Recognizing Restraints
Elizabeth awoke bright and early for the day of the party. Paula and Mey-Rin prepared a little basket lunch for her, Esmeralda, and Lydia during the lengthy outing she had planned. Alliahnna was invited naturally. She declined, wanting to stay and help with the party invitations. Sebastian wrote them early in the evening yesterday. Before ending his night with a well earned treat. Alliahnna offered to deliver them to the recipients. In actuality it was so Alliahnna could have a little alone time with Phoebus and Schneizel. With that decided, Elizabeth stole Lydia and Esmeralda away on a tour of London. Alliahnna led Phoebus and Schneizel to another carriage Tanaka manned. She took care not to fray the edges of the pristine invitations. The Phantomhive coat of arms sealing the letters. Names of close associates, including Lao and Ran-Mao, and friends, The Midford Family, printed to the front.
…
"Oh...my...goodness!" Lydia's jaw dropped to the cobblestone streets.
"Absolutely stunning." Esmeralda and Zephyr shared her amazement. Only a short countryside carriage ride past gorgeous fields, quiet breezes, and awe inspiring quaint homes to the great City of London. Bustling with people, filled with shops and stands housing countless items not seen in Paris. Clothing, accessories, hair dressers, photography studios. In one block they've seen a variety of stores. In one mile they've met a variety of people. Paula and Elizabeth assure them they haven't seen anything.
"Clothing is only part of London's charm. The bakeries and restaurants are the cherry." Elizabeth enticed them.
"Come taste our new tart!" A woman with a tray of tart slices danced on the corner of 'Patties Bakery.' "Strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry tarts made fresh! Add a dash of whip cream for the ultimate burst of sweet and tangy!" Lydia, Elizabeth, Paula and Esmeralda were her first taste testers. The woman kindly asked if they wished for whipped cream. They used the spoon themselves and piled it on. The woman cut them little pieces. People tried not to be obvious of their investigating. Simultaneously the four girls put the tart pieces in their mouths. People moved in intensely. One woman put on a pair of binoculars.
"DELICIOUS!" Elizabeth and Paula burst.
"Tre magnifique!" Lydia cupped the tingling in her blushing cheek.
"My goodness is melts my mouth!" Esmeralda scooped a dash on her finger. Zephyr parted his small lips, exploding in giggles of the pastry on his tongue. Muttering crowds drew closer, intrigued by the trio's excitement. The baker woman set the tray on her small stand, cutting more samplers as demand increased. Children, adults, and the elderly fawned over the treats. Elizabeth and Paula escaped with Esmeralda and Lydia in hand before things got too crazy.
"Oh. What is zis place?" Lydia gazed through the window of a boutique. Flowers uniformly situated in a vase sat before an exact modeled painting.
"This place is an art studio as well as a florist shop." Elizabeth gently slid a hand to a blooming daisy in a little window garden. "Art students come for miles to study here, and they pay their way by helping in the store."
"Maybe I should consider attending." Esmeralda jested. She already helps Phoebus keep the troops in line. She dazzles and stumps them were evasive dance moves.
"Grab an application and fill it out as we go along!" Elizabeth ran with her hands outstretched, twirling to a pose in the of more London Sites. "There's more to see…" She double checked the clock tower. 10am, "And we have another eight hours to see it all!" Lydia and Esmeralda threw their fists up in cheer. Witnessing a rush for a tart drove them to see every inch of London top to bottom. Schneizel should consider extending their stay to a week.
"May be join this little tour, Lady Elizabeth?" Elizabeth recognized the voice behind her. She twisted with wide eyes. A glittering smile stretch ear to ear. Jasper and Zanosuke greeted the giddy girl with charming waves. "Long time no see, Elizabeth." Zanosuke chuckled.
"ZANO! JASPER!" She drew them into a tight hug. She was gushing with joy to see them. They literally disappeared out of nowhere. "THIS DAY KEEPS GETTING BETTER!"
"Esmeralda. Lady Lydia. A pleasure to see you both." Jasper greeted warmly. The two waved. "Paula…" He purred her name.
"H-Hello, Jasper…" She blushed.
"You both are definitely invited to the engagement party tonight!" Elizabeth declared fervently, giving them spare invitation she stole in case she thought of anyone else.
"Engagement party? For whom?" Jasper's shocked expression bred hope.
"Lord Schneizel and Lady Lydia are getting married." Jasper and Zanosuke hid their disappointment behind praises of congratulations to the Marquess. A complete 180 from what they anticipated. Sebastian and Alliahnna were standing at the pavilion in their minds. Jasper began to wonder if they were having issues in their relationship. Based upon what he witnessed briefly last night; certainly not. Young demons are just so afraid of commitment these days.
"Sebastian and Allie will be so happy you're here!" Jasper and Zanosuke shared doubtful glances. Alliahnna? Perhaps. Sebastian? He's happiest when they are on the opposite side of the world.
"Where are the happy couple?" Zanosuke teased. "They are still a couple, right?" He feigned ignorance of the other night.
"Strong and happy." Elizabeth assured them. "Allie's delivering invitations while Sebastian is helping Ciel." Jasper's brow knit sharply. "her last stop would be at my family manor. It's the closest to the Phantomhive manor."
"Alliahnna and Sebastian aren't near each other?" Zanosuke questioned with urgency.
"Well Sebastian is Ciel's butler again." Paula informed the out of loop Michaelis family. "Alliahnna offers her assistance where needed." Zanosuke and Jasper forgot the contract with Alliahnna was a substitute for Ciel. Naturally Sebastian would be by his master's side. Alliahnna is on her own delivering messages. Her powers have yet to fully set. Jasper hissed mentally. "Is something wrong?" Elizabeth worried by their dower expressions.
