A/N: There is a bit of cursing in this chapter.

Chapter Thirty-Eight: His Butler, Takes Flight, His Friend, Laying Low

Sebastian and the Young Master moved to some crates by the wagons the Young Master was hiding behind.

"Anyway, we just need to investigate the troupe's tents and we can go home (Sebastian began unbuttoning the boy's shirt.) I had planned to patiently be promoted through the troupe (Sebastian wiped down his upper torso with a cloth.), but I can't spend that much time in this environment."

Sebastian placed the cloth to the side. He pulled off the dry shirt from his shoulder.

"As for Frances and I, we cannot go out at night since that Reaper obstructs us."

Ciel was slightly surprised the Reaper stopped Frances and she listened.

"William stopped Frances from leaving and Frances obeyed?"

"He gave her a warning. And Frances understands that there are some things that have to happen." Sebastian said, ominously.

Ciel stared at his butler through a sideways glance as he grabbed a blanket. That reminded him. Ciel buttoned up his shirt. He then unbuttoned the pants he was wearing and took them off before asking,

"What did he say to her last night while the three of you were over here after I ordered you to talk to him?"

"He called her out on killing people as if she was only a killer now."

Ciel gritted his teeth.

"Bastard."

"Indeed."

Sebastian felt his mate arrive as well as her suppressed disapproval. He placed the blanket over the boy's shoulders. The Young Master shook out his wet hair as he moved over to a dry crate.

"We should strike during the show, when they are out of their tents. (Sebastian knelt down and dried his legs with a cloth.) First of all, we need to think of a way to shake off that freckled face who's stuck to me. I must be on the move or it will be pointless. Let's get back home soon. I want to eat something sweet."

"I shall prepare some warm tea for you as well." Sebastian said, putting some warm pants onto the Young Master.

*You may come now.* He sent her.

"I hope hot chocolate will suffice for now." Frances said, emerging from around the corner with a metal cup in her hand.

The Young Master and Sebastian looked over at her. She came in front of them and held out the cup to the Young Master.

"Please." He said, holding out his hand.

She handed it to him. He took a sip. He lowered the cup.

"I take it you know the plan?"

She nodded.

"Yes. I'm not sure how we'll get into their tents during the show as it will depend on what they have us do. Nor how we'll escape your friend (She felt his mood darken as his eye did.) or rather enemy, but perhaps whatever occurred between the two of you, she'll stay away out of regret."

"Perhaps… (His eye trailed away from her. His head snapped to her a second later.) Wait! Did you say "she"?"

"I did, because she's a girl. Though, she may wish to be addressed as he…"

The Young Master gapped at her. He shook his head.

"I don't care if he's a she or a he as long as we lose Freckle Face, we'll be fine."

He took another sip of his hot chocolate to cover the embarrassment Sebastian and Frances could feel. They smiled. Once the Young Master finished with his hot chocolate, they went to go start to help the troupe.

"D' ya know where my headdress is?" Wendy asked Frances.

"No, I'm sorry. Let me see if I can find it." She said.

She was about to start looking when,

"Here it is." Sebastian said, holding the headdress in his hands.

"Thanks!" Wendy said, taking it from him.

"Enchantress, can you tie off my bow, please?" A lady in a lime green dress asked, holding out a darker green ribbon around her waist.

"Of course."

She tied it for the young lady.

"Thanks!"

"You're welcome."

"Everyone, the performance is about to begin, so hurry up!" Joker called from outside the tent.

"Enchantress, Black, ye two go to the equipment tent and help there." Peter told them.

"Yes, sir." They agreed.

They walked side by side to the equipment tent. They helped move things to where the performers required them. William was in the tent as well, but they ignored one another. Ciel brought in a box. Frances cleaned up some of the make-up the troupe left on the tables.

"Oi, Frances, Sebastian!" Ciel called.

Frances looked over at him. Ciel gestured with his hand to come over as he made his way to Sebastian who was sifting through some costumes. Frances walked over to them as Sebastian turned his attention to the Young Master. She stood next to Sebastian.

"Freckles isn't here. (Sebastian and Frances bent over to be at his height as he lowered his voice.) Let's go check the tents now. (Ciel glanced back.) We'll get it done in ten minutes."

"Yes, my lord." They both said.

The three of them walked out. They stopped at the tent's entrance to ensure no one was looking, Frances' gaze wandering everywhere. When they were sure no one was coming, they took off again.

"Black!" Joker's voice stopped them.

They stopped and turned to see Joker holding Wendy whose brown eyes were filled with pain. Frances sensed the issue was her ankle. Peter ran alongside them.

