A/N: It's Precious-thingimagig's birthday! *woot woot*
Also Carpe Diem has been going for four months now. Blimey, I wonder where we'll get to in about a years time? Will it be still going? Will it be long since finished? Would it have been abandoned? Kicked aside like rubbish and never to be seen again? Who knows...no. Wait. The last parts won't happen. Ignore that.
Halley Vanaria: I have failed to deliver ._. Feel free to hit me. Don't worry, I've planned a lot of moments for them for the next load of chapters XD will that make up for it? *sparkly eyes*
Slashingfruit: Bad filler chap is bad. PAHAHAH I know I'm sorry but it gets better after this; scouts honor. Oh wait...
~X~ It's currently 11:00 pm, I'm submitting this without a proofread because I'm tired and I owe you guys an update. I will proofread in the morning though so any mistakes you see please overlook them XD ~X~
The loud roar of animals, the excited jeers of the crowds...
The atmosphere was breathtaking to say the least, I felt almost giddy. The beautiful greenhouse of the crystal palace was a sight on the way here, the outer glass structure shining in the cold morning sun made it look like some natural ice formation. I practically bounced around the carriage in excitement, receiving strange looks from everyone. Soma the most since, apparently, he found me the most oddest one out of everyone in the manor. Of course, he doesn't know about my past so I openly excepted his opinions of me.
Inside, the building was decorated with Indian themed ornaments to go with the curry contest. Traditional clothing, products and other types of food were here to promote the connection between the two countries, while people from both homelands conversed with one another. It was a splendid sight...but not what got me.
"Wow! What on earth is that!?"
Big, looming grey animals plodded around inside an enclosed den, ears flapping occasionally and a long, chunky appendage attached to their faces flicking around and making strange noises. The things were huge, and one had it's handler near by, fed it pieces of fruit while talking to a gathering crowd.
"Those are Elephants, it's a sacred animal in my homeland." Soma said from behind me, leaning against the fence that kept us and the giant animal apart.
"An 'el-e-phant'?"
"It's huge!" I heard Finny cheer from my other side, practically gleaming as much as I was.
"Yes they are quite big," Soma chuckled softly, "I have many in my palace."
"You keep them in your palace!?" I gawked over at the animal, watching as very upper class ladies petted one gently, the animal nudging at their touches more. Unconsciously, I felt myself moving closer to where the women were standing, the size of the elephant becoming more apparent when I stood in front of the giant. I felt so small and weak compared to it, this thing could easily trample every single one of us if it wanted to. The elephant turned it's head to me slightly and extended out the long thing attached to it's face, blowing out a burst it hot air and making a rather high pitched noise.
"Oh I get it! That's it's nose! Wow!"
"It's called the 'trunk'" the man who was controlling the animal spoke up from beside me, accent slightly more thicker and rougher than Soma's.
"That's so odd..." I breathed out, watching as it's truck extended out again, and began very slightly touching my arm. Still, as amazed as I was, that didn't stop me jolting back out of the elephants touch. The animal keeper chuckled slightly then began petting the side of the large animals tenderly.
"Don't worry, she is very well trained and doesn't hurt anyone. It's ok if you pet her; she enjoys it a lot!"
Hesitantly, I reached forward and brushed the top of her trunk, the bumpy and leather skin feeling very alien to me. As he said, she enjoyed it. The elephant grunted in surprise, trunk swaying happily. I grew more confidence, smiling up at the beast.
From behind, I saw another one walking around, two white pointed cone-things protruding from it's face as well.
"What are those, sir?" I asked, pointing over to the other elephant "those sharp looking things?"
"Those are their tusks. Very sharp indeed. Think of them as weapons; used against predators and other elephants if they're fighting for dominance-"
He carried on, giving me a lecture on them. I just stood there with a very noticeable blank expression, most of the information was lost on me. His talking was cut off by a loud shout from behind me.
"Amy! Stop messing around and get back here at once!"
Woops. Thy master calls me.
I excused myself and headed back over to the group, who seemed to be waiting for me.
"Heh sorry...hey, where's Sebastian?" I asked, when I noticed the demon was no where in sight.
"He's gone to prepare for the contest." Bard piped up, chewing on the end of his cigarette with a grin. Glancing back through the crowd, I saw the stage set up that was going to hold the contest. Several large stoves sat on a very huge space of the stage, with everything needed there to cook. They looked like mini kitchens minus the actual ingredients, no doubt that's what they were gathering up right now.
"The contest will start in about fifteen minutes, we better get a good spot at the front."
