Welcome back lovely readers,

I hope you are doing well! Alrighty, I know I am so cruel for leaving you on that cliff hanger the last chapter. This chapter will probably not make up for it hahaha. Anyway, I don't have much talk about for once.

Mhm, I guess all I can say is: you should definitely join my discord server, guys. Tryna make it the biggest Black Butler server there is. If you guys don't know what Discord is, it's a chatting app, basically. Not to mention, I like to answer questions on there too if you have those instead of via reviews. I worked on it for 4 hrs start T_T. Here is the discord link: /NSf9YkS

BTW, I NEED TWO MORE FOLLOWERS SO WE CAN HIT 450 TOTAL. AMAZING ACHIEVEMENT GUYS, I REALLY APPRECIATE IT!

0o0o0o

There is a pause in the air before a series of chuckles fly past his lips. I watch in surprise as he bends over slightly. He grabs a fistful of his hair, messing up the slick backed style of the Jeremy identity. His hand slowly lowers to his face. He grabs the skin and rips it off with a large smirk. I feel my eyes widen, not expecting him to reveal his true self so soon. I mean, there are still guests in the mansion. The fake skin lies in his fist. I cautiously look him in the eyes, this feels more awkward now. "I had a feeling..." I murmur. "it was you."

He crosses his legs and sets the fake skin on the table temporarily. "Liar," he replies, his eyes flashing their demonic color. I feel my eyebrows dip, my statement was pretty much true. He notices my confusion and his smirk broadens, "You knew the whole time." he elaborates.

My muscles stiffen at the claim. How did he know? I thought I did a very good job of acting. Where did I mess up? "How...?" I ask, feeling even more confused.

"You tend to faint when experiencing abrupt emotional stress. You did not pass out when I was

'murdered' for one."

I stare at the floor next, not believing Sebastian knows me better than myself. I sigh and lean back in my chair. "Wow, I never really acknowledged that myself," I say, a bit disappointed. "I thought I was doing a good job too." I whine sadly.

"I believe you had the young master fooled if that makes up for it." Sebastian includes and folds his hands in his lap. I shift under his gaze, feeling incredibly vulnerable. It really feels like he's the wolf and I'm the rabbit right now. I can feel the smugness coming off him in waves as he eyes me down. It almost makes my skin crawl, not sure with desire or fear. Maybe a mix? I'm a strange human.

"Ah, that's good then. Since I did everything on purpose to fool you guys, you know."

"Oh?" he questions. "Are you sure about that?" he asks. I scratch my cheek and glance at the window, trying to fight the blush from rising upon my face. I know what he is insinuating just by how he is staring at me.

"Very sure. I mean, got have some fun with the acting." I hum. It would be best to steel my emotions for the time being if possible. Suddenly, I feel a hand on my shoulder, and I jump slightly at the contact. My head whips upward and I find Sebastian standing right next to me. When did he get up?!

"Are you sure it was acting?" he asks in a low tone. His voice makes the hairs on my arms rise. I know it's impossible to lie, but I want to badly. I planned to play my feelings off as fake! Like a joke! I'm stupid for thinking Sebastian doesn't know the difference between a real confession and a fake. However, how do I know if he's hiding the fact he doesn't know? There are too many questions!

I bite my lip nervously, "I'm...sure."

His fingers twitch against my shoulder and I feel something tickle my neck, "I believe you know how I feel about liars."

I blush at the fact I am caught. He made me fall into his trap. The sound of my heart thrumming in my ears is very loud. I am sure he can hear it as well. I can feel him hovering over my shoulder, next to my ear. He is watching me very carefully. I feel like a specimen being examined through a microscope. "I do. But it never hurts to try." I say boldly. I don't want to feel weak about this. I want to feel strong because my feelings for him are just that.

I hear him hum lowly; his breath tickles the skin hidden behind my ear. "My, how naïve of you." he mocks. I feel him grab a lock of my hair and he plays with it. I become a bit embarrassed, I mean, who wouldn't in this situation. I feel like a fool, but I won't let that get me down quite yet.

"You're right," I admit and tug on my fingers anxiously. "However, I can't help it. I had reasons for hiding it—"

"I can think of multiple." he interrupts, and he wanders back to his seat. As he sits back down, he presumes his earlier position. He is far more amused than earlier. I internally sigh, knowing my doom is to come.

"I'm sure you can," I say sarcastically with a deadpan look. I shake my head after; I want this discussion to be serious. It's hard to though when the being across from me thinks otherwise. "Are you surprised?" I ask after a second.

He rests his jaw on his palm, "I will say I did not expect it. I can congratulate you on that. I suspected a small attraction but nothing else."

My lips lift into a small proud smile, "Is that so? I will take that as a point."

He chuckles slightly, "Do not let it go to your head. You have more concerns to worry about now."

I tilt my head in confusion, not sure what he means. I confessed to him, so I should be fine...right? I assume our interactions will be more awkward or more teasing. Either or, I have acknowledged them. I am ready to be in pain throughout this rejection. It's inevitable. "I have...concerns?" I repeat back to him in question as I think about it.

He leans forward, a crawling smirk appearing on his face. "Being in love with a demon will have its problems." he points out.

I feel my hands clench the fabric of my dress. Why does it sound like he's okay with it? Then again, this has probably happened in the past with other female humans. I'm just one of them in a long line. My heart stutters at such a thought, and I really want him to comfort me. I know that's not possible though. I fight the tears clouding in my eyes. I really just want his love, but it's impossible. I feel my lips quiver and form into a smile. It also hurts to even stretch. "D-Don't worry. I plan to work on getting rid of my feelings for you. They are wrong and inappropriate. Furthermore, I want to be done with them for one reason only." I explain. "I'm sorry you have to deal with such useless things..."

I clench my teeth at the end, forcing my eyes to not shred a single tear. Everything burns and aches that's a part of me. This is heartbreak, right? It feels like my soul is being taken out of my body. I find my eyes flittering over his face; his mouth is parted slightly, and his eyes are wide. My breath catches in my throat, not sure what to expect of him. What will he say? Will he care? I hope he does...

More doubt clouds my mind more than my heart. How useless of me to hope for something. I'm more of a fool than I thought. Something inside me is curling up and dying. I feel sick to my stomach at the thought of him not even caring about me. And the thought of not an ounce of love...makes me feel as if death is around the corner. I sound so love-stricken and needy, but I don't really care. I ache for him more than I ever realized. Is this how far denial and will last? It's incredible to think I have such a resolve.