"This is horrible! Wendy here twisted 'er ankle, so she can't perform 'nymore. (They ran right up to them and stopped right in front of Sebastian.) The show's already started, so please go out in 'er place."

Frances could feel Ciel's frustration.

"But surely I'm not a fit substitute." Sebastian tried to sway them.

"The show'll be fine if ye do it, Black. Sorry for thee trouble (They began to take off again.) It'll be your turn shortly (He paused at the edge of the path to look at him once again.), so please get ready now!"

They disappeared around the corner.

"'Tis a pity. (Sebastian and Frances turned to the Young Master.) Young Master, we'll have to wait for another chance. (They could see and feel him thinking.) Young Master?"

"We don't know when the next chance will come. This may be the only time when that person isn't here. Unlike you, Frances and I have time (He looked at the posted schedule that hung from a lamp.). The tough part is the venomous snakes. (He turned back to them.) Right. Come with me, Sebastian, Frances!"

"Sir."

They followed Ciel to Snake's tent. Sebastian began tying all the snakes into a knot and tossed them into the two cages that were in the room. Frances felt bad for them. It looked uncomfortable and from the sounds of their angry hisses, it was. She gently placed a hand on the cage above from where the snakes were.

"It's only for a little while. You'll be freed soon."

They hissed more angrily. Sebastian tied the last one and tossed it in. He looked around for any stragglers.

"This is the last of them, isn't it?" He asked.

"Looks like it." Frances agreed.

She wandered around the room to make sure as Ciel looked around for clues.

"Yes. That's all of them." She said, after she finished looking.

"According to the program, your debut ends at seven fifty and the encore is at eight, so you have a ten minute window." Ciel explained, turning to look at Sebastian.

"To do what?" He asked.

"As soon as your act ends, release all these snakes and go back for the encore. We'll look through their tents."

Sebastian nodded.

"Very well, then."

"Now go straight to the tent, or you'll be suspected if you're tardy." Ciel ordered.

He grabbed Frances' hand and ran off. Frances sent Sebastian a wave.

"Certainly, sir." Sebastian bowed.

He took off to do as he was ordered. After changing and putting on his make-up, he went to the entrance of the performers' area backstage where he was surprised to see William. William was clearly not happy about this. He could still feel the hatred rolling off him.

"Wasn't it only Miss Wendy who was injured?" He asked Dagger out of curiosity.

"Aye, it was, but ol' Peter can't hold your weight."

"I will not consent. Why must I be grouped with you?"

He didn't like it either, but if he suggested Frances' participation, they would try to look for her. He would never allow it since she and Young Master are performing treason.

"I don't fancy it either, but we cannot help it, can we?"

"For me to cooperate with such vermin… Honestly." William grumbled, pushing up his glasses.

Sebastian clicked open his pocket watch.

"Seven thirty."

At the First-Tier Tents

After leaving Sebastian, Frances suggested looking through separate tents to get through them quicker. There were eight tents total. They only had seven tents to check. Ciel agreed. They check the next tents that were beside Snake's. Frances went into the tent and was greeted with a slight mess. Some clothes were strewn about, a wooden frame with daggers hanging off it sat in the far right corner of the room, a large trunk with clothes spilling out sat a few feet in front of it, a bed was on the left side of the room with a small side table with a lamp, a desk with a chair sat closer to the entrance. There were two picture frames on it, papers, pen, and ink on the desk.

*Dagger's room.* She thought.

She walked towards the table. She picked up a picture frame. It had all the first-tier members except for Snake, clearly younger with an older gentleman in the middle. Joker, Beast, and Jumbo weren't really smiling while Doll, Dagger (Who had black hair and even a thumbs up. She didn't realize he was younger than Beast.), Peter, and Wendy were. She lightly touched the picture frame.

"Please tell me you haven't been doing this since this age?" She asked, sadly.

She placed the picture back and picked up the other one to see the same man in between Beast and Dagger. Once again Dagger was smiling while Beast wasn't. She noticed a ring on the man's finger. She held the picture closer to her face. A signet ring, she realized. Though, she couldn't make out the crest.

