The
White Stag
I Will Find You Happiness
…
Roars of that imbecilic crowd's inane excitement over wagering against Ciel and Elizabeth's marriage raged on for a lengthy duration. Ripples in the stream grew agitated by their ceaseless rantings.
Ciel watched the other side of the river from the picnic blanket, curious as to what was keeping Alliahnna. Placing a hand to his forehead like a visor he spotted Lao and Alliahnna exiting the crowd. Ran-Mao kept the waging crowd busy while Lao seemed to be discussing something of importance with Alliahnna. He wasn't exactly adept at reading lips - not that he could make out what was being said - so the topic of their discussion went unknown. Facial expressions, however, were a forte. It took an incredible amount of focus, but eventually Alliahnna's famously stoic expression faltered. Judging by Alliahnna's expression, Lao told her something that made her anxious. Good, bad - He wasn't sure.
"I hope he hasn't been manipulating her during my absence." Ciel hissed under his breath.
"Impossible, I assure you." Sebastian remarked, preparing tea fit for the time of day. "My brother and father attempted to manipulate her. They failed miserably." He flashed a mischievous grin. "All while she was more human than demon."
Ciel felt a sense of pride. Knowing she held her own made him smile. Against demons no doubt. Then a twinge of anxiety gripped him. Demons tried to take advantage of Alliahnna. One of them succeeded. Earlier Sebastian trapped Alliahnna in his embrace, sniffing her hair like a hungry wolf. A dreamy blush shading her cheeks. Ciel shook his head, pushing the image from his mind.
"Are you well, My Lord?"
"Fine!" Ciel leaned on a hand, massaging his throbbing forehead. "Just...an exhausting day." Sebastian arched a skeptical brow.
Elizabeth released a disappointed sigh, joining Ciel on the picnic blanket. "And here I was so hoping we'd find the stag before lunchtime."
"If it wasn't hard to find it wouldn't be elusive, would it?"
"Yes. I suppose you're right about that." She laughed at her foolish self. "Well, I guess we'll have to eat lunch and then go back to searching."
"Capital idea." Elizabeth shrieked, rearing around. Alliahnna stood behind her, wearing a bright smile. "I sort of skipped breakfast this morning."
"When...when did you-" Alliahnna sat beside her, laughing mischievously. Elizabeth was trapped in awe. "Weren't you just across the river? How did you get over here so fast?"
"It would have been bothersome to hail a boat," She tilted her head, "So I simply walked across the river."
"Walked across…" Elizabeth could actually see Alliahnna walked on water as if it were land. She then giggled. "Oh Allie! You're so silly!" Sebastian and Ciel diverted their attention. Alliahnna wasn't so silly. "Please tell me you thanked whomever brought you over."
"Of course." She hugged Lizzie around the shoulder. "Now let's worry about that later and eat lunch, shall we?" Ciel became unnerved by their hugging. For an instant Elizabeth took the form of Sebastian. Ciel grunted, shaking his head viciously. Do not dwell! They'll notice! "Ciel?" Dread iced his shoulders. Alliahnna leaned sideways, trying to see the reason for the grimace. "Are you alright?"
"That question is becoming tedious!" He snapped. Alliahnna's brow shot up. She glanced at Sebastian. He shrugged his hands. He didn't know what was wrong either. He shook his head, finding it best to leave the matter alone. Not that, if they pried, Ciel would tell anyway. His will exceeded Alliahnna's. "What were you and Lao discussing? You seemed distraught by what he said."
"Oh no. Not distraught. Just surprised." Ciel must have been dead longer than she realized. She'd forgotten his uncanny talent for reading expressions. She sighed, cursing herself and her weakness. "In exchange for allowing Lao to go about his business - which he asked to remain anonymous - he will share news he received from Paris.
Sebastian and Elizabeth paused for a moment. "Is...everything okay?" Elizabeth's big, green eyes trembled. Sebastian was on pins and needles himself. He held a great deal of admiration for the comrades they left in Paris.
"With Lao, a sunny day could be misconstrued as bad news." In other words, Alliahnna didn't know if somebody died or if Schneizel stopped breaking hearts. She was rooting for the second one. "Let's just give him a wide berth, and enjoy the day." Elizabeth and Sebastian were curious, but decided it best to agree with Alliahnna's plan. Ciel felt a loop forming and it excluded him. The one thing he agreed on that even remotely brought him close to joining was ignoring Lao. He cared very little what the Chinese President was up to. Just so long as it didn't interfere with their outing.
"What's on the menu for today, Sebastian?" Elizabeth pleasantly asked.
"We have a delightful picnic luncheon prepared." He began, earning her dazzling eyes. He picked the basket with the first course. "We have shrimp salad as well as a salmon pie, and we have cheese sandwiches to round out the meal." Opening the basket a live pig lying on a blanket greeted the befuddled butler. It snorted in hello. Alliahnna glanced his way. Sebastian snapped the lid closed.
"Say. Anybody else hear a strange noise?" Elizabeth wondered.
"Sincerest apologies. There seems to have been an ever so slight mistake." He half laughed. Alliahnna froze nervously. An irritated smile coupled with a dry partial laugh - They didn't.
"What is it Sebastian? That isn't like you." Elizabeth worried. Ciel's attention was strained as well. Alliahnna groaned, burying her dread in a palm. Please, Lord, tell me they didn't. Sebastian opened another basket. Grey pigeons escaped. Sebastian jumped, snatched them up and locked them back in the basket. Alliahnna's head dropped. Wriggling dread line hovered. They did.
"Honestly. What blasted game are you playing?" Ciel sighed irritably.
