An

Unscheduled Stop

YO! LET'S CONTINUE!

My train logic and terminology will not be up to par. I have never, in my life, EVER, been on a train. NEVER! I've seen some, yeah. But I have no how they are truly made. So guess what. I'm making my own train. You don't like it? DEAL WITH IT! LOL, LOL, LOL

Almost to 100 reviews. Can we break that glass ceiling?

(&)(&)

Alliahnna coughed heavily. Her lungs desperately sought the relief of fresh air. Holding her neck, attempting to regulate the air flow, Alliahnna peered through her fire dried eyes, only to be horrified by the impossible sight before her. "No…not again…" She trembled, coughing up more ash.

Embers from the raging flame, ash piecing from the crumbling flew into her throat as the monstrous blaze sundered all of London. The brightly lit skies were obscured, blackened by dark red and black clouds. The once beautifully colored cobblestone streets lay wasted, stained by the smoldered bodies of the dead. Blood painted the shops. Corpses yet to be reduced to nothing lied scattered about the ground; eyes and mouth wide open in helpless horror. Some hung out of windows, fell from roves, or floated down the river.

"No…" Alliahnna staggered back. "No…" Her whole body trembled. "This can't be happening." She clawed her fingers to her head, shaking it violently of the image before her. "This can't be happening…not again." Two dead bodies fell from above, collapsing at her feet. Alliahnna jumped back in startle. Her knees quaked, the smell of the rotting flesh bringing tears to her eyes.

Slowly she backed away, wishing to get away. The rotting bodies spasmed from being burned. Their heads fell to the side, revealing the faces. "AAHH!" She cried. The rotting bodies before her bore the faces of Rachael and Vincent, "Mom…Dad…" She quivered, tears hanging off the side of her eyes. Her knees gave way, bringing her to the ground. "Mommy…daddy…"

Their necks rubbernecked upwards with sickening cracks. Their eyes wide and pupils' dots. Alliahnna squeaked. Her stomach churned in triple knots. "Help us…Allie…" They moaned, reaching boney hands for her. "Help us…" She did not know why, but Alliahnna reached for their hands, wanting to hold them once more. As their fingertips came close to touching, Vincent and Rachael asked, "Why didn't you help us?" Alliahnna hummed perplexedly. Their fingertips touched. Rachael and Vincent crumbled into piles of ash. Alliahnna's arm quivered, baffled by what happened. The ash shifted and formed. Rachael and Vincent's face took shape, sprouting from the pile. "WHY DIDN'T YOU HELP US?"

"GAAHHH!" Alliahnna clawed to her feet and took off down the street. The ash pile of her parents exploded in to a volcano of smoke. Their faces roared and chased after her. Alliahnna clawed her fingers through the air, trying to pick up speed. Dead bodies of Phoebus, Schneizel, and Elizabeth fell to the ground. Taylor, Maes, and Carmichael cried out in agony as they were engulfed in flames. Mey-Rin, Bardroy, and Finnian lied in pools of blood, falling into the river. "SEBASTIAN! SEBASTIAN!" She cried desperately. No one came. "PLEASE SEABSTAIN!" The butler did not answer her. Alliahnna undid the halter, wanting to reveal her mark so to strengthen her summon. "WHAT?" The pentagram was gone. No sign or trace of it. "How can this be?"

The cloud slithered through the street, roaring like a dragon as it pursued Alliahnna. "SOMEBODY! ANYBODY! HHEELLPP!" The two heads combined, forming one demonic head. "GET AWAY! GET AWAY!" The cloud opened its mouth wide. "NOOO!" It chomped down.

Alliahnna plummeted down into a dark abyss. After five seconds of falling her back smack landed into an iron grate. The wind escaped her lungs. Alliahnna rolled over onto her stomach, gasping for air. Her hands gripped onto a thick bar. Staring to the bar, Alliahnna discover she was on a bridge, staring towards the river. "London Bridge?"

It was London Bridge. Just as she saw it six years ago. Alliahnna staggered around, her feet numb from her fall, and her mind blown. "Not this place…anywhere but here." She pleaded.

"Allie…" A familiar voice hummed her name. "Alliahnna…" Stiffly Alliahnna turned her head. She gaped in abject horror. Inching toward her, bobbing and weaving like a half dead zombie, an iron bar piercing through his chest from one side to the other, was none other than Ciel.

Alliahnna whipped around, backing away in fright, Blood trickled down the side of his jaw, spilled from the wound in his chest, his vibrant blue eyes void of any life. Yet, somehow, he was able to walk towards her, hand extended. "Help me…Allie…please…" Ciel's eyes closed. He fell forward. On instinct Alliahnna leapt forward, catching him, and drifting to her knees. She cradled Ciel in her arms, removing the hair and touching his face. He was cold. Ice cold.

"Ciel…" She whimpered, "CIEL!" She shook him. Ciel did not awaken. "Ciel…" She hugged him close, "Tears fell down her cheeks, dripping onto Ciel's frail frame. Resting him back to her lap, Alliahnna wept for her brother. The pain she felt six years ago returned in one fell swoop. "I'm so sorry, Ciel."

Ciel's eyes flashed open, the darkest shade of purple she had ever seen. "Not yet you're not!" Ciel's hand whipped around. Something cold pierced her chest. Looking down, Alliahnna discovered a dagger. Ciel twisted the dagger. Her eyes shakily found their way to her cackling brother. In a mirage he transformed in Ash. The Angel pushed her back and up, hoisting her five inches from the ground. "A tale of woe which began with the death of an entire family," He taunted, meandering for the edge of the bridge. "Now brought to a stunning end with the death of its sole surviving member." Alliahnna held onto the dagger, coughing up blood onto Ash's pure white suit. Air rose up her skirt. Ash hung her over the edge of the London Bridge. The water Thames River moaned and rippled with the forms of the dead reaching out for her. "Finally the era of the Phantomhive's," Ash announced elatedly, "Has been brought to its fated," He drew his arm back, "CONCLUSION!" He tossed her out. Her chest slipped from the dagger.

