mission report for yararanger
Mission report for yararanger
Delivered by: hatenaimirai_e
Title: Into the Fire
Groups/Pairings: Yara Tomoyuki/Yamamoto Ryota, Takizawa Hideaki, Kis-My-Ft2, ABC-Z, MA, TheyBudou, others
Rating: PG13
Warnings: mentions of character death, none of the main characters
Summary: In the midst of a country torn by revolution, a small group do their best to help people out.
Notes: Dear yararanger: While this isn’t as Kisumai heavy as you requested, I hope you’ll forgive me for it, given who the main characters are. I also hope I did your beloved boys justice. I did tons of research and reading and watching before writing this story, so I hope you enjoy it!!
This is based on the Scarlet Pimpernel, with most of the influence from the 1934 movie and the 1997 musical. While that took place during the French Revolution, this takes place in a complete AU based in a slightly more Victorian time. Also, all place names are made up and not meant to reflect any real J&A people.
There was a hush in the theatre as the actor on stage delivered his last few lines before collapsing dramatically. As the curtain dropped there was a pause, then thunderous applause filled the building. The curtain rose again and the entire cast stepped forward for a final bow. The applause continued, tapering off only when the lead actor stepped forward and motioned for the audience to sit again.
"My dear friends, patrons, and guests," he started with a smile. "As many of you know, this is my last night here at the Theatre Saitou," he said, pausing until the sounds of dismay died out. "Some time ago now I was approached by the Prince of Jouda's personal theatre troupe. It was not an easy decision to make, as I will miss you all dearly, but I will be joining them, and I travel-"
"Enough!" came a ringing shout from the side of the stage, and a man came striding on followed by a small squad of soldiers. "By order of Citizen Kondo and The Revolutionary Tribunal, this theatre is now declared closed due to exhibition of sentiments recalling The Old regime and non-compliance with Republican ideals, closure effective as of this moment. You will all leave immediately," he told the audience. "I'll speak to you backstage," he added in a lower voice, looking over the actors. The soldiers lined up along the edge of the stage, giving firm looks to anyone in the audience that appeared to be taking their time. The cast slowly trickled off the stage as well, going to their dressing rooms, the lead actor that had been interrupted the last to go.
⇜⇝
There was a knock on the door and then it opened, admitting a slender figure. "Citizen Yamamoto," he said with a small nod.
The man that had been the lead actor before the theatre's closing finished buttoning his pants and turned to fix a look on the other man, only half dressed so far. "Citizen Takizawa," he replied. "Was that really necessary? And at my last performance, too," he said, frowning.
"Forgive me, I forgot it was your last," Takizawa replied, moving a bouquet of flowers from one of the room's chairs and sitting. "A gift from him?" he asked deliberately lightly, setting the flowers aside.
"You forget nothing ever and we both know it," Yamamoto replied, pulling his shirt on and buttoning it. "And yes, they are from him," he added, turning away from Takizawa to straighten his collar in the mirror. "He should be here any moment, if your thugs let him back."
"So I finally get to meet the man that convinced you to desert your homeland, do I?" Takizawa asked, settling back in the chair.
"I will gladly return here once all this meaningless bloodshed ends."
"Be careful, Ryota, that almost sounded treasonous," Takizawa warned. "I'd hate to have to arrest you just before you're about to leave for your illustrious new engagement for the Prince."
"Is that a threat?" Yamamoto said, turning to look at Takizawa again, but he straightened and turned back as the door creaked open again.
"Threats? Dear me~" came a cheerful voice. "Here I thought you were having a party without me, Ryota-dear, but now I'm not so sure," said the man that stepped in next.
"Ahh, it's nothing, Yara-san," Yamamoto replied, smiling brightly at him. "Come in, Citizen Takizawa was just leaving."
"A citizen, are you? Strange things, strange things," Yara said, looking Takizawa over. "Though I do suppose we're all citizens of the world, aren't we?"
"So you're the one that's stealing our Ryota away," Takizawa said, standing up.
"Stealing your Ryota away," Yara replied, tilting his head back to look at Takizawa. "Good gads you make it sound like he's property of the Republic," he said with a laugh. "Tell me does this new government of yours plan to reinstitute slavery?"
"The glorious Republic will be doing no such thing," Takizawa said tightly. "Every man belongs to himself and God."
"Oh good then there should be no more talk of threats or stealing people~" Yara replied with a smile. "And Ryota and I will be leaving soon to our own glorious kingdom~"
"Is the carriage waiting?" Yamamoto asked, cutting in between them. "I just have a couple more things to pack up."
"I'll go and check," Yara replied, reaching over and giving Yamamoto's shoulder a squeeze before leaving.
Takizawa watched him with a raised eyebrow. "Is the whole troupe that stupid or is he just special?" he asked Yamamoto. Yamamoto didn't answer as he finished dressing, but Takizawa could see his frown. "Before I leave, you have something for me, correct?"
Yamamoto turned to look at Takizawa for a moment before nodding. He pulled a small sealed note from one of the boxes waiting to be taken. "You promise me they will only be deported? No harm will come to them?" he asked, looking down at the paper.
"No," Takizawa replied shortly, holding his hand out.
Yamamoto reluctantly handed over the paper. "I wish never to see you again."
Takizawa closed his hand over Yamamoto's, pulling him closer for a moment. "Alas, I cannot return your sentiments, as I do wish to see you again."
"Ryo?" There was a knock on the door before a figure leaned in. "Are you ready? Yara-sama's brought the carriage around now."
"Ahh, Yu, yes," Yamamoto replied, pulling his hand loose and leaving the paper in Takizawa's hand. "Can you take this for me?" he asked, picking one of the boxes up and handing it to Tatsumi.
"No problem," Tatsumi replied with a smile. "Anything else?"
"Just this," Yamamoto replied, setting the bouquet of flowers atop another box before picking it up himself. "The costumes are all the theatre's, not that they'll need them now," he murmured, looking around the dressing room. "And Yara-san said he'd get everything else from home picked up for me?"
Tatsumi nodded as Takizawa cut in. "Such a shame it seems to be, that we're losing two such fine citizens all at once."
"I'm not leaving Hayagawa forever, though, Citizen Takizawa," Tatsumi replied with a smile. "I'm just traveling to Samurakami to make sure Ryo gets settled there and then I'll be back."
"Very well, then," Takizawa replied.
"Let's go, Yu," Yamamoto said, and with nods to Takizawa they both left.
⇜⇝
“Welcome, welcome all, to our modest little get together!” Yara announced from the second floor balcony, to the tickle of laughter and champagne glasses. “I’m so glad you could all join me to help welcome our new friend, Yamamoto Ryota,” he added, wrapping an arm around Yamamoto’s shoulders. “Enjoy!” he said, lifting his glass, and the crowd below did the same.
“You really didn’t need to throw me a party,” Yamamoto said softly as the partygoers’ attention shifted elsewhere.
“Nonsense~” Yara replied, letting go of Yamamoto to wave a hand about. “This is hardly a party. Just a few close friends.”
Yamamoto glanced over the balcony again, taking in the dozens of people milling about. “These are all your close friends?”
“They are, of course,” Yara said with a laugh. “And soon they’ll be your close friends too. Come, you’ll talk to them and you’ll love them as much as I do,” he added, grabbing Yamamoto’s arm and leading him down the stairs.
In the crowd they could barely move a step or two without someone coming over to introduce themselves to Yamamoto. It was an unending stream of Samurakami’s best of the best, the ruling class and wealthiest families. Yamamoto couldn’t remember any of the names thrown at him in those short moments before the next person came up.
“Yaracchi!”
Everyone turned to see who had shouted from the doorway, and Yara, still beside Yamamoto, grinned widely. “Mitsu! You’re late~” he said with a laugh, making his way over, Yamamoto trailing after him.
“Sorry, old man,” Kitayama replied with a laugh, shrugging out of his coat and handing it to a waiting servant. “Travel was a bit of a bear, but we’ve made it anyway~” he said, stepping aside for the others with him.
