A/N: Surprise, bitch! Bet you thought you've seen the last of me xD ^-^ Dude...I can't believe it's been a year since I've first published this story. Damn xD Sorry this was REALLY late guys! I've been busy A LOT -.-''
A: You actually have a life?
Get back here, young whippersnapper!
Review time! *le gasp*
Toboe's Soulmate: Yeah, I think everyone had the same reaction xD thankies!
Night Owl's Shadow: XD lol I like your reviews they always make me laugh :)
LilbigEnano96: I won't lol ^-^
REDRydingHood: First off, people actually read my author's note? Didn't know that xD They care! Second, yeah that summed up the chapter xD
Razzeeberry: This is true. You're welcome! :D
BlackSakura-chi: We shall never know! MUAHAHAHA *coughs* can't do evil laugh DX
REDRydingHood: (On SOPA) Yes, we did it! Anyone of you who signed the petition have my thanks :) Thus, I can keep making this story ^-^
I love creepy things: Don't worry, Ciel will show up :) I promise he's not left out in this story.
(Ch 10) Yes, he was. And thank you :)
(Ch 19) Oh, okay. Thank you for noticing that!
(Ch 24) I didn't know the drama would get to you lol xD and I will read your OC story soon ^-^
As always, I do not own Kuroshitsuji/Black Butler! We all wish we did, don't we? How many of you would get SebaCiel in the manga? XD anyway, enjoy!
"Aerith." Officer Hensley called out. "Claire is here."
Clicks of high heels echoed in the cop's office, making me more nervous with each step. 'Dear God, Claire's gonna kill me!'
She opened the door, looking at me sitting on Hensley's office chair, spinning stupidly around and around. "How are you?"
"Been better." I stopped spinning and looked down at the floor.
"I know." Claire gave a soft smile. "Listen, before anything else, I want to let you know that I'm not mad at you."
"You're not?"
"No. I am furious at that butler! That little...he didn't even defend you." Claire exclaimed.
"I don't care about that." I turned the chair to face the wall instead of Claire. "He practically took away another thing I love. Claire, he killed her."
"Aerith, honey, I-"
"Nothing will change my mind." I said boldly.
"Fine." Claire sighed. "Turn around so we can discuss your case."
Facing her, I watched her open her briefcase and take out a notepad. She used her teeth to open a blue pen and her writing utensil ready on the top of the note page. "Gorew aheawer." She mumbled through the pen's cap still in her teeth.
Still, I could understand her. "Go ahead with that?"
"Tewn meh wheret happenes ther niete."
"Claire, take the cap out of your mouth." I laughed.
She spit out the cap into her case and giggled, "Sorry, habit. Okay, honey...tell me what happened that night."
"Well...after I left the cottage, I walked over to the mansion. I was about to knock on the door when a scream came from upstairs. The shrill of the scream wouldn't stop and then it was randomly cut off. So, I busted inside, ran up to the master bedroom...and..." I choked on the last words. "Valerie was on the floor."
"And the aftermath? What happened when you saw her?"
I sighed, running my fingers through my messy hair. "I started yelling that she couldn't die and two officers grabbed me, restraining me from her. Then, Hensley walked in and Sebastian was in the hallway. When I saw him, I exploded...literally. I cussed him out, saying he was a liar until...I don't remember. Hensley told me they put a sleeping drug in my good shoulder and that knocked me out. The rest is beyond me."
"Why did you call Sebastian a liar?"
"Remember last week when Maggie went back to the estate? I followed because Sebastian was gonna tell me why he had betrayed me. He then said come back later that night and I agreed. I shouldn't have." I bit my lip.
"You didn't know what he was planning." Claire comforted. "So mainly...this whole mess is Sebastian's fault? You think he can explain in court?"
"I doubt he would come to court though. To defend me? That's twice he's messed with my trust."
"You're right..." Claire sighed. "I'll try to find evidence to prove that you are not the killer."
"Okay. Remember, my life is on the line..."
"I know that, Aerith." Claire said strictly. "I should get going, need to interview people."
"Alright. Bye." I waved.
"Bye, sweetheart." Claire gave a kiss to my forehead and walked out of Hensley's office.
"Come on." Hensley came back in the room. "Back to the jail cell."
(Claire's POV)
As I walked to the mansion, I noticed a figure following me. "Whatever you want, I'm not in the mood, Ciel." I kept walking, trying not to look behind me.
"Oh, the story is get quite interesting, Claire. Just imagine your niece's head hanged by a thick, itchy rope." He snickered and hurried to walk next to me.
I almost threw up at the thought of Aerith's death. "You know, for being 50 years old, you still act like the age you look like."
He rolled his eyes, "Despite your age, you managed to join that club and yet still be a lawyer and not get caught."
I instantly turned and used my pointer finger at him. "No one...can ever know."
"I love to tease you like that." Ciel cackled.
"Yeah, well, I don't. Now, if you will excuse me, I must defend my niece."
"Oh really? Who's going to defend her? Only you, not them." He pointed to the mansion.
"What makes you say that?" I didn't doubt his words but still was curious to know what he meant.
