Chapter Twelve: Wench Butler, Swain Friend
Several days have passed and a new month has begun. Frances was in her Office working on some paperwork. She and Ciel ate lunch in the dining room then returned to their work. At around one thirty, she felt people were coming to the manor. It was similar to the feeling when Ash used to arrive however, with less purpose and more… annoyance. At least, from one of the butlers. The other butler had the same stoic purpose as Ash had. It was strange. Her sensing of feelings seemed to be growing stronger, specifically the more "negative" emotions such as anger, frustration, annoyance, to name a few. It was stronger when she knew the people, personally, but now also included people she didn't know, though at a much lesser extent. Sebastian sent her reassurance and acknowledgment that someone was coming, bringing her back to the present. She smiled and sent him back her gratitude. When they arrived twenty-five minutes later, Malphas reached out to her through their bond.
*Frances, will you meet me at the Young Master's Office in two minutes please.*
*Of course.* She sent back.
He smiled. She began to clean up her paperwork, placing them in their appropriate piles. She stacked them together and tapped them against the desk to straighten them out. Once that was finished, she made her way out of her Office. She closed the door behind her. She walked down the hall. She shared a smile with Sebastian as she saw him at the other end of the hall. They met at Ciel's door. He held a tray of tea and a light snack in his hand. He knocked on the door. Upon hearing Ciel's answering voice, Sebastian opened the door for her. She gave him her thanks. He inclined his head. They walked into the room. Ciel gave her a small smile as he was used to her joining him during his afternoon tea sometimes. After Frances took her seat, Sebastian served them from his spot on the right side of the Young Master. A plate with green jelly with strawberries and some white looking flower on the sides and top of the jelly was placed in front of each of them accompanied by a white, blue, and gold tea cup filled with green tea.
"Today's afternoon tea is a green tea from the Kengra Valley with a gooseberry and elderflower jelly."
Ciel and Frances took a bite.
"Well, it'll do." Ciel sighed.
Frances smiled. It wasn't something overly sweet like she could feel he wanted, but it was a nice, light snack.
"I'm glad you find it satisfactory, my lord." Sebastian stated, a teasing smirk upon his lips as he too could feel the boy's desire for something sweeter.
Sebastian and Frances shared an amused look. Frances turned back to the afternoon snack. Once they finished, Sebastian spoke up again.
"A letter arrived for you, my Lord, my Lady."
He held out a tray with an envelope that had the Queen's seal upon it. Ciel sighed. He took it, sliced it open and began reading.
"There are people being burned alive." Ciel stated.
"People being burned alive?" Sebastian asked, refilling the Young Master's tea, "Ah, yes, the rash of crimes that has swept London. I'm told there was another victim last night?"
"Yes." The Young Master answered, "Her Majesty grieves at the thought of her subjects trembling in fear each night. And these are much more brazen than our last case as there were many people around to witness."
Frances had read about that these past few mornings. It was extremely horrific. The victims were all female and just burned spontaneously. Ciel suddenly lifted the letter closer to his face, his eye narrowed slightly as confusion radiated from the boy. Frances looked at him with concern.
"What's the matter, my lord?" Sebastian asked as he placed the cup of tea down.
The Young Master handed him the letter.
"'Faced with a recurrence of these unsavory incidents, I shall once again leave the matter in the hands of the 'Dog' and the 'Spider'.'"
The second that last word was out, Frances' eyes widened, instantly thinking of Alois and Claude. Sebastian had thought of them too as his eyes turned fuchsia and little wisps of darkness began to fall from his form as he shook in anger. The Young Master looked up at him in surprise as the temperature dropped in the room. Frances leapt out of her chair, ignoring the way her own body shook with his anger, and made her way to the extremely angered demon who's grip on the letter had scrunched it up.
"Sebastian." She called to him as she approached him.
*Malphas.* She called in her mind at the same time.
His fuchsia eyes snapped to hers. The anger was powerful, almost like the day he discovered part of Ciel's soul was gone. She reached up placing one hand upon his cheek, the other on his chest. She sent him calmness and love.
"I'm here. We're both here, Sebastian. Safe and sound. No matter what they try, they will not win."
The demon calmed. His eyes slowly returned to the red they had been since his return. He released a breath and relaxed his hold upon the letter. He reached up and took her hand from his cheek. He lifted it to his lips and placed a gentle kiss upon it. He lowered her hand as he looked into her eyes.
"Thank you, my darling."
She smiled.
"You're welcome, my love."
He smiled at her. She moved away as Sebastian straightened the paper. He turned to the Young Master. He bowed with a hand on his chest.
"My apologies, my lord."
He raised an eyebrow.
"Do you know something about this Spider?"
"It is possible that it could be referring to the Trancys." Sebastian stated.
"It is referring to the Trancys." Frances confirmed.
They both looked at her, inquisitively. She sighed.
"The Trancys are also a part of the Queen's special family like the us being Guard Dogs. They specialize in clean up. So, there may not be any documents or such, if from the letter, this may have happened before, if she is inviting them once again… (They looked at her with contemplative expressions.) Furthermore (They looked at her. She met Sebastian's eyes. He gave a small nod.), they may have been the ones to take part of your soul, Young Master."
The Young Master placed his head on his intertwined hands.
"What makes you say that?"
"Alois Trancy has a spider demon butler." She explained.
He looked at her shocked.
"But, why would he want my soul?"
Frances looked at Sebastian. The Young Master followed her gaze and looked at his butler expectantly.
"We are still trying to figure that out, my lord." He answered.
The Young Master frowned.
"Very well. Prepare a carriage, Sebastian. We're setting out to London within the hour."
"Very good, my lord." Sebastian bowed.
He handed him the letter back. Ciel took it. He folded it up and placed it in his pocket. He looked up at Frances.
"Frances, you're coming with us as well."
She nodded her head.
"Of course. Excuse me, then."
She stood from her seat. Sebastian trailed behind her. Once they got to the door and he closed it behind him, he walked beside her, slipping his hand into hers. She smiled and tightened her hold. Once they got to the landing, they squeezed one another's hands. After a moment, they released each other's hand, sharing a smile as they went their separate ways.
