Black Butler: TWWSP: Darkness Surrounds Her

by DarknessAndLight665

After coming back to life, Frances returns to not only discover that she becomes the owner of Funtom Company, but also becomes a Dame and the Queen's Guard Dog (temporarily). She helps Sebastian look for part of Ciel's missing soul, deals with intense cases, and life-altering experiences. Will she allow the darkness to consume her or will these experiences drag her too deep?

50. Book of Atlantic Part Two

A/N: Sooooooo, several things:

First, I want to apologize for not posting last week. I was going through some personal stuff. I am okay now, though, I promise. I am posting two chapters today to make up for last week. Just so you're aware, this is my longest chapter yet! 18,229!

Second, thank you for following/favoriting my story! I think fanfiction is having some trouble because since January it was only showing two favorite/following. And since October it was showing that no one was looking at my story, but clearly you all are so thank you for taking the time to read and having patience with me!

Third, is it just me or does it remind anyone else when Druitt has them do their phoenix poses, the part where Grell and Ronald are back to back with one another it reminds them of Team Rocket from Pokemon? No, just me? Okay, then!

Have a great day! Enjoy!

Chapter Forty-Nine: Book of Atlantic Part Two

Previously: "Stoker must have brought another corpse with him. (He turned to Snake, whom Frances felt was very focused on something. She turned to see he had moved behind Lizzie and was staring ahead intently.) Snake, you guard Lizzie! (He noticed how the young man was staring straight ahead.) Snake! Are you listening to—"

Snake turned and pointed to the left. Oscar sitting on his arm.

"'There are lots more bird insignia over there." says Oscar."

The three of them approached Snake. They followed his finger and gaze. Frances' eyes widened. She could feel the others' shock behind her. Rows upon rows UPON ROWS of coffins lined the side of the cargo hold. There were two rows, one on top of the other.

"Don't tell me these are all…"

Something banged inside one. Then all of them! They all started moving chaotically!

The four of them flinched back. Even Snake's snakes flinched back. The coffin door burst open. The undead began to make their way out. Frances spun around.

"Go!" She yelled.

They turned around and ran. Frances followed after them, her sword clutched tightly in her hand. They weaved their way through the tall crates. The corridor opened into a bigger space. She saw the Young Master stop. Lizzie ran into him. Frances saw more of the undead in front of them. She stopped behind Snake who looked up at the crates, seeing a gray snake already up there. Snake looked at her. She nodded.

"Go."

He nodded. He climbed up the crates. Frances turned around. The corpses had followed them. She looked to the right and then straight ahead, they were on all sides. They were trapped. She stepped in front of Ciel and Lizzie, glaring at the undead. The darkness inside her stirred wildly in anticipation.

"Ciel. Frances." Lizzie whimpered.

One came too close for Frances' liking. She sliced his head clean off.

"'Smile! (Ciel and Lizzie looked to their right and up. They saw Snake.) Up here, quick!" says Oscar."

He reached down his hand. Frances glanced at the Young Master who nodded. He began shooting those on his right as Frances took care of the undead on her left. Once Lizzie was safely on the crates, Snake helped the Young Master up there, leaving Frances with the undead. Some of Snake's friends assisted with taking some down.

"Enchantress!"

"Frances."

Snake and Lizzie called.

"I'll stay down here to protect you three."

"No, Frances—"

She could feel Lizzie's desire to help. Her frustration of hiding who she is. Frances pushed everything out. Her eyes flashed fuchsia. Her stance became firmer. A deadly glare entered her eyes.

"I won't let these beings harm you. Young Master, cover Lizzie's eyes. Snake, you may want to close your eyes too."

She darted forward, hearing Lizzie gasp as the Young Master pulled Lizzie's face into his chest. She cut off two heads at once. She could feel Snake's shock, disgust, and awe. The deadly dance began. In quick succession, she cut off heads, thrusted her sword through necks or heads, she even sliced through part of the face of some of them.

"'What are they? Our venom doesn't work on them and they smell awful!" says Webster."

"I don't know the details, but we seem to have walking corpses on our hands."

"C-Corpses?" Lizzie stuttered.

Frances continued her deadly dance as she ignored the others' emotions and conversations. She had noticed they weren't coming towards her, but had continued towards Snake, Ciel, and Lizzie. They got near the crate, but Frances was there to stop them. She released a breath and the barrier around her soul. She smirked as they started to surround her more.

"Ci-Ciel!" Lizzie cried.

"It's all right! I swear I'll protect you… No matter the cost."

She stepped forward as she thrusted her sword into a gaping mouth. She yanked the sword out, swinging more blood onto the already stained floor.

"Are you just going to stand there or are you going to help?" Frances asked.

She could feel their confusion just as she felt him when he entered the room and began watching her with a lustful smirk on his face.

"I was enjoying the view." Sebastian's sultry voice sounded.

The Young Master, Lizzie, and Snake looked over at him. He was standing with his arms crossed, leaning against the rail with a lustful look upon his face.

"Says the butler who wouldn't allow me to stop the first undead."

His eyes narrowed.

"Those bullets could have killed you."

"Oi, will you two stop flirting?! Sebastian, quit loitering and help her get rid of these things!"

"Very good, my lord! By the way, you spoke like a true gentleman. (Frances could feel his deadly anticipation. She saw from her peripheral vision how he leapt and twirled, landing gracefully on the floor. He ran towards the undead with his arms stretched out in a creepy elegance.) It's rather lacking in style, but if I simply need to destroy the heads… (He leapt up and slammed a head into the ground with such force, the corpse's head completely sank, releasing all its blood. Some of which landed on Frances' already blood soaked dress as she was next to it.) this method is fastest."

His beautiful demonic eyes met hers as his fangs poked out a bit. She smirked back.

*My demon.*

They fought side by side. Sebastian used his fists and legs to take off their heads. He let out a demonic growl as he ripped a head from one of the bodies. Frances continued using her sword. She could feel Ciel's horror. Between the two of them, the bodies were disposed of in one minute. She breathed heavily. The quiet drips of blood splattered from her sword filled the sudden quietness. She turned her body towards Sebastian as he turned to her. They took another step closer to one another as their flames, darkness, and souls tangled with one another, their eyes returning to their human color. Her left hand reached up to cup his bloody cheek. His gloved hands cupped her cheeks as they stared intently into one another's eyes seeing the lust and love. She didn't even flinch when the wet blood touched her cheeks.

"It's finished, Young Master." Sebastian informed without taking his eyes off his mate.

Frances could feel the horror from the Young Master. Then from Snake and Lizzie. Sebastian slowly pulled away from her, smearing some blood on her cheeks. He walked towards the crates. Frances followed his gaze as she summoned a sheath.

"What's the matter? (Sebastian lifted his hands towards them.) Here, come down."

Lizzie flinched closer to Ciel when she saw his bloody gloves. The Young Master glared at him. Frances placed her sword in her sheath. Ciel moved down to a lower crate.

"Don't touch us with those gloves. You'll soil our clothes."

Sebastian looked at his bloodied gloved hands in surprise. He glanced over at Frances who had turned towards them. A sly smirk grew upon his lips.

"You made me forget my gloves were bloody. (She smiled brightly. The demon's smirk grew. He returned his attention to the Young Master.) I beg your pardon, my lord."

He took off his soiled gloves, dropping them to the bloody pool beneath his feet. He pulled out a pair of clean ones, pulling them on. Frances pulled out a handkerchief and began cleaning her face and hands. Sebastian lifted the Young Master from the crate and placed him on the ground. He walked a few paces forward to ensure Lizzie had enough room to be set down. Sebastian assisted her down next followed by Snake. The Young Master glared behind him at the demon.

"Can't you be a bit more elegant? Take a page from Frances' book. You're like a beast."

Frances discarded the bloody handkerchief. Sebastian turned to him with a fake smile.

"My apologies, but time was of the essence. (He walked down a corridor. Frances made her way towards them.) Their bodies are evidently weaker than a normal human's."

"That would be because they are already rotting." Frances explained.

"Why would anyone bring so many of them aboard?" Ciel wondered.

Frances' eyes narrowed as her head turned to the right. Sebastian stopped and turned towards them.

"As to that… (He glared at his left and flung four knives towards a figure. Two landing on each side of his head. Ryan gasped in fear and shock.) I believe it best to ask him."

"Ryan Stoker." Ciel stated.

Ryan looked at them, fear and a hint of disappointment emitting from him. The Young Master glared at him as well. They began stalking towards him.

"No, the perfect salvation just went imperfectly! I didn't intent to bring anyone back in such an unhealthy state! And how could I know that bodies in the hold would wake up?!"

Sebastian grabbed his arm and harshly pulled it behind his back. Ryan let out a yelp.

"No need to hurry, sir. We have plenty of time until we reach New York. Do tell us the whole story."

"Please, wait!" Ryan cried out in panic.

Frances looked at him worriedly. Something was wrong.

"For what? They've all been disposed of."

"No, they haven't!"

"Hm?"

Frances remembered something as she looked at a map of the ship.

"No." She whispered. In a flash, she grabbed Ryan by the shoulders and shoved him violently against the wall, Sebastian releasing him the instant Frances moved, "How many of these corpses did you bring?!" She demanded.

She fought her eyes from turning fuchsia.

"What do you mean?" The Young Master asked.

Frances turned her face to him. Her eyes in the sharpest glare he had ever seen. He forced himself not to flinch back.

"There's another cargo hold!"

They gasped. Frances turned back to Ryan. He whimpered at the frightful look.

"Te-Ten times than what's in here."

Frances slowly released the man as her eyes widened.

"Ten times?!" She heard Ciel ask.

Lizzie gasped.

"Ten times…" Frances whispered, horrified.

"Then right now, the ship is…?" Lizzie cut herself off, horrified to finish the question.

"Crawling with zombies, I assume." Ciel stated.

Frances could hear it. The gasps, the groans, the screams, the cries, the yells, the pleads. Her body trembled.

"Oh no!" Lizzie exclaimed.

"Sebastian, you go escort the Marchioness and her family somewhere safe."

Sebastian's eyes flickered to his mate's. Her eyes were cast in shadow. He could feel her utter horror and desire for answers. The darkness swirling inside her, using her horror to get the answers she sought. He returned his eyes to the Young Master.

"And the rest of you?"

"We'd only slow you down. Except for Frances, but she'll stay with us. She has her sword; I have a gun. We can manage for a while."

"Indeed." Frances spoke in a deadly calm voice.

The demon looked at his mate, but her eyes were on Ryan who looked at her with utter fear. As he should. Her eyes turned to his. He could see her fighting her demonic side not to change her eye color as well as the darkness within, the need for answers. And she would get them. Yes, indeed. He warbled loudly in her mind. She smiled mentally, calming just a touch because of him.

"Come straight back once they're safe."

Sebastian returned his gaze to his young lord.

"Yes, my lord."

Sebastian handed Ryan to Frances. Their eyes met. They nodded. He disappeared down the corridor. Frances placed her hand into her pocket. She summoned rope to her hand. She tied his hands behind his back.

"Now then, why did you bring so many on board?" She asked in that same deadly calm whisper.

"I-I didn't—"

Her sword was at his throat as she held his tied hands. Ryan yelped.

"I suggest you answer the question." She snarled, pressing the sword closer towards his throat.

"A-A government agency wanted this amount."

"For what purpose?"

"They-They wanted to see how the public would handle perfect salvation."

She scoffed. She knew he was telling the truth, however, that couldn't be the true reason. The Young Master stepped on the other side of Ryan with his gun pointed at his temple. Ryan whimpered yet again.

"You will tell us everything. Now, how can those things be stopped? (Ryan let out a choked gasp.) I presume you wouldn't transport such dangerous creatures with no safeguards. There's another way to stop them besides destroying them one by one, correct?"