Suddenly, he stands, and his face is hidden by his bangs. His towering black-clad uniform shadows me. I notice a frown on his lips. His mouth parts again, as if he is about to say something. I perk up, wondering what he is going to say. Whatever it is, I need to know his response. I wait patiently, but after a few seconds, he turns around and walks away from me. He heads toward the doors, his back stiff as a rod. I jump out of my seat, not ready for him to leave yet. "Sebastian! Don't you have anything else to say?" I shout across the dining room with my handheld out toward him. As if I am grabbing his jacket, my fingers curl in the air.

He stops with his gloved hand on the door handle. He slowly turns around and his bangs hide his eyes from me. The shadows in the room curl and twist around him. The air I breathe in feels dry and hurts my throat a little. He opens his mouth, his head tilted toward me. "Please refrain from unnecessary contact from now on, my lady." he requests and leaves the room right after.

My hand slowly lowers until it falls limp at my side. I fall onto my knees, feeling incredibly weak. Time feels as if it has frozen over. And all that moves is my heart, in a slow beat. The floor remains firm despite how heavy my limbs are. I don't know when, but I curl into a ball and cry my heart break out. The rain outside silences my cries, and the lightning strikes every time I peer back up in hopes he will appear at the door with second thoughts.

0o0o0o0o

The morning birds sounded quite lovely after all the rain last night. Though, I never knew the sound of rain could be so pleasant to the ears either. It comforted me the whole night for once. The storm stopped around five in the morning. It is now seven in the morning and I am still laying in my bed. I did not get a wink of sleep the whole night. I dare not try, despite how much my body wants me to. Everything aches too much; I know I would wake up crying if I did fall asleep.

I sigh as I hear the guests move around. I am too ashamed to open my door and greet the world. More like, face Sebastian. I feel like I ruined a perfectly good relationship. I mean, I considered us friends, romantic feelings aside. That feels impossible right now. Good job, me. I wasn't even friend-zoned. I was just denied. I thought he would make more jokes about my feelings. But in the end, he thought it was too weird also...huh. I rub my dry eyes and sit up. If I don't get out of bed, my brother will scold me for not acting like a noble lady.

I slide out of it but almost fall forward. I cup my forehead as I correct my footing. I'm kind of lightheaded, probably from dehydration. The amount of water that flowed from my eyes the whole night...could fill a pond I'm sure. My bedroom looks greyer than usual, despite the darkness that envelopes it. Someone knocks on my door abruptly and I freeze mid-step. It doesn't feel like Sebastian that is outside the door. Thank god, for once in my life.

"Come in." I holler and grab my robe. I slip it on in time before Mey-Rin pops her head in. "Lady Rina?" she calls out. "It's so dark!" she cries.

"I just...woke up." I lie and she opens the door wider. Light streams in through the large gap. I avoid it as if it were poison. I don't think my appearance is the best right now. "It's very late! All the guests are about to leave!" she announces, and she wanders into the bedroom. "We must get you dressed."

I sigh loudly and she paces over to my curtains. I watch her peel them open, letting all the morning sunshine coming through. I hiss at it and rub my eyes at the sudden brightness. "That's better!" she exclaims and turns to look at me. "Lady Rina, are you alright?!" she shouts suddenly. She dashes toward me and examines me.

I stare at her with dead eyes, I have no energy whatsoever. "Probably not, but I have no choice to be okay until a later date."

She stands on her tippy toes and tilts her glasses down to peer into my eyes. "Your eyes so red—!" she shouts, her face screaming worry. I smack a hand over her mouth with an 'ssh' sound. "Be quiet!" I hiss at her.

She nods and I slowly let go, "Are you sure?" she whispers instead.

I glance away and walk away from her. "Let's get me dressed..." I utter. I can practically feel her eyes burn a hole in my back.

0o0o0o0o

After getting dressed, Mey-Rin led me outside to the entrance stairwell. I spare Sebastian a single glance to find him with his Jeremy disguise still on. Numerous carriages await as the guests prepare to leave. I spot Irene and Grimsby already getting into a carriage. I look around for Arthur and spot him loading his luggage onto his carriage. I become more depressed at the thought of his departure. I don't want to be left alone here to suffocate. I grab the shawl that is wrapped around my shoulders, even tighter.

Not wasting any more time, I pace down the stairs. I want to say goodbye to someone I value as a good friend. Not to mention, a great novelist and famous writer of the era. I quicken my pace when he begins to enter the carriage. "Arthur!" I call out, hoping I catch his attention in time. He stops mid-way onto the step, and he turns his head toward my voice. His eyes brighten as I approach closer to him.

"Lady Rina!" he shouts back with a smile. He steps back down, and I meet him. His smile is a bit infectious and I cannot help from a small one finding a way onto my lips. "I thought I'd miss you." he admits and scratches the back of his head.

"No one woke me up, I apologize," I inform him. "After such a long night, I had a hard time getting sleep."

He frowns then and lowers his arm. His eyes roam my face and I make my smile spread. It doesn't trick him though. Maybe my acting is kind of bad. "You don't look so well." he comments.

"Okay, I got no sleep." I correct myself with a chuckle. He does not find it humorous. "Please, take care of yourself," he says seriously.

I feel my eyes widen, not expecting such concern from someone is such a short time. I feel my eyes prick with tears that cannot develop. "Can I have a hug?" I ask, my voice is shaky. I really could use a hug after all this bullshit. Plus, I am going to miss him.

"E-Eh?!" he gasps and takes a step back. I shuffle toward him and wrap him into one. He squirms in my grasp and I let out a sniffle by accident. He stops afterward until I feel him pat my back gently after a second. "Okay, okay, I got you." he calmly reassures. I hiccup and smile softly, happy there is someone my age who cares. Even if it is a little bit, it feels wonderful to lean onto someone who is not cold or resentful to the action.

I pull away and rub my eyes, "Thanks." I mutter. "I really needed that."

He smiles at me and pats my head once, "Write to me anytime you need to, alright?"

I feel a small spark of joy erupt inside me, "Really? I would love that."

He nods, "In the meantime, keep an eye out for my articles."

I smile at the thought of reading his work. Knowing how brilliant they will be. "I'll be your top fan! I can promise you that!"

He tilts his head in confusion, "Fan?"

