Through The Looking Glass

by The-Jaded-Optimist

Hero Sanders is just your average self-proclaimed detective extraordinaire until Kuroshitsuji. Then one thing led to an oven and suddenly she's in their world. Literally. Between being American and suddenly discovering she's a demon mate, Hero's going to have her hands full assisting the Queen's Watchdog, figuring out how to get home and not mess up the story-line in the process.

14. What You Didn't Know About Our Hero

Lady Keiko here...

I'm so sorry this took forever! Even I couldn't believe how long it took not to mention that this has got to be my most longest chapter yet (hyperventilating here!). Anyways I hope you guys enjoy it. And I do apologize for some misspelling errors you might see. Way too lazy to correct them now (maybe I'll do it later if you guys tell me). Also Happy Early Thanksgiving! I hope where ever you are you're able to enjoy your family's company and a great table of delicious food (I know Hero loves looking forward to the holiday). And remember you eager Black Friday shoppers, be VERY careful when you go shopping!

Now on the replies:

VampireSiren: Will he use allure? Of course he'd want to but the question is how will Hero react? He's going to have to be careful cuz Hero's kind of skittish on romantic stuff (most tomboys are).

PhantomGirl17: Lol, I'm glad you like Edward's presence in this competition. It'll make things real interesting and you have point. Sebby takes Ciel's soul and then what? Hero isn't stupid of course so no doubt she'd worried about that little future problem. As for Claude, well, getting Hero to be his demon mate will be a very likely possibility [insert evil laugh here] but you'll have to stay tuned for the rest, specially when I do finally get round to the Second Season. And I'm glad you enjoyed the SebbyxHero moment. I can safely say that Sebastian will totally agree that it should have continued but hey who can ignore chocolate right?

Audreywashere: Thank you! And the ring did get to me too. Goodness Ciel's just so friggin' cute it should be considered illegal! Just saying.

AngelSayori: I admit that I liked writing the whole Hyde Park scene. It was really fun! Especially when it occurred to me that Edward's "ideal" woman would be someone like his mother (o.o, lol!) and Hero just so happened to have that "be a man!" gene. I was thinking about doing the school arc and even though its not finished by the time I get there it'll probably be wrapped up. I'll probably give it a go.

xxfallenangelmayxx: Thanks! I enjoyed the Edward bit myself and about that competition list? Madame Red's got you covered ;)

Shin no yoru: Dude we have the same wavelength on that score. Its exactly what I meant for the whole scene to play out. Glad you liked it!

Yami Mizuna: I love love love the Viscount! I know he's just so...o.O...on so many levels, but he's great comic relief! We definitely haven't seen the last of him!

Town Coutaux: O.O Wow what a compliment! Don't feel embarrassed about writing a lot, its good to let it all out! Now let's start with this: trust me, you'll be seeing Lizzy and Edward in the future.

-As for the retelling, you have no idea. I decided to buy the manga volumes rather then just read them online. Its highly diverting for me plus I'm supporting Yana Toboso! I'm also glad that I managed to do good so far with this. I wasn't sure I'd pull it off, but I'm glad I'm succeeding!

-OMGs! I was worried Hero would be Mary Sue-ish too! But I'm really happy to hear she isn't. As for her fighting skills I think I mentioned it in the first chapter, but you're right. I should give a little more background and detail into how she acquired all her training (a required must for a detective extraordinaire), plus it'd be a good insight into her past.

-I bow in appreciation to your critical eye. Seriously. Sometimes a few grammatical mistakes slip by but I'm glad it doesn't diminish the quality of reading it. Plus I've been told that I write the way I talk so I'm happy this has managed to amuse you. As for long chapters (terrified here) I shiver at the prospect of failing so I can only hope I to continue to write to the best of my abilities. Thanks for the review!

Paxloria: Sebastian does seem like he's failing isn't he? But don't worry, boy knows he needs to devise a new plan. Ciel may be in the lead, but this competition isn't over yet. Its just that Hero is so relatively simple that it seems hard to woo her, but its not. I just wonder when Sebastian and Ciel are going to figure that out . Oh well! They'll know soon enough.

nomer: Glad you like the chapter. Hero being jelly is one step into the pathway of love and it really would be funny and ironic if Sebby were to lose, but at this point who knows whose gonna win?

ravenscry21: [insert Cheshire grin] lol! Sebby was simply using his seductive side. Its what he's always done and assumes Hero would act the same way. Heck most virgins would fall for his charms but Hero's different in that she so friggin' dense and just simple minded (o.o). Ah well. I enjoy seeing what will become of them. And I have to add that Lau makes a great Dr. Watson.

bored411: What's Sebby's change in tactic? Hmm, even he doesn't know exactly what he's going to do. Hero's just so...herself and so...American? Lol! Glad you enjoyed the chapter!

SilverlocketX3: Gurl I totally see what you mean. I've a read a few of them myself and even I admit that a few bored me. But since this retelling is essential (you'll see why in the future) it goes without saying that I gotta stick to it, but rest assured. Each episode or manga chapter has its reason and purpose in being written (not just because it comes next in the series) and with Hero there you can bet this won't be like your usual beloved Kuroshitsuji story line. So just sit back and tell me what you think as I try not to epically fail. Thanks for voicing your concern!

Guest (11/13): Thanks! And of course I've got to have some Edward x Hero scenes in the future! The Marquess and Madame Red are betting here man! As for the school arc I was thinking about it and even though its far off, I kind of wanted to do it. Mainly cuz its funny so I probably will. No wait...ya know what I'll definitely do it! There its decided! Thanks for helping me make up my mind!

FallenOkami: I've noticed that Hero's got a lot more volatile since she ended up in Kuroshitsuji so we'll definitely be seeing some more Spanish Fury (there's just a lot of idiotic people in the world that need a good smack in the face). And stay sharp dudes! You haven't seen the last of Claude and Alois yet!

Luna Lucia: Thanks! And don't feel too bad. Germany's got its interesting aspects, just like my country would (though I don't see it, but that's just me). I'm really happy you like the story, makes me smile knowing people like it. And thanks for telling me my fic is its own thing; major stress reliever. Thanks for the reviewing!

Harrietty: Aw thank you! I hope this chapter ties you over till Thanksgiving. I'll be working on the next one soon.

tokiluv: Wait no more! The chapter is here!

cool4good: So you probably already know but my username is the same as my fanfiction one and the story that I posted up is called Of Wixies and Wings. I be updating soon so stay tuned!

Aquarius-Otter: My titles? Hmm, well I just review what the chapter is about and grab a catch phrase that just happens to be floating in my mind that seems appropriate (sometimes its hard and other times it just comes to me) and voila! I'm glad you like the ring. The whole age difference thing seemed like an interesting thing to delve into this story. We'll just see how strong true love is!

lovethesymmetry: SebxOc or CielxOc, now that really is the question and I totally get your concern sweet one! But don't worry I know where the story will be heading and I sincerely hope I don't disapoint (kills me to have to be so shifty, but its necessary my friend). But if you can answer me this one question, I'll be grateful (gonna pm it to you!).

BURRITOPIE: Lol, luckily this isn't a crack fic so things do get serious, but still funny, later on.

IvoryGlass: You seriously made your review in the nick of time! Lol. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. Making Hero tackle Edward was the most fun for me and I have to admit Sebby is getting awfully serious as he discovers his own feelings as well. We'll just see what happens next ^.^

I guess that's it! Quick things: I posted my pics of Hero and her outfits and her drawing in chapter eleven on my DA so check it out. I've also posted a link of what Hero's promise ring looks like (no I didn't draw it) so check it out too if you can. Oh and if you didn't know, I posted up the first two chapters of an original story I had written a while back. Its on fictionpress (username the same) and its called Of Wixies and Wings. Its fantasy and yes, it does includes wings of the fairy nature (but its not a fairy fic, I promise you!) so if you're curious, give that a go too.

Disclaimer: I do not own Kuroshitsuji

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14. What You Didn't Know About Our Hero

Pretty soon the competition was getting hot! I kept getting the feeling that I really was watching Iron Chef on Food Network, except this was ten times awesome! Pretty soon the place started to flow with delicious mouthwatering aromas.

Lau, mostly likely bored, turned toward us, "Well we're stuck with nothing to do but sit back and wait, hmm—"

"Say! Look at that!" someone shouted.

Our attention was soon caught by Agni as he masterfully used his epic powers of curry making skills to wow the crowd in the preparation for his dish.

"The Indian's right hand practically has a life of its own!"

"And what a lovely aroma…," someone commented

I smiled, proud of Agni for trying so hard but feeling bad for him since he'll lose, but oh well. It's simply impossible to beat Sebastian so I don't know why Ciel bets against him. And like the perfect butler he was, Sebastian had the crowd equally wowed as he showed off his epic butler skills. I couldn't help but laugh at how ticked Ciel looked. The audience sung nothing but praises until Sebastian pulled out the big guns, or in this case, big bars.

"Hey! What in blazes is he doing?" West cried out as everyone witnessed the big secret ingredient being put in Sebastian's curry. "No it can't be! He's putting something black into the curry pot!" announced the announcer. Chunks of delicious delectable bits of Funtom chocolate fell into the pot with an innocent plop. "Is that chocolate?"

The people around us had mixed reactions.

"Chocolate in curry?"

"I think I'm going to be sick…"

"What is going through that man's head?"

"Mummy! I want to eat chocolate!"

West himself bellowed in laughter at the sheer ridiculousness. "Hahahaha! Leave it to Funtom the Candy King! What a novel way to advertise!"