“Macchin!” Yara said brightly when he caught sight of the man behind Kitayama, all but throwing himself at the other man, hugging him tightly.
“Hello,” Machida said with a laugh, hugging Yara back.
“And Edacchi! And Hayashi!” Yara continued, stepping around Machida to greet the other two. “But...” Yara trailed off, and turned back to Machida and Kitayama.
“Do you have something besides champagne?” Machida asked. “I’m feeling a bit dry after our drive.”
“Yes, yes of course,” Yara replied. “Ahh, you boys know Ryota, right?” he added, tugging Yamamoto over.
Machida frowned, but the other two greeted Yamamoto happily.
“Come, let’s get you out of those dirty travelling clothes~” Yara said brightly, linking an arm through Machida’s and Kitayama’s arms and leading them further into the house. A quick word to a servant had a pitcher and juice brought to them in a small withdrawing room on the first floor. “Where is Yone? And the other boy, Ryu, is it?”
Machida shook his head. “We got word of the raid only minutes before the soldiers arrived,” he said softly. “The three of us got out, but you know Yone. He wouldn’t leave. Ryu got caught as he tried to leave.”
Yara sank back in his seat. “Any idea what’s happened with them?”
“No word yet, but you know how the new Tribunal works,” Kitayama said. “There will be a trial in a few days, and then after...”
All three fell silent, knowing no trial had ended in anything besides a guilty verdict yet.
“It gets worse,” a new voice cut in.
“Gocchi!” Yara said, turning to the door. “What could be worse?”
“We’ve been betrayed,” Goseki said softly, falling into one of the chairs.
“No... Who? How?” Yara asked. “And where is...”
“They found the safe house we set up for the Akiyamas,” Goseki said. “Late last night, before I got there. All of them, and Iida too executed first thing this morning.”
“No...” Yar murmured, sitting back in shock. “Jun... And Iida too?”
Goseki nodded slowly. “For aiding traitors to the Republic. There was a notice pinned to the door when I got there.”
The four fell silent.
“But... but how?” Yara asked. “You, me, and Iida were the only ones that knew where we hid them.”
“Are you sure you told no one else?” Goseki asked, fingering a piece of paper in his coat pocket.
“No... well, I might’ve mentioned it to Ryota, but he has no reason to say anything,” Yara said after a moment’s thought.
“Then you’d better think things over again,” Goseki replied, offering the note to Yara.
Yara unfolded the paper slowly, reading the simple note- The Akiyama family is in a house just outside the town of Kichida. Yamamoto was monogrammed along one edge of the paper. “No....” he said again. “I can’t believe this. You... You’re suggesting Ryota is a spy.”
“You’ve known him, what, barely six weeks now?” Goseki replied. “How can you know for certain that he’s not? He’s an actor after all.”
“Actor or not, I refuse to believe he’s a spy.”
“Then we’ll test it,” Goseki replied, taking the note back. He folded it up and took it to the desk in the corner, writing Thank you for your help across the back. “We’ll have one of your butlers give this to him, and see how he reacts.”
“And when he disavows any knowledge of this note, then you’ll he he’s no spy at all,” Yara said with a nod.”
“We’ll see,” Goseki replied with a frown.
“Macchin, do you want to come back down?” Yara asked, turning to him.
“I think I’d rather lie down,” Machida replied. “This day has been a bit too long.”
“I’ll have the servants prepare rooms for all of you, then,” Yara said, going to the wall to ring a bell.
“Thank you, Tomo,” Machida said softly.
“We’ll get Yone,” Yara said, leaning over to squeeze Machida’s hand. “We can’t help Jun anymore, sadly, but we won’t lose Yone and Ryu.”
“I trust you,” Machida replied. A servant appeared to take Machida to a freshly prepared room, and the other three stood to return to the party downstairs.
“Forgive me for my absence, my dear friends,” Yara said brightly as he made his way down the main steps again. “I was welcoming a beloved friend who’s just arrived from Hayagawa, and making sure he was comfortable after such a stressful journey,” he told them all. “But I do believe supper is ready now, if you’d all make your way to the dining room~!”
As the guest slowly made their way to the dining room Yara caught sight of one of his butlers approaching Yamamoto with the note. He saw Yamamoto read the back, before checking the contents. He approached Yamamoto as he shoved it into his pocket. “A love letter~” he teased.
“Ahh, Yara-san,” Yamamoto said, pushing the paper a bit further down in his pocket. “Just a letter from a friend, that’s all,” he answered, and stepped around Yara to join Tatsumi and Hayashi as they entered the dining room.
“Well?” Goseki murmured, appearing suddenly at Yara’s shoulder.
“It doesn’t prove anything,” Yara replied, though he frowned as he watched Yamamoto disappear into the other room. “There’s a chance...”
“A very slim chance, and you know it,” Goseki replied, squeezing Yara’s shoulder.
Yara sighed, then straightened his shoulder and nodded. “Call the rest of the boys. Tell them we’re meeting first thing tomorrow.”
“I’ll take care of it,” Goseki agreed, and with one last squeeze of Yara’s shoulder, he slipped into the crowd.
⇜⇝
“We’ve got to do something!”
“Let’s just go and storm the prison and free them all!”
“Yes!”
“Are you all idiots?” A sharp voice cut in.
“Now, now, Gocchi, there’s no need to yell at them for being excited.”
“You’re one to talk, Taisuke,” Goseki retorted.
“Come now, boys, there’s no reason to fight,” Yara said as he walked into the drawing room, taking in the twelve men waiting for him.
“You didn’t here these two planning to storm the prison,” Goseki replied, jerking his thumb at Senga and Nikaido over the sounds of their protests..
“All by themselves? That won’t get anyone saved, and them imprisoned instead.” Yara sank into a chair, rubbing his face,
“Didn’t sleep much last night, huh?” Kawai said, sitting on the arm of Yara’s chair and nudging him. “Busy with your new actor?” he teased.
“Not at all,” Yara replied, elbowing Kawai hard enough to make him slip off the chair arm. “I’ve been in my study all night,” he said instead.
“Is everything okay?” Totsuka asked, leaning forward. “You were so eager to have him here...”
Yara let out a sigh and covered his face with his hands. “You’ve all heard the Akiyama family and Iida were... lost the night before last?” he asked softly, lowering his hands to see them all nod. “Ryota might have been the one that told the Tribunal where their safehouse was,” he admitted.
“He’s the reason why?” Yokoo asked, speaking up for the first time that morning.
“I’m not sure yet. I haven’t asked him, and I don’t know if he knows yet,” Yara answered. “But beyond that, Yonehana and Takahashi were captured as well. And I promised Macchin we’d get them. This is far more than what we’ve done so far. This isn’t just arranging safe houses and getting people out before they can be denounced. This is going in and rescuing them from custody. It’ll be dangerous. Could even be deadly if we aren’t careful. Anyone that wants out will not be thought as less of a man.”
“Now who’s being the idiot,” Kitayama said from his sprawl on one of the couches. “They took one of our own from us. We’ll all do what we can to make things difficult for them.”
Yara looked around, seeing the others nod in agreement with Kitayama. “Alright. We’ll need a plan, then. Our only chances to get them will probably be before and after the trial, or on the way to execution,” he said.
⇜⇝
“Citizen Takizawa,” the doorman announced as Takizawa strode into the office.
“Citizen Kondo. You called for me?” Takizawa asked, stopping in front of the desk.
“Ahh, yes, I did. I understand you only took two of the five men you were supposed to into custody?” Kondo said, not looking up from his papers.
“That is correct. My apologies.”
“Who did you manage to catch?”
“Yonehana Tsuyoshi and Takahashi Ryu.”
Kondo nodded. “Very well. Have Yonehana brought in. I have a proposition for him.”
Takizawa motioned to one of the soldiers waiting just outside the office.
“A proposition? Of what sort?”
“You’ll see. And I’ll be sending you to Samurakami today as well.”