Frances made her way to her room and packed up the things she would need. After a few moments, she was ready. She was about to grab it when she felt his presence behind her and saw his hand reach for her suitcase. She turned and looked into his amused eyes. He kissed her cheek. As he pulled away, he took her suitcase.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
They walked out of her room. Sebastian closed the door behind them. They made their way to an awaiting Young Master who had his black cloak and top hat on. Sebastian opened the door for them. Frances gave her thanks. They moved outside. As Sebastian closed the door and headed for the back of the carriage, Frances opened the carriage door for the Young Earl and assisted him inside. She was about to climb in herself when Sebastian appeared next to her, offering his hand to help her inside. She smiled at him as she accepted his hand.
"Thank you." She said, stepping inside.
"You're welcome, my Lady."
Once she was inside, Sebastian entered in after them. They drove off to the Townhouse.
"A part of the house of Phantomhive's past that I don't know about." The Young Master muttered, placing his head against his fist, elbow resting on his knee.
"It's only natural." Sebastian said. The Young Master looked at him, "After all, you were forced to assume the earldom before your Father had passed everything down to you."
Frances nodded in agreement.
"Still, I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity. If I resolve an incident my predecessor was involved in, the Phantomhive's name would become more respected."
Frances smirked.
"More like, you would become more respected, Young Master. They would stop seeing you as a little child despite the way you act adult like already." Frances said.
Ciel and Sebastian smirked.
"Indeed." The Young Master stated.
They continued to make their way to London in their own thoughts and looking over the letter and photographs of the crime scene as well as the newspapers.
They had barely pulled up to the Townhouse when the carriage door slammed open.
"Ciel! Frances! My friends!" Prince Soma cried.
"Good evening, Prince Soma." Frances greeted while Ciel mumbled a soft, "Good evening.".
"Good evening, Prince Soma." Sebastian greeted with a slight bow as he climbed out of the carriage.
"Good evening, Sebastian." He greeted back quickly.
Sebastian assisted Ciel then Frances out of the carriage. Once they stepped out of the carriage, Soma wrapped an arm around each of their shoulders. Malphas sent a growl through Frances' and his connection. Frances sent him a sigh and calmness.
"You must've missed me! You're back so soon! I missed you, little runt Ciel, sweet Frances!" Soma declared as he dragged them to the Townhouse.
Once they crossed the threshold and into the front entrance, Agni made his appearance in his usual green clothes. He bowed with his hands clasped in prayer.
"Namaste ji. (He straightened.) Welcome home, Lord Phantomhive, Lady Frances, Sebastian."
"Good evening." Sebastian and Frances said, Sebastian giving him a bow.
"Ciel, come play chess with me! Frances, you come too!"
"I will in a few minutes, let me just…"
"I can grab the luggage, my Lady." Sebastian interjected.
"Ah, allow me to assist you." Agni said.
Frances smiled.
"Thank you, Sebastian, Agni."
She followed the two boys into the drawing room. She watched as the two of them played. Soon enough, dinner was called. After they ate, they played a few rounds before going to bed. However, the Young Master surprised her by telling Prince Soma that he was working on a case and when Prince Soma asked if there was anything he could do, Ciel gave a smug smile saying to just continue to work at his Townhouse. Prince Soma had smiled happily. Frances stared, proud of the Young Master. They bid each other goodnight and headed to bed.
The following morning after breakfast, the three of them took a carriage to the crime scene. They all wore black. The Young Master wore a black suit with a white shirt, Sebastian wore his black butler suit, and Frances wore a black smooth dress. The carriage parked a block away from the crime scene.
As they approached, they saw Sir Arthur Randall kneeling down examining the blackened area of the sidewalk and building. The area where the woman had clearly been burnt to death. When they were almost there, Sebastian suddenly stopped. Frances continued on with the Young Master just a step when she felt the spike of adorableness come from the demon behind her.
"Sebastian?" She asked.
She turned to see why the demon butler had stopped. She saw the blush upon his cheeks as he stared down at something. She followed his gaze and smiled widely at the only other thing that could make the demon blush. A grey mother cat was sleeping on the warm sidewalk with her kittens crawling all over her—a dark orange kitten, a dark grey kitten, and a white kitten. Frances giggled as he knelt down, his hand reaching out and petting them.
While that went on, Ciel had approached Sir Randall.
"It looks like you're having some trouble, Sir Arthur." Ciel stated.
Sir Arthur turned to him.
"Ciel Phantomhive!"
Ciel took out the Queen's letter with her seal exposed. A smirk on his face.
"Let's hear about the investigation."
Randall stood up with a sigh. He placed his hands on his hips.
"No progress worth mentioning."
"What makes this different than past incidents? (Randall gasped slightly.) There have been similar crimes before, haven't there?"
Randall turned away, crossing his arms.
"Then you knew."
"Ha! You just confirmed it. (Randall's eyes widened. He gritted his teeth at the boy.) Show me the old case file." Ciel demanded.
Randall shook his head with a slight sigh.
"There's nothing left of it."
"What?"
"And even if there were something, I couldn't show it to you."
*So, what Frances said is true. They must have cleaned it up, but… for what purpose?* He wondered with a fist under his chin.
He looked up when Randall started speaking.
"Scotland Yard will find out who did it, why, and what it has to do with the old case. You're not needed here!"
Ciel gave out a huff of a laugh as he turned his away from him.
"I hope you're right. Let's go, Sebastian, Frances."
He turned and stared at his… distracted butler and… friend. Randall followed the boy's gaze and was also surprised. So much so, his glasses started to slip down his face. The butler was on one knee with a hand out and a blush on his face. Frances was on his left side, petting the white and dark grey cat with two fingers occasionally moving to pet the dark orange kitten.
"Those round, artless eyes so innocent of the fifth of this world… That adorable yet somehow noble tail… Those pale-pink, soft paws…"
Frances giggled.
"They are adorable!" She cooed.
