#herlock sholmes

b!tch i’m a cow

quirked up white boy busting it down sexual style based on this tumblr post

more of herlock eating things he shouldnt be

that time he mistook ink for coffee then ate something he shouldnt have

Hareley…

freshly baked HomuAso

Yujin Mikotoba and Herlock Sholmes commission for @beamkatanachronicles

Sign up for commissions at ziyedyusufayoub.com

iwillbecomealawyer:

dgs/tgaa rly looked at 1900’s homoph*bia in the eye and made all of their characters fruity as hell

goulloynes:

happy localization day

finally finished tgaa2 and i couldn’t love him more

y'know how . the tv show psych is about an amateur sleuth pretending to be a psychic - playing at having “visions” when he’s just deducing shit? yeah herlock sholmes is the opposite of that. he’s an amateur psychic pretending to be a detective and uses random crap to guide his “logic and reasoning”

Dilf of the year award goes to

Kazuma and Barok have been haunted by nightmares of the trauma of the Reaper Killings or almost having killed Tobias Gregson. Everyone is worried and Kazuma doesn’t wish to leave Barok in order to get better, even though he knows that would be best for him. How will the both of them resolve this and get better?

Frozen in shock, Kazuma watched as Tobias Gregson crouched onto the floor, holding onto the rather large slash across his stomach and chest. Blood poured out quickly, pooling like water as Kazuma stared, hands shaking, at the sword he was holding, Karuma. Blood was dripping from the edge of the sword, the tip missing from the onslaught. From the reflection of the blood, he could see himself in red.

“You’re… just like… him,” choked the dying detective before giving out his last breath.

“I…” Kazuma said, losing his voice, as he tried releasing the sword from his hands, but they wouldn’t release. It was then that he realized he couldn’t control Karuma as the sword glared at him.

“You are a disgrace!” The sword spoke.

“No, I didn’t…” Kazuma cried as he backed away.

“A dishonor to your father who gave up his honor for you!”

“I’m not…! I didn’t…!” Kazuma cried, as the sword moved toward him, the sharp end of the blade reaching for him.

“A dishonor to the Asogi Clan!”

Kazuma felt his back hit the wall as the sharp end of the blade came to his neck. Fear in the form of tears poured like a waterfall down his cheeks. He closed his eyes tightly, pleading, “please. I’m… sorry.”

“Fruitless apologies couldn’t bring Father back. Why would they bring him back? You deserve exactly what Jezail Brett deserved!” The sword said hauntingly.

“NO! Please, don’t!” Kazuma cried pleadingly, more tears falling as he felt his arms move on their own, feeling the pain of the blade. He instinctively grabbed onto his neck, hot tears pouring down his cheeks, while he curled into a fetal position.

********

It took Kazuma a moment for him to realize that the pain he felt was no more than a sting from the nightmare and no blood was pouring from his neck. All he felt was sweat. His eyes snapped open; he was still curled in a ball under the covers of the bed. He couldhear the pace of his breathing and heartbeat, feel the sweat and tears on his face and see the darkness of the room. His trembling hands slowly remove themselves from his neck; he looked over to see his lover still asleep. Thankfully, he didn’t wake up to see Kazuma in this shameful state.

Kazuma and Barok had been dating for about a year, beginning at some point after Ryunosuke and Susato left for Japan. In truth, both men had always admired each other greatly. Barok’s trial had only brought the two men closer together. Kazuma naturally felt as if he could be himself around Barok without fear of hurting him as he did with Ryunosuke and Susato. Until Barok came into his life, Dr. Mikotoba and Judge Jigoku were the only two people that Kazuma didn’t have to hold his anger back for. However, Barok was the first he could trust to not hide anything from him. He hated being deceived. It was worse than being lied to because a small lie wasn’toften told out of deceit, even if it did come to it. One couldlie from uncertainty or wish to avoid the subject. Deceitcamefrom holding onto information for personal gain. Even if Dr. Mikotoba meant well, he deceived Kazuma to his adulthood about his father, and that hadresulted in distrust toward his guardian. Barok understood that, having been deceived himself.

Lying in bed, Kazuma knew if he removed himself from the bed, his lover would likely take notice. The bed often made creaks and the floors of the manor made sounds too. He didn’t wish to burden Barok, so he turned himself away from his lover, staring at the window night sky. It was another nightmare, another night of watching Tobias Gregson’s corpse by his sword. He couldn’t understand any of this. He didn’t even kill the man and yet the nightmares continued with himfeeling the wrath of his sword, Karuma. Kazuma hated it. He wished he could find a reason for why Karuma was wrong but he couldn’t find an answer. The fact remained that, in his heart, Kazuma wanted to kill the detective.

It was on nights like these that Kazuma felt glad that he hadlent his sword to Ryunosuke. He doubted having Karuma by his side would’ve made things any better. Those night terrors continued to haunt him like a ghost in the night. Closing his eyes tightly, Kazuma felt more tears rolling down his cheeks. He used the pillow to cover his face, so he didn’t have to feel those beads of liquid that reflected his shame. It was haunting.

Kazuma heard the sound of the bed creaking, the bed dipping deeper, as an arm gently wrapped around his shoulder. Great, Barok must’ve woken up. Kazuma wiped his tears, hoping his voice sounded normal regardless of his crying.

“Did I wake you?” Kazuma asked, turning his face to see his lover’s deep, dark eyes.

“Nothing to worry about. Something is troubling you. Is it another nightmare?” Barok asked with such a calm and soothing voice, while gently turning Kazuma towards him, his fingers lightly brushing over his cheeks. Kazuma knew he couldn’t lie to Barok, being as his fingers had touched his moistened face, and nodded. A kiss was placed on his temple, fingers combing through his hair as a means of comfort. It felt nice.

“Karuma tried to kill me this time. There was so much blood on the floor. Said I dishonored my father and… the Asogi name,” Kazuma muttered as new fresh tears began building, leaving his eyes, before being caught by Barok’s thumb. He couldn’t stop the trembling of his body in Barok’s arms. He latched his hands onto Barok’s nightgown as another kiss was placed on his forehead.

“Might I offer you some tea?” Barok asked.

“… I don’t wish to burden you.”

“You’re not, except that you refuse help when you need it. I know it will be hard to relax and sleep again, after such a nightmare.”

“… just some sleepy tea to help me go back to sleep.”

“Very well,” Barok replied, getting himself out of bed as Kazuma followed. He didn’t like feeling like a burden to anyone, even though Barok made a good point about not asking for help.

Barok made some hot tea in the kettle, then poured some for Kazuma, adding some lemon juice to it. It felt soothing and warm. Kazuma was already feeling much more relaxed, especially with Barok with him. However, he didn’t want that nightmare to continue or return. Even though it was just a nightmare, he couldn’t deny how close he was to disgracing everything his father stood for and the Asogi Clan. To think that he was so close to committing murder. It was enough to make him tremble. He didn’t want to think about it and yet, what if that was to happen again?

“I’m always here, if that nightmare ever returns,” Barok said as Kazuma nodded, drinking his tea.

Before Kazuma knew it, his head lolled onto Barok’s shoulder, feeling the warmth vibrating from him. Thankfully, he had a dreamless sleep. He didn’t wish to burden Barok any more than he already had. After all, Kazuma wasn’t the only one dealing with nightmares.

For Barok, nightmares had become common. It was why he and Kazuma now slept together. Of course, it was due to their relationship, but that was nothing more than an excuse for why they were sleeping together. It was the nightmares. The nightly terrors of bloodshed by their own hands, the gold eyes of the bloodhound and the Professor, the mobs that would never stop their onslaught of slaying the Reaper and watching as Genshin Asogi took his final breath from the shot of a gun. Kazuma knew that it was far worse for Barok, who had dealt with these nightly terrors for over a decade since his father’s trial. It had only been recent for Kazuma.

Kazuma wished to unload any burdens from his lord as much as he could. Not just because this was his lover, but it was his duty. Barok had spent his days and nights alone with these terrors for over ten years. Dreams were no more than the imagination of the person dreaming them, but the effects were still haunting. If he could bear half of those burdens then his lord may find peace. However, with his nightmares, it was becoming increasingly impossible. Kazuma felt like a child needing to be cared for instead of his lord’s protector. How long wouldit be before his nightly terrors consumed him as well?

For the time being, Kazuma found it best to distract himself at work by looking over the crime scene with Inspector Lestrade. She went over her findings with him and the witnesses she found at the scene of the crime. Kazuma liked the Inspector’s cleverness and the same kind of stubbornness to find the truththat matched his own. It was a surprise to him that Gina never once mentioned anything about how close Kazuma was to killing her boss. He could still recall how distraught the young lady was to hear of her boss’ murder. She even swore that she would make the killer pay. Yet, she never said a word about what Kazuma almost did, despite the evidence being planted on the trunk she carried with her that once belonged to her boss.

“I was able to catch two coves tryin’ to exit the scene. Hmph, thinkin’ they can leave it without a single word of it,” Gina stated, crossing her arms.

“It also seems like Inspector Toby has found some clues as well,” Kazuma said, smirking slightly.

“Ha, you bet he did! He’s the best Inspector, that he is!” Gina grinned brightly as Kazuma smiled slightly at the lady. She then frowned. “Alright, what’s goin’ on with ye, Kaz?”

“Hm? Oh, nothing much, just haven’t been sleeping well,” Kazuma replied, not admitting his exhaustion from his nightly terrors.

“Yeah, that seems to be a thing with ye.”

“What do you mean?”

“Kaz, you’ve been having trouble sleepin’ since yer boss’ trial and all! The both of ye haven’t had a wink of sleep. It’s scarin’ the lot of us.”

“I…hadn’t realized. I mean, I knew of Lord van Zieks’ troubles with sleep, but that was something he’s always had even before my memories returned.”

“Yeah, but now yer joinin’ with him. Yer becoming as sour as the Reaper himself. It’s terrifyin’.”

“My… apologies,” Kazuma said weakly, knowing how useless it was.

“That ain’t the kind of thing I’m lookin’ for an apology for. ‘Oddo is countin’ on me to look after ye and he’s expectin’ for me to make a full report.”

“Ryunosuke is…? You shouldn’t have to… he…” Kazuma said, feeling overwhelmed by his friend’s knowledge. He didn’t wish for his friend to knowor to give him another matter to worry about. He began feeling slightly dizzy, placing his hand on a nearby wall to balance himself. “Why’d you tell him?”

“Look at yerself! Yer becoming sour yerself! I’m no fool!” Gina cried out, groaning as she grabbed hold of Kazuma’s shoulders, watching the dark bags under his eyes. “I ain’t never asked for you to look like this, Kaz. Ye need to stop whatever it is keepin’ you up like a night owl.”

“I can’t! You don’t understand.”

“Yer havin’ nightmares, right?”

Kazuma sighed. Was it truly that obvious? Gina’s eyes were full of conviction, saying, “I’m no fool. Ye don’t think I never had night terrors when I was livin’ in the slums? Terrified of what could creep up, while I was sleepin’? The streets are dangerous. Sometimes, it can get bloody and make ye do things you regret in life.”

“Bloody, heh?”

“How many times have ye dreamt of sheddin’ blood?”

“… more than I care to admit, I’m afraid,” Kazuma muttered, hollow eyes looking at Gina’s, who were filled with sympathy. It was only now that he realized why she never made mention of what he almost did to her boss. She could see he was already suffering from it. “What did you do?”

“…. bein’ with Iris helped somewhat… though, I had to start with forgivin’ myself. I did a lot of stupid stuff.”

“I suppose that makes the both of us.”

“It makes all of us. Wot matters is if we’re willin’ to learn and change. I’d like to keep my scars and learn from 'em. Wouldn’t you?” Gina asked, looking straight at Kazuma, who smiled bitterly.

“Indeed,” Kazuma replied as Gina backed away slightly, then she reached into her pocket. She pulled out what looked to be the tip of a small blade. Was that…? She placed it carefully into his gloved hands so she wouldn’t cut herself.

“Took a hell of a lot to get that blasted thing out. Remember wot you did, but don’t let it eat ye up. Yer stronger than that, Kaz! Unlike the other lot at the Prosecutor’s office, you’ve been to the slums like me when ye didn’t have a name to yerself.”