Nodding, we followed Ciel as he forced his way through the crowds towards the stage. Lau was attempting conversation with Ciel, while between us servants, we chatted about how we thought Sebastian would do today. Needless to say, we were all fairly sure he had a good chance at winning. Still, Agni could do even better than a demon and steal the title- eh sorry, 'royal warrant' for that west guy. Our conversation was interrupted however by Bard stating something we so obviously had missed.
"Oi! Where did Prince Soma run off to?"
Surely enough, said prince was gone. We scanned around the crowds, finding no signs of the prince. You would have thought that shocking plum hair was easy to spot but it actually wasn't.
"Huh...? He was here a second ago..."
"Should we go look for him?" Finny asked, standing on his tip toes and looking around the crowd. Ciel shrugged from the front of us
"It would be best before he starts causing trouble."
I couldn't imagine Soma would cause trouble...but then again, for all we know he could have ran off to confront Agni. And that would not end well. Either way, after a debate between ourselves, both Finny and I were chosen to look for him by ourselves. Not that I minded at all, waiting for the contest to start was starting to get boring, besides I could take in the features of the place.
Squeezing through the crowd, I wandered away from the stage, past some of the make shift stalls and other exotic animals. More people seemed to be appearing for the event, seemingly loitering around in random places and conversing with each other. Tch, rich-people talk.
"Go back with you? Don't make me laugh!"
Huh?
"Why would I want to go back there!? I went through all that trouble to escape!"
Oh. Sounds like an argument. I shouldn't eavesdrop but...it sounds juicy!
Upon reaching where the argument was taking place, my eyes widened when I was confronted with none other than Prince Soma and a mysterious woman standing together, a heated exchange of words from her side. Soma, on the other hand, stood there silently, looking shocked and heartbroken...
"Meena..."
Ah...ah! So this was Meena! Oh man...seems like the happy reunion was not going down well. She glared at the prince with a look full of disgust and hatred. I felt my bottom jaw clench as she continued on with her hateful rant, Soma standing idly by and taking in every insult she threw at him.
"A lowly servant or a rich man's wife? Even a child knows which one is better!-"
I'd had enough. I couldn't listen to it anymore. Stalking over, I brushed past the prince and confront this Meena, the latter raising an eyebrow at me in annoyance as I cut her off.
"You've just lost something great."
"Excuse me?! Who-"
"Shut up and listen. I've only know Prince Soma for a short time, but I can tell you for sure he's not a selfish brat. He cares so much for you and Agni and came all this way to find because he was worried about you!"
Right now I was probably making a scene but I'll be damned if I cared.
"As far as I can see, it wasn't worth the long journey. You're nothing but a useless servant in many respects!"
I'm not here to insult...but damn, this woman got me angry!
I couldn't continue my rant any longer, not when a gentle hand was placed on my shoulder and squeezed tightly.
"Amy...please, that's enough. It's alright..."
Soma half whispered, turning his attention back to the woman.
"I'm sorry..."
She gave a small 'tch' in both our directions and turned on her heel, taking snobbish steps away from us and back into the crowd. I let out an annoyed sigh, turning to Soma who seemed to be looking down at his feet thoughtfully.
"I'm sorry Prince Soma, I didn't mean to-"
"No...it is fine. At least now...I know the truth." He interrupted, words coming out in barely a mumble , before looking up at the growing crowd near the stage. A loud call of 'five minutes!' rang fourth from the announcer, indicating that the contest was now closer to starting. Glancing at the prince, I tried to force him a smile.
"Well...why don't we head back over now? I'm sure Agni can use your support!"
"..." He didn't answer initially, merely looked off to the side in contemplation before shaking his head, "no...I need some time to clear my head..."
With that, he brushed past me and went off into the opposite direction of the stage. I watched his retreating figure for a few moments more before my attention turned back to the stage, the judges getting into place at their table. I better head back now...
I only managed to take a few steps when a I spotted a person heading in my direction, head held down and hat practically covering their vision. Though...I took no notice of her. I gathered that from her rather dull looking dress, she wasn't a noble and probably had no means to be here. As we walked past one another...
BAM
We collided. Hard. I stumbled back on my feet, while the woman fell back on her rear end with a thud and a yelp of surprise. People around me suddenly stopped and stared in disapproval, even shaking their heads and murmuring to each other, some even clicked their tongues at us both with irritation. Biting my lip under their harsh stares, I knelt down and offered my hand to the woman with a smile.
"I'm really really sorry about that! Here, let me help you up!"
Reaching up, she extended a very pale, shaky hand and grabbed onto mine with a soft grip.