*A man with status helping these children, but for what in return? To kidnap more children? For what purpose?*

She wished she had followed them anyway last night. They would have more information. Suddenly, she felt Sebastian's shock spike. She ignored it, placing the picture frame back onto the desk where she found it. She felt his reluctant acceptance. Next, she went to what looked like Doll's room. It was very neat. There was a pretty white bird cage sitting near the entrance, a rectangular garment bag that held a few of the white leotards and tutus that she wears, a shelf above them, a bed in the left corner, a side table with a lamp, a table with a mirror and chair in the far right corner with a few jars of make-up and make-up brushes on top of it, two photographs identical to the one she found earlier were placed in the right corner. One was the exact same picture of the group while the other just contained a smiling Doll and the portly man had an arm around her. She tried to get a better look at the lettering behind them, but all she got was the second part which read: Workhouse. The first part was blocked by the gentleman's head. She placed the frames back. As she exited the tent, she felt Sebastian's irritation and annoyance spike.

She went to the next tent that looked to be Peter's tent from the green outfit that was sitting on the bed that sat against the back wall of the tent. Suddenly, a flash of worry stabbed through Sebastian followed by panic.

*Frances, Beast is heading your way.* Sebastian warned her.

*Thank you. I'll take care of her.*

She shortened her looking around. She spotted the pictures that held the same man on some crates by the entrance. She raced out. She followed Ciel's heartbeat. She swung open the flap to the tent. Ciel gasped, looking up at her, startled.

"Sorry, Ciel, but we have to go. Beast is coming."

He went back to the trunk.

"I'm still looking… (He looked back up at her.) Wait! Beast is coming?!"

"Yes. Come on! (She walked forward and grabbed onto his wrist. She pulled him to the entrance of the tent. She peeked out to see Beast walking around the corner.) Shit!"

She pulled him back in. She looked around quickly.

"Under the bed. Go!" Frances said, pushing him towards the bed.

He crawled under the bed. Frances was about to follow too when a gloved hand covered her mouth and another wrapped around her waist, pulling her towards the trunk. The trunk closed encasing them in darkness. Frances' heart rate sped up for a second, startled. She turned her head to see Sebastian's smug smirk. She glared at him.

*I would have fit better under the bed! You could have been patient and waited until she left! You just want to cuddle me!*

His smug smirk widened into an open mouth grin. He nuzzled into her neck as his hand slid down her back.

*You've missed me cuddling you, you can't hide that fact from me.*

A smile grew upon her lips as she wrapped her arms around his waist. She spun him around so she laid on top of him just as she felt Beast's annoyance spike. She knew she was in the room with them now.

*What is she here for?*

*A new top.*

Frances nodded. She rummaged around, feeling for something that was a top, accidentally brushing against the demon's buttocks. He mentally growled in pleasure.

"This is so irritating." Beast grumbled.

Frances found one. She pulled it from under Sebastian.

"And I liked this one."

They heard the fabric fall to the floor. Sebastian opened the lid slightly. Frances shoved the top through the opening, just in time. Frances covered Sebastian's eyes as her own eyes closed. Sebastian tightened his arm around her, amusement rolling in waves off him.

*Close your eyes!* She snapped at him.

He mentally chuckled at her as he did as he was told. They felt Beast's confusion for a brief moment before uncaring and a sense of urgency. She pulled it the rest of the way out.

"Well, this'll do."

They heard her walk away and exit her tent. They waited a second. Frances opened the lid, feeling her further away. She and Sebastian let out a sigh. Ciel climbed out from under the bed. He looked over at them as Frances stepped out of the trunk first. She turned to help Sebastian out. His eye widened.

"How did you two… (He looked away. A blush coating his cheeks.) Never mind that. Frances, what did you find while looking through the tents?" He demanded.

Sebastian smirked in amusement at the boy's embarrassment.

"I went through Dagger, Doll, and Peter's tents. They seem to contain the same picture with a man of slightly portly build in each picture. There is also a sign behind them, but all I got was Workhouse. The gentleman's head is blocking the letters before them. Oh, and he has a signet ring. So, he has to be a man of status. But, aside of the pictures, I didn't find anything else." Frances explained.

"It must be the same man I saw then as well in Jumbo, Wendy, and Beast's room." Ciel stated, a fist to his chin as he thought, "Here. Both of you take a look."

He gestured for them to move. They did so. Sebastian wrapped an arm around Frances as she wrapped an arm around him.

"I see. So, you two found something in the photographs?" Sebastian asked.

Ciel grabbed the picture frame that was on top of another trunk and handed it to them. Frances took it into her hands. She saw the same man from the other photos that they had seen and a young Beast.

"Yes. That is the same man that I saw in the other pictures." Frances confirmed. She looked at Sebastian, "Can you take a look at the picture please, Sebastian? Your eyes are much better than mine."

Sebastian bent down, taking Frances with him to get a better look at the picture.

"Ah, yes, I've seen the same hallmark as the one on this signet ring recently."

Sebastian pointed to the signet ring she had seen.

