Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

“There will come a day when I’ll let you know what a true Conspirer is!” 

Danitz retorted at Anderson before looking at Gehrman. He let out a cough and straightened his posture at Gehrman. 

“I’ve already put in a request with Captain. In the future, I’ll be in contact with the Resistance, and I’ll often be in Bayam.”

Oh? Heh, why does it feel like you’re reporting to your boss? Klein chuckled inwardly as he gave a terse answer.

He stared at Danitz for a minute. Thinking to himself if he should bring him along. Weighing the pros and cons.

You know…Maybe I should bring him along? This is a little incompatible with my plans. But if he advances, he could be more meaningful. His abilities cover what I lack. I can probably cut down on servants' costs when I leave Backland. 

“Just take him. If you’re thinking so hard. He looks like he doesn’t want to leave you, either.” Anderson said in a teasing tone with a chuckle. 

Dantiz glared at Anderson with disgust. He watched as Anderson and Gehrman walked away. If it wasn’t because his companions were watching behind him, he would’ve diligently helped Gehrman Sparrow carry his suitcase and send him all the way to the dock.

———————

One night on the Golden Dream, Danitz stood beside his bed, motionless after he prayed. He felt as his body went cold and weak, and suddenly, an endless grayish-white fog enveloped him. An indistinct figure that stood high above everything filled his brain with a soft, awe-inspiring voice.

“Those who say my name are on my mind…”

His knees went numb, and his lips quivered in shock.

Th-there really was a response... There really was a response!

Danitz stood there in shock for a good minute before collapsing onto the bed. He uses his hands to weakly maintain his balance as he gathers his thoughts. His body was so weak that he could barely hold himself up. It was the first time his prayer was answered, so it scared the wits out of him. 

“It really is a magnificent existence. It’s real...” Danitz muttered softly as it slowly set in how serious things were that he got himself into. 

His gaze shifted to a grey fog circling his desk, which was next to his bed. He hesitated to reach out for it, but when his hand touched the fog, it immediately disappeared, revealing a note written on some goat skin paper. 

Dywane Dante’s…Backland..? Is this…a revelation from that mighty existence?

Suddenly, Danitz’s body shivered as if he had been hit with a cold breeze.

I feel like I’m going to regret this…

——————

The next morning on the Golden Dream. 

Danitz leaned against the railing, contemplating his options. He was reluctant to go after just requesting to be stationed at Bayam. 

Should it be okay, right? Since it was the orders from the mighty existence. I can’t go against it, can I?

He shifted his body and looked up at where Edwina was. Some of the crewmembers started to tease him as he stared. 

“Hey! Stop being a creep and clean!” One of the members yelled.

Danitz looked at them and ignored the provocation, leaving them confused by his sudden change of behavior. He walked to Edwina.

“Captain…” He reluctantly called out. 

Ewdina turned and looked at him. “You’re going after him after all?”

“Ah…” Danitz was taken aback. He couldn’t find the right words to explain and went silent. Only replying with a slight nod.

“Go. You don’t need to ask me. I know. You were practically glued to him.”

“I…” Danitz struggled to find the right words to retort. He took a step back and bowed to her.

“Until we meet again!!! Captain!!! Thank you for everything!!”

——————

Backlund’s North Borough, outside 160 Böklund Street.

Danitz sat in the carriage and watched as the county mansion passed by. He couldn’t help but be a bit shocked at where he was going to live for the time being. He was expecting a small apartment or a hotel room, but nothing so extravagant. 

I knew Gehrman made a lot of money off of bounties, but this is still shocking to see. Maybe I should invest here and sell the rooms like hotels. Yeah. I can give myself some capital to buy some houses. 

Danitz walked out of the carriage and walked up to the door. He looked at his clothes, feeling out of place. He was reading his normal outfit with a black coat around his shoulders. He was about to knock on her door, but then suddenly an older-looking gentleman with a broad forehead, raven-black hair, and brown, stern eyes opened the door and bowed. 

“You must be Mr.Dubois. Please come in. My master has been expecting you.” 

“Ah…” 

Danitz reluctantly bowed down and walked into the house. Due to his hunter instincts, he immediately started to lay out the house. Thinking about all the possible escape routes and how intruders can easily get in. It was very spacious, with several chairs and umbrellas placed with the furnishings elegant as ever. Befitting someone with the status of a Tycoon. As they passed through the second main door and the huge hall for guests, they made their way to the second floor.

If this is Gehrman ’s house, he doesn’t need protection. Still…someone can easily slip in without notice. 

He looked up and scanned the pillars as they walked into the hallway. Danitz made mental notes of each room as he was a house inspector. Eventually, they made it to the master bedroom, which was suspiciously open. He couldn’t help but take a peek at the extravagant, huge bedroom. It had a bar counter equipped with an open room that allowed one to sunbathe and enjoy the scenery, and a study which could be deemed as a miniature library, as well as two changing rooms and small bedrooms for the valet and the maid on night duty. There were other rooms for family members, but Klein was single. Aside from one of many that was going to be Danitz's new bedroom. 

They made their way to the study, and the butler knocked three times before opening the door. Danitz looked over to see a handsome gentleman with grey hair growing on the sides of his face and a warm smile as he drank his tea by the window. The man looked over to Danitz with soft brown eyes and placed down his cup gently. 

“Sir. Mr.Dubois has arrived.”

“Thank you, Walter. You can just leave us alone.”

Walter bowed once more and closed the door behind him. Klein smiled at Danitz and crossed his legs. He leaned back on his chair and tilted his head towards the seat in front of him, motioning Danitz to sit.

“It’s been a while. Is it Mr. 10,000 pounds now?” 

“Ha…” Danitz let out a weak laugh. 

Danitz slowly and reluctantly walked over. He pulls up a seat and sits down.

“A-are you, Gehrman Sparrow?”

“I am. Sometimes. Right now, just call Dwayne.”

Danitz looked at Klein, confused. He’s seen Gehrman change appearances before, but he couldn’t be too sure. Klein gently pushed the three-tiered stand towards Danitz. It had crustless finger sandwiches on the bottom, warm scones with clotted cream and jam in the middle, and cute-shaped pastries on the top.

“You will be working for me from now on. You are in charge of the garden most of the time and accompany me as my bodyguard. You can increase your wage when you’re fully trained by Walter and promoted to butler. For now, your starting salary is 20 pounds. Your food, housing, and clothes will be covered by me. Did that sound reasonable to you?”

Danitz blinked and stared at Klein, confused as he was hit with a wave of information after another. He was even more shocked at the mention of pay.

“I’m…being paid?” 

“Of course. Why wouldn’t you? Did you come here for free because you missed me?” Klein asked in a joking tone. 

Danitz's face suddenly flushed red, and he looked down. Klein let out a chuckle. 

“I was thinking of maybe buying some property here? Maybe we can invest together? It’ll make a lot of money.” 

