A/N: There is sexual content in this chapter. As usual there is a line where it starts and where it ends.
Chapter Fifty: Resting and Mourning
After a little while, Lizzie had cried herself to sleep. Edward and Sebastian stepped forward to pick her up.
"I got her, butler. I don't want any more blood on my sister." Edward stated.
Sebastian nodded.
"Very well."
Edward picked up his sister. Sebastian assisted the Young Master up. He wrapped the blanket around him. They made their way to the Marchioness and Marquess. Marchioness Midford looked them over with a critical eye while the Marquess looked rather impressed. Frances could feel the pride within both of them even if the Marchioness was hiding it from her features.
"Hm." Marchioness said, "You two look horrid. But, I suppose if you're fighting a horde of undead things… you did well."
Sebastian smirked. Frances smiled. They both bowed and curtsied.
"Thank you, my lady." They said at the same time.
They straightened.
"Excuse me, my lady." Frances said.
The two of them moved to the left near where the wall ended. Frances sat down on the floor in the warmth of the sun. Sebastian sat down beside her. She leaned into his side. He wrapped his arm around her waist.
The way home was long. There weren't any seats or beds to utilize and food was limited. No one complained though. After surviving an undead army, people had gained perspective. Frances smiled at their realizations that she could feel, even in her weakened state. She was still tired even three days later when they arrived home while it had only taken Sebastian a day to recover. The ship docked. Sebastian scooped Frances into his strong arms. She tilted her head at him.
"I can walk."
"You are still weakened, my darling." He whispered, lowly.
She sighed and snuggled into his chest, allowing him to carry her. The demon warbled/purred quietly.
*Good woman.* He murmured into her mind.
She snuggled deeper into his chest. Sebastian carried her through the ship behind the Young Master leading Lady Elizabeth, Snake, and the rest of the Midford family. Once they were on the dock, Scotland Yard was there to greet them. Specifically, Sir Randall and Edward.
"Lord Phantomhive, Lord and Lady Scotney, Lord and Lady Midford, may we get your statement of what happened?" Sir Randall asked.
"L-Lady Frances! Are you all right?!" Edward asked, concerned.
"Yes, I'm all right, just a little tired." She said.
"Lady Frances, allow us to get a medical staff member to look at you then we can get your statement as well." Randall said, gaze softening just a bit when he noticed her.
"That is not necessary, Sir Randall. (Randall and Edward looked at the Young Master.) She just needs a bit of rest. We will give our statements to the Queen." The Young Master stated, firmly.
"As will we." Marquess Midford said.
Frances could feel Randall holding back his aggravation. He cleared his throat.
"Very well."
He stepped aside to let them pass. They began to make their way through.
"Feel better soon, Lady Frances." Edward said as Sebastian walked past him,
"Thank you." She said.
They continued through the throngs of people that were separated from those being interviewed by the police and newspapers to those waiting for family and friends or to get on or off other ships. The Young Master came to a stop when they spotted the servants whom were clearly worried. He turned to Lizzie.
"I will see you soon. (He picked up her hand and placed a kiss upon it. Lizzie smiled brightly.) Take care, Lizzie."
"You as well, Ciel!" She exclaimed.
She hugged him tightly. Ciel returned the hug. Frances smiled as she watched the scene. Lizzie bounded to her. Sebastian placed her upon her feet. Lizzie smiled brightly at her. She took her hands into hers, squeezing them gently.
"I hope you feel better soon, Frances."
"Thank you, Lizzie. I'm glad you are all right."
They pulled one another into a hug, Lizzie giving her a very gentle hug.
"Keep being your beautiful, strong, cute, amazing true self, Lizzie."
Lizzie let out a quiet gasp. Her hug tightened slightly.
"Thank you, Frances. (She pulled away with a bright smile.) I'll visit you soon to see how you're feeling."
Frances smiled at her.
"I'd like that."
Lizzie gave her one last smile. She made her way back to her family who were watching the exchange. She inclined her head to the family.
"Marquess, Marchioness, my Lord."
"Lady Frances." The three of them said.
"Feel better. I'd like to spar again with you." Marchioness said.
Frances smiled wider.
"I'd like that as well, my lady."
Marchioness smiled. They watched them walk away.
"Goodbye, Paula." She farewelled the maid as she walked past.
"Goodbye, Lady Frances."
Sebastian picked her up yet again. They made their way to the servants, who's faces morphed from worry to shock. They crowded around Sebastian and Frances.
"We read what happened. Are you four all right?!" Baldroy asked, worriedly.
"Sebastian is carrying Frances!" Finny cried.
"You don't look so well, no!" Mey-rin shouted.
"I'm fine, everyone." Frances said, smiling, though they knew her well enough to see she was not all right.
They continued to stare at her worriedly.
"She just needs a few days rest and she'll be back to her old self." Sebastian stated, "That said, please do not disturb her. I am asking nicely."