"Well, yes… In my cabin, there's a device which emits special ultrasonic waves that can short-circuit perfect salvation patients."

"Take us there." Frances and the Young Master said at the same time.

Ryan led them through the bottom deck of the ship. Frances and the Young Master walking on either side of them. Lizzie and Snake behind them. The Young Master had Snake use one of his friends to wrap around Ryan's torso while the Young Master still had his gun trained on him and Frances held her sword at the ready. As they walked, Frances could feel Sebastian's irritation at the lack of corporation from the Midfords. Frances allowed a small smile. It didn't surprise her that they would refuse to go to safety. Eventually, they came upon the boiler room.

"Hold on." The Young Master said.

They came to a stop. They all looked at him.

"It might be best if we untie him. It won't be so suspicious."

Frances nodded.

"Very well."

"Snake, give your jacket to Frances. It'll hide the blood."

"'Okay." says Emily."

Snake started to take off his suit jacket. Frances looked at Ryan with a stern gaze.

"If you try to run, it will not end well for you."

"Y-Yes, my Lady."

Snake told Webster to released him. Webster slithered down and off Ryan. Snake handed her the jacket which she accepted with a, "Thank you.". Suddenly, Frances looked ahead. Something was coming.

"Frances?" Lizzie asked.

She looked at them to see the Young Master, Snake, and Lizzie looking at her with concern.

"I'm fine. (She sliced through Ryan's ropes. Ryan rubbed the skin of his wrists.) Let's go."

They began to walk forward, Frances pulling on Snake's jacket. It did indeed cover most of the blood, though the sleeves were rather short, ending at her elbows. They noticed two men standing by the door they were nearing.

"Hey! No guests are allowed down here." The man on the right said, sternly.

Frances stepped forward. She stared into the man's eyes who spoke. She waited until all his focus was on her.

"Can you please allow us through?"

"Yes, my Lady."

The other man looked at him in confusion, but helped the other man open the door. A blast of hot air burst through. They entered through. They made their way through the hot room filled with large machines and furnaces. The Young Master and Elizabeth led the group after Ryan and Snake with Frances trailing behind them after thanking the men. Suddenly, a tremor shook the entire ship. Frances and quite a few others gasped. Some people fell while others merely stumbled.

*Sebastian!* She called out.

*An ice burg.* He answered her.

Her eyes widened.

*I'm on it.* He sent her.

The shaking eventually stopped. She looked over her friends and Ryan. Her eyes met Snake's worried ones. She gave him a reassuring smile. She looked over to see Lizzie kneeling down next to the Young Master who had fallen.

"It's steadied…" Someone said.

The Young Master stood up.

"What rocked the ship just now?"

Suddenly, lighter shaking than what happened minutes before occurred then water burst through. It sent them all into different directions. They all let out shouts of surprise. The water settled. Frances looked around to see she was on the other side of the Young Master. A man between him and Ryan on the Young Master's right side with Snake opposite him. She couldn't find Lizzie though. A red light flashed with an alarm going off.

"That alarm means the door is about to close!" A man yelled.

Frances gasped when she saw Lizzie on the other side when the door began to close! The Young Master noticed her too.

"Hurry, or you'll be trapped!" Another man shouted.

"Lizzie!" Frances and the Young Master called out.

Frances lifted her skirts and raced towards the door. Several men grabbed her, Ciel, and Snake to prevent them from helping her.

"Ciel!" Lizzie cried.

"Let me go this instant!" Frances yelled.

She stomped on the man's foot. He instantly released her with a pained yelp. Frances ran forward and punched the man holding Ciel in his side. The man let out a groan and dropped Ciel. Ciel went under the door first, Frances followed suit barely making it before the door closed. They fought against the icy water to get to Lizzie.

"Ciel, Frances, why?" Lizzie asked.

"I promised you I'd protect you." The Young Master said.

He took her hand.

"And I promised to always look out for you, little sis." Frances smiled.

Lizzie's eyes welled with tears.

"Th-Thank you."

The Young Master turned towards the door. Frances looked around the area. She spotted a ventilation shaft. She pulled out her sword and cut through the fabric of her dress to shorten the dress to just above her knees.

"Snake! You and the others go on ahead!"

Snake banged against the door.

"'We can't leave you three!" says Emily."

Frances pointed to it when she noticed the Young Master looking around as well.

"Up there, Young Master."

He nodded. They began to move towards it.

"Don't worry. We'll get out through the ducts. Too much cold water isn't good for your friends, right? Go!"

"'Smile, Enchantress! Keats will guide you through the ducts! Let's meet up later!" says Emily."

"Thank you, Snake, Emily. We'll see you guys soon. Be careful!" Frances said.

They began climbing the stairs. The Young Master first followed by Lizzie then Frances. Once Frances was through, the Young Master closed the door to the stairs to make sure none of them fell through. Frances excused herself to Lizzie since she was slightly taller than the two. She began to pull off the screen to the air duct.

"Lizzie, take off your frock." The Young Master said.

Lizzie turned away, crossing her arms over her body. Blush coated her cheeks as embarrassment filled her.

"No!"

The Young Master's irritation spiked.

"Don't be selfish! That skirt will get in the way as you crawl—"

"I won't do it! I want to be cute for you until the end!"

Frances placed the grate against the wall. The sound of ripping reached Frances' ears. Her head turned, her eyes widening as she saw what had happened. Ciel ripped Lizzie's dress causing her to fall to her knees.

"Ciel!" Frances scolded.

He ignored her.

"If you die… (Lizzie started sobbing. Her head turned to look at him.) you can't wear your favorite dresses ever again! (Lizzie gasped. Pain, appreciation, and love is what Frances felt from her.) If you die, that's the end! Of everything!"

All was silent for a few moments.

Lizzie looked up at Ciel.

"I-I'm sorry."

The Young Master took off his suit jacket. He placed it over her shoulders. Frances smiled, feeling his slight regret for yelling at Lizzie.

"I'll ask Nina to make you a new dress. One much better than this one. So…"

Lizzie shook her head.

"No, Ciel, I'm sorry for being selfish."

"And I'm sorry for treating you roughly."

Frances' smile widened even further.

*Love makes people do crazy things.*

Sebastian smirked.

*Indeed.*

"Come on, let's go."

The Young Master held out his hand for Lizzie. She accepted it. He helped her up.

"Excuse me." Frances said.

They looked at her.

"Let me help Lizzie. Can you please turn around Ciel?" She asked.

A blush filled his cheeks.

"O-Of course."

He released Lizzie's hand and turned around. Frances helped Lizzie remove the wet dress and placed the small suit jacket on her. It didn't quite fit her, but it would do to return some modesty at least. Frances rubbed her arms to help her get a little warmth.

"Thank you, Frances." Lizzie said, smiling at her.

Frances smiled.

"You're welcome. (They both turned to Ciel.) Let's get going, Ciel?"

He turned to her and nodded. She helped him into the duct followed by Lizzie then she hoisted herself up into the duct. They began to crawl through the duct with Keats leading the way.

A quarter way through their journey, Sebastian spoke to her.

*Even a quick glance was enough to tell that the damage is extensive. Three… no, four compartments are likely full of water. Which means…*

*In less than one hour… the ship will sink.* She whispered, horrified.

*The water temperature is roughly two degrees. Prolonged exposure would endanger our Master's health. I'm heading to the two of you quickly.*

She mentally nodded.

*We're traveling through the ducts. We were in level three of the ship. I believe we are on the second level, now.*

He nodded.

*Very well.*

They continued for another twenty minutes when the Young Master stopped.

"There's another grate." He informed them.

The Young Master began unscrewing the screws for the grate. He pushed down just a little too hard and fell through it.

"Ciel!" Frances and Lizzie cried out.

Frances felt Sebastian arrive in time to catch the boy.

"That… didn't hurt? Sebastian!"

Frances and Lizzie let out sighs of relief.

"I apologize for my tardiness. Are you all right, my lord (He placed the Young Master on the ground. He looked up at Lady Elizabeth then behind her at Frances.), my ladies?"

"Yes (Sebastian held out his hands.), Ciel and Frances protected me."

Lizzie lowered herself into Sebastian's hands. Frances moved closer to the vent. She looked at Keats and held out her hand. He hissed lightly at her. He slithered over her arm. She petted his head.

"Thank you, Keats for leading the way."

Keats lightly hissed at her as he nuzzled her arm. She smiled. She carefully swung herself around so her legs dangled out of the vent. Sebastian had his arms raised, waiting for her. She smiled at him. He returned the smile. She lowered herself into his arms. His warms hands skimmed her hips to her waist as her hands landed on his shoulders and lowered to his chest. Their eyes never broke contact. He placed her onto the ground.

"Thank you, Sebastian."

"You're welcome, my Lady. Now then (He placed a hand on hers and the Young Master's back. Keats slithered around her neck. Suddenly, Frances felt someone was coming or rather… someone she knew and another who she was getting to know.), the crew is readying lifeboats. Let's hurry to the deck."

A newfound urgency was heard in his voice. But, before they could move, there was a loud motorized noise and a swing of blade through the roof. Sebastian and Frances' eyes widened as Grell and Ronald fell through. Grell's eyes landed on hers first.

"Frances! Which means (He looked at Sebastian with an extremely wide grin.), Bassy is here!"

Sebastian and Frances grabbed the Young Master and Lizzie respectively and jumped back to avoid the falling roof. They released them as it landed with a firm bang. Grell looked seductively at Sebastian.

"I love gorgeous men." He swooned.

"You." Sebastian growled.

"Grell Sutcliff." The Young Master sighed, annoyed.

Grell leapt up and raced over to Frances. He hugged her tightly swinging her back and forth.

"We get to fight another battle together! (He released her and bounded up to Sebastian.) It must be fate that brought us together today!"

Sebastian stared stoically at Grell's face.

"Sheer coincidence."

"Oh, you're so cold! I've always loved that about you. Frances must too. We could share a cold scoop three—"

"Never gonna happen!" Frances spoke over him as Ronald sighed behind him.

Grell ignored them as sparkles filled the air with his… intimate thoughts.

"Shoot, we found him. Senior Sutcliff, please don't forget about soul collecting."

Grell turned around with a fierce glare.

"Ronald! Why didn't you tell me Frances and Bassy were here?! (Sebastian turned around to the three of them. He looked at Frances. She nodded. He gathered Lizzie and the Young Master into each of his arms. The two of them tried to sneak away while Grell yelled at Ronald.) I would've put makeup on and— (They were unsuccessful. Grell jumped in front of the doorway swinging his death scythe. They jumped back in time.) Oi! Hold it right there!"

"Grell! We don't have time for this! You don't have time for this! William will get upset if you don't finish the collections on time (Ronald made a face at that.). So, please, can you let us pass?" Frances asked.

"And if I refuse?" Grell threatened.

Sebastian's and Frances' eyes narrowed. Sebastian's eyes turned red with cat eye slits.

"I'll force you." Sebastian threatened.

"That's fine. I don't mind a little force. (Grell played with a strand of hair that hung between his eyes.) In that case, let's have a death match more passionate than any romance! Once I kill Frances, of course." Grell said with a wide smile as he pointed his death scythe at them.

"Why does he keep changing his mind to kill Frances?" Lizzie asked.

Frances could feel the confusion yet protectiveness from her.

"Because he's a pervert, my lady. Please stand back; he may be contagious." Sebastian said, moving his arms so they blocked the three of them.

"Sebastian!" Frances scolded.

Grell went in for the attack.

"How rude! I simply don't repress my feelings, that's all!"