“… you’ve never once showed anger towards me, after…”

“Yeah, and…? Ye think yer the only one that held a weapon to a cove’s head? I held a gun to a pawn brokeh and that same gun was in me hands when he was shot dead.”

So, Gina understood Kazuma more than she appeared to. Kazuma glanced away, admitting, “I wanted to kill him. I could have.” Gina nodded, listening. “I can’t stop thinking about it and, when I do, I only burden my lord even more.”

“I’m assumin’ ye also help him when he gets his nightmares?”

“Yes?”

“Is it a burden to ye to help him?”

“Absolutely not! He’s my lord! I will help him with anything so long as he’s better!”

“Then, there ye have it! Yer his student and he’s willin’ to help ye no matter wot it is. It’s no different with yer friends and Mr. Sholmes or meself. We want to help.”

“Thank you. I’ll… I’ll see to it that I write to Ryunosuke and… perhaps talk to Mr. Sholmes.”

“Ye better. I ain’t babysittin’ ye!”

“Indeed,” Kazuma nodded, smiling as he felt some weight lifted off his chest. He took the tip end of Karuma and stuffed it in his pocket. Perhaps, he should keep it safe somewhere so that he may remember what he almost did. He looked up at Gina. “Thank you. I didn’t expect you to be so…”

“… make no mistake, I don’t trust ye temper with a ten-foot pole, but I ain’t gonna kick ye whilst yer down. It don’t take no genius to see it’s botherin’ ye. I’ve had people in the slums rob and kick me for robbin’ them. Not that I didn’t deserve it, I did, but it trapped me in the slums all the more. That ain’t the person I am. I’m no coward. If I’m gonna kick someone, it’s gonna be when he ain’t bleedin’,” Gina said, crossing her arms and smirking.

“I couldn’t agree. I’m sure Detective Gregson would be very proud of you. I hope to someday repay you.”

“Start by gettin’ better, alright? I’d like to actually give ye a good slappin’ fer puttin’ a blade to the boss’ neck.”

“Right. I suppose that’s fair. I’ll see to it thatI do,” Kazuma promised, shaking Gina’s hand, before returning to work.

Talking with Gina didn’t stop the nightmares, but it did help with some unloading. He wondered how long that relief would last before the nightly terrors would consume him whole. They never seemed to end. They certainly didn’t for Barok. He said that the hardest part was allowing his loved ones and those he called friends into his life. Kazuma was a natural social bird, but he could understand what Barok meant. Getting back to that habit of hanging out with friends as he did at Yumei University was easier said than done.

********

He did pay Herlock Sholmes and Iris a visit for tea. They were the closest people he considered friends or friends of the family. While he couldn’t say he forgave Herlock Sholmes for faking his death and making his best friend believe he was dead for an entire year, he knew the detective only meant to protect him. Besides, to say that Kazuma had never intentionally hidden things from his friends and family for the sake of justice or protecting a loved one would be one of his greatest lies. In the end, Kazuma knew his nightly terrors wouldn’t exist, had he told Dr. Mikotoba about the Assassination Contract before setting off to London. While he might’ve been forced to delay his trip to London, at least he’d have someone that’d protect him. The more Kazuma thought about it, the more he was beginning to question if all the sneaking around truly was worth proving his father’s innocence.

Iris had made some of her homemade blend of tea with banana pudding. It was very moist and went well with the tea. With some convincing, Kazuma was able to talkBarok into joining him with the “don’t you want to visit your niece?” talk. Barok mostly stayed quiet, not wishing to make conversation. However, that didn’t stop Iris from starting it.

“How was the pudding?” Iris asked.

“Good. One of the best foods I’ve tasted here,” Kazuma complimented.

“I’m so happy! I wasn’t sure if you or Berry would like it. Though, Runo says you like fruits and sockera, whatever that means.”

“Sakura, also known as Cherry Blossoms here,” Barok mentioned. “It has a subtle taste of cherries with a more flowery taste to it. Good for making tea, or so I’ve heard.”

“Oh! That sounds delicious. I wish we had some here,” Iris grinned adorably.

“….”

“I’m sure you’ll get to taste its flavor when Mr. Sholmes takes you to visit Ryunosuke in Japan,” Kazuma said.

“Oooooh, that would be wonderful!” Iris grinned.

“Toput ina word for Yujin, how have you both been faring?” Herlock asked.

“We’ve been faring well, I suppose,” Barok replied.

“Hm… I see. Though, Mr. Asogi here seems to have darkened his eyes a bit. I hope it isn’t from your stormyeyes.” Herlock teased as Barok closed his eyes, taking deep breaths.

“I’ve grown used to it,” Kazuma replied, feeling unsure whether or not he should mention his nightmares. Knowing the detective, he likely had already made his deductions and knew.

“Hm…”

“Mickey writes to Daddy. He’s worried about you,” Iris said.

“Dr. Mikotoba?” Kazuma asked.

“Yes. He and Runo. We know you haven’t been sleeping well. Even Ginny tells me she can see it in you and Berry.”

“Yes,she said as much earlier.”

“The Inspector is taking notice?” Barok asked with his arms crossed. “At least I can trust her skills on the job.”

“You don’t have to be the greatest detective to make impressive deductions,” Herlock mentioned. “Even Mr. Naruhodo is getting better on his own just by the letters he receives from Mr. Asogi.”

“He never wrote to me, but I suppose he’s always been a stickler for etiquette,” Kazuma said, looking away.

“Is there perhaps a reason you are not making mention of your troubles?” Herlock asked, his expression seeming more concerned.

“…”

“I’d assume you’ve already used your deduction skills to figure out the reason yourself,” Barok stated factually.

“Ah, but sometimes the person in question must admit it with their own lips,” Herlock pointed out. “Being able to work your way up through brains and skills is fun and sends you on great adventures, but sometimes… it comes at a cost.”

“Could you tell me what you mean by that, Detective?” Kazuma asked.

“Most certainly. Iris, do you know what reason specifically Dear Mikotoba wrote all those journals you see in that trunk?”

“Oh, to keep a record of his adventures with you?” Iris asked, grinning excitedly.

“That’spart of the reason, but not in full. I’m sure, if that were the case, he’d have specified his name, the name of his wife and that Mrs. Mary Wilson was not his lover. He’d also have made mention of all the times he met with Dr. Wilson, Mr. Asogi’s father, Mr. Jigoku and even young Barok, whom he met with often.”

“Oh yes, I did wonder about that. It would’ve saved me a lot of confusion. So… what was the reason?”

“To cope with his nightly terrors that came with his adventures with me, unfortunately,” Herlock revealed, showing a very grave expression.

“Mickey… had nightmares? … How terrifying. I never would have realized.”

“Dr. Mikotoba had nightmares?” Kazuma asked, dumbfounded.

“Very much so. Most of them were out of guilt. Many of those that were mentioned in his journals were those involved with our adventures. I was also dealing with my issues of isolating all my loved ones at the time, never telling them of my adventures. He involved everyone I loved, including my brother, Mycroft.”

“He was concerned for you,” Kazuma said. Though the more he thought about it, it made sense now why Herlock’s brother was hardly mentioned in his books.

“Unfortunately, many of them ended up scarred themselves, my brother especially. I think the worst of it was the James Moriarty Incident. At the time, I was at my worst. I faked my death and, as a result, I placed my dearest friend in the worst state of his life. I didn’t think he’d ever recover. When I told Mr. Naruhodo that I did not predict any of the events that followed your supposed death, I meant it. I feared that I had damaged Mr. Naruhodo in the same way I damaged my Dear Mikotoba. It’s why I made sure he was housed with me at all times until news came about of finding you.”

“… you really were trying to fix your mistake in your own way, weren’t you?”

“My dear fellow, I cannot tell you how sorry I am for what I put your friend through. I promised myself I would never do something to that level again, yet… there I was. It’s amazing how extreme situations can reveal the worst parts of yourself you wish to forget. No matter how hard I try to fix it, I just cannot… not entirely at least,” Herlock admitted.

“… Do you perhaps blame yourself for any of the mistakes you’ve made during your escapades?” Barok asked, his voice laced with sympathy.

“More than I care to admit. My adventures never come without consequences. Lives were taken, scars were made, people I loved were hurt and I find myself wondering if it had been better had I not involved myself. Yet, I find myself putting on my coat and hat, doing what I always do, but always take the pains and scars to heart. I can truly say I am not the same man I was in those stories,” Herlock stated happily. “There’s a reason I mention those stormy eyes, Mr. van Zieks. I’m sure you know why.”

“Hm?” Kazuma hummed, looking over at Barok.

“The Detective here also was stoic and cold before adopting Iris,” Barok stated, closing his eyes. “He was the more serious one, whereas Dr. Mikotoba was more like your Nipponese friend. I’m sure Miss Wilson picked that up from the Doctor’s notes.”

“Oh yes! That’s why I always have Daddy act more like the serious straight man in the stories. He was always focused on his work. Never playing around. Daddy has truly changed from that, though he never says how.”

“It’s hard to say, but I’d say that you have given me the joy I had been missing in my life, Iris,” Herlock admitted, putting a pipe to his mouth.

“I have? Oh, Daddy,” Iris responded, her eyes glittering.

“I have one question, Mr. Sholmes,” Kazuma said.

“And, what would that be, Mr. Asogi?” Herlock asked.

“Have… you ever found yourself so close to… almost… killing a man?”

“… one time… That was the time I had faked my death. Perhaps, it’s ironic it’s the most popular of my adventures Iris has written about me. Seeing it again in writing is one to keep with me for the rest of my days, lest I find myself repeating it.”

“Never knew you had a demon inside you, Detective,” Kazuma said, smirkingbitterly.

“All of us do, Mr. Asogi. It’s only a matter of how far a man can be pushed and how strong his will is to control that part of himself. Self-control is truly a man’s greatest strength. Acceptance and learning from it is another kind of self-control. Not to say you shall always succeed, but it makes it quite easier as time goes on. No one is without their demons, after all.”

“I’ll bear in mind to remember that, as will Lord van Zieks, I’m sure,” Kazuma promised, looking over at his mentor.

“This tea time was… enlightening. I had wondered why you became such a buffoon after my brother’s death. It seems I had missed the forest for thetrees,” Barok said.

“I have faith you both will do fine. Having another to love and look after can change you in ways you’ve never expected. It may take some time, but it will happen. Watching them smile for you is worth the change in the end,” Herlock grinned as Barok smiled slightly.

“I truly do apologize for giving you and Dr. Mikotoba such worry and for reminding you of what you’d consider the worst time of your life,” Kazuma apologized, giving a bow.

“No need to. Even this great detective needs a daily reminder of his shortcomings. It’s why I let young Iris write the stories of my adventures. They perhaps might be a joy to some readers, but they are a constant reminder to me of what I once was. It’s… hard to recognize myself as someone that could be so joyless… so serious all the time… never once spending time with those that matter. Right now, there are those I can’t afford to lose, and thus I cannot afford to allow them to show the same stormy eyes I once had,” Herlock assured, showing a genuine smile and turning his eyes to Iris, who smiled brightly.

It seemed that Herlock was much wiser than he came across. His smile, optimism and spirit were his way of bringing joy to those he loved, so they wouldn’t have to suffer as he had. Perhaps he and Kazuma weretruly not so different. It seemed as though Barok was beginning to think the same way. Kazuma never knew Dr. Mikotoba went through the same kind of mourning that Ryunosuke had for him. There truly is nothing more painful than believing that your dearest and closest friend is dead. Would Dr. Mikotoba even talk about that? Did that incident bring tension to his relationship with Herlock?

********

Kazuma would take time to visit Herlock Sholmes at Baker Street, if only because it made him feel safe and happy. Barok, of course, would join in, if only to see the only piece left from Klint. Much to Kazuma’s surprise, Dr. Mikotoba came to visit Herlock not too long after their conversation had ended. Kazuma was thrilled and joyful to see his guardian again.

“I didn’t expect you to come to visit this soon,” Kazuma said happily, taking a bow.

“It’s good to see you too. Herlock has written to me about you and I thought I’d drop by,” Dr. Mikotoba replied, showing his usual, caring smile with a tiny bit of concern behind his eyes. Kazuma began to wonder if Herlock hadmentioned to him about the nightmares.

“Of course! You know all of you are welcome here at any time,” Herlock grinned.

