Fakes Identify Fakes
Alright. Moving on.
xxx
(Arna POV)
OH GOSH! OH MY! MY HEART! IT WON'T STOP...I CAN'T BREATHE! I NEED TO...WOO… (collapses against a wall, holding her pounding chest as she slides to the floor) That butler...just how long was he standing there?! Five minutes? Ten? My ENTIRE phone call?! He didn't seem hostile towards my galavanting through the manor again this time around. And he didn't appear to overhear my conversation. Or...was it all an act? Could he have truly heard everything?
On top of this annoyance, there is a madman running around abducting women from balls. There are dozens of balls tonight. The odds are varying depending on the area the attacker is choosing to skulk. I'm holding high hopes this ball will be spared the madness. Fate, please assure me I have not jinxed. I have enough trouble with the perfect poker face of Sebastian Michaelis.
Sebastian hides his grievances very well. I've seen it throughout my tour of the manor. He doesn't show irritation too often, is able to brush off remarks by others, and always wears a stone expression. He doesn't allow anyone to know what he is thinking or if he is perturbed. If so...I...I need to eliminate him as soon as possible. For now, I will join Elizabeth in her room to see if she needs help. And at least ease the weird paranoia of suspicions off me.
"TIGHTER! MAKE-IT-TIGHTER! I HAVE TO LOOK MY BEST!"
On second thought...maybe being spotted will be less terrifying.
(POV End)
xxx
"Edward! There you are!"
Abberline diverted attention from his small unit. He beamed elatedly as Alliahnna strolled over to him. She was dazzling in her dress. The way her topaz earrings and necklace glistened in tandem to her eyes and glossy hair. She was like a jewel. He was taken by her. A shame she was taken by someone else. It showed on his bright red cheeks. Sniggers from his unit shook him back to his previous concentration.
"A-ALRIGHT MEN!" He cleared his throat of the embarrassing squeak. "Scour the perimeter and do so inconspicuously! We do not want to cause any unease for these fine people!"
"YES SIR!"
That was the objective first and foremost. The fact there is an attacker abducting women during crowded balls was being kept from public knowledge. After the scare with the Turner Woman and the chaos that ensued during the Trancy Ball, much of London and her neighboring cities were in a constant state of unease. As such, to help with the current state of mind, small balls and parties have been in full swing for weeks. Only recently have the abductions began. To learn of them at the peak of balls beginning, panic and distrust of the Yard will ensue. They must work diligently to keep their homeland at ease, and to capture this madman.
Abberline pivoted to the right, and snapped to attention of the Noble Lady approaching. "Lady Phantomhive. Always a pleasure to be greeted by you."
Alliahnna giggled at him. Such a silly gesture for an old friend. "Please, Edward. Call me Alliahnna. Sir Arthur isn't here, and this isn't an official visit." Abberline stuttered bashfully, scratching his red cheeks. "I was...hoping to pick your brain about a bother I've been having." She cupped her hands to him.
Abberline hummed thoughtfully. "Might it be about Alexander in Cambridge?" Alliahnna was stunned by his precise guess. Then again, she shouldn't be too surprised by the astuteness of an Inspector. "I've been to the home recently in the past few weeks. Just to do a routine check on the boy."
"And…" She edged closer. She pleaded he was in good health.
"He is the picture of perfect health. If not stricken by small head colds every now and then." Abberline reported, unable to not snicker at her concern. The maternal instincts of an elder sister rival a mother's. Nevertheless, Abberline was happy to bring peace to her. "If it weren't for you, his father and grandfather would have truly lost everything that night."
"If I had tried harder, Alexander could be being raised by both of his parents." Alliahnna sank. That is one failure that will forever haunt her. All the powers of a demon, and she couldn't' save one woman.
"Lady Alliahnna, do not sell yourself short!" Abberline startled her shaking her by the shoulders. "By saving that child you saved the mother as well. She would have rather perished knowing Alexander was safe than to have him share her fate."
Is that really true? Did Henrietta truly want to die alone in the rubble? Any other time, Alliahnna would find it foolish. And yet...she cannot help but sympathize. There's nothing she wouldn't do for Ciel, Elizabeth, or those she loves with all her heart.
"If I may be so bold…" Abberline shuffled nervously in place. "That little boy was lucky to be found by you…" He flushed, mustering courage to look her in the eye instead of at the ground. "You're...just the sort of maternal figure every child needs. You'll be a fine mother one day."
"A mother?!" She squeaked. She wrapped her arms around her stomach. She felt like Abberline saw through her. Me...a mom? The idea was unnerving yet...so very exhilarating. Beside herself with bliss, and thankful for his council, Alliahnna pecked a kiss to his cheek. Abberline turned the brightest shade of pink. In his mind, he turned into a rocket and squealed loudly as he shot to the moon. Fireworks galore. "Thank you, Edward." When her lips left his cheek, he collapsed into heaven. "Uh...Edward…?"
