A/N, I'll most likely forget to upload tomorrow, so I'm uploading the night before! Woo woo! Don't forget to leave a review, and follow/favorite for updates!

If you leave a question review I'll be sure to reply in the next chapter

AND! I'll be uploading daily until the 25th. I'll most likely be continuing the story later on when I have major breaks for schooling, because finals are coming up soon and I'm really stressed ;-;


"Violet! Wake up!" Joker says, shaking a sleeping Ivy awake. She's currently tucked under a quilt on the bottom bunk, resting peacefully. So far, she's slept 15 hours.

"Yea~? Are aliens invadin'?" Ivy replies, groggily rubbing her blurry blue eyes, to see a concerned Joker above her.

"Beast twist'd 'er ankle so she cun't be in the performance 'nymoor! Please, go out in 'er place!" Joker says, and Ivy sits up right, swinging her legs off the bed, thrashing her quilt off her in the progress. She stands up proudly as Joker blushes at her choice in clothing.

"You can count on me! All I need you to do is prepare the aerial straps, call out 2 audience members, the box on the sideline onto the main stage, and get the musical music box ready." I say, and he nods. "I'll meet you there in 10 minutes, please let my friends Black and Smile know this if ya see 'em." I say, shooing him from the tent, a big smile on my face.

I get to be in a circus performance!

Quickly rushing to my trunk, I pull out a violet classic-ballerina skirt with sparkles on it, and I strap this over a purple tank top with a sweetheart neckline. Pulling on black shorts underneath, I throw on my black lace stockings, finishing off the look with black flats. Throwing my hair into the two twin signature buns, I have just enough time to put on cat eye wings in purple eyeliner, with purple lips to match. Slipping black lace gloves over my hands, I rush off to the main tent, and get inside my starting position: a box.


3rd person

"Ladies and gentleman, I have a lovely surprise for you!" Joker says, as two stage hands carry out a large box, painted purple with black lace thrown over it and a large crank on the side, before leaving to the side of the stage. It shimmers slightly in the stage lights, as the full-house circus murmurs about what may be in the box. "Now, I need two assistants...how about you, and you!" He says, pointing at two little kids next to each other, boy and girl. Both have brown hair and bright, green eyes and round glasses, while the little girl has her hair in two pig tails and the boy has a low pony tail. They're wearing middle-class clothing of typical farmers, and the little girl has a dirt smudge on her nose, while the boy had it on his forehead.

They walk up to the stage, and Joker smiles at them, "What's 'er names?" He puts the microphones to their faces in turn.

"Nao!" The little boy says. "Kako!" The little girl says, and the audience 'awws' at their cuteness.

"We're this many!" They exclaim in sync, holding up 4 fingers, and the audience applauds.

"That's lovely,!" Joker says with a light laugh into the microphone. "Can you both crank tha' handle over there, please?" he asks, pointing at the crank on the box. Wordlessly, the twins go over to the box, and start slowly cranking the box. Slowly, the box open, revealing a beautiful, short woman slowly rising up from the box, turning like a ballerina. Black bands hang from her hands, and two tassles of aerial straps' ends, falling from the ceiling. The two stage hands from before quickly run back out, attaching the straps to the hooks on the woman's hand.

She was beautifully dressed in a black leotard with a large, poofed-out violet tutu that sparkled under the light, with long, fishnet stockings paired with it. Her hair buns on the end were dipped purple, and she had matching purple eyeliner. She had large, light blue eyes which stood out against her tan skin, paired with dark, thick arched eyebrows, which remained untouched by her short, thick eyelashes. She had a cupid's bow lip shape, with freckles scattered against her cheeks and the bridge of her nose like stars in the sky. She seemed to be elegant and refined with her body movement, but her appearance was one of a wild beauty.

Music box twinkled, as the Violet woman did half-turns in a staccato beat in 4th position as the aerial straps started to rise.

(PLAY THE VIDEO 'Charlotte Dawson-Aerial Straps')

"Let's have a hand for our assistants!" Joker says, as everyone applauds for little Nao and Kako. The stage hands come back on, giving them lollipops, before sending them off back to their family, taking their place at the crank as they move it in a steady motion. The Violet-woman stands on her pointe-shoes, doing small steps as she turns in the position. After 8 turns, the woman raises both of her hands to the sky, as she starts spinning faster, and the straps rise her into the air as she looks up. One of the stage hands closes the lid of the box, and they all leave the stage, leaving just the Violet-girl.

The spinning stops as she delicately lands on the lid of the box, as she puts her hands to the side, retwisting the straps to get ready for her next move. Suddenly, she gets into pirouette position, and does 5...no, 6 pirouettes, and she lifts her hands into the air again as she is risen off the lid of the box; the audience watches, entranced by every move. She moves her legs outward behind her, as she is spun around, keeping her face neutral. Suddenly, she lifts her legs in a tuck against her stomach, before splitting her left leg onto one of the straps, putting her legs at a 45 degree angle as she keeps spinning.

Her spinning slows, until she lifts her legs parallel of each other, and the spinning increases. During this, she slips her left foot into one of the straps her hand was in, while she slightly stand, and remains spinning. She stretches out her right leg, putting the other slip on, leaving her hands free as she stands up in the straps. She twists her body round one of the straps, pulling herself up slightly than wrapping her right leg around a strap, putting her in mid-air splits, spinning at fast speeds.

Quickly and elegantly, she pulls up slightly, throwing her right leg over her left 4 times, moving her whole body in spins as she does this, finishing in the regular splits, where she spins for a moment. Than, she grabs each strap with a hand, puffing her chest forward as she leans forward, spinning all the while, but at slower speeds.

Sinking deeper, she's soon in almost a 45 degree shape. The crowd applauds, as she pulls herself backwards, flipping her legs through with her, and she drops down, leaving her whole body hanging by the feet. She hangs there, spinning her hands slightly, as she reaches to her tutu and rips it off, shaking it in her hand. She bends upwards, grabbing her right foot's noose, slipping her hand through it, as she completely releases her left foot so she's only holding on by her right hand.

She gently descends like an angel back onto the crate, thrusting the tutu to the side. The crowd applauds as she redoes her straps around her wrists, and steps off the crate.

Taking a running start, she ascends into the air, doing aerobic flips, as she does a superman-like pose, as the aerial straps glide her in the air. Reaching into what seems like a secret pocket, she dusts silver glitter through the air, making it seem like it was snowing in the tent.

She finishes flying around the room, spinning in one spot above the crate as she pirouttes in the air around the straps, as the stage hands lift open the crate's lid, as she gently descends inside. The music box music turns lighter, as the stage crew removes the straps from her hands, and she goes back into 4th position, doing the small staccato turns. When the music fades out, she slowly squats onto her knees, and the crate closes.

The room is silent for a moment, stunned at what had just occurred, before they all burst into applause at the beautiful display they've just witnessed. Joker's eyebrows raise at the amount of applause, surely the Queen in her castle can hear how loud it is from here!

Roses were thrown into the ring, as the box was picked up by the stage-crew and carried off stage. The crowd chanted for an encore, but the box didn't come back out.


UNKNOWN POV

"That performance was bloody brilliant!" The blonde child cackled as he applauded wildly from where he was watching. "Wasn't it, Claude?"

The spiky, raven haired man with golden eyes and glasses nodded. "Yes it was, your majesty."

"I would think it interesting if that girl was at Trancy Manor with us, would it not?" The child asks, licking his lower lip, exposing a bit of the small, golden circle with a star on his tongue.

"I suppose," 'Claude' replies, looking at the box as it was carried off, and the soul inside of it. It was odd, different from most, which made it even more intriguing,

Taking a whiff of the air, 'Claude' could smell the smell of her, which was currently a mixture of sweat, hot chocolate, and peppermint. It was a refreshing smell, except for the salty sweat.

"Claude I want her!" The young blonde replies, and Claude raises a brow. "How so, your highness?" He asks, and the blonde boy smirks, blue eyes flashing.

"I just...want her!" He says, as Claude smirks. "All in due time, but one day she'll be yours."


UNKNOWN POV 2

"Phipps, wasn't that a lovely performance?" Charles Grey asks his companion, as they stand behind the Queen who was applauding madly at the performance.

"I suppose so, but that female seems familiar..." Phipps replies, and Grey sweat drops. "That's the American, Ivy Adams, you dumbo!" Grey responds, and Phipps' eyes widen. "That...is?"