Klein thought about it as he sipped his tea. “I’ll have Walter look up some houses for sale. If there are any that you are interested in, I'll be open for negotiations.”

Danitz let out a sigh of relief and smiled. He took one of the sandwiches slowly and ate it. 

“But you’ll also accompany me to bed.” 

Danitz almost choked on the sandwich he was eating and coughed. 

“What?!” 

“Sometimes I have to head out at night. Your job is to make sure no one knows.” 

Danitz forcefully swallowed the sandwich caught in his throat and smiled with a quick nod. 

“You got it, boss!” 

Klein chuckled and smiled at Danitz with an amused look on his face. He finished his tea and set it down. 

“It’ll be a pleasure working with you. Blazing Danitz.”

Danitz let out an awkward laugh. 

He’s a lot nicer compared to Gehrman, but why do I still feel scared? 

“You can choose any room you like while you work for me.”

Klein pulled on a string that rang a bell to tell Walter to come back. After a minute, the older gentleman walked back. 

“Walter. My puppy would like to invest in some houses here in Backland. Please look into it along with my investments.” 

“Of course.” 

Danitz looked at Klein in shock, who had a smile on his face. His cheeks flushed red in embarrassment from the new nickname, making Kleim chuckle. 

——————

At night.

“Come here,” Klein said in a soft tone as he patted the large queen-sized bed. 

“It’s cold.”

Danitz reluctantly walked over to the bed. He took off his shoes and crawled over to Klein’s side. Klein was reading one of the many invitation letters he got in the mail. Danitz raised his arms but slowly lowered them. 

“Are you just going to let me freeze to death?” Klein asked as he tossed one of the papers onto the nightstand. 

Danitz bit his lip and squinted his eyes. He slowly wraps his arms around Klein's waist and presses his body against Klein’s back. He closes his eyes and focuses, regulating his body heat as Klein instructed. As time went on, Danitz instinctively lowered his head onto Klein’s shoulder

Klein couldn’t help but smile as he read. With his free hand, Klein slowly pats Danitz's head as if he were petting a dog. The room was dead silent. Occasionally, it would be broken up by soft sounds of paper rustling and the fire flickering from the gas lamp. Danitz couldn’t help but take in Klein’s scent. As a beyonder of the hunter pathway, his keen sense of smell was exceptional. His nose twitched slightly as he took in the different smells coming off Dwyane. 

The fresh scent of his washed clothes, the sweet aroma of his cologne with hints of his shampoo, and soap. Strangely enough, there was a lingering faint scent of gunpowder coming off of him that reminded Danitz of Gehrman  Sparrow. They mixed in harmony into a distinct, comforting smell. Danitz felt his eyelids getting heavy, and his head slowly turned on its own. His nose slowly brushed against Klein’s neck. 

Klein predicted his movements and used his clown powers to subtly shift his posture for Danitz to relax comfortably. He then stretched out his arm and slowly turned the lamp off. Coating the room in darkness. The only light came from the red moon that seeped through the curtains. Danitz almost jolted out of bed as he snapped out of his half-sleepy state. 

Klein grabbed onto his ribbon dangling from his headband and pulled it. Danitz almost fell back into bed but caught himself with his arms, making him fall on all fours. He looked up at Klein, who still had a warm smile on his face, but it had an air of mocking to it.

“Stay,” Klein said, not elaborating further with a soft tone but clearly a command. 

Danitz felt a shiver down his spine, and his knees suddenly went weak. A similar familiar feeling he felt with Gehrman  Sparrow. Almost as a reminder of who he’s working for, even though Dwyane was kind, he could still be terrifying as Gehrman  if he wanted, if not more. He slowly nodded without question. Klein ruffled Danitz’s hair. As he moved his hand back and forth, his fingers slowly intertwined with Danitz’s golden hair. He slowly pushed the headband up his head and removed it. 

“Heh. So this is what the famous Blazing looks like in bed?” Klein asked with a chuckle

Danitz felt his cheek start to flush. He pushes his arms off the bed and sits up, watching Klein get into bed. Twisting his body and slowly lifting the blanket to his waist.

“Are you going to sleep?” Klein asked. 

“R-right!” Danitz quickly crawled to his side and got under the sheets.

Klein watched him in amusement at his flustered state.

He’s even more scared when I’m Dwyane than Gehrman. Interesting.  

———————

Danitz stirs in his sleep a bit. He couldn’t sleep because Klein was right behind him. So, instead, he slowly got up. His gaze shifted to the silhouette of Klein quietly sleeping. Danitz, with his hunter's abilities, saw through the darkness that Klein’s body would twitch ever so slightly at random intervals.

Is he having a nightmare, or is he cold?

He slowly lay back down and carefully scooted closer to Klein. Danitz slowly moved his arm towards Klein’s waist, but he hesitated. Although his spiritual intuition didn’t go off, something in his gut was telling him not to.

Why am I so hesitant?!

In the end, he just placed his arm over Klein’s waist and lay a couple of inches away from Klein. Using his pyromaniac powers, he admitted some warmth from his body like a second warm blanket, but without directly touching Klein too much, similar to what he did earlier. Even then, if someone were to walk in on them, it would be evidently clear he was spooning Klein. 

Klein immediately woke up when he felt an arm touch his waist, but he didn’t react right away as he immediately understood it was Danitz. The familiar warmth he felt earlier was comforting. Even if it’s not needed. Danitz noticed that there was a slight shift in posture when Klein woke up. Thinking that he was still cold, he moved in closer, pressing his body against Klein’s back. 

Klein’s eyes widened a bit when he felt the warmth slowly increasing. Using his clown powers to stay still, he closed his eyes to go back to sleep with cogitation. But he immediately opened his eyes again when he felt a hand move. 

Danitz felt his arm was falling asleep, so he tried to shift his posture so as not to alarm or wake Klein. But it did the opposite. Klein looked down at the hand that was slowly inching its way up. Another warm feeling started to creep up like butterflies in his stomach.

Danitz’s hand curled up dangerously close to Klein’s chest. Klein used his clown power to suppress his shock and blush. He got up abruptly and pulled on the blanket. With a swift but gentle kick, he kicked Danitz off the bed. Danitz let his body fall onto the ground even though he could’ve avoided it, mainly due to shock and confusion. 

“Out,” Klein said with a slight glare in his eyes. 

“Huh???” Danitz sat up, even more confused. 

“That’s enough for tonight. Leave.” Klein said as he lay back in bed and pulled the blanket. Not leaving any more room for explanation. 

Danitz sat on the floor for a minute, staring at Klein before finally getting up. He decided not to argue about it and leave for his own room. 

What did I do wrong? Did I misunderstand? Bullshit! 

Klein's eyes shifted as he watched Dantiz leave the room. Once he did, he felt a shiver down his spine. He turned to his side and curled up in his blanket. 

It’s cold… Klein thought to himself. 

———

The next morning. 