Abberline was laughing like a drunken fool. In gratitude only though it was, it was worth the wait. And for once, he can enjoy it without Sebastian threatening him with death glares. Abberline's swooning was interrupted by an odd sight.
"Lady Alliahnna!" He rushed to his feet. "SMOKE!"
Alliahnna whipped around to where he pointed. "That's…" There was smoke coming from one of the guest bedroom windows. "ELIZABETH!" Alliahnna darted inside.
"LADY ALLIAHNNA! WAIT!" Abberline chased after her.
xxx
Pounding like drums nested atop the head caused indescribable pain. Lead filled the veins and muscles, making the slightest twitch resemble lugging an anvil. Sleepy...so sleepy...my body...feels heavy. Shut tight eyes tried to open. The lids were stuck together. What little they parted brought blurs to the eye. Can't see...someone...help me...
"...beth!"
Huh...who's there?
"Eliz…! ...ula…elp...on bed!"
"Alright!"
I know that voice! Can it be… Emerald green eyes fluttered open. The body was lifted, placed on a plush surface. Hands shook the body fervently. The voices were becoming clearer. "Elizabeth! Please! Open your eyes!" The blurs standing over her came gradually into focus.
"Hrm...Alli...ahnna? Paula…?" She rasped deliriously.
"Oh, My Lady! Thank goodness!" Paula had tears of joy in her eyes. Elizabeth was propped to the pillows on her bed. He cute pink dress and the brown bows adorning it weren't ruined when she was moved from the floor. "How are you feeling?"
"Sleepy…" She groaned.
"Here, Lady Elizabeth." Abberline surprised her with a glass of water. "This will fix your right up."
"Inspector? What are you doing here?"
Abberline was about to explain, then Alliahnna jumped in the way, "HE was just making sure all was well here! We're not the only ball in full swing tonight." She laughed nervously. She surreptitiously signaled Abberline not to comment on the you-know-what. She was distressed already.
"I see. Thank you, Inspector." Elizabeth's cherub smile made him blush hard. Ciel keeps very beautiful company with him.
"Y-you're welcome, Lady Elizabeth!" He dropped to a bow. "Are you certain you're both alright? Do you need a doctor?"
A doctor is the last thing they need. If Abberline discovers something amiss, The Yard will be all over the home and the ball ruined. Not to mention Ciel's name would be dragged through the mud on this.
"There's no call for concern, Edward." Alliahnna reassured him. "Elizabeth and Paula are both ill and have taken strong prescriptions to help." Paula was confused by the obvious lie, then realized what Alliahnna was trying to do. She bobbed her head, helping confirm her story. Elizabeth was still too drowsy to really acknowledge what's happening. "This is hardly the first time we've caught them sleeping wherever is most comfortable."
"Are you certain?" Abberline needed to hold his doubts. He is responsible for the people of the estate as the officer on duty.
"Trust me," Alliahnna escorted Abberline out the door, "If anything dastardly was afoot, I'd tell you."
"As you say, My Lady." Abberline acquiesced. Alliahnna's a pushy one. She won't' give up anything else. "I will be returning to my patrol. Please, take care of yourself."
"We will! Thank you!"
Another close call averted. Now to solve what left Elizabeth and Paula on the floor. And that smoke? What was it? It didn't look like fire smoke. And if it was a fire, there would have been damaged leaking out the window. The room was in tact. No fire, and nothing that would cause that odd smoke. Also, what is that strange smell in the room?
"Alliahnna! We have a problem!" Elizabeth blurted. She choked on the thinning air feeding her lungs. "I just remembered! Arna was in here with us!"
Alliahnna chilled to the bone. She'd forgotten Sebastian sent Arna back to Elizabeth's room before the ball began. Lo and behold when the smoke clears, look he turns up missing. The smoke might very well have been a diversion for her subterfuge. So she can create disarray for a chance at killing Ciel. Not that she would have a chance. Sebastian hasn't left Ciel's side and both were currently seeing to the guests. She may not think much of him, but Arna would have been slaughtered before she so much as breathed on Ciel. Still, there is no telling the tenacity of her character.
Arna was skittish at the notion she had been spotted during her dramatic phone call with the Ferro Family. A notion, beyond her knowledge, which bore facts and left her undone. Not even she would deviate from meeting Elizabeth. For the time being, Alliahnna and Sebastian were going to allow her to maneuver as she saw fit. For Elizabeth's sake, should the woman prove disciplined, she won't make a move until the ball is over.
"Elizabeth. Are you certain Arna was here with you?" Alliahnna had to be sure. There is no forced entry, and no signs of a struggle. Arna might be behind this...or worse.
