Chapter 1: Set Board
The young boy's eyes continued to stare at the letter on the silver platter that his butler only moments ago had brought to him. He had only just wrapped up his previous task and was just winding down so he can focus on his management of Funtom; perhaps look through the many proposals for new products. Sales were continuing on its usual high, however the masses always have a craving for new and innovative things. If he were to maintain his position at the top toy and confectionary manufacture he would need to release a new line soon. How was he to do that with homosexual reapers, opium dealers, and the never-ending masses of hire thugs assaulting his manor on a daily basis? And now another request, sometimes he wondered how his predecessor managed this position without a demon butler.
The young Earl was fiercely loyal especially with his role as the Queens Guard Dog, but surly she knows that even a guard dog needs time to rest?
"What is it now?" the Earl sighed. His loyal demon butler offered one of his playful grins as he set the platter down on his master's desk. "It seems you have another request of the Queen, and from the looks of the messenger, it seems to be rather urgent."
"It appears even we are exempt from breaks" he quipped as he lazily reached for the letter. "Tired are we? Young Master might I remind you of your duty as the Queens Watch Dog? To serve and protect the Queen and this country, it is a tireless job and it is your responsibility as the Head of Phantomhive."
Ciel shot a pointed glare at the demon. "I am well aware of my duties and responsibilities" He glanced down at the letter, noting the familiar seal of the Queen before proceeding to open it. "I was just commenting on how little time has passed since the last case is all" After carefully breaking the wax seal, Ciel proceeded to read its contents.
As the Earl read the letter, his butler watched as his master's brows tensed in frustration, then furrow in confusion. Seeing his Masters bewilderment Sebastian quirked his own brow in interest, it was a different reaction than he was used to seeing from his master when receiving a new case from the Queen. Usually he was dismissive and would only show interest if it were to pique is interest. Confusion was new.
"Might I ask my Lord, what is the Queens request?" The Earl let out a frustrated sigh before responding. "It would appear that the Queen would like us to host a foreign dignitary for a year whilst they finish their studies here."
"A dignitary? From where?"
"I am not sure. The Queen did not mention where, stating she did not want the dignitary's identity to be compromised. She has given us the date and time when their train shall be arriving in London" he replied whilst handing the letter off for his butler to review.
Sebastian skimmed through the message so as to mark down the date. "So we are to fetch a…one Allister L. Hamilton at Kings Cross Station on March the nineteenth at 1o'clock past mid-day?"
"Yes. That is what the Queen has instructed" The Earl let out a frustrated exhale. It was already a task to keep his ever-bumbling servants in line, and out of the fray with the more supernatural aspect to his job, but now he had to worry for some spoiled noble brat that has probably never been away from their chaperone for more than five minutes to use the lavatory. Honestly, he was the Queens watchdog not babysitter. The comparison brought up memories of when he first met that indignant spoiled brat Prince Soma and how much he tested his patients in only a matter of minutes. He did not know if he could put up with that for a whole year!
"Young Master, you are aware that this date is tomorrow correct?"
He nodded. "Yes, I suppose that is why it was such an urgent request." Rising from his chair, the Earl strode over to face the window overlooking the fountain in the front garden. He needed to mentally prepare himself. He was used to entertaining outsiders at his manor for short periods of time, but never a whole year. He was one to always keep his affairs private, but perhaps there is more to this than what the Queen is telling him.
Perhaps she has her doubts in his ability, or loyalty and this dignitary is to monitor him, the letter just a formality of shrouded intentions. Whatever the case, preparations had to be made. Even if he were an assassin ordered to end his life at the behest of the Queen, he would make sure to offer the famous Phantomhive hospitality to them.
"Sebastian, prepare the finest guest room and begin preparations for our guest's arrival at once."
The butler folded his right hand over his heart as he bowed, a small smirk danced across his lips. "Yes my Lord". Rising from his bow, he turned to leave the study. Just as he was opening the door to exit his Master quipped up. "Also, do inform the rest of the staff and have them help in the preparations as well"
A brief flash of annoyance crossed the usually pristine features of his face at the mention of those three headaches he had to call servants, but just as quickly as it had came, it was gone. Surly this was his Masters revenge for lecturing him earlier. "But of course my Lord." He called behind him as he closed the door. Reaching into his breast pocket he pulled out his silver pocket watch to check the time. It was half past two, meaning the staff was busy having their lunch in the kitchen. Good, better to tell them all at once than to hunt each one down individually.
Turning to his right he began to quickly make his way from the east wing to the west wing where the kitchen was. All the while pondering what the Young Master was planning and what this could mean for him. After all, this guest would be a fixture at the estate for the next year. When it was just the young master and staff, he was able to take more liberties in using his gifts, the staff were so thick, they never would even think that perhaps there was more to him than being one hell of a butler.
This guest will indeed complicate matters.
~/*\~
Baldroy, Mey-Rin, Tanaka, Snake, and Finnian sat in the servant's kitchen, eating the lunch left for them by Sebastian. Today it was a thinly sliced ham marinated in light fruity syrup and herbs, with fresh fruit and cabbage stew.