"She killed their best friend. You think they would stand by her?"
"She didn't." I growled at the boy.
"That's what they think. And you know it." Ciel folded his arms and smirked.
"You wish." I said, reaching the mansion's front door. "Now leave if you want to be useful. I don't want to see you."
"I know where you are always." Ciel scoffed.
I was about to snap at him but all I could hear was the wind rustling around my ears. Ah...peace...at least, for once. Those beings...those disgusting, revolting creatures. Those beings that play with our lives...
"Claire?"
I blinked and looked at Maggie, her eyes red and watery due to her mourning. "Maggie, I need to talk to you."
She sniffed and rubbed her nose, "Y-Yeah, come on in."
I entered the manor; the stench of blood made me wrinkled my nose. It reminds me too much of...
"Claire? You're spacing out on me."
"Oh, I apologize." I rubbed my head. "I have a lot on my mind. Is Andrew here?"
"Yeah, he's upstairs. You wanna talk in the library?"
"Sure, meet you there." I nodded, climbing up the steps and to the library. As I entered, I narrowed my eyes at the demon butler, dusting off the bookshelves.
"Oh, excuse me, Lady Claire." He bowed.
"Don't you 'excuse me, Lady Claire' me, you little shit!" I exclaimed, making Sebastian slightly jump. Even I was surprised at my language when I didn't even allow Aerith to speak such foul words.
"Whatever do you mean-"
"Sebastian." I tried my best to not slam my briefcase down on the desk. "Please, stop acting stupid. I know you are better than this."
He was silent as I unpacked my papers and spread them out. "Why didn't you defend her?"
"I couldn't."
"Bullshit." I growled. "You were right there in that doorway that night. You saw how she fought for her life and you pushed it aside. You broke her promise."
"I was under orders not to."
"By who?"
"That, I am not allowed to say."
"You don't feel guilt at all, do you?"
"I am a demon. I'm incapable of feeling anything at all." He said coolly.
"Sebastian...are you going to defend her or not? Her life is on the line."
"If only needed."
I sighed, "Sebastian...I know you still love her. I can see it in your eyes when you look at her."
He opened his mouth to speak but I shushed him. "I'll repeat myself...will you defend her or not?"
"If you need me to, I will. But I am just a mere butler."
Before I could argue more, he hurried to leave once Maggie and Andrew entered the library.
"Everything okay?" Maggie asked.
"Fine." I said calmly. "Come, let's talk."
Andrew sat in front of me and Maggie sat on the side of the table. I grabbed my notebook and pen. "I need to ask you questions. Is that okay?"
"Shoot." Andrew said.
"Were you there the night of the murder?"
"No." Andrew shook his head and Maggie did the same.
"How did you find out?"
"Next morning from that night, I come here to see the mansion is raided with cops. They told me the whole story, how they saw Airy beside Valerie's body and covered in her blood." Andrew replied.
"Anna and Lillian told me when I came with Andrew here." Maggie said.
"Do you believe Aerith did it?"
"...I don't wanna say anything." Maggie resisted.
"It's okay, Maggie. It's your opinion, I'm not judging." I comforted, giving her a small smile.
Maggie began her sentence. "I-"
"Yes."
My eyes and Maggie's turned to the confident boy, folding his arms and having a smug look on his face.
"Why do you think that, Andrew?" I asked.
"She was there, was she not? Not to mention, she seemed ticked off at Valerie for taking everything. It's called sweet revenge."
"Aerith doesn't believe in revenge." I said.
"You obviously don't know her." Andrew clicked his tongue.
"How so?"
"Claire, her parents have been dead for fourteen years. She's sixteen. Don't you think it's typical for her to want revenge?"
"Seems out of character for her."
"Psh, it's only thing I got. Otherwise, we'd be here all day." Andrew rolled his eyes.
"I'll ask more questions during the trial." I said, packing up the papers and stuffing my notebook inside the case. "As for now, where do you stand?"
"Valerie's." Andrew immediately said. "No doubt."
I sighed but gave a nod. "Your decision. And you, Maggie?"
Maggie bit her lip and shrugged, "I don't know."
"Well, I still need you as witness, okay? Expect a letter soon."
"Okay." She nodded.
"Do you mind if I talk to the servants here?"
"No, go ahead. There's no master here anyway." Andrew sneered, stomping out of the library and giving the door a satisfied slam.
I cringed at the force of the slam, "He hasn't been better?"
Maggie shook her head. "What do you expect? They were family, Valerie and him. He wants justice, no matter who it was. If it's Aerith, so be it. If it's someone else, so be it. He only wants to know the truth about what happened to his cousin."
"Makes sense. He's always been protective of everyone. But as for now...he hates Aerith's guts."
'And it's that damned butler's fault! All of it!' I thought. "Well, hopefully, after the trial, things will change. Now, time to speak to the women downstairs. Thank you for your time, Maggie." I smiled and walked out for the library.
(Aerith's POV)
"Hey, Mazen?" Officer Hensley called out.
"I'm not hungry." I said, hugging my knees together.