"Not at all." Jasper lied through his half hearted smile. "You've just reminded us of a pressing issue, Lady Elizabeth." Elizabeth and Paula whimpered like sad puppies. "Come now. None of that." Jasper caressed their cheeks. "We will be attending the party. This is I promise. But there is an acquaintance we must meet with."
"The party's at six. Come dressed handsome." Elizabeth forewarned.
"We shall arrive an hour early so rekindle old friendships." Zanosuke bowed, kissing her hand. "Please excuse us." Zanosuke and Jasper blended well with the crowd. Two carriages crossed paths and the two were gone. Paula and Elizabeth continued with their tour.
…
Jasper and Zanosuke soared across the sky skipping off rooftops, crossing miles of condensely occupied city in seconds. "Faustus never returned to his master! You saw how he watched Alliahnna the previous night!"
"A spider will never return to its crevice so long as a single fly lingers helplessly." Jasper foresaw Alliahnna trapped in a web woven by Trancy, restrained and at the mercy of the Faustus spider's drools fangs. "Like all creatures they devour the weakest! Faustus will undoubtedly hunt Alliahnna." The unfortunate hard truth is Alliahnna is weaker than seasoned demons. Claude will rend her to pieces.
"Alliahnna's powers have yet to fully develop and Sebastian has allowed her to roam knowing there are other demons!" Zanosuke pierced his lip with his fang, growling venomously. Sebastian never struck him as so foolish. The blind faith he rests in her immature abilities was unnerving. "We must find her posthaste! To the Midford Estate!" Zanosuke sped ahead.
…
It occupied a considerable amount of the morning; Alliahnna, Phoebus, and Schneizel successfully delivered the letters to their recipients in an expedient manner. Their final stop was the Midford estate. The servants regretfully informed Alliahnna their masters weren't home. The British Knights were having a meeting they dared not miss. It would end by three in the afternoon if Alliahnna cared to wait. It was already noon. Sebastian likely had all the preparation made, though she didn't want to leave everything to Ciel. Alliahnna politely declined and left the letter with them, asking that they get the letter back to the Midfords as soon as possible.
Alliahnna bid the servants a fond farewell. One or two of the staff were familiar faces from her childhood. Much of them have changed over the years. The manor as well. It was nice to reminisce. As the carriage carried on its way down the lot, Alliahnna was taken aback by a shift in the tombstones of the manor cemetery. The Midfords buried their family on Midford lands. Preserving the family line.
"That was…"
"Is it official." Alliahnna was startled from her daydream, diverting her attention to the solemn looking men. "Are you...I mean…" Schneizel released a resigned breath, "Was your contract completed?"
The underlying question that sickened him to so much as contemplate asking. 'Are you a demon?' To answer obscured inquiry, Alliahnna undid the buttons of her dress coat, the vest, and the white shirt, revealing The Bat's crest. When she opened her eyes the glazed, rippling pink stopped the two men's hearts. Ice filled their bloods, ran down their spines as those chilling slit orbs bore into them. "Laughter into Screams. Dreams into nightmares. Delights into fears. A bat that clings overhead to bite into the neck of your terrors. I am now a demon forever and always." Schneizel and Phoebus lost their wind, despair sinking them in their seats. It was a short time ago they became aware of the demon essence stirring within her. Her human self evident. But the moment they laid eyes on her at the harbor, after a year of separation, they knew she wasn't the same. She wasn't their Alliahnna anymore. "Ciel gave me the same exact look. He still looks at me like that. An imposter wearing Alliahnna's skin. Lizzie and the others are unaware. But I can imagine what they'd do if they found out."
"No, Alliahnna, we don't…" Phoebus stopped himself. He retreated behind a hand on his sweating forehead. Alliahnna's always been able to see through his lies. Apprehension lined his brow in sweat. And for someone versed in fear, Alliahnna broke Phoebus's heart. "I'm sorry, Allie. Really. It's just...part of me hope...prayed this wouldn't happen. That you'd be returned to the human girl we met all those years ago."
"As did I." Schneizel grudgingly admitted, lowering his head. "When you disappeared that day, the weeks spent worrying until that letter arrived, I knew the next time we saw you…" He dared not finish the sentence. "We haven't told Esmeralda, Hana, or Lydia. It is your secret to tell." Not that she will. She kpet quiet to Phoebus and Schneizel. Both only learned of her demon powers by sheer accident. There needed to be a new subject of conversation. The tension was rife with unintentional resentment. Otherwise this joyous visit would be for naught. "Are you and Sebastian fairing well?"
"We are, yes. Thank you for asking." She mentally thanked him for changing the subject. At times she will forget she's a demon. But when she see's other people, it reminds her harshly she is no longer one of them. "There was brief separation, but we've made up nicely." Last night was the first night in months he's...it made her blush to say aloud. "What about you and Lydia? How did you two begin your relationship?"
"Ironically, death brought us close." Schneizel answered with a hint of shame. "After Carmichael and Taylor were cremated, I remained in Toulouse with Lydia until she felt she could continue her Uncle's work on her own." His stay lasted for three days. He returned to Paris and received a letter three weeks later from Sebastian. 'All is well. Sincerely Saint and Servant.' A simple note bearing the grandest of relief to a father's worried heart. It did not, however, erase the sorrow. "After reading the letter it seemed as if I suffered three losses and began writing to Lydia who responded back diligently. We comforted each other. Began taking time away from work to meet. One thing led to another, and we fell in love."