Danitz sat across from Klein at the table in the dining room. He watched as the servants placed the food on the table. It was a simple breakfast that consisted of bacon, sausages, eggs, baked beans, tomatoes, and mushrooms paired with toast and a black pudding. One of the maids placed down the coffee for both Klein and Danitz. Danitz watched Klein grab 3 cubes of sugar for his coffee. 

“Is the food not to your liking?”

Danitz blinked and immediately grabbed his fork and knife. “Y-yes. It’s just…Aren’t I supposed to eat in the servants' quarters?”

Klein let out a chuckle and swirled his coffee with the small spoon before tapping it 3 times. “You look cute when you eat.”

“Huh?”

Danitz was left speechless. He watched as Klein gracefully drank the coffee with his eyes closed, taking in the aroma and taste. Then he held out his finger to motion Walter’s assistance. 

“Walter. I would like to head to Saint Samuel Cathedral after breakfast. After that, I would like to take a nap before my lesson.” 

“Yes, of course.”

Walter quickly, along with the other servants, left only Danitz and Klein. The room was deadly silent aside from the occasional eating and the soft clinks of cutlery. Danitz felt uncomfortable with the deadly silence as they ate. He looked up from his plate, accidentally making eye contact with Klein. Klein tilts his head slightly to the side with a curious smile on his face. Danitz awkwardly smiled back and broke the silence. 

“You know…There are a lot of vulnerable openings in your house.”

“Oh? You have criticisms of my new house?” Klein placed down his knife and placed his chin in his hand. Intrigued by Danitz's sudden analysis.

Danitz shook his head. “No. Not at all. It’s just you know my pathway makes me hyperaware of my surroundings. You are strong, it’s just the staff I’m worried about. Due to… recent events.”

Being stuck with Gehrman  for a while, Danitz has grown accustomed to his chaotic lifestyle. Not to mention he’s in a new area he’s never been before, which made Danitz feel a bit paranoid.

Klein smiled and leaned back in his seat. He put down his fork and held his hands together. “Oh? Tell me. What’s your analysis, Mr. Hunter?” 

Danitz began to explain to Klein the different weak points where a beyonder can easily sneak in. Klein listened intently. 

“You don’t have to worry. They and you are safe here.”

Danitz looked at Klein, a bit confused at his last sentence. After Klein finished eating, he got up. 

“Accompany me to the cathedral.”

________________

Klein and Danitz boarded his rented luxurious four-wheeled carriage. Klein looked out at the window, enjoying the scenery on his journey. Danitz did the same, taking in the passerby. 

“How are you adjusting to Backland?” Klein asked.

Danitz looked back at Klein in a bit of shock. “Fine. I suppose. The smog gives me a stronger urge to use my pyromaniac powers.”

Klein let out a chuckle. “I wouldn’t advise you to use your powers here. Backland is the territory of the Evernight goddess and where the red gloves are stationed. It’s better if we head out to Tingen. If we prepare anti-divination measures, you can have a better chance of digesting your potion.” 

Danitz was a bit shocked at the information Klein was giving him for free. But he immediately noticed a hint of sadness in Klein’s voice when he mentioned Tingen. 

Tingen? I remember Gehrman  mentioning it once…

Danitz wanted to comfort Klein somehow. But leaning over in the carriage while moving could cause even more issues. So, Danitz tried to lift his leg and touch Klein’s. Klein raised an eyebrow. 

“Bold today, aren’t you?”

“I’m trying to comfort you.”

“...”

Klein shifted his posture. He opened his mouth and curled his lips into a smirk. Danitz felt like he was in trouble for being too touchy with Dwyane again. He looked down and saw that Klein had somehow placed his leg between Danitz’s legs without him noticing. His eyes widened a bit.

When???-

“This is what you wanted, wasn’t it?” Klein asked in a teasing voice. 

He tilts his foot forward and presses the tip of his shoe against Danitz’s crotch area. With no room to move, Danitz could only sit still. He looked at Klein with a worried and confused look on his face. Sweat started to form on his face from a strange heat rising from his pants. 

“We are here.” The carriage driver spoke before jumping down. 

Klein pulled his foot away. “Thank you.”

The carriage driver opened the door for Klein, and he got off the carriage first. Danitz let out a gasp for air.

“Bullshit! What was that?!” Danitz mumbled to himself. 

“Puppy,” Klein called out. 

“Coming!” 

Danitz quickly jumped out of the carriage and ran over to Klein’s side. He immediately felt something was wrong with Klein. His gaze first fell on Klein’s face, which didn’t show any emotion, but the grip on his cane was ever so slightly tighter. Then he turned to the person Klein was staring at. It was a couple of figures who had just gotten off their own carriage. All wearing black with distinct red gloves. Leading them was a middle-aged man with long sideburns and soft facial features. 

Behind him was a young man with a similar trench coat, but his dress shirt was partly open, exposing his chest. His messy black hair fluttered in the wind, making it look like he didn’t brush it in the morning, and his green eyes looked as if it was vacant but shined brightly under the sunlight. 

Who is that guy? Do they have history?

Danitz looked at Klein again to see his pupils constrict a little. He stepped in front of Klein and suddenly grabbed his hand. 

“Should I hold your cane and hat?”

Klein blinked and looked at Danitz. He used his clown powers to keep a straight face to hide his shock. 

“Yes…” Klein said, regaining his composure. 

He tilts his head slightly to take off his hat. Danitz held out his hand. His gaze shifted to the figure with green eyes from earlier, staring at them. But when Danitz turned his head, the figure walked into the cathedral, hiding from Danitz’s vision. 

_____________

Danitz waited outside and stared at the pigeons that were hopping around and pecking for food. Klein walked out and held out his hand that held out a handful of seeds with a napkin. 

Danitz looked at his hand and gave back his hat before taking some of the seed and tossing it at the birds. 

“Who was that guy?”

“Someone I used to know.”

Danitz looked at Klein, who had a smile on his face but gave off the air of melancholy. Part of him started to feel a bit of jealousy for the green-eyed man. While feeding the birds, Danitz felt a pair of eyes looking at them. He turned to see it was the green-eyed man again. 

Klein, who was throwing the last bits of seeds to the pigeons and shaking his tissue, suddenly felt a strange, intense anger and a strong urge to fight someone. His eyes shifted to Danitz.

Instigation? No…

“Danitz. Don’t-”

Danitz was using his instigation powers on Leonard. Leonard, who was standing not too far away, felt a surge of anger and revenge he had been repressing for so long ignite in their heart. His gaze shifted to Danitz, which only made him feel angrier for some reason. Taking a deep breath and mumbling to himself, he walked over with a smile on his face.

“Good evening, gentleman. Is there an issue here?”

“No. Not until you came along.” Danitz emphasized. Lacing his words with provocation while puffing up his chest.

Leonard smiled and took a step. His chest now touches Danitz. It was as if two dogs were on the verge of fighting each other while growling at each other. 