"Hallmark? You can even see small things like that?"

"Of course. He is one hell of a butler." Frances smirked.

Sebastian glanced at her with a smirk of his own. He looked back at the signet ring.

"I'm certain that this hallmark is the same one at the base of Beast's prosthetic leg."

Frances stiffened as she was suddenly thrusted back to the memory of Sebastian between Beast's legs. Sebastian frowned lightly. He ran his hand down her back soothingly as he sent her love and regret. She relaxed into his touch, nearly melting into it.

"The hallmark, the workhouse… We need to know more about this man."

Frances nodded in agreement, lowering the picture frame. Sebastian used his free hand to pull out his pocket watch to check the time.

"It's almost time. Let's stop here for today. I must free the snakes before the encore."

Frances placed the picture frame down onto the trunk.

"We still have Joker's tent left."

Sebastian was surprised. Frances was worried.

"But…" They both said.

"If we work through the encore, we should be done investigating it. (They felt his determination grow stronger.) We'll end it all today. (He turned to Sebastian while grabbing Frances' wrist yet again.) You go back so they won't suspect us. When it's over, get back here before they do and free the snakes. Got that?" Young Master ordered as he pulled Frances along with him.

Frances waved yet again at Sebastian. She watched his lips spread into a smirk.

"Yes, my lord." She heard him say.

She could feel the smug delight that rolled off him in waves, though there was a tad bit of worry for her. She shook her head with a sigh. She knew another lesson in orders was going to occur. His dark chuckle entered her mind.

*He has to learn for himself.*

*True.*

Sebastian returned to the big tent to fulfill his Master's orders.

Frances and Ciel entered Joker's room. His room was tidy as well. There were a few prosthetic arms hanging on the right tent wall, a bed, trunk, and a full length mirror also sat along the right side of the room, five crates sat on the left side with a skull that wore a crown and eyepatch on top of it, a table with a pink 'Mother Goose' book and chair sat in the left corner. Frances began rummaging through the trunk and found yet another picture of the man with Joker and Beast.

"Ciel." Frances called as he looked through the book that was on the table.

He turned to look at her. She showed him the picture.

"From how he's dressed he's either from the affluent class or aristocracy. Given that he's in photographs with workhouse children, is he a philanthropist?"

"I was thinking that as well, but for what in return? It's clear that he's doing something to them. They wouldn't be looking so grim in the photos while the younger ones smile. And these reluctant feelings from them…" Frances trailed off.

"True, but that still isn't enough to prove they have anything to do with the kidnappings. This man might be of… (He looked towards the bed. His curiosity spiked.) Hm?"

"I know." She said, carefully placing the frame back down.

Ciel had wandered over to the pillow.

"A letter?" He asked, picking up the pillow and the letter.

Frances moved over towards him.

"What does it say?" She asked.

"From Tom, the piper's son. From Mother Goose?"

Frances stood next to him. She looked over the envelope and the seal. It was of a horse rearing back on top of a swirly circle with the letter K in it.

"I wonder if that's the same insignia as on the signet ring and Beast's prosthetic." Frances wondered.

She was about to wander over to get a closer look at the prosthetics that hung on the wall when Ciel's panic shot to an all time high as did hers when she looked back as he opened the letter revealing a detailed page about him!

"Why?! This is… my name!" He whisper-shouted.

It had everything about him! When he was born, his parents' names, even status of his work as the Queen's Guard Dog. Frances could feel Sebastian's smugness.

"Ciel." Frances called.

"What is my name doing here? Don't tell me my cover has been blown?"

"No, that's not the case, Ciel. They would have said something or attempted to kidnap you if that was the case. We have to go though, now!"

Ciel clued into the voices that were growing louder.

"Crap, the troupe members are here."

He quickly placed the letter into the envelope and tucked it back under the pillow. Frances grabbed his wrist. The two ran out of Joker's tent. They ducked behind some crates and a barrel, Frances let go of his wrist. They peeked around the corner to see the circus performers about to walk around the corner of the tent giving them the opportunity to spot them. Frances pulled Ciel back by the shoulders. She could feel him panicking slightly.

"Ciel, this way." Frances said.

She moved to go around the corner of the tent when she saw a tan… No… The tan and brown snake that Snake had slithering up to them, right where she was about to step. She gasped startled and jumped over the snake quickly. It turned to hiss at her.

"Sorry, Wilde!" She whispered softly.

The snake turned to hiss at her before turning his attention to Ciel and hissed angrily at him. Ciel gasped as he flinched back. Frances could feel someone's suspicion approaching. She ducked out of sight. She could feel Ciel's incredulousness.