“It’s good to see you, Mickey,” Iris grinned.

“I’m surprised you didn’t bring Ryunosuke and Susato. How are they faring?” Kazuma asked.

“They’re faring well. They always are concerned for you since you’re out here on your own.”

“They’ll be grateful to know that I’m not, in fact, alone. Lord van Zieks has done well in caring for me.”

“So, I can see. How is he faring?”

“Physically, he’s doing well,” Kazuma replied honestly as Dr. Mikotoba nodded solemnly.

Herlock and Iris had used the time to leave, to give Kazuma and Dr. Mikotoba some privacy. “Mr. Sholmes has told me you’ve been having trouble with nightmares,” Dr. Mikotoba said. “Am I to assume that is your only issue or is there more?”

Kazuma sighed, looking off to the side. He replied, “in all honesty, I don’t know. I almost killed a man, Doctor. What am I supposed to think or feel?”

“… I fear you may be unintentionally hurting yourself. Even if you never followed through with it, just having had the thought of taking a life can result in destroying yourself. I hope you know that none of us hate you or think of you negatively.”

“I know, but even so, it’s hard to ignore the thoughts I have in my head. At times, I don’t feel worthy of the nameAsogi. I soiled it.”

“No, you didn’t. If your father were here, he’d love you just the same. Even he is not without his own faults, you know. No one is.”

“Doctor, how could you go through another adventure with Mr. Sholmes, knowing it was damaging your health? Mr. Sholmes… he told me…” Kazuma asked, looking away as he mentioned the last part.

“… I was concerned for him just as much as I’m concerned for you. I could see his escapades were hurting him. He was avoiding his family, distancing himself from social groups and he often came off very cold. I knew he wasn’t as cold as people made him out to be. I had hoped joining him would encourage him to go out more and heal him, but he wasn’t willing to heal himself. No one can be truly healed if they don’t wish to be cured, but I was a doctor and a stubborn one too. In the end, I ended up damaging my health with no one to blame but myself.”

“Mr. Sholmes said he faked his death and that it broke you.”

Dr. Mikotoba turned his head shamefully, replying, “that was the last straw for me. I couldn’t take another adventure with him, so I left Baker Street and spent my days with the Wilson’s. That was never mentioned in the notes. Many days had gone missing from that story. Mr. Sholmes did apologize to me, but it came to me that I could not help him if he wasn’t willing to get better. After about a few months, Mr. Sholmes came to me and finally opened up to me about his troubles, admitting to having almost murdered a man. It wasn’t until I left that he realized he truly wasn’t well and felt responsible for having broken me.

“We would have other adventures after that, but he did allow me and his loved ones to help him. It’s a miracle how much he’s improved since then. It doesn’t take much to see that he’s much more open and full of spirit, but that didn’t come without trial and error. These things take time.”

“… I hope I don’t come off cold.”

“Oh no, you’re a far cry from what Mr. Sholmes used to be. If anything, I worry more about you trying to help Lord van Zieks. I know how much that man means to you and I don’t want you to believe you’re fully responsible for his health.”

“That’s… we both are dealing with the same issues. We’re helping each other cope. I feel he understands what’s going on with me.”

“I’m sure he does, but you mustn’t neglect your health. I also had nightmares from my adventures with Mr. Sholmes. I neglected my wife and my child. Thankfully, Susato has forgiven me, but the damage was already done. I don’t wish for you to make the same mistake I did.”

“I just wish these nightmares would end,” Kazuma muttered quietly as Dr. Mikotoba patted him on the shoulder with a smile.

“You can always move to Baker Street or else back to Japan if you feel staying here is hurting you in any way.”

“What about Lord van Zieks? He’s…”

“I’m sure he’d wish for you to be well, even if it means leaving you.”

“But, he won’t be well. He’ll only distancehimself from his loved ones more.”

“Do you feel you’re the only one that can make him better?”

“….”

“Kazuma, don’t. You’re not responsible for what your lord does. Whether he improves or self-deprecates is not your responsibility. If you keep pushing yourself to care for the man, you’ll only destroy yourself. Think about your health. You’re not well yourself.”

“….”

“I will give you some space, but please think about what I said.”

Kazuma nodded, then sighed as he looked at his hands. He didn’t wish to leave Barok. Even if Dr. Mikotoba was right about him not being responsible for his lord’s actions, Kazuma still felt the need to care for him. Barok was someone Kazuma would give his life for. He couldn’t leave that man for the life of him. He was to serve his lord no matter what. Not to mention… Kazuma was deeply in love with Barok. He couldn’t be certain that he could spend another day not being in his Lord van Zieks’ arms.

********

That night, Kazuma was woken up by some creaks from the bed. He could hear some moaning from Barok. He knew it was another nightmare. Kazuma turned his body to face his lord who was trembling, his lips drawing a thin line as sweat was beading from his face. Kazuma gently snaked his arms around his mentor, resting his head on that broad shoulder.

“I’m here, my lord,” Kazuma whispered. He could feel Barok’s strong hands latching onto him for dear life, some heartbreaking sobbing escaping his lips. He wished in his heart that these nightmares would go away. He wished he could feel confident enough to focus on his health without worrying about Barok’s. What if he left this household and Barok’s health began to deteriorate? Unlike Herlock, Barok truly was trying to get better. Kazuma couldn’t hold back a sob as he said, “I love you.”

Just then, Barok’s hold loosened and his body stilled. Kazuma could feel his mentor’s heartbeat and breath slowing to a steady pace. From this moment, Kazuma began thinking of his father who always wrote to him while he was away. He wrote to his mother as well who was filled with joy whenever she received a letter from him. Did they not love each other just as much? Did his mother also not have times of sickness while his father was away, yet he never came back? Kazuma couldn’t say his father never loved his mother even though he never returned the moment she was sick. If anything, perhaps one’s strength could also be tested by how much faith they havein theirmate and loved ones to always care for them. Barok would never be truly alone no matter where Kazuma went in life.

That thought was enough to put Kazuma intoa dreamless sleep. He’d wake up for a moment with the feel of Barok’s touch on his face and a kiss on his temple before removing himself from bed. Thankfully, it was the weekend, meaning that the Prosecutor’s offices were closed. He slept for a bit before waking up, putting on his yukata before making his way downstairs. Barok was found in the living room by the fireplace where he was sipping tea while reading a book.

Kazuma watched Barok, contemplating if leaving him would be the best thing for the both of them. Of course, it was always his intention to eventually leave for Japan once his training was complete. But, right now, their mental health was on the line. There was also the second option that Kazuma didn’t wish to tread on unless Barok was okay with the idea.

“Good morning,” Kazuma greeted, coming down the steps. He could hear his mentor humming in response. He approached Barok, making himself comfortable on his lap, then resting his head on that broad chest. He could feel a pair of lips press on his head, making him smile slightly. “How are you faring?”

“Well, I suppose. I wasn’t woken up in the middle of the night, but I did have a nightmare.”

“I noticed. I wish there was a way to make these go away,” Kazuma muttered, sighing as his fingers curled around Barok’s robe.

“… when I first started, I had attempted to move to Germany,” Barok mentioned as Kazuma looked up. “It worked for a little while. Without the memories of my brother, my nightmares had subsided.”

“Do you think… we should separate ourselves from London, if only for a little while?”

“…. what are you suggesting?”

“Dr. Mikotoba came to visit. He… told me that I should move in with Mr. Sholmes or return home if it will help me get better.”

“Hm…”

“But… I don’t wish to leave you too, my Lord.”

Barok is expecting his family to pay him a visit by tomorrow. This leaves Kazuma stressed, expecting that he will not be liked or excepted for being the son of the one that killed Klint van Zieks. Thankfully, Barok, Herlock and Iris are more than happy to lift Kazuma’s spirits, including a surprise guest that crashes the reunion that day.

It had been almost a year since Ryunosuke left to return to Japan. Kazuma, of course, chose to remain in London to continue what was supposed to be his World Tour. This time, however, he would do so as a Prosecutor. Another thing that had changed was living arrangements. Originally, Dr. Mikotoba had assigned him to stay over at Herlock Sholmes’ place, like what happened with Ryunosuke, but he decided to remain in Barok’s estate. He had his own separate living space and was allowed the freedom to do whatever he wished.

Barok’s estate included some housing, originally for servants, but he had dismissed a majority of them since his brother’s passing. He offered one of them to Kazuma, while he suffered from amnesia. As payment for room and board, he was required to work for him as his apprentice. He had his very own kitchen, living room, furniture, training room, office, bedroom, storage room and anything he bought. It was nice and Kazuma preferred to have his own place over being cramped in an attic. Not to say he was an introvert, but he would always prefer having freedom.

Kazuma decided to use his kitchen to make himself some Beef Hot Pot. Of course, London didn’t have the same ingredients as his homeland, but he made do with what was available. At least the stove was easier to use. As he sauteed the beef and veggies, he heard a knock.

“Come in!” Kazuma called as the door opened, revealing Barok.

“I thought I’d inform you that I will be expecting family to be paying a visit in the next few days for a week,” Barok announced.

“Really? That’s good. I’m sure they will be happy to see you again.”

“Yes… forgive my curiosity, but what is that you’re making?”

“Beef Hot Pot. It was my favorite dish at Yumei University. Unfortunately, this country doesn’t provide the same ingredients here, but it seems the substitutes they have are manageable. Thankfully, they have stock. It always beats the broth.”

“Hm… admittedly, it smells delightful. You Nipponese never cease to amaze me,” Barok replied, showing a slight smile as Kazuma showed a smug response.

“I’m hurt. I thought you considered me the exception to my countrymen,” Kazuma teased, his hands on his hips.

“You are, but you are taking ingredients from my countrymen. I wasn’t aware Nipponese cooking was delightful.”

“Well, it isn’t like the food here is something to be desired,” Kazuma insulted playfully.

“What is that supposed to mean!? We have delightful food here!”

“Chicken.”

“Doesn’t count! Only YOU hate chicken!”

“Black pudding, Steak and Kidney Pie, Liver and Onion, Jellied Eels…” Kazuma continued smugly with his arms crossed.

“Now, you’re just choosing our undesirables those bastard frogs mock us for!” Barok glared, looking very annoyed.

“Oh, and my personal favorite,” Kazuma said, his index finger pointed in the air. “Faggots.”

Barok sighed, facepalming because that was his favorite dish that was considered undesirable. Kazuma burst into laughter, enjoying his teasing. Barok almost missed the days when Kazuma was mute, if not for the fact that he had other ways of teasing the man without speaking. Doing small things such as hiding his first chalice for weeks before finding it gone, only to find his faithful student drinking wine out of it. Suffering from Barok throwing his metal chalice was worth every minute.

Kazuma was insufferable with or without his voice. Barok could not understand what it was about this man that would make him so difficult. However, he couldn’t prevent himself from finding some charm to it. That charm grew to attraction, then…

Kazuma found a pair of lips pressed against his own. He couldn’t hold back a moan as he returned the kiss, smiling and laughing while doing so. Barok intended on deepening the kiss when his lover turned and left.

“Need to make sure my food doesn’t burn,” Kazuma said, making his way to the sauteed meat and vegetables. He took the food off the stove to pour it all inside the pot. Meanwhile, Barok was becoming more annoyed.

“Even while we… ugh. You’re deplorable!”

“I’m hungry,” Kazuma said, stirring in the stock and spices.

“So, food is more important than me?”

“Yes. I thought that was obvious,” Kazuma replied offhandedly.

“You-” Barok seethed before Kazuma plopped a spoonful of the hotpot in his mouth. His glare deepened before slowly, but surely, his eyebrows began to relax.

“Well?”

“…. it’s delightful,” Barok replied, his voice now softened with a dust of red on his cheeks.

“It is!” Kazuma bragged, then furrowed his eyebrows slightly. “So, what’s your family like? I’ve only ever heard of your brother and er…”

“Iris, yes. That’s actually why they’re coming, especially now that Mr. Sholmes has finally told her,” Barok explained, his eyes gazing to the side. “My family consists of my mother, uncle, younger sister and my sister’s husband.”

“Sounds like a bunch.”

“It is… I never told them about you… yet.”

“… why?”