"My these strawberries are sure scrumptious, they are" Mey-Rin gushed as she plopped another of the juicy red berries in her mouth. The gardener nodded in agreement. "Yes it was nice of Mr. Sebastian to give us the fruits left over from the young masters lunch. He's always making spectacular meals." Tanaka sat quietly sipping on his green tea, oblivious to everyone around him.
"Yeah, well I can cook just as good as that bloody show-pony. I just don't waste my time on silly 'presentation'" Huffed the cook as he crossed his arms over his chest turning his head upwards. "If ya ask me, I give my food real life to em, right"
The young gardener turned to the older male in confusion. "But every time you try to give your cooking life, the kitchen ends on fire, and you end up with your hair all natty and covered in soot."
"Yeah! Well uhh…I just haven't found the perfect amount of gunpowder I need."
"Less gunpowder and more mice would help. Says Keats" The footman quipped as he fed his snakes some of the meat.
"Bahh everyone's a critic now?" He shrugged. "It doesn't matter, I could cook circles around Sebastian any time! I just let him think he's the master chef, but you watch! One day I'll reveal my true talents, then we'll see who's the best!"
"I am always up for a challenge to sharpen my culinary skills" Baldroy felt a tingling chill race up his spine. The kind of chill when you feel that Death himself is standing behind you. Baldroy hesitated, he knew who it was that spoke, very obvious, but a small part of him hoped that perhaps God was on his side and would spare him the wrath that is his assuredly.
Tacking in a deep breath, the chef decided to face the music, and turned to meet the butler. "Well I uh…was not…expecting you Sebastian" He nervously tried to laugh it off, hoping the butler would have mercy on him.
Sensing the chef was aware of his mistake and was sure he would learn to not repeat it; the butler reasoned that just once he would let his bravado go unpunished.
For now.
Clearing his throat to get the others attention. "Attention, everyone. We are to be hosting an important dignitary for the next year starting tomorrow. As servants of the Phantomhive household we are to offer this guest the utmost hospitality befitting of the Queen herself."
The faces of the staff lit up. "Ohh how exciting, yes it is" the maid began to think of various handsome men that it could be. "I wonder if they have mice, says Wordsworth," the snake keeper murmured.
"Wow a dignitary? For a whole year? Amazing!" Exclaimed the naïve gardener as Tanaka started to doze in his chair.
"A whole year, talk about a long term guest. It's gonna be a bit of a hassle to have another person besides the young master to look after". For once the butler found himself agreeing with the cook. "Yes, but none the less we are to show him the legendary Phantomhive hospitality."
He turned his attention to each of them as he issued their tasks. "Mey-Rin I want you to clean and make up the large guestroom in the east wing, and make sure it is spotless, and has fresh sheets."
"Of-of course mister Sebastian. I'll do my best, yes I will."
"Finny." The gardener straightened up at the mention of his name. "Yes sir?" "I want you to rake the manor's front lawns, and pick vegetables to be used in tomorrows feast in honor of our guest." The gardener's eyes lit up. "Yes, right!"
The butler then turned to the white haired young man. "Snake, your task is to clean and polish the carriage. Make sure that it has a mirror shine, after all this will be the first thing that our honored guest will see, and a first impression is crucial if we are to gain their favor."
The snake charmer silently nodded. "It will be as shiny as a fresh egg, says Emily". Everyone rushed off to begin his or her respective duties with the exception of Bard and Tanaka, the latter of whom was deeply asleep. The butler thought it best to save the chef for last, it was always better that way. "As for you Baldroy…" The cook stiffened as he heard the tone in the butler's voice. He should have known that he would have not been let off the hook with out a catch. "Eh-he-he, me?" He gulped.
The butler narrowed his eyes an ominous grin plaster itself across his lips. Yes now he will savor this moment. Though demons could only be sated with the souls of humans, fear offered a temporary source of food and energy. Although it was nowhere near as delectable as a proper soul, fear was always good for a small minute snack to replenish energy.
And the chef would be a passable snack, not the best, but he would do.
"You are to scrub and clean the entire scullery. It's been overdue for a good cleaning" He handed the cook a bucket and the smallest scrub brush he could find, no bigger than a shoe brush. "You are to use this brush, and only this brush to clean it. Am I clear?"
"Bu-but that brush, it's too small. It would take all day if not longer to clean the whole scullery with it!"
The butler turned to leave but not before giving the cook a few words to part with. "Then I suggest you get started…that is if you wish to sleep tonight~"
~/*\~
The day's start had been a bit taxing to say the least. All the servants had stayed up late to finish preparing the manor, cleaning, dusting, and laundry. Not to mention making preparations for the days feast. However as per usual, Sebastian found that his staff was rarely ever helpful unless closely supervised, and they had ended up causing him more trouble than had he done all the tasks himself.
Conversely, he was able to fix these blunders before he had to wake the young master. It was on his way to do just that, that he felt a presence at the front entrance to the manor. Turning on his heel, he silently shifted through the shadows the dawn light had made in the halls as he made his way to the intruder. He stood before the service door and opened it to find a young man paused in mid knock.
From the way he was dressed he immediately deduced he was a servant from another household. "Good morning sir, what business do you have here at this hour?"