He exuded some of his darkness. Frances curled closer to him.
"Yes, sir!" The three saluted.
Tanaka popped into his taller form.
"Ho, ho, let us return to the manor swiftly then, so Lady Frances can get her rest."
"Thank you, Tanaka." Frances said, softly.
He nodded. He began to led the way to the carriages.
*My protective demon.* She sent Sebastian as his darkness remained.
The demon mentally smirked at her. Sebastian walked past the servants to follow Tanaka. They arrived at the two carriages— one for the servants, the second for the Young Master, Lady Frances, and Sebastian. Tanaka opened the door for him. Sebastian placed her into the carriage as Snake climbed into the driver's seat. The servants were climbing into their carriage. After Sebastian placed her in, he exited to assist the Young Master into the carriage before climbing in himself. Tanaka closed their door. He climbed into the servants' carriage driver seat. They took off to the manor.
Once there, Sebastian whisked her away to her room. His darkness spread all over her and caressed her and made its way throughout the room. She let out a come-hither whimper as she cuddled closer to the changing demon, her arms wrapped around his neck as she buried her head into his chest. He made his way to the bathroom. Her eyes closed as her breathing evened out and she succumbed to sleep. The demon nuzzled against her cheek.
"Precious, strong, vulnerable mate."
He entered the bathroom. As he filled the tub with warm water, he carefully stripped her. Once the tub was filled, he carefully lowered her into the tub. She remained asleep as he washed her body then hair. Once she was properly bathed, Sebastian dried her off then placed her undergarments and a black nightgown upon her. He laid her on her bed. He covered her with the blankets and comforter. He moved a strand of her wet brown hair out of her face. She leaned into his touch. Sebastian smiled. He placed a tender kiss upon her head. She let out a contented sigh.
"Malphas."
Malphas warbled in pleasure. His darkness stroked her body. She shuddered with a slight whimper as his darkness left behind his black feathers.
"Rest, my precious mate." He murmured against her forehead.
He pulled away. He walked to the door, transforming back to his human form. With one last look at his mate, he left.
Two hours later, Frances awoke. She groaned softly as she stretched her tired body out. She relaxed. She looked around to see she was in her room. She carefully and slowly sat up. Her body was still tired, but her mind was still sharp. She couldn't help, but think over the entire undead rising. She summoned Undertaker's treasure to her hand. A wave of tiredness flowed through her, but she ignored it. She looked through each of the lockets. The first locket had the date 18 June 1848, pretty golden flowers lined the edge of the locket with a smaller ring of golden dots in the middle, and at the bottom the name Emile C. in beautiful golden cursive. She looked closer and lightly touched it. It was golden hair made into flowers.
*He truly is talented.*
She looked at the next locket. The date at the top was 13 Nov 1840, two pieces of white hair was curled at the top with a thin strand connecting them, the name at the bottom was Oliver A.. The third locket had the date 20 April 1854, a piece of red hair sort of swirl with three curls on the other side of the swirl, and the name Alex B.. The fourth one's date was 13 July 1866, a blue-gray hair in a figure eight pattern with a ring around where the eight connected, a flower on both sides, Cloudia P. as the name. The fifth locket had the date 10 Dec 1837, a pale brown pot full of the same pale brown flowers in the center of the locket, the name Molly G. at the bottom. The sixth locket's date read 1 Mar 1862, a light gray cross with an array of flowers on the edge of the locket, Gilbert D. at the bottom. The seventh and last locket's date read 7 Oct 1851, two pieces of dark grey hair curled at the edges, dark gray pieces of hair sat in the middle with a dark gray stalk of leaves along the edge of the locket with the end of the stalks crossing at the bottom, the name Henry E.. She went back to Cloudia P.. Her thumb lightly traced it.
*Cloudia P.. What is the last name? Could it possibly be Phantomhive?*
She was about to summon all the files regarding the Phantomhive family when the lockets were snatched out of her hands. She looked up to see a displeased Sebastian.
"You should be resting, Frances."
She looked away guiltily.
"I know."
There was silence for a few minutes. Sebastian sighed. His darkness swirled throughout the room. He transformed into his true form. Malphas gathered his mate into his strong arms. She wrapped her own around his neck, burying her face into his neck. Malphas began to hum their song softly into her ear. Her mind, body, and soul relaxed instantly as his wings wrapped around her protectively. She felt his lips at her head, kissing her tenderly. She sighed, her breath brushing against the demon's neck. Malphas curled protectively around her. The song came to an end. His head tilted back to her ear.
"I know you want to find answers, my darling, but you need to rest. You are still weakened. I will search for answers in between my duties."
She frowned.
"I—"
He softly bit her ear. She shuddered and curled closer to him.
