His Sister

Demon's Hunger

Before I depart to another fic, this one demanded to be posted. Hope I do it justice.

vVv

Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'Rasping, starved, drawn out breaths - hot air exhausting past parched lips. Stinging dryness tormenting a throat swallowing crusty air.' "Hungry. I am...hungry." Bump-bump...bump-bump... "Something sweet...something tangy...anything!" 'A navy abyss - stretching far or residing close. A pale hand reaches to touch. The space so close, but could not be touch. Ice cold air numbs slenders fingers.' "Food. I want food. So hungry." Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'Nothing in either direction. Yet the space was not empty. It was crowded. Very crowded.'

Bump-bump...bump-bump..."Where...where am I?" Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'The ground emitted a hazy glow, chasing the blackness a short ways up. Cautious footsteps echoed. Legs wobbled clumsily, unable to keep in a straight line.' Bump-bump...bump-bump... "So hungry. Cannot think. Can barely move. What is this hunger?" Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'Whispers within the dark tickle small ears. Bleak, dim eyes cast their sights ahead. Voices of people. Very close. Cannot be seen.' "Who's there? Hello? Sebastian? Ciel? Huh?"

'Wriggling free of the thick black wall, ethereal ribbons slithered. Purple, blue, green, silver - colors of every variety rippled into the intangible strips. The voices emanated. Hushed, incoherent chatter. Gentle as the sounds of a forest.' Bump-bump...bump-bump... "What's this?" 'Cold fingers close to a ribbon. The green ribbon dispersed into a mist, evading the grasp. The mist came together, twisting into ravenous serpent. A mouth opened, taking in a breath of surprise.' Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'The snakes stretch to the mouth, slithering over the tongue. Others found the nostrils. In that breath the snakes vanished.' Bump-bump...bump-bump...

"Delicious! So delicious!" Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'The tongue slurps up remaining mist. "More! I must have more!" Bump-bump...bump-bump... 'The same green ribbon wafted tauntingly. Hungry hands grabbed and clawed. Feet stomped forward. The mouth and nose devouring every ounce. Drool dripping to a jaw. Manic laughter growing crazier by the second.' "More...more...more...MORE! Give me more! I want more!" 'The feet picked up pace, breaking into a run. The ribbon grew thicker and wider. Still the stomach was not satisfied. A short figure emerged in the endless darkness. Fangs shown in a toothy grin. Crazed eyes spied the ribbon constricting the figure conjuring it.'

"Yes! YES!" 'Claws extended and latched on, drawing blood. So warm and tantalizing. The tongue slurped the blood. Tangy bliss danced in the mouth. The figure trembled in her grasp, driving the claws deeper in the skin.' "More! Give me more!" 'The hands turned the shaded figure.' "GIVE ME YOUR SOUL!" Light revealed the figure - A frightened Elizabeth.

vVv

"AH!" Alliahnna flew forward in her bed. She panted shaky breaths. Her heart was ready to burst right out of her chest. Beads of drenching sweat clung to her brow were illuminated by the full moon. Her blurred vision adjusted to the darkness. She was in her room, in the manor - safe.

"A dream...nothing but a dream." Demonic pink eyes glowing in the ebony night dimmed to sapphire. Fangs which pierced cuts in her lips retracted. Alliahnna smashed a palm to her pounding forehead, roughly clawing at askew hair. "It's only a dream. You're okay, Alliahnna. You're just dreaming."

Only a dream - or so she wanted to believe. Dreams come and go, and are replaced by new ones each night. The same dream - no. The same nightmare - has plagued Alliahnna for the last 14 nights. Every night it becomes frightfully more vivid. The taste of that mist. It tortured her mouth. She silently craved more. The smell of the intoxicating aroma. This was the first night the ribbons led her to seeing a face. Elizabeth's face.

"IT MEANT NOTHING!" She screamed at herself. She squeezed her eyes closed, drowning the outside world in nothingness. "It's only a dream. It has to be." She convinced herself what she saw was only a vivid dream conjured by fears in her subconscious. "Lizzie is safe. I would never..." She trailed off. The fingers of her left hand were tangled in something. She removed the sheets. Her eyes widened. Taut veins gnarled her disfigured hand. Her claws and fingers dug a gaping hole clean into the mattress, shredding the springs and sheets. 'Her claws marred Elizabeth's frail arms.'

"NO!" Alliahnna wrenched her hand free. Feathers and sheet ribbons flew everywhere. Alliahnna staggered racing to the wall, burying her face in her hands. "It meant nothing! NOTHING!" Her knees crippled. She subconsciously touched her stomach. A hunger made it squeak. "I'm still human...I'm still human...my heart...is still human!" She sobbed to her palms.

vVv

To either side of her bedroom window, Zanosuke and Jasper listened to the young demoness weep. Illusions of humanity placating her distress. Victim of the cruel hand dealt by fate. Forced to assume a form that robs the person of a life they proceed to walk in disguise. A common tale that has been told since the day time kept track of itself. Alliahnna is no different. She clings to her life as a human, claiming to be human at heart. All the while she ignores the obvious signs of how wrong she is. The urges torturing her will only madden until she satisfies them.

"The dreams are only the beginning." Jasper forewarned ominously. "The hunger will take hold, and she will have to feed."

"Do you think she will?" Zanosuke doubted. Alliahnna is too nice a person. She may abstain simply for the decency of it.

"If she does not, it will only hurt those she loves in the end." He watched clouds highlighted by the moon's glow drift leisurely. "Dreams are the mind's hidden desires. Eventually those desires surface." He lowered his head, mourning the suffering Alliahnna will inevitably endure. "The hunger will twist her mind from reason to rabid. Anyone within reach will fall victim."

"Is Sebastian aware?" Zanosuke voiced an underlying concern. As the one who blooded her, Alliahnna is Sebastian's responsibility first and foremost. Her actions - be they harmonious or destructive - fall on his shoulders.

"I am certain he has seen the signs." Zanosuke slightly returned his attention to Alliahnna. She had coaxed herself to lie back down. Her forearm was stretched over her eyes, darkening the images replaying in her mind. "Her progress adapting to the physical aspects is impressive. Mentally she is sound. But the hunger..." He trailed off woefully.