Frances dashed in front of the Young Master and Lizzie. She moved them backward as Sebastian sent a kick to Grell as Grell swung his scythe backward. They moved to their left as Grell and Sebastian continued to fight with the Young Master grabbing Lizzie's hand and pulling her away from the two. Frances kept her eye on Ronald as well, making sure he wouldn't attack as well. He wasn't. He was watching the show. Sebastian landed on the wall where a window was. Frances' eyes widened.

"Grell, don't!" She shrieked.

But, it was too late!

Grell raced towards Sebastian yet again who leapt out of the way causing Grell to cut into the window where water could be seen.

"Drat." Sebastian cursed upon realizing his error.

The water hit Grell causing him to fall over. Sebastian too was hit by it. By the time it made it to Frances, the Young Master, Lizzie, and Ronald, it smoothed out.

"Let's go!" The Young Master exclaimed.

Frances made to follow after them when suddenly, a sickening plop sounded to the left of her. Her eyes widened as an undead man stood up.

"What?!" Ronald exclaimed.

She looked up just in time to see another one fall. Then another, then another. They moved towards Ronald and Frances. The two of them began attacking the undead. Suddenly, a pained cry filled her ears as pain and panic filled her from the Young Master. Hers and Sebastian's head turned towards his direction.

"Young Master!"

"Ciel!"

They called out at the same time. Sebastian moved towards them. Ronald made a path through the undead, taking off three heads in a row. He reached Sebastian and threw his scythe at him. Frances gritted her teeth as she watched Sebastian grab it as she continued fighting off the undead.

"Forget I was here, didn't you?"

She could feel Sebastian's irritation.

"Damn it, Ronald! Let him save them! They aren't on your list!" Frances shouted, plunging her sword through another undead.

Ronald ignored her.

"Lizzie." She heard Ciel weakly call, "Lizzie!" He exclaimed, fear rushing through him.

Elizabeth looked up.

"No." She whispered.

A horde of zombies were heading straight for them. Frances began killing the undead that surrounded her faster. She heard Lizzie gasp then gunshots rang out. She could feel the waver of desire to be cute and protect Ciel grew thinner from Lizzie.

"I'm out of bullets."

Frances and Sebastian gritted their teeth.

"I did want to be cute for you until the end, Ciel."

Frances could feel determination fill the young girl. Everything happened at once: Frances, having enough of these zombies, dropped her sword and waved her hands. That strange wind with a grey light this time instead of white sent the zombies back with enough force to hit the wall and crack their necks. Frances ran forward. Sebastian was able to move Ronald's death scythe away then kick him, Ciel reached a hand out and cried out,

"Lizzie!"

Before any of them could reach her, a sword plunged through one of the undead's head. A fierce look of determination on Lizzie's face as she was the one to hold the sword. Frances, Sebastian, and the Young Master's eyes widened. Frances and Sebastian stopped next to each other as they watched the beautiful young lady completely take out all the undead that had immediately surrounded her. She even grabbed another sword and cut off more of their heads and various other parts. They all stared as she took a second. The body parts falling to the ground, limbs twitching before stopping completely.

Suddenly, two appeared behind the Young Master. Lizzie turned and saw them. She thrusted her sword and cut through both of them at the same time. The Young Master stared at her in utter awe and surprise.

"You're the one person I never, ever wanted to show this un-cute side of me to. (Her grip tightened on the sword. Frances' own eyes filled with tears at the familiar feeling of protectiveness that consumed the young lady.) But, this time… I'm going to protect you! (She yanked out her sword. The bodies fell to the floor unmoving. She turned to face more of the undead that were making their way towards her.) I am Elizabeth, daughter of the Marquess of Scotney, Alexis Leon Midford, Knight Grand Cross! (She moved her foot elegantly and moved her swords: one held up towards the celling, the other pointed at the wall.) Wife of the Queen's Guard Dog!"

She attacked in quick beautiful elegance. As she cut down the next horde of undead, Frances could feel her reminiscing. Things she knew about as Lizzie would tell her during Ciel's absence. Her desire to protect him, the way he made her feel accepted by everything she did even if he did find it annoying, she knew him well. She then felt that fear and it made sense why she said how she never wanted him to see her un-cute side, but she didn't understand why as she felt the sadness and hurt in her reminiscing. The sadness and grief over losing him the first time and again. A tear slipped down Frances' cheek.

*She's going to be devasted when he's truly gone.*

Sebastian looked at her in surprise. She sent him reassurance. They both looked back as Elizabeth landed beautifully on her feet and looked up with a fierce determination. A little bit of blood on her cheek. The undead bodies falling to the ground, slowly stopping their twitching.

"Aw, I'm soaked!" Grell exclaimed, standing up.

Lizzie looked over at him. Frances' eyes widened as she knew the intention.

"Lizzie, no!" Frances called out.

Lizzie ran over to Grell, unheeding Frances' call. Sebastian used his demon speed to appear next to Grell. He stopped the sword with two fingers. A look of melancholy on his face.

"No more, my lady." Sebastian said, gently.

"Sebas-tian?" Lizzie asked, looking up at him as if just seeing him.

Frances let out a relieved sigh as she could feel her calming down. Sebastian released the blade.

"I'm a failure as a butler (Lady Elizabeth stepped back, lowering her blade.), to have put a lady to such trouble. (Sebastian knelt on one knee, placed a hand over his heart, and head bowed.) I deeply apologize. (Frances slowly approached Lizzie as Sebastian stood up. He glanced at Grell over his shoulder.) I shall take things from here."

"That took some of the wind out of my sails, but whatever. Let's continue!"

Grell pointed his chainsaw at Sebastian. Frances gently placed her hands on Elizabeth's shoulders. She was going to pull her back when…

"Smile! Black! Enchantress!"

They all turned towards Snake as he ran into view. Keats lifted his head with a quiet hiss.

"Snake!" Ciel called out. He couldn't see Ryan behind him. Ciel gritted his teeth, "Where's Stoker?"

"'Sorry, he got away." says Oscar." Snake said.

Frances could feel his guilt and regret as well as the Young Master's determination.

"Sebastian! (Everyone looked at him.) We don't have time for these two. Stoker is the key to this incident. We're going after him."

Grell swung his blade down into the floor. He placed his hands on his hips.

"What? So, if we put the screws on him, we'll find out about the walking corpses?" He asked.

"Ryan, Ryan…" Ronald muttered, looking through his book.

Ronald stepped closer to Grell.

"Senior, look at this."

They looked over the book together.

"Hm? I see." Grell said, "I suppose we really don't have time to play. (Grell leapt up to the third floor where he made the hole. He turned, knelt down, and looked at them.) To be honest (Ronald followed after Grell.), we were told to investigate the corpses, too. So I wish I could stay, but we'll have to stop for today, Frances, Bassy. I promise to dress you both in rosy red next time, darlings. (He blew them a kiss.) Toodle-loo!"

They ran off. Frances shook her head, exasperated.

"We need to hurry, too." The Young Master said.

They looked at him to see he was trying to stand up. He fell back onto the floor in pain. They raced towards him.

"Oh, no! Let me carry you." Lizzie said, immediately turning around and kneeling on the ground so he can get on her back.

Frances smiled at the shocked yet embarrassed look on Ciel's face. Sebastian knelt beside her.

"I'll do that, Lady Elizabeth."

She gasped.

"Oh, right! Yes, of course! (She stood up quickly, hands on her cheeks.) What was I thinking?!"

Blush colored her cheeks as embarrassment and fear consumed the poor young lady. Tears filled her eyes. The Young Master and Sebastian gasped. She covered her eyes as she began to cry. She fell to her knees in front of them. Frances raced over to Lizzie, knelt down, and placed a hand on her shoulder with concern.

"Now I'm one of the scary girls Ciel hates!"

"Huh? What are you talking about?"

"You said a long time ago that you didn't want a strong wife!"

Frances' eyes widened. She turned a sharp glare to Ciel.

"Ciel!" She snapped, sternly.

He paled at the sharp tone. Frances looked back at Lizzie.

"This is why you were conflicted with wanting to help him and yet be cute all the time."

Lizzie nodded with another sniffle.

"B-But that was a long time ago! And I'm the one who should apologize."

"You'll still marry me, then? (Lizzie lowered her hands to her lap. She looked hopefully at Ciel.) You won't hate me?"

Another wave of embarrassment emitted from the Young Master. Frances stifled her giggles as red took over his cheeks.

"O-Of course I don't… hate… (But, the second Sebastian covered his mouth to hide his laughter, Frances could help, but release at giggle at his cuteness.) Now isn't the time for this! (He glared at Frances and Sebastian.) Let's get up on deck!"

Sebastian continued to laugh.

"How amusing. Even my Young Master is a helpless child against Lady Elizabeth."

"You be quiet." The Young Master grumbled.

Sebastian lifted the boy into his arms. Frances helped Lizzie up. She hugged her tightly.

"You are such a beautiful, strong human." Frances complimented.

Lizzie was surprised for a moment. She returned the hug.

"Thank you. You are as well."

Frances felt a small pang, but quickly pushed it away. They pulled away, smiling at one another.

"Shall we be off?" Sebastian asked.

Frances and Lizzie nodded once. They released one another. The five of them made their way down the hall. Sebastian continued to chuckle.

"How long do you plan to laugh?"

Frances smiled. She shook her head in amusement. They continued to head for the deck. As they made their way through, she could see so many familiar bodies lying lifeless on the ground with looks of horror upon their faces. Sadness filled her soul, knowing so many people lost their lives tonight. They were about to go through the doorway that led to the third floor when she looked to the right. A gasp escaped her as she saw the four who had asked her to sing for the third-class.

"Frances?" The Young Master asked.

"One moment, my lord." Sebastian stated.

Frances made her way towards them. The three men had circled the young lady dressed as a boy. They were clearly protecting her, yet… she didn't make it. She knelt down beside them. She closed all their eyes as tears rolled down her cheeks. Her hand ran through James' hair.

"I'm so sorry." She whispered, "May all four of you be at peace."

She wiped her tears away. She looked towards her friends and lover.

"I'm sorry. Let's go."

They nodded. Frances made her way beside Lizzie. Lizzie took her hand, giving it a squeeze. Frances looked at her.

"I'm sorry about your friends."

Frances gave a small smile.

"Thank you, Lizzie."

They released one another's hands. They continued running. The strange thing was they didn't run into any of the undead. They finally made it to the deck. The freezing night air hit them. The deck was filled with panicked, self-preserving people. The emotions so high, it was overwhelming. The focus of going to the boats helped Frances keep them from overwhelming her.

"Get back! Women and children first!" They heard a familiar voice order. They followed it as he continued, "And you call yourself an English gentleman?!"

They made their way through the crowd. They saw Edward yelling at a man who was trying to climb into a boat that was being lowered. Paula stood behind him, looking worried.

"Brother?!" Lizzie cried out.

The two of them turned. Their emotions filled with the relief that was evident on their faces.

"Thank goodness you're safe!" Edward exclaimed.

Lizzie ran into his awaiting arms. Frances smiled at the display.

"Edward, (Edward looked at Ciel when he called his name.), I have a favor to ask. (Lizzie and Paula turned to him as he spoke.) I'd like you to put him on the lifeboat in my place. (He pointed at Snake. Snake gasped as did Lizzie.) I can't evacuate yet."

"Don't be silly, we have to go!" Lizzie cried, running up to Ciel.

"'It's dangerous!" says Oscar."

"Ciel—"

"Lizzie." Frances cut her off, instantly gaining everyone's attention, but most importantly, Lizzie's. Frances took the young girl's hands into her own. She waited until all her focus was on her. When it was, Frances spoke in a slow, even tone, "Sleep. You shall awaken tomorrow morning."

Lizzie began to fall, but Frances caught her.

"Lady Frances!" Edward exclaimed.

