I am grateful to those who reviewed my last chapter. I am betting none of you saw that coming; Sebastian fainting and Ciel being sent to the hospital. Of course, the reminder of what would happen gave that away. Yeah, Sebastian acted O.C. in that one. Remember, he is a demon and does not make attachments to his prey. Sad but true. But perhaps in a future story, there will be some romance there. No yaoi in this story though. although, there will be vague mentions of homosexuality. I will not reveal when but it will be later on. Stay tuned. Ciel will not die he is just messed up right now.

Famous people with eating disorders: Alanis Morrisette, Paula Abdul, Terry Chiavao, Fiona Apple, Kate Beckinstale, Dennis Quaid, Elton John, Imogen Bailey, Lilly Allen, Kelly Clarkson, and many more.

Stage 7: Damage Report

Step 4: Organ Failure

A swirling vortex of clouds and smoke hovered in the air like a murky sea. At least that is what it looked like. From the inner reaches came an adolescent young boy who blindly yet carefully treaded through the seemingly thick and endless atmosphere. He turned several corners. Suddenly from out of nowhere, a suave voice replied.

"Such a disappointment, I say"

Ciel gasped. He stiffened his posture in shock. It was a male's voice. He whipped his head left and right trying to catch a glimpse of the man in question. He could find nothing.

"To think I wasted all that time serving this pathetic whelp only to have him but out of the contract before it even started".

Ciel gulped. He knew the voice was referring to him. To have someone think you're weak was one thing. It was another to have them say it to your face. Ciel bucked up the courage to summon the source of the voice.

"Who is there? Show yourself!" he commanded. The voice answered.

"My, my, my you think of all the time we spent together you would recognize my voice", the voice mocked.

"Well, I beg your pardon sir but you have yet to notice, I am in a fog" Ciel quipped hotly.

"Very well then since it is taking your tiny human brain a long time to figure it out, I shall reveal myself to you. Brace yourself" the voice mocked sarcastically.

He frowned at the jab made at the insult but held his tongue. In spite of his nervousness, he narrowed his eyes. All was quiet for a few seconds. Suddenly as expected, he appeared. Although it was not how Ciel expected; a tornado of fire and smoke broke through the darkness. Ciel put a hand over his face to shield him from the intense heat and light. (1)Like fish out of water, crows flew out of the flaming vortex. Something manifested within the fiery walls. Ciel gasped when he recognized the phantom. The figure stepped through the flames without concern of touching them. It was his butler, Sebastian Michaelis. Something seemed off about his aura. His expression was haughty. He stared at Ciel with a glance of contempt and disgust. It unnerved the Earl veritably.

"S-S-S-Sebastian?" Ciel inquired.

"Who else would it be, bocchan?" he replied. Coming from Sebastian's lips, the term was meant to be endearing. But now it dripped from his tongue like bile. Sebastian shook his head ashamedly.

"You humans have always been such weak creatures. All it takes is one little tragedy or accident and they all break down like that. Heck they even shed a tear when someone insults them!" Sebastian clicked his fingers to prove his point.

"And you are the worst of them all". Ciel flinched. He hung his head not wanting to see the disappointed glare of his butler. The glare directed at him was better than any scathing words thrown from the dark one's mouth. Especially like this:

"I have been thinking. In fact I have been thinking of it a long while since I met you. Know what your soul is not worthy of the contract. You are much too weak-willed even for human standards. Not spiteful enough for demon standards. Maybe it was best I should have left you to rot in that hole of yours. Perhaps I should have picked a thin young girl. At least she would show more promise. (A/N: Damn Sebastian, why not give him a paper cut and pour lemon juice on it while you're at it "note sarcasm")"

Ciel's tears rolled down his cherubic face. He knew deep down Sebastian resented taking him from that hell hole he was forced into. He even admitted that he wished for someone thinner. A hand was placed on his shoulder. Ciel looked up. The demon glanced at him emotionlessly before shutting his eyes.

"I am sorry that you could not fulfill your revenge. So long bocchan" he whispered before turning into his true form. A scream was all that could be heard in the darkness.

The young Earl thrashed violently screaming bloody murder. Eight people in white coats immediately rushed to the bed trying to calm the hysterical, half-awake young Earl. The head physician, Dr. Reinhart didn't hesitate. If they couldn't get Ciel calmed down, his situation could get worse than it already was. Not to mention the lawsuit that would take place.