The servant was still in a state of minor shock from the abrupt presence of the butler before collecting himself to respond. "I-I am a messenger from the distinguished Midford household." He shakily reached into his breast pocket to produce a letter and bowed slightly as he presented the envelope to the butler.
Sebastian accepted the letter wordlessly and turned it over to see that the wax seal did indeed carry the Midford family crest. 'A message, this early' the butler wondered. "Might I ask its contents?"
"I believe the Lady Elizabeth would like to come tonight to dine with her betrothed"
Sebastian quirked his brow. "So it would seem. I will be sure as a Phantomhive butler, that my Lord receives this immediately"
He bid the messenger a good day and returned to his task at hand, waking his master all the while curious to what this day could hold~.
~/*\~
"Elizabeth is coming as well?" The earl let out a frustrated sigh. "This day could not get any worse"
Sebastian busied himself with doing up the buttons on his young masters shirt as he playfully teased him a bit. "My lord, she is your betrothed. It is your duty to entertain her when she requests, for if you can't entertain her at dinner how are you to entertain her afterwards" His voice full of mirth. And it was worth it to see his master's face turn a lovely shade of cherry red.
"Sh-sh-shut up and finish dressing me!" His anger flared slightly when he heard the butlers faint chuckling. "It would seem my lord has misconstrued my words
, I was referring to dessert and dancing since that is what customarily comes after dinner".
Ciel's cheeks still retained a dusty pink coloring. "Wha-what else could-" The butler cut him off. "Don't worry my lord, it is only natural to assume such. You are at that age~ "
"And I presume you are also at that age, still teasing me, like a child would" He retorted with a smart smirk. Annoyance briefly flashed across the demons face. He could tell; the slight pursing of the lips, that small line that formed when he furrowed his brows.
And nothing made the earl happier than to see that expression, however brief, it still was a sign that he managed to get to him. Not many things were able to personally affect the demon, so if he was able to wound the demons ego, it would mean that a human had still manage to wound him, not physically, but wounding a demon's ego, is just as good. "Since you're in such a divulging mood, care to tell me what you have found out about this Allister L. Hamilton?"
The butler paused momentarily while making his master tea. "I see you are as observant as always, young master. But yes, seeing as this would be a long term guest, naturally I did some digging for information, however information was scarce about him, which was strange." He said while handing his master his cup of tea.
"Strange?" the boy's interest was piqued.
"For a dignitary to be so obscure is odd. To reach such a status one must be relatively well known, and those in the spotlight tend to have very few secrets, however this Allister has almost no existence in this world. No articles, mention him or anything he's done. And he is not listed on any of the registries in all of Europe."
"So this Allister is even elusive to a demon?" He smirked. "Now that is interesting."
"There was one thing." The butler started. The boy's eye flicked back to him, as he sipped his tea. "Whoever this Allister is, he is a recent acquaintance of the Queen, and he is someone the Queen places the utmost of her trust in, though considering the nature of the duties of the Phantomhive family; he may also somehow be connected to the criminal underworld."
"Whatever the case, we have to play it safe till we know who exactly we are playing host to. Speaking of which, we should prepare to leave if we are to make it to London before his train arrives"
"Right away, my lord"
"Also be sure that the others are ready to come along as well."
The butler paused, put off at the notion of bringing them along. "You wish for all the servants to come along?"
His young master sighed. "I'd imagine that this guest would bring a lot of luggage with him for the duration of his stay, so we will need another carriage to carry it. Also, its best to bring them along if we are to come back to the manor intact"
"Of course, my lord"
~/*\~
The train had been quiet for the most part. When walking the aisles that divided the compartments one could hear the faint murmur of conversation, or card games. People quietly napping, reading, or just staring out the window at the passing English countryside. It was a typical setting for a first class train car on its way to central London. However to the occupants of compartment nine, it was an exciting and new experience.
They were not used to trains that only ran on the ground.
No, where they were from, trains could soar through the sky, but not many people would ride them. Most would rather ride their brooms, or use way gates. To these people, humans were such interesting yet strange beings.
"We've been on this train for hours" sighed one.
"I know Minerva, but we have to stay on it. Humans would find it strange if we just flew around, on cleaning implements" Replied the other occupant.
Minerva clicked her tongue. Honestly she could not stand the antiquated ways humans lived. They were filthy, barbaric, ungrateful beings that believed themselves the most intelligent and powerful. It only irritated her more that she was to be the 'magister magi' to one of them. A witch of her standing should not have to do this. These were tasks that those of the lower nobility should do.
Sighing she brought her hand to brush away a stray white strand of hair. She was an Endley; one of the most esteemed houses in all of Magaea, one of the last pure houses, her white hair a testament to that. As such a high ranking noble she was of course one of the select few chosen witches and wizards to act as ambassadors to the human realm.
It had almost been three centuries since the last attempt to establish relations with the human realm, the last obviously ending in failure. Humans were deemed unready for cohabitation with witches, and magic, so restrictive access was only granted for the purposes of observation only.