 “Oh, really? Care to explain?”

“You kept staring at my master. Creep.”

Klein was taken aback. For once, he was unsure what to do. He didn’t want more attention drawn to him that would alert the red gloves, but he also didn’t want to speak, afraid it might expose his identity to Leonard. Klein grabbed onto his top hat and pulled down slightly from the second-hand embarrassment. 

“If you want him, you have to get through me,” Danitz said as he continued to egg Leonard on to punch him. 

Leonard clenched his fists, trying to resist the urges of Danitz’s instigation. Klein, who couldn’t take anymore second hand embarrassment quickly changed his mind.

“Danitz. Kneel.” Klein said in a stern voice akin to Gehrman  Sparrow. 

Danitz felt his body tense up from the voice and reluctantly took a step back. He finally stopped using his powers of instigation. Leonard felt his anger quickly subsiding in his heart. He looked down and pressed his hand against his chest. 

“I’m so sorry, officer. My puppy is very territorial towards other dogs. I’ll make sure to muzzle him next time.”

“Other?” Leonard looked at Klein in confusion. 

Klein pinched Danitz’s ear and dragged him away before Leonard could reply. Leonard watched as the two got into Dwyane’s carriage. His eyes shifted to the symbol on the carriage, and he put his hand in his pocket.

“Old man…do you have any thoughts?” Leonard mumbled to himself. 

“...”

_____________

Danitz rubbed his ear. He looked at Klein, who had a cold look on his face, but not as scary as Gehrman  Sparrow. His eyebrows slightly furrowed like a disappointed parent. 

“Eh…listen…” Danitz tried to explain why he did the things he did.

“You are not allowed to speak to him or be near him,” Klein said in a stern voice. Leaving no room to discuss.

“Right…” Dantiz said as he lowered his head apologetically.

Klein sighed. The carriage ride back home was a long and deadly silent one. Once they got home, Klein took off his hat and gave it to Walter.

“Make sure no one disturbs us,” Klein said with a stern tone, with a hint of anger in his voice.

“Of course.”

Klein pinched Danitz’s ear again and dragged him to the master bedroom. Danitz almost tripped a couple of times as they walked up the stairs. 

“Ow! I get it! Bullshit!”

Klein pushed Danitz down onto the bed. He pulled off his scarf and used it as a rope to bind Danitz to the bed. Danitz didn’t struggle but allowed his hands to be tied to the headboard of the bed. He knew how strong Klein could be, even without creeping hunger at the moment; he didn’t want to die. He was prepared for punishment, but he didn’t expect Klein to start unbuttoning his shirt. Danitz lifted his legs a bit and tried to sit up, but Klein pressed his hand against Danitz’s chest, causing him to freeze. He sat down on Danitz’s lap, straddling his legs from moving.

“This is your punishment.” 

Danitz gulped. He watched as Klein leaned over to grab a red candle from one of the drawers. He pressed his fingers together against the wick, setting it on fire with a small flame. Carefully, he set the candle down on Danitz’s chest. Danitz’s whole body tensed up. He immediately held his breath and looked at Klein with a worried look on his face. 

“Aw. How ironic. Afraid of the fire?”

“The wax…” Danitz whispered, trying to keep the candle balanced. 

Klein would occasionally grab the candle before it could fall on its own. Thanks to his clown powers, he could easily predict the movement. 

“Silly puppy. It won’t hurt. That much.” 

“Bullshit!” Danitz yelled. 

Klein chuckled and picked up a stack of papers. “Looks like Walter finally got some papers for us to review.”

Klein shifted his body and turned his back towards Danitz with his butt perfectly sitting on Danitz’s lap. He had one arm leaning back to keep the candle from falling. Danitz stared at the ceiling, contemplating his life choices. Distracting himself from his primal urges. 

He’s more of an instigator than I! 

“This property looks good. Looks like Unit 10 on Pinster Street is about to go on sale. It’s pricey, with it being in the North Borough. A lot of civil servants live there. Maybe you can make somewhat of a profit.”

“H-how much?”

“The starting bid for this Terrance house is 500 pounds. I would guess it could easily go up to 850 pounds. But due to the recent events in Backland that could cause a quick increase in inflation, which will affect the cost of renting this building…” 

Klein started to ramble about basic economics to Danitz. Danitz immediately got distracted; his eyes would often drift down to Klein’s butt. But seeing the candle in front of him like a looming threat on his chest would make him snap out of his mood. He let out a deep breath.

How can I focus when your butt is in my face?!?

“Danitz. Are you listening?” Klein asked as he turned his head, looking behind his shoulder. 

“I-I am…”

“Tell your…big…friend to settle down and listen.” 

“Huh???”

He looks down again to see something poking against Klein. His eyes widened, and his face got red as the candle slowly melted before him. Klein let out a chuckle and scanned through the pages, leaving Danitz to panic on his own. 

“Maybe I should invest in cosmetics. That’s a stable industry. Don’t you think, puppy?”

“I-I don’t know anything about cosmetics…”

“Really? But you put on disguises all the time, do you not? You have to know something.” 

“I just buy whatever is the cheapest…”

Klein clicked his tongue and shifted the papers in his hands. “That’s why your disguises are subpar.” 

“What?!” Danitz quickly closed his mouth as the candle started to tilt again. 

“D-Dwyane the wax…” Danitz mumbled with a plea in his voice.

“I said it’s fine.”

Danitz looked at the wax with concern. He clung to the bed and held his breath. Klein's eyes shifted back to the wax and finally picked up the candle right before it could touch Danitz’s skin. Danitz let out a sigh of relief. He wasn’t scared of the wax but more scared about losing control of his urges with Klein sitting on his lap; it was almost overstimulating for him. Klein rolled his eyes and blew out the candle. He threw the paper onto the counter and got off of Danitz. 

“Go do your garden work.”

Danitz tried sitting up, but his wrists were still bound to the bed.

“W-wait. My hands are still tied.” 

“You’re a hunter, aren’t you? Then get out. Should be easy for you. No fire.” 

Klein fixed his clothes and grabbed a new tie. He walked out, leaving Danitz by himself, struggling on his bed.

“Wait!!! Bullshit!!!”

____________

Danitz was cutting the hedges outside the mansion. His gaze would wander as he randomly snipped at the leaves that stuck out unevenly. Occasionally, he would watch Dwyane learning how to dance with his dance teacher, Wahana Heisen. They looked at each other’s eyes and conversed as they gracefully danced across the room, smiling at each other and looking into each other’s eyes. An unknowing passerby could easily mistake them for husband and wife. Although Dwyane’s dance was a bit stiff and his footing was wrong at times, he easily fixed his mistakes and adapted to the situation. 

Danitz stared at him, feeling a strange urge to burn down the whole room. He didn’t like how close they were or how they looked at each other, even in a professional setting. 

SNIP!!!

