Through The Looking Glass Chapter 25: Setting Sail: That Explains So Much, a kuroshitsuji fanfic

Lady Keiko here...

...yeah I don't even know what to say except enjoy the chapter?

I'm sorry this took for FREAKING EVER but I finally got off my busy butt to finish this Q.Q Sooo yeah...I don't ever wanna go through such a long withdrawal so if the Lord is kind, you'll get another chapter after I finish watching the Titanic for inspiration (hate that move! So SAD ;A;).

Oh and if you see any grammatical errors or whatever, let me know. Uploaded this as is again XP

Disclaimer: I don't own Kuroshitsuji.

25. Smooth Sailing: That Explains So Much

"I just felt he was too perfect," Arthur admitted simply. Both Ciel and Sebastian were all ears and I couldn't help but hide my smile as his deductions were laid out. Still, despite what was happening in front of me, everything around me felt surreal. I mean, not a few hours ago I was dead and… well, here I am again. There's nothing like death to make you rethink life…and feel even hungrier if possible. I chewed my scone slowly, observing the scene as Arthur pointed out that it was completely impossible to prepare one's death…or "murder" so thoroughly. And to that I say amen. I had told Sebastian that preparing for every single aspect of this little thriller would incite certain person's suspicions. But like always, Sebastian had simply said he'd keep it in mind and patted me on the head.

To be honest, Ciel, Sebastian and I had already known how the events of our little "party" would turn out. It was easy enough to guess (not to mention having read the manga) and everyone acted so predictably. Although, the Charity bits were very much unforeseen. Like seriously. She had only caught sight of the mark on my back because Sebastian had carried me back to shore after saving me. If anyone else…or anything thing else had caught sight…I shivered. I'll have to be careful next time. If poor Clarissa's diary entries are anything to go by, my life expectancy will be a lot longer if prudence became a better part of valor.

"N-Now just a minute!" exclaimed Arthur as shock got ahold of him. I broke away from my thoughts and looked up. "Anticipating you said—"

"We knew beforehand that one of the guests was looking to…harass the young master at the banquet," Sebastian answered smoothly as he refilled Ciel's teacup.

"What? He didn't figure it out yet?" I murmured, closing my eyes, feeling extremely exhausted all of a sudden.

Ciel smirked. "He's getting close to that conclusion."

Arthur paled. "Th-That means…you three had already predicted that this incident would take place?"

Sebastian smirked. "Yes. Also that Lord Siemens would likely fall into that plot…and that I would be murdered as well, you see."

Two days ago…

"GUH! GWAAAAH!" came the gruff shot from inside the room. Sebastian paused in his actions, observing as Mey-Rin banged frantically against the door, just as he heard a particular sound that sounded oddly suspicious.

Smash?

It was faint but the sound was unmistakable, like a tiny glass object shattering into pieces.

"What is going on in there?" cried out Mey-Rin in worry. "Lord Siemens? Lord Siemens!" All of Mey-Rin's shouts alerted the others and they soon approached where Sebastian and the maid stood.

"Something wrong? What's all the fuss?" wondered Grey as he got close.

Sebastian paid him little heed as he soon kicked down the door with almost no effort. The minute the door was out of the way, Mey-Rin and Irene screamed. There before everyone's sight was a supposedly deceased Lord Siemens. Each of the guests reacted accordingly and that gave Sebastian a chance to scoop out the scene, seeing nothing missing amongst the room's furnishings.

I am certain I heard something break, but I spy nothing broken. I do not smell blood either. Which means…

Sebastian glanced at the fireplace.

…something like a bottle of poison must be in there.

"Please wait!" interrupted Arthur. "Why did you not mention that right away? If you had the Earl would have been spared all that suspicion!"

"Humph! I tried my best you know," I reminded him. "Remember me slapping Siemens silly? Didn't anyone think it odd that his cheeks swelled up like that? Or was everyone acting all peckish because I was touching a 'dead' body?"

Arthur had the good sense to blush. "No I admit I had found the behavior rather unusual, but thought nothing of it."

"I could have proven Siemens was faking it too but Ciel had told me beforehand to let 'things be'," I looked at Ciel who merely smirked.

"Indeed," agreed Sebastian. "The young master appeared to be simply taking in the scene, so I followed his lead."

"A murder occurring under those circumstances—my first thought was that it was a sham," Ciel explained.

"Damn straight it was. Who friggin locks the door after they've committed murder? Any sensible person would run away, leaving the door unlocked," I pointed out.

"And alive or dead, Siemens took the poison himself, as I'd expected. The rest was as Sebastian said," Ciel continued. "I thought I'd have enough to make my move after I had more evidence in hand…a better grip on the culprit's tail, as it were…"

"I see," Arthur murmured aloud. "That's why you had the butler go and add coke to the fireplaces. That made me wonder as well. There was no need to stoke the fire in a room with no occupant. Yet he was murdered while tending the fire in that particular room."

"Yes, the true meaning of his command at that time was 'take a close look at that fire place'. Still, I must say that my master is a most merciless individual. For he ordered me to carry out that command knowing I would be murdered if I went snooping around that place."

"I don't find it surprising," I added. "It is a part of Ciel's charming personality after all."

Ciel flushed but kept his smug poker face. "Either way, I never imagined it would have all played out exactly as I had thought up to that point."

"As you'd thought?" Arthur echoed.

Yes…I was killed that night.

Sebastian steadily made his way into the scene of crime, ash bucket in one hand, candelabra in the other. His mind was still far away, where his upset demon mate had ensconced herself in her chambers. Though she had every right in the world to be upset, Sebastian rather mourned for the one of the pans thrown at him. It had been a special one made of this excellent metal that always cooked the sugar just right for the desserts he made. Now he'd have to figure out how to undo the dent without ruining the pan's superb quality.

And when that was done, he would whip up a delicious dessert he knew Hero couldn't resist and then all would be right in the world…at least until she finished it and threw the glass plate at him. He knew for a fact that he'd hear an earful of this later. Whether or not the young master had ordered him to get rid of the oven, Sebastian himself would have gotten rid of it sooner if he could. He was not the least bit guilty.

Which he supposed there in lay the problem.

Sebastian mentally sighed as he approached the dying fireplace with an impassive fac. "To 'make sure there is enough coke to keep the fires going through the night'…was it?" He knelt down and began to get to work.

It was neither God nor Fate. Following the scenario in which my master had decided…with the timing my master had affixed…

It didn't take long for Sebastian to discover what it was Siemens used to fake his death. Two tiny glass bottles had been reconstructed from the small shards he had found. One was clear, the other silver.

Mentioning silver, Sebastian hadn't exactly liked that Earl Grey was getting particularly cozy with Hero. Going every which way as he pleased and just casually touching Hero as if she were his. The thought had Sebastian's calm face slightly twitching. There were reasons why demon mates were claimed immediately and that was too sure not only their survival but the demon's sanity as well.

…by the one whom my master wished to have played the role of villain was I murdered.

Sebastian ignored the looming presence approaching behind, instead, focusing his attention on the reflection of the tiny glass vial in his hand. Yes. He was right. If that man didn't leave here soon Sebastian wasn't sure what actions he would take in ensuring that Hero was his and not a silver eyed secretarial butler's.

At the hands of the one who had come only to torment my master and no doubt steal Miss Hero away…

"I should have known," he said aloud, following along with the script. "This is—"

By Earl Grey.

I sighed dramatically. "I knew there was something wrong with that boy. And frankly he didn't really react much I all but told him I thought he was gay. Which made me worry, really."

Ciel cocked his head. "Gay? He was happy?"

It was so hard keeping a straight face, but I smiled. "I'll explain it to you when you're old enough."

"Hey!"

As I was saying…

I was killed that night. By the Queen's Butler…Earl Charles Grey.

The assault was so quick Sebastian had little time to react. Grey bashed him on the head, a spray of blood staining Sebastian's hair as the Secretarial Butler wasted no time stabbing him through the chest. Sebastian fell with a thud, blood oozing down the corner of his lips and spilling onto the carpet from his chest.

"How dull," Grey sighed as he deliberately stepped onto Sebastian's back and crouched down. "I was so hoping to bully that brat some more and successfully steal Hero away. I never thought I'd get found out so quickly." Grey reached down and gathered the broken pieces of the glass bottle into his hand. "And all because a lousy servant got in my way…and one I'm supposed to be competing against at that."

Grey got off and threw open the room's tall windows, throwing the shattered pieces into the rainy night. "Why my plan is totally ruined!" He turned to glare at Sebastian's still body. "At least I got rid of some of the competition. Honestly, I don't know what Girly Boy sees in him. He's just a servant." Grey turned to leave, feeling absolutely peeved. "And Siemens is down below? Having to go to the cellar alone…could it get any worse?"

Once Grey left, Sebastian blinked and got up on his hands. "He attacked me in rapid succession, quick as a flash. One could expect no less from the butler to the Queen. Though I don't exactly appreciate being offed from the competition like that."

I then proceeded to beat Earl Grey to the wine cellar where Lord Siemens had been carried.

Sebastian mentally sighed when he spotted an allegedly deceased Lord Siemens happily snoring away like a bear as he clutched a bottle of wine. "Dear me, he even got into the wine that was set aside to age. He truly is a hopeless man." As Sebastian removed the wine from Lord Siemen's side, he heard quiet sure footsteps approaching the cellar good and fast. He jumped up and hid on the arched pillar's narrow ledge just as Grey opened the cellar door, looking a might bit uncomfortable.

When he spotted Siemens in the center he walked confidently inside, unaware of the bloody Sebastian observing the scene below silently. Just as he got near, Lord Siemen's conveniently woke up with a snort, looking flushed and cheerful when he saw a non-smiling Grey.

"Oh! Earl Grey! Our little prank seems to have gone well! Was everyone quite shocked?" Siemens gushed giddily. Grey observed him with cold eyes. "Upon my waking I discovered some wine just here and was getting a bit of the hair of the dog in me, you see—" At that moment Grey's rapier stabbed Siemen's chest suddenly, pausing the German in his puzzlement as he looked down. "Eh?"

Grey looked at him in disgust. "Quiet you. Don't talk so loud." He bent down and grabbed onto his sword's handle, twisting and thrusting it deeper as a speechless German looked on in shock. "The very sight of you is frightfully offensive. And how dare you think even for a second to touch Hero. Dim-witted Germany will catch up to Great Britain, you say? Its ten years too soon of that."

Siemen's eyes glazed over and Grey allowed the body to plop back. He yanked his sword out and wiped it clean on Siemen's dark clothes. After he sheathed his sword, Grey covered the German's body with the cloth.

"Hmm, but it really will take only ten years, though," Grey added as an afterthought. He shrugged and turned away, leaving the cellar once more. Once he was gone, Sebastian hoped down, looking after the closed door in silent thoughts.

The tea cup clattered noisily against the saucer, hot tea spilling onto the pristine white table cloth. "N-No!" exclaimed Arthur in shock. "So you're saying you knew the identity of the culprit? And despite that, you still chose to throw away your own life? Just because your master commanded you to do so?"

