Chapter 11

If there was one thing Bastian was never certain about, it was a woman's ability to hold a grudge over something petty.

This was his thought pulled from his sleep-deprived mind one December morning. He sat at the counter inside the kitchen beside Viola and Bard, who were both as sleepy as he was. Breakfast had not been served yet and they haven't been given their chores for the morning, so they had trouble staying awake. Normally, when Bastian is sleep-deprived some thoughts will wander into his head just as that moment.

Bastian could not believe women would fret over a silly matter. They would despise a person-a lover, sibling, or friend-over something silly such as borrowing a hair pin without permission (Alyssa was angry at Christine for an entire day for doing so). It was amazing how long they could hold a grudge over it.

Then again, it wasn't over something silly, he thought, drowsy. Yawning, he glanced at Viola out of the corner of his eye. She lay her head down with her eyes closed, resting. Viola was not the type to hold a grudge, but this one time she made an exception. If only we had not discovered such a terrible secret.

He sighed. Closing his drooping eyes, he remembered the subject of his current problem with immense clarity.

"Okay, I think I have the right to ask what the hell is going on!" Viola yelled. She glared at both Ciel and Sebastian as they stood in Ciel's office two days after the night in East End London. Bastian managed to gather enough of his strength to have this conversation. Viola became impatient for answers and Bastian had enough of her seething glares to finally let her begin her questioning. "Who were those guys with the gardening tools, why were you there, and what the hell was that thing that attacked me and Bastian?"

Ciel narrowed his eye at her from behind his desk. "You would be wise in controlling your tone, Viola, when you speak to me."

"I'm sorry. Are you the one who was nearly killed by some unknown creature out for your blood? I don't care how I talk to you!"

"Viola, just stop," Bastian pleaded, tugging at her arm desperately.

She brushed him off, too enraged to pay him any mind.

"Are you going to answer my questions, young master?" she demanded.

Ciel sighed in frustrated as if this entire thing was a hindrance.

"To answer your questions in order," he started, "those men were involved with the case of Jack the Ripper. One of them was the murderer who aided Madame Red in killing off the prostitutes."

"Whoa, what? Madame Red is Jack the Ripper, too?" she gasped. Bastian was in slight shock. Viola told him how a man named Grell was Jack the Ripper. He had no idea the good Madame Red was involved as well.

"Indeed. The man with the red hair was the one to commit the recent murders. The other man who introduced himself as William T. Spears was merely retrieving the man. The reason we were also there was to arrest Grell Sutcliff."

Bastian nodded. Ah, now he understood. Ciel was acting upon his duty as the Queen's Guard dog. "But, that still begs the questions of who that man that attacked us was and how Mr. Sebastian managed to dispose of him? I stabbed him through the chest with a pipe, yet he still lived."

"I believe I can answer this," said Sebastian for the first time that conversation. "The young master would be unable to answer such a question as he does not know of it himself."

"Tch." Ciel scowled at his butler. "Yes, Sebastian. Please, enlighten us. Who was that man? I suspect he was one of your kind."

He smiled. "Yes. He was."

"Okay, what? What do you mean by Sebastian's kind?" Viola questioned, confused.

"Why, demons, of course."

Bastian and Viola's jaws dropped. Sebastian said that with such a straight face they weren't entirely sure whether he was joking. As it was, they didn't find it particularly funny.

"D-Demons? You're kidding, right?" she asked in disbelief. "I mean, I don't believe in God or anything, but demons? That's a little extreme to call Sebastian that."

"This isn't a joke. Sebastian is a demon and I'm his current master," said Ciel. Bastian saw Ciel was serious in this matter, but still didn't quite believe it. He waved a hand to Sebastian. "Sebastian, show them."

"Yes, my lord."

The two cried out in horror when Sebastian's eyes suddenly flashed a menacing pink with slitted pupils. The room grew cold as the shadows of the room grew long around Mr. Sebastian. Viola scrambled behind Bastian, shivering as violently as he did. Upon seeing those eyes, Bastian suddenly couldn't breathe. Those were the eyes Viola feared. She often told him her fear of the dark extended to the fear of pink eyes hovering in the darkness, waiting to devour her. They were as unnatural as she described them. So inhuman…Those couldn't be the eyes of a human. It was not possible to bring a primal state of fear within them.

Sebastian frowned, his eyes returning to their normally rust brown. The room no longer felt cold. "I believe that was enough to convince you?"

They nodded frantically, shivering horribly. After that demonstration, they didn't want to see more. Those eyes terrified them.

"O-Okay, Sebastian's a demon. You said you were his master? How did that happen?" Viola asked Ciel.

"We are under contract. The day Sebastian fulfills my wish our contract ends. Until that day, Sebastian does whatever I order him to."

She paused for a moment before breaking into laughter. Bastian jumped at the sheer sound of it. He certainly didn't expect that.

"Oh, you poor demon. You're chained to a little kid to fulfill his wish. Let me guess. You're only fulfilling his wish to get his soul, aren't you?"

"Correct. You seem to know how demon contracts work, Viola," Sebastian said, lips curling into a smirk.

"Not really. My favorite book happens to be The Tragic History of Doctor Faustus. I'm just going off how Faustus made his contract with Mephistopheles."

"You sold your soul to fulfill a wish?" Bastian gasped. He went pale at the thought of it. Who would do such a foolish thing? Especially one as young as Ciel? "Why on Earth would you do such a thing?"

"That's none of your business," Ciel stated. His tone was cold as the way he suddenly sat became guarded. From body language alone, that was a sensitive subject. It didn't change when he turned his attention back to Sebastian. "Why would a demon attack these two? There is nothing special about their souls, is there?"

"Perhaps." Sebastian put his hand on his chin as he usually does when in deep thought. He eyed the two, causing shivers to climb up their spines. They did not forget what he was. "As a demon, I am able to sense the differences between souls. Each soul gives off a unique sense that allows us to tell the difference. No two souls are alike. Even twins have a different aura despite the rumor they each carry half a soul. However, with Bastian and Viola I see no difference."

"What does that mean?"

"They essentially carry the same soul."

What?

Bastian slowly looked over his shoulder to where he met Viola's unwavering gaze. She mirrored his own disbelief. He didn't understand. How could they carry the same soul?