Takizawa nodded and moved to the side as a pair of soldiers nudged Yonehana into the room. “Yonehana Tsuyoshi,” Kondo said, standing and coming around from behind his desk. “Come in, please, and have a seat. You know Citizen Takizawa, correct?”
“We’ve met,” Yonehana said tightly.
“Good, good. Now then, I have something I’d like to discuss with you. You’ve traveled to Samurakami many times, haven’t you? But your father was the former regime's ambassador to their court.”
“That’s correct,” Yonehana replied.
“So you know all the young nobility, don’t you, having traveled in the same circles.”
“I have many friends there, that’s true.”
“Then we are in the perfect position to help each other,” Kondo said with a smile. “If you help me figure out just who these men are that keep ferrying away political prisoners, I will grant you and the boy that was arrested with you full pardons, and personally make sure you both make it safely to Samurakami.”
“I’ve no idea who it is saving people from your beheadings and hangings,” Yonehana replied.
“Ahh, I must have put you on the spot, asking you suddenly. I’ll give you the days before your trial to think things over and consider some names,” Kondo replied. A motion from him and the soldiers were guiding Yonehana back out of the office.
“Do you really expect him to give you any names?” Takizawa asked.
“Perhaps not if it was only himself, but he has that other boy to think about,” Kondo replied, returning to his desk. “But I’m not going to wait for him to make a decision. You’re going to Samarakami as the Republic’s new ambassador. You’ll see what you can find out. And that Yamamoto is there as well, isn’t he? He helped before, he might help again.”
“Yamamoto... It might take some convincing to get his help again.”
“Then convince him. But you’d better figure something out. Don’t come back without any information.”
⇜⇝
“Do people do anything besides throw parties here?” Yamamoto grumbled, straightening his bowtie in a mirror.
“Dear me, you sound like you think there are more important things to do than spend time with good food and good company~” Yara said, leaning against the door.
“It’s just that it’s only been three days since the party you threw, so why are we having another?” Yamamoto protested. “Why haven’t I met the troupe yet, at least?”
“Ahh, but you have~” Yara laughed. “They were all there at my party, of course. They’ll be there at tonight’s party as well, and you’ll get to meet your new patron as well.”
“That’s right, this is the prince’s party, isn’t it?” Yamamoto said.
Yara nodded as a servant appeared at his elbow. “Excuse me, but there’s a guest to see Yamamoto-sama,” she said with a curtesy.
“Well now, someone here to see our Ryota~” Yara said. “Let’s go see whoever it could be.” He smiled and bowed Yamamoto out, tucking his hands into his vest pockets and strolling after him.
Yamamoto paused in the drawing room doorway when he saw just who waited for him, glancing over his shoulder at Yara before stepping in. “Citizen Takizawa. What are you doing here?” he murmured.
“Can’t a man call in on an old friend?” Takizawa said, smiling at Yamamoto.
“Look at who we have to visit~” Yara said brightly. “Taki... Baki... Bakazawa, yes? Why we met in dear Ryota’s dressing room, didn’t we?”
“It’s Takizawa, and yes.”
“Of course, of course, that’s exactly what I said,” Yara replied, lounging on one of the chairs. “Now tell me, to what do we owe the honor of your visit?”
“As I said, I simply came to say hello to Ryota before this evening’s party. We’ve known each other some time, now, and I simply wanted to make sure he’s settling in well here.”
“Well of course he is~” Yara cut in before Yamamoto could answer. “Why wouldn’t he be settling in well here? There’s every comfort one could want for, not to mention no fears of beheading,” he said with a smile. “Beheading sounds rather uncomfortable, doesn’t it? Quite unpleasant.”
“Yes, of course,” Takizawa said after a moment, easing down onto one of the couches.
“Now, tell me-”
“Yara-san, don’t you need to finish getting ready?” Yamamoto interrupted. “You haven’t even your bowtie yet.”
“Good heavens you’re absolutely right,” Yara cried, feeling at his collar. “Excuse me, I’m hardly fit to be seen in such a state. Practically naked.” He stood and left the room, but paused unseen outside the door.
“What are you really doing here?” Yamamoto said, crossing his arms over his chest and looking down at Takizawa. “And don’t tell me it’s just to say hello. I told you before I don’t want to see you ever again.”
“Alright, you’ve caught me. I’ve been sent to find out just who is running this ring smuggling prisoners out of Hayagawa and into Samurakami. Citizen Kondo seems to think they’re rich young men, like the one you’ve conveniently gotten yourself living with.”
“No,” Yamamoto replied. “You asked me for information once and I gave it to you on your word that they wouldn’t be hurt, and then I learned you had them killed! I’m not telling you anything else that will cause more deaths.”
“What if I tell you that you giving me information will save a life,” Takizawa countered. “What if I tell you that just before I left your dearest friend Tatsumi Yudai was arrested as a traitor to the Republic? And that if you help me he’ll be granted a full pardon?”
“I don’t believe you. Tatsumi would never do anything treasonous.”
“He was arrested looking for a new safe house for this band of smugglers after we uncovered their last one,” Takizawa replied.
“No...” Yamamoto said, sinking into a chair. “What is it you want?” he asked after a moment.
“Any information at all. Someone there will surely know something. Goseki has been in and out of the country, as have Kitayama and Yokoo. Start with them.”
“They all hate me. None of them will tell me anything,” Yamamoto protested.
“Well you’d better get me something or there’s no deal,” Takizawa replied, standing and brushing his pants off. “I’ll see you at the party tonight.”
⇜⇝
“Tsuka-chan! So good to see you again!” Yara said loudly, drawing attention from several other party guests. “Why it’s been absolutely days since we last met, hasn’t it?” He laughed loudly as Goseki joined them as well, passing him a pair of notes as they brushed shoulders.
“It has been days!” Tsukada agreed with an exaggerated nod. “Gocchi as well! I think I haven’t seen either of you since the last party.”
“That sounds about right,” Goseki agreed before excusing himself. He stopped to one side to read the notes. The first read Make sure Ryota sees you giving Tottsu this note, and tell him to expect questioning; the second said Meet in the library at midnight. The first note was tucked inside his pants pocket, the second in his breast pocket where it could be more noticeably removed.
Goseki mingled through the party, letting an hour or so pass before he caught sight of Yamamoto standing not too far from Totsuka. He approached Totsuka carefully, talking mundanities until he was sure Yamamoto was watching them. “Yamamoto’s going to ask you about this,” he murmured, pulling the note from his breast pocket. “Yara said to expect it. He’s got some kind of plan,” he added, looking around and deliberately missing Yamamoto.
“Alright...” Totsuka murmured, pocketing the note for the moment. He glanced around before slipping away, wandering through the crowds for a bit before slipping into an alcove to read the note. Sure enough, a moment later Yamamoto appeared. Totsuka tried to slip the note back into his pocket but Yamamoto grabbed it before he could.
“Midnight meeting?” Yamamoto murmured. “Sounds like a tryst,” he said.
“It’s nothing you need to worry about,” Totsuka replied, snatching the note back from Yamamoto.
“Who is it you’re meeting?” he pressed.
“Gocchi didn’t mention who gave it to him,” Totsuka demurred. “I’ll just have to go and see. If you’ll excuse me...” Totsuka left the alcove before Yamamoto could say anything else. He was alone only for a moment though, as Takizawa took Totsuka’s place with him.
“Well?” Takizawa asked.
“Goseki gave him a note saying to meet in the library at midnight, but he wouldn’t say who the note came from,” Yamamoto ground out. “Now is that enough for you?”
“If it actually works I will consider our deal completed,” Takizawa replied.
“And you’ll release Tatsumi?”
“I’ll release him with a pardon,” Takizawa nodded.
Yamamoto nodded as well and escaped the alcove.
Takizawa strolled out of the alcove after a few moments, checking the clock as he did. It was approaching midnight, so he wandered through the halls until he found the library. The only figure there was Yara, sprawled out and sleeping on one of the couches. He selected a nearby chair and sat down, intending to wait for whomever was supposed to meet with Totsuka. The late hour and his day of travel soon caught up with him, though, and he nodded off.