I shake my head back at him, a smirk making its way on my face. I push him towards the steps of his carriage which catches him off guard. "Yep! It means your number one supporting person. So, please take care of yourself and just be amazing, okay?"

He climbs into the carriage due to me forcing him in. He leans out the window slightly, "You really think I can do it?" he asks.

The wind picks up a little and makes my hair swing sideways. I think about his novels, his movies/t.v. shows, his stereotypes by that time, and the merchandise. I smile again at him; one so bright I don't think I'll ever feel this way again for a while. So, I stand there, relishing in the moment of being happy for this small amount of time left. I tuck my hair behind my ear, "It's not that you 'can' do it. I know you will do it."

His eyes widen considerably, and I take a step back. I capture his face in my mind, not knowing if I will ever see him again. "Goodbye, Arthur Conan-Doyle, the best writer this era is yet to see."

I watch as a blush colors his cheeks, "Farewell, Lady Rina Phantomhive."

I take another step back, my heart aching again at the thought of him leaving for good. I really liked Arthur, he's a very good and smart individual. He should not be tainted anymore. "Just call me Rina." I say and turn my back on him after. The wind pushes against me again, and I can feel my emotions flying away. Not everything lasts forever, I need to remind myself that. Not even the people in our lives. Whether it be death, tragedy, disease, and anything else. People disappear for a reason. The idea of being alone is a horrifying feeling.

But not as bad as the feeling of looking at the man you love, who does not care for you the way you wish he did. And living with him every single day, having contact, and seeing his face. It hurts more when he does not spare you a look as he passes by you. Leaving you in the dust, not looking back because they know a person's love is nothing to them. All because they are designed to not feel such a thing, even toward an ordinary human. However, they can build a common understanding of something they eat. Just as a human can develop a friendship with any animal, they should be afraid of. The two are too different from one another in more ways than one.

I can hear Sebastian walk past me. I can only guess he is visiting Arthur one last time. After all, my brother liked the author quite a bit. I don't even have to look behind me to confirm that. I continue to the stairwell and find Ciel standing at the top of it. He catches my gaze; his face remains calm. I walk up the stairs, however, they tire me out quickly. Something is definitely wrong with me. I come to his side and peer back down at the carriages. I notice Irene sitting in the window of a carriage and the coach jumps on top.

Irene looks up at us with a smile. I do not return it, but I wave her goodbye just as her coachman begins to move the carriage. The familiar trotting of horses becomes distant rather quick and they are gone before I know it. Next is Charles and Mr. Woodley, I glare heavily at the two of them. They're both scumbags. They leave even quicker than Irene did. After them, Lau and Ran-Mao leave without much of a goodbye. I'm sure I'll see them again sometime soon. Lastly, Arthur's carriage leaves and Sebastian comes back to the stairs, wearing a smirk.

I stare at the carriage sadly and I do not wish to look at it for long. I turn around with nothing to say and head toward the doors. Sebastian makes it to the top of the steps by the time I have my hand on the door handle. I open it and stroll inside, ready to curl up in my bedroom for the rest of the day. I need to relax and hopefully sleep for ten hours. I hear Sebastian and Ciel enter as I am halfway up the stairs. They follow behind me, but no one decides to speak. I feel like we are all avoiding each other. More like, my brother and Sebastian are avoiding me.

I hear loud footsteps suddenly and I whip around as the doors burst open. I find a panting Arthur slouched against the front doors, staring at us with wide shaky eyes. "Arthur?" I question, not sure why he is back.

"Why so flustered? Did you forget something?" Sebastian asks Arthur, I notice a cocky smirk on his lips. I narrow my eyes at him, wondering what the hell is going on.

"I came back here to confirm the truth. Pastor Jeremy...no—Butler Sebastian!" Arthur shouts.

I feel my eyes widen; how on Earth did Arthur figure it out?! I watch as Sebastian's smirk spreads as he peers down at him as Arthur walks further into the front foyer. "Excellent. It seems we underestimated you a little." Sebastian chuckles and reaches toward his face. He grabs at the skin, "Or wouldn't I be more likely to say..." he continues and pulls at it. It stretches the further he pulls it away from him. "it appears that we have rudely underestimated you, sir?"

The skin detaches itself from Sebastian's face. He messes with his hair briefly, returning it to its long style. I sigh and grab a fistful of my own hair. I really didn't want to involve Arthur in the truth. What does Ciel plan on doing to him? I ponder and glare at my brother. I watch as Arthur flounders slightly, his mouth opening and closing in shock. "I-I can't believe it. How could something so unreal be happening..." Arthur trails off as he stares at Sebastian in horror.

"Oh. Didn't you come back because you were certain of this?" Sebastian asks, a bit stunned. "If you had just gone back, you would have returned to your peaceful 'reality'."

"You shouldn't have come back..." I mumble, realizing our friendship will be over in an instant. God damnit...

No one hears me or pretends they didn't. "So, why did you come back?" Sebastian continues to inquire. "Trembling even."

Arthur hesitates to answer for a few seconds, "B...Because if my uncomfortable feeling wasn't 'simply' an uncomfortable feeling. I'd have to go after the Yard's carriage immediately!"

Ciel laughs abruptly which spooks me slightly. I was not expecting that reaction from him at all. "Your sense of justice is so strong, Mr. Woodsmith." Ciel comments. "You did mention in your works that you liked knights of the middle ages. Didn't you realize that if you knew the truth, you wouldn't be able to return home?"

"What?!" Arthur shouts in disbelief.

"I'm just joking." Ciel teases lightly. I facepalm at my brother's mock. I can practically see the sweat flowing off Arthur. "It's as you guessed..." Ciel resumes up the stairs. He turns his head toward Arthur, giving him a stern side glance, "Woodley wasn't the criminal. In this crime anyways..."

Arthur gasps loudly in response. "However, he deserves to be in that carriage."

"...W-What do you mean?" Arthur stutters in confusion.

Ciel turns back around and continues his path, passing me on the way. "Let's not stand and talk. We might as well have some elevenses prepared." Ciel insists. "Sebastian."

"Yes." Sebastian responds with a bow. I stare at him with a frown. I decide to follow my brother, not wanting to be stuck with Sebastian if I do not need to be. No matter how much I wish for his closeness...

