AUTHOR'S NOTE: So this is something I've been working on on the sly. I have to confess I'm not entirely sure where this is going yet and it might reek of headcanon but here's hoping you stay along for the ride. This is going to be my first multichapter fic in a VERY long time.
DISCLAIMER: Kuroshitsuji is property of Yana Toboso, Ao no Exorcist belongs to Kazue Kato. If I owned either franchise, there would be some obscure ships that would end up as canon.

Blue Fire and Black Feather

Prologue: Earl Grey

"Goodness but old habits die hard. Your presentation is impeccable, as always."

"When one has spent so much time bound by certain aesthetics, one tends to hold fast to them, I find."

"Too true."

There was a distinct aroma of bergamot and cream piercing the dimly lit room. It seemed like amongst their brood, the accursed royal line that shared the same blood, they were the only two who appreciated a good cup of tea and all the fineries that came with it. There was no other sound save for the sharp clnk of bone china as he stirred his tea. Fortnum and Mason's Earl grey and a dark chocolate sachertorte. Truly, his brother knew what to serve to cater to his tastes. Perhaps some good did come from forming that contract when he did. He continued to study his brother, the small smirk playing on his lips never leaving as he set down the teacup. He seemed almost human, with his dark hair and sleek dark tailcoat but the one detail that betrayed his true nature was in his eyes: Eyes as deep red as the raspberry compote that accompanied the cake.

"If I may ask," he finally said, crossing his legs as he rested his head on his free hand. "What brings you here? It's been quite some time. Has father been asking for me?"

"Father has been curious as to how you've fared as of late."

"Well, tell him the answer is no. This place still holds much more interest than Gehenna ever did."

"He had said to allow you to your little games, seeing how fond you are of them. He sends his regards."

"How diplomatic of him."

"As diplomatic as you have been to allow me access to your personal playground."

"We're gettng a little off tangent, don't you think?"

"I've merely come to see how you were... and to check on the progress of the youngest of our brood."

"Oh...? Why the sudden interest...?"

His raised brow was met with the smallest coy smile toying on his brother's lips. "To satiate father's curiosity... but mostly my own. " the other man replied simply.

"You look as if you have much more than mere curiosity to satisfy."

Silence pierced the room. Silence punctuated by the click of polished black shoes and the ruffle of a black tailcoat. "Perhaps I do," he began, closing his eyes as he adjusted his gloves back over his hands. "I've heard how the two have progressed lately. The elder is a wilder creature than we would like and the younger seems to be awakening to his true nature. At such a formative age and as their brothers, don't you believe it to be our responsibility to see to their education and training? I wish to take a more... hands on approach."

"And what would you propose...?"

"Private lessons. With the city as their classroom."

The amusement never left him as he raised his cup to his lips once more, eyes still trained on his brother. This would be an interesting proposition. The boys did need training, after all? What better than a little trial by fire? He allowed himself the smallest chuckle as he took a small sip of his tea.

"You haven't changed. Still taking responsibilities not necessarily your own." he replied before turning his eyes back up. "Are all the very best butlers named Sebastian?"

"Come now, Samael. I haven't been called that name since my last master." the figure in black replied, his laugh echoing through Mephisto's office as he disappeared into the darkness of the growing evening.

-TBC-

Liked it? Loved it? Faust where the hell are you going with this?
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