"O-oh no...it was my fault. You are really strong..."
What a weak delicate voice...wait...do I know that voice?
Either way, I hurled her up to her feet hastily while the rich people around us went back about their business. I relaxed a little and let out a sigh of relief, but the woman in front of me wobbled on her feet slightly then crashed into me once again, practically leaning against me for support this time. She wore quite a strong perfume, it assaulted my senses quite heavily-
Wait a second...that smell...I recognise that too!
Letting go of me, she dusted herself off and kept her head low, bowing very slightly.
"T-Thank you..."
"Uhm...you're welcome. You're not hurt are you?"
She paused for a second, lifting her head very slightly and looked off to the side, as if looking at something. I tried to follow her gaze but saw nothing of particular interest except a small stall off to the side, oddly with no one manning it.
"No...no I'm...fine." She whispered after a while, snapping her gaze back towards me then shaking her head slightly, "I-I have to go now. Please enjoy the contest."
"Uh..." Was all I could muster, watching as she stepped past me to leave. She was an odd woman...she acted like someone...was watching her? Why did something about her seem so...familiar anyway?
"You look well...my sweet Amy"
...eh..?
W-what!?
No... It couldn't have been...!
My eyes widened in shock and I turned around as fast as I could to confront her but by then, she had already took off running towards the exit.
"No...no, wait! Wait!"
Instantly I gave chase too, trying to keep up with her. But, trying to navigate the the sudden swell of people was difficult, each one making their way to the stage. I pushed and shoved past people, earning snares of comments and shouts of protest, but right now I had my mind focused on one thing.
Her figure was retreating into the crowd, I could barely make her out anymore. Damn it she was getting away!
"Ah...sorry, excuse me! Wait! WAIT!"
'Not now...please don't go!'
Pushing my way through at last, I saw her disappear out the doors to the palace and I quickly followed after her, pumping my legs faster in an attempt not to lose her from my sights. It was all for naught however, not when she had completely disappeared out in the open. Panting heavily, I looked around outside frantically for any trace of her but found nothing, merely people loitering around outside that weren't interested in the contest. The cold air nipped at my lungs as I took long, ragged breaths, bent over slightly in exhaustion.
She had disappeared for good yet again.
'No...no how did she-!?'
"D-Damn...argh! Where are you...!"
God...why? Why was she here? Why did she run away from me!? I had so many questions...why did this have to happen now? God...
I gave a small cough, clearing my throat and sighing heavily before tugging on the collar of my coat, the strong scent of the perfume clinging onto the fabric as a reminder if what just happened. There was no mistaking it...it was her...
"Mom...why did you run from me?"
The stage was set. The contestants ready and the ingredients prepared. The judges sat in their places and the crowd cheered in excitement.
"Welcome ladies and gentleman and thank you all for waiting! Welcome to the curry festival and the best curry london can offer!"
The crowd cheered at the announcer, and the judges stepped forward. The Viscount Druitt took centre stage, blowing kisses and waving at everyone. Show off. As the announcer began introducing the judges to the roaring crowd, I watched the expressions of Sebastian and Agni closely. Sebastian had the same calm, blank expression/frown as usual while Agni was biting his lip nervously, staring at Soma with pleading eyes from behind me. I heard the soft patter of feet and when I glanced over my shoulder at him, he was gone again.
Agni noted this, and looked more deflated at the fact his prince walked away from him. It was a pretty sad sight to say the least.
"And now let the cooking begin-" The announcer was suddenly cut off by the start of music playing. It was loud, echoing around the building gracefully. People in the crowd all stopped and looked around in confusion, muttering to themselves on what was going on. From the entrance, a long red carpet rolled across the floor, and all eyes turned to the two figures standing at the end of it.
"H-Her Majesty!"
Someone called out from the crowd in shock, which sent everyone else into a frenzy.
What.
This...this was the queen? The Queen of England!?
Oh damn...
As she walked up slowly along the carpet, holding onto the hand of a tall man standing beside, people began whispering to themselves about her. Standing on my tip toes, I peered over a man's shoulder and watched as the Queen took slow steps, letting me have chance to take in her appearance.
She was a very small lady, head masked by a thick black vale attached to a black hat. In fact, she wore all black. No doubt still mourning the loss of her husband. My attention turned to the gentleman beside her, most likely her butler. Looking at him and that cool smile he wore as he walked, I got the same, strange feeling I get from Sebastian with him also. It was strange. He was like the complete polar opposite of the demon; covered in white from head to toe and almost serene looking.
Funny...He almost looked angelic when compared to him.