I bite my lip and I hear Arthur follow us. Sebastian ends up taking the long way to the greenhouse. I sit down at a table with Arthur and Ciel. Sebastian leaves to go get the snacks and tea. No one speaks for during these moments. This would be the perfect time for a cell phone to be playing within my hands. Instead, I have to entertain myself with my fingers; I pull them anxiously, feeling regret bubble in me. I feel a bit regretful for my actions. I did not know this hurt so much. Nor did I know Arthur would be further dragged into this. All I can wonder is: why?

Why did my brother allow him to see the truth? I cannot fathom it. I do not see the motive for once and I feel completely lost. It's hard to wrap my head around it. Sebastian eventually comes back while rolling a tea cart. He stops at the table and sets the table. He keeps his distance when he pours my tea and I stare at his hands as he does. They leave my line of sight not too long after. My heart skips a beat painfully, I hold back a wince.

"Today I prepared you Fortnum and Mason's Darjeeling second flush," Sebastian informs us as he pours Arthur's cup. "For snacks, I have petite fours."

I stare at the snacks, usually I'd be happy to eat. However, I cannot find the stomach to even do that. The tea appears most unappetizing to me, the scent is more annoying than anything. I continue to gaze at the table, not having the energy to look up. I hear Ciel pick up his cup next, "We haven't poisoned it, so please help yourself." he offers. "So? How did you know that he was alive, Mr. Wordsmith?"

"Actually, it's not like I had some sort of conviction that he was still alive," Arthur admits and that catches my attention. I stare him in confusion, wondering how did know then. "It was more like that I kept having this vague sense of discomfort. I'm not sure how to say this but he was just...too perfect."

Sebastian...too perfect? How true that is, it is hard not to laugh at the thought. "Even though I had this uncomfortable feeling about the butler Sebastian and Pastor Jeremy, there wasn't a single flaw in either of them to be suspicious of...they were too perfect." Arthur continues. "So perfect, it was strange instead."

"Not a lie." I comment quietly. It's the truth that Sebastian can be too perfect. So perfect, he fools you. Makes you think he can do anything, but, even a demon has their limits right? Nothing is so almighty. I feel Sebastian's eyes on me, but I ignore them. It's best I start doing that if I really want to feel better.

"...And by this, you are trying to say?" Sebastian asks.

"That there is no way you could have prepared everything so perfectly before dying...well, being murdered," Arthur states, his face morphing into one of seriousness. "The food, the owl, even your words to me were too perfect. That wasn't just a foreboding. The pastor Jeremy who appeared afterward was suspicious no matter how you looked at it, but his alibi was so perfect that there was no reason to doubt it. And then his words at our parting...the moment I heard that I realized the true nature of my constant discomfort. And also, 'the possibility of something unreal' that would overthrow all our reasoning." he rants his conclusions.

"The possibility of something unreal?" Ciel questions.

"The possibility..." Arthur pauses and his gaze flickers to Sebastian in discontent. "...that the butler Sebastian had not died. When I thought of that, I just couldn't contain myself..."

I sigh silently and rub my temple, damn humans for being so curious. "So, you came back after believing such words from yourself?" I ask, feeling irritated.

"You're all one would expect from someone who earned the young masters and lady's praise." Sebastian comments, I can tell he is humored by the tone of his voice.

"Stop saying such unnecessary things." Ciel bites back at Sebastian.

A moment of silence passes, and I notice Sebastian shift. It's easy to not look at him in the face. "And? What part of me made you think so?" he asks Arthur.

"Once was during at the time of Lord Siemens death," Arthur mentions. "At that time, you weren't doing anything but observing our movements. We're talking about the person who reacted so swiftly during the disturbance at the evening party here. When I think of it now, I can't help but there must have been a reason for it. Didn't you know?" he asks Sebastian at the end. "That the suspicions on the earl would be lifted as soon as the next murder occurred. Then when the earl was suspected, you didn't utter a single word in his defense. For a butler to not protect his master even a little is strange."

I stare at Arthur in awe, finding even more admiration for the man. He's not only a great novelist but a fucking genius. I didn't even notice those things! I finally look at Sebastian's face, my curiosity overwhelming my pain briefly. He sports a smirk, and his eyes are closed, "Of course...I realized this."

Arthur sits up abruptly, "So you really—?!"

"However," Sebastian interrupts his outburst. "that wasn't the reason I didn't protect the young master." he snickers.

"Huh?" Arthur voices his confusion. I find Ciel glaring at Sebastian which his teacup near his lips, "Hmph. You probably thought it served me right, didn't you?"

"Not at all?" Sebastian says, his eyes exclaiming a broad amusement to every word. "I was just taken out aback at how, while you predicted that something would probably be set up, you quickly gave in to sleep and I left to take care of the mess."

I sigh, having been known this whole thing was a farce. I'm not even surprised about how sneaky these two were. "Wa-Wait a second! By predicting, you mean..." Arthur shouts in disbelief.

Sebastian pours my brother another cup of tea with a side smirk, "We knew beforehand that there was a person in the mixed up in dinner party that wanted to torment the young master."

"S-So you mean?" Arthur questions with a stutter. "You predicted that this incident would occur?!" he shouts next even more dumbfounded.

"Indeed," Sebastian confirms hauntedly. "We also predicted that master Siemens would probably be made a sacrifice for it. And that I would be killed."

Arthur lurches out of his chair and slams his hands on the table in bewildering shock. "WHAT!?" he booms, his mouth hanging open. I watch in boredom and exhaustion; this is going to be a long conversation. I'm more interested in the snake mishap. I'm sure the two boys are getting a kick out of this. After all, they planned it all without me might I add. A few minutes fly by as Arthur processes everything, I bet he needs to. This is all quite crazy if I say so myself.

"Wait a minute!" Arthur yells at Sebastian. "Why didn't you say that immediately?! If you had said so, surely it would have been settled without the earl being suspected!"

Sebastian looks at Ciel, "The young master seemed to be observing the situation, so I did the same."

"A murder under those circumstances...at first I thought must have been a setup," Ciel admits while eating a snack. "Aside from him being alive or dead, I did guess that Siemens had taken the poison himself. After that, it's as the butler said."

I hum quietly in thought, a bit proud of my brother for being such a critical thinker. These are things I did not even take note of. "I thought it wouldn't be too late even if we moved after catching the criminal's tail." Ciel summarizes with a smug look toward Arthur.

"I see," Arthur says, appearing deep in thought. "that's why you made him refill the coal, right. I caught on to that as well. There's no need to collect ashes in an empty room. Even so, he was killed in that room while collected ashes."