He woke again well after midnight, glancing around frantically for a moment. Yara was still asleep on the couch, just where he’d been before. Takizawa stood and a piece of paper fluttered to the floor. He leaned down to pick it up. So sorry I missed you it read, and he let out a growled, “Damn it”.
⇜⇝
“Yara-san?”
“Yes? What is it, Ryota dear?” Yara asked, turning from where he loosened his bow tie.
“You... you don’t know who the people are, that are rescuing people from Hayagawa, do you?” Yamamoto asked from his position in the door to Yara’s room.
“Good gads, why would I know such crazy people as that?” Yara asked with a laugh.
“Don’t say it like that, please. They might be crazy, but at least they’re doing something,” Yamamoto protested. “And now I need them to do something for me.”
“And you think they would?” Yara asked. “You, who seem to be such good friends with Bakazawa, the one that’s been tasked with catching them all?”
“I’m not friends with him!” Yamamoto yelled and immediately covered his mouth after. “He’s not my friend. He used me, before, and he’s trying to do the same again,” he added softly.
“He used you? How?”
“He wanted to find the Akiyama family, and he said it was only so he could question and deport them. He said he wouldn't hurt them, so I told him what I knew, and then...”
“And then indeed...” Yara said softly.
“I know you were friends with their son,” Yamamoto said softly. “I didn’t mean for them to get killed.”
Yara was silent for a moment. “And what is it he holds over your head now?”
“He tells me he’s captured Tatsumi, that Tatsumi was helping the smugglers find a new safehouse after I revealed the last,” Yamamoto said. “You know what Tatsumi means to me. He’s practically a brother.”
“I do know,” Yara nodded. “It’s late now,” he said, glancing at the clock. “Too late to do anything tonight. Let’s sleep, then in the morning we’ll see what we can do?”
Yamamoto looked at Yara for a moment before nodding. “Very well. I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Yes...” Yara agreed, and went back to undressing as Yamamoto left.
⇜⇝
“Yamamoto-sama? It’s nearly lunchtime...”
Yamamoto groaned and rolled over, burrowing under his blankets before the events of the night before caught up with him. He shot out of bed, pulling his dressing gown on over his pajamas. “Where is Yara-san?” he asked the servant setting out his lunch.
“He left first thing this morning, after being up all night,” the boy replied. “Once Goseki-sama and Kitamitsu-sama arrived they left.”
“He left?” Yamamoto repeated.
“I heard him mention something about Tatsumi-sama, and Yonehana-sama as well, as they were leaving.”
“He did?” Yamamoto sank into his chair, thought swirling. “Does that... No, it can’t mean...” he murmured to himself. “But then... he knew about Akiyama... and Tatsumi wouldn’t do this for someone he didn’t trust...” Yamamoto shot up again. “Clothes. I need to get dressed straight away,” he told the boy. “I can’t believe I didn’t realize...”
⇜⇝
“Yamamoto-san? What are you doing here?”
“Totsuka-san, you have to help me,” Yamamoto said. “No one else is here, you’re all I have left.”
“What are you talking about?” Totsuka replied.
“Yara-san, he’s the one that’s in charge of you all, isn’t he?”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about...”
“Don’t lie to me, I know it already,” Yamamoto said. “He’s gone off with Goseki-san and Kitayama-san and Yokoo-san and who knows who else to save Tatsumi. Takizawa will have a trap set for them, and I’ve gone and sent him straight into it!”
“Wait wait, slow down. What’s happened?”
“Takizawa... he told me if I didn’t help him find out who’s been smuggling people out that he’d have Tatsumi executed. I told Yara-san last night, and I didn’t know he’d actually go and leave to find him.”
“Alright. Alright, I’ll call the rest of us and we’ll all go and help them, okay?” Totsuka said, trying to calm Yamamoto down.
“Thank you.”
“We’ll get them all back safely, okay?” Totsuka said, patting Yamamoto’s shoulder.
“Yes...” Yamamoto agreed.
⇜⇝
“I set myself a trap to catch a mastermind, and instead here I find our own Ryota.”
Yamamoto jumped and spun around. “Takizawa...”
“You aren’t who I expected, but I’ll take this outcome anyway.”
Yamamoto bit his lip. “What if.... What if I am the one you expected?” he said suddenly. “What if I am the one who did this all?”
Takizawa laughed. “It’s wonderful that you say that, but I know better. You wouldn’t have given me any information if you really were. But you are just further bait in my trap now.”
“You’ll trap no one else, because no one knows I’m here.”
“That’s not entirely true, Ryota dear.”
“Ahh, and here’s the quarry I truly wanted,” Takizawa said, smiling and turning. “Yara Tomoyuki. I should’ve known you’d be the one in charge of all of this. You were the most idiotic of them all, after all.”
Yara laughed at that. “Oh now, you make that sound like a bad thing~ It’s quite hard to be that stupid, you know.”
“I wouldn’t know. But it doesn’t matter now because I’ve got an entire squad of soldiers waiting outside to take care of you,” Takizawa replied. “There’s no way you’ll slip out of things this time.”
Yara laughed again. “You’ve got it all figured out now, don’t you?”
“I do indeed,” Takizawa replied. He walked over to the door and opened it, waving two of the soldiers in. “You’ve brought a firing squad, yes?” he asked.
“No!” Yamamoto cried, running over to Yara and holding him tightly.
“Ryo-chan, dear, don’t worry about me,” Yara said, patting Yamamoto’s back. “It’ll all be fine.”
“But how? The soldiers...”
“Ahh yes, the firing squad will be a bit inconvenient, won’t it?” he said, still smiling.
“Yara-san...” Yamamoto whispered.
“I can take anything Bakazawa throws at me~” Yara told him. “Believe me.”
“I do...” Yamamoto replied, sniffling.
“Enough of this,” Takizawa cut in. “Take him now,” he ordered the soldiers, and they grabbed Yara, dragging him outside.
“Yara!” Yamamoto cried, and Takizawa caught him before he could run outside. There was a moment of silence, broken by the sudden thunder of a dozen guns. “NO” Yamamoto cried, collapsing onto the floor.
“It’s all taken care of then?” Takizawa asked as the door opened again.
“So sorry, Bakazawa, but I’ve left my hat in here~” Yara replied, strolling back in, followed by the soldiers.
“What is this?” Takizawa shouted, looking at the soldiers. “Seize him: Seize him!” he ordered the unresponsive soldiers.
“No, no, Bakazawa,” Yara said. “Like this. Seize him,” he ordered, and the soldiers took hold of Takizawa instead. “You see? One has to say it with authority. And of course bringing along my own set of soldiers helps too~” he laughed.
“Ahh! Goseki-san! Kitayama-san!” Yamamoto said, catching sight of the soldiers’ faces.
“Tie him up, boys,” Yara instructed, offering Yamamoto a hand to help him up. “Well done! I believe we have now tied up all our loose ends- No, wait! I'm forgetting one thing. Bakazawa, any "last words" from you?,” he asked, but before Takizawa could answer he shoved a gag in his mouth. “No? No open confessions? Ah, but they will find you, old boy, with a written confession instead. Much more... permanent than words, wouldn’t you say?” he asked. A scrap of paper was found behind the bar, and a pen turned up as well, and he scratched out a quick note. I was the one smuggling people out of the country it read, and Yara tucked it into the ropes binding Takizawa. “Now to leave him here for someone to find...” Yara said with a laugh.
“Yara-san...” Yamamoto murmured, still clinging to his hand. “But what about Tatsumi, and...”
“We’ve got all three of them,” Kitayama told them. “They’re on the boat waiting for us.”
Yamamoto let out a sigh of relief and all but collapsed against Yara.
“Let’s go home, Ryo-chan,” Yara said softly, slipping an arm around him and supporting him.
“Home... Yes, please,” Yamamoto replied, smiling.