Alliahnna did not cry out, nor did she reach for a means of salvation. She only plummeted to the river of lost souls. One of the souls sprouted out. His mouth widened into a pit. Alliahnna fell in, and the soul bit down.

(&)(&)

Alliahnna flailed her arms and whipped up, panting heavily while gazing in terror out the train window. Train? That's right. At this point in time she was on the train on its way to Toulouse. A 16 hour train ride, but at least it beat falling into a river made entirely out of dead people.

Her hand found her forehead, removing the sweat from her brow. "Wow…" She breathed. Her head throbbed for a moment.

"My Lady?" A hand gently touched her shoulder. Alliahnna jerked a little, startled by the touch. Still half asleep, Alliahnna found herself wary of turning. Jasper and Zanosuke, gawking in confusion, sat across from her. That was proof enough neither Ciel or Ash were present. But still…"Are you alright?" Sebastian? It was Sebastian's voice. She quickly tuned. To say she was o overjoyed to find Sebastian staring at her was an understatement. "My Lady?" Sebastian exclaimed worriedly, circling his fingertips on her cheek. This is real. She touched a hand to his, gripping it for dear life. She pressed her cheek into it. He's real…He's real…this place is real. "Alliahnna?" Sebastian inquired. "What is troubling you?"

Alliahnna scanned the booths around her. Surprisingly she found Soma and Agni fast asleep with Ran-Mao, and Lao lying on the floor at their feet. The Druitt was out cold against the back door. Elizabeth and Paulawere sleeping with Hana and Esmeralda. (Yes they are there.) Phoebus, Schneizel, and the other three soldiers were out cold. Mey-Rin, Bardroy, Finnian, and Tanaka were no different. The rest of passengers were gazing out the window ready to fall asleep.

"Nothing…" Alliahnna answered. Her throat itched from her suddenly dry mouth. "Nothing, I…" She massaged the bridge of her nose, "I'm just disoriented. How long have I been sleeping?"

"A little over four hours." Sebastian held her shoulders. He could feel her pulsating. Her heart was beating rapidly from adrenaline. "Alliahnna, are you sure you're alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine." She groaned. "Like I said," When she rose to her feet, Alliahnna felt her muscles stiffen, "I'm just disoriented. I hate trains."

Sebastian arched a bewildered brow. "Since when?"

"Since now." She gargled, stepping past him. "Excuse me…" She moaned sickly, "I need a restroom." She stumbled for the front of the car. Slamming her hands to the handle, Alliahnna wrenched the door open and sluggishly walked in.

The doors closed, making Sebastian stroking his chin in concerned worry. "I may have known her for a short time," Jasper remarked ominously, "But she did not look fine."

"You almost sound concerned." Sebastian mocked him resentfully.

"Quite the contrary." Jasper grumbled. "I am merely making an observation." Sebastian furrowed his brow.

"Well your observation is correct." Zanosuke confirmed, interrupting the resentment. "Alliahnna is not the type to be unnerved by a train ride. There is more."

Sebastian shot from his seat, "And I intend to find out." He trudged down the trail Alliahnna took. Elizabeth and Soma awoke to Sebastian's heavy footsteps. They were both confused by his abrupt exit.

"Soma, Elizabeth," Jasper hailed, "A quick question. Is Alliahnna disoriented by trains?"

Soma shrugged, not really knowing. "No." Elizabeth answered confidently. "Alliahnna loves trains. Always has."

Jasper grinned, confirming his and Zanosuke's suspicions. "Thank you." He leaned back in his seat. Soma and Elizabeth shrugged to each other, not really understanding to reason behind the question. "So Alliahnna," Jasper mumbled, "What hidden terrors keep you awake?"

(&)(&)

Crossing the gap where passengers enter and exit the train, the restrooms lied where you first enter into the next car. The section which held private booths.

Fiercely Alliahnna splashed water onto her face, drenching locks of her hair, and her shirt. She panted heavily, gaping in terror as images of her nightmare flashed in her mind. Burned corpses, the river with souls, her parents, Ciel… "GRR!" She buried her head underneath the faucet. Jolts tingled as the cold liquid drizzled to her scalp and neck. "Mom…" Her scorched mother, "Dad…" Her burned father, "Ciel…" A bloodied Ciel with a bar through his chest. Tears streamed down her face, "I'm sorry…I'm sorry…"

A resonating chuckled rang in her mind. Staring to the mirror, at first Alliahnna saw her puffy, sweaty face. As the laughter grew louder, her image distorted and morphed into Ash. Alliahnna sniveled, quivering in horror. Ash laughed in her face, his purple eyes beaming at her pain. "You could not save them, Final Phantomhive." He mocked her. "And in the end…" Alliahnna's breathing quickened, the tears continuing to fall, "You can't save anyone." Images of Schneizel, Elizabeth, Phoebus, and all the others dying at her feet flashed in her mind like a picture book. A sharp pain struck her mind. "They'll all die!" The final face was Sebastian.

"GRRAAHH!" Alliahnna drilled her fist into the mirror, shattering it to all corners, and erasing Ash's face. Shards pierced into her knuckles. Blood dripped down to the counter, and ran along her arm. Alliahnna hung her head loosely, straining herself to sob quietly. Her hand dropped to the counter, serving to keep her from falling forward. Her teeth grinded together so hard she nearly broke them. "Damn you…damn you…" She dropped to her knees, head and arms resting on the counter as she wept in frustration. "Just leave me alone…" She hissed.

"So this is what you call fine?" Alliahnna shot her attention to the mirror. "Roaring loudly? Punching mirrors?" Sebastian stood in it with his arms folded, and a cross expression plastered to his face. "Because to me those are signs of a disturbed mind." Alliahnna, still on her knees, turned to face him. She almost dumbstruck in surprise to find he was, once again, the real deal. "Or is it simply the train ride which forced you to lash out against a bathroom decoration?"