Sebastian looks off into the distance after Arthur's claim, "Indeed. That order's true meaning was 'inspect the hearth closely'. Though you are a such a cruel master." he says and looks back at my brother. Ciel stares at him innocently and sips his tea. I realize now that Sebastian did not know he was going to be stabbed in that room. Ciel knew though, I find it kind of funny as well. "Since you gave me the order, knowing I would be killed if I inspected the hearth."

"I never thought it would go as we expected for so long." Ciel smirks.

"As you expected?" Arthur questions his statement.

Sebastian smirks as well, "Yes, the night I was killed. This wasn't a scenario decided by God or fate. But one decided by my master. With timing decided by the master. I was killed by the criminal expected by my master. By the one who came to torment my master—"

"The queen's servant, Earl Charles Grey." I cut him off with a sneer.

All of them stare at me with shock. "You knew?" Ciel asks me.

I nod, "I could smell Sebastian's blood on him."

"Eh?!" Arthur shouts. "How could you even smell that?!"

I shrug and sweat drops, "I don't know I just can!"

"Why didn't you say anything?" Arthur asks with a frown and a disappointed gaze directed at me. I blink at the look, feeling guilty instantly. "What did you want me to say? I can smell the blood on him. I would've been called crazy." I point out. "Besides, I already know Ciel would be mad at me for releasing such information too early."

"So, you're saying all of you knew who the real criminal was!?" Arthur cries in more shock. "And then, you, Sebastian, threw your life away!? All because it was your master's orders?"

Sebastian smiles and lays a hand on top of his chest, "Indeed. I don't tell lies."

Ciel sighs softly and rests his head on his knuckles. "In any case, the ruthless way in which my master exploits people...I mean, butlers, deserves a royal warrant." Sebastian continues with a fake grin now. "After I made preparations for three days' worth of food. I gave instructions for the next day to the chef and gardener. For when worst came to worst, I gave the owl I had captured in the forest to the maid. And I wrote a report regarding the hearth inspection to the young master. Then I returned to my work as the young master had asked. I was found by Finny as ordered. I just meant for it to be a little revenge but Earl Grey's puzzled look...it certainly made me laugh."

I would have laughed too because Charles is easy to do that with already. I listen to Sebastian's explanation of events quite willingly. I mean, I can't deny that I love his voice; especially when he sounds so amused.

"And then, the young master and lady put on quite a realistic show," Sebastian admits, still talking about what happened. "Furthermore, with me in a position where I couldn't move...his cunning was admirable. As a corpse, I was able to obtain an alibi and freedom. It was a step forward in being able to freely accomplish my job. However, emergencies are a part of a butler's job, like this, I managed to avoid the worst crisis in all my years as a butler by just a hair's breadth. After that, I recovered the shards of the ampul that Earl Grey had thrown into the garden. I threw them into the hearth in Mr. Woodley's room and completed the young master's order. Then, I camouflaged myself as Pastor Jeremy. So, I returned carrying the ticket along with my own alibis—"

"So that ticket was a fake!?" Arthur interrupts him in disbelief. "No, it is the real thing, I went into London to buy it. During a break at the dinner party, I slipped out and bought it." Sebastian replies.

"That's impossible!" Arthur counters.

Sebastian tosses him a fake smile and produces the ticket from his jacket. "If you have any doubts then please, when you return to London, let the stub be inspected at the ticket booth."

"So, everything, including the owl, was a part of this little play to make Jeremy look convincing." Ciel shrugs.

Arthur sweat drops, "That's right! What was written in the letter?"

"Ah, yes, about that letter..." Ciel drifts off with an irritated look. "It was blank. It was just him trying to be funny." he gestures to Sebastian.

"It was just some basic training for you young master since your studies were on hold during the incident." Sebastian smirks. "From there, my double role—"

"Wait a second!" Arthur interrupts with a shout. "But I...I investigated your corpse together with you Jeremy you know?"

"Ah, that's," Sebastian drifts off, thinking about what happened. "I was simply one step ahead of everyone. The only obstacle was Earl Grey. First, I investigated master Siemens. Then I went to master Phelps..."

I scratch my head in thought, that makes no sense and sounds elusive. Now that I think about it, I don't remember feeling Sebastian's presence coming from the body but more so directly from Jeremy. How did he do it? Sebastian explains quickly that he managed to take Mr. Phelps's body and use him as a decoy. He simply placed a wig on him to make him look like Sebastian. I stare at the demon in shock, he's more intelligent than I thought. Even I must admit, how smart that was.

"So that was Mr. Phelps's body?!" Arthur shouts in shock. "Yes," Sebastian confirms. "Thanks to the young masters bad acting and Mr. Woodsmith's personality I was able to get by."

I notice a tick mark settle at Ciel's temple and I hold back a chuckle. "You know the rest; I supported the young master as Pastor Jeremy," Sebastian concludes with a condescending look. "Mr. Woodley was arrested. And the young master got away unscathed without conviction."

Arthur grabs his head, appearing very confused and agitated, "I don't get it...after hearing your story, the incident...no everything, I can't make heads or tails of it anymore." he says. "If that story was real, then everything that happened was Queen Victoria's butler, Earl Grey's doing. To commit murders, he had the stage prepared by the Earl Phantomhive and then even tried to make him out to be the killer. Even so, the Earl and his butler especially made thorough preparations to clear any suspicion of surrounding themselves. And even though they knew that Earl Grey was the killer, they made the innocent Mr. Woodley into the culprit."

I rest my head cheek on my knuckles, leaning on the table for support. That's because the queen that Ciel was being untrustworthy I can only assume. The only reason why I could think she would think that; would be our failure of the last mission. Well, not a complete failure, but we were supposed to bring back the children. However, Ciel killed them all instead.

"Because everything," Ciel mutters abruptly. "was her majesty, the queens wish."

"EH?!" Arthur cries in shock.

"Right now, England's position is being threatened by Germany and America. Her majesty planned for Siemens to be crushed and the growth of Germany's military power to obstructed. The guest from Germany, Siemens. His bank has made large investments into the development of domestic ships etc. I wouldn't be exaggerating if I were to say he was a key figure in the German heavy industry developments." Ciel informs. "The power of that influence is perhaps somewhat like the strength of a butterfly flapping its wings...however, that will one day turn into a great storm. Its theory is called 'The Butterfly Effect'."