"No, not that." He came near the small jail cell and unlocked it. "Figured you could walk around after sitting in there for hours."
"Thanks." I took the chance and stretched like there was no tomorrow. "You do this for every criminal?" I teased.
"Nope, just you. Unlike others, you have a chance to live." He said.
"Hopefully." I sighed. "Still doesn't make sense..."
Two knocks came from the office door and Hensley went to go answer it. After a few words back and forth, Hensley left the room. He switched places with Sebastian, who came inside the small office.
"I'd rather go back in the jail cell." I hissed.
"I know that you think I'm a traitor." He spoke with such a calming tone.
"No shit." I turned to the small cell, trying to go back in. He grabbed my wrists and made me face him.
"Listen to me-"
"No! I won't!" I snapped. "You made a promise with me and broke it! You..." I forced my wrist out of his hands and narrowed my eyes at him. "You killed her...didn't you?"
"I did not."
"Don't lie to me!"
"I am not."
"Oh? Then, who did?"
"I'm not really sure. I know she was going to be killed that day but I don't know who. I sent the police at the mansion but you were just there at the wrong time."
"You sent the police?!"
"Yes. The killer thought it was you, not Valerie."
I scoffed, "Brilliant, Sebastian. What do you expect from a ruthless demon?"
"Listen to me!" He suddenly demanded, making me jump. "I did it for the safety of you. I didn't have to do it but I did!"
I blinked at him, taken back by what he said. "You sacrificed my friend for the sake of my life. That...That's the stupidest thing ever! I would rather die, knowing she could be saved rather than me being alive!" I yelled.
"Too late now."
My anger grew beyond my limit and before my sense came to focus, I shoved him out of rage. "I hate you so much."
"I did it for you!" He repeated.
"Why did you?! As far as I know, it really sounds like you really want me dead!"
"Because I'm still in love with you!"
The silence was thick but yet too deafening for me.
"You did it...because you love me." I whispered, looking at the floor in thought. Daring to look in his cruel, devilish eyes, he had a smug look on his face. "If you did love me, she would still be alive."
"That's all I could do."
"You're a demon for fuck's sake! Of course you could do more!"
"I was under orders not to do anything that involves my demon powers."
"Who?! Who ordered you?!"
"That's enough!"
Both of us turned to Officer Hensley standing in the doorway.
"Time's up." He said, beckoning Sebastian to leave.
I could heard Sebastian grunt lowly and facing me with fierce eyes. I looked away though, trying to make it seem that I didn't care. But I did. He turned to leave the small office.
"Don't even show up at the courthouse!" I gave one last yell before Hensley closed the door behind him.
"Did I come in the right time?" He asked.
I shrugged my shoulders. "More or less." 'Still, who ordered him to murder my friend?'
(Claire's POV)
"You weren't here that night?" I asked the two ladies.
Anna shook her head. "I was out buying new clothes for our Master."
"I was buying food." Lillian said.
"I see..." I tapped the tip of the pen against my mouth in thought. "Do you really believe Aerith is the killer?"
Both of them looked at each other before shaking their heads.
"Why?"
"It...It doesn't seem like it's her character to do such a thing." Anna explained.
Lillian nodded. "I agree. I mean, sure, she was sad that everything was a lie but not mad enough for revenge. I don't see it in her."
"If she isn't, then who is it?" I asked.
"My money is on that damned butler." Lillian clicked her tongue and folded her arms.
"He's been suspicious lately." Anna played with her hands as a distraction.
"Why's that?"
Lillian sighed, "Ever since Aerith left, he's been with the Master for a lot. Then, the night of the murder, Sebastian released us to do errands."
"Released?" I tilted my head in confusion.
"See, our job is not only to serve the Master but to protect the manor as well. Our parents were once like us." Anna explained. "My mother was a gifted sniper and Lillian's father was brilliant in strategy. The other one was Hope. His father was a human experiment and gained super strength but...he's gone. We serve the Phantomhives to protect them."
Lillian said, "Even then, Sebastian seemed on guard that day. He didn't want us to protect at all. I think he planned all this."
"I see. Will you come to court and defend Aerith?" I asked.
"I will." Anna smiled.
"Count me in. Anything to give justice." Lillian winked.
"Alright. I need to speak to Sebastian. Where is he?"
"Wasn't he going to see the Undertaker about Valerie?" Anna asked.
"Funny, after I bickered him for a couple of minutes, he said he was going to see someone he knew in the jail." Lillian put her finger to her chin in thought.
"You don't think..." I bit my lip.
"Aerith." All three of us said.
"Well, time to find him." I sighed, putting my notebook away. "Thank you ladies for your time. I recommend you don't leave the manor in order to take care of Mags and Andrew."
"Of course, My Lady." Anna bowed.
"See you in a few days." Lillian nodded.
"Okay. Time to find the butler." I said.
"You don't have to look very far."
The three of us turned to see the butler, leaning against the wall.
"Sebastian, I need to talk to you." I said, making it sound like an order.
"Let's go outside and talk, Lady Claire." He said, already walking to the front door.