⇜⇝
Delivered by: hatenaimirai_e
Title: Into the Fire
Groups/Pairings: Yara Tomoyuki/Yamamoto Ryota, Takizawa Hideaki, Kis-My-Ft2, ABC-Z, MA, TheyBudou, others
Rating: PG13
Warnings: mentions of character death, none of the main characters
Summary: In the midst of a country torn by revolution, a small group do their best to help people out.
Notes: Dear yararanger: While this isn’t as Kisumai heavy as you requested, I hope you’ll forgive me for it, given who the main characters are. I also hope I did your beloved boys justice. I did tons of research and reading and watching before writing this story, so I hope you enjoy it!!
This is based on the Scarlet Pimpernel, with most of the influence from the 1934 movie and the 1997 musical. While that took place during the French Revolution, this takes place in a complete AU based in a slightly more Victorian time. Also, all place names are made up and not meant to reflect any real J&A people.
There was a hush in the theatre as the actor on stage delivered his last few lines before collapsing dramatically. As the curtain dropped there was a pause, then thunderous applause filled the building. The curtain rose again and the entire cast stepped forward for a final bow. The applause continued, tapering off only when the lead actor stepped forward and motioned for the audience to sit again.
"My dear friends, patrons, and guests," he started with a smile. "As many of you know, this is my last night here at the Theatre Saitou," he said, pausing until the sounds of dismay died out. "Some time ago now I was approached by the Prince of Jouda's personal theatre troupe. It was not an easy decision to make, as I will miss you all dearly, but I will be joining them, and I travel-"
"Enough!" came a ringing shout from the side of the stage, and a man came striding on followed by a small squad of soldiers. "By order of Citizen Kondo and The Revolutionary Tribunal, this theatre is now declared closed due to exhibition of sentiments recalling The Old regime and non-compliance with Republican ideals, closure effective as of this moment. You will all leave immediately," he told the audience. "I'll speak to you backstage," he added in a lower voice, looking over the actors. The soldiers lined up along the edge of the stage, giving firm looks to anyone in the audience that appeared to be taking their time. The cast slowly trickled off the stage as well, going to their dressing rooms, the lead actor that had been interrupted the last to go.
⇜⇝
There was a knock on the door and then it opened, admitting a slender figure. "Citizen Yamamoto," he said with a small nod.
The man that had been the lead actor before the theatre's closing finished buttoning his pants and turned to fix a look on the other man, only half dressed so far. "Citizen Takizawa," he replied. "Was that really necessary? And at my last performance, too," he said, frowning.
"Forgive me, I forgot it was your last," Takizawa replied, moving a bouquet of flowers from one of the room's chairs and sitting. "A gift from him?" he asked deliberately lightly, setting the flowers aside.
"You forget nothing ever and we both know it," Yamamoto replied, pulling his shirt on and buttoning it. "And yes, they are from him," he added, turning away from Takizawa to straighten his collar in the mirror. "He should be here any moment, if your thugs let him back."
"So I finally get to meet the man that convinced you to desert your homeland, do I?" Takizawa asked, settling back in the chair.
"I will gladly return here once all this meaningless bloodshed ends."
"Be careful, Ryota, that almost sounded treasonous," Takizawa warned. "I'd hate to have to arrest you just before you're about to leave for your illustrious new engagement for the Prince."
"Is that a threat?" Yamamoto said, turning to look at Takizawa again, but he straightened and turned back as the door creaked open again.
"Threats? Dear me~" came a cheerful voice. "Here I thought you were having a party without me, Ryota-dear, but now I'm not so sure," said the man that stepped in next.
"Ahh, it's nothing, Yara-san," Yamamoto replied, smiling brightly at him. "Come in, Citizen Takizawa was just leaving."
"A citizen, are you? Strange things, strange things," Yara said, looking Takizawa over. "Though I do suppose we're all citizens of the world, aren't we?"
"So you're the one that's stealing our Ryota away," Takizawa said, standing up.
"Stealing your Ryota away," Yara replied, tilting his head back to look at Takizawa. "Good gads you make it sound like he's property of the Republic," he said with a laugh. "Tell me does this new government of yours plan to reinstitute slavery?"
"The glorious Republic will be doing no such thing," Takizawa said tightly. "Every man belongs to himself and God."
"Oh good then there should be no more talk of threats or stealing people~" Yara replied with a smile. "And Ryota and I will be leaving soon to our own glorious kingdom~"
"Is the carriage waiting?" Yamamoto asked, cutting in between them. "I just have a couple more things to pack up."
"I'll go and check," Yara replied, reaching over and giving Yamamoto's shoulder a squeeze before leaving.
Takizawa watched him with a raised eyebrow. "Is the whole troupe that stupid or is he just special?" he asked Yamamoto. Yamamoto didn't answer as he finished dressing, but Takizawa could see his frown. "Before I leave, you have something for me, correct?"
Yamamoto turned to look at Takizawa for a moment before nodding. He pulled a small sealed note from one of the boxes waiting to be taken. "You promise me they will only be deported? No harm will come to them?" he asked, looking down at the paper.
"No," Takizawa replied shortly, holding his hand out.
Yamamoto reluctantly handed over the paper. "I wish never to see you again."
Takizawa closed his hand over Yamamoto's, pulling him closer for a moment. "Alas, I cannot return your sentiments, as I do wish to see you again."
"Ryo?" There was a knock on the door before a figure leaned in. "Are you ready? Yara-sama's brought the carriage around now."
"Ahh, Yu, yes," Yamamoto replied, pulling his hand loose and leaving the paper in Takizawa's hand. "Can you take this for me?" he asked, picking one of the boxes up and handing it to Tatsumi.
"No problem," Tatsumi replied with a smile. "Anything else?"
"Just this," Yamamoto replied, setting the bouquet of flowers atop another box before picking it up himself. "The costumes are all the theatre's, not that they'll need them now," he murmured, looking around the dressing room. "And Yara-san said he'd get everything else from home picked up for me?"
Tatsumi nodded as Takizawa cut in. "Such a shame it seems to be, that we're losing two such fine citizens all at once."
"I'm not leaving Hayagawa forever, though, Citizen Takizawa," Tatsumi replied with a smile. "I'm just traveling to Samurakami to make sure Ryo gets settled there and then I'll be back."
"Very well, then," Takizawa replied.
"Let's go, Yu," Yamamoto said, and with nods to Takizawa they both left.
⇜⇝
“Welcome, welcome all, to our modest little get together!” Yara announced from the second floor balcony, to the tickle of laughter and champagne glasses. “I’m so glad you could all join me to help welcome our new friend, Yamamoto Ryota,” he added, wrapping an arm around Yamamoto’s shoulders. “Enjoy!” he said, lifting his glass, and the crowd below did the same.
“You really didn’t need to throw me a party,” Yamamoto said softly as the partygoers’ attention shifted elsewhere.
“Nonsense~” Yara replied, letting go of Yamamoto to wave a hand about. “This is hardly a party. Just a few close friends.”
Yamamoto glanced over the balcony again, taking in the dozens of people milling about. “These are all your close friends?”
“They are, of course,” Yara said with a laugh. “And soon they’ll be your close friends too. Come, you’ll talk to them and you’ll love them as much as I do,” he added, grabbing Yamamoto’s arm and leading him down the stairs.
In the crowd they could barely move a step or two without someone coming over to introduce themselves to Yamamoto. It was an unending stream of Samurakami’s best of the best, the ruling class and wealthiest families. Yamamoto couldn’t remember any of the names thrown at him in those short moments before the next person came up.
“Yaracchi!”
Everyone turned to see who had shouted from the doorway, and Yara, still beside Yamamoto, grinned widely. “Mitsu! You’re late~” he said with a laugh, making his way over, Yamamoto trailing after him.
“Sorry, old man,” Kitayama replied with a laugh, shrugging out of his coat and handing it to a waiting servant. “Travel was a bit of a bear, but we’ve made it anyway~” he said, stepping aside for the others with him.