Only Agni seemed to recognize the brilliance in chocolate. Even though I had used it to fend off Sebastian's intimate advances, Yana's idea was utterly, well, brilliant! Which sort of brings me back to Sebastian and his stunt a few days ago. I blushed just remembering it. Oh gosh what to feel! The man was mesmerizing and an absolute bastard when you think about it. It sort of makes me wonder what he's going to do to stay on par with Ciel. Hopefully it won't involve me losing my virginity just yet (yes I'm a virgin if you didn't already guess so hush up!).

Back to the contest before me, I saw Agni realize the cleverness in Sebastian's strategy. So much so that he decided it was time to take out his big guns, or in this case, big blue lobster.

"A blue lobster?" cried the announcer.

The crowed was dazzled! Even the Viscount looked astonished. "Why if that isn't the blue noblewoman Le Homard Bleu!" And on and on he went forth describing the absolute rarity and magnificence of such a great piece of seafood. I giggled, wondering what such a lobster would taste like. I've only ever had red lobsters so I wondered if there was even much of a difference. Ah well.

It was Sebby's turn to show off now, but no one counted on him making the curry into small dough. My eyes brightened in anticipation. I've always wanted to try the curry bun and I thought it a damn shame no one bothered to make it. Beside me I heard Prince Soma voice his concern that we've lost because he thought Sebastian was making Naan. I pulled the plug on that speech right quick.

"It's okay, Prince Soma. Trust me when I say that Sebastian's got different intentions for his little mound of dough," I told him as I nudged his elbow. "You'll see!"

Prince Soma didn't look convinced. "But what could he possibly do with raw dough?"

I grinned. "What any typical American would do with raw dough!"

Fry it! Fry it! Fry it!

Soon it was time for the judging. First up was Persian Tabb's beef curry. The head judge that was the equivalent to Simone Cowell took a bite and commented the following: "The cuts of beef have not only been stewed to buttery tenderness, they are generously sized as well. It is indeed a sumptuous dish. However the stock taste flat and has no aroma, which tells me you used curry powder. That a culinary professional would even consider using such a thing is reprehensible!"

The other chefs gawked as they realized that they used it too.

I pointed at them and laughed softly. "Ah ha! They got rejected."

Next up was Agni. When he lifted the lid my eyes widened. Damn the curries and the lobster really made everything look like a rainbow. No wonder Chef Cowell and the other dude sung nothing but praises. "Oh…oh!" began the Viscount. "The beautiful woman I met at the ball. You, who possess a most noble beauty, stood there with seven gems adorning your sublime form! A gold brooch in the shape of a dove…A bracelet of sapphires and pearls…A choker of garnet…A cameo medallion…And a ring of diamonds and emerald for your finger. All of them enhance your loveliness. You…HAVE STOLEN MY HEART!"

I rolled my eyes. "What a drama queen."

Pretty soon it was Sebastian's turn. He walks up to the judges and presents them the Funtom Curry.

"Th…This is—!" Chef Cowell began. And before you knew it their faces were like…O.o…? "You there! What is this white thing? Are you trying to make a mockery of us?"

Sebastian simply took the dough and dumped it in the pan full of bubbling oil. The audience was shocked. I smiled and giggled at everyone's reactions as Sebastian officially presented the curry to the judges. "Now it is complete. This is our company's curry."

"So I ask you, where is the cur—"

The Viscount gasped. "Please, just a moment. This is—! What in the—! Curry is spilling out from within…!"

Agni, West and just about everyone gasped in shock. It's like they've never seen something so amazing as curry inside fried dough before. Of course I knew about it. It was quite common in Japanese convenience stores and Mimiko loved eating them while we chatted on Skype. Still being Victorian people they probably haven't.

"This is the curry we, Funtom, proudly present," Sebastian continued. "Its name is….the Curry Bun!"

Cue even more gasps from the audience. "Curry Bun?"

Prince Soma looked at it. "What is that? I've never seen curry of its like before."

"I bet you haven't," I murmured, wondering when the feed the crowd part was going to start.

Chef Cowell harrumphed as he regained his composure. "In any case, to the taste test…" He took a bite from a piece and looked up in astonishment as the flavors exploded in his mouth. "This is delicious! The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the fluffy interior of the fried bread, not to mention the thick, robust curry finish…it is most skillfully formulated study in textures." I groaned. Oh dude stop torturing me! I wanna eat it already! "The truly magnificent aspect of this dish is its structure. 'Sealing' the curry in the bread was a stroke of brilliance!" Well this was Sebastian we were talking about. "The bread literally seals the curry's taste, aroma, everything about it, and it blooms in the instant one's knife cuts into it."

I cried silent tears as he kept talking. Can we just eat already? What does a hungry woman have to do to get some curry here?

"Oh…Oh I say!" began the Viscount as if he were being molested and enjoying it. "Like Boudicca at her most finest! A fine figure that beckons the eye with such lovely feminine features, skin so golden, lashes long and dark, so unassuming and alluring. Once you meet said lovely figure you discover a feisty and utterly delectable creature under the mask of well-bred graciousness! One that really packs a punch! Oh! Oh…HOW I'D LOVE TO FIND YOU AND POSSES YOU!"

I placed a hand over my mouth which hung open in stunned surprise. "I think he's talking about me," I whispered to Ciel.

Ciel looked at the Viscount in both contempt and discomfort. "I got the hint at Boudicca."

I shook my head in pity. "I think my disguise as a boy did more harm than good. The guy's confused in his preference. I'm sure of it."

The Viscount continued, having recovered from his feverish rant. "An original idea and unmistakable quality. This is a revolutionary curry worthy of the Funtom name!"

"I thank you, my lord," replied Sebastian humbly.

The whole place cheered and I did the same along with them. Mainly because it was time to eat! I clapped in excitement. The judges contemplated amongst themselves as they tried to decide who the winner of the curry competition would be. I neared a table and was about to grab the last curry bun there when another hand came out of nowhere and grabbed it at the same time I did. I looked up, about to knock the offender to his feet when I saw, to my great and utter shock that the hand belonged to Charles Grey.

Holy shitake mushrooms! What the fuck was this kid doing here? I froze and the bastard took the opportunity to take the curry bun.

"Wh—Wh—What—!" I stuttered as I looked at him eat the bun in complete calm.

"If you wanted it you should have been faster," he said after he finished chewing. He acted like he didn't recognize me. Which I suppose was a good thing since I did punch him in the gut. I decided to say to just leave. I began walking away slowly when he looked at me in the eyes and his brows furrowed. "You look familiar. Have we met?"

"No I don't think so," I told him.

His eyes widened before narrowing. "You sound American." He looked at me closely. "You are American! Wait, you have that same face as girly boy!"

I gulped and was about to make a run for it when Ciel appeared. "Hero what did I say about staying by my side? You could have gotten lost."

Grey spotted Ciel and Ciel spotted Grey. Their receptors finally caught onto the situation.

"Grey?"

"Phantomhive?"

"Oh dear," I mumbled.

Grey pointed at me. "So you're the American staying with Phantomhive! I've caught onto your charade you two! I know that you disguised your—mmph!"

I quickly slapped a gloved hand over Grey's mouth and dragged him away from the busy crowd around. He obviously struggled but what could he do? Fight a female in public? Not very gentlemanly (even though his manners were lacking sometimes).

Ciel followed me as I brought the royal butler in white over to the edge of the crowd where he wouldn't cause such a scene. I let go and stood back to watch the fireworks.

"What is the meaning of this? How dare you take me away from the tasting table! It took me a good ten minutes to get through that crowd!" Grey argued hotly, more concerned with being taken away from the food table then being dragged away by me.

I rolled my eyes (boy I'm doing that a lot today). "Oh please. I'd like to know what in the world you're doing here? You're not supposed to be here." Follow the manga script people! Sheesh!

Grey arched a brow. "I don't think you're in a position to be telling me to do anything girly boy. I've figured it out."

Ciel looked worried, his secret cross-dressing stunt in jeopardy of being exposed. Just to mess with Grey I looked at him with my detective face. "Oh really? And what did you figure out?"

"You dressed as a boy the of the Viscount Druiit's party."

I arched a brow. "Did I?"

"Of course! Your face is unmistakable. I believe I kept hearing the phrase 'detective extraordinaire' associated with your name."

I smiled. "Oh my gosh really? People actually caught on to that?"

Grey smirked and I face palmed. Damn. He got my weakness, but this game wasn't over yet. "So that's it? That's all you got?"

"And it's obvious that Phantomhive sent you there! For reasons I'm not entirely sure," he concluded.

Ciel sighed in relief and I almost giggled. His cross dressing secret was still safe. "Well now that you got that off your chest, why don't you go ahead and be on your way?"

Grey crossed his arms. "I don't think so. Though meeting you here was entirely coincidental, I intend to fight you."

"Fight her? Are you mad?" Ciel exclaimed.

"Yeah he's mad," I said. "Mad because he got beat by a girl." Grey's face reddened slightly. I giggled. I didn't know he could turn into any other then red. "Lol, dude. I'm just kidding."

"Grey!" called a voice from behind us. We turned to find Charles Phipps walking toward us steadily. "What have I said about leaving your post for the curry? We're supposed to be long distance security."

Grey waved his admonishment away. "Relax. No harm will befall on Her Majesty and I'll make sure of that."

Phipps spotted Ciel and I. He bowed toward me and gave Ciel a slight nod. "Earl Phantomhive, Miss Hero I assume? A pleasure to make your acquaintance formally. The rumors travel fast, especially in court."