"You must rest. You can help once you are back to proper health. (He pulled back to look her in the eyes.) I can handle looking through tons of paperwork. After all, I have searched your long family timeline. Besides, what kind of mate would I be if I couldn't handle such a simple task as that?"
She smiled. She nuzzled his nose, pressing her lips against his. He returned the kiss. Their flames, darkness, and souls danced. Their song began again. They pulled away after a minute. They leaned their foreheads against one another.
"Thank you." She whispered.
"You're welcome, my Frances."
Her eyes fluttered close, her breath evened out, succumbing to sleep. He hummed the remainder of their song that started as they kissed as he curled even more around her, his legs actually going around her. She cuddled closer to him. Her face went closer to his face, her nose nuzzled his nose. Once the song was finished, he gently kissed her ear where he bit her. He ran his clawed hand through her hair as the other wrapped around her back, holding her closer to him.
A frown formed on his lips. He knew she was worried. He could see it, feel it, taste it on his tongue. Undertaker was her first friend here. She visited him many times and he betrayed her as well as the Young Master. His eyes flashed fuchsia and orange. What did Undertaker mean that she made it easy to fall for her? Did he love her also? No. Not in that way at least or else he would have already told her. Frances shifted slightly. His eyes calmed from orange to their regular fuchsia. He needed to be calm. For her sake. He knew his pain added to hers. He kissed her forehead lovingly.
"I will protect you, my precious Frances."
The following day, Frances awoke with the feeling that several people were coming over. She stretched her body out. Malphas' arms tightened around her. She relaxed into him, snuggling deeper into his chest. She was feeling better, not completely better, but better. She had woken up last night around dinner time. Sebastian entered her room with a bowl of chicken soup filled with lots of vegetables, a slice of bread, and water to wash it all down. When she finished, he continued to sit beside her until she fell back asleep. She felt Malphas' gentle yet warm kiss upon her head as she placed a gentle kiss upon his chest. She lifted her head, sensing her do this, Malphas moved his head up. They met one another's eyes.
"Good morning, Malphas." She greeted, cupping his cheeks.
He turned his head and kissed her palm. He turned back to look at her and feel her hands on his cheeks once more.
"Good morning, Frances. How are you feeling?" He asked her, his hands cupping her cheeks.
She leaned into his touch. A quiet hum escaped her lips.
"All right." She said, softly.
Malphas looked her over, a small frown formed on his lips. She couldn't feel his emotions. She realized she hadn't been able to for a few days unless it was his love.
"How are you?" She asked.
"All right." He murmured.
She leaned up and gently pressed her lips to his. He returned the kiss gently. Their flames, darkness, and souls soared. Their song echoed through the air. She pulled away after a short while. She leaned her forehead against his.
"I'll be back to normal soon, Malphas." She said, sending him reassurance.
He smiled softly.
"I know, my darling. You… make me worry."
She smiled softly. Her hand moved to stroke the feathers under his left eye. He warbled quietly. She nuzzled his nose. She looked up at him through her lashes.
"I'm here, Malphas. You're not going to lose me that easily. After all (She smirked.), how can I be a member of Phantomhive, if I can't survive through an army of undead?"
The demon chuckled. He nuzzled her nose. His eyes a swirling fuchsia and orange.
"Such a strong creature."
He embraced her lips. She kissed him back. Their song continued as their flames, darkness, and souls intertwined. Alois and Soma's worry and the feeling that Alois was nearly here caused the demon to sigh into her mouth. She smiled. She pressed her lips to his lightly. She pulled away after a second.
"He's just concerned. They both are, that's all."
He hummed in response.
"Breakfast." He stated.
He carefully pulled her up with him. He pulled away from her, his hands sliding off her body as he got out of bed. He tucked the blankets around her. He walked over to the trolley that was by the door. He pushed it over to her. He removed the table tray, placing it over her. He lifted the silver lid revealing the delicious food of French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and a slice of freshly baked bread. A cup of orange juice on the corner of the tray. She gave a hum of delight at the sight and smell.
"Today's breakfast is French toast with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and a slice of bread. For your drink, it is freshly squeezed orange juice."
"Thank you, Malphas."
She ate her food as Malphas sat beside her with his arms wrapped around her waist and head leaning against her shoulder as he did whenever she ate in her room.
Once she was finished eating, he stood. He leaned over her and laid her down. He nuzzled her nose.
"Rest, my darling. I will only allow Alois and Prince Soma here for thirty minutes unless they can behave themselves." He said, sternly looking into her eyes.
She smiled and nodded.
"Yes, Malphas."
He smiled.
"Good woman."
He kissed her lips again. She kissed him back. Their flames stroking one another. He slowly pulled away. He transformed into his human form. He gathered her tray and placed it on the trolley. He rolled the trolley to the door. He gave her one last look before he exited out the door.
Twenty minutes later, she heard the front door being knocked on. Two seconds later, it was opened. Another two seconds, her door was slammed open.