"Beautiful…" Alliahnna hummed. "I won't have to send her 'Forgive me' roses and chocolates will I?" She snorted.
"Only when I forget our anniversary." The three threw their heads back laughing. This was more like it. Laughing at dry humor jokes.
"How old is Zephyr now?"
"Six months. He was born on February the 14th." Phoebus announced proudly.
"VALENTINES DAY! OH PHOEBUS!" Alliahnna gushed, wriggling in her chair. "What a romantic Valentines Day gift for you both!"
"He is our cupid." Phoebus handed her a pocket watch. Inside was a portrait of him and his family. A newborn Zephyr held by a gorgeous Esmeralda in a rocking chair. Phoebus behind her with his hands to her shoulders. "The day Zephyr was born, Esmeralda and I fell in love all over again."
"I've never been more happy for the both of you. Congratulations again." Alliahnna was overwhelmed with joy. Maes is gone. Of that she regrets. Knowing everyone else is carrying on splendidly eased tension from her shoulder.
"Maybe next time we meet, you and Sebastian will have one of your own." Schneizel teased. Alliahnna squealed, turning beet red. It never crossed her mind having kids with sebastian.
"Perhaps they should get married first." Phoebus laughed at her.
"Will you two stop it!" She screamed, cheeks shading darker. "You're worse than Lizzie and Ciel!" Schneizel and Phoebus held their stomachs laughing. Just like older brothers. Relishing in her embarrassment. Alliahnna folded her arms and crossed her legs, puffing her cheeks in a pout. "Bloody ass-hats…" She snarled with love. A shadow darted past the window. "Hm?"
"Something wrong?" Schneizel followed her bothered gaze.
"Not sure…" She knit her brow. The air felt off. Chills tickled the back of her neck and shoulders. Alliahnna shifted her hardened gaze side to side to the front. "We're being followed." Phoebus and Schneizel stiffened in their seats. A paranoid sensation of being surrounded by unseen people spying with harsh, preying eyes gripped Alliahnna limbs. The slightest twitch would entice the person to act. Two glints pierced the shrubbery. Alliahnna's gaze responded in crimson. "Tanaka! Get them to the manor! Now!" Tanaka erupted into his full grown form. A firm snap of the reins broke the horses out in a dead run. Alliahnna opened a hatch on the floor.
"Alliahnna…!" Schneizel roared.
"Do pardon me, gents. There is a matter I must attend. Good morning." She departed with her own Sebastian smirk.
Phoebus rose to stop her for answers. The shut hatch stopped his protest on the tongue. Alliahnna pulled herself up by his window and waved impishly, then disappeared in the bushes as the carriage made a turn. Phoebus was plopped to his seat by a familiar irritation Alliahnna was famous for. "Nothing really changes, does it?"
"And you were worried she wasn't our Little Allie." Schneizel winked. Phoebus rolled his eyes with a scoff.
Thick clouds of dust kicked up as the carriage gained speed. It escaped down the lot and out the gate, entering onto a busy street. From the small hill a figure in a all black attire watched the carriage vanish. An adjustment of the pristine glasses cast a gleam over inquisitive golden eyes.
"The weight of the car lightened." He muttered pensively. Cold sharp pressure pressed to the center of his back. His thin lips stretched into a menacing smirk. "Impressive. You're far more swift than I recall." He glanced back in the corner of his eye. "And you seem properly serious for the occasion. My praises, Earless Phantomhive."
Alliahnna sharpened her sapphire glare, pushing the tip of her sword deeper in his back. "What brings you to Midford Manor, Claude? Does your master allow you to venture so far?" She scathingly mocked the demon butler. "A spider will venture miles from its home in search of nourishing sustenance. If need be it will weave a new web from which it will hunt." Claude pinched the tips of his spectacle prongs, rhythmically bouncing the glasses of the bridge of his nose. A spider masked perfectly by the leaves in a nearby tree mirrored the movements with its fangs. The unsuspecting moth languidly motioned its wings. Small legs scuffling along the moist bark, unaware of the webbing blanketing a portion of the branch. "It will gracefully tread the thin line of webbing, taking care not to alert the ensnared prey. Or, for a more illustrious approach," The moth stepped on the webbing. It jolted into a panic, only tangling itself beyond rescue, "Wait for the prey to snare itself, then emerge from hiding to finish the task." The spider rushed from the cover of leaves and drove its fangs into the moth, stopping it dead.
Alliahnna growling seethingly gritting her teeth bore her fangs in insult of the dissertation. "Are you insinuating Sebastian and I are trapped within the Trancy Web?" Her hatred for spiders boiling beyond a childish phobia. Hannah, those triplets, Alois - none of them aggravated her more than Claude Faustus. Sebastian's - in every way - opposite. She despised this demon.
"Currently there is only one insect in my web." Claude responded, adjusting his glasses. "And she, by no means, possesses the strength to break free." In one smooth movement Claude spun and grasped the sword tip and Alliahnna's hand on the hilt. She let out a shriek when he yanked her close. She smashed her free hand on his shoulder, struggling to get away. He melted in the fear of her rippling sapphire orbs. They reflected his complacent grin. A small chuckle sent shivers over her skin. "How ironic. A bat who has witnessed the fear of hundreds displaying fear herself." He drew her closer. Alliahnna stiffened as his nose came close to touching hers. "You have me curious…" She quivered under the ghoulish caress of his cold fingers touching her cheek, "What nightmares torment the conceiver of nightmares?"