"Yes yes let's skip the talking," Grey said impatiently. He looked at me determinedly. "I want a rematch. You deserve some suffering after that last stunt you pulled."

I sighed. "If it's any consolation, you already made me suffer by taking the last curry bun. Bastard," I muttered.

Phipps grabbed Grey's collar as he dragged him away. "Come Grey. You've become obsessed over this issue and we've work to do."

Grey glared at me as he allowed Phipps to take him away. "This isn't over yet girly boy! We'll see each other again!"

Of that I had no doubt. I stuck out my tongue at him. "P.S. I'm a girl ya know." I turned toward a frazzled Ciel. "Well wasn't that fun?"

"No," he muttered as he tried to regain his composure. It was at that moment the announcer was about to announce the winners.

"Thank you for your patience, Ladies and Gentlemen. After much discussion…the winner of today's curry festival is…."
Everyone waited with baited breath for the results. I merely frowned as my stomach grumbled. Damn that bastard Grey for taking the curry bun!

"…Harold West and Funtom Corporation! We name them both victo—!"

A whip came out of nowhere and snatched the trophy from the announcer's hand. He blinked, unsure what just happened. He looked at his empty hand. "Huh?"

"A moment, if you please," came John Brown's voice as he collected the trophy from his whip. I squealed like a fan girl when I saw him. Oh gosh he was just so cute! Everyone was left speechless as they stared at him in his epic shades. "This match—bfft!"

Poor darling Brown was smacked into the floor by a pair of hooves as a white horse and its rider arrived on the scene in a rather violent but amazingly stylish entrance. I smiled and started running toward the woman in equally epic shades, Ciel right behind me.

"Whozzat funky grandma?" Bard asked in annoyance.

"I believe that is…" Lau started in thought.

"Your Majesty! What are you doing in a place like this?" Ciel demanded in an incredulous and worried tone.

I started laughing at everyone's reaction as everybody freaked out. Oh man could this day not get any funnier? Queen Victoria of Great Britain took off her shades and smiled the crowd. "Good day to you all!"

"HER MAJESTY?"

Victoria, the Queen of Great Britain; the ruler who has established the most illustrious era in British History and she's actually a lot more kick ass in person, just saying.

Not only is she responsible for expanding through her political prowess Great Britain's international colonial reach, and to such an extent that it has been dubbed "The Country Upon Which The Sun Never Sets" but she also sets the trends for everything from fashion to social functions and popular dances, and boasts the unconditional favor of her people. So basically she's better then Oprah and Madonna combined.

She's still deeply in love with her late husband, Prince Albert. The darling thing. She really needs a Girls Night Out.

Brown muffled something that was barely audible as his face was still kissing the ground. He lifted his head and sat up, not dislodging the Queen and her horse in the slightest. "To get back to the point at hand…I believe Her Majesty has something to say."

"This curry competition was capital," complimented the Queen as she was helped down by Brown. "The aroma that filled this venue reminded me of the curry I once ate with Dear Albert on the Isle of Wight…" Here it comes, I thought as Queen Vicky collapsed in a mini round of despair and grief. "Alberrrrt! Would that I could have eaten this curry with you as weellll!" she wailed.

What made the situation laughable was Brown's attempt at cheering her up with a puppet of Prince Albert in a wooden voice.

"The Queen is quite a character, hm?" Lau commented lightly.

"Hold your tongue. This is why I implored her not to come here," Ciel muttered.

"What's funny is that you actually thought she would listen," I added.

At last Queen Vicky recovered herself fairly quick. "I received an invitation to be a judge for today's event," she explained as she dabbed a tear at the corner of her eye with a handkerchief. "So that would mean I too have the right to cast a vote, is that not so? And I choose…" Agni and Sebastian waited, tense as Queen Vicky neared them. When she was close she handed the trophy over to Sebastian. "…The Funtom Corporation and its representative, the Butler Sebastian. Yes you, young man," she finished with a smile at Sebastian slightly shocked expression.

"Whoo!" I cheered. "Go Sebastian!"

West was outraged. "But why, Your Majesty? In what way is our curry inferior to a curry filled doughnut?"

"See for yourself," pointed Queen Vicky. While it seemed everyone else was enjoying their curry I've yet to actually taste any at all. And it kind of peeved me since Grey took the last of the curry buns. Curse you Charles Grey! As the Queen made her point I was still suffering hunger pangs. Oh why oh why must the world be so cruel? Once the announcer officially declared the Funtom Company the winner, the whole place applauded.

"I—It can't be…" West admitted brokenly.

"…" Agni was too shocked for words.

The B-MR-F trio cheered at Sebastian's victory.

"Where can a woman get a curry bun around here?" I complained as I watched Finny eat his with relish. Oh my gosh I wanted to cry!

Finally it seemed poor Agni realized reality. "I…lost…"

Queen Vicky went up to him. "Mister Agni…is that right? Your curry most certainly did not lose on the criteria of taste. It was a curry I should like to enjoy at leisure at my manor on the Isle of Wight."

Agni looked abashed and downhearted. "I do not deserve such kind words." Aw! I felt so bad for him! So much so that I ran up to the dude and hugged him from behind. He was startled as he looked at me. "Miss Hero?"

I smiled at him in an attempt to cheer him up. "It's okay Agni. You did your absolute best and all your intentions were done for what you thought was right. And besides," I whispered to him. "You'll see that Prince Soma has changed and can handle the truth."

His eyes widened. "Miss Hero..."

It was at that moment that Mina rushed to her darling Lord West as the man stumbled about in a zoned out state.

"Mina?" exclaimed Prince Soma as he spotted her. She turned to look at him in surprise with wide innocent eyes.

"Eh? Prince…Soma?"

Everyone looked surprised at the infamous Mina appeared.

"I've finally found you!" Prince Soma exclaimed as he rushed over to her and hugged her. "Mina! I've been looking up and down and all over for you. I was so worried when you were taken away to Great Britain. At long last, I'm so glad I found you!" He looked at her then. "You have nothing to worry about anymore. Let's go back to the palace together!"

"Oh dear," I said aloud. Sebastian came to stand next to me.

"What is it?"

"You'll see. In three…two…one…"

Mina gave Prince Soma the WTF is wrong with you look. "Are you an idiot?"

That certainly killed the happy reunion mood. "Eh?" uttered the speechless Indian prince.

"Here you are, hunting me down all the way in England and making a fine nuisance of yourself! Who do you think you are? 'Let's go back together'? Don't make me laugh! Who in their right mind would want to go back to a place like that?"

Agni collapsed onto the platform.

"Now I understand," Sebastian admitted as he glanced briefly at Agni. "You wanted to keep this a secret from your prince."

"And now the cats out of the bag; though Mina doesn't have to be so harsh," I muttered, surveying the scene.

Mina continued. "I didn't want to live my entire life tied to the social position I was born into. And then, finally, I got my ticket out of India!"

"…so you willingly came here with West?"

Mina looked at him scornfully. "That's right. Life as a servant? Or a rich man's wife? Even a child knows which is better! And besides…I've had more than enough taking care of a selfish brat like you!"

Poor Agni was crying his little eyes out, literally I think, looking at the blood streaming down his face. Man that was so mean Mina! Even though I knew things would get resolved on their own I seriously can't stand bullying! My past experiences have helped me build a back bone of steel! I hopped down from the platform and stood next to Prince Soma.

"We get your point Mina. There's no need to go overboard. It's understandable that you'd want a better life but manipulating Agni by hurting Prince Soma is not the way to go," I told her as I crossed my arms over my chest.

She looked at me contemptuously. "And just who are you?"

"Their friend woman, Hero Sanders, detective extraordinaire. Whatchu think?"

"Hmph! I would not be talking if I were you. I've known the Prince for all my life. Friend you say? Ha! That selfish brat couldn't keep a friend for the span of a day."

I gaped and Prince Soma looked shocked. "That was uncalled for! And you may have known Prince Soma but you didn't bother to really understand the boy. So stop saying such cruel things!"

Mina arched a brow. "You have no right to tell me what to do. What's more you've probably haven't worked a day in your life. You wouldn't understand what it's like to be in my position. And detective extraordinaire? What a joke!"

Ooh…them some fightin' words. She can insult me and she can question my background but never will she think me being a detective is a joke! I would have replied with a scathing remark had not Prince Soma placed a hand in front of me. I looked at him as he gazed steadily at Mina.

"I see. I'm sorry. We were together all that time but I didn't understand how you were feeling at all. Forgive me for chasing you to Great Britain without stopping to think about the trouble I would be causing you. And also…I thank you for all you've done for me till now." He then looked at her seriously. "But I must warn you there is no need to insult Hero further. As future husband I cannot allow that."

With that he grabbed my hand and we walked past Mina. Well that went a lot more smoothly. If he hadn't stopped me who knows what kind of a cat fight would have occurred. I stopped beside Ciel as Prince Soma continued to toward Agni. I smiled, glad to see that they're finally going to kiss and make up. After their little bromance everyone seemed a lot happier.

"One way or another everything seems to have settled been settled. Is that not wonderful…my boy?" Queen Vicky added in serenely.

Ciel flushed as I giggled. "Y—Your Majesty, I have implored you not to call me that—"

"Oh, I say…did you really now? But my boy, to me you'll always be my dear lovely boy," Queen Vicky teased.

"Your Majesty!"