"Frances!" Alois shouted.
She held back a wince.
"Lord Trancy." Sebastian said, lowly.
The two of them looked to see Sebastian, Claude, and the Young Master standing in the doorway.
"It's all right, Sebastian." She said.
Sebastian frowned as his eyes narrowed at Alois. Alois looked at her worriedly. She retuned her gaze to Alois. She smiled at him.
"Hello, Your Highness." She greeted.
He took her hand urgently. She could feel his overwhelming concern and clearly see it within his light blue eyes.
"What happened?! I read there was dead rising and the ship you were on sunk! Did you fight so many of them to the point of exhaustion?!"
"Alois." She called.
He squeezed her hand tighter, tears brimmed his eyes. Everyone's eyes widened.
"You're-You're gonna be okay though, right? You're-You're not gonna leave me alone! You-You can't!" He began to cry.
Sebastian and Claude's eyes returned to their stoic expression, Ciel's eye widened further, while Frances' eyes softened.
"Oh, Alois. (She leaned forward and wrapped her arms around him.) I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. I'll be fine in a few days. Shhh."
She began to hum his song softly as she ran her fingers through his hair. She could feel Claude's detest and slight jealousy of her and Sebastian and Ciel's pride. She turned to the three of them standing in the doorway and smiled softly with a nod. Sebastian nodded.
"Come, everyone. Let's leave them be for now." Sebastian prompted.
The three of them left, leaving her with Alois. She continued to run her hand through his hair as she hummed. He slowly calmed down. Once the song came to an end, she kissed his forehead. Alois slowly lifted himself up and wiped his eyes. She smiled softly at him. He looked around her room. He frowned.
"No books?"
"I've mainly been resting. We did just get back yesterday afternoon." She explained.
"Hmph. Claude." He called.
A few seconds later, a knock sounded. It opened, revealing Claude. He stepped inside and bowed with a hand on his chest. He straightened.
"You called, my lord?"
"Bring me 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'."
"Yes, Your Highness."
He turned and walked out the door. Alois sat beside her on the bed. Claude returned a few minutes later with the book. He handed the book to him. Alois thanked him then dismissed him. After Claude left the room, Alois moved closer so he sat near her head. He opened the book to the first page and began to read. He ran his hand through her hair. She smiled softly. Her eyes slowly closed then reopened, listening to his voice. She eventually went to sleep as he read to her.
Around eleven thirty, the front door slammed open. Thankfully, Frances was already awake or Sebastian would have punished the boy.
"Ciel, Fran—"
Prince Soma was cut off by a black blur and a hand over his mouth. His worry eyes changed to surprise then fear as he realized Sebastian was the one covering his mouth, his eyes were hard. Sebastian could feel his mate's surprise then sympathy followed by confusion then wonder.
"You must remain quiet. Frances is resting."
Prince Soma and Agni's eyes widened.
"Resting? Is she all right?" Agni asked, concern evident in his voice and face.
Sebastian turned to him, still keeping his hand over the Prince's mouth.
"She will be after a few days of rest." Sebastian answered.
"And Lord Ciel?" Agni inquired.
"I am fine." Ciel said, walking down the staircase.
"Ciel!" Prince Soma spoke through Sebastian's hand.
Sebastian looked back at the Prince.
"You will keep your voice down or you will not be allowed to see Frances."
Soma slowly nodded. Sebastian slowly removed his hand. Soma looked back at Ciel.
"W-We read about the dead rising on the ship the four of you were on. Is it true?"
The Young Master let out a sigh.
"Let us talk over lunch."
"We brought some." Prince Soma said, proudly. Agni held up a pot covered with a lid, "Just in case."
The Young Master nodded.
"Very well."
He gestured the two of them to follow him. They passed the threshold. Sebastian closed the door. He approached Agni.
"Allow me to take that, Agni."
"Thank you, Sebastian."
Agni allowed Sebastian to take the pot from him. He followed him to the kitchen while his Prince and Lord Ciel made their way to the dining room. Agni and Sebastian served the two teenagers. Sebastian also scooped some into a bowl and set it aside for Frances. Agni smiled warmly at the action. Sebastian and Agni took the items needed to serve lunch out to the teenagers on a trolley. They served the two of them. They took a few bites before the Young Master began.
"Yes. There was an army of undead that sunk the ship, about as many as there were people. Frances, Sebastian, Snake, Lizzie, and I as well as Lizzie's family took out many of them. Frances exhausted herself which is why she is resting."
Prince Soma and Agni's eyes widened.
"No one should mess with the dead." Agni whispered, horrified.
"No. No one should. Did you catch the culprit?" Soma asked in a serious tone that surprised everyone, including Frances.
"Yes." The Young Master lied.
Sebastian felt his mate's unease about lying to them though, she understood why. Prince Soma and Agni nodded.
