Lupin The Third: The Beast of Lykanisches

Chapter 3

"So, we need something for the gala," Ruby mused as she and Goemon strolled through the admittedly modest shopping district of Kleinstadt.

Aderlass's little soiree was fast approaching. In two days' time, Ruby and Goemon would charter a bus bound for Freiburg where the rest of the Atletica Espozione finalists were to gather. From there, several carriages were to collect the athletes and their plus ones, and deliver them, in traditional style, to The Castle Lykanisches.

To Goemon it seemed incredibly suspicious. Aderlass was painting it as a unique touristy experience for the lucky winners. But in reality, it seemed like a trap; several unsuspecting folks brought to an isolated castle in The Black Forest of Germany with no transportation of their own or means to leave under their own power, should they wish it. But to what end, Goemon could not be sure.

If Ruby was feeling nervous at all, however, she did not show it, as she tugged him along the shopping outlets, oohing and awing at the mannequins in the shop windows.

"This isn't exactly a casual event," she prattled on excitedly. "And sadly, the kimono just isn't gonna cut it. Oh man, I can't wait to see you in a suit! That's gonna be something! I bet you cut a fine figure. What sort of dress do you think I should get? Long or short? Flowy or form-fitting? We can't do backless because I've gotta keep Fionn's Window hidden. Maybe a dipping neckline, though? Or is that too much?"

"Huh?"

Ruby pouted as she realized Goemon hadn't been paying attention.

"Oh... Uh... I'm not sure. I don't believe my personal tastes truly apply to this event. Um... Is there something... elegant but also energetic? Something that particularly suits you?"

Ruby tilted her head thoughtfully. Then, an impish grin spread across her face. "I have a great idea!" she proclaimed. "How about we pick out each other's outfit for the gala? I get to pick whatever I think looks good on you and you have to say yes, no matter what. Same goes the other way; you can pick out whatever you want me to wear, and I have to say yes."

Goemon's eyes widened at such an unnerving prospect. "Y-You mean... I have to pick something out for you, and you have to wear it no matter what? Like... anything I choose?"

Sure enough, this idea brought a blush to his face. Ruby could see how flustered Goemon was, but she wasn't backing down. She was determined to do it this way.

"But I don't even know where to begin. I don't know what would look good on you."

"Anything," said Ruby, flipping her hair with air of someone more egotistical than she truly was. This facade was immediately followed up with a giggle, showing that she truly was not so cocky as she pretended.

Goemon lowered his gaze and swallowed audibly. "I've... I've had my thoughts," he admitted. "But it's nothing I can procure in Germany."

Ruby blinked. "Oh? Ooohhhh..." She pivoted around in front of Goemon and stood on her tiptoes so that she was as close to eye level with him as possible. "And what might that be? Perhaps something of the kimono variety?"

The flush on Goemon's cheeks was answer enough. He would love nothing more than to see this girl – his woman – in the traditional garb of his ancestors. It evoked such appealing imagery. And yet, he was embarrassed to have been caught fantasizing. Quickly, he shook those thoughts from his mind.

"I-I suppose we can try your suggestion," he relented. "Just... don't make me look foolish."

"Making you look foolish would not only be challenging, but the height of foolishness itself. I want the man on my arm to look good. After all, I'm the athlete and you're the eye candy, Bennosuke," she said with a wink.