I smiled as I poked Ciel's cheek. "Aw, isn't that cute Ciel? You're the Queen's little lovely boy!"

"And you must be the infamous Hero Sanders," the Queen said as she looked at me curiously. "You're a lot more exotic in person, even for an American."

Wow Nina was really hitting things on point. I smiled. "Thank you. Sometimes rumors don't just get everything."

"Indeed," the Queen agreed. "I've heard of all your exploits and I'm quite a fan."

I gasped. "Really? Omg, thank you!"

She leaned down and whispered in my ear. "I've also heard of this little competition going on between my dear boy and his butler. Madame Red's filled me in and I've got to say you've gained quite a number of suitors other than them." Wha? What number of suitors? And since when has Madame Red been telling the Queen about this?

She smiled. "You'll see. I'm afraid my darling Grey won't stop talking about his 'girly boy'." Oh my gosh where is this boy so I can whack him with my fan? "But rest assured, he'll figure out his own feelings soon." No! I've got enough problems deciphering my own!

"A-hem!" Ciel interrupted us by coughing. "Your Majesty, what brings you to a place such as this today?"

Queen Vicky granted him an innocent smile. "I was on my way to attend Saint Sophia Academy's choir concert, but then I was told that my boy's corporation will be participating in the curry festival, not to mention the rumored American detective extraordinaire will surely be in attendance with him, so I just had to come see you! We always simply exchange letters and do not get to see each other very often."

Ciel looked forlorn. "One such as I…should not be meeting with Your Majesty too often."
Queen Vicky touched his cheek. "Do not say that. My boy is still little, but he is fulfilling his duties splendidly just as his father Vincent before him. And you've got great taste in women," she added in a whisper.

Ciel blushed furiously. "Your Majesty!"

"Anyhow, much time has passed since I last came to the Crystal Palace. I feel like just yesterday that I attended the grand opening of the Great Exhibition with Albert…" she broke down again. "Alberrrt! Would that I could have come here today with you toooo!" she wailed.

Ciel sweat dropped. I went over to her and patted her back comfortingly. "S'okay Your Majesty," I told her. "Cheer up! I'm sure Albert wouldn't have wanted to see you so upset. He'd have wanted you to smile and be happy."

The Queen sniffed and looked at me as if the thought never occurred to her. Seriously the woman needed a Girls Night Out and I wouldn't mind inviting her over for one. "Oh dear. You're right. I'd better pull myself together then for I must be on my way as well." She patted my hand on her arm with a smile. "You are a darling girl, even for an American and I approve." Wait, approve what? "You should come visit me in my palace. I'd love to better our acquaintance further and I know for a fact that my little Grey would love it, though he'd say otherwise."

When Queen Vicky went over to get on her horse, I felt as if I'd aged ten years. Please tell me that Grey liking me is a joke.

"I shall have the Lord Chamberlain's office dispatch the Royal Warrant certificate to you," announced the Queen once she was on her horse. She rode over to Ciel. "I look forward to enjoying the curry bun at the salon of Buckingham Palace," she leaned down and whispered to Ciel's ear. "By the by, I'm betting a thousand pounds on you in this competition for the dear Hero's hand, which I'm pretty sure means marriage. So you'd better get cracking!" She straightened as she made the horse neigh. "And dear boy, do keep the playing around to a minimum." With that Queen Vicky was off, leaving a speechless Ciel next to a stoic Brown.

What part of private competition did Madame Red not understand? Ciel thought at he looked ahead absent minded And what did she mean betting? I on the other hand approached Brown.

"Hey John darling shouldn't you be going after the Queen?" I asked him after I patted his back roughly. After being shaken by my unusual strength, the boy realized that he was indeed being left behind. He ran after his beloved Queen.

"Your Majesty, please wait!"

Ciel sighed. "She's still the same as ever."

I smiled. "I like her. She's not as extreme as Grandma Sanders and I'm seriously putting my thoughts of a Girls Night Out seriously."

He looked at me. "Girls Night Out? What's that?"

I grinned and ruffled his hair. "Oh never you mind littlest Ciel!"

"Ciel!" called Prince Soma as he neared us. "Thank you for winning. You have my gratitude."

Ciel placed his top hat back on. "I didn't do it for you. I did it for myself, but as a result, your babysitter has returned as well, so I suppose this is killing two birds with one stone."

I glomped Ciel from behind as I giggled. "Oh quit being so modest you darling boy!"

"Ciel," Prince Soma continued seriously. "If I hadn't come to Great Britain…I might never have come to learn a number of truths. I would have stayed my narcissistic self, ignorant in the ways of the world. That is, if I hadn't met Ciel. From now on, I'd like to see and learn about many things and someday…I'll become a fine man, worthy of Hero's hand. I'll show you! You'll wait for me as well right Hero?"

Before I could say anything, Ciel spoke quickly. "Enough of your nonsense! Hero is taken so you're out of luck."

"The lady in question hasn't chosen yet. And I keep hearing about this competition going on. I'm thinking I should also participate."

Ciel gaped. "You're mad!"

I felt this was going to escalate (but don't worry, they'll be the best of friends later…even if it is partially one-sided) so I decided to head on over to Sebastian who was descending down the platform at last. I also glomped him from behind and clung onto his back.

"Sup Sebastian! You did a great job up there," I told him with a smile. "You really wowed the crowd."

Sebastian turned his head slightly to look at me and smiled. "I'm glad it was to your satisfaction."

It was then that we got bombarded by the B-MY-F trio.

"Congratulations!" Finny exclaimed.

"You did it! Today calls for a victory celebration!" Bard announced.

I giggled. "Celebration means food and that's starting to sound good to me."

"Then its decided!" Bard declared.

"Mister Sebastian," called Agni as he approached us. He bowed low when he came close enough. "I do not know how to apologize to you for these circumstances."

I got off Sebastian. "Oh Agni don't think that way!"

Sebastian knelt down to give Agni a hand. "I agree. There is no need for that. Please raise your head."

"I initially regretted bringing my prince over to Great Britain. However…now I'm glad I brought him over here. My prince and I have been taught many things by you. I cannot even begin to express my thanks for all you have done. And to you as well Miss Hero."

I smiled and Sebastian merely looked smug in a rather non-smug way. "As I have said many times, I fought for my own reasons, and you for yours. That is all. Thanks are not necessary. The goodness of Kali in whom you believe was also able to realize her mistakes because of the pain that both she and the god Shiva suffered…just like the two of you here now."

Agni looked like he was about to cry again. "Yes you're right. Thank you Miss Hero!" Agni exclaimed as he hugged me suddenly.

"Um…I didn't really do anything."

Agni respectfully backed up. "Of course. You stood up for my prince and defended him. Just like Kali would do to her Shiva."

Um…

Sebastian merely chuckled as he turned toward the setting sun. "Goodness. The sun is already setting. Let us go home."

I placed a hand over my brow as I looked at the sun. "That sounds great. Especially since I'm hungry and I've yet to eat anything." Damn that Grey…

"Ah, which reminds me," Sebastian added as he took out a wrapped parcel from out of nowhere. "This is for you. I had an inkling that you wouldn't be able to eat anything."

"Hmm?" I took the parcel and unwrapped it. I gasped as I gazed upon a beautiful curry bun, still warm and crispy. Oh my gosh I would have cried tears of joy if I wasn't so hungry! I looked up at Sebastian and gave him a blissful smile. "Sebastian thanks! That's really thoughtful of you!"

He smirked as he leaned down to nuzzle my cheek. I blushed. "It is the job of the demon to provide for his demon mate," he supplied in a whisper.

"You're lucky I have this in my hand or I would have pulled out my fan," I huffed, cheeks crimson. Still, I wasn't too upset as I munched on the treat. This is the best friggin' thing I've tasted all day! I looked at the sunset and smiled. Since Miami was on the east coast of the United States all I ever saw were sunrises, but I have to admit…this looked beautiful.

Agni noticed the sunset and smiled. "The sunset seen from the banks of the Ganges and the sunset seen from Great Britain…they are both beautiful."

"Not as beautiful as this curry bun," I added. I briefly wondered if Sebastian could invent churros. I was very willing to bet a kiss on that, but that was for later.

"Both my prince and I were able to meet the greatest of friends here," admitted Agni.

"Did you say friends? This is my first time hearing that from someone," said Sebastian seriously. I rolled my eyes and mocked punched him in the arm.

"Well you'd better get used to it," I told him. "Because before you know it, you'll have lots of them."

Sebastian quietly smirked. What a foolish notion, he thought to himself. But if it'd please her, he suppose he could indulge her. After all, it was only a matter of time…

As I finished my curry bun it then occurred to me…I face palmed as the thought completely slipped my mind until now. Oh well. I'm sure Lau went easy on them…right?

---

In a secluded place away from the Crystal Palace there stood two figures. "Hell! How dare they reduce my plan to ashes!" West complained in rage briefly before despair got him again.

Mina knelt down, trying to comfort her husband. "Cheer up…there's always next time."

"Yes, yes. Next time quite," said a voice from behind them. West looked up and found Lau in the middle of the street. "Hiya you two. Nice try back there."

"Who are you?" demanded a confused West.

"Lord Earl said to leave the small fry alone, but those who try something once will try it again and again. He's still too soft when it comes to that sort of thing, I guess. Miss Hero as well since she doesn't believe in killing people. But I suppose that's what makes both of them so adorable."

A shadowed petite figure appeared behind them; expression scarily stoic as she held some strange looking weights.