"Her Majesty, Queen Victoria, built up the Great British empire that reigns over the world in just fifty years. Maybe she can somehow see which butterflies are able to change the world with the flapping of their wings." Ciel continues.

"But why did Earl Grey want to put the blame on you?" Arthur asks, leaning forward with interest.

"I'm ashamed to admit that a little prank of mine got found out." Ciel answers. "I expected some form of punishment if it were discovered but, to think that she'd try to pin a murder on me...her majesty sure has a sense of humor."

"Yeah, what a prank," I say slowly and sarcastically. What he said is probably true, but the fact it was a 'prank' is completely a lie. Ciel glares at me briefly before diminishing the look.

"Why the innocent, Mr. Woodley?" Arthur asks next. "Didn't I tell you?" Ciel questions. "He deserved to be in that horse carriage. However, I've always been good at playing games. I used Mr. Woodley, who I summoned to be the scapegoat, as my pawn."

I nod in thought, as I figured something close to this. My brother most definitely used him the more I think about it. It's kind of funny, to think he invited someone who deserved to rot in jail. I'm glad I don't need to see that pig again. I hear a newspaper crinkle and I find one in Sebastian's hands.

"Upfront, he runs a diamond polishing business. However, his true face is that of a weapons dealer who sells illegal weapons that he got with the diamonds conflict." Ciel continues.

Sebastian unfolds the newspaper and I read the large headline, 'Diamond Trader in South Africa Dies'. Oh wow, I bet Mr. Woodley has something to do with that. "Furthermore," Sebastian begins and points at the headline, "there was an incident about two weeks ago where the president of the Roze company that excavates diamonds was murdered."

"For people of the underground society to use their power to endanger people of the normal society is a grave violation of the rules." Ciel states. "Through my own routes, I was able to confirm that Woodley was the criminal."

"It would clear the queen's worries and make sure the young master kept out of harm. It's two birds with one stone." Sebastian simplifies with a side smirk.

Ciel leans forward with his own and clasps his hands together. "Since I was going to get rid of him anyway, he was the perfect person to use as a scapegoat, right?" Ciel insists, wanting to know Arthur's answer.

"Mr. Woodley's words at that time..." Arthur trails off with widened eyes. He stares at my brother with a mix of horror and fear. "Just exactly what are you?!"

"Tracking down people who break the commandments of the British underground society and dealing with them, the Queen's Watchdog." Ciel surmises. "What happened this time was no more than a little game where the queen reconfirmed whether I had this talent or not."

I sigh again, knowing all of this too well. I cast a concerned look at Arthur to find him trembling in his seat. "N-No way...moreover, what you've told me up until now is true then he...that butler is..." Arthur rambles, his big eyes staring Sebastian down.

I notice Ciel smirk coyly, "'There is nothing more deceptive than an obvious fact,' wasn't it, Mr. Wordsmith?" he asks. "It's been in front of you all along."

I feel my eyebrows dip in confusion, wait what is going on here? Don't tell me they are revealing Sebastian's true nature. I begin to panic for Arthur's life. They can't kill him! I won't allow it! I clench the fabric of my dress, ready to jump in front of Arthur at any given moment. My heart thunders in my ears in response to such stress.

"Indeed," Sebastian confirms and stalks to Arthur's side with a ghost of a smirk on his lips. "The truth that I am not human." he mutters darkly and leans closer to Arthur. I watch his eyes glow subtlety and my heart hammers even more in my chest. It doesn't take long for Arthur to knock himself backward in terror, he lands on the floor with his limbs sprawled out.

He does not stop staring at Sebastian, his face as white as a sheet. Sebastian creeps closer and I find black tendrils begin to develop around him. I frown in disapproval, wondering what will happen to Arthur now. I can hear him panting heavily in panic.

"'Now that I do know I shall do my best to forget it.'" Sebastian quotes with an evil smirk, I can see his pointed teeth from here. "Right, Mr. Wordsmith?" Sebastian asks in a mocking tone. I can feel the shivers ride up my spine at his voice. It sounds so sultry; it makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside.

I shake my head of those thoughts as Arthur springs up from the ground with a scream. He tries to run away from Sebastian, and I stand up as well. My chair scrapes against the ground as Sebastian stalks toward Arthur. Sebastian disappears for a second before reappearing in front of Arthur who crashes against Sebastian's chest. Sebastian grabs him and holds him up, he leans his face closer to Arthur's. "One happens to wonder what would happen were you to reveal this matter." Sebastian utters darkly.

Arthur makes a scared sound, his teeth gritted down. "I'm sure you understand, right?" Sebastian continues.

Arthur breaks out of Sebastian's grasp and flounders toward the door, "I-LL NEVER SAY! I'LL NEVER SAY IT SO PLEASE!" he cries loudly.

"Those words. I will make sure you never ever forget them." Sebastian threatens before Arthur is out the door and running like his life depended on it. I watch as black tendrils follow Arthur to a certain point before Sebastian brings them back. The room is almost completely covered in black and shadows that wrap around Sebastian. I stare at him with wide eyes, never seeing anything like it. This feels my old dream of him, it's very familiar. I can't really see Sebastian through the darkness that is so very inky.

When the black leaves the room and goes back into Sebastian, does he finally turn around toward us. "Rina?" I hear Ciel call out.

I don't answer and keep watching Sebastian as he comes closer to the table. I mean, I knew of his trait of the black tendrils and such. But I've never seen so much nor felt so much power radiating from one form. I could feel it pressing on me in the room during those short moments. But it felt oddly comforting and I don't know why. I want to hold him. Why am I feeling this way?

"Rina!" Ciel shouts again and is it then, do I look at him. "Huh?" I ask, not sure what is going on. Everything feels a little disorientating right now.

"Are you alright?" he asks, his eye showing concern for me.

I ruffle the back of my hair in thought, kind of feeling lost. "Yeah, I think so."

"You think so?" he repeats with a sweatdrop.

Sebastian comes to my side, very close to me. I tense automatically, remembering our old discussion from last night. It doesn't take long for me to feel sad again. "Young master, she must be in some shock from such a heavy reveal." he offers.

"Yeah, something like that I suppose." I frown and sit back down in my seat. Ciel simply narrows his eye at me until he sighs. "I told you I wouldn't go crazy." I mutter under my breath, mocking the demon next to me. I can feel the spark of humor come from him, it wasn't hard to notice.

