat as he was thrust forward, tripping and landing in front of the lady of the house.
“Then I saw the pair of you socialising, mingling, investigating I presume. You were… adequate in your efforts, your footwork was poor and you had a habit of tripping your dance partners. But your partner- so smooth, so effective, setting his own tempo.” She leaned forward over Ryunosuke, removing his mask and tossing it to the side, inspecting his face in great detail, his eyes wild with panic.
“The way you watched him, the way you pondered between each question, how you looked for him as we led you out. I am no fool sir, you are smitten. As he is with you. And you…” she reached into Ryunosuke’s pocket, fishing out the folded note of her own hand, unfolding it and flicking her eyes over it before tossing it down to his side.
“… you are trying to help his investigation on me. My parties. Tipped off by my observant husband and my increased riches.” She smiled sweetly at him, now kneeling down over him, tipping his chin up to face herself, her herbal perfume creeping through his lungs, poisoning each breath he breathed.
“You remind me so much of him with those eyes of yours. Observant and eager, but you’re not perceptive or deceptive enough. You, speaking in perfect English, tried to use a poor understanding of English as a wagering tool. You never questioned whether this lead on a silver platter was too good to be true.” She got to her feet again, beckoning the two men with her to hoist Ryunosuke up to their level. He did little to contest them anymore, his head and heart screaming in disorganised unison.
She was right. He was smitten. Following a man to a masquerade, the prickles of jealousy he’d felt in his heart had left him open to a brutal attack.
“So, what are you going to do now?” He asked, the words heavy and strained.
“You are finally asking the right questions, dear sir. I’m going to take a guess that you have not taken opium regularly in your life like most Englishmen have, meaning that strong opium would have quite the effect on you.” She withdrew from her pocket a small, cylinder-like object which was leaving a black, dusty residue under the surface of her fingernails. She inspected the tablet closely, sighing as she did.
“A compact form of opium like this would fetch me a small fortune usually. Truly wasted on the likes of you.” Ryunosuke’s eyes widened in compete panic, the realisation of what was going on finally sinking in. He tried to back off, being entangled by the two men still behind him. He kicked wildly, trying to catch the legs of one of the men to no avail as he leant his head back, as far away as he could. Lady Sutherland groaned in frustration, looking at the two men.
“Assist me properly here, I need his mouth open.” She hissed as the thumbs of the strange men began to crowd Ryunosuke’s face, trying to weasel their way in between his lips to pry them open. He stood his ground, keeping them shut and continuing to thrash desperately. He searched the lacklustre room, looking for any tool which could help him, but none came to mind.
Lady Sutherland growled under her breath, her talon-like fingers reaching out and lodging themselves around Ryunosuke’s throat. Her men loosened their grip around him in surprise as she brought him closer to herself.
“I do not have the time to disappear for this long. It won’t kill you, just make you delirious enough that nobody will believe a word you say” She said, her grip tightening around his throat, nails digging deep enough into the skin that thin lines of blood began to appear. She got even closer to his face, grip tightening as he began to fight for air, lips still not opening as the world began to blur and merge together. She shoved the pill against his closed mouth, the dusty residue sticking to his lips and gathering in chunks on him. He redirected his continuous kicking efforts from the now more hands-off gentlemen in the room to Lady Sutherland, knocking hard into her shin. She released him with a howl of pain, allowing him to take a large gulp of air before dashing away, scooping the piece of paper and mask which had been tossed onto the floor and sprinting past the pair of other men, slamming into the door with full force and pressing his body weight against the handle, letting him swing it open.
He will. Ryunosuke thought to himself. Kazuma will believe me.
He sprinted down the corridors, taking turns he had barely paid attention to his first time around. He was certain they would be close behind him, so he couldn’t let himself stop running. He slipped the mask back on and folds the paper, tucking it away securely in a different pocket as he turned what he was decently certain was the right way out of there.
***
For the first time in hours, Kazuma breathed. He had fled to a secluded corner of the room to catch his breath, going over everything he’d been told in his head.