"Good." Prince Soma said, "When we finish eating, I'll take care of Frances. Nurse her back to health."
"Very well." The Young Master said.
They were almost finished eating when the front door was knocked upon. Sebastian excused himself. He could feel his mate's happiness yet wariness. She could smell his soul as she was too weaken to block it out, but she did block out the hunger so Claude wouldn't suspect anything. He would bring her food soon. He opened the front door. Roses and bluebells were thrown in his face. A bright, cheerful Alois popped his head out of the left side of the vase.
"We're back, Sebastian!" He smiled.
Sebastian opened the door further to allow them through. Alois stepped through the doorway followed by Claude. He closed the door behind them. Prince Soma and Agni walked into the foyer. Prince Soma held a tray of food and a glass of water.
"Lord Trancy." Prince Soma greeted.
"Hello, Prince." Alois greeted, "Are you taking care of Frances too?"
"Yup! I am just about to bring her some vegetarian corn chowder soup."
"I shall join you."
The two of them made their way up the stairs.
Frances smiled as she heard the knock upon her door.
"Come in." She called.
The door opened revealing Alois, Prince Soma, and Agni who stood behind them. She smiled at them.
"Hello."
"Frances." Prince Soma said, softly.
She smiled as she felt his and Agni's concern.
"I promise, I'll be back to normal soon."
"Under our care, that's a promise." Soma said, proudly.
Her smile grew wider.
"I appreciate that. You all are too kind."
The three of them smiled. They entered the room. Agni closed the door behind them. Prince Soma and Alois approached her. Frances turned her gaze to the clear vase that held red roses and bluebells in Alois' hands. She gasped softly, sitting up even more.
"Alois., those are beautiful." She complimented.
He smiled, brightly.
"I'm glad you like them. I got them for you."
"Really?" She asked.
"Duh!" He said, placing the vase in her hands.
She accepted it. She brought it to her nose. She inhaled deeply, relaxing further at the mix of scents. A slight shiver ran through her as she also got a hint of other flower scents and Alois' sweet and sour soul. She hid the hunger for his soul, not allowing her stomach to growl again. She relaxed even further as she lightly touched the bluebell and rose petals at the same time. She drew it away from her face to look at her dresser that held the vase of roses and Corncockles. She looked at Alois.
"Alois."
He looked at her.
"Yes, Frances?"
"Can you place this on the right and move the center rose to the left of my dresser, please?"
He nodded.
"Of course."
He took the vase from her carefully. She watched him move to her dresser. As he did that, Soma placed the food directly in front of her, gaining her attention.
"Lunch is Agni's delicious vegetarian corn chowder soup with a glass of water."
She looked at them with a bright smile.
"Thank you."
Soma took the lid off. Frances inhaled deeply. She could smell all the spices within it.
"Mmm. Smells amazing."
She began to eat. She let out a hum of delight.
"It's delicious. Thank you."
Agni and Soma smiled. Agni bowed.
"You're welcome."
In her peripheral vision, she could see Alois moving her vase in the middle to the left. She smiled as he gently set it down.
"There Mother, how does that look?" He asked, looking at her.
She looked up at the dresser to see he had done it exactly as she had asked. She turned her smile to him.
"It looks amazing, Alois. Thank you."
"You're welcome."
He returned back to her side. Agni moved the chair she had in her room to be by her bedside for Soma. Soma sat down in it while Agni stood behind him. Alois sat down by her side again. He picked up the book again and began to read. Soon enough, she finished her lunch and drank the water. She leaned against the headboard, feeling full. Agni began clearing the tray. She smiled.
"Thank you, Agni." She mouthed.
He smiled and nodded. He made his way to the door. He exited out of it, closing it softly behind him. Forty-five minutes later, she fell back asleep again.
She awoke just an hour before dinner was ready. She looked around to see Soma still in his chair. A book of his own in his hands. Alois was curled beside her, his eyes closed, his hand running up and down her side. She carefully moved her arm. His eyes snapped open and shot up to hers with a soft gasp. Concern and love in them. Soma looked up from his book, watching the interaction. She smiled at Alois. She wrapped her arm around him, pulling him closer.
"I love you, Alois."
He nuzzled his face against her shoulder.
"I love you too, Mother."
Soma tackle hugged her.
"I love you too, Frances."
She laughed and hugged him back.
"I love you as well, Soma."
He smiled brightly. The two of them pulled away after a few minutes. She looked to her left to see the 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'. She released the two of them. She reached over to the book and picked it up. She began to pull it towards her when Alois placed his hand on the book. She stopped and looked at him.
"I'll read to you." He said.
She smiled, releasing the book.
"Very well."
He took it. He opened it to where he left off last. He read until Claude and Agni arrived with their dinner. Once the dishes were taken away, Alois read to her until she had fallen asleep.