“Kazu- they had believed your father murdered a beloved family member of theirs and many more. Now, they know that our family member was the Professor and… your father still…”

“I… no, you’re right. Forgive me. I wasn’t thinking about…”

“I know. You have a tendency to jump ahead without preparation. It’s a marvel that you still have your hands and feet intact.”

“… I didn’t tell mine about you either.”

“Hm?”

“I have family in my homeland, but… I couldn’t bring myself to tell them the truth, even now. I figured I’d tell them when I got home.”

“Do they know you’re intending to become a Prosecutor?”

“Not… really? Only that I’m alive and continuing my World Tour under you. As far as they know, father died from an illness.”

“… Ignorance is certainly a bliss.”

“Couldn’t agree more,” Kazuma muttered.

Kazuma barely noticed Barok approaching him, holding him in his arms. Their relationship was already complicated as it was, but it seemed there would be further complications with Kazuma being the son of the man that killed their loved one. He still remembered the letter that disgraced the Asogi name. Did they also disgrace the Asogi name? Would they hate him? A thought occurred to Kazuma.

“Certainly… if I’m your student, then would that make me an exception?”

“I can’t be certain. I have told them I have a student, but I never mentioned your name or… country of origin.”

“I… see.”

“Forgive the discourtesy of not informing my family before they meet you.”

“We both have our regrets, my lord,” Kazuma muttered quietly as he closed his eyes. Barok gazed directly in the direction of the Beef Hot Pot.

“Your food will get cold.”

“A little while longer.”

“…”

Barok knew his relationship with his student would most certainly make things complicated for his family. It wasn’t just the fact that he was currently in a romantic courtship with Kazuma, but that there was any relationship at all. It was the fact that Kazuma, the son of the man that killed Klint van Zieks, was the proud student of Barok van Zieks. It was the fact that Kazuma was taken in under Barok van Zieks’ wing and offered a home in his estate that was once owned by Klint van Zieks. It was the fact that, much like Barok, his own family wasn’t fond of the Japanese people. Though, Barok at least had tried to improve and had taken a liking to a few of them. Of course, Kazuma wasn’t like the other Japanese. He was much more hotheaded.

——

Iris and Herlock had offered to help prepare for the van Zieks’ visitation. Both seemed optimistically excited about their visitation. Barok wasn’t sure how to explain to the young girl that his family may not like Kazuma that well, though Herlock seemed sure she could handle it well. Barok figured that Herlock could take care of Iris if any drama was to ensue. Kazuma seemed optimistic himself, though as the days came closer, it was becoming increasingly clear that the nerves and stress were getting to him.

Barok knew how to tell when Kazuma was nervous or stressed. It always depended on the food he made. After the announcement, he baked biscuits, lots of them that were strawberry or chocolate. The morning after, he made beans and gravy, something that was common in an English breakfast, but never by themselves. Of course, Kazuma didn’t care and claimed to just simply be in the mood for beans and gravy. Now, at midday, Barok decided to talk to Kazuma about his stress cooking.

“You realize Plum Pudding is a Christmas food, correct?” Barok said as Kazuma mixed the ingredients.

“I’m hungry.”

“And stressed.”

“I’m fine.”

“You’re stress baking.”

Kazuma muttered something, then put down the bowl a little harder than expected. Barok sighed, placing his hand on Kazuma’s head. He held his lover, gently massaging his scalp as Kazuma let out a soft moan. A smile appeared upon Barok’s lips. His fingers did wonders with his massaging, moving them slowly to Kazuma’s forehead as that furrow between the young man’s brows began to slowly unfurrow. Then, fingers began to slowly move to the neck, making Kazuma moan even louder, then sweeter like honey once those fingers began traveling down his spine.

“It’s never enough,” Kazuma muttered sadly, allowing himself to be held in Barok’s arms.

“What do you mean?” Barok asked.

“It’s not going to matter if I make a good impression or not. So long as my father is the bane of their hatred like he was with you, nothing I do will ever be enough. They’ll only want more.”

“….”

“I was naive when I agreed to that assassination on Gregson. I thought that there’d certainly be something that would make me acceptable. Even so, Jigoku still threw me to the wolves. If being accepted by you won’t convince your family, nothing I do will ever be good enough.”

“We don’t know that,” Barok stated with a helpless voice.

“That tone doesn’t sound good.”

“Kazuma.”

“I don’t want to be told that I will never be good enough. I’m tired of it. It isn’t fair that I’m expected to be perfect in every way, then told to my face that it isn’t enough.”

“…. Kazuma.”

“What?” Kazuma asked, shooting a glare at Barok before feeling a small kiss placed upon his head. This kiss, from Barok, was enough to make Kazuma feel light.

“You’ve already proven yourself, while you had no memories. You are more than enough. If they cannot see it, then that is their own problem. They cannot tell me who to love or take in as my student.”

“Hmmmmmm,” Kazuma moaned, almost purr-like. His thin lips gaped slightly, tempting Barok to close them with his own pair of lips. They were so beautiful, how they shaped into a perfect O. He enclosed those lips with his own, tasting them with their lingering taste as a moan lingered long and beautifully.

“So wanting,” Barok said softly against those lips.

“Stop teasin-” Kazuma whined in a hoarse tone before his lips were taken by Barok’s mouth, teeth scraping gently against his lips, that tongue providing a gentle brush and his voice shuttering in a moan from that very kiss. How did he become unresistant and captivated by that mouth, those lips, those teeth? 

“Only if you open yourself up to me and tell me you love me,” Barok smirked slightly, kissing Kazuma’s tasty lips again, who moaned loudly and softly. Their tongues now melded together, Kazuma finally trying to talk through their kiss.

“I love yo- mmmmmmmmmmmph so- ahhhhhhhh! Ohhhhhhhh! Stho…. muuuuuuuuuch,” Kazuma moaned lovingly in the kiss.

“I love you too,” Barok replied softly in a coo voice, caressing Kazuma’s face. “Better?”

“Very much. Forgive me for causing you to worry, my Lord.”

Barok shook his head, replying, “you are Nipponese and I have no doubt that has caused strife upon you, both from myself and the people of this country. The one who should be asking for forgiveness is me.”

“It is not my fault that you had believed my father had betrayed your trust.”

“That shouldn’t extend to any one of his family, not even you and especially not your people. It is no more fair if my brother’s actions caused Iris the same suffering. That is something my family should understand if nothing else. It isn’t fair that we only now realized that Klint had a child that he purposely kept away, so she would not have to face the punishment from the public that would know her as the daughter of a serial killer. It’s even less fair for you, whose father had done nothing, yet still suffered from the same repercussions.”

Kazuma sighed softly, allowing Barok to kiss him once more before they both heard a knocking. The door unlocked, and Barok already knew who it was. Sighing, he released Kazuma, then made his way to the living area.

“Ah, my lord, how are you and Dear Asogi fairing?” Herlock asked with his usual grin, Iris appearing behind him, performing a curtsy bow.

“Good day to you, Mr. Re- oh, I guess it's Uncle Reaper. Oh, but it doesn’t have the same ring to it,” Iris said almost sadly.

“You seem almost nonchalant for someone that has just been told of our relation,” Barok stated bluntly.

“Oh, I actually knew for over a year now. I overheard everything after your trial with Runo!” Iris explained as Barok found himself taken aback.

“Originally, my Dear Mikotoba thought we could tell her when she was about 13, but… she confessed her knowledge of it just a little over a month ago,” Herlock explained, bursting out laughing. “She’s a smart one, just like her old man.”

“That’s right, Daddy!” Iris replied gleefully. She had since picked up the habit of calling Herlock Daddy since Barok’s trial. The more he thought about it, it made sense when taking into consideration that she had known about her biological family the entire time.

“Ah, good morning, Mr. Sholmes,” Kazuma greeted. “I have some plum pudding cooking in the oven at the moment, if you all are interested.”

“Plum pudding? How odd. Isn’t that often served during Christmas? Not that I’d complain,” Herlock grinned.

“I’m sure you already knew,” Barok stated.

“That, you are correct, my good fellow!” Herlock grinned.

“Stress baking. Seems to be the common norm. Of course, Daddy tends to invent and experiment when he’s stressed or anxious about something. I’m more of the stress baker,” Iris shrugged.

“I could already smell the cooking from all the way in Baker Street, thus why we came along. That and Dear Mikotoba was worried about Dear Asogi when he heard the van Zieks’ were coming over,” Herlock explained before showing his more serious expression.

“Dr. Mikotoba was worried about me?” Kazuma asked, slightly frowning.

“He knows you well, my Dear Asogi. Even Mr. Naruhodo asked me to tell your mentor to make sure you were alright if we didn’t find you here.”

“Heh, Ryunosuke, that devil.”

“I can tell you straightforwardly that partners will always look after each other no matter how far they may be,” Herlock stated, a pipe to his mouth.

“Indeed.”

“As grateful as I am that you cared enough for Kazuma to enter my abode, I hope you realize that my family isn’t expected to appear until tomorrow,” Barok stated.

“Indeed. Not to say we can’t help prepare or fancy ourselves to Dear Asogi’s plum pudding,” Herlock said.

“I can help make my special blend of tea!” Iris grinned excitedly.

“I suppose I could use the help. Unfortunately, I don’t have as many servants since the days when my brother was here,” Barok sighed.

“All the more reason for us to help. I’m sure Dear Asogi wouldn’t mind the help with the cooking, so long as neither of you get too distracted,” Herlock teased with a slight grin.

“You…!” Barok glared, his cheeks flaring.

“We’d be delighted for the help,” Kazuma grinned, turning to Iris. “Perhaps you can help me finish the pudding, so Mr. Reaper can avoid any distractions.”

“You too and in front of a child!?”

“That would be wonderful!” Iris replied excitedly as she and Kazuma headed to the kitchen, Barok begrudgingly following with his face already as red as a cherry.

Kazuma was still a bit anxious, but having Iris and Herlock helping prepare the mansion for the van Zieks’ visitation released a chunk of it, including Barok comforting him periodically. By the time the next day came around, Kazuma made sure to dress in his Prosecutor’s outfit. He believed his introduction should be by his lord’s side to show where his loyalties lay. He never left Barok’s side, even after there was a first knock on the door. One of the maids welcomed the first van Zieks, who was a young woman with her husband.

“Barok, my darling brother! It is delightful to see you again!” the woman greeted with a short hug. She wore an elegant, turquoise dress with some navy blue waving at the bottom of her skirt and hugging around her sleeves. There was also white lace located around the collar and edge of the sleeves. Her hair was dark and short with some curls, which could be seen under her navy-blue hat with a white feather.

“Mr. Binkston, Abigail, it is a delight to see you again,” Barok greeted, Kazuma following his lead. Kazuma could see Abigail’s husband was slightly shorter than him with black frocks, top hat and dress pants, a navy blue waistcoat hidden underneath the frocks, a white ascot and brown boots. He wore short hair and sideburns that seemed to be a light coconut brown.

“Good day to the both of you,” Kazuma greeted, his nerves getting to him.

“Oh, hello there. What’s your name?” Mr. Binkston asked, his eyebrows raised.

“Kazuma Asogi. I’m my lord’s apprentice.”

“Oh, he’s your student?” Abigail asked, her expression shock-filled.

“He’s brilliant in his work and a delight to have in the Prosecutor’s Office. He’s currently residing in one of the empty houses at the estate, since there are not many desirable lodgings available, among other things,” Barok stated.

“Hm… I see. Quite the surprise. I didn’t think you’d ever take anyone. He must be quite brilliant for you to take him in,” Abigail replied, showing a delightful smile.

“Thank you. It’s quite an honor,” Kazuma replied with a polite smile of his own.

Of course, Kazuma could see that Abigail was more surprised that her older brother took in a student that was Japanese and related to the man that killed their brother. While making her way, her mouth turned from a smile to a somewhat nervous expression. Kazuma took in some deep breaths, reminding himself that the young lady had reason to be nervous and likely distrusted him. Even Susato was skeptical of Barok at first. If she had known the Prosecutor prosecuted his father, she likely would have been much more skeptical and nervous. Even so, Susato trusted Kazuma wholeheartedly. It was likely Abigail shared that same trust.