"Absolutely! I saw her fall unconscious with us!" Elizabeth broke into tears, burying her face into her hands. "But when I awoke...she was…"
"There, there, My Lady." Paula pacified her, hugging her close. "It will be alright." Alliahnna stroked her chin. If Arna wasn't behind this, then there is an all new headache for Ciel to be bothered with. It might very well be the man who is abducting women.
"Paula…" Alliahnna whispered in her ear. "Take her to my room and get her some warm milk. I'll be by later to check on her."
"Okay. Thank you, Lady Alliahnna."
"Of course." Alliahnna marched into the hallway. A malicious glare ignited a sharp gleam in her eye. "I'll make whoever did this pay for what they've done." Arna? The mystery abductor? One or both of them will pay for what they've done to Elizabeth.
xxx
The number of inconveniences just keep piling. Sooner or later, Ciel is going to catch wind of one of one of them. Neither she nor Sebastian have told Ciel about what they've learned of Arna. Or Alois for that matter. The woman being a secret assassin and Alois being dead have...slipped their minds. Both could sway the tide from Alliahnna and Sebastian's favor. The latter, however, could cause a far worse reaction. Current heinous status aside, there is the matter of a woman missing and the ballroom was filled with anxiously awaiting guests. Most of which are prominent members of society. This is a scandal they would relish in ruining Ciel and Alliahnna's name with.
Alliahnna was able to enter the ballroom with minimal attention. As she feared, guests flooded the room wall to wall, and a percentage of the refreshments were devoured. From what she heard, the cake wasn't ready yet and whispers for the guest of honor's presence were being demanded. It was growing tense.
Sebastian was handing out glasses of champagne to a group of Nobles. Alliahnna waited for him to finish and informed him of the problem they were facing. Before bringing the news to Ciel, Alliahnna and Sebastian needed to ensure Arna wasn't inside the manor. Better that than raise a catastrophe that can be avoided. She went to Ciel to excuse Sebastian, stating there was an urgent matter she needed his help with. Ciel wouldn't dare refuse Alliahnna. Least of all by the urgency in her expression.
Alliahnna gave Sebastian the summarized version of what Elizabeth told her, and what she saw from outside. There was also a strange smell in the room. Sebastian and Alliahnna saved Elizabeth's room for last during their investigation. Inevitably, it was as they pair feared. Arna was nowhere to be seen. No trace of her remained at the manor. She was gone.
"VANISHED?! WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!" Alliahnna closed Ciel's office door to afford them privacy. She nodded to Sebastian.
"I found signs that a sleep inducing gas was pumped into the room where the ladies dwelt." He informed Ciel. That was the odd smell Alliahnna detected.
Ciel assembled the pieces in his mind. He shared the same conclusion as Alliahnna and Sebastian. "So he put her to sleep then carried her off." There's no doubt about it. The man Abberline warned them about abducted Arna. "He's a bold thief to act in the middle of a party like this." Ciel relished in a little boldness. Spiced up his rather dreary life.
"Bold should not be misconstrued for idiotic!" Alliahnna snarled. "Elizabeth was delirious, but she was on the brink of hysteria!" She slammed a hand to Ciel's desk, frightening him back in his seat. "Admiring him is just another attack on her!"
"Please, Alliahnna, calm down!" Ciel urged her. "I'm not admiring him! I'm merely remarking that he chose the wrong assemblage to strike." Alliahnna collected herself, clearing her throat with a note of regret. She doesn't mean to be irrational. She just hates seeing Elizabeth hurt. "And the fact that he managed to give you the slip only adds to his boldness." He mocked Sebastian. In other words, if Alliahnna was to be angry with someone, it should be him. Then again, Alliahnna was just outside the window and was eluded.
"I apologize, My Lord." Sebastian bowed for the grievous error. "But if I recall, you had ORDERED me to entertain this evening's guests."
"The guests!" Alliahnna gasped. She completely forgot. "The guests are becoming impatient waiting for Arna, and the refreshments aren't infinite!" The situation wasn't dire in the sense the world would collapse. But the weight bearing on their shoulders was too much. "Telling them she took ill and returned home would be a disaster. And I doubt we can distract them forever."
"Then they will not be distracted forever!" Ciel shared her dismay. "Having a guest taken from my own manor would tarnish our name! Not to mention our reputation as The Queen's Guard Dog!" Not a noble encouragement, but a drive to make him act nonetheless. "Your orders, Sebastian! I want the girl returned!" Without delay, by his tone.
"Yes, My Lord."
"Shall I go with him?" Alliahnna proposed.
