Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Leonard had a very nice and very ordinary day at the Blackthorn Security Company. There were no life-threatening cases, no strange behaviour from Chanis Gate, not even an incident involving Klein and those were frequent ever since the history student joined them.

Leonard almost wished Klein hadn’t joined. Almost. His life had been so much less eventful before it, but so much more boring too.

Currently he was playing cards with Kenley and Seeka while they were on standby. Suddenly a very distraught Klein stormed into the room and headed straight for Leonard.

“Sorry for interrupting, but I need to borrow Leonard for a moment.” - Klein grabbed his arm and dragged him out of the room.

Leonard immediately became concentrated. - ‘This sounds serious. Did Klein discover something and needs me to find a reason for it?’

Leonard tried coming up with different scenarios until Klein stopped them in a quiet and abandoned corner. He nervously looked around before looking at Leonard and grabbed him by the shoulders.

“Listen, sorry for dragging you away, but I need your help. My sanity is on the line and I don’t want to hurt anybody’s feelings.” - Klein started.

“He sure likes to sound dramatic.” - Pallez spoke in his head. - “Reminds me of someone. Who could It be…?”

Leonard inwardly rolled his eyes. - ‘I get it old man. Stop insulting me when I can’t fight back.’ - He was sad he couldn’t actually retort.

“What do you need help with?” - Leonard asked. His face showed no trace of his thoughts or the extra person speaking in his mind.

“You will have dinner with me and my siblings tomorrow at eight in the evening. You won’t ask why, just be your usual charming self and don’t ever mention it to anybody.” - Klein looked intently into his eyes and Leonard suddenly forgot what he was about to say.

“Sure.” - Leonard said without thinking.

“Great. See you tomorrow. Be at 2 Daffodil Street at seven fifty. Don’t let anybody follow you.” - Klein said it like he was giving instructions for a serious operation.

Leonard nodded to indicate that he understood. He was a little intimidated to be honest. Klein let out a sigh and released Leonard from the deathgrip he had on his shoulders. Then he walked away like nothing had happened, leaving Leonard staring at the empty space in front of himself.

“What the hell was that about?” - Leonard asked mainly himself, but was pleasantly surprised when Pallez answered.

“Sounds like you just got invited for a family dinner. Very aggressively in fact.” - Pallez said.

“I guess I’ll just have to go and observe.” - Leonard said as he had no further clues to Klein’s plan. - “At least it’s not some dangerous beyonder intel or another case. Do you think I should bring a present?”

Leonard waited for a reply, but Pallez seemed to have had enough of the topic and remained silent. Leonard left it at that.

He decided to not think too much about it. He acted like Klein hadn’t dragged him away and dutifully arrived at the given address at the given time. He was tempted to spoil the secrecy, but he was curious where this was going, so he played along.

He knocked on the door and a pleasant young girl opened it after a few seconds.

“Uhm, hello? Who are you?” - She asked curiously.

‘Didn’t Klein tell his siblings I was coming?’ - Leonard almost lost his composure from the surprise. He took a breath to compose himself and smiled charmingly. - “Leonard Mitchell. I was invited to dinner by Klein. Am I at the right place?”

The girl stared at him for a few seconds like she was trying to decide whether he was real or not. - “Give me a moment”

Then she shut the door in his face. Leonard was left standing in the door speechless. - ‘Are all the Moretti siblings this weird?’

Before he could decide how to proceed the door opened again. - “Sorry for that. Klein failed to mention that he invited someone over. I’m Melissa Moretti by the way. Come in, you arrived just in time. Bella just finished dinner.”

Melissa stepped back and allowed Leonard to enter. He stepped into a cozy living room with a table in the middle. The table was already set for three and a woman who was obviously a maid was hastily placing a fourth set of utensils there. A man who had a striking resemblance to Klein, but a receding hairline sat on one of the chairs reading a grammar book.

He looked up when Leonard entered and smiled. - “Hello, I’m Benson, Klein’s older brother. I’m happy to meet you. Klein is usually very tight-lipped about his work and colleagues.”

“Likewise. It’s nice to meet you.“ - Leonard smiled, not knowing what else to say. He was still unsure why he was here.

Thankfully Klein came down the stairs at that moment. - “Hello Klein.”

“Oh, hi Leonard. I’m glad you could make it. I guess you met my siblings.” - Klein spoke like this was an everyday event.

‘Glad I could make it my ass. You basically threatened me. I bet I would have been dragged here if I didn't show up.’ - Leonard thought, but he didn’t show it on the outside.

“I did, they are lovely.” - Leonard kept his pleasant facade.

“Perfect. They were curious about my work and I thought I'd invite you to tell them about it a little more. They think I joined an underground organization or something because I earn too much.” - Klein finally told Leonard the reason why he was here.

‘But that doesn’t make sense. Why the secrecy if it was for a simple dinner?’ - Leonard suspected there was something more to this than Klein told him.

“That’s not the whole truth.” - Pallez decided to be helpful when it was unnecessary.

‘Thanks old man, but I could figure that out by myself.’ - Leonard thought.

“Well, I can definitely say that we are not an underground organization, but a security company. We recently branched out into the field of artefacts and Klein’s expertise is really appreciated.” - Leonard continued playing nice.

“That’s fascinating.” - Benson put away the books from the table. - “Come sit down. Dinner is not gonna eat itself.”

And so Leonard joined the three siblings for dinner. He told Benson and Melissa watered down versions of his missions, leaving out any supernatural elements. They all enjoyed it greatly and Leonard noticed that even Klein smiled a few times. He didn’t find anything out of the ordinary until Klein leaned in and whispered into his ear. - “Could you pass me that glass?”

“Sure.” - Leonard complied, but in the meanwhile he immediately noticed something amiss.

‘There was no need to lean in that much let alone whisper. Klein usually keeps to himself so it wouldn’t make sense to act this intimate.’ - Leonard observed Klein a little more, but he was back to being normal.

‘Okay, maybe it’s not about Klein. Does it have something to do with his siblings?’ - Leonard paid more attention to the other two and sure enough they were glancing at each other when they thought he and Klein were not paying attention. - ‘They clearly have a silent conversation going on. Just what did Klein get me into?’

After another ten minutes of silent communication Benson and Melissa got to some kind of agreement. Unfortunately Leonard didn’t get to know it because they didn’t say a word about it. He looked at Klein who was trying not to smile like a cat who caught a huge mouse.

‘What the hell is going on?’ - Leonard was completely lost.

“Here, have some more cake Leonard.” - Benson pushed another slice of lemon cake in front of him.

“I really enjoyed your stories. You should visit us again.” - Melissa smiled at him.

“Guys, Leonard is a very busy man. You shouldn’t pester him just to tell stories.” - Klein protested, but Leonard noticed it was just a facade.

Melissa ignored Klein and smiled straight at Leonard. - “If you have time, you are always welcome.”

“Uhm, okay. I really enjoyed myself too.” - Leonard didn’t know what he should say. He stole a glance towards Klein, but he was glaring at his sister.

“I’m sure Klein won’t mind.” - Benson said. He probably noticed Leonard’s glance at Klein, his tone was a little off. It sounded like he was teasing.

Klein sighed. - “Just leave it alone would you? If Leonard wants to come then he will come, since apparently I have no say in it.”

“If you say so.” - Benson smiled wider. He and Melissa looked at each other again and there was something triumphant in their eyes.