"Yes. I do not lie," Sebastian answered.

"You won't believe how dedicated this guy is," I told him, munching on another snack.

Sebastian chuckled lightly. "My master works his people…no, his butler, so hard, he nigh on deserves a royal warrant for it."

Ciel looked slightly annoyed. "What the deuce are you getting at?"

I then took care of the preparations for three days' worth of meals…

Sebastian absently cleared away the scattered pots, pans and even knives on the floor, looking for the one least dented to start the preparations. He got up and took one of the knives embedded into the wall.

"This will do," he murmured before going into the larder.

…and gave the chef and gardener their orders for the next day…

As Sebastian exited the male servant's room, he briefly wondered if ever they would butcher up such simple instructions. He rather hoped not.

…entrusted the maid with the owl that I had caught in the woods the day before and kept on reserve in case of an emergency…

No matter how he looked at it, Sebastian just couldn't trust the new maid. There was something off about it and the reason was on the tip of his tongue but the thought escaped him. He sighed. He would soon be unavailable and Hero needed protection and looking after. Later he'd delve deeper into this Miss Charity Price.

…and penned a report to Young Master on the results of the fireplace examination…

Sebastian silently folded the now dry letter and placed it inside the Young Master's favorite pillow. Speaking of pillows, Sebastian had to make sure Hero's strange pillow with his and the young master's faces on it would have to be put out to dry soon. With all that done, Sebastian grabbed the candelabra and headed toward the Young Master's temporary room. He paused before the door and glanced at his bloodied chest.

Hmm, he pondered. Is my appearance perhaps a little too unsightly to be presenting myself before a guest and my master I wonder?

Sebastian blew out the candle and entered the room silently. He was amused to have walked in upon the Professor's audible musings of the Young Master. The man looked thoroughly embarrassed when it resulted that the young master had been awake, face flaming even in the dark.

"You're late Sebastian. Quickly, hand me my pillow," the young master muttered when Sebastian had handed over the pillow.

"Pillow?" echoed the Professor.

"I suppose you could say this is the young master's security blanket at present. Of course he wouldn't have much need for it if Miss Hero were still here," Sebastian purposefully put in.

As expected, the young master glared at him. "Shut up! And you had as much fault in this as me."

Of course he was right. It was Sebastian himself that had suggested the idea in the first place. But Hero need never know that. Sebastian gave his young master a benign smile. "Too true sir. I do hope you can repair the riff should you see her next time." After all, claiming her would become increasingly difficult to do if she was cross with him.

"Insufferable bastard," the young master muttered darkly, though his words were muffled by the pillow Sebastian had no problem hearing the less then pleasant remark. He merely continued to smile.

"Of course, young master."

The Professor looked very much confused. "What—"

"Do not worry about it professor," the young master interrupted. "Anyways, get back to your quarters Sebastian. I'm going to sleep." And no sooner that he had uttered the words that he immediately fell asleep.

Well now…that was fast.

"It's nice to see that he can sleep so soundly after having argued with Miss Hero," Sebastian mused aloud.

The Professor peered at the boy's twitching hand and frowned. "I wouldn't say soundly…but he is tired," he added.

Well, Sebastian admitted, it had been a long day. And it would be longer still. "Professor," he whispered, catching the man's attention. "I apologize for the inconvenience that has occurred. The young master is stoutly conducting himself as the head of the family but…he is still only thirteen. Still very young."

The Professor seemed to understand. "You're right. He must be feeling helpless with the anxiety, having been caught up in all this, not to mention the fight with Miss Hero."

Yes, he'd also have to check up on her as well. And just to wrap things up here…

"Do you also believe in the young master's innocence then, professor?"

He looked up, eyes set. "I do. I can't believe that the Earl would do such a thing."

Sebastian smiled. "I think you for that. It is truly fortunate that you are the one to be watching the young master." And Sebastian meant it too. Hero and the young master had a terrible knack for having trouble find them. Especially Hero who didn't even have to blink before she did something that merited a scolding. "Do take care of the young master and Miss Hero. I fear they shall need looking after."

With that Sebastian left. Outside in the hall, Sebastian lifted the pillow against his chest and noticed the blood stain. He sighed. This would have to be laundered at once.

But first…

Sebastian was careful entering the room that Hero currently occupied. After taking her out of the armoire (why? He'd never know) and tucking her into bed safely, making sure nothing was amiss in her seldom-used bedroom, Sebastian gave her a few parting words, a little smug that his plan had worked.

Though maybe the repercussions had been underestimated. Sebastian feared more dented pots were in his future.

Soon after he dutifully made his way to the scene of the crime once more.

Thereafter I returned to work as the young master commanded…

"Right then…," Sebastian murmured aloud, getting down and picking up the weapon that had earlier bashed and stabbed him. "Even I feel the pain of being run through well enough, thank you."

He sighed silently before he rammed the end of the poker stick through his chest. Blood spurted forth like a gushing fountain, staining the carpet. A shame really. He laid down on the floor, vaguely remembering how he had lain before. Of course once Grey came to mind and how apparently he was in Hero's favor at the moment peeved Sebastian a little.

And so he exaggerated his tragic death just a mite. After all, did it not go something like this?

And it was in that state that I had Finny, who arrived just as I had instructed, discover me.

It wasn't long before the whole house heard the news of the murder and rushed over to witness the ghastly scene. Sebastian was most amused at Grey's reaction.

I had only intended it for a minor retaliation but Earl Grey's perplexed aspect…it rather begged a laugh, if I do say so myself.

Once the young master arrived, he knew the real act had started. Of course the script included Hero but it would seem they'd have to improvise.

It didn't take long for theatrics to begin.

The young master's act was truly the most compelling. But…

"I command you! Sebastian, you get up right now! You hear me?" the young master shouted, gripping his already ruined shirt.

I am quite awake thank you, thought Sebastian. After all, how could one not be at this point?

"Did you fail to hear my command?" his young master reiterated forcefully, demonstrating his frustration, among other things, with a resound blow across the face. The impact shocked Sebastian and he felt his face throbbing. Clearly he was not over yesterday with Miss Hero and was enjoying Sebastian's predicament if that barely suppressed smile was any indication.

Even I never expected him to go to such lengths as to strike me with his be-ringed hand. Furthermore, he did it at such a time I could not move…I do admire that cunning of his…

Where was Miss Hero anyhow? She couldn't be that upset that she'd miss her cue? It was imperative she react negatively to his supposed death. He was one of her suitors after all.

As if summoned, a small innocent voice rang out. "What's going on?"

And there she stood, looking like she had just rolled out of bed, which Sebastian suspected she had. The young master stiffened, no doubt the argument on the forefront of his mind at the moment.

Everyone tensed, awaiting the reaction that would either equal or no doubt be greater than the young master. After all, Lau would have no doubt had made sure that everyone knew he was contending for her hand…in marriage as well.

I waited for Miss Hero's response, expecting her to strike me or cry bitterly, mostly on the former.

"I should have too," Hero muttered, glancing at her empty tea cup. Arthur shifted uncomfortably and Ciel gave Sebastian a smug smirk.

Well anyhow, her response was quite a new one.

Hero laughed cheerfully. "Sebastian what are you doing on the floor playing dead? If this is a way for you to say sorry then you should have just baked me a cake."

Sebastian kept that mind, though he knew it take more than just cake to make it up to her.

"No seriously though," she continued. "You should get up. You have some explaining to do after all."

Once everyone convinced her he really was dead, Sebastian had to admit that she certainly knew how to put up a good show.

She blinked, eyes wide. "W-What? That can't be right. This is Sebastian we're talking about. The most amazing perfect butler in the whole universe!"

It had pleased me to know she thought that, even if it was all true and was expected of nothing less. Of course Earl Grey could certainly ruin any mood.

"Well he was the most amazing perfect butler in the whole universe," Grey added rather quickly and smugly. "Now he's dead."

It was truly a shame that I could not have returned the sentiment.

Once she left the room in supposed tears, Charity following after her, everyone dispersed, intent on reconvening in the dining room for breakfast. Bard and Finny did quick work to place him in the cellar next to the now deceased Siemens.

And thus having obtained an alibi as a corpse as well as my freedom—I was able to execute my duties at will and apace.

Outside in the rain, Sebastian fixed his gloves, facing the direction he remembered Mey-Rin had let the owl go. "Now, then, shall we get started?"

It didn't take long to spot the owl and bring it down, injecting the poor creature with a sleeping drought to calm it in the meantime.

However…

A few miles away, inside the parlor of the Phantomhive Manor in the West Wing, a small group was being put together to search the servant's quarters for anything suspicious.

"Earl Phantomhive, I do hate to impose, but would you take us around the manor?"

Ciel nodded. "Very well. As the servants are more familiar with the manor below stairs, let's have them lead the way. All right?"

"Yes young master," replied both Bard and Finny.

"Tanaka, Mey-Rin. Stay here to see to our guests," he added.

The two answered dutifully and Grey got up, grabbing hold of Hero's hand before dragging her out the room. "Let's be off then!" he cheerfully announced.

Accidents are part and parcel of a butler's work…

Outside in the pouring rain Sebastian sighed. "Oh this will never do!" He dashed forward, using his inhuman speed to get to the cellar quickly. But just as he passed a particular shrubbery that emitted a sound all too familiar, Sebastian stopped. He walked back, hopes rising.

"That voice just now was—?" Once he parted the leaves apart…there. He gasped in pleasure at the sight of Moriarty. The poor creature looked pitiful in the rain yet still she meowed adorably. "It truly is you! You poor thing…come, I will take you in—"

At that moment the other cats appeared out of thin air, meowing pitifully, fur slicked with rain and eyes wide and doe-like. Sebastian's weakness string was being pulled mercilessly and he was powerless to resist.

Was that moment the very epitome of the saying "every cloud has a silver lining"? Forgive me I do but jest.

The party of six made their way down the cellar just as Sebastian rushed to his room. His hearing was superb so he had no trouble listening to their progress below.

"H-Hey now! Cut that out!" Grey exclaimed, his hold on Hero's arm tightening. "There's no such thing as ghosts! 'Cos I only believe in what I can cut down with my sword!"

Hero glanced at him and smirked. "What's the matter? Scared a spirit might come out and eat your soul? I think you'll find there are other things in this manor that do that instead."

I have to admit once more that Hero's sense of humor was truly refreshing.

Sebastian hid the last of the cats in his closet before he rushed out and down to the cellar using another secret corridor.

"We're here everyone," Bard announced as they all stood outside the door.

Inside Sebastian put the brakes, nearly missing his destination. Luckily he was already in place by the time everyone entered and laid eyes on the three bodies down here….wait, three?

I remember my initial surprise at discovering that Miss Charity had been killed. My suspicions have not been lifted but I admit that I had let my guard down.

"Alright everyone! First things first! Bard, some gloves please," Hero ordered. "It's never good to touch a corpse without gloves."

And this...I narrowly averted the most disastrous predicament I have ever faced in all my time as a butler…

Charity was first in their inspection but after having found nothing they quickly moved on to him.