From the stage, I heard singing. Looking up, I saw it was the Viscount with a gleaming smile on his face. Pretty soon, everyone started singing along too and the whole crowd erupted in a chorus of song. I almost felt out of place here, since I didn't know the words to the song at all. I wasn't the only one though, Bard stood there silently while scratching his ear, and I could see Sebastian and Agni remain silent from the stage also.
Pretty soon, the Queen reached her chair upon the stage and sat down, before her butler bowed at her side and leaned in closer to her. After a few seconds, he stood back up and approached the front of the stage.
"Her majesty bids me tell you; I am so sorry I have been unable to appear before you. However, I am now in such perfect health that I may even now enjoy curry again. My late husband was fond of curry, so I hope to enjoy your food."
The crowd cheered louder than before, the white-clad butler returned back to the Queen's side. The announcer then said something that I didn't quite understand, and pretty soon all contestants went to their stoves and began preparing their curry dishes. Ok back to business, now the real battle has begun.
Oddly enough, the two butlers chose to cook directly next to each other, but I guess that's what they wanted. As Sebastian removed his coat and pulled up his sleeves in preparation, Agni caught my attention when he removed the bandage on his hand and began hastily picking up spices and throwing them into the hot pan. I blinked and watches as his movements became almost blurred, he moved so fast and confidently it was no wonder we had to go through that perfect-curry making yesterday.
"Look at that man's hand! It's like it has a mind of it's own!"
You've got that right. It kinda makes sense now why West needed Agni to win. Though attention quickly went back to Sebastian, who picked up spices at a similar speed as the foreign butler. Pretty much, their movements matched almost to the core, and that had the crowd gasping in awe of the two.
"Ooh! This is so exciting!" I heard Mey Rin giggle from beside me, hands clamped together anxiously. I nodded in agreement, only to be caught off guard by the sudden cry of 'Hey, what's he doing now?'
Of course, looking up, Sebastian began plopping chunks of chocolate into the curry, making the crowd start turning their noses up in disgust at him. Sebastian didn't seem bothered by the reaction of the crowd, he carried on cooking with a small smile of his face and confident movements. Agni stopped and stared at the demon when he did put the chocolate in, evidently looking surprised, impressed and worried all the same time. He muttered something from where he stood, but alas it was unheard from this distance.
Pretty soon, the strong smell of various curries began sweeping over us, it was very lovely indeed. Agni produced his trump card; a bright blue lobster to add to the curry, which got everyone excited. Particularly the Viscount Druitt, he looked like he wanted to romance the dead creature.
It wasn't long before the announcer called time on the cooking and halted everyone immediately. Now, it was the nail biting moment. Sebastian or Agni; who will win? As much as I had a lot of confidence in the demon butler, I still had a lingering doubt about the food. Agni could easily win, actually very easily. And as much as I liked him, we can't let him win.
One by one the chefs from the various restaurants presented their curries to the judges, each one getting knocked down by their lack of flavour and general poor quality. One of the judges asked- no, rather stated that curry powder was used which pretty much had the three normal contestants hanging their heads in shame. One out of the three though did get a little praise, not enough to make him a winner though. It was fairly boring watching those three fail, the real action was between Sebastian and Agni. West's company was up before ours, so Agni had a chance to wow the crowd over before us. It worked wonders, especially when he produced a wonderful array of curries in small pots surrounding the lovely blue lobster in the middle of the plate.
All judges were won over by it, and the Viscount went into some strange, love filled monologue about the lobster again. Something about it reminding him of a woman he met. I don't know, I groaned so loudly it blocked him out.
"This isn't good..." I muttered to no one in particular, keeping on eye on Agni as he retreated back off to the side. He glanced about out over the crowd again, then turned his head away. Come to think of it, Soma hasn't been back yet for a while...
Next up was the Funtom Company, Sebastian stepped forward with his curry hidden under a steal food cover.
"I hope you enjoy what I have to offer." He spoke softly, a confident smile on his face. It was an anxious wait as he pulled off the lid and revealed to us all his creation.
Three big balls of dough.
...
An almost painful silence drifted across the crowd and judges as people tried to process what exactly they were looking at. Us servants each exchanged a look with one another, not sure what to say right now, before I instinctively reached up and covered my face with my hand. What on earth did he just do...? Mould his curry into bread? I hope there is a reason behind this stunt...
"T-That's curry!? No! Just what are you playing at sir!?" One of the judges gasped in rage, pointing an accusing finger at our demon butler.
Again, Sebastian seemed unfazed by the reaction of the crowd or the judges and picked up the balls of dough with some metal tongs...