"The hunger is the most trying." Zanosuke touched his stomach. An unrelenting need to feed and feed. "Should she not feed, she will go mad."

"Sebastian's love for the child has made him neglect his responsibility before. Now we will see if he possesses the resolve and wherewithal to do what is necessary." Jasper stepped onto the air, appearing on the ground from behind a tree. Zanosuke seconds after. "Hurt her. Or save her. His actions will tilt the scales." The time for frolicking and hopeless romance is past. "I hope he comes to the withering road she walks before it is too late."

vVv

Breakfast began bright and early for a Friday. As it should. Friday is the beginning of the end of an arduous work week. Noblemen and Women bombarded during their daily week lives are now free to focus on the progression of strengthening their ties with The Phantomhive Family. The money soon to line their pockets fed their determination. Let's not paint an ugly picture of the entire class of Nobility. The weekend beckons many a hobby and business ordeal. 72 hours of uninterrupted to time take pleasure in the lives fate has granted. Enjoy family, plan for future escapades, begin anew what could not be drawn before. A wealth of possibilities. But, for the time being, a noble family is caught in the midst of a storm. Their sails are ready to tear.

Young Earl Phantomhive, personally, would love to have one weekend where he could look forward to relaxing, sipping a glass of high grade cider, and ascertaining the holes rats who stole his pride had gone to hide in. Take revenge upon for not just his parents, but also the monsters who drove Alliahnna to sacrificing her humanity for his.

Ciel tucked a handkerchief in the black collar of his mint green suit. Sebastian placed a plate of belgian waffles topped with blueberries, over easy eggs from a swedish chicken, and ham from an american hog before his young master. Complimenting the spread was a tall glass of Orange Juice.

"What does today look like?" He asked Sebastian before indulging in his breakfast.

"At eight you are to meet with the Commissioner of Scotland Yard." Oliver Gunther III - a half African, half British man a short gap older than Sir Arthur. He's highly respected amongst his peers, and possesses the credentials to pontificate his status. "He wishes to personally extend thanks for your work during the arson case."

"A silly gesture. But alright." Ciel spun the cider glass with notable tedium. He bounced a stare to Alliahnna's vacant place at the banquet table. "Next."

"Half past nine you are needed at the Harley Medical Center in Liverpool. The Chief Examiner would like to discuss further funding for renovations and better medical devices." The Chief Examiner being a young woman named Mariska Hammond. The center opened a short five years ago. Alliahnna voluntarily assisted the center's grand opening by donating a hefty sum of money toward supplies, beds, and she handed them names of respected doctors transferring to England during the time.

Ciel let a charmed snort escaped him. "Alliahnna always had a weakness for the sickly. No surprise she helped open the center."

"Then perhaps it would be beneficial for her to accompany us." Sebastian proposed. Alliahnna made a habit of staying home to mind the stacking paperwork. Mostly because she hated meetings. Substituting for Schneizel at meetings forever deprived her of patience for them. Ciel didn't imagine attending breakfast lost its appeal.

"What else?"

"At noon you are to share tea with Vincent Von Price." Sebastian let the name wolfishly fall off his tongue. Ciel froze. The glass reflected the displeasure of the name. Von Price was the man who challenged Alliahnna to a duel for the sake of women's honor. He agreed to the terms he would never rear his head anywhere near the Phantomhive's, their estate - basically Aliahna warned him to not even be in the same general area.

"I thought Alliahnna made it clear he was to never be heard from again." Ciel recalled the terms of the duel. Von Price all but agreed to it upon ushering the duel.

"Allow me to correct myself…" Sebastian handed Ciel a file of Vincent Von Price. Ciel was surprised. Vincent Von Price...was a young man with dirty blond hair and dazzling hazel eyes. This was not who Ciel was thinking of at all. "Vincent Von Price. Son to the loud mouthed, Leon Von Price, Alliahnna embarrassed, and the woman who hated her attire." An unexpected twist.

"The son wishes to meet with us?" Ciel gasped.

"And his fiancee." Sebastian displayed a second file. A brunette woman with captivating blue eyes. "They believe, if your forgiveness is won, they will be able to get married with no regrets. That the sins of the father will be put behind them." Sebastian chuckled derisively. Human's concept on earn forgiveness - forgiveness itself - was eternally humorous. Not that he has room to disparage. He's gone to Hell and back to earn Alliahnna's forgiveness.

"If they want forgiveness they should attend Sunday Church." Ciel huffed. Ridiculous the children of the offender must apologize for the sins of the father. "At the very least they should want to talk with Alliahnna." As if on cue, the door to the banquet hall opened. Sluggish bootsteps trudged inside. Ciel furrowed his brow, eagerly taking up his fork to begin eating. "Nice of you to join us, Alliahnna! I was wondering if you-" Ciel's eyes widened. Sebastian was aghast as well.

A disheveled Alliahnna wobbled into the banquet hall. Her bed head and uniform were shabbily tended to. As if she fell asleep and forgot to get undressed. Her, however, attire went ignored. Black rings clung to the sunken sockets. Unnerving still was her blank expression.

"Umm...good morning?" Cie's uncertain greeting replaced the obnoxious huff.

"Good morning..." Her voice was a lifeless groan. Sebastian accompanied Alliahnna to her chair, pulling it out for her. He held an extended arm to her lower back. Her faltering legs looked ready to give from under her any second. Ciel's focus fell on her flushed cheeks as she faced his general direction. Feverish bloodshot eyes draped by her wiry, yet to be combed hair. She went to seat herself, planting her palms to the table for balance. Her boot knocked the table. Her knees lost strength.

"My Lady!" Sebastian rushed forward, catching her by the waist. Ciel jumped from his seat, running to her side. "Are you alright?!" Sebastian set her in the chair. Ciel stooped to a knee, studying her more closely. She looked worse for wear. As if she'd been awake for days.

"I'm fine...just...hungry." The word hungry sparked in Sebastian's mind. Her dried lips moved minimally to the point they were still. Speaking was harsh on her. She panted between each word. It can't be. Not now.

