"Once more Ciel, you are very close." Sebastian said grinning. The young Earl took in a deep breath, his crimson eyes shining brightly.
"Come on young Master, you can do it!" The servants shouted excitedly. Ciel gave his father a concerned look.
"It will be alright Ciel, do not fear it." Sebastian said.
"What about them,' Ciel pointed to the small group that stood off to the side.
'They will be just fine."
"I told you I hate this game."
"Regardless of whether or not you like it, you must learn to do it. Trust me." Sebastian requested softly.
"Alright Sebastian, I trust you." He turned to his side where he had placed the box containing his silverware set, and pulled out several pieces.
"Are you ready Ciel?"
"Must I be, do we really-"
"Yes." Sebastian said with a sigh.
"Fine, let's get it over with." The boy's crimson eyes flashed brightly.
"Good. Let us play." Sebastian grinned pulling out his own weapons, he walked toward Ciel. The young Earl crossed the field to meet him.
They stood facing each other, glaring into each other's eyes.
"What will you do young one?" Sebastian asked finally.
"Whatever I have to."
"Good." Sebastian began his attack only to be quickly blocked by his son, the older demon leaned forward.
"Very good. Remember to always keep in mind that an opponent will in a desperate situation take any advantage they can. Such as this." He said suddenly moving as if ready to trip the boy. Ciel was ready. He grabbed Sebastian's ankle and pulled the demon to the ground.
"Nicely done love, however, not good enough." Ciel gasped suddenly as he too landed on the ground, Sebastian leaning over him.
"You are fighting against it. Use it." The older demon stood up, leaving the Earl on the ground and beginning to walk away.
A stabbing sensation hit him in his back. He slowly reached a hand behind him and pulled out on of Ciel's knives.
"What about the rule on not turning your back during a fight?" Ciel was now on his feet. Sebastian turned to him, a smile forming on his face as he took out a handkerchief and wiped off the blade.
"So you have been listening. Good to know."
"Great job Young Master!" Finny shouted. Sebastian handed the boy his weapon.
"Never fight against the demon inside you, one day it may save your life." Sebastian advised placing an arm around his son's shoulder.
"Is this the way you learned?" Ciel asked looking up at him.
"Yes, only my father was quite a bit more... How should I put this, well he was not as willing to go easy on me as I am with you."
"You have a father?" Sebastian chuckled.
"Of course, where did you think I came from?" Ciel seemed to think about it.
"Don't know really, I just never imagined that-" he allowed his voice to trail off.
"No one ever does, of course not all of us are born into this life. Some are created, humans who have done so much evil in life, that when finally their life ends and they meet their fate, they are transformed and given various positions."
"I never would have thought" Sebastian patted the top of Ciel's head.
"It is getting late, you worked very hard today in our games. I have one more to introduce to you. It took me many years to win against my father. I hope that you will learn in less time. I have every confidence that you will be able to triumph without much struggle. Perhaps we can get Grell to play, you need at least three.
"Can our family play as well?"
"That is their decision. It is a dangerous game for those who are not being taught."
"Would I hurt them?"
"You could, if you cannot control yourself. That is the reason I suggested Grell."
"After what I did last time, I doubt he'll be willing." Ciel smirked.
"I am certain that he can be convinced. I am truly proud of you my son. You have learned so much and come so far. Let us gather the staff and head back." Sebastian motioned for the servants to join them as Ciel's eyes resumed their human color.
"Sebastian, could I have something sweet when we get home?"
"I don't think that is a good idea, it is nearly bed time. You have a full schedule tomorrow. You promised Lizzy that you would visit with her. She has not been to see you in quite some time. Not since your illness."
"Damn, I forget." Ciel frowned.
"Clearly."
"Young Master, that was an amazing through, the way you got Mr. Sebastian down ans then-" Sebastian cleared his throat and the servants fell silent, stepping away from the father and son.
"I am standing right here you know." He said coldly.
"Sorry Mr. Sebastian." They said in unison as the walked to the carriage.
"Ho. Ho. Ho." Tanaka placed a small hand on the boy and gave an approving nod.
"Thank you." Ciel said smiling.
After the staff entered the carriage, Sebastian walked back to where the game had taken place, he knelt down to gather up Ciel's box. He felt something hit him from behind and a pair of small hands wrapped around his neck, forcing him to the ground.
Ciel let go of his father laughing.
"I got you Sebastian!" The demon sat up, his eyes wide with shock.
"I did not even-" but remembering what his surprise had caused previously, he shook it off just as Ciel began to frown.
" It's like that is it?" The older demon said playfully. The smile was back on the boy's face instantly.
"Yes, it is."
"In that case..." Sebastian began to get up as Ciel jumped to his feet.
"If you expect me to allow you to get away with such behavior, you are very wrong." Ciel turned to run toward the carriage but didn't get far. His father lifted him up in his arms, holding him tight and began to tickle his son.
"St-stop, I-I'm too old to be -" Ciel laughed.
"You must learn that for everything you do, there is consequence." Sebastian said before stopping and bending to let Ciel down. The boy's hands were once again around his neck, prompting Sebastian to hold him close. He was reminded of the countless hugs and joyful greetings that he shared with Ciel as Vincent.
"Daddy!" The small boy called grinning happily, his arms raised as he ran to the door. Vincent had smiled lovingly as he raised the child up.
"My dearest Ciel, you bring me such joy my precious one. I love you very much." He said carrying the young child through the house, as he cuddled into his father's chest.
"I love you, Sebastian." The older demon gave him a small squeeze.
"I love you too Ciel." After another moment they released each other. Sebastian picked up the box once more, handing it to his son.
"Go get in the carriage, I shall be along shortly." Ciel nodded. The demon waited until the boy was safe inside before wiping a tear from his eyes.
Inside the servants who had been watching them had tears of their own.
"What is it?" Ciel asked sitting down next to Mey Rin who pointed to Sebastian.
"He's crying yes he is, I bet they're happy tears."
"Of course they are Mey-Rin, he is finally getting his son back." Everyone's head turned to Tanaka, he sat sipping his tea.
"Thanks to you." Ciel said.
"Oh no young master, I cannot take credit. You see, I simply gave you a suggestion but you were already attempting to act on it of your own will before our talk."
"Are we ready then?" Sebastian asked, suddenly beside the door.
"Ready." Ciel confirmed.
"Good. When we get home, I believe there is still some cake left, but then you must go straight to bed Ciel." He said closing he door and preparing for the journey back.
A/N: I can't thank you enough for all the continued support. I never thought this would be as accepted as it has been. Thank you all for your comments. It really means a lot to know that so many of you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing it.