So far, he knew that these events had been subtly increasing in their frequency; that Lady Sutherland liked to match her husband in dress, removing some of her anonymity by wearing the same style of black mask he does; and that Lord Sutherland was never truly involved with planning these events, his name being on the invitations was a mere formality for him being the master of the house. That last one put Kazuma on edge. If he was never really involved with these events, then wouldn’t his reaching out to Lord Van Zieks during the week and Kazuma earlier in the evening be considered suspicious? They had to locate her, and fast. They only had an hour until midnight, when they needed to be out of the house and away into the night, so getting something solid down with Ryunosuke now would be a safe bet. He began searching the sides of the room where he had last seen him what had to be a few hours ago, finding them sparse. Moving cautiously around the room, he kept searching the crowd for the messy head of hair he was so familiar with, an ever-growing pit of worry developing as he did so. He bumped into a smaller woman, tripping over the trail of her evening gown.
“My apologies, ma’am.” He said as he got back to his feet. “But, have you seen a man with a white and blue mask? Dark, messy hair?”
“Oh, would that be the cute young man with the dimples?” She sang, her eyes lighting up between her mask. “Yes, I found myself watching him earlier, rather attractive with that smile and how polite he is.”
“And, where did you last see him?” Kazuma cut in bluntly, jealousy simmering inside of him.
“Oh, it was a while ago. He approached this woman with a black mask to talk to her, ended up walking away with her and two other men down there.” She said, pointing to an opening in the wall which led down a long hallway, the floor changing to carpet as it did. Kazuma thanked the woman and moved towards where he’d supposedly been, feeling a growing, swallowing worry with every step.
A black mask, just like Lady Sutherland. And accompanied by two other men. Whatever it was, it wasn’t good. A small voice in his head was screaming about how dangerous all of this was as he crossed into the hallway, his footsteps mute against the carpeted floor. He wrapped a single hand around the hilt of his sword, stalking silently through the hallway. Every hair on his body felt wired and on edge, listening for signs of life as he approached the fork in the road. His ears pricked when he heard voices, mainly the angry screaming of an Englishwoman to his left. He followed it through the turns, hiding behind a corner as he peered around at the scene.
A woman without a mask on was screaming incoherently, pacing around in anger as she went. In front of her were three men, the ones on the side wearing simple black suits with matching black masks themselves, one of them holding a small knife to the throat of the middle man. The sight of the man in the middle made Kazuma’s heart drop. An all too familiar man, with dark messy hair and a white mask, trimmed with blue; his arms being held on either side by the other two men as he struggled continuously. Something froze him to the spot, stopping him from charging in immediately. The lady inspected something in her hand before marching inches away from her face.
“Quit your futile struggling and take it already.” She growled at him, pressing a small, black pill against his mouth. Ryunosuke kept his lips sealed, moving his head away like a petulant toddler before the lady grabbed at his cheeks with one hand, puttering his lips and sliding the pill between them. His eyes widened with pure horror as she did and Kazuma felt his knees grow weak as he watched Ryunosuke’s mouth be covered by the hand of the other man and his head forcibly tilted upward and shook, forcing him to swallow.
He saw red. Kazuma burst out of his hiding spot, sharply turning towards the gathering. The two men holding Ryunosuke froze at the sight of him as he unsheathed his blade, holding it steadily in front of him. The lady turned on her heel to face him, smiling as she did.
“So this is the mysterious disciple of Lord Van Zieks?” She looked him up and down, eyes settling on the sword in front of him. She then glanced over at Ryunosuke, the knife being held closer to the neck, droplets of blood forming atop its surface.
“Just let him go, Lady Sutherland” Kazuma demanded, staring directly at the maskless lady as he did.
“Gladly.” She grinned, before signalling to the two men accompanying her. They dropped Ryunosuke, letting him crumple to the floor, collapsing onto his knees. Kazuma ran towards him, scooping him into his arms as the attackers fled down the hallway, disappearing from view.
Ryunosuke’s entire body was quivering as he leant against Kazuma, the pair walking silently through the hallway, Ryunosuke’s head hung in shame.
“We don’t have long until Van Zieks’ carriage is due to arrive. It would be best if we stepped outside and waited for it there.” Kazuma said to his partner, his head beginning to lull as his steps became more wobbly. He slipped the pair of them around the edges of the main room unnoticed, taking them into the cold breeze of the night. They sat down on a step, Ryunosuke taking off his mask and rubbing his face in exhaustion. Kazuma watched him, removing his own mask as he itched closer to his neck, inspecting it closely. There was dark splotches all around it in a ring, with small red cuts on either side. Kazuma instinctively ran his thumb over them, making Ryunosuke flinch away from him. He moved his hand away, watching his partner as he buried his head in his arms.