Then dropped them in a batch of sizzling oil that he'd somehow prepared.
This shocked everyone more, some to the point of disgust.
"What are you doing Sebastian!? We're not making bloody doughnuts here!" Yelled Bard, but it was unclear whether his words even reached over to the stage. I started to get a little more curious at what he was doing, especially when he took the dough balls out after a while, crisp and golden, and handed it to them to eat.
"They're all ready now. This is Funtom Company curry."
The judges looked unsure, one fat looking man prodded the crispy creation with the tip of his knife as if it was going to move at any second.
"Odd. I don't see any curry..."
Suddenly, the Viscount gasped, "Hold on a moment...look at it!"
He stuck his knife into the bread, a silenced hushed over the crowd as everyone watched with interest. Then, the Viscount burst into a surprised smile.
"Curry on the inside!"
"What!?" I heard someone yell- no, more like screech from the front of the crowd but alas I couldn't tell who is was.
Sebastian nodded and kept that cocky smile as he spoke once more, "The Funtom Company presents our special brand of curry. Behold; The Curry Bun!"
Curry Bun...? He could have been more creative with the name. Still, it won the crowd over instantly. With this, the judges began happily tucking in.
"Dear me! This is wonderful!" The first one gasped before he trailed off in detail on how the texture was and flavour ect ect. The second one did the same, complimenting the curry bun on how the fact it sealed in the flavour. The Viscount, well...he went into yet another love-filled monologue about the taste reminding him of a girl he met at a ball. I'm pretty sure he said the word 'robin', could he mean Ciel?
"Yet another rave review! Everyone, I think we really do have a contest here!" The announcer said once the judges had finished their verdict of the buns, "The judges will now need a bit of time for deliberation. In the mean time, the guests can enjoy any curry they like!"
After that, the crowd dispersed and everyone went over to the tables that had each curry displayed on. Instantly, us servants went over to the curry buns.
As I bit into it, the familiar flavour burst from within along with its crispy prison.
"Wow! These are so good!" I cheered, chomping on it more.
"I know! Sebastian is so amazing! I can't believe he managed to make something like this!" Finny replied back, cradling two in his hands. Bard was too busy stuffing many into his face while Tanaka happily munched on his silently. Glancing around, I saw many of the other people either with Agni's curry or the Curry Buns. A firm favourite indeed.
Sebastian stood upon the stage, looking out at everyone but also keeping an eye on Ciel. Maybe...while we're waiting I can go talk to him? I still had adrenaline coursing through my body from the chase, just thinking about it made my knees start shaking. Mom was here. Mom was alive but...why come here now? She's been declared missing for months now, why show up out of the blue at a curry contest?
...It almost seemed too coincidental, actually. Not to mention she seemed jumpy, and desperate not to show her face. Was someone forcing her? Did someone bring her here today...to see me?
...I will find out. Next time I see her...
"Here you are, your majesty"
Huh...? Everything went quiet. Being deep in thought made me miss something. I followed everyone's gaze which were fixed on the queen. I saw Sebastian retreat away from the queen and her butler hold a curry bun, to which she took off her glove and took it from him. With the other hand, she barely lifted up the vale that covered her face and the bun disappeared underneath. After a few seconds, she leaned over to her butler and said something very inaudible. Nodding, her butler steeped forward in front of Sebastian. The differences between them now becoming very apparent.
"The Queen says; you have created something a child could eat without the use of a knife and fork. In doing so, you have reinforced a necessary equality between our nation's children and its adults. For that, I thank you," he smile for some reason made me more uneasy, "Well done, You have contributed to our great country sir, Her Majesty is truly appreciative."
"Don't make me laugh!"
A harsh voice broke through the seemingly relaxed atmosphere, making everyone turn to where the voice had come from. My eyes widened when I saw none other than Meena hunched over the food table. What the hell was she playing at?
"Don't flatter yourself! Equality? The future? Easy prospects for the Queen of a rich country to speculate on! But what do you even know!"
With one sweep of her arm, she sent all the dishes on the table sprawling across the floor with a loud smash. People gasped and backed away from her, while a blonde haired man ran forward and grabbed her by the shoulders.
"Meena! What are you doing! You're in front of Her Majesty!"
That must be Harold West. Either way it made no difference. With a battle cry she gave him a wack and, shockingly, sent him flying through the air into a tree.
"Restrain her!" A group of police officers surround her but with agile moves, she dodged their advances and smacked them around with odd strength. No one could land a hit on her.
"Oh shut up! You don't know curry! It is a caste marker!"