Ciel put a hand on her forehead. "You don't have a fever." Sweat gathered to the rim of her hairline. Her hair was dry. He tilted her head up by the chin. Her deadpan eyes met his eyes, but they were looking through him. Her cheeks lost their perkiness. "Do you feel feverish? Any discomfort?"

"Just...hungry..." A ghoulish smile propped her cheeks, sending chills down Ciel's spine. She slowly touched his cheek, snaking in close. "You smell...delicious." Her eyes shaded red. She ran her tongue up his cheek. Sebastian gasped. Ciel lunged back. Sebastian hugged Ciel's shoulders. "So delicious...absolute divine." Alliahnna's pupil's narrowed to a slit. Her tongue lathered protruding fangs.

"My Lady! Perhaps it is a bit too early for jokes!" Veiling shadows departed. Alliahnna came to realize what she had said. Her mind processing Ciel's skepticism of the joke. The taste of Ciel lingered on her tongue. Powerful, tangy...addicting. More...Her widening eyes had life return to them. Ciel was shaking in place. Fear gripped them both.

"PAH-HA-HA-HA..." Alliahnna slapped a hand to her forehead, throwing her head back in a fit of laughter. Ciel relaxed in Sebastian's hold. "Oh...there's no fooling you, is there Sebastian?!" Alliahnna pushed the laughter out, hiding her discontent under bangs and a hand. "Forgive me, Ciel! It was too good to pass up."

Ciel growled, blushing madly. "If you are going to plot an elaborate prank be on time to breakfast at least!" He wrenched free of Sebastian, fixing himself and his lost composure as he stormed for his chair. "I should have known this was a joke! You always do these sort of things at a drop of your whims!"

"Sorry, Little Brother. Just something to get your heart going. That's all." Alliahnna laughed nervously, rubbing the back of her head. Sebastian placed her food before her, then put a handkerchief in her collar. "Thank-UGH!" She paused fretfully.

Sebastian glared at the demoness with swirling pink eyes. The same hue glazed to Alliahnna's trembling orbs. Sebastian knit his brow. "Radiant vibrancy faded to a dower haze." His voice whirred in her mind. Sweat dripped to the orbs.

Ciel seated himself at the other end of the table. "Now then…" Ciel informed Alliahnna of the schedule for the day. It was mild, considering other days a five minute respite would have made them late. This left them the rest of the afternoon to relax and get much needed work done. "And at noon..." Ciel steadied his nerves with a sip of hard cider, "The son of Leon Von Price and his fiancee wish to meet with us."

Alliahnna's last bit of ham paused in her opened mouth. She lost her appetite. As expected. "I thought I warned that vagabond and his wife!" She barked.

"And your warning was heeded." Ciel reassured her. His motioning hand soothed the fumes "However, the son and his fiancee feel that they need our forgiveness in order to move on in this next chapter of their lives." Ciel reiterated mockingly.

"They want forgiveness? Tell them to go to Sunday Church!" She huffed, angrily shoving ham, eggs, and waffles in her mouth. Ciel and Sebastian shared smirks. Alliahnna washed her food down, chugging her orange juice as if it were a mug of rum. She slammed the glass to the table, exhaling exaggeratedly. "I do not extend forgiveness to those who look to a second party!"

Alliahnna was the one challenged by Von Price to the sword duel. Therefore her person and her honor and pride were assaulted. But rather than face her head on, The Von Price Son and his wife to be are hoping to weasel their way into Ciel's good graces, in the event he may pacify Alliahnna's wounded a woman with a title is a double standard in itself. Her rank is equal to Ciel's - if not a step higher due to her background in law enforcement. The dark cloud on the silver lining of her resume is society's views on women's positions. Alliahnna's title as Earless is thickly shadowed by her title as Earl Phantomhive's Sister. Ciel's young but he is a man. Therefore he is the initial target sought by others of equal or higher nobility. Paris held a vast open mind of women in power. Lisa was and is the most feared and respected officer Paris has ever known. Wonder how she is.

"Alliahnna, we must see this as a positive thing." Ciel assured her, grinning slyly.

"Positive how?" She angrily spoke with cheeks full of food.

"By the son and fiancee coming," Ciel leaned on his elbows, placing his chin to interlaced fingers, "We have a chance for a little revenge." His sapphire eye was glistening.

Alliahnna cooed intrigued hum. "Do go on." She chortled.

"They wish for our forgiveness, they must work for it."

xxx

Tanned hands obsessively fiddled with the chest of the fuchsia evening gown, and the slipping headdress. The draping, frilly collar was constantly hung to around the shoulders, set to the shoulders, then hung back to the shoulders again. Insistent hands halted the fervent fixings. A chuckle summoned a pink tint to perky cheeks.

"Desiree, will you please relax?" Vincent Von Price laughed at his future wife's fidgeting. She was shaking the carriage more than the horses. Out of impulse he fixed his own white suit. Doesn't hurt to check.

"Forgive me, Dear, I simply can't help it." Desiree squeezed her green eyes closed, resting her bunned chestnut hair to the coach seats. "I've been dreading this visit for the past few days." She wrapped her arms to his, praying her knotting stomach will ease. "Just yesterday Lord Phantomhive responded to our letter, and assures the Lady Alliahnna will be in attendance." Little did the couple realize, it was Sebastian who responded. "The I have heard about the Phantomhive's Twins, and those who serve under them, are frightening."

"Exaggerations anecdotes of the adversarial world of business, My Dear." Vincent shooed his silly fiancee's worries to the passing scenery. "Company rivals conjure fictitious tales to sell to entrepreneurs and beneficiaries who help grease the wheels of Europe and ensure they turn. Slandering the Phantomhive Family will assure their spot."

Desiree adored Vincent's optimism in the belief there is a trickle of good in everyone, and every malicious situation. A naivete inherited from his Aunt and Uncle. He professes to see the bigger picture, and the future with it. If the future has desks he constantly bumps into, and flat surfaces he trips over, h should invest in a pair of glasses. "Darling, you and I were present when Lady Alliahnna accepted your father's duel. Her skills are not of this earth. Lord Phantomhive and his servants showed not the smallest twinge of surprise." Ciel was masked by Sebastian, so it was difficult to see what his reaction was.