The two were quickly lit up when they met Iris, who offered them a special blend of tea and some biscuits. She had the entire table set up with small snacks and desserts they all loved. Kazuma decided not to mention having made half of the food. Thankfully, they were all English foods. It wasn’t like they’d know if it was from him, Iris or the servants. Kazuma chose to continue standing by his lord’s side, feeling much safer and more comfortable there.

More of the van Zieks family came. The first was Barok’s Mother and Uncle. They seemed delighted to see Barok. Barok’s Mother seemed to share his hair color, which was short and curly with some ribbons and a small hat that was a dark red. Her dress was also the same color red at the bottom of her skirt over layers of black and a dark brown at the top half of the dress with long sleeves that wrapped around her arms. Her eyes were a striking icy blue that almost matched Barok’s Uncle’s eyes.

“You seem to be doing quite well for yourself,” Barok’s Mother stated happily. “I can see that you don’t seem as grieved as before.”

“Yes. It’s a process, but I have done better for myself, you might say,” Barok said.

“Who is this Japanese man?” Barok’s Uncle asked, turning his attention to Kazuma. He was much older, judging by the white in his hair under the lightly brown short hair and mustache. He wore dark-blue frocks and dress pants in a lightly-blue waistcoat and white ascot. His boots were black.

“M-My name is Kazuma Asogi, I am Lord van Zieks’ apprentice,” Kazuma introduced, taking a bow.

“Asogi?” Barok’s Uncle asked, turning to Barok, his eyebrows were seemingly confused.

“That would be Genshin’s son. He’s brilliant. I’m hoping to train him, so he may do well in his home country,” Barok explained.

“Is that so? I believe you mentioned taking in a student. How long did you say you’ve had him? I thought you said he was amnesic,” Barok’s Mother said.

“He has since recovered about a year ago; three months after I took him in.”

“I see. My apologies, I wasn’t aware. Still, it seems a bit of a coincidence that he turned out to be Genshin’s son.”

“… not quite. It was under Lord Stronghart’s orders and he has since been arrested for having given the orders that led to the deaths by the hands of the Professor and the real Reaper,” Barok explained. It was clear he didn’t want to go into detail about the specifics, but it wouldn’t be hard to connect the dots as to why him being given Kazuma wasn’t a coincidence.

“I can only assume Lord Stronghart had intended on me meeting Barok under those circumstances. Thankfully, it wasn’t for the worst. I’d like to think everything has since worked out alright,” Kazuma said, showing a small smile towards his superior.

“That’s wonderful. All for the better, I suppose. Now, where is my granddaughter?” Barok’s Mother asked.

“I have a grandmother!?” Iris squealed in excitement.

Kazuma could already feel some skepticism from Barok’s Uncle’s eyes. He took a deep breath as a hand was felt upon his shoulder. Barok signaled Kazuma to join the group, assuring he’d follow. Kazuma nodded, then walked inside the living room where Iris was meeting and greeting everyone. All the snacks, drinks and desserts were on the table for everyone. Kazuma decided to treat himself to Iris’s tea. It was quite delicious.

“Mmm, I have never tasted this kind of sweet bread. It’s like cake but isn’t. Did you make this?” Abigail asked with a small piece of sweetbread with some lemon filling in her hand.

“Oh, that was Kazzy. He tends to cook randomly, depending on his mood. I think he went a bit overboard this time,” Iris replied, shrugging. “Worried poor Mickey too.”

“Erm… my apologies,” Kazuma replied, flushing.

“Mickey?” Barok’s Uncle asked.

“That’s my Dear Mikotoba, my good fellows. He’s also Dear Asogi’s guardian,” Herlock explained.

“Ah! Yes, your partner, right? I’ve heard of your adventures together,” Barok’s Uncle said, turning to Kazuma. “You were raised by him?”

“Since the age of 14, yes. My… mother passed away not too long after my father,” Kazuma replied. He looked over to the side. “I owe that man everything and he’s the reason for me being here.”

“How very kind of him. So, tell me, what brings you here to London?” Barok’s Mother asked.

“It was part of a World Tour I was assigned to at Yumei University where I lived. Originally, I was supposed to arrive here as a Defense Attorney, but… an accident occurred, which stripped me of my memories. In my attempts to find out who I was, I first ended up in Hong Kong, then I eventually worked my way to London illegally before ending up under Lord van Zieks. I owe him my life. He took me in when I had nothing, then helped me regain back my memories.”

“How awful. That must’ve been quite scary. To be in an unfamiliar country without memory,” Abigail said.

“Quite. Still, that was nice of you to help him through his crisis,” Mr. Binkston said.

“Thank you,” Barok replied.

Kazuma felt a little relieved since the van Zieks’ seemed kind. Of course, they would appear kind and polite to him, but it was relieving to hear them taking interest in him. Dr. Mikotoba was known to them, so they likely felt relieved to hear Kazuma was raised by a kind and respected man. He couldn’t predict how the rest of the week would go, but for now, this was good.

——

While the van Zieks family were no doubt very nice and polite to Kazuma, he could see there was too much distrust and skepticism about him. He couldn’t blame them. After all, he was the son of the man that killed Klint. It didn’t help that neither he or Barok ever mentioned their current relationship, which was beyond student and teacher. Usually, Barok never talked much about it to the public since it was considered a personal matter to him. Kazuma was often the one that mentioned it.

Iris enjoyed her newfound family, as expected. Kazuma would watch the young girl serve tea and show off the latest inventions she’d made. Kazuma sighed quietly, making his way to the training room where he distracted himself by training. He didn’t have Karuma with him, but that didn’t mean he didn’t like his current sword any less. It had helped him survive and protect his Lord against those that made attempts on his life. Some good training was enough to break some sweat and get his adrenaline pumping.

After some training, he panted, hearing some talking and laughter from the family. They seemed to be talking and carrying on. Barok was with them and Kazuma couldn’t help but feel left out. He wanted to join them, but even as he left the training room and approached them, he could already feel the intensity building up. He sighed, making his way out of the manor, but not before hearing an obnoxious knocking that stirred up the family.

“Who in the world is that? That is most certainly not the sound of Sholmes,” Barok said.

“Yeah, Daddy’s a bit more of the knock-then-barge-in knocker,” Iris agreed before the maid answered the door. 

Behind the door was not someone Barok recognized at all. The man was Japanese, tall and a bit robust. His hair was black that reached down his back and pulled back in a ponytail with striking brown eyes. He wore a white suit and dress pants in a dark-blue waistcoat, matching boots and a three-layered jabot. A Japanese sword was worn around his belt. His eyes darted around the room, then right at Kazuma. 

“Raion-kun? How? I haven’t…! I thought you moved to Germany!” Kazuma stated.

“Is that a way to treat your brother-in-arms? I heard about you staying here and came across the channel just to see you,” the man, Raion, smirked, wielding out his sword, which clashed with Kazuma’s in one quick move. “To do battle with you!”

“This won’t end well, if you keep this up,” Kazuma smirked braggingly before the two sheathed their swords back into their belts.

“Who is this friend of yours?” Barok asked.

“Raion Karuma: proud student of Genshin Asogi and brother of Kazuma-kun,” Raion introduced himself, taking a bow, before turning to Kazuma. “Where’s Karuma?”

“I left it in Ryunosuke’s hands until my return. I trust him with my life,” Kazuma replied.

“Honestly? The soul of the Asogi Clan!? You left it with some nobody rather than with me!?” Raion complained, drawing his sword, and pointing it at Kazuma.

“No offense, but you were in Germany at the time and, as I said, I trust him with my life.”

“Then, I will have to see for myself. It looks like I’ll have to do battle with you another time,” Raion smirked, sheathing his sword again.

“Smashing, but honestly, how did you know I was here?”

“I knocked on your door and you wouldn’t answer, so I figured you’d be in your lord’s house instead. As for how I knew you were here, a bit of research and soul searching.”

“Uh-huh,” Kazuma replied knowingly.

“Eh-hem, about our guest…” Barok’s Mother said, feeling much more awkward and uncomfortable.

“He’s with Kazuma. He may do as he wishes with his friend. No sword fighting outside of the training ground,” Barok stated.

“Apologies, Lord van Zieks,” Raion replied politely.

“Would you like some tea?” Iris asked excitedly.

“Of course, Dear Lady.”

Kazuma led Raion to a seat, excitement filling him once more. Of course, he could feel the awkward tension from the other van Zieks’, but it didn’t feel as overwhelming now. Raion was introduced to everyone and enjoyed his tea.

“I’m very glad you’re here. I think Kazzy was feeling a bit left out. I thought he was going to bake more pudding,” Iris sighed.

“Oh, the humanity. I was hoping for some of that Hayashi Rice,” Raion said with a grin.

“They don’t have a lot of the same ingredients from back home. Though, I am lucky enough to cook a few things such as my favorite Beef Hot Pot,” Kazuma stated.

“What’s Hayashi Rice?” Iris asked.

“It’s a hash beef with rice. We also have Radish Soup and Tofu Nuggets,” Raion replied. 

“That sounds so delicious!”

While the three of them were talking about food, the other van Zieks’ kept to their conversations. It was very clear that neither of them wished to engage with Kazuma and Raion. Kazuma decided not to judge. After all, he and Raion were strangers to the family. At the same time, Kazuma knew deep inside that he and Raion were involved with Genshin Asogi, the one that killed Klint van Zieks. At the very least, Kazuma was thankful he wasn’t alone.

It was only a moment before Kazuma realized Barok was gone. He got up, saying, “I’m going to look for Barok.”

“I’ll come with you,” Raion replied, following Kazuma.

“I’ll stay and talk with my Aunty and Grandmum.”

The two men found Barok in the garden sitting on a bench by the fountain. Kazuma sat right next to Barok, who sighed.

“Forgive my sudden disappearance. The company was… overwhelming,” Barok replied.

“Are you alright?” Kazuma asked.

“A bit. Yes.”

“I can see if the little lady has any more of that tea. That is some good stuff that keeps the pressure down,” Raion said as he grinned kindly.

“Er… thank you. You’re… too kind,” Barok replied awkwardly.

“Are your folks always like this? This awkward I-don’t-want-you-around-no-offense kind of people?”

“What are you…?”

“It seems like neither of you are used to having strange people around. Not to mention, the tension is through the roof here. Not exactly the most comfortable environment.”

“….. I’m… sure you know… about Genshin Asogi and…”

“You mean who killed who and what? Look, I ain’t any happier about what happened and I’d have my sword to your neck if it weren’t for Kazuma-kun. I know he loves you. Not to mention… you have my sympathy. Kazuma-kun and myself have had some bad luck on our end after he received that letter.”

“What letter?” Barok asked.

“Erm… there was a letter from one of the victims of the Professor that cursed the Asogi name and-” Kazuma explained before Barok’s face completely twisted to shock and horror.

“You… You read that!?”

“…. What do you mean?” Kazuma asked, arms folded with a deadly glare.

“… I didn’t write it, but… my mother… did. She never told me whom she sent it to, but… Kazuma, who was that letter for?” Barok asked, fear lingering in his eyes.

“F-For the Head of the Asogi Clan, s-s-so naturally I… it never said a specific name or anything!”

“… that’s why there’s so much tension. I can only assume it’s a matter of the Lady not wanting to be caught for her dirty laundry. She probably wasn’t expecting the next heir to be 14, though I doubt she cared at the time,” Raion stated, showing signs of anger building up.

“This was a bad idea,” Barok muttered into his hands.

“… I should probably leave. I can’t deal with awkward tensions after hearing all of this,” Raion seethed, his arms crossed.

“I would not hold it against you. Please forgive me for your discomfort,” Barok said.

“I can’t say I forgive you for what you did to my lord, but for this… I won’t hold it against you. You’re at least honest.”

“I thank you for your kind words,” Barok replied with a small smile.

“Take good care of Kazuma-kun and I might forgive you. I can see he’s happier with you,” Raion replied with an honest smile.

“You’ve only been here for less than an hour.”

“And, that is more than enough.”

“Hmmm.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow then. I’ll be sure to be at my house this time,” Kazuma promised.

“I’ll hold you to that,” Raion smirked before turning around to leave.

Kazuma sighed, leaning his head against Barok’s shoulder, He muttered, “this is a disaster.”

“… I wish it was as simple as talking with them, but my mother isn’t the talking type. She hates conflict and will avoid it when she can,” Barok said sadly.