Frances looked at Edward.

"I want to keep her safe as well."

Edward jumped slightly. Frances began to walk towards him. He could see that in the way she gently held his sister after receiving the dreadful news, the way she comforted his sister when he was gone, in the calm, protective tone she spoke with. He nodded.

"Very well."

He sheathed his sword. Frances placed Lizzie into his waiting arms. Frances curtsied to Edward.

"Continue to take good care of her." She said.

"I will."

She smiled as she straightened. She turned to Snake. She held out her arm as she looked at Keats. Keats hissed softly, tickling her neck.

"'Be careful, my Lady." says Keats."

"I will. Thank you, Keats (She looked at Snake.), Snake."

Keats slithered down her arm and onto Snake's shoulder beside Oscar.

"Let's go, Sebastian, Frances!"

"At once."

"Let's."

They turned. They began to run off.

"No need to come back!" Edward's voice stopped them. They looked back at him. Frances could feel the playfulness behind his words, "Then I won't have to see my beloved sister married to you."

The three of them smirked.

"I'll most certainly be back."

They continued running back the way they came. They made their way through the now empty corridors… or so it seemed.

A door opened ahead of them. The Viscount's golden locks flew behind him as he walked. A glass full of wine in his hand. Frances' eyes narrowed at the… smugness radiating through him.

"You're (They stopped. Druitt turned his gaze to them.)… Lord Druitt!"

Two gentlemen followed behind him with a strange machine. Suddenly, Frances could feel a familiar presence.

"Hm? You seem familiar… Have we met?" Druitt asked.

The three of them cringed for a moment.

"Ahem. Might that be the device which stops the corpses?" Sebastian asked.

Druitt gave a quiet chuckle. He turned away from them, holding his wine glass higher.

"Follow me if you'd like to find out. (He glanced back at them. Frances nearly rolled her eyes as she felt his feeling of power.) Witness the coming of the new dawn brought by medicine… the Aurora."

He began to walk away. The group carried the machine behind him. They turned out of the room revealing a third man and Undertaker, whom Frances felt earlier.

"Shall I wrestle it from him?" Sebastian asked in a whisper.

They began to follow him.

"No, we don't know how to use it. We'll have him activate—"

He was cut off by Undertaker's familiar chuckle.

"Undertaker?!"

Said man glanced behind him to look at them.

"Hello."

"What are you doing?"

"They snagged me on my way to the deck and told me to help carry this."

The Young Master shared a look with Sebastian and Frances. They increased their speed. Once close to Undertaker, the Young Master lowered his head to his ear.

"Listen, do you know how to operate it?"

"I don't even know what use it will be, my lord."

Frances' eyes narrowed. She had known him a long time. He liked to speak sentences such as these when things didn't work exactly how she thought they might. Sebastian and Frances shared a glance behind the boy. They looked back at the group as they continued on their way. They made it to the second level where the ball was held earlier that evening. Frances, Sebastian, and the Young Master stopped at the balcony as the others went down the stairs with the machine, Druitt followed after them. Frances moved closer to Ciel.

"Young Master, would you like me to heal your leg?"

He looked at her. He nodded once.

"Yes, please."

She nodded. Sebastian turned so the boy's left leg would be more visible. She placed her hands on his leg. It began to heal. The Young Master gritted his teeth at the strange sensation. After a few seconds, his leg was completely healed. She pulled away. They turned as Druitt began talking yet again.

"Have a care, gentlemen. That thing is worth more than your lives."

"Are you going to activate it?" The Young Master asked.

Frances glanced to her left when she felt the familiar auras. She looked back at Druitt.

"Not yet. The cast isn't yet assembled."

Frances' head tilted as her eyebrows furrowed.

"'Cast"?" She and Sebastian asked.

Suddenly, a sharp gasp was heard. They looked to their left to see Ryan leaning over the railing, glaring angrily at Druitt. Grell and Ronald behind him.

"You bastard! Why did you take it?!"

"Hello, Ryan. I've been waiting for you. Today is a historic day! The empire you built shall fall overnight like Pompeii, and my new empire shall be born! (Ryan gasped.) With the power of this device, I shall create a new empire!"

Frances, Sebastian, and the Young Master stared incredulously at him.

"Pardon?" The Young Master and Sebastian asked.

"One ruled with corruption and decadent beauty by those who could become immortal. I call it… The Aurora Empire!"

He did his own version of the phoenix pose. Frances stared at the man, completely dumbfounded.

"This guy is a true idiot." She whispered.

Sebastian and the Young Master made noises of agreement.

"This is getting complicated." Ronald commented, sighing out his words.

Grell stepped forward, readying his chainsaw.

"I'll bathe him in red!"

"Tut tut! (Druitt tipped his glass of wine over the machine. A drop of wine spilling on it.) You wouldn't want this machine to be ruined."

"Excuse me?! What the hell is wrong with you?!" Grell asked, racing forward, attempting to leap over the railing.

Ronald grabbed onto him, holding him back.

"Whoa, whoa, time out!"

"This is true power. I defeat you with a single wineglass!"

Druitt began laughing "evilly".

"May I kill him?" Sebastian asked.

The three of them were done with his utter nonsense.

"No, wait. Though, I understand the urge." The Young Master stated.

Suddenly, crashing come from behind them. The walking corpses broke through the windows. Frances jumped as Sebastian flinched back. The Young Master too made a noise of surprise. Frances' eyes widened as more glass broke throughout the ballroom. They were surrounded.

"Oi, this is way too many!" Ryan shouted.

"Lord Druitt! Activate the device!" The Young Master ordered.

Druitt turned to him, holding up a hand.

"Non, non! I'm not a viscount anymore. I am Caesar! Call me that and I'll activate it."

"Actually, let's kill him. Now." The Young Master whispered.

"Wait, my lord. Though, I understand the urge."

The undead began making their way through the windows. Sebastian kicked a few and even used a table to take some out. Frances pulled out her sword and began attacking them as they drew near. The Grim Reapers too joined in the fight where they were. Ronald using his death scythe as he rode on it, then swung it beheading more. Grell used his chainsaw and then began to count in French.

"Un, deux… (He swung over the balcony and cut down more.) trois!"

The Young Master gasped. Frances looked up to see an undead shoved his face between the two of them. She let out a sharp gasp as one of the undead bit her arm. She looked down to see it was a female. She stabbed through the female's brain. She let go instantly falling to the floor. Frances' arm healed instantly. Sebastian had kicked the man over the railing where he landed on his head with a sickening crack.

"Ah, gladiators fighting gloriously to the death! This is the veritable Colosseum of corruption! And I, watching from on high and sipping my wine, am the emperor Nero!"

"Argh! Can we kill him now?!" Ronald demanded.

"You just stopped me from doing it!" Grell cried, glaring at Ronald. He turned his glare to Druitt, "Turn that thing on, you git!"

"Very well. The time has come to found my empire. (He swung his hand out dramatically.) Now everyone, show me the phoenix dance as proof of your loyalty to Caesar!"

"Let's kill him after all." The Young Master, Sebastian, Grell, and Ronald said.

Frances placed a hand on her head and sighed in exasperation.

"Wouldn't you be bothered never knowing what the device is?" Undertaker asked them.

They all gritted their teeth except for Frances who lowered her hand. She watched as Undertaker began to chuckle quietly.

"Drat." The Young Master cursed.

"What are you waiting for? Come!"

Frances, Sebastian, and the Young Master began.

"The perfect flare within us…"

Sebastian lifted the Young Master's leg as he held up his arm. Frances leaned against Sebastian's side.

"… cannot be extinguished."

Ronald and Grell leaned against one another's backs. Grell pushing his bangs back.

"We are new…"

"… phoenixes!" Everyone cried as they struck the ridiculous pose.

After a few seconds, they returned to a normal stance. The Young Master clutched his head and shook with agony. Poor Sebastian was slightly traumatized by doing that as well. Frances patted both their backs sympathetically.

"Very well, gentlemen and lady, I shall show you (He snapped his fingers.) an undead army bowing down before me!"

He pressed the button. The lights flickered on in blue. They waited. The lights dimmed out.

"Huh?"

The undeads' roars grew louder. Druitt fell to his knees, holding his head.

"Nooooooon!"

Undertaker began laughing hysterically, tears rolling down his cheeks. Druitt stood up, looking at Ryan with confusion in his eyes.

"What's the meaning of this?" The Young Master asked, confused.

"Ryan! The device you made doesn't work!" Druitt cried.

Ryan looked shocked.

"But…!"

The Young Master looked at Druitt.

"You didn't make it, Druitt?!" He demanded.

Frances let out a small scoff.

"I could hardly make something like this, could I?"

"At least he admits to being an idiot." Frances muttered.

Sebastian smirked at her. Ryan gripped the banister's railing.

"You bastard! You tricked me?!"

Frances and Sebastian noticed he wasn't speaking to Druitt.

"What a farce." Grell said.

He jumped down. He began sliding through the dead bodies left and right as he made his way towards Druitt. Ronald whistled in appreciation.

"He really is good. (His eyes widened when he realized who he was heading towards.) Wait Senior, we're not meant to kill humans!"

Grell leapt and brought his death scythe down. It didn't hit Druitt. Undertaker was there with a sotoba blocking the death scythe. Frances' eyes widened. She knew that it wasn't a true sotoba. It was a disguise! Undertaker let out a chuckle.

"It's been a long time since I laughed this much. (Ronald and Ryan gasped in surprise.) The death of a man this entertaining would be a loss to the world, if you ask me. Don't you agree, little Reaper?"

Undertaker shoved Grell back. His hat flew off as his grey sash untied itself as did the lockets. He gripped them and swung them around. He slid his foot so his feet were shoulder width apart. His robes flew out and wide revealing more sotobas. Frances couldn't help, but stare. Her body trembled with the sheer power she felt emitting from him. Grell fell back down. Undertaker grinned as he threw two sotobas at Grell. Grell blocked them. They shattered like glass. The glass began to fall on them. Sebastian grabbed Frances.

"Frances! Young Master!"

He pulled them close to him covering their heads. Frances clung tightly to the demon butler. Grell landed on this foot and knee.

"Ah, how sad that the laughter should leave this place."

Once the glass stopped falling, Sebastian pulled back. They all looked at,

"Undertaker…?" The Young Master muttered.

Frances' eyes widened. His face. His eyes… They were absolutely beautiful. Of course, they matched the yellow-green that all Reapers have. And when Grell made that "make love to me" comment, she thought he was exaggerating. He was not. Frances' eyebrows furrowed as her head tilted to the side.

*Have I… seen him before?*

A headache strongly pulsed inside the left side of her head. She closed her eyes and groaned. Her hand reaching up and rubbing the left side of her head above her ear.

"Frances?" Sebastian and the Young Master called.

She opened her eyes to see the concern on their faces that she could feel.

"I'm fine." She said, still rubbing the headache.

She could feel Undertaker's eyes on her. She turned towards him. Sebastian and the Young Master followed suit. He had a strange look in his eyes behind the amusement. Regret, maybe?

"You're the one behind this. It makes some semblance of sense." Sebastian said.

His eyes slid to Frances'. Her theories, as absurd as they were, were growing to be correct. She tried not to think on them, but her curiosity for figuring things out prevented her from not thinking about it.

"Indeed." Grell agreed, standing up.

Ronald leapt down to the ground behind Grell.

"Senior, you knew he was a Grim Reaper?" Ronald asked.

"Yes. But, I had no idea he would be behind these corpses."

Undertaker chuckled.

"Neither did I." Frances said.

Her headache was gone the second Sebastian finished his sentence. Undertaker looked at her with an amused knowing grin. Her eyes narrowed. He knew something. She knew he knew something. She was about to ask him when Ryan ran by them and down the stairs.