"I am afraid the fault is mine." Alliahnna rose from the blanket. She hid her own irritation behind a tender smile. "Our lunch must have been mixed up with someone who enjoys fresh meat." She grabbed one of the baskets. "Let me help you fix lunch, Sebastian. I know three little rabbits who'll make an excellent stew." Her tone darkened.
"Thank you, Lady. One moment more, please, My Lord." The basket jerked in his arms.
…
Back at the betting board, the odds of the engagement breaking off went from 40 to 66. Wagers flowed in by the hundreds to half a thousand pounds full, and were only increasing by the second. And the longer Ran-Mao flashed her femme fatale assets.
"Things become even more interesting when the butler makes an unprecedented mistake!" Lao announced exuberantly, passing out ballots by the stack full. His reserves were running out. "Will their engagement be broken? Will their passion fade? Odds are 60 to 1! Place your bets now!"
…
Alliahnna glared emotionlessly at the shameless man. If only her stare would work from across the river. He'd have to open his eyes of course.
"The engagement breaking off?" Sebastian droned.
"And the odds of them finding the stag or giving up." She breathed bothered. "I swear that man never ceases to be an idiot."
"Neither do our three rabbits."
"Speaking of which," She face towards the docked row boats, "I think they're having lunch near the water."
A sharp glare crackled with lightning. "Then let us skewer them with all haste."
…
Mey-Rin and Finnian already devoured the sandwiches. Bardroy was sniggering as if he was the greatest genius since Da Vinci, shuffling something under the picnic blanket. The rowboats carrying the supplies were beached beside them. Now no one will be able to steal them without crumpling the grass.
"You see the ingredients have got to be fresh." Bardroy educated his young friends. "Catch it, trim it, and eat it. A pre made pie is inexcusable!"
"With the pigeons I caught, they'll be able to use them too, right?" Mey-Rin grumbled. Catching pigeons is a royal pain. To not have them be used would be inexcusable.
"Oh we will." Bardroy picked up a flamethrower from under the blanket. "We just lightly roast them with this beauty," Mey-Rin and Finnian cringed, trembling in fear, "And the little lady is sure to be all smiles." Bardroy's smile, on the other hand, switched to confused. Little did he know a highly aggravated Sebastian was smiling just behind him. However he did scream frightfully, shaking like a puppy. Alliahnna, with the same level of irritation, stood over Finnian and Mey-Rin with her arms folded. Daggers in her eyes there were. "L-Lady-" Sebastian punched his cheek. Alliahnna punched Mey-Rin and Finnian in the head. Sebastian threw one last punch in the back of Bardroy's head, knocking him forward.
"You three brought this on yourselves." Alliahnna growled ominously. Mey-Rin and Finnian trembled in an embrace. "Finding white creatures other than stags was imbecilic enough." She bent forward, fists to her hips. "Switching the baskets?" She flicked their foreheads. "That's a whole new level of idiocy. We told you three no crackpot schemes."
The trio got on their hands and knees, head bobbing up and down, hitting the grass. "WE'RE SORRY! WE'RE SORRY! WE'RE SORRY!"
"Good gracious…" Sebastian had two pigeons by the neck, "How many times must I remind you?" He crushed them. Feathers plucked and ripped, strpping them to their bare skin. The wounded trio watched fearfully. Alliahnna stretched a bored arm. Sebastian's tailcoat flew, hanging neatly to it. He tied on an apron, rolled up his sleeves, pulled a skillet from nowhere, and made use of the flame thrower. "I specifically said…" Focused fire spouts cooked meat in mid air. Potato peelings sprinkled along with assortments of vegetables. Eggs cooked to the perfect form in the skillet. "That you were to behave!" Lobster and fish were tossed, cooked to perfection. Finnian, Mey-Rin, and Bardroy were in awe of his mastery. Batter was whipped, and a frosting applied. "DO I MAKE MYSELF PERFECTLY CLEAR?" Sebastian executed a dramatic spin, flung the skillet up, sending little cakes and ruby red tomatoes flying.
Alliahnna held out a platter with her free hand. Ruby tomatoes and little cakes as the base center by the skinned de clawed lobster. Blankets of leafy celery, applied by a spiral of cream surrounded by thick slices of ham. Potato cuts topped with cilantro. Cute pigeon bits covered by threes leaves of lettuce, more custard, and finally the pyramid was completed with hard boiled eggs, sliced lemon and the lobster's claws.
Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy applauded the display. Sebastian was redressed and ready to serve the meal. Alliahnna handed him the food, and quickly prepared some cider with the leftover apples. Elizabeth and Ciel love cider. "Oye. Downright impressive as ever!" Bardroy commended.
Sebastian glared, insulted by the compliment. "If I could make such a simple dish as this, well then, what kind of a butler would I be?"
"A waffle house butler." Alliahnna sniggered.
The discordant toll of Sebastian's marred pride sounded. Anime veins popped. His clenched fist produced a vein. "The very inclination of that outrage damns my reputation! Why would you be so cruel?" He snarled, only partially joking.
Alliahnna laughed nervously, rubbing the back of her head. "Sorry, Sebastian!" She cleared her throat, then turned on her heels to the trio. They erected stiffly, sweating profusely. "I know you three meant well," She gingerly scolded the hearty trio, "But in matters as delicate as this we all need to let things run their course."
"It's just…" Finnian dared not look up from the ground, "It's been years. We were worried-"
Alliahnna cupped his cheek, bringing a blush when he saw her warm smile. "I'm worried too. But I can assure you, Finny, forcing things won't help anything." She pet his head, then put the drinks on a tray. "Now you three try to stay out of trouble. Let this day play out as it should." She pleaded them with all sincerity.