However, with the rise in Shade activity, and increase of instances of Elder-shades appearing in the human realm, causing a minor disruption between realms. Queen Larise requested a small group of witches in training to become magister level witches to do their service training in the human realm with host families' chosen by various human leaders. During their stay they are contractually obligated to aid the head of their host family in any endeavor, provided it is within the boundaries of witching law.
So naturally the Queen would want to send only the most exemplar of witches. While honored, it still annoyed the young witch that not only did she have to serve some human, she was also partnered with a witch of such low standing.
Her gray eyes glanced back to her partner in question. Allister was from a formerly well respected family, the Hamilton's were known for being powerful knights that served the royal family for centuries, earning them the title 'chevalier' a title that only the Hamilton's held. But that still did not change the recent scandal that plagued the house, nor did it change the fact that Allister Hamilton was such a goody two shoes.
Minerva was shaken from her ruminations when she realized that her familiar was trying to gain her attention. "Your tea is going to get cold if you don't drink it" Claire was standing before her, her green eye starring at her, the other covered by a black eye patch, in her hands a tea pot with more hot tea. Her twin, Claes, sat next to her holding a tray of cookies and biscuits.
~/*\~
"Could I have some more tea Claire?" Allister piped up. She was excited, so excited that she almost spilled her tea as the familiar refilled her cup. She had always wanted to visit the human realm. They were such interesting beings! She often wondered how one could live life without magic; to her it's unimaginable. But to humans, that's the only life they knew. Magic was just something of make-believe.
Everything was so new to her, the dresses they wore, the food, but most of all the contraptions. Back in Magaea, everything ran on magic, here they ran on something else, she didn't know what, but it still fascinated her. She was even more curious about who she was to be in service to for the next year. While Minerva only hoped her host was a noble of equal standing, Allister honestly didn't care, as long as they were nice, then she wouldn't mind serving even the poorest of peasants.
She finished her tea, setting her cup back onto the small table that was between her and Minerva, and went back to absentmindedly stroking her familiar, Gisello as he napped in her lap. She especially paid attention to the black splotch of fur on the crown of his head that doted his otherwise pristine white coat. Gisello was not used to the lurching motion of the train and decided to remain in his animal form and sleep off his motion sickness. She leaned back in her seat and watched the countryside roll by, the occasional small hut or cottage passing them by.
She was curious about her host, the Earl Ciel Phantomhive. His name sounded like a very distinguished name. It made her think of a tall handsome man that was a philanthropist, or a praised noble. It was something about his name that made her see nothing but greatness; he was named after the heavens. Perhaps his eyes were so clear and blue it was like staring into the sky on the clearest of days. And Phantomhive, it sounded mysterious but so…different. It definitely stood out.
The blond was shaken from her daydreams when she felt something hit her square on the forehead. Looking down at the offending projectile she realized it was just a cookie.
"Finally. I was getting tired of that disgusting wistful look on your face." Minerva spat, her gaze focused on the window. In front of her was her plate that held three cookies; four counting the one she casually threw at the blonde.
"Minerva! Why did you do that? And what look?" The witch smirked, drawing her gray eyes to lock with the blonde's violet ones. "That look…the look of a young girl in the arms of an older gentleman as he whispers in her ear how he is to make her into a woman~"
The blondes face immediately turned beet red, obviously flustered. Her hands flew up to cover her face, trying to calm her nervous shaking. "I-I- wa-wasn't thinking of that!" She stuttered out quickly along with a string of excuses.
The younger witch quietly chuckled to herself. Despite the blonde being older, Minerva figured out rather quickly how to fluster the sword mage. Any mention of matters of the bedroom would send the poor girl into a fit of mortification; and oh how she loved exploiting it.
The blond had managed to calm herself; her cheeks still red but otherwise recovered. "I-I was just wondering what my host is going to be like"
"You mean the Earl of Phantomhive? Yeah I heard some scant details about him from the queens aid" Allis' eyes immediately perked up. "Really!? What did you hear?!"
The younger witch sighed as she went back to her earlier activity of idly stirring her lukewarm tea with her spoon, starring at her reflection in the tea. "All I know is that he owns a confections and toy company that is quite popular."
"Toys? And sweets?" Allis felt her heart swell up in her chest, her body radiating happiness from her very core. "He must really care for children! That is so noble of him to dedicate his wealth to making children smile. Such a modest thing to dedicate ones self to"
Minerva clicked her tongue. "He's probably some old pedophile that uses the lure of toys and candy to acquire chamber boys. How dreadfully tragic."
Allis blanched. "Pe-pe-pedophile?" A sexual deviant? Was he really that type of person? Was Ciel Phantomhive a gentleman that preyed upon the bodies of young boys and girls for his lust-ridden pursuits? The blond made another frightening realization.
Would she be another of his victims? She was obviously too old for toys and candy, but she was only seventeen, still a virgin. Minerva was always telling her about how older men always preferred to bed younger women, especially virgins. Logic and manners were all out of mind if a man found himself alone with a nubile girl.
Was the earl Phantomhive like those men? Was he plotting his conquest of her at this very moment?
"Tha-that. There is no way that could be true!"