Ciel sighed, raising a hand to his hat in annoyance. He knew his butler liked cats, but to display it out for everyone to see… He was normally so calm, cool, and collected.
*What a cat freak.*
Suddenly, he heard footsteps. Both he and Randall turned to see Abberline's brother. Edward, he believed. Frances looked up, feeling the spike of guilt and sadness that he pushed down.
"Chef Inspector! We didn't find any notable evidence." Abberline informed Randall.
Sebastian perked up at that, feeling what the Young Master felt. He held out his hand for her. Frances dusted her hands off to ensure no kitten fur was upon them before taking his hand. They both stood up. Sebastian placed a hand on his chest and bowed slightly.
"My apologies, Young Master. They were just such charming kittens."
The Young Master merely brushed past the two of them.
"Let's go, cat freaks."
Frances giggled at the nickname as she followed after the boy. Sebastian glared at her retreating form, though, it didn't last long. They made their way back to the carriage.
"So, what did Sir Randall say?" Frances asked.
Ciel's eye narrowed at her, eyeing her with a sideways glare.
"While you two were distracted by kittens (Sebastian and Frances smirked slightly at the disgruntled tone in his voice.), I found out these incidents have indeed occurred before and that you were correct (Frances' smirk slipped off her lips into a relaxed small frown.), there are no records of the previous incident."
Frances nodded. They arrived at their carriage. Sebastian assisted them inside it.
"What shall we do now, my lord?" Sebastian asked.
"If the Yard's no help, we only have one choice." Ciel stated, resting his head on his fist.
They arrived at Undertaker's shop. Sebastian opened the carriage door and assisted them down. Frances giving her usual thanks. Sebastian inclined his head. They walked towards the door. Sebastian opened the door to the shop for them. Frances nodded her thanks.
"Undertaker, I'm coming in." The Young Master announced.
Undertaker stepped out from the back with a grin.
"My, my, if it isn't the Little Lord, Fearless Frances, and the Butler. I take it you're here because of the arson?"
"So, you've heard. What can you tell me?"
"Ah, ah, ah. You know what I want. Give me a first rate laugh and I'll tell you." Undertaker said with a wide grin.
Ciel sighed annoyed.
"I'll take care of this, Young Master." Sebastian stated, tightening his gloves.
"'A medical gentleman, in an advertisement, informed the public that he had removed from his old station to a place near the churchyard for the accommodation of his patients.'*"
Undertaker stared silently at them for a moment. His loud laughter rang out, shaking the building.
"That-That is the best one I've heard in my life!" Undertaker exclaimed.
The Young Master sighed in annoyance.
"Since the payment has been made, I'll keep my end of the bargain."
Undertaker turned around and searched through a few drawers. He turned back around and placed a small glass filled with ashes and… sparkles? Frances' head tilted.
"I asked to see a corpse from the arson case!" The Young Master snapped.
"Ciel, this is the body from the arson case. Did you not see the extent of damage on the ground as well as the wall?" Frances asked.
She may not have had a close look, but even her eyes caught how bad it was from her place by the kittens and their mother.
Undertaker chuckled.
"Frances is correct, my lord. (He picked up the small vial. He began to toss it up and down.) I scraped up what was left of the victim at the scene. The fire burned so hot, it only left ashes behind."
Undertaker tossed it to the Young Master who caught it and looked at it. Frances leaned over to get a closer look as well. She frowned. She looked up at Undertaker.
"Undertaker, I have never seen a burnt body before, but through the ashes you give me… (His grin widened as Ciel's eyebrow rose and he stared at her incredulously.) the ashes are supposed to be much darker. And this sparkle… That's not normal…"
Undertaker's lips were in a full blown grin. He chuckled.
"You are correct. (A frowned marred his face.) Though, I have no idea what the sparkle is." He said, shrugging his shoulders.
"You ask for ashes?" The Young Master asked.
Frances looked at him.
"Yes." She said, nodding once.
The Young Master raised an eyebrow.
"For what purpose?" He inquired.
Undertaker let out a quiet chuckle.
"For some of my oils used for cleaning wounds such as bites and clearing up acne." Frances explained.
The Young Master blinked at her in astonishment. A sigh escaped him. He placed the woman's ashes upon the coffin in front of them. He looked up at Undertaker.
"Thank you, Undertaker. Contact me if you figure out the substance."
Undertaker chuckled again.
"Of course, my lord."
The Young Master turned from him.
"Come, Frances, Sebastian."
He began walking towards the door. Undertaker waved them goodbye. Frances gave a quick hug to the retired Reaper. He hugged her back.
"See you soon, Undertaker." Frances said, pulling away.
"You as well, Frances. Keep your stomach well fed." Undertaker said.
Sebastian stiffened. Frances furrowed her eyebrows and tilted her head.
"Um, okay?"
Sebastian relaxed quickly with a slight glare to the retired Reaper as Frances turned. She made her way towards him, feeling his quick worry, suspicion, and slight jealousy. She sent him calmness and love as she brushed past him, lightly squeezing his side. He calmed and warbled lightly in her mind.
Later that afternoon, Frances, Sebastian, and the Young Master stood near the back of the funeral that the poor husband was having for his wife, Ellen, the most recent victim. Sebastian had his head bowed and eyes closed with the Young Master's cloak in his arms. The Young Master stood next to him. Frances stood on Ciel's right side, feeling the sadness from the group. Sebastian's head lifted. He looked at the approaching couple.
"Young Master." He whispered.
Frances and the Young Master turned to see a medium sized man with brown hair and brown eyes, small grey square glasses upon his face, dressed in a black and white tuxedo. He was holding something square within his hands. A heavy set woman walked beside him with blonde hair and dark blue eyes. She wore a black veil, a white long-sleeved shirt with a black skirt, within her hand was a black umbrella which she held over her head. The couple approached the devastated procession. The man took off his hat.
"I'm Turner, the photographer. (The group turned all with sadness in their eyes. The couple bowed.) I'm terribly sorry for your loss. (They straightened from their bows. Mr. Turner handed his wife his hat, which she took, and uncovered the square object, revealing a picture frame. He handed the cloth to his wife, which she took, as well.) I've brought the last picture taken of your wife."