"YES MA'AM!" They saluted. They sped off in the distance, seeking ways to make amends for their goof up.
"I swear you spoil them far too much." Sebastian breathed exasperated.
"I spoil you more than I do them. It escapes me how many of my dates you accidentally besieged and went unpunished for it."
A sly smirk crept behind Sebastian's curled hand. "Why whatever do you mean? I recall no such occasions. Only little boys making obtuse and asinine advances upon a Lady of Stature."
Alliahnna rolled her eyes, shaking her head. He'd never admit - even at threat of denied access to Alliahnna - that he was jealous of horny teenage boys. Oh well. There is more than one way to skin his pride. "Did I ever tell you Soma kissed me?" Silence gripped Sebastian. For a long time he just stood there. Then, stiff as an unoiled gear, he twisted half his body. Face completely blank. Empty white eyes hued by thin black lines leering. A victorious glint shined in her eye. Another feather in her cap. "My mistake. Perhaps I did punish you." She returned to the picnic.
Fire burned Sebastian's head and shoulders. Glowing white eyes the only noticeable asset on his darkened face. "Of course, My Lady, you realize this mean war." Demonic teeth shown in a Grell-Like grin.
…
Plates of delectable food were passed to Ciel, Elizabeth, and Alliahnna. "May I present a fish and lobster souffle With roast pigeon and a style of the pyrenees. As a drink: freshly brewed cider accompanied by fresh spring water."
"It's...so lovely!" Elizabeth cheered. She swished the wine glass of cider. "Wait. One moment, though. Isn't different from the menu you listed before?"
"I made some alterations to showcase the local ingredients, My Lady. Lady Alliahnna, on the other hand, is responsible for the alluring cider. She always was good with her hands." Alliahnna enjoyed the praise, but grunted with puffed cheeks nonetheless. A dirt innuendo hid behind that praise.
Elizabeth squealed giddily. She clapped her hands together, blushing in adoration of the spread. "It's so cute!"
…
Rounds of amazed applause roared from the crowd on the opposite side of the river. Mouths gaped at what binoculars made possible to witness. Such a fine lunch prepared in a matter of seconds. The desert didn't look too shabby either.
"Yes! Amazing! Quite a feat!" Lao praised Sebastian heartily. Especially when he was profiting off the swarm of wagers. "And Lady Phantomhive displayed some amazing talents as well! Balance and grace enough to make ballet dancers green with envy. Will this new outcome change the flow of the economical tide?" Ran-Mao went about posing, drawing more men closer. "Step right up and place those bets before it's too late!"
…
"A parfait with fresh raspberries." Sebastian purred. An upside bell cup nested on a crystal saucer, filled past the brim with cream and dazzling raspberries.
Elizabeth and Alliahnna took one bite. The sweet, thickness of the cream teased the tongue while the tart raspberries burst over their taste buds. It made the girls shiver with glee. "IT'S DELICIOUS!" They chimed sparkling.
"The cream came straight from a Jersey Cow, My Ladys." Sebastian placed a hand to his chest, grateful for their approval. Thus it possesses a simply light and incomparably light taste."
Behind Sebastian and the prepping station was the very same cow. "MOO!"
Ciel approved of the desert. Although one would never guess seeing as he's so stonefaced all hours of the day. "I expect a lot from you but I never would have thought dairy farmer." He teased. "The image alone is enough to make me smile."
"Quite so, Lord. It is rather unusual." He agreed, putting on a false smile to hide the irritation. "There are few masters that would ask their butler to do such things." Had Bardroy and the others not intervened, he needn't have done such a tedious task.
Alliahnna's face heat up like a thermometer.'Sebastian shirtless, wearing overalls with the straps tied behind his back, and in farm boots. The heat of the summer sun bearing down harshly, drawing beads of sweat down his amazing abdomen as he plowed the field, and by the end of the day he threw a bucket of cold water over himself.' Puffs of smoke exploded out her ears. Dizzy swirls replaced her eyes and she collapsed, laughing dreamily.
"I do believe you've overwhelmed her." Sebastian teased.
"Perhaps she too found the idea humorous. Thus fainted." Ciel took another nonchalant bite of the parfait.
"Oh I can assure, My Lord, Lady Alliahnna's mind held a vision entirely the opposite of humor."
A stream of lightning ignited Ciel's growing agitation. "Meaning…" He growled.
"Meaning…" Alliahnna sat up, consuming a giant glob of parfait hoping to cool her cheeks, "Either we eat or lose the daylight."
"Losing daylight caused you to spontaneously combust?" Ciel doubted highly. "Do I look like I was born yesterday? I know far more than you both give me credit for." He added rather forebodingly. Alliahnna and Sebastian paused nervously. Ciel glared deadly serious. The yogurt went down roughly. Sebastian and Alliahnna exchanged glances.
Elizabeth's sudden burst of laughter killed the tension. She was red in the face she was laughing so hard. Ciel worried she'd pass out. "The three of you make simply adorably friends."
"WUH?!" Ciel flushed. Alliahnna mentally noted to buy Elizabeth a new dress for the change in subject. "He is not my friend-" Ciel let the sentence drop. The look on Elizabeth's face. She simply adored the idea of Ciel and Sebastian as friends. Ciel shift to the water, failing to obscure the pink on his cheeks. He drowned the embarrassment in the parfait.
Alliahnna studied Ciel intensely. The comment he made seconds ago made her nerves jostle. He knows more than they give him credit for. What does he mean by that? He has been acting a little distracted. What does my little brother know?