‘Why do they want to invite me back so badly? Is this Klein’s way of saying we are friends? He showed me to his family and they approved? Why does that sound like couples introducing each other to their parents?’ - Leonard felt more puzzled than before. - ‘Still, the secrecy doesn’t make sense.’

“Elisabeth said she will be visiting her cousin next month so she can’t come over anymore. She needs to prepare for the journey. She told me they live a little far away.” - Melissa suddenly spoke up.

“I hope she has a smooth journey.” - Klein answered.

There seemed to be another layer to the conversation and Leonard still couldn’t figure it out. It was infuriating.

“I have an idea.” - Pallez said and almost made Leonard jump. He never expected the old man to care about such a mundane situation. - “I think Melissa wanted to get Klein and Elisabeth together, but Klein didn’t agree, so he pulled you in to act like you two had something going on. I must admit his methods are rather sneaky. Of course it’s still rather crude, but he has potential. I like this one.”

‘Huh, so my guess was not that far off the mark. I just didn’t consider that angle, because Klein never expressed any interest in men.’ - Leonard thought it through and suddenly had the urge to mess with Klein a little for using him.

He didn’t show his thoughts on his face and continued acting pleasantly. Soon it was time for him to leave.

“This was nice. I’m happy I got to know Klein’s family. Hopefully we will meet again soon.” - Leonard bowed a little and pulled Melissa’s hand up to his mouth for a kiss. Melissa giggled and waved him goodbye.

“Klein, could I have a word with you before I leave?” - Leonard smiled, but he saw Klein tense up. His smile must have shown that he was planning something.

“Okay.” - Klein carefully joined him outside the house. He closed the door behind him, but Leonard was sure Benson and Melissa were either eavesdropping or found a spot from where they could watch.

Leonard leaned in and whispered into Klein’s ear. - “I figured out your intentions.”

Klein tensed up even more. - “Really? Then what was it?”

“If you really wanted to ask me out, you should have said so, but I guess the approval of the family is important to you.” - Leonard couldn’t stop the shit eating grin appearing on his face. He pulled back and gave a small peck on Klein’s cheek.

Klein seemed to be frozen. Leonard managed to surprise him.

“See you tomorrow Klein” - Leonard said and then he walked away.

He recalled Klein’s shocked face and promised to forever cherish and remember it. It was worth it for the hell he would get from Klein tomorrow.

“That’s not it-” - Klein shouted after him, but Leonard didn’t stop and listen. He knew very well what it had been about, thanks to the old man.

“I would watch myself whileI was sleeping if I were you. That one is a born scheemer.” - Pallez told him.

“Don’t worry about it old man. I’m sure it won’t be that bad. He can’t retaliate openly.” - Leonard wasn’t too worried.

“That’s what I’m saying too.” - Pallez said.

The next day Leonard went into work expecting the worst, but nothing happened. Klein greeted him like usual. There was no indication that anything happened yesterday. It creeped Leonard out. That continued for the rest of the day and still Klein didn’t do anything.

Leonard was starting to relax, when Captain approached him. - “Leonard, can you take over for Klein’s Chanis Gate duty? He says he is not feeling too well.”

“Here it comes. You better agree to it lad if you don’t want something more severe” - Pallez helpfully advised.

“Sure. I don’t have any plans.” - Leonard had nothing against an extra night working. He was honestly relieved it was only something trivial like this.

“Great. I’ll inform him that you agreed.” - Captain walked away.

The night quickly ended without anything happening. The next day Leonard found Klein and pulled him aside. - “Are we even now?”

Klein looked puzzled. - “What are you talking about?”

“Yesterday’s Chanis Gate duty. I thought that was your revenge for, well, the other night.” - Leonard said quietly.

“Revenge? I really was feeling ill. I must have eaten something bad during the day.” - Klein played innocent.

“That’s clever. Peak psychological warfare.” - Pallez was no help either.

Leonard wanted to cry. - “Sure, Okay. I hope you are feeling better today.”

“Much better, thanks. I just needed to sleep it off apparently.” - Klein smiled. - “I’ll be going then. My lessons with Old Neil are starting soon. I don’t want to make him wait. See you!”

“See you.” - Leonard muttered under his breath as he watched Klein walk away.

He never figured out what Klein’s revenge plan was.

Chapter Text

Leonard just arrived in Backlund from the Cathedral of Serenity. He was now an official Red Glove. He got assigned under Soul Assurer Soest and was working on the devil summoning case. They were also looking into the cases with tarot cards, but they were not a priority. That was why Leonard wanted to join this team. Lanevus was defeated by this new mysterious organisation which meant that there was a chance they were involved in what happened at Tingen.

Whether they were friends or foe didn't matter, because they were a clue and Leonard promised to take revenge for his friend and captain.

Pallez didn’t object to it, which he found strange, but Leonard was happy to get used if he could use the old man in return.

He was walking home from his first briefing when someone ran into him. Literally. Usually he would pay more attention to his surroundings, but he was daydreaming about tearing Ince Zangwill’s heart out with his own hands.

Leonard quickly steadied himself and reached out to prevent the other person from falling. Leonard seized up the other man. He was wearing a brownish long coat and a cap. He wore gold-rimmed glasses and had some stubble on his face, but not enough to be a proper beard.

“Ah, I’m sorry. I’m in a hurry and didn’t pay attention. My work dragged on a little longer than I thought it would be and now I’m late.” - The other man looked up at Leonard, smiling, but when he saw who he was talking to he froze.

Leonard reacted the same way. He recognised this person. It was hard with all the changes Klein did, but it was not enough to fool Leonard. His dead friend was standing in front of him, breathing and healthy.

“Now that’s a surprise.” - Pallez commented. - “Haha! You were so convinced your secret was so much bigger, but I think this counts as losing.”

‘Not the time old man.’ - Leonard thought.

“Shit.” - Klein said and wanted to get away, but Leonard didn’t let him. He grabbed Klein’s arm.

“No. I deserve an explanation.” - Leonard was holding Klein way too tightly, but he didn’t want Klein to slip away.

Klein’s eyes darted around, trying to find a way out. Leonard was ready to use any means necessary to keep Klein here.

Finally Klein relaxed in his hold. - “Okay, but you have to do something for me first, no questions asked.”

Leonard thought about it a little, but he didn’t have too many problems with it. - “I can do that if it’s within my capabilities and morals.”

“Don’t worry, it’s well within both. Now come on, I’m late from a banquet and I have to introduce my fiance.” - Klein started walking and Leonard quickly followed.

“You have a fiance?” - Leonard was flabbergasted. He just couldn’t imagine Klein moving on so fast from what happened in Tingen. He also, maybe, almost impossibly was feeling a little jealous. He wasn’t about to admit that though.

“I have one now.” - Klein looked at him like he was an idiot.

“Oh. Oh! ” - Leonard was feeling enlightened. - “They are trying to matchmake you again? Why are you even going?” - Leonard laughed.

“No questions, remember?” - Klein glared at him. - “But if you must know, the host is my landlady and her chef makes delicious food. How is your Midseashire accent?” - Klein abruptly changed the topic.

Leonard was laughing now. If he had any doubts about Klein not being the original one this dispelled all of it. No one loved food as much as Klein did.

“Passable.” - Leonard decided to follow Klein’s lead and not mention Klein’s reasons for attending. He noticed that Klein was speaking with a slight accent too and he made some conclusions. - “You want to say I stayed behind in your hometown and suddenly visited you in the big city?”