“How sad. I’m more of the confrontational kind of guy. More with swords than words.”

“Obviously. Forgive me for not engaging you with my family.”

“No. I doubt having me join or joining with me would’ve made things any better,” Kazuma sighed, taking Barok’s hand and lacing their fingers.

Barok and Kazuma looked up at the sky, only now taking notice that it was sunset. The clouds were already showing their color and the sky was beginning to darken. At that moment, Kazuma began imagining himself and Barok under the cherry blossoms, petals slowly falling onto their heads. Barok would likely find it strange, especially when Kazuma brushed the cherry blossoms from his hair. They were always beautiful during the springtime.

While thinking this, Kazuma felt something tucking behind his ear. He looked up, watching Barok place a small flower behind his ear. Kazuma felt his cheeks turn red.

“I… thought you would look nice with that…” Barok said awkwardly.

“Autumn Frost, hm? The flower for the Prosecution in my homeland?” Kazuma asked sweetly, leaning his cheek against Barok’s arm.

“You’re a brilliant Prosecutor, Kazuma and… it looks better on you than a sunflower.”

“Hehehe, is that so? Well, do you know what flower I think would look handsome on you?”

“What?”

“An English Rose. Red preferably.”

“Hm…” Barok hummed, a bit of pink dusting his cheeks.

“You know, despite how different you consider us Nipponese from your people, we have one thing in common.”

“Oh? And, what would that be?”

“Color. The colors of our flags are the same and so is the color of our national flowers.”

“… true,” Barok stated, after some thinking. “The two English Roses, red and white, become pink like cherry blossoms.”

“Indeed,” Kazuma replied softly, gently stroking his index finger, tracing something on Barok’s arm. Barok furrowed his eyebrows curiously.

“What are you doing?”

“Writing your name… in my language.”

“I don’t have a-”

“Yes, you do. We pronounce it as Ba-ru-ku, Barokku Banjikusu, and we can spell it in Kanji.”

“Unbelievable!”

“You’ve made yourself well known, Mr. Reaper,” Kazuma teased.

“… what would you call me, in your own native speech?” Barok asked.

“What do you mean?”

“You call me ‘Lord,’ yet in your home country, you have your own honorifics. It’s no different with your Nipponese friends. Mr. Naruhodo’s assistant calls you 'Kazuma-sama’ and Raion calls you 'Kazuma-kun.’ I wish to know what honorifics I’d be given.”

“I thought you hated anything Nipponese,” Kazuma smirked.

“I have exceptions, in case you haven’t guessed.”

“Hm… you’d be… Barokku-kyou.”

“kyo?”

“Kyou. It’s an honorific we give to the Lords and Ladies of our land. All honorifics have a specific purpose to call them that. Judicial Assistant Susato calls me sama because I am considered head over her.”

“I see. What an honor. Might I hear that again, my name with your honorific?” Barok asked, gently lifting Kazuma’s chin.

“Barokku-kyou,” Kazuma whispered - only a moment - as their lips brushed against each other before small footsteps were heard.

Kazuma quickly separated himself from Barok before spotting Iris running to the garden with urgency on her face. She seemed completely shaken up. Herlock followed right after her, his facial expression was seemingly serious. Something told Kazuma that something happened. Concern was on his face at the same moment as Barok’s.

“What happened?” Kazuma asked.

“Kazzy, your friend, he…” Iris said, completely shaken.

“Raion-kun? Is he alright? What happened to him?”

“Your friend is fine, but… I’m afraid things turned sour the moment Lady van Zieks mentioned his leaving. Your friend has quite the temper,” Herlock stated with an expression that made it seem like he couldn’t decide whether or not to be concerned.

“Explain what happened. I want the full story,” Barok said bluntly, arms folded.

“W-Well, as Daddy said, Rayo was about to leave unexpectedly when Grandmum asked why he was leaving. He… said the atmosphere was a bit discomforting and thought to come back another time. After he closed the door, my great uncle said something about if it’s normal for the Japanese to leave as soon as they come. I… suppose Raion overheard that. He came right in, then completely lost it. I… I left quickly afterward,” Iris said, her eyes watering.

“I’m sorry about that. Raion-kun does have a temper. We discovered something that left him in a rage. He thought to leave to cool down,” Kazuma explained.

“No worries. I figured that was the case. It’s why I signaled to Iris to leave quickly,” Herlock assured. “Can’t say I didn’t see it coming.”

“I’ll see to it to control the situation,” Barok stated.

“Same. You both stay here. Thank you,” Kazuma thanked as he and Barok made their way inside the mansion.

What Barok and Kazuma found in the room was more people, everyone shaken up. It seemed that Raion had already left, but not without leaving damage in his wake. Kazuma stood by Barok’s side, deciding to be there to help out with whatever was needed.

“What happened?” Barok asked. “Iris came to us shaken.”

“S-Sorry, it’s… our guest was leaving and…” Abigail started.

“The man completely lost it! Yelling at my sister-in-law something about disgracing the Asogi name! I’ve never heard of the likes!” Barok’s Uncle mentioned with folded arms, obviously upset.

“Where is Raion-kun? I’ll see that I talk with him. I apologize for his behavior,” Kazuma asked.

“As should! I never want to see that savage in my midst.”

“I beg your pardon, but I suggest you hold your tongue.”

“Wha- how dar-”

“No, I’m afraid neither of you have any room to judge his behavior. Ever since your arrival, both of you have barely talked with me and often shunned me from any conversations. The only conversational people I’ve met, aside from Raion-kun, were Iris, Mr. Sholmes and my Lord. It doesn’t make things better to avoid your true feelings about me and instead bottle up any resentment. Really, I find it much crueler, especially since one of you in this room had sent me a letter disgracing the Asogi name, as Raion had stated earlier,” Kazuma said, glaring coldly at Barok’s Mother’s direction.

“What in blazes are you talking about!?” Barok’s Uncle asked, clearly confused.

“Mother…” Barok said, looking at his mother, who avoided his gaze with a slight glare. “My apprentice is a man that has crossed swords with me and has seen me at my worst. I’m sure he can handle anything you have to say to him. Personally, I’d rather you get it off your chest than keep it in.”

“Klint was a brilliant young man. He was the pride and joy of the van Zieks. Perhaps, I was cruel in writing that letter while you were in your youth; I was not aware the next heir was a boy. Even so, I can’t forgive anyone associated with the man that took my boy away. Klint… he spoke of his admiration for Genshin,” Barok’s Mother said, fists shaking and tears rolling down her cheeks, staining her eyeliner. “You don’t think I see the same going on between the two of you!?” The room went silent as Kazuma stood firm, hearing every word of grief coming from the elderly mother. “Give me one reason why I should believe you wouldn’t take away the only son I have left.”

“You’ve seen my father’s sword, haven’t you?” Kazuma asked.

“Klint told me about it. Karuma? Y… You don’t have it?”

“No, because I lent it to my most trusted friend. Like my father, I have a demon inside that almost got the better of me during the time I was searching for answers about my father. As a result, I betrayed and broke the trust of those that I loved. I intend on slaying that demon once and for all before retrieving back Karuma.

“I won’t say or prove I’d have done anything differently from what my father did. He made the decision to allow Klint to have his duel, but not by his own decision. That was Klint's choice. Had it been my father, he would have given him this,” Kazuma stated, retrieving a small dagger from inside the sleeve of his coat.

“Kazuma, what is that?” Barok asked, his face completely awestruck.

“In my country, when any of us have committed a crime that brings us dishonor, we are required to perform an action called seppuku. It means to cut one’s stomach with a dagger. It is an action us samurais do as an honorable and merciful act to cleanse us of our sins to the gods,” Kazuma explained as the family’s expressions turned to pure horror. “I carry this with me because I intend on serving my Lord until the bitter end, regardless of our relationship.” He returned his dagger inside his sleeve. “My father allowed Klint to decide how he wanted to die, even as dishonorable as it was to him. He did that because he truly cared for your son. Had it been me, yes, I would have done the same. I would allow my lord to decide how he wishes to regain back his honor, even if I found it to be in the most dishonorable fashion.”

The room was quiet, so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. Barok couldn’t find it in himself to say anything. It seemed that, even after that blasted trial, there was still more he had yet to learn about Kazuma. Barok’s Mother turned her face away, then got up.

“I’m going to look for my granddaughter. Please excuse me,” Barok’s Mother said, treading toward the garden.

“You should get back home too. I’ll come join you tonight,” Barok promised.

“Of course, my lord,” Kazuma replied quietly, taking a bow, before leaving on his way back to his house.

———

Kazuma knew today had been a disaster. Though, he’d be lying if he said he didn’t see it coming. With all the tension in the air, things were going to get out of hand sooner or later. He only wished he hadn’t lost his temper. Unfortunately, Kazuma was just as much of a hothead as his lord. Perhaps, he should have left the moment things turned sour. Now, he felt guilty for the way he acted.

Hearing the door open, Kazuma already knew who it was. He just continued to cook the rice, even as arms snaked themselves around his waist. He placed the lid on top of the pan.

“I’m not angry at you, you know,” Barok said.

“… I apologize for my behavior,” Kazuma muttered.

“Don’t. You were right. Mother should not have bottled her true feelings and caused you grief. I had a talk with her about it and… our relationship.”

“I suppose she doesn’t give her blessing?”

“It doesn’t really matter if she does or not. She didn’t like Lady Baskerville either. She’s a very critical woman and she has a strong distaste for the Nipponese.”

“As expected from my lord’s mother,” Kazuma replied with a slight smirk upon his lips.

“Hm…” Barok hummed, planting small kisses on Kazuma’s neck. Kazuma moaned as those kisses trailed up to his ear before he turned his head, so those kisses would be planted upon his lips.

Kazuma could get lost in Barok’s kisses. They were sweet, yet firm with a touch of tenderness to them. The taste of Barok’s mouth was so sweet on Kazuma’s tongue. It left Kazuma wanting more, moaning for more. He looked at the rice that was still cooking, trying to separate himself, but the kisses continued with Barok’s insistence. He could only get out muffled words that moaned into Barok’s mouth.

“My mthmmmmm~ My lorphmmmmm~” Kazuma moaned in the kiss. Was Barok intentionally keeping Kazuma busy away from the rice?

Barok slowly parted after a while, whispering, “allow me to spoil you tonight. I shall finish the rice and make you a bath.”

“A bath? Whatever for?” Kazuma asked, smiling lovingly as he slowly began running his fingers down Barok’s arms.

“I was hoping to accompany you.”

“Hm… sounds lovely. I thought you don’t associate with Onsen.”

“Only when it’s with a friend. A lover is completely different,” Barok whispered onto Kazuma’s lips.

“I see,” Kazuma whispered as Barok kissed him lovingly on his lips. “Surprised you’re in this kind of mood after tonight.”

“Hm… perhaps it’s me wishing for you to no longer remained stressed or grieved,” Barok said, taking Kazuma’s face into his hands, then kissing his lips quite fiercely. Kazuma made a helpless moaning into the kiss, squeezing Barok’s arms as if wanting to be closer.

“You’re making me more stressed by leaving the rice unsupervised,” Kazuma stated with his eyebrows furrowed.

“You’re impossible,” Barok sighed, moving to the rice to check on it. As a reward for checking it, he received a kiss on his cheek.

“If I am the sun that rises and you’re the sun that never sets, would that mean our sun shines brighter than any star in the sky?” Kazuma asked, laying his head on Barok’s shoulder.

“Hm… perhaps. Personally, I prefer just saying the words, 'I love you.'”

“Hm… doesn’t sound as nice and sweet.”

“Then, how about this?” Barok asked, turning, kissing along Kazuma’s jaw, then whispering in his ear with such a low seductive voice. “I love you.”

“Hmmmmm~” Kazuma moaned, his eyes fluttering closed. “Don’t ever set tonight, my sun.”

“I’ll warm your bath very soon.”

“Please do~”

Barok led Kazuma to his couch, laying a kiss on his head before heading back to look after the rice. Kazuma chuckled, watching as his lover finished his rice before heading to the tub to run the bathwater. He looked at the time, seeing it was already 10:00 at night. He swallowed while hearing the water pouring into the bathtub. Was Barok truly in the mood to be doing that tonight? Kazuma was certain that he’d be upset after tonight. Though he did seem insistent with the kisses, Kazuma took that as his lover trying to comfort him.