"Hey, what 're you doing here?" Doll's voice asked, sounding more serious than her Freckles persona.

Wilde hissed at Ciel again.

"Don't move." Doll ordered.

"Fran—"

"Quiet."

Frances could feel the urgency from Ciel, however, she felt this had to play out without her interrupting.

"Hey, Doll! (Dagger paused a moment.) What are ya doin'? Go get changed and let's go eat—" Dagger's words trailed off into a scream.

Frances had to cover her mouth to prevent herself from laughing. The poor boy's fear sky-rocketed from the snake.

"A snake was slithering about. Didn't we tell him not to let them loose outside?"

Frances peeked around the edge to see Ciel listening to the conversation. His eyes glanced at her for a brief moment. They hardened into a glare.

"Just go with it." She mouthed to him.

He turned back to the conversation the first-tier members were having. Frances ducked behind the tent again.

"Snake, put it in your tent!"

"I don't want a careless step to send me to the next world."

She heard Wilde hiss lowly and for a little bit than was usual for snakes. Frances could feel suspicion and confusion from Snake.

"Yeah, put them away, please." Dagger told Snake, "See ya later."

Frances could hear the two performers walk away. She could feel Doll's anxiousness and hurry.

"This way."

"Okay."

"Hurry. Don't touch that rope."

Frances waited for their feelings to get further away. However, they were only a short distance away.

"It should be fine now."

"Why did you help me?" Ciel asked.

"Ya still not getting it?"

Frances could sense the incredulousness from Doll. She made her way out from behind the tent. She jumped over the rope and raced behind one of the second-tier tents, still listening to Doll and Ciel's conversation.

"It's me."

A few second later, she felt Ciel's mild surprise.

"Frances was right! She said you are a girl, but you are dressed as a guy! Which is it?! A girl or a guy?!"

Doll let out a laugh.

"She sure is a quick one! I'm as ladylike as they come. (There was a pause.) See?"

Frances covered her mouth with both hands as she imagined what Doll might have done to cause the spike of sheer discomfort and utter embarrassment from Ciel. Sebastian let out a loud laugh within her mind.

*Malphas… stop! I… can't…*

"Wanna take a peek downstairs too?"

"No, thank you!"

Frances shook in laughter. Malphas laughed even harder. Suddenly, the laughter disappeared as a more somber air came from Doll, though Frances was still amused by Doll's boldness.

"So, why were you in there anyways? Didn't they tell you it was dangerous?"

"Well… (Frances could feel he was coming up with a lie.) I'm sorry! I didn't steal anything today, though! I swear! Please don't boot me out of here!"

"Today? What?!"

"Before I became a page boy, I was actually in the East End having to do all I could just to survive. I know it was wrong, but I couldn't help myself. The manor I worked for found out about it and despite Frances' protestations… If I'm driven out of here, I'd have to live on the East End again."

Frances could feel Ciel's worry that he overdid it, but he didn't have to as Doll did fall for it.

"So, you really didn't steal anything?" Doll asked, softly.

"I didn't! I swear to God!"

Frances could feel Doll's acceptance.

"Guess I'll do nothing about it."

"Thank you so much!"

"It's fine. (Suddenly, Frances felt her regret and remorse.) I owe you one anyhow. Everyone has some things they don't want known, right? Besides, I did something bad to you today (Frances could feel Ciel's pain, embarrassment, unease, and guard.) So, I won't tell anyone about this. But now we are even. (Suddenly, Doll's seriousness spiked.) However, don't steal no matter what, 'kay?"

"Yes. Um, can I ask you something? Why does a first-tier member like you share a tent with me?"

Frances frowned. Something was wrong. His words sort of sounded choked. She could sense he was starting to feel unwell.

"I'm just not a fan of being by myself (She could feel Doll's fear.). Staying with someone else seems to make me sleep better sometimes (She felt her relief and comfort then worry.). I hope you don't mind sharing a tent with me now that you know I'm a first-tier member."

"Of course not!"

"I'm glad. So, we'll keep what happened today our secret."

"Okay."

Frances could feel the doubt Ciel held for her, but he did not need to distrust her. She meant what she said, she wouldn't tell anyone. Frances slipped further into the shadows as Doll moved towards the first-stringer tents.

"I'll see you later, Smile!" Doll waved.

"See you later!"

She waited until she was sure Doll wouldn't turn around before she walked over towards Ciel who looked guilty and defeated, but yet felt reluctant truthfulness. They looked at each other and nodded in agreeance. They knew it had to be done. Frances' brows furrowed. She placed a hand on his shoulder and squeezed gently. His face was a little pink. A few seconds of silence passed. Suddenly, he scowled.