Alliahnna glanced back to the mirror. Her entire body drooped in disbelief. More than a shattered mirror, Alliahnna saw remnants of her shattered mind. That's when it became clear to her. She was not fine. If a grip was not seized, Alliahnna may very well plummet into a state of insanity.

Sebastian locked the door behind him, and moved to stand next to Alliahnna. She tried to avoid his gaze by hiding her face beyond her hair. It did not work. She could feel his disapproving gaze drilling into her mind, trying to see what it was that troubled her.

When answers we not verbally given, Sebastian decided to coax the truth from her. He removed his white glove and rested it on the counter. "If I recall correctly," Sebastian spoke, tenderly taking her injured hand in his, "There was a similar incident in which you lashed out at the mirror." Alliahnna did not face him, only listened. Sebastian plucked the shard from the knuckles. "It was the day you were charged to be Commander of Lord Schneizel's forces. Four years ago, it was. The men showed no mercy in their hazing and pelting you with insults." One shard was pulled. Alliahnna winced. "In front of them you smiled and murdered them even more mercilessly with kindness. On occasion you would be challenged to a not-so-friendly bout, and then decimate them in the blink of an eye." Sebastian earned a small half smile. The one who challenged her was Phoebus. He wasn't convinced based on her appearance, and challenged her to a sword fight. It's all ancient history from there. "But at night I would walk by the restroom, - any restroom – and I would find every mirror shattered into the tiniest particles, and your hand painted over and stained with blood." Running the cold water he held her hand under it. Alliahnna hissed for a moment. The pain subsided as the wound began to heal. "This instance is almost similar." He patted her hand dry. "Minus the fact no one has aggravated you, nor are you still aggravated from Druitt." His deduction chased the half smile from Alliahnna. He was reaching ground zero. "And in case you are wondering, you mumbled in your slumber." Alliahnna tensed. Sebastian's suspicions were confirmed. "Alliahnna…" He hollowed tone sent chills down her spine, "Please," His hand touched her back, making her flinch, "Tell me what ails you." He massaged her back, easing the tight nerves.

Alliahnna curled her fingers in. She knew Sebastian would never stop until he received answers. With a sigh of defeat, Alliahnna faced her butler, while holding a nervous hand to her elbow. "I…" Sebastian's ears strained anxiously, "This is completely ridiculous." She cursed herself.

"Ridiculous or not, it is better to speak of your torment than to hide it."

Again the demon butler was correct. "While I was sleeping, I had this nightmare where…I was back in London while it was burning." Sebastian raised a shocked brow. Alliahnna moved on to mention the burned bodies of her parents falling to her feet. Her parents arose and asked why she didn't help them. When they morphed into a monster cloud, Alliahnna ran. Dead bodies, burning bodies of her friends and family appeared everywhere. She was then bright to the bridge where she saw Ciel with the bar in her chest. While holding him, Ciel stabbed Alliahnna and transformed into Ash. "He said the Era of the Phantomhive's has reached its conclusion. And threw me off the bridge."

"That's when you woke up." Sebastian assumed. Alliahnna bounced her head languidly. "Why did you shatter the mirror?"

"I heard Ash laughing and saw his face." She pointed to the mirror. "He told me I couldn't save anyone. That everyone was going to die." The images of her dying friends returned to her thoughts. Alliahnna whimpered and clawed her fingers into her head again, curling in and backing into the wall. "I can still see their faces." Her voice shook. "I can still see the horror in their eyes. And the worst part," Sebastian honestly did not believe it could get worse, "I called for you." His eyes widened. Alliahnna gazed to him with pleading watering eyes. "I screamed as loud as I could for you." Tears stream along her cheek. "But you never came. And the pentagram was gone." She bit her lip, not wanting to weep in front of him. "You were gone." Sebastian was taken aback. A girl, who sees into the fears of others, possesses her own fear which keeps her awake at night. It was sad. "You were gone…" She trembled. "I couldn't find you…you left me…" She rose to hysteria. Sebastian inched forward. "You left me. You left me." Sebastian wrapped his arms around her, drawing her in for a warm embrace. Alliahnna buried her hands and face into his chest. His large hand ran over her head, the other held her waist. Sebastian rested his head on hers. "I know eventually we're going to part ways." She sobbed into his chest. "But actually not having you next to me is worse than any nightmare I peer into."

"I'm sure it was." He pacified. The thought of parting from Alliahnna worried him as well. "As I said at the beach, I have not heard of demons remaining in the human world once a contract is done." He tightened his hold as she pressed into him. "But I have heard of demons becoming partners." Alliahnna sniffled, glancing to his smiling face. "It is not uncommon for two demons to work together. In all honesty it would be a joy to work with you."

"Really?" Alliahnna beamed.

"Of course. Who else is going to keep me entertained?" He crooned slyly. A question mark formed over Alliahnna's head. "Demons live for a considerably extensive period without showing signs of aging." Sebastian moaned drolly. "It can become tedious." He grinned a cat-like grin to Alliahnna, "Your tomfoolery would greatly ease the boredom." Alliahnna's wounded hand connected with his face. No effect. She whimpered, kissing the bruised knuckles. "See what I mean? Only a fool would strike with their injured hand. You are funny."

"I am SO GLAD I am amusing to you." She groaned in pain. "Perhaps the next time Grell shows up I'll be entertained."

Sebastian's grimaced, bouncing a brow in dread. "You've just jinxed our trip."

"The day is still young, he could appear in the next five minutes." She shrugged with a grin, "Maybe I'll even order you to spend the rest of it with him."

"You don't have the nerve."

"I insult Will and challenge Jasper every chance I get." Her brow wriggled proudly, "I've got nothing but nerve."