"No more, Desiree." Vincent will not create an air of mistrust and resentment before the initial meeting. Perceptions must not be blinded like his parents' were. "Many falsehoods and tales are spoken of this family. Half of a percent are proven true. Remember, we asked for an audience with them." Desiree bit her lip. In the midst of her rambling, she'd forgotten her sore wrist from throwing draft after draft of their letter away. "You'll see. This whole matter will be resolved, and then we can get married with no regrets."

The award winning smile able to melt his heart was Vincent's prize. "Yes. I cannot wait." Desiree cuddled to him.

xxx

Ciel changed into a brown formal morning suit, complete with top hat for the occasion. As a personal interest, and silent nag, his eye patch projected an ominous, Crime Lord boss appeal. With a stroke of luck, Von Price and his Fiancee will not be perturbed. It is not as if Ciel can walk in public without it. The leggings of the suit, however, felt looser than he was comfortable to. The vest and coat are acceptable. The shoes were snug. But the trousers always seems to sag slightly. The suits belonging to his late father he kept are a hit and miss at times in feel. Leggings and sleeves have been altered on a handful of suits on several occasions. By comparison, Ciel is roughly a couple inches shorter than Vincent was. Body features thinner in physique. Nevertheless, the Commissioner and Harley Medical Center deserve a visit with their guests' looking their best. And, were Vincent still alive, he would remind Ciel that Gentlemen must always emit class and compassion - disregarding the worthy or not.

Alliahnna catered to the formality the upcoming visit requested and found a tinted yellow gown with light brown intertwined. One of Rachael's favorite gowns to wear. Weather friendly and easy to move in. The corset was the sole nightmare. The chapo accompanying the gown was relatively cute. Possibly the one part of the formal wear Alliahnna favored. The chest and hip areas were disappointingly loose on Alliahnna. Comparing herself to a full body photo of Rachael, Alliahnna pouted by her inferior sex appeal. Rachael certainly was beautiful. It was hard to not feel inferior. Last minute adjustments were made, and long strands were allowed to hang from the her hair bun's bottom so they would hang over the shoulders.

As she tightened the white ribbon at her lower back - bump-bump - sharp, powerful pulses squeezed Alliahnna's chest. Bump-bump! Veins from the crown of her skull to the toes of her feet constricted. Horrid gurgling drummed in her stomach, erupting undigested acids up her throat. Bump-bump! Her knocking knees crippled, bringing her to her hands. Muscles clenched her throat in a vice grip. Icy talons choking every ounce of breath from her lungs. Bump-Bump! Anguish tore her insides to tatters. Each double tandem pulse amassing in pressure. Bump-bump! Bump-Bump! Alliahnna clawed at her chest, digging for the pinching organ fueling her veins with blood. The pulses are beats. The agonized beating of her pumping heart. It hurts...! IT HURTS! She wailed. Aromas from every corner of the room flooded her nsotrils. Her tongue lathered profusely. Hungry...so hungry...Demon pink flooded her glossy orbs, GIVE-ME-

"Lady Alliahnna?!" Three raps on the door brought her back to earth. She rasped heavily, at a loss of what became of her. Her chest felt fine. And her body felt, well, normal. "Lady Alliahnna? Are you ready, Miss?" Mey-Rin beckoned, sounding worried.

"OH! Yes! Coming!" Alliahnna picked herself up, made hersellf presentable, and oopened the door. "Shall we?" Mey-Rin led the way. Alliahnna rested a palm to her chest, then slid it to her stomach. She was fine now. Or is she?

xxx

Eight in the morning: Commissioner Oliver Gunter ardently welcomed the Phantomhive Twins. A firm shake of Ciel's hand, and a kiss to Alliahnna's. The meeting was pleasantly fast. Commissioner Gunter regaled the Twins on the effect their work had on his department. Thinking outside the box while maintaining an air of logic, and scouring for clues where one would least expect has augmented work efficiency. From word of Aberline, the Commissioner thanked Alliahnna for saving Alexander Ryner, and returning him to his father and grandfather. Michael Ryner, the father, visited Scotland Yard, wishing to offer his sincerest thanks for all they and Alliahnna had done for him. Paying for Henrietta's funeral alleviated the grief bearing on his waning heart. Ciel wondered what the Funtom Company donation went to. He's proud Alliahnna used the extra funds. London and those within suffered a terrible blow. The least the Funtom Company can do is donate.

Ciel and Alliahnna declined the unnecessary praise. The Queen asked for their aide in a frightening matter and they extended it. No reason to thank them.

Next on their route was the Harley Medical Center. Chief Examiner Mariska Hammond was beside herself in glee and hugged Alliahnna. She didn't mind. Mariska had every right to be happy. The donations for the grand opening helped the Center progress for the first half of their year. Costs caught up to them in irregular bursts when a mysterious epidemic swept through Liverpool. There weren't enough beds to house those who were infected, and supplies weren't sufficient to combat it. Alliahnna received word of their predicament in Paris, and authorized shareholders of the Funtom Company to aide in whatever ways they could. Extra beds, researchers to identify the symptoms, and the medicines they'd need to treat or cure their patients. Afterward, the center matriculated swimmingly. Naturally they faced many a financial and housing issue. Nothing they cannot handle.

Time at the center flew faster than either Twin anticipated. Lord and Lady Von Price are due to meet with them in a short while. Ciel quaked in his seat thinking of the disaster left in Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy's wake leaving them to prepare finger foods and beverages.

Ciel thumped the coach ceiling anxiously with his cane. "Hurry back to manor!"

"Yes sir!"

"Relax, Ciel. Tanaka is there watching them." Alliahnna guffawed at his sweat.

"I don't trust leaving those three out of my sight for one minute, let alone a few hours." He groaned. "Are you forgetting what happened at the Trancy Manor."

"I am not, and I will not." The first time in a long time she's wanted to bury her head in the dirt. Those three destroyed everything but the floor. Or, maybe those cracks were made by them. "But, let me assure you, Schneizel's manor remained standing tall the years they lived there. With some much needed assistance." She flashed a grin to a proudly erect Sebastian. "He managed them while I kept Schneizel out of trouble."

"Sitting for a Count, benefactor - you've done much during my absence. I'm glad." Ciel dreamily praised.

"Thanks, Ciel. But it's nothing you wouldn't have done."