“I’m sorry.” He said, his voice muffled
“Why are you sorry, Ryunosuke. I’m the one who let this happen.” Ryunosuke glanced at him from the side, sighing as he pushed himself into a more upright position.
“I messed up your investigation.”
“And I was the one who made the call for us to split off from each other when Lord Van Zieks specially advised I don’t. It’s my fault you ended up hurt.” He said.
“This is so embarrassing.” Ryunosuke mumbled to himself.
“No, no, not at all. Being attacked in such a way happens to anyone, nothing embarrassing about it.” Kazuma reassured him, shuffling closer
“Not that. I’ve been trying to hold your hand the entire conversation and I keep missing.” Kazuma looked down to see his partner’s hand flopping down to the floor, searching around for something. He chuckled lightly as he placed it in his own hand, interlacing the fingers. Ryunosuke smiled tiredly, resting his head on Kazuma’s shoulder, listening to his steady breathing.
“What does opium actually do to you? I really should have asked earlier.” He asked, his words beginning to mix as he tripped on them.
“Mostly an excessive relaxation. And the poor reflexes. Most people in England use it to relax, sometimes even to help their children sleep.” Kazuma said, his words echoing in Ryunosuke’s head. He began to rummage through his pockets, his fingers clamping down on a small piece of paper. He held it in front of Kazuma.
“What is this?” He asked, taking the folded paper into his other hand, still keeping the first in Ryunosuke’s as he flicked it open.
“A note I had Lady Sutherland write, explaining what she does at her masquerades. I thought it might be of some use to you.” He said, shuffling himself closer to Kazuma as he began to read the note.
“Notice how she sort of swipes up when she dots a lowercase ‘i’?” He said, pointing vaguely towards the words on the paper, missing and tapping elsewhere. Kazuma read through it multiple times, mouth wide in disbelief.
“Some use? Ryunosuke, this is amazing evidence!”
“But I had to use some deceptive methods to get it, wouldn’t that limit how you could use it in court?” He asked
“Well, possibly, but then the burden of explanation would fall onto Lady Sutherland. She would have to explain that she attacked and forcibly drugged you.” Kazuma’s last sentence hung heavy in the air as he gave a look of concern to Ryunosuke, whose grip on his hand had tightened. He slipped the letter into the inner pocket of his jacket and moved his hand to cup the side of his face, affectionately stroking his cheek with his thumb.
“I’m sorry, again. For letting this happen to you.” He said
“You don’t need to apologise. I wasn’t given a lethal dose, I can just sleep it off during the journey home.” He joked, letting the weight of his head rest in Kazuma’s hand.
“Probably better for me to sleep during that anyway, leave you to handle Lord Van Zieks alone.”
“Then I guess I will have to pray that you cannot sleep, try to keep you awake.”
“Then I’ll simply pretend to sleep, I have a reasonable alibi.” Ryunosuke grinned, some light returning to his eyes.
“And abandon me in such a dire time of need? The betrayal” Kazuma gasped dramatically, feigning offence as Ryunosuke began to laugh, the sound of it filling Kazuma with uncontainable warmth.
“You- you looked really nice tonight. When you were dancing especially. It’s a shame we didn’t get to dance together more.” He thought to himself, rubbing his thumb absentmindedly over Kazuma’s. The pair shot up as they saw a familiar carriage pull into the wide path leading to the house. Kazuma helped Ryunosuke to his feet, letting him lean on his side as it approached closer.
“How are we going to explain what happened?” Ryunosuke asked
“It’s my case and my responsibility. I’ll explain everything. You just get some rest.” He smiled at him, giving his hand a comforting squeeze as the carriage slowed to a stop in front of them, the door swinging open. He focused on helping Ryunosuke up as he stumbled in, collapsing into a seat across from Van Zieks, Kazuma closing the door behind him.
“If you rest now,” he said, sitting himself next to Ryunosuke and interlacing his fingers once again. “I can wake you when needed, so you don’t miss anything important.” He smiled reassuringly, watching as an exhausted Ryunosuke gave him a vague nod of agreement before his head fell onto Kazuma’s shoulder’s, eyes closed. The other two men, who were awake, did not speak until they had started moving.