"Cool, Sebastian's turn~!" Hero chimed with a smile.

"Uh, wouldn't it be better if you let us inspect him?" Arthur suggested. "You being a lady and all?"

"Pfft. As if," she replied. "And you guys had no problem looking at Charity."

"She was dead," Grey pointed out.

"So is Sebastian. Now quite acting like sensitive mother hens and hurry up," she complained. They lifted the cover off Sebastian and were all surprised to see that he was wet. After a brief tizzy with Finny where Hero assured that they go gentle on Sebastian, which he found sounded oddly suggestive, they began inspecting him thoroughly for anything suspicious.

However…the awful plight of having my person exposed to human eyes in such a humiliating state…was a first even for me despite my devilishly long life…

Hero snickered behind her teacup. "Who would have thought perfect flawless Sebastian sported two tiny moles? One under his left nipple and the other one—"

Arthur did a spit take as Sebastian's face remain unfazed, small tinges of red on his cheek notwithstanding.

Ciel cleared his throat. "Can we continue?"

Once their inspection was over they all decided that maybe they should have checked the servant's quarter first and left. Sebastian sat up, thinking that maybe they should have thought of that earlier.

Later, I retrieved the ampoule shard that Earl Grey had thrown out into the garden and tossed them into the fireplace of Mister Woodley's room, thereby carrying out the young master's orders in full.

By then I had heard of the mysterious attack on Mister Channings and I knew it was time to make an entrance. I then proceeded to disguise myself and return to the manor, theatre ticket to prove my alibi and owl in hand…as Vicar Jeremy.

"Wait then!" interrupted a very shocked Arthur. "That ticket was a sham?"

"No, it was the real thing purchased in London," Sebastian answered. "I slipped out during the party and procured it before returning."

"I wanted to go but Sebastian said I wouldn't have had time to watch it fully," I pouted.

"But that is impossible!" Arthur exclaimed, the logical wheels in his head coming to a standstill.

Sebastian took out the ticket from his pocket. "You are welcome to doubt me, sir. Please have the ticket stub verified at the box office upon your return to London. I have a receipt as well!"

"This and the owl were all part of his efforts to make Jeremy convincing," Ciel explained.

Hero snickered once more. "When I saw his face in real life I was like oh my gosh. I just could not take him seriously. And he kept a straight face throughout it all. Now that was grade A acting."

"Ah, that reminds me! Tell me, what was written in that letter?"

"Letter?"

I giggled. "Oh yeah. That letter."

"Do please take a look at the letter around its leg," Jeremy suggested, tied up as he was.

Hero bounced onto Ciel's back, leaning in close to see. What Ciel and Hero saw was a blank piece of paper. Ciel gave the paper a scathing look as Hero tried very hard not to laugh aloud again.

Ciel stuffed the note in his pocket and turned to face the crowd. "It appears he sent this letter to Jeremy anticipating that he himself would eventually be killed."

"Yeah," Hero smirked. "It says it right there in black and white."

Arthur blinked. "Oh wow. That explains Miss Hero's reactions so much."

I smiled. "See? I'm not so crazy after all."

"Yes, that was all merely a prank of his," Ciel said, sending Sebastian an annoyed glare.

Sebastian smiled. "As the incidents had interrupted your studies, I thought you could do with a little mental exercise, young master. Thence I took on two roles and—"

"Please wait just a minute!" Arthur interrupted again. "But I…I examined your corpse alongside Mister Jeremy, you realize?"

Sebastian glanced at him. "About that…"

"I see…I find it all very curious indeed," Jeremy murmured. "I shall have to inspect Mister Channings first before I come up with any conclusions. May I examine the corpses afterwards? They will speak to me of the bare facts most eloquently."

Hero snorted. "Most of which I already know of but that's entirely Yana's fault."

"What?" Irene asked.

Hero smiled. "Oh, nothing~!"

Mister Channing's inspection finished quickly and the examinations of the other corpses were now in order. "Alright now, then let us head to the wine cellar," said Arthur as he got up. "This way please."

"Stop!" Jeremy commanded. "Please carry each body to a separate room."

Arthur blinked in surprise. "May I ask why?"

"Even the various scents of a case may yield clues. If the corpses are laid out together, their individual smells will mingle and be contaminated," Jeremy explained simply.

"Grade school logic," Hero murmured as she got up and stretched. "The wine in the cellar would overpower any significant clues."

"Then why didn't you ask to have them separated?" Grey questioned.

"Because I didn't need them separated and I expected our wonderful Vicar Jeremy here to come eventually, knowing Sebastian," Hero told him. "That and among other things. Now let's hurry this up, there's a killer on the loose."

"So you would be kind enough to let us use three room's Earl Phantomhive?" asked Jeremy.

"Alright," the young master responded. He looked at Finny, Mey-Rin, and Bard. "You lot, take each corpse to a room of its own."

"Yes, sir!" they answered in sync.

"My lord," Jeremy added. "Would you permit me to change my clothing in the interim?"

"Oh…I think the previous Earl's clothes would be too small for you. Let me lend you something from the late butler's wardrobe," the young master coolly replied as he moved forward. "Please follow me."

"Oh let me escort too," Hero said as she followed them.

Inside Sebastian's room, once the door had been firmly closed, Hero burst out laughing again. "Oh my gosh Sebastian I swear that disguise is seriously grade A!" she chuckled, bringing to mind that she was laughing at him and not with him.

The young master had a different sort of reaction. "You never told me you'd show up looking like that?"

Sebastian was quick to strip off his previous clothes and put on his old ones. "I had no time to inform you and Miss Hero you knew I'd look something along the lines of this."

Hero smiled cheekily. "But still, the realism of that face."

Sebastian sighed. "Nevertheless I am in a bit of a hurry so do please pardon my rudeness. I shall explain the details leisurely erelong!" With that he was gone. Quick as a flash he made it to the cellar just as Bard, Finny and Mey-Rin opened the cellar door. They transported him to the room and once they were gone Sebastian sat, dashing to the room where the young master and Miss Hero waited, stripping all the while.

Hero whistled. "Now that's fan service."

The little earl didn't quite know how to respond to that.

"Ah, so busy, busy," Sebastian admitted in haste.

Once they all arrived back in the parlor room to meet with everyone else, "Jeremy" clapped his hands. "Right then, shall we take a closer look at the corpses then? Starting with the first victim?"

I just continued to arrive in each place ahead of everyone else.

"That'd be Lord Siemens," Arthur replied.

"I'm coming with you tooo!" Grey drawled out childishly as he raised his hand. Hero rolled her eyes at him but stayed quiet.

The real problem was Earl Grey. First we examined Lord Siemens and conveniently enough Charity's room was next door.

"Well, if you examine her, the exit wound is on her back. Not only was she stabbed from the front but she didn't even struggle," Hero told him matter o'factly.

"Hmm…I see," Sebastian murmured. He looked up. "May I take a look at the crime scene?"

"Of course, let me show you," Arthur said as he stood up from his crouch. Once Sebastian was sure they all left the room he sneaked out through the window to enter the next window that currently occupied the unconscious Mister Channings.

It was also very convenient that he had been placed next door.

Sebastian grabbed him and he raced toward his room, depositing the unfortunate man under the sheets and dressing him in the ruined clothes before racing upstairs in time for Grey to ask his whereabouts.

"My apologies for making you all wait," he said. "Come, let's continue."

"So that corpse was the sleeping Mister Channings?" Arthur exclaimed in shock.

I smirked. "I know. Mind = Blown."

"Miss Hero's theatrics and the Professor's character were our saving grace in that situation," Sebastian supplied.

"I just want something in my stomach," Hero told them as they all entered the corridor. "So hurry up guys!"

"I need to see to the evening's preparation, so do go on ahead," Jeremy insisted as he stopped walking.

Hero frowned but shrugged. "Whateves." She walked down the hall as the others followed. Once they were out of sight Sebastian sensed Grey's presence and knew he had to act fast. He threw the Jeremy disguise in the closet, put on the bloody clothes as he pushed aside Channing's unconscious form under the bed and slipped under the covers just in time to hear Grey slam the door open and viciously tug off the sheets.

He paused when he came face to face with Sebastian's still form. "No it couldn't have been." He kept staring at him, even going so far as to stomp on Sebastian's face. He shook his head and walked to the door. "It's just not possible," he murmured.

A minute later Sebastian opened his eyes glowing a pissed off pink, fangs present as the throbbing in his bruised cheek continue to pulsate. "That was a close call."

"I always knew Grey was a masochist," Hero commented dryly.

Sebastian smiled. "As you are already aware, I thereafter assisted the young master in the guise of Vicar Jeremy. Mister Woodley was apprehended and the unharmed young master redeemed."

"I don't get it," Arthur said, rubbing his forehead. "Even after hearing you out, I still have not come to understand the incidents…No, I can't comprehend any of it. I mean you understand my confusion, do you not?" Arthur looked up.

"I do. I mean when I had first read the Murder Mystery Arc my mind had been totally blown," I supplied helpfully. "Of course it made sense seeing as it was Queen Victoria ordered everything in the first place."

Arthur gaped. "Eh?"

Ciel smirked. "Siemens, our guest from Germany; his bank had made considerable investments in the domestic development of ships and vessels and it would be no stretch to call him a central figure in the expansion and advancement of Germany's heavy industries. With Great Britain's position currently under threat from Germany and America…Her Majesty plotted to destroy Siemens in order to prevent the growth of Germany's military power."

"Of course you'd never have gotten that from her letters," I added, sitting back on the chair. "Aside from complaining how much her children suck eggs since they rarely visit her unless they need something, you'd be surprise how wily that woman was."

Ciel nodded. "Though Siemens was no more than banker, his influence might only have been equivalent to the flapping of a butterfly's wings…but it had the potential to give rise to a devastating tempest that we might've never seen coming. The theory known as the Butterfly Effect; Her Majesty, Queen Victoria, who in just fifty years built the British Empire that dominates the globe. It's almost as if she can see all the butterflies whose wing flaps will change the world."

"And it doesn't help that she's mostly right," I told them. "Like the Germans. Definite military trouble in a couple of decades."

"But why did Earl Grey seek to have the blame on you?" Arthur inquired.

Ciel and I exchanged looks and I turned towards the professor. "Let's just say Ciel kind of messed up."

"Though I never expected to be painted as the murderer. Her Majesty possess quite the sense of humor," Ciel murmured. "However playing games has always been a particular talent of mine…and so I used Woodley who I invited to the party to be my scapegoat, as my pawn."

Arthur's eyes widened. "Why would you do that to an innocent like Mister Wood—?"

"Woodley is no innocent," I interrupted hotly. "Do you know what the bastard's done? Aside from assaulting Ciel and even daring to hit me?"

"…No?"

Ciel leaned back in his chair. "Long story short Woodley, aside from being the President of a diamond company, is actually an arms dealer who sells illegal weapons obtained with his diamonds to war-torn regions on a grand-scale. And two weeks ago, his competitor, the President of the Roze Company was murdered. Employing my own channels, I identified Woodley as the perpetrator." Ciel looked up, blue eye practically glowing with a cold calculation. "Someone of the underworld using his related powers to endanger someone in outer society is a grave violation of the rules. And as I'd planned on eliminating him, he was just the man to be my scapegoat."

