Violation

Upon entering his master's study, Sebastian was met with, or was rather accosted by, a wall of displeasure emanating from is young lord. The bell which had called him from the kitchen had rung more excitedly than usual, but he was certainly not prepared for this. Ciel was most definitely displeased and with patch removed his marked eye was glowing, sending a jolt through Sebastian's arm originating from his own imprint and straight into his spine. He stood upright and rigid, hand upon his chest and eyes cast downward.

Ciel pushed his chair away from his large, stately desk and with hands clasped behind his back, walked to the window, looking upward into the darkening sky. The air hung heavy between them and thunder rolled in the distance.

"I want to discuss your cat, Sebastian. The cat you have never fully admitted to having, nor have you actually denied the existence thereof. This dance of words you have been doing in regard to this subject has bordered on a breach of contract between us. Your dodgy responses to my inquiries have come dangerously close to lying, servant, and that would be a most grievous violation of our pact."

Sebastian was speechless. It felt as if an anvil had been dropped on his chest. Falling upon one knee he lowered his head and spoke most earnestly, "Please forgive me my Lord. My words shall be forthright, clear and without duplicity regarding this matter. I have been keeping one dark grey female cat as a pet, and have been sheltering it in the southern garden. I shall remove it from the premises immediately Master, and I shall not harbor any cats in the future."

"I must say...I would not have thought that a demon could be so fond of furry little kittens. Tell me Sebastian, are there no pets in hell?"

"Of a sort, young Master. There have been creatures which have been my companion in the infernal regions, but I suspect it is more for the opportunity to devour scraps than out of a sense of loyalty or true affection on their part. They also have a tendency to be quite...slimy. Regardless, there are none of such ilk or countenance as a feline."

Ciel winced at the possible origins of said 'scraps,' and walked slowly toward the nearly prostrate butler, deliberately prolonging each step he took. "Elaborate," he instructed, "and get off the floor. You look ridiculous."

Sebastian rose to his full height, refraining from speaking until the Earl had once again taken his seat in the oversized leather chair which complimented the mahogany desk. Sebastian was bemused as the whole scene brought to mind a child playing grown-up in his father's study, though the similarities abruptly ended there. A look of disinterest washed over Ciel's face. "Speak."

"Cats are cunning creatures my Lord, opportunists without apology or shame. They often appear aloof and indifferent, giving the intended victim a false sense of security. They assess the situation thoroughly, waiting patiently, carefully calculating their next move to ensure maximum damage to the target. They strike without warning with a sense of demented playfulness that I have not witnessed during any of my previous visits to this world. When the cat's amusement has waned, or the object's usefulness is exhausted, it is quickly and unceremoniously disposed."

Ciel cradled his chin in his hand mulling over the demon's words. "I suppose now I can see your interest in those vile little creatures as those characteristics are most...useful. And I'm sure you have much appreciation for such attributes given what you are."

"Yes, young Master, I certainly do."

"Tell me, what is it about this particular cat that has garnered your attention and very possibly my wrath?"

"Well," a most devilish grin spread across Sebastian's face, the points of his teeth just visible, "this one in particular has a gleam in its eye...present is a level of intelligence that is a bit unnerving and somehow...familiar. It is a rarity for sure."

"Humph," Ciel scoffed. "Fine. You may keep it in the garden. I don't want to see it, hear it and if so much as one hair from its fur makes it into my presence it will not bode well for it or you. And don't even think of bringing it inside my mansion and hiding it in your wardrobe or something equally as foolish. Have I made myself clear, Sebastian?"

"Yes, my Lord, I understand. You have my sincerest gratitude and thanks. With your permission I shall begin preparations for dinner." With much relief the black clad and thoroughly chastised butler bowed deeply and backed toward the ornately carved oak door leading into the hall. Upon opening the door, just moments short of making his escape, Ciel spoke once again.

"What did you name it? The cat, your pet. Surely you gave it a name."

Sebastian stopped in his tracks and forcing a smile looked over his shoulder, "There is no need for the young master to concern himself with such trivial matters. I assure you it is of no importance."

"This, of all times, you choose to do anything other than answer me immediately? My patience is very thin today."

With a heavy sigh and a glint of perspiration upon his brow, Sebastian acquiesced. "Cecilia. Her name is Cecilia, my Lord."

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This story was inspired by Maiden of the Moon's fanfic "Going Soft," as interpreted by Neneko in her doushinji of the same name. Links to both can be found at the bottom of my bio page.

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