Klein smiled. - “Exactly. You caught on much faster this time.”

Now that was just mean, but Leonard was too happy to hear Klein talk and walk and be alive to be offended.

“Why fiance? Why not just say boyfriend?” - Leonard was curious about the step up in relationship status.

“Mrs. Stelyn Sammer is very adamant about finding me a respectable wife. If we are not committed she will just think it’s a phase or something.”

“That would be a tragedy.” - Leonard laughed.

They quickly reached a nice middle class area and headed for one of the houses. It was empty and dark. Once they were inside the atmosphere didn’t change. There were no personal belongings or decorations, only some newspapers scattered around the dining table. The only place in the house that looked lived in was the kitchen.

Leonard acutely felt the loneliness in the atmosphere and it finally hit him that no matter how cheerful Klein seemed to be, he also lost everything in Tingen.

“I’ll change into something presentable and we can go over. Your uniform should be okay. Just say you are from a security company or something similar.” - Klein quickly rattled off while he headed upstairs. - “Also, they know me as Sherlock Moriarty, the private detective, believer of the God of Steam and Machinery.”

“You are a believer of which god?” - Leonard thought he heard wrong.

“Really that’s what you are caught up on. It was probably to avoid the Nighthawks. Keep up.” - Pallez commented.

“Sorry, but I needed to avoid the Nighthawks. Not that I managed in the end. I got recognised immediately.” - Klein laughed awkwardly. Then he disappeared upstairs.

“Told you.” - Pallez laughed at him.

“Why don’t you change hosts if you like him so much more.” - Leonard grumbled.

“It doesn’t work that way. Believe me, I had more than enough of your face for a lifetime.” - Pallez retorted.

“You can’t even see my face.” - Leonard burst out.

“Details. Details.” - Leonard could hear the dismissing hand wave in Pallez’s voice.

“I’m ready.” - Klein hurried down. He changed into a three piece suit that made him look quite elegant even with the stubble on his face.

Leonard was feeling underdressed. - “Are you sure it’s okay for me to go like this?”

“I’m sure. If she complains, just mention that your weekly salary is over five pounds and she will love you.” - Klein waved Leonard’s concerns away.

“My salary is much more than that.” - Leonard protested.

“Sure, but that would be suspicious. Say six pounds if you really want to feel wealthy.” - Klein dismissed the topic.

Leonard sighed, but let it go. He held out his arm for Klein. - “Are you ready?”

Klein slowly took it. - “Yeah, let’s do this.”

They were just about to leave the door, when Leonard remembered something. - “Wait, who proposed? We need a ring for it to be believable.”

Klein stopped in his tracks. - “Right. I forgot about that.”

Klein looked down at his left hand and a beautiful golden ring appeared on it. - “I’ll just say I didn’t wear it much because I was afraid it would get damaged or lost during my work.”

Leonard nodded. He felt his throat tighten with something not unlike grief and longing. - “An illusion?”

“Yeah.” - Klein didn’t explain further. They both knew what it meant.

There was nothing more to say so they headed for the neighbouring building. The lights were already lit inside and music could be quietly heard along with the chatting of the guests.

Klein let go of his arm and walked forward to pull the doorbell a few times.

The door was opened by a maidservant. Behind her came who could only be the host of the event, Mrs. Sammer. She had her blonde hair coiled up, making her silver earrings quite noticeable. Leonard already had some idea what kind of person she was.

Klein took off his hat and bowed. - “Mrs. Sammer, you look even more beautiful today than usual. Allow me to apologise for being late, but something important happened today.”

Mrs. Sammer looked delighted by the praise. - “You are very observant. These are my new earrings. They cost eight soli!”

Mrs. Sammer showed the side of her neck a little better so the earring could be seen perfectly. Then she turned to Leonard and observed him carefully. - “May I know who you are?”

“Leonard Mitchell. A pleasure to meet you. I’m sorry to barge in so rudely, but K-Sherlock insisted I accompany him.” - Leonard bowed too.

“Such a polite young man. Come in, come in. It’s not proper to let the guests wait at the doorway.” - Mrs. Sammer invited them in.

“Luke is talking business with his friends. Let me apologize on his behalf.” Stelyn played her role as the female host to its fullest. - “Have your meal first. I’ll introduce you to a few well educated ladies later.”

Now it was Leonard’s time to shine. - “I’m sorry to interrupt your plans Mrs. Sammer, but there is no need for that.” - Leonard linked his hands together with Klein’s making sure the illusory ring was clearly noticeable.

Mrs. Sammer followed the action and gasped when she realized the meaning. - “Oh my, I didn’t know. In that case I apologise. Why didn’t you say so earlier?”

Leonard let out a silent sight. At least she wasn’t against relationships between two men. She instantly grew a little in Leonard’s eyes.

Klein looked away, looking embarrassed. - “My line of work can be dangerous. I don’t advertise it. I barely wear the ring in fear of damaging or losing it. Besides, people are not always this… accepting”

Mrs. Sammer nodded along. - “Is that why you don’t live together? I assure you, it would be no problem in our neighbourhood.” - Mrs. Sammer stated seriously.

“Not at all. We could both take care of ourselves in that situation. The truth is-”

“I just arrived in town and immediately came looking for Sherlock.” - Leonard finished for Klein. - “I stayed back at home because of my work, but luckily I got transferred this week.”

Leonard looked at Klein and hoped he could convey with his eyes the happiness he felt seeing him again. Klein smiled back at him.

“Such a beautiful story. Don’t let me interrupt you then. Enjoy yourself. What a fitting way to spend your first night together.” - Mrs. Sammer walked away.

Klein led Leonard to a quiet corner next to the table with the food. He immediately took two plates and piled them high with different delicacies. Only after he had food did Klein speak. - “That went rather well. You have a talent for acting, Leonard. Maybe you should try that instead of poetry.”

Leonard took his plate and started eating too. He noticed that Klein only put foods he liked onto his plate. It almost made him tear up. - “I don’t need to write poems anymore.”

“That doesn’t mean you won’t.” - Klein pointed out.

“What can I say? I can’t seem to give it up.” - Leonard sighed dramatically and Klein laughed.

“How are the others?” - Klein suddenly asked. The atmosphere immediately turned colder.

“They were devastated, but I left to join the Red Gloves, so I don't really know.” - Leonard said as briefly as he could. - I just got to Backlund actually. A day earlier and you would have missed me.”

Leonard noticed Klein subconsciously shift closer to him. He had a bold idea and put his arm around Klein’s waist and pulled him even closer. Klein jumped a little in surprise, but didn't fight it so Leonard didn’t let him go.

“I’m glad you didn’t.” - Leonard whispered.

Klein remained silent, but after a few seconds he whispered back. - “Me too.”

They spent some time in silence while Klein slowly ate the food on his plate.

“Lanevus is dead.” - Leonard broke the silence.

Klein had a complicated expression on his face that Leonard couldn’t decipher.

“I know.” - Was all Klein said, but Leonard felt that there was something more behind it. He didn’t ask though. It was neither the time, nor the place to talk about the details.

“I’ve been working on my strength too.” - Klein whispered.

At first Leonard didn’t catch the meaning, but after thinking it through his eyes widened in understanding. - ‘The report said there were tarot cards embedded into the walls and the body of Lanevus. It’s suspected that it was a Clown from the Secret Order or a completely new organisation that uses tarot cards as their trademark. Could it be that it was neither. That it was simply Klein who didn’t have time to clean up the scene so he fabricated one.’

