Disclaimer: I do not own Kuroshitsuji

The room was bustling with activity, servants wandering about with different tasks on their hands and one person in charge of organizing everything. It was a difficult task, considering the many things that were to be done and the fast approaching deadline.

'The flowers have just arrived Miss Catherine, but we cannot arrange them in the festivity room unless we have your approval. '

The woman in question looked at the new arrival and nodded politely before contemplating the samples. She couldn't help but feel irritated that so many tasks had been thrown on her shoulders so unceremoniously. No other palace member offered any helping hand and the preparations were so time consuming that she hadn't been able to properly sleep for three days. The fact that everything was to be done for people she didn't even particularly appreciate was also a mental setback. Sighing tiredly, she took the two flowers carefully in her hands and verified their quality. Both were grown in the finest environments and looked fresh, but the combination was too contrasting; the colors seemed to clash and they did not really give the large, already detailed room the sense of subtle elegance she would have liked. Still, the ultimate decision was not up to her so Catherine had no choice but to approve them, according to the tall order. The man who brought them, sensing her reluctance, politely smiled and asked in a shy tone:

'Would you prefer us have them changed, my lady?'

Catherine looked at him in mild surprise before reassuring him that they were fine and urging him to bring them all in and have them arranged accordingly. She kept her eyes on the departing servant for a little while before turning her attention to the two roses in her hands. Her thin fingers coiled around the vibrant red one, the soft petals immediately being crushed mercilessly. The countess's irritation steadily faded away, replaced by a sense of exhaustion. Unwanted thoughts plagued her mind in the little time she had left for herself and kept her awake at night. Recurring nightmares about her recently departed grandmother and a constant sense of anxiety was caused by the few, vague memories of her rumored killer. Despite her thorough education and experience, Catherine's young mind could not wrap itself around the notion of a child wreaking so much havoc in just one night, especially one whose family had shown a deep sense of devotion towards the royal family for so many years.

Before she could dwell on the matter any further, a loud smash caught her attention. The horrible sound of broken porcelain followed by discouraged wails of misery quickened her steps. Apologies were soon heard, the voice slightly feminine.

'I am deeply sorry! Here, let me help you…'

Catherine took a look at the gigantic ballroom where her trustworthy consultant stumbled yet again into a servant that was carrying a considerably sized porcelain decoration vase. On a more careful examination, her suspicions were confirmed. Naturally, it had been the beautifully carved Chinese piece, a rare collectible worth thousands of pounds. The girl simply sighed and gave the necessary instructions so that the mess would be disposed of. She had other things to worry about and even less time to waste on trivial matters such as pricey objects bought on a whim by nobles who measured their self worth in bills.

The celebration had to take place that evening. The chandeliers were polished, the flowers were carefully sorted out, the floors were spotless…

'they were spotless indeed' Catherine thought while looking at what was left of the beautiful vase.

The dishes were prepared, the invitations delivered. Even if there was much hassle, the ball was necessary in order to celebrate Queen Victoria's birthday along with the exquisite British society.

'The exquisite British society that yearns for power and influence, that wishes for your downfall while faking smiles and complimenting your gown.' Catherine couldn't stop these thoughts as she imagined the whole ceremony taking place. This ball, however, would be more entertaining than usual; it would please its wealthy guests with delicate flowers and refined foods, with diplomatic speeches and smiles. Once that formal act would cease, she could carry out her plans. She felt a familiar sense of anger invade her as the thought of Victoria's death invaded her mind once more.

'Because no one has ordered Phantomhive's execution yet, and it seems that no one will'.

With angry eyes, she threw the red rose she held in her hand on the floor before leaving the ball room and headed towards one of the many spacious rooms for a quick revision of the guest list. Her temporary study was spotless, with books alphabetically aligned and the back windows slightly opened to let fresh air in. She briefly glanced at the person occupying the red velvet armchair to the left as she set about doing her own business.

'I apologize, but because of my clumsiness, a vase was …'

'I know, I heard. Not to worry, it is a minor detail. Margaret will not be scolded' the girl said, not even lifting her eyes from the papers on her desk. While checking the lists, she asked her companion if they had been properly delivered to their honored guests.

'Why yes, I have sent one of my most trusted men. They have received it.'