"Perhaps that is true. However, pouring your compassion to a particular cause is what leaves an everlasting mark." Ciel viewed the world as a business opportunity, powering a barrier to prevent anyone outside of his loop from getting too close. Alliahnna does not. She allows the world to cross her threshold. Never do they notice the nooses tightening to where she can yank them, and dangle them from the outskirts they traversed from.

"Aww...thanks. It's all thanks to your business sense that I can make this possible." Ciel's business savvy ways have pulled their family from many a deep hole. He runs the Funtom Company so effortlessly. Problems arise as a wildfire and he quells them with little to no effort. She can't hope to match his smarts. Know when to show your hand or to withhold it. "Mine sorely lacks compared to yours."

"Two halves of the same coin making a whole."

"Cheers." The pair would drink to that, but there were no drinks. In the mean time, Alliahnna let her mind wander to Alexander. Hearing he and his family are doing well since his mother's death provided her with a sense of closure. She feared Mrs. Turner's rampage for happiness would deprive them of theirs. Thank goodness it has not. "I am happy to hear Alexander is doing well. His father and grandfather as well."

"Do you miss the toddler?" Sebastian asked with notable humor.

"Sometimes." She shaped her arm, cradling that fragile yet strong bundle of endless joy. "I can still feel him in my arms. Hear his laugh as he smiles innocently at a world he's barely known." Butterflies fluttered her heart, making her giggle as she recalls her time spent with an infant against her breast. "I wonder if mom ever felt that breed of happiness holding us."

"Maybe when you have children you can find out." Ciel wasn't entirely joking. In his eyes, Alliahnna would be a wonderful mother.

"M-Maybe…" Pink tinted her cheeks. Her fingers fiddled restlessly in her lap.

Sebastian arched an intrigued brow, stunned by her sheepish reaction. In any other circumstance, she'd explode in embarrassment, shouting denials at the top of her lungs. "Are you...considering it?" Ciel marked the hopefulness in Sebastian's tone. Although, he too was curious of Alliahnna's decision.

"I...well...to be honest…" Her words were as jumbled as her mind. How does one answer that sort of question with their lover sitting next to them, and an all but approving brother in the same carriage. "I don't...think I'm ready...just yet...I don't think…" Ciel accepted the response. For now. Her timid eyes bounced back and forth between Sebastian and the ground. A wolfish smirk from the butler made her explode cherry red. Sebastian curled fingers to his smile. She was so obvious. It was adorable.

xxx

Lord and Lady Von Price were expected in a matter of minutes. Preparations are in order to ensure the small gathering went smoothly and in their favor. To Ciel's surprise, snacks and iced beverages were prepared in the parlor. Not broken dishware, shattered glassware. All was as it was left. In one piece. Alliahnna told him they would be fine. Mey-Rin, Finnian, and Bardroy glistened in achievement of their miraculous work. Ciel couldn't help feeling there was a catch to their...good work. The way Alliahnna was winking at them, and the drool hanging at their jaw, smelled of a bribe. Ciel would interrogate them later. Right now there is an engaged couple he wishes to redirect out his door as swiftly as possible.

Mey-Rin saw Alliahnna to her room to help dab off a bit of sweat from their travels. Can't have a young lady soaked in bodily fluids when greeting guests. The dress has been cooped up in the closet so long the breathing fabric is a mite suffocated. A bit of cleaning, some sprucing, and it will be as good as new.

"My Lady, may I speak frankly?" Mey-Rin sheepishly asked, disrobing Alliahnna.

"Is all well, Mey-Rin?"

Mey-Rin released a sigh of dismay, lying the dress flat on the bed. "Not really. I mean, the son of Leon Von Price is coming here. The son of the man who sought to embarrass and humiliate you in front of hundreds of important people." She wrung the wet rag, imagining it to be the neck of that horrid man from the picnic. an easier means would be to shoot him between the eyes. "He has sent his son to negotiate peace rather than come himself. What if this is a ploy?"

"A scenario Ciel and I have accounted for." Alliahnna accepted the towel from the gawking woman. She dabbed her arm, leading to the torso. "Ciel and I don't suspect treachery despite planning for it. We just see this as an opportunity for revenge."

"Revenge?" Mey-Rin dabbed a second cloth to Alliahnna's lower regions.

"Sebastian and Ciel investigated the Von Price family. As it turns out, they are the owners of Angelique Toys."

"The Rival toy company of the Funtom."

"Precisely. The Funtom Company's publicity skyrocketed because of the Hamlet play you all put on years ago." Mey-Rin loved that play. It was the most fun they'd had that year. "Angelique's profits continue to dramatically plummet each year in response to Funtom's growing success. However..."

"The Von Price family is attempting to damage the company's reputation." Mey-Rin finished appalled. And the way to destroy a company, is to destroy the reputation of the owner. Owners. "He wouldn't use his son, would he?"

"Of course not. Vincent Von Price is not nearly so callous." Alliahnna dismissed the folly. A malevolent grin split her lips in a toothy grin. "Thankfully, Ciel and I aren't as virtuous."

"Just be careful, My Lady." Mey-Rin retrieved the wet cloths, hanging Alliahnna a dry one. "We wouldn't want a repeat of the Cat and Mouse fiasco." She giggled impishly. An incident in Paris landing Alliahnna and Mey-Rin in a Male Brothel. Alliahnna madly preferred not to respond to that. Mey-Rin giggled charmed at her reaction. She smoothed the gown before hanging it over her arm. The bottom frills slipped her feet from under her. "YAH!"

"LOOK OUT!" Alliahnna lunged forward. A loud thud shook her room. Finnian and Bardroy diverted from their card game, curious of the noise.

Mey-Rin and Alliahnna lied dizzily on the floor, groaning at the not so gentle impact. Mey-Rin was fortunate to have a plush body to break her fall. Alliahnna was sandwiched by Mey-Rin and the floor. She wasn't as light as she looked. Must be because of the guns she hides in her uniform.

"Mey-Rin? Are you alright?" Alliahnna leaned on her elbows.