"Come on. Let's go see that stupid demon." Ciel said, walking away from her.

She followed after him, shaking her head.

"It was your order, Ciel. Don't call him stupid for you not paying attention."

Ciel gritted his teeth before releasing a cough. They walked in silence to tent nine. When they reached the row tent nine was in, Frances stopped him by touching his shoulder. He looked up at her with a raised eyebrow.

"I'm going to get you something eat."

He nodded.

"Thank you."

He let out another cough. They parted ways.

*Malphas, Ciel isn't feeling well. Try not to agitate him too much.*

*Yes, my Lady.*

*I want to listen in, please.*

*Yes, my Lady.*

She nodded once. She focused on her task of heading to get him food.

The tent flap flung open capturing William and Sebastian's attention.

"Young Master."

Sebastian noticed the boy's redden cheeks and across his nose. A few coughs slipped out. He gave him what was supposed to be a nasty glare.

"You released the snakes even though you knew we were still over there, you bastard?!"

Young Master let out a few coughs and wheezes.

*Oh, dear. It appears Young Master may have caught a cold. Humans are so fragile. Except my Frances. Speaking of which…*

"Yes, though I was reluctant because of Frances. (He placed his hand on his chest.) It's because you gave me an order to release the snakes before the first-tier members returned. (He paused a moment.) Is something the matter? What's so wrong that you must make that face? Please don't worry so much. I knew my Frances would be all right and as long as there is a contract, I will protect your life. But, if you give the wrong order, you may suffer a nonfatal experience. And you know that, yes? (He watched as Young Master tightened his fists, feeling his irritation at knowing he was correct.) Any game becomes boring when it lacks thrills. I assumed that an avid player such as yourself, Young Master, would share my opinion."

"Ha! It's in bad taste to play games that make me feel like throwing up, demon."

"It's an honor."

"Well, enough of that. I found a piece of paper in Joker's tent that has my name on it. (He moved around the demon, covering his mouth as he coughed.) It had my rank, my mansion's address, (He leaned against the bunk bed's leg.) and a simple personal history. The sender was—"

"You…"

William shoved Young Master's foot with his scythe. Young Master moved with a yelp as Sebastian glared at the Reaper.

*William!* His mate scowled at the Reaper mentally.

"…are intruding on my property by three centimeters. (William tapped the line repeatedly. He pushed up his glasses with his hand.) Incapable of staying apart as you both decided… The dog isn't that different than it's owner."

Young Master glared irritably at William. He moved away from the Reaper.

"Sebastian, let's go outside." Young Master ordered, walking out of the tent.

"Yes." Sebastian obeyed, following after him.

They moved to where a few large crates sat at the end of the aisle of tents.

"The sender used the name "Tom, the piper's son"."

"A Mother Goose character."

"Yes, though I have no idea what it means. (Young Master let out another cough. He tilted his head. This one sounded deeper than the other ones.) Also, there's a hallmark of a horse in the sealing wax along with the initial K."

"Then it's the same as the one I saw. (Frances sent her acceptance confirmation.) Normally the sealing is engraved with a symbol of motivation and the initial of the person plus the family crest."

"Yes."

"In other words, Tom, the piper's son is someone who holds a family crest with the prefix of a horse. People who have their family crest displaying a horse are usually knights or other soldiers."

"It's not a rule, but philanthropy is basically impossible without a certain degree of status. All of these crests…"

Frances' worry sky-rocketed at these slightly breathless words Young Master spoke.

*Shit! The stupid brat! Why didn't he tell us he has asthma?!*

*Asthma?*

*I'm on my way. You need to put this mint oil (A bottle of mint oil appeared in his right hand and a rag appeared in the other.) on this rag then rub it on his chest, now Malphas!*

He could feel her rushing towards them, all the while the Young Master had continued speaking, slowly sounding worse.

"…are recorded by a heraldry. No matter how many records they have, I know that you are capable of (He let out a few more coughs.) finding it with this information alone."

"Young Master, Frances says I must put this on you." Sebastian said, unscrewing the cap and pouring the oil onto the rag.

He moved towards the boy. He swiftly moved his arms then his scarf and began unbuttoning his shirt.

"What are you doing?!" He demanded, hitting him as he coughed, "Unhand me at once!"

Sebastian ignored him, finally revealing his chest. He began to rub the oil onto the boy's chest. Once it was all over, he moved back, tossing the items to the floor for the time being. He rebuttoned the boy's shirt, noticing his breathing was still rather ragged.