"(2) The young Earl is going to need about 10 milligrams of anesthesia" he ordered his troop.

While half of them were holding Ciel to his bed, the other doctors set to preparing the dosage. They picked up the needle and injected it into the ultra venous device. At first, it didn't seem to take effect. Then relief set in on the whole room when Ciel's screams quieted down to nothing. Everyone in the room sighed wiping their brows. This was truly nerve wracking. Unfortunately, the ordeal with the Earl was far from over. He motioned his fellow doctors out so he could personally examine the unconscious lad.

It was an understatement to say the doctor was appalled by what he saw. The boy…well he couldn't even call it a boy. He practically looked like a corpse. His skin was blotchy and stark white, his hair was dry and lifeless, his ribs and collarbone were more pronounced, his lips were highly chapped. Above all else, he was very malnourished. The only thing keeping this boy alive was a life support system dripping nutrients into his veins and a facemask over his mouth to assist his shallow breathing. He had his work cut out for him as far as this went. He could only imagine the long, tumultuous road to recovery the lad would endure.

Outside in the waiting room, several individuals all waited anxiously for news on the Earl. There was a mix of emotions both from Ciel's family and staff members. The females clasped their hands tightly in silent prayer whilst the males all stared off into space, tapping their knees. (3)They sat down in rather uncomfortable wooden chairs all the while thinking: when had it gone wrong? Only Sebastian was standing the whole time in spite of his harried state. He certainly was not the same butler he so gallantly portrayed himself to be. His uniform was messy and his hair was unkempt. His eyes were shadowed by his ebony bangs. He felt…numb. If any of his demonic peers were to see him now, they would never let him live it down for the rest of his erm, existence.

Everyone's next train of thought was interrupted by the clicking of shoes approaching. All eyes focused on the man in the room. It was the physician. By the look on his face, he did not have good news. The doctor breathed deeply before he spoke .

"Are any of you the respective family and acquaintances of the patient, Ciel Phantomhive?"

They nodded with pursed lips, excluding Sebastian who was still out of it.

"As a doctor, I have been trained to keep an indifferent but sympathetic approach to my job and my patients. I know it is never an easy thing to tell a person when their friend, acquaintance, or family that something is wrong or that their loved one is going to possibly die". Everyone flinched at the last word.

"We tested his blood for internal damage via, possible organ failure. It is plausible that his intestines became infected from the lack of nutrients entering his body and the overdosing on diet pills".

He paused giving the respective party time to digest the information. However, no amount of scientific information could prepare them for what was said next.

"Ciel has diagnosed with a condition known as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia". The women and Finny all broke down into tears. The men's faces went pale. Sebastian choked. How could he let his master sink so low?

"My staff and I did a thorough diagnosis. His overall weight came down to (4) 41.3 kilos and his skin was covered with white body powder, probably to hide the state of his abnormally pale and blotchy pigment…

"Wait a minute. I was there to overlook the master when he stepped onto the scale and last time I looked he was an approximate 48 kilos. I am sure of it" Sebastian suddenly exclaimed in shock and disbelief.

"In cases like these, victims of this type of disorder will try to mask their lack of body mass by stuffing weights into their pockets, Mr. Michaelis. The way the ribs were sticking out implies that it had been going on for over a month about now".

Sebastian gritted his teeth and shook his fist turning his head to the floor. Son of a bitch! How fucking stupid could I be to not see this as well? As the Earl's butler it is my sworn duty to see that nothing dangerous befalls him. Elizabeth who still had tears in her eyes noticed that Sebastian was fighting an internal battle.

"D-d-d-don't blame yourself, Sebastian. Its m-my fault that Ciel is the way he is now. I convinced him that he should start this diet and eat less. I am so sorry everyone. Forgive me!" She sobbed into her hands once again. Francis put a reassuring hand on her daughter's shoulder and gave her a sympathetic look.

"We are all to blame for Ciel's current state. All there is to do now is get him some help and make sure news of this does not reach the press. Imagine the shame and scandal this would cause both our families!" Francis moaned exaggeratedly (A/N: Way to ruin the moment). The smiles that were taking place turned to frowns. Leave it to Francis to turn a tender family moment into a political strife. The doctor pinched the bridge of his nose.