"But I must strike some fear into the hearts of the naughty little mice who made a mess of my garden here, in the East End. Not to mention that I take any insults and offense against my exotic little American very personal. That's why I keep this cat."

The weights came crashing down with a frightening force, startling both Mina and West as they became frightened in seconds.

"Meow!" Lau playfully uttered before both Mina and West were beaten within an inch of their lives. After that, both learned a valuable lesson. Two actually. One, Asians were crazy scary…and strong. Two, never mess with Phantomhive and Americans ever again.

---

"Hey Ciel, do you have a handkerchief I can borrow?" I asked the little Earl. After I had finished eating I was in need of a napkin. Unfortunately I didn't have one. And if I didn't get one soon, Sebastian looked like he'd lick off any stray crumb!

"Yes," he replied as he dug into his pocket. As he procured it he noticed a letter sticking out. "This is—! When did this get into my pocket?"

"Oh I forgot about that part," I told him. "Can I get that handkerchief now?"

"Her Majesty's man put it there a moment ago," Sebastian supplied helpfully, referring back to when Brown had been standing next to him.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Ciel demanded.

"You did not ask."

After I was finally given the handkerchief and Ciel inspected the contents of the letter, I made sure no crumbs were left on my mouth, lips or cheek. There, that should do it.

"Tickets?" he exclaimed.

I perked up. Tickets? You mean this was the manga version of Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji) and not the anime? Hells yeah!

"Perhaps they are Christmas gifts? For her dear boy," Sebastian told him with a slight smirk.

Ciel gave Sebastian the fuck off look. "Do you want to die?"

I giggled. "Now, now dear children! Let's not fight! After all Christmas is right around the corner!"

Ciel sighed. "I'm tired. I want to go home and relax over a cup of tea."

"Hmm, great idea! And how about some hot chocolate, but with marshmallows this time? But they have to be the small ones and there's got to be exactly seven," I told Sebastian seriously.

"Why seven?" Ciel asked.

"Because seven is the perfect number!" I informed them as I faced them both. "That's why when I get married I want to have seven kids."

That stunned both boys with varying degrees of intense shock. I couldn't help but burst in laughter then. "Ah! Your faces are so funny! Bet you didn't know that about me, huh?"

"Seven kids?" echoed Ciel in incredulity. "Surely you jest?"

I looked at him slightly offended. "Of course not! I don't have any siblings and I've always wanted a big family. Plus it's in my genetic blood to someday have more than one kid. And seven is so perfect!"

"Seven is so perfect what?" Prince Soma inquired as he placed a friendly arm around Ciel's shoulder.

"Apparently, Miss Hero wants seven children," supplied Sebastian as he regained his composure.

Prince Soma's eyebrows met his hairline in astonishment. "What a feat! Then as future husband I shall of course strive to please."

"Stop spouting nonsense!" Ciel shouted at him, flushing. "When are you going to get it that you're not a part of this competition?"

Prince Soma lifted his nose. "No need to get jealous…runt."

Ciel sighed, but decided to let it go. "Anyways Sebastian, what are the tickets for?"

"They are for…the circus."

I rubbed my temple. "This arc is both exciting and frightening at the same time." I just hope I can get through this like I would a horror movie. Seriously.

---

"Stay here," he warned as he disappeared into the crowd. The girl looked after him, feeling terribly forlorn yet terribly glad at the same time. She didn't know why, but she obeyed him anyway, knowing he'd be happy that she had listened to him.

She swung her legs back and forth, sitting comfortably on the wooden bench she had been assigned to temporarily. She looked at her new black shoes, shiny in the sun. It was then that she smelled it. Something delicious and it had her tummy growling. She got up and wondered over toward where the smell was coming from. It had her mouth watering and she smiled when she saw a vendor selling something delicious. It looked like sweet bread.

The little girl reached up and peered over the portable counter, tippy-toeing to see over. The lady was oblivious as she cooked her wares for the people passing by. Eventually she noted the little girl.

"Oh! Que pasa niña?" What is it girl? The girl did not reply, but stared at the food instead, mesmerized. The lady smiled, but looked cautiously around. She grabbed a piece of bread and wrapped it for the small girl. "Aqui esta. Natha mas esta ves." Here you are. Only this one time.

The girl's brown eyes widened and she smiled. No one has ever been so kind to her before. Had she not been with him, they would have spit at her and told her to get lost. And when she didn't, they'd grab a stick and beat her. She gratefully grabbed the wrapped piece and nodded her thanks at the kind lady before walking back to her seat.

Just as she ate it, a group of scruffy looking men passed by her. One of them sneered at her and purposefully knocked the bread from her hands. She watched it tumbled to the ground. She blinked. Got up and picked it up before resuming to eat it once more.

"Niña mas puerca!" shouted one of the men. Pig-like girl! One of them kicked her and out of instinct the girl grabbed his leg. The man screamed in agony and the girl let go, alarmed. The man still screamed and cursed as he grabbed his limp leg. "Matan la!" Kill her!

No one noticed as three men ganged up on the girl. In fact, the town knew if there was trouble, avoid it at all cost. So no one heeded the screams and shouts of absolute terror of the men. No one did a thing. They all looked the other way and continued their business, taking care to avoid the street where the bloodbath had taken place.

The girl stood standing, looking at the sobbing and groaning men around her. She looked at her socks and noticed they were red, along with her hands. What could this red stuff be? She wondered as she sat back on the bench. And why was it that everyone she touched always fell asleep?

Five minutes later he appeared. He looked at the men on the ground and sighed before picking the girl up.

"You're a mess again. But I suppose new clothes were in order. We have to keep moving, little one. They're after us. You. And with this mess they'll be sure to find you soon." He stepped over the dead bodies and disappeared into the forest once more.

I gasped as I sat up in bed. Oh my gosh, what in the world was that dream? But most of all, that little girl kind of looked like me. What sick sadistic joke was my mind playing at? I shuddered and looked around, realizing that it was still dark, maybe early morning.

Ciel was beside me, sleeping peacefully, tucked into his little covers. I smiled. Major aw moment here. I laid back and waited to go to sleep…except I felt restless. I was just so wide awake there was no way I could go back to sleep anytime soon. I sighed as I sat up once more. I got off the bed and placed my slippers on.

There was only one thing to do at a time like this, especially if I was awake and restless because of some sick strange nightmare (and I haven't had those since the last time I saw the Ring with Steven and Pepper).

---

Sebastian certainly wasn't expecting anyone to be up earlier than himself. In fact he had just dragged Finny, Bard and Tanaka from their beds again. They should be down shortly along with Mey-Rin. When he entered the kitchen he was very much surprised to his demon mate up, running around the kitchen. And surprised him even more was that she wasn't rummaging through the place to consume any food, but she was actually going to create some.

She could cook? It was another thing that he didn't know about her.

I looked up when I spotted Sebastian in the doorway. I smiled. "Morning Sebby, what brings you to this fair kitchen?"

He walked in and glanced around the busy kitchen. "The racket I heard from a mile away."

"Whoops! Sorry about that. I'm trying to get used to the Victorian style pots and pans and stuff."

He came over where I was standing and looked at what I was making. "You know, all this is really unnecessary. I can have breakfast ready in a few minutes."

"Oh nonsense! I want to make breakfast today so just deal. Besides, I have all this pent up energy and I just need to let it loose."

Sebastian stepped back and cocked his head. "And what exactly has you so…fidgety?"

I was silent as I mixed the ingredients together. Finally, when I couldn't stand the silence no longer, I looked at hm. "Okay. I had a nightmare. Happy?"

"I see," he murmured. "Is it normal for you to be up so early making breakfast?"

"Early like this? Not really. I get this way when I'm stressed about something; exams, busy schedules, picture day at school, dance club competition and important cases I work on. The works," I explained to him patiently,

Sebastian frowned slightly, finding it strange that he felt himself concerned about her mental well-being. He supposed part of it was his demon instincts and the other because he genuinely worried about her. It was odd. All he should be worried about is claiming, but as he's starting to realize, this game of courtship is a lot more complicated than he had anticipated. First of all, never before had he considered anyone else's feelings. Especially love.

As he stared her back, he had to wonder something…"Hero?"

I stiffened. Sebastian had called my name without the use of Miss. This must be serious or… I turned around but took out my fan and held it before me like a weapon. I smiled though. "Yes?"

Sebastian eyed the fan. "I will not seduce you if that's your reason for taking out the fan."

I arched a brow. "Really now?"

He sighed. "Upon my word. I simply have a question for you."

"Shoot."

"What methods would you prefer to be courted with?"

I almost choked on the air I was breathing. Was the smexy butler in black really asking me how I wanted to be wooed? Never mind that he's asking, but how the hell do I respond? Back home I barely think about boys (other than my Spanish soaps; now them men be fine) in that sense so how was I supposed to know?

I tapped my chin with my fan in thought. Really, what to say? "Well since you're asking I'll have to be truthful and say I don't really know. But not being mauled over would be nice. I'm sure you've realized that I'm very much inexperienced with such things," I told him seriously.

"Is that all?"

"…yup pretty much. Just do what any normal guy would do to impress his lady. Get to know them, be kind, etc, though with you being…not normal, just do whatever…that doesn't involve intimacy of the most scandalous kind."

Sebastian smiled innocently. "Scandalous kind, of course."

Before more could be said, Bard stumbled his way inside the kitchen, scratching his bed head in confusion upon seeing me here. "Uh…"

I held up a frying pan cheerfully. "I'm makin' breakfast so sit back and relax!"