"That you do." Sebastian exclaimed humorously. "And a brazen attitude must be punished." He purred. Removing his pocket watch from his tail coat. Alliahnna was bewildered by his sudden interest in the time. "Yesterday evening, I believe I activated our role reversal at 3:30 in the afternoon."

"What's your point?"

"It is now 15 passed noon." He smirked menacingly. "I still have another three hours and 15 minutes to play." Alliahnna gasped in dread. Sebastian cracked his knuckles, smiling a mischievous cat grin. "So what shall I do to you first?" He purred huskily. "Shall I stroke your tail until you cry out in pleasure?" Alliahnna's tail nearly sprouted at the mentioning. She placed her hands to her lower back, keeping it in. "Or perhaps I should poke and prod all of your sensitive regions?" Alliahnna wrapped her arms around herself in a makeshift barrier. "Oh wait." Alliahnna's back hit the wall. Click. Alliahnna's ear twitched. "There's something I've always wanted to try." Sebastian's hand slammed against the wall, startling her. Alliahnna quivered in fear, then calmed when she noticed him glancing between her and the wall. Click-Click. Alliahnna's brow furrowed sharply. She nodded in confirmation. "Do not worry," He purred, trailing a finger down her chest to her stomach, earning a shiver, "I promise not to bite…" Sebastian bent to her ear, "Too hard." He nipped her earlobe.

"MMM!" They fell to the floor. Sebastian trailed his tongue down her neck. (Wags finger – Nuh, uh, uh. No steam for you)

(&)(&)

As nosy as they were curious, Elizabeth and Soma pressed their ears to the door, straining to hear what went on in the restroom ten feet across from them. True to form, the doors were thick when it came to noise. Soma proposed they enter into the next car and simply eavesdrop from there. Elizabeth advised against it. Alliahnna and Sebastian possessed an uncanny sense of bionic hearing. A snake couldn't sneak up on them. Plus Sebastian isn't exactly friendly to snoops.

"Ohhh!" Elizabeth whined, pressing her head further into the door. "I can't hear anything!"

"What do you expect?" Soma sneered impatiently. "They are ten feet away and beyond three doors!"

"OOH, OOH, WAIT!" Elizabeth hushed him with a waving hand. "I think I hear something." Soma glued his ear to the door, slowing his breathing so not to distort his hearing. Bang, boom, bam! A red flush heated its way up their faces, whistling steam form their ears like a train whistle.

Soma growled rabidly, clenched a vein popped fist, "I guess they could not wait another 12 hours."

Elizabeth fiddled with her fingers. Her eyes swirled. "I…guess…not…." Her brain overloaded. Smoke exploded from her nose and mouth. She swooned into Soma's arms. "I'm sorry. This is too much."

"Are you two truly this bored?" Schneizel teased, slightly entertained by their behavior.

"It shows?" Soma questioned guiltily.

"Hard to miss." The Count chuckled. Soma and Elizabeth slumped against the door, officially labeling themselves as bored. Schneizel then realized, what with everyone staring to awaken, the air was ripe with boredom. Perhaps he could fix that. "Listen, it is not unheard of to explore a train." He informed the two adolescents.

Mey-Rin, Bardroy, and Finnian immediately shot up from their seats, lurching over the backrest. "REALLY?" They gasped.

"But of course." Schneizel nodded. "Just make sure you do not disturb anyone."

"I've always wanted to see the caboose!" Finnian cheered.

"Then let's go!" Mey-Rin giggled.

"Hey, wait for me!" Bardroy chased after them. Eyes followed the three as they darted for the caboose. Hana then sunk into her seat, sighing somberly. Taylor noticed her sadness and grunted in pity.

Schneizel shook his head, amused by their never-ending childish antics. "Why don't you two accompany me as I head to the bar?"

"This train has a bar?" Soma and Elizabeth questioned in disbelief.

"Two, actually. And two dining cars. Front and back."

Hungry drool dripped down Soma and Elizabeth's mouths. The two laughed drunkenly, imagining the food which the kitchens of Noble Trains carried. Foolishly before the train ride, the two did not eat breakfast. They were so excited about the trip it went over their heads. "Prince Soma, shall we?" Elizabeth slurred.

"I hope they have curry." Their feet screeched like hot-rods as dust was left in their trail from speeding to the dining car. In the last couple of booths, the assistants to the other nobles – aside from the Marquis, duke, and baron mentioned previously - sitting in the car jotted down odd notes in their hand pads.

Schneizel threw his head back, laughing heartily. "The most interesting of people are on this train." He laughed even harder. Composing himself, Schneizel glanced to Tanaka who was in his chibi form, gazing out the window. "Mr. Tanaka?" The Phantomhive Butler glanced to Schneizel. "Care to join me for a drink?"

Coming to full size, Tanaka bowed humbly, "I would be honored, My Lord." The two men sauntered down the aisle, taking care not to bump into the other passengers. Once again the assistants jotted down notes.

"Perhaps I shall follow the young people's example." Jasper remarked, rising from his seat. "Although I think I will travel to the front dining car." Out of nowhere Jasper bowed slightly at the hip and extended a hand to Paula. The jingle loving maid shied from the hand at first, not sure what to make of it. "My dear lady, would you be so kind as to accompany me? I do abhor traversing unknown territory on my own." He tenderly took her hand in his, "Being in the presence of beautiful lady, such as yourself, will ease my apprehension." He lightly kissed the top of her palm.

"Um…" Paula droned. Her cheeks flushed bright pink. Jasper smiled warmly at her nervousness. Paula glanced back to Hana and Esmeralda, looking for closure and security before she answered. When Esmeralda nudged her back, Hana turned back to Jasper and said, "I'd love to."

Maes and Carmichael nudged at Taylor, quietly urging him to come with them. Taylor shook his head, wishing to stay in one location. He did not like walking about moving vehicles. The two shrugged and followed after Jasper and Paula. "We'll come with." Maes announced. "We saw a couple of old friends boarding."