Grey facepalms, "Yes, it is."

Phipps puts his hand on the holster of his sword. "I must challenge them! I will see you all later." He says quickly, before turning and leaving the viewing area,


I thank the stage crew for their help, as I'm swarmed by circus-members, all applauding and congratulating me on my performance, and I give a grin. Truthfully, my wrists were aching from the straps, but I felt amazing! The spinning was like a really cool roller coaster!

"There you are!" A posh voice says, and I turn to see a bewildered looking Phipps. He had his hairs slightly out of place, and it looks like he's been running.

"Phipps? Are you alright?" I ask, as he breathes heavily for a moment, withdrawing his sword. "I...I wish to challenge you...to a...fight!" He says in between breaths, and I sweat drop.

"Huh?" I ask, cocking my head to the side. His breathing is normal now, "I wish to challenge you to a duel, I know what you did at the Viscount's party, you...you bloody American!" He exclaims, trying to anger me.

"Well, I suppose it was slightly bloody since I gave that one guy an uppercut, but other than that it was fine. No blood shed." I say, walking to my tent, as Phipps scurries behind me.

"What are you doing? Running like a chicken, huh?" He mocks, and I move my hand quickly upwards, slapping him in the face lightly. "Calm your tater tots, I'm getting changed. I don't want to ruin my costume." I say, stepping in front of my tent, swishing it close in his face.

Quickly, I change to athletic shorts, my nalasked shirt, and a pair of tennis shoes, and I step out to see a waiting Phipps talking to Grey. Grey tosses me a sword, and I smirk, shifting it in between my hands.

"Hey Charlie Grey," I say using his nickname,waving to him as I step out. "What are you doing here?"

"Spectating, making sure my bet'll go through." He says, and I raise a brow. "What bet?"

"Well...to get money, Madame Red is putting a wager on the bet for opposing sides, team Phipps or team Ivy. 98% is leaning towards Phipps, while 1 person is rooting for you." Charlie Grey says, passing me a folded paper. I unfold it, reading writing from...

"Dear Ivy, I'm wagering on you because I felt bad that no one was voting for you. Best of luck, Lau and friends." I read a loud, sweat dropping. "Can I place a bet on myself?"

"I don't see why not, how much will you place?" Charles Grey says, and I smirk. "I'll let the victor decide that." I say, turning towards Charles Phipps.

"You're my mistress for a month if I win." He says, and my jaw drops. "Fine, if you lose, you're my man-servant for a week!" I say, sticking my hand out, which Charles Phipps takes. "Deal."

Quickly, I do a half-spin, flipping him over my shoulder, placing my sword to his neck, a victorious smile on my face. "Surrender!" I bark out, and his face turns to fear.

How had he been so easily defeated?!

"Cheap tricks, vile woman! I always knew you Americans were cheaters!" He curses, as my nose twitches. "Says the posh Brit!" I say, turning and sitting on his chest, causing him to let out an oompf!

"What are you doing?" He wheezes, and I look over my shoulder at him, giving him a smile. "I'll come off when you surrender!" I say cheerfully, and he raises his arms, pushing me off his chest, and I roll away before standing up. He quickly stands up, sword poised in an offensive position, and I sigh, picking up my sword from next to me.

"Let's just get this over with already, I think Arno was a harder fight." I say, as he snarls, rushing towards me with sword raised.

I raised a brow, with that opening move...

...I had already won.

He slashed downwards, and I blocked it with a baseball-batter hit, sending his sword flying from his grip, splitting in half. His jaw opens, as his eyes follow the sword, as I discard mine to the side.

"Let us fight without swords, for your advantage." I say, raising my fists, and his eyes narrow.

"That was my precious Megan! You'll pay for that!" He exclaims, raising his fists to hit me, and in a flurry of attacks, he descends upon me.

For practice, I block his attacks. It was pretty easy to figure Phipps out, he already had a pattern of hits. If I was anyone else, I'd be down on the first hit, but I'm me.

He goes for a gut shot, than right ribs, face, privates, left ribs, and than face. He does this 2 times, than he does the pattern every-other 3 times, than the others left backwards every-other, before starting over, but backwards.

He was breathing heavily now, sweat dripping down his brow, as he hopped back for a breather.

"Phipps!" Grey shouts, causing Phipps to look at him. "Wha~?" He asks, breathing heavily, wiping away sweat from his brow.

"She hasn't even moved!" Grey says, causing Phipps to look at me, where I've been standing almost the whole time. "Ya gotta be-!" Phipps starts, as I rush towards him, pinching him in the right arm, which makes his whole right arm numb. This causes him to twist his body to the right, shying it away from me. Jumping slightly in the air, I grab his right arm, wrapping me body slightly around his and leaning backwards, causing him to fall to the ground, right arm twisted behind him in my grip.

I sit on his back, and smirk. "I'm gonna recommend you surrender soon." I say, and he sighs. "I...surrrrrr..."

"You what?" I ask, and he sighs again, "I said I surr...surround!" He says, and I facepalm with my free hand.

"It's easy. Sur-ren-der." I say, and he nods. "Alright...I sur-ren-deer."

"Close enough," I say with a sigh, letting go of his arm, and getting off his back. Standing up, I offer my hand to Phipps to stand up, and he moves his right arm, and shock is apparent on his face.

"I...I can't feel my right arm! What did you do to it!" He asks, and I laugh, bending down and picking him up by the left arm instead. "I knew it was going to hurt when I threw you to the ground, so instead of having it hurt like crazy, I thought you'd be happier if I numbed your arm so it won't hurt. Don't worry, the feeling will return in a few minutes." I respond, and Grey applauds.

"What a marvelous fight!" He exclaims, and I laugh slightly. "You shoulda seen me and Arno's fight...damn, that was fun. I miss those scoundrels." I say, thinking of my gay American friends.

"Who is this Arno?" Phipps asks, "Is he a criminal?"

"Far from that, he helped me and another bub take out this cult in Sweden." I say, and both of their eyes become saucers.

"That was you?!" They exclaim, and I look confused. "Well...we gave credit to the people who were supposed to be rescued, but were sacrificed before we got to them. We thought it would be best if they were given an honorable death." I say, putting a finger to my lips. "So, let's keep this a secret now, alright boys? Even Ciel and Sebastian don't know, and I'd prefer to keep it that way."

They both nod. "Also-this means that Phipps has to be my man-servant for a week since I won!" I say cheerfully, and Phipps sweat drops. "Now?"

"No, I'll let you know when I need your services," I say, walking to my tent, looking over my shoulder at them. "If you boys need anything, give me a ring, or write me a letter." I step through the tent, swishing the tent flaps behind me, quickly going to my bag, almost forgetting what I was going to do earlier.

Pulling out the asthma inhaler, I rush to Sebastian's tent, flapping the tents open quickly, seeing Ciel and Sebastian talking.

"Ciel! Breathe this in, quickly!" I say, "Or else you'll get extremely sick!" I put the inhaler to his lips, pushing down on the pump, which spurts the medication into Ciel's mouth.

He obliges, trusting Ivy, and inhales the medicine. "One more pump!" I say, pumping it once more, and he inhales, and I pull the inhaler away.

"What is that contraption?" Ciel asks, looking at the pump in my hand. "These papas were invented in 1778, but due to extensive research, it's been discovered that these are used to help asthma issues." I say, "How are you feeling?"

He gives a slight cough to clear his raspy throat. "Slightly better, I believe." He says with a stronger voice, "Sebastian, I'd like you to acquire more of these pumps for future usage."

Sebastian gives a short bow, and I pass the inhaler to Sebastian. "Certainly, young master."

"I am awfully tired, so Sebastian, this is an order. You go to the crest office and find out who's the owner of that seal. The crest office in London is the England Heraldry College of Arms.. At Edinburgh there is a Scotland heraldry: The Lord of Lyon. Waking him could cause too much trouble, so we will all leave tomorrow." Ciel says, and I raise a brow. "So soon? We've been here less than a week, and I haven't had enough time to ogle Snake." I say, and Ciel and Sebastian scowl.

"Please do not ogle at circus members we will be leaving soon, it'll be most unfortunate." Sebastian says, and I shrug. "One ought to hold on to one's heart; for if one lets it go, one soon loses control of the head too. Friedrich Nietzsche is a genius for saying this, and I hold these words close to myself." I say, and Ciel's brow twitches.