“You…” - Leonard was speechless. He tightened his hold on Klein and leaned his forehead on the back of Klein’s head. He felt Klein nod.

“Next time, we will do it together.” - Leonard promised.

Klein stopped eating and leaned into the one-sided hug. - “We will.”

Leonard’s tears were threatening to fall so he quickly tried to think of happier matters.

“Did you know that I work with Daly now? She has barely changed since I last met her.” - Leonard said.

“Maybe she is a good actor.” - Was Klein’s answer.

They circled back to the previous topic immediately. Leonard didn't have an answer to that so he remained silent. They were content to exist in their little bubble, but they were interrupted by a tall, serious man.

“Hello. I’ve heard from Mrs. Sammer that you are engaged. Congratulations.” - He said in a serious monotone tone. Leonard wasn’t sure if he was serious or mocking them.

Klein on the other hand just smiled. - “It’s been a while, but thanks Jurgen.”

“Why did you not decline the invitation?” - Jurgen continued in the same dead tone.

“I felt that would have been impolite. This way, I could have said that I tried, but I didn’t find anybody.” - Klein smiled embarrassed.

“I understand.” - Jurgen nodded.

“How do you like the evening so far?” - Klein asked.

“It’s pleasant, but it most likely won’t reach its intended purpose.” - Jurgen answered.

The conversation stopped there. Jurgen put some food on his plate and walked away without another word.

“That was Jurgen Cooper. He is a senior solicitor. He lives at the end of the street. He helped me get out of jail a couple of times.” - Klein explained.

“You’ve been in jail?” - Leonard couldn’t imagine.

“I’m a private detective. Even if they only find a gun on me, I’m brought in. Not to mention when I got attacked for digging up information where I shouldn’t have. I’ll probably act as an informant for the Machinery Hivemind if there is an opportunity in the future, but until then, I’ll need a solicitor… and lots of bail money.” - Klein said with anguish. He was probably mourning the loss of his money.

“He lives with his mother, but she is quite sick. They have a cat. I actually got to know them through that little menace. She disappeared and they hired me to find her. Do you want to guess where she was?” - Klein laughed.

Based on Klein’s mood it was somewhere ridiculous. - “It was stuck on a tree outside?”

“Close. She managed to get into a drawer and got stuck. Mrs. Doris even thought that she was hallucinating the cat’s cries for help.” - Klein finished the story.

Leonard chuckled. - “Sounds like an exhilarating detective story.”

Klein lightly hit him on the shoulder. - “That was my second case okay. I was desperate for money. Besides, it was much safer than my first case.”

“What was your first case then?” - Leonard asked the logical question.

“To find a missing detective.” - Klein said, but it was clear that was not the whole story.

“That doesn’t sound that bad. Other than maybe, professional concurrence.” - Leonard played his role.

“As it turns out, he was an intis spy and they were pursuing an artifact. I got implicated and they almost killed me. Thankfully I found a bodyguard.” - Klein said. He quieted his voice to be harder to eavesdrop.

Leonard was left staring. - “I see your penchant for trouble didn’t leave you.”

“Don’t even mention it.” - Klein agreed easily.

“It could also be the Law of Convergence of Beyonder Characteristics within the same pathway.” - Pallez decided to butt into the conversation. - “Ask him which pathway the person who wanted to kill him was from.”

‘It might be the case. I still don’t know Klein’s secret, but the most likely scenario is that it has to do something with the Antigonus Family Notebook.’ - Leonard also thought about it.

“Did they send actual assassins after you?” - Leonard made sure to sound worried. He was, of course, but also curious.

“Yeah. There was a Hunter. He surprised me, but I was more agile. Then a Marionettist, this time I was prepared. I was lucky with that one. Now I know how to advance up to sequence five.”

“It was probably due to the attraction. You should warn him about it.” - Pallez said.

Leonard felt a bit betrayed. Klein was clearly getting the favourite child treatment.

“It might not be only luck.” - Leonard started carefully.

Klein quickly turned to face him and stared into his soul. - “Yeah, maybe I simply attract trouble.”

“Damn, he knows. I can’t teach him anything.” - Pallez complained.

Leonard nodded at Klein. Before they could get into more details they were interrupted by two young kids.

“Uncle Moriarty! Are you really a detective?”

“Can you tell us cool detective stories?”

“Did you have a favourite case?”

They kept rattling off questions one after another.

Klein chuckled and kneeled down in front of them to be at the same level. - “Slow down, slow down. I can’t answer your questions that fast. How about I tell you about one of my cases from back home?”

“Yeees!” - Both of them shouted and sat down on the floor. Klein didn’t seem to mind and sat down too.

“It all started on a rainy afternoon…”

Leonard listened to Klein tell the most fantastical and improbable detective story, but the kids loved it. He listened too and caught himself getting invested into the story.

Before they knew it the banquet was over and Mrs. Sammer was looking for the kids to put to bed. The guests left one after another and soon it was Klein’s and Leonard’s turn to say goodbye.

It was Luke, the host of the evening, who accompanied them out since Mrs. Sammer was leading the kids to their bedroom. - “I hope you enjoyed yourselves. Sorry for letting the kids corner you like that.”

“No, it was no problem. I love telling stories.” - Klein smiled politely.

Luke turned to Leonard. - “I hope we left a good impression and didn’t keep you long from your fiance. It was a pleasure to meet you.” - He shook Leonard’s hand.

Leonard smiled. - “It was a perfect occasion for celebrating our reunion." - He lied.

After another round of goodbye’s they finally headed back to Klein’s house. Once they were in the house Klein slumped into one of the sofas in the living room.

“I’m not sure that much socializing was worth the food. No, I can't complain. Free food is free food.” - Klein sighed.

Leonard laughed at his misery. - “Imagine if you had to play nice with the ladies too.”

“My dear poet. Please don’t give me more nightmare material.” - Klein groaned.

The nickname caught Leonard a little off guard, but Klein didn’t seem to notice the slip, so Leonard didn't mention it. Still, it warmed his heart that that was how Klein referred to him, so much so, that he didn’t even notice how intimate it sounded and said it out loud.

He simply sat on the sofa closest to Klein and asked the question that he really wanted to ask. - “Will you come back?”

He was, of course, curious how Klein managed ro come back from the dead, but that wasn't the most important at the moment. He wanted to focus on the future and not dwell too much on the past.

Klein looked up at the ceiling, thinking deeply. - “I can’t. I want to stay out of the story. I need to be a side character to achieve my goal - our goal. I can’t do that if I go back to the Nighthawks.”

Leonard was sad, but he expected this answer. - “What will you do then?”

“Get stronger, act, investigate what really happened and figure out how to defeat the one who destroyed our lives.”

Leonard noticed Klein didn’t say Ince Zangwill’s name. - ‘He really is cautious.’

“What about you?” - Klein returned the question.

“The same. I’m already a Red Glove. I’ll just have to prove myself and gather merits. The Nighthawks are just as interested in catching that person as I am, so I’m planning on using their support.”

Klein simply nodded.

“Can we still meet or keep in touch?” - Leonard asked.

“I don’t think keeping in touch would be a problem. This way I can even give you clues that I personally cannot deliver to the Churches because of my sensitive identity.” - Klein quickly agreed.

“I live at 7 Pinster Street. You can send mail there any time and I’ll get it.” - Leonard didn’t explain how he could do that, and Klein didn’t question it.