"How's that possible?" Viola asked, slowly. "Bastian and I might look alike, but how is that possible?"

"In the cases of reincarnation, it is possible," he explained. "When a human dies their souls awaits to be collected by Grim Reapers. Between the time the person dies and when their soul is collected, the soul can either wander or attract demons. Reincarnation initiates when the soul wanders to choose an unborn child and inhabit the forming body. So, despite avoiding collecting the reapers allow that soul to live life once more until it is their time to die. It is then their soul is collected."

"So, a soul can be reincarnated as many times as they can as long as they avoid collection?" Ciel mused thoughtfully.

"It is unheard of, but yes. At most a soul can only manage to avoid the reapers twice. They keep track of where the soul is no matter where they go. If that is the case, the only explanation as to why Lord Sebastian and Viola carry the same soul is reincarnation. Although, what confuses me is how that can be possible?"

"W-We don't know," Bastian answered nervously. He tried to recover from what this new information meant for the both of them. He didn't want Ciel and Sebastian to know what this meant before they understood it completely. But, try as he might, he couldn't control his tone when he was nervous. He was a much better liar when he wasn't afraid. Sebastian being a demon didn't help him at all.

"We know you're lying." Ciel narrowed his eye at them. "Perhaps you would speak if Sebastian asks you again?"

"Oh, God, no!" Viola exclaimed when Sebastian's eyes flashed again. "I'm from the future and I think I'm Bastian's reincarnation, okay? Just turn off the creepy eyes!"

Bastian couldn't resist. He slapped his forehead with the palm of his hand.

"Viola!"

"I'm sorry! His eyes are freaking me out! I can handle anything but that! You know that!"

Ciel stared at her as if she were insane. Actually, it resembled the way he looked when he found out Viola was from the future as well.

"Excuse me?"

"You heard me. I'm from the future. A hundred and twenty-three years from the future, to be exact. I'm from the year 2011."

Ciel put a hand to his temples as if to stave off a headache. Bastian almost felt the urge to do the same.

"That…makes sense. The way you act is not a proper way a woman of this time period would act."

"You mean act like a brainless woman who wants nothing more than to be a pretty little housewife?"

"If I may ask, how did you end up in this time? If your claims are true, of course."

She shrugged. "No idea. I was spending Halloween night in my ancestor's abandoned/haunted manor with my friends. I ended up touching Bastian's portrait and the next thing I know I'm standing in front of my identical but dead great-uncle."

"Just like that? Who is your ancestor?"

She nodded. "Oh, right. I should probably mention now my name isn't Viola Dupree. It's Viola Emrys. Yeah, I'm of noble blood on my mom's side."

"And she explained everything to you?" Ciel asked Bastian.

"Yes. I admit I did not believe who she was until she…well…" He trailed off, a bit embarrassed. He started to remember Viola showing him her birthmark as well as a private part of her body.

"She…?"

Viola coughed nervously. "Um, it's a bit personal."

"I believe at this point in sharing secrets it's too late to act shy," Ciel pointed out impatiently.

"True. Well, you know Sebastian's mark over his heart? The one that made you think I was a demon that made a contract with him?" He nodded. "I…have the same mark on my chest in the same spot. It's a birthmark."

"What? Show me!"

"I would, but you're a little young to be seeing that part of a woman's body," she teased. Her cheeks grew pink as she winked at him in suggestion.

Sebastian smirked as Ciel flushed at her implications. Ciel, instead, stared at Bastian's chest, which made him quite uncomfortable. Viola told him his mark was on display while he was injured in the alleyway. Then, he glared at Sebastian for some reason.

"What is the meaning of this? I thought demons could have but one contract at a time."

"Of course, young master. Demons may hold but one contract at a time. However," he paused for a moment, "there is another way that allows demons to hold two contracts at a time."

"Another way?"

"There are two methods demons use to form contracts," Sebastian explained in a scholarly tone. "The first and most common method used to form contracts is to fulfill the wish of a human in exchange for their souls. This is the method I used in my contract with the young master. The second method is used for those rare cases who wish to prolong their life as they hang to life by a thread. They wish to desperately continue living they will even offer their souls. So, in order for those mortals to live the demon will lend them their hearts and let those humans live with the demon's heart inside their bodies. The human will continue living for a number of years until it is time for the demon to recollect their hearts and devour their souls. Unlike the first method where the contracted soul solely belongs to the demon who formed it, the second method is open for all to devour."

"In other words, you made a contract with Lord Sebastian when he was on the verge of death?" Ciel appeared curious and fascinated with the concept.

"W-Wait a moment! I was born with this mark on my chest," Bastian reminded them frantically. "How would it have been possible for me to have formed a contract with Sebastian? My mother also said there were no complications during her pregnancy as well, so it is impossible for me to have a demon's heart!"

Bastian knew they assumed he made a contract with Sebastian. It was obvious they assumed so, but there were a few problems with that. For one, he never met Sebastian in his entire life! How could he make a contract with a being he's never seen before? And second, he was born with his mark as was Viola! It was virtually impossible for him to make a contract!

"Yes, but…" Sebastian smirked. "I did happen to make a contract with a dying little girl more than four hundred years ago. She died years later before I could think about obtaining the heart I lent her. If that sort of situation happens, the soul is forced to reincarnate to avoid being devoured by demons as a soul promised to a demon may neither wander into Heaven or Hell. They are trapped on Earth for all eternity with the mark of the demon."

"What are you saying?" Viola spoke for the first time. Her voice was soft. "Are you saying…the soul of that little girl who made that contract with you…We're her reincarnations?"

"To put it simply, yes. You are."

Viola was silent. This allowed Bastian to let the information sink in. He had a demon's heart inside his body. He was the reincarnation of a woman from hundreds of years ago. This…This was all too much for him to comprehend. How…why…?

"Okay, then," Viola suddenly said, breaking the silence. "I quit."

"What?" Bastian and Ciel questioned in unison. They watched Viola turn around and head to the door. She looked over her shoulder to glare heatedly at Sebastian in complete rage.

"I refuse to be around the demon whose heart is apparently inside our bodies! You ruined my life, you bastard! Because I had your heart in my body, I never even had a childhood! I'm not letting you ruin my life anymore!"