"How is that related to you ogling at circus members?""I'm just saying it's fine to feel." I say, tossing Ciel the asthma pump, and him scrambling to catch it. "Keep it, it's not mine, it was for my sista'. She's got exercise-induced asthma." I say, and Sebastian's face turns neutral. "You have siblings?"

"1. It's my sister Natalie, she's over in America though, and she's a year younger. We're polar opposites, but I love her so-so much!" I exclaim, thinking of Natalie. She was a true star on the stage, and her voice was entrancing!

"How so?" Ciel asks, intrigued.

"Well, she isn't very scholarly at all, but is more focused on the arts. She paints beautifully, sings amazingly, is tall and willowy, plays an array of instruments, and has straight, blonde hair and my blue eyes." I say, "She looks like my dad, while I look like my mom, while we both have our grandparent's on my dad's side nose and eyes."

"Interesting, does she act similar to you?" Sebastian asks, and I scoff. "No way, she's pretty timid and submissive, but she's also kind-hearted and likes doing a bunch of charity work." I say, "I would do more charity work, but I don't have enough time to do it."

Because beating up bad guys is my charity work.

"Besides that point, why would you give it to me if it's your sister's?" Ciel asks, putting it in his bag, and I smile sadly.

"I'm not going to be seeing her for a while..." I trail off, as my eyes water slightly. Turning from them, I wipe my eye. "I'm going, see you all later." I say quickly, before leaving the two boys behind.

(3rd POV)

"Sebastian...do you believe her sister had been killed?" Ciel asks, looking at where Ivy had just stood.

"Possibly, maybe her whole family had been killed, and that's how she ended up in England." Sebastian noted.

(back to Ivy)

"Willlllllllll~" I say, hugging him from behind, and he stiffens, face turning red. "Ivy, why do you hug me?"

"Because I need a hug right now..." I say, burying my face into the back of his suit. "Is everything alright, Ivy?" Will asks, slightly concerned for the young girl.

"I just miss my family...I'm kind of homesick." I say, with a slight laugh. I really do miss them, my family was everything for me. "I'm constantly surrounded by aspects of them, and their memory haunts me."

"Is your family...dead?" Will asks, trying to be gentle (but ended up sounding blunt).

"No, just far, far away..." I say, pulling from his back, peeling off onto the bottom bunk. "I can search for them in the reaper's records, if you wish..." Will says, "We can find where they are."

"No, you don't have to." I say, as he sits next to me, looking awkward. He lifts his left hand, and attempts to pat my back, but his face just flushes.

"I've...never really comforted anyone. Do I just pat your back?" He asks, robotically patting my back in karate hits.

"You could, but I just need some hugs right now." I say, as his whole face turns red. "What do I do now?" He asks shakily, as I burrow my face into his warm chest.

"Just...just wrap your arm around me too..." I say with a yawn, as he does so, pulling me closer.

"Does this work?" He asks, face less red, and I nod with a yawn, as I slip slightly, head now resting on his thighs. He yelps slightly, face now a burning red.

"This is really nice, Willie..." I mutter, stretching out my legs on the bed, dozing off slightly. Will hesitantly raises a hand, before rubbing my head.

"That's even better..." I mutter even quieter, my eyes fluttering to a close.


Sebastian walked around the tents, and saw Ivy's tent. Stepping inside to tell her a cat pun, he saw her sleeping on a blushing William T. Spear's lap.

"What are you doing, reaper?" Sebastian asks, slightly jealous at the close contact William T. Spears was having with his Ivy.

No, not slightly...

Majorly.

Demons were very possessive creatures in general: of their souls, of their property, and especially their women. Most demons with their partners had mutual feelings of lust towards each other, but love was virtually unheard of.

Love was believed not to be a demonic emotion...but Sebastian didn't know that he was beginning to develop it for Ivy Adams. Sebastian was just confusing it for lust.

Malphas's origin (A/N-for this story, not accurate) was after his 'father', Lucifer, took a woman who had fallen in love with Lucifer, and turned her into a demon after impregnating her. She than gave birth to a demon, but there was something amiss. The woman was unknowingly half angel, half human, and the angel gene was dormant in her, so she had no wings. So, the demon she gave birth to was a powerful hybrid, who will one day be ruler of hell. 50% demon, 50% fallen angel. The human gene was so tiny compared to fallen angel and demon, that it remained dormant, except for creating a personality for Malphas: intelligent, cunning, and smooth.

"Comforting Ivy." William says, causing Sebastian to raise a brow. Did something strike a chord in Ivy? "What are you doing, demon?"

"None of your business. just know that I'll be out of your hair soon." Sebastian says with a smirk, turning to leave the tent.

"Don't eat the souls." Will warns, and Sebastian smiles evilly, revealing pointed teeth.

"Sure." He says, before leaving.

Sebastian proceeded to leave, and William falls asleep, and Ivy wakes up about an hour later.

(back to 1st)

Rolling off Will's lap to not wake him up, I crack my back, sighing in satisfaction at the glorious sound. Cracking my toes and my fingers, I note how stiff I feel.

Must be because of the position I fell in...I should take a walk, and I can make some hot chocolate or something in the kitchen!

I put on a pair of black gloves and my grey trenchcoat, and I head out the tent flaps, and walk around the perimeter of the tents, looking up at the stars above us.

"Violet, wha' 'er ya doin' out 'ere?" Joker's voice asks suddenly from behind me, and I jump slightly. "Joker! Don't scare me like that!" I say with a laugh, "I fell asleep in an awkward position and woke up really stiff, so I went on a walk to loosen up." I say, and he lightly laughs.

"Sorry fer scarin' ya." He says, scratching the back of his neck with his skeletal neck. "Ya did a really good performance today, I was astounded that ya could do somethin' like tha'."

"Thanks," I say, as we walk the perimeter together. "The stars are beautiful, aren't they?" I ask, as we both turn our heads to the sky, looking at the stars that glistened on the midnight blue sky.

"Yeah..." He says, and I quirk a brow. "You might find it a bit odd that I say this, it's funny how we look up at the stars and we talk about how beautiful they really are, even though they are already dead. They're just the projection of the star that's light years away."

"Wha' do ya' think tha' means?" Joker asks, and I look away from the stars at him.

"I think it means that after you're gone, you'll still be remembered." I say, and he looks away from the stars at me. "I like the thought o' that." Joker says, a small, heartfelt expression on face.

They both turned back to the stars, and when they looked at the stars, they were looking at the past. And they both were the future. They were just memories, but beautiful memories they were.

"Ya know, though me soul migh' rest in darkness,'un day it will rise in perfect light; for I 'ave loved thee stars too fondlee to be fearful of the night." He says, gazing at the stars.

Joker must be talking about how he kidnapped the children! And then for rising, it's because he loves the stars...AKA the circus members (his accomplices) and that's how he makes it through...

Gah! I'll be getting emotional now, since he'll die in a day or so!

Or... I can save him.

"Joker, please, listen to me, and listen well." I say, looking at him. "Yea?"

"What if I told you...I could see into the future." I say, and his eyes widen. "Ya can?! Why is this not your circus ac'?"

"It's nothing like that, it's just dreams. I don't control them, it just happens, and they've always been correct, but...last night, I had a dream about you." I lie, and his eyes widen. "Wha' happens?"

"You die." I say bluntly, "You die protecting a vile man."

"But why?" He says, breathless at my words.

"Because of false love, a false truth. Death is death, Joker, there's no turning back." I say, and his eyes widen at the conception of that.

"Does...does the man live?" He asks. "No, he dies after you die, so you're death was useless, it technically caused more agony than necessary." I say, and he inhales in sharply.

"I can't believe this, please don't tell me ya' speakin' the truth." Joker says, and I look at him in his fear-stricken eyes.

It's technically a half-lie, since I can't see into the future, since I AM the future.

"I don't lie, Joker. Now, I will tell you how to escape this death, so please, listen to me." I say, and he thinks, before nodding.

"Tell me what I need to do."

"You need to flee, basically, and take all the members involved in the child-kidnappings with you." I say, and his eyes widen. "Ya...kno'?"

"Yes, I know. Take them, and don't tell your father, or else everything will fall. Don't tell Doc, only tell the first-tiers. Than, you travel to America, and start a new circus under a new name. Don't let anyone know you're going." I say, and his eyes widen.