'Don't leave me...please...I don't wanna be alone...' Alliahnna's fang broke her lip's skin. She connected a knee to his stomach. Claude grunted at the unexpecting force. Alliahnna snatched her sword from his clammy grasp. She pulled herself in by his wrist. She planted both feet to his chest and sprang off, landing several feet back. The force hadn't staggered Claude an inch. He smoothed locks of hair as if nothing happened. Her filthy boot prints tarnishing the fine trimming of his uniform scrunched his brow. The handkerchief carefully fitted to the taut breast pocket wrinkled and askew with dirt.
Bold wretch! Claude hissed mentally.
"Hmph. What kind of butler can't keep his uniform in immaculate condition?" Alliahnna mocked him in turn. Reflected light hid his irritation. "Perhaps Sebastian's concern of you is unwarranted."
"An infantile bud who has yet to blossom should not boast!" Claude snarled. He roughly swept the dirt off him, not missing a single speck in returning his uniform to its glory. "The victory you seized when you infiltrated the manor was as hollow as Young Ciel's soulless shell!"
Alliahnna's sharp glare cracked three nearby tree trunks. Claude was not phased by the sprinkling splinters. "How dare you mock my brother's fragile state! Someone who hides behind timid leaves has no business declaring other's victories hollow!" The demons of Trancy Manor underestimated her and held back due to the immaturity of her abilities. She refused to have her strenght insulted by someone who serves a mentally broken prat.
"I suppose you are the perfect person to educate me on what it means to achieve victory?" He skeptically quizzed the overzealous child of a demon. By her shifting to her battle stance and displaying her dark crimson orbs, she did. Claude chuckled at her confirmation. "I won't have to even remove my spectacles for this brief lesson." He took half a step forward.
Alliahnna pushed off her place, launching full force. She thrust her blade. Claude easily stepped out of the way. Alliahnna dug a foot, switching sword hands,, and swiped to the side. Claude vaulted behind her. Her back completely exposed. Claude reared around with his own kick. The rubber sole met the stainless steel of Alliahnna's sword stretched across her back. She spun swiftly along the length of his slender leg, grabbed a fistful of the legging and pulled. Her fist connected directly with his cheek. She gaped in dread. The arm may have gone numb, but Claude remained unaffected. The punch didn't so much as graze his flawless skin. Alliahnna was gobsmacked. Her hand lowered in her daze. She put everything she had into that punch. How? How was he not phased? She ogled the clenched fist still pressed to the cheek. I sent Ash flying with this punch. Why…
"My turn?" Claude placed a hand to her shoulder and drove a fist right in her stomach, sending a shock out her back. Shattering pain shot through her body, expelling blood from her mouth. The sword fell from her weakened grasp. Pure terror poured from her widened eyes. Im...poss...ible…Her numb, shaking hands clawed his arm. How can...this...be happening? How can I be...so weak? Claude hoisted her off the ground by her neck, crushing the bones inside.
"Bastard…" She choked.
"What a shame. And here Sebastian rests such faith in your skill. Truly the sorriest of reborn demon." Claude drew her in and slammed her right in the ground. The dirt caved under her. More blood stained Claude's white glove. "Take heart, pitiful Bat, I will need to tend to my linens upon my return thanks to you. Another hollow victory." He took up her sword, admiring the smooth edge that has undoubtedly tasted the blood of countless victims. He rested the tip at the crook of her neck, cutting the clothing down the middle, exposing the seal. She flinched when the cold steel touched her skin. "The agony Sebastian will suffer when I send him his lover's beating heart." He placed both hands to the hilt and raised the sword over his head. Alliahnna closed her eyes. Sebastian...
Blustery wind carried a short storm of leaves. Alliahnna vanished from place, taking Claude aback. A devastating punch plowed in his abdomen. Claude lurched forward, coughing up saliva. The sword left his hands. Alliahnna's eyes shot open to see a familiar trench coated figure holding the stunned Claude with a fist in his stomach. As feeling retunred to her muscles, she came to realize she was being propped in strong arms. Sebastian? She shot her head up to meet a familiar smiling face. "Phantomhive pride has landed you in trouble yet again, Lady Alliahnna."
"Zanosuke!" She wasn't entirely disappointed. She wasn't sure how to feel. "When...then that's…" She gaped at Claude's attacker.
Mouth stuck open, Claude glanced to the figure pressing the fist to his crumbling bones. "Y-You…! Jasper...Michaelis!" Blood trickled to his jaw.
"Take your leave, Spider." Jasper commanded. Hot pink eyes blazing with rage. "Or I shall rip your limbs off one at a time and send them to your master." He shoved Claude to a tree.
The demon managed to keep himself standing, clenching his throbbing abdomen. He hissed venomously, refusing to kow to the Michaelis Head. Assessing the odds weighing against him, Claude picked up what little pride he maintained and made his way through the trees. He rested a palm to a tree, turning his aching body to glare ominously at the shielded Alliahnna. "Demons or gods...you will not be protected all hours. When that time comes, young Earless Phantomhive," He bounced his glasses, "I will drain every last ounce of blood in your veins and serve it to Sebastian in a wine glass." Alliahnna swallowed a nervous lump. Claude submerged himself in the thicket of brush and trees. Soon he disappeared altogether.
Jasper's eyes returned to normal and he released an exasperated sigh. He scrunched an agitated expression at the staggering Alliahnna. She was hanging on to Zanosuke's sleeve for dear life. If they arrived a second later, the crack in the ground would become a crater once Sebastian got through with it. "Honestly. Barely returned to society for three months and already you are head deep in trouble." He scolded playfully. "Tell me your brother is not as troublesome."