With a snarl she wrenched the door open and stomped out into the hallway. Bastian glanced at Ciel and Sebastian once more before he followed after his reincarnation out the door.

Ever since that night, their relationship with Sebastian Michealis changed.

Bastian managed to convince Viola not to quit and continue living at the manor. She was entirely enraged with the whole situation, but stayed. While it was expected of him to tremble around the demon after learning the truth, Bastian did his best to hide his discomfort. Sebastian may be a soul-sucking demon, but he was still his colleague and superior.

Unfortunately for all of them, Viola had the opposite reaction.

She outright refused to communicate with Sebastian. Viola did her best to avoid him, going as far as doing her chores on the other side of the manor. When they were forced to speak to one another Viola would respond with monosyllable answers, cold and clipped. Bastian was amazed Sebastian did not scold her for her behavior. Yes, he would notice, but the worst Sebastian has ever done was glare at Viola with glowing eyes. Yet, instead of being frightened, Viola would stand her ground defiantly. She'd glare back at him before doing as she was told.

To Bastian's dismay the rest of the servants sensed the tension between the two. They were confused as to Viola's drastic change in attitude and Sebastian's' own dark mood. It was a mystery to them about what happened between them. They asked Bastian what happened, but the only thing he could say was they had a disagreement. How could he tell anyone else their souls were promised to a demon?

He still did not understand it at all. In fact he did not blame Viola for being angry with Sebastian. She showed the anger he himself could not summon. That was another example she was his reincarnation.

I cannot believe our souls were originally a woman's, he thought in dismay. Bastian was no as upset about that matter. After all, Viola was essentially him from the future and he was used to her. What he was upset with was it explained his feminine features. His sisters always joked he must have been a beautiful woman in a past life to allow him to look girlish. It was horrorifying they were absolutely correct. Thank Heavens they shall never discover the truth. I will never bear to face them again if they should.

If he ever saw them again.

The doors suddenly slammed open. The loud bang forced Bastian's eyes to snap open. Both Bard and Viola jarred awake, blinking owlishly. They faced Finny, who was panting excitedly and slightly in panic.

"You guys! You guys! Omigosh!" Finny panted.

Baldroy yawned and lay his head back down.

"What is it, Finny? 's too early in the mornin'," he mumbled.

"Too early to be yellin', too," Viola yawned, wiping tears from her eyes.

"What happened?" Mey-Rin asked from where she sat picking petals from a flower. Earlier, Bastian hear her mutter, "...Loves me...Loves me not..." with each petal plucked.

Finny huffed. "Sheesh! Have you all forgotten? It's a special day today!"

"Special?"

He pointed silently.

They followed his finger to the side. On the wall behind Tanaka hung a calender displaying the month of December. It was bare from any markings save for that day's date-the fourteenth of December. Bastian could not understand the significance of the date. From the gasps of the other servants, they did.

"We bloomin' forgot!" Bard shouted. All sleep left his eyes as he sprung to his feet.

"Oh, dear! That's today!?" Mey-Ring gasped, dropping her flower.

Tanak gave his usual 'hoh-hoh!' in agreement, surprised as they were.

Finny nodded, distressed. "What're we going to do?"

"Um, guys?" Viola called, silencing the others. "What's so special about today?"

"Tha's right. You guys are new," Baldroy said, realization in his tone. "Well, today's that one day outta the year where a person feels special."

"Everyone comes to celebrate how happy they are they're there!" Finny piped in, grinning.

"It's a celebration, it is!" Mey-Rin chirped, giggling.

"And that is...?" asked Bastian, curious.

"It's the young master's birthday!" they said in unison.

Bastian and Viola took a moment to swallow the information. When it did Viola shot to her feet.

"You're kidding! How old is he turning?" she asked, excitedly.

"Thirteen."

Bastian chuckled.

"Ah, that age. When a boy begins his journey to become a man. That's quite an important age."

"Yeah, it is! Ciel's officially a teenager!" Viola agreed. "Are we going to throw him a party? Because, what's a birthday without a party?"

Everyone nodded enthusiastically. Birthdays were meant to be a special day to be spent with those who cared for him. The least they could do was celebrate the day Ciel Phantomhive was born into this world (no matter how many cursed it).

"Right! Since today has to be special for the young master, we have to do it wit'out 'im, knowin' what we're up to," Bard mentioned, taking charge. "Mr. Sebastian's gonna be busy preppi' for a vistor today, so he'll be wit' the young master. It's up to us to make today special for the young master. Everyone ready?"

"Yeah!" Finny, Mey-Rin, Tanaka (with his 'hoh-hoh!'), and Viola cheered. Bastian, the calm noble he was, simply nodded.

Baldroy grinned. "Alright. Here's what we're doin'..."


xxx


There were many things Bastian expected to be doing that day. Baking, stock inventory, helping Viola with her chores...But, he never expected flower picking to be on his to-do list.

"Ow!" Bastian cursed. He took his hand away from the winter rose bush he grabbed to inspect the damage. On the tip of his finger a drop of blood welled where he accidentally pricked it. "Finny, are you dethorning the roses?"

"Hm?" Finny glanced away where he was busy cutting roses. He caught sight of the blood and winced. "I'm sorry! Forgot you and Viola wearin' any gloves."

"You are supposed to dethorn them as we will be hanging them!"

"Leave Finny alone, Bastian," Viola said. She sat next to a pile of roses she de-thorned herself. In her hands was a ringlet of roses she was weaving. "It's not his fault you forgot to wear gloves."

Bastian said nothing, favoring to suck on the wound to discourage any response.

Since Baldroy formed a plan for Ciel's suprise birthday party, all of the household servants (excluding Tanaka, of course) found themselves quite busy. Bard acted much like a military captain, he imagined, when he assigned all of them tasks to set up the dining room where the party would be held. Finny had to decorate, Mey-Rin was to set places for four extra guests, and Baldroy would prepare a special dinner. Viola and Bastian, he decided, would help anyone who needed it as they were efficient in adapting. All of them would pitch in to bake the cake.

Everyone took to their tasks immediately since they had so much work to do but so little time.

Now, here he was picking the Christmas roses Finny (Sebastian) so lovingly cared for. Bastian had to persuade Finny just this once to resist ravaging the roses. Unfortunately, his pleas fell on deaf ears.