“Macchin!” Yara said brightly when he caught sight of the man behind Kitayama, all but throwing himself at the other man, hugging him tightly.
“Hello,” Machida said with a laugh, hugging Yara back.
“And Edacchi! And Hayashi!” Yara continued, stepping around Machida to greet the other two. “But...” Yara trailed off, and turned back to Machida and Kitayama.
“Do you have something besides champagne?” Machida asked. “I’m feeling a bit dry after our drive.”
“Yes, yes of course,” Yara replied. “Ahh, you boys know Ryota, right?” he added, tugging Yamamoto over.
Machida frowned, but the other two greeted Yamamoto happily.
“Come, let’s get you out of those dirty travelling clothes~” Yara said brightly, linking an arm through Machida’s and Kitayama’s arms and leading them further into the house. A quick word to a servant had a pitcher and juice brought to them in a small withdrawing room on the first floor. “Where is Yone? And the other boy, Ryu, is it?”
Machida shook his head. “We got word of the raid only minutes before the soldiers arrived,” he said softly. “The three of us got out, but you know Yone. He wouldn’t leave. Ryu got caught as he tried to leave.”
Yara sank back in his seat. “Any idea what’s happened with them?”
“No word yet, but you know how the new Tribunal works,” Kitayama said. “There will be a trial in a few days, and then after...”
All three fell silent, knowing no trial had ended in anything besides a guilty verdict yet.
“It gets worse,” a new voice cut in.
“Gocchi!” Yara said, turning to the door. “What could be worse?”
“We’ve been betrayed,” Goseki said softly, falling into one of the chairs.
“No... Who? How?” Yara asked. “And where is...”
“They found the safe house we set up for the Akiyamas,” Goseki said. “Late last night, before I got there. All of them, and Iida too executed first thing this morning.”
“No...” Yar murmured, sitting back in shock. “Jun... And Iida too?”
Goseki nodded slowly. “For aiding traitors to the Republic. There was a notice pinned to the door when I got there.”
The four fell silent.
“But... but how?” Yara asked. “You, me, and Iida were the only ones that knew where we hid them.”
“Are you sure you told no one else?” Goseki asked, fingering a piece of paper in his coat pocket.
“No... well, I might’ve mentioned it to Ryota, but he has no reason to say anything,” Yara said after a moment’s thought.
“Then you’d better think things over again,” Goseki replied, offering the note to Yara.
Yara unfolded the paper slowly, reading the simple note- The Akiyama family is in a house just outside the town of Kichida. Yamamoto was monogrammed along one edge of the paper. “No....” he said again. “I can’t believe this. You... You’re suggesting Ryota is a spy.”
“You’ve known him, what, barely six weeks now?” Goseki replied. “How can you know for certain that he’s not? He’s an actor after all.”
“Actor or not, I refuse to believe he’s a spy.”
“Then we’ll test it,” Goseki replied, taking the note back. He folded it up and took it to the desk in the corner, writing Thank you for your help across the back. “We’ll have one of your butlers give this to him, and see how he reacts.”
“And when he disavows any knowledge of this note, then you’ll he he’s no spy at all,” Yara said with a nod.”
“We’ll see,” Goseki replied with a frown.
“Macchin, do you want to come back down?” Yara asked, turning to him.
“I think I’d rather lie down,” Machida replied. “This day has been a bit too long.”
“I’ll have the servants prepare rooms for all of you, then,” Yara said, going to the wall to ring a bell.
“Thank you, Tomo,” Machida said softly.
“We’ll get Yone,” Yara said, leaning over to squeeze Machida’s hand. “We can’t help Jun anymore, sadly, but we won’t lose Yone and Ryu.”
“I trust you,” Machida replied. A servant appeared to take Machida to a freshly prepared room, and the other three stood to return to the party downstairs.
“Forgive me for my absence, my dear friends,” Yara said brightly as he made his way down the main steps again. “I was welcoming a beloved friend who’s just arrived from Hayagawa, and making sure he was comfortable after such a stressful journey,” he told them all. “But I do believe supper is ready now, if you’d all make your way to the dining room~!”
As the guest slowly made their way to the dining room Yara caught sight of one of his butlers approaching Yamamoto with the note. He saw Yamamoto read the back, before checking the contents. He approached Yamamoto as he shoved it into his pocket. “A love letter~” he teased.
“Ahh, Yara-san,” Yamamoto said, pushing the paper a bit further down in his pocket. “Just a letter from a friend, that’s all,” he answered, and stepped around Yara to join Tatsumi and Hayashi as they entered the dining room.
“Well?” Goseki murmured, appearing suddenly at Yara’s shoulder.
“It doesn’t prove anything,” Yara replied, though he frowned as he watched Yamamoto disappear into the other room. “There’s a chance...”
“A very slim chance, and you know it,” Goseki replied, squeezing Yara’s shoulder.
Yara sighed, then straightened his shoulder and nodded. “Call the rest of the boys. Tell them we’re meeting first thing tomorrow.”
“I’ll take care of it,” Goseki agreed, and with one last squeeze of Yara’s shoulder, he slipped into the crowd.
⇜⇝
“We’ve got to do something!”
“Let’s just go and storm the prison and free them all!”
“Yes!”
“Are you all idiots?” A sharp voice cut in.
“Now, now, Gocchi, there’s no need to yell at them for being excited.”
“You’re one to talk, Taisuke,” Goseki retorted.
“Come now, boys, there’s no reason to fight,” Yara said as he walked into the drawing room, taking in the twelve men waiting for him.
“You didn’t here these two planning to storm the prison,” Goseki replied, jerking his thumb at Senga and Nikaido over the sounds of their protests..
“All by themselves? That won’t get anyone saved, and them imprisoned instead.” Yara sank into a chair, rubbing his face,
“Didn’t sleep much last night, huh?” Kawai said, sitting on the arm of Yara’s chair and nudging him. “Busy with your new actor?” he teased.
“Not at all,” Yara replied, elbowing Kawai hard enough to make him slip off the chair arm. “I’ve been in my study all night,” he said instead.
“Is everything okay?” Totsuka asked, leaning forward. “You were so eager to have him here...”
Yara let out a sigh and covered his face with his hands. “You’ve all heard the Akiyama family and Iida were... lost the night before last?” he asked softly, lowering his hands to see them all nod. “Ryota might have been the one that told the Tribunal where their safehouse was,” he admitted.
“He’s the reason why?” Yokoo asked, speaking up for the first time that morning.
“I’m not sure yet. I haven’t asked him, and I don’t know if he knows yet,” Yara answered. “But beyond that, Yonehana and Takahashi were captured as well. And I promised Macchin we’d get them. This is far more than what we’ve done so far. This isn’t just arranging safe houses and getting people out before they can be denounced. This is going in and rescuing them from custody. It’ll be dangerous. Could even be deadly if we aren’t careful. Anyone that wants out will not be thought as less of a man.”
“Now who’s being the idiot,” Kitayama said from his sprawl on one of the couches. “They took one of our own from us. We’ll all do what we can to make things difficult for them.”
Yara looked around, seeing the others nod in agreement with Kitayama. “Alright. We’ll need a plan, then. Our only chances to get them will probably be before and after the trial, or on the way to execution,” he said.
⇜⇝
“Citizen Takizawa,” the doorman announced as Takizawa strode into the office.
“Citizen Kondo. You called for me?” Takizawa asked, stopping in front of the desk.
“Ahh, yes, I did. I understand you only took two of the five men you were supposed to into custody?” Kondo said, not looking up from his papers.
“That is correct. My apologies.”
“Who did you manage to catch?”
“Yonehana Tsuyoshi and Takahashi Ryu.”
Kondo nodded. “Very well. Have Yonehana brought in. I have a proposition for him.”
Takizawa motioned to one of the soldiers waiting just outside the office.
“A proposition? Of what sort?”
“You’ll see. And I’ll be sending you to Samurakami today as well.”