Phoebus, sitting somewhat on his own, tapped his chin pensively. Journeying to different parts of the train did not sound so bad. It would actually be a good time killer. After all they still had another 12 hours before they reached Toulouse. Might as well do something. "Esmeralda?" Esmeralda glanced up from her needlepoint artistry. "Would you…" He trailed off, blushing, "Would you join me for a moment?" He requested bashfully.

Esmeralda smiled, flattered he would ask. "Of course." The third verse was same as the first. Eyes followed, and notes were jotted.

Zanosuke shook his head, almost pleased everyone was finding something to do during the long trip. Though the scenery outside was beautiful, he did wish he could find some way to distract himself. "Excuse me, Zanosuke." Wish granted. Agni stood over the Elder Brother with a stern expression. "Might I bother you for a minute?" He pointed to the direction Maes and Carmichael took. "In private."

"Of course." Zanosuke nodded, sort of confused by the Man Servant's request.

Lao, peeking a sleeping eye open, watched as the familiar associates disbanded and fled to different parts of the train. A dark chill ran down his spine. Somebody was watching. Lao nonchalantly roved his eyes over the car, taking in the faces of the passengers. Lightly he stroked the sleeping Ran-Mao's head, waking her up. "I cannot recall the last time you and I were forced to raise a hand."

(&)(&)

In the engine room, where the conductor and his assistant drive the train smoothly, the conductor and the said assistant lied unconscious in a corner, tied and gagged. A blond man wearing dark sunglasses, dress in an orange tan Italian suit stood in the center of the room, marveling at the blurring scenery as the train traveled top speed. Two of his men dressed in black kept the train going. Meanwhile the man gazed to the tracks, a cross like glow emanating from his eyes.

"Sir…" Another man entered the engine room, "We near the rendezvous."

"Good…" The man purred hungrily, "Then let us prepare our packages for pick up." He cooed. "And do take care not to damage them."

"Yes sir."

(&)(&)

Zanosuke and Agni meandered past the restroom they believed Sebastian and Alliahnna to still be hiding away in. Walking five booths in, Agni discovered an empty booth. Opening the door, he herded Zanosuke inside, and cautiously closed the door, ensuring no one gazed upon them suspiciously.

"Why the call for privacy?" Zanosuke asked, seating himself. "Have I done something to offend you?"

"No. Not at all." Agni assured him with a smile. He sat across from Zanosuke, fortifying his posture to show he was serious about something. "Actually I wish to ask you questions involving Sebastian." Zanosuke leaned back, folding his arms in a little barricade. "As you've witnessed, Prince Soma, at present, possesses strong feelings for Alliahnna. Though he admitted his defeat, I can still see the burn desire in his heart."

"I know what you mean." Zanosuke sympathized. "I also know he is having a hard time accepting she chose Sebastian."

"Which is why I asked you here." Agni added ominously. Zanosuke raised a wary brow. "Prince Soma would never ask, but to ease his wounded heart I shall." He leaned in, increasing the tension in the air. He narrowed his eyes, locking them to Zanosuke's, skulking for any signs of pretense. "In every sense of the word, does Sebastian truly love Alliahnna?" Zanosuke hummed and gaped in gaspingly. He blinked in bewilderment. So this is what this was about? "I ask because I have heard tale Alliahnna has been hurt in the past. Myself and especially Prince Soma do not wish to see her hopes of happiness dashed."

Zanosuke allowed a placid smile to creep along his lips. Releasing a calm breath, he began to understand where Agni was coming from. Alliahnna, though tough on the exterior, is fragile on the interior. "My brother may be shifty and underhanded, but her is not so cruel to those who he holds in high esteem." He explained. To say Sebastian cared for someone was a bit odd considering how malicious he can be. "And believe me when I say He holds Alliahnna in very high esteem. He practically tore apart all of Paris to find her when she was kidnapped. Not to mention he threatened to end me should I harm her."

"So his feelings are genuine." Agni remarked, convinced by Zanosuke's dissertation. "Good. Though I am not surprised. Sebastian and Alliahnna are very compatible, and are relatively cute when they argue."

"That I unconditionally agree with." Zanosuke laughed. "It's when they stop arguing that I begin to worry." The two threw their heads back, laughing heartily.

(&)=(&)

"Wow…" Paula gasped in awe, marveling at the extravagant décor of the front dining car. "This is amazing."

Jasper, leaning on an elbow, laughed in adulation of her childish amazement. "I take it this is your first time in train dining car." He chortled lovingly. Paula ceased her ogling. Her cheeks flushed embarrassingly. "Do not be so bashful. All people are impressed by what they've never seen. It's perfectly normal."

"I guess." Paula responded, shifting her shoulders nervously. "But…in truth…this is the first time I've been in a dining car. I don't normally eat on trains."

"Really?" Jasper questioned in shock. "How come?"

"Uneasy stomach."

"Ah." He bobbed his head.

If one were to take a look around, Jasper would have to admit he's never been in a dining car either. Or at least not one like this. The décor was ravishing; Jasper would give the interior decorator that. But something seemed off. The atmosphere was…dim. No waiters had come to take their order, nor are there any appetizer samples or biscuits for people to nibble upon while they wait. In his day, pitchers of water would at least await the hungry guest. But, in his defense, his day dated back to when Caesar's palace was nothing more than a sand castle.

The patrons varied between two groups. The nobles and their families – dressed for success and to impress. Then there were strange men dressed in black. Not that Jasper found anything wrong with black. But bowler hats in the summer? Sunglasses where there is no sun? Have humans changed? Or am I just being paranoid? Possibly the latter. Jasper, despite being alive for some millennia, was unfamiliar in the strange ways of humans.

Paula did not seem bothered. Then again she admitted to never being in a dining car. Maybe I'm not being paranoid. For now Jasper would keep his focus on Paula. If something is amiss…Then let them come about. He smirked.