He glanced at the two high piles of roses before checking the time on his pocket watch-one of the only items he brought with him from his former life.

"Finny, Viola and I will take the roses to the dining room. We must begin decorating the room before dinnertime."

"Oh, yeah! Go 'head and do that! I'll finish up here," Finny agreed, nodding.

"Right. We should find a ladder, too," Viola suggested. "We have to hang the roses on high places, after all."

"Yes, that is a good idea."

Viola stood and placed her unfinished project on top of a pile or roses. She took a bunch in her arms where it piled high over her vision. Bastian opened the door leading into the house before stooping down to grab a pile himself.

The two Emrys entered the manor once more. Their steps were careful and calculated to ensure they did not drop a single rose to the floor. They were silent in their task with a majority of their concentration on it. But, they were still aware of their surroundings, which allowed them to hear voices echo from down the hall.

"I will first show you the inner courtyard," Sebastian said, his voice drifting from down the hall and around the corner. "This year, the winter roses we ordered from Germany are quite lovely. I believe you will approve of them, Lady Midford."

A dignified voice harrumphed.

"I shall give my approval once I see for myself."

"Oh, come now, Francis," drifted the voice of Madame Red. "You will love them regardless of how they are arranged. As I recall, aren't roses your favorite flower?"

"That may be so, but with a master such as Lord Phantomhive, who can say if they are lovely?"

"Oh, shit! It's her!" Viola hissed, alarmed. She abruptly snatched the pile of roses off of Bastian to add to her pile.

"Viola, what-"

"Distract Sebastian and the guests! They can't find out what we're planning! If Madame Red askes, tell her I'm busy doing laundry!"

Before Bastian could reply, Viola sprinted down the hallway in the opposite direction, disappearing from sight. At the same moment a group of people appeared in front of Bastian from around the corner.

The group consisted of Sebastian, Ciel, Madame Red, and two other blonde women. The eldest was a woman of a reasonable age. The way she held herself was like the dignified ideal woman of this age. Next to her was a young girl with a bubbly aura that reminded him faintly of Viola. The two were obviously mother and daughter. The blond woman and Sebastian appeared to be speaking, but they were interrupted by the girl's gasp.

"Viola!" The girl ran forward to suddenly seize Bastian in a hug. Bastian had no time to react to recoil from the girl. "I was ever so hoping to see you today! I wanted to talk to you ever since we met. Brother as well!"

"Elizabeth!" The woman snapped. "Your behavior is unsightly! We do not hug or speak to our servants in such a manner!"

The girl, Elizabeth, flinched. She released Bastian obediently and quietly.

"Yes, mother."

"Don't be so hard on her," Madame Red said with a slight pout. "Bastian and his sister are no ordinary servants, Francis."

The woman raised an eyebrow.

"Oh? How so?"

Madame Red and Bastian shared a glance. While Madame Red winked at him mischievously, he flushed.

"They just are," she said with a secretive smile.

The woman appeared confused, though no one else could tell. Bastian was almost sorry Madame Red knew the truth of his heritage.

The Lady in Red was present when he tried to convince Viola to not quit her duty to Ciel. She listened as the two argued loudly outside Viola's room and several of their secrets were spoked. When she gathered enough information she also spoke to Viola to get her to calm down in order to think everything through. Bastian was grateful to her, but she, unfortunately, asked for the entire story. He had to provide it against his will.

Since then, Madame Red became attached to Viola. Apparently, from what Viola told him, the Madame took it upon herself to be her role model as they were much alike. And, considering Viola was from the future, she wanted to teach the younger woman how to survive in 'the cesspool of men.' Viola was not comfortable with this arrangement and thought it best to avoid her.

And now she's left the woman to me. Bastian almost wanted to reprimand her for leaving him to deal with her. They were going to talk about this behavior.

The woman took a moment to study Bastian. Quite frankly, her critical had him squirming in his own skin.

"Bastian?" Elizabeth stepped back to look up at him. She gasped in surprise. "I hadn't realized! You're not Viola, though you do look an awful like her."

"Viola is my sister," he answered. "My name is Bastian Dupree, young miss. And you might be?"

"This is the Marquess of Midford, Lady Francis," answered Sebastian with a polite smile. Bastian couldn't help but wince. "And her daughter and the young master's fiancé, Elizabeth."

"Lizzy!" she corrected, pouting. "Why does no one call me Lizzy?"

"It isn't proper, that's why," Ciel sighed. He must have been through this conversation many times in the past.

"Yes, but not all of us can be formal all the time, my dear nephew," Madame Red teased.

"It isn't the point to be formal, Madame. It is whether you can act respectable."

"Quite right," Lady Midford agreed. "While there are times where you can be informal with those close, it is one's duty to be a respectable person of society. Who knows what scandal can decimate one's reputation?"

"Oh, I agree! And speaking of scandals, why, the other day I heard about Lady Lucinda Walters," Madame Red chatted, exuberantly. "You know, the daughter of Baron Walters? Apparently, the girl is sick with grief for her missing fiancé. The poor thing hasn't left her home in months! Lord Walters is beside himself with worry."

Bastian barely caught himself from flinching at the mention of his former fiancé. He was so absorbed with the direction of his life took and its obstacles he barely spared a thought to Lucinda. In fact this was the first he was hearing of her in months.

When he ran away from home Bastian had no idea what effect it would have on his loved ones. He knew his mother and sisters would be distraught and his father furious at the shame he brought on the Emrys name. Yet, he was uncertain of Lucinda's reaction. For all he knew she would mourn for a month before being forced to forget about him.

Apparently not.

If Madame Red was correct, then he caused Lucinda, the apple of all gentlemen's eyes, to be unsocial and sick with grief. Did Lucinda truly love him so she was confined at home? Just the thought of her sitting in her room, crying, made Bastian feel immense guilt from his decision to run away from home.

But, I regret nothing, Bastian reasoned. He did not return her affections. Should Lucinda be the one to have disappeared, he would not mourn for her. He would in appearance, but in spirit he would rejoice. It was cold and callous of him to think so. Yet, it was true.

"I know of that rumor as well," Elizabeth mentioned. Her tone was soft with sympathy. "How awful for Lady Lucinda. I know exactly how she feels. It's a feeling I wouldn't wish for anyone to experience."