…
Lunch ended when the glasses of cider and water drained the bottles. Elizabeth, Alliahnna, Ciel, and Sebastian returned to the boat and began looking for their white whale. Or stag - depending on your literary point of view. Bardroy drove beside them. Mey-Rin and Finnian focused on locating the stag. Elizabeth maintained her place at the bow of the boat. Alliahnna became engrossed in the possibility of the stag being real, so she sat in the middle, watching the sides. Ciel lazed about on his cushion, not too into find mythological animals.
"The stag is nowhere to be found." Elizabeth stated soberly. "How positively bothersome!"
"Not that we expected it to reveal itself because we asked." Alliahnna remarked.
"Maybe not, but how many places could a stag hide?"
"I name them," She fanned her fingers, "But I'll need ten more hands." Elizabeth giggled. Alliahnna felt accomplished.
"Turn back?" Ciel proposed lackadaisically.
"NO! NOT YET!" Elizabeth screeched.
"Alright." He put up no fight. He lied down, watching the thick clouds roll by leisurely. The lap of the water as the boat coasted. It's peaceful. Serene. Quiet. Ciel squeezed his eyes closed. A nagging sensation flooded the fiber of his being. So why am I unsettled?
"What's the matter, Ciel?" Alliahnna touched his forehead. "Do you feel ill?"
"Not at all, Alliahnna. I'm just...a little tired."
"Are you certain?" Elizabeth double checked. She didn't want to trouble him further if he wasn't feeling seaworthy. She fortified her resolve and looked ahead. "Just a bit further. We'll find it."
…
A bit further stretched into another mile. Midday gave way to the evening. Puffy white clouds shaded to a dismal grey, blanketing the blue sky entirely. The river current sped up, growing more restless. Small drops hit the water. First one, then three, 20 - A full torrent of rain spilled form the clouds. Boats left in the water tied to the docks were bobbing in the rough waves. Ladies opened their umbrellas, making haste for their carriages. Noblemen gathered the equipment and packed up for the day.
"The clouds grow heavy with rain. The sky has played it's part." Lao recited poetically on the coach seat. Ran-Mao held out a hand, catching a puddle of rain. "Looks like Lady Elizabeth will not find what she seeks. An huge uncertainty in the betrothal, indeed." The scoreboard read 10 for the success, 4 for failure, and 80 sure the marriage will break. With the weather the way it is, the four or 80 may get their wish. "Our current odds are-" Ran-Mao changed the success rating to 13. "Ran-Mao." He pretended to be surprised. "Aren't you bold today. You really believe they'll find the mythical stag, do you?" Ran-Mao hugged his leg. Lao massaged her shoulders. "Ah well, I do love an exciting game."
…
Sebastian docked the boat, finding it too dangerous to continue on the water. The boat was filling with rain anyway. They would have sank had they gone further. Rain soaked them and their clothing to bone. Perhaps there was shelter to be sought on land. He didn't even touch ground before Elizabeth jumped off and stamped through the water to shore.
"LIZZIE!" Alliahnna jumped the gap, running after her. "Lizzie, wait!" Elizabeth marched on, not intending to quit because of a little rain. "Lizzie, come on! You're being foolish! You'll catch your death!" Alliahnna implored her to no avail.
"I don't care! I will find the stag!"
"Elizabeth!" Ciel barked. "You really ought to wait!" He ran after her.
"I just saw it! Over there in the woods!"
Ciel grabbed her by the shoulders and twisted her around. He held her tightly, refusing to let her go on. She needed to listen. "Even the stag will seek shelter. Let's just go back."
"No! I'm going to find it, Ciel!"
"Aren't you being a bit unreasonable?" He put on a charming smile, sure it will convince her to listen. "We can look for the stag whenever we like." This made Elizabeth beam with joy. "Better yet we can hire people and offer a reward. For now-"
Elizabeth's smile faded. Her head lowered. The hat and bangs the welling sadness. "Do you know what, Ciel?" Her voice quivered. "You're a complete…" She wrenched from his grasp, turning her back to him, "YOU'RE A COMPLETE IDIOT!"
Alliahnna was flabbergasted. Ciel, however, was heartbroken. "That's truly what you think?" He feared asking.
"What does it matter what I think? You wouldn't understand what I'm feeling anyway." Elizabeth whimpered on the verge of tears. She squeezed her eyes closed, trying to keep a grip. Alliahnna reached a hand out, wanting to comfort her. These weren't childish tears. Elizabeth was genuinely hurt. "NEVERMIND!" She took off.
"ELIZABETH!"
"LIZZIE!" Elizabeth disappeared into the woods. Alliahnna and Ciel stood rooted, unsure of what to do. It would be best to let her cool off. But the storm...Alliahanna's shoulders sank. She stared sadly at the ground, still able to hear Elizabeth weeping. "She is right you know." Ciel wondered what his sister meant. She glared sapphire daggers at him. "You truly are an idiot."
Ciel took an involuntary step back, aghast his own flesh and blood would say that with such disdain. "What? Why? What did I do?"
"IT'S A STAG THAT MAKES PEOPLE HAPPY, CIEL! Just for three seconds put it into context!"
"You're not making any sense! Why are you and Elizabeth so angry at me?" He roared, getting tired of the subterfuge. "I'm the one who should be fuming! We're searching for a stupid stag part of some stupid fairytale that does not exist-" Alliahnna slapped across the face. The contact seemed to echo. Everything moved in slow motion. Ciel was stunned in disbelief. Sebastian's mouth and eyes slowly gaped. Ciel positioned a foot, saving himself from falling. He remained stagnate. His cheek numb, then gradually giving way to the stinging pain.