"No. Remain here to help me with our guests." Ciel declined. For good reason. "A guest abducted is bothersome enough. Should either of the hosts be absent it will raise questions." He glared toward the window. Abberline was patrolling the grounds with a group of his men. They've yet to be informed of the incident, as such were conducting a protocol search. "The Yard and our guests must be made assured all is well."
"As you wish." Entertaining so many will be a chore. There is no telling when Sebastian will return. She's going to need some help. Luckily, a band a merry helpers happens to be in attendance tonight.
xxx
Alliahnna and Elizabeth gathered their friends in the recreation room. Ciel would see to the guests while ample and sufficient entertainment is drawn. Soma, Agni, and Paula were the first to arrive. Ran-Mao and Lao arrived with bottles of fine wine in hand. Likely taken from the cellar. Jasper and Zanosuke surprised the others with their presence. Mey-Rin, Tanaka, Finnian, and Bardroy showed up doused in frosting. Even Abberline was invited to join in on the condition he doesn't reveal what he learns to his squad. Elizabeth and Alliahnna realized the predicament they were in, and summed up what has happened.
"KIDNAPPED?!" Soma, Agni, and Abberline gasped. Elizabeth was overcome by sorrow. Paula wrapped her arms to her, letting her cry into her chest. Zanosuke pet a hand down her back, hushing her soothingly.
"How?!" Finnian yelped.
"It was the kidnapper!" Abberline snarled. Alliahnna nodded regretfully. The others were baffled by the obvious inside information. "An unknown assailant has been intruding upon balls lately and abducting young women. By the method used, it's undoubtedly that's what become of Lady Doran." There's no other explanation. "The Yard must give pursuit."
"No! The Yard will remain oblivious! As will the guests!" Alliahnna declared firmly.
"But...My Lady…"
"Sebastian is handling the matter, and will succeed. But that won't be for some time!" Sebastian's involvement in her rescue seemed to ease the group. Even Abberline was put to ease. Sebastian, to the small few who don't realize, was a great asset. He was infallible to a fault. But still, knowing someone infiltrated and made off with Arna. It worried them what would have happened if the kidnapper had a taste for blood. "I asked all of you here to help me and Ciel entertain our guests until Sebastian returns with Arna. We must give the appearance nothing is wrong."
"Creating appearances is a speciality of the Phantomhives." Lao remarked slyly. His fox like eyes parted open. "It is hard to discern false from real." Alliahnna grunted in the back of her throat. Jasper and Zanosuke were bothered by his remark as well. "What would you have us do?"
"For starters: Bardroy, Mey-Rin, Finnian."
"YES MA'AM!" They saluted.
"The cake?"
"We're putting the finishing touches on it!" Bardroy announced exuberantly. "It just needs to be refrigerated a while and will be good to eat!"
"Go see to that."
"RIGHT!" The trio rushed off.
"Mr. Tanaka. Guests are still arriving. I need you to finish greeting them for Sebastian."
"My Lady…" Mr. Tanaka excused himself.
"Abberline, The Yard's presence will unnerve new arrivals. Please finish your patrol and leave." It sounded harsh, but it was necessary. She won't be undone by a coward. Abberline said nothing, merely bowed. He understands her position, but doesn't like the thought of abandoning the sight of a crime. "And don't worry about Sir Arthur." She grinned mischievously. "Ciel and I are well equipped to handle him."
Abberline snorted back a laugh. "Very well. Good day, My Lady." He bowed, then turned on his heels to leave.
"What will you have of the rest of us?" Paula stepped forward, inspired by Alliahnna's leadership.
It was already four in the afternoon. The ballroom was filled, but the party wasn't too entirely in its zenith. It was, however, bustling with rowdy guests that are present solely by Elizabeth and Ciel's invitation. Half of them would rather be at him sleeping, or reading, or something else entirely. The idea was that once the guest of honor shows, and the cake is shared, they can leave. Might as well give them a reason to stay. And with a room full of people with unique talents, they just might pull it off.
xxx
Lights dimmed in the ballroom. The cluster of mingled conversations dulled to silence. Confused murmurs echoed. Spotlights centered on Lao and Ran-Mao. Large cloaks hid their bodies. A large gap parted from them, creating ample room for whatever it pair shot their eyes open. Their arms shot up, flaring their cloaks open, revealing traditional chinese garments and two umbrellas. The crowd of people were baffled at first by what Lao and Ran-Mao had planned. When they began, the people were entranced by them. Lao and Ran-Mao performed a traditional Umbrella Dance. Usually, a group of dancers would perform. Unfortunately, Lao and Ran-Mao were the only ones available. Nevertheless. Their dance was amazing. The fluid movements of their dance, the twirling of the umbrellas were in perfect sync. The umbrellas would be tossed in the air while Lao and Ran-Mao executed swift flips and somersaults, catching the umbrellas behind their backs. They danced back to back, engaging in what could be seen as a sword duel, and then synchronize their umbrella flips in a sturdy finale with them stamped to the ground. Mild claps and gasps of awe radiated for them. It was quite the treat. Ran-Mao and Lao appreciated their praise, and they exited.