“Did you learn anything useful for the case this evening?” Van Zieks asked, looking between the two men in mild judgement. Kazuma dug into his jacket, constricted in his movements as he tried not to disturb the man sleeping on him. He took out the folded piece of paper, handed it to the man across from him.
“A written note from Lady Sutherland herself.”
“And this was written by her hand? Not by staff?” He asked, glancing at the note skeptically
“By the woman herself.”
“I must congratulate you, Mr Asogi. This is exceptional evidence.” He said, continuing to inspect it in the dim light of the gas lamps. Kazuma sighed, looking at the man now curled up next to him, his arms wrapping around one of Kazuma’s.
“I’m afraid I can’t take credit for it at all. It was all Ryunosuke. I… I wasn’t with him.” Van Zieks’ posture stiffened, looking over at the sleeping man before speaking again.
“And his current state is a by-product of that?”
“Yes. Forcibly given opium. I was witness to that. But the gathering of the note I was not. Although he has told he that he had to use deception to get it.” He said, not daring to look up at Van Zieks, or else he turn to stone.
“And you both splitting up? Was that a natural occurrence during the night or did one of you suggest it?” Van Zieks asked, the question weighted.
“It was my idea. One which I fully understand was dangerous and irresponsible of me. I should have been with him.” He said quietly, looking at his partner, now in a heavy sleep on his shoulder. Van Zieks looked at them for a moment, before sighing and handing back the evidence.
“So long as no permanent harm has came to either of you, I imagine tonight won’t be of massive issue. You will, however, have to alert Mr Sholmes of what has happened tonight.” Van Zieks said as Kazuma looked at him confused, then sighed in realisation.
“Their living arrangement, of course. Can’t say I’m thrilled at the prospect of leaving him in the hands of Mr Sholmes, or of facing the wrath of a Susato Takedown.” Kazuma mumbled that last part to himself.
“As much as I hate to admit it, Mr Sholmes is a skilled man with a frighteningly long history with opioids. Your friend will be in safe hands.” Kazuma didn’t say much in reply, leaning his head towards Ryunosuke as they travelled, the warmth of his breath creeping down his neck.
***
When Ryunosuke came to, he was being gently shook by the shoulder. As he woke, he felt the warmth of something he had wrapped himself around. Looking down, he realised it to be Kazuma’s arm. He removed his arms from around it, now glowing with embarrassment. Kazuma was gently shaking him while whispering soothingly, as if avoiding scaring a wild animal.
“We’ve just arrived at Bakers Street. I’ll be going in to alert Mr Sholmes of what happened, then I’ll take you in.” Kazuma said, beginning to stand up after his arm had been freed. Ryunosuke, barely conscious, gave him a vague murmur of understanding, watching as he closed the carriage door behind him, leaving only Lord Van Zieks and himself. He sat himself more upright, feeling the pressure of the prosecutor’s gaze on him. Even with the extra alertness and the extended sleep, he still felt that uncomfortable buzz in his bones, his head still feeling too light and airy.
“Pray forgive the discourtesy of waiting until we are alone to ask you this, but the bruises on your neck, they are from tonight, correct?” Ryunosuke instinctively reached upwards to feel them, them stinging softly under his touch.
“Oh, yes, they are from Lady Sutherland.” He said.
“Would you be willing to say as such in a court of law, if it was necessary?” Ryunosuke looked at him, dumbfounded for a moment.
“O-of course.”
Van Zieks evaluated him as he spoke, looking him up and down.
“I cannot promise it will happen, but I imagine the possibility of you having to testify in a court of law is high. I will make the suggestion as co-counsel.”
Ryunosuke just nodded, sitting quietly as he waited. Even after sleeping, he could feel the heaviness of his eyelids becoming harder and harder to keep up.
They didn’t have to wait long, although waiting with Van Zieks felt like an eternity. Kazuma swung open the door, leaning his head in.
“I’ve explained everything to Mr Sholmes, eventually. Luckily, Susato is already asleep so I won’t be flung across the room.” He joked, extending one arm out towards Ryunosuke. Unsteady on his feet as he stood, he took it, placing his weight on it as he stepped down out of the carriage and onto the street. They made their way to the front door, where Sholmes stood expectantly.