Danitz clung to the hedge trimmers and violently closed them. Walter coughed, making Danitz snap out of his haze.

“That's enough cutting for today. There won't be any bushes to cut if you keep cutting.”

Danitz looked at the bushes and realized he had overcut them, making one smaller than the others.

“Eh..”

Why are my hunter instincts harder to control here? Is it because of the new environment? 

Danitz lowers his arms and sighs, looking up into the foggy sky.

“I miss the sea.”

____________________

“I would like you to accompany me to the party tonight,” Klein said as he sipped his tea.

Danitsz wasn’t surprised. He tilts his head slightly. “Where would you like me to hide? It could be difficult with how many people are at the party.”

“Who said you were hiding? You’re my plus one.”

Danitz blinked in confusion. He didn’t understand much about the nobility in Backland, but he understood how strange for a new guest to bring in a person of the same gender and a servant, nonetheless. “H-How?”

Klein’s lips curled up into a smile, and he leaned back in his seat. “By becoming my woman, of course.” 

“HUH?!?!?!” Danitz shouted in disbelief. “That’s impossible! I-I’m a man! I look nothing like a woman!”

Klein stood up and walked over to a cart that one of the maids pulled over into his bedroom for him. He opened the box, revealing a full set of cosmetics. “Don’t underestimate the power of makeup. Now strip. We will put on your dress first.”

Danitz looked at Klein like he was crazy. 

I completely forgot he was a crazy adventure right before this life for a second…

Danitz sighed and reluctantly removed all of his clothes, leaving only his undergarments. His cheeks flushed red, and his gaze shifted away to the floor. Klein scanned every inch of his body. His eyes fixated on the pronounced V-line of his Adonis belt. 

Klein’s lips curled up into a smile, and he slowly stretched out his finger. He tugged on the waistband of her undergarments. 

“Interesting. Does taking the hunter potion also increase your size?” Klein asked in a teasing tone. 

Danitz’s eyes widened. His body immediately froze. Taking everything within him not to jump back.

“I-I guess…I’m above average now…”

“Hm…Interesting.”

____________________

“Haa….ah…ha…” 

Danitz breathes heavily, and sweat starts to run down his chin. His back muscles flexed as he clung to the chair, bent over. Strained grunts and painful moans slipped out of his mouth as he tried to control his breathing. 

“Ngh…Ah….haa…” 

“Can you breathe?” Klein asked.

“N-No,” Danitz exclaimed with a gasp. 

“Good.”

Klein propped his foot up on the chair and pulled violently on the corset. Danitz threw his head back and let out a loud moan in pain. 

“AGH!! You’re going to kill me!!!”

“Nonsense. I doubt any woman died from a corset. Let alone a beyonder like yourself.”

Although Klein wasn’t an expert at putting women’s clothing on or makeup, he took his knowledge from magazines and his past life for inspiration. Even though he was not into makeup, the pretty girls on the thumbnail had enticed him to click. Being a former keyboard warrior, makeup was one of the biggest industries on the internet, so he would of course know a trick or two. 

With the help of his clown powers, he could steady his hand and began to put makeup on Danitz’s face. To match the trends of Backland and Danitz, already looking attractive, he didn’t have to put on much. He put on the final touches and fixed the lipstick with a tissue. He pulled back to look at his work. 

Danitz slowly opened his eyes and looked at Klein with an uncurtained look on his face. Klein's eyes dilated a bit. A bit shocked at how he managed to pull it off. He leaned in, making Danitz flinch slightly. 

Klein carefully put on the last piece of jewelry on Danitz. It was two beautiful hoop earrings with a gemstone dangling on it. It was a common gemstone that could be found in Bayam. The yellow and orange gemstone sparkled slightly as it dangled from his ear. Klein slowly pulled his hand away and ran his fingers down Dantiz’s chin in a teasing manner. 

“H-how do I look?” Danitz asked reluctantly. 

“Perfect. Be a good boy, and you'll be rewarded. Okay?” Klein said with an emphasis on the word perfect in a more seductive tone.

Danitz swallowed the drool that suddenly formed in his mouth. He could feel his heart rate increasing ever so slightly in excitement and anticipation of what Dwyane could mean by reward.

____________________

Saturday night, 8 p.m.

Klein rode his high-end carriage and arrived at 39 Böklund Street—Member of Parliament Macht’s house—in two and a half minutes. The carriage quickly pulled up to the house’s main entrance.

Klein got out first and held out his hand for someone. A lady dressed in a long yellow and black ballgown carefully stepped out and grabbed onto his hand. She had long blonde hair with bright blue eyes. Her shoulders were broad, and she was quite tall, almost equal in height to Dwyane. But her jewelry made her shoulders look smaller. Richardson held an exquisitely packaged bottle of Southville red wine and followed closely behind the pair.

After walking through the main door, Klein instantly saw Member of Parliament Macht and his wife, Riana, walk over to welcome him. She was also wearing a long yellow dress. But unlike the women next to Klein, she had frilly sides and exquisite lace, making her look different from unmarried ladies and the simpler yellow dress that Klein’s partner was wearing. Riana’s dress partially exposed her fair neck and her shoulders, while the other’s chest was covered by jewelry.

“Sorry, I’m late by a few minutes. My partner just arrived from Bayam today.”

Danitz grabbed onto his dress and gave the couple a curtsy. “Everyone calls me Danny for short. Nice to meet you.”  

“It’s fine. The ball hasn’t officially begun. Welcome to Backland. It’s an honor to meet you. I don’t think you mentioned a partner.”

“There was never any time to discuss until now,” Klein said with a smile as he took the bottle of Southville red wine from Richardson’s hand and handed it to Member of Parliament Macht. 

Macht let out a laugh and took the wine. “You’re absolutely right. We have all night to discuss.”

After greeting Macht, Klein looked towards Ma’am Riana and saw that she had slightly raised her right hand. He took one step forward, lifted her palm, and bent his back to kiss it. Danitz couldn’t help but feel a sense of possessiveness coming off of him.

“You illuminate the entire ball.”

Danitz held his hands together tighter, resisting the urge to use his beyonder powers to start a fight. After some introductions and raising a glass, Dwyane held out his hand to Danitz. He smiled.

“May I have this dance? My dear.”

Danitz's eyes widened a bit. He slowly grabbed onto Klein’s hand, and they made their way to the ballroom. Danitz slowly placed his hand on Klein’s shoulder, and Klein placed a hand on Danitz’s waist. They started to slowly sway and dance to the music. Danitz was a bit clumsy as he was not used to dancing in a dress or much at all. But with Klein’s clown powers and Danitz’s hunter instincts, they were able to pretend they knew what they were doing by adapting to each other.

“I should’ve let you in on my lessons,” Klein comments jokingly.

“It’s the heels…” 

As they danced, Danitz’s gaze would land on a particular girl who was staring at them. The daughter of Member of Parliament Macht, Hazel. Klein noticed Danitz’s gaze averted. He leaned in towards Danitz’s ear and whispered as they spun on the dance floor. 