Mr. Turner held out the framed photograph to the man.
"She was so lovely… (Ellen's husband approached the couple. He looked at the picture of his beautiful wife and a small sob escaped him.) My condolences, sir."
The husband of Ellen grabbed the frame with his bandaged hands, however, it slipped from his fingers as Mr. Turner released it. A gasp escaped Mr. Turner. Glass shattering filled the air.
"She was truly beautiful, wasn't she?" Mrs. Turner commented, forlornly.
Mr. Turner picked up the photograph, took the black wrapping from his wife, and wrapped up the frame once again. He handed it to Ellen's husband ever so carefully. The man was able to accept it with a better hold. The couple bowed to the man who bowed in return. The three of them straightened. The Turners turned and began walking away.
As Mr. and Mrs. Tuner passed by them, Mr. Turner gave a small bow. Frances inclined her head slightly. As they walked past, sparkles floated from the woman. The Young Master gave a quiet gasp as Frances' eyes widened. The three of them shared suspicious looks.
After the funeral, they waited until everyone was gone. The Young Master looked at Sebastian silently. Sebastian nodded. He collected the ashes that floated on the ground. Once he was finished, the three of them went to the carriage and got in.
"Sebastian, Frances, look into all six couples' lives. See if they are connected to the Turners in any way and look into the Turners' Photography business."
Sebastian bowed with a hand on his heart while Frances inclined her head.
"Yes, my lord."
They returned to the Townhouse. Prince Soma and Agni had greeted them when they arrived and left them to their own agendas. Frances and Sebastian went to her Office while the Young Master went to his.
Frances and Sebastian gathered/summoned everything they would need for their investigation. After an hour of looking through the paperwork and finding what they need, they went to the Young Master's Office. Sebastian knocked on the door. They entered when he gave them the okay to. He was putting his gun together. He looked up when they entered.
"Well, what did the two of you find?"
"The substance found in the ashes matched the same we collected from the photographers." Sebastian said, holding up the glass tube he had used to collect the sparkles after the couple left, "It's magnesium oxide, a substance often left behind after magnesium-based flash powder is ignited during photography."
"Photography, eh?"
"They ordered a ship's worth of it the other day. Much more than is needed for their photographs." Frances explained.
"Indeed." Sebastian agreed, taking over again, "And the victims all had something in common. All the women who were ignited had recently had wedding photos taken at…"
Frances stepped forward with the list of names and their corresponding picture form, handing it to the Young Master who took it and looked it over. The title on the picture forms reading…
"Turner's Studio."
He placed the paper down and clicked the clip into the gun.
"Let's go! That couple knows what's really been happening." The Young Master ordered.
"Certainly." Sebastian said.
"Yes, my lord." Frances said at the same time.
They made their way out of the Townhouse into a carriage and headed off to Turner's Studio.
As they approached, they saw the studio was ignited with flames. Frances and the Young Master gasped. They saw the woman from earlier now wearing a blue skirt with her white shirt, happily running and tossing the magnesium oxide into the air. The carriage came to a halt. The Young Master burst out the door with Frances and Sebastian right behind him, chasing after the woman.
"She's…!" The Young Master started.
"Mrs. Turner from the portrait studio, yes." Sebastian confirmed.
Mrs. Turner turned around and flung the magnesium oxide into the air again. A wide grin was upon her face.
"Happiness! Where is my happiness?" She asked.
She pressed the bulb of her camera. Sparks crackled followed by an explosion in front of her then another near them. Sebastian grabbed Frances and the Young Master.
"Frances! Young Master!"
He pulled them to the ground and covered them with his body just as the explosion occurred above them. Frances looked up into Sebastian's eyes with panic for a moment, but calmed seeing and sensing he was unhurt. Sebastian gave her a small smile as he caressed her cheek lightly.
"So, that camera is her ignition device, eh?" The Young Master asked. He looked up at Sebastian, "Capture her, Sebastian!"
Sebastian moved away from them to look at the Young Master. He bowed, placing a hand on his chest.
"Yes, my lord."
He took off. Frances helped the Young Master to stand. They turned and ran after the woman about a foot behind Sebastian. As they ran past a shop, Frances got the feeling that someone familiar was coming. Sebastian sent her back understanding. As they turned into an alleyway, Frances grabbed onto the Young Master and halted near the entrance. The Young Master looked at her in confusion before a familiar voice sang,
Grell: La~ lalala~~~~~ lala~~~!
His Death Scythe grinded against Sebastian's three knives.
"Grell!" The Young Master gasped.
An explosion on the other side of the alleyway gained Frances and the Young Master's attention for a moment. They looked back at the widely grinning Grell.
"Grell." Sebastian stated in utter distaste.
"I've just been dying to see you, Bassy!" Grell exclaimed, holding up a rocker sign.
"So, you've been pulling the strings behind the scenes, Grell?" Sebastian asked.
Another explosion was seen further behind them.
"All I've been pulling are the red threads of fate (Sebastian managed to safely pull away and go around the Reaper.) that bind our hearts!"
Grell turned following him only to get kicked on the head. Frances flinched. He dropped his Death Scythe and gripped his head in pain.
"Oh, how could you?! Don't be rough with me!"
"You came at me first." Sebastian said, calmly adjusting the collar of his tailcoat.
"But all I did was take a little swipe at you out of excitement! I was only following that pig, like you!" Grell explained.
"You too, Grell?" Frances asked.
Grell turned to her. His eyes widened.
"Frances!" He exclaimed, running up to her.
The Young Master stepped to the side as Grell embraced her with a tight hug. She laughed and hugged him back.
"I've missed you too, Grell. I take it work's been a bit busy?"
Grell parted from her with a groan.
"Ughhhh! Yes. After that whole angel fiasco, they made us write a rather long report about it. But! It's okay though because as you can see (He swiped his Death Scythe downwards.), I got my Death Scythe back!"
Frances laughed.
"Yes, I can see that."