Once the water stopped running, Kazuma watched Barok appear in the living room, picking him up into his arms and kissing him senselessly. Kazuma found himself wrapping his legs around Barok’s waist, combing his fingers through Barok’s hair, while the kiss deepened. Oh yes, Barok was most definitely in a good mood today.

“What’s with the mood? I-I was certain that… tonight… I-” Kazuma asked before being cut off by the lips and teeth grazing his throat. “Ooooooh~”

“I did say I was not angry at you? What you did made me veryhappy.”

“I-I-I-I di- ahhhhhhh~ mph,” Kazuma tried asking before feeling those teeth and that tongue graze up his neck, feeling his earlobe being abused by tongue, mouth and tongue.

“You said that you would allow me to regain my honor in whatever fashion I choose, whilst you intend on doing the same with the trust that I would allow you that liberty,” Barok stated, then grazed his tongue around the shell of Kazuma’s ear before finishing his sentence with a, “despite its rather darkimplications.”

“Mmmmmmmmm~” Kazuma moaned throughout the licking. That tongue, those teeth. He wanted more. He wanted Barok. “My lord.”

“Call me by the honorific you’d call me from your nation’s tongue.”

“Barokku-kyou, could you…?”

“Shall I spoil you today?”

“P-P-Please~” Kazuma pleaded, hearing Barok’s pleased chuckle.

Barok took Kazuma to the bathtub. Kazuma could most definitely count this as the best night of his life. To be spoiled by his lord like this. What a privilege! One thing was certain, he was most definitely not going to be sleeping alone tonight or waking up alone the next morning.

After five years of prosecuting, Barok van Zieks is about to retire. He can no longer bear the burden of so many deaths under his name. Just then, a mysterious enigma appears, exposing the organization responsible for the Reaper Killings. Barok will get to the bottom of this and find the answers behind this masked man, even if it means turning to Herlock Sholmes for help.

Since taking the job as Prosecutor, Barok had spent endless nights in his office at home. He had once believed, since solving the Professor Case, that the Professor Killings were gone for good. Though, it seemed he was wrong.

It did seem strange that many of the defendants that Barok had prosecuted, those that were declared Not Guilty through unlawful means, were mysteriously being killed one by one. It was disturbing, to say the least. But then, just as Barok was contemplating retiring from prosecution, not willing to bear the burden of so many deaths that seemed to be under his name - now the title Reaper of the Old Bailey, a mysterious enigma appeared in the midst. This enigma was often seen in Barok’s presence, stopping the deaths that seemed to be from the hands of the Reaper. The organization responsible for the Reaper Killings was now revealed, thanks to this enigma - who forced this organization out of the shadows.

This enigma was a mysterious man in a cloak and white mask, trained in combat and sword-fighting that Barok recognized as being of Japanese origin. He couldn’t shake the notion that this enigma was somehow connected to the Professor, Genshin Asogi. He couldn’t ignore those skills in swordsmanship and combat. At one point, Barok even witnessed the sword. It was the same sword he recalled Genshin wearing on his belt, the one he called Karuma. It was from that moment that Barok was certain that the Professor was not dead, not completely at least.

One fact that Barok was certain of was that this enigma was likely the son of Genshin Asogi. He remembered the former detective speaking about his son. At the time of his execution, the young lad would’ve been 14 years old. It had been five years since the Professor’s execution, meaning the lad was now 19. He likely had boarded a ship and traveled to London at some point. The problem with this theory was that every search of the crew members of every ship ported to Great Britain had never listed anyone under the name Asogi. He could only conclude that the lad had illegally stowed away in one of the ships. Thus, he decided to search for records of anyone with the name Asogi and when they disappeared. Thankfully, he found a name, Kazuma Asogi, who was a student at Yumei University before mysteriously disappearing about a month and a half before the mysterious enigma appeared.

Unfortunately, Barok was without evidence to prove this or why the young lad would go so far as to illegally travel to Great Britain, dawn on a disguise, then proceed to save the defendants that got away from Guilty verdicts through unlawful means. This action was beyond Barok’s imagination as to why this young man would do this. Of all the things, he’d expect someone close to Genshin Asogi, the Professor, to finish what he started or at least eliminate Barok for leading Genshin to the gallows. This enigma, however, did just the opposite and even did the one thing Barok would never expect from the son of Genshin Asogi to do in a million years, save him.

It felt like only yesterday, Barok was making his way to Scotland Yard to meet with Tobias Gregson about a case he was working on. He just so happened to come across one of the men that was proven Not Guilty in a recent case. This man just so happened to have friends with him, pursuing to take down the Reaper of the Old Bailey before he made it to the courtroom. Barok, of course, drew his sword to defend himself, but the number of his attackers overwhelmed him. He proceeded to retreat and run, but his assailants weren’t so merciful as to allow him to escape this easily, even proceeding to call him a coward. Eventually, Barok found himself cornered, wounded, unable to get up. That was when heappeared.

Barok was so wounded from his assailants’ attack that he could barely get up, but he watched as the masked man proceeded to fight mercilessly against the assailants. While their numbers were overwhelming for him, just as much as they were for Barok, he was still able to hold them off until Scotland Yard arrived to arrest the men. They were about to go after the mysterious enigma too until he jumped into the Thames River and escaped.

To this day, Barok still couldn’t understand this mysterious enigma. Why did he save him that night? It was as difficult to answer as to when Genshin Asogi also saved him the night of his arrest. The Professor still cursed Barok to no end. Even after death, Asogi’s spirit somehow lived within that boy, who proceeded to stop the Reaper Killings by any means necessary. There was one difference, however… the mysterious masked man never took a life.

A week had passed since the night Barok was saved by this mysterious man. He had done everything he could to find out more about this man. While he was certain of his identity, he couldn’t coordinate where he was lodging or his motivation for saving him that night. It was clear he was stopping the Reaper Killings, but why didn’t he consider Barok an enemy then? As such, Barok did the one thing he never thought he’d have to do – he sought help from the man he had once blacklisted from asking for any help, Herlock Sholmes.

Hearing the knock on the door to his office, Barok said, “come in.”

The door burst open as the detective proceeded to announce, “Mr. Reaper, I presume? Might I ask what has led you to be in search of myhelp?”

“…. haven’t you already figured it out, knowing you?”

“Ah yes, so it is about your mysterious friend?”

“I’d hardly call him a friend. More like an annoyance and a headache.”

“That’s too bad, really. He seems to be a very useful ally for you.”

“What makes you believe that? He’s a wanted criminal making havoc in all of London!”

“Yet, according to Scotland Yard, he seems to be doing more help for them than they care to admit. He’s preventing the Reaper Killings from taking place in ways they cannot. Doesn’t that strike you odd, my good fellow?”

“… perhaps. I’ve had my… suspicions, admittedly,” Barok admitted. Herlock seemed to make a very good point. What truly made this enigma a menace? If anything, he’s been stopping these Reaper Killings that had been mysteriously happening since the execution of the Professor. Yet, he was treated as a criminal, not a hero. “So, Detective, how much do you know about him?”

“Him? I’m assuming you know his identity?”

“… Kazuma Asogi.”

Herlock Sholmes looked at Barok with a knowing smile on his face. So, he was aware of the identity of this enigma. Of course he was! He was friends with that other Japanese student, who was friends with Genshin Asogi, right? Yujin Mikotoba, was it? If anyone, Herlock Sholmes would know more about Kazuma’s disappearance and location than anyone in London.

“So, you knew. Perhaps, you may even know where the lad is lodging?” Barok asked.

“Perhaps. Mr. Asogi is very careful, expertly so. I have to say, I’m highly impressed. I didn’t even know he had appeared in London until his first appearance.”

“I thought you were close friends with those Nipponese exchange students! Certainly, you must have close contact with them and the son of the Professor- ugh!” Barok shouted, before facepalming and shaking his head. “Forgive my impatience.”

“Yes, well, they don’t know where he went off to, after his disappearance. He completely closed himself off from them, after running away from there. I can only assume he has friends here, London citizens or citizen, that are lodging him at the moment. Whether or not they know of his escapades or that he’s lodging with them at all is a mystery. I truly doubt they do, though.”

“Have you looked?”

“Of course I have! The first place I searched was the East End of London. Perhaps, he figured he could blend in with the homeless to attract attention away from Scotland Yard?”

“But, he wasn’t here?”

“Not that I know of. Then, I proceeded to search in the markets and workplaces that would offer to house their employees. Perhaps he is lodging in one of the most convenient places?”

“Doubt it, since not many would be willing to hire a Nipponese to work unless they were desperate.”

“That’s what I thought too, but never say never as I always say. Anything is possible. Unfortunately, none of them have ever seen a Japanese man of that age ask for work. Mr. Asogi must have known I’d search in that direction. I also thought to search around seaports, but I got the same result.”

“In other words, he’s nowhere to be seen in London. I thought you were a detective.”

“Ah, I never said he wasn’t seen in London. He most definitely was. I’m just simply narrowing down my results.”

“And, where have those results led you? As far as I know, I’m at a loss.”

“Don’t think too hard on this one. Mr. Asogi is nowhere in the poorest part of London, he’s not in the markets, and he’s not found around the middle class.”

“Obviously.”

“Yet, he’s able to obtain the needs every human being must have for survival: food, clothing and shelter. Think of the times he’s fought his battles. Certainly, he must have had his share of injuries, yet they are miraculously healed or patched at the very least.”

Barok began thinking. The obnoxious detective, once again, made a good point. This enigma was able to gain food, shelter and clothing. While they certainly were not fancy, they were simple enough to have been obtained from somewhere. With all the injuries he’s taken, certainly his clothing would show wear and tear after a while, yet they seemed to be just as usable as they were the moment the enigma was first introduced. He had to have obtained these somewhere. That was why the detective was searching around the market streets.

“I doubt it’d be the East End, then. It is filled with the poor parts of London that are unable to provide the mysterious man with the needs you described. At most, maybe a shelter, but the food and clothing would not be as desirable. Not to mention I have noticed the wear and tear miraculously do not exist when he returns. No one from the East End would provide another cloak for him.”

“Very true. Meaning, he must be sheltered by someone with the means of protecting him, even from Scotland Yard and yours truly. That narrows it down to one place… perhaps person. Said person would likely have missing clothes and food that he’d not be able to keep track of if it were to go missing,” Herlock Sholmes declared, pointing his finger to the corner of his forehead before turning to the Prosecutor. “Tell me, Mr. Reaper, do you have any clothes that you consider unusable, perhaps food that is so abundant that you cannot possibly keep track of?”

“What’s that supposed to-” Barok asked before understanding the significance. The idea made his blood turn as ice-cold as his glare. He placed his hand almost over his face with his fingers spread apart. “You cannot possibly be saying…”

“Yes, it’s likely that Mr. Asogi is residing at your abode, possibly in the shadows among your servants and maids.”

“IMPOSSIBLE! I don’t have any maids with m-”

“In that case, it would be much easier for Mr. Asogi to hide in such a large house with only one person living inside. You could be awake and not even know there is a stranger living amongst you.”

“P-Preposterous! I have set my home in the exact order I expect it and nothing has changed, not even the food in my pantries!”

“And, how much corn do you have? Potatoes? Carrots? How much meat is in storage? They say, if you have a large quantity, it would hardly matter if one person took a few carrots, potatoes and meat. Mr. Asogi would just simply cook his food, while you were asleep, eat after the cooking is done, then save up the leftovers for his masked man missions. Those would likely be the only times the Reaper Killings would not happen and when he would have the time to get some needed sleep.”

Barok began thinking deeply. The more he heard, the more Herlock Sholmes began making sense. Was it possible that Kazuma Asogi had been living in his household this whole time without his knowledge? But, if so, then…

“… why?”

“Mr. Reaper, I think you know the answer just as much as I do. Think back to all your encounters with him.”

Again, Barok began thinking deeply. Yes, it did make sense for the enigma to be inside his household, being he was the Reaper of the Old Bailey and likely the most suspicious culprit responsible for these killings. He was also the one responsible for sending Genshin Asogi to the gallows. Where better to target the man responsible for his father’s execution than his own household? But then… why did he save him that day?

