Lady Keiko here...
In honors of Veterans day, I'm posting this chapter ahead of schedule. I hope everyone had a great week so far. Another thing, if you didn't already know, the new Breaking Dawn pt. 2 is going out in theaters! Whoot! Can't wait to see Reneesme! Also, I sincerely apologize for not uploading any pictures. I promise that this time for sure, before Wednesday I'll have it on my DA account!
ravenscry21: Thanks and will do!
xxfallenangelmayxx: *blushes* Wow thank you! I'm glad you like the story and find Hero to your liking. And the competition cracks me up too. As for Alois and Claude, I know what you mean. They may be psychotic but I just love them (specially Alois!). And I'm happy to know that Ciel pleases his audience, even though he isn't really aware he's being "watched" lol. Thanks for your feedback! I really appreciate it!
RandomCitizen: Greh, I know how you feel! I'm like that too. And I really can't wait for the Alois and Claude bit, but that won't be for a while. Oh well! And yes dearie, demons are harsh.
Daisylovesu: Thanks dude! You don't know the relief those kinds of words give me. I'm always paranoid about long chapters. But now I can rest easy!
Paxloria: I'm glad you think so!
bored411: Thanks and don't worry about haters too much. The world is full of them. And trust me, Sebby was very pissed at Hero getting hurt but boy knew that killing wouldn't solve anything (at least not yet). Fear not I'll write some of Hero's life before the orphanage (Circus arc!) soon.
AshesAndDreams: Well you have to remember, Sebby being a demon and all he hasn't really experienced love yet but don't worry, the feeling is coming, slowly but surely. Will Claude and Alois be there? Maybe not now but soon ^.^ And thanks for checking on this whole similar issue thing. It's really reassuring that my story is my own. Thanks for worrying and don't worry, speak your mind out.
Ame – Rain – Chan: Glad you likin' Soma and Agni. I know some people were extremely happy of the Sebby x Hero. Even if your strength lies in drawing, draw comics man! They're the best thing next to writing (and I'm trying to improve my own skills too).
nomer: Omg I have an Asian fan! I feel so specials! Lol thanks though. Your concern means a lot to me and your right. Haters can keep on hatin' and I won't let them spoil the story for the rest of the populas (after all, life can be stressful; I remember when I was high school, i.e. like five months ago ^.^).
ScarletNinja1026: Thanks!
PhantomGirl17: Lol, I had a feeling you'd enjoy the Sebby x Hero moment. I find myself a little excited with what Ciel's going to do too.
Anime Hottie Lovah: LMFAO! People keep saying that and I find it super funny; mainly because the thought is so ludicrous. I should have Hero tell Claude that. Wonder what he'd say XD
Grey: So I'm assuming you were Guest (11/3, #2). Judging by your response I can say you really didn't read anything I wrote. But whatever. At this point all I can give you is a hug and hope your life goes well and try not to hate on other authors for the sheer joy of it. If you have a concern, simply state it and not insult them. No one likes being insulted. Though I've never had haters before, this has been really educational for me. And I sincerely thank you for remembering to review your concern once! There is hope in the world after all!
Harrietty: Thanks! And I'm curious as to what Hero would think of it also.
EndlessMonochrome: O.O Well that caught me off guard! Okay let's start with the pros. One, I'm really happy that my long chapters are to your satisfaction. And that they're original is a plus too! Many people have been telling me that they like it so that leaves me smiling. Two, yes! The canon characters are not ooc! Mission accomplished! Three, I'm happy that Hero is keeping people on their toes, specially yours. And I'm also glad she's relatable, makes her more likeable. Now on to the cons. One, sorry if it sounded that way. Hero meant to generalize that to Amanda in specific (since it's true in Manda's case; woman cannot leave her house without the basic essentials on, but you guys didn't know that). Two, Amanda can sound that way since it's generally her personality, but she means well! And even though nothing tragic has happened in her life there's a reason for the way she is and acts. I probably won't mention that now or any time soon, but it will be explained later on as the story progress (you'll see!). And you do have a point, every side character needs a little something sad in their bio (and I thought Amanda's was quite interesting, especially when she first met Hero). Anyways, thanks for stating your concerns. It's interesting to address them since I've never really thought of it. And thanks for the score!
Aquarius-Otter: Thanks!
Rainbow Dash 123 123: Will do! And thanks!
FallenOkami: Congrats on your new account and welcome, officially, to the world of Fanfiction! And worry not, there's a reason why our handsomely pedophilic Claude was shown briefly. And I like Hanna too, especially the triplets XD! Can't wait to write about them, but that won't be for a while though. Oh well!
Luna Lucia: Thanks for voicing your concern and your right, haters will always hate. I'm glad you decided to check and confirm that my story is my own. I sort of don't have much time to sit down and read as I'd like. And I'm glad you're enjoying the story and it makes me super happy to know I'm not failing on anything major. One more thing, OMFG your German that's so effin' cool! I know what Germany did in the past was bad but hey it ain't your fault and most of the citizens couldn't stop it even if they wanted to. I blame dictatorism. So enjoy your life man and keep on smilin'!
Crazyblondefanfictionlover10 1: Responsible? Poor Hero is terrified! Who knows what other acts of intimacies Sebby has in mind! The girl wasn't considered much girlfriend material back home, the poor dear (being a major tomboy and having a dad as a cop mad boys turn the other way). Oh well! And Ciel was definitely sulking, lol. As for Hero being in danger, as long as they don't meet again and he doesn't realize she's a demon mate then she's good…for now. And Mickey Mouse rocks!
cool4good: Actually I do have some original stories written up (they're not exactly finished), but they're not posted anywhere. If you want I could post them on fictionpress (I have a short story that I wrote for a contest once; it's only a one shot though) and finish them up there. It'll definitely be an interesting experience for me. So just let me know and I'll be happy to do it.
AngelSayori: Sup girl! Categorizing:
Ch. 11 - :D Glad you like the Hispanic fury! It occurred to me that I haven't seen Hero get mad yet so I couldn't resist! And Agni is such a sweetheart! Soma will probably annoy the heck out of Ciel but Sebby seems pretty chill. He doesn't consider the prince as competition (demon pride and what not). Also, Hero would have loved to not participate but Sebastian's really determined to teach her something. I wonder how that will turn out. Good luck Sebby! And I also feel bad for Ciel. He was so close! Lol. Happy to hear that you like Hero spicing up the Kuroshitsuji life!
Ch. 12 – Yes. Claude was definitely there, but I'll only do Seasson 2 (freakin' anime scares me! There was so much going on and most of it was creepy!). So it's just the manga. Hero will definitely be able to stomach Sebastian's cooking (she's a lover of food if you couldn't guess). And thanks for checking up on the issue of similarities. I've read her story months ago but I only remember big events now. Either way, thanks for the encouragement! It's refreshing to know my story is my own. Oh and I fixed that mistake you pointed out! You're right. It is Faustus! Thanks!
Well thanks everyone! You've been a great audience and I love hearing from you! And thank you closet readers as well! Your amazing! Now let's get on with the story!
Disclaimer: I do not own Kuroshitsuji (le sigh~)
13. Every Tummy Ready?
Because of the escapade of two nights ago, I couldn't sleep properly at night (my body was still alert at night ever since it became aware how late I stayed up; which is kind of why I enforce these "in bed before eleven" rules upon myself back home). In fact I don't think I slept much at all. Therefore when Sebastian went to wake me up this morning I almost bit his hand off. I told him that he'd better give me another hour or I was going crazy Hispanic girl on someone (Amanda's really good doing the crazy white girl version).
Sebastian had merely chuckled and Ciel coincided that I'd get one hour…and that's it. Goodness they were worse than Grandma Sanders! I had rolled my eyes but slept peacefully for that delicious hour…until Mey-Rin was ordered to wake me up.