Bastian noticed Madame Red stared at Ciel knowingly. Ciel became tense, unsettled, while Sebastian smirked in amused. Hm…

Ciel cleared his throat to gather their attention.

"Shall we continue on with the inspection, Aunt Francis?"

The good Lady Midford nodded.

"Of course. We mustn't stand here dawdling all day."

"Then, let us continue," Sebastian agreed.

"I shall take my leave, then, young master. Pardon me." Bastian found this the perfect opportunity to depart. He didn't wish to be in the presence of Lady Midford longer than he needed to be when he knew of his family scandal. He bowed quickly to Ciel and his guests before he turned on his heel to leave.

He didn't anticipate Madame Red to catch him by the crook of his arm.

"Now, wait a moment, dear Bastian. Do stay," the Lady in Red crooned. "Ciel, might I borrow your servant for today?"

"Whatever for?" Elizabeth asked before her fiancé could.

"As you know I do not have a butler since my previous one left. While I do like you, Sebastian, I'd prefer to have my own servant to attend to me. I'm quite fond of Bastian and his sister. So, I will have to make do with Bastian, though I would prefer his sister to wait on me."

"Pardon? But, I have other tasks to complete today!" Now Bastian knew why Viola left when she did. Madame Red wished her to keep her company. Now her sights were set on him. He blamed his niece once more for putting him in such a position.

"But, your duties should be on the order of your master if he wished it so. Is that not right?"

Madame Red was absolutely correct. Unless Ciel ordered him otherwise, he had to obey his orders.

Both Bastian and Madame Red sent the young Earl a look of plea-one to be sent on his way and the other to get what she wanted. Sebastian and Lady Midford were amused with the situation while Elizabeth held back a giggle. Ciel, the one who bore their looks, was the only one unamused. Glancing between the two as if to guage their worth, he sighed in exasperation.

"Bastian, for today only," Ciel stressed, "you will aid Madame Red as her servant."

Madame Red cheered in delight and hugged Bastian as if Ciel announced the servant was her new son. Bastian narrowed his eyes at Ciel, who smirked at his discomfort along with Sebastian. Viola, for once, was correct in one of her descriptions of Ciel.

He truly was a demon child.


xxx


Bastain sighed, tired, as he trailed after Sebastian, Ciel, and Elizabeth with the children seated on a beautiful blue-black horse. He, himself, held the reins of a white mare Madame Red chose as her steed while Lady Midford directed her steed alone in the beauty of the silent forest within the lands of the Phantomhive estate. Though it could have been relaxing, the bitter cold that seeped into Bastian's tired form was anything but.

For the past couple hours he was forced to accompany the group of nobles as they toured the Phantomhive manor. Or attempted to. Whenever Sebastian would try to show something to Lady Midford he would change his agenda. The other nobles were confused as to why. Bastian himself knew it was due to the destruction left in the aftermath of their preparations of Ciel's birthday party later that evening. Not a word of it passed his lips. Viola, after all, gave him the task to ensure they knew nothing of their plans.

They eventually came to the decision of a hunting game after Lady Midford paid a visit to eh manor stables. She stated it was to test Ciel's ability as her daughter's future husband. Madame Red decreed it a splendid idea on the grounds she hadn't hunted for quite some time. They agreed to a game. After dressing in hunting clothes (it was quite the experience for Bastian, whom Madame Red insisted help change her. He hadn't felt so flustered before in his life) and packing a lunch, they set off to find a suitable spot.

Once they had found a suitable spot, the game began. While Bastian stayed with Sebastian and Elizabeth, Ciel, Lady Midford, and Madame Red went off to hunt for three hours. Bastian did not enjoy waiting in a single spot. He was not fond of hunting due to various terrible experiences from his past and he felt awkward being around Sebastian. Thankfully, he had the young Elizabeth to distract him during that time. The two explored their surroundings for a bit, never wandering far from Sebastian's watchful gaze. Bastian was unsure whether he felt safe or threatened by that.

Eventually, the game came to an end after the three hours were up with Ciel and Lady Midford tied for first place. They were discussing a tie breaker during their meal when things got interesting for the worst. A bear had emerged from the forest lured by the scent of food. Unfortunately, it attacked the nearest person who happened to be Elizabeth. Lady Midford managed to save her daughter with a shot to the head while Ciel grabbed Elizabeth in an attempt to protect her. In the end Lady Midford won the game, but finally acknowledged Ciel as her future son-in-law.

They soon arrived back at the manor to place the horses back in the stables as well as change their clothes once more. Bastian was grateful to be out of the forest, knowing they were safe from the wild once more. He was exhausted from all the events and from being frightened to death by both the gunshots as well as the bear. Though, those fears were nothing compared to the fear he felt that night when he protected Viola from that demon. He had been afraid for her safety more than his own life!

Then again, this is Viola I am thinking of.

Viola could frighten him in more ways than he ever could imagine whether it was intentional or not. And that was frightening as well.

Once the horses were back in the stables, they wandered back into the manor. Bastian wanted nothing more than to lie down and rest, but he noticed Sebastian led everyone towards the dining room. He kept silent, anxious as they arrived at the room's doors.

"As the Hunt was a success, I shall do my best to-" Sebastian cut himself off once he opened the doors and caught sight of the room within. He, Ciel, and the guests were caught off guard while Bastian sighed in exasperation.

The dining room was in disarray. Where it was once a clean and proper state where everything was in their place it was as if a whirlwind of roses swept through the room. The red flower was strewn everywhere possible such as on the railings of the next floor and on the dining table itself. Not a spot was left from the roses, save for five plates and their accompanying arrangements of utensils. The culprits for the room's current state were in the center of the room.

"Welcome back!" Viola, Baldroy, Finny, and Mey-Rin greeted, happily. Tanaka gave a 'hoh-ho!' as his own greeting.

Finny grabbed a plate off the table to hold out to Ciel. It was an unidentifiable food with birthday candles and sparklers on the lump. Bastian recognized it was a cake by the slightly burnt smell wafting from it.

"We all pitched in and made this!" he announced, proud.

"Viola, what on Earth happened to you?" Bastian asked, glancing at the bandages and bruises adorning the servants' persons (excluding Tanaka, of course). The bandages wrapped around her head were especially concerting.