“I think the rest of your answers can only be given by the mystery man himself, my good fellow. And with that, I bid you adieu,” Herlock Sholmes finished, taking a bow before making his way out the door.

“Mr. Sholmes,” Barok called as Herlock turned. “If it turns out you are right, expect full payment by the morrow.”

“As expected. I’ll be sure to give dear Mikotoba the good news. He’s been beyond sick with worry, since Mr. Asogi’s disappearance,” Herlock said, tipping his hat down to cover his eyes. He then looked up at Barok with a more serious expression. “Please, look after him. Despite his skills, he is still a young man that lost his father at a very young age. Unfortunately, I cannot convince him to trust me.”

Barok took some time to think. It was clear Herlock did care about the young man. He had no doubt his Nipponese friend had been worried for Kazuma Asogi. Barok would never stop hating the Nipponese, but he could at least sympathize with them. He knew what it was like to lose a dear member of his family he looked up to so highly. He had no doubt that Genshin Asogi was Kazuma’s Klint van Zieks.

“I will do my best, but I make no promises,” Barok said.

“Thank you. Something tells me you may have more success than you believe,” Herlock replied before leaving the office.

Barok continued his work. Luckily, there was no trial or investigation he had to do today. He began thinking over Herlock Sholmes’s deductions. Had Kazuma Asogi truly been living in his household all this time? He was certain he kept track of his food and clothing, but then again, perhaps one person didn’t need to take that much to make it noticeable. Even so, how would he be able to find Kazuma Asogi in his own household, especially if he was hiding in the shadows?

One thing that stood out to Barok was when Herlock mentioned Kazuma likely sneaking in food for himself while Barok was asleep. In that case, Barok would have to go to bed, perhaps allow some time to pass, then search his household to see if anyone was inside his home. Then, he would know for sure if anyone was there. He also considered if this Kazuma Asogi would react in violence or try to escape from his grasp. He had to formulate a plan to find and prevent this mystery man from escaping. This was the only sure way of knowing if Herlock Sholmes’s deductions were correct, which was likely possible.

That night, when Barok returned home from work, he performed his normal routine of arranging his living space, then preparing himself for bed. From there, as soon as he laid down on his bed, he proceeded to wait for some time to pass. Unlike all the other times he slept, he kept his ears open for any subtle sounds he often ignored at any other point in time. For this moment, it all seemed quiet. Aside from the natural noises or creaks from outside, nothing seemed obscure. This young man may have learned useful stealth techniques that even he wouldn’t be able to pick up. Then again, perhaps he just needed some time to pass.

After about 30 minutes or more, there were still no sounds Barok could hear, so he decided to check his entire household. Quietly, making as little noise as possible, he lit a candle to use as a source of light for his search. He made sure he wore decent sleepwear and socks to be able to stealthily look around. He also kept his ears open to listen for the most subtle of sounds. He considered that, if Kazuma was inside his home, then he’d likely keep his ears open at all times just in case Barok couldn’t sleep that night. He’d be lying to say he never had a sleepless night.

Avoiding any flooring that would make creaking sounds, Barok quietly walked down the hall from his room and towards the kitchen, where Herlock Sholmes predicted the young man was. So far, all the lights were out and there were no subtle sounds he could hear. Then, as he began making his way to the kitchen, he heard something. It was the sound of a pan or kettle being placed on a stove. Someone was in the kitchen.

Barok knew if he was to go inside the kitchen the normal way, the stranger would likely notice him. As such, Barok took the secret passage he was familiar with that was made for security measures for if he had to escape or hide from trespassers. He entered one of the hall closets, then opened a secret door located behind the line of cleaning towels. From there, he made his way toward the kitchen area. As he got closer, something began catching his eyes: lit gas lamps along the secret passage ahead. Did this enigma know about the secret passages too!? Was this where he’d be sleeping!?

The image of this mysterious enigma living in the secret passages of his home to avoid Barok’s presence was enough to make Barok’s blood boil. It was no wonder this mysterious man was able to come and go whenever he pleased. He could run around in this part of the mansion without Barok’s knowledge of it. He wouldn’t make any noises, even if he were running, eating or anything of the sort. The only time he’d be outside of these passages was when Barok was asleep and likely would only be using the kitchen. If Barok came during one of his sleepless nights, this enigma would just have to turn off the stove and hide inside the secret passage. Of course, there was the risk of Barok noticing something was amiss inside the kitchen if he was to ever look and find some food cooking or the mess left from it.

Barok began making his way to the kitchen area where a small eye hole was made for him to peek through. Inside, he could see a man with an apron, a buttoned shirt that looked slightly too big for him and regular pants that were also too big. Herlock Sholmes was right on the mark. This man was using his clothes. They looked to be average, perhaps found in the storage somewhere, explaining why Barok didn’t notice any clothes disappearing. Barok blew out his candle, waiting outside the door to the secret passage located inside the kitchen, behind the dumbwaiter. Of course, it was made for someone of Barok’s size to fit in naturally, but not strong enough to carry him to the second floor.

Thinking it over, annoyance filling his head about the fact someone had been living in the secret passages of his home for all of this time, he began thinking of why this man would save him. It was clear why he’d go through the trouble of living here in the shadows. But then, why didn’t he use any of the opportunities to take him out? If anything, it was almost as if these actions of malice could just as much have been to protect him. But then… why would this man want to protect him?

The small door to the secret passage opened. Out came the mysterious man, whom Barok could now see clearly. He turned around to get the food he left outside of the dumbwaiter, then froze in place as soon as he saw Barok. It was at this moment that he began noticing the man’s full features. His dark brown eyes matched his father’s, his hair was choppily cut and his build matched perfectly with the mysterious enigma that had saved him. He was truly a well-dignified man of his caliber.

“I have to commend you for successfully living in my abode without my knowledge. It seems Mr. Sholmes was right,” Barok said as the man’s hand made its way towards the sword Barok recognized. “Don’t. I’m not here to hurt you and, if you try to draw your sword, I won’t hesitate to stop you. I want answers.”

“Will you wait for a moment?” The man spoke, eyes narrowed as Barok’s eyebrows rose in surprise, waiting. The man reached for his sword once more, but not in the way he had originally thought. He twisted a small knob on the hilt of the sword. The knob came off and, with it was a rolled-up parchment paper written in red ink.

“What is that?” Barok asked, eyes fixated on the document.

“The reason why I’m here,” the man stated, handing the parchment to Barok. “My name is Kazuma Asogi.”

“I know,” Barok replied, surprised by how softly the man spoke. He had expected this man to see him as a threat, but he didn’t. Barok took the parchment and unrolled it, then began to read. The title made his eyes widen, his face break out in sweat and his blood turn to ice. It… It couldn’t be… The Will and Testament of Klint van Zieks? He glared at Kazuma. “You had my brother’s Will!?”

“Read it. All of it!”

Barok glared at the man before proceeding to read the will in its entirety. It wasn’t just a will, but a confession, a confession of the identity of the Professor, the killings, the hound that took its prey, everything, even the one responsible for placing the orders. He also read the last part his brother wrote to him, apologizing for everything. Kazuma knew. How long? Why?

“Where did you get this?” Barok asked, his voice choked.

“My father sent his sword to me as a part of his will. I was messing with Karuma one day, then notice its head could twist off. I thought I broke it at first. That was when I saw the will. I traveled over here to find answers and to stop the one who sent my father to the gallows,” Kazuma stated, his eyes filled with fire. Then, his face turned away. “However, it turns out he is much more dangerous than I anticipated. At the moment, he is the Lord Chief Justice, practically untouchable. I knew, if I was to defeat him, I’d have to do so in the shadows. Unfortunately, much like what he did with your brother, he is using you to continue his killing spree. I’m only doing what I can to stop him. He already has his minions under his cane doing his bidding.”

“… Lord Stronghart. You believe he’s responsible for the Reaper Killings?”

“Iknow he is! It says there in the will that he blackmailed your brother into doing his dirty work. He’s doing the same to Scotland Yard! Why do you think I’ve been labeled as a wanted man?”

“Do you have any idea how dangerous this is!?”

“What else can I do!? This is the only weapon my father has to bring justice and I can’t allow any more innocent people to die by that scoundrel’s hands!”

“I’d hardly call them innocent, but that aside, why didn’t you say anything to me before? Why wait until I caught you red-handed inside my own home!?”

“Had I approached you any other time, you’d likely have fought with me. I… wanted to be sure you knew I was a friend. My identity and origins don’t provide me much to be in your good graces. That’s why I appeared as the vigilante that’s being talked about in all of London. I… I figured you’d set your sights on me after some time.”

Barok couldn’t help but admire this young man’s dedication to keeping the truth safe from the man that would destroy it. It was also clear he was, indeed, trying to protect Barok while stopping the Reaper Killings. However, the idea of this young man going out to stop Mael Stronghart, who was currently the Lord Chief Justice, from killing any more people was dangerous.

“It will only be a matter of time before Lord Stronghart finds out who has been wreaking havoc in preventing his killing spree. Do you think your father would be happy to know his son is recklessly putting his life in danger?”

“Don’t you bring my father into this! This is my choice! If I die trying to prevent any more murders, then that’s exactly what I’ll die on my sword for!” Kazuma shouted with a voice full of threats.

“For how long? Lord Stronghart will not stop and you know this.”

“I… I know,” Kazuma said, his voice now in defeat, turning his face away.

Barok gently took the young man’s face, turning it to face him, as he gently spoke, “we’ll think of something, a plan to expose him so that he will no longer be able to take any more lives. However, I need your word that you will stop putting yourself in danger like this.”

“You-” Kazuma replied, showing a slight glare of disapproval before Barok continued.

“Furthermore, if you know the ones that have been assassinating the defendants of my trials, that knowledge will be enough for me to deter them from another Reaper Killing, so you will no longer have to interfere.”

“…”

Kazuma stared at Barok with widened eyes that were now filled with hope. He exhaled as Barok now began to take notice.  His fingers were still on the man’s chin, releasing them. Admittedly, the young man was very handsome with a well-built figure. He was also Genshin’s son, someone the former detective treasured. Barok had lived these years believing that man had betrayed him. It made it hard for him to accept that any of Genshin’s actions were out of genuine care, but now it seemed different. Barok felt disgusted that he hadn’t trusted Genshin enough to believe in his innocence. Now, because of him, Genshin’s most beloved treasure was putting his life on the line daily for his sake.

Kazuma bowed his head, now showing the genuine fear and helplessness he likely had been keeping to himself for all these years. He pleaded hoarsely, “please help me and I shall do what you ask of me, my lord.”

“Of course,” Barok replied calmly, signaling Kazuma to follow him.

Kazuma followed Barok out of the secret passage and into one of the guest rooms. For the first time in a long time, Kazuma finally had a comfortable place to rest his head. Barok kept his brother’s will on his person, intending to send this to Her Majesty. If anyone could dethrone Mael Stronghart, it was the Queen Herself. In the meantime, Barok vowed to Genshin in his head that he would ensure Kazuma’s safety. He was young… so very young. No man should have to suffer or hold the burden of protecting lives from a criminal organization.

Kazuma glanced back at Barok, saying, “Tobias Gregson… he’s the tactician of the Reaper Killings. He’ll be planning his next killing tomorrow night.”

“Thank you,” Barok replied, allowing the young man to sleep, while he made his way out the door. He intended on paying that Scotland Yard detective a small visit, then schedule a meeting with the Queen. Just a little more time.

let’s dance, my dear fellow!

welcome to 221b squad!!

some kind of watered down leyendecker study/parody that i gave up on halfway but take it anyway. sorry herlock

tapdancin………

I was asked to do a bird version of Herlock Sholmes, making him the first Great Ace Attorney character with a bird form.

He is a Eurasian Magpie (pica pica); a bird found in England that is both celebrated for its intelligence AND known for being the name origin of the mental illness “pica”, which is the compulsion to eat things that are not food.

I had absolutely none of the right colors for this cuz I’m currently broke hahahhhhh. I apologize for it being ugly. I’m making some keychains so maybe you can buy some of those so I can actually afford more art supplies and maybe food and stuff heh.

pietmeon:

Next up in my acnl dgs lineup is Herlock’s indoor and outdoor outfits! The casual vest doesn’t exactly color match the pants (I use the brown formal pants) but it’s pretty close!