A moment's respite from the first branch of entertainment was granted. The crowd was quite pleased, and was willing to forgive the delay of Arna's arrival. The entertainment wasn't over yet. Sebastian wasn't back yet either.
Next on the floor were Agni and Soma. The two bowed. They earned perplexed brow by the number of balls hung on strings they carried. The two had six. Whatever for? The dimmed lights would provide the perfect ambiance. Soma and Agni held the strung balls in one hand. They both filled their mouths with a strange liquid. Without warning, they stood on one foot and swung the balls high over their heads. Beatings on the air enticed the crowd. Soma and Agni gracefully swept a foot along the ground in a spin, scooping up torches in their hands. They flipped and struck them to a spot on the tile, igniting a spark that light the torches in a blaze. The torches were held up. Agni and Soma blew the liquid on, erupting a fiery blaze that set the balls on fire, creating a rapid ring of fire. The crowd was startled back in awe. Soma and Agni tossed the torches, which were caught and extinguished. Left side to right, Soma and Agni shifted feet as the rings were spun. Over their heads, and jump to sweep the fire under. All around the strung balls flailed. Soma and Agni split the balls apart, dazzling their crowd with flawlessly controlled twirls. Displacing weight as they swung their arms, the balls parted individually, swaying in ripples. Soma and Agni spun in alternate directions, showing off each ball in sway. The strings were joined at the end. The balls spin in a pinwheel, flowing all around. Soma and Agni threw them high in the air. Them almost touching the ceiling unnerved the crowd. As they drifted down, Soma and Agni slashed their with their swords. Blue and orange sparks exploded, and the display ended with the hissed extinguish of the balls. For while, no one dared to breathe. Then the crowd burst into applause. Another successful distraction.
"Tell me he's back…" Soma whined, completely out of breath. Ciel shook his head. "He needs to hurry. We're running out of entertainers."
Now on the floor were Elizabeth and Paula dressed in red and black Spanish Dresses. Fans masking half their faces teased the crowd. Jasper and Zanosuke appeared behind them. Both were dressed in the usual black, wearing Spanish hats with dangling beads. They slowly wrapped an arm to their respective lady's waist, and taking up a hand. The band began tango music, the tempo leading Jasper and Zanosuke in tandem steps in separate ways. Jasper and Zanosuke lifted Paula and Elizabeth's hand, spinning them about outward. The ladies extended their free arm, opening their fans. Being drawn back in, they wrapped a leg to their gentlemen, bending as far back as they could, touching their fans to the ground. They were lifted back up, wrapping an arm around and to their heads. Zanosuke and Jasper spun from either lady's embrace, coming around behind and gliding to their opposite hand. They guided the ladies by the hand, coming back to back. The pair spun and traded partners, spanning their arms and pressing their bodies together. The clacks of their heels in tempo to the music itched the watching crowd to join the dance, but none moved for fear of getting in the way. Paula and Elizabeth's dressed fluttered elegantly as they were spun. The music was nearing its climax. Zanosuke and Jasper glided backwards on the tile. Paula and Elizabeth followed after them. The two men pulled, and the women slide between their legs. They whipped around and hugged to Zanosuke and Jasper's backs. They strutted forward and back. The music was at the end. On the fian beats, Paula and Elizabeth spun their backs to Zanosuke and Jasper. The two men stepped and weaved sideways, catching both falling women in a steep dip. The crowd went into a fit at the ending. The Phantomhive's knew how to entertain.
"Please tell me he's returned." Elizabeth begged to Soma and Agni. She and the others earned the same response. "I don't believe it. What's taking so long?" She was about to be saddened for her friend, then noticed Alliahnna and Ciel were missing. "Where are Ciel and Allie?"
"They said something about performing a saber duel for the guests." Agni tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Although, they left some time ago to retrieve their swords." Alliahnna and Ciel had sword closets throughout the manor. One's right outside the ballroom, when one thinks about it. What could be taking them so long? Jasper swears if he had to dress up in those silly garments for them to be late, he'll make them pay.
"Oh good! You're all here!" Ciel and Alliahnna burst into the ballroom. They were short of breath.
"Good news!" Alliahnna cupped Elizabeth's hands. "Sebastian brought Arna home! She's in her room!"