"The clouds hanging over Her Majesty have been cleared away, and the young master is safe sound. Two birds with one stone, hmm?" Sebastian added.

I yawned. "Like I said, mind = blown."

"Then what Mister Woodley said back then…," Arthur looked at them. "What are you?"

"I am he who sniffs out those who violate the commandments of the British underworld and disposes of them…The Watchdog of the Queen," Ciel answered seriously.

"And I'm just a detective extraordinaire that somehow ended up here," I added.

Arthur closed his eyes for a second before they suddenly popped open. "Wait a minute! Hero also died! I…I checked her myself for a pulse and…I mean, she was dead. Unnaturally so."

Sebastian, Ciel and I exchanged another brief look. Well I knew my piece was going to be brought up eventually.

"If you must know, I really did die," I told him seriously. "I had stumbled upon the snake when someone had grabbed me from behind and dragged me away. When they let me see their face I was totally shocked to see Charity. Turns out she faked her dearth so she could get to me. Even attacked poor Channings."

Ciel's grip on his teacup tightened. "Yes well I had Sebastian dispose of her quickly."

"Eh? But how did Hero die…and come back to life?" This was starting to eat away at reality, Arthur thought, not even seeming to be aware of what exactly he was saying. "If it wasn't tetrodotoxin, then what?"

"My soul had been sucked out," Hero answered. "Sebastian managed to get it back from Charity. Luckily I wasn't too far gone and was able to get here safely."

Arthur blinked, mouth agape. "T-That's…just…I mean, then that would mean that Charity and Sebastian would have to be…," the bruise on his cranium began to throb painfully and like a damn bursting open, the memories flooded his mind. Images flashed and the scenes of a demonic looking Charity attacking them came to mind. "They'd have to be….," And then another one of Sebastian tackling Charity through the wall and down below the six story manor. "They'd have to be—"

"Not human?" came a spine-chilling voice from behind Arthur's neck. He jumped away and gasped when he saw Sebastian's glowing pink eyes and sharp little fangs. It just screamed of unholiness as he saw the dark aura surrounding Sebastian with each step he took forward. "'Now that I know all this, I must put it from my mind'. What do you say professor?"

Arthur's response was quite the opposite as he tried to run away in terror, only to bump into Sebastian, standing in the way of his exit. He grabbed hold of his face and smirked. "You do know what will happen to you should you divulge this secret, do you not?"

It's a miracle that Arthur hadn't died of fright. He managed to tear free from Sebastian's grasp. "I-I'll never tell anyone! I won't say a word!" he cried as he ran away, heart pounding erratically.

From behind all Arthur could hear those haunting words uttered in that terrifying voice.

The words that have just passed your lips, I urge you to never ever forget them.

We will always be watching…

Arthur's eyes popped open as he gasped in terror. The coachman in front of him, on the threshold of the carriage parked just outside a familiar building, blinked.

"A-Are you alright, sir? We have arrived at your residence."

"You know…that was kind of over the top, just saying," I said aloud, breaking the silence first.

"Why did you act in a way that would reveal your true identity to him?" Ciel finally asked.

"He is a writer. If he experiences the bizarre, he will not be able to avoid picking up his pen. That is just the sort of creature writes are," Sebastian replied simply.

I sighed. "It must be nice being gifted with the skilled like that. I know my writing sucks and my ideas for them are even less than stellar."

Sebastian chuckled. "It simply comes with practice." Bleh. "And it was a bit obvious that the young master adored his stories. He refused to discard the magazine and read the piece over and over again."

Ciel flushed and I leaned in. "Really? Now that is something."

"And when he learned there was no continuation, he was terribly chagrined!"

I smiled. "Aw that's so cute~!"

Ciel looked away, a slight stain of pink on his cheeks. "It was merely a middling diversion."

No one bought that excuse and Sebastian smirked slightly. "I look forward to reading what he writes next."

"By the way, what was the story that Arthur wrote that had you interested?" I asked, taking a final sip of the tea.

Ciel and Sebastian exchanged brief looks before they stared at me. "We thought you knew."

I rolled my eyes. As if I read any of that stuff. I mean, I do look I read for recreational fun? I barely managed to pass my English class!

"I believe the piece was called A Study in Scarlett—" Sebastian was interrupted by the spit take I performed. It was a reflex really. I would know the title anywhere (how could I not?) so hearing it from them was…strange.

"What do you mean A Study in Scarlett?" I exclaimed in shock. "That piece of literary genius was written by Arthur Conan Doyle!"

Ciel dabbed at his wet cheek lightly. "And you just met the man. I thought you know."

"Wha—? You mean Arthur is…Arthur…," then the bell dinged in sudden understanding. I gasped in horror and shot up from the table. "You mean to tell me that was the ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE? And I was in his presence all this time? OH MY GOSH WE EVEN SLEPT IN THE SAME BED!"

I shrieked as I raced out the green house, hoping to catch up to the man before he had successfully cleared the Phantomhive premises and never returned again.

Back inside the greenhouse, Ciel looked at Sebastian again. "I thought she knew. You didn't tell her?"

"I had assumed you told her beforehand, which was a wonder her initial reaction was so…calm," Sebastian answered, also drying the tea from his coat.

Ciel lowered his head. "You do realize that he's long gone by now. And that if she returns, she'll be five times angrier at us then before."

Sebastian blinked. "Hmm…that did not occur to me."

Now the proper question to ask was how one went about groveling without looking as if they've lost their dignity.

Thereafter I continued moving my pen across paper as if possessed by something, writing the aforementioned story to which I thought I'd never return—

And however many times I attempt to escape that "aforementioned story" by trying my hand at writing other works, "that protagonist" kept haunting me like a curse.

On those occasions, my memories of them returned in tow—good and evil, reason and madness, the world of the living and realm of the dead…they who ruled with such grace over the spaces of time in between.

…as if to remind me of my vow…

Arthur gasped, taking a shaky breath as he tried to regain his scattered thoughts, heart still racing with the last vestiges of the reminders of his past. It was well past nine, he would be late for dinner.

He sighed, even after twenty years, the memories still surfaced in his head.

There certainly exists "something" out there that goes beyond anything we can possibly imagine.

The door to his study creaked opened and Arthur's young daughter entered, a bright look on her face. Seeing her, seeing reality deflated the haunting worries that had been plaguing him. He smiled at her as she approached. She would be the same age as their youngest now…

Arthur looked at the papers he had written.

But I shall conceal that "fact" in the depths of my fireplace for as long as I live.

He got up and held out the stack of papers into the fire, letting the flames devour them and all the secrets within. Together with his daughter, Arthur left. He didn't look back.

Just as I do the secrets of that stormy night.

"Nooooo!" I wailed pitifully, face against the white table cloth, hair having come undone from its bun. Twenty minutes having passed since Arthur's departure. "That was just too cruel. I mean it's like knowing there's a concert happening in the American Airlines and having tickets to it, plus the means of transportation but not going because you didn't know Panic at the Disco was performing. Someone just flip my life please."

"If I understood half of what you meant I'm sure I would say something comforting. But since I don't I'll say nothing," replied Ciel.

"Well, now that the Professor has gone home…," Sebastian paused as I moaned in frustration. "I think I shall see to luncheon—"

"Wait," Ciel interrupted. "There's something I've been curious about. If Charity sucked out Hero's soul and that snake found on Hero wasn't Woodley's, then where'd it come from?"

I looked up in curiosity. It still felt weird being told your soul had been sucked out by your non-human ladies' maid. I mean the reality had been painful enough and though I'd love to punch Charity in the face….wait, speaking of Charity…what happened to her?

When I had asked Sebastian, he had simply told me that the matter had been taken care of. That fake shiny smile was hint enough that the matter was best left unanswered.

"Ah yes that. Actually, I was beginning to suspect that we had another uninvited guest when Miss Hero first told me to check your room for any peculiarities," Sebastian informed us.

Ciel looked shocked. "Eh?"

"Oh, you mean you caught him?" I asked.

"Yes. Although I was not expecting him, I showed him to these special accommodations here," Sebastian then knelt down and dragged a large chained crate from underneath the table. Ciel and I were speechless, mainly since we had so not felt anything underneath there. I just assumed Sebastian had placed him elsewhere.

"The killer is in there?" Ciel exclaimed.

"Yes,"

"Let me see what's inside!" he demanded.

"Um…," I began. "If you do, just remember to take two steps back."

Ciel looked puzzled and Sebastian merely smirked before doing as he had been ordered. In that instance from when Sebastian had unlocked the chains and lifted the lid, two very deadly poisonous snakes launched themselves at Ciel's face.

Luckily, he had been wise enough to listen to my advice and thanks to Sebastian's quick hands, Ciel stumbled back safely out of harm's way.

"Wha—Wha!" Ciel stuttered.

Sebastian chuckled, the snakes in his hands wrapping around his arms. "They seem to bare you plenty of ill will, young master."

"Oh man, you're telling he was tied up like this for how long?" I mumbled. Ciel looked over to where I was kneeling and gaped when he spotted a familiar figure tied and gagged tightly.

"Snake?"

"That's what I said when I first read the manga too," I told him.

"So you got bit by one of his snakes?" Ciel asked.

"I was careful not to get bitten, but Charity must have loused that up," I muttered, choosing to ignore my ex-ladies' maid. "And to be honest I had completely forgotten about Snake, what with all the excitement back inside."

Ciel and I glanced at Sebastian and he smirked.

Well I believe it went something along the lines of this…

It was well into the night, rain pounding the window panes in the hall mercilessly as thunder noisily rumbled outside. The interior of the manor was especially cold tonight. But Sebastian supposed that a part of the atmosphere had been caused by the chilling events of earlier. That and Hero's refusal to acknowledge either the young master or himself were rather down putting.

Ah well. There was eternity to make up for such a small minor bump in the road.

Lightening flashed briefly, lighting the dark hallway before it was plunged into pitch black again. Sebastian heard the snake inside the basket he was holding rustle and hiss. It was a good thing Hero had ordered him to look in the young master's room. Who knows what would have happened if the reptile had gone unchecked. Why it could have very killed poor Mr. Phelps had Hero not threatened him to switch rooms.

And here he thought it was because she hadn't wanted anyone to know.

Although the question remained…where had this snake come from? It wasn't particularly indigenous to England and he was sure importing snakes of this deadly caliber were highly illegal. But who could have brought it here? And let it roam free where it would no doubt have caused the young master and even Hero some harm.

As Sebastian pondered this, he paused when lightening screamed across the hazy sky, allowing him to see the green house situated some few minutes away. The green house…the snake…who…

Ah. Of course.

Though peculiar it was not improbable.

Sebastian wasted no time heading towards the green house, not minding the torrential downpour as he quickly made it inside. It was quiet save the natural sounds small insects would make in the night. Sebastian took a few steps forward, the gravel under his foot crunching slightly as he looked around for any signs of intrusions.