"What's the meaning of this, Undertaker?! (Undertaker turned his gaze to Ryan who stopped in front of him.) You told me we could control the corpses with this device!"

Undertaker looked away with a finger on his chin.

"Did I?"

"Did you deceive me?!"

"Well, it was just so amusing how earnestly you were trying to bring back the dead with medicine."

"Because I had a goal! To use medicine to make the world healthy!"

"But your work stopped being "medicine" when you relied on my technology. (Ryan gasped. Frances could feel his confusion, disbelief, and horror.) A man who performs surgeries beyond his understanding on his patients is no doctor."

Ryan took a step back.

"But…"

He fell to the floor. Frances could feel his disgust as he realized Undertaker was right.

"You believed what I told you without the smallest question. (Undertaker slowly approached him. He placed a hand on Ryan's head and rubbed it.) Good boy."

"So, you're the one behind the human reanimation experiments, Undertaker?" The Young Master asked.

Undertaker placed a finger to his lips.

"That's a secret. (He lowered it by his side.) or so I'd normally say, (He walked forward a few steps.) but you've paid for so much information with those phoenix poses. (He stopped. He turned to look at the Young Master.) I'll tell you. Yes, I'm the one who created the walking corpses."

"What for?" The Young Master asked.

He lost his smile A serious look upon his face.

"Hmm. At first, I suppose I was just curious about people. (He looked at Frances before looking at the Young Master. He began tapping his sotoba against the ground. He paused for a long moment.) When a person has both a flesh body and a soul, she is alive, and she records all her life's memories in her Cinematic Record. When her flesh body perishes and a Reaper collects her soul, the Record ends, and the quick becomes the dead. Grim Reapers are the ones to bring endings to the Records by removing souls from bodies. Day after day, without attachment, without incident. But after spending so many days reaping, one day, a thought occurred to me. What if there were more after the ending? (Ronald and Grell gasped.) If I added a continuation to the ending that came when a soul was lost, what would happen to the flesh body?"

"Are you telling me you edited Records?" Grell asked, disgust evident in his eyes.

Undertaker chuckled.

"Well, let's see. Why don't you look at their Records and find out?"

Grell did just that. He leapt up and sliced into two of the undead. They all watched (Except for Ciel who couldn't see it.) the Cinematic Records of both their lives. It stayed on "End" for a few seconds. Suddenly, Undertaker, dressed up as Charlie Chapman appeared. Grell made a noise of surprise. Undertaker began doing a little gig on loop. Frances' eyes widened.

"So that's how he did it." She whispered.

Grell pulled on his hair in frustration.

"What the hell?!" He shrieked.

Sebastian placed a hand on his chin.

"Hm, this is…"

He looked at his mate. She was correct yet again. She knew a continuation of the Record would suffice, but she didn't know how he did it.

"What's happening?" The Young Master demanded.

Before Frances could explain, Undertaker spoke, explaining what he had done.

"I spliced a false Record to the end that's supposed to come with death and so it became never ending. And what do you know: the flesh thought it was still alive and began to move again without a soul. (The Young Master gasped.) When these bodies awaken, they instinctively seek the soul they're missing (He placed his hands and fingers into the shape of a heart.) by ripping open the bodies of the living. To "balance accounts" with their unending Cinematic Records."

The Young Master looked at Frances. She looked at him.

"That's why you released your protective barrier earlier when the undead came towards us and not you. They are after our souls."

Frances nodded.

"Yes. But (She looked back at Undertaker.), other people's souls won't become theirs. Why would you want bodies with no souls?"

"That is correct. (Undertaker began walking towards a female corpse that was on the stairs.) They're bizarre dolls, neither living nor dead, flesh puppets with no self. (The female lurched forward. Undertaker caught her around her middle.) Sutured wavy-white skin as beautiful (He moved behind her, arm wrapped around her middle and other hand wrapped around her right wrist.) as it was in life. (He took her hand and began to gently sway, dancing with her.) A mouth that no longer babbles or lies (Tears filled Frances' eyes. *Does he think I babble?* She blinked them back.) Isn't she far lovelier now than while she lived?"

"You make me sick." The Young Master said, disgust evident in his voice.

Undertaker let out a chuckle. He swung the corpse. His arm around her waist moved to her back as he continued to hold the other hand.

"Oh? If that's true, shouldn't you be disgusted with yourself and Frances? (The three of them stiffened.) After all, you are missing part of your soul and Frances has come back to life after dying herself."

Grell and Ronald gasped.

"Frances…" Grell said in shock.

She looked over at him, seeing and feeling the fear, sadness, and shock at the loss of her.

"Y-You died?" Grell asked as if he truly didn't want to know the answer.

"I did." She said.

Grell and Ronald gasped. She could feel them both looking at her carefully.

"How is that possible?! Her soul is still intact, even with the darkness, there would be cracks!" Ronald exclaimed.

"Unless…" Grell whispered, glancing at Sebastian, "You truly are much stronger than I thought."

Sebastian smirked. He placed a hand on his heart and bowed slightly.

"Thank you."

Frances glared at Undertaker.

"The difference between us (Frances gestured to herself and Ciel.) and them (She gestured to the undead.) is that we have thoughts and feelings (Tears once again filled her eyes. Sebastian looked at her concerned. He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.). Our souls still remain, even if part of it is missing. We may also babble and tell lies, but we aren't the only ones. I thought you enjoyed our conversations. Clearly, I was wrong."

Undertaker looked at her with a small frown.

"On the contrary, I have enjoyed our conversations. You and the Young Lord are the few humans to retain my attention for so long. (Frances blinked back the tears. There was… something in that statement. Another throb pulsed through her head. She ignored it this time, paying attention to Undertaker.) And while the Young Lord doesn't appreciate my bizarre dolls, plenty of other people desire them. (He let go of the corpse. The female groaned and launched herself over the railing. She fell to the floor. Undertaker walked down the stairs.) They don't feel pain or fear. Intent on finding a soul, they consume the living. The perfect military animals, are they not?"

The five of them gasped. Sebastian releasing her shoulder. Frances thought that over. She shook her head.

"No. That's not the real reason." Frances whispered.

All the supernatural beings looked at her again. Sebastian, Grell, and Ronald with looks of confusion. Undertaker with a look that was proud and irritated. She looked at Undertaker with a hard glint.

"You've never cared about the government. This has nothing to do with them. Which means, there's something in it for you. (She gasped.) No."

"What is it?" Grell and Sebastian asked.

Sebastian taking a step towards her. Undertaker's grin widened. She looked at Sebastian.

"They're going to give him more bodies to experiment with!"

The four others gasped. Undertaker chuckled.

"As I said, you retain my attention, smart young lady. (Frances glared. She was about to ask again why he was doing this, but he spoke again.) A certain group of eccentrics wanted to see how effectively they could be used, so I decided to put an equal number of humans and bizarre dolls on a luxury liner and conduct an experiment. In a battle to the death, which will survive and how many?"

"You're unhinged." Sebastian said with a glare.

Undertaker chuckled.

"I must say though, I never dreamed we'd hit an iceberg. I don't have a To-Die List anymore, now that I've quit the Reaper job. Still, it saves me the trouble of sinking the ship."

The female corpse stood up from the ground. She growled and made to lurch. Grell swung his death scythe, cutting her head clean off. He placed his hands on his hips.

"Now we really can't let this slide." He said.

"Agreed. Reapers have no business distorting death. He's got no glasses, though. Is he one of those job deserters we sometimes get?" Ronald asked.

Frances stared at him.

"He just explained that he is." She said, quietly.

They didn't hear her, though Sebastian and the Young Master did. Sebastian giving her a small amused smile.

"Hell if I care. Either way, it's against the rules for a Reaper to interfere with life and death in the human world!"

"Never thought I'd hear that from you."

"More to the point… (He glared fiercely at Undertaker.) I don't care how hot you are, it's an unforgivable crime to cut a girl's face!"

Grell went in for the attack. Undertaker was ready. He spun his sotoba then blocked the chainsaw. Ronald raced behind him on his death scythe.

"Got behind you—"

Sebastian kicked him to the side, cutting off his attack before sending the kick to Undertaker's head. Undertaker ducked. He flung Grell back as Sebastian flipped towards Frances and the Young Master, landing on his feet at the bottom of the stairs they were on.

"What was that for, Bassy?"

Ronald sat up.

"I can't very well let you take him away."

Sebastian pulled down his glove.

"What?!" Grell demanded.

"We have a duty to present the truth to the Queen. (Sebastian pulled down his other glove, tightening it.) We can't let him get away."

"This is a Reaper problem. Stay out of it!"

"This is a butler's job. Please stay out of it."

"Oh dear, oh dear." Undertaker sighed.

"Your stoicism is as thrilling as ever, Bassy. Fine. If it's a fight you want, I'll show you no restraint!"

"The fact that you know the word "restraint" is today's greatest surprise."

"Grell (Frances looked at the Reaper.). Sebastian (She look at the demon.) Knock it off! (She looked back and forth at Grell and Sebastian.) You guys need to put your differences aside. (She looked at Grell again.) Grell, allow us to take in Undertaker. Once the Queen determines what is appropriate then you Grim Reapers can have him, that way there's no problems for anyone." Frances said, attempting to get them to work together.

Undertaker looked at her, amusement in his eyes.

"Always so accepting. Trying to get demons and Reapers and angels to come together."

"You want to play too, huh Frances? I'll paint you in lovely red." Grell said, revving his death scythe.

"So, simply put, the fastest one wins. Can't see myself losing to an old man like you." Ronald said, standing up and glaring at Undertaker.

"Ronald! Don't underestimate him!" Frances scolded.

Undertaker chuckled again.

"This is just like a rabbiting. So… who is to be the slain rabbit?"

*Frances, protect Young Master!* Sebastian ordered.

Grell, Ronald, and Sebastian made their way towards Undertaker. He leapt up. The three of them almost collided where Undertaker previously stood. Undertaker began throwing his sotobas. Ronald and Sebastian sped away as Grell danced around the incoming sotobas until one lodged in his coat. He fell with a cry. He lifted his head to glare at Undertaker. Undertaker landed in the middle of the ballroom. Ronald attacked him next, but Undertaker blocked every attack then hooked his sotoba where the metal bar cut the death scythe handle in half and tossed him over and away from him. Ronald landed on his feet, skidding away. Sebastian went in for the attack with a few kicks and leaps. Undertaker avoided the kicks by jumping onto a railing then to one of the columns holding the balcony. Sebastian followed him onto the railing. The two made their way towards each other. Grell suddenly went behind Sebastian while Ronald went behind Undertaker. The two saw them coming. They hit one another before twisting and kicking off one another. Undertaker rolled along the balcony floor followed by a swing from Grell. Undertaker moved out of the way. Sebastian tried to attack next, however, Ronald came flying in.

"Sebastian!" Frances whisper-yelled, worriedly.

Sebastian avoided it by twirling to the side and ducking. He stood back up, glaring at Ronald with red, cat-eye pupils and sharp fangs, while Ronald rode in a circle on his death scythe.

"Whoops, thought you were him."

"Perhaps you need an eye exam."

He tossed three knives. Ronald made a noise and ducked. Undertaker swung his sotoba in a few quick circles, deflecting the knives that headed for him as well.

"Reapers are all terribly nearsighted." Undertaker commented.

"That puts you at a disadvantage!" Grell exclaimed.

He brought down his death scythe. Undertaker blocked it with his sotoba. Grell sliced through it in a second. Frances could feel the confusion emitting from him. Undertaker kicked him away.

"Grell." She whimpered.

Ronald went to Undertaker again. Undertaker twirled the piece that Grell sliced. He flipped into the air.

"Ronald! Look up!" Frances cried.