Helena smiled warmly as she picked up a book from the shelf. Browsing through it, she watched Catherine out of the corner of her eyes. The girl was rigidly sitting with her back straight, her features composed and strict as she studied the considerably long invitation list. Her brown hair was properly arranged at the back, with a few curly strands adorning her forehead. The black gown she was wearing did injustice to her frail age, making her appear older but delicate in the same time. As her green eyes scanned the paper, she inquired what was so interesting about her person that kept her advisor from reading. Helena chuckled slightly, before leaving the book aside and leaning in the armchair.

'It's just that your composure and gestures remind me of a black cat.'

The countess lifted her eyes in curiosity, considering the comparison unfitting.

'A cat is the last animal I would prefer to resemble. It is not loyal, it would not be affected by its master's disappearance, as long as it is taken care of by a proper replacementthat could satisfy its needs.'

'That is quite a harsh description, my lady... '

'I prefer dogs." Catherine gave her justification swiftly before returning to her work, leaving Helena looking at her with curious eyes. She knew why the girl avoided her gaze and she wanted to set things right before the ball.

'You want Ciel's death my lady, even though you don't have the proof of his crimes.'

Catherine regarded her in surprise, placing the paper on the desk. Now that she got her attention, Helena continued.

'You know that a demon has helped him throughout these years, that he sacrificed his soul in order to get his revenge…'

'That is precisely why I won't hesitate in carrying out mine'.

Her interruption was welcomed with patience as Helena closed her eyes with a bitter smile.

'You are doing the exact same thing as he, only that you had the fortune of an angel's support, whereas he did not.'

The girl remained speechless. Her anger resurfaced as she averted her eyes, a gesture not unnoticed by the other.

'That is why you cannot face me. You are ashamed of your need for revenge even though you are fully aware of the guilt that it will bring. You know very well that you will not feel in the least bit complete if you fulfill your purposes, but you cannot ignore your feelings.'

Fear crossed Catherine's face as she looked her in the eyes. Sadness then took over as she looked down at the list.

'Do you think that I haven't thought of it? Of my foolishness? Do you think that I enjoy this?'

Upon her silence, Catherine continued:

'I am not the kind of person who rejoices in another's misery. But I realized that I cannot have peace unless I step up and do something about it. I was not there, but I am certain that that boy was involved in her death. There are several guards who witnessed it. The boy killed her. According to you, he sold his soul and such acts, unbelievable as they may be, demonstrate his lack of humanity. I shall do society a favor in bringing him down.'

'You are not empowered to judge people.' Helena whispered cautiously.

'Are you not to aid me as you promised?'

Her temper was taking over as she glared at her advisor. By now she stood on her own feet, with her arms firmly rested on the desk. Helena only looked up at her, saddened by her outburst. Closing her eyes, she stood up and smiled weakly while expecting the countess's next words.

'I have my wishes and you know them as well as I do. I cannot stay still and do nothing while I have the strength and opportunity to make a difference. If you are unhappy with my ways, I regret it, but it is obvious that you have been aware of my intentions from the start and have already accepted them. Otherwise, why would you still be here?' Silence followed as they looked at each other, the first in expectation and the latter in resignation.

'It is best for me to be here.'

This ended the conversation, as Helena took her leave. Catherine reseated herself and cupped her chin with her hands, frowning while analyzing her shaken state of mind and feeling confusion and doubt.

'How could a thirteen year old boy murder Great Britain's most important leader?'

The question plagued her mind still.

'..a chance to clear up all possible misunderstandings between the honorable Phantomhive family, which has always served the queen with utmost loyalty..'

Ciel's murmured reading was followed by a sigh, his distress obvious by his stiff composure on his side of the carriage. The invitation which was sent that day was held in his left hand while the other gripped the small cane he took with him wherever he went.

He knew that the answers both he and Sebastian were expecting were bound to be given this night. It seemed that the accusation of him murdering the queen has been covered up with great care, but that didn't ease his worries in the least bit. For all he knew, he could not be returning home that night, being as he didn't know on which grounds he stood with Sebastian.

'He would probably protect me until he will be allowed to take my soul. Perhaps my dying has been postponed until the royal family will have finished with me.'