I followed him, waving goodbye to the servants. In the bright sun, he closed the front door and said, "What is it?"
"I need to ask you questions for the case."
"You really want me to help?"
"Not really but it's for Aerith's sake. I'm still furious with you." I snarled.
He gave a heavy sigh, "What are your questions?"
"You sent the police, didn't you?"
"I did."
"Why?"
"I..." He gave another deep breath. "I knew Valerie would be killed so...I thought I could try to stop it. But, Aerith was at the wrong place at the wrong time. I never meant this."
"But you are the one who told her to go to the manor later on that day." I pointed out.
"The plan was supposed to take place later than the usual but it was done early."
"You were ordered to take action in the plan, no?"
"You should know that. I can't deny my master." Sebastian said.
"Right." I nodded. "Will you come to the court?"
"Aerith didn't want me to go."
"Fine. Let me rephrase that question." I folded my arms and gave a serious look to the butler. "Do you want Aerith dead or alive?"
"Do you really think you humans would believe my explanation? They will question the world of our kind."
"Just..." I made fists with my hands but suddenly released them. "I...Sebastian, I don't want to lose more than I need."
Sebastian looked at me, wanting to speak but never did.
"What am I gonna do?" I mumbled, holding my head in somber.
We were both silent, not knowing what to do.
I finally asked, "Will you?"
"If needed." He said simply.
"I never needed your help anyway!" I snapped in angst. "Go then! Be a coward! Be a dog to your master!" I ranted.
He said nothing, watching me be enraged with him.
"I'm gonna prove you wrong." I hissed. "I will set Aerith free and make sure this never happens again." I started to walk away.
"Orders are everything." He whispered but I could still hear him.
"And in everything," I turned around and faced the demon. "There are loopholes."
(Aerith's POV)
"Hey, Mazen." Hensley called out.
"Hm?" I hummed, sitting in the cell.
"You have a visitor."
"Oh? Claire?" I perked up, ready to see my aunt.
"Actually, no. But I think you know him."
"No...it isn't." My heart started to pound violently in my chest.
"No, it's not that butler. But you do know him."
"Alright, get me out of here."
The officer unlocked the cell and let me out, allowing me to stretch my legs. "I'll bring him in and you two can talk in private."
"Thanks."
Hensley nodded and walked to the door, stepping out of the room. And who walked in?
"Michael?" I gasped.
"Hi, Aerith." The Queen's butler gave a small smile to me.
"Wow, it's been a while." I said, sitting in a nearby chair.
"It has. Last time we spoke, we were on a ship to New York."
"Right..." I puffed out a breath.
"What happened?" He asked.
"Well, came back here as soon as we landed in New York." I lied.
"But, I didn't see you the rest of the trip."
"Oh! Uh...my friend that was with me got sick so I had to take care of her." 'That's right, Aerith. Sprinkle the lies with more lies.'
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. Is she okay?"
"Oh, yeah. She's better now." I waved off his apology.
"And...I heard what happened." He gave me a serious look.
I didn't know what to say. I just stared at him with uncertainty and arms tucked in my elbows. "It...It's not what it looks like, Michael."
"I know."
"Really?" My eyes enlarged at his answer.
"Yes. You wouldn't do something like this, would you?"
"No. I loved Valerie with all my heart. She was a very close friend of mine." I shook my head.
"Then, I believe you." He smiled.
"That easily?" I raised an eyebrow.
"Yes. Claire gave me some details."
"Which details?" I asked.
"Only you were with the body when the murder took place and that Sebastian didn't defend you when the police took you away. I believe she said you were screaming your head off at everyone and had to take you down."
"Oh, those details." I looked down. "I was hysterical. My friend died and then my butler lies to me. The anger swelled inside of me and exploded."
"Must have felt good, though." He gave a small chuckle. "Besides, I never did trust that butler."
"You didn't?" I asked. 'Kinda obvious, Aerith...'
"Yes. To be honest, when we were doing the drama school case, I thought Sebastian was the murderer. He looked convincing."
'So...then to others, me with killing Valerie looked convincing. But in the drama school case, we had enough evidence to prove that it was one of the twins doing the killings. Enough evidence for me and I could walk away alive.'
"Aerith?"
I blinked, realizing I had not said anything. "Sorry, was thinking."
"You agree though that Sebastian is a cruel man?"
I made a frown. "I wouldn't say cruel. He's not that revolting, Michael."
"Then what?"
"I don't know."
"Why do you do that?" Michael's face was full of disapproval.
"Do what?"
"He betrayed you twice, Aerith. Do you really need another chance with him? He's going to hurt you again. How much regret will you be able to hold? But no, you crawl back to him." He rolled his eyes.
"Don't go sassy-pants on me." I snapped. "I already made up my mind about him. I told him not to come to the courthouse. I just said that he isn't cruel. Cruel to others, that is."
"You are so difficult, Aerith." He held his head, as if he was having a massive headache.
"You know what? No!" I rose out of my chair and pointed at him. "I won't take that crap! It's right and wrong to trust him, Michael. I know that. I just...I don't know."
"Whatever. I'll see you in court, Aerith."