She awoke in her dark being's arms. She yawned and stretched her body out. She relaxed against him, rubbing her face against his chest. The demon warbled/purred quietly as his arms tightened around her. She felt Alois, Prince Soma, Agni, and Claude were no longer in the mansion. Her eyebrows furrowed. His clawed hand ran through her hair again. He placed a kiss upon her head.
"The Young Master sent Alois and Prince Soma home as he is giving me the day off tomorrow."
She smiled. Her arms wrapped around him as she buried her head deeper into his chest purring.
"Mmm, so he kept his word about that. I'm glad."
He smirked. His other arm that was wrapped around her waist, his legs and wings tightened tighter around hr. He inhaled deeply, smelling her rose, peaches, and smokey scent. He warbled/purred louder.
"Indeed. (He paused a moment. He kissed her head.) Go back to sleep, my darling."
She lowered her hand to his chest. She used her pointer finger to draw random designs on it as his tendrils followed her finger. Her smile widened. She moved her hands to cup his cheeks. She tilted his head down as she lifted her head up. Her browns eyes met his beautiful fuchsia. She pulled him closer until their lips met. Their song echoed loudly through the air as their flames, darkness, and soul intertwined with one another. She could feel his love further break through his barrier. Her left hand trailed to the feathers over his eyebrow. He warbled loudly into her lips, tightening his hold on her. She swallowed it as she deepened the kiss, a wide smile upon her lips. She trailed her right hand down his cheek, his throat, to his chest, brushing over his heart, her mark. He gasped and shuddered. His tendrils flickered violently. She used that to stick her tongue into his mouth, tangling with his long demon tongue.
He let out a growl as he thrusted against her. She continued to lower her hand down his body further. She paused on his stomach, gently stroking where he was injured before reaching his private anatomy. He gasped as she brushed against it. She wrapped her hand around it as she released his lips with a loud gasp. He let out a long moan. He buried his head into her neck. He softly bit her flesh, his tongue gently licked her. Her hand moved from his eyebrow past his ear, running through his soft, silky hair to the feathers on his back. She ran her hand through the two again and again. After a few minutes, he started thrusting into her hand. Soon after, he went over the edge with a long moan. She cuddled closer to him, pressing her neck closer to his lips, feeling the vibrations as his tendrils caressed every inch of her. His body relaxed. She nuzzled his chest, placing a kiss upon it. Her hand stroked his stickiness. She summoned a cloth to her hand and was met with a slight wave of tiredness. She began to clean him. Malphas kissed the corner of her forehead.
"Precious mate."
He reached down and took the cloth away from her. He waved his hand and any residue was gone.
Malphas wrapped his arm back around her. His other hand lowered to her buttocks as he lifted her to be eye level with him. His nose nuzzled hers. She sighed happily.
"As much as I enjoyed that, you are still weakened, my darling."
She sighed again and nuzzled his nose softly.
"I love you, Malphas."
"I love you, Frances."
He lightly kissed her lips. She kissed him back. He pulled away after a moment. He settled her on his chest, his left hand gently ran through her hair as his right hand rested on her hip. Frances wrapped her right arm around him while her left rested on his chest. She was soon fast asleep once again.
She awoke the following morning to her beautiful demon gently stroking her back as his hand ran through her hair. She stretched her body out with a quiet groan. She relaxed into him and rubbed her face against his chest. A light sigh escaped her lips.
"My Malphas."
His lips kissed her head.
"My Frances. How are you feeling?"
"Better. Much better."
It was true. She did feel better. She wasn't completely better, but she did feel much better. She felt Malphas look her over. Her body shivered under the intense look. He let out a relieved sigh, pulling her closer and moved their bodies so he was on top of her. His nose skimmed her neck. She let out a come-hither gasp.
"Good, my precious mate."
Her hands cupped his cheeks, pulling his face to her, looking into his fuchsia eyes.
"My worried crow demon, I love you."
"I love you, my strong Frances."
Their lips connected in a soft yet deep kiss. Their song filled the air, their flames, darkness, and souls entwining with one another. Her hands caressed his cheeks as one of his ran up and down her side while the other cupped her cheek. They pulled away after a few seconds. Malphas looked deeply into her eyes. His nose nuzzled hers as his tongue darted out to lick her lips. A small giggle escaped her. He smirked at her. He moved her again. Now, she was on top of him. He reached out and grabbed the book Alois was reading to her. She smiled as she stared up at him, resting her chin on her arm that she set upon his chest, her other hand ran up and down his chest beside her head. His tendrils, wings, and his other hand continued stroking her. He began to read to her.
Two hours passed by when Malphas paused. He lowered the book and began to transform. She shivered as he did so. Once he finished, he moved her to his left then moved a respectable distance from her. She knew why, yet it still made her heart clench. His hand gently slid into hers and gave it a squeeze. She smiled at him. He smiled at her. A knock on the door gained their attention.
"Come in." She called.