*Now, what?*

"We need to get him warm." Frances said from behind him. She walked to Sebastian's side to see Ciel still breathing rather raggedly, "This night air is not good for him."

"I'm… fine…" Ciel muttered, a few coughs slipping through as Sebastian picked him up.

They began walking as Frances glared at him.

"You know better than to lie to me, Ciel Phantomhive. I am a healer with my potions and oils. How many times have I helped nurse you from your colds?"

Ciel pouted slightly as he looked away, glumly.

"We should take him to Doc. The Infirmary tent will be warmer and so he won't contaminate Freckles."

Frances could hear someone's calmness getting closer to them. As they rounded the corner, Freckles was there.

"Oh, Enchantress, Black. (Her eyes widened as she took in Ciel's heavy breathing.) Smile! Are you okay?!"

Frances could feel Ciel's annoyance spike. She answered for him,

"He'll be all right. We are taking him to the Infirmary tent."

"What happened?" Freckles asked, anxiously.

"He apparently has asthma. I believe it was triggered by a cold he caught (Frances felt Ciel slip into sleep. *Good sleep is good for him.*) and depending on how cold that water from the bath was, probably added to it and this cold night air probably didn't help."

Frances could feel regret and remorse from Freckles as her face dropped. Her eyes looked away. Frances realized that she was the one to force him to take a bath. She placed a gentle hand on her shoulder and gave her a reassuring squeeze. Freckles looked up at her, guiltily.

"You didn't know, Freckles."

"I still feel bad though."

"Why don't you go get him some stew and bring it for him to eat when he awakens?"

"Okay! I'll go do that!" She agreed.

She took off running as they got to the entrance of the Infirmary tent. She opened the flap for Sebastian who nodded at her.

"Excuse me, Doc?" Sebastian asked.

Doc, who was looking over some papers at a table, looked over at them. His eyes widened when he saw Ciel.

"Oh, my! What happened?" He asked, placing the papers aside.

"He apparently has asthma triggered by a cold. His breathing was erratic and he has a fever. I gave him mint oil just a few minutes ago."

Doc blinked at her in surprise.

"I am studying to be a nurse and carry random oils with me everywhere." She lied nonchalantly.

"I see. Well, I would still like to take a look at him, if that's all right?"

She nodded.

"Of course."

"Over here, please."

Doc rolled his way towards the back of the tent where a row of beds laid separated by curtains.

"That bed there is fine."

Doc gestured to the first bed. Sebastian placed him upon it. He moved back towards Frances. She wrapped an arm around him, he wrapped his arm around her. They watched as Doc performed a series of tests: checking his temperature, opening his mouth, placing a hand and ear on his chest to check his breathing. After performing each task, he wrote it down on his chart. He moved back and looked at her.

"You are correct. It is a cold and asthma."

Doc pulled the blanket tighter around Ciel. Sebastian looked at Frances as he felt her worry. He returned his gaze to Doc.

"We've seen him suffer from colds before, however, this is the first time we have seen him in this condition even though we have been with him for three years."

Doc picked up the chart, looking it over.

"If he hasn't had an attack in three years, it's considered as being cured. (Freckles came in with a bowl of stew. She walked towards them.) Though all you need is a sudden chill or time of stress, or even a cold can make him relapse."

Sebastian glanced at her. She was correct again. He turned back to Doc, who placed a wet cloth on the boy's forehead.

"Which is exactly what happened." Frances said, "All three of those occurred."

Doc nodded. He looked over at Freckles and stared at her sternly.

"Yes, and I hear he went out to take a bath with our brute muscleheads. It's no wonder he caught a cold."

She looked away guiltily. Frances mentally glared at the man. The young lady didn't mean any harm. She clearly regretted it. Frances cast her eyes on Ciel the second his breathing changed. He opened his eye and looked at them.

"Water…" He muttered, weakly in a strangled voice.

Sebastian left Frances' side to grab the tray of water in a clear teapot and a cup that sat on the table in the corner of the room. Two baskets sat underneath the table. Doc turned around to face his patient as Sebastian walked towards Ciel.

"Oh, you're awake?"

Sebastian went around Doc. He placed the tray on the table. He picked up the teapot and presented it to the Young Master.

"Drink this."

He poured the liquid down the boy's throat. He took a few sips. Sebastian pulled back, taking the teapot with him. He placed it on the tray again. The Young Master let out a few coughs.

"Smile, you have had asthma since you were very young, right?"

Frances and Sebastian could feel him reminiscing about his past.