"I know nothing of political matters but she is quite right. Ciel is definitely going to need some serious help and fast. (5) Of course by law, I will need family consent before I enact any type of medical action. My advice would be to check him into a top-quality rehabilitation clinic. He will be watched over by the best doctors in the country. With luck, he may yet kick this unhealthy habit of his permanently. Aside that, master Phantomhive will need to attend serious psychiatric evaluation by a top notch counselor.

The doctor had left minutes after explaining to them Ciel's condition and what they should do about it. Sebastian beckoned his assistant staff into another part of the hallway to leave the aristocrats to their thoughts while he would discuss with the others.

Sebastian was the first to break the ice.

"I am sure you all understand the severity of the Earl's situation right about now?" he inquired.

"And whose fault exactly do you think that is? For a butler you sure are stupid to not notice first hand" Finny retorted sarcastically; albeit hostile. Sebastian flinched internally. He knew he deserved worse but he wasn't about to give him the satisfaction.

"Anyways, you all know that Ciel is in that room fighting for his life and sanity. Now we could bring him home and pretend that none of this was happening. On the other hand, doing so would encourage the Earl to continue his self-destructive path. The doctor said that we should do what is best for the master's wellbeing. Now his family is in the other room talking about the same issue. We should do the same".

And so Sebastian and the mansion staff put their heads together (not literally) on what was best for Ciel. It would be a long shot. Ciel would definitely object and proclaim denial. He might even try to run away. But this was for his good. If nothing was done soon, his vital organs would shut down and ultimately kill him, excluding asthmas symptoms. They all nodded once a decision was made.

"So it is settled then. Now it is our duty to notify his relatives and hope they agree as well" Sebastian stated.

The morning after…

Ciel groggily opened his eyes. The only sound present in the room was steady beeping. From where, he didn't know. He groaned sitting himself up when he felt something restrain his upper arms. His eyes widened and looked to both sides. He found his arms strapped to a bed. (6) Panic overcame him. Ciel muttered incoherent phrases to no one.

"W-W-What's happening? How did I get here? Last thing I remember is Edward, the dinner, losing my lunch, and then I end up here".

A door clicked open and a bespectacled man in a white coat entered. Ciel stared at him unsure of what to make of the stranger.

"Good morning Ciel how are you today? You gave everyone quite a scare last night. The way you were screaming, we all thought we were going to lose you", the man stated relieved.

"Oh, where are my manners? I am Dr. Reinhart, the head physician of this hospital and in charge of restoring your health. However, your full recovery will be entirely up to you" he explained to Ciel with a sympathetic gaze. Ciel glanced at the doctor with a calculating stare.

"Not to be rude, doctor but I would have no complaints about my hospital room accommodations if I weren't strapped down by my arms" he said icily. Dr. Reinhart chuckled.

"I am sorry for that Mr. Phantomhive but we were forced to take drastic measures should you try to harm yourself and attempt to pull out the ultra venous wires embedded into your arms and risk bleeding".

Ciel turned his head away shamefaced. He knew he was here because he had been reckless and non-discreet.

"Fret not, young one. Your relatives and mansion staff all came to a decision for what will happen to you. But I think it best that you hear it from their mouths. Would that be alright for you?"

Ciel didn't reply. Instead his eyes focused on the window next to his room. He couldn't see through it as it was covered by plain white drapes. The humiliation he was feeling prevented him from looking directly at the doctor.

"I will take your silence as a yes. I will send in your relatives as only family members can see you at the moment. Friends and acquaintances can wait". With that Dr. Reinhart exited the room to alert his relatives he was awake. Ciel was not aware of the doctor leaving until he heard the shrill excited squeals of his cousin, Elizabeth.

"Ciel, oh Ciel; thank goodness your awake. You had me scared. I truly am sorry for Edward. He was really naughty but do not worry. Mom and dad are sending him away to "straighten" out as they say it. Anyways, I am so happy you are alright. Or as alright as anyone would be after going through something like that…" Elizabeth ranted at a rate that Ciel could not comprehend. Before she could say something else, she was stopped (A/N: fortunately) by her parents.