"Miss Paula," He rumbled, "Tell me, how much do you know about Alliahnna and Elizabeth's…relationship?" He emphasized the word due to how protective Alliahnna can be.

"I only know what Lady Elizabeth has told me." She answered, hiding the apology hidden in her words. "But based on what she's told me, they both have a wonderful relationship. Elizabeth and Alliahnna have known each other since childhood. They're like sisters."

Jasper scoffed under his breath, folding his arms complacently. "Which would explain why she threatened me." Paula tilted her head in confusion. "Due to certain circumstances I inadvertently harmed Elizabeth. Alliahnna warned me to tread carefully."

"That sounds correct." Paula giggled. "From what I've seen, Alliahnna would fey a god to save those she loves."

"Defy a god." Jasper murmured. "Quite the concept." An unnerving shift caught his ear. Jasper glanced to the four men in the corner. Something slid under the table. "Paula…" Jasper mumbled under his breath, "I want you to listen and do as I say. Okay?"

Paula's eyes widened fearfully at the demanding request. "Why?" She whispered. "What's wrong?"

"Not all of the passengers are passengers."

(&)(&)

Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy blew through the back dining car, earning disturbed stares from those trying to enjoy a quiet lunch. They ignored them, however, because people are disturbed when the wind blows in the wrong direction. And besides, if they were truly bothered, the nobles would have spoken up.

Bardroy wrenched the door to the caboose open. Quickly he herded Mey-Rin and Finnian inside, then crept in and closed the door behind him. "Whoa!" Mey-Rin and Finnian gaped in awe, beaming to the hideout for the train. "This place is great!" Mey-Rin gasped, arms open wide.

The caboose was decorated similar to that of a hotel room. Little rectangular place rugs donned different sections of the wooden floor, resting underneath dressers, end tables, and other objects which could be lifted out. A mini bar sticking out of the wall, with cupboards storing wine, champagne, water, and other nonalcoholic beverages. There was a futon couch against the right wall with a photo of the, what the three guessed, current train crew. On the ceiling were five hanging lanterns. There was an entertainment center holding dishes, a chest filled with uniforms and other knickknacks, and then there were the pile of first aid kits.

"You'd think someone lived back here." Bardroy gawked.

"Maybe you and Hana could live back here." Mey-Rin snickered sneakily.

Bardroy's face exploded into crimson. "WHAT ARE YOU GOING ON ABOUT?" He screeched embarrassingly. Mey-Rin cackled like a crazed chipmunk. Finnian, too busy to notice the awkward moment, relaxed on the couch, gazing at the photo of the first train. "Look!" Bardroy got in Mey-Rin's face, "Hana and I are just friends!" He sank into himself, wallowing in self-pity. "Besides, I think she likes Taylor."

Finnian eyed the photo of the train with intrigue. He turned to glance at the photo with the train crew…and raised a brow. Mey-Rin slapped Bardroy upside the head. "No she doesn't!" She screeched. "Hana spent two hours yesterday dress shopping to impress YOU! Not Taylor! YOU!"

Bardroy gaped in utter shock. "She did?" Finnian sat on his knees, staring in a trance at the date the photo was taken. "Three weeks ago?" He whispered. The notation beneath the date read Commemorating youngest train crew to save train from exploding. Finnian raised a brow and looked around.

"Yep." Mey-Rin answered confidently. "And let me tell you, we had to tell her 500 times from the shop to home that the dress was fine."

Bardroy, blushing madly, massaged the back of his neck. "Honestly I don't care what she wears." He lowered his head, blushing a deeper shade of red. "Hana's always looked good in everything she wears."

"And that is precisely why she likes you."

"Hey guys?" Finnian interrupted with an apologetic tone. "This photo of the train crew was taken three weeks ago."

"So?" They both shrugged.

"If this was three weeks ago, how come none of them are walking around?" He stressed, fear rising in his voice. "We walked through a few cars and I haven't seen the ticket man or any other train employees."

"He's right." Bardroy remarked in dread, glancing back to the door leading to the other cars. "I didn't even see a bar keep, or kitchen attendants." The train has a medium sized kitchen connected to the dining car. "What gives?"

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK – Came three hard knocks to the floor. They were so hard, Mey-Rin and Bardroy felt as if hammers were striking at the bottoms of their feet. KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK – They came again. Finnian, Mey-Rin, and Bardroy searched the floor, trying to search for the source of the mysterious knocks.

"Here!" Finnian gasped, pointing under the futon. The knocks came again. "It's coming from under here." Finnian leapt from the couch. Using his insane strength he cast the couch to side, Finnian uncovered a hatch.

"This train has a basement?" Mey-Rin question in confusion.

"No." Bardroy corrected her, rumbling in suspicion. "Trains have secret compartments. They were built to smuggle illegal merchandise, and as a means of extra cargo space."

The knocks came at the floor again. "Sounds like this cargo wants to get out." Mey-Rin reached down and opened the hatch. What the three discovered terrified them. Tied and gagged were six men dressed in train attire.

"THAT'S THEM!" Finnian glanced to the picture. "They're the crew from the picture!"

"What are they doing down there?" Bardroy gaped.

"Minding their own business." A male voice chuckled. The three whipped around. Two men dressed in black suits, shades, and bowler hats aimed revolvers at them. "Maybe you three should have been as smart." The three raised their hands above their heads. "Well what do ya know?" The man with a mustache chuckled. "You three are smart after all."

Bardroy and Finnian narrowed their eyes heatedly, wishing they weren't so foolish as to walk into a trap. "Too bad you men aren't smart." Mey-Rin droned darkly, her thick British accent faded. "You two have just made the biggest mistakes of your life." Bardroy and Finnian smiled slyly, backing up behind her. "And that's not counting," Mey-Rin raised her head, revealing the hardened, gleaming brown eyes behind her glasses, "Aiming a gun at me!" She glared the two men down defiantly.

(&)(&)

"UGH!" An old woman, wearing a purple dress and feather hat snarled impatiently. "What is taking the food service so long?"