“You make me feel like a distressed parent, Mr Naruhodo.” He joked, lending a hand as he was led up the stairs.
“Thank you. And, um, what should I do with the mask and the outfit?” He asked, moving to lean more on Sholmes.
“Keep it. So I can make tonight up to you. Have the dance that we never had” He said coyly
“I’ll hold you to that.” Ryunosuke said
“Goodnight, Kazuma.”
“Goodnight, Ryunosuke.” He smiled, bowing slightly as he walked back to the carriage, riding off into the night. Ryunosuke stayed at the door until they had gone from view, mostly because he was using Sholmes as a crutch and he didn’t move to close the door until they had. He then led Ryunosuke to the couch, in front of which a small cup had been set.
“I made a tea for you, something I found to help over the years.” He said, handing it to Ryunosuke as he sat next to him.
“O-oh, thank you.” He said, cautiously bringing it up to his mouth and taking a sip.
“So, excluding the more physical events of the night, what else happened to upset you?”
“Hmm?”
“I am a perceptive man, Mr Naruhodo. Something else that happened, something said perhaps? While you are still under the effects of opium, you might as well get it off your chest.” Ryunosuke looked down into the teacup, his tired face staring back at him in what little reflectiveness the liquid gave. He sighed, relenting in his exhaustion to Sholmes.
“I just feel as if all I did this evening was trip Kazuma up. The only reason I was left so vulnerable was because of how I feel for him. I feel embarrassed, more than usual.” He admitted, Sholmes settling himself next to him.
“And yet, Mr Asogi continues to ask for your company and asked for my help in the investigation.”
“He did?” Ryunosuke asked, dumbfounded
“Indeed. Mainly in his investigation into Lady Sutherland, hoping to find enough evidence to convict her specifically. Now, I would drink that tea as to not let it get cold, then you can sleep off the day.” He said as Ryunosuke took a large sip of the liquid, letting the warmth of his words fill him.
***
Their feet were moving in unison as they glided through the crowd of masked patrons, hands interlinked so that they never separated.
“I hope this dance has been worth the wait so far.” Kazuma said, his eyes constantly darting to the now fading marks around his partner’s neck.
“Completely. I feel as if I’m actually doing well.” Ryunosuke said, his eyes much constantly darting to the floor in an effort to prevent himself from tripping over.
“Yes, mostly at standing on my toes.”
“Oh.”
“Luckily, the lining of my boots is sturdy enough to shield me from your sloppy footwork.” He joked, moving his hand down to Ryunosuke’s back, bringing him closer.
“Maybe you’re the one with the poor coordination.” Ryunosuke suggested as he scraped his foot along the side of Kazuma’s boots yet again, causing him to stumble.
“Still going to stay with you as the clumsy one here.”
“It’s nice to do this without the burden of investigation.” Kazuma said in a lower tone, leaning forward as he did.
“Speaking of that, Lord Van Zieks mentioned the possibility of me testifying against Lady Sutherland when you left us together. Why did nothing ever come of that?” He asked, Kazuma looking away before answering.
“I utilised my witness account and the statements of others attending to build a profile for her instead.” He admitted, not looking Ryunosuke in the eyes as he did.
“Kazuma, you know it would have been easier if you’d simply called me as a witness. I would have been able to handle it.” He said
“I never doubted your capability, partner. The issue lay with me.” He sighed. “During that case in Japan, I was meant to be the one saving you. And yet, you carried out the defense yourself and travelled to England with me, where you have done nothing but try to help me since. Just this once, I want to be the one to help you - as you have helped me. To repay you.” He said, holding Ryunosuke closer.
“I thought tonight was going to be you repaying me?”
“Partly. Unless you can think of anything else I could do to help towards my repayment.” He lowered his head, nose inches from touching Ryunosuke’s.
“Well, um, if you’d want to, we could- oh, but people might see and-“
“Ryunosuke.” Kazuma interrupted, somehow even closer. “We have the masks on. Besides, I might want to be seen with you.” Ryunosuke’s heart fluttered as he let himself lean forward, his lips gently brushing against his partner’s for the first time. He pulled away, a stunned sense of disbelief washing over him.
“Was I worth all the effort, partner?” He asked
“Absolutely.”