"Oh? And what other reason pray tell would a grown man make toys and candies for little kiddies if he was not interested in getting into their lil knickers?" Minerva's sly grin grew in proportion to Allis' flurry. "Yes. I bet he will have you dress up and call him 'daddy' as he bends you over and-"
"Shut up!" Allis chanted over and over as she furiously shook her head, pulling at her blond hair while trying to erase all the mental images Minerva's words were stirring up within her, but the witch continued on with a string of profane and lewd acts that her host was planning, gleefully enjoying the reaction from the older witch.
Through out the whole exchange, the twin familiars, Claire and Claes quietly sat on either side of their master, watching her continue terrorize the other witch. Claes busied herself with an encyclopedia on the customs and practices in the human realm, Europe edition. She felt it would be best to study up on humans to better serve her master in this strange realm. Claire on the other hand was busy tuning out the exchange all together, her listening phones aiding in blocking out all noise. She was leaning against the armrest, her arm supporting hear head as she gazed out the window, her uncovered green eye listlessly following the passing trees.
Claes exhaled. Her twin was always like this. On the battlefield she was a genius fighter, worthy of being a familiar to an Endley; however off it she was a person of few words and even fewer actions. Unless ordered to, she would not intervene, with a few choice exceptions.
Such as now.
Without even looking over to the two witches she cut into their quarrel. "Miss, I believe we are pulling into the station." Minerva quickly turned her head to the twin and snapped back "So?" Her gaze lingered on the window, watching the train edge its way to the stopping platform, before meeting her mistress' eyes. "Would you not want to freshen up before you are to meet Earl Trancy?"
It was moments like this that made Minerva want nothing more than to slap the face of her unruly familiar, however she did have a point.
"Claes!" The familiar quickly scrambled with a quick but soft 'yes ma'am' and got to work brushing away any stray locks of white hair and fixing them into Minerva's signature buns, one on either side of her head with a braid wrapped around each one, fastened with a skull hair pins and leaving her fringe to fall just between her eyes. Rummaging around in her satchel, Claes produced a small mirror and presented it to her mistress to inspect her handiwork.
Minerva examined her hair, tilting her head, inspecting from every angle. She deemed the effort satisfactory however… "The hair looks right, but I want to change dresses"
"Minerva, you aren't really going to change now? We've just arrived at the station, and you look fine in what you're wearing." Allis always admired the outfits Minerva wore. Her older sister did design them, and were a big hit in Magaea. Designs from Desmé Endley's label 'Brintt' were always in vogue. Sleek and streamlined, but elegant; Minerva always wore clothing from the custom 'Nyx' line that consisted of clothing in varying shades of black and white.
Today's outfit was no exception. A white high neck sleeveless blouse adorned with a black ascot secured with a skull brooch. A custom designed double-breasted corset that had long flowing coat tails that just barely brushed the floor, underneath she wore a dark gray pleated skirt that met her legs mid thigh. Her legs were covered in black opaque tights that went up a little past her knees, exposing an inch or two of her pale skin. Black heels and a black bolero completed the look.
Allis looked down at her own clothes. They were nowhere near as elegant as her counterparts. Perhaps she should have dressed up more? She did not really dress up often, or at all. She was a chevalier after all, so she spent most of her time off on missions. Unlike Minerva, she did not have much for money; working at a church run orphanage did tend to leave ones pockets bare.
Running her fingers along the hem of her sleeve, a warm smile gracing her lips. When she was preparing to leave, the orphanage director, Lien and all the children presented her with a new set of clothes. She knew it must have been very difficult, saving all that money in secret. They were already strapped for money. Taking care of nine children was not easy or cheap, but they managed. Allis also did her part to help; taking odd jobs in town, or taking marks for the local pubs to earn some coin.
She felt foolish for thinking her clothes were not good enough. These were the clothes her dearest family had gotten for her. And they were beautiful. She wore mauve under bust tailed bodice. The tails of the bodice were designed to look like butterfly wings with lilac piping and lace for the scales. Underneath she wore a simple white blouse that ruffled around her bust.
Ordinarily she would have worn skirt befitting a proper lady, but being a chevalier, she needed to be able to move freely and a long dress with panniers would be too cumbersome to maneuver in in the heat of battle. Lien had paid the tailor extra to design special shorts that hid under a short skirt, allowing her to wear her full leg armor and grieves. She opted to not wear her arm armor and instead wore a matching mauve bolero, Allis's crest of a butterfly and sword on the back. A black lace hat with a long mauve tassel and a matching black cape finished the outfit off nicely.
Yes these clothes were perfect.
As the train finished pulling into the station, Gisello stirred, sensing the train had stopped he decided now would be the best time to wake up. He meowed loudly to grab his master's attention. "Mmmrrrh…are we there?" he murmured. Allis gave him a quick pat on the head and scratched his ears in the usual spot he liked. "Yes we're here."
"About bloody time." Spat Minerva.
He was about to shift into his human form when an attendant came to inform them that the train has arrived at the terminus, Kings Cross Station, and they should prepare to disembark. After the attendant left to inform the other compartments, the aisles began to fill with people gathering their carry-ons and filing to the exits on either end. Deciding it would be best for now to stay in this form, Gisello jumped up on Allis' shoulder, curling his tail to rest on her other shoulder. "We should leave, our hosts will be waiting"
Claes nodded in agreement with the other familiar. She fished a pocket watch from her breast pocket to check the time. "Yes. Our hosts should be waiting for us on the platform."