“Okay. I’m not sure how much longer I can stay here, so I’ll have to come up with an alternative method on my end, but until then, you can find me here.” - Klein stopped, seemingly thinking about a solution, but he didn’t come up with any.

Leonard didn’t have any solutions either and Pallez didn’t interrupt so probably he didn’t have one either.

Silence enveloped them as neither of them knew what else to talk about. This time it was Klein who initiated the conversation.

“I don’t actually know how I revived. I have my theories, but I don’t want to say anything until I’m certain.” - Klein said in a tired tone.

Leonard was pleasantly surprised by the extra information so he wasn’t about to interrupt.

“I didn’t want to die, you know? I didn’t want to leave. I miss them so much, Captain, Old Neil, Kenley, Royale, Seeka, Frye, Rozanne, Mrs. Oriana, Benson and Melissa. You.” - Klein looked at Leonard with that last word.

“I miss them too.” - Leonard admitted. - “But we are not alone. We have each other now right?”

“Right.” - Klein’s voice was suspiciously raw, but Leonard didn’t call him out on it. His voice was probably the same.

Leonard didn’t know how much time they spent like that - Klein staring at the ceiling and Leonard staring at Klein - but it was well into the night when he suddenly stood up. - “I should get going.”

Klein lifted his head with visible struggle and looked at him. He slowly stood up from his sofa and stretched while he yawed. - “Yeah, it’s probably for the better. I can’t live with only a few hours of sleep like you.”

They both stopped before the entrance. Klein didn’t open the door and Leonard wished they could stay like this forever, but that was an impossible wish. The moment had to end just like their lives as ordinary Nighthawks ended.

The door opened and the stillness was broken. Leonard didn't know what came over him, but he reached out with his right hand and caressed Klein’s face with his thumb. He expected Klein to pull away or hit him, but nothing like that happened. Feeling brave he leaned in - slow enough for Klein to pull away at any moment - and placed a gentle kiss onto Klein’s lips.

“Until next time, my little seer.” - Leonard used the nickname he came up with after hearing Klein’s nickname for him.

“Wait what?” - Klein suddenly seemed to wake up and realize what Leonard did and said.

Leonard didn’t give him time to retaliate, he slipped into the darkness of the night and ran.

“You are a coward.” - Pallez decided it was a good time to say something.

“Hey! No peeking. I don’t want to share my love life with an old man.” - Leonard whispered as he moved through empty streets.

“You call that a love life? Young people are getting more and more pathetic.” - Pallez mocked him.

‘Okay, ouch. That hit too close to home. Still it was uncalled for.’ - Leonard thought.

“Then if you know so much better why not give me tips?” - Leonard asked.

“That lad deserves better than you. My suggestion is to give up.” - Pallez said.

Leonard gave up reasoning with Pallez. - ‘I just hope Klein thinks it was a dream. I don't know what came over me.”

Chapter Text

Leonard was walking home in the morning after a relatively tiring day and night. All he wanted was to fall face first into his bed and enjoy the few hours of sleep he needed. Contrary to expectations he loved to sleep, he just didn’t need much.

He was about to open his door when the old man spoke up. - “Someone appeared in your room.”

“Should I run?” - Leonard whispered.

“No. It should be okay.” - Pallez said in a calmer tone.

Leonard nodded and slowly pushed open the door. In the middle of the room stood a familiar figure. He had long dark brown hair, bronze skin and a small mole under his right ear. Leonard recognised him, but he couldn’t remember his name immediately. He recalled that he was somehow connected to Klein.

“Ah, just in time. Hello, sorry for barging in, but I believe you are needed in an urgent matter.” - The man smiled at him.

“Hello?” - Leonard was sure this had something to do with Klein. This was his style. - “What kind of matter Mr…?”

“Azik, Azik Eggers. I don’t believe we’ve officially met yet. I’m a friend of Klein’s. I believe you know about him?” - Azik introduced himself.

With the name Leonard could finally place him. He was Klein’s teacher and later the demigod wanted by MI9.

“Okay, do you know anything about the situation? What should I prepare?” - Leonard switched into mission mode.

“I don’t know, he just wrote it’s urgent and he needs you.” - Azik shrugged. He didn’t seem too worried about it, so Leonard relaxed too. - ‘If the power of a demigod like Azik is not needed then the situation is probably really not that dangerous. Maybe he needs me to play his boyfriend again.’ - Leonard thought jokingly.

“In that case we can go any time. I have everything on me.” - Leonard smiled at Azik.

The demigod just nodded and grabbed his shoulder without any fanfare. The colours around them turned more saturated, the reds became redder and the blacks turned deeper. They travelled for some time in this surreal world and then just as suddenly as they entered, they left.

Leonard found himself in a small wooden cabin that had a small circular window to the outside where the endless sea could be seen. They arrived on a boat! In the room there was the cold and crazy adventurer Gehrman Sparrow.

“Hello Klein!” - Leonard, of course, knew about Klein’s persona. Klein told him after Leonard kept pestering him in letters, before Klein had to leave Backlund.

They never discussed what happened at their meeting and Leonard was fine with that. He was totally fine.

That was why he couldn't stop himself from teasing Klein. - “What can I do for you my little seer?”

“Don’t call me that.” - Klein didn't break character and that irked Leonard. - ‘Let’s see how long you can keep that mask.’

“Only if you stop calling me your dear poet.” - Leonard smiled.

“Never did.” - Klein calmly stated.

“I clearly remember you did, my little seer.” - Leonard didn’t stop.

“It hurts to watch this.” - Pallez helpfully commented.

‘Nobody asked you old man.’ - Leonard grit his teeth while still smiling.

"You remember wrong." - Klein continued to stare at him and they would have probably stayed like that if Azik wasn’t present.

“Khm, should I come back later?” - Azik asked.

Klein immediately snapped out of it and smiled at Azik. Actually smiled! - ‘Traitor.’

“Sorry, I got caught up. I don’t think that’s necessary. This matter only takes a few minutes if you don’t mind waiting that much.” - Klein broke Gehrman’s character immediately.

“Okay.” - Azik nodded.

“Thank you for helping me in such a short time.” - Klein said to Azik.

"It's no problem. I am free for some time. I'm happy to help." - Azik nodded like a gentlemen.

Then Klein turned to Leonard, his cold and dangerous persona up again. - “You are my husband. Play along.”

Before Leonard could process the upgrade in their fake relationship status, Klein grabbed his hand and led him out of the cabin.

‘I can’t believe my guess was right! He actually needs me to play his boyfriend. No! His husband!’ - Leonard thought with some glee.

“This is not his usual style. This is way too rash and crude.” - Pallez mused, sounding disappointed.

‘This is not about you old man!’ - Leonard wanted to cry.

Pallez continued to think ‘loudly’ in his head. - “No, I refuse to believe such an amazing mind would resort so low. Maybe it is part of a larger plan. He could be playing a part. What is his endgame?”

Leonard wanted to facepalm. - ‘Old man, you are thinking way too much into it.’

They reached the deck of the ship where the sailors gathered in circles and drank and talked with each other. Someone quietly played a stringed instrument in the corner. It was a lively scene that was about to be interrupted.

Leonard watched as Klein pulled out his revolver and fired a few shots into the air. It immediately became dead silent on the ship. This show of power was doing things to Leonard that he didn’t want to admit.