"Elizabeth, you need to calm down. Ciel is fine. The last thing he needs is someone talking his ear off. Now sit down and give your cousin some air" she ordered her daughter calmly yet sternly. Elizabeth blushed and did as she was told. Francis gave a nod of approval.

"Good morning, dear how are you today?" she asked Ciel. Ciel shrugged.

"(7) Besides the occasional asthma attacks I am quite fine. Thank you for your concern" he said mirth present in his eyes. Francis frowned slightly at the indifference in his tone. Leon stifled a laugh behind his hand.

"Now aunt and uncle, I might be young and filled with all sorts of drugs but that does not mean I am incoherent enough to understand you are not merely here on a friendly visit or to see I am one-hundred percent. I am not one to be taken for a fool even from my own family. Tell me truthfully. The doctor says you have news for me. What is it?"

His blue eyes honed on them daring them to tell a lie. Francis gulped. It was like staring at Vincent. He too hated it when people played him for a fool and made it known when he did not approve of something. Francis sighed knowing there was no way of avoiding the topic. Better to get it out of the way then deal with the repercussions later. It was Leon who spoke first.

"My dear nephew there is no easier way of saying this. You have shown time after time the maturity most adults wished their children have. Yet you have faced hardships that no one should ever have to face especially one of your status", Ciel flinched inwardly being reminded of the hell experienced years prior, " what I mean to say is everyone believes it best for you to seek professional help". Francis rolled her eyes at her husband's stalling.

"What my husband is saying is that as soon as you check out of the hospital you are to go straight to a top of the line Rehabilitation Clinic to cure you of your anorexia", she said with finality. No room for arguments. Ciel's eyes bugged out. He sat upright somehow managing to get his restraints loosened.

"Are-You-Serious-Aunty? You cannot honestly expect that I be checked out into an (8) idiot house? I would be the laughing stock of the entire whole of London society!"

"(9) Don't you understand, Ciel. If you don't get help soon, you're organs will shut down for good. You will have to be confined to bed rest, have a feeding tube stuck down your throat and end up in a vegetated state. Is that what you want? Well, is it?

Ciel was flabbergasted. His aunt was strict with him for sure. But not often did she raise her voice at him in anger.

"I-I-I-I'm sorry, aunty. You are right. I am being foolish aren't I? You said everyone has agree to send me to the clinic. Does that include my servants?. He asked in spite of knowing the answer.

"Yes, including the servants" reiterating Ciel's last statement. Ciel slumped onto his pillow. To think things couldn't be any worse. Francis could tell her nephew needed some alone time and beckoned her family to follow her out of the room.

"We will come by some other time. In the meantime get better, for everyone's sake". Ciel was left in the room all alone again. Without warning, Ciel started sobbing.

It really wasn't fair!

This chapter was really hard to write. It was hard emotionally and mentally. One because I had to go back and forth for any grammar mistakes and contemplating how the scenes would play out and another was due to my lack of knowledge of medical terms. The emotional onset was because I could sympathize with Ciel very much. First his family dies, then he undergoes slavery and torture and who knows what. Now he feels like a total failure for not accomplishing his goals the way he wants to. I can understand whole heartedly.

I applaud myself for giving the doctor a name. It is quite a relief to find doctors who are sympathetic and not money grubbing, indifferent jerks. At least this one isn't. I know the characters in this fiction are OC but when extenuating circumstances happen, people tend to change. Update soon, no one is going to die.

Footnotes:

(1) Imagine in the first episode, when Sebastian appears before Ciel.

(2) I might be wrong about the amount of anathesia required for patients. Please notify my mistakes.

(3) 19th century hospitals were pretty average and primitive compared to today's hospital. So hard wooden chairs were all that there was to sit on.

(4) 92 lbs. His clothes hid the fact.

(5) In most states, certain laws require doctors to seek the consent of a patients family before enacting any type of treatment or medication.

(6) This is an allusion to the fear people have about mental institutions or any hospital in general. I myself have fears of being strapped to a table and being lobotomized.

(7) Just a tension breaker I inserted for your pleasure and relief (grins).

(8) Another term for mental institutions or the Nut House.

(9) The Terri Chiavao Case. She was found to be diagnosed with bulimia. She was kept alive through a machine and a feeding tube.