"What, this? I had a little accident." She rubbed her head with a sheepish smile. "Mey-Rin got a little excited and bumped into a cabinet. A plate hit my head and knocked out."

"My goodness! Are you all right?"

"I'm fine, but I've got one hell of a headache now. I was only out for about half an hour. Speaking of hell…" She turned her gaze to Lady Midford and winced at the glare she gave. Though, it was not directed at anyone in particular. "Who's she?"

"Lady Francis Midford. She is Ciel's aunt and her daughter is his fiancé." He gestured to Elizabeth, who beamed happily when her mother patted Ciel's head.

"I…see…" A slight frown that held a trace disgust marred her features before she schooled in a smile. Bastian almost questioned it but restrained himself. He would ask when they were alone.

"Happy Birthday, Ciel," Lady Midford greeted, smiling faintly at her nephew. She turned that smile to the servants. "And everyone, please continue to take care of my daughter and my son."

They couldn't help but smile in return and nod.

"Well, then!" Madame Red clapped her hands together with eyes glistening mischievously. "Since this is a celebration, shall we begin? I believe we should begin with cake, should we not?"

Everyone cheered Baldroy began to call for alcohol while Viola presented a crown of roses to place on Ciel's head. He frowned at the offending petals on his head but did not seem displeased by it despite Elizabeth coo at how cute it appeared on him. Finny lit candles on the makeshift cake and everyone sang the traditional birthday song. Ciel blew out the candles as everyone clapped in congratulations. Viola began to but the cake when Bastian noticed there were not enough in plates for all of them.

"Viola, wait a moment while I retrieve more plates," he said, stepping towards the door. He stopped when something was presented before him.

"Do not worry. I have them here," Sebastian said. He smiled as he presented the plates to Bastian, who flushed at his sudden appearance. "Ah, young master? Your guest has arrived as well."

"Guest? Were you expecting someone, Ciel?" Madame wondered.

"Yes. Before you sent your letter to visit, I was to meet with someone today." Ciel removed the crown of roses to place on the table. "Sebastian, show her in."

"Yes, my lord."

Sebastian bowed and left the room to retrieve the guest. That left Ciel's other guests to wonder who they were.

"Her? Who do you have business with? Do I know her?" Madame Red pressed, eager for a bit of gossip.

"That is none of your concern, Madame. I am taking care of some, ah, unfinished business," Ciel replied. For the briefest of moments he glanced at Bastian out of the corner of his eye.

Bastian shivered. Business? From the glance, he knew it had to do with him. Yet, what for? He suddenly felt uneasy as it warned him things were about to become much worse for him.

The door opened to end the mystery. Bastian's breath caught in his throat at the woman who appeared behind Sebastian. The butler allowed the woman to enter first.

"My lord, may I present the Countess of Emrys, Lady Francesca."

Bastian was unable to properly breathe. His mother was there at the Phantomhive manor. A part of him was joyous to see his mother-one of the few people who loved him regardless of his position and the cursed mark branded on his being. Yet, he flinched at her presence. No matter how much he loved her he did not wish to face her. He bid farewell to ever seeing her again along with his sisters when he departed from his childhood home. Now, she was here before him and Bastian shivered. How had she managed to find him?

He turned his body so his back was to her. Viola shifted closer to stand behind him so she faced his mother. He thanked the heavens for Viola's consideration. She knew what this meant.

"Lord Phantomhive," greeted Francesca, her heels clicking when she, Bastian assumed, curtsied. "I thank you for agreeing to meet with me on such short-" She cut herself off. Bastian chanced a small glance over his shoulder to find she was looking in his direction. More specifically at Viola. Francesca was silent for a moment but quickly regained herself. "Yes, well. I am sorry if I am interrupting you festivities."

She nodded in greeting to Lady Midford and Madame Red. The former suspicious of her appearance and the latter curious. Both women said nothing.

"It is no trouble, Countess Emrys," dismissed Ciel. "Shall we speak in a more private setting? Sebastian, please attend to Aunt Francis and Madame Red."

"Aw, but Ciel! This is your party!" Elizabeth whined. "Can't this wait until after?"

"No, Lizzy. It cannot. I schedualed this meeting weeks before. I cannot put this off."

He what? Bastian choked back a gasp. It made sense. How else did his mother locate him? Cield must have contacted her somehow to meet and confront him. But, why? What did he hope to gain? Ciel Phantomhive…

In that moment Bastian hated the young Earl more than ever before.

"Please follow me, Lady Emrys." From the two footsteps, Ciel and his mother made to leave the room. Bastian took some comfort in the fact he wouldn't need to face her for much longer. But, a chill went down his spine when Ciel spoke. "Bastian, come along."

Bastian curled his hand into a fist, suddenly seized with the urge to hurt Ciel. With everyone around him (including that demon, Sebastian) that was impossible. He took a calming breath, turned to Ciel, and bowed.

"Yes, young master," he said in monotone to disguise his emotions.

Straightening, he stepped towards Francesca and Ciel. However, a soft hand slipped into his own. Bastian looked to see Viola's eyes were soft in concern and a small frown placed on her lips. He squeezed her hand and smiled back to reassure her he was fine. She returned the smile, releasing his hand. Bastian faced Ciel and his mother once more where he found the small Earl was impatent while Francesca had her eyes narrowed in distaste at, to Bastian's confusion, Viola. She did not notice the look as she turned her attention back to the cake.

"Let us go," Ciel ordered. He walked out of the room. Francesca swept out along with him and, after a moment's hesitation, Bastian reluctantly followed.

The three nobles went through the halls of the manor without a word to say. Unlike Viola, who often had trouble walking through the manor, Ciel had a confident step as he led them to a nearby door. He opened the door to the room. Like a true gentleman, he allowed Francesca to enter first. Bastian was the last to step through the door's threshold.

They entered a parlor room regularly used when Ciel was in the mood to do his work outside of his office (he was still a child, after all. He didn't always like being cooped up in an office, Bastian learned one day). It was fitted like the rest of the manor-elegant and reserved while not an object was out of place. Bastian expected nothing less from Sebastian. As the last one in, Bastian hesitantly closed the door behind him, inevitably sealing his fate.