Soon the other servants wandered in, lured by the delicious smell of my morning specialties. Sebastian sighed and decided to go wake up Ciel. I smiled at the prospect. I couldn't wait to see what Ciel thought of my amazing pancakes.

---

Rather than get woken up by Sebastian like normal, Ciel was actually roused by the faint but delicious smell of wafting into his room. He stirred and sleepily sat up, rubbing an eye as Sebastian walked in.

"Sebastian, what is that smell?"

"Miss Hero is cooking breakfast. I believe its pancakes, sir."

Ciel blinked. "Cooking? Pancakes? You mean Hero can cook?"

Sebastian smiled wryly. "I was also surprised. It seems we don't know much of our resident time-traveler."

Ciel frowned as he was handed his tea. "…Sebastian?"

Sebastian fetched his young master the papers and handed it to him. "Yes, sir?"

He looked up from his paper. "I propose a temporary truce."

That caught the demon butler off guard. "A truce?"

"Temporary of course. Since having heard Hero's…'dream' yesterday I've been thinking a lot about the little things we don't know about her."

"Such as her ability to cook?"

"Exactly. And isn't it only natural to get to know one's future fiancée?"

Sebastian gave it some thought. His young master had a point. And it was also a perfect way to really devise a strategy on how to woo his demon mate since she didn't respond as expected by use of heavy seduction. Maybe once he had found her weakness, the rest would become exceedingly easier. Sebastian's brownish-red gaze met his master's sapphire blue ones. He let a small smile show. "Very well."

Ciel nodded. "This truce shall last only a week. In that span of time we should do all we can to know more about her. I'm sure Hero will appreciate the reprieve."

More than enough time to devise a suitable strategy, Sebastian thought, knowing his young master was thinking along the same lines. Ciel then finished his tea and paper as Sebastian recounted today's schedule. Ciel was soon dressed and his demon butler was tying the last finishing touches when at that moment Prince Soma burst into the room dramatically.

"Ciel! Ciel! Did you know that Hero could cook? I was woken up by the smell and went to investigate and never had I beheld a woman of many talents! She is indeed perfect to become my future wife, though we'll have the servants do the cooking." A pillow was thrown with enough force to topple the Indian prince on the floor.

"Would you mind refraining from spouting such nonsense? And how many times do I have to tell you that Hero isn't going to be your wife?" Ciel muttered, looking at Prince Soma with intense irritation "Furthermore, stop shouting so early in the morning. Aren't you supposed to be going back to India?"

The Indian prince got and dusted his pants. "Going back? What are you saying? I'm staying in Great Britain for your and Hero's sake of course! When I declared I'd become a fine, gentleman, didn't you say you thought I was all talk? So I thought I would show you the process of my becoming such a gentleman every step of the way and impress Hero with my progress."

"That isn't—"

"Priiiiince! My Priiiince!" called a voice from outside the hall. Agni's cheerful head popped into the room. "So you were with Lord Ciel, after all. You were not with Miss Hero in the kitchen so I was wondering where you had gone to."

"Now see here! What are you playing at? 'Your room'? I don't recall ever giving you permission to live in this—"

Before Ciel could finish and before Prince Soma could interrupt, I dashed into the room and tackled a startled Ciel. "Ciel! Ciel! You'll never believe who just arrived!"

"Arrived?" repeated Sebastian, not recalling anyone scheduled to visit this early in the morning.

"Hello dears!" called an all too familiar voice from the doorway. Madam Red stood in all her red glory, looking as fashionable as the Victorian Vogue magazine would dictate, on the threshold of Ciel's room. "Oh it's so good to come and visit my darling nephew and Hero once again!"

Ciel's eye was wide with shock. "Madame Red?"

She came and joined me in glomping Ciel. "You'll have to excuse me for not going to the curry festival. Oh the hospital was so dreadfully busy that day!" The hug tightened. "But it's alright now! I'm on Holiday so now I can spend my time with y-o-u!"

Ciel and I blinked. Wow that was a Grell moment. There was a momentary crash out in the hall. We all went out and saw a young man buried under huge red luggage bags. He looked around his late twenties, tall, brown slicked back hair, dark eyes, and a rather cute face that sported a sullen stoic scowl. I tilted my head in thought. Who was he?

Madame Red huffed. "Really now Stanton do keep up! And careful with my bags, my cosmetics can't be damaged you see."

I sweat dropped. "Um…who is he?"

Madame Red laughed as Sebastian helped this Stanton with the luggage. "He's my new butler, Stanton Williams. After the whole Grell fiasco I was in need of a new one. So a friend of mine played a few rounds of card with me and voila! My new butler! And he's not a grim reaper this time!"

"Pleasure," Stanton mumbled by way of greeting as he got up and fixed his butler clothes. "Madame I really don't think all this is necessary for a stay of a week."

"A week?" Ciel repeated. He turned to his favorite aunt. "I won't be here for most the week."

"Oh? No matter! I need a good long holiday after the hectic work I was put under. Imagine! Seven surgeries in one day!" She sighed.

Prince Soma leaned into me and whispered, "Who's the red lady?"

"She's Ciel's aunt. Everyone calls her Madame Red," I told him.

Madame Red then spotted Prince Soma. "And who might this be?"

"This person is the twenty-sixth child of the Raja of Bengal…Prince Soma Asman Kadar," Agni introduced.

Prince Soma smiled. "I am Ciel's best friend and Hero's future husband."

Her eyes widened as her smiled stretched. "A prince? And future husband you say?" She turned toward a seething Ciel as he glared at his "best friend" and me as I shook my head. "My Ciel! It would seem Hero's got another suitor." She took out a small notebook and a pen. "I suppose I should add this Prince Soma to the list."

"You're keeping a record of all this?" I gaped.

"Don't add him!" Ciel added. "And what part of this all stays private don't you understand?"

"Ahahaha!" Prince Soma laughed. "Ciel! I like this red aunt of yours!"

Over by the butler corner, Sebastian and Agni turned toward Stanton. He was satisfied that the new butler was indeed human. After helping the man settle everything inside Madame Red's temporary room, Sebastian then made his way toward the servants so he could get the rest of the day started.

---

He clapped his hands once, getting everyone's attention. "Alright, listen up everyone, even though the number of guests within the manor has increased dramatically, we still have Lord Randall's visit at half past six in the evening. We must not bring shame upon the young master and the illustrious Phantomhive. Therefore, Mey-Rin, polish the banister of the front stair-case."

"I will, yes I will!"

"Finny, remove the snow from the trees in the inner courtyard."

"Kaaaay!"

"Bard, please take care of the chicken for tonight's soup."

"No problem!"

"Mister Tanaka…please make yourself at home."

"Hoh, hoh, hoh!"

Sebastian had given them a warning to just do exactly as they've been told when the door to the kitchen opened and both Agni and Stanton appeared. Sebastian looked surprised. "Mister Agni, Mister Stanton."

"As I am imposing upon the kindness of this manor, please feel free to ask anything of me."

Mister Stanton sighed. "I have to apologize in place of the Madame as well. She can be so…extraordinarily assertive. I must also make amends in any way I can."

"I see. Where is Prince Soma and Madame Red?"

"Prince Soma is playing with Lord Ciel. He introduced to him a game Miss Hero calls 'Hide and go Seek'. My Prince is currently hiding in the drawing room while Lord Ciel seeks him out in his study," he pauses. "I'm not sure how he will succeed that way."

What an ingenious method to keep the Prince busy, thought Sebastian. So he does intend to go on with the day's agenda.

"Madame Red is currently interrogating Miss Hero about the details of some competition so far. After that I think she intends to play dress up with the little lady," Mister Stanton explained calmly.

That settles that. Sebastian gave them his most radiant smile. "Very well. Mister Agni, can I ask you to clean the windows? As you are taller than I am."

The Indian butler smiled. "Yes! You may count on me."

"And Mister Stanton, could I trouble you with dusting round the front foyer?"

"Certainly. I shall do as you ask."

"Good then. Everyone, to your post!"

---

After escaping Madame Red's intense interrogation of how things were progressing so far (she's become obsessed in writing a memoir, except it'll be about Ciel's love life apparently) I exhaled in relief at the short reprieve as I went down the stairs. Of course I couldn't escape her attempts at making me her life-size Barbie doll. So there I was, in the most cute and frilly of all dresses that matched the new fan she bought me (she bought me a small chest full of fans that were designed to specifically match my dresses and beat men off me; the latter I thought pretty useful).

I don't think it's precisely appropriate for afternoon wear but hey, she said I looked cute so I smiled at the prospect of looking feminine. As I was going down I noticed Madame's new butler dusting downstairs. Which made me think. Since Madame's not dead, it would be a given that she would need a new butler and it would make double sense if he was human (although I don't think winning him at cards is the way to go, but whatever floats her boat). He was surprisingly cute and young for a butler. So because I must know, I decided to talk to him.

"Hey there newbie," I greeted him from behind.

He had been concentrating so intensely he looked startled when I spoke. He turned around. "Oh, um, hello there Miss Hero."

"So is it true? Were you really given away because your old mistress lost at cards?"

How forward, definitely American, thought Stanton as he sweat-dropped. He cleared his throat and continued to dust as he spoke. "I suppose it is no secret as the Madame has no notion of the word. But I don't mind the sudden switch. My old mistress was rather harsh toward her servants."

I tsked. "Yeah. There are some people that can be really mean. So tell me about your family!"

Stanton stumbled slightly but quickly continued his task. "Why would you want to know about that? Especially about a servant?"