"Frances." The Young Master stated.
They both looked at him. He raised an eyebrow.
"Ah, yes. Excuse us, Grell. We have someone to stop. I'll let you get back to your work. Maybe we could have tea sometime this week." Frances said.
"Actually (He bounded over to Sebastian.), no more work for me now that Bassy (He pulled Sebastian in the chest. Frances could feel Sebastian's irritation.) is here! From now on, it's just our little amorous adventu—"
Grell had started to lean into the butler, but Sebastian pulled away and Frances threw a shoe she summoned at his head causing him to fall to the ground with a pained grunt. An extremely loud explosion caught their attention. They looked in the direction it came from. Grell sat up, rubbing his head.
"We don't have time to fool about with him! Come on!" The Young Master ordered, running off.
"At once." Sebastian said.
Sebastian and Frances followed after him. However, they were stopped when Grell landed in the break of the flames.
"Hold it! (He stood up, looking lovingly at Sebastian. Frances sighed. She loved Grell, but this was not the time to do this.) Bassy, if you want me in your arms, leap through these flames!" He cried hugging himself and waving back and forth.
Sebastian gathered Frances into his arms and leapt up, landing on the Reaper's head. Grell gave a soft cry of pain.
"Excuse us." Sebastian stated, running off.
He set Frances on her feet when they were a few feet away from Grell. They looked around for the Young Master and Mrs. Turner. Sebastian searched through his contract seal for the Young Master. When he found him, he looked up at Frances who nodded. She took his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"Be safe." She said.
He squeezed back.
"You as well."
They shared a smile. Frances ran off feeling Sebastian's eyes watching her a moment. She passed a few buildings that were engulfed in flames. People were running away from the fire. None of them were hurt from what she felt, just scared and terrified. She pushed away the feelings. She found the Young Master a few feet from the place Sebastian had sensed him at.
"Young Master!" She called.
He turned to her.
"You didn't find her either." He stated.
"No, I'm sorry." She said.
"Let's look this way." He said, pointing down the road that led to Big Ben.
Frances nodded.
"All right."
As they walked, Frances felt something was going to happen.
"We're going the right way, Young Master." Frances stated as they walked.
He turned and stared at her. He nodded. He looked forward as they continued their search. The feeling led them to Big Ben. Frances felt it was coming from the top. She looked up and spotted the woman.
"There!" She shouted.
The Young Master looked up to see Mrs. Turner emptying a barrel of the magnesium oxide.
"Is she going to burn everything?" The Young Master asked.
"Not if we stop her." Frances said, glaring at the woman.
They ran inside. They had just climbed the first set of stairs when Frances heard the crackle of sparks. Her eyes widened.
"Ciel!" She cried.
She quickly grabbed the boy and shielded him with her body as an explosion broke the window. Ciel let out a gasp as Frances shoved him against the wall, however, her hands around his shoulders prevented him from hitting the wall. Frances felt a few of the shards cut into her. Once everything settled, she looked down at Ciel to look him over.
"Are you all right, Ciel?" She asked.
"Yes. Come on. We have to stop her." He said.
She nodded. They ran up the remaining stairs.
"Be happy! Be happy!" They heard Mrs. Turner exclaim.
Frances' eyebrows furrowed. They reached the top of the stairs. They saw her toss a barrel to the side before bending over and picking up another one. However, she caught sight of them. The Young Master held out his gun, leveling it with her. Frances turned partway and summoned her sword. She turned back and held it out in front of her.
"Stop right there!" The Young Master ordered.
Mrs. Turner glared at them. She picked up her camera.
"Are you here to stand in the way of my happiness?"
"Do you think you could be happy by doing this?" The Young Master demanded, "By murdering people?"
"Yes, I can. He told me so."
"He?" Frances asked.
The woman didn't answer her, instead she squeezed the bulb of the camera. Frances pulled the Young Master away as the sparks exploded.
Down below, Sebastian and Grell ran up to Big Ben. Sebastian's eyes widened once the smoke cleared away seeing…
"Frances! Young Master!"
He felt the reassurance from his mate. He watched as they both slowly backed away from the woman.
"That pig. When did she get up there?" Grell asked.
Mrs. Turner slowly walked towards them. She took another picture. Frances yet again pulled Ciel back as the sparks exploded.
"A kid like you won't understand how unhappy my marriage was. (The two of them continued to back away. The Young Master's back hit the wall. His gun was pointed at the woman. Frances stood protectively in front of him, though gave him enough room to see Mrs. Turner.) I want a burning love affair with a beautiful man. I will burn everyone who gets in my way!"
Frances felt the utter disbelief and amusement from the Young Master.
"Who told you that setting people on fire would get you a burning love affair? Do you truly believe setting people on fire will bring about a man? Why not discuss things with your husband?"
The Young Master laughed.
"My friend is right. (Frances glanced at him with slight surprise. This was the first time he had acknowledged her as a friend.) Instead of burning people, why not do something about your unhappiness. You are lower than a pig, if you just complain about your unhappiness."
At the bottom of Big Ben, Sebastian smirked.
*You both take action on obtaining the happiness you desire. You, my precious mate, are teaching him that it is okay to have both and to show his happiness. Even with the despair the two of you have, neither of you lose your nobility. That is the type of soul that I want to consume, Young Master. You are my precious soul mate, Frances.*
Her eyes glanced towards his form on the ground. A small smile upon her lips. She looked back as the woman started shaking with anger.
"A pig. A pig. A pig… You dare call me a pig!"
The clock struck midnight. Big Ben chimed rather loudly. The woman pressed the bulb. Frances grabbed the Young Master and pulled him behind her as she moved them behind the column he was pressed against.
"Anyone who calls me a pig, will be burnt to death, no matter who."
As she had sprinkled more magnesium oxide, a song came to Frances' mind.
*Hell fire~, dark fire~, now gypsy it's your turn~~. Choose me or~ your fire~~. Be mine or you will burn~~~~!**
Frances shook her head.
*Now is not the time!*
The sparks exploded. Frances turned and pulled the Young Master close, covering his head. The Young Master pulled away slightly. His teeth gritted.