"No!" I groaned, hugging my Sebby and Ciel pillow (yes, it's still with me and when Mey-Rin had to wash it she had been staring at Sebastian's picture for over an hour until I had found her by chance). "It's too soon."
"Oh but I have food that Mister Sebastian had instructed I give yo—"
Before she finished that I sat up straight in bed. "Food? Why didn't you say that sooner?"
And that's what had me preparing for the day after I had inhaled the food. I did my morning stretches behind the Chinese screen as I multitasked and got dressed. Today's outfit consisted of long khaki pants, boots and a half dress all without a corset. Even though I had slept for a little bit, I was feeling all ready for the day, but most of all, I was all ready for the curry Sebastian would be making! Yum!
"Hey do you know where everyone's at?" I asked her as we walked down the hall. Since it's been two days the timeline of how the manga went got messed up in my head.
"They're outside after a shipment of spices arrived," she answered. "And there's so much of it!"
I smiled after snapping my fingers. Oh that's right! "Looks like Sebastian's going to have to work hard."
We arrived outside to find everyone gawking at the spices, minus Sebastian and Ciel. Prince Soma was staring at some spices cupped into his hand. "I've seen all these back home in my country!" he exclaimed in awe.
"Morning everyone!" I called.
Prince Soma looked up and smiled. "Good morning Hero!"
"So you're finally awake," commented Ciel as he stood next Lau. I walked over to them and looked at the bags bulging of spices.
"Yeah, yeah. I think my body's back on track though. It'd be nice if those midnight adventures can wait awhile," I went over to a bag filled with cinnamon. "Oh wow! This stuff sure is filled to the brim and it be smellin' good."
"Indeed," agreed Sebastian, cupping some basil leaves. "Each one has such a beguiling perfume. These spices are indeed the finest money can buy."
"To have me collect this all in a span of a day…what a slave driver you are, Lord Earl!" Lau remarked. "Spices are outside my area of expertise you know. Oh the trouble I had to go through to get these!"
"I suppose even you have uses in times like these," Ciel added with a smirk.
"Oh play nice Ciel," I told him. "Lau's also great company!" Not to mention comic relief.
Ciel scoffed and Lau gave me a slight bow.
"Thank you Miss Hero. I am glad someone thinks so. Of course, having the Funtom Company owe me one isn't a bad thing," Lau admitted.
I noticed Bard struggling with a few bags so I went over and offered him my help.
"No need, Miss Hero," he said through a strained voice. "You just relax. This is man's work."
I rolled my eyes but smiled. "Oh nonsense! As Agni said, with more help we can finish this faster." I turned and grabbed a couple of bags that had been stacked and lifted them into the air with ease. Bard looked dumbfounded and I giggled as I happily followed Finny inside. It didn't take long to have all the bags inside. Sebastian, Finny, and I had everything inside in less than ten minutes (once Bard finally made it inside and dropped his load we were officially done).
Once Sebastian allayed Prince Soma's worries about getting all this done somewhat, he began his brilliant demon butler magic. Lau, Ciel, Prince Soma and I waited in the drawing room. It was there where Ciel taught me how to play old maid. Due to the fact that I don't play much card games other than Uno and Go Fish, it was really no surprise that I lost…every…single…game. So instead I decided to teach the boys how to play Texas Hold 'Em (when I had been infiltrating the Hard Rock casino, one of the nice card dealers taught me how to play the game); to bet we wrote on a sheet of paper what we would be owing the winner (which was obvious that it was between me and Ciel). And as we played, I relished in my victories until this crafty kid Ciel eventually had the tables turned and kept beating me.
"What are you? A card whiz or something?" I muttered as I lost again.
Ciel smirked. "I told you I don't lose easily."
"What a complicated game," Prince Soma commented. "I just lost two fine elephants."
I sweat dropped and Ciel looked blue. "You can keep those if you'd like," he said generously.
"Well I for one am impressed," Lau added with his go lucky face. "I now owe the Earl a good two hundred pounds."
"You didn't have to bet so high ya know," I told him, sweat dropping as well.
"Hmph. He expected me to pay him that sum if I lost," Ciel revealed, a little miffed.
"Ah! I've been caught! But I'm curious, what did Hero bet?" Lau asked as he leaned forward and grabbed the piece of paper I had placed in the center of the table.
"No!" I shouted as I practically threw myself on the table to stop Lau from reading it. But the bastard had a quick arm. In no time he was not only reading it, but his shoulders were shaking in laughter as he had his hand over his mouth. I looked on in horror as my face became beat read. "Don't you dare say anything!"
"What is the big fuss?" Prince Soma inquired as he snatched the paper. He read it and his brows rose to his hairline. "Oh my!"
"I only wrote it because I thought Ciel would lose and I would win!" I explained hastily.
"What is it?" Ciel demanded. I was about to snatch the paper back when he grabbed it before I did. I buried my face in my hands as he read the paper. I had written the following:
Yo Ciel,
Because I'm broke and I don't really have money, I'll give you the one thing you wish you could get, a Kiss. But good luck dude! I highly doubt you'll win seeing as I've been playing this game longer then you have. And I take my Kisses very seriously [insert evil laugh here].
So…yeah, Hero out!
Ciel blinked. "Your handwriting needs work and what kind of a greeting and closing is that?"
I flushed. "Is that the only thing you took notice?"
Ciel looked at me and smirked. "Of course not. I find it highly amusing that you thought I would lose. You've only just dug yourself in a bigger grave."
I huffed, curl briefly in the air before settling on my forehead again. "Well what did you expect?"
"Nevertheless I shall collect my spoils later," he declared with a smug face. I blushed but looked away. Dang, I had to give up a Kiss now.
"Anyone up for another round?" Lau asked.
Prince Soma and I paled and shook our heads. It was at that moment that Sebastian came in the room. "My apologies for having kept you waiting," he announced. "I present to you a curry of tender chicken stewed with spices and savour of onions. I topped it off simply with some coriander and yogurt."
Prince Soma was the only one who looked shocked at Sebastian's presence. I simply clapped my hands. "Yay! Food!"
"You're done already? It's only been about two hours since you began—"
Sebastian sighed tiredly. "Yes, it unfortunately took me a full two hours. Please forgive me for forcing you to wait for so long."
"It's alright Sebastian. Besides this smells great!" I complimented as he placed a plate full in front of me.
Prince Soma inhaled deeply. "Yes…and this aroma, it's…almost like Agni's curry." He opened his eyes. "How in the world…and in such a short time…"
Sebastian smirked. "It was simple. I just sampled all the spices," he admitted, as if tasting seventy odd number of spices in one minute were no big deal.
"You mean each and every one of them? The whole lot?"
"Yes. To return to the point at hand, I then blended the spices to match the fragrance of the curry Mister Agni cooked for breakfast the other day as closely as possible."
"And that was all it took to recreate the aroma?"
Sebastian lightly tapped the tip of his nose. "My sense of smell is a tad better than most humans."
"Alright, point taken people. Now let's just eat!" I insisted.
We all took a bite and Lau was the first to exclaim that it was delicious. I seconded that, squealing in my mind like some fan girl that I was eating Sebastian's curry and it was good too. Sebastian looked to Prince Soma, inquiring his take on the curry. The Indian prince shook his head.
"This won't do. The aroma is well and good but…the taste is a whole other story."
"Is that so? Then let us try a spice blend that has a similar aroma but will create a different taste," Sebastian suggested.
Prince Soma looked down. "If only there was even one thing I knew about the way Agni prepares his curry…but I, utterly ignorant as I am…cannot do anything for you no matter how much I should like. And once again, here I am, having to depend on you lot—"
"I wouldn't berate yourself too soon, Prince Soma," I said, having finished my curry in record time. "You've definitely got some use and Sebastian plans on using that." I looked up and smiled at the demon butler. "Isn't that right Sebby?"