“This is my husband. Stop making up rumours.” - Klein proclaimed in the silence.

Then he was about to turn around and leave it at that, but a blond guy who exuded the aura of provocation shouted at them. - “This proves nothing. He could be a fake for all we know. I say this is an attempt to lull your suspicions.”

‘Wow, he got it all right.’ - Leonard was surprised, but didn’t show it.

The crew also thought so because their hostility towards Klein increased by severalfold.

Leonard was just about to do something when another person spoke up.

“I was at their wedding.” - Azik said it like it was true.

‘Wow, even the demigod is playing along.’ - Leonard’s jaw was on the floor.

Klein nodded and at Azik in thanks. Then he raised his revolver again and aimed it at the provocator. - “Say another word and I’ll shoot you Anderson.”

“I just wanted to make sure you k-” - Anderson was interrupted by a loud gunshot. The bullet penetrated the floor only a centimeter away from his foot.

Klein adjusted his aim, making it clear that his next shot would not miss. - “You were saying?”

Anderson learned from his previous mistake and put up his hands in surrender.

‘Wow. Okay, okay, keep calm. That was hot as hell, but Klein would eviscerate me if I said that.’ - Leonard was panicking next to Klein. - ‘Oh, screw it. I only live once.’

Leonard had a daring idea that would prove beyond doubt that they were not pretending, but could also lead to his early death by an angry historian.

Klein was still glaring at Anderson not lowering his revolver one centimeter. Leonard slowly reached forward with his left hand and cupped Klein’s face gently making Klein turn towards him. - “My knight in shining armor! I love it when you turn murderous on my behalf Gehrman.” - Leonard purred.

Klein didn’t resist him and might have even blushed, though it was hard to say through such a thick mask. That was all Leonard needed. He leaned closer and kissed Klein.

It wasn’t like their last - and first - kiss at all. It didn’t stop after a chaste peck on the lips. Leonard experimentally licked Klein’s lips and to his utter delight Klein slightly parted his lips allowing Leonard to go further. Leonard’s hand slid into Klein’s hair and his other hand found Klein’s free hand and entwined their fingers.

At some point Leonard heard a clatter and realised that Klein just dropped his revolver. He pulled back to gauge Klein’s reaction or if he even noticed what he did.

They were both panting from the lack of air in their lungs. Leonard smiled and for a fraction of a second Klein’s surprise was visible on his face, but then the mask was back on. It didn’t matter, because no matter how miniscule it was, Leonard managed to get through that mask.

Klein calmly took a step back. The crew held their breath, most likely waiting for Klein to shoot him. Klein leaned down for the dropped gun and picked it up with deliberate slowness.

Leonard didn’t want to admit it, but he was nervous too. Still, Klein could have stopped him at any moment so he had a slight chance of survival.

Klein checked the bullets in the revolver then clicked the barrel of the gun back to its place. The click echoed throughout the ship.

“That was highly inappropriate.” - Klein calmly stated and then walked away.

“I love you too.” - Leonard shouted after him. His smile dimmed a little when he realised that on some level it was true. Maybe on all levels and he just wanted to ignore it because life would be easier that way.

"I mourn the day I choose such a suicidal host." - Pallez commented.

'Don't bury me yet, old man! Klein didn't shoot me!' - Leonard wanted to shout.

"I can guess what you are thinking and no, you didn't get away with it. Might I remind you he is a schemer? You will never see the metaphorical bullet coming." - Pallez answered Leonard's unsaid arguments.

'Hey! You can't be sure! Besides, why were you even paying attention? Stay out of my love life!' - Leonard was feeling indignant.

"And before you start, I didn't want to see any of that, but you surprised me. Next time, warn me! You will give me nightmares." - Pallez continued.

'I'm supposed to be a nightmare!' - Leonard immediately retorted.

"And no, this doesn't count as acting! Terrorise someone else with your nonexistent love life." - Pallez said without being bothered that Leonard couldn't really answer.

'I have a love life. It's just complicated.' - Leonard immediately defended his choices.

"And yes. It is nonexistent." - Pallez was ruthless.

'Damn, old man. You know me too well. I didn't even say anything and you just guessed all my thoughts.' - Leonard cried.

“Wow, I’m sorry I’ve ever doubted you, but you can't blame me. Who would have thought there would be someone who was into such a cold person?” - Anderson interrupted this strange double one-sided conversation, that somehow made up a whole conversation. Leonard would have been glad for it if not for the content of the interruption.

He also pulled out his revolver and lazily pointed it towards Anderson. - “Has anyone ever told you that you are irritating as hell?”

Anderson chuckled. - “A few. I can't seem to help it.”

“Dogshit, do you want to die?” - Another crewmember shouted.

“Calm down Danitz. Gehrman already left. You can rela-” - Anderson started, completely ignoring the gun pointed at him.

Leonard shot a bullet right next to his other foot.- 'I can't let him think I'm an easier target than Klein.' - He pulled up his best Pallez impression. - “You were more tolerable while you stayed silent.”

Anderson quickly imitated locking his mouth with a key.

“He looks normal, but they are the same!” - Someone whispered and Leonard turned his head vaguely in their direction and grinned. He put his gun away with a flair.

Leonard was about to go after Klein when a woman approached him and Azik. Leonard realized this must be the ship’s captain. She looked familiar.

“Good morning.” - She nodded at them.

“Good morning, ma’am.” - Azik lifted his hat a little.

Leonard also greeted her. - “Good morning to you too. Sorry for barging in just like that. I hope we didn’t offend you.”

“No. Gehrman’s friends are welcome on my ship. I’m Edwina Edwards. May I ask who you are.” - She nodded at them.

‘Wow, she is Vice Admiral Icenberg. Klein sure has interesting friends nowadays.’ - Leonard immediately placed the reason for the familiarity. He saw her bounty notices a few times.

“Azik Eggers. A pleasure to meet you.” - Azik smiled warmly.

“Leonard Mitchell.”

“Are you part of the Nighthawks?” - Edwina asked.

Leonard was taken aback at first, but then remembered that he came from work and still had the red gloves on.

He laughed awkwardly. - “Yeah, it’s complicated, but right now I’m Gehrman’s husband.” - He indicated that he had no animosity towards her at the moment.

“I understand.” - Edwina said.

Leonard looked at Azik. He was his transport after all. - “Can I go after…?”

“I have some free time.” - Azik agreed easily.

“I would be happy to discuss some interesting topics with you while you wait.” - Edwina offered.

“Lead the way.” - Azik said.

Leonard ignored them after that. He wanted to talk to Klein about what had happened. They couldn’t ignore this - whatever this was - between them anymore.

'I won't be murdered by Klein, no matter what the old man says.' - Leonard tried to cheer himself up.

He knocked on Klein’s door. - “Gehrman, can I come in?”

There was no answer which worried Leonard. - ‘If I really pissed off Klein then he should have still cursed at me or something, right?’

Leonard tried knocking again, but after a minute he decided to screw it. - “I’m coming in.”

Leonard slowly opened the door. Thankfully it wasn’t locked. That would have sucked. He would have had to kick it in. He expected to find Klein sitting at the small table being immersed in something or maybe sleeping on the bed so he didn't hear him, but he couldn’t spot him. - ‘Where the hell did he disappear to? Could he have left the ship?’ - Leonard was really worried now.