"I'm tired of this foolishness. Stop dawdling! (He pushed his eyepatch up, revealing Sebastian's mark.) Come, Sebastian."
Frances could practically hear him say,
"Yes, my lord."
A smirk appeared upon her face.
"What are you mumbling about?"
Suddenly, they heard a strange noise. The three of them walked over to see Sebastian running up the side of Big Ben with Grell passing him as he used his Death Scythe to climb up the building.
"Who are they?" Mrs. Turner asked.
"My butler (Mrs. Turner looked over at them. Frances looked at her with a wider smirk as the Young Master placed a hand on his hip with a smug smirk as well.) and a crazy person."
Frances laughed lightly.
"Actually, I'm (They looked down at Grell when he spoke.) a Grim Reaper!" He exclaimed with his tongue sticking out lewdly and his rocker sign up.
"Don't get in my way!" Mrs. Turner exclaimed, emptying another barrel of magnesium oxide before throwing it at the supernatural beings.
They both dodge it. Mrs. Turner picked up her camera and took a picture. The magnesium exploded, but of course, Grell was unscathed. Mrs. Turner's eyes widened.
"Why? Why aren't you burning?"
She gritted her teeth in frustration. She took picture after picture yet, Grell remained unharmed. Both Frances and Ciel's smirks grew. They watched as Grell flipped onto the clock tower.
"There." Grell said, landing on the ground.
Mrs. Turner gasped. She began to take a picture. Grell posed with his legs apart and hands behind his head.
"The more a woman is photographed, (He posed as the explosion went off, sitting on the ground, hands holding himself up, one leg bent, the other in the air, toe pointed.) the more she matures, becoming redder and sweeter. (He laid down on his front, one leg up, hand under his chin.) In other words, she becomes a ripe, scarlet fruit. (He suddenly stood up. A pointer finger upon his cheek, other hand curled in a light fist.) It's coming! It's coming out! (He twirled backwards.) It's coming! It's coming out! (He continued to twirl backwards.) It's overflowing. It's oozing out of my every pore! (He cartwheeled. Then flung his jacket off and opened his shirt revealing his pale chest. Frances slammed her hands over the Young Master's eyes.) Yes, I am the Queen of fruits! (He once again sat on the floor with his hands braced behind himself, knee bent, and leg pointed up on some sort of mango that suddenly appeared.) A mango of the Death God world!"
"I would sink my teeth into that." Sebastian said, looking over at Frances as he licked his thumb.
Frances blushed bright red.
Grell blew kisses at the demon butler, unaware of the look he was giving Frances.
"Please! Please!"
Sebastian walked over to them. Frances removed her hand from Ciel's shoulder. The Young Master lowered his eyepatch.
"You're late."
The demon went to one knee, a hand upon his heart, and head bowed.
"My apologies, my lord."
"I want you to burn!" Mrs. Turner exclaimed.
Sebastian turned a heated glare her way. He raced forward in a blur and kicked the camera out of her hands. She gasped as she fell backwards on her buttocks.
"W-Why…?"
Sebastian lowered his leg. He fixed his outerwear.
"If this is what the Young Master orders, then I must obey.
"W-What are you people?"
Sebastian inclined his head a little with a smile.
"I am merely one hell of a butler."
"I'm a mangosteen, Grim Reaper!" Grell announced with his tongue out and his hand making the rocker sign.
Grell caught the camera that landed in his hand. The Young Master and Frances stepped forward. Frances was stopped by Sebastian holding his arm out in front of her. She looked up at him with furrowed eyebrows. He sent her patience. She looked back at Mrs. Turner.
"Confess everything to me." The Young Master demanded.
Mrs. Turner buried her face into the ground. Sobs escaped her lips.
"That man told me to do this. He told me that if I do this, beautiful men would… (She looked up at the Young Master.) they would love me."
"That man?" Sebastian asked the question Frances asked earlier.
Suddenly, sparkles ran over Mrs. Turner. Their eyes widened.
"The man with the golden eyes."
Frances' eyes widened even more.
*Claude.*
Mrs. Turner was engulphed in flames.
"No way! Her soul is burning too!" Grell exclaimed.
Mrs. Turner stood up though she stumbled a few times.
"A burning love. Happiness!" She screamed.
The Young Master raced forward.
"Wait! I still need to ask you…"
"Young Master!"
"Ciel!"
Both Sebastian and Frances exclaimed. Sebastian gathered the boy and his mate into his arms. Frances sent her sword away the second his arm wrapped around her. The top of Big Ben exploded completely. Sebastian landed safely on the ground.
"Young Master, Frances, are you all right?" He asked as he placed them on their feet.
"I'm fine, Sebastian." Frances assured the demon as he looked her over.
"I'm fine." The Young Master stated, calmly.
Sebastian felt the little tears in the back of her dress. He spun her around so her back was to him, quickly looking over it. Frances looked over her shoulder at him.
"They are already healed, Sebastian. I'm all right. I didn't even feel them." She said, sending him calmness.
Grell landed beside them, gaining their attention. Frances moved to stand on Sebastian's left.
"No way! (He flipped through his book.) The soul I was supposed to collect was burned away! I can't believe it. This makes no sense! (He bounded up to Sebastian. Sebastian looked uncomfortable as he saw the Reaper approaching. Grell held up the camera. Frances slid into the shot without Grell noticing. The demon gave her a sly smirk. He placed a hand under her chin as her hand reached up to cup his cheek. They leaned in and kissed each other. Their song soaring through them.) I have to report to Will, so this is the shot of a lifetime!"
Grell took the picture. It was of him smiling ever so widely while the couple kissed. They pulled apart after Sebastian heard the click.
"Let me take a night—"
"Not in your life, Grell!" Frances growled, glaring daggers at the Grim Reaper as he bounded away with a wave.
"We'll have tea, darling and discuss it then! Bye, bye~!"
He bounded away and out of sight. Sebastian looked over at the Young Master.