"Sebastian," Francesca said. Bastian could not resist to look at his mother. Perhaps it was the relief in her voice or her choked rendition of his name. Yet, when he saw tears cling to the corners of her eyes and her hands clasped near her heart, a wave of guilt overcame him. His beautiful mother looked as if she aged greatly since he last saw her. There were wrinkles near her eyes and mouth that had not been there previously. He could say nothing, knowing he was at fault for those new additions on her complexion.

She sighed a shuddering breath as she lifted her gloved hand to his cheek. All she did was tenderly touch him yet he flinched like he was struck.

"Oh, Sebastian. I'm relieved to find you safe and well. When you disappeared I feared the worst. You did not know the world beyond our home and after all those incidents-" She swallowed. "I am happy you are unharmed. But…Why? Why did you leave?"

"Mother, I am sorry," he apologized with the deepest regret. "I did not mean to worry you and my sisters the way I did. I had no other choice. I could not bear the idea of marrying Lucinda. At the time running away from the home was the only thing I imagined would spare me from such a life."

"But to run away? We thought you were taken from us again! Can you imagine what you put us all through?" She shook her head. That made Bastian's heart plummet. She was disappointed in him. "Not only to your family but to Lucinda? While I know you are not fond of her, she thought the worst when you disappeared. How do you think she will be when she discovers you disappeared to avoid marrying her? Oh, my son! You have made a great error because of your thoughtless behavior."

"I know." Bastian hung his head in solemn silence. Everything his mother said was true. He was selfish in his decision to run away from his family home. It back lashed in a way that damaged everyone who cared about him. Only now did he begin to see the negative effects. He was so focused on his present life he forgot about the people he loved. But, considering the events of the past few months, he was not to blame for forgetting. Still… "Mother, I apologize for everything. I accept the fact I hurt not only you and my sisters but my betrothed as well. I cannot take back the pain and I will regret hurting you for the rest of my days. But, I do not regret my decision."

"Sebastian?"

"Bastian, Mother. I go by Bastian now," he informed her, smiling. "With my new name I have created a life where I am happy with the things I do. The moment I left my childhood home I abandoned the name Sebastian Lorenzo Emrys, the heir of House Emrys. Now, I am simply Bastian Dupree, a humble servant to Earl Ciel Phantomhive and I am proud of that more than my title as Lord Sebastian Emrys."

Bastian no longer cared for his noble title. He saw it as nothing more than as who he was before-a naïve child who had stars in his eyes to cringe from cruel reality. After living on the streets and discovering he was a woman's reincarnation, he knew better now. That did not mean he was a mature adult yet as he knew he was still innocent in some aspects of life. However, he knew enough that he was no longer the child he once was.

Francesca looked as if she did not know how to respond to his declaration. It was the first time. It was the first time he ever saw her speechless. When she spoke after several moments it was to Ciel.

"Lord Phantomhive, I hope you did not persuade my son to leave his home to come work for you on the terms you would grant him freedom?" she questioned in subtle accusation.

"No," Ciel denied. Bastian almost forgot he was in the room as well. He stayed silent in his chosen spot on the couch. "From what I gathered, your son left on his own accord. I know you sent me a letter to meet so you could accuse me of kidnapping your son. However, I had no hand in his disappearance."

"Mother, how did you know I would be in the young master's care?" Bastian asked. He was still curious how she knew he was there with the Phantomhives.

The corner of her mouth twitched at the title he gave to Ciel. "During the last ball of this year's Season, Alyssa said she encountered you. Even after you quickly departed, she saw your face and knew. Rebecca also saw you with the young lady who had an uncanny resemble to Lord Phantomhive."

Both Bastian and Ciel flushed under her knowing look. Ah, so she knew they were both dressed as women at that time. If Bastian ever questioned his mother and sisters' intelligence, he certainly knew better now. But, one thing about her evidence bothered him.

"I never bumped into Alyssa. How could I have been…" he trailed off. He remembered he currently had a doppelganger who was his supposed twin. Heat and anger swelled to his cheeks. "Viola…"

That was the only possible explanation. Viola was the one to make contact with Alyssa! How dare she! Why hadn't she told him she spoke to his sister that night? Now she ruined his chances of staying hidden! What a reckless, troublesome girl she was!

There was a knock on the door that interrupted his rising anger. After Ciel said, "Enter!" it opened. As if she knew she was being thought of, Viola hesitantly opened it wide for her to enter with a tea cart, plates of cake and a tea set arranged on it.

"Young master, Mr. Sebastian thought you and your guest would like some refreshments," she said, polite. Her usual exuberance was reserved as she was cautious of Francesca, who was displeased with her presence. "Um, Bastian, did you tell her the truth? About why you ran away?"

"Somewhat," he responded, clipped. He was still annoyed about how she unknowingly placed him in such a situation.

"Ah. I see." Viola nodded, nervously. She busied herself by making a cup for Ciel. Once she finished, she handed it to him with his usual preference. She, then, smiled at his mother, though it was wary. "So, you're Bastian's mother? I can see where he gets his good looks from."

"Who are you? How do you know my son?" Francesca demanded. Bastian began to get worried at this point. His mother was normally kind and gentle even to strangers. This would not bode well for Viola if Francesca behaved in such a manner.

"Oh! I'm Viola Dupree. I, ah, met your son before he decided to leave home. Our meeting was unexpected, but-" Before Viola could finished, she was abruptly silenced when Francesca stepped forward. No one in the room anticipated the slap she delivered to Viola. Viola herself stared at his mother in shock and Bastian reeled back at the hatred and disgust his mother gave.

"How dare you! You're the one who seduced Sebastian to leave!" Francesca accused. "You even had the gall to persuade him to marry you in order to change his name! How dare you take advantage of my son! You are a despicable woman and you should be ashamed for taking advantage of his innocence!"

"Mother!" Bastian yelled. How could she accuse Viola of such things? It pained him when he saw his niece touch her bright red cheek gingerly.

"Why is it," Viola began, her eyes blinking rapidly, "every time I meet a new family member I get slapped? First my grandmother, then Bastian. And now you?"

She stopped herself. Breathing a shaky breath, she turned on her heel and fled from the room.