Mey-Rin moans muffled in Alliahnna's chest. Her swaying head bobbed the breasts. "Yes...My Lady…" She slowly sat up. "My apologies…"

"No! No! It's-" Red hairs brushed her nose. Alliahnna's breath hitched. Trembling sapphire orbs flickered red, struggling to stay. Delightful sweetness combined with a robust spice tickled her nose, watering her mouth. No...not this...not again. The aroma teased her tongue. She swallowed hungrily, letting the smells wrap their tentacles to her heating body. "Please…" Sweat spilt down the side of her brow.

"What's that, M'Lady?" Mey-Rin massaged her aching head, fixing her askew glasses. She cleaned the fog from her lenses. "Are you feeling-UGH!" She cringed red faced. The Lady Phantomhive, flushed and exposed, was lying beneath her, being straddled by her unworthy hips. "OH MY GOODNESS! I-I-I'M SO SORRY!" She scrambled crazily, sweating bullets scrambling to recover from this humiliating situation. "E-E-EXCUSE ME, MISS!" Mey-Rin darted to her feet. Alliahnna's iron clad grip snatched her wrist, pulling her into a constricting embrace. Void, dreamy eyes and her Empty, dreamily gazing eyes entranced Mey-Rin. Her soft laughter made unnerving by her blank smile sent chills snaking up Mey-Rin's spine. "My...My Lady? Are...are you...ALRIGHT?!" Mey-Rin was pulled against her. Alliahnna buried her nose in hair, inhaling every last drop of her spicey sweet scent. She licked her lips hungrily. Her fangs protruding from her lips. Mey-Rin quaked in her grasp, too petrified to breathe as she felt Alliahnna run her nose to her neck. This isn't right! She screamed in her mind. Lady Alliahnna...don't..."LADY ALLIAHNNA! PLEASE STOP!" Alliahnna's right mind jolted to reality. She threw herself back on the floor. Her chest rose and fell in arduous pants. Her horrified expression drenched in sweat as she scoured the room for answers. "My Lady?!" Mey-Rin forget their position and leaned down over her. "Are you alright?! What's wrong?"

What's wrong? Mey-Rin was right to be concerned, but if only she could be aware of how idiotic the question sounded. So much that even I don't understand! Voices in the back of her head testified otherwise. She's formulated a theory of what's happening. She just can't bring herself to acknowledge it.

"N-Nothing...Mey-Rin. I'm sorry…" Alliahnna guided Mey-Rin off. The maid sat on her knees, not leaving Alliahnna's side for a moment. She felt for a fever, chest her pulse and blood pressure on a whim. Alliahnna was pleased she cared, but halted her exam all the same. "I promise. I'm fine." Her raspy tone raised doubts. Her fear and admirable fret of Alliahnna was beaming. Alliahnna doesn't have the right to be surprised. Another second and...who knows what she would have done to Mey-Rin. "Your hair smells really nice. Are you using new oils?"

"OH, YOU'VE NOTICED!" Mey-Rin exploded with joy. That was easier than Alliahnna thought it would be. "Yes, Ma'am! Mint Berry oils! Keeps the sheen, adds softness, and projects a scent that drives men crazy."

"Women too, apparently. I like it."

"Thank you, Miss Alliahnna. THAT MAKES ME SO HAPPY!"

"Yeah...I'm glad." Alliahnna exhaled with relief. That mess was cleared up. She rested a hand to her nose and mouth. Her lips felt numb. And her stomach was gurgling.

Unbeknownst to the pair, Sebastian soberly observed from outside Alliahnna's window. The wind carried a foreboding essence on the horizon. His back leaned to the stone fixtures, he peered to the approaching carriage crossing to the Phantomhive grounds. Lord and Lady Von Price are on the approach. Sebastian primed himself to forstal their arrival. Perhaps convince them to reschedule for a later time. Spare them the ravenous beast awakening within Phantomhive's halls.

xxx

Sebastian set a finger sandwich, fruit, and cake platter to the parlor coffee table. Small plates sat on the table's side. Mey-Rin distributed cup of honey green tea to the visiting Von Price couple, and then to the Phantomhive Twins. She bowed graciously. Her bangs obscured her murderous glare tearing holes in the young man. Sebastian clearing his throat prompted her to exit swiftly and quietly.

"Thank you both very much for coming." Ciel amicably broke ice.

"We hope today wasn't an inconvenience." Alliahnna charmed them with a tilted smile.

"Not at all, My Lord and Lady." Vincent perished the thought. "It pleases us both that you would see us after what happened at the picnic not too llong ago."

"Water under the bridge, chap." Ciel lifted his tea cup. "Here's to fresh beginnings, and the road to your marriage paved in white petals."

"Cheers!" Alliahnna exuberantly raised her cup.

Vincent and Desiree exchanged blushing smiles. They raised their cups in unison, "CHEERS!" The four cup clanked, opening the small assemblage on a happy note. "But still, Lord and Lady Phantomhive, on behalf of my mother and father's heinous, and blatantly outlandish behavior," Vincent hung his head low in their shame, "I humbly apologize."

"Our apologies extended mostly towards you, Lady Phantomhive." Desiree professed from her heart. "Your style of dress is your own business. No one has business deriding you for your individualism."

"There's no need for that. Really. Ciel often chastises me for my daily revealing attire." Ciel took a disgruntled sip of tea. His cheeks puffed red. "Lady Von Price was not incorrect in her feelings, however. I should have dressed properly."

"To briefly change the subject, the gown you are wearing is simply divine!" She fanned herself.

"Thank you. As is yours. It is a lovely complement with yours eyes." She shifted to Vincent, "One of many reason your fell for her, I am assuming."

"Perceptive and beautiful." Vincent plead guilty, holding his fiancee's hands. "While I appreciate your understanding, I feel that we cannot properly move past this outrage without proper reconciliation."

"How do you mean?" Ciel egged on. The pieces are falling into place.

"Our families are no stranger to one another. The difference being mine has gone to ridiculous lengths to slander you. He's gone so far as to wager Lady Alliahnna's virtue." Were it he were wise to the virtue stolen by the butler smirking in the corner. "A meager apology is not enough. You must let us recompense. A sign of good faith my family means no harm and is willing to move forward with yours."