He considered the existence of another holy creature, such as Ash, that wanted to finish both him and Sebastian for what they have done. Such a thought confused him and rendered him speechless whenever he had the impulse of consulting with Sebastian on this matter. What of Sebastian himself? The demon has not uttered a word since they entered the carriage, being content with just gazing down at him from his seat with a controlled calmness. From time to time he would close his eyes with a small mischievous smile while leaning his head on his seat. Ciel realized that he got this reaction whenever he fidgeted with the invitation and showed his distress. It seemed as if his actions amused him.

Should he ask him? He felt so unprepared for tonight, the feeling of insecurity irritating him immensely.

'Sebastian?' His harsh tone did not faze the butler as he gazed inquiringly at his companion. His face then did not seem as cold as before, as if understanding his thoughts.

'You are aware of the possible repercussions of tonight. The royal family cannot leave me in peace because of these days' events therefore the possibility of my death is not excluded. Despite you being warned against it, my soul has been promised in return for your services and they shall not be in vain. I am a man of my word, so I am prepared to die.'

During his speech, they held each other's gaze. The butler's dark red eyes bored into his blue one with a glint of satisfaction in it. His smile barely exposed his canines as he bowed his head, with his hand on his torso. This gesture did not seem real to Ciel, even though he has seen it countless times. Instead of the usual 'Yes , my lord', he received :

'As expected of the young master. Despite your kindness, I am to politely decline the offer being as terrible consequences shall befall upon me if I am to take advantage of it. I do hope young master is not offended.'

His sat upright with a wide smirk.

'Bastard…"'

Ciel turned his gaze towards the window, while listening to his butler's next words:

'Young master has yet to ask me the most important question.' Upon his silence, Sebastian continued.

'I am to protect you until further notice. The master's contract has caught the attention of certain individuals, far more powerful than I.'

Surprised, Ciel continued to face the moving ground while considering the implications of his words.

'Demons …do not lie. Isn't that right Sebastian?'

'It is the only virtue in which I take great pride in.'

The boy smirked while staring at the approaching palace.

'Well then… Let us finish this quickly.'

'Yes, my lord.'

A mutual agreement was made as the carriage stopped. They were led inside the luxurious building accompanied by stares of confusion or anger. No one seemed to have the courage of addressing him, however. Ciel Phantomhive's reputation seemed to stir quite an unpleasant atmosphere amongst the English aristocrats, who avoided him like the plague. Ciel was somewhat relieved he didn't have to make any small talk.

Only an hour had passed since they had arrived and stood still in the same corner, when a small man announced that the long awaited games were to take place in the garden in fifteen minutes. No one bothered with the small boy and his butler, while they hurried to go outside. Mingling with the crowd, Ciel whispered so that only his butler could hear.

'Do you sense anything out of the ordinary?'

'Young master's question came just as I was about to let him in on it. There is indeed something different…'

His response was interrupted by the same man's voice that rose over the crowd as he announced the rules of the game.

'Our delightful countess has specifically asked for this game, ladies and gentlemen. You are all to set out and look for the centre of the labyrinth where lady Catherine shall present you with an award. After this we shall all head inside for a most amusing magic number performed by one of the world's greatest illusionists…'

The passageways were illuminated by small, elegant lamps. Sebastian smiled and addressed the young boy in front of him with a tinge of sadistic amusement:

'It is fortunate indeed for young master to be starting his evening in such a manner, seeing as he loves all games, especially life threatening ones.'

'What was that about your sensing something? You haven't finished explaining what you noticed.'

Ignoring his butler's previous remark, Ciel set out to the right while expecting a decent answer. He wished to know what exactly they were up against.

'Ah…It surprises me also young master, to inform you that we are in the vicinity of a truly holy creature.'

His smile vanished from his face as he let his master in on this information. The very idea of those meddlers near them put both of them on edge, one even more than the other. The respective aura made the hairs of the demon's back lift in discomfort. He could have reached the centre only by following this sensation.

Ciel remained silent while he firmly turned the corners, showing that he knew exactly where he was heading, his eagerness far stronger than that of the demons'.

They reached their destination quickly, before any others. Ciel needn't have looked longer, for a person was standing on the edge of the impressive fountain. It appeared to be a tall man, dressed in white, but upon a closer inspection it proved to be a young woman. She stood up, impressive with the way in which she carried herself .A sword was the next thing which caught the boy's attention. Turning around, he noticed his butler's ominous glare along with his stiff composure. So this person was the one he was referring to...