"Well excuse me, Sir Michaelis, I didn't ask to be attacked for delivering invitations." She spat bitterly, hands to her hips. "And I sure as Hell did not ask for you to step in!"
"Be grateful we did." Jasper retorted just as snidely. "Had we not, Claude would have fulfilled his threat." Alliahnna's lowered head obscured the hurt in her eyes. She faced her palm, deriding the weakness in her flimsy appendages. Fists that bruised the egos of angels, broke their bones until they were dust. The very hands that burned Notre Dame along with the Angels who robbed her of her family. Now...now she can barely break a boulder let alone bones. I have to be protected...again. She bit her lip.
"We should head to Phantomhive manor." Zanosuke broke the tension in the air. He offered Alliahnna his tender hand. "Do you require aid to your home?"
Alliahnna sneered disdainfully, swatting the hand off. "I can walk on my own!" She roared. Zanosuke stepped back in respect of her wishes. Alliahnna puffed her collar, shirking the dirt and bruises off. Jasper and Zanosuke actually saw her wounds heal rather swiftly. Perhaps her powers were not as underdeveloped as they thought.
"It may be best if you do not poke her frail pride with your cynical stick." Zanosuke forewarned his father. "Alliahnna is not a child. She's proven to be a resourceful, responsible, reliable young woman."
"That may be." Jasper cracked his shuffling shoulders. Then a sly smirk stretched ear to ear. "But if I told her that she wouldn't entertain me by trying to prove me wrong." He snickered. Zanosuke pinched the bridge of his nose.
"You two coming or will you vanish without trace again?" She hissed.
"Oh yes! Coming!" Zanosuke trailed after her. He attempted to sugarcoat his father's
Jasper lingered a moment. He recollected the punch Claude dealt to her abdomen. It wasn't full force, but it should have significantly damaged her to where she couldn't sit up, let alone walk. Yet there she was storming off in a fuming rage. And she had forgotten her sword. When he picked it up, he smelt the turmoil engraved in the blade. It made him smile.
"She might very well be a dangerous demon when her blood matures."
…
Sweet, delicate whipped cream was ravenously licked clean from a silver spoon. The Faustian seal peered past the blanketing white cream. Pearl white teeth clenched together in a heinous chuckle. "You failed me, Claude." Alois Trancy chortled, poking banana cream pie with the spoon. A malicious twinkle in his icy pale blue orbs. "You were to kill the Phantomhive Princess. Yet you return to report she lives to breathe another day." He hid an aggravated hiss in a purr, pretending to be entranced by the melting cream. "You said it yourself the girl poses no threat to you."
"My apologies, Master." Claude humbly bowed his head, knelt on one knee. "I was interrupted by the brother, and father of Sebastian Michaelis."
"Sebastian has a brother and father?" Alois muttered stunned.
"Both of whom are highly capable demons. They and Sebastian are demons I tread carefully about before challenging." His foreboding tone made Alois's trembling fingers drop the spoon. "While the girl is vulnerable with her demon blood in stasis, she will be under the guard of the Michaelis's. They will ensure her full power awakens. Especially now that it is imperative."
"Then you will have to make sure she is dead before that happens, Claude." Alois snarled. His face contorted in absolute rage. "Sebastian will be made to suffer a fate worse than death! Killing Alliahnna will not only bring him to his knees," He pinched a cherry between his thumb and middle finger, "It will make her regret what she did to me all those years ago." He squashed the cherry viciously, spilling the juices to his pie.
…
Elizabeth and Paula returned Esmeralda, Zephyr, and Lydia in a timely manner. There was still five hours before the party and the girl has dresses, accessories, and other goodies to try on before the engagement party. They even found a dress for Alliahnna. Ciel and Sebastian were pleased Esmeralda and Lydia had a fortuitous journey through London. Sebastian assured them preparations were ready for the party to get underway without a hitch. All they required were the arrival of guests, and the return of everyone hosting the party and the guests of honor. Alliahnna, Phoebus, and Schneizel were the only ones not in attendance.
The sound of wheels beating the dirt resonated a ways down the path. Panicked horses driven by Tanaka almost tipped the carriage on its side arriving at a terrifying speed. Elizabeth ran into Ciel's arms. Tanaka yanked the reins, stopping the horses on a dime. He kept his word and drove the carriage safely back to Phantomhive manor. The excited neighs of the horses lured Ciel and the others worriedly. Schneizel and Phoebus exited the carriage. Alliahnna was nowhere to be seen.
"Lord Schneizel! Commander Phoebus! What's going on?" Ciel questioned them urgently. He searched for Alliahnna. "Where's Alliahnna?"
"Someone was following us! Alliahnna stayed behind to deal with them!" Phoebus urgently informed them with absolute confidence in Alliahnna's abilities. His confidence eluded him when she wasn't amongst the concerned crowd. "Wait. She hasn't returned yet?" Sebastian's brow knit. Ciel tried his best to hide his concern. Alliahnna is a demon. She is capable of handling herself. However, Sebastian's grim expression unnerved him. Elizabeth put a hand to her aching chest. Alliahnna vanishing without a trace is a painful memory.
"Don't cause a panic, Phoebus," Alliahnna sauntered casually on scene, flaunting her intact uniform, "Remember, people here are still recovering from my previous disappearing act." Phoebus blushed, laughing nervously. Schneizel sighed happily. Elizabeth, Ciel and the others bashfully laughed, calling themselves foolish. It was a silent concern.
"Then you weren't ambushed by attackers?" Ciel quizzed skeptically. Sebastian, on the other hand, wasn't laughing. He wasn't fooled by her standoffish attitude. Alliahnna shrank feeling his harsh glare narrow on her. Then his expression softened as two men walked up behind her.