Sebastian gave Prince Soma his most angelic and breathtaking evil smile. "Certainly Miss Hero. There are yet things that only Prince Soma can do."
Ten minutes later, Sebastian introduced to Prince Soma the twenty-one different types of curry he had made and placed on a large table. The poor boy looked shocked as he stared at the huge quantity of curry. Sebastian still had that evil innocent smile on his face. "Here I have made a selection curries that have a similar aroma but differ in flavor. Please sample them and choose the one that tastes most like Mister Agni's curry."
"You made them all? By yourself?"
Sebastian still had his angel smile on. "Yes. I am the butler of the Phantomhive family, wherever would we be if I as unable to manage something as simple as this?"
"But…I don't think I can eat all of this by myself…"
I patted the Indian prince's back roughly as I smiled cheerfully. "Don't worry! I'll be more than happy to help you finish."
"I have no doubt that Miss Hero will lend her fullest support," Sebastian commented, knowing full well how I adore food. "But Prince Soma, your cooperation is necessary so that we may create a divine curry as soon as possible."
"Yeah man! Suck it up and be a man!" I encouraged as I smacked his back roughly. Prince Soma looked shaken but his features were set in determination.
"Very well! As Hero's husband I have much to prove! Therefore I shall eat as much curry as necessary if my eating curry is of use to you!"
I giggled at his sillies and Sebastian merely chose to ignore his statement. In the background Ciel looked slightly annoyed at Prince Soma's choice of words. Lau just chuckled. "Aren't competitions fun?"
Ciel narrowed his eyes. "Only when I do the winning."
Eventually the boys left and I stayed behind to lend Prince Soma and Sebastian a hand. With my tummy that my dad likes to call a bottomless pit, I knew I'd be a big help.
"First we have the curry from before with salt turmeric and coriander added," Sebastian presented to us.
Responses:
Prince Soma: "The taste is too heavy, and it's too spicy hot."
Me: "Wow, this kind of taste like barbecued hot wings!"
The B-MR-F trio agreed.
"The next candidate boasts a mildness thanks to addition of coconut milk and yogurt."
Prince Soma: "It taste better but the aroma isn't even close."
Me: "I can't believe I just ate something with coconut milk in it! Do you know how many calories it contains?"
Mey-Rin: "Calories?"
Me: "Trust me, you don't want to know."
"A-hem, moving right along…next we have a spicy curry of cumin and cinnamon."
Prince Soma: "Now I feel like…it's not hot enough."
Me: "You call this spicy? For shame! And who puts cinnamon in heavy food? Except my dad that is?"
Mey-Rin was down for the count while Bard and Finny kept going.
"My apologies for the wait…I have prepared this with red peppers and cloves to taste."
Prince Soma: "The flavor is too much…and heavy…"
Me: "Mm, he's got a point. Feels like something is stuck in my throat."
Bard was out and the last one standing was Finny. It seemed like forever but we managed to get through a bulk of the curry. Prince Soma was slumped on the table, looking a little green around the gills. "I think I'm full up to the gills with curry...," he muttered.
I sat next to him, looking as fresh as a daisy and totally ready for more. "Oh come, come Dr. Watson," I quoted.
Prince Soma looked up in confusion. "Who?"
I smiled. "Sherlock Holmes reference, don't mind me!"
Sebastian suddenly appeared out of thin air before us with another plate of curry. "Come you two, the next curry awaits," he said with a merry face. Prince Soma paled and I giggled. As Sebastian placed the plates in front of us, something must have caught Prince Soma's attention because he looked quite alert then. "I added cardamom and garlic."
"This curry is…different from all the others I've had today…!" Prince Soma exclaimed as he sat up.
"…?"
I smiled knowingly as I ate my own dish and boy was it delicious! I never had such fine curry before but that's mostly because my dad isn't big on fiery foods (the only spicy thing he can stomach is hot wings which is funny because Grandma Sanders is a notorious hot food lover; she eats almost everything spicy!). I came out of my reverie and noticed that Prince Soma was having his moment.
"Prince…Soma?" called Sebastian.
"This…this curry…it tastes very much like the curry I used to always eat…like Agni's curry!" Prince Soma explained.
The B-MR-F trio bombarded a pondering Sebastian.
"You did it, Mister Sebastian!" cheered Finny.
"That's our butler for ya!" Bard boasted.
"Still, to have to go to such lengths to achieve the right blend of spices…," Mey-Rin admired with a blush.
"But…?" I egged Prince Soma as I finished up my plate. Yum!
"But it's still not quite right," the Indian prince added seriously. "The taste, the aroma, the heat…are indeed the same as Agni's. However…something is still missing!"
"And that 'something' would be?" Sebastian probed.
Prince Soma crossed his arms. "To answer your question…hm, how would I put it? Maybe that the savouriness and flavor of Agni's curry are more profound…yes, that's it! The body! This curry lacks body!"
"Body?" Sebastian repeated as he loomed over Prince Soma. The boy flinched, but steadily replied with a positive. Sebastian thought long and hard about it. The taste must be the same but the body differ? How vague…giving themselves over to senses that are indescribably nonsensical and impossible to understand…This is why creatures called humans are…Sebastian trailed off. Now what was he to do?
I grinned mischievously. "Now here's where things get crackin' huh Sebby?"
"In a spot of trouble, are we?" called a voice from the doorway. We all turned to find Ciel and Lau over by the threshold to the kitchen. "How goes it?"
"Young master," Sebastian called. "The kitchen is no place for you…"
"Ciel!" I shrieked in joy as I hugged the adorable shota. "Dude you missed out on all the curry! And did you somehow become more adorable in the span of an hour or two?"
Ciel sighed but allowed himself to get crushed in the hug. He really had to get some sort of response from her other than feelings one might harbor toward a puppy. Once he was released, he saw what Sebastian had been doing it. He dipped his finger and licked it. He smirked at his butler. "Three days till the curry fair, hm? Do the best you can and keep at your research."
Sebastian didn't look non too comforted.
Ciel began to walk away when he turned back. "Aah, yes, that reminds me. I would like Gateau au Chocolate for my afternoon snack."
"Chocolate cake?" I translated, knowing that gateau meant cake and chocolate meant…well, chocolate. What else?
"Yes. Be sure to have it ready for me when I return from my errand."
I paused, my brows furrowing. Errand? What errand? Sebastian looked somewhat surprised but more worried about not accompanying his master more than anything else; which means he was in on it too. I turned toward Ciel, hands on hips. "Uh excuse me but what errand?
"One I've scheduled for today. Don't worry, it shouldn't take more than half an hour to wrap up," he said coolly as he walked out of the room.
What? What in the world? I ran after him. "What do you mean? Don't you need Sebastian or something?"
"I'm taking Bard to drive the carriage, nothing more should be necessary. You can stay here Hero and help Sebastian with the curry," he added.
I gaped. Ciel was telling me to stay with Sebastian? Alone? Surely the zombie apocalypse was upon us! "Wait are you serious? I'm sure whatever it is you're doing I can come along too. I mean, I don't mind and you shouldn't go out alone."
Ciel turned around and very seriously said, "Hero, I am serious. Stay here with Sebastian. When I come back we can eat the gateau together and know I shall collect my spoils then," he added with a smirk before he continued to walk away.
I was left speechless, mouth agape as I stared at his retreating back. Oh my gosh! Did that adorable little shota just reject my company? I feel so…rejected. Never mind that he intended to collect on that Kiss later. Lau came up from behind and chuckled good-naturedly.
"My, that errand must be awfully important, not to mention top secret," Lau remarked. "To think he'd reject the lovely Miss Hero! Do you intend to stay behind?"