I shrugged. "Why not? Since your Madame Red's new butler we've got to be friends." The boy gave me a look that said such a notion was scandalous. I giggled. "Dude, if there's one thing you should know about me is that I don't care who are, if I like you, you're going to be my friend. End of story. Come hell or high water." That's how I earned Amanda's friendship. Girly had serious trust issues when I first met her. But I managed to overcome them and now we're best of friends!

Stanton didn't know how to react to that. "Erm, though not appropriate I am powerless to resist."

I smiled. "Good! Now spill."

In the end, he told me that his parents were alive, living in the countryside while his older three sisters worked as maids at Buckingham Palace. He was once married but his young wife died of tuberculosis. After that (he was vague on that part) he was in limbo until his sisters finally caught him and trained him to be a butler (a calling he enjoyed immensely). Apparently his experience with his frighteningly assertive and smothering sisters gave him enough patience and familiarity to handle the bodacious and fabulous Madame Red.

I whistled. "Pretty cool. I'm glad you can help keep Madame Red out of trouble and harm's way."

"I suppose I can though only if she'll listen to me." He wiped the seat from his forehead. "Finished dusting."

I glanced out the window then and noticed Finny and Agni shaking the snow from trees. I grinned. I grabbed Stanton's arm and dragged him outside.

"I say!"

"Come on! Let's help Finny and Agni!"

And before Stanton knew it, he was carrying me as I helped Finny shake the snow off the tree. "This is most inappropriate," he murmured, though everyone ignored his comment.

"Thanks for your help Hero!" Finny cheerfully exclaimed as he battled with the stubborn snow on the pine tree. "At this rate I'll be done before lunch!"

I smiled, whacking some snow clumsily from the tree, allowing for some to fall atop the sighing Stanton's hair. I giggled and resumed fighting the snow. "That's good. I like helping people; makes me feel all happy inside."

Through a window on the third floor, Sebastian looked at the scene below. He had been downstairs to check on Mister Stanton's progress when he found Hero. Her presence had been unexpected, but interestingly enough he had gleaned some useful information.

One, if she liked you, Hero will become your friend whether you like it or not.

Two, she genuinely liked helping people.

Three, she disliked her short height and weighed around a hundred and ten pounds (this piece of information was divulged when she attempted to persuade Mister Stanton to carry her on his shoulders).

And as his demon mate went about the rest of the day, dragging a rather reluctant sullen Stanton around, helping Bard and Mey-Rin, Sebastian also discovered a few additional facts about her.

Four, Hero loved cooking, especially meats (she decided to give Bard a hand after the explosion) and possessed quite a talent in ordering people about (she wanted tonight's dinner absolutely perfect)

Five, she was actually rather skillful doing servant's work (Mey-Rin incident) and had a secret love for all things cute and girly

Sebastian didn't exactly know how this would help him woo his demon mate but it was a start. And no doubt his young master would want a report on this as well.

---

"Oh Ciel you really are too cruel!" Madame Red admonished as she sipped her tea calmly. "Making the Prince hide in one place, expecting you to find him but here you are, not doing anything at all."

Ciel sighed as he read over a recent report. "I don't have time for him to interfere with my schedule today. I've got Sir Randall coming over tonight and I want to have everything finished before then."

"Sir Randall you say? Is he coming to pay you?" Ciel nodded before taking his pen and signing something. Madame Red smiled. "Well I suppose that'll be an amusing sight to behold. Anyways, how is your courtship of Hero coming along?"

Ciel set his papers down. "Must we really discuss this?"

She grinned. "You know I have to know darling! I'm on Holiday!"

Ciel sighed once more. "Well I suppose I'm making some progress, but with Hero I'm not entirely sure. Sebastian and I have called a truce for the moment to get to know Hero a little more and devise a strategy to make her fall in love."

"Truce? Get to know Hero? My that's an interesting way to take this on, very sweet too. But what brought this up?"

Ciel picked up his teacup. "Yesterday Hero told us that since she'd never had a big family that she'd like to have children when she gets married."

"What's so strange about that? It's common for women to want to have children once they're married." She would know all about that.

"She wants seven children. Seven."

Madame Red's eyes widened in shock before she laughed. "Oh I knew there was a reason why I liked that girl! I couldn't agree with her more! So because she revealed something so big you had to pause and revise this strategy of yours? Hmm, very amusing. Why dearest Francis wrote to me the other day that little Lizzy was determined to woo your own heart! What spunk, just like her mother. And you'll never guess what I found out when I visited them in person!"

Ciel looked bored as he continued sipping his tea. "And what would that be?"

"That Edward has fallen in love with Hero and has declared you a rival! Quite the love triangle, eh Ciel?" She tsked at the remains of his tea being sprayed into the air at the news. "Now, now. There's no need to waste perfectly good tea."

"Edward is what? In love? How?"

Madame Red held up a hand in a don't ask me gesture. "I haven't a clue, but he sounded very serious. He even signed the contract you signed. The one where he's a contender for Hero's hand."

Ciel's jaw dropped as he stood up. "And you let him?"

Madame Red sighed. "Lord Alexis was so insistent that Edward will win. Even Francis' attempts to dissuade such a silly notion failed. So I had no choice." She then grinned. "On the bright side he betted a good five hundred pounds! Imagine the jewels I should be able to buy with that! I might even gift Stanton a nice coat."

Ciel sat back down and looked positively blue as he felt a headache come on. "I don't know what to say on the subject anymore."

Madame Red stood up and stretched. "Oh do relax. The main competitors are still you and Sebastian. Now there's simply others in this race."

"Others?"

"Edward, the prince, and even Lau has signed on to be a 'back-up' suitor," she paused. "Now that I think on it, this competition is becoming very profitable for me. I hadn't intended it to be so, but you know how people love to wager. Why even Her Majesty paid me call just a few days ago! And of course I had to tell her about this!"

Ciel rested his head on his arms. "So that's how she knew," he muttered.

Madame Red went on. "She even added in her own bet. To think she'd bet a thousand for you and five hundred against you at the same time!"

Ciel lifted his head. "Wait, five hundred against me? Who is she betting for?"

"Didn't you know? Earl Charles Grey! Though the boy hasn't officially signed the contract yet."

"Grey?"

At that moment Sebastian came in and he looked none too happy. "It would seem our Hero is very much a magnet."

"Indeed," agreed Ciel, panicking at all the ardent admirers Hero's managed to attract in less than a month. "We have to devise a strategy quick Sebastian! Before Edward and Grey and even Prince Soma get any headway!"

Madame Red smiled. "At least you boys have a head start!"

It was also at that moment that Prince Soma burst into the room. "Ciel! Ciel! I win! It has been exactly over two hours and you have not found me in this Hide and go Seek game. What else should we do?"

Ciel face-palmed.

---

Before I knew it, the evening strolled in and with it came Sir Randall and Inspector Aberline. Sebastian was outside, greeting the two men as they came down from the carriage.

Aberline's eyes widened at his first glimpse of the manor.

"Uwaah! What a wonderful manor…!" complimented the Inspector as he followed Sir Randall inside.

"Cease your wide eyed wonderment at once. You ought to be ashamed!" admonished Sir Randall. "I have no desire to even set foot in this hive of Phantoms that is the Phantomhive manor!"

"That's kind of mean, don'tcha think?" Sir Randall and Aberline stiffened before turning around to find me behind them. I smiled. "Good evening!"

Aberline doffed his hat as he blushed. "E—Evening Miss Hero."

Sir Randall harumphed but muttered a greeting.

"Now, now Sir Randall! Do relax and become at least somewhat civilized toward the Phantomhive womenfolk," called Madame Red as she approached them from in front.

"Madame Red? What are you doing here?"

She smiled. "Didn't you gentlemen know? I'm on Holiday! So I'd thought I'd relax with my favorite nephew!"

Sir Randall muttered something under his breath and Aberline smiled, bowing slightly in greeting. I left them to it as I followed Sebastian after announcing that he'd fetch Ciel. But when he opened the door he was greeted by Agni's solemn expression, which Sebastian quickly shut the door on. I giggled. "Did you warn him about…?"

"Yes," Sebastian leaned against the door and quietly whispered fiercely. "Mister Agni, what is the matter? And after I urged you repeatedly out of sight—"

"I have given much thought to the matter since then, and I believe I should surrender to the police…!"

"Agni, trust me when I say it's not a good idea!" I told him through the door. "First rule on the detective extraordinaire job description: what the cops don't know won't hurt 'em!"

"Though Miss Hero makes sense in a bizarre way I have to agree. If you turn yourself in here, you will inconvenience not just Prince Soma, but you will also be causing an enormous inconvenience to the young master."

I rolled my eyes. "Yes because that would be a big problem."

Just then little boy blue's voice came from overhead. "Well, well, Lord Commissioner." Ciel stood regally on the stairs with his little pimp cane as he came down. "I see both Madame Red and Hero have greeted you already. Welcome to the Phantomhive Manor. Dinner is served, if you would please come this way…"

Sebastian whispered to the door once more. "So do as I say and stay in your room!"

After that Sebastian led the way to dining room where we went through the gallery first. Ciel continued to speak, "I'm well aware that you don't wish to dine with the likes of me, but…this has been tradition for generations. And it's rare to see you bring someone along. Is he a candidate for your successor? You are at that age, after all."

I almost laughed but coughed at the last minute. Madame Red sighed but gave Ciel a sly smile.

Sir Randall scowled. "If you hadn't made an appearance at the crime scene both times, he would never have come to know anything."