"Aunt An…"

He drifted back to sleep.

"This isn't good. His mind is clouded. We'll have to keep a sharp watch until the fever and coughing have stopped."

"I'll go get ice!" Freckles exclaimed.

She hurriedly placed the bowl of stew onto the tray that Sebastian placed on the side table before racing out of the tent once again.

"What about you two?" Doc asked, looking at Frances then Sebastian.

"We'd like to stay and help, if we may?" Sebastian asked.

"Please?" Frances finished.

He turned to smile at her.

"I'm much obliged."

Inside Joker's Tent

"What? Black, Enchantress, and Smile were in here? Their goal?" Joker asked Snake.

Peter and Jumbo were also in the room, concerned about the news.

"'Who knows? I have no idea about that." Says Wordsworth."

"So, the point is that you can actually speak to the snakes?" Peter questioned.

"'Do you doubt me, you simpleton?!" says Wordsworth."

"Why didn't you tell us right away?" Joker asked.

Another snake popped up from under his cloak as Snake glanced sideways guiltily.

"'See, I told you to report it straight away.' Says Emily.'

"Oh, well. Thanks for the info. Go to bed now."

"'Good night." "Sleep well." says Wordsworth and Emily."

Snake turned around and left the room. They waited until he left.

"Maybe they already know. Doll, that fool." Joker whispered darkly.

"Doll's still too childish! That's why I said it'd be no good to keep her on board!" Peter complained.

"Black, Enchantress, and Smile… Who are they really?"

"Should we deal with this quickly? Tonight, maybe?"

"Not so fast." Jumbo cut in.

"Ah, he's right. It'll be trouble cleaning up afterward if those three are connected to the Yard…" Joker said, trailing off.

"We'd have to disband the circus, at the very least." Jumbo finished.

"That's right, For now, let's consult Father. (Peter wasn't happy with the news. He banged his fist against the bed he was sitting on to voice his displeasure.) I'll leave right now. But you know what Father wants. So, if they do anything strange while I'm gone…"

"We know."

"If they do, we'll move without you."

Back at the Infirmary

Frances looked at Sebastian as they felt the suspicions grow. Sebastian looked at her calmly. Frances looked away to place the empty bowl and quarter full teapot onto the tray of water. Ciel had woken up a little while ago. Frances made him eat and drink which he just finished doing. Sebastian laid him back down. He dunked the rag into the bowl of water and began to rub his forehead to cool the fever.

"Sebastian…" Ciel called in a raspy voice.

Sebastian was about to respond when he heard Doc coming. He stood and turned to the man as Frances looked up from the tray at him.

"How is he?" Doc asked.

"He is still very delicate."

"I though as much. (He rolled past them. They followed him with their eyes.) It is nearly time to give him mint oil. I have some over here. (He looked through the bottles of oil.) Now, where did I put it?"

Sebastian and Frances glanced to the Young Master. He gestured Sebastian to come to him then tapped the pillow indicating that he wanted to write. Frances watched as Ciel quickly typed in morse code: This is an order. You go to the crest office and find out who owns that seal. The offices are in London and Edinburgh. If I move now, the doctor and Frances will make a fuss. (They smirked at him. It was true.) Come fetch us in the morning.

Sebastian turned the Young Master's hand around. He placed a hand on his chest and bowed.

He signed: Yes, my lord.

Sebastian stood as the Young Master fell back asleep. He turned to Frances who looked at him. They nodded. She took his hand into hers. She lifted it to her lips, placing a gentle kiss. She looked up at him through her lashes.

*Be safe.*

He squeezed her hand as his other hand caressed her cheek. She leaned into his touch.

*Always.*

He was out of her sight in the next second.

"Found it. Now we'll just pour some on a rag and…" Doc trailed off when he turned with the bottle to see Sebastian no longer in the room.

Frances smiled.

"Restroom." She whispered.

Doc nodded. He rolled over towards her. He handed her the bottle and rag.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. If you need anything, I'll be doing some work in the front."

"Thank you, Doc."

He rolled away from her to the front. Frances unsoftened the cap and poured some on a rag. She moved the covers to his stomach. She unbuttoned his shirt and rubbed it over his chest. Once done, she placed the bottle and rag to the side. She buttoned up his shirt and pulled the blanket over his shoulders, tucking him in.

"Get better soon, Ciel." She whispered low enough that no one would hear.

She moved away from him for a moment to let him rest. She went to the front. Doc looked at her questioningly.

"Are you using this crate for anything?" She asked him, pointing to the crate next to the entrance.

"No. You may use it, if you'd like."

"Thank you."