"Young Master. (The Young Master looked over at him.) You ordered me to capture that woman, but…"
Sebastian held out his palm with Mrs. Turner's ashes/magnesium oxide.
"She was burned to ashes. (The ashes floated into the night sky.) I will report it to the Queen as the woman went crazy due to extreme lust." The Young Master sighed.
"She wanted love. That single-minded desire can drive humans to such lengths, apparently." Sebastian stated.
"Honestly, how pointless. She didn't even understand the meaning of the word."
"Not one bit." Frances agreed, "To believe burning people would make someone love you…" She scoffed as she shook her head.
"Such absurdity."
"Yes, it's absurd. But, I don't think everything has been burnt. (He turned to look at Frances, lowering his batch back over his contract eye.) When we return to the manor, I want to know everything you know about the Trancy's, Frances."
"Yes, my lord." Frances said, inclining her head.
"For now, let us return to the Townhouse. Scotland Yard can deal with the buildings." The Young Master said.
"Very well, my lord." Sebastian agreed.
They returned to the Townhouse at one in the morning. The Young Master and Frances bid one another goodnight. After Sebastian dressed the Young Master for bed, he went to Frances' room, changed into his pajamas, and slipped in beside her. He pulled her sleeping form towards him and watched her sleep.
This case was an interesting one. Not only had the Young Master's Father dealt with a similar case, but there was an aspect that was intriguing him. The marriage of two humans. He would have never thought about it, but strangely it did appeal to him for some reason. He knew when two people came together under the sacrament of marriage, their souls become stronger and intertwined with one another. His nails ran across her back a little more harshly than he intended. Was he truly thinking of this? His mate shifted as she let out a groan and shiver. His eyes darted to her form. He watched as she rubbed her face against his chest.
"Malphas?" She questioned, confused.
He looked at her back seeing the white lines his nails created, almost breaking the skin. He lowered his nails so the pads of his finger brushed against the unintended injury. He leaned down, kissing her head.
"I'm sorry, my darling. It was not my intention to wake you."
She lifted her head, her brown eyes blinking sleepily at him. They furrowed slightly. She moved herself so her face hovered above his, her hands cupping his face.
"What are you thinking so deeply about?" She asked him, feeling his confusion, deep reflection, and appeal towards something.
He raised an eyebrow. It relaxed as a smile pulled at his lips.
"What is your thought on marriage?"
She looked at him in shock. She averted her eyes as she thought over her answer. His hand continued to trail up and down her back with the pads of his fingers, allowing her to think.
"I think, it's beautiful. When two people are married, they are putting their faith in God and in each other. They seem to be more… happier. (She looked back at him, shaking her head as her brows furrowed. Annoyance within her chocolate orbs.) That woman did not understand the meaning of the word love. I don't know her situation, but Mr. Turner didn't seem to be the cheating type. Perhaps he spent too much time on the job and that irritated her or she was jealous of the brides' beauty. She just was a misguided, blind crazy person."
He raised an eyebrow at her. She blinked at him, realizing she rambled a bit and didn't quite answer his question.
"I'm sorry." She said, shaking her head, "That second part was not answering your question."
"Oh? I hadn't noticed." He said, sarcastically.
She looked away, sheepishly. He chuckled lightly, running his hand through her hair. They were quiet for a moment.
"Is it something you desire?"
Her head snapped back to meet his eyes. She could see and feel the curiosity and seriousness within his eyes. She smiled as the answer came immediately. She took his ungloved hand that ran through her hair. Malphas watched with curiosity in his being. She brought his hand to her heart, to his mark. She closed her eyes as her body shivered in pleasure. She held his hand over his mark as she slowly looked up at him with pleasure and endless love. His breath hitched.
"I am yours already. You have marked me as yours and though I cannot do the same, you cannot deny the bond we've had the second we confessed our feelings towards one another that only grew the moment we said, "I love you." to one another."
The demon's breath hitched yet again as his heart skipped a beat and his soul shuddered and danced possessively inside him. Yet… a small twinge of… disappointment? appeared. Not enough to prevent him from letting out a possessive growl and roll her over so he was hovering above her as she yet again made him speechless. His hand that curled around her back and waist moved to her cheek, caressing it lovingly.
"You never cease to amaze me, my Frances." He warbled in pleasure.
She mewled as her back arched.
"Mal-ph-as." She shuddered, pulling his head down to connect their lips.
He kissed her back with a possessive warble/purr.
*Mine.*
After a few minutes, they broke apart with her gasping for breath. He nuzzled her nose, resting his forehead against hers.
*Not to worry, precious mate. Once my plan is finished, you'll be able to do a lot of things.* He promised not sending these particular thoughts to her.
"Get some sleep, my precious mate."
She kissed his lips lightly. She lowered herself to snuggle into his neck, her arms wrapped around his neck.
"Good night, Malphas."
"Good night, my Frances."
The following morning after breakfast, they left for the manor much to Prince Soma's sadness. Eventually, after lots of hugs and lots of assurances to see them soon, he let them go. After they returned to the manor and the servants greeted them back, the three of them made their way to the Young Master's Office. Frances sat after the Young Master did. Sebastian standing by his right as usual. The Young Master looked at her expectantly.
"The Trancy family are the Queen's executioners. They specialize in clean-up. The Trancy Company is also based on cleaning. They sell cleaning products everywhere, including hotels. The head of the family passed away two years ago and the new head of the household is Alois Trancy. He has told me that he was kidnapped at a young age and that his Mother committed suicide. He said he was forced to work at this village where he met a little boy that was more like a brother to him. Then one day the village was burned down and he found the little boy in the grass. He didn't make it."
"You don't fully believe it." The Young Master stated, looking at her curiously.
She nodded.
"Correct."
"Let me hear your reason." He said, intertwining his hands together and placing his head upon them.
"Everyone I've encountered who I have allowed into my heart or have a very high emotional personality, have a song attached to them that I can hear. While he was telling me his story, it only played during the part about the boy who was like a brother to him and about the village and nothing else."
"So, you think he's lying."
"I think there's more to his story. However, I have no idea what." She said.
He raised an eyebrow at her.