Baldroy entered the room, rolling in a trolley. His eyes were downcast. They could feel his nervousness and embarrassment. Sebastian smirked in amusement.
"Baldroy, we are decent." Frances informed him.
His head shot up to look into her eyes. A blush filled his cheeks. He averted his gaze to the left, scratching the back of his head.
"I knew that." He muttered.
Both of them smirked. He cleared his throat. He stepped further into the room, rolling the trolley closer. He closed the door behind him. He walked to the edge of the bed. He placed a tray with a covered plate and a glass of orange juice over Frances. He reached down and grabbed another tray of food and glass of orange juice. He walked over to the other side where Sebastian was. He set the tray over him. Baldroy removed his lid.
"Today's breakfast is seasoned salmon with green salad and orange juice as your drink." He announced.
"Thank you, Baldo." The two of them said at the same time.
He nodded. He went around to Frances' side and took off her lid. He placed both lids on the trolley.
"Excuse me." He said, bowing.
He left the room, leaving the trolley with them as he went to do a few chores. Frances ate both their breakfast and drank both orange juices. Once she finished, Sebastian placed both their trays on the trolley. He returned to bed with her. She reached over him and grabbed the book. She flipped it open to where he left off and began to read aloud. Ten minutes passed when Baldroy returned. She quickly finished the sentence she was on when she felt him approaching. She finished right before he knocked upon the door.
"Come in." She called.
The door open. Baldroy came through the doorway. He entered the room.
"How are ya feeling, Frances?" He asked her.
She could sense Mey-rin, Finny, Snake, and Tanaka standing next to the door. She smiled.
"I am feeling much better. Thank you."
He nodded.
"Good. You certainly look a lot better than you did when you returned."
She smiled.
"Can you tell our friends and the Young Master that as well, please?"
He nodded.
"Of course."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome. Rest well."
They watched him roll the trolley out the doorway and into the hall. He closed the door behind him. Frances smiled as she felt her friends' relief. Once they had moved away from her room, she climbed into Sebastian's lap, sitting sideways so she could listen to his barely there heartbeat as she continued to read aloud. Sebastian wrapped his arms around her, leaning his head against her shoulder. About two hours later, she began to tire. She finished the last sentence of the story. She placed the book down by Sebastian's side. Sebastian scooped under her legs while the other remained around her back. Her arms wrapped around his neck. He laid the both of them down and turned them to his right. He moved her so she curled into his chest with one of his legs between hers and the other on top of her right leg. Her arms lowered to his chest as she snuggled against him. His arm wrapped around her back while the other ran through her hair. She ran one of her hands up and down his chest until she fell asleep.
She awoke about an hour and fifteen minutes later. She stretched her arms up to her demon's shoulders. She relaxed, sliding her hands down his chest, sliding her body down his chest until she got to his stomach. She moved his shirt. His body was perfectly chiseled. No wound, no scar in sight. She pressed a kiss to where Undertaker struck him. Sebastian's hands tightened in her hair and on her back. He could feel her concern. He smiled fondly at her. He pulled her so she was face to face with him.
"I'm all right, my precious mate."
"I know." She whispered with a small smile.
One hand moved to run through his hair while her other hand caressed his face. She began to hum his song softly. His fuchsia eyes made an appearance as his warble grew louder, his sharp fangs poked out from his mouth. His hand trailed from her back to her neck. She shivered, but her humming didn't falter. He trailed his hand from her neck to her cheek, gently caressing it. When she finished his song, she hummed her song. Sebastian kissed her forehead. After a few minutes, she finished her song.
"Mine." He whispered against her forehead.
She looked up at him through her lashes.
"Yes. I am yours as you are mine."
He smiled at her, caressing her cheek. After a few minutes, the two of them sighed reluctantly. He moved her beside him, though they kept their hands intwined. A knock sounded on the door. Frances called Baldroy in. Baldroy served their lunch. Before Baldroy left, Sebastian stopped him and requested him to bring 'Through the Looking Glass' when he returned. Baldroy agreed. He left. Frances ate both lunches. Baldroy returned, twenty minutes after she finished. He handed Sebastian the book. Sebastian took it and placed it on the side table. Baldroy took the trolley and made his way out of the room. Frances took the book from the side table. She once again made her way into Sebastian's lap, sitting sideways again to listen to his barely there heartbeat. An hour and fifty-four minutes into reading, Sebastian pulled a cord to summon the servants. Baldroy appeared five minutes later. Frances paused her reading when she felt him nearby. Sebastian moved her again. He knocked on the door. She gave him permission to enter. He did so. He bowed.
"You called?"
"Yes. Can you please bring me a glass of water?"
He nodded.
"Of course."
He turned and left the room, closing the door behind him. She leaned her head against the headboard. Several thoughts kept pushing themselves into her mind, regarding the events of the Campania, but she pushed them away. Sebastian gently ran his thumb across her knuckles. He leaned towards her forehead. He placed a gentle, soothing kiss as he sent his reassurance.