"For someone so brilliant at chess and strategy, you're a complete and utter imbecile in delicate matters such as this!" She bared her teeth. Ciel held a hand to his sore cheek, lost in the stinging but slowly understanding somewhere he messed up. Alliahnna only slaps him when he's missing the bigger picture. "She wants you to be happy, Ciel! Why do you think Lizzie is risking everything - including her health - to find a stag that may not exist?" Ciel stared wide eyed. "That girl is willing to do anything for you! For the life of me I can't figure out why? You're, by far, the most insensitive git I've ever known!" She shook him by the shoulders. "Mom and Dad are dead! I get it! But it was nine years ago! Don't take your sadness out on poor Lizzie!"
"But I...I didn't mean to-"
Alliahnna faced her back to him, not wanting to hear petty excuses he no doubt concocted to permit his behavior. She wanted to start over. A clean slate to rekindle a relationship they let wither. It would seem that was too much to ask for. "You're an angry person, Ciel. Happiness is banned from your heart. Banned from the people who love you." Her bangs hid her glossy tears. "Even now there is someone who makes me happy. And you'd do whatever it took to steal.."
Lightning and thunder battled in the sky. Her words were like knives, plunging into Ciel's heart, ripping it to shreds. "That's not...that's not true…I want-Wait! Allie!" Alliahnna dashed off, running after Elizabeth. I didn't...I didn't ban happiness. Then it came to Ciel, when he saw Alliahnna and Sebastian together. She was...happy with him. Even now someone makes me happy, and you'd steal it. Her words clawed him. Is...is that why she isn't telling me? "Alliahnna! COME BACK!" She disappeared in the darkness. Ciel stood with a hand outstretched. She was gone. Alliahnna's left him. Again.
"Oh dear. You've gone and made the Ladies angry." A familiar voice mocked. "Does this mean it's over?" Lao waved Ciel and Sebastian with the biggest, sly smile. Ran-Mao hugged on his arm.
"Lao!" Ciel spat his name.
"And here I bet on you finding that white stag. Do you insist on disappointing me?" He tried to goad the young Phantomhive.
"And why should I care about you?" Ciel shrugged off. "You blackmail my sister, and the reason is so you can place bets on me."
"Not blackmail. A trade. Information for a prospecting business." Lao's little spins on the truth were bothersome. "She was happy to oblige. Especially when I assured her the news was good." Ciel cringed. That word happy was used again. Happiness. Happiness. Ciel banned happiness. Alliahnna left once before because she was unhappy. She has found something and someone to fill her heart with joy. Had he truly warranted reason to keep it hidden? "A true gentleman is charged with pleasing his lady. Yes? Even his sister." Lao proceeded to tease him. "Aww. Being an english nobleman must be such a bother."
"I was born one. It doesn't bother me in the least." He snarled. Lao hummed mockingly. "But still...my past. I was born into a disgraced family. I have a duty. First and foremost to my fiance and my sister."
"Alright then. I've collected all my money." Lao and Ran-Mao waved farewell, sauntering listlessly for their carriage. "We'll be going now."
"Sebastian! We must find Alliahnna and Elizabeth at once!" He ordered, determined to find his girls. "Afterward...there is something I need to discuss with the two of you."
"SEBASTIAN!" Finnian howled desperately further down river, sprinting at his top speed.
"Yes. What is it now?"
Finnian caught his breath. He'd ran quite the distance. "Lady Elizabeth and Lady Alliahnna are in trouble! We have to help them!"
…
The storm was growing considerably worse. High winds threatened to barrel trees over. There was no longer a river but raging rapids. Muddy water roared in the ravine, ripping the edges of the land confining it between the hills. Floodgates, built to withstand sum quantities of water were faltering under the pressure. Spouts broke free of the wooden gates, spilling and creating more riverways.
"LADY ELIZABETH!" Mey-Rin screamed. A rope tied to a the dock was stretched beyond its limit, struggling to keep hold of the quaking rowboat Elizabeth was trapped in. She dared not to move. The waves alone were ready to tip the boat.
"HOLD ON, M'LADY! HELP'S COMIN'" Bardroy roared. He wished he could pull her in. Mey-Rin warned him he could capsize her if he pulled to hard. "PLEASE, LADY ALLIAHNNA, BE CAREFUL!" He called out to Alliahnna who was walking the soaked rope.
Alliahnna traversed half the soaked rope, balancing in the weaving center as it became more unstable further out. The rocking boat and violent waves shook it vigorously. One foot in front of the other she crossed, shieling the heavy rain from her face with one arm. Elizabeth was a mere ten feet away. Alliahnna could reach her. She had to reach her. "HOLD ON, LIZZIE!" Elizabeth whimpered, shivering in the rain.
"JUST A BIT MORE!" Mey-Rin urged.
"YOU'VE GOT THIS!" Bardroy encouraged.
Sebastian, Finnian, and Ciel sped on scene. Ciel went to the river's edge, horrified to see Elizabeth in the boat and Alliahnna playing trapeze to get her. "What on earth is she thinking? Why didn't you lot stop her?"
"We tried, we did!" Mey-Rin swore. "Lady Alliahnna insisted. She refused to let Lady Elizabeth stay in the boat." Alliahnna's blazer wore her down. She discarded it, letting the waves swallow it. She tied her hair to a bun, keeping whipping locks from blinding her.
"ELIZABETH!" Ciel howled. Both girls were shocked to hear him. Seeing him worried on the shore baffled them.
"You came for me…" Elizabeth honestly couldn't believe it. She grabbed hold of the oar, pulling to her feet. "I saw the stag...just on the other-" The water crashed into the boat. ELizabeth screamed, thrown off balance. Thankfully the boat kept her dry. So to speak.
"Careful! Just please don't let go!" Ciel begged from the bottom of his heart.