"You'll be there?"
"Have to. Queen's orders. See you." His voice sounded annoyed as he walked out of the office, leaving me alone.
"I should have never agreed with Claire in the beginning..."
(Several days later)
The week could not have gone slower. Each day was a closer more to my death. Claire visited though, keeping me out of my dark thoughts. Hensley tried to keep me distracted too, making little cheesy jokes here and there. I still appreciated that they were trying.
"Mazen."
I opened my eyes, looking at Officer Hensley from inside the small cell. "Is it that day?"
"I'm afraid so." He gave a gentle smile.
"Right." I nodded, getting up and exiting the jail cell.
"Claire brought one of your dresses early this morning. You have to look professional. She said to meet her at the local courthouse once you're ready."
"Got it."
He handed me the dress and I made my way to the ladies' bathroom. I changed out my clothes and into the dress.
The dress was blue button-up dress, the length of the hem being around my knees. The button matched the fabric and the sleeves were short, near my shoulders. Using a rubber band, I fixed my hair into a braid, letting the twists and curls rest on my left shoulder. I studied myself in the mirror for a minute. I actually looked good...except the dark circles under my eyes and the fatigue shown on my face.
"Good enough." I shrugged, walking back to Hensley. "How do I look?"
"Very nice." He smiled. "Let's get going. We'll be walking there."
"'Kay." I nodded, following the officer out of the police station and out in the fresh air for the first time in days.
"I missed the outside." I commented.
"I would imagine so." Hensley said.
"I can't imagine jail time for years. I probably would go crazy."
"So would I." Officer Hensley chuckled.
"So, where is the courthouse?" I asked.
"Just down the block there. You see it?" He pointed to a tan building on the corner of the street.
"Uh-huh." I nodded.
"You nervous?"
"Very."
"I hope everything goes smoothly."
"Me too."
We continued to walk in silence, enjoying the limited freedom for a few more steps. Once in front of the building, Hensley said, "Good luck, Mazen. I wish the best for you."
"Thank you. And...thank you for everything. I couldn't be more grateful."
He laughed quietly, "See you."
"See you." I smiled, walking inside the building. The inside was small, only a few chairs and another door were there. I opened the next door and revealed the hidden room. To my left and right, aisles of seats were all set. More upfront was two tables, one opposing the other. In the center but at the back of the room was the Judge's podium. On the right side next to the podium was the jury section. The room was empty except for one person.
"Claire?" I called.
"Over here, sweetie." She waved, standing near the left table. I dashed over to her and gave a bear hug to Claire.
"We're gonna prove them wrong." Claire's hug was tight but I know this was her showing her love.
"We will." I nodded.
She let me go and grabbed some papers. "Okay, let's go over some things before everyone else arrives. The other side will ask you questions but answer them honestly, no matter what, alright?"
"Okay."
"Good. Okay...let's go over this..."
(A few hours later)
"All rise." Michael announced, everyone standing up immediately. "Our Judge, Queen Mary is now in order."
My eyes widened at his statement and whispered to Claire, "Queen Mary?!"
"Don't panic." She soothed me. "Just relax."
The Queen entered gracefully, sitting down on the chair. "Sit." Everyone sat down. "Okay, with the case Aerith Mazen vs The Voice of Valerie Brazen is now in order. Your opening statement."
A man from the other table stood up, smoothing his suit before speaking. "Your Majesty, the Jury, people of England, this young lady is a crime to England! Not only did she fake her riches but is capable of murdering one of her loved ones. Call it jealously, call it insanity. We know what she is now." He looked at me with his dark brown eyes. "She is a monster! An insult to higher class all the way to the poor! Incapable of being a well-behaved woman that she should be! But now, she has disgusted our eyes." He sat down at his table.
I looked at him, trying to make no emotion appear on my face. However, his face was full of mockery and smirked at me. Next to him was Andrew, giving me an evil smile. I wanted to vomit at their judgmental looks.
"Thank you, Mr. Nesal." The Queen said. "Next, Ms. Claire Halleus."
"Mazen." Claire corrected. She stood up, showing no fear and walked to the center. She cleared her throat before speaking. "Your Majesty, people of the court, Voice of Valerie Brazen, you have misunderstood Aerith Mazen. Understand that she is a young woman of this country. You see, changes can upset or benefit your life. The change in the will of Mr. Ciel Phantomhive was unexpected. She did not fake it. The will stated Valerie Brazen was the heir. Mistake. However, on the night of the murder, she was there at the wrong time. You see, if Valerie was fated to die that night but not by the hands of Aerith Mazen, what does that make?" Claire made her way back to her chair.
"Thank you, Ms. Mazen." Queen Mary said. She looked at Mr. Nesal, "Bring your first witness."
"I call the defendant, Aerith Mazen, to the stand." He smirked at me again.
Trying not to show any fear, I got up and walked to a small stand. Michael came over to me and held out the Bible. "Place your hand on the Bible." His tone sounded bored. Lightly putting my hand down, he said, "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?" I answered with an "I do." and continued to go to the stand. Sitting down, Mr. Nesal approached me with caution. "You won't kill me, will you?"