"Why take onlee the firs' tiers?" He asks. "They die too, but a more painful death." I say, and his eyes widen.

"Alrigh', I'll make for arrangements righ' away." He says, "Thank you, Ivy."

Ivy...not Violet.

I enjoy that, "Thanks Joker. Please, also change you're stage names and looks up slightly, so no one suspects." I say, standing on my tip-toes as I leave a peck on his forehead, before we split ways forever; him to the first tier tents, and me to find the makeshift kitchen to make some hot chocolate.

Rows upon rows of identical tents, and I believe I found the right. Poking my head through the tent, I stumble across a smirking expression, making...making banana splits with Beast.

And not the food kind. This kind was with two ice cream scoops, one large banana, a cherry, and a flushed Beast.

My poor, virgin eyes!

This made me mad, the sight of the two. I pull my head from the tent, storming away angrily.

This wasn't love, nor a temporary love. This wasn't any form of love! When I wanted to do the do, I want it to be with someone I love, someone I experience a connection with, even for only a small amount of time. I don't care if people do it when they're married, dating, or only just met.

They had a connection, even if only for a moment. But, only now in this time period had I realized this wasn't love nor lust between Sebastian and Beast, but it was a lie. It was an intricate lie, entangling Beast to get information. This was not love! This was dirtying the name of love!

Frustrated, I rush back to my tent, seeing William still asleep. I take off my shoes, hopping up to the top bunk, and screaming lightly into my pillow, which completely muffled the sound.


"Listen, we gotta leave the circus," Joker says to the first tiers, "a prophet foretold we're in grea' danger!"

"We were told to go to the Phantomhive's Manor soon by father, and we're not going back on that. We listen to our dad, and that's how it goes." Beast says, putting her hands on her hips, though she hated to disagree with Joker. Dagger nodded alongside her, he went where Beast went. Beast had always put their father over Joker, though she loved him so.

And if Beast went with her father's orders, Dagger completed their father's orders with her.

"We're going with Father. We don't want to leave the circus at all," Wendy says, as Peter nods. "The circus is our everything, why would we leave that?" Peter continues, as the other first tiers nod, and Joker starts to get scared.

"Ya guys, do ya wish to pear-ish?" He says, and Jumbo crosses his big, meaty arms. "The future can change, besides, what about our prosthetics? You're telling us to leave without Doc."

"Yeah! Doc does so much for us!" Wendy says angrily, as the first-tiers step closer to Joker, and he steps back.

"Joker, I'll go with you," a quiet voice says, and all heads turn towards an un-makeuped Doll, who's looking directly at Joker. She had always thought of Joker as a big brother, and she wanted to go with him, even if it means leaving behind everyone else.

Joker sighed in relief, "Thank yeh, Doll. Please, e'ryone else, come wit me an' Doll to America! We'll star' a great circus!"

"Well, you do that, but we won't come with you." Beast says, tears coming to eyes, as she buries her head in the shoulder of the person closest to her, who happens to be Dagger. That sealed the deal for him, as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder, comforting Beast.

"Sorry, we aren't going." Wendy and Peter say, and Jumbo's face remained neutral. "I must watch after them now." he says, and instantly, 400 miles away at the Reaper's headquarters, a certain red-head reaper prepared to be at the Phantomhive Manor 2 days from now, preparing to take 6 people's cinematic records.


"Ivy, please, wake up." Sebastian says, as he lightly shakes me awake, but I was already awake, just pretending to sleep so he'd go away. I'm still ticked off at him for last night, but, of course, I don't visually show I'm upset. I keep it bottled up inside, and use it as energy throughout the week.

One time, when I got furiously mad, I went a month with 2 hours of sleep each night, and I burnt off 10 pounds because I was just a bundle of energy.

"I'm up. Go away." I say, putting the pillow over my head, and Sebastian sighs. "Today, we're leaving today to go to the Phantomhive Estate in London, than to the kidnapper's abode."

"Good for you, I'll see you later." I say, my voice muffled by the pillow. "Ivy, when we get to Phantomhive Estate, I'll make you some hot chocolate."

Sebastian's hot chocolate sounded so good...but I shall not be swayed!

"No. I'll meet you guys there later." I say, causing Sebastian's eyes widen. She must be really set on staying for a bit longer.

"Ivy, we don't know if you'll be running off to somewhere, AGAIN, if I must add. Remember Sweden? The young master would really prefer that not to happen." Sebastian says smoothly.

"The brat can find a shortie and put a paper bag over her head, BAM-that's me." I say, and Sebastian snorts. "I'll expect you to be ready by the end of the hour." He says, before he leaves my tent, and I bolt upright in bed, blankets sliding off me to reveal that I was already dressed in a pair of black leggings, black combat boots and my signature trenchcoat.

Hopping off the top bunk, I mutter a 'bye' to Will, before I rush out the tent flaps, running toward the first tier area.

"Snake!" I call out, standing in front of his tent, and he steps out, a large boa strapped around his neck.

"Oh, hello to Webster too. Now, do you know if Joker is here?" I asked, and Snake shook his head. "He and Doll left, saying they had 'business' to take care of, and they might not be back for a while. They also packed all of their stuff... it was strange. Also, thank you for acknowledging me...says Webster." Snake says, and I sigh in relief.

Joker and Doll live to see another day!

Wait...what about the others?

"Snake and Webster, what about the other first-tier members?" I ask, and Snake thinks for a moment.

"I believe their father had assigned them something to do, along the lines of that, says Webster." Snake says, and I look down at my feet sadly.

They will die within the next 3 days, and I couldn't save them.

"Alright, thanks Snake, and Webster." I say, forcing a smile onto my face, as I walk forward, giving Snake a hug, which causes him to stiffen.

"Y-you're welcome," he says, wrapping his arms around me, "says Webster."

I pull from the hug, giving him another quick smile.

"See you around, Snake and his friends," I walk away from him, smile falling from my face.

"I see you're up, Ivy." Ciel says, stepping out from behind me, and I jump slightly. "What's with everyone scaring me?!" I ask, turning to see a fancily-dressed Ciel in his regular clothes.

"Sebastian has your items in the carriage, let's go." he says, grabbing my hand, and pulling me behind him. "Wha?" I ask, quickly walking to catch up with him, and I fall into pace with him, though he's still holding my hand.

We walk past my tent, and I see Will step out from the corner of my eye, wearing his regular suit. "Farewell, Willie! I'm really happy to have met you, so I hope you know that!" I shout out to him, waving my freehand to him. He looks at me, waving slightly with his hand, before he turns around, continuing on his own way.

"What did you do that for, Ivy?" Ciel asks, as we near the carriage, and I arch a brow in confusion. "Well, I say bye to my friends, especially if I won't see them for a while."

Ciel scoffs, as Sebastian opens the door to the carriage, and Ciel and I get in. "Who needs friends anyway, they're only a burden." he says, sitting on the cushioned seat of the carriage, and I sit down from across him.

"Um...aren't we friends, Ciel?" I ask, and his visible eye widens. "Oh, um, of cour-"

"Ciel, you can speak honestly. If you don't view us as friends, you can say that." I say, and he looks down at his feet.

"If anything, I'd like to be more than friends," he says, a blush creeping up his cheeks. My mouth opens in shock.

I can't believe this!

"You want us to be besties?! That's so cool Ciel~!" I say, and he snaps his head up, brow twitching.

"No! I'd like to court you!" He exclaims, and his eyes widen in shock at the words he said, before he covers his mouth with his hand, a blush turning his face red. The carriage starts moving, and I quiet, a slight blush on my cheeks.

Court...me?

"So, you say you have feelings for me, Ciel?" I ask quietly, and he nods.

"Yes, I've felt these for you ever since you've entered my life, the moment you looked at me with those lovely eyes, I swear I was already in love, though I didn't yet know it. When I'm with you, everything seems a little bit brighter, the world a tad less dreary. You're the vivid strokes of color on a black and white painting. At the beginning, I swear I had every intention of getting over you. But, it soon became evident that I had sunk deep. The thought of you drove me mad, I had no idea why you looped through my thoughts. For when I am with you, my only thoughts are of you. And when I am not, my thoughts are of how I wish I was with you. Hell, every night before I go to sleep, I shut my eyes, and I think of you. I dream of you. You're the only person I've been able to get close to for a long time...I just...I just want you to be mine, to always be by my side!" He exclaims, starting quietly out at first, before starting to sound more passionate, and he looks up at me with his bright blue eye. My heart pounds at his words, cheeks flushing pink,

Was this...was this the start of something?