And just like that, the reptiles that had been hidden high above fell atop him, biting his limbs and forcibly coiling around him until his arms were tightly held back. Sebastian briefly admired the efficiency with which the snakes had handled him and chuckled, looking up to see their master.

"Well, well, it has been a while…Mister Snake."

Snake, the unknowingly last surviving member of the First Tier Trope from Noah's Ark Circus, stepped forward into the dim bit of lighting there was. He narrowed his eyes, arm outstretched as if controlling his snakes through a thin string.

"I was born on Queimada Island," he began calmly. "And my poison can kill any human in thirty seconds. So why aren't you dead yet?—says Webster,"

Sebastian smirked, eyes suddenly glowing. "I am the butler of the Phantomhive Family. It goes without saying that I can withstand a poison of this potency."

"Well damn," I muttered, untying the gag from behind Snake's head. "You really tied this near impossible. What is this? A triple over and under knot?"

"Allow me," Sebastian said as he went over and did the favor.

"Why are you here?" Ciel questioned.

"The day after Black, Smile, and Giggles snuck into the tents of Joker and the other first tiers, they all went missing," Snake spat as soon as the gag was gone. "It must have been you're doing!—says Wilde. So I followed the scent of Smile's costume and went after him—says Oscar."

Following Smile's scent, Snake stood before a wide and rather intimidating black ironed gate guarding one of those rich houses the nobility tended to stay in during their time in Town. He was silent as he and his visible companion Oscar gazed at the tall fortress.

"The smell is strong here—says Oscar,"

"Hey!" called a loud voice from behind him, making Snake tense. He turned around and found himself face to face with two foreigners of Indian descent. One was tall with white hair, sporting the countenance of one who serves as he carried a bag of groceries while the other with bright eyes and much more elaborate clothes spoke with the confidence of a prince. "What business do you have at this town house?"

"Is there a small lad, an American girl and a man all in black here?—says Bronte."

The tall one paused for a second. "Small…American…ah! You must mean Lord Ciel, Miss Hero and Mister Sebastian, yes? Begging your pardon, but may I ask for your name—"

"What's this? A guest of Ciel and Hero's are you?" Prince Soma interrupted excitedly. "Ciel and Hero aren't here. They've gone back to Ciel's principal residence. But not to worry! I, Prince Soma, the Viceroy who oversees this town house, shall deliver you to Ciel and Hero in the finest carriage available!"

Ten minutes later Snake was comfortably situated inside a luxurious carriage where his snakes happily slithered around. He was even given, rather forcibly, a small bag of snacks and souvenirs to keep him occupied during the long journey. Prince Soma grinned through the glass, waving at him.

"Say hello to Ciel and Hero for me~! Do come and play with us again!" Prince Soma waved enthusiastically as the carriage pulled out.

Soon Snake was on his way to his intended targets. When all that remained was a quarter mile to the Phantomhive Manor, Snake asked to be dropped down the road. The driver, though confused, simply complied, having gotten used to the eccentricities of the people of London.

It took a quick jaunt to reach the place. Snake stayed hidden in the shrubs, observing as guests entered the formidable yet luxurious estate.

"There may be a party or something this evening. This is most convenient—says Keat," Snake mumbled to himself. "Let's bide our time till nightfall—says Keat." Pretty soon Snake spotted the perfect place. And it was there in the green house where Snake made himself comfy and warm, munching on the snacks that had been given to him earlier by the Indian prince fellow.

"It's so warm in here. It's like paradise, don't cha think?—says Wilde."

There was a long stretch of silence between Ciel and Sebastian. But of course I couldn't keep a straight-face unless interrogating criminals so it was no surprise that I burst out laughing.

"I totally forgot Prince Soma and Agni would be doing that!" I said in between giggles.

"Those fools!" Ciel raged in exasperation. "Who in blazes sends someone an assassin as a guest?"

"All the same there is nothing we can do to rectify that now," Sebastian whispered.

I grinned. "Tell me about it. So what's it going to be?"

We quickly turned around to face Snake with expressions of complete calm and sort-of poker-face looking. "Uh…so you're saying they vanished because of us?" Ciel inquired nonchalantly.

"The minute you three joined our troupe, they started acting strange!—says Wordsworth. I knew somehow that Joker and the others were hiding something from me," Snake admitted. "But…they called me their comrade and friend…even though I looked like this. They said we were family." Snake looked at us darkly, a furious look in his eyes. "You stole them from me! I'll never forgive you for that!—says Wilde."

Ciel and I exchanged glances.

I sighed, afraid this would happen but knowing it had been inevitable. Especially the way this storyline was going. I had wanted to save Snake's friends but all I did was cause more harm than good. Even though Joker and the others had kidnapped children and brought them to their unfortunate demise in order to save the kids they thought still lived at the workhouse, I could sympathize with Snake there.

It hadn't been easy for me to make friends in the orphanage. Somehow it was agreed by all the kids I was a violent social pariah, always scolded by the nuns and taking way too much food during dinner time. I was a freak for having such monster strength that the nuns apparently prayed after in the evenings.

If I had managed to make any friend there at all, I would have clung onto them for life. Would have been even furious at the person taking said friend away from me…

That would explain my resentment toward Ciel and Sebastian for taking away my only family and friends. I sighed again, thinking about me stranded here was giving me a headache.

"Ciel," I began. "I may have sucked as a friend to Snake and he'll probably hate me even more, who knows, but you should tell him the truth."

Ciel carefully stared at me before nodding. He looked at Snake, poker-face on. "Your circus troupe was kidnapping children one after another from each stop on its tour. We joined up with you to seize any evidence of those crimes."

Snake was shocked. "Joker and the others were kidnappers…? L-Lies! Your trying to trick me with your nonsense!—says Oscar." Snake looked at me and glared. "Giggles! You said I was your friend but friends don't do this to each other! You're a liar too, aren't you?—says Oscar."

I paled. Now that really struck the heart, right where it hurt the most. And the worst part was that as much I want to deny it, I did have a hand in ending the world Snake had been familiar living in. The one place that had been a haven to him…

Oh dammit I was a horrible friend.

"It wasn't Hero's doing. I merely brought her along," Ciel told him. "And though nonsense it may be, before I could gather the necessary proof, my identity was discovered…" I shut my eyes, not wanting to see his reaction. I told Ciel to tell him the truth and here it came…"and…," a pause. "They disappeared."

My eyes flew wide open. Dafuq?

"In that sense, I may have indeed stolen your peace away," Ciel continued. "But I also wanted to rescue the children who were suffering because of your friends." Oh how initial intentions deviated until it wasn't even funny anymore. Ciel looked at Snake seriously. "And naturally I would like to rescue you as well."

Snake blinked. "Eh…?"

Ciel lifted a hand and untied Snake. The boy only became more confused as his bindings loosened. He stared at them before looking up quickly. "What do you think you're doing?—says Wilde."

"Young master!"

"Ciel!"

Ciel raised a hand as if to keep us still. He confidently walked forward and held a hand out. "Snake. Come to my manor."

Cue bewildered Snake and shocked Sebastian. I smiled then. To be honest, even though Ciel had so obviously lied, I was glad that out of everyone in the Circus arc of Kuroshitsuji, Snake was able to be saved, even with my presence messing a bit of the story line up.

Not to mention I would have loved if Doll were alive but…

I looked away and waited for Snake to accept his future. It was going to suck majorly when Snake discovered that Dagger, Beast and them died attempting to attack the Phantomhive manor while Joker and Doll suffered an even similar fate by associating themselves with B.K. But if he was able to find some peace again, I suppose it was sort of worth it.

Although I was seriously going to give Ciel and Sebastian a stern talking to in regards to a certain kitchen appliance. And this time it was going to be done civilly, no pots or flying pans. Mostly.

A little later, after Snake was finally convinced of entering Ciel's home as a servant and was later shown to his own room (no doubt Bard and Finny would freak at having him in theirs, mostly because of the snakes), Sebastian returned and with Ciel and I we took a short walk at the back of the green house.

"I never imagined you would install him in the manor," Sebastian said at last.

"I did. You'd be crazy not to," I remarked.

"Hero's right," Ciel said. "It's better than setting him free and having him make attempt after attempt on my life. His ability to manipulate snakes seems like it might come in handy as well."

"Oh it will," I said, plucking a particularly pretty flower with the same shade as Ciel's eye color. Cool. "Not to mention having him around will boost up his confidence a little."

"And I've been wanting a pet," Ciel added.

I stopped, turned around indignantly, surprising both the little earl and butler. "Excuse me? So you can have a human pet but I can't even have a dog? You know that's messed up right? I mean the least you can do is get me a pet. I've been asking for one since, like, months ago! Didn't I tell you that I used to own a Rottweiler? Named Noodles? And just so you know I trained him too. Not my dad, but me. And now Noodle is perfectly potty trained."

There was a bit of silence from the other side and I couldn't help but giggle. I turned around and continued walking.

"So…," came Ciel's voice from behind. "About…you know…about what happened with the oven…," he paused, looking away before finding the courage to face me. "You're still angry aren't you?"

I sighed. I suppose it was time to discuss this…

I turned around again, placing my hands on my hips and putting on my best poker face. Here goes… "While I'm flattered that you both want me enough to stay, I don't exactly appreciate the dirty manner you guys went to do it. In fact I don't even understand what spirit possessed you two or whose idiotic plan this was…,"

Ciel briefly eyed Sebastian. Sebastian kept his own poker-face on. I glared at them again and they both looked down.

"But the fact of the matter is…even if my oven started to magically work again, I wouldn't leave you guys."

Their heads snapped up, looking at me with shocked eyes. Was it really so hard for them to believe?

"What?" Ciel replied.

"You heard me. I wouldn't have left you guys. The thing is I've become too emotionally attached to you and I did promise that I'd stick by you Ciel. I've made so many friends, some annoying acquaintances and probably a couple of enemies but I wouldn't leave you guys as if this were some day dream or as if your feelings meant nothing. I'm not selfish and I'm pretty reasonable, even with home sickness. Had I been any other girl with a weak pure heart I would have most certainly run away from this secretly macabre madhouse.

But I'm not. I'm Hero," I told them. I wonder if they were getting the message. "I care about what you guys think and I'm not some weak and pure girl. And if you guys think I have a clean past…well then you're wrong. But that's a story for another day,"

Sebastian raised an eyebrow and I purposefully looked away.

"Then you forgive us?" Ciel asked.

"Ahahahah—No." Didn't that quickly diminish their light? "While what you did is certainly unforgivable, I do want you guys to know that where I come from is a very deep part of me. It's something I grew up with and was reared into my mind as a child. I had hopes and dreams back there. I had plans and schedules and knew exactly what I was going to do when I graduated high school. All my friends, my family, my culture was fixed permanently there and that's what made me…well, me. The Hero that you guys love is all that I've just described. I cannot be anything less and I don't believe I'll ever change. Therefore if you do not like that I am the "future" from another world, then kindly tell me so I can leave and emigrate to America where I will cross-dress as a guy and work my way to become the next American Sherlock Holmes."