"If they are punctual, that is." Added Minerva.
Claes and Claire quickly packed up the dining set and cleared off the table, leaving the compartment even cleaner than it was when they arrived. Minerva got up from her seat to stretch and dust any residual cookie crumbs off. Allis grabbed her satchel and sword, fastening it back on her waist. Using the window as a mirror she straightened her blonde hair, making sure the braid that pulled some of her hair back was still intact, along with her hairpin before putting on her hat.
"By all means move at glacial pace, you know how that thrills me" Minerva was already halfway down the aisle. Allis hurriedly gathered her things back into her satchel and scanned the compartment to be sure she left nothing behind. Content that she had her belongings, the blonde raced after her traveling companion that waited for her on the platform.
"Please! Wait up! I'm coming!"
~/*\~
As Ciel expected, the station was as crowded as ever. With the beginnings of spring nearing, the weather was getting warmer, and today with such clear sky everyone was out and about. Shopkeepers set up outdoor stalls; performers danced and played merry tunes for passersby hoping to make a few pounds.
His servants were about, pointing out the wares that each stall had to offer, distracted by the performers; thought it was embarrassing, but the earl knew they could be doing worse. Besides it had been a while since he last brought them along with him to the city. And he preferred to surround himself with the familiar faces of his staff than all the strangers that surrounded him as he waited on the platform. He disliked train stations. The platforms were narrower than the streets, and there were no buildings or alleyways to duck into to have a moments reprieve from the passersby.
Yes, this day will certainly be testing in all areas of his character.
"My lord" His butler started. "The train has arrived"
The train they had been waiting for had began the process of pulling into the station. This was another thing he hated about train stations, they were always so loud. It wasn't enough to have the constant backing of people chatting, dogs barking, seller yelling out prices on their wares, obnoxious laughter from gossiping women, slurred swears from tramps and the like, beggars asking for a few pence to buy some bread; but the loud commotion of the engine of the train.
It was a deafening sound. The screeching of the metal parts, the loud ringing of the bell, and the whistle blowing; these sounds were too much for the young boy. He was raised far from the noise of London; he was not able to tune out all the auditory stimulation. He could feel his chest tighten up, his airways slowly closing, causing his breathing to become panicked. His butler quickly rushed to his side to access what could be ailing his young master.
Sebastian narrowed his eyes taking in all the information before him. Elevated blood pressure, pupils slightly dilated, repertory distress, and racing heartbeat. His master was having a panic attack. Probably due to all the noise and the proximity of all the people around him. He sighed. His master could be delicate at times. Thinking quickly, he placed his hands over his master's ears to help drown out the noise. It was the best he could do at the moment as he searched for a spot on the plat form a little less 'occupied'.
At the far end of the platform where no stalls or performers set up, there was a free spot. There was a large pillar there, offering structural support to the glass overhang that shielded the platform from the elements, but it also cast a little of a shadow, making that end of the platform a little darker than the rest. Perhaps this is why it was vacant. It was a bit away from the area where most of the passengers would be leaving the train, but it would have to do till his master had collected himself.
Scooping his master up into his arms he turned to the footman that had remained by his side. It would seem he too did not like the congested atmosphere either. "Go fetch the others and meet us over at the far end of the platform" He gestured with his head which end he was talking about. Though hesitant to be separated from the only people he knew in this scary place, he quietly nodded and went off in search of the others. "I will try my best, says Emily" he called out as he ducked into the crowd.
The butler made his way to the secluded spot, his master in tow. After setting the boy down he began coughing, his breathing slowly returning to normal. His eyes were a tad red and his cheeks slightly flushed, but overall he seemed to have recovered from his episode. "Se-Sebastian"
"Don't worry, the others will meet us here. For now we can wait till the crowd thins out after the passengers disembark." Ciel nodded, that was a better arrangement than being in the middle of that crowd again.
Another whistle blew as several conductors opened the sliding doors that lead off of the train on the first two cars. Both Ciel and Sebastian kept their eyes trained on the people exiting the train, trying to figure out which of the males could be Allister. "It would have been easier if we had been given a photograph or a description of what Allister looked like"
"Yes it would have made the task simpler, but it does add some more intrigue and a bit of a surprise" the butler mused.
"Surprise?"
The butler was about to answer when something caught his eye. It was slender and supple, lovely in white and black, a vision of regal elegance. The earl waited for the demons reply, but instead watched as his butler paused, as if he were going to say something, but halted abruptly. His eyes were elsewhere.
Following his butlers gaze he quickly realized what had captured his butler's attention so. A woman who had just exited the train had a small white cat perched on her shoulder. The cat was busy licking its front paw, but had felt the boys gaze on him and immediately locked eyes with the earl. The cat was completely white save for the one black patch of fur on its forehead, around its neck was a black collared tie with a purple butterfly brooch. The cat's icy silver eyes kept starring at the cerulean ones of the young boy, almost threatening him. As if it knew who he was.