"Lizzie! Stay still! I'm almost there!" Alliahnna slid her feet. Slower it may be, it was safer than taking her feet off and stepping. "Lizzie! We have to turn back! This is too dangerous!"
"I'm going to find it! I have to!" She urged as stubbornly as a mule. That stag was her white whale. No matter what she'd find it. "I will find the stag!"
"Oh, Elizabeth." Ciel's never felt so helpless. Watching his fiance struggle to stay afloat, waiting on eggshells for Alliahnna to either reach her or be swept away. Both girls were in danger. His girls. "Why…"
"Whatever I have to do," Elizabeth reached a hand, casting her feelings, piercing the barriers of his heart, "YOU WILL FIND HAPPINESS!" Ciel froze. Happiness. Alliahnna's words replayed, That girl is willing to risk everything to make you happy! Ciel cursed the realism of that declaration.
"Master! What shall we do?" Sebastian snarled. Ciel didn't respond. "MASTER!"
"I DON'T KNOW!"
"I suggest you know soon." Lao remarked, appearing out of the blue. "Neither girl will last long. Down the way there is another floodgate. It has sprung a leak."
"An old fashioned one." Sebastian answered urgently. "My Master intended to begin rebuilding it next month."
"Next month will have to wait. Once it bursts this whole area will be swept away."
"ALLIAHNNA!" Ciel roared. "GET BACK ON SHORE! THE CURRENT WILL SWEEP YOU AWAY!"
"LISTEN TO HIM, ALLIAHNNA!" Sebastian roared. Abject fear on his face. "NOT EVEN YOU WILL SURVIVE IF THE CURRENT SWALLOWS YOU!"
"NOT BEFORE I GET LIZZIE!" She twisted, shuffling along. Sebastian's mind screamed to spring after her. But he knew better. This was something she wanted to do. "I'M ALMOST-AHH!" The water slipped her boot.
"ALLIE!" Elizabeth cried.
"ALLIE!" Ciel, Sebastian, and the others cried out, ready to dive in.
Alliahnna caught her balance on a knee, gripping the rope for dear life. "I'm alright!" There were breaths of relief. She rose to her feet, pressing onward. Elizabeth watched her, terrified she'd slip any second. "It'll be alright, Lizzie! I'm here!" She removed her sword. Holding it by the sheath she extended it. "Grab it, Lizzie! Hurry!" Elizabeth nodded. Carefully to stood. She leaned forward, grabbed the sheath.
"SHE'S GOT IT!" Finnian cheered.
"Come on…" Ciel pleaded.
Alliahnna pulled her to the stern. She lent a hand. Elizabeth reached for it. A huge waved smashed the boat. "GAH!" Elizabeth staggered.
"LIZZIE!" Alliahnna sprang off the rope, throwing away her sword. The boat ledge hit the back of Elizabeth's heel. the world tilted. The river growing close. She threw a hand out. Alliahnna interlaced her fingers, pulling Elizabeth into her arms, holding her as tight as she could muster. A gut wrenching splash drew screams.
"LADY ELIZABETH!"
"ALLIAHNNA!"
Halfway from the boat the girls broke surface, clawing and choking for air. "THERE!" Bardroy ran to catch them. Ciel and Sebastian ran faster than everyone, keeping the girls in sight.
"LIZZIE! ALLIE!" Ciel screamed.
"CI...EL!" Elizabeth screamed for help. Water snaked in her throat, choking her.
"SEB...TIAN!"
Alliahnna fought to keep her above water. She kept Elizabeth in her grasp, only letting go to to grab hold of passing rocks, anything to anchor them. The waves pulled them under, dragging them on the bed, threw them several feet, then engulfed them again. Sticks, rocks, weeds, other river debris hit them. The river submerged them again. Ciel grimaced. He lost them.
The depths held less mercy than the surface. It was like a vacuum. Elizabeth clamped hands to her mouth, trapping her breath. Alliahnna forced her eyes open. Hope beamed in her eyes. Swiftly approaching was a boulder. Swinging her feet toward the currents flow, flipped herself and Elizabeth. She held Elizabeth by the waist. She locked her knees. The boulder meet her boots. Alliahnna bent her knees, threw herself forward. The water surface broke. Desired air filled their lungs. Elizabeth's back pressed to the boulder. She coughed up water. A semi-calm pool of water surrounded her. Bits of water splashed her overhead. Alliahnna had hands pressed to either side of Elizabeth's head, choking on water as she barricaded Elizabeth from being swept away. The little pool she managed to create was calm enough so Elizabeth could catch her breath. Waves splashed over her, dousing Elizabeth. At least they were safe for the time being.
"THERE THEY ARE! THE BOULDER!" Mey-Rin pointed to the boulder.
"We need to throw them a line!" Finnian advised.
"Got one!" Bardroy unwrapped a rope. "They need to get on that rock!"
"ALLIAHNNA!" Ciel shouted. Alliahnna heard him past the water. "GET ON THE ROCK, ALLIE!"
"You heard him…" She strained. "Climb, Lizzie!" Elizabeth grabbed a little hole, digging her feet, and climbed. She stepped on Alliahnna's head for extra leverage. She made it to the top. Alliahnna collapsed her arms, hitting the rock hard. She climbed beside Elizabeth, rubbing her back proudly.
"LADY ALLIAHNNA!" Bardroy twirled the rope. "CATCH!" He let it fly. Alliahnna lunged forward, catching it. He tied a rock on the end for weight.
"Here. You first." She tied it to Elizabeth's waist.
"Wait! Why not us both?"
"Because we're too heavy. The current would drag us all in!" She doubted Sebastian would, but that wasn't an issue. She checked with Bardroy. He, Finnian, Sebastian, and Mey-Rin had a grip. Ciel was on standby near the edge. "NOW!"