"A lone man lurking in the woods does not constitute an ambush." Jasper guffawed, snaking an arm around her shoulder. Sebastian spat at the elder Michaelis's hand. Not that his father's presence wasn't an even bigger bother.
"A good afternoon, friends." Zanosuke introduced himself to the crowd, excusing his father's poor manners.
"Jasper! Zanosuke!" Schneizel welcomed them with open arms. Zanosuke responded with a shared firm clap to one another's shoulders. "How wonderful to see you both again. You are looking well."
"And you as well, Count Schneizel. Commander Phoebus. Welcome to England." Zanosuke bowed his head. Phoebus gave him a two finger brought his attention to Marquess Lydia, sweeping an arm in a charming bow. "Marquess. It pleases me to see you in high spirits in lieu of your uncle's unfortunate passing."
"You have my szanks, Monsieur Zanosuke." She curtsied. "Monsieur Jasper, I apologize for my less zan hospitable behavior when we last met."
"No need for apologies, Marquess. I was not very respectful myself."
"I was worried you both would not make it." Elizabeth's rosy cheeks beamed. "Thank goodness you met up with Alliahnna."
"Well we would have been late had we not convinced Mr. Faustus to bid farewell." Sebastian's eyes widened. Alliahnna's heart skipped a beat.
"Mr. Who?" Elizabeth touched her chin, not recognizing the name.
"Just the name of the lad who attacked Alliahnna. The young Earless handled herself splendidly. Albeit a scrape or two. Mr. Faustus wasn't too pleased that we ended the fun so soon." He emphasized Claude's name, drawing gaping Sebastian's discerning glare - loaded with daggers - to Alliahnna's misconstrued healthy state. He wordlessly scolded her. Alliahnna's nerves of steel exploded in her stomach. Thank...you...JASPER!
"AHEM!" Ciel loudly interrupted the obtuse reunion. "Alliahnna. How do you know these two again?" In Ciel's language, 'Either clue me in or feel my wrath.' Alliahnna shivered when he stalked beside her with his usual grimace. She shuddered at what diabolical thoughts percolated in his evil little mind. At the same time she thanked him. By Sebastian's expression, he's shortened her punishment to four possibilities. Dangle her over boiling water, tie her to a chair of leeches, strap her to the bed and torture her, or worse. Dress her in one of his perverted fantasy costumes. Please let it be the boiling water!
"Ciel, meet Zanosuke and Jasper Michaelis. Sebastian older brother, and his father."
"Lord Phantomhive." The two bowed.
Ciel gasped, lurching limp limbs forward. Panels of his mind shattered by gobsmacking shock. He was so thrown for a loop the volcano of his rational mind erupted wrong side up. "B-Brother?! Father?! When-how-who!" He darted a confused finger between the three. Sebastian found this all too nostalgic. Elizabeth, Schneizel, and Alliahnna found it hard to believe too. But like his sister and friends, Ciel eventually saw the resemblance. He masked his mouth whispering to Alliahnna, "Are they…" She nodded wordlessly.
"Jasper, Zano, this is my twin brother Ciel Phantomhive."
"Uh-ahem-yes. Good Evening to you both." He stammered. It was beyond amazing.
"Twin is an understatement, Lady Alliahnna." Jasper marveled. He leaned in close to the twins. He tapped his chin, humming pensively. "Fraternal twins due to gender and mind, but…completely identical in features." Their eyes, their cheeks, their hair, shoulders, knees, and toes. Were Alliahnna's hair just as short, "I swear if you both dressed a like and had the same hair style I'd never be able to discern you unless you spoke." The two unintentionally blushed. A high compliment in their opinion. Since birth they've been told by many how identical they are. That, at a distance, its difficult to tell which is which. Must be true if Jasper can be fooled. "You both strike me as troublemakers in their childhood."
"You would be correct, Mr. Michaelis." Ciel chuckled. He and Alliahnna exchanged mischievous grins. "Alliahnna and I were always able to fool visitors, never our parents or Elizabeth though."
Elizabeth giggled childishly, draping her arms around her twins. "That's because I know you two better than anyone." She snuggled her cheeks to theirs, shading embarrassed blushes.
Sebastian could not stand it any longer. She may be able to fool the others with her laughter and posture, but Alliahnna cannot fool him. Its so slight, the lift in her collar, no one would bat an eye. Shawdy patch job on the buttons shabbily kept the blazer chest closed. And her stance. She lurched forward some, minimizing movement and keeping her knees bent slightly. There's only one reason for her to do so.
"Pardon me, Lady Elizabeth!" Sebastian roughly snatched Alliahnna by the hand, dragging her into the manor. "I must speak with the young lady presently!" He snarled.
"Hey-ow-Sebastian-stop-ow!" Alliahnna fought his iron grip.
"Sebastian? Is everything alright?" Elizabeth whimpered. Zanosuke and Jasper knit their brows.
"Just fine, Lady Elizabeth!" He shoved Alliahnna with a shoe to the butt. "There is just a matter the young Lady must be scolded on. Excuse me." He closed the door. Esmeralda, Lydia, Elizabeth, Paula, and even Zephyr were bewildered. Ciel, Schneizel, and Phoebus were confused as well, but surmised Sebastian's outburst was related to Alliahnna's powers. Why else would Jasper and Zanosuke be slinking from the crowd.
"Ladies!" Schneizel clapped his hands, gaining attention from the lovely crowd, "Why don't you rest inside for a bit. You've had a long day."