It was too late. Undertaker placed a foot on Ronald's shoulder, shoved his sotoba between his face and glasses, sending his glasses far away.

"My glasses!" Ronald cried out, reaching for them.

Undertaker shoved him down.

"You have a long way to go (Sebastian threw more knives. Undertaker bent forward avoiding them all.), if you're still relying on your eyes."

Sebastian threw another knife. Frances' urge to help was overwhelming. She wanted to protect all three of them, Sebastian the most, but she knew she had to stay by the Young Master's side. She continued to watch as Undertaker threw his sotobas at Sebastian.

"Can I really be hunted with these tiny utensils?"

Sebastian got in closer. He grabbed the sotoba Undertaker was throwing.

"Our silverware is the very sharpest."

To prove that, he cut through the sotoba like butter. He threw the knife at Undertaker's head. Undertaker returned the favor, throwing his sotoba.

"So I see."

They both leapt avoiding the weapons. Undertaker landed on the ground where two sotobas remained. Sebastian on the railing of the first landing of the staircase. Undertaker turned to Sebastian, a smug, amused grin on his lips.

"What's wrong, lads? Is that all you can do, even three against one? I thought you were going to bag me?"

Undertaker chuckled. Frances' hands tightened into fists.

*He's toying with all of you!*

*Clearly.*

Ronald picked up his glasses upon finding them.

"He seriously pisses me off…"

Grell leapt down beside him.

"The ship is really tilting now. We don't have time to make this pretty!"

The two of them went in for the attack.

"We'll have to go head-on!"

Undertaker spun around. He blocked the two of them with that sotoba.

"Again?! Impossible. There shouldn't be anything a death scythe can't cut! How can you be blocking us?!"

"'A death scythe can cut anything." Eh? Haven't you ever questioned that slogan? Frances has and she was a human at the time."

Frances took a step forward.

"Ronald! Grell! Get off it!" She cried.

"There is something it can't cut, isn't there? One thing." Undertaker stated.

"No…" Grell gasped.

"No way!" Ronald exclaimed.

"Undertaker, please!" Frances begged.

Her hands moved on their own accord. That strange wind and grey light lurched forward from her hands. It went completely around Undertaker just as a green glow emitted from him and the sotoba. It pushed Grell and Ronald back as Undertaker swung his forming death scythe. Grell and Ronald landed on their backs a few feet away, groans falling from their lips. Frances staggered in her stance slightly.

"Frances!" Ciel cried, worriedly.

Sebastian's head turned to her, feeling her slightly weakened state. She straightened herself up. He stepped down from the railing.

"I'm fine." She said, looking at the boy before turning to Sebastian and nodding to him.

His eyes scanned her carefully. He nodded back. Their gazes returned to the scene before them. Undertaker swung his death scythe as Ronald and Grell stared at it in shock.

"What?" Ronald groaned.

"That's… a death scythe!" Grell cried.

Sebastian placed a hand to his chin.

"Ah, of course. If multiple death scythes exist, then the claim that one can cut anything is false."

"I thought all retirees' scythes were confiscated…" Ronald said, standing up.

Grell stood up as well.

"We'd been together for so long, I couldn't bear to part with it. Smuggling it out was hard work."

"But," Frances spoke, gaining everyone's attention, "you had it last year when William recruited you to help with the fallen angel."

He smirked at her.

"Indeed, I did. After William took it, I smuggled it back out again."

"Again?" Frances and Sebastian asked.

Undertaker ignored them this time. He turned back to Ronald and Grell.

"Well, shall I hunt you now? Like poor little rabbits (He slowly raised his death scythe.) in a warren?"

Frances let out a gasp at the sheer power that radiated from Undertaker. He brought down his scythe then moved towards Grell and Ronald at an incredible speed. Ronald and Grell moved quickly, but not quick enough. Undertaker brought the scythe down where they were previous at. The impact from the blast knocked them off their feet. The green light from his scythe blasted to the wall. Sebastian jumped over towards Ronald and Grell. Undertaker's head was tilted towards the ceiling. He looked like a beautiful avenging Death God. Frances couldn't help, but admire. Sebastian growled in her mind. She winced guiltily. Undertaker swung his scythe into a column, bringing down part of the balcony. The three beings moved out of the way. Frances grabbed onto the Young Master as the ship shook at the force. The tables and chairs began falling. Sebastian grabbed one and threw it at Undertaker who sliced it in half.

"It's no use. I can slice a table as easily as snapping a biscuit."

Sebastian had continued throwing one then three more in quick succession as Undertaker spoke. Undertaker sliced them all into huge bits. Sebastian slid behind him then to his right.

"I merely wanted to get in close."

He kicked Undertaker. Undertaker yet again, avoided it, using his death scythe to flip him into the air.

"You're a good strategist. In that case…"

Undertaker flipped backwards towards Frances and Ciel. Frances' eyes widened. She pushed Ciel down the stairs.

"Go!"

He let out a startled cry as he ran down the stairs. Undertaker gripped the front of her dress. The sharp blade of his death scythe looked much bigger as it loomed before her. But, she wasn't scared.

"… so shall I be."

Sebastian gasped. She could feel his utter fear for her. Undertaker twisted her around so she faced him.

"You always have to protect everyone, don't you, Fearless Frances?"

His thumb gently traced her cheek. She grabbed his wrist with both her hands.

"Why are you doing this, Undertaker?" She asked, calmly, trying to understanding, wanting to understand.

His gaze softened, just a touch, before hardening as he pulled her closer.

"It's just such a shame you can't protect everyone."

Her eyes widened. She turned her head as Undertaker started moving his arm at the same time a demonic growl sounded through the air as Sebastian shedded his human form to become a black smoke with fuchsia eyes.

"Sebastian! Don't!"

"I knew you'd come."

Frances and Undertaker spoke at the same time.

But, it was too late!

Undertaker released her. Sebastian's head slowly turned with widening, panicked eyes. He turned towards her. Their hands reaching out for each other. Frances' eyes widened as she saw Undertaker lift his death scythe.

"NOOOOO!" She screamed as Undertaker swung down his scythe.

It entered Sebastian's stomach.

Suddenly, her hands once again made that strange movement, that wind and grey light shot out of her hands in a wave that went completely around Sebastian and headed straight for Undertaker.

"I'm going to watch your Record." Undertaker said before he was thrown through the window.

But, it was too late. Sebastian's Cinematic Record burst from his abdomen.

"SEBASTIAN!" Frances and Ciel screamed.

*MALPHAS!* She cried in her mind.

It showed Frances walking into the parlor where Sebastian was cleaning.

"Sebastian?"

"Yes, Eloise?" He asked.

"Would you like some assistance? I've finished with my chores."

He looked at her with wide eyes.

"I was rather surprised she would offer assistance. She hadn't approached me unless I approached her first. She had been at the manor for a few weeks now. I suppose she was settling into her new routine."

He smiled a fake smile.

"Thank you, but I can manage."

She smiled brighter.

"I wasn't saying you couldn't. This room looks marvelous by the way. Keep up the amazing work. (His eyes widened.) Enjoy your solitude, Sebastian."

She walked out of the room, closing the door behind her.

"No one had ever thanked me, a demon, for doing amazing work. Despite not being able to feel it, I could see it in her eyes, that beautiful happiness that shone within. It was similar to the look she had when she basked in the weather, any weather."

The scene shifted. It was nighttime. The Young Master and Sebastian were departing for a case. Frances looked at the both of them sternly.

"Be careful. Be safe."

The Young Master raised an eyebrow at her. Sebastian stared at her.

"You needn't tell me such things."

"I'll tell you both anyway." She said, a smile upon her lips.

"At first, I was slightly insulted. A human telling a demon to be careful, but… I grew to like it for she meant it, deeply. The caring look in her eyes. Of course, that never changed, however…"

Suddenly, the scene changed. He was looking up the stairs that led to Frances' room. The sound of heavy breathing and sniffles were heard.

"How I longed to see what was the matter, however, she was not crying loud, ugly tears that would give me cause to see what was the matter. I had such a strange urge to gather her into my arms and tell her all would be well."

The following morning, Frances was smiling brightly at the butler. The demon butler's eyes were wide. She was making breakfast and tea. She turned from the eggs she was currently cooking.

"Good morning, Sebastian. Merry Christmas."

He blinked.

"I wanted to laugh at the statement. However, I was too stunned."

"What are you doing?"

She smiled.

"You deserve a break too, Sebastian so your Christmas present is having the day off. I already discussed it with the Young Master. I shall take care of your duties today."

"I could hardly believe what I had heard. Not only that, this plan was created without my knowledge. It was hard to gain a demon's attention and yet… this human grabbed mine and held on tightly."

It showed when he watched her sing, when she played the violin, when she helped him and the servants, when she would bask in the weather. Then it showed when she killed the man who threatened her and her siblings and when he killed her parents.

It stopped to show Sebastian serving tea to his Young Master whom was already dressed for the day. He took a sip of the tea. He lowered the cup to his saucer. He looked at his butler.

"Well? Did you get any information from them?"

"Regrettably, I did not."

"Hmph. Using their own child and they didn't know how she came about having powers."

Sebastian remained silent. The Young Master took another sip. As he lowered it, he spoke,

"I'll be allowing Frances to return to her siblings."

"The feeling that filled me was… a deep sadness couldn't describe it. I wanted her to stay. I wanted to make her stay and yet… I also wanted her to make the choice to stay."

"Are you sure that's wise, my lord? (The Young Master raised an eyebrow.) She does still owe us for healing her back to health." He reasoned.

"She has done more than enough to pay us back. And while I too want her to stay, I cannot force her to stay. She deserves to be with her family."

"I was… strangely irritated and… upset? It was such a strange emotion."

"Go and wake her. I wish to see her before breakfast. I shall be in my Office."

"Yes, my lord."

He went to her room and watched her jolt up with a loud gasp. She turned to him. The look of utter disbelief and relief that was on her face was overwhelming.

"They're gone?" She asked, disbelief and relief evident in her voice.

He nodded. She turned away.

"They're gone."

After a second, the disbelief and relief melted into relief, happiness, and peace. Then a look of confusion crossed her face. Her head snapped towards him faster than any human he had ever seen. And for a split second, he was… concerned she might have snapped it.

"But, I was going to…"

She shot out of bed and the next thing I knew, her small arms were around me. I did not realize just how… small she was. Her beautiful tear-filled brown eyes looked at him, a beautiful giant smile on her lips. Much wider than he had ever seen.

"Thank you! I know it was an order, but thank you! Thank you so much for ending our nightmare!"

"Her quiet, tear-filled thank yous filled my ears and… my heart. No one… No one had ever thanked me. My heart squeezed painfully when she said she knew it was an order."

He wrapped his arms around her, unwilling to let her go. After a few minutes, she calmed down and released him from the hug. He reluctantly released her as well. He felt cold when she moved away. She looked down, wiping her tears away.

"I'm sorry. I forgot you don't like hugs…"

His eyes widened.

"She paid that much attention? It should not have surprised me, but it did. And I did not mind that she hugged me. I told her as much."

He tilted her head up so she would look at him.

"I actually don't mind them."

Seeing her eyes widened and hearing her heart skip a beat, made him smile. Suddenly, a frown formed on his lips. He felt the urge to correct her.

"It was more than an order, Frances."

Her eyes widened again in surprise. However, he had to let her know the Young Master wanted to speak with her. That same feeling came back. That indescribable sadness. It caused him to look back at her with such… longing.

The scene changed to when she and the Young Master discussed her going back.

"I am releasing you from your gratitude." The Young Master said.

Frances looked up at him in shock. He had to keep a calm exterior, which was much more difficult than he had to do in the past.

"Ciel." She said, softly.