Elizabeth took a deep breath and jumped. The current instantly swept her away. Bardroy and the others dug in their heels, pulling. Elizabeth emerged, pulling herself closer to the shore. Ciel knelt down. Elizabeth grasped his hand. With all his strength he pulled Elizabeth free of the current, wrapping his arms around her.
"Lizzie…"
"Ciel…" She sobbed in his chest.
"It's alright." Alliahnna stood tall, smiling that Elizabeth was safe. The water level was rising dangerously. Ciel knit a brow to Bardroy. "THROW THE LINE!"
Bardroy twirled the rope. "YOU READY?"
"BORN READY!" Bardroy was ready to throw the line.
"LOOK OUT!" Finnian screamed.
Alliahnna gaze up river.. Her eyes widened. Waves scaling a story plowed a runway boat right into her. Alliahnna screamed, disappearing beneath the water. The boat sunder to splinters.
"ALLLIIAAHHNNNA!" Ciel's voice broke.
"PAH! CIEL!" Alliahnna clawed the air.
"There's a bridge further down stream just before the floodgate!" Lao hollered. "If you can make it, you should be able to catch her."
"Then the die is cast!" Ciel touched his eyepatch. "Sebastian. This is an order. STOP IT FROM FLOODING!"
"What of Lady Alliahnna?"
"Do I need to repeat myself?" Ciel cast his coat aside. "Alliahnna is dear to both of us! I dare not allow her to perish! That is my duty!" Sebastian gasped. Does he know? Before he could question Ciel, the young master was already disappearing over a hill.
Sebastian ogled Ciel in awe, watching the young man thrust himself for a girl...they both hold dear. "Master. When did you learn…"
…
The current was too strong. The waves tossed Alliahnna too roughly. She'd be above water, then drowning, at some point she was upside down facing backwards. Alliahnna clawed animally for anything to keep her surfaced. The current grabbed her with an iron grip, pulling her under, teasing her with brief breaths of air. This is pathetic! I'm a demon! She summoned her demon strength. Eyes blazing pink. Waves shoved her under, dispelling her powers. NO! Sebastian...Ciel...Help me...She resurfaced. "HELP ME!"
"ALLIE!"
"CIEL?" Ciel stood on a bridge. Rope in hand. "CIEL!" She threw her arms up. Ciel went to the other side. Alliahnna appeared and he dropped her the rope. She grabbed hold. Ciel propped a foot to a wooden post, bracing himself. the strength of the current was greater than he imagined. The muscles in his small arms waned in seconds. Alliahnna pulled for the bridge, face turned from the water. The rope jerked. It was slipping in his grip. "CIEL!"
"HOLD ON!" He loosened the line as he stepped backwards. Swinging the rope he tied it to the railing. He got the knot good and tight. Running back to the other side, he dropped to his stomach, reaching for his sister. "COME ON! GRAB HOLD!"
"UGH! I CAN'T! THE CURRENT-"
"YOU'RE A DEMON! A PHANTOMHIVE!" Ciel scolded venomously. "Will you fail both me and Sebastian?" The idea sickened Alliahnna. She thrust one hand in front of the other, getting closer and closer. Ciel wriggled forward, holding the post. Alliahnna stretched her arm. Their fingertips brushed. Both stretched as far as they could, grabbing each other's wrist. "I'VE GOT YOU!"
The knot came loose. "AHH!" Alliahnna dropped. Ciel kept a hold on her, saving her from the same fate as the rope. Half of Ciel's body hung over the ledge. The current's grip on Alliahnna grew. "CIEL!"
"ALLIE! DON'T-LET-GO!"
…
Sebastian sped through the forest. The floodgate Lao spoke of was close. He leapt to a treetop to get a better perspective. Checking on Ciel and Alliahnna, Sebastian was horrified to find Ciel dangling by the bridge, barely able to hold onto Alliahnna. Those flimsy hands the only obstacle between them and a watery grave. Alliahnna's demon powers were great. Unfortunately she could not face a rapid. No demon could. Since Elizabeth, Sebastian's heart screamed to save his Lady. His love. But in his mind...an inner voice urged him to allow the Phantomhive twins to fulfill their duties.
"My Lord...My Lady…" A few yards away was the floodgate. The answer to his problems.
…
Ciel's fingers were slipping. He couldn't hold onto Alliahnna or himself for much longer. "YOU HAVE TO LET GO!" Alliahnna begged. "If you don't we'll both die!"
"I'll never...let you...go!" Ciel pulled in vain.
"YOU MUST!"
"I WON'T! I'LL NEVER LOSE YOU! NEVER AGAIN! I WON'T LET YOU GO!" He locked sharp sapphire daggers at Alliahnna, piercing her with his resolve. "I lost you nine years ago because I refused to hold on! Well not anymore! One way or another...I'm going to save you. This time...I'LL PROTECT YOU!" His words rang in her heart, bringing her to awe struck tears.
…
Sebastian landed on the floodgate. He pulled his glove off with his teeth. He curled the fingers in and out, cracking the knuckles. Taking one last glance, he saw Ciel was at his limit. Forming a fist he punched the gate. The stone cracked like glass. Cracks webbed in and out. Finally the stone crumbled. Water exploded past the gate.
…
Alliahnna wrapped around Ciel's waist. With both hands free he pulled to safety. A loud roar rumbled the air. Ciel and Alliahnna thought it thunder. The rumbling got louder, as if growing closer. When they looked up stream, a tsunami was heading right for them.
"WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?" Alliahnna screamed.
"SEBASTIAN! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?" The twins braced for impact. Alliahnna tightened to Ciel. The monstrous waves washed them and the bridge away.