"SHE IS?!"
xxx
(Arna POV)
Oww...my head...what a busy afternoon. My body felt so weak. That blasted Viscount Druitt. Who did he think he was fooling with that ridiculous mask. And claiming that I would be his little angel. What madness bred this man? Saying that he was taken by me the day he set eyes upon me! When exactly was that? The seconds he took to abduct me from Elizabeth's room? How bold and awful this man is. Saying that I would be his. Utterly repulsive. Men like him disgust me to no seeable end. The way he stroked my head...it was unbearable. A sinful little bird? While the sinful part is correct, never would I stoop to arouse him with the abandon he claimed. And this paradise he spoke of. Whatever he deems to be paradise has nothing to do with me. Although, when he said no one would find us, I was worried.
Sebastian's impeccable timing almost drew me to fall in love with him. He saved me from that foolhardy Viscount before he slipped poison into me. He was quite insulted the Viscount thought no one would find him. And then...that strange man with red hair. He said something about me dying tomorrow and that I wasn't allowed to die yet. Who the Hell is that person, and why am I dying tomorrow?! WHAT'S WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE?!
After a meaningless skirmish that damn near sank the ship, the Viscount practically threw himself overboard and lived to torment others for another day. The next thing I knew, another man arrives and stabs the redhead named Grell with a pair of sheers. It was a long winded conversation of hurtling insults between the three men. And the redhead expressing wanting to do messy things with Sebastian. It ended with the man named Will discovering Grell had the wrong name in some odd ledger he was carrying. I wasn't following any of it. Mostly because I was still have delirious from that gas. At this point I welcomed the sight of the Phantomhive manor. I just want to fade into the night and wake up knowing this nightmare will be over.
Sebastian asked me to keep the events of the evening to myself. Apparently my disappearance caused an outright panic amongst the staff. Funny. They're so worried about someone who would kill with them without a second thought. Such trusting people they are. How foolish.
A while later, I find myself awakening back in the manor. Worried faces towered around me.
(POV End)
xxx
Ciel, Alliahnna, Elizabeth, and the others piled into Arna's room one after the other. Seeing her wake up was like a blessing. Not having to entertain the guests with winged/improvised acts was a godsend in itself. Arna was paled from her ordeal, and slightly fatigued from the gas attack. But other than that she was perfectly fine. This relieved Elizabeth to the brink of crying.
"You poor, Dear! I'm so glad you're alright!"
"We all are." Alliahnna reassured Arna.
"I'm sorry again to have troubled you all." Arna breathed weakly.
"Think nothing of it." Ciel promised her. To Arna, Ciel was pleased to help. To others, they know he's putting on a face. "Now come along, everyone. We should let her rest for a while." Agreeing nods bobbed, and everyone filed out of the room. Soma and Lao expressed their condolences for her ordeal. Though weren't so surprised. She was quite the beauty. Who wouldn't want to take her.
xxx
(Arna POV)
Finally. They're gone. Now's my chance before something else happens. Honestly! This manor is a made house! Kidnappers, Scotland Yard, exploding kitchens - how has this place not been condemned? I must put an end to the Young Earl. And I will do so without delay. It should be fairly simple. The butler and sister have to be attending to the guests at that silly ball. Time to strike.
(POV End)
xxx
Ciel's office door creaked open. A dark smile crept to her lips. The Young Lord was sound asleep with his mouth agape. Fortune was with her. As she expected, the butler and sister were nowhere to be seen. Likely helping keep the guests busy downstairs. She wasted not another second. She closed the door behind her, ensuring the utmost privacy. She strode across the office. Digging into the chest of her dress, she pulled out a small trinket. An ornate pocket knife the Lady Phantomhive missed. They are making he job too easy.
"You really mustn't wake him." Arna froze in mid stride. Impossible! Sebastian was at the door with a cross expression. A blanket was draped to his arm.
"Mr. Michaelis!" She squeaked, hiding the knife behind her back. "I just...wanted to-um…"
"He's really quite exhausted." Sebastian interjected abruptly. "While I was away, My Lord was forced to entertain all the guests." He explained, meandering past the stunned woman. "That's taxing enough. But he also took great pains to keep anyone from learning what happened. The excitement has worn him out." Sebastian placed the blanket over Ciel. "Sincerest apologies, My Lord."
Arna blinked in absolute awe. Not of Ciel's selfless actions, but of Sebastian's presence. The timing of his arrival...it's just like when she was in the phone booth. He just appeared out of the blue, engaging in idle conversation and duty. It could be a coincidence. Or, maybe...Is he watching me?
"Miss Doran, you look confused." Sebastian's trill broke her focus. "Is something wrong?"
"Um! What do you mean?" She laughed nervously.
Sebastian chuckled, approaching her in steady strides, "Perhaps it would clear things up if I mentioned we listened to you ENTIRE clandestine phone call."
Arna staggered back, biting at her lower lip. "Wait. We?" She felt a sense of dread flow over her.