She used that word before...didn't she? 'Caste'? I didn't have time to dwell on it, not when other people began losing their minds and attacking one another.
"What the hell is happening!?" Bard shouted, pulling us three back as far away as possible. Backs against the wall, we could only watch helplessly.
"I-I don't know!"
Seriously, what just happened!?
"Everyone is crazy! Just look at their eyes!"
Their eyes...their eyes are so dark...full of hate. Why are some people going crazy and others not?
"Snuff out the impure! End them! End them!"
They were saying the same thing...'snuff out the impure'? What does that even mean?
"Where's the young master? We need to make sure he's ok yes we do!" Mey Rin cried out, looking around the crowd frantically for the young boy. Tanaka pointed him out for us; near the queen herself but surrounded by these people.
"We can't get over there fast enough! Look, even Sebastian is too busy to help!"
The demon had his handful with Meena. She was striking harsh blows at the butler, but he deflected each one with a ladle. Even Lau and Ran Mao were busy fighting off the crazy people as much as they could, the only people I couldn't see were Soma and Agni. Even the Queen sat there in her seat quietly, unmoving along with her butler.
'Why weren't they fleeing...?'
"A-Amy! Look out!"
Too late. As soon as I turned around, something tackled me harsh in the stomach. I went sprawling back on the floor with a painful thud, pinned down by the huge weight of a noble man.
"Unclean...unclean!" He sneered, hands clawing at me, "Snuff out the unclean! The impure! I'll end you wench!"
I shoved my hands on his shoulders and wriggled about, trying my best to avoid his blows while trying to push him off me.
"Argh! H-Help! GUYS HELP ME!"
It was no use. From beneath the man, I could see that they were having trouble of their own fending off more people.
Suddenly, there was a sickening crack, and the man's head snapped to the side before flying off me. For a few seconds, I was left in an exhausted daze until I felt something slip under my arms and lift me up so I was standing again.
"Are you alright?"
Shakily, I smiled up at him as best I could.
"T-Thanks Agni, you're a life saver!"
He gave me a small smile, then watched as as his prince walked over to us as well, a frown on both their faces.
"Prince Soma! You're ok!"
"I am, but are you guys?"
The others managed to get rid of any more people and we all crowded around each other in a bunch. Looking down, my coat had lost a button and my general appearance looked disheveled but from what I could see, no lasting damage.
"We're fine but...what on earth is going on here? Why has everyone suddenly gone nuts!"
Soma didn't have time to answer, from behind him I saw one on the chefs in the contest lunge for him.
"Prince! Behind yo-"
Something whizzed by at a high speed and smacked the man in the face. He fell back with a groan...
With a curry bun sticking out of his mouth.
Black...and white. So contrasting. So opposite of one another. One represents pure darkness and dirtiness, while the other is pure goodness and cleanliness. Seeing those two together...it looked strange. So out of place, yet...I don't know if anyone else pick up on it like I did. I mean...I do tend to over think things...like this.
This man...he introduced himself as Ash Landers; the Queens butler. He had escorted the queen out once everything had calmed down and came back to bid the Funtom company with good news; A trophy and the royal warrant.
We were ecstatic that we won, and even more happier that Soma and Agni's relationship had repaired itself to it's former glory. As the day came to an end and everyone almost left the crystal palace, it was just us group together spending a final moment of peace with one another while the mess of the fighting was cleared up. Ash bid farewell to us all and left, a part of me was glad he was gone.
Soma and Agni had told us this whole mayhem was caused by something called the 'Kalima spice' an apparent evil spice that reacts to the darkness in people's hearts. Yup, a demonic spice. Now I've seen it all. Obviously, as we speculated, someone had spiked one of the curries with it and ruling out our two lovable butlers, it had to have been the other three contestants. As we watched the retreating figure of the Queen and her butler, Soma approached Ciel.
"I have to thank you, Ciel. What if I had never met you? I would be as selfish and ignorant as I've always been...There are still so many things I have to learn, all of England- no all of the world has so much to teach me and i'm a willing student!" he declared, a look of determination spread across his features. I couldn't help but feel so calm and happy how Soma has changed, despite knowing the one woman he cared about despised him, he was willing to carry on with Agni by his side.
"And thank you" Agni started, turning to Sebastian and bowing with gratitude, "your household has taught my prince and I many great things. What would we have done without you?"