'Congratulations. You are the first to make it to the centre in such a short time.'

An elegant young lady emerged from the other side of the fountain. She was barely 18, dressed in a simple white gown. Even though her features were delicate, her eyes lacked compassion. She didn't get the opportunity to say a word, for the woman they first saw took two steps forward and proceeded to address Sebastian directly. Her golden eyes locked with his light red ones; they both straightened their backs as if being on guard for an upcoming storm.

'You now go under the name of Sebastian Michaelis, if I am not mistaken.'

The butler simply smiled and slightly bowed his head in acknowledgement. Despite his polite air, the way in which he performed this curtsey seemed mocking.

'I am here to personally ensure myself of your well behavior. You have been banned from ending your contract with Ciel Phantomhive and shall be punished for approaching his soul in the first place, even knowing that you were forbidden in doing so.'

'What?...'

Ciel stared at her, shocked at this piece of information. Remembering their contract, he stepped forward and interrupted the young woman.

'I had called him. I knew what I was doing. Why was he forbidden in doing what I asked?'

The woman spared Ciel a sympathetic glance before returning her attention to the now serious butler.

'Ciel Phantomhive, 10 years of age that time was to be rescued, but there were complications and his rescuers couldn't make it in time. Demons were warned against approaching him, being as he was expected to sign a contract in his vulnerability. But, obviously, someone did not quite agree with the rules.'

Sebastian smiled at this, not breaking eye contact.

'You are a Ninth, am I correct?'

'I wish to consider myself a wanderer. My circle hardly ever pleased me …'

He stepped forward and placed himself next to Ciel, an action which made the her narrow her eyes disapprovingly.

'You are to be supervised and punished.' The woman unsheathed her sword and approached the two.

'What is the verdict, might I ask?' Sebastian was still smiling and did not show any form of resistance as she pointed the sword towards his chest.

'Famine.' Ciel stared at her, the word taking a while to sink in. He looked at Sebastian in confusion, unsure wether to speak or keep silent. This whole ordeal seemed to be far out of his reach.

'I see that you came prepared in case I withstand.' Sebastian said mockingly as he eyed the weapon in mild interest. He did not seem in the least phased by the constrictions placed on him, despite the fact that they stopped him from getting what was rightfully his.

'I was sure that you would.' The woman said calmly, as if expecting him to lash out at any given moment.

'Helena'. The other girl's words startled all of them, as she approached the group.

'I am afraid that this shall have to wait until our next meeting. Some of the guests are already coming, and I wouldn't want them startled. After all…this is the queen's birthday. We wouldn't want it compromised because of our special guests.'

Catherine approached Ciel and extended her arm towards him in an offensive manner, as if daring him to even touch her gloved hand.

'I believe we haven't been properly acquainted. I am Countess Catherine Laura d'Antelle'.

Ciel's eyes squinted in recognition as he refused to make any move. Placing both his hands on his cane, he eyed her suspiciously.

'I shall discuss the reason for your interest in my family next time we meet.' He grunted, already losing interest.

'I am afraid that is impossible, young Phantomhive. I wish to settle our issues right now.'

Helena, now less menacing after sheathing her sword stepped in between Sebastian and Ciel.

'As I recall, I have mentioned that this particular demon shall be under my supervision until further notice. Therefore, they will be staying at the Countess's house for a while. During this time, the Countess will have the opportunity to settle her matters with the young Phantomhive.'

'What?'

Both voices sounded revolted as this piece of information was revealed. The countess and Ciel stared menacingly at each other while other guests started to arrive at the scene. Catherine then turned her attention to Helena and smiled a little bit irritated.

'I believe this is the end of the game. We shall proceed to the festivity room, where the next one is to take place.'Helena was quick to comply, a faint smile adorning her face as she lead the way.

'Right away, my lady.'

'What are you thinking? This is most definitely not the way I wanted to deal with this situation! I am to live under the same roof with my enemy? And a demon alongside with him? I thought that you would help me! Instead you planned everything your own way!'

Catherine was angrily combing her hair while looking at Helena through her mirror. After the celebration was over, all members headed home; Phantomhive and his butler left after hesitantly accepting the invitation to come by her mansion the next day. It was quite obvious that neither of them communicated as much as they had wanted to, simply resuming to the necessary protocol for their goodbyes. Both parties had much to discuss about.