In a telling gesture, the cat's eyes moved to the demons. Though a lover of cats, the demon sensed that this cat knew instantly what he was, that much was certain. Its fur started to stand on end, its hackles raised, a low warning growl warning him to stay away from its owner.
The cat's distress alerted its owner into investigating what was causing her cat distress. Grabbing the cat off of her shoulder, the woman turned in their direction to find the disturbance.
The woman looked quite young, just a teenager. However she was dressed rather odd. She wore a strange outfit that looked like a streamlined and much shorter version of what the women here wore, and instead of proper shoes, she wore silver leg armor that was designed to look like elegant heeled boots that went up to her mid thigh. The strangest part was that she carried a sword. Ciel wondered why would she need armor and a sword?
Following her cats gaze as it continued to hiss she met the earl's gaze. Her eyes were a strange shade of violet. His body trembled. No, it was a familiar shade, a color he knew all too well. The eyes that stare back at him are just as the eye that stares back at him everyday. Though they lacked the faint glow of a demons mark, they still had that otherworldly feel. Those eyes were out of place in this world, just like many other things that the earl chose to surround himself with. The girl's eyes never left his, her eyes widening briefly, almost in realization, before returning to normal as she started walking in their direction.
~/*\~
Allis had only just got of the train a few minutes ago and Gisello was already perturbed. She had just started to take in her surroundings when the felt the cat tense up. Chalking it up to nerves, the witch ignored her familiar and continued to look around. It was when he started hissing that she decided to look into what got him so riled up. She plucked the cat from her shoulder and held him up to her face. "What is up with you Gigi, we're off the train now so you should be happy" The cat calmed down a little but still was on edge.
"Look behind, at the far end" he hissed.
Listening to her familiar, the witched turned to see what her partner was going on about. He breath caught in her throat. The heavens. She saw the bluest sky in the eye of the child whose gaze she met. A black eye patch covered the other eye, but the one she did see was an extraordinary shade of blue. A shade that would rival the richest lapis lazuli, or the deepest sapphire; a crystal blue sky, le ciel.
'He must be the son of Earl Ciel Phantomhive with eyes like that' the witch thought to herself. She reasoned she could go over and ask him, if he wasn't she could ask if he could point her in the direction of where she could find him. She was on her own now since Minerva had parted ways with her when they got off the train, and she needed to have more courage and be able to do these sorts of things on her own.
Taking in a deep breath for strength, Allis collected herself and strolled over to the boy, and his butler, who she completely looked over.
~/*\~
Ciel straightened up as she neared them, trying to push down the lump in his throat. She stopped just a few steps before them. A few moments of silence passed as she studied them, and they in turn scrutinized her.
Sebastian could feel the girl's nervousness. She was a shy one, but something was off about her. He could smell her fear, but she did not smell like a human, or a demon, or a reaper; she smelled old, ancient, and far older than he, older than any other demon that he knew. However she also still smelled young, fresh. Two differing smells, how odd.
"Excuse me?" She started. Her voice wavered slightly but gained confidence as she continued. "I know this might be strange, I'm new to the human realm…"
Ciel's eye visibly widened. 'Human realm?' Was she insane, or really from another world? The girl had sensed his shock and hesitated in continuing on. Without even realizing it Ciel found himself answering he. "Go on."
She flinched. She looked away from him, blushing in embarrassment, but turned back to him and continued. "I-I know this might sound weird to you…but I-I…are you the son of the earl Ciel Phantomhive?"
Sebastian was marginally taken aback before finding himself again. It always was entertaining when people could not believe that the earl was the young boy. And his master's face was quite scandalous; he was completely flabbergasted so the demon took the liberty to speak on his behalf.
"Pardon miss, you see this boy is not the son of Ciel Phantomhive, but actually the Earl Ciel Phantomhive." The girl was taken aback. This young child was the earl, he was the she was looking for? Part of her was let down a little, but she was also relieved. At lead now it made sense that he was a toy mogul, and that he was not a pedophile.
The butler thought it best to continue if they were to fetch their guest soon, he would need to wrap this up quickly. "I am the young masters butler and butler to the Phantomhive household, Sebastian Michaelis. May I ask your name and what business you have with earl?"
The girl straightened up. "Sorry, how rude of me! It's not proper to as a chevalier to not formally introduce one's self" She quickly set her cat on the ground and reached for her sword and unsheathed it. The sword was a rapier that seemed to be made of high quality steel polished to a pristine shine the blade had elegant patterns engraved along it, but what stood out was the maxim written along its length.
'Ab facere malum hoc, si tu effugies iudicium'*was engraved in Latin along the blade. The hilt was in the swept Italian style with metal coiling in elegant swirls, topped off with an amethyst embedded in the pommel, and a white tassel tied around it with a small butterfly charm attached.
The girl held the sword up in the 'present' position. "My name is Allister Lise Hamilton, I am the Chevalier of house Hamilton, and by order of Queen Larise Cromwell, I am to be your magister magi for the duration of one year"
The show was a little startling, and it took a moment for the young earl to process the information he was given. First off, the guest he was expecting was to be a middle aged or so man, not a teenage girl; second was that she held the rank of a knight and walked around with a rapier; the last part confused him though.