I whirled on the Asian. "Of course not! Now I'm dying with curiosity! I intend to follow him and see why my company wasn't good enough for this little expedition. Besides, without Sebastian he needs some sort of protection." I added as I dashed to my room and quickly changed to detective extraordinaire worthy clothes.
Soon, with Lau's energetic company, we followed the little Earl on his mysterious errand.
"What in the world is he doing in Hyde Park?" I said aloud.
"Mm, perhaps he is waiting for someone?" Lau suggested.
Lau and I were hidden behind a cluster of bushes as we observed Ciel standing around in his little top hat and cane, looking entirely bored and entirely impatient. We had followed Ciel's carriage by cab (no not the black modern British ones, the really old fashioned ones) all the way to Hyde Park which gave both Lau and I quite a surprise. While Bard had waited in the carriage, my temporary Dr. Watson and I followed little blue boy as he walked to a fairly empty but public walkway. It's been over five minutes and I was absolutely curious to see who he was going to meet. Was it some suspicious underworld person? But if that was so wouldn't he need Sebastian? Omfg what was this kid up to?
"Now people are coming through," Lau added.
"And still no person judging by Ciel's face," I said mulishly.
A gentleman who had been walking with a lady spotted our heads sticking out from the bushes. The poor couple became startled and quickly walked away. I wouldn't blame them if we looked suspicious. I was dressed like some boy from East End, Sherlock Holmes hat and knapsack present along with my hair sticking out at odd ends. But I paid them no mind as I stared fiercely at Ciel's back. The boy must have sensed something because he turned around in confusion. Lau and I quickly ducked and waited until the little Earl's defenses were down. Lau was the first to look up and I saw his eyebrows touch his hairline.
"Well, now. This is certainly interesting."
I looked up as well and gasped dramatically. "Oh my gosh is that—"
"It certainly is."
Elizabeth Midford walked forward, a cheerful smile on her face as she greeted Ciel. His features softened a little and he returned the greeting.
"Maybe it's a coincidence," Lau suggested brightly.
Then Lizzy squealed and glomped Ciel, thanking him for meeting her here.
"So much for coincidence," I muttered. "I can't believe this! Ciel's cheating on me and we haven't even begun dating!"
"I'm so glad you could meet me out here," thanked Lizzy as she gazed at Ciel. Her former fiancé. Just the thought of thinking those words hurt her so much but she knew that this would have one day come. She had hoped it never would though. She had hoped that they would marry and that Ciel would come to love her. It had been her dream. It always has been ever since she first met Ciel; blue eyes bigger than his adorable smile as he greeted her for the very first time as toddlers of three. Her heart squeezed tightly in her chest as she watched him stand before her, all handsome in his too cute outfit!
She would have hugged him again, just for the sake of it, but she knew he would not appreciate it. So instead she smiled.
"Of course. I owe you as much," Ciel replied back. Even though he had broken his engagement with Elizabeth, he still felt guilty for doing it so sudden. He owed her a face to face confrontation rather than let Aunt Francis take care of things. Elizabeth was family to him and he cared for her like a cousin. Alas that was all he felt for her. He knew she wanted him to feel what she felt but the feeling just wasn't there. And the feeling called love didn't blossom like he'd been told it would. Not like it did when he saw Hero, saw her smile, laugh. It brought warmth to his chest, just seeing her. The feeling had been at first unfamiliar but as time went by, he recognized it for what it was.
And he knew then that he couldn't possibly go through with an engagement he hadn't even wanted in the first place. He would have accepted his role dutifully had it not been for Hero. He couldn't possibly think of not having her around. And with her being Sebastian's supposed demon mate, he knew that he had to act or he'd lose her forever.
Ciel's fist unconsciously tightened. No. He'd never let that happen. Sebastian be damned.
"Ciel?"
He blinked and returned to the present, giving Elizabeth an apologetic smile. "Sorry?"
"I just thought it wonderful that we could see each other again like we did when we were children."
"Yes, but things have changed this then," he reminded her. "I've changed."
Elizabeth smiled sadly. "I'm well aware of that. I know! Why don't we take a stroll? Since we're here we might as well enjoy it. Also," she added seriously. "I need to speak with you about…you know what."
"Blast that Phantomhive!" cursed Edward Midford as he hid behind the tree on the other side of the walkway. He knew he wasn't supposed to be here, but when he heard how broken hearted his sister had been his big brother instincts took over. He took a few days off from school to deal with this matter personally. Of course his adorable sister had insisted he do no such thing and that she'd handle the matter herself. But he couldn't help but follow and make sure everything turned out all right. "To think he'd have the gall to break off the engagement to my little sister! Why I ought to—"
"Please Lord Edward," cried Paula, Lizzy's personal maid, as she hid behind the tree as well. She was here for strictly chaperone business but had taken the stealthy approach. The lady knew she was around…somewhere. "Lady Elizabeth will hear you!"
Edward continued to glare at the back of Ciel Phantomhive's head. "Tch. Still, I just can't believe it when I heard the news! I mean I knew their engagement wasn't serious or anything but Lizzy was so happy and I thought that he'd eventually go through with it. But damn! Just when you thought you knew the guy."
"I hear that he broke it off because he had fallen in love with someone else," Paula couldn't help but add. "An American I believe."
"Damn these American upstarts! What hussy stole his ice cold heart when my sweet Lizzy couldn't?"
Said American hussy, me by the way, was crushing the bush in front of her as she stared at the adorable couple before her. "What could possibly be going on? What does all this mean?" For some strange reason my heart twisted very uncomfortably and my stomach felt tight; just looking at them, all happy and in secret made my blood boil. What was I feeling? It felt so strange. "Why do I feel so mad at the situation?"
"Maybe you're feeling jealous," Lau supplied helpfully. "Could it be that you feel for the little Earl a lot more deeply then you let on?
My eyes widened as the realization hit me. "Oh my gosh! Was I jealous? But why? Only people who are in love or really creepily obsessed get jealous! And I'm not obsessed!"
"Then are you in love?"
I frowned, looking at the crushed leaves in my hand. "Am I? I don't know. I don't think I am. At least not yet. But I know I am jealous. Would I feel the same if it were Sebastian?" I asked myself, thinking upon it.
Lau simply shrugged his shoulders. "I haven't the foggiest idea, but if the Earl does end up with Lady Elizabeth, can I be included in this little competition in his place?"
I whacked the silly Chinaman on the forehead with my fan. "No!"
"The reason I wrote to you a few days ago to meet me here was so I could confront to you about the broken engagement," Lizzy began. "My mother told me about it but I…I couldn't possible leave things the way they were. I had to know the reason. Why did you do it Ciel? Why? I mean we were so happy before? What changed?"
Ciel sighed, but gazed at the cobble-stoned path before him. He knew he would have to explain himself but he hated to put Elizabeth through any pain. Unfortunately at this stage of his life, all Ciel could manage was brutal honesty. "I broke it off because I had fallen in love with someone else. I couldn't stay betrothed to you when I felt like that it especially when I intended to court her."
Lizzy's smile wavered. "Her? You mean Hero?"
"Yes."
The blonde preteen sucked in a breath. She had had suspicions but she had refused to heed them. And now to hear from his own mouth, that he was in love with her, well, it started to bring forth tears to her blue eyes. She quickly blinked them away. "Oh. I…suspected as much. She is very pretty."
Ciel glanced at her. "I hope you realize that I still care about you, but as one might a dear cousin."
And that was the last arrow to finally break her heart or in this case the dam that held her tears. Before she knew it, she started crying despite her best efforts to resist. But really how could she not cry? Her love had just told her he was in love with someone else and that he thought of her as only a cousin. And she'd spent years trying to be the perfect future wife for him! Where had she failed? How could she fail? The ton society considered her an English beauty of the highest caliber. She was wealthy and the daughter of a Marquess. She not only had fashionable cute taste in clothes, she was actually quite smart for her age. Not to mention being the strongest swordswoman of her sex, other than her mother of course (not that Ciel knew). So where in the world did she fail in securing Ciel's heart?