I wanted to say something sarcastic but bit my tongue. First thing Claire told me was never to snap at the person who was asking. Once you say something, you can't take it back. "No, I won't." I answered.
"Tell me, Aerith, how old are you?"
"16."
"I believe your lawyer is your aunt, no?"
"She is."
"Where are your parents? They must be afraid to approach you now."
I looked at him with angst boiling inside of me. "They're dead."
"How?"
"Murdered when I was two years old."
"You saw it?"
"All of it."
"Aha!" He pointed at me, making me jump. "You see? She learned about the real world when very young. She saw the murder of her parents. Don't the young take after their parents? She knew how to kill since she was a child!"
'Aerith, if you want to say something...don't. It's better to keep your mouth closed and only open to answer a question.' Claire's words were circling in my mind but meant nothing at the moment.
"I didn't know how to kill when I was a child." I said.
Mr. Nesal eyed me evilly, "Oh? Why do you say that?"
"I never said I knew how to kill when I was a child. I just saw the murder of my parents. I would be traumatized really." I pointed out.
Half the jury started to whisper in suspicious and Mr. Nesal gave me an I-will-kill-you face. I looked at Claire. She just gave a small smile but I could tell she was disappointed that I didn't do what she told me.
"Cross-examination?" Claire asked.
"Go ahead." The Queen nodded.
Claire immediately got up and walked to where I was. "Alright, Aerith. On the day of the murder, what did you do before going to the manor?"
"Well, I went to walk my friend Maggie back to the mansion because she lives there with Valerie...used to." I sighed. "Anyway, I..." 'Should I mention Sebastian?'
"And?" Claire asked.
"I was talking to the butler and he said to come back later to the manor because he wanted to discuss something with me. I agreed and went back home. In the evening, I started walking to the mansion again and heard this loud scream. I ran inside the building and saw her body on the floor. That was that."
"What did you do when you saw the body?"
"What any other person would do. Scream for help and sob for the dead." I heard quiet chuckles from the jury.
"Was anyone else in the manor?"
"Not that I'm aware of."
"I see. And the butler told you to come back to the manor and then the murder happened?"
"Yes."
Claire gave a confident shrug. "Misunderstanding. No further questions."
I followed Claire back to our table and she gave a sigh.
"Are you trying to make it look like it was Sebastian's fault?" I whispered.
"That's the only choice we have. Besides, he has a lifetime." Claire whispered back.
"Fine."
"Next witness." The Queen ordered.
"I call Mr. Lau to the stand." Mr. Nesal stated.
A man (looking Chinese) in a blue Chinese style shirt and white pants rose from the stands. Michael came again, repeated his question and the witness said yes. He walked to the stand and sat down. I didn't know if either his eyes were closed or he could actually see. His hands linked together, the sleeves covering his arms.
"How do you know the Phantomhives?" Mr. Nesal asked.
"Well, I knew the heir before the present heir. Mr. Ciel Phantomhive. We worked together and I was happy to know him until he died."
"What do you know about the long line of the Phantomhives?"
"Well, Ciel's parents died in a fire. We all remember, don't we? I knew that little boy wanted some sort of punishment to those who killed them. He wanted no one to stand in his way. He even tried to kill me. You remember, Ran-Mao?" He pointed to a pretty lady in the seats with brown hair and yellow cat-like eyes. She gave a silent nod before Lau continued.
"So, were you to say that genetics pass and a certain someone wants to kill too?" Mr. Nesal smirked.
"Oh, yes. She will be remembered as a killer. Although she kills, she tries so hard to fight for what is right. And everyday, she dies a little inside in fear of herself."
"Very deep, Mr. Lau." Mr. Nesal whispered.
"Oh, thank you! I found that out of a fortune cookie! It's better than having the fortune 'You are what you eat.' I was so insulted that day!"
"What?!" Mr. Nesal exclaimed. "Do you even know who we are talking about here?"
"Nope." Lau smiled like an idiot.
Mr. Nesal slammed his hand into his forehead. "Why did I pick you?"
"Beats me." Lau shrugged his shoulders. "Even Ciel's aunt doubted me and looked what happened to her. She died."
That caught Mr. Nesal's attention. "How did she die?"
"Well, first, she was trying to kill Ciel. I don't know. Maybe she wanted the throne or something. For some reason, she stopped and she got killed herself."
"Who killed her?"
"My only guess is Ciel. After all, rumor has it that Jack the Ripper wasn't a man. It was Ciel's aunt."
"Long-line of killers, eh?" The man smirked. "No more questions."
"Cross-examination?" The Queen asked.
"No, ma'am." Claire shook her head.
"Witness may step down." The Queen ordered and Lau went back to his seat. "Any other witnesses?"
"No, ma'am." Mr. Nesal sulked and sat back down at his table.
"Right. Ms. Mazen, any witnesses?" Queen Mary turned to Claire.
"Yes. I call Lillian Abel and Anna Miller to the stand." Claire said.
Lillian and Anna walked to Michael, did the hands on the Bible and sat down together at the stand. Claire's heels clicked in silence as she made her way to the servants and smiled at them. "Hello, ladies."