I was surprised to see Sebastian give the fellow butler a genuinely warming smile before kneeling down and extending his hand to him, "Please, lift up your head. I had my own reasons for my actions, you have absolutely no reason to be thanking me. The gods you believe in are Kali and Shiva, they were able to realize their mistakes from mutual pain; just like you and Soma"
Agni stared up at the demon in awe, it was almost laughable at how little they knew of what Sebastian really was. With a sheepish smile, Agni took his hand and stood back up once more, scratching his head slightly.
"I've relearned my god's teachings from an Englishmen. That is quite embarrassing!"
"Heh, nationality is irrelevant. All places and all times are essentially the same." The demon turned his back on us and wandered over slightly to a small podium of plants, before turning back to us slightly, "Human nature is a static thing..."
The glow of the sunset behind him...my breath hitched in my throat. I became mesmerized by his appearance that I completely tuned out everyone around me. He looked almost...radiant.
'What is this...feeling?'
I was cut off from my thoughts by the shrill cry of Soma. Looking, I snorted in amusement when he almost jumped on Ciel and hugged him tightly, crying loudly.
"Wahh! Meena! My meena left me for good!"
"Let me go!" Ciel snapped back, wriggling in the prince's grasp to no avail. It was a happy moment despite the fact he was upset, Agni gave a small shake of his head and turned to us again.
"I am very glad that we came to England, my prince and I both made friends ideally suited to us."
"No problem!" I grinned, giving him a thumbs up "We've really enjoyed your company!" He gave a small chuckle, then turned to watch his prince again. From behind me, I heard Sebastian mumble something to himself.
"A friend... interesting. No one has every refereed to me as that...You sir are the first"
No one has ever called him that...?
Watching everyone doing their own thing, I thought that this was the best time I could talk to Sebastian. I needed to tell someone- anyone about what happened earlier...I stepped over to the demon and tugged on the butlers sleeve to catch his attention.
"Sebastian...can I talk to you...for a second?"
He raised an eyebrow down at me then caste a glance over to the others, seeing them completely tied up in their own conversations and trying to pry Soma off Ciel.
"Go ahead. What's wrong?"
"Well...I uhm..."
...I was struggling to find the courage to talk.
Why...?
Why did I feel the need to tell Sebastian all my problems and everything that happens in my life? Why do I instinctively go to him always and confide in him...
Why am I so...drawn to him and...comfortable in talking to him?
I paused, chewing on my bottom lip nervously, "a-actually...forget it...you don't want to hear my problems..."
He frowned slightly then turned to face me fully, towering frame looming over me like some domineering figure. The orange glow of the slowly setting sun illuminated his figure wonderfully...it was hard not to stare at him.
"Come now, you've been comfortable talking to me before. Why now do you think I won't listen?"
"But why do you listen? Why do you always hear me out and give me advice? You have better things to do right?" I argued back, voice quivering so slightly. I felt so...confused all of a sudden...
"Well...perhaps I do, but that doesn't mean I won't listen to what you have to say. If anything, I'm intrigued by our conversations."
Huh...?
"Why...?" I frowned slightly, a confused expression beginning to form, "intriguing..."
"Despite what we all go through in the manor, the troubles that arise everyday for us, you seem to have a battle going on of your own behind closed doors that you're fighting by yourself. I find it fascinating, I find you fascinating."
'Fighting...a battle of my own?...mom...'
My cheeks flushed, the familiar hot feeling reemerging after so long.
"I don't want to fight it alone..." I choked out, almost without thinking. Sebastian's harsh stare softened very slightly, whether it was genuine or not I'm unsure. Right now, it felt like there was no one else about...
"And is that why you seek comfort in me? So you feel like you're not alone...?"
I swallowed a lump in my throat, nervousness still woven into my voice, "I-I guess so...I mean, I feel like we're kind of friends...?"
At that, he looked surprised, "A friend...? Heh, two in one day? I'm honoured." I gave a small laugh, smile slipping it's way back onto my features. It became a slightly awkward silence for a few moments, the others still talking between themselves like we weren't even there with them. I shuffled on my feet slowly, avoiding looking at those red eyes.
It was true...I didn't want to do this alone. And...it felt like Sebastian was the only one that could help. Bard, Finny and Mey Rin don't know anything...and Ciel wouldn't want to get involved because he has his own problems. Yet Sebastian...he's an old demon, he's seen things and been through things longer than I have...
Ugh...what is this feeling he has over me?
Hesitantly, I took a deep breath and looked him square in the eyes.
"I saw my mom today."
His eyebrow twitched upwards in surprise and curiosity, "You did? If I recall correctly, didn't she go missing along with your father?"
"Exactly! But it was her, she ran into me," I could still smell the perfume on my clothing..."she...she bumped into me, kept her face hidden...but I know it was her!"