"Ciel...love is friendship that has caught fire, and burns brightly. If you don't even consider me a friend, what am I to you? Speak honestly." I say, looking him in the eye.

"An objective." He says, proudly. "And I always achieve my objectives."

"The word 'object' is in the word 'objective', which makes me seem like some trophy that will be yours if you win my heart. Ciel, I am not one to be easily swayed. I think it's great how you confessed your feelings to me, I love your confidence, but I don't know if I can return your feelings currently." I reply honestly, and he sighs.

"I was expecting that answer, that's why I'll be making you a promise." He says, "I will make you mine one day, and you will love me, one way or another. I will be attempting to court you, and that's how it shall work, and we shall be together until Sebastian eats my soul."

"Well, Ciel, I wish you luck in that, but as I have said my heart is not easily swayed." I say honestly, leaning forward. "For I have not fallen for a long time."

"Well I guess I'll have to trip you then."

"We are here," Sebastian interrupts from outside the carriage, as it pulls to a stop. Sebastian opens the door for us, and I step out, looking at the large estate before me. I haven't been here since the Jack the Ripper case, and I had dealt with a rather large confession back then too on the carriage ride there.

Oh god, Ciel liked me, and was going to attempt to court me? All the fangirls would be so jealous to be in my position, and I admit I used to like Ciel when I was reading chapters 1-30 in the manga, but I didn't know him personally. All I knew was his plot line, I didn't know how controlling he could be.

"Ivy!" Soma says, rushing out of the Estate's doors, enveloping me in a large hug. "Oh, hey Soma!" I say, hugging him back, as he picks me up, spinning me around.

"Omgomgomgomgomgomgomgomgomg!" He says, spinning me at high speeds. Soma was around 5'11", and he could easily pick me up.

"SooOoOOOma!" I say, and he sets me down. "Where were you guys?! I have not heard from Ciel for a few days! All I received from you was the tickets to a circus!"

"Oh, we were performing at the circus." I say, and he tears up. "I missed your guys performances, please forgive me!"

"Do not fret, Prince Soma." Sebastian says, standing beside me, as he puts his hand on my shoulder. Odd, but I don't mind. "It was just Ivy who performed, and it was a wonderful performance, Ivy, if I do say so myself."

I blush lightly at his compliment. "Thanks Seb! Besides, Soma, we came here to visit you and Agni, so don't worry." I say cheerfully, and Agni pops his head out of the door.

"I heard my name from Ivy's lips!" He exclaims, running out of the door, but in his excited-ness, he slips on a patch of ice, tumbling onto a pile of snow.

"Agni!" I say with a light laugh, as I rush forward to help him, but I end up slipping on the ice patch too, landing in the soft snow next to Agni. "Oops!" I say with a laugh, and Agni chuckles along with me!"

"Oh no! Agni and Ivy, I shall save you!"Soma says, running forward, but he ends up slipping into the snow with us, shoveling snow into his mouth. I see him pull his head out of the snow, a frantic look on his face.

"Esth en mthy mouf!" He says, mouth full of snow, and I laugh at the predicament, a small snort in my laugh, as I roll off the snow pile onto the regular snow, laughing hard. Sebastian and Ciel just watched on, confused expressions on face.

"That is hilarious! Forgive me, Prince Soma, but this is too funny!" Agni says, salty tears streaming down his face.

"...I'll prepare tea and a hot chocolate." Sebastian says, walking inside.


"Ivy, it is time for us to leave." Sebastian says about 4 hours later around 4 o'clock, and I sigh, putting on my black coat.

"Why are you wearing your black coat instead of you gray trenchcoat, Ivy?" He asks, as I lace my black boots. "Because, we're going to a funeral. It's only right to be respectful."

"I suppose that's a good reason, but why do you do it now, instead of all the other times where death is involved?" Sebastian asks, and I look up at him. "Because, these children we are rescuing are innocents. And I have a feeling that not all of them will last the night." Turning from him, I step forward to the door, opening it, and walking towards the carriage, where Ciel and I quietly ride to the Baron's mansion.

"This is his mansion?" Ciel asks, as we hop out of the carriage, and Sebastian nods. "Yes, I'm not an idiotic butler who leads their small master and lovely ladies to false mansions." Sebastian replies snarkily, and Ciel and my eyes widen at Sass-bastian's comment. He's never done this before!

"What was that, Sebastian?" Ciel asks, and Sebastian gives him his close-eyed grin. "I'm only confirming your question, young master."

We walk to the door, and knock on it, to reveal a small child, wearing a maid's outfit. Her brown eyes were empty and dull, sending shivers down my eyes. Quietly, she turns from us, and I sigh in relief. Joker was supposed to greet us, but he left with Doll.

We enter in a large room with a dome roof, with doll parts hanging from threads around the room. Legs in cages, hands on the chandelier, heads strewn on the floor, if I had not seen it before, I would have been scared more than I was currently.

"This is...!" Ciel starts, as the girl tugs on Ciel's cloak. He looks at her, as she turns from him, turning to the staircase, leading us upwards, causing the floorboards to groan.

The child leads us to a large door, and creaks it open to reveal a lavish dining room, with black and white flooring, a large table, and 2 chandeliers.

Ciel sits down in a chair, and I sit across from him, while Sebastian stands in between both of us, and a creaky-wheel sound groans from the opposite door, as it creaks open to reveal the horrible man himself, pushed by his kidnapped child servants. "Ah! You came to see me, Earl Phantomhive. It's like a dream, to have you so close to me!" He was bandaged like a mummy, only revealing one eye, as he wore a black pants, a grey tuxedo, with a white bowtie and rose on it.

"Though, I feel so ashamed to meet you today, looking this way." he says, looking down, embarrassed. My face flushes, what a child perv!

"You are Baron Gelwin?" Ciel asks, and Gory Gelwin looks up. "That's right! But, no need to be so formal, as long as it's from you." he says, and Ciel slightly shudders.

"Now, let us feast!" Baron Bastard says, clapping his hands, as children dressed as maids and chefs appear, placing food on the table. "How about wine from 1875? It's from the year you were born! I might sound as though I'm showing off a bit, but I'm so excited!" Baron says, gesturing to the wine, which a child pours in a glass for Ciel and I. I ignore the wine, as I don't drink, and Sebastian takes a sip of Ciel's wine.

My jaw drops slightly in realization: Baron Gelwin is the ultimate fangirl. Grell seems like a mere peasant compared to the Baron.

"It does not seem to contain poison," Sebastian says, setting it down, and Ciel's brow twitches. "I have no wish of touching food served by a rat, so there is no need to taste for poison. Moreover, those children, it looks like there are more victims who were not included in the police info." Ciel says, as Baron places large slabs of food onto his plate.

"Children, prepare for 'the entertainment', please." Baron Bastard says, grinding crabs between his teeth, looking like a starved animal.

"No need for entertainment, please." I say quietly, causing all eyes to turn towards me. "Ah! Isn't it the famous Ivy Adams, American Extraordinaire who's recently been spotted with Ciel Phantomhive? Exotic beauty, intelligence, and a sharp tongue, with her trademark purple hair in two buns, it seems I have the complete set of Ciel's companions here today! I must entertain all of you, so the show may now start!" Gory Gelwin says, and the curtain rises, showing children wearing outfits and a variation of masks.

I watch as a child starts walking the tightrope without a lifeline, and with a single step she falls off, crashing to the ground in a bloody heap in a crunch of bones. Ciel's mouth opens in shock, as Sebastian looks disgusted, while the Baron laughs. I close my eyes, turning from the table, as the salty, metallic smell of blood rises.

"Ooh! Ooh! Next is the wild-animal tamer!" Baron Gelwin says, as a little boy with a whip stares down a lion, who quickly bites him, killing him instantly.

"AHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The Baron says, as I look in between my fingers, and I see William standing there, peeking through the cinematic records. He looks at me, and puts his fingers to his lips, and I realize I'm the only one who can see him.

Why am I the only one, though? Sebastian and Ciel can regularly see reapers/

'Make it stop, please...' I mouth to Will, and he sighs. 'It'll be over soon, do not worry, Ivy.' he says, and I close my eyes again, calming my ragged breathing.