"I'll take that." Arna grimaced, her blood turning to ice. Alliahnna appeared from thin air behind her. "Mind if I hold this?" The ornate pocket knife was mockingly waved in her hand. Arna glanced between her own hands, confused as to when she lost grip on it. More importantly, how did she get it without Arna noticing. What is she? What are they both? "I told you we females can hide weapons just about anywhere." Alliahnna propped her breasts to Sebastian. He snorted at her display. He has to hand it to her in a lady's creative hiding places.
"How…" Arna backed away from them, breaking into a cold sweat, "How did you-"
"No need to be surprised." Alliahnna put her hands to her hips. "I was able to get a good feel of you when helping you into that dress!" Arna suddenly felt violated. She never noticed Alliahnna was frisking her. "While it would have been fun to just let the Viscount have you, I would sooner give up my hand than spoil things for Elizabeth."
"Indeed she would." Sebastian seconded her conviction. "And Lady Elizabeth would remain none the wiser of who and what exactly it is she's brought to the manor." Arna hissed through gritted teeth. She felt his gaze travel up her body. "Such a lithe figure. The heavy scent of death rises off your skin like perfume." Much like another lady he knows. "But still, I admit the Ferro's chose well hiring you as their assassin."
"So you were standing outside the booth!" Arna hissed. "But you don't sound too surprised by what you learned."
"That's because you don't match Elizabeth's usual brand of friends." Alliahnna stated sternly. Arna is nothing like the rest of them. And she never will be. "Not to mention, you never once asked if Lizzie was alright when you returned. Which speaks to your disempathetic nature." Arna bit into her lip. She gave the butler and sister far too less of credit. They're intuitive.
"We can acknowledge that you played a good game." Sebastian praised Arna with a note of revulsion. "Using poor Lady Elizabeth to gain entry into Phantomhive Manor. This explains your awkwardness at tea."
"Damn you both…" She was trembling with rage. She will not concede to being helpless. Alliahnna may not be able to do much in that dress. But the butler will be a problem. "How? How did I not see it?"
"You see, Miss Doran, while you are rather convincing at your role as the meek mousy girl," Alliahnna flipped her knife tauntingly, "I'm afraid Sebastian and I succeeded you in our own subterfuge." She licked the knife hungrily. "The sister and butler. Obviously, standard wise, we are not a real threat." Alliahnna brought her demonic grin close to Arna's face, trapping her within the hateful swirl of her gaze. "Makes it all the more fun for us when we cut a thin line to those fragile veins in your neck." Arna shuddered as Alliahnna traced a finger along her neck. Her back touched Sebastian, making her jump out of her skin.
"My Lady is rather irked with you." Sebastian crooned. "You have used, beguiled, and endangered someone she loves very dearly, and possessed enough audacity to try an end the life of another. Do not expect mercy from her." Alliahnna cackled crazily. Arna couldn't stand it any longer. She whipped around, throwing a blind punch for Sebastian. It was easily caught. "I'm glad I decided to give you a private tour. It enabled you to find your way to this room where I can easily dispose of you with no one noticing." He squeezed her wrist, making her cry out in pain. Arna twisted to run. Sebastian spun her around, locking her in a headlock. "Why wherever do you think you're going, Miss?"
"Yes. Please do stay a moment longer, won't you?" Alliahnna pressed the knife at her stomach. Her maliciously twisted grin paled Arno to a sheet. "I'd hate for you to miss what is about to happen next."
"Sebastian…" Sebastian and Alliahnna cringed. Arna released a breath of relief. His sense of timing has ruined their fun. So much the better for Arna. "Have I been sleeping?" Ciel drowsily slurred, wiping the sleep from his eyes.
"Yes, indeed." Sebastian slyly removed himself from Arna. Alliahnna yanked her close and whispered inaudible threats to her. They earned her compliance. "And with your mouth hanging open, I might add."
"You could have woken me up!" He scoffed humiliated. "Or did you want a laugh?"
"No! That would be my handiwork." Alliahnna impishly pranced to his side, wrapping her arms to his shoulders. "I couldn't resist showing our guest how adorable you are, Ciel."
"Our guest!" He hadn't realized she was present. "Good evening."
"She has come to offer her thanks." Sebastian informed him.
"YES...Lord Phantomhive!" Arna controlled her voice. Her anxiety was skyrocketing. She felt so tense. Two people who were about to kill her treated her as if nothing happened. And worse, she isn't able to kill her target. She bowed her head, "I wanted to thank you for your kind hospitality. You've been most kind."
"I see. I'm glad to hear it." Ciel meandered around his desk, approaching Arna with a solemn expression. "You still have my most sincerest apologies. You have suffered terribly as a direct result of the subpar security at my manor." Arna was caught off guard by how sincere he was. This troubled him greatly. He offered her his hand with his deepest regrets, "If you can forgive me, please take my hand. You see, the night is young still. And the ball in your honor has yet to begin." He tempted her with a smile.