"I see...what happened exactly?"
Just remembering...I felt the adrenaline come back. My hands shook while I spoke and I gripped the bottom of my coat in a right grip.
"She...she ran away from me then disappeared outside. But why did she...? Why was she here of all places? Why now? Why not let me help her? Why did she run...run away...Why? why-"
Suddenly, I felt pressure on my shoulders. Looking up, I saw the butlers hands places gently on them. "Calm down, you're getting yourself worked up." He spoke softly, the small trophy tickled nicely under his arm. He was so close now to me...
"S-Sorry...I'm just so confused and scared..." I sighed softly, hesitantly reaching up and rubbing my sore eyes, "she was acting really weird...like, like some one was watching her?"
"Did you see anyone?"
"No one suspicious..."
He 'hmmm'd softly, the harsh frown gracing his features once again. For a moment it looked like he didn't know what to say, that was until he let me go of me.
"At least you now know she's alive and well. That is one of your fears put to rest, right?"
"I guess so..."
It was little comfort...at least I know she's out there now, somewhere. One day I will see her again, and I won't let her out of my sights. My gaze drifted down to my feet as I thought, almost all noise around me dying out completely. It almost seemed planned, the whole thing...
'Was it staged? Was she meant to bump into me...?'
Something soft...and gentle slipped under my chin, and before I knew it I was staring at those crimson eyes. The sunset made them seem more red than usual, almost warming. He gave me a small smile while his thumb traced lazily over my bottom lip.
"You know, a smile suits you better."
My heartbeat quickened. I could feel the blood rush to my face once more, while my stomach began tingling strangely. Here, in front of me, was a demon. Not just any demon but Sebastian. The man women seem to fawn over so quickly, yet he brushes them aside.
Why me...? Why is he...so...
I gave him a smile.
"Ah, that's better. A woman should never frown for so long. Besides, you look better happy"
...what is this feeling? Do I...I...
"I'll try...thank you."
Yes...I do...
I like him...
He grinned very slightly then let me go. Shyly, I stuffed my hands into my pocket and turned my body away from him to hide my raging blush, but something prodding into the palm of my hand caught my attention. Curiously, I took out what was in my pocket and blinked when I came face to face with a crisp white envelope.
"Huh? What the heck is this?"
This definitely was not there this morning, or earlier for that matter...or was it?
"A letter?" Sebastian enquired from behind me as I turned around to face him. I turned the letter around, seeing a wax seal on the back with a strange pattern indented on it but the crest was completely lost on me.
"Who's crest is this?" I asked the butler as I showed it to him. His eyes darkened for a split second, then he snatched the letter off me.
"It's the royal family."
What? No way, how on earth did I...!?
"Why was that in my pocket!?"
"I'm not sure..." He mumbled, looking at the letter with heavy speculation. He gave the envelope a little shake then broke the wax seal, opening it up and letting the contents fall into his palm. Leaning forward, I stared at the three colourful pieces of paper with a blank stare.
"What are those...? Paper?"
For a split second, he looked amused. But that quickly vanished, "They're tickets to the circus."
"What's a 'circus'? And why do we have tickets?"
"More importantly, how did this get in your pocket?"
That's what I'd like to know, how...oh! It clicked.
"Mom!"
"Pardon me?"
"When she bumped into me, that's when she must have slipped it into my pocket!"
Sebastian's frown told me that something wasn't right here...and he wasn't the only one who found something odd about this.
'Why was Mom carrying a letter from the queen?'
A/N: Please review, it means a lot to this poor old soul. Give her some birthday love.
Ok this chapter...it took a while. Real worldly stuff got in the way so badly and snowballed me hard, to the point where when I actually got time to sit down and write...I felt no inspiration or even excitement to write. And it scares me because I don't want my interest in the story to start dwindling ._. Work will be picking up and getting busier for me up until Christmas so updates may take longer.
AnoifEaterofOrcs: I'm glad you've noticed, I try hard to keep him in character as much as possible! :D Thank you~
SmileRen: I know it's so annoying! Though we can't hate them all the time I guess, we don't know what's happened to them. And thanks my deary~
RandomReader: Thank you lovely! She has smarts where I has none. I think I should clean up my fav list of the ones that are non existent anymore...
Dear U. x .U: that's so sweet, thank you! I'm glad you like her! There's not many I like either :D Funny...I don't even like Harry Potter...derp.
Nichole, Paxloria, Myrrine, AnimeFreak145 and Mikashiro: Thanks to you guys too for the lovely reviews! I'm happy you enjoy this thing! :D