Anna gave a quiet nod and Lillian waved hello.
"How are you linked to the Phantomhives?" Claire asked.
"We're servants to the Phantomhives." Anna answered. "Not to mention, our parents used to work with the Phantomhives."
"Where were on the night of the murder?"
"Out on errands." Lillian said.
"Shouldn't servants be cleaning the mansion or keeping guard of intruders?"
"We would have but..." Anna trailed off.
"But?" Claire repeated.
"The head butler, Sebastian told us to go do them. He kept nudging us to leave in such a hurry." Lillian folded her arms in. "We didn't want to but he made us."
"And he didn't want us to return until later in the night. By later, I mean like at one or two in the morning." Anna added.
"Why do you think that is?"
"Well, he and Valerie were the only ones in the building...OH!" Lillian's small lightbulb went off. "Sebastian could have killed her, no? I mean, he did sent the police but that I guess he put Aerith there so he didn't seem like he was the suspect!"
Claire gave a smirk and faced the jury. "And did not Aerith state that the butler told her to come back to the manor at a later time? At night?"
The jury started to whisper, almost like gossiping little girls.
"Order." Queen Mary said. "Now then, Mr. Nesal, cross-examination?"
"No, ma'am."
"Witnesses may step down." Anna and Lillian left to go back to their seats. "Other witnesses?"
"No. That's all I need."
"Alright. Closing statement, Mr. Nesal."
Mr. Nesal rose up and walked to the center, speaking proudly and beamed with confidence. "This defendant is the one. She comes from a long-line of killers. I bet even her servants are killers! If she is set free, fear will only rise in this land. You don't want your loved ones dead, do you? She must be put to rest! Rest her now and you don't need fear be always next to you." He sat back down.
Claire got up and cleared her throat. "My client, Aerith Mazen is not the one you seek. She is a brilliant woman and knows better than that. I should know, I raised her. Think carefully about your answer. Haven't you ever feel cheated in life? That someone gets all the glory and you're nothing? This is how the defendant feels. Not to mention, even her closest allies betrayed her. That butler told her to come back later and she ends up being blamed for this. Where do you stand?" She sat down.
"Alright. Jury may step out and think about it. The rest must wait." The Queen rose and left her place, the jury getting up and going to a meeting room.
"How do you think we did?" I asked.
"Hopefully, good. He's all about killing and I'm logical. I do hope they use their common sense."
"Me too."
(A few hours later)
"All rise!" The Queen ordered. Everyone jumped up immediately while Queen Mary and the jury took their seats. My heart thumped with every second and my hands started to feel clammy.
"Jury, do you have your answer?" Queen Mary asked.
"Yes, Your Honor. We find the defendant, Aerith Mazen-"
"Wait!"
All heads turned to the back of the courtroom. A man dressed in black stood at the entrance, looking calm.
'Oh no...I told him!' I thought.
"You are?" The Queen asked.
"Sebastian Michaelis, butler to the Phantomhives." He answered.
"I see. What brings you here to interrupt this court session?"
"I come as witness for the defendant, Aerith Mazen."
"It's a bit too late for that, Sir." Michael said, looking at him with harsh eyes.
"Too late rather than never." Sebastian answered him, giving him cool eyes.
"Hmmm...this should be interesting. I'll allow it. Mazen, you have surprising things up your sleeve." The Queen gave a smirk.
'Don't I know it...' I thought.
Sebastian walked to the stand as Michael took out his Bible. "You swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?"
"I do." He said.
"Sit." Michael gritted his teeth and walked away.
Sebastian sat down as the Queen asked, "Who will question him?"
"Not me." Mr. Nesal said.
"I will." Claire volunteered, getting up and going to Sebastian. "So, Sebastian...what is it that you have to say?"
"Aerith Mazen is not the killer."
"How do you know that?" Claire sighed, folding her arms.
"I was there when the murder happened."
The room filled with gasps, the echoes bouncing off the walls and ringing in round ears.
"What happened?" Claire asked.
"I asked Anna and Lillian to do some errands for me. While cleaning, I heard a thud to the floor and ran upstairs to the master bedroom. Valerie had been sniped."
"But there was no broken glass at the scene." Claire pointed out.
"The window was open." Sebastian answered. "She was still breathing, just covered in blood and on the floor. I immediately ran to the police station for help. When we got back, I saw Aerith hurrying inside. She had no weapons on her whatsoever. But the time we reached upstairs, Valerie had been stabbed with a knife and Aerith kneeling next to her, crying."
"Why did you run to the station? You could have called."
"The phone line was dead."
"I see." Claire said. "You are positive it was not Aerith?"
"Yes." He nodded. "Also," He reached for his jacket pocket and took out a document. "As for the Phantomhives, it clearly states that Aerith is the true heir."
Claire snatched the paper and skimmed through the paper. "It does."
"Let me see it." The Queen spoke.
Claire handed the paper to the Queen and she read the entire paper in silence. "You're right. Why did it say Valerie Brazen in the first place?"