Ciel and Sebastian stopped to turn around. "I don't mind having him know but…" My eyes widened when I spotted Agni across the hall. Quick as a flash Sebastian was on the other side of the hall, having slammed the doors closed. Of course everyone had noticed.

"I beg your pardon," Sebastian apologized. "The door was open, so…"

"If the door fits poorly have it fixed at once," Ciel scolded.

"Yes, sir."

I placed a hand over my mouth so I'm not tempted to burst out laughing again. Poor Sebastian, his troubles were far from over.

"My but this is a gorgeous gallery! There are so many paintings!" Aberline commented as he looked around in awe.

"Hmph! All these paintings are gloomy! They are indeed worthy of the Phantomhives!" Sir Randall complained.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes again and instead went over to a painting that had me smiling. "Oh I totally forgot you owned this picture!" I told Ciel as I pointed at Millais's drowning Ophelia. "But I personally think Ophelia was a wuss. She could have so done better, but I definitely give her props for her dramatic death. Definitely left a statement."

"So you don't care much for Ophelia?" Ciel asked curiously.

"Not when she's alive. Just saying."

Aberline ambled over and gaped. "Hamlet's Ophelia you mean? Oh and its Millais!"

Madame Red peered at the painting before yawning. "I'd prefer Whistler's The Little White Girl. Reminds me of my younger days when I was just a girl myself. Not a shade of red on the dear!"

Aberline nodded. "Oh yes! I find the simplicity and elegance quite breathtaking! It definitely gives a sense of nostalgia and—Oh! You own a water house too~!"

Ciel chuckled. "He appreciates art. Should you not seriously consider a transition of power?"

"Appreciating art does not make him of any use as a detective!" Sir Randall snapped.

"You're harsh," Ciel smirked slightly.

I held up a finger. "S'cuse me but I beg to differ. If this kid is going to be of any use in art heist, you definitely need to get familiar with your art. Especially with how much its worth."

"Kid?" echoed Aberline.

"Everyone, this way please," announced Sebastian, holding a door open. I blinked then turned toward the windows. Oh snap! I totally forgot about Agni for a minute! In the second foyer, I noticed Prince Soma walking up the second floor. "The table has already been set…?!"

Prince Soma noticed Ciel and I and quickly leaned over the railing. "Hey Ciel! Hero! I couldn't find that hidden object you told me to search so I just gave up! Let's just play cards toge—"

I used my fan to hide my laughing face as Sebastian flew up there and terrified the shi-nit out of the poor Indian prince.

"I thought I heard someone…," Aberline trailed off in confusion.

"It was simply your imagination," Ciel insisted.

"On to dinner people!" I said nervously, herding them into the dining room. It was at that minute I saw Agni slam the door open. I did the slashing throat gesture at the man but he wouldn't listen. Aberline, Sir Randall, Madame Red, and Ciel all looked over and the place became pitch black; which by the way scared the friggin' shi-nit out of me at the sudden loss of light.

"I think I just bumped into a wall!" Me.

"What? What is going on?" Sir Randall.

"I can't see neigh a thing! Oh careful! That was my dress!" Madame Red.

"I'm sorry! It's pitch black! I'm scared!" Aberline.

"And you call yourself a detective? You should be ashamed of yourself!" Sir Randall again.

"Hero that's my foot!" Ciel.

"I'm not moving!" Me again.

"Sorry sorry! That was me!" Aberline once more.

Before things could get hectic a light suddenly flared and we all saw Sebastian standing calmly with candelabra, looking all positively smexy I might add. "My apologies, the lights seemed to have gone out."

Ciel huffed. "Was it the wind or something, Sebastian?"

"Yes, it was something…other than the wind." Okay now I rolled my eyes. Sebastian just loved insinuating things. Still, I smiled and hoped he hadn't tied Agni too tight. "The dining room is that way. Come, let us go."

"I say, why are the lights out?" muttered Stanton as he walked down the empty darkened hall. Since it was dark the poor butler didn't see the Agni laying there hogtied and tripped over the man, landing squarely on the face. "Really now what is going on!"

---

"Now that we're settled in, let's get down to business," Ciel declared.

We were all seated around the dining room and I honestly couldn't wait for the food to come. Since Bard had inadvertently destroyed lunch and most of dinner, I did what I could to salvage the last meal so I could proudly say dinner was made by me this time. Unfortunately I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast and helping the B-MR-F trio left me feeling hungry.

"Indeed. I do not wish to stay in this creepy dog house forever." Sir Randall placed the check on the silver plate which Sebastian delivered accordingly. I used my fan to hide my yawn as the big truth of the Phantomhive and Scotland Yard relationship came into the light. Heard it. Madame Red looked put out too, probably hoping they'd get to a much more interesting topic of conversation.

"Without legal evidence, you cannot declare to the citizens that we exist, thus our high expenses are paid for by none other than you, Scotland Yard," Ciel bluntly announced. "On paper it gets chalked up to 'rewards' just as for Barnaby and the other police dogs."

Aberline gasped. "No! That's almost like bribe—"

"There is no 'almost' about it. It is the very definition of a bribe," Ciel smugly put.

"No surprise there," I said. "It's been happening for like ever."

"Hero's correct. This has been the custom for generations. Come, I have procured the choicest champagne to commemorate the end of this affair. Let's have a toast," Ciel offered grandly.

Madame Red perked at that. "I second that notion!"

I shook my head. "I'll pass. I don't drink alcohol." I wasn't aware that that piece of information was piled away for later use by both Ciel and Sebastian.

"But the culprits have not been arrested y—"

"Enough Aberline," Sir Randall interrupted sternly. "Both Her Majesty and Phantomhive have declared the affair to be 'over' so…," Cue Agni's big entrance. "The perpetrator no longer exist."

Everyone's eyes widened at the sight of Agni. "About those incidents! The truth is I—"

I'd have to give Sebastian major props for the use of the cork's projectile to shut Agni up. It was just so funny that I laughed out loud and I giggled even more when Prince Soma wondered in, hopping to sneak some food. This night could not have gone any funnier.

In the end, no serious harm was done and we all toasted (my glass was filled with water) to the end of the curry arc (at least that's what I called it).

---

I sat on a chair as I fanned myself (I'm getting attached to these fans; I just might use them as my primary weapon now) and listened with a smile as Ciel berated both Agni and Prince Soma for their idiocy. Madame Red stood next to me as she surveyed the scene before her with a smile.

"It does one good to relax every once in a while," she murmured.

I nodded. "Definitely. Ciel, Sebastian and I will soon be busy with an upcoming mission so we'd better take advantage of all this peacefulness."

"Madame?" Stanton said as he appeared before her with a tray, presenting Ciel's aunt with her evening tea.

"Oh Stanton you dear you! And his tea is surprisingly good," she told me as she sat down. As she picked up the teacup Madame Red spotted the ring on my finger. She arched her brows in surprise and paused mid-sip. "Hero what is that?" Indicating the ring on my finger.

I glance at it. "Oh it's the promise ring Ciel gave me."

"Yes but is that a sapphire? At the very center?"

I looked at it appreciatively and smiled, remembering when Ciel gave it to me. "It sure is. Pretty isn't it?" My mind had been all pretty-pretty shiny-shiny when I really took my time to admire it.

"So you aren't aware?"

I looked up. "Aware of what?"

Madame Red leaned in close and whispered in my ear. "That Phantomhive men gift a sapphire ring to their intended future beloved. That's what my brother-in-law told me," she said seriously. "And it made perfect sense. Rachel had been sporting a sapphire ring on her right finger a week before she was proposed to."

I stiffened, the ring feeling heavier than usual. Intended future beloved? And not to mention that I was Sebastian's demon mate. How the hell was this all going to work out? This was worse than any of my Spanish soaps! Because won't Sebastian suck out Ciel's soul? So what good will any of this be? I sighed as I rubbed my temple. Good thing I still had that year to sort my feelings out and come up with a plan. What plan you ask? You'll see!

---

It was early next morning that had us all awake and ready to leave right back to London. Well, Sebastian, Ciel and I at least.

"It has cleared up significantly young master, Miss Hero," Sebastian informed as he carried our bags with ease. "What a splendid day for going to the circus."

"I'm sort of both dreading yet really super excited about this!" I told them as I spun round in my new gown Madame Red had absolutely insisted I wear. I didn't mind since it was incredibly stylish and warm, plus my shoes looked uber cool.

Sebastian smiled slight and turned to face the servants and along with Madame Red and Stanton. "Young master, Miss Hero and I will be working in London again for some time."

Madame Red waved us away with a friendly wave. "I understand. Hurry back you three!" She nudged the complaisant and calm looking Stanton in the ribs. He winced slightly but gave us a small smile.

"Yes, do hurry back."

"Young master, Miss Hero! Ya take care now!" Bard saluted.

"Safe travels!" Finny waved.

"Please come back soon!" Mey-Rin sniffed.

Sebastian helped me into the carriage and I gave everyone a wave. Ciel came in after me but he paused and turned to look back at the servants. "You lot the manor while I'm away," Ciel instructed coolly.

The B-MR-F trio's eyes glowed before they smiled. "Yes my lord!"

I grinned. "Well this should be fun!"

---

Heller! So whatcha think? How was Madame Red's new butler Stanton? And I don't know about you guys but I'm just itchin to write the next chapter already (omg Snake here I come!). So any questions, comments, and concerns? Feel free to review and tell me what you think. I highly value your words so don't be shy!