“She’s a beyonder of the Marauder Pathway. Become friends with her and watch over her.”

Is that why he called me over here?

Danitz was distracted by the information and accidentally stepped on his own dress, causing him to fall into Klein’s arms. Klein tightened his grip on Danitz’s waist and caught him. He smiled. 

“You should lay off on the scones.” 

Danitz bit his lip, holding the urge to yell ‘bullshit!’ out of instinct. He pulled away once the music stopped. He gave Klein a courtesy while Klein gave him a bow to end off the dance before splitting off to converse with the men. He looked over at Hazel, who was walking out for some fresh air. She leaned over the railing, and a rat suddenly jumped out of the shadows. Danitz started walking to her and picked up a glass of white wine to pretend he was having a drink. 

He leaned against the wall and tried to listen to the conversation as he sipped on the glass. 

“Teacher…when can I advance? I want to get stronger.” 

The rat squeaked as it spoke, but it wasn’t loud enough for Danitz to hear. His eyebrows furrowed with concern. After a minute of listening, he stepped out once the conversation ended. The rat quickly jumped out into the darkness and ran up the wall back to Hazel’s room.

“Can I join you?”

Hazel turned to look at Danitz. She gave him a slight glare before reluctantly agreeing, feeling incredibly uneasy. Danitz slowly walked over and took another sip of the wine. Both of them stood there quietly in awkward silence. 

Dogshit!! What do I even talk about to a teenager?!?

“D-Do you like adventures?” Danitz asked, breaking the ice.

“I guess.” She replied in a cold tone.

“Have…you heard of Gehrman  Sparrow? I met him.”

Hazel turned to Danitz with a bit of shock on her face. Her eyebrow raised with a sceptical look on her face.

“We were on the same boat. I watched him take down a band of pirates all by himself.” Danitz said, leaving out any hint of beyonder powers or the beyonder world.

Because of the rat, he felt uneasy about talking to her about beyonders. The more he talked about Gehrman , the more intrigued she became as he went into intricate detail.

“He even made me wash his clothes. It’s unfair how he has an attractive face. Dogshit!!” 

Hazel let out a gasp. Danitz realized he had gone back to his normal, crude way of talking and covered his mouth. She smiled and let out a laugh. 

“You talk more like a pirate than a noblewoman.”

“Haa…Don’t tell anyone. I’m not used to any of this nobility stuff.” Danitz said, letting out an awkward laugh. 

She smiled and nodded. “If you had to choose between Mr.Sparrow or Mr.Dantes, who would you choose?” 

Dantiz was taken aback by the question and went speechless. He started thinking.

They are technically the same person, no? If I said Dwyane would Gehrman  get mad and kill me? Bullshit!! This is hard!!

Danitz's hands started to sweat. His gaze accidentally landed on Klein, who immediately noticed. He walked over with a smile on his face. 

“Ladies. Good evening.”

Klein shook his hand at Hazel with a warm smile on his face. “May I have this dance? M’lady.” 

Danitz let out an inner sigh of relief. Hazel looked at his hand and then at Danitz, who gave her a slight nod. She slowly took his hand, and he gave her a slight bow. His gaze landed on Danitz before his eyes shifted up, indicating that Danitz should investigate. 

Danitz watched them walk and disappear into the dance floor. He took a deep breath and lifted his dress. 

You’re a hunter, you got this! 

Danitz bent down slightly and slid his foot back, about to leap onto the ledge to climb up. But when he jumped, he felt his spiritual intuition go off, and he stopped himself by leaning forward and hopping on foot, almost tripping in the process. It was a group of ladies who walked over to gossip. 

“Danny? What’s wrong?”

“Just fixing my heel,” Danitz replied with an awkward laugh. 

Dogshit!!! It’s impossible to investigate! 

____________________

After the dance ended, Klein and Danitz were separated into their respective gendered groups, making Danitz feel a bit uneasy. But to his luck, he was the center of attention. 

“So how did you meet Mr.Dantes???”

“Uh…just by chance. I saw him at a bar and then walked up to him in an alleyway.”

The girls gasped, and one of them giggled. 

“So it was love at first sight?! Your story is exactly like a love novel!” 

“You are so right! I remember the same scenario happened in one of Ms.Fors' novels! Oh, how I love her novels!”

“Ha…” Danitz let out an awkward laugh. 

Yeah…the exact opposite…more like captured at first sight. 

“What drew you to Mr. Dantes?”

Dantiz was taken aback by the question. He never really thought about it. Part of him was here because of Mr.Fool, but he liked being by Klein’s side even though it was nothing but chaotic. 

“I…I don’t know, it’s hard to explain…when I’m with him, it feels right. You know?”

“That’s what I call love right there! You two are really the perfect example of characters from a novel!” 

Danitz was taken aback. He started to consider his feelings, which he had never thought of before. The girls shifted the conversation to books and novels. Danitz shifted his eyes towards Dywane, who was conversing with the men outside. Klein felt someone staring at him and shifted his eyes, accidentally making eye contact. He smiled at Danitz and slightly raised his glass. Danitz quickly turned his head away to hide the blush creeping on his face. After a couple of seconds, he looked back to see Klein go back to talking with the others. His thoughts wandered over the words “love” over and over again.

———————

The party eventually came to an end. 

After exchanging some cards and bows, the pair left in the carriage. Klein held out his hand and helped Danitz get on the carriage. Once they got on, Klein didn’t let go of Danitz’s hand. Danitz looked at Klein. His eyes were slightly out of focus as he felt exhausted from conversing for hours.

“You did well tonight. Good boy.” Klein said as he slowly brought Danitz’s hand up and gave it a light kiss. 

Danitz couldn’t help but feel a bit proud and relieved of himself at finally doing something right. 

“Even if I didn’t end up investigating? Can…I at least know my reward now?” 

Klein let out a chuckle. “That’s fine. I didn’t have much hope. If I told you now, it wouldn’t be a surprise anymore.”

He leaned back and crossed his legs. His hands held onto his knee. “But since I’m feeling generous tonight…you can request a reward. It must be reasonable. Within the confines of my manor.”

Danitz was taken aback. He didn’t think of a reward at all, so he was stumped on what he could ask for. Klein closes his eyes to prepare for the mental damage of his wallet getting hit once again. 

The life of a tycoon is surely expensive… Klein thought to himself.

“I would like to spend a night with you.” 

Klein opened his eyes. He didn’t expect such an answer, so he was taken aback, but he used his clown power to hide his shock. 

Maybe I teased him too much… Klein thought to himself.

—————

In Dwayne’s bedroom. 