Hook, line, sinker. For Vincent and Desiree, Ciel and Alliahnna wore shocked expressions. Within one another, triumphant, devilish smirks signaled the both birds were in their hand. The desperation, the anxiety, the racing adrenaline. Alliahnna was drooling.

Ciel coughed into a fist, subduing the rising glee. "We can see this is very important to you. And it would be callous of us to dismiss your pllight." He set the cup down, drumming his fingers together, "There is a way we can reconcile."

"Name it."

"Your father is the owner of Angelique Toys. The Rival Company of our Funtom Company. And, if the numbers are correct," Sebastian handed Ciel a financial statement, "The company loses an average of 1900 pounds monthly. This is not including refunds or lawsuits filed due to faulty services." Vincent blushed in shame. Angelique Toys' Darkest hour came about when a Jack Box toy broke and ended with the broken nose of a child. "Taking these numbers into account, your company loses close to 23,000 pounds yearly, on top of what you're paying already, Angelique will be forced to close it's doors in a short couple of years. Six months can be added or taken if - and only if - Lord Von Price's councilors win their upcoming lawsuit."

"Ah, yes. It would be foolish to be surprised that you know of that." Vincent was beginning to understand why his father was adamant he come in his stead. The Phantomhives dared not bother pulling their punches. The pressures of financial instability and bowing his head in contrite to Alliahnna would have killed him.

"Which brings us to your reconciliation." Alliahnna's input raised Vincent's spirits. "As his son, you stand to inherit Angelique toys - should it's doors remain open - from your father. Your are also his bookkeeper on the side."

"Yes, My Lady. That is correct."

"Meaning decision involving financial stability fall unto you." Vincent saw where she was going. His hesitation fed Alliahnna's sadism. She crossed her legs, edging a full glass of water for him to swallow the lump in his dry throat. "You don't have to decide now. This is sudden. However, it is becoming an unwelcomed bother dealing with your family's constant, unjustified slander of ours in hopes of rebuilding a ruined empire."

"Are you proposing I work to have Angelique closed?"

"No. We are asking for Angelique to sign over 60% ownership to us."

"60?" Desiree gasped. Vincent was equally mortified. Leon owns 80% leaving Vincent with the lying 20%. Should the Phantomhives be allowed 60, they will basically own the company. Be permitted to do as they wish. Hell! They might close the company for them. "That is steep, is it not?"

"Lord Von Price founded an Equestrian Society, am I correct?" Ciel discovered on the fourth page of his file. "Angelique is the partner source of income to that society?"

"Correct." Vincent's road block to bar the Phantomhive's further ground crumbled. Lying to them would worsen his position. "Funding for the society came from Angelique. It is surviving well on its own...although..."

"Angelique is the main source of the Von price Family's income." Desiree regretfully finished. Baron Von Price's monthly payments from his military service barely pay for coach fare.

"We are not insisting on a hostile takeover." Ciel reassured them. He sipped his tea, silently humoring himself on the half lie. "As fellow seekers of children's joy everywhere, Angelique creates superb toys. Your products have found their ways to the arms of children Funtom has missed."

"Ciel and I are actually two of the first people who owned our first Combat Carlyle and Marie Lilinette." Two of Angelique's most popular items. "That is until were played too roughly with them and the beady eyes popped and poked ours." Vincent hasn't forgotten that fiasco. "When people hear Angelique, they remember the travesties your products have wrought. With Phantomhive partnered in your name, public opinions will sway because of our philanthropic works."

"You both sound certain you will succeed in this merger." Desiree venomously grumbled.

"The seed of any business ordeal breeds on a gamble." Ciel recited philosophically. "And your family has gambled more than their reserves had, and have sought to drag ours in the mud with them."

"But...60%..." Vincent disliked that number. Take his entire ownership, or cut his father's to a menial number. Angelique will become Funtom. Leon Von Price and the Von Price family will virtually belong to the Phantomhive's.

"Lady Desiree…" Alliahnna moseyed to her. "This line of tedious talks seems to have left you weary." She offered her a welcoming hand. "Come join me for some fresh air in the gardens while the gentlemen talk business."

"A grand idea." Vincent pat Desiree's lap, urging her to accept.

Desiree must admit she was feeling a little lightheaded. Fresh would do he some good. "I'd love to." Desiree accepted the hand. Alliahnna guided her to the main hall.

Sebastian watched Alliahnna closely. She stepped to the side to allow Desiree to leave first. Sebastian's brow furrowed at the sharp tip protruding her lips. "My Lords, if you will excuse me," Sebastian set the teapot on the table, "There is an important matter I must attend to." He bowed and swiftly excused himself. Vincent thought nothing of it, but Ciel was irked by Sebastian's strange behavior.

"I am glad the ladies will be able to spend time together." Vincent helped himself to one of the sandwiches. "I am confident they will become close." Ciel wasn't going to burst his optimism. Elizabeth is Alliahnna's closest friend. Practically sisters. The future Von Price is merely...a space filler.

xxx

"Thank you for getting me out of there." Desiree opened her parasol. It was hot for it being the end of Autumn. White lily petals absorbed the sun, stinging Desiree's eyes with their brilliance. "Whenever I talk business for too long, the numbers begin to make my head spin."

"You and I share a common affliction." Alliahnna laughed, opening a wooden gate. "Talking business gives me a headache too." She and Desiree entered a smaller, more private garden on the estate. A hideaway constructed of strong bushes and a variety of flowers to obscure the world outside. A small fountain followed with fresh, crystal clear water, adding a fresh crisp smell in the air. "That's why I'll leave it to Ciel while I cover the other assets."

"You and Lord Phantomhive are a remarkable team." Desiree seated at the fountain, letting her fingers submerge in the cool pond. "It's no wonder you are successful."

"It doesn't come without its prices, I can assure you." Ciel and Alliahnna will remain in debt to the prices they've paid for the rest of their days. "At times we become so engrossed by duty that common humanity eludes us." She stroked loose hairs behind her ear. "Ciel and I grew apart a few years back. I wasn't behaving like an ideal woman, and he was losing himself to our parents' death. Eventually we cut ties with one another and went our separate ways."