"Viola!" Bastian didn't need to question if she was upset from his mother's words. He felt it. Now that he knew he was Viola's incarnation he could somewhat understand her emotions better. They might have had different lives, but they were similar. After all, they were the same person. If he were in her position, he would be upset as well. Those insults were directed not only at Viola but to him as well. And that he could not stand for.

He made to follow after her. His mother's voice stopped him from taking a step.

"Sebastian, let us return home," she said, her tone firm. "You do not need to pretend to love that woman. You are free from her. As for your marriage with Lucinda, we will find a way to end it without hurting her or shaming our family name."

"I don't care about that, Mother! And I am not returning home!" Bastian burst out. He sighed heavily to stop himself from raising his voice. "Viola and I are not married, but I do love her as if she were family. You had no right to say such things to her nor slap her. I will not leave Viola nor will I return home. Now, please go."

"But, Sebastian-"

"No, Mother. My decision is final. Now, please leave before you make any more wild accusations that are far from the truth."

Bastian ignored her face full of devastation as he ran out of the room. Just as he expected, the hallway was empty.

Well, no matter. I know where she is.

Nodding to himself, he headed off to the one place he was certain he would find Viola: the kitchen. He discovered the night they returned from Lord Druitt's ball, Viola would eat when she got upset. She said after she was kidnapped a few times, police officers would give her food to calm her from her traumatic experience. It became a habit for her to turn towards food after such events to distract herself. Considering she was slapped by his mother-her ancestor-he knew this counted as traumatic.

Arriving at the main kitchen, he found his assumption was correct. Viola was inside by herself. She was cutting a slice of a round cake when she noticed him by the doorway.

"Oh, hey, Bastian. Want some?' she asked. She pulled her lips in a smile but winced. The red mark on her cheek must have hurt.

He nodded, entering the room. He approached Viola like one would approach an injured animal, coming to a stop at the counter by her elbow. She kept her gaze to the cake when she spoke.

"So, how come you're here when you could be spending time with your mother? You must be pretty happy you get to see her after so long."

"After what she did to you, I would rather not see her," Bastian said. He lifted a hand to her bright cheek gently, but stopped when she flinched. "I apologize for her actions. Mother had no right to accuse you of such things."

"It's fine, Bastian. It's not the first time I've been slapped. I mean, you did but I don't take offense to it."

"Still, it was unacceptable of her to accuse you when she knew nothing of our situation!"

"Really, it's fine." Viola finished cutting the cake to set two slices on plates. Then, she hopped on the counter to sit, took a plate and fork, and began to eat. "Your mother's just worried about you. I'm not surprised she jumped-"

She stopped suddenly. Bastian was confused as she had a look of perplexion. Her fork lay still between her lips. Viola took it out and examined the cake.

"Did Mr. Sebastian make this cake?"

"I believe so," Bastian answered. He peered down at the impeccable white cake. Though cut up, he made out the words 'birthday' and 'Ciel.' "I supposed he made a birthday cake in advance for Ciel. Why? Is it not satisfactory?"

"It is, but…It tasted familiar."

"How so?"

"The flavor and the way it's made reminds me of the sweets my friend would give me. His cousin made the sweets. My friend isn't fond of them so he gave them to me." She shook her head with sight and continued to eat it. "I'm more homesick than I thought. Like sweets cant taste exactly the same. Speaking of which, are you going home?"

Bastian, who took a seat on the counter as well, was caught off guard by her question.

"Pardon? Why would I return home?"

"You've been found out. I'm sure your mother wants you to go home and there's no point in hiding now that she knows."

And there it was. The very dilemma Bastian did not know how to resolve. He knew his efforts to hid were no longer effective now that he was found. There was no more reason to continue this charade. Yet, there was a reason why he had to continue.

"Yes, that is true," he acknowledged. "I considered going home once I realized it was fruitless to remain hidden. But, I shall not."

"But, why? There's nothing stopping you from going. Why stay here?"

"I remain here because leaving would result in leaving behind the one person I truly trust with my entire being."

"Who?"

"I believe you know the answer." To give her further hints he grabbed her slack hand that no long held a plate (she had finished her cake already) in a gentle grip. He met and held her gaze in firm confidence.

The exact replica of his eyes widened in a flash of realization.

"Me?" she sputtered. "You're staying because of me? Why?"

"Other than the fact you are my reincarnation?" he questioned back. "Viola, you are family. Over the past few months, I have come to care for you. I am your only family who knows of your true heritage. I shall not leave you behind when you are in a position where you are surrounded by people you cannot rely on."

Viola was from the future. Since he was the first to discover she was not of his era, he felt responsible for her. She knew little of his time and he knew she was frightened beyond belief. No matter what brave façade she put up she was still a frightened girl out of her time. When he saw this Bastian vowed he would not leave her on her own.

"Bastian, are you sure?" Viola asked, hesitant in her words. "I mean, I appreciate it. I do! But, you don't have to stay. You miss your family, right? You'd be giving up ever seeing them again. I'm not worth it."

"Viola Elizabeth Emrys, never say that again," Bastian reprimanded. He slapped his palm on her hand as a warning. "Never say you are worthless. You are my niece. I refuse to leave you here alone. I have already bit my former life farewell. Mu place is here with you. Nowhere else. It is worth everything to remain by your side until you return to your time."

"Bastian…" She bit her bottom lip, eyes blinking rapidly once more. Then, she laughed. "I'd say I didn't know you cared except that's a lie. You're me so you have to care. That would be like self-harm if you decided you didn't care."

"Well, there is that," Bastian chuckled. He was still unnerved they were essentially that same person from different time periods. Not only that, they lived in the same home as the demon when their first life made a contract with. It was unbearable to even think about it. However, Bastian was not alone in his turmoil. Viola was there in this surreal experience and vice versa. He took comfort in that knowledge.

As long as Viola was by his side, it was enough to bear it.


XXX


...Yeah, I have no excuse.

I realize it's been months since I updated and I'm sorry for that. I got distracted with school and my KH story. I got more excited writing that than this, but I recently needed a break from all the action. This chapter also refused to work with me. I didn't know how to write it and I finally managed to figure out how I want this chapter to go...Kind of. That's probably why it ended up this long. Since I already have the next chapter planned, it won't take as long to update.

Again, sorry for the long update and I hope you enjoyed this long chapter.