Klein motions to Danitz to come closer. He held out his hand as if it was expecting Danitz to kiss it. Danitz gently grabbed Klein’s hand and placed a kiss on his ring finger. He pulled back to see a mole suddenly appearing on the spot where he had kissed. Danitz wasn’t too surprised, as he knew Klein could change his appearance. His eyes shifted up to Klein, who had a smirk on his face. 

“This is your reward.” 

He placed his thumb on Danitz’s lips. “There’s an old folklore that a mole on one’s body is from a soulmate or lover who kissed you in a past life. Their favorite kissing spot will appear on their lover's body.” 

Danitz's eyes widened a bit. He felt a strange tension in his body starting to rise as his gaze slowly examined every part of Klein’s body like it was a blank canvas waiting to be painted on. 

“Anywhere…?” 

“Except for my face, of course. I don’t think I can explain to the neighbors why there’s a new mole on my face.” Klein said jokingly. 

Danitz, who was still holding Klein's hand, looked down and placed another kiss on his thumb. Just like before, a mole immediately appeared near the knuckles where his lips touched. 

“You can kiss more than just my hands, you know-“

Danitz pushed Klein down on the bed and grabbed his wrist, pinning him down.  With his other hand, he pulled on Klein’s clothes, revealing his neck and part of his shoulder. Unable to control his excitement and urges, he pressed his lips against Klein’s neck and sucked on it. Klein was shocked but used his clown powers to not make any noise. He turned his head away and clenched his fists. His eyes closed, and he slowly bit his lip to resist the instinct to resist and push him off. 

Danitz sucked on Klein’s neck for 3 seconds and pulled back only to see a slightly red mark where he was aggressively sucking, but no mole. He felt disappointed that nothing appeared. Klein slowly opened his eyes and let out a deep breath. His eyes shifted to Danitz. He slowly lifted his hand and inserted his thumb into Danitz’s mouth. His thumb slowly tugs on the corner of the pirate's mouth and lifts it, revealing his teeth.

“That wasn’t a kiss.”

Danitz blinked and immediately understood, but part of him felt disappointed. He wanted more, but decided to control his urges. Danitz slowly unbuttoned Klein's shirt and placed a kiss right in between his chest. He pulled back and watched as the mole magically appeared in a bit of awe. Like his painting is coming to life. 

His hands slowly caressed Klein’s waist. He hesitantly starts to pull down Klein’s pants, and his gaze would slowly shift back and forth to look at Klein’s reaction, but Klein used his clown power, so telling what he was actually thinking or feeling was next to impossible. Danitz took Klein, not resisting, as an okay to keep going. He slowly removed the pants and reached for the waistband of Klein’s undergarments. 

“Can…I?” He asked reluctantly. 

“Guess.” 

A feeling of familiarity in his stomach fluttered, sending a chill up his spine. But unlike the fear he felt when Gehrman  Sparrow would say it, this time it felt a lot more erotic. Danitz slowly removed his finger. His cheeks flushed a bit when he remembered the same response that Gehrman would give. He slowly lifts Klein’s leg and places a kiss on his inner thigh. He continued to place multiple kisses on both sides of Klein’s legs. He pulled out, breathing heavily, as he had just run a mile.

Klein looked down at his legs and slowly closed them. Danitz slowly traced the moles as if he were connecting the dots. Klein squints his eyes at the moles as they look vaguely familiar to him. 

“It’s a constellation?” 

“It’s…the Canis Major.”

Klein's eyes shifted back up to Danitz. Danitz sat up straight, feeling like he was about to get in trouble again. Suddenly, he started to feel sleepy, and he placed his hand on his head.

“That’s enough for tonight. I’m sleepy.”

Danitz, feeling disappointed again, didn’t question it as Klein was visibly tired. He got off the bed and nodded. 

“Good night…”

“Good night.”

Danitz didn’t leave, however. He stood there watching Klein like a guard dog of the night. Klein looked at him.

“What? Looking for a good night kiss?”

Danitz opened his mouth, reluctant to answer. He contemplated for 3 seconds before nodding again. Klein was taken aback and looked at Danitz in shock, who looked more like a sad puppy wanting attention.  

Klein sighs and shifts his body. He pats his lap. Danitz got on his knees and placed his chin on Klein’s lap like a puppy wagging its tail, wanting pets, its ears down. A slight soft whimper escaped Danitz’s lips. Klein leaned back slightly to get a better look at Danitz. He runs his fingers through Danitz’s hair and starts petting his head like a dog. Danitz leaned in towards his touch and slowly rubbed his head against the palm of his hand. Klein let out a sigh and slowly bent down. He pushed the headband up to place a slow kiss on Danitz’s forehead. 

______________

Klein flopped back onto his bed and covered his eyes with his arm once Danitz left with one of his legs propped up. He let out a self-deprecating laugh. 

That was kind of cringe. But fun. I am pushing this way too far.

Klein slowly moved his arm. He lay on his bed, sprawled out, staring at the ceiling.

But it’s in character. Right?

Klein pondered silently before letting himself fall asleep. Once he opened his eyes, he was still in his bedroom but now standing up. The red from the moon seeps through the windows, giving the room an eerie feeling. Klein took in a deep breath and sighed with a strained smile on his face.

Heh. This reminds me of when Captain put me under a nightmare before I became a Beyonder…

Klein made his way to a reclining chair and turned his head to look at the balcony. He held his hands together and smiled at the figure standing outside. A black-haired, green-eyed man wearing a white shirt and black vest that was still nut fully buttoned up nimbly leaped inside. He was none other than Leonard Mitchell.

“Didn’t Pallez Zoroast teach you some manners?” Klein said with a teasing tone. 

Leonard was taken aback at the mention of his name. He quickly reined in his thoughts and bowed. Klein squints his eyes, scrutinizing Leonard’s bow. 

Compared to Danitz, he needs to work on his bow.

“Please pardon me for the intrusion. You are on our investigation list.” 

Klein tilted his head and leaned back in his seat. His lips curled up into a smile. “Is it because my puppy offended you? He’s new to Backland. He means no harm.”

Leonard was taken aback. He gave Klein a strained smile and sat across from him. “No. Not at all. I just wanted to ask what your and Blazing Danitz’s goal is for coming to Backlund?”

Klein crossed his legs. “Isn’t that your job to figure out? Officer.”

“Ha….” Leonard let out an awkward laugh. 

He thought about it and shifted his gaze to think. Leonard took a deep breath and looked at Klein. Klein smiled and switched his legs. 

“Do not fret. He and I aren’t a threat. He’s here as my pet.”

“Pet…?” Leonard asked, confused.

Klein smiled at Leonard. “As an apology, I can give you Gehrman  Sparrow’s messenger. How does that sound?”

Leonard was taken aback. He stood up and slowly bowed again. “Thank you.” 

“I’ll only say it once…”

The room suddenly went cold, and a faint fog seeped through the open door that was left open. An intense aura suddenly came off Klein, making Leonard’s hand tremble slightly. Klein spoke in a low voice, but somehow his voice echoed through the silent room. 