Was it too early to cue the crickets?

"Was that what you had in mind this whole time?" Ciel raged, referring to the last bit about immigrating to America.

I huffed. "Well of course. I can't exactly show breasts over there. They'd never take me seriously as a detective extraordinaire being a girl." I swear, what do boys learn in school?

Sebastian chuckled, seeming to understand. "Very well, Miss Hero. You win."

Both Ciel and I blinked. "What?"

"Simply put you will forever be an unusual American from the future and we should have tried harder to accept that and your trust in staying with us."

Ciel looked bashful. "Sebastian's right. I was always afraid you haven't been as emotional invested so I used anything and everything to tie you to me. I should have taken your word since day one that you would stay by my side." He held out his hand towards me, blue eye set in all seriousness. "So Hero, I'm asking you here and now, with the knowledge that you're free to leave here and emigrate to America if you so wished, will stay by my side? Always and forever?"

Sebastian looked alarmed as he glanced at his young master and even I stood there in shock, flower falling from my hand. That eye, that face, that hand that had previously been offered to Snake, Ciel was asking if I wanted to stay with him. That was so unexpected and so…so…so kind of him. He was actually considering my feelings for once.

Hallelujah.

I looked at Sebastian. "And what do you think Sebastian?"

He was caught off guard that much was obvious. I don't think he considered that I'd get his opinion on this.

"Miss Hero?"

"If I were to leave the Phantomhive Manor, go away to America, you would obviously stay with Ciel so the real question would be…would you give me your blessing? To venture out on my own, probably get killed or have my soul claimed or sucked out by another demon, just so I could do my own thing for once."

Like seeing a deer caught in headlights. Ciel stiffened at that last bit and I could tell Sebastian was not liking this line of inquiry very well. He paused for a second before giving me a small smile. "You ask too much of a lowly servant Miss Hero, especially one such as I."

I smiled. "It's only a simple question Sebastian. Possibly hypothetical."

He swallowed before looking at the cobblestones and sighing, closing his eyes. "I would say…at least wait until reason comes to you again. After the Charity fiasco I'd rather not lose you so suddenly."

…

The feels was too much. My natural reaction was to glomp the two of them. Luckily they were standing close so such an action was easy enough to do. I shrieked in joy as we all landed inside the bushes.

"Hero!" Ciel exclaimed, face red.

"I totally love you guys for being so honest with me!" I began, not caring that their impeccable clothing was getting ruined and wrinkled all at the same time. "I know that it was hard for each of you to even consider my feelings when it conflicted my safety and your selfish desire but…thank you."

That gave them pause. They actually looked at me and gave them another cheeky smile.

"And just so you know," I added. "I do forgive you guys. Though if my dad found about this I'm sure he wouldn't." I got up and helped Ciel from the prickly foliage. Sebastian dusted himself off and flicked a leaf from his hair.

"I suppose this ends everything, yes?"

I nodded. "Yup. This is officially the end of the Murder Mystery Arc."

"The what?" Ciel said, brushing a leaf off his shoulder.

I grinned. "Nothing."

"So will you?" Ciel asked. "Stay here with us? With me?"

"Yes. Always and forever." Ciel blushed, hinting to what would have been no doubt a most beauteous shy smile to ever behold his face. Until Sebastian interrupted the moment to clap his hands and announce that dinner would be served in a few hours from now and that it was probably best to freshen up until then.

I smiled and followed Sebastian as we all walked back to the manor.

"Oh!" I suddenly said. "That reminds me. Sebastian how are you going to explain yourself to the servants?"

The certainly stopped him.

"Ah yes, that," Ciel yawned. "With everyone thinking you're dead, won't dinner be an impossibility?"

Well wasn't that putting a monkey wrench in his well-formulated plans.

A day later, Sebastian's funeral was rather elaborate in its simplicity. Everyone wore black, sported somber faces; even the day seemed dreary (of course that was usually normal considering English weather). His coffin was a very sleek one and the flowers inside seemed endless. Just as endless were the tears that flowed from everyone's faces when thanks to the Undertaker, Sebastian was finally buried underneath the earth.

The B-MY-F trio, Prince Soma and even Lizzy all bawled their eyes out. Even Madame Red and her butler Stanton were present as well. I tried to look totally devastated but it was hard to do when I felt like sneezing and yawning. I had to get up really early that morning and let me tell you that breakfast was not as enjoyable when it was partially burned and uncooked, if such a combination was possible. I had to go down to the kitchen and make everyone breakfast myself.

So sue me for being tired.

Sebastian's tombstone was also rather simple, reading:

To the memory of

SEBASTIAN MICHAELIS

+Butler, Friend & Possibly An Almost Husband+

Died March 1888

May ye be in heaven an hour before the devil knows you're dead.

I looked at Madame Red for that part about the husband and she gave me a wink. Oh my lord. I shook my head just as Prince Soma came up between Ciel and me with a bear-crushing hug.

"Don't cry Ciel! Hero! 'Cos we'll always be together!" he sobbed. Lizzy came then, hugging Ciel (speaking of Lizzy, we were eventually going to have to speak about the Beach Incident).

"Yes! Forever and ever!" she agreed, tears streaming down her pretty face. The B-MY-F trio were also trying hard to look dignified but failing miserably. Ciel and I exchanged a brief glance before he sighed. "Both he, Hero and I are truly fortunate to have people who care for us so much." The sobs came harder and Soma was starting to crush me. Who knew he had some strength? "Come let us return to the manor," Ciel suggested, struggling to get free.

In the end they all agreed and everyone started to turn away when the bell next to Sebastian's headstone dinged. It resonated throughout the clearing and I smirked as everyone gasped and looked back.

"The bell on the headstone is ringing?" Finny asked. "But there's not even a breeze."

The Undertaker cackled. "Oh, dear, oh, dear. Is this really any time to be cooling your heels? That bell ringing, why…it means he's still alive!"

Cue everyone's shocked expression. Bard and Finny were racing to dig the coffin back up, the Undertaker and Agni lending them a hand (a shovel really).

"Can this be?" Madame Red asked. Stanton looked bored.

"Something tells me he was never dead to begin with," he murmured.

Luckily no one heard him. Soon Sebastian was unearthed and the lid to the coffin thrown back, allowing Sebastian to sit up, looking as fresh as a daisy. "Goodness," he said, rubbing his head. "I finally managed to get out of that. Everyo—" Just as Sebastian looked up he was just in time to see the B-MY-F trio and even Lizzy glomped him like crazy people, all bawling and blubbering gibberish about how much they had missed him.

I giggled and Madame Red pouted, taking out a little black book and scratching something off. "I can't begin to tell you how inconvenient false information is. Miracle or not."

I sweat-dropped. "You're really still keeping scores huh?"

Madame Red smirked. "Of course. This brings in good money. I'm not as well off as I used to be after all and keeping up the renovations of my townhouse is costly I assure you."

"I'm sure it is," I added absently.

"Now let me tell you about the latest bet against Ciel and Sebastian, quite a number," she continued, closing the book and tucking it away. "And he was such a sweet boy, very pretty too. Oh and young. Almost like Ciel. Well other than betting against Sebastian and Ciel I thought he and Ciel would get along nicely seeing as they have so much in common."

I looked at Madame Red. "What?"

Unfortunately the woman was interrupted when Agni started to cry out to the heavens about miracles. I walked over to the dug up pit and whistled. "Did you know buried alive is a horrible way to die?"

"Is it?" the Undertaker remarked with a chuckle.

"Yeah. I saw this Spanish soap opera where the villainess, in trying to escape the police and from going to prison, fakes her death and they end up burying her alive. She was supposed to get dug up an hour after her burial but her minion gets arrested and no one will believe him when he stated that she was still alive and they needed to get her out from the ground," I shook my head. "Karma was a bitch there."

By then everyone had walked away from the pit, leaving just the Undertaker and I.

"Indeed the irony in that really would be comical," Undertake replied, grinning. "I also heard from a little birdie that you got into a fight with the little lord and butler."

I sighed. "Yeah. Just something about the oven that brought me here. Turns out they got rid of it but hey, too late now."

"They've trapped you here?"

"More or less, but I've gone to terms with it, surprisingly. So I'm going to try to make the best of it."

"Interesting," the Undertaker commented. "And what if I said I could help you get back home?"

I stiffened, back straight, my ears not sure they heard right. The cool wind suddenly picked up, blowing tendrils of my dress and hair about in the air. I slowly turned around, eyes wide as I faced him. "What?"

He cackled again. Just then Prince Soma came and started dragging me away. "Come on Hero! We're going to celebrate Mister Sebastian's return to life!"

"Ah—okay," I mumbled. I looked back but the Undertaker was waving good-bye at us, grinning as usual. I blinked. Had he really said that? I turned away, focusing on the commotion in front of me.

Undertaker wouldn't know anything about time-travel or about the magical appliances therein. He's simply an ex-grim reaper who works as a mortician. Really now. I shook my head of his words and focused on other things, like the apparent buffet Sebastian was going to cook up. I walked ahead until I was beside Ciel. He looked at me in question and I grinned. He gave me a small smile back.

Demoness's and destroyed ovens aside, it was all over now and what's done is done. I'm staying with Ciel and Sebastian and that's my decision. Still, though it would be nice to stay good-bye to my dad and maybe find him a nice wife to take care of him, I wouldn't leave this world and go back home. Because as they say, God does everything for a reason and though it may be unclear, I'm determined to stick it through.

So even if the Undertaker by some miracle could take me back home, the answer would be no.

Although a caffeinated beverage and some electricity would be nice.

A day earlier…

Powerful hooves stomped along the road winding through the thick forest. The moon was high above the sky, clouds barely able to penetrate its brilliance. The sudden chilly breeze raced against the horse drawn carriage acting as a holding cell flew through the night, carrying one very upset occupant inside.

"I've been set up by him…," Woodley griped, unable to believe he'd been caught by the fabled jaws known as the Queen's Watchdog. There was no way his real crime had been discovered. He'd been so careful to cover his tracks. Woodley didn't kill anyone at the party; he'd hardly touched anyone really. It was all Phantomhive's fault. He'd done this on purpose, to frame him and ruin his name. "This wasn't meant to be," he told himself. "Th—"

"Shut it!" Grey interrupted, thrusting his rapier through the material of the carriage roof and stabbing Woodley through the head unmercifully. "Ugh, it really riles me up!" he complained, free his weapon from its target until it shined crimson in the moonlight. "I was so looking forward to knocking that brat down a peg and making Hero mine."

Grey ignored the thump of the body inside and flicked his blade clean of blood before sheathing it at his again.

"It is all because you acted without thought for the consequences," Phipps mildly scolded from upfront, holding one set of reins.

"Enough of your lectures, Phipps," Grey grumbled as he sat up front.

"He's right though. And an elaborate scheme like this will hardly make Miss Hero view you any less kindly," came a soft voice to the right of Grey.

"Wha!" He leaned over pulled off the hood. "Stoner? What the bloody hell are you doing here? Where's Brown?"

"Her Majesty's orders, Grey. Leave him alone," Phipps answered.