Then he heard a small sniffle. It came from the small space between the bed and the table that was completely covered by the shadows. After moving closer, Leonard had no problem distinguishing a curled up figure there. - ‘Oh, no. I didn’t want to freak him out so badly. I’ll apologise and never do anything like this.’ - Leonard swore.

“Klein.” - Leonard slowly walked over and kneeled down in front of Klein - he didn't look like Gehrman anymore - in the small space between the bed and the table. He kept a respectable distance though. - “I’m sorry, okay? I didn’t want to freak you out. I-I should have asked… or maybe find a less intimate way of playing my part or… I’m sorry.” - Leonard looked away waiting for the inevitable.

“What? No! Leonard, it was perfect.” - Leonard heard Klein’s voice raw from crying. - “That’s- That's the problem. It was supposed to be fake!” - Klein’s voice broke. - “It was supposed to be fake and I wasn’t supposed to get attached, but I did.”

Leonard looked at Klein, only to see his tearstained face. Klein was trying to wipe away the tears without much success. - “I asked you the first time because I was sure that it wouldn’t be a problem, for Goddess’ sake, I’m not even gay. I’ve never thought of men like that!”

Klein laughed, but it was closer to a sob. - “I guess that’s not true anymore.”

Leonard’s heart skipped a beat. - “Is that the problem? That I’m a man?”

He couldn’t really change that, but for Klein he might try it anyway.

Klein looked at him confused. - “No, you idiot! Getting attached is the problem.”

‘Pew, I won’t have to change pathways after all.’ - Leonard sighed.

“Did you just think about becoming a Witch?” - Klein read his mind.

'There are too many people guessing my thoughts today.' - Leonard looked away in embarrassment. - “Maybe.”

Klein stared at him for a second then burst out laughing. It was still tinged with crying, but it was much happier than the one before. - “I’m sorry, haha, I just, haha, I tried to imagine you as a woman, pff haha.”

“Well, he is into idiots. I guess everybody has a flaw.” - Pallez decided that this was an appropriate moment to interrupt. - "Or... Could this be the start of his revenge plan?"

‘SHUT UP OLD MAN! Not the time.’ - Leonard wanted to scream. - 'Also, stop listening in! This is a private moment, okay?' - He did his best to ignore this pest in his body. Klein was still chuckling next to him.

“Not that I’m not happy that you are happy, but why is it a problem to get attached?” - Leonard asked.

Klein took a few moments to calm down and answer. - “I didn’t want to get attached, because I might leave at any time and I didn’t want to leave anybody behind.”

Leonard needed a few seconds to comprehend the utter bullshit that just came out of Klein’s mouth. - “That is the worst excuse I’ve ever heard.”

“No, it’s not! I didn’t want to-” - Klein was about to get into what was probably a detailed explanation on why he was not allowed to form human connections and Leonard was having none of it.

“Everything ends sooner or later. That doesn’t mean you can’t do anything in between. What if you will leave in the future? Let me be there with you until you do. Maybe I'll the one who will have to go first, who knows.” - Leonard said.

He wanted to get closer to Klein, but the small space didn’t let him, so he just put a hand onto Klein’s knees with his palm up, waiting for Klein to reach out too.

Klein stared at him like he just spoke the most ridiculous thing, but Leonard didn’t waver. Finally after what felt like eternity Klein reached forward and hesitantly put his hand into his.

Leonard closed his fingers around Klein’s hand and squeezed it a little. - “Together?”

“Together.” - Klein said… - “But it’ll have to be a very lax marriage. I still have to act in different personalities and you are still an official Beyonder.” - …and immediately broke the moment.

Leonard groaned in exasperation. Instead of answering he stood up and pulled Klein with him. Klein yelped in surprise as he was pulled against Leonard’s chest. Before Klein could protest Leonard leaned down and kissed him.

After the initial surprise Klein reacted and kissed him back. It was perfect.

After they pulled apart Leonard hugged him tightly. - “I’ll take what you are willing to give me. This was doomed to be an unusual relationship from the beginning.”

Klein chuckled and hugged Leonard too. - “It’ll… It might not be too much.”

“Don’t worry about that.” - Leonard was not greedy or unrealistic like that. He was well aware that as they approached the domain of saints and angels, they would have limitations and responsibilities that they couldn’t avoid. To know that his love was reciprocated was already enough. Everything else was a precious gift he would cherish forever. - “Just remember that I’m here. Always.”

“Okay.” - Klein mumbled into Leonard’s shoulder. Leonard thought that would be it. He was prepared to be the one following Klein wherever he went, but Klein wasn’t finished. - “I want to be there for you too. I might be all over the place, but if you need me, I want to be there.”

Leonard was so moved he couldn’t answer immediately. He managed to get something out in a weak voice. - “Uhum.” - ‘Damn, maybe Pallez is right and I’m really an idiot. What kind of answer is that? I should be the eloquent one here. I'm the poet.'

There was nothing else to be said about the topic, so they descended into silence. Leonard kept hugging Klein and Klein didn’t pull back. It was both awkward and comfortable. Finally Leonard couldn’t stand the silence anymore.

“By the way, why did I need to pretend to be your husband? What’s with the upgrade?” - Leonard was really curious.

“Oh, it’s because of Anderson. He is a Sequence 5 Hunter and he is really good at provoking. He had some bad history with the crew, so to ease his situation, he convinced the crew that there is something between me and Edwina after I saved her from a book. " - Klein explained.

"How would that solve his problem?" - Leonard was a little puzzled.

"I'm fairly certain that all of the pirates here have a crush on the Vice Admiral. They are the jealous type." - Klein looked pained. - "The 'upgrade' was to eliminate any doubt on the crew's side. Well, there could still be doubts. There are people, for example from Intis, who don't really care about the sanctity of marriage, but they know I'm from Backlund, so hopefully that will be enough.” - Klein casually said.

"Wait, wait, wait. Are you saying they would believe that you cheated? As Gehrman Sparrow?" - Leonard found the idea funny.

"I don't doubt Anderson's abilities, but I hope this will make it harder for him." - Klein said.

"Maybe he will shift his focus to Azik now. He is having a private conversation with Edwina as we speak." - Leonard mused.

"I don't think he is brave enough for that, but if he is, that would make my life much easier. I don't want to watch my food for poison all the time." - Klein cried.

“Pff, the famous Gehrman Sparrow brought down by jealousy" - Leonard laughed.

"Never underestimate jealousy." - Klein stated seriously.

"Uuu, is someone the jealous type?" - Leonard teased Klein.

Klein pulled back and hit him on the arm. - "I don't do casual relationships okay? Why do you think this is such a big deal?"

"I'll take that as a yes." - Leonard tried not to laugh. - "Don't worry. As the evidence suggests, I have a lot more reasons to be jealous."

Klein opened his mouth, most likely to refute what Leonard said, but Leonard didn't let him. He leaned forward and kissed Klein again to shut him up, and because he could. - "You think too much."

Klein murmured something under his breath that Leonard couldn't make out even with his enhanced senses. He decided not to probe or he might actually anger Klein.

"By the way, what do you mean you saved her from a book?” - Leonard quickly changed topics.

“Well, uhm, it’s called Groselle’s travels. It was most likely created by… No, I probably shouldn’t say the name. I don't want any unwanted attention on me. It had a whole world created inside it and we could only leave if we killed a frost dragon.” - Klein continued to describe the situation completely missing how terrifying his description was.

“That book is interesting. Ask him if he found out anything about it.” - Pallez said.

‘I see how it is, old man. The moment something interesting comes up I’m useful.’ - Leonard grumbled.