Takizawa nodded and moved to the side as a pair of soldiers nudged Yonehana into the room. “Yonehana Tsuyoshi,” Kondo said, standing and coming around from behind his desk. “Come in, please, and have a seat. You know Citizen Takizawa, correct?”
“We’ve met,” Yonehana said tightly.
“Good, good. Now then, I have something I’d like to discuss with you. You’ve traveled to Samurakami many times, haven’t you? But your father was the former regime's ambassador to their court.”
“That’s correct,” Yonehana replied.
“So you know all the young nobility, don’t you, having traveled in the same circles.”
“I have many friends there, that’s true.”
“Then we are in the perfect position to help each other,” Kondo said with a smile. “If you help me figure out just who these men are that keep ferrying away political prisoners, I will grant you and the boy that was arrested with you full pardons, and personally make sure you both make it safely to Samurakami.”
“I’ve no idea who it is saving people from your beheadings and hangings,” Yonehana replied.
“Ahh, I must have put you on the spot, asking you suddenly. I’ll give you the days before your trial to think things over and consider some names,” Kondo replied. A motion from him and the soldiers were guiding Yonehana back out of the office.
“Do you really expect him to give you any names?” Takizawa asked.
“Perhaps not if it was only himself, but he has that other boy to think about,” Kondo replied, returning to his desk. “But I’m not going to wait for him to make a decision. You’re going to Samarakami as the Republic’s new ambassador. You’ll see what you can find out. And that Yamamoto is there as well, isn’t he? He helped before, he might help again.”
“Yamamoto... It might take some convincing to get his help again.”
“Then convince him. But you’d better figure something out. Don’t come back without any information.”
⇜⇝
“Do people do anything besides throw parties here?” Yamamoto grumbled, straightening his bowtie in a mirror.
“Dear me, you sound like you think there are more important things to do than spend time with good food and good company~” Yara said, leaning against the door.
“It’s just that it’s only been three days since the party you threw, so why are we having another?” Yamamoto protested. “Why haven’t I met the troupe yet, at least?”
“Ahh, but you have~” Yara laughed. “They were all there at my party, of course. They’ll be there at tonight’s party as well, and you’ll get to meet your new patron as well.”
“That’s right, this is the prince’s party, isn’t it?” Yamamoto said.
Yara nodded as a servant appeared at his elbow. “Excuse me, but there’s a guest to see Yamamoto-sama,” she said with a curtesy.
“Well now, someone here to see our Ryota~” Yara said. “Let’s go see whoever it could be.” He smiled and bowed Yamamoto out, tucking his hands into his vest pockets and strolling after him.
Yamamoto paused in the drawing room doorway when he saw just who waited for him, glancing over his shoulder at Yara before stepping in. “Citizen Takizawa. What are you doing here?” he murmured.
“Can’t a man call in on an old friend?” Takizawa said, smiling at Yamamoto.
“Look at who we have to visit~” Yara said brightly. “Taki... Baki... Bakazawa, yes? Why we met in dear Ryota’s dressing room, didn’t we?”
“It’s Takizawa, and yes.”
“Of course, of course, that’s exactly what I said,” Yara replied, lounging on one of the chairs. “Now tell me, to what do we owe the honor of your visit?”
“As I said, I simply came to say hello to Ryota before this evening’s party. We’ve known each other some time, now, and I simply wanted to make sure he’s settling in well here.”
“Well of course he is~” Yara cut in before Yamamoto could answer. “Why wouldn’t he be settling in well here? There’s every comfort one could want for, not to mention no fears of beheading,” he said with a smile. “Beheading sounds rather uncomfortable, doesn’t it? Quite unpleasant.”
“Yes, of course,” Takizawa said after a moment, easing down onto one of the couches.
“Now, tell me-”
“Yara-san, don’t you need to finish getting ready?” Yamamoto interrupted. “You haven’t even your bowtie yet.”
“Good heavens you’re absolutely right,” Yara cried, feeling at his collar. “Excuse me, I’m hardly fit to be seen in such a state. Practically naked.” He stood and left the room, but paused unseen outside the door.
“What are you really doing here?” Yamamoto said, crossing his arms over his chest and looking down at Takizawa. “And don’t tell me it’s just to say hello. I told you before I don’t want to see you ever again.”
“Alright, you’ve caught me. I’ve been sent to find out just who is running this ring smuggling prisoners out of Hayagawa and into Samurakami. Citizen Kondo seems to think they’re rich young men, like the one you’ve conveniently gotten yourself living with.”
“No,” Yamamoto replied. “You asked me for information once and I gave it to you on your word that they wouldn’t be hurt, and then I learned you had them killed! I’m not telling you anything else that will cause more deaths.”
“What if I tell you that you giving me information will save a life,” Takizawa countered. “What if I tell you that just before I left your dearest friend Tatsumi Yudai was arrested as a traitor to the Republic? And that if you help me he’ll be granted a full pardon?”
“I don’t believe you. Tatsumi would never do anything treasonous.”
“He was arrested looking for a new safe house for this band of smugglers after we uncovered their last one,” Takizawa replied.
“No...” Yamamoto said, sinking into a chair. “What is it you want?” he asked after a moment.
“Any information at all. Someone there will surely know something. Goseki has been in and out of the country, as have Kitayama and Yokoo. Start with them.”
“They all hate me. None of them will tell me anything,” Yamamoto protested.
“Well you’d better get me something or there’s no deal,” Takizawa replied, standing and brushing his pants off. “I’ll see you at the party tonight.”
⇜⇝
“Tsuka-chan! So good to see you again!” Yara said loudly, drawing attention from several other party guests. “Why it’s been absolutely days since we last met, hasn’t it?” He laughed loudly as Goseki joined them as well, passing him a pair of notes as they brushed shoulders.
“It has been days!” Tsukada agreed with an exaggerated nod. “Gocchi as well! I think I haven’t seen either of you since the last party.”
“That sounds about right,” Goseki agreed before excusing himself. He stopped to one side to read the notes. The first read Make sure Ryota sees you giving Tottsu this note, and tell him to expect questioning; the second said Meet in the library at midnight. The first note was tucked inside his pants pocket, the second in his breast pocket where it could be more noticeably removed.
Goseki mingled through the party, letting an hour or so pass before he caught sight of Yamamoto standing not too far from Totsuka. He approached Totsuka carefully, talking mundanities until he was sure Yamamoto was watching them. “Yamamoto’s going to ask you about this,” he murmured, pulling the note from his breast pocket. “Yara said to expect it. He’s got some kind of plan,” he added, looking around and deliberately missing Yamamoto.
“Alright...” Totsuka murmured, pocketing the note for the moment. He glanced around before slipping away, wandering through the crowds for a bit before slipping into an alcove to read the note. Sure enough, a moment later Yamamoto appeared. Totsuka tried to slip the note back into his pocket but Yamamoto grabbed it before he could.
“Midnight meeting?” Yamamoto murmured. “Sounds like a tryst,” he said.
“It’s nothing you need to worry about,” Totsuka replied, snatching the note back from Yamamoto.
“Who is it you’re meeting?” he pressed.
“Gocchi didn’t mention who gave it to him,” Totsuka demurred. “I’ll just have to go and see. If you’ll excuse me...” Totsuka left the alcove before Yamamoto could say anything else. He was alone only for a moment though, as Takizawa took Totsuka’s place with him.
“Well?” Takizawa asked.
“Goseki gave him a note saying to meet in the library at midnight, but he wouldn’t say who the note came from,” Yamamoto ground out. “Now is that enough for you?”
“If it actually works I will consider our deal completed,” Takizawa replied.
“And you’ll release Tatsumi?”
“I’ll release him with a pardon,” Takizawa nodded.
Yamamoto nodded as well and escaped the alcove.
Takizawa strolled out of the alcove after a few moments, checking the clock as he did. It was approaching midnight, so he wandered through the halls until he found the library. The only figure there was Yara, sprawled out and sleeping on one of the couches. He selected a nearby chair and sat down, intending to wait for whomever was supposed to meet with Totsuka. The late hour and his day of travel soon caught up with him, though, and he nodded off.