"Whatever, anyway, why did you have to reveal your true form to him?" Ciel asks Sebastian next. I am also curious as to why. "He is a writer. If he goes through an eccentric experience, he will absolutely want to write about it. Writers are those kinds of creatures." Sebastian answers with a smirk.

I lean back in my chair, a bit pissed off he did that. "I can't believe you." I comment and give him a side glare. How will this affect his future writing? I am worried to know if it changes.

"Young Master, you liked his novel, didn't you? And my lady, you seemed quite enamored with him from the beginning. Both of you appreciated something about him or his works. Weren't you disappointed knowing there was no continuation?" he asks.

I scowl at Sebastian, "I wasn't enamored as you put it. I just know what he was capable of and will be. That might have changed now though since you decided to show your true colors."

"But Rina, I thought you haven't read any of his work before?" Ciel questions, obviously confused.

I sit there for a second, searching my mind for an excuse. Me and my big mouth, god damnit. "I guess I could say...that his intellect was far more normal than a regular human. That's what I meant; he will be a capable writer based on what I observed." I semi-lie through my teeth. I mean, it's not a lie though either, because it's true.

Ciel nods slowly, accepting my answer. "Anyway, his stories were okay to pass time with," Ciel utters and lifts his teacup up in thought.

"His next work will be something to look forward to, right, my lady?" Sebastian asks with a fake smile. I glance away nervously because I know he caught on. "Maybe..." I mumble.

Sebastian's fake smile irritates me more than ever, but I deal with it. After this is all over, I'm going to bed and never waking up again. Too many things to be depressed about now. It's like this mansion is made to make you feel this way. "Well, now that Mr. Wordsmith left also, I will be starting the preparations for lunch." Sebastian informs us.

"Wait." Ciel orders. "I assumed you didn't mention it on purpose, so I didn't anything...but you haven't explained Phelps murder yet."

"Ah, that's right," Sebastian says and his fist against the palm of his hand in realization. I can't help but find his expression cute. Ah, I need to get over him, holy shit. "Actually, there was another uninvited guest."

"I knew it!" I shout, proud of myself for figuring it out. Ciel gasps and lurches forward in his chair, "What did you say?!"

Sebastian comes closer to the table and squats in front of it. He picks up the tablecloth, holding it upward. He grabs something underneath and pulls out a giant wooden crate. I feel my eyes widen in surprise, not suspecting that to be there.

"What the hell!?" I shriek. I notice the chains wrapped around it too. "Is this how we capture people now? In wooden chained boxes?!" I exasperate.

"Since it was sudden, I had taken him to this luxury suite." Sebastian explains.

"The killer is there?!" Ciel asks in shock.

"Indeed." Sebastian confirms.

Ciel and I stand in sync. We come closer to the box; I stare at it curiously. Who could be inside? "Show me what's inside." Ciel commands.

"Are you sure about that?" Sebastian asks with a tilt of his head. "Don't act so high and mighty, open it up." Ciel orders more sternly.

"Well then," Sebastian replies and begins to undo the chains. He lefts the box open and I step closer, wondering who it could be inside. I hear a hissing sound before a snake jumps out of the box, one in my direction and one in Ciel's. My reflexes react so fast, I catch it in midair before it can take a chunk out of my face. However, Sebastian didn't think I would catch it in time and his hand wraps around mine and the snake that jumped out at Ciel. I blink in surprise as I stare at Sebastian. His eyes are also wide, looking at me too. Ciel falls backward, not expecting such a jump scare.

The snakes hiss wildly, wiggling around in our grips. "I got it." I say softly. He nods, and slowly let's go to make sure it doesn't move.

"Wha...wha..." Ciel stammers, staring at the opened mouthed snake that glares at him. The snake in my hand wraps its tail around my arm. I move my fingers upward, toward its head. I push down at the top of it, making sure it can't bite me or move to bite anyone else. I move my arm up and tilt the head toward my face. I stare at its mouth, a bit fascinated by its fangs. "So, these are the poisonous snakes that killed Phelps," I comment in awe as venom drips from one fang.

"They seem to be extremely resentful to you young master." Sebastian notes.

"Hey, what about me?" I ask, wondering why the snake came after me too. Sebastian glances at me with a knowing look in his eyes, "Your scents are similar due to the laundry detergent." he answers. I nod slowly, accepting that response; it makes sense why it could assumingly attack me as well. Sebastian helps my brother up with his free hand, "That's why I asked, 'Are you sure about that?'."

I glance at the box to find Snake from the circus confined in rope. I stare in shock, not thinking it would be a snake who came for us. "Snake!?" I yell. He simply shifts his glare between all of us.

"Master Phelps true murderer...the thirteenth person really did exist you know." Sebastian implores.

"Why is he here?!" Ciel asks as Sebastian takes the ribbon off Snake's mouth.

Snake takes a deep breath of air while looking at my brother, "The day after Black, Smile, and Missy snuck into Joker and everyone's tent, they all disappeared. It's definitely your fault!" Snake shouts. "Says Wilde." his monotone voice says afterward. "That's why I followed Smile from the scent on his clothes. Says Oscar."

"Two Indian men directed us here from the other house we followed the scent to. We waited till night in the greenhouse. Says Oscar."

I stare dumbfounded at Snake. I turn to my brother and Sebastian turns with us, "Those idiots..." Ciel and I whisper with tick marks on our temples. Sebastian sweat drops and raises his hand to cover his whisper, "Not even we could have predicted this..."

Ciel turns back toward Snake and clears his throat, "I see...so?"

I look back at Snake, "You mentioned their disappearance was our fault?" I ask.

"That's right! After you guys showed up, they started acting weird! Says Woodworth." Snake exclaims, his snake friends hissing loudly in sync. I frown at that, knowing exactly what happened. Snake grits his teeth, "I somehow got that Joker, and they were hiding something from me. However, despite my appearance, those guys called me their family." he mutters sadly. He suddenly becomes angry though, "You took that from me! I definitely won't forgive you! Says Wilde." Snake screams.

I feel my heart go out to him; it really does. However, I can't fix my brother's choices. I cast him a curious gaze, wondering what's on his mind. He's staring at Snake as if he were seeing someone else. But there is a calculating light that glows in his blue eye subtly.

"The circus group you were in kidnapped children one by one in the places you visited on tour. We became your companions in order to find evidence." Ciel explains calmly.