Still Leonard did what was asked of him because he was curious too. - “Did you find out anything about the book? How it was made or what other properties it had?”

Klein seemed to think a few moments before carefully answering. - “I did, but I shouldn’t say it here. Who knows if we are really alone.”

“Can’t you seal the room?” - Leonard didn’t understand the problem.

“Something that simple wouldn’t help here.” - Klein was still using that careful tone. It alarmed Leonard. - ‘Just what did Klein get himself into?’

“It is probably related to the spectator pathway. They have an uncanny ability to know when they are mentioned.” - Pallez mused. - “Or could it be… Does he know about me? He could have clues…”

Leonard was surprised to hear some alarm in the old man’s tone. - 'What does that even mean? How could Klein have clues?' - Leonard wanted to ask, but he couldn't. He made sure to remember this question.

“Okay. Then if you find a suitable place, will you tell me then?” - Leonard ignored Pallez with practiced ease.

“Yes.” - Klein smiled at him. Leonard immediately forgot all his worries. Klein hesitatingly reached up and cupped his face. Klein gently started caressing his cheeks. - “I’ll make sure that I’ll be able to tell you everything one day.”

“Is he threatening to get me out of your body??? No, he wouldn’t be that rash. Could it be a general promise of protection? Is it… Is he playing mind games on me?!? Oh, he is good. Really good.” - Pallez was totally freaking out in Leonard’s head and Leonard wanted to smack this angel in the head for being so noisy. - 'Stop overthinking everything, old man. The situation is not that bad. What could Klein actually do to you? You are an angel from the fourth epoch.'

“I’ll be waiting then.” - Leonard said.

They talked about some unimportant matters after that. Both shared the gossip they overheard during their work or travels and laughed at the strange and incomprehensible situations they got themselves into. Leonard intertwined their fingers at some point and Klein didn’t seem to mind.

They were talking about how Creeping Hunger could be used in different situations, when suddenly Klein stood up. - "Damn, I almost forgot. Wait a minute." - Klein went to one of the cupboards and pulled out a small box from it. It was sealed with a wall of spirituality.

"Here. I wanted to give this to the church, but I didn't know how. I hope you can come up with something." - Klein offered him the box.

Leonard carefully took it. - "What's in it?" - He didn't dare to rashly break the seal.

"You'll see. It belonged to Davy Raymond if they ask." - Klein remained cryptic.

Leonard put away the small box into one of his pockets and they returned to the conversation.

After who knows how long there was a knock on the door. - “Are you ready to leave?” - Came the muffled voice of Azik.

Leonard wanted to say no, but he knew that all the important matters were said and any extra time was just a gift. - “Yes.”

Leonard looked at Klein who in the meantime turned back into Gehrman Sparrow. Klein nodded at him and stood up.

They opened the door and there stood Azik with Vice Admiral Icenberg and the blond guy, whose name was Danitz, if Leonard heard it correctly earlier. Behind him were other crew members who were trying to get one last peak at the supposed husband of the feared adventurer. Anderson was wisely missing from the group.

“We can go any time.” - Leonard walked towards Azik, but was yanked back midway. He came face to face with Klein as Gehrman. Klein grabbed the front of his clothes and pulled him forward.

It was the first time Klein kissed him and Leonard loved every second of it. Klein pulled back and looked embarrassed, or as embarrassed as Gehrman Sparrow could, at him. - “I hope to see you soon, my dear poet.” - Klein whispered.

“Me too, my little seer.” - Leonard couldn't let the nickname go and whispered back. Klein actually rolled his eyes at that, but didn't argue it. Leonard was extremely satisfied that he got the maskless treatment now.

He heard a few gasps in the background. The pirates were probably having a stroke from seeing the madman Gehrman Sparrow show emotions or maybe even just facial expressions.

"I must be sleeping. This is not happening. I'll wake up soon and find out it was a dream all along." - Leonard heard someone mutter in the crowd. He turned towards the door and saw Danitz who looked paler than a white wall. - "No, I can't have a dream like that. Gehrman can enter dreams, he will know and then kill me for even having the idea that he was married."

"Danitz." - Klein spoke up next to Leonard.

The pirate's head immediately snapped up, towards Klein. - "Yes...?" - His tone was fearful.

"You are awake." - Klein said.

That was the last straw apparently, because hearing that Danitz fainted and had to be carried away by the others. Edwina and Azik watched this without interrupting.

Leonard just smiled and stood next to Azik. The demigod didn't waste any time and immediately brought Leonard back to his home. After a brief goodbye Azik left too, leaving Leonard alone. Well...

"That was an eventful morning." - Pallez commented.

"And you just had to butt into everything old man." - Leonard retorted.

"Don't blame me for your erratic actions. You can't talk about important matters and expect me to not listen in because you were kissing your, ugh, husband. I still can't believe your approach worked." - Pallez sounded like he was crying at the end.

"Come on, at least pretend to be happy." - Leonard laughed.

Pallez didn't answer that, but Leonard didn't care. If the old man really didn't want this he could have long sabotaged it. He wouldn't have stopped at wrongly timed comments.

Leonard remembered the little box and pulled it out of his pocket. He carefully broke the seal around it and immediately felt a sense of darkness and terror, but also an indescribable calmness. In the box, there was a relatively small deep black gem-like object. Leonard immediately knew what it was.

'I thought Klein would try to sell it for money.' - Leonard was puzzled a little. - 'I guess he still feels close to the Nighthawks in a way. I'll make sure to handle this properly.'

…

That evening his spiritual perception was triggered and he watched as a headless woman holding four identical heads by the hair emerged from his floor. She had a letter in one of her mouths.

“She is very powerful and definitely not an ordinary messenger.” - Pallez warned him.

‘Thanks old man, I have eyes too.’ - Leonard almost rolled his aforementioned eyes.

He carefully took the letter from the severed head. - “Thank you.”

He felt like it wouldn’t hurt to be polite. He expected the woman to disappear after delivering the letter, but she stayed.

“Uhm… Is there something else?” - Leonard asked carefully.

“You…” “Need…” “To give…” “A gold coin.” - The four heads said one after another. It creeped Leonard out.

‘Phew, lucky I saved a few for emergencies.’ - Leonard let out a relieved sigh. - “Give me a few seconds.”

Leonard went into his bedroom and got a gold coin, then he carefully handed it over to the messenger. She bit on it and thankfully disappeared without further problems.

“That was terrifying.” - Leonard said as he opened the letter.

"By the way, what did you mean back when you said Klein might have some clues about you?" - Leonard said before he stared reading.

"You are way to careless and you wouldn't notice subtlety if it hit you in the face." - Pallez put the blame on Leonard, but Leonard was sure that wasn't the truth. Well, the whole truth anyway. Leonard could accept that he could have slipped up somehow, but then Pallez wouldn't have sounded alarmed if that was all to it.

'It's hopeless. If the old man doesn't want to say it, I won't be able to get anything out of him' - Leonard sighed. He turned his attention back to the letter.

Inside it was the description of how to summon Gehrman Sparrow’s messenger. - “That doesn’t make sense. Why did I have to give a gold coin if it is part of the summoning ritual?”

“He probably doesn't want to pay.” - Pallez thought of a reason.

“Pfff, that could be it. Leave it to Klein to try to save money this way.” - Leonard laughed.

He didn’t really mind. He was happy he had a direct contact to Klein now.