"Next is the knife thrower!" The Baron says, as a child throws a knife at another child chained as a crucifix.

"Stop! Please!" I beg, "I can't watch this anymore!"

Sebastian rushes forward, stopping the knife between 2 fingers right before the child's forehead. "Ellery Nickson," Sebastian pulls away her mask. "There is no mistake, as you expected, young master. Kidnapped children are put into the show without training."

Baron appears nervous, "Sorry, so you don't like this method?"

"I have no desire to sit at a table with a beast that is more despicable than an animal..." Ciel starts, rising from the table.

"Eh? What's wrong?" Baron asks nervously.

"This is enough to report to the Queen. Vulgar, Ugly, Perverted, you are the Lowest Form of Human Life. This is what I, the Watchdog of the Queen, has gotten rid of!" Ciel says, stepping forward, pressing his gun to a nervous Gelwin's temple.

"Gelwin. Where are the kidnapped children." I say, looking at him from the corner of my eye. "AH, you want to meet the children? They are in the basement, I'll take you all right away." Gelwin says, unfazed, as he wheels his wheelchair in the direction of the basement. "I have something to show Ciel anyway."

He takes us to the basement, proudly opening the door to reveal a satanic circle, with cages surrounding it and an altar. It was similar to the scene I found in Sweden, except instead of cages it was tied-together bodies, no bleachers, and more candles.

The feeling of death hung heavy in both places, though.

Ciel pales, looking at the scene in front of him, frozen in memories. "It took me 3 years to prepare it, so, let's redo it, Earl Phantomhive. Just like that day 3 years ago!"

"Screw off you delusional fucktard! I hope there is an infinite set of staircases in hell that you fall down for eternity!" I exclaim, taking his wheelchair and pushing him out of it, sending him flying down the staircase.

Ciel and Sebastian were both shocked at the action that Ivy had done, as she did not seem like the person to do that without even blinking, and when they turn back to her, her face was neutral.

I had gotten into murder mode.

"He should have built a wheelchair accessible ramp, that dumb fuck." I say, as the bloodied Baron tumbles down the staircase laughing, and falls in a crumpled heap at the bottom, eyes wide, smile falling off his face, as Ciel steps down the staircase, sending eerie clacks until he puts his foot on the Baron's head.

"Die, you scum. " he says, pulling out his gun, "any last words?"

"My circus children are paying a visit to your manor tonight. Ha! Ha! Ha!" The Baron sputters, coughing out blood, and Ciel quickly shoots him, ending it all.

The ringing of the gun no longer phases me, as I watch Ciel pocket the gun.

"Elizabeth is staying, she won't be able to protect herself. Damn!" Ciel says, and I shake my head, crossing my arms. "You servants are highly capable, don't worry."

"How are you not phased by any of this, Ivy?" Sebastian asks, "You didn't seem scared or angry when you pushed him down the stairs."

"I am phased, actually. I never enjoy killing others, for me, it is a duty of protection. I protect others by killing those who cause harm, so I'd never murder anyone for my own personal, selfish needs." I say, looking away from the Baron's body. "And I wasn't scared or angry when I pushed him down the stairs, I was honest."

The doors open, and there sat Doc in his wheelchair.

"Huh? Black, Smile and Violet...ah, I see." He says, before standing up, "The Queen's watch dog has arrived."

Ciel's eye widens, "Your legs..."

"I wanted to seem harmless and unsuspicious by not being able to walk. Ah! Baron Gelwin!" Doc McAsshole says, rushing towards us, and we step aside as he examines the body.

"How awful, and I had finally met a patron who understood my ideals."

"Ideals?" Sebastian asks, confused.

"Yes, for a long time I was searching for the perfect artificial limb and wanted to continue its development. After all of my research I was able to make the finest materials possible! It was lighter and sturdier than wood, and more beautiful the mineral characteristics of ceramics. I had made something no one has ever made before. However, gathering the materials was a difficult task."

"Yes, your handmade artificial limbs have an enchanting feel to them. Like chinese-made bone porcelain tableware." Sebastian notes thoughtfully.

"Ah Black, you understand the beauty?! But, I'm really sorry! Can you not put it in the same league as bone porcelain made from mixed cow bones?"

"He uses human bones, and he takes the children's bodies, cuts 'em open, and uses the bones for his limbs." I say quietly, and Ciel's eyes widen. "No...way..." he says breathlessly.

"Ah! Not only pretty, but smart too! This way, we don't have to put any effort into throwing them away somewhere. Don't ya think it's the best recycling method ever?" Doc says, dragging a little girl with blonde hair out of the cage.

"But, the Baron was different. Searching for beauty was his highest motivation, and he sponsored me with an abundance of materials, and money. He was the best patron possible. Don't you think it's normal to need the best material for the best products? As far as society's idiots are concerned, there's no such thing as success without sacrifice." He hauls the body onto the table, and Ciel's eye widens.

"A cow's bones are fine, but a human's aren't?" Doc says, lifting his knife to strike the little girl, as Ciel experiences overpowering flashbacks, and Sebastian turns to help a traumatized Ciel.

Rushing forward, I tackle Doc, sending him flying to the floor, scattering his knife feet away from us, and I lean my lips to his ear. "You're right, we are all animals, Doc. But some of us are more animal then others, more of an untameable savage. And because of this, these animals are split into two categories. The first category is the lunatics, the ones with unjust, crazy, yet intelligent ideas ahead of their time, while the second category takes care of those animals to stay on top." I whisper, a look of fear coming on his face. "Guess what group you're in?"

I lean my head back, before grabbing his hair, and turning my head away to look at the ceiling, as I bash his head against the cement, killing him instantly. Whispering a quick prayer, I get out of the straddling position I was in, looking at my bloodstained hands.

"Ivy, your hands are bloodied. Please, let me help," Sebastian says, stepping forward with a handkerchief, dabbing with the handkerchief lightly, as if he pushes too hard my hands would shatter.

Another man killed, another day lived.

It's a dog eat dog world, and I have been in the second category for a long, long time.

"Burn it. Burn it all." Ciel says, a dark, scary look on face.

"Burn it? However, young master, if I recall correctly from Her Maje-"

"They're all vegetables now." I say, looking at the children. "They all have been so traumatized, there's no going back. Just look at how they blankly stare off, the Baron did something cruel to them."

"I suppose," Sebastian says, removing his glove. "Wait, Sebastian, this shall take a moment only." I say, as I reach into my bag, pulling out a bouquet of white lilies, mixed with purple violets. I step towards the altar where the child lay, and I placed the bouquet on her chest, taking my fingers, and closing her eyes.

"Let's go," I say quietly, as Sebastian walks towards me, and picks me up bridal style, with Ciel riding him piggy back. I bury my face into his suit, as he lights the mansion on fire, and we quickly leave. I fall asleep, tears wetting my eyes that drip onto Sebastian's suit, but he makes no comment, and let me drift off.

February 9th, 1888 was truly a dark day, for thousands of miles away on a ship destined for America, the escaping Doll and Joker had been killed by pirates who had raided their ship for treasure. They died protecting a mother and their child, who survived by escaping on a life boat.

Though they tried to escape death, they never truly did, they were just killed for a more heroic reason than protecting a vile, old pervert. And, Ivy Adams never found out they had died. She thought they lived their life peacefully in America. And, meanwhile at the Phantomhive Manor, the rest of the circus members had been killed by the servants, who protected their home with great pride.


As we prepare to board the train, a little girl approaches a party of 3 finely dressed people.

"Mister, would you like an orange? It's one penny," she says, holding out an orange in her hand to Ciel. Ciel looks out of the corner to his eye at Sebastian.

"Buy it." Ciel says plainly, getting on the train, as the girl smiles brightly. "Thank you so much! May God's blessing be with you on your journey!" She says, giving Sebastian the orange, who smiles at her, boarding the train.

Reaching into my pocket, I pull out a handful of pennies, and a tissue, wrapping the pennies in there. Approaching the girl, I give her a small smile.

"Here you go," I say, putting the tissue in her basket. She looks up at me confused, "What's in there, Miss?"

"You'll see," I say with a wink, "I'd buy an orange, but I'm allergic to them, so keep that as my sorry."

I'm honestly not allergic to oranges, but I want her to have more money if she sells it to other people. That way, if she uses all the money I gave her, at least she'll have more oranges. She nods in thanks, "Bless you!" She calls out, as I get on the train, walking to the First Class area.