'I apologize for not having consulted with the countess, but I believe that this is the best method of clearing up all sorts of misunderstandings between you two.'

'Have you not seen the way that child acted? There is obviously something malevolent about him, not to mention his butler. I do not even know how to react to all this absurd information! A demon butler helping a spoiled twit! I do not doubt that he couldn't tell a lady even if one was to play his piano for his entertainment until her fingers bled! The nerve of him to completely shut me off like that!' Catherine didn't seem to notice Helena smirk lightly at her words and she didn't seem to care that what seemed to irritate her was less important than the matter at hand.

Rapidly braiding her hair, she stood up and searched the library for a book that would ensure her well rest, in other words a book that she considered dreadfully boring.

'On the other hand, there is a good thing in his rudeness. If he had even touched my hand I would have had to wash it immediately and I couldn't have left the celebration for any excuse.' Her tone was icy cold.

She settled with a random one as she headed off to bed, not even sparing her smiling companion a glance. Her mumbles though were audible as she nervously flipped the book open and browsed through it, not even paying attention to what she was doing.

'A cold blooded twit with no humanity left in him. As if it isn't enough that he degraded himself enough by selling his worthless self to such a lowly creature..!'

'I suggest you stop judging him as a complete stranger. He is merely a child like you who unfortunately had quite a tumultuous life. You should cease before you feel guilty.'

Helena's words left her speechless as she took them into consideration. It was true. She knew that his family had vanished in that horrible fire. He must have searched for revenge. What other reason might he have had to call out to the demon? It had to be more to it. Frowning, she pondered on the matter. Perhaps there was more to the case than she thought. Perhaps his family did not die in an accidental fire. Could it have been a murder…?. Not knowing the details have always annoyed her.

Suddenly she realized of what she was thinking. The bratty Earl didn't have any excuse for his behavior. He was malicious and arrogant. He summoned a demon to do his dirty work! Whatever humanity he had in him had probably died, eaten by the flames which consumed the rest of his family.

However… Helena must have a reason for trying to convince her otherwise.

She didn't even hear her counselor's "good night" until she found herself alone in her room, frowning at the book in her hand. Sighing, she placed it on her night stand and tried to get some rest.

'Sebastian?' Ciel stood on his bed, facing his butler's back while he was arranging the young Phantomhive's clothes on a rack.

'What is it, young master?' The butler turned around and faced him with a pleasant smile.

'What is a Ninth?' The boy frowned at him, not moving from his spot in order to maintain their eye contact. Many questions have been plaguing his mind. He was restless.

The demon continued to smile as he approached the bed. Tucking the little boy in, he explained with the calm tone of story-teller:

'There are 9 circles in Hell. I belong to the Ninth one, even though I haven't frequented it as much as my …in-mates' 'What are you going to do next time we meet that person?' Ciel's tone was sharp, as if he was interrogating him.

'I am afraid that I cannot give you a proper answer to that question, young master, for I do not know what my reaction shall be.' The boy frowned, thinking to himself that it was highly unusual for his butler to actually give him a straight answer. For all the time they had spent together, he did not seem keen on telling him anything remotely real about him or his unnatural origins. Ciel felt his guard drop slightly at this unexpected sincerity, but felt irritated with himself as he considered his weakness.

'Living under the same roof with them… It's like putting a cat and a mouse in the same cage.' The boy said tiredly as he arranged his pillow, already sick of another wave of disarrayed thoughts clouding his mind. He barely had the sketches of a strategy in his mind on how to approach this weird predicament he had been thrown into and he hated feeling unprepared. Still, his tired body demanded rest and all other concerns seemed to slip away as a sense of drowsiness took over.

'It all depends on the mouse's wit. Even though it is hard to believe that a mere mouse can defeat its predator.'

He lifted himself and took the candles, preparing to leave, when his master's confused voice was heard from underneath the covers.

'Who were you referring to as the mouse?'

He seemed surprised at first, but then he frowned and touched his chin in contemplation.

'Who was the young master referring to as the cat?'

Ciel covered his head while turning around, mumbling a "It's just a figure of speech" before dismissing him.