Ciel on the hand was silently freaking out and wondering if what he had said had been too harsh. He wondered how he should comfort her but that begged the universal question all men considered: how did one go about comforting a crying woman?
I gaped. "Lizzy's crying! She's crying! What did Ciel say? What the hell is going on!"
Lau chuckled. "Patience dearest Hero. I'm sure our Earl will use some of his debonair charm to comfort the little lady."
I gave Lau the "watchu talkin' bout Willis" look. "Are you nuts? Ciel could barely flirt with the air in front of him! Heck, my dog Noodle flirts better than he does." No seriously. Noodle's like the player dog in the neighborhood. I have to fight off the other female dogs with a stick from my property. And the dogginizer seemed quite proud of that fact.
"Sorry was I talking about the Earl? I must have mistaken him for someone else."
I face palmed. Oh Lau. I looked up and found someone running towards the unsuspecting couple. I squinted. "Hey, I think that stranger is about to attack Ciel!"
That had been the final straw! Edward charged at lightning speed toward the bastard Earl. How dare he make his cute little sister cry! He'd show that kid why one should never mess with Edward Midford!
Just as he was about to pounce on the boy, something charged at him from the side and knocked the wind right out of his lungs. But whatever it was didn't just stop, it continued to tackle him out of the pathway, startling a pair of ladies with their chaperon as he was put into a choke-hold while being dragged away toward the other grassy side of the pathway.
He was unceremoniously dropped onto the grass and just as his breath was returning, his attacker grabbed his shirt front and shook him hard. He caught a brief glimpse of burning brown eyes that screamed bloody murder before he knew he was in deep waters now.
He cried out as he was shaken and cursed at in a foreign language he assumed was Spanish. He thought his life was forfeit until an amused voice gently reprimanded his attacker.
"Now, now Hero. You'll kill the poor boy in fright if you continue on like that."
His attacker paused but then punched him a good one on the side of his face as he was let go.
"Hmpf! How dare this bastard try to attack Ciel! He's lucky I didn't cut off his balls for that stunt," came a feminine voice from his assailant as he stood up and crossed his arms over his chest.
Ordinarily, Edward would have been very much alarmed to hear such a statement but his immediate concern was the fact that his attacker was a girl. A very short girl dressed in boy's clothes. The thought would not compute through his mind.
"Lord Edward! Lord Edward there you are!" came Paula's voice as she neared where he was lying on his back. "I told you not to act too hastily. Lady Elizabeth would have been most upset to see her brother tussle with Lord Ciel."
"Wait…you're telling me this dude is Edward?" cried his attacker in horror.
"That's right," Edward confirmed as he got up, wincing slightly as he rubbed his abused cheek. "And just who are you?"
"Isn't this getting interesting," the Chinaman commented.
His female assailant huffed indignantly as she crossed her arms, as if she was the one inconvenienced. "I happen to be Earl Phantomhive's pawn, Hero Sanders, detective extraordinaire," she declared haughtily. "And I can't believe how low you'd stoop into attacking Ciel like that. Shame on you!"
"Hero you say?" Paula repeated thoughtfully for a quick second. "Oh! That's where I heard the name! You're the one Lord Ciel fell in love with aren't you? Deary! The Marchioness and Lady Elizabeth couldn't stop talking about you!"
Edward then blinked before he gawked comically and pointed in incredulity at the petite female before him. "You're the American upstart that caused the break up between my sister and Phantomhive?"
I stared at Lizzy's brother as he looked quite shocked. "And you punched me!" he added as if he just realized that. "You! A girl! An American girl!"
I pointed at him as well. "That's Miss American girl to you, sir. And you were about to attack Ciel. Sorry dude but my reflexes took over," I said by way of apology. Who'd have thought that Edward would be sneaking around and following his sister? Wasn't he supposed to be in school? I cocked my head. "So…why exactly are you here?"
"Never mind me! You're a girl and dressed so indecently!"
I rolled my eyes but smiled. "Detective extraordinaire here? Plus I'm kind of sneaking around, dresses would be cumbersome."
"Still!"
"Oh stop being a baby and man up!" I told him roughly as I took off my hat and shook my hair. The action left Edward dazed as he appeared to fully note all of my female attributes. I gave him a look that said knock it off which he quickly complied with a blush. I placed my hat over my head again before I faced him and poked him in the chest. "Now listen up man. I've come here to spy on Ciel so shut it! I wanna know why he's here meeting with Lizzy and I'll be damned if I don't get some answers."
"She's jealous," Lau added pleasantly.
"Am not!" I argued with a hot blush. "I'm just a little miffed that he would say he'll court me but here he is with Lizzy, in secret. I'd have been fine if she had come over to visit and talk but here? Alone? Now something's fishy."
We all turned around in time to see Lizzy laughing, as if she hadn't been crying moments before. Ciel was smiling faintly and we all heard her thank Ciel. She hugged him quickly before walking away with a wave as she left the pathway and to her awaiting carriage.
"Oh dear! I must get back!" cried Paula as she hurried away.
Lau laughed. "Ahahaha! So in the end Hero knows nothing about this secret assignation! You had better run Mister Edward," the Chinaman advised.
"That's Lord Edward thank you," Edward corrected, feeling as if he'd best start running, but since he didn't understand the feeling, he didn't act. It wasn't until Hero turned around that he knew. He saw an enraged Hero stare at him in a way that brought fear to his body but a mixture of something else. And later, as he was beaten to something close to a bloody pulp (a plum perhaps?), he instantly recognized the foreign feeling as Hero placed a booted foot over his chest and yelled at him in Spanish as she flailed her arms about.
Never had he encountered such a strong woman that could best him like this. She was not only strong, but quite beautiful. Her brown eyes were large and bright looking, lashes long and black. Her skin was an exotic light caramel and cheeks quite flushed from the physical exertion. That's when Edward knew he was experiencing what his father had experienced when he had been bested by his mother.
He had fallen in love with this Hero Sanders. An American no less.
So his wounds didn't hurt as much when he finally arrived home, shocking the Midford household into an uproar over his injuries. Instead he had hearts in his eyes as he remembered his little American. But that's also when he remembered two glaringly important facts:
One, that he not only had to get back to school, but two, Ciel was courting his Hero!
Blast that Phantomhive!
I sighed as I entered the kitchen after arriving from my outside excurison. Not only did I miss Ciel's reason for meeting up with Lizzy, but I'm starting to think that Edward's a sadists seeing as he started to enjoy his beatings. I clutched at my head in agony. Ugh! Why had Ciel met Lizzy in secret? And why was I so jealous! Amanda! Where are you!
I looked up to notice that the B-MR-F trio were on the floor along with a knocked out Prince Soma. Tanaka was pretty chill as he continued eating curry. I noticed Sebastian washing the dirtied dishes silently. He must be thinking about that missing something from his curry. I smiled and hopped onto the island counter, swinging my legs.
"So how'd the rest go?" I asked him, startling him from his thoughts.
He turned to look at me with an arched brow. "Where have you been?"
I waved that question away. "Places. So how's the search for the missing ingredient?"
He sighed. "At a standstill I'm afraid. I had not expected this to be so difficult."
"The best things in life are," I told him. I stayed silent for a minute. Sebastian was old enough (real age unknown) and he must understand at least the intricacies of jealousy. I cocked my head at him as I spoke again. "Um…Sebastian?"
"Yes?"
I flushed. "Do you know why people get jealous?"
Sebastian paused. "What do you mean?"
I looked at my boot. "You know….jealous? Why do people feel that way? I mean I'm not jealous…er, well I guess I am, but just a little. And I wanted to know what exactly for."