"Excuse me, but who is this Queen Larise she's not any ruler I have heard of. And what exactly is a 'magister magi'?"
Allis sheathed her sword and bent down to pick up her cat. "A magister magi is the highest rank a witch can receive, however to earn that rank you must travel away from your home land and be a resident witch for one year."
Ciel blinked in disbelief. She had to be insane, a witch? He should have guessed with the strange clothing that she was not all there. But then again, considering he has a demon for a butler, and gets harassed by homosexual reapers and idiot drug smugglers; he should not be quick to dismiss the existence of witches.
He was intrigued. "So you are a witch?"
She nodded. "Yes."
"Does my Queen know this?"
She nodded again and began to stroke her cat's fur, trying to calm it down. "Well when the court emissary contacted the rulers of the various areas in the human realm, they were made aware of what we were, and very few accepted the terms of letting us live in their kingdom for a year. Other than your queen, only three other regions agreed."
"What were the terms?" Ciel wanted to get a firmer grasp on the situation, but it was appearing to be much larger than just playing host to a dignitary.
"I would like to explain this all to you, but I feel this is not the time or proper place. All you need to know that if you agree and recognize me as a witch, I am to enter a deal with you, and I will offer my service to you."
"A deal? What exactly-"
"You know for someone who has a demon for a butler you continue to question the existence of witches"
Ciel stiffened. That was a man's voice, but the issue was where it was coming from. It was neither his nor Sebastian's, and unless Allis is a cross dressing boy…
"Down here professor". Ciel looked down at the cat that was in Allis' arms. The cat. Was talking. To him. With words.
"That cat is talking!" Ciel exclaimed. Sebastian was not fazed in the slightest; he had figured the cat was no ordinary cat. And perhaps he is the one that has the strange smell, and not Allister. "My what a sharp cat. Out of curiosity how did you know I was a demon?"
The cat jumped from his master's arms shifting into his human form. No longer stood a small white cat; standing before them was a man that was an inch or two shorter than the demon. He had tanned honey skin and white hair with the left side pushed back leaving the small section of black fringe falling over his brow. He wore a uniform similar to Sebastian's. Fitted black trousers, a white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up, over which he wore a dark mauve vest with gray backing. White saddle shoes and black leather gloves were the final touch.
"Your smell that's for starters." The familiar shot back. "Besides we could see that mark on your hand, that white glove can fool humans, but witches and familiars can see a demon's contract mark."
Sebastian turned his head to Allis. "Is this true?" She nodded back. "Yes. I didn't notice earlier because I was not looking at you, but I see it on the back of your left hand." She pointed at it. To her she can see the symbol glowing through the glove.
"So, you really are a witch."
"Do you recognize me as one?" The earl closed his eyes, carefully thinking over his next words. Whatever the case, now was not the time for this discussion. The platform had already emptied out, only a few people and conductors remained. It was too open for a conversation of this type, besides he had to get back to the manor, Elizabeth would be arriving in a few hours.
Elizabeth! He had already forgotten that she was coming for dinner. This was going to be difficult. "Sebastian, we should hurry. Lady Elizabeth will be on her way to the manor soon, and there is much that still needs to be done." He turned to Allis. "I am sorry but we will have to have this discussion in private later this evening. For now we must be on our way back."
Allis nodded. "Alright" However before leaving the earl offered the witch his hand. "No matter the instance, it is still rude of me to not formally introduce myself to you. After all you are a lady, and above all my honored guest." Allis looked at his hand, even though he was still skeptical about it, he still was being polite; she reasoned it was a start. She gently offered her hand.
"I am the Earl Ciel Phantomhive, the Queens Guard Dog, and it is my greatest honor to welcome you as a guest in my humble residence"
She smiled, even though he was an earl, he still was a child. But he was her host, and she would accept that. "And I am Allister Lise Hamilton, the last Chevalier of house Hamilton, but please call me Allis" She then gestured to her still fuming familiar. "And this is my loyal familiar, Gisello."
She bowed to the young earl. "Thank you for welcoming us into your home and we are pleased to make your acquaintance."
Sebastian stood back and watched as things began to unfold. He could see in the distance Snake with the other servants in tow on their way to join them. Things are surly about to get more interesting around the manor. Whatever her intentions, one thing was for certain, she would be a valuable piece in his master's game. A piece that he may be able to use to his own advantage as well; a game needs a rule changer every once in awhile. Now the game board has been flipped, a new piece presented to player. It is the player's decision, and his alone, to decide whether or not to accept it.
Whatever the outcome, after the game is done, and all the pieces fallen; only the king will remain.
And him.
And when that time comes, he will be the winner.
111111111111111111111111 .:End of Chapter 1:. 1111111111111111111111111
*The maxim on the sword translates to 'Keep from evil doing if thou wouldst escape this judge'
Well I hope you all liked this first chapter! It took me a while to get this out since I really get lost in the descriptive nuances that go on when people talk. I tried my best to keep people in character. And I really am trying to make Allis a vulnerable but fun character. But don't worry, we're gonna break that cutie!
Thanks for reading and please leave a review and some feedback so I can know what to work on and what was good. See you in chapter 2!