"Anyway, he says that his Father found him while the reports I summoned say he returned home with a mysterious butler. And that is all I know about the Trancys."
The Young Master stared at her in silence for a long time. She and Sebastian could feel the contemplation from the boy. He finally nodded.
"Do you think he will tell you about the previous fires?"
She thought about it for a few minutes. She looked back at him.
"Maybe. Though, that would mean I'd have to invite him here. Which actually works out as I did tell him I would make time to spend with him."
The Young Master nodded.
"Very well. Then I can officially meet him, but after you get the information we need."
She nodded.
"All right. (She turned to look at Sebastian.) What day should I invite him?" She asked him.
The Young Master followed her gaze to the demon butler. Sebastian reached into his tailcoat pocket and pulled out his black schedule book. He looked over it.
"Next Saturday is open with nothing planned." Sebastian stated with a smile.
He looked up at the Young Master then Frances. The Young Master nodded.
"Very well. Sebastian send out an invitation to the Trancys to come for tea on Frances' and my behalf."
Sebastian closed the book. He placed it against his chest as he bowed.
"Yes, my lord."
"The two of you will have to leave for Alois may have Claude try to find you."
The Young Master nodded. Sebastian straightened and narrowed his eyes at her. Irritation and unwillingness coursing through him.
"We'll use the excuse that there was an emergency on the Phantomhive lands that needed tending to."
"Very well." Frances said.
"Are you sure that's wise? I do not want them to attack you again." Sebastian spoke up.
The Young Master's eye widened.
"They attacked you?"
Frances glared at Sebastian. She sighed as she turned her gaze back to the Young Master.
"They did. They slipped me some sleeping tea. They noticed I wasn't drinking it. As Claude walked me to the servants' quarters, he attacked me. Obviously, I got the upper hand. Then two nights before you and Sebastian returned, he attacked me once more, however, the servants proved to be enough against him. And besides, I highly doubt Alois will order Claude to attack again. We've already gone over there and he didn't attack me. This is a good chance to discover why they want the Young Master."
"Because I was there." Sebastian argued, ignoring the last bit, his eyes narrowed at her.
"If something happens, you will know, and you can save me. Though, I can get out of a demon's grasp as I've proven several times, I believe." She reminded the demon still glaring at him.
The demon's eyes narrowed further at her. A vicious snarl entered her mind. The Young Master looked back and forth between them.
"He will know if you're in danger?" He asked her.
Frances looked at him and nodded. A light blush appeared upon her cheeks.
"Yes. I've been marked."
He stared at her for a moment wondering why she was blushing. Suddenly, a bright red blush of his own appeared upon his cheeks as he remembered the conversation from so long ago. He fought to tame it. He turned to the side to cough into his fist. After a second, he turned to Sebastian with a monotonous look.
"She's right, Sebastian, she can hold her own. You'll come with me. That's an order."
Sebastian's irritation grew. He bowed once more with his hand on his chest.
"Yes, my lord."
He straightened. He placed the schedule book into his pocket.
"Excuse me, my lord."
Sebastian walked out of the Young Master's Office. When she was sure he was gone, Frances looked back at the Young Master.
"If that's all, Young Master?"
"Very well." He said, waving his hand dismissively at her.
She stood.
"Have a good rest of your day, Ciel." She said.
"You as well, Frances."
She smiled. She made her way out of the room, closing the door behind her. She walked to her Office to get some paperwork taken care of. When she got a quarter of the way, she felt his presence behind her. He made to grab her, but she crouched down, her leg quickly swinging out. He jumped backwards to avoid her leg. His red eyes narrowed. A smirk appeared upon her lips. He reached into his tailcoat pocket, immediately flinging out the knives at her. She reached into her skirt and summoned her sword. She quickly deflected the knives. Suddenly, she felt his tendrils of darkness wrap around her ankles and pulled her down. She gasped as she fell to the floor, dropping her sword. The tendrils dragged her to the demon butler. They spun her around so she was looking up at the demon looming over her with a dark look and anger radiating from his form. He quickly lifted her up and pushed her against the wall. The tendrils of darkness were off her ankles. They swirled around his human form menacingly. He lowered his face close to hers, his fuchsia eyes staring harshly at her.
"I do not want you alone with that butler." He stated, darkly.
"Malphas, this could work in our favor. I told you I would help you find the little piece of his soul…"
"That doesn't mean I want you alone with him." He snarled, his teeth sharpening.
Her eyes softened and saddened.
"Do you truly have such little faith in me?" She asked, quietly.
The demon's eyes widened. They returned to his red irises. He sighed, his irritation and anger disappearing, leaving only worry. He lowered his hand and pressed his lips lightly, apologetically to hers. Her arms wrapped around his neck. In response, his wrapped around her waist. They parted a few minutes later with her breathing slightly heavily. He leaned his forehead upon her forehead.
"Forgive me, my precious mate. It is not you I don't trust. You are my strong human. I know you can take care of yourself. It's him I don't trust. You should never trust a demon."
He caressed her cheek lightly. She leaned into his touch. Her eyes reopened, looking lovingly at him. Her hands moved from around his neck to cup his cheeks. She moved his long bang with her pinky. She leaned her head up and kissed his lips tenderly. He kissed her back. She parted after a minute, looking lovingly in his red eyes.
"You've proven you're trustworthy, my crow demon."
A smirk appeared upon his face as he began to warble quietly. His nose nuzzled her nose.
"My too trusting human… What am I to do with you?"
She smiled.
"I'll be careful, as I always am." She promised.
"I know you will be." He said.
They shared once more kiss before he released her so she could get to her work.
*Joke is from shannonselin (Website.)
*'Hell Fire' from "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" belongs to Tony Jay and Alan Menken
A/N: Hello all! Another end of chapter Author's Note! I am not very good at coming up with jokes or trying to figure out the skit Sebastian had performed in this episode and I couldn't find the full length of it anywhere else besides the bits they had placed in the episode which is why I put in the joke from the website. Just to make you guys aware of my reason. :) I hope you all have a great week!