Sebastian finished with the dishes and turned to face me, face betraying nothing. "Wanted to know why you're jealous?"
I nodded.
"I see. And does this have by any chance to do with the master's errand?"
I narrowed my eyes. "Wait, how did you know about that?"
"I was aware that the master had received a letter from Lady Elizabeth a few days ago and….ah. Now I understand."
I blushed. "Well good. What does it mean?"
"It means I have to keep at my own methods if I am ever to get anywhere," he said. I was suddenly found on my back as Sebastian loomed over me. I blushed furiously as the demon butler moved between my legs. He pinned my wrists to the counter and he smirked. "Should we continue from where we left off the other day?"
"Sebastian! You stop this instant mister!" I said, turning my face away as I felt him nuzzle my jaw. "S-Sebastian!" I repeated a little less heatedly as I felt him lave my throat. I blushed at the heated contact. My legs that had been kicking against the air and counter now slowed down some. "Seriously."
He chuckled. "And why would I want to do that?"
"B-Because…," I said sluggishly as my breath hitched. Sebastian gently bit and sucked on the skin of my collarbone. I felt one of his hands travel down my side, sliding to every curve and slope until he reached my thigh where he grabbed it hooked it over his hip. That's when I knew I was in hot water! "CHOCOLATE!" I shouted as my fingers found the bowl full of chocolate and practically shoved it right under his face.
He looked at it skeptically. "If you want me to eat it off you I can happily comply but—"
"No you idiot! I mean put the chocolate in the curry! That's what your curry is missing." I told him, using the bowl as a shield as Sebastian let me sit up. Oh he was looking intrigued now. "All the natural ingredients that make chocolate is perfectly fine for curry. So once you add it Prince Soma's going to approve. Trust me."
Sebastian took the bowl and looked at it as if it made sense. I quickly escaped the kitchen, saved from nearly and possibly losing my virginity. Man that Sebastian was something serious! I was going to have to set up some boundaries or I'd never make it through this competition in tact! I opened Ciel's door to his study room and found him looking quite peeved at his work. He looked up and stood up.
"Hero! Where on earth have you been?" he demanded.
Oh yeah. I almost forgot Ciel and his clandestine meeting with Lizzy. After I beat the shit out of Edward I was so distraught that Lau invited me to drink with him. Partly curious and depressed, I went along with him, drinking only ginger ale mind you (I was still under-aged). After I realized that we'd be missed, I had dragged Lau back to the townhouse (after having to beat the women off of him with my fan). That whole ordeal probably took an extra hour long. No wonder Ciel looked peeved. He had said that we could eat the chocolate cake together.
I crossed my arms in defense, not about to look like the bad guy here. "Hold it mister! Where did you go on this errand of yours?"
He waved that away as if it were unimportant. "That doesn't matter. Everything was taken care of."
I arched a brow. "Oh really? So what exactly did you and Lizzy talk about?"
Ciel looked shocked. "How do you know about that?"
"Detective extraordinaire remember?"
He looked at me suspiciously. "Did you follow me?"
I blushed. "No!"
"Yes she did and she was quite jealous," supplied Lau (who loved pointing that little fact out) as he entered the room suddenly. "You should have seen—"
I grabbed the Chinaman swiftly and kicked him out of the room. I slammed the door in his face and whirled around with an angelic smile on my visage as I faced Ciel. "Oh dear! Lau's such a kidder huh?"
Ciel smirked as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Jealous?"
"Not of Lizzy! I was not jealous of Lizzy and you being together!" I hotly retorted, knowing it was a bold faced lie. I paused then as I looked at him. "But…why were you two together?"
"I'll answer if you give me that kiss you owe me," Ciel slyly bargained.
I blushed again. "W-Wha—you cad!" I shouted, for lack of a better word. Oh wow I was seriously starting to slip here.
Ciel shrugged. "What would you have me do? I don't think I can kiss you otherwise without having a fan in my face. And I don't believe you'd be very willing to give me another kiss of your own free will."
I looked at him, unsure of what to do. He had a point, but it was so conniving! Darn this kid! That's when I realized something that had me grinning from ear to ear. "Okay! I'll give you a Kiss! Close your eyes!"
Ciel did so and I took, with great relish, an undamaged, perfectly smooth Hershey's Kiss from my knapsack (I totally forgot I had it in there until I found it this morning) and had little boy blue kiss that. He opened his eye and stared at the object in confusion. I grinned evilly.
"Why so confused? I promised you this," I said, holding up the delicious chocolate treat in front of his face. "A chocolate Hershey's Kiss; very popular in my time and very delicious. Now tell me about the meeting!"
Ciel looked miffed. "I've been had!"
I shoved the treat in his gaping mouth. "Take that and put it in your pocket! You didn't ask why the k in the note was capitalized."
Ciel took the treat out of his mouth and scowled at it. "Damn it. Fine. I went because Elizabeth said she wanted to talk to me about the engagement."
"And? What else did you guys talk about?" I asked anxiously.
"Didn't you hear?"
"No. Some people just had to be douche bags and ruin the whole purpose of my being there," I said. "But never mind that, what about the engagement?"
Ciel leaned against his desk. "Nothing else. Apparently Lizzy knew that our betrothal had been a joke as well. Was everyone but me aware of this fact?"
I giggled. "You have to admit it's kind of funny."
Ciel sighed. "Well in the end we came to a mutual understanding that though our formal relations were over our informal connections as family and friends were not."
I blinked. "That's it?"
"Yes."
Really? I had been expecting that Lizzy had refused to call the engagement over and insisted on him honoring his duty as Earl and whatnot. Boy was this tame. I scratched my head. Well…now what? All that worrying had been for nothing. Wait, I was worried? Worried and jealous? Oh my gosh what could this mean? Madame Red! Amanda! Help?
"And Lizzy also said something about fighting for my heart."
I paled. Oh great. Apparently Lizzy was my rival now. Joy. But seriously though, how am I supposed to react to that? I coughed and looked away, feeling embarrassed and a little vexed that I now had to fight for Ciel's feelings when I didn't even know my own. "Well now isn't life a kidder? Moving right along, where's that chocolate cake?"
Ciel suddenly grabbed my wrist. "Wait, what were you expecting? That I would renew my engagement to Lizzy?"
"Uh—"
"Have you not been listening when I told you I was serious about you?"
"Um…it's kind of hard to take you seriously when, well, you have such a straight face that just so happens to be adorable," I admitted, smiling nervously. "And you're thirteen."
The little Earl sighed. "I was hoping to wait to do this but you leave me no choice. Hero, close your eyes."
I looked at him suspiciously. "Why?"
"I'm not going to kiss you if that's what you're worried about, but I will later," he warned seriously. I looked at him some more before trusting him. I closed my eyes, not sure what to expect.
"Hold out your right hand," he ordered.
I held it out, wondering what he was getting at. I felt him grab my hand and turn it over, palm down. I felt him slip something onto my fourth finger. I quickly opened my eyes and saw a golden ring circled around my digit. I held it to my face and looked at it. Huh? It was small and fit my finger perfectly. It was gold, probably eighteen karats. The design was a strange but cute one; small blue sapphires and diamonds lent the big dark blue sapphire in the middle an elegant glow. I looked up and stared at Ciel as if someone had just told me that Jose Reyes and GianCarlos Stanton from the Marlins was being traded off to some other team (sorry about the baseball reference; it's the only thing that could describe my "child you crazy" look).
"Wha—Wha—!"
"It's a promise ring," Ciel explained, blushing slightly. "I picked it up from the jewelers on my way back. I had planned to give it to you later but I suppose now would be appropriate."
My mouth still hung open in disbelief.