"You have done more than enough to repay your gratitude to Sebastian and I. You picked up extra chores, helped the other servants, made your potions and oils for both Tanaka and myself before you left. (He watched her eyes widened then return to normal.), and protected me several times. (The Young Master paused a moment.) You should be with your siblings. They need you now more than ever."

Frances stared at him in shock for a few minutes. She looked down. It was the longest silence that he had ever had to deal with. His heart fluttered when she finally smiled softly. His body filled with… hope?

"Ciel, I appreciate your release of my gratitude, but if you would still have me, I'd like to continue working for you, as your servant, bodyguard, whatever you need, when you need it. All I request is two weeks to see my siblings, please."

"The relief I felt when I heard those words! I could not help the smile upon my face."

It showed when he wandered the mansion, looking at his hand.

"Is this what humans call… love? I miss her… No, I LONG for her to return. The days seem to go by extremely slowly without her here with me. Frances…"

The scene changed to their field where the moon shone brightly. Her shy eyes met his with that bright smile. A nervous breath blew out of her.

"Since coming here, you have made me feel safe, strong and… happy. You challenge me, know when to push me, and you know when I need to be left alone. You've enhanced my powers even further than I thought possible. You taught me how to fight, fence, and how to play the violin. You allow me to play the music inside of me… When I left, there were tingles that I felt the entire time I was gone and once I came back and you touched me, it was gone, but the happiness I felt once I was near you… even while standing here with you… Whenever I am near you, I feel this overwhelming feeling of safety and happiness and… warmth… and I hear this song insistently, demanding that I sing it to you as it is now. I would like you to hear it, if you'd like?"

He nodded, eager to hear her beautiful voice. Happiness coursing through him as she told him she was as enamored with him as he was with her, since the first day he met her.

Frances: Your~~~ eyes see but my sha~~~dow~~~~. (His eyes widened at the pure beautiful, haunting tone. He inhaled a sharp breath.). My~~~~ hear~~t is over~~~~flowing~~~, there's~~ so much you could come~~~ to know~~~. You're~~~ content not know~~~ing~~~. Tenderly~~~, you will see~~~ my~~~~ soul~~~~~~~~~~!*

His breath caught.

"The song was strange, yet… hauntingly beautiful. It reminded me of my own song in a sense. Her eyes held… love."

"I don't know anything about love except for friends' love and siblings' love, but I'd like to think this feel inside me is love… I know you're a demon who doesn't love, but as I knew my parents were coming, I had to tell you, my feelings for you. I know I told you, you are my greatest friend, which, you are, but I want to be more than friends. I-I'm falling in love with you Sebastian. I didn't tell you this before I left because I was going to go back quietly with my parents, but I realized that I couldn't leave this place. I couldn't leave you."

"Her words shocked me, causing me to tremble. The warmth I felt inside of me, overwhelmed me completely! I felt the urge to kiss her! Her admission of feelings for me, she does trust me! I felt the overwhelming feeling of happiness inside of me, fill me completely!"

Her eyes did not stray away from my eyes as a normal human's would. A wide smile spread upon my face.

"Such a strong human. Knowing what I am and not showing or feeling an ounce of fear. You fought against me rather well and showed impressive restraint on not using your powers against me (His smile widened.). Your manners and politeness far surpass any humans I have encountered. You hid your parents, siblings, and your real name from me without slipping once, even when you had your small emotional reaction. Your protective instincts and mindset are vastly incredible and the fact that you would willingly put yourself in harm's way… (He shook his head in disbelief.) In all my years, I have never met a human who is so willing to put themselves in harm's way to protect the people they love. (He caressed her cheek, causing her to smile even more.) It is true, I am a demon who has no idea on the concept of love nor have I ever been interested in knowing about it… until I met you. I too have felt feelings… feelings I have never felt before. You've challenged me, a demon! I never thought a mere human would be able to challenge me in such a way. You impress me, Frances. You have created these… feelings inside of me that I can't explain… (He rubbed his thumb across her cheek.) You make me feel calm every time you smile, just being around you makes me feel… warm inside. I too felt tingles in my hand when you were gone and when I thought of you… they would increase. You bring me… an immense feeling of happiness, Frances. I don't understand these feelings myself, but I know that I desire you, I long for you."

"Sebastian." She whispered, breathlessly.

He smiled at her. He leaned down and kissed her. He felt her hesitate in surprise before returning the kiss. Her small arms wrapped around his neck as his arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her close. That song she was singing entered his mind, echoing loudly and swirling within him adding to the flutter of his heart.

"I shall make her mine forever."

"Sebastian!" She called out, worriedly.

His eyes quickly focused, becoming fuchsia with thin slits. Their arms reached for one another. He grabbed her and tucked her into his body protectively. They landed harshly on the ground. They rolled over a few times before he came to a stop.

Undertaker, who had emerged from the window he was thrown through, watched the entire Record that was shown calmly. He jumped from the stairs to land on the ballroom floor.

"Leave it to the star butler. I was certain you'd protect Fearless Frances for me."

Frances quickly lifted her head. Her heart stopped for a moment, not feeling him.

"Sebastian."

*Malphas.*

She said and thought, looking over his bloodied face. She gave a sigh of relief when she felt his soul shift, her eyes closing and head bowed. She lifted her head up, determination in her eyes. She moved her hands to the gaping wound on his stomach when she felt his death grip on her right wrist.

*Don't, my darling.*

Her head snapped up to see his red eyes narrowed in anger, but she knew it wasn't towards her.

*You're hurt.* She sent him, eyes full of worry.

The demon softened his gaze. He gently took her hand in his. He brought it to his lips and nuzzled it. He looked back at her.

*You'll lose all your energy, my darling.*

His eyes glanced at the retired Grim Reaper. She turned. She gave a vicious glare at Undertaker. The anger made nearly everyone shiver except for who the glare was for. Undertaker merely stared calmly at her. She heard Sebastian spit out his blood, feeling his anger as he too glared at Undertaker.

"Your Record was quite entertaining." Undertaker commented walking towards them with his eyes on Sebastian. He stopped just a few steps away from them, "To think vermin like yourself would don on a uniform and play butler to an Earl then somehow gain feelings for her. Though (His gaze slid to hers.), it isn't hard to have feelings for her."

Frances' eyes widened.

*What does that mean?*

"Undertaker…" Frances started.

"Still, you have changed her. And while she is mostly the same, you have brought her pain. So, I believe I'll remove you."

Undertaker lifted his death scythe. Frances moved her body and stood protectively in front of him.

"I WON'T LET YOU!" She snarled viciously and demonically, her eyes a swirling fuchsia with purple.

Everyone looked at her with wide eyes, even Undertaker. Suddenly, the ship started tilting even more. The Young Master let out a startled cry.

*Malphas, get Ciel.* Frances sent him.

"Uh oh!" Ronald exclaimed.

"Oh, dear." Undertaker spoke calmly.

Sebastian obeyed the command. He lifted her into one of his arms, pushed off the floor then appeared next to the Young Master who started to fall. As he did so, Frances moved to his back. He gathered him into his arms. He moved again, grabbing onto the railing opposite Ryan. Sebastian gripped onto the railing as the ship tilted further up. Frances saw Grell and Ronald jump up to the balcony and Undertaker jumped on the other side. Ryan held onto the railing as long as he could, but let go, unable to keep his grip. Frances turned her head away as the Young Master called out,

"Stoker!"

He landed with a thud.

"Ryan Stoker. Born August 24, 1854; died in a fall April 20, 1889. No notes of interest." Grell spoke to their left. They turned to see him calmly bracing against the column, "Frances, Bassy, as you can see, we really are out of time. (Undertaker moved to the debris that Ryan fell into.) Sorry, but I'm taking him. You lie there and watch!"

Sebastian gritted his teeth. He let go of the railing.

"I wo—"

He ducked as Ronald came flying in on his death scythe. He went to the column opposite him.

"Senior Sutcliff! You take care of that one. I'll get rid of the hybrid and this one while he's weakened."

Sebastian began to cough. Frances ran her hand up and down his back, using a little healing power to help him. The Young Master scoffed.

"I can't have you underestimating my butler (Sebastian and Frances looked at the Young Master.). You call this "weakened"? That joke is hardly laughable. Am I right, Sebastian?"

"Quite, my lord."

He began coughing again.

*Frances.*

*I've got him.*

She climbed down quickly and took the Young Master into her arms.

"Now I feel like I'm just bullying the weak— (He opened his eyes too late. Sebastian was there with a fierce punch to Ronald's face.) Eh?"

He moved in front of him and kicked him across the way. Ronald moved towards the debris.

"Young Master." Frances said.

He nodded, understandingly. He climbed on her back. Frances turned her attention to Undertaker and Grell as they too used the ballroom as a battlefield. The two separate fights continued, narrowly avoiding each other as Frances carefully moved to where Grell and Undertaker were fighting. She watched as they clashed one more time before landing on the last column just as their death scythes crossed.

"You're dragging a human life behind you as well."

That comment pulled a question to Frances' mind. A gasp escaped her lips at the realization.

Grell pushed him off his death scythe. Undertaker leapt from one column to another column. Frances glared. She placed a hand in her dress pocket. She summoned daggers to her hand. She threw them at Undertaker, two at a time. Undertaker dropped down to the debris. Her daggers embedded into the column. She saw Sebastian give Ronald another kick, sending him towards them.

*Sebastian, take Ciel!*

He grabbed the boy as he passed by. Frances summoned a piece of rope. She quickly tied it around the column. She carefully yet quickly slid down it.

"Isn't your time almost up?"

Grell ran forward.

"I'm no Cinderella— I can't just leave a hottie behind and go home!"

Sebastian threw Ronald at Grell with such force, it formed a dust cloud when they landed in the debris. Undertaker jumped back. Frances landed right behind Undertaker. She swung her leg out. Undertaker used his scythe to flip over her. Undertaker grabbed her left wrist, pulling her arm back. A familiar feeling of this happening before caused another throb in her head. Suddenly, her back was to his front as he stepped closer. She looked up at him. She could see him smirking at her. And that was when she realized something incredibly important. She's known Undertaker for a long time. She had visited him once a week back then and never until now did she realize: she had never been able to sense his emotions. Even now, she was unable to.

"Undertaker please, tell me, who are you trying to bring back?"

Undertaker gave her a soft smile. His left hand released her wrist, however, she stayed still. He placed his pointer fingernail on her cheek, gliding down it.

"I told you, you are a brilliant human. You'll figure it out, Frances." He said, simply.

Suddenly, she was thrown. A gasp escaped her lips. Sebastian caught her. She looked up into his glowing red thin slitted eyes.

"Sebastian."

He nodded at her with a small smile. He looked up and glared at Undertaker.

"Now, all that's left…"

Suddenly, there was a loud rumble above them. Everyone looked at the doom glass ceiling above them. The ship jerked yet again. The Young Master stumbled.

"Young Master!" Frances and Sebastian called out.

They both reached out to steady the boy. The glass doom above them started to crack then shattered. The ship continued to sink down. Frances gripped onto Sebastian and the Young Master.

"The time has come for us to part." Undertaker spoke. They all looked at him, "I've had a good time, though."

Sebastian grabbed Frances and threw her on his back, grabbed the Young Master, then jumped towards Undertaker. Grell followed suit. The two of them hit Undertaker which he blocked with his death scythe when his golden lockets fell from him. Frances watched as the look of shock appeared on his face as he reached for them. Ciel grabbed them as they fell towards him. One of the lockets brushing against her. Sebastian landed in the water behind where it was rushing in, but to her right. He quickly stood and turned around. Frances saw Grell land a little further away. Undertaker smiled. He straightened, holding his death scythe to his left.