"That, I do not know." Sebastian said. "However, Aerith is innocent for both crimes. Both are misunderstandings."
Queen Mary faced the Jury. "Take a few minutes to decide."
The crowd of judgers walked back to the meeting room, leaving everyone in silence.
Sebastian traveled to a nearby chair next to Lillian and sat down. Claire walked back to the table and sighed. She looked at me and whispered, "I thought he wasn't coming."
"Me too." I answered.
Claire shrugged her shoulders and sat down next to me.
Those next few minutes took at least an hour. Everyone in their seats was talking (except for Sebastian). Mr. Nesal and Andrew had fallen asleep. Claire and I were playing Tic-Tac-Toe. On the fifth round (Claire was the winner), the Jury walked back in and took their seats.
"All rise." Michael ordered.
On command, we rose quickly. Silence filled the air and I was sure everyone could hear my heart thrashing and filling my chest with nervousness.
"Your final answer?" Queen Mary asked.
"Yes, Your Honor." The same man rose and held up a paper. "We find the defendant, Aerith Mazen..."
I made a plead in my head. 'Please.'
"Not guilty." He smiled. "She is to be set free and have the mansion and Funtom company back in her possession."
I tackled Claire with a big hug. Feeling her tears of joy fall my shoulder; I started to feel the waterworks coming up as well. Blinking them back, I let go of her and faced our opponent. Mr. Nesal looked defeated and Andrew's mouth was left open.
I gave a proud smirk to them and noticed Sebastian walking out of the courthouse. Turning to Claire, I asked, "Hey, can I..." I pointed my thumb to Sebastian.
"Go ahead. Once you're done, come back here so we can clean up." Claire nodded.
"Thanks." I ran out the exit, avoiding the people wanting to leave. The butler was almost out of my reach until I called out his name. He stopped, turned and walked over to me. As the crowd of people left the building, I spoke, "Why did you do that?"
"Do what?" He asked coolly. His bright ruby eyes seemed dull and bored.
"You defended me. Even when I told you not to."
"You aren't the one who tells me what to do. But now since you have the mansion back, I ask for an apology."
"Forgiven." I pushed his apology aside. "Was it true? Everything you said back there. The sniping, the phone line being dead..."
"Yes. I never tell lies."
"Right." I sighed. "But..."
"But? You're alive, aren't you? I think you should thank Claire."
"That's not it. You're a demon, Sebastian. You could have easily defended Valerie, you realize that?"
"I told you. I was under orders not to be involved. I had a change of heart and sent the police but you were there. I was never under orders to help with your case."
"Who?!" I exclaimed. "Who ordered you?"
"I can't say that either."
"Sebastian..." I gritted my teeth. "You're really pissing me off."
He suddenly snatched my shoulders with his big hands and slammed me into the wall. "You don't think you don't piss me off as well? It's hard to have control around the one you love especially when you're mad."
"Sebastian." I tried to push him away but he refused to budge.
He placed his lips on mine roughly. I turned my head to avoid being kissed. "Sebastian! I don't want more of this crap! Either we're done or you love me! You admit that you killed Valerie or try to make lies and make me happy!" I yelled.
He let go of me and scoffed, "Still think I'm lying? Shows how much you trust me. Do you trust me?"
I swallowed and lowered my head. "My trust with you has broken twice. What makes you think I will try again?"
He stayed silent for a few moments before walking away. "See you in a few days."
'Why does it have to be like this?'
(Claire's POV)
"Maybe pot pie for lunch..." I murmured as I put away documents into my briefcase.
"You are an excellent lawyer, Claire Mazen."
I looked at Her Majesty approaching me and having a soft smile on her face. "Oh! T-Thank you, Your Majesty." I bowed.
"I just have a question for you. Do you like it when things turn out perfectly?"
"For better or for worse?"
"Well, I thought that stunt that butler did was part of your plan."
"Oh!" I waved my hands and shook my head. "I never meant that. I didn't even know he would be coming."
"Well, you should thank him."
"I need to."
"But do you know your reason why you're thanking him?"
"I need a reason?"
She nodded, "Do you know the result of Aerith if he didn't show up?"
"She would of..."
"Ah, you know. You were comforting her, I saw. So, I thought when the butler appeared, it was to give a second chance."
"I never meant it. I promise."
"I know. But still, thank him. And thank him for me too. I have my Guard Dog back."
"That's your reason." I nodded.
"And your reason?" She asked.
I looked to the floor and answered, "For saving Aerith. He didn't...then...she..."
"The first round...the jury did declare her guilty for lack of evidence. Another witness and she would be free. And it happened. If not for that faithful butler...she would be dead as we speak."
A/N: So Sebastian saved Aerith...
A: ...
Real smooth!
A: Shut up! .-.
Okay, so question time! Who do you think is right? Sebastian for saving Aerith but the cost of losing her friend? Or Aerith because she's choosing not to trust him anymore? Let me know in a review or a PM! Thanks guys for your patience :) Since testing is over, I can work more on updating faster. Now...TIME TO FIND FOOOOOD! ^-^ See you guys real soon :p