"Tch. As if I needed Shadow boy Stoner to follow me around," Grey muttered, purposefully poking his cheek.

Charlie Stoner, another of the Queen's Secretarial butler, sighed mentally but said nothing, knowing it took very little to have Grey start bullying him. Already it's been less than ten seconds and his cheeks were under attack.

"Anyhow, I sure do wonder what Her Majesty is thinking, especially making Stoner leave her shadowy side," Grey commented, still poking Charlie's cheek.

"Who can say? That is not for mere butlers like us to know. All is as Her Majesty the Queen wishes it to be," Phipps answered.

"Grey, please stop."

"No."

Phipps sighed.

Present day…

"…and that will be all by way of instructions for today," Sebastian concluded as he looked up from his list. "But I do have one final announcement. There will be a new servant joining us at the manor."

"Eh?" gaped Bard, Finny, and Mey-Rin in sudden surprise.

Sebastian turned toward the partially opened door. "Come in."

Suddenly snakes of all shapes and colors slithered into the kitchen, causing pandemonium and mayhem for the B-MY-F trio as they shrieked and ran away. Well…minus an awed Finny.

"Do pipe down. They will not bite until he commands them to do so," Sebastian informed them.

"He?" Bard said shakily as he hid behind Finny.

Snake peered nervously around the door, garbed presentably in waistcoat, tailcoat and black slacks. Sebastian strode over and placed a firm slap on his back. "Stand up straight now! Introduce yourself in a loud and clear voice! Now that you are here you must follow our below the stairs rule allowing Snake to stand up straight."

"I-I'm Snake," Snake began; aside from the stutter, ahoge trembling giving the only indication that he was nervous. Not that anyone knew. "W-we look forward to working with you—says Oscar."

"Umm…you're…Mister Oscar?" Finny asked, a bit confused.

"No! This is Snake," Snake said, gesturing to himself. "And I'm Oscar!—says Oscar." He then pointed towards the snake hissing on his shoulder. Snake then went on to introduce each and every one of his friends. He only as far as naming three when Sebastian interrupted with a clap of his hands.

"Alright that will do. Let us leave the introduction of those servants for another time," he suggested. "Else it will be night before we know it. In any case, he is the Phantomhive footman as of today. Do try to work together you lot."

About a half hour later, Snake was given the important task of peeling the potatoes, something in which both Mey-Rin and Finny were immensely impressed with since they're potato peeling skills were sorely lacking.

"Heyy, psssssstt, Sebastian," Bard whispered. Luckily Sebastian stood next to him so it took little effort for him to hear the chef. "Takin' on a guy like that…a fella not one of us knows a thing about…y'sure you know what yer doin'? Remember what happened with Miss Charity?"

"Regardless of who or what he may be, if the young master has decided to hire him, we must simply obey. Besides, could the same not be said of you three as well?" Sebastian countered, placing the fresh fish on the cutting board. "Who you are matters to me not one whit. However, if you bare your fangs at my master or Miss Hero, then I shall—"

Chop!

He had brought the sharpened knife down in one swift movement, hacking off the fish's head.

"Well, how's he doing?" asked Ciel this morning after finishing his breakfast.

Sebastian was putting away the remnants of the meal onto the tray. I had just finished my own plate so I simply sat back and enjoyed the morning. I was also trying to read the papers but most of the stuff went over my head. There weren't even comics in here for me to enjoy, aside from the little "funnies" that contained British humor (which also went completely over my head). I looked up from my paper and folded it.

"I believe it will take some time to train him," Sebastian replied. "I do hope he is quick to learn."

"Oh he is," I told him. "And he'll be a great footman."

"How do you know?" Ciel asked.

I shrugged. "Just cause."

"Well, Sebastian does excel at making someone quick to learn," Ciel added with a smirk.

"Yes…is how I'd like to reply, but…my teaching abilities are nothing much of which to speak if your dancing skills and Miss Hero's fencing technique is anything to go by,"

I flushed and Ciel glared at the paper in front of him.

"It's just so weird!" I protested. "I'm more of a katana girl. With Mimiko and the local dojo's help I've become quite an adequate katana wielder."

"And if you'd just memorize your footwork then you could be an even greater swordswoman."

"Bleh. I'd never be as good as Lizzy."

Ciel looked up. "What?"

"Uh—nothing! My what's this in the paper?" I said hastily, almost forgetting that it was Lizzy's super top secret that she'd rather forgo a pink laced bow with a matching parasol then have Ciel know.

Ciel looked back down and squinted when he spotted something of interest. I assumed he found the article about some Karnstein hospital and their ability with bringing the dead back to life. Shia right.

Just then, a commotion outside the parlor caught our attention.

"Wait! No! You can't just barge in, you can't!"

The doors to the room burst open, revealing a cheerful Lau, a nervous Mey-Rin and impassive Ran Mao behind. "Hiii there Lord Earl and Miss Hero~! I trust you've both been well and have made up, no?"

"Lau?" Ciel exclaimed in shock.

I blinked in surprise. Was Lau supposed to be coming around? I've kind of forgotten the finer intricacies of the manga's plot by now.

"I was hoping to help myself to breakfast but you two have already eaten?" Lau whined.

Ciel's vein popped in irritation. "What in blazes are you doing here—"

"OH? Didn't you die the other day?" Lau interrupted when he spotted Sebastian.

"Listen when I'm talking to you!" he snapped. He sighed and sat back when I began giggling. "Anyways, what business could you possibly have with me at this hour? Surely you didn't come all this way for a handout of breakfast?"

Lau and Ran Mao (or rather Lau) smiled. Ten minutes later we got the details of their visit in coming here in addition to having our leftovers eaten.

"A hospital that raises the dead?"

"Ugh. Hate zombies. Can't even stand the Walking Dead on AMC or the film Warm Bodies," I said. "If they wanted something similar to Twilight I have to admit they failed at trying to adapt the concept."

Ciel blinked. "What? Never mind. Anyhow is that the hospital mentioned in the paper?"

"Yes that's it!"

"Sorry but I haven't the least interest in the occult—"

"But occult it may not be~!" Lau countered

Ciel looked up. "Come again?" I leaned in close. I had a feeling that the Titanic arc has finally come calling. Damn. I had been hoping that maybe this weird world would follow the anime now but noooo. It just had to want some zombies.

"Karnstein hospital. They seem to be doing quite a bit of shopping at the black market docks Lord Earl has left in my care," Lau explained.

"For drugs?"

"No. People. They're illegally purchasing slaves from overseas, but the numbers are quite extraordinary. I wouldn't think for a minute that they could fit all of those people into the hospital."

"Another thing that seriously peeves me about this time period, but such is the ignorance of people," I sighed, sipping from my orange juice.

"Might they not be disposing of them once they've served their purpose?" Ciel offered.

Lau smiled. "Well, to be frank, I don't care about those details one way or another but…a hospital like that really shouldn't be making such headlines in the average citizen's newspaper, don't you agree?"

I nodded. "Madame Red once told me the hospital she works for is the top tier in all of London. Anything else is paltry."

"That's true," Ciel murmured. "In other words…"

"You mean to say that there is a possibility they are resurrecting the dead via illegal human experimentation?" Sebastian finished.

"Exactly!" Lau exclaimed.

Ciel sighed. "If this turns out to be true, it's a case of underworld forces meddling with society at large. It's best to strip roses of their thorns before they cut one's hands. Sebastian, look into it at once. I'm sure Madame Red will help in any way she can."

"Speaking of Madame Red, I think you'll find that she's very busy at the moment," Lau added.

"Hmm, why is that?"

"She's packing up on a trip of some sort."

I blinked. "Trip? To where?"

Lau shrugged. "She didn't say. Just kicked me out of her house."

Sebastian placed a hand over his heart. "Nevertheless, please leave it to me, sir."

"Ciel," I began a little later, after Lau and Ran Mao had left. We were just on our way toward his office when the anxiety began. "I think I should you warn you."

"Warn me of what?" he asked, stopping us just in front of a large window overlooking the Manor driveway.

"Well this particular case you're gonna do. Now most of my memory has forgotten the little things that happened in the manga but—"

"Wait, what's a manga again?"

"A Japanese comic book? But that's not important. You know that I happened to know a lot about your world, right?"

Ciel nodded.

"Well, all I can remember now are the big events that happened or are going to happen and right now I think we're in volume…what? Ten? Eleven? Well the big event that's gonna happen is the zombie stuff."

"Zombie?"

"The undead. Dead humans that are still kicking but their only desire is eat human brain and flesh…well, their goal varies according to different people and Hollywood, but the point is that Zombies? Yeah, bad news. As in we're dealing with the supernatural."

Ciel looked confused. "Supernatural? So you don't think its human experimentation?"

"It sort of is, but with some supernatural help." I doubt he could understand that I'm trying to imply the Undertaker. Maybe I should have talked to the man the other day about it.

Ciel rubbed his temple. "I'm becoming confused."

"The point is we'll be facing zombies and we gotta prepare for battle! And if you wanna know the culprit to all of this then it's—"

"Ciiiiiieeeeeeelllll~!" cried a very familiar voice as one of the doors to the hall opened and Lizzy appeared, dressed in lace and flowers. Lots of it. "Listen to this~! Listen to this~!" she exclaimed excitedly as she ran toward us. "It's been decided that we're going on a family trip in April! A three-week excursion to New York on a luxury passenger liner, starting on the seventeenth! Isn't it exciting?"

"Lizzy!" came another voice from the opened door; out popped Edward, looking disgruntled and slightly out of breath as he entered the hall. "You really need to stop running off as soon as mother turns her back. I know you're excited but think about the dangers being out on the road brings! And without Paula!"

I glanced out the window and saw a carriage and a single saddled horse waiting outside with Snake and Finny. Huh, funny I hadn't heard them arrive.

"Oh but it's wonderful news! I simply had to tell Ciel all about it. You go on and tell Hero your part!" she insisted, not giving me a glance. So she was going to forestall this convo huh? Well okay. And if I'm right and all goes to plan, I'll be talking to a lot sooner anyhow.

Edward blushed. "Lizzy!"

Lizzy promptly returned her attention to Ciel. "And guess what else? Father was wondering if you might like to join us!"

"Um, you as well," Edward admitted shyly as he faced me. "That is if you would like to. I understand that you might be busy or simply not interested."

I smiled. "While the offer is sweet I'm afraid Ciel's got the last word here."

"I think not," was Ciel response.

Lizzy's face looked absolutely crestfallen. "Ehhh? But it's a ticket for the maiden voyage of the Campania, said to be the most opulent passenger liner in the world you know! Why even mother said that Ciel and even Hero should take some time off…"

"I truly appreciate the thought, but I'm afraid I can't absent myself for such a length of time," Ciel explained, looking guilty.

I turned back to look at Edward and gave him an apologetic smile. "Sorry. Sounds like a great excursion though."

"And it would have been a perfect opportunity for you to see America. You haven't been there in some time right?"

"A long time," I agreed, thinking it would have been cool to see Victorian America, not that it was any different than here other then it being America.