"MOMMY, I'M HUNGRY!" A little boy in a school uniform complained.

"IT'S BEEN OVER AN HOUR!" A middle aged man pounded at the table.

Soma and Elizabeth agreed with the hungry passengers sentiments. So far they had been sitting there for 20 minutes. Not one person from the kitchen had come through to place their order. Rather odd for a high class train. But they decided to give it another five minutes. For now, Elizabeth decided to address a situation.

"Soma," She chimed gently, gaining his attention, "Tell me, do you hate Sebastian?"

The young prince was taken aback by the spontaneous question. Quite frankly he didn't expect anyone to ask him that. But he shouldn't be too surprised. Despite him admitting Alliahnna chose Sebastian, Soma could feel a twinge of resentment lingering in his heart. "Yes…and no." He answered honestly. "Yes – because he seemed to win Alliahnna so effortlessly while I am left to wallow in my loneliness. But also no, because I cannot command what Alliahnna's heart wants. And obviously she wants Sebastian."

Elizabeth understood his feelings. It is hard to see the one you love taken from you. But it is no reason to not live a happy life. "Would you like to know a secret?" She asked gently. "Though she chose Sebastian, Alliahnna does like you." Soma's eyes widened. "She sees you as an older brother, and enjoys your being around. But with Sebastian her feelings run deeper because of the bond they share."

"Which is also why I feel guilty." Soma admitted solemnly. "I do not think I can be just friends with Alliahnna without old feelings arising."

"And she will understand that." Elizabeth reached across the table, tenderly placing an easing hand to Soma's. "But if you avoid her, or seem to keep your distance, Alliahnna will be sad. You don't want to make her sad, do you?"

"No way! It'd kill me if I made her sad."

"Then stand by her just as you did with Ciel."

"I will." Soma swore. "Elizabeth…thank you."

"My pleasure."

To everyone's absolute pleasure and delight, the doors to the kitchen finally opened. Four men dressed as waiters, driving two carts carrying three plates of food and possibly more under the cloth, entered into the dining area. Ooh's, aah's and finally's muttered from the hungry passengers. The little boy and his sister clapped happily, cheering for their food. Soma and Elizabeth were tempted to shout vulgarities for the chef making them wait so long.

Two men driving one cart vanished into the car with the bar, tending to the likely drunk and hungry patrons. A teenage girl and her friend gossiped angrily, wondering why the heck they would enter into the bar. They have their own food. Not gourmet dining, but at least they got to eat.

(&)(&)

Helping himself to the scotch behind the bar counter, Schneizel poured himself, Tanaka, and five other men a few shots, earning himself a few admirers. The five men raised their glass in cheer, clanked them, and inhaled the liquid. Humored by the praise, Schneizel continued to pour drinks until the first bottle ran out. He then simply opened another bottle and let the drinks pass on.

"You seem to be enjoying yourself, Count." Tanaka laughed, glancing to the merrily drinking men. "As are your patrons."

"I live to make others happy." Schneizel remarked with a hint of sarcasm.

"That you do. I can see why Alliahnna took an immediate shine to you." Tanka bit his tongue in guilt. The mentioning of Alliahnna's name unnerved Schneizel, upset him even. Schneizel proceeded to pour drinks with little enthusiasm. It was then Tanaka discovered the true nature behind the earlier made invitation. Clearing his throat, he said, "My Lord, I have lived for many years. I have seen the expressions of the crestfallen, and heard the words of the saddened heart." Schneizel raised a curious brow. "Do not believe that you hide things from me. Tell me what is on your mind."

Schneizel inwardly criticized himself for being so easy to read. Scoffing, he poured himself a tall glass of wine. "Alliahnna was right about you." He hummed troublingly, taking a small sip of his drink. "It is difficult to hide our feelings."

"Then please tell me yours."

Schneizel set his glass to the counter, sighing in defeat. "For eight years Alliahnna has been in my care." He moaned as if he were a disappointed father. "For eight years I have cared for her like my own daughter, sat by her side when she was sick, tended to her when she was injured." He gnawed on his lip, suppressing the rising sadness. "Now she has Sebastian. She rushes to his side, cries on his shoulder – not mine. Plus she's becoming so independent…" He trailed off, lowering his head, "And doesn't seem to need me anymore."

"That is not the case." Tanaka assured him. "Quite the contrary, actually." Schneizel raised his head, somber skepticism lining his face. "Since she was a child, Alliahnna has been independent. But in the end she will always need the love and comfort of family." He smiled tenderly to the sad Count. "I cannot begin to tell you how many times Alliahnna has said to me, I love living with Schneizel. Or, Schneizel's a pain, but I love him." A tear came to Schneizel's eye. His touched a hand to his beaming heart. "Alliahnna looks up to you and cares for you as if you were her father. Sebastian maybe her lover, but he could never replace you. In the end you are the one she will come to when she is lost."

Schneizel entire body relaxed, slacking as a sense of relief flowed over him. "Thank you, Tanaka."

As the two men clanked their glasses together, a curious twosome of men entered the bar with a cart in hand. On the cart were two platters of food. Schneizel, Tanaka, and the other ladies and gentlemen relaxing in the bar car were confused beyond all belief.

"Excuse me?" Schneizel spoke up, gaining their attention. "I don't believe anyone ordered anything in here."

"It is a special treat, Senior." The Spaniard man remarked. He kissed his fingers, "It promises to be a treat you will not soon forget."

(&)=(&)

Back in the dining car, perturbed and hungry mutters rolled throughout the medium width room. Soma and Elizabeth were still bewildered by the one cart entering into the bar. The brown haired man with a long scar running down his face rang a little bell, coaxing the muttering crowd into silence.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," She man clasped his hands, bending submissively, "Please allow us to extend our apologies for the delay." He bowed with a hand crossing over his chest, "Our oven decided to break when we put in the first dish. We worked diligently and created master pieces which are sure to make you fall over in bliss." Soma and Elizabeth's mouths were already watering, imagining what food lied beneath the platter dome.