"Yes. Please. By all means." Ciel escorted them to the door. "We shall join you soon." The women protested, of course, of the odd behavior of the gentlemen. Sebastian and Alliahnna's disappearance bothered them as well. Before they could ask what was going on, Tanaka and the other servants already had the women inside the mansion, luring them to the kitchen for a well deserved snack. Mey-Rin and Finnian recovered the clothing and other items Elizabeth, Esmeralda, Paula, and Lydia purchased. Schneizel, Phoebus, and Ciel's anxiety was quickly replaced with aggravation, irritation at the obvious secret Zanosuke and Jasper were keeping. "Having just met I am reluctant to blemish first impressions. But when my sister is dragged off unexpectedly by my irate butler I grow concerned. Especially when his brother and father do not utter a small word of protest!"
"And by what evidence, Lord Phantomhive, do you base your concern?" Jasper challenged cooly. To which Schnezel and Phoebus stepped in.
"Sebastian and Alliahnna were notorious for isolating themselves when discussing unearthly matters!" Phoebus snarled.
"The only difference this time is Sebastian is upset. A very rare phenomena. " Schneizel interjected. He locked gazes with Jasper. The demon never faltered, but was impressed by Schneizel's level of seriousness. "By your reactions, you expected him to be upset. As their family, we are able to detect when things a amiss."
"Which leads us to believe your accompanying her bodes ill fortune had befallen her." Phoebus conclusion. Zanosuke massaged the back of his neck. For humans they were very perceptive. Jasper was unable to keep up the charade.
"I'd wager Alliahnna's misfortune lied with the ambush near Midford Manor." Ciel theorized. "By this Mr. Faustus. What I cannot fathom is how a simple ambush brought about Sebastian's behavior."
"That is because, Lord Phantomhive, Mr. Faustus is a demon." Jasper answered gravely. The word demon echoed in their minds, tolling like an executioner's bell. "And your prideful sister was fortunate Zanosuke and I were close."
…
Sebastian's swift kick cracked Alliahnna's door on the wall. "I can't believe you would do something so foolish!" He roughly threw her by the arm to her bed. He locked her door, whisked the drapes closed. Alliahnna pressed her back to the bedpost, trapped by Sebastian's flaring rage. "Challenging Claude on your own?! What were you thinking?"
"I was thinking-"
"NO!" Alliahnna squeaked and cringed. "YOU WEREN'T! THAT'S THE ISSUE!" She peeked fretfully. Sebastian was practically frothing at the mouth he was furious. This is worse than being scolded like a child. She wasn't a child. She will not be spoken to like this. Least of all by a...No. I won't step on that toe.
"Why are you so cross with me?! This, by no means, is my fault!" She boldly approached him. "How was I to know Claude would arrive? You weren't exactly the loop on his presence!" Sebastian hissed through gritted teeth. How could Sebastian have missed it? Jasper and Zanosuke's coincidental arrival meant they knew Claude was lurking. "I faced Ash with only a substitute of the powers you have! And won! Why shouldn't I be able to take on Claude?"
"How many times must I remind you - no! WARN YOU - of the restrictions undeveloped demon blood binds to your body?!"
And it struck her dead in her healing ego. Her fingers curled to a tight fist. The muscles recalling that less than pitiful punch she dealt Claude. Her strength as a Substitute Demon, all that power from five years of pain, sweat, and training, amounting to nothing as her new life. That blasted demon blood coursing through her veins. Power and strength beyond her wildest dreams only a spitting distance away confined to the untouched recesses of her developing form.
…
"What do you mean not fully developed?" Ciel inquired, leaning to one of the carriages.
"Substitute demons go through a physically traumatic transformation which leaves them in a vulnerable state." Jasper generalized the basics of Alliahnna's condition. "Any strength obtained as a Substitute Demon is now in a state of rehabilitation while her full demon blood sets. Steadily and generously it will return. But the process leaves many restraints."
"But...she was transformed a year ago." Phoebus remarked warily of Jasper's educating.
"Rehabilitation varies amongst Substitutes." Zanosuke interceded the education. He stretched his neck and shoulders, thinking on the aches and pains he endured. "It can take one to possibly hundreds of years for demon blood to fully develop." Hundreds of years?! The idea curdled their stomachs. "Because Alliahnna allowed her body five years to adapt and adept to her powers, she's bonded with them nicely."
Ciel agreed with their assessment. Thinking back he was rather impressed by Alliahnna's fencing form. Her footwork, movements - she was fluid. When they were kids fists were her choice of weapon. She could hardly wield a butter knife let alone a sword. Sword wielding teaches control, self discipline; an art form few master. Narry a steady hand nor a clear mind, and the duel ends before it begins.
"Alliahnna displayed excellent sword play not long ago." Ciel spoke to her skills. "Against an arrogant human man," He could see it clearly. In an elegant dance to the death she treated the sword as a partner, "But she put swordmasters to shame."
Zanosuke released a charmed snigger. How he wished to have witnessed that spectacle. Although watching her and Sebastian simultaneously fend off angels would have been the entertainment of the century. "Right about now, Alliahnna is sound in feats of agility and acrobatics." Jasper continued. "The strength needed to counter another's, however, has yet to fully return. Compensating is her tolerance level for pain or devastating injuries."
"Why do I detect a note of disappointment in your tone?" Phoebus accused the older gentleman.
"On the contrary, Commander," Jasper erected a hold of thought finger, "I surmise her blood will fully awaken some time soon. It merely requires encouragement."
"What sort of...encouragement?" Chills scaled Ciel's back.