“I summon in my name…The spirit that wanders about the unfounded; The friendly creature that can be subordinated; The messenger that belongs to Gehrman Sparrow.”

Leonard stood there for a minute, taking everything in. He let out a deep breath and bid Klein farewell. As he slowly walked towards the balcony, he stopped in his tracks and turned to look at Klein. His lips quivered slightly, reluctant to ask.

“Klein…Is it you…? Really you?”

Klein looked up at Leonard. His mouth opens slightly, but nothing comes out. Klein's grip on his own hands tightened. The two of them stared at each other for a minute, both unsure what to say to break the ice. Klein used his clown powers to force himself to smile.

“Sometimes. Not now.” 

Leonard stood in the room, frozen in a mix of emotions. His gaze shifted away from Klein. He couldn’t bring himself to look at Klein in his eyes. A surge of repressed emotions mixed with confusion and relief made his legs almost loose his strength. Leonard forced himself to smile back. 

“You look different.” 

Klein slowly closed his eyes. “...Next time…why don’t you join us for tea?”

Leonard slowly put his head on his heart and gave Klein a bow. “Until next time.” 

He walked out onto the balcony and jumped down. He twisted his body to look back up at the mansion before him. 

Klein sighed and slowly got up from his chair. He slowly walked over to the door connecting to the balcony, placing his hand on the doorframe. 

Silly poet. You could’ve just gotten out through the door. 

______________

Klein read one of the letters that Leonard sent. Danitz's nose twitched. He could smell a faint scent of roses with a mix of cologne that was purposely sprayed on the paper, which made his eyebrows furrow. Klein looked up to see that Danitz was clearly happy. His eyes scanned down his body and stared at his shaky right leg sticking out from under the table. 

“Danitz.”

Danitz looked at Klein, who was motioning to come closer with his index finger. Klein placed the letter down and pulled a new piece of goatskin paper in front of him with his left hand. Danitz reluctantly bent his chin down and leaned in towards Klein’s hand. His lips gently touched Klein's index finger. Klein curled up his insect finger and placed his knuckle against Danitz’s lips. Danitz tilts his head slightly and continues to press more deliberate kisses on Klein’s finger. 

“Extremely territorial, aren’t you?” Klein said with a teasing tone.

Danitz paused but didn’t answer. His cheeks flushed a bit, unable to look at Klein. He didn’t entirely understand himself, but his instincts were harder to control when he was around Dwyane for some reason. Klein couldn't help but smile. He slowly pulled his knuckle away from Danitz and caressed his cheek. Danitz tilted his head and slightly started to rub his cheek against Klein’s hand like a dog. 

Klein picked up a fountain pen and started to write his reply to Leonard while he caressed Danitz as if he were a dog getting pets behind his ear. His gaze would occasionally fixate on Danitz’s reaction and movements from time to time. 

“That’s a good boy…” 

Klein’s hand slowly moved up and brushed against Danitz’s hair. Danitz closed his eyes and started to fall asleep on Klein’s hand. The quiet and safe atmosphere mixed with the scent of Klein made it easy to fall asleep. As a pirate, falling asleep in less comfortable positions was normal. 

Klein's eyes shifted back to the paper, and he noticed the slightest dot of ink had fallen onto the paper by accident. 

Oh whoops. I was too distracted by Danitz. Oh well. What’s the worst that can happen? I’m sure he’ll know it was a typo.

———

Leonard was in his living room reading reports with his legs propped up on the table. He felt his spiritual intuition go off and quickly stood up. Suddenly, a headless lady appeared holding three heads and a letter in one of their mouths. She wore a black gothic dress, making her look almost like a doll. The letter quickly flew into Leonard’s mouth, and he quickly opened it. 

Since he sent a letter to Klein earlier, her appearance didn’t shock him. But the content of the letter, however, did. 

[My dear. Poet, 

I hope this letter finds you well. To answer your question…]

“Old man…can you interpret this?” Leonard mumbled.

“You know I can’t see what you’re reading.”

“Klein wrote my dear poet, but there’s a dot after dear.” 

“…seriously? Are you asking me? Ask him yourself.” 

Leonard sighed in frustration and placed the letter on the table. He sat on the couch and cupped his head, trying to wrap his brain around the intention of the dot. 

——————

“Achoo.” Klein sneezed into his handkerchief. 

Danitz stood behind him, watching the huge crowd of people gather by the round track. Horse race betting was a popular trend among the nobility, and Klein was invited to watch one of the races in the higher stalls that were only available through a lottery system. Thanks to Klein’s luck and a bit of mysticism, he easily won. 

“I don’t get why horse betting is so popular,” Danitz said with a yawn.

“Have you read the names of the horses?”

Klein leaned back and held out a pamphlet. Danitz opened it and looked at the names. He almost let out a chuckle at how ridiculous some of the names are that we ranked by popularity.

1. Roselle Hoofstav
2. Ger-neigh-men Sparrow
3. Mr. Curly 
4. Potooooooo
5. Hoof hearted 
6. Neigh Majesty 
7. Sumomomomomomo

“I don’t get the fourth one.”

“It was named after a barn boy who misspelled their original name, Mr. Potato, when writing their name on the sign.”

Danitz closes the pamphlet and waves it as a makeshift fan. “I’m guessing you’re betting on Ger-neigh-men Sparrow?”

Klein covered his eyes. He uses his clown power to suppress the cringe he felt. He took a coin to do a quick divination on who to bet on. To no surprise, the divination landed positive to the horse Gehrman  Sparrow. Klein took a deep breath.

I’m going to feed whoever named that horse to creeping hunger.

“Yes. Put 1,000 pounds on Gehrman  Sparrow. The horse.” 

“1,000?!?” Danitz asked in shock.

——————

Klein and Danitz watched as the horses all finally walked up the starting line. Their gaze focused on horse number 2. It was a tall jet-black horse with a long jet-black mane. It had a red bow on its tail, indicating it was a horse with a temper. 

A Murgese horse? Klein thought to himself. 

As they waited for the horses to get situated, Gehrman the horse started to get restless. He shook his head and started to jump on his hind legs, letting out a loud neigh sound. It was as if it wanted to leave and run away. Some of the workers ran over and managed to calm him down by wrapping a blindfold over his eyes. 

“Dogshit!! We are going to lose!! That horse’s temper is nothing like the real Gehrman. He doesn’t deserve that name.” Danitz yelled in frustration, already giving up.

“Calm down-”

Klein turned his head to look at the last horse that was walking up. His eyes dilated, and he immediately got up in shock. The last horse struts to the end of the line. It was a normal, common brown horse that had shorter black hair that was stylized to look somewhat curly.  But what made it stand out from the other horses was that this horse was wearing a monocle on its right eye.  Klein could already feel his wallet hurting, mixed with fear. He let out a gasp and clenched his fist hard until his knuckles turned white. 

Horse number 18.

Amon.