The moment of hunger elation went interrupted. Loud skin crawling screeched from the chugging train shrieked shrilly as the brass wheels skidded along the iron bars.

A powerful force jerked Soma, Elizabeth, and the others forward. The two men smiled, appearing to be pleased. "What's this?" Soma gasped, standing from his chair defensively. The platters on the cart popped off. Two men in black sprouted from holes carved into the cart. Facing opposite directions, the two men aimed colts at the diner patrons. The supposed waiters reached into their suits and drew pistols, taking aim as well. Whimpers of fear sounded amongst the people. Soma ran to Elizabeth's side, taking a defensive stance in front of her. "What's going on?" He demanded.

The four men simply chuckled.

(&)(&)

Schneizel and Tanaka grabbed onto the bar counter. Bottles from the shelves under the counter and the wall crashed onto the floor. The other passengers in the bar grabbed onto anything they could hold, and saving their drinks in the process.

Just like the cart in the dining hall, two men sprouted from under the platters, and all four drew guns, taking aim. Schneizel hissed through gritted teeth. "Damn."

(&)(&)

The two men in the caboose chuckled sinisterly, and propped themselves up to the wall by the door. As the train skidded along the tracks, Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy stumbled and fell on top of each other. The men tied up in the compartment rolled about, ramming into each other. "WHAT THE HELL?" Bardroy howled.

The two men stamped their feet in front of their faces, laughing sinisterly as they clicked the hammer back on their guns.

(&)(&)

Phoebus and Esmeralda, hiding out in the private booth in the middle of the car, kissed up and down each other's bodies, running their hands over every inch. Esmeralda breathed hard as Phoebus's topped himself onto her, pinning her to the leather seat. The train forced them forward and they crashed onto the floor. "What on earth?" Phoebus hissed, rubbing his back.

Esmeralda massaged her back, "What's happened?" several footsteps stampeded through the car. Two men stood outside their booth. Phoebus quickly cleaned himself up and clawed to his feet. He reached behind, going for a firearm stashed in the back of his trousers. Esmeralda pasted herself to the wall.

The two men wrenched the door open and aimed their guns. Phoebus twitched his arm. One man fired, shooting his shoulder. "GRAH!" Phoebus hissed, dropping to his knee with a hand clenched to the wounded shoulder.

"PHOEBUS!" Esmeralda dropped to his aid.

(&)(&)

"The train is stopping!" Hana shouted. "But why?" She glanced out both side windows. Nothing but forest and a cliff leading into more forest. "We're nowhere near our stop." Lao grabbed hold of Ran-Mao, and leapt out the window.

"LAO!" Taylor cried.

"Did he really just jump?"

All seated hugged each other, unnerved by Lao's reaction and the train coming to a stop. They all kept themselves and their children safe. The assistants, however, grinned maliciously.

One, two, three, four, five, six – assistants rose from their seats. The three men shoved hands into their suits and pulled out two guns each, directing them at the passengers. The three women drew knives from their dresses.

The entire car shifted to the wall. Taylor, Hana, and the other passengers backed away. Taylor was tempted to draw his firearm, but the fear of causalities prevented him from doing so.

"Eight more are up ahead. GET GOING!" The woman was cherry red hair and blue eyes hissed.

"YES MA'AM!" Two men and one woman shouted.

(&)(&)

The train finally reached a full stop.

Alliahnna and Sebastian, still held up in the bathroom, swiftly fixed their askew clothing and hair, while keeping an ear to the ground. Gunshots and rampaging footsteps – makes Alliahnna smile in excitement. "Looks like our friends are moving." Alliahnna stated quietly, straightening out the cloth on her chest. "Better late than never, I suppose."

"Agreed." Sebastian rumbled impatiently, tightening his tie. "It's about time. Sitting here banging on the wall got rather boring." There were ten different indentations in the wall.

"I'm sure the decorator will appreciate that." Sebastian straightened his tailcoat, Alliahnna fixed her skirt. The footsteps stalked to their location. "Ready?" She asked firmly.

"But of course." The door handle jiggled violently. Sebastian grabbed Alliahnna and held her close.

The door to the bathroom burst open, revealing a blond haired blue eyed woman. She gawked in confusion. The bathroom was empty. "Well blow me down."

(&)(&)

Zanosuke opened the window to their booth. "Shall we go?" He proposed to Agni.

"What about Prince Soma and the others?" Agni worried.

"Do not worry." He reassured the worried butler with a mischievous, "I'm sure a plan is being concocted as we speak."

The door to Zanosuke and Agni's booth slammed open by a black haired, brown eyed man. It was as empty as a crater. "What? They were just in here!"

(&)(&)

Maes and Carmichael, at first laughing with old friends from different jurisdictions, firmed themselves as the train gradually screeched to a halt. "Why are we stopping?" Carmichael asked.

Rapid footsteps stampeded for their car. Maes, Carmichael, and their other guard buddies readied their firearms. They all extended protective hands, asking the nobles to stay back.

The door opened. Maes, Carmichael, and the others all gaped in horror. The two men and the woman entered the car with a young boy in their hands. Two guns were put to his head. "Drop the guns boys," The woman sniggered victoriously. "This train is under our jurisdiction now."

(&)(&)

Jasper stood protectively in front of Paula. The four men from the corner table raised revolvers to him, sniggering smugly. Paula sniveled fearfully, cowering behind him. "Drawing your guns on unarmed civilians?" Jasper crooned cynically. "Children these days are just like wolf pups." He crimson red eyes gleamed with searing daggers, "You all bare your fangs immediately."

TO BE CONTINUED!

I'm going to try and work on another fic. If I can't come up with an idea, then I'll return to this one. I already have a rough draft for the next chapter anyway.

CAN WE REACH 100 REVIEWS? Let's see.