He woke again well after midnight, glancing around frantically for a moment. Yara was still asleep on the couch, just where he’d been before. Takizawa stood and a piece of paper fluttered to the floor. He leaned down to pick it up. So sorry I missed you it read, and he let out a growled, “Damn it”.
⇜⇝
“Yara-san?”
“Yes? What is it, Ryota dear?” Yara asked, turning from where he loosened his bow tie.
“You... you don’t know who the people are, that are rescuing people from Hayagawa, do you?” Yamamoto asked from his position in the door to Yara’s room.
“Good gads, why would I know such crazy people as that?” Yara asked with a laugh.
“Don’t say it like that, please. They might be crazy, but at least they’re doing something,” Yamamoto protested. “And now I need them to do something for me.”
“And you think they would?” Yara asked. “You, who seem to be such good friends with Bakazawa, the one that’s been tasked with catching them all?”
“I’m not friends with him!” Yamamoto yelled and immediately covered his mouth after. “He’s not my friend. He used me, before, and he’s trying to do the same again,” he added softly.
“He used you? How?”
“He wanted to find the Akiyama family, and he said it was only so he could question and deport them. He said he wouldn't hurt them, so I told him what I knew, and then...”
“And then indeed...” Yara said softly.
“I know you were friends with their son,” Yamamoto said softly. “I didn’t mean for them to get killed.”
Yara was silent for a moment. “And what is it he holds over your head now?”
“He tells me he’s captured Tatsumi, that Tatsumi was helping the smugglers find a new safehouse after I revealed the last,” Yamamoto said. “You know what Tatsumi means to me. He’s practically a brother.”
“I do know,” Yara nodded. “It’s late now,” he said, glancing at the clock. “Too late to do anything tonight. Let’s sleep, then in the morning we’ll see what we can do?”
Yamamoto looked at Yara for a moment before nodding. “Very well. I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Yes...” Yara agreed, and went back to undressing as Yamamoto left.
⇜⇝
“Yamamoto-sama? It’s nearly lunchtime...”
Yamamoto groaned and rolled over, burrowing under his blankets before the events of the night before caught up with him. He shot out of bed, pulling his dressing gown on over his pajamas. “Where is Yara-san?” he asked the servant setting out his lunch.
“He left first thing this morning, after being up all night,” the boy replied. “Once Goseki-sama and Kitamitsu-sama arrived they left.”
“He left?” Yamamoto repeated.
“I heard him mention something about Tatsumi-sama, and Yonehana-sama as well, as they were leaving.”
“He did?” Yamamoto sank into his chair, thought swirling. “Does that... No, it can’t mean...” he murmured to himself. “But then... he knew about Akiyama... and Tatsumi wouldn’t do this for someone he didn’t trust...” Yamamoto shot up again. “Clothes. I need to get dressed straight away,” he told the boy. “I can’t believe I didn’t realize...”
⇜⇝
“Yamamoto-san? What are you doing here?”
“Totsuka-san, you have to help me,” Yamamoto said. “No one else is here, you’re all I have left.”
“What are you talking about?” Totsuka replied.
“Yara-san, he’s the one that’s in charge of you all, isn’t he?”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about...”
“Don’t lie to me, I know it already,” Yamamoto said. “He’s gone off with Goseki-san and Kitayama-san and Yokoo-san and who knows who else to save Tatsumi. Takizawa will have a trap set for them, and I’ve gone and sent him straight into it!”
“Wait wait, slow down. What’s happened?”
“Takizawa... he told me if I didn’t help him find out who’s been smuggling people out that he’d have Tatsumi executed. I told Yara-san last night, and I didn’t know he’d actually go and leave to find him.”
“Alright. Alright, I’ll call the rest of us and we’ll all go and help them, okay?” Totsuka said, trying to calm Yamamoto down.
“Thank you.”
“We’ll get them all back safely, okay?” Totsuka said, patting Yamamoto’s shoulder.
“Yes...” Yamamoto agreed.
⇜⇝
“I set myself a trap to catch a mastermind, and instead here I find our own Ryota.”
Yamamoto jumped and spun around. “Takizawa...”
“You aren’t who I expected, but I’ll take this outcome anyway.”
Yamamoto bit his lip. “What if.... What if I am the one you expected?” he said suddenly. “What if I am the one who did this all?”
Takizawa laughed. “It’s wonderful that you say that, but I know better. You wouldn’t have given me any information if you really were. But you are just further bait in my trap now.”
“You’ll trap no one else, because no one knows I’m here.”
“That’s not entirely true, Ryota dear.”
“Ahh, and here’s the quarry I truly wanted,” Takizawa said, smiling and turning. “Yara Tomoyuki. I should’ve known you’d be the one in charge of all of this. You were the most idiotic of them all, after all.”
Yara laughed at that. “Oh now, you make that sound like a bad thing~ It’s quite hard to be that stupid, you know.”
“I wouldn’t know. But it doesn’t matter now because I’ve got an entire squad of soldiers waiting outside to take care of you,” Takizawa replied. “There’s no way you’ll slip out of things this time.”
Yara laughed again. “You’ve got it all figured out now, don’t you?”
“I do indeed,” Takizawa replied. He walked over to the door and opened it, waving two of the soldiers in. “You’ve brought a firing squad, yes?” he asked.
“No!” Yamamoto cried, running over to Yara and holding him tightly.
“Ryo-chan, dear, don’t worry about me,” Yara said, patting Yamamoto’s back. “It’ll all be fine.”
“But how? The soldiers...”
“Ahh yes, the firing squad will be a bit inconvenient, won’t it?” he said, still smiling.
“Yara-san...” Yamamoto whispered.
“I can take anything Bakazawa throws at me~” Yara told him. “Believe me.”
“I do...” Yamamoto replied, sniffling.
“Enough of this,” Takizawa cut in. “Take him now,” he ordered the soldiers, and they grabbed Yara, dragging him outside.
“Yara!” Yamamoto cried, and Takizawa caught him before he could run outside. There was a moment of silence, broken by the sudden thunder of a dozen guns. “NO” Yamamoto cried, collapsing onto the floor.
“It’s all taken care of then?” Takizawa asked as the door opened again.
“So sorry, Bakazawa, but I’ve left my hat in here~” Yara replied, strolling back in, followed by the soldiers.
“What is this?” Takizawa shouted, looking at the soldiers. “Seize him: Seize him!” he ordered the unresponsive soldiers.
“No, no, Bakazawa,” Yara said. “Like this. Seize him,” he ordered, and the soldiers took hold of Takizawa instead. “You see? One has to say it with authority. And of course bringing along my own set of soldiers helps too~” he laughed.
“Ahh! Goseki-san! Kitayama-san!” Yamamoto said, catching sight of the soldiers’ faces.
“Tie him up, boys,” Yara instructed, offering Yamamoto a hand to help him up. “Well done! I believe we have now tied up all our loose ends- No, wait! I'm forgetting one thing. Bakazawa, any "last words" from you?,” he asked, but before Takizawa could answer he shoved a gag in his mouth. “No? No open confessions? Ah, but they will find you, old boy, with a written confession instead. Much more... permanent than words, wouldn’t you say?” he asked. A scrap of paper was found behind the bar, and a pen turned up as well, and he scratched out a quick note. I was the one smuggling people out of the country it read, and Yara tucked it into the ropes binding Takizawa. “Now to leave him here for someone to find...” Yara said with a laugh.
“Yara-san...” Yamamoto murmured, still clinging to his hand. “But what about Tatsumi, and...”
“We’ve got all three of them,” Kitayama told them. “They’re on the boat waiting for us.”
Yamamoto let out a sigh of relief and all but collapsed against Yara.
“Let’s go home, Ryo-chan,” Yara said softly, slipping an arm around him and supporting him.
“Home... Yes, please,” Yamamoto replied, smiling.
⇜⇝