…
"Is it truly necessary for me to constantly remind you of the dangers combating fully grown demons bodes?!" Sebastian reprimanded with hands to his hips.
"Umm…" She actually thought about it. Sebastian smashed a fist on her head.
"That is a rhetorical question!" Alliahnna crouched holding her throbbing her. Sebastian curling and uncurling knuckles cracked dangerously. "This, however, isn't! What possibly, beyond all senses, told you that you would be a match for Claude?"
"My powers may not be completely roused…part of me...was aware..." She slowly rose, taking care not to agitate her sore skull. "That did not dissuade my desire to keep Phoebus and Schneizel safe." Wounds Claude imprinted ran deeper than anything she'd ever felt. The difference in their strength; Alliahnna was helpless. S...Scared. Claude came so close. Another step and he would have harmed Phoebus or Schneizel, and she wouldn't have been able to stop him. "Ash, Angela, and now Claude. My family is relentlessly targeted. Stolen. So long as I breathe The Trancy household will never again touch my family with their tainted fingers. And won't let some technicality get in the way. Or you." Threatening pink eyes flickered.
Her growl made Sebastian take an unconscious step back. It was the first real promising threat she'd issued towards him in...six years. It would come as no surprise if she carried it out. Regardless of the obvious difference in strength. "You know I would never do anything to prevent you from protecting them."
"Then refrain reminding me of my slumbering hindrances. Explain a method to stirring them!"
Sebastian held fast, understanding Alliahnna's frustration. Her disdain for mollycoddling paled to her hatred of being helpless. A year of searching for Ciel's stolen soul inhibited her development. After tonight he will need to rectify his lapse. "Demons are roused when no other alternative is present. As you demonstrated when Ash pierced me with a sword." A memory, regardless if a charade, that tears Alliahnna in half. "But realize demons are eternal. Not immortal." He pinched her chin, caressing his thumb under her lip. "Death is not an impossibility. It merely takes a more devastating blow."
"Careful Sebastian…" Alliahnna's cheeks flushed, "One might think you're scared of losing me."
Sebastian pressed his lips to hers in a passionate kiss. He wolfishly smirked breaking the kiss, savoring Alliahnna's blushing daze. "I'm terrified. I can't bear to be without my favorite toy." Alliahnna's glare was waned by her reddening cheeks. Sebastian's arms snaked to her waist and back, drawing her back into another kiss. The bed frame pressed up against her staggering legs, toppling them Halfway on the bed. Sebastian pushed up, wagging a teasing finger. "This will have to wait until tonight." He lightly ran a finger, undoing the buttons and her skirt. "We have to prepare you for the party. There will be champagne, fine cuisine, exquisite desserts..." He tantalized the taste buds, strolling to the purple gown draped over a chair, "And, of course, dancing."
Alliahnna sighed in dread as Sebastian performed a waltz to her. "I do so despise dancing." The uniquely stitched design in the fine fabric and the embroidery lining above on the waist helped little in easing her unease.
"Another shared trait of the Phantomhive Twins." Sebastian teased. He held the dress by the thin straps. "At the very least you will look amazing gliding across the dance floor in this." Alliahnna was drawn to the white flowy sleeves that draped off the shoulders. The skirt parted at the middle waist down, revealing a white underskirt decorated weaving wind mimicking stencils. "Come, My Lady," Sebastian stretched her hand high in the air, twirling her about, "Let us make you a force to drop the jaws of men! So long as none get any funny ideas." Alliahnna giggled at her foolish love. His insecurity truly is a sight to behold. You needn't worry, Sebastian. I'll never love anyone as much as I do you.
…
Six o'clock came at the blink of an eye and already the ballroom was filled with a bustling crowd. Mey-Rin and Finnian danced in between the crowd, serving them refreshments and snacks. Tanaka took tea with the more older patrons, laughing idly at the youth they witnessed. Ciel was sharing dances with both Alliahnna and Elizabeth simultaneously. Jasper seduced Paula into a dance. She tripped over herself becoming mesmerized by him. Schneizel and Lydia, Esmeralda and Phoebus, and Hana and Bardroy danced to their hearts content. Zanosuke and Sebastian watched from the side as everyone enjoyed themselves. The brothers could not quite remember when, but Elizabeth and Alliahnna had dragged them out onto the dance floor, switching dance partners on each turn.
A toast was given in honor of Schneizel and Lydia's marriage. Ciel, head of the toast, wished them many happy years and healthy children. Alliahnna forewarned Lydia to keep Schneizel in line and warned Schneizel to take care of Lydia. She will try to take visits back to Paris to check up on him. Phoebus and Esmeralda deemed it would be an honor to help watch over their future children. Zephyr will undoubtedly be a key role model for the future nobles. Elizabeth gushed and begged to be allowed to watch over them if things become too hectic in their sure to be busy lives. She will be their aunt. While Alliahnna is their big sister. That's all she needed. More younger siblings.
The atmosphere was a cheerful one. Friends and family, and close associates enjoying one another's company. No turmoil or petty squabbling. Not even a single word about Mey-Rin or Finnian dropping food everywhere. People knelt to help them. Just a normal social gathering for a close family friend. Alliahnna's adoptive father. Ciel wished days could always be like this. Laughter and bliss echoing i nthe halls. Him and his sister living their youth to the fullest. None of this demon business getting in the mix. Alas it was a mere fantasy. A dream he would awaken from. His sister will be a demon the next morning, Sebastian will have a stake on his soul, and an eternal boundary will forever separate him and Alliahnna. Permanently.
Not much to the ending, but I ran out of ideas.
This was one of those chapters. Oh well.
Till next time.