Ciel continued. "This ring will signify my serious intentions of making you mine. I'm not jesting. When the day comes that you choose me, I shall place it on the other hand and it will be our engagement ring."
Oh shit! I blushed furiously as I looked away. I know I said this like a bunch of times, but Ciel was seriously serious! Now what am I supposed to feel? While the shocked part of me was in a hysterical frenzy, another part of me was kind of, well…happy. Happy, worried, jealous…what could all those things mean? Was I starting to form feelings for Ciel? I pondered that a bit. But what about Sebastian? I enjoyed his company and even though he made me feel…hot, wasn't I still his demon mate? My inner me had swirly confused eyes as she fainted from the overwhelming feelings. I'm going to have to sort this out later.
I looked at the ring, finding an instant attachment and liking to it. It really was pretty…and probably expensive. I looked at Ciel. "Um, question. Why gold?"
"Gold suited you better then silver," he explained simply. "And it matches your earrings."
I blinked before I remembered that I had on my small ball-shaped earrings. They were a gift to me from Grandma Sanders when I had turned eleven. I had them on all the time so I would keep forgetting I had them on in the first place. Ciel moved so that he shifted the hair away from my face so my small earrings could be seen.
"See? Much better then silver."
I blushed again. "Okay, okay. I get your point. Now, how about that chocolate cake?"
Before I could blink, Ciel quickly stole a kiss. I gasped and looked at him accusingly. He merely smirked. "I did say I'd kiss you later."
"Ciel!"
Later that night as we all sat around for dinner, Sebastian had announced that he had created the perfect divine curry. Prince Soma looked shocked to say the least.
"You created a divine curry you say? In just one night, you've found a way to give it that kind of body?" he exclaimed.
Ciel perked up with in interest and curiosity.
"Just in my own way, but…yes."
"A-hem!" I coughed loudly. "You're welcome?"
Sebastian smiled innocently. "And of course Miss Hero helped me tremendously." I arched a brow but decided to let it go. It was actually Yana Toboso's idea, but whatever. "Please have a taste," Sebastian instructed.
I watched at Prince Soma tasted it and had his little moment. He came back with a looking of complete understanding.
"What do you think?"
"This isn't Agni's divine curry," Prince Soma ruefully admitted. "But the complex savoriness created by the spices in Indian curry remains the same while the flavoring that only an Englishman could devise brings out a whole new kind of body to the dish. This curry is worthy of being called divine in its own right. It was delicious khansama."
I snickered. "Don't you feels all specials, right Sebastian?" I took a taste of my own plate and my eyes widened in absolute astonishment. "Holy Mother of Rome! This is the best freakin' curry I've ever tasted!" I exclaimed in surprised wonder. How in the effin' world did Sebastian do this?
Sebastian chuckled. "I'm glad you're enjoying the…," he trailed off; spotting the ring on my finger (Single Ladies anyone?) as I ate his curry. His eyes narrowed in suspicion for a moment before resuming with the conversation at hand. "Curry. You did after all told me to put the most vital ingredient in the dish." With that he took out a Funtom chocolate bar (one I've been meaning to taste for a while now). "This."
"Chocolate?" everyone exclaimed in shock.
"The cacao of which chocolate is comprised was originally used as a spice due to its uniquely aromatic and savory flavor. Along with cacao, fats and oils, milk, and sugar are masterfully blended to create chocolate, which in turn contributes a rich body to the curry. Moreover, Funtom's chocolate, being top-quality as it is, contains the purest cacao. In would be hard-pressed to find something better than this chocolate to make the ultimate curry, I daresay."
"Ooh, fancy," I said.
Sebastian looked at me with a smirk. "I realized this as Miss Hero and I were tangled up in the kitchen." I blushed furiously. That bastard! "She had instructed I put the young master's requested Gateau au Chocolate in the curry."
Prince Soma nodded. "Of course my little Kali would have a hand in making the curry divine."
The demon butler chuckled. "Thus, in his own way, the young master also ended up assisting me."
"You know you could just call it chocolate cake?" I piped in as Ciel sucked in his teeth in annoyance at Sebastian's success. I giggled at his irate mood and glomped him. Gah he was just so cute! Said irate boy didn't mind the glomp, he just wished Sebastian hadn't so perfectly found a solution and created the perfect divine curry. Would have been interesting to see him lose and it would only make it more probable for the demon butler to lose in this competition for Hero's hand (by the by, did Madame Red mean marriage?).
Prince Soma looked up beat as he stood up. "Amazing Ciel! Your khansama has caught up to divine curry in just one week! Maybe he can win against Agni!"
I poked Ciel's cheek. I would have confirmed Ciel's victory but I didn't want them to get cocky just yet. Besides, a little doubt is fun. Ciel seemed to have a cool head, even with me poking his chubby cheek.
"I hate to break it to you, but this won't be enough to beat them," Ciel announced to everyone. I sat back and let him have his Lex Luther moment. "'Catching up' and 'winning' are two different things entirely. You've only just gotten to where you can compete equally with Agni and his curry of the gods. Right Sebastian?"
"Just so, sir. That is currently where I stand."
"That face…have an ace up your sleeve, do you, Master Butler?" Lau inquired with interest.
"Indeed."
Ciel lifted his spoon. "You'd better not be lying, you know?"
The evil smile appeared. "Of course. I have never told a lie." I rolled my eyes. No lies but he was still sneaky. "I shall obtain the royal warrant for Funtom Corporation. I stake my title as butler to the Phantomhive household upon it!
Ooh, things be gettin' serious now. I smiled. "Well this should be fun."
"Uwaaaaaaah!" Finny and I exclaimed like five year old children as we pointed at the Indian exhibition.
"What is that great big creature?" Finny asked, pointing to the elephant area.
"It's an elephant," I told him as I looked around everywhere. Ah! The Crystal Palace! Its sooo big and sooo….crystaly!
"Hero is correct," Prince Soma added. "It's a scared animal. We keep some at my palace too. About ten of them."
"That's crazy!" exclaimed Bard.
"Do you really keep those huge things in your house, do you?" Mey-Rin asked in shock.
Sebastian and Ciel were standing behind them. "Please do not wander off, you lot," he warned to the B-MR-F trio.
"Kyyaaa!" I squealed like a school girl as I spotted a man with a flute and snakes. "There's a snake charmer over there!" I was about to rush over when I felt someone grab my sleeve. I looked back to find Ciel.
"I think it's best if you stick with me. Otherwise you'll get lost here," he announced.
I rolled my eyes playfully. "Chill dude. After all, I have a pamphlet!" I said cheerfully as I held it up. "It even has a map."
"Map or not I know for a fact you'll get lost," Ciel stated as he grabbed my hand and led me away from the snake charmer and toward Sebastian. Before we could get far we heard a voice behind us.
"Hello there, Lord Earl, Miss Hero," greeted Lau as he sat holding a very plush and stoic Ran Mao. "The show is finally about to begin!"
Ciel looked annoyed. "Well aren't you bold, womanizing in front of your clientele like that. At least you're not pawing Hero."
"Come come! I would never paw the lovely Miss Hero. And Ran Mao is my little sister! Just my little sister! Though we're not related by blood. She's adorable isn't she?"
I looked at the stoic Ran Mao. She looked so adorable, despite her major sex appeal. And I do mean major. I inwardly sighed and wondered when my bust would be growing. Just saying.
Lau continued. "I hear the spectators will get to sample the competing curries at the fair, and I was thinking I'd give this little one the chance to try some too!"
More like use her to kill West and Mina afterwards, but hey, who am I to judge? Ciel led me away as we began to walk forward.
"Anyway, is the prince's butler lad really serious?" Lau asked as he walked with us.
"He betrayed the master he regards as his god. What else would he be if not serious?" Ciel answered.
"Too true. And he's determined to win," I added.