"The ball...in my honor?" Arna blankly accepted the hand. Ciel was overjoyed to accept.
While it was appearing to be a fortuitous ending, Alliahnna was spoiled by a sudden rush of nausea. A familiar sensation deriving from one thing in particular. "You all go ahead without me. I'm not...feeling so great." Ciel and Sebastian were displeased to hear so. Arna, however, tried to hide her relief.
"Are you sure?" Ciel placed a hand to her forehead. "You don't have a fever. Is everything well?"
"Yes. I'm just a little worn out is all. Some sleep will do me nicely." Ciel and Sebastian were disappointed she wouldn't be joining them. But they'd rather she be in top condition than weak. "Arna," Arna stiffened at her name, "Please enjoy what remains of your evening." The threat was obvious. Arna shakily nodded. Alliahnna giggled impishly, then left.
xxx
Alliahnna hid herself away in the library. She needed to be somewhere she knew no one would check up on her. During a party, the library was the likely spot. She sat to the window sill, arms wrapped to her stomach in deep thought. The moonlight basked to her skin. Her hair and eyes glistened. A sober expression made her lively features melancholic. So much was whirling around in her mind. It troubled her greatly. Not from being able to hear Sebastian sing. That made her heart flutter. But...so much more. Eveyrhting and nothing bothered her at the same the forefront of her troubles, she guesses, is that she is carrying Seabstian's child...and she can't bring herself to tell him.
"You don't have to lurk, you know." She murmured, glancing to a shadowed corner. "You both know I enjoy your company."
A pair of deep voices chuckled. Jasper and Zanosuke came into the light, slightly pleased she sensed them. Honestly, they wanted to give her a jump scare. She hated to ruin their fun, but she wasn't entirely in the mood for games. There's too much weighing her down at the moment.
"You haven't told him yet." Jasper surmised by the way she was rubbing her stomach. "About the baby." Alliahnna gasped at his remark. She eyes him shocked, wondering if he was talking about what she thinks. "Alliahnna, you insult me. Did you really think we wouldn't know?" Zanosuke folded his hands behind his back, tilting his head with a smile.
"How long have you known?"
"Since your rampage a few weeks ago." Zanosuke answered with a shiver. That's a side of Alliahnna he hopes to never see again. "Also, Undertaker confirmed our suspicions a few hours later."
"UNDERTAKER!" She shrieked. No wonder he was being so persistent. He wasn't just helping her quell her demon urges. He was giving her a full check up. "Please don't tell me…"
"We haven't told anyone else." Jasper reassured her, a little hurt she would doubt them. "It's not our secret to tell." Alliahnna touched her stomach again. She sort of felt silly for hiding it from Zanosuke or Jasper. She doesn't know why, exactly. Just that...she didn't have much to worry about. Then...why does she feel worried about telling Sebastian? "Sebastian doesn't know. Does he?"
"No." She admitted shamefully. "For some reason that I can't begin to fathom, I can't bring myself to tell him." She rubbed her stomach.. "Not because of some animosity or other selfish reasons."
"Then why?" Zanosuke pressed.
"Because we aren't finished yet. There is still too much to do, and too heavy are those burdens." Claude, Alois, the demons of Trancy, Ciel - there is too much on their plate to bring the prospect of a child eventually entering the world. And besides, if Sebastian learns of it, then Ciel will. And he isn't going to be around long enough to cherish his niece or nephew. It would kill her.
The party was drawing to a close. Alliahnna watched Arna enter her carriage and depart. She is one of the first few to depart. The fact that she is alive means her threat is nullified. "That is one problem gone. Now for the other…" Alliahnna moaned.
"Claude." Jasper muttered. Alliahnna brow knit at the name. "My Lady, with Alois gone, obtaining revenge for the Young Master is all the more difficult."
"You don't think I know that?" She snapped. Ciel's new target for his revenge were both Alois and Claude. Alois is dead. If Ciel learns about this, who knows what will happen. "For some reason, Claude killed Alois. We have to assume its a play for Ciel."
"Or of a scheme far grander." Zanosuke mumbled. Jasper shot a glare to Zanosuke, warning him not to say too much. Zanosuke had no intention of revealing what they'd learned. The risks are too great. Still, he wished he could do more. Much more than when they were in France.
"I don't care what that Spider or his obedient legs have planned!" Alliahnna roared. Her glowing pink eyes roused into a fire. The Trancy Manor was at the center of that fire. "That entire house will burn to ashes before the year is finished!" Claude, Hannah, and the rotting corpse of Alois will burn with it. "I will make sure of it!"
To be continued