Maelstroms within the water dragged Alliahnna down. No matter how hard she tried she could swim for the surface - wherever it was. She couldn't hold her breath much longer. Her lungs ready to burst. She was going to die. Alone. In water. Then a hand grasped hers. She was pulled to a small frame. Ciel's. He held onto her and she him. If this is how they will die, then they will die together. I will protect you...Ciel curled his fingers in her back. I have you...Their lungs gave out. All breath was replaced with water. Soon the world went black.
…
"Master...My Lady..." A voice echoed. Blinding light broke past steadily opening eyes. Numb nerves gradually blossomed sensations to, what felt like, fresh green grass. Sunshine touched their skin, malting the frigid rain. Sebastian's warm smiling face greeted the dreary orbs. "Welcome back, Lord and Lady Phantomhive." He whispered.
"CIEL! ALLIE!" Elizabeth threw herself between them, embracing them both on the ground. She sobbed heavily, so happy they were awake. Alliahnna and Ciel were in half a daze. Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy's cheers were like muffled noises. Ran-Mao and Lao blurs briefly. "I shouldn't have done that! I could have gotten you both killed! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!"
"Please look at me…" Ciel requested of Elizabeth. She broke the hug, staring deep into his eyes. He stroked her cheek. "I'm glad you're alright." He glanced to Alliahnna. "And you…" He moved wet hair so to see her dazzling face, "I kept my promise. I didn't let go."
"No. No you didn't." She shuffled close, holding his hand. The two snuggled their foreheads, beyond words happy to see their better half alive. "Thank you, My Little Imp."
"You're welcome, My Hellish Saint."
"You both were remarkable." Sebastian congratulated. "How foolish I was to doubt your strength." Grasps at his coat startled him. Glaring twins got in his face.
"SEBASTIAN! WHY THE HELL DID YOU OPEN THE GATE?" Alliahnna screamed.
"I ORDERED YOU TO STOP THE DAMN FLOOD, DID I NOT?" Ciel roared.
"Yes you did. And I followed your order." He assured them both placidly.
"Are you joking?" Ciel scoffed.
"I think he's serious!" Alliahnna sneered.
"I doubt we need worry ourselves about a flood here now. Or in the future." He added slyly. "In order to return the proper flow, the dammed up river needed to be released. I guided the current as necessary with help from the others." Ran-Mao and Bardroy flexed their muscles. Finnian, Lao, and Mey-Rin grinned, waving impishly. "Together we were able to alter the river's course. We showed it it's way. Its rightful form."
"Rightful form?" Ciel and Alliahnna chimed.
"Yes. How it flowed thousands of years ago. When the white stags could still be found here."
"Really. But we didn't find a stag now did we?" Ciel grumbled. They all nearly drowned for nothing.
"Don't worry. I'm sure we'll find it some day." Elizabeth assured him.
"Aw…" Alliahnna pouted, "Can't believe we nearly drowned just to be disappointed."
"Why not? We waited hours in line for a fun house only for it to be closed." Ciel chuckled.
"And those clowns tried to make it up to us by juggling fire bottles."
"And one of them caught their wig on fire!" Elizabeth's comment threw the trio into a fit of laughter. They had fun times as children.
"If you're still looking for the stag," All three stopped laughing to hear Sebastian. He motioned his head toward a hill, "It's right over there."
Everyone charged up the hill, going to the very top. Ciel, Alliahnna, and Elizabeth stopped, rooted by the sheer beauty that greeted them. Ran-Mao and Lao gasped. Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy laughed excitedly. Sebastian walked behind Alliahnna, emanating joy.
"Is that really it?" Ciel asked, still unable to believe.
"A WHITE STAG!" Elizabeth squealed. White stone shaped in the grass formed a monumental white stag.
"I...can't...believe it…" Alliahnna had chills. "It's real…"
"It's a hill figure." Sebastian explained. "An ancient geoglyph charted in the chalked rock of a hill. The torrent earlier washed away the surface of that hill. Revealing the art hidden underneath."
"This is the actuality behind the legend." Ciel understood.
"It's amazing, Sebastian!" Elizabeth beamed. She held Ciel's hand, drawing close, resting her head to his shoulder. "Ciel…"
"Uh, yes." He blushed.
"Did you…have fun?" The questioned was strange. "I know I did. Perhaps that is why they say the White Stag makes people happy. Because of the fun they have searching for it. I hope, somewhere through all the trouble, you had fun."
"Lizzie…"
"At last! You finally call me that!" She rubbed her cheek to his shoulder. "Please, Ciel, always remember this for the rest of your life. Let it...bring you happiness."
A smile touched his cheeks. He placed his head on hers, relaxing in the bliss. "Thank you...Lizzie."
Alliahnna sniffled. The beauty of it was amazing. The Stag was nice too. Sebastian came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders, pressing against her cheek. "Though fleeting, happiness is a grand phenomena." He lightly pushed her cheek, bringing their faces within an inch. "For you," He laced her fingers with his, touching his lips to her ring finger, "I would breed a thousand white stags, if only to see your wondrous smile." Alliahnna's smiling cheeks flushed bright red. She cupped a hand to his cheek, drawing him into a passionate kiss. Not caring if Ciel saw. Everyone turned giving them privacy. Immature giggles were not ruining the moment.
Ciel pretended not to pay attention, despite peeking back incessantly. "So when exactly did that happen?" He whispered to Elizabeth.
"You mean they hadn't told you yet?"
"I think they were waiting for the right moment."
"Then you're going to want to head back to the manor. Because THAT is a story fit for a novel."
TO BE CONTINUED!
MWAHAHAHAHA!