"T-They were kidnappers...?" Snake asks in a soft voice. "T-That's a lie! Don't talk rubbish! Says Oscar."

"Rubbish? That might be. They made their whereabouts unknown after that. Because my real identity was found before out before we could obtain the evidence...in that sense, I may have taken your peace from you. However, I wanted to save the children that were suffering because of them." Ciel replies without a beat.

I stare at him in disbelief, he's making all this up! What a liar. Then again, I can't be one to judge. Ciel glances down at Snake, his expression calm and concise. "Of course, I want to save you too." Ciel assures him. Snake stares at Ciel in wonder, not believing his words no doubt. Ciel stretches his hand out to Snake slowly. He kneels and unwraps the rope around Snake. "What is this?! Says Wilde." Snake shouts, his snakes on his shoulder on alert.

"Young master!" Sebastian calls out but Ciel stops him with his hand in the air. Ciel takes a step forward, offering his free hand to Snake once more. "Snake," he says. "Come to my mansion."

I feel my eyes widen, not expecting my brother to offer such a thing. This is going too far with the lie, isn't it? What if Snake finds out? Great, another person I must betray at some point. I don't know if my heart can handle all this stress and foreboding. Snake peers up at Ciel in some sort of awe. He abruptly backpedals on his hands and legs, "Wha-What are you saying?! Says Keats."

Ciel walks toward him slowly and cautiously because of the snakes nearby. "You heard me right; I said I want to save you. We are looking for Joker and the other's right now. Of course, to clear up the incident." Ciel lies perfectly with a convincing kind smile. "So, don't you think that staying here would be the fastest way to seeing them again?" he asks rhetorically. "I know they're not bad people from living at the circus. They're kind and cheerful to anyone and everyone. That's why they should atone for their crimes. I'd like for them to achieve true happiness."

I watch the scene play out, as my brother reminds me of a demon, or in this case, Sebastian. He's twisting Snake with sweet words that sound oh so nice while bending the truth of the situation. I glance at Sebastian in the corner of my eye to find him assessing the situation with a calculative gaze. I feel my lips press into a firm line. Especially when I watch Snake take Ciel's hand, obviously lured into the honey trap without knowing it. Everyone is so innocent and this household robs you of it.

0o0o0o0o

I am dressed in a black mourning gown as I attend Sebastian's 'funeral'. It's very windy outside today, and the sun is covered by clouds. We are next to the cathedral where we hosted Madam Red's funeral. The graveyard is in the same vicinity. Bard, Agni, Finnian, and Tanaka carry Sebastian's casket toward the grave that has been dug up by Undertaker.

Speaking of Undertaker, he leads us toward it, and I follow behind the casket with my brother, Elizabeth, Soma, and Mey-Rin. We eventually come to the dug-up grave and I stare at the plaque. It reads, 'Butler Sebastian Michaelis rests here'. I notice his birth is not indicated and it almost makes me laugh. I do wonder how old he really is. Everyone who is holding the casket sets it down gently as possible into the dug-up plot. Undertaker says some words and begins to fill it up with dirt. Once it is done, no one speaks for a while.

Elizabeth can no longer hold back her tears and she pounces on my brother. "Ciel!" she cries and hugs him. "Wah!" Ciel complains.

"Sebastian is a liar! He's so cruel, promising he would never leave you himself!" Elizabeth sobs. Next thing I know, Soma attacks Ciel with a hug too. "Don't cry, Ciel! We'll be with you forever!" Soma cries too. The servants begin to shed tears as well.

I smile sadly at the sight of Ciel receiving such love and care. The wind whips my hair around violently and I shiver. I glance behind me to find Undertaker staring at me with a Chesire grin. I frown at his giddy look, "What?" I ask.

He points at me with his very long-nailed finger, "You look a tired, little lady."

I tuck my hair behind my ear and turn toward him, "Does it matter?" I sigh.

His grin spreads, "It's only a matter of time before that exhaustion hurts you more than you'll ever know."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

He snickers and picks up his shovel, "Who knows. ~ But if a good lady like yourself doesn't find a way to lick those wounds, who's to say if something won't happen. ~"

He walks past me, tilting his top hat which covers half his face. I feel my heart stutter again and I grasp at it painfully. What the hell is that old man talking about? I notice everyone begins to leave finally and I follow behind gradually. However, before I make it far, I hear a bell jingle. So does Finnian and we both look at each other in confusion.

I peer behind me and watch it jingle again, "The bell on the grave is ringing...?" I ponder.

"Even though there's no wind right now." Finnian comments afterward, looking up at the sky.

Undertaker creeps up to my side and I shudder from him being so close. "Oh my, should you really be standing around like that?" he asks with a grin. "If that bell rings, it means he's still alive."

The servants come closer upon hearing that. For a split second all of us stare at the grave in disbelief before the servants dig like crazy with their hands. Undertaker helps with his shovel. "Dig him up!" Finnian cries in a hurry to do just that.

Eventually, the servants pick the casket back up and set it on the ground where it is stable. Bard takes off the cover and Sebastian slowly sits upward while rubbing the back of his head. "Phew. I finally got out of there." Sebastian says with a ruffled look.

"Everyone..." Elizabeth mutters and before I know it, all of them pounce at Sebastian. They tackle him back inside the coffin while laying on him like a doggy pile. I smirk at the sight, finding it funny when Sebastian's personal space is invaded.

"Wai—" Sebastian tries to complain but something cuts him off. Elizabeth's obnoxious sobs spring into the air once more. "You bastard! I thought I'd lost another comrade!" Bard shouts at Sebastian. "Everyone please calm down..." Sebastian orders. However, that only sets off another set of sobs from Finnian and I notice Sebastian sigh.

"I'm glad we put him in a safety coffin." Undertaker comments. Ciel looks away with an exasperated look, "I'll say."

"It's a miracle!" I hear Angi shout somewhere close to me. "Oh, God, I am so grateful!"

I sweatdrop at the irony of the statement. I doubt God could give two shits about Sebastian personally. I find my gaze drifting behind Sebastian to find the sky turning a different hue. The sun is setting a beautiful red-orange that decorates the air. I take a deep breath, still feeling unwell and weak. I ignore everyone around me for a split second and close my eyes. I try to focus on some sort of peaceful thought, but nothing comes to me. All I met with is my guilt, my broken heart, and my long-lasting pain. There is something I need to do before the guilt eats me alive...