"My lord, I'll let you hold on to that for a while. Take good care of it, won't you? It's my treasure."

"Wait, Undertaker!" The Young Master cried out.

Undertaker turned away from them.

"Until we meet again, Fearless Frances, my lord."

"Undertaker, don't!" Frances pleaded.

It was way too late. Undertaker already swung his glowing green death scythe. As Sebastian leapt up from the falling ship, Frances attempted to look back for Grell and Ronald. But, she couldn't see them. She hoped they made it out of there. He began running faster than before. Frances buried her face into his neck. The screams, cries of horror, disbelief, fear, and the fact she did not feel called to save anyone, pierced through her soul. Sebastian gently leaned his neck closer to her. A short second later, she felt him reach out and grab something. He came to a stop. He quickly knelt down. She got off as he set the Young Master down as well. They were on the nose of the ship, she realized. She watched as Sebastian placed a lifesaving buoy over Ciel until it was around his waist, urgently.

"Take a deep breath." Sebastian instructed, lifting the buoy and boy up into the air.

"Eh? What—"

"Forgive me, my lord, but needs must!"

He threw the boy as far as he could. Frances' eyes widened.

"Sebastian!" She scolded.

He turned to her, placing his hands on her shoulders. Seriousness radiating off him.

"Please look after him."

Her gaze softened.

"I always do."

He kissed her lips quickly. He picked her up by the waist.

"Thank you, my darling."

He threw her in the same general direction as Ciel. She landed in the freezing water. A shiver coursed through her. She may be a half demon and even enjoy the different weather, however, it didn't make her less susceptible to them. She looked around for Ciel. She found him after a second. She was only about a foot away from him. His breathing was rather shaky. She could feel the shock to his body. She gasped as she watched him slip from the buoy. She took a deep breath. She swam after him. She caught the boy. She attempted to swim up, however, her muscles weren't working. The frigid water attacked her skin like tiny knives, the fact that she single-handedly killed off more than one hundred walking corpses, she used that wind and light three times… Her energy was just too spent.

*Malphas.* She called.

*I'm here, Frances.*

She felt herself being lifted by the collar of her dress. Sebastian placed them into the boat.

"It took longer than expected to get this from the sinking ship. (Sebastian took off his tailcoat. Frances released the Young Master. He handed it to the Young Master who took it and slipped it on.) Please, wear this. I apologize that I'm unable to prepare you both a hot cup of tea."

Frances shook her head as she wrapped her arms around herself. They looked towards their left as they heard the screams and pleads of those in the ocean.

"There are still other people in…"

The Young Master broke off as they could hear the yells of those that found something to float on and others trying to take it.

"They'll swarm the boat if we try to help them." Sebastian said, quietly.

"I know." Frances whispered.

She turned away, pushing away their feelings. She summoned two blankets. She wrapped one around herself. She wrapped the other around Ciel who was still looking at the voices. He looked at her as she placed the blanket over him.

"Th-Thank you." He stuttered.

Frances nodded.

"You're welcome."

Suddenly, a head popped out of the water.

"Sebastian!"

"Behind you!"

Frances and the Young Master shouted. The undead woman lunged at Sebastian.

"Sebastian!" The Young Master shouted as the undead tried to drag Sebastian under the water.

Sebastian punched the woman off him.

"They can swim?" The Young Master asked.

"I imagine they didn't drown because they require no oxygen."

More heads popped up from the water. The three of them stared wide-eyed. There were still so many.

"This is…" The Young Master trailed off.

Six of the undead lunged at Sebastian! At the same time as other undead latched onto the side of the boat, tilting it slightly. Frances stood and pulled her sword from her sheath, the blanket falling from her shoulders and sliced the three that were on her side then stabbed the one closest to the Young Master as he ordered,

"Come up here, Sebastian!"

Sebastian jumped on the other side of the boat. Frances could feel his pain. She saw him grab the oar and hit the other three, making them release the boat. The two stood on either side of the Young Master, watching the undead creep closer as they released their growls. Frances glared all around them. Undead creatures were surrounding their boat.

"Damn. How many of them are there?"

"I'm afraid I don't know. They're likely to keep seeking souls until their bodies give out. We must be the only living creatures in the area."

"We can't run then, or Lizzie and the others will be targets. We mustn't endanger the survivors."

"Fortunately or unfortunately, it would seem they only notice the souls nearest them."

"We'll stop them here. I trust you can do that?" The Young Master asked, looking at Sebastian as he stood up.

Frances straightened and tightened her grip on her sword.

"I will help."

The Young Master and Sebastian looked at her. Sebastian with calculating eyes, the Young Master with a wide-eye. He turned to Sebastian who looked at him.

"You can handle them by yourself, can't you?"

"Of course he can." Frances said. The two of them looked at her, "But, I'm not letting him fight these creatures alone when I can help as well."

Ciel looked at her with much shock. Sebastian let out a loud warble/purr, his eyes filled with admiration. He looked at the Young Master with a smirk.

"No need to ask questions of servants. Give us your order, my lord."

The Young Master looked at him then back at her then back at Sebastian again. His facial features became determined. He gave a sharp nod. His hand reached up and untied the eyepatch. It fell into the boat as he revealed his mark.

"This is an order, Sebastian, Frances. Exterminate them!"

The corpses lunged for them. Sebastian and Frances' eyes turned fuchsia with cat eye slits.

"Yes, my lord." They answered at the same time.

The two of them attacked at a deadly speed. Frances took care of those on the right side using her sword or her clawed hand or sharp heeled foot, her fangs on display. Sebastian used the oar as his weapon on those to the left. His fangs poked out as he grinned menacingly.

"This will rock the boat a bit. Please hold on tightly."

They sliced and kicked and flipped some of the bodies over their shoulders. The two of them had gritted teeth as they beheaded the undead beings. She beheaded another one as she kicked a female undead down then thrusted her heeled foot through her throat. She didn't allow them to swarm her, however, Sebastian did. Three of them grabbed his head as five others grabbed his body. Frances thrusted her sword through another undead.

*Fascinating.* She heard Sebastian send her.

She glanced over at him to see him swipe the oar in a deadly force cutting off three heads at once.

*Even after death, humans trample others to get what they want. (He paused a moment.) Truly greedy creatures.*

Frances sent him a smug smirk. She would never deny a true statement.

They continued fighting. Finally, as the sky barely began to turn a lighter shade of dark blue, all the undead that had surrounded them were disposed of. All became still and quiet save for the labored breathing of Sebastian and Frances. The two of them reverting back to their human forms, blood all over them. Frances collapsed, falling forward onto her hands and knees. Her sword dropped with a loud clatter.

"F-Frances!" Sebastian stuttered.

"Frances!" Ciel called out at the same time.

Sebastian staggered over to her, a hand on his chest as he wheezed and shook in pain. He dropped the oar on his way to her. Frances had blacked out for a second. She woke up as Sebastian fell beside her, coughing and trembling in pain. She lifted her head, wincing slightly.

"S-Sebastian." She stuttered.

"Sebastian!" Ciel cried out at the same time.

"Death scythes do a number even on me…" Sebastian explained in a pain filled voice.

Frances lifted herself to her knees, pushing through her exhaustion. She placed her hands on his shoulder and lower back, guiding him to sit down. He did so. She sat down beside him. He wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close. The Young Master looked at Undertaker's treasure.

"What could Undertaker be after?" The Young Master asked.

Frances and Sebastian looked up at him. Frances' eyes filled with tears. Sebastian looked at her stunned.

"He's-He's trying to bring someone back." She said, softly.

The Young Master looked at her.

"What? What do you mean?"

"He's lost someone… he cares for… I don't know who, but… I'll figure it out."

The Young Master stared at her in surprise and concern. Sebastian frowned at her. He placed his lips against her ear.

"You need to rest. (His breath shook.) Do not think I didn't notice—"

"You do too." She interrupted, sharply, turning to look at his face sternly.

He looked at her in shock. Her gaze softened, regret filled her for snapping at him. Her hands tightened on his hip and shoulder.

"You're hurt… too."

He smiled softly at her. He pulled her into his lap, cuddling her close. The Young Master stared at them. Even bloodied and battered, he could see how deeply their feelings ran for one another. Sebastian released another harsh cough.

"I've never seen you like this before." The Young Master said, looking at Sebastian.

Sebastian gave a bow, moving his hand from Frances' hip to his chest.

"I am sorry. I'm a failure as a Phantomhive butler, letting you see me in such a pitiful state."

Frances glared at him. She took his hand into her. She pulled it to his lips and gave it a small bite. The butler and the Young Master looked at her with wide eyes.

*No, you are not! Even demons as magnificent as you can get to this state every once in a while. Stop being so prideful!*

He smirked at her. The Young Master turned his gaze away from them. Clearly, they were communicating mentally. He looked at the slowly brightening sky. Sebastian ran his thumb over her fingers. His nose nuzzled her cheek.

*Yes, my darling.*

"Sebastian, Frances (Both of them looked at him.), I can't have the Phantomhive butler and my friend in this state for long. (He looked at them.) Get some rest once we're back at the manor. You both did well today."

Frances and Sebastian smiled.

"Thank you, my lord."

"Thank you, Ciel."

They said at the same time.

The three of them sat in silence. The Young Master placed the blanket that Frances summoned for herself over her and Sebastian. She smiled and nodded her thanks. The Young Master looked away as he sat beside them. The air was still cold. Frances snuggled closer to her demon who tightened his hold on her slightly. Her eyes remained fixed on Sebastian's face to fight off her urge to sleep. The sky slowly became brighter as the sun made its appearance for the start of a new day. A new day indeed filled with lovely pinks and blues. Frances tilted her face towards the sun's warm embrace. Suddenly, a horn permeated the air. They turned to see a ship approaching the survivors.

"Our rescue is here." The Young Master said.

Sebastian moved Frances to sit beside him, wrapping the blanket around her. A cold breeze blew through them. It took another hour for the ship to approach them. The ship came to a stop. Sebastian assisted Frances in standing. The blanket falling off of her. She wobbled a moment due to a lack of energy and the boat's gentle rocking. Sebastian held her steady. They slowly and carefully made their way to the Young Master and helped him stand. His blanket too falling off his shoulders.

"Are you three all right?" A male voice shouted from above.

They looked up to see a sailor leaning over the side, his hands by his mouth.

"Are any of you hurt? Can you climb the ladder?"

"No fatal injuries, sir. We can climb the ladder." The Young Master shouted back.

"Excellent. Please wait until the ship comes to a stop before you climb."

"Yes, sir."

Once the ship did stop, they threw a rope ladder over the side. The Young Master began to climb, followed by Frances, then Sebastian. When Frances made it onto the deck, a blanket was wrapped around her shoulders.

"Thank you." She said, smiling at the salon.

He smiled gently, yet nervously.

"You're welcome, my lady."

Sebastian reached the deck as well. The man placed a blanket around his shoulders. The three of them spotted Snake, Lady Elizabeth, and Lord Edward. The Marchioness and Marquess behind them. Lady Elizabeth gasped. Tears gathered in her eyes. She ran towards him, her blanket falling off.

"Ciel!" She cried.

Ciel opened his arms for her, the blanket falling off his shoulders. He caught her, but then fell at the force of the hug.

"Ciel!"

Frances and Sebastian watched with slightly wide eyes.

"Ouch. Lizzie…"

"I'm so glad you're safe, Ciel! (She cried tears of relief.) Ciel!"

Frances slipped her hand into Sebastian's who gently squeezed it. She leaned her head against his shoulder. They both looked out at the horizon, gentle smiles upon their lips. Their hair billowed gently in the breeze.

*"Don Juan Triumphant" from the 1989 version of 'The Phantom of the Opera' belongs to Harriet Schock and Misha Segal