"I can understand that." A lillypad floated to Desiree's palm. Sad eyes admired the pad, tracing the lines to the stem on top. "After my father died, my mother's sole concern was for business. Never in 13 years has she extended me a smile, or confessed to loving me." She set the lilypad back in the pond, crushing the water in grinding fist. "Everyday I would return home from time with my friends, she was shoving suitors down my throat, forcing me to attend uncomfortable parties to show me off, and arranging blind dates so the proper suitor may win me and marry me."

"Oh dear. Is that..." She trailed, gesturing toward the ring on her finger. She didn't want to step out of bounds.

"No, no. Vincent and I fell in love naturally." She snuggled the ring to her finger. It was the happiest memory in her heart. The day Vincent entered on his painted stallion, sweeping her off her feet and stealing her heart. "Unfortunately, my mother doesn't approve of him. And since I will not abandon him...she's cast me aside." The price her happiness cost her. One no child should ever have to pay. "She slandered me as my family's whore. Ruining my reputation for her own sake!" She slapped the water. Alliahnna watched in awe of the splashing water. Reflections of Desiree soaring in slow motion.

'Anger...resentment...abandonment...humiliation...' Alliahnna's jaw shakily dropped. Long drawn breath full of desire tantalized her tastebuds. The rage pouring from this woman...so intoxicating. "All of those men she posed me for. How they all chastised me for their amusement. Before I met Vincent, I wanted nothing more than to make them pay. To exact cold hard revenge upon them!"

Revenge? Alliahnna's mind cried.'Revenge...make them pay...suffer and toil as I have...BURN THEM ALIVE!' These aren't her thoughts. They're Desiree's feelings. Alliahnna's legs moved on their own. Her hands stretched, fingers curling. "But after Vincent and I fell in love, I put all of that behind me. And we've-" Fingers clawed to both her shoulder, yanking Desiree up and onto her knees. "LADY ALLIAHNNA! WHAT ARE YOU...do...ing..."

Desiree''s protest died on her breath. Sparkling pink orbs trapped her in their pull. A strong presence dellved into her wide eyes, seeping to the dakrest recesses and grasping her soul. She could not move, or speak. She could not resist the allure. The pull of her powerful gaze. Alliahnna entangled fingers to her hair, leaning the young woman in closer by the back of her head. She parted her lips. Hot breath flowing past Desiree's trembling pink lips parted them wider. Alliahnna nsaked her tongue in and connected their lips. Desiree's mind regressed in an abyssal haze. Her eyes glossed to hollow orbs. Veins from the neck to mouth corroded malevolent purple.

Snapping twigs broke the kiss. Alliahnna snarled rabidly. A flat hand chopped at her neck. Alliahnna ducked, her hat flying off. The hand swept her long hair, accidentally striking Desiree in a known pressure point, rendering her unconscious. Alliahnna was crouched on all fours, growling venomously like a crazed animal. Sebastian stood in a casual defensive stance, a fined palm across his chest like a sword.

"It is as I feared..." He whispered. What a fool he was to not intervene after the incident with Mey-Rin. It's too soon! He barked in his mind. The symptoms last for weeks - months for the lucky ones - before madness sets in. This is after a lengthy duration from the transformation. Growing powers or not, something if influencing a rapid pace. "My Lady, compose yourself this instant!" He roared.

A shrill, monstrous bat screech pierced his ears, frightening birds and rabbits for yards around. Sebastian clamped hands to his ears. the sound was burrowing like drills. The screech gradually died down. Alliahnna stalked away from him, saliva dripping to her jaw. Her foot tapped Desiree. Her faint form stabbed Alliahnna's heart. Momentarily did she emerge from her primal instinct. What have I done? She cried. Sharp, burning agony clawed her skull. Her stomach roared. A bottomless pit of hunger raged. 'Feed...you must feed...DEVOUR THEIR SOULS!' Sebastian saw his mistress was he old self. But when he approached, the madness took control, and she darted out of the hideaway.

"ALLIAHNNA!" To Sebastian's horror, she was heading for the mansion. "Master!"

xxx

"Hmm..." Vincent checked the time. Desiree and Alliahnna have yet to return. "The girlls sure are taking their time. I hope everything is alright."

"I am sure everything is fine." Ciel extended a hand to his cup. Vincent handed it to him, relishing in another cup of tea. A shadow darted window. Vincent shrugged it off as a small bird. "Also, I am glad you are willing to consider my proposal. I feared I had offended you with the numbers I drew up." Ciel added honey, a pinch of sugar, slowly poured the tea.

"Not at all, My Lord. Your offer may be a blessing in disguise for my family."

"I am pleased you think that."

"By the by, My Lord, what can you tell me about-" Darkness amassed at his back. Von Price spun. A horrified scream whipped Ciel about, thrusting his back to the wall. Von price was gone.

"MASTER!" Sebastian burst in. Ciel was by himself, rooted in horror. "Where has Von Price gone?!"

"I haven't the foggiest. One second he is here, the next he is gone." A glance at the clock reminded him of Vincent's curiosity of Desiree and Alliahnna's absence. "For that matter, where in blazes are Alliahnna and Desiree?!"

"Damn! I feared this was the case." Sebastian was too late. Alliahnna's speed was incredible. A dangerous sign. Her madness, fueled by an increasing hunger, is firing her body on all cylinders. Why? Why is this happening so soon?

"Fear what was the case? TELL ME!" Ciel barked. That scream was not a figment of his imagination. If it were, Vincent would by sitting like the lump he is on that couch.

"Please forgive me, My Lord. It was my fond hope her hunger wouldn't rise this early."

"Hunger? What hunger?" Sebastian bit his lip, cursing how loose they have become. Alliahnna's well being is consuming his common sense. Ciel, on the other hand, began to recall Claude mentioning something about Alliahnna wanting to eat. She was weak with hunger this morning. Ciel cast it off as malnutrition due to working herself too hard. Sebastian's reaction confirms his hypothesis was drastically wrong. "Sebastian! This is an order! You will tell me: what is happening to Alliahnna."

Sebastian exhaled resignedly. An order by a master is absolute. He steeled himself, approaching to where he was looming ominously over his frightened master. Grim, dark crimson eyes locked to glossy sapphires. "My Lord...Lady Alliahnna's hunger for souls has arisen."

To be continued.