"What did you give to the young girl?" Ciel asks intrigued, as I sit down across from him and Sebastian on the plush bench. "A small thing, it's sad how much we take for granted. Pennies for dollars, dollars for checks, checks for pennies, and the process restarts. Do you ever forget of how wealthy you are and spend all the money you have?" I ask, and his eye widens slightly, before he sighs, looking downwards.

"Possibly, but isn't every nobleman like this?" He asks, taking a bite from the orange slice. I look out the window as we move from our station.

Was this how every nobleman is? Hell, is this how most humans live?


"Renbon workhouse?" An old man in a cap asks, as Ciel questions him.

"Yes sir, can you let us ride until we get there?" I ask, and he smiles. "Sure, since it's on my way I don't really mind. Can you tell me what business you have down there?" He asks, as Sebastian gives him a close-eyed smile, placing something in the old man's hand.

"Just a few little things." Sebastian says, as the old man nods, and Ciel sits on the back of the cart, hay squashed under his cute lil' butt.

"Ivy, sit with m-"

"Yay!" I exclaim, ripping aside my skirt to reveal a pair of athletic shorts and black tennis shoes. "I'm going to run there, see you guys there!" Cheerfully running away, my short legs practically jump at every step, extending myself further and further. Though I was small, my powerful leg muscles can carry me for a while...

Running up the hill, I come across the devastated workhouse, the smile falling off my face.

...

It was in ruins.

Hair poofing out of the buns from shifting while I was running, I untie the space-bun ribbons, letting my curly hair blow behind me in the wind, a neutral look on face.

I could run away right now...make history away from the Phantomhive's name. All I have to do is run down the other side of the hill...

Eyes catching an abandoned bench, I walk over to it, sitting down on the wood. It was the only thing untouched by age, it looked perfectly pristine and new...

This was Joker and Beast's bench (chp 36, pg 19, you can see their bench), and it had a small patch of green grass by it.

Sitting on the grass by the bench, I rest my hand on the bench, rubbing it slightly.

"Joker, please be okay... I hope... you can live the life you want to..." I say, resting my head on the bench looking up at the light blue sky. Clouds lazily swim by, as a breeze blows by. From nearby, I hear a mad laugh and I close my eyes.

Ciel, I hope I can still save you. It's too late for your soul, but I hope for your sanity.


"We're ba~ack!" I exclaim, as the servants hug me outside a ruined mansion.

"Welcome back Ivy and young master!" They exclaim, hugging me tightly. "I missed you guys too, but we were gone less than a week!" I say with a laugh, as they pull away from the hug, met by Sebastian's glare.

"I'm sure I've said this before, but, you are to perform the job presented to you as quietly as a shadow. That's what servants are. How many times do I have to spell out Q-U-I-E-T-L-Y before you idiots understand the meaning?" Sebastian asks, as the servants quiver. "S-Sorry!" They exclaim, tears running down face as Bard lights his cigarette and I slap it out of his hand.

"Wha' was that for?" he asks, and I furrow my brows at him. "That's rat poison, you'll get cancer and die from it! Every cigarette takes away 11 minutes of your life."

"Why haven't ya stopped me before?" He asks, and I frown. "Because you never lit one! Stupid!" I say, lightly bonking him on the head.

I've always hated cigarettes with a passion, ever since Michael...

No, it's no use to think of him, not any longer. I feel a blush creeping up on my cheeks at the thought of him, and I lightly hit my cheeks, smacking my mind out of the thoughts of him.

"In any case, you three clean up the things that are scattered about. Tanaka will be just fine as usual." Sebastian says with a sigh, picking up a long, red strand of hair with a sigh.

Fangrell hair. "Well, everyone best be busy today. So, please don't worry about anything else, just devote your time to cleaning." Sebastian says, as Lizzy runs out the door.

"Sebastian, it's not there! It's not there!"


"I'm deeply sorry, because of the servants' clumsiness, the young master's wardrobe room was damaged also. Right now, we only have the few suits that we brought back from London. Ivy's wardrobe is fine, though." Sebastian says, and I sigh in relief.

"Whaaaaaaaaat?" Lizzy asks, "I wanted to get dressed up and go out for a boat ride with Ivy and Ciel today..." she says sadly, and I walk towards her, putting my hand on her shoulder with a smile.

"Don't worry! I was planning on baking something today, so you can help me!" I say cheerfully, and she gives a bright smile. "Yay! You're like a cute, lil' sister, Ivy!" She says, and I arch a brow.

"Little?" I ask, and she frowns. "You're 15, right?" She asks, and I nod. "Yeah, my birthday is in a month or so, and I'm turning 16."

"Well, I'm 16!" She says with a bright smile, "Though, I turned 16 only a few months ago, so I'm only slightly older than you."

My jaw drops, I had forgotten she was older than Ciel, but I never expected her to be older than me!

"Speaking of making things, if there are no clothes, we can just make some!" Lizzy says, clapping her hands together excitedly, and we all sweat drop.

"Yes, that's why after the repai-" Sebastian starts, "At the end of March there's Easter too, so it's a really good time. Ciel, Ivy, let's do it!" Lizzy says, cutting Sebastian off, and his brow twitches.

"I'll call in the tailor," I say, excited to leave the room, and I make my way down to the telephone room.

Oh, I can't wait to see Miss Nina again! I need her to make me some new bras, and a new uniform for my...business. My jacket is getting too small, my pants too low...

"Ga va?" Miss Nina asks about 20 minutes later, arriving at the door. "Miss Nina, the tailor who indicates the seasons, has arrived!" Mey-Rin calls out, and I laugh as Miss Nina tackles her in hugs and kisses.

"I missed you Mey-Rin! Might my maid costume have come in handy this time?" Miss Nina strokes a blushing Mey-Rin's leg.

"Oh, and Ivy Adams! How has my outfits suited you?" Miss Nina asks, running towards me, kissing my cheeks and touching the fabric of the plain grey dress I was wearing today,

"Wonderfully, and I have some new suggestions for other clothing I require, if that works with you?" I ask, and she nods furiously. "Darling, your fashion style is amazing! Of course I'll listen to your suggestions."

"Hello!" Finny says, and Bard gives out a simple "yo," and Miss Nina turns serious.

She dislikes people over 15, but why does she like Elizabeth than?

Oh...she said I looked younger than 15, as long as you look under that's fine by her. Finny was 16 and Bard was 36.

"We'll take you to the Earl," I say, and Mey-Rin and I escort her to the parlor.

Miss Nina exchanges greetings with Lizzy, before she rips aside her skirt, revealing shorts and garters underneath with knee-high boots.

"I will tailor the best dresses possible, inspired by the very latest trends!" She says, and Lizzy turns pink. "Nina! Kya! Showing your legs like that is very unladylike!"

"Lizzy." I say, and she turns towards me. "Thank god you and I are ladylik-" Lizzy starts, and I rip aside my skirt to reveal pink booty shorts, knee-high blue socks with bananas on them, and a pair of birkenstocks with hedgehog socks.

"Kya! Not you too Ivy!" Lizzy exclaims, covering her eyes, and I laugh lightly, as Ciel blushes and Sebastian un-noticeably looks at my ass (A/N-though it's phrased oddly, this means that Sebastian was looking at DAT ASS but no one noticed, not even Ivy.)

"A lady! That kind of thinking is from the stone ages! These clothes were designed on emphasis on moving easily, paying respect to the active woman, Mrs. Bloomer endorsed! Women who discard restrictive customs are much more free. It's the same with clothes, Greek and Japanese style clothes that are easy to move in and give a relaxed silhouette will be all the rage from now on." She narrates, putting her arm on my shoulder. "For example, Ivy here can move more comfortably like this, with free pants and a looser shirt! And not to mention not having a corset!" She says, grabbing the cloth, and ripping aside my shirt.

"Woah, I didn't know you could do that." I say, not really surprised, as I'm left standing in my bra and shorts. Today's bra is one that matches my fabulous socks. Lizzie's face turns red, and she turns away, Mey-Rin's, Balrdoy's, and Finnian's noses start to bleed, Ciel blushes furiously but does not turn away, and Sebastian smirks slightly, though he notices the scars still lining her body, and intense, unfeminine bulging muscles on her torso and arms. Heck, he could see her muscles bulging on her legs!