"Be that as it may," Lau pondered. "I think West's promise to return the girl once the plan has been carried out is nothing more than a lie." Oh it definitely was.
"Pretty much. The likelihood of West's evil deeds being exposed will increase significantly if he relinquishes his hold on Agni. After all is said and done, sought after royal warrant in hand or not. If I were in his shoes, I'd—"
"Kill him?" Lau finished, looking quite eager and ominous. I whacked him on the forehead with my fan.
"Killing is bad Lau. And it solves nothing," I chided him.
"And you can't go around killing people off one by one over such trivialities, you know," Ciel added.
"Ehh? But if it were up to me, he'd be as good as dead." Lau said with a laugh. "That aside what really has me concerned is Master Butler's strategy for today."
Sebastian smiled. "That's—"
"Well, well! Why if it isn't Earl Phantomhive!" greeted an unfamiliar yet familiar voice. We turned around to find West approaching us.
Ciel coolly nodded. "Yes, hello…Mister West."
"It has been quite some time, my lord! Not since last year's London season, I believe."
Ciel regarded him distantly. "I'm most honored to make your acquaintance once more."
West saw me and arched a brow in surprise. "Ah, this must be your new associate from America. The rumors are going around London, don't you know? Hello miss, I'm—"
"Harold West," I interrupted, giving him a quick curtsy and a knowing smile. I can't believe he doesn't recognize me. "Yes I've heard much about you. The name's Hero Sanders, detective extraordinaire."
"Detective eh? I could sure use one. Just between us it would seem a spy from a rival company stole into my house the other day. My one-of-a-kind galle lamp smashed to pieces! And my general trading chest wrecked! The horror I tell you!" West whispered. He recalled the eyes of the deer and trembled. "Just remembering the incident gives me a fright! I did at least manage to defend my secret curry, but…just knowing the culprit may be skulking around these fair grounds chills me to the bone."
Sebastian, Ciel and I kept a straight face but inside we were laughing at West's discomfort. I dazzled West with a smile. "Cheer up. After today, you won't be bothered anymore."
"I should hope so. Come to think of it, I've heard your company is taking part in today's festivities as well, eh Earl Phantomhive?"
"Yes, I am considering an expansion into the food industry at present."
"I was terribly surprised to learn of your participation in the curry festival. Did you recruit yourself a skilled chef or something? My company doesn't intend to lose either. We've hired a remarkable chef of our own!"
I could feel Prince Soma burn holes at West's back. "Is that a fact…?" Ciel replied lightly. I wouldn't use the word hired, but whatever.
West continued. "That aside, I overheard that the Queen will be in attendance today," supplied the sleazy millionaire.
"Who's to say…? Since Prince Albert's passing, Her Majesty hasn't appeared in public much," said Ciel.
I sighed. "I've heard. I wouldn't mind cheering her up. She could use a Girls Night Out." Both boys looked at me in confusion. I giggled nervously. "Oh! It's an American thing! Don't mind me!
"Well as I'll be taking that royal warrant, I really would like Her Majesty to taste my company's superior curry in front of the audience." Ciel said nothing. West glanced at his pocket watch. "Well I'll be! I've nattered on for too long! We shall talk later!"
The boy walked away, whistling without a care in the world. I shook my head. At least he didn't turn out to be the Victorian era's version of Donald Trump.
"'As I'll be taking that royal warrant' eh?" repeated Ciel.
"He is utterly convinced of his victory," Sebastian supplied.
"When it comes to his sort, the real fun lies in seeing their faces as they taste defeat," Ciel said with a smirk.
"As you wish, sir," Sebastian replied.
I cocked my head. "I dunno. I kind of feel bad for him, but as I always say, you made your bed and laid on it. Life sucks. So Sebastian, good luck!" I told him as I patted his back roughly.
The demon butler didn't even budge a bit. He smiled. "Then I shall take my way to the staging area for festival participants."
I watched him leave. I knew he'd confront Agni and boy was it gonna go down. I glanced at the ring snugly fitted on my finger and briefly remembered this morning's conversation with him. He had noted the ring and wished to know what was going on.
"Isn't it obvious Sebastian?" Ciel had mocked. "I'm a step ahead in this competition and you know it."
Sebastian had looked none too pleased. I had stepped in between them to try to make all this crackling tension go away. "Alright now, let's not fight. Isn't today the curry day or whatever?"
Sebastian had sighed, placing a hand at his temple. "This leaves me no choice. I must also change tactics it seem."
I had paled considerably, hoping this change of tactic didn't include deflowering me. Seriously wasn't this supposed to be the Victorian era? But then again, I'm sleeping with Ciel in his bed so the point is moot.
I sighed and noticed a feather in my vision. I frowned as I fixed my hat. So not only was Sebastian changing tactics, but a letter had arrived this morning for me. Madame Red had wrote that she had heard about today's festivities but since the Hospital desperately need her she couldn't attend. So instead she sends her darling nephew good luck and me instructions on what to wear today and how my hair should be done (something Sebastian followed to a tee).
So I was currently dressed in a rather cute outfit. It wouldn't have been so bad if the heels weren't so high! But since they lent me height, I didn't complain aloud since I was towering over Ciel a good two inches.
I felt Ciel slip his fingers through mine. I looked at him, blushing slightly. He nudged his head toward the speaker up front. "It's starting."
"Now ladies and gents! It's time for this 'Indian Culture and its prosperity in the British Empire' exhibition's main event—The Curry Festival! London's best curry houses will be taking part!" proclaimed the announcer. "And especially for today's event, you, dear audience, will have the chance to sample the competitor's curries!" Cheers broke round the place. Heck even I cheered at the prospect of being fed. "We hope you look forward to it!"
Hells yeah!
"Now let's introduce our judges! Chief Higham, a Royal cook who does not compromise on taste." A stern looking man in a chef's hat greeted us coolly. "Mister Carter, who was appointed to the post of Taxation Official in India." Chubby dude in glasses smiled slightly. "And last but not least—" All I could see was lace. "The Viscount of Druitt, a lover of art, beauty, and food!"
The Viscount greeted everyone with a flourish, blond locks shinning in the wind as he gave everyone an effortless smile. I started laughing out loud when I saw him. Ciel shuddered, goose bumps forming on his skin and clothes from just seeing the man.
"Eh? But didn't the Yard take him away?" Lau asked curiously.
"Clearly he must've bribed his way out. How rotten…," Ciel muttered darkly. "I really don't want to be reminded of that day's events…"
I giggled. "Seeing as it was the night you dressed as a girl."
"Hero! We are never to speak of it!" Ciel hissed, embarrassed if his beat red face had any say in it. I glomped him.
"Gosh you're so cute when you're embarrassed!" Ciel sighed but enjoyed the feel of my arms around him.
"And here are today's participants!" the announcer declared. I skimmed over the others and laughed when Agni and Sebastian were the only ones wearing black. And Sebastian had such an awfully smug look. "Chef Turpin for Persian Tabb…Chef Rush for Dormitory Vill…Chef Rickman for Dahlia Limited…Chef Ripley for Worrest Cilin…Chef Agni for Harold West…and Butler Sebastian for Funtom Corporation." The announcer paused. "Wha? A butler?
"Yes," Sebastian humbly confirmed. "I am no chef. I am merely a butler." Smexy face alert!
In front of me I heard some children cry out that it was the Funtom Company. I smirked at their skeptical parents. Were they in for a show.
"I-In any case," continued the announcer. "We've got quite a unique cast of participants for you! Go ahead! Hold your breath in anticipation of the culinary delights to come! Now let the cooking begin!"
Iron Chef England go, go, go!
Lol. I personally liked this chapter. And let me tell you that I had not planned the the ring part! Ciel just brought that one out all on his own! And remember to review people! Comments? Concerns? Burning questions? Let me know!