Ciel looked at us, particularly at me, but said nothing. "Maybe next time all four of us could go to some place nearby. I can make the time to take a few days' leave. As long as its close."

Edward looked annoyed but sighed. "I suppose, but Hero and I will act chaperones of course."

Say what? Wouldn't we need chaperones too? Ciel blushed furiously, glaring at Edward as Lizzy squealed. "Oh what a grand idea! I wouldn't mind where as long as I'm with Ciel~!"

I chuckled. "Well anyways, in case Ciel does change his mind," I winked at Edward. "I'll hold onto the tickets."

"Here you go," he said, handing them to me and walking over to grab his little sister. "If you change your minds, the information is on the back."

"Oh please do Ciel~! It'll be so much fun!" Lizzy added.

"My original answer still stands," he confirmed, looking at me as if why I was adding fuel to the fire. I grinned in response. Before we knew it, the Middletons were gone and Ciel and I sighed in relief.

"Now!" I said, turning away from the window. "What does one pack on a cruise?"

"Cruise? Hero I said we weren't going!"

I looked back and winked. "I know. I'm packing just in case you change your mind."

"But I won't!" he insisted, following me upstairs.

"Sure, sure. Now from what I remember in the Campania, which by the way would have been called the Titanic in my world/future, it's really big and unlike Carnival, has no swimming pools so bathing suits are out."

Ciel blinked. "Bathing suits?"

"The seventeenth of April gives us a few weeks so we should talk to Nina about outfits and maybe see if Madame Red would know what to pack. Do you think she'd been a cruise before?"

"Hero!"

"And let's not forget that we're also going to battle here so we need to pack light since most of our stuff isn't going to survive…on second thought let's cancel Nina since she'll no doubt come up with something elaborate and I'd hate to see her stuff ruined. My gosh! Where'd I stash my katana?"

"Hero wait!"

"What?" I asked as I stopped and turned to look at him. Unfortunately I stepped on the hem of my dress and slipped, going down and bringing little Ciel with me. Luckily we hadn't gone too far up so not much damage was done. "Ow~!" I moaned when we landed in a heavy heap on the bottom floor. "That's smarts."

"That was not smart. That hurt a good deal," Ciel mumbled as he looked up. I blinked and we both froze. Ciel had somehow managed to land on top of me, putting us in what Madame Red would have termed "A Very Compromising Position". I mean our noses were practically touching. Our faces began to heat up and before we could react we heard a familiar rich chuckle from above.

"Really young master, that's no way for a gentleman to act. I do believe marriage comes first does it not?"

Ciel quickly scrambled off me and I laughed. "What an uncanny timing," I commented as Ciel helped me up.

Sebastian was perched on the window sill of the hall, looking down at us with an amused smirk dressed in…I tilted my head.

"Sebastian, what are you wearing?" I asked.

"I was about to ask the same," Ciel added.

"As they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do," he joked. "But to get to the matter at hand, I have discovered some rather intriguing tidbits of information."

"Huh…even though you look amazingly hot like that I totally wouldn't trust you as my doctor. You like you have a hidden agenda," I told him. Sebastian smirked. A little later, once safely ensconced in Ciel's study, Sebastian reported his finding…still dressed like a doctor (and he looks delicious).

Insofar as the previously discussed Karnstein Hospital is concerned, Rian Stocker, the hospital director, and other leading physicians from the hospital are holding meetings under the moniker of the "Aurora Society".

In truth, this "Aurora Society" is a secret society consisting solely of physicians…its motto, "absolute salvation of mankind through medical science"

"Puh-lease," I interrupted. "I'd be more impressed if they've discovered penicillin through moldy bread. But whatever, continue on…"

I have confirmed that its members conduct unlawful human experiments daily within the hospital.

"Damn Victorian hospitals. You just can't trust them…unless its Madame Red's hospital. I totally trust her on that."

…anyhow, according to one nurse's testimony, the Aurora Society periodically holds presentations of their experimental results, solicits contributions from aristocrats, and so on…

"There were no slaves to be found inside the hospital. Wether or not the human experimentation and the resurrection of the dead are related remains unknown," Sebastian concluded.

"It doesn't get any more suspicious then that," Ciel remarked.

I nodded. "You've no idea."

"Indeed. We can safely assume that the 'Aurora Society' holds definitive clues regarding this matter," Sebastian said.

"Where is the next meeting?" Ciel asked absently.

"It is to take place abroad a passenger liner sailing out from the Port of Southampton on April seventeenth."

I grinned. Wait for it…

"Hmph. A gathering on a ship does rather scream aristocrats…," wait for it. "Hmm, did you say April seventeenth…?" Suddenly his eyes snapped opened and I began to giggle. "What is the name of that ship?"

Sebastian looked at his list. "The Blue Star Line's luxury passenger liner—"

"The Campania!" I finished, getting up. "Now Ciel, let me ask again, what does one pack on a cruise?"

"So thiiiis is the Campania, huh?" Finny exclaimed wide eyed as he stared at the massive ship anchored to the bustling port.

"Whoa, its huge!" Bard added as Mey-Rin and Tanaka stood gaping open-mouthed.

"I'll say. I can't decide if this is bigger than the Titanic or not," I said aloud. "Good thing I don't suffer sea-sickness because I feel like exploring the whole thing!"

"Aww, I'm jealous that Mister Snake gets to go with the young master and Miss Hero," Finny admitted.

I looked over at Snake who was mourning the loss of his snake friends as they got boarded onto the ship. Aw, poor thing. I walked on over to try to reassure him it was all good.

"A footman's duties include accompanying his master on his travels," Sebastian explained. "I am counting on each of you to carefully see to your duties while we are away."

The B-MY-F and Tanaka beamed. "Yessir!

"Well…we'll be off then," Sebastian said as he, Snake and Ciel began to walk up the boarding-bridge leading to the ship. Ciel paused when he noticed Hero wasn't with them.

"Wait where's Hero?"

They all looked around them to find her gone. Sebastian sighed and set off looking for her. Leave it to her to get lost in the space of less than thirty seconds.

Damn the crush here was really suffocating. I take one step towards Snake and boom, the rush crush sweeps me away. Now I'm somewhere near the rear of the ship. And with my pitiful height I was getting nowhere. Dang nabbit!

I took one step forward when someone suddenly cut a path right in front of me and I fell back…like on the pavement where my sailor cap was thrown off. "Ow! Hey! Watch it you!" The perp turned around, having heard me apparently and looked at me with impassive golden eyes framed by a pair of simple spectacles.

"My apologies," he said, having the manners to help me up and retrieve my hat. Hmm…he looked awful familiar; something about his impassive demeanor, golden eyes and black almost spikey hair. "I did not see you."

"I understand," Like seriously. I haven't grown much and if it weren't for these heels Ciel would be towering over me by an inch. "Just be careful of vertically challenged citizens."

The horn to the ship began to blow and I panicked. The ship's about to set sail!

"Ahoy there! Would ya happen to know where I can find the second class entrance?" asked an unfamilair voice as he clamped down a hand on Mey-Rin's shoulder. She looked behind and automatically answered.

"Eh? Over that way, I think," she mumbled.

"Thank you! Lemme treat you to tea in the lounge later! Which class are you in?" asked the stranger.

"Ehhh? I-I-I-I only came to see someone off, so…"

"WE WILL SOON BE REMOVING THE BOARDING BRIDGE!" the conductor announced from said boarding bridge.

"Aw, drat! Yes, yes I'm getting on!" he called out. "I'll ask you out again if I make it back in one piece! See you!" The stranger turned away and ran out of sight.

A dazed Mey-Rin stared after him. "That was the first time in my life a man tried to woo me…"

"Tch. What was with that flashy fella?" Bard muttered.

Finny smiled. "He was sporting a curious pair of glasses!"

The flashy fellow ran through the crowd, careful not to get swept away. "Argh! They'll really have my head if I miss the boat!

"Thanks again for escorting me back to first-class," I beamed.

"I did not volunteer. You forcibly grabbed my arm and used me as a human shield against the crowd," the tall stranger said as I did just as he described. Can't be too careful now can I?

"Still, I appreciate you for manning up and going through with it anyways. I think that's the boarding bridge up ahead."

"Then will you kindly let go of my arm now? You're wrinkling the sleeve I ironed this morning."

"So prissy," I remarked dryly but I let him go anyways.

"Miss Hero!" Sebastian's voice called from behind. I turned around and smiled.

"Thank goodness I found you!" I cried. "This crowd is really crazy let me tell you!"

Sebastian quickly approached me and grabbed my hand, tugging me towards the boarding bridge. "Come now, the ship is going to depart. Let's make haste."

"Okay, just let me say good-bye to…," I had looked back but my human shield was gone, lost in the ever growing crowd. "Hmm, never mind. Let's go~!" It was then that Sebastian surprised me by carrying me bridal style as he dashed onto the ship getting ready to set sail.

"Claude what took you?" Alois complained as he drummed his fingers against the hand rest of the carriage door. Claude Faustus said nothing as he entered, knocking on the front window to alert the driver to move. "Well? I'm waiting?"

"The slaughter took a bit longer to complete but they are all dead, Your Highness."

"Mmm," Alois hummed. "Well at least that's done. Now Her Majesty the Queen can leave me in peace for a while. Ah! I can't wait to go home! As fun as it is making grown men scream I'd rather be where bullets won't come flying my way. Good thing that Madame Red was skilled in healing me. I feel just like new!" He stopped when he noticed Claude looking out the window, staring at the huge ship some few minutes away. "Claude what is it?"

"Nothing," he murmured.

Alois looked back at the now departing ship and smirked. "Wouldn't it be the funniest thing if the ship sank in the middle of the ocean?"

Claude said nothing.

Alois frowned, huffed and sat back in his seat. "Well anyhow, now that this business is concluded we can do some proper research on Ciel Phantomhive, don't you think Claude?"

Claude looked at Alois then, golden eyes flashing. "Yes, Your Highness."

"It is nearly time for departure," commented Sebastian as he checked his pocket watch.

I smiled as I leaned over the railing, looking down at the tiny specks of people back on the port, waving and flailing their good-byes and throwing confetti everywhere.

"Young masterrrrrr! Miss Herooooo! Taaaake caaaare!" Finny shouted from below. As I waved at the B-MY-F trio plus Tanaka, Ciel came over to join me. I glanced at him in seriousness. He looked at me questioningly.

"Prepare yourself Ciel. Because now the real battle starts."

In another part of the ship, our flashy fellow exhaled in relief as he leaned over the railing. "Phew! Made it in the nick of time. Having left port safe and sound just as planned…," Ronald Knox took off his hat and smirked into the wind. "There's smooth sailing ahead! A bright future! For us, that is."

;w;

So anyways, please tell me you guys noticed the hints/clues scattered that basically outline the future of Through The Looking Glass (there was so many in there!) No? Ah well! Till the next chapter XD

Reviews are welcomed!

P.S. Check out the poll question on my Bio~! Results will be displayed when I close the Poll (which will be when I finish TTLG, hopefully before my b-day; which is code for January).

Sincerely, Lady Keiko