"Put on something!" Lizzy says, throwing a blanket at me, and I wrap it around myself. "Ooh, this blanket is fluffy." I say, and everyone sweat drops, save for Miss Nina.

"Measurement time!"

Miss Nina measures Ciel and Elizabeth, then turns to me, and I let her measure me.

"Oh, Ivy! You've grown an inch since I last saw you! You're now 5'1"!" She exclaims, and my jaw drops. "Yay! I grew, I grew~!" I sing, doing a little dance.

"And you're chest has increased in size, going from a 32DD to a 32DDD!" She exclaims, and my jaw drops again. "Wha~?" I ask, and Lizzy gropes her own boobs. "No fair! I'm only a 30B!"

"I've got it! The spring of my imagination is overflowing" She exclaims. "The Easter outfit of Ivy will be a silver dress of silk shantung, it will look more mature with a black ribbon and tassles. Her hat will be decorated with daffodils and purple ribbons!"

"Hey Miss Nina, can you recreate an outfit for me please?" I ask, and she shrugs.

"What did you wish for, Ivy?" She asks, and I smile.

"Can I have something like this?" I ask, passing her my bag, and she opens it to see my bomber's jacket, sports bra like shirt, and my pants. She waves me off, and I leave the room.


2 hours later, she hands me a pile of clothing. "I remade the outfit you gave me to your newest measurements, but I changed up the color scheme a bit. Now, it's a dark grey jacket with purple lining, and a longer black shirt. The pants are the same purple color, and they're stretchier." She says, and I smile. "Bless you, Miss Nina. Thank you!" I say, and she nods.

"No problem, I had Mey-Rin bring everything else to your room. I'm off now, I have to go dress an all boys' church choir!" She says with a squeal, waving towards me as she runs out and into a carriage.

With a sigh, I make my way to my room, opening the door to find everything as it was left, with a package on my bed...and a letter on my dresser?

Walking over to it, I open it to see a cursive letter with large, dramatic swoops and written in red ink.

Ivy Adams, I have recently visited a woman called Conall Taylor, who seems to be a relative to you. If you wish to visit her, here is her address in Dunton, she runs a smelly cow farm. You can visit or whatever, but she's a witch, and you might be a witch? I don't know, and I don't care. Your decision or whatevs. Tell Sebby I said hi! -Miss Grell Sutcliff/Mrs. Grell Michaelis.

Wow, Grell's really nice for doing that. He,no, she really can be nice when they feel like it. Dunton is a few days away...and I didn't really like the Murder Arc...but I did want to meet Arthur...

Ack! I'll leave for Dunton after I finish the upcoming arc. I take the letter, and put it in my desk drawer.

Today was February 10th...February 19th was Michael's birthday...

Gah! Why is Michael suddenly in my thoughts. Wrapping my arms around myself, I remember how his lips felt on mine, how he gave me warm embraces, how he slyly tried to hold my hand.

The butterfly kisses, trips to the ocean...

I hate the ocean, because of Michael.

No, not hate.

Fear, I have a fear of the ocean. Sure, I loved going to the beach and building sand castles, and I could ride boats just fine, but swimming in the ocean...

No, that wasn't possible for me. Big no-no, just the thought of swimming in that...that blasted thing, I would rather sky-dive into the desert than swim in the ocean.

Shaking myself out of those fearful thoughts, I undo my hair, and look into the mirror. I hadn't really gazed into the mirror more than split second when I do my hair or brush my teeth, and I guess I've grown a bit, and my features have slightly sharpened, and though I still have baby face, my jaw line is less soft now. My hair is now down to my shoulder, and the purple dye is beginning to fade. I pull out my tweezer and start plucking the middle of my eyebrows so I don't have a unibrow, and I wipe my face with anti-acne stuff.

I haven't used my beauty products for a while...this is a bit odd. Pulling out a random bottle of nail polish from my bag-of-wonders in my closet, I look at it closely.

Black. Eh, black is one of my favorite colors anyway.

Right next to...you guessed it. Peach. Though, the color didn't look good on me, so I never wore it, but it was a lovely color! Pulling out my glossy topcoat (taco), I see something next to where it was...

Wait...is that my iPod touch? I had forgotten I owned that! Pulling it out, I saw the battery was still at 100%...probably because I haven't updated it to iOS 10 yet. I had no reception, obviously, but I went to my pirated music app, and put it on shuffle.

"Oh yeeeeeah! This is my jam!" I say, as the song starts playing, and I walk to my balcony, shaking my nail polish bottle and my groove thang.

"As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I take a look at my life and realize there's nothin' left
'Cause I've been blasting and laughing so long,

That even my mama thinks that my mind is gone

But I ain't never crossed a man that didn't deserve it

Me be treated like a punk you know that's unheard of
You better watch how you're talking and where you're walking
Or you and your homies might be lined in chalk
I really hate to trip but I gotta loc
As they croak, I see myself in the pistol smoke, fool

I'm the kinda G the little homies wanna be like

On my knees in the night saying prayers in the streetlight," I rap alongside Coolio, as I sit criss-cross applesauce on the balcony's floor, bottle of nail polish next to me. I finish painting my left hand, and I move onto my right.

Unknown to Ivy, Sebastian had stopped in front of her door, and peaked his head in to see her, and was wondering what on Earth she was doing.

"Been spending most their lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Been spending most their lives, living in the gangsta's paradise

Keep spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise

Keep spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise," I lightly sing the high part, since I was never one to be a belter. If I could relate to any singer, it would probably be Dodie Clark, since she really doesn't belt out her songs

"Look at the situation they got me facin'
I can't live a normal life, I was raised by the streets

/you try to stop, but can't stop, can you? you'll never change/
So I gotta be down with the hood team

/you didn't save them in time. those innocents died because of you/

Too much television watching got me chasing dreams," I swish both of my hands around in the air to match the tempo, when I'm really just drying my nails.
"I'm an educated fool with money on my mind
Got my 10 in my hand and a gleam in my eye
I'm a loc'd out gangsta set trippin' banger

/you only know how to kill, don't you, Ivy?/
And my homies is down so don't arouse my anger, fool
Death ain't nothing but a heartbeat away,

/you're just a poison, a cancer. all you do is kill without thought. no sympathy/
I'm living life, do or die, what can I say
I'm 23 now, but will I live to see 24
The way things are going I don't know..." I rap, pulling out the glossy topcoat, shaking it.

/is that why you killed Michael?/

"Tell me why are we so blind to see
That the ones we hurt are you and me!" I crack open the topcoat, pulling it out, and pressing it to my thumb, swiping upwards.

"Been spending most their lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Been spending most their lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Keep spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Keep spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise," I quickly swipe my left hand, awkwardly swishing it in the little tub of nail polish (A/N-I'm writing this at 1 AM. Tub? Jar? Who knows?/2? )

/you killed in the future, and you're killing in the past, and the now those children burned to death because of you, why did you not stop Ciel?/

"Power and the money, money and the power
Minute after minute, hour after hour

/you are an expert at this, is that all you can do? take the knife in each hand, and just kill/
Everybody's running, but half of them ain't looking
What's going on in the kitchen, but I don't know what's cookin'
They say I gotta learn, but nobody's here to teach me
If they can't understand it, how can they reach me
I guess they can't, I guess they won't
I guess they front, that's why I know my life is out of luck, fool." I finish, twisting both of the nail polish close, and I stand up, stumbling slightly, but I catch my balance.

"Been spending most their lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Been spending most their lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Keep spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Keep spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise" I sing along softly, thrashing my arms to the beat along with my head, voice cracking somewhere along the lines.

Tell me why are we so blind to see
That the ones we hurt are you and me
Tell me why are we so blind to see
That the ones we hurt are you and me Coolio sings, as I stop singing I sit down on the balcony suddenly, and I stop laughing, a serious expression on face, pulling my knees up to me.

/you're useless, Taylor Taylor. you use a fake name to make yourself to hide your true identity, yet you are and will always be an emotionless being when you kill/

I bring the palms of my hand, rubbing my temple. The voice...the voice of fear and doubt and anger, it creeps into my mind occasionally after I kill. It can happen whenever, and there's no way to stop it.

It'll go away later, but this was the guilt factor. The guilt of snuffing out a candle, someone's light, making it gone forever.

I put away the iPod touch and nail polish, before I crash to the bed, and fall asleep, hoping to rid myself of the voices.