"We'll take care of it soon, my darling." He murmured against the side of her forehead.
"I know." She murmured back.
He hummed their song. She instantly relaxed, closing her eyes. When he finished, she looked at him with a smile. She ran her thumb over his palm and thumb.
"Thank you." She whispered, lovingly.
"You're welcome." He whispered just as softly.
A few seconds later, they felt Baldroy arriving. A few seconds passed when they heard his knock.
"Come in."
He opened the door. He crossed the room with a glass of water on a tray.
"Your drink, my Lady."
He held out the tray for her. She accepted the glass.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
She took a sip as he exited the room. She drank about half the glass. She placed it on the side. Sebastian pulled her into his lap again where she continued to read with breaks in which she drank the water and went to the bathroom once. She remained awake until dinner was ready. Both of their eyebrows furrowed when they didn't feel Baldroy coming to serve them, but the Young Master instead. He knocked on her door.
"Come in." She called.
The Young Master opened the door and rolled the trolley in. He looked at their confused expressions. He smirked at them.
"I decided to bring your dinner."
Frances smiled.
"That's sweet of you."
A blush tinted his cheeks. He cleared his throat. He began to roll the trolley closer. He carefully pulled the bottom tray out. He walked over to Frances' side. He placed the tray over her legs with a glass of water in the corner. She smiled at him.
"Thank you." She said.
He nodded.
"You're welcome."
He moved back to the tray on top of the trolley. He grabbed it carefully. He carefully walked over to Sebastian's side. He placed it over Sebastian's legs.
"Thank you." Sebastian said.
The Young Master smirked. He was about to walk away when Sebastian cleared his throat. The Young Master turned to him with a raised eyebrow. Sebastian gestured to his lid then Frances' lid. An embarrassed blush filled his cheeks. He took Sebastian's lid off first.
"Today's dinner is chicken noodle soup with two slices of bread and a glass of water." The Young Master announced.
Sebastian's smirk widened in amusement. Frances shook her head. The Young Master walked around to Frances' tray and pulled the lid off her plate.
"Thank you, Ciel."
He nodded. He placed the lids onto the trolley.
"I'll be back in half an hour."
He walked to her door and left them to eat in peace. Frances ate both dishes yet again, though she only ate three and a half of the bread. Sebastian ate the remainder of the bread. She once again leaned against the headboard in content until more thoughts of the events that happened on the Campania pushed themselves to the front of her mind. She pushed them back. She moved her tray then got out of bed, placing it on the bottom of the trolley. She made her way to Sebastian's side. She gathered his tray. She was about to move away from him when his hand gently caressed her cheek. She closed her eyes. She leaned into his touch. Tears filled her eyes as a song filled her soul. Sebastian moved the tray to the side as he gathered his mate into his arms. She buried her head into his chest as her arms wrapped around his neck. Tears began to roll down her cheeks. His arms tightened around her.
"So many lives have been lost. So many bodies and souls have been… desecrated. Undertaker… Grell, you, Ciel, Lizzie, Ronald, me, Undertaker…"
She clung tighter to him. Sebastian gently ran his hand up and down her back. She cried as she mourned all those lives lost and desecrated. Her tears and sobs slowed as she felt the Young Master's presence nearing her room. She sat up. She let out a sniffle. She reached up to wipe away her tears when Sebastian gently placed one over hers, pushing her hands down. She looked up to meet his red eyes filled with concern. He reached up with a gloved hand, placing it upon her right cheek. She leaned into his touch. He gently wiped the tears away. She looked into his eyes again.
"Malphas." She whispered.
"My Frances." He murmured.
The Young Master knocked on the door. Neither of them answered for a few minutes. They simply stared into one another's eyes as Sebastian continued to wipe her tears away. It took a few minutes, but they did stop falling from her eyes. They could feel his concern.
"Come in." Sebastian called.
The door opened, revealing the Young Master's concerned face. He looked at them. His eyes widened when he saw the tears in Frances' eyes. His concern spiked.
"Young Master." Sebastian spoke before the Young Master could question her. He looked at him, "Can you bring Frances' violin, please?"
He nodded.
"Yes, of course."
He took the tray that sat on the bed. He placed it on the trolley. He rolled it out. He made it down the hall, down the stairs where he saw Finny and Mey-rin walking towards the stairs.
"Young Master." They both greeted.
"Can you two take care of this, please?"
They nodded.
"Of course, Young Master."
They took the trolley from him. Ciel turned from them. He made his way back up the stairs, but this time to the left. He had never seen her… cry before. Of course, he knew she did from Sebastian, but she never showed her tears to him. The Young Master knew she was feeling guilty as he was as well. He knew Undertaker just as she had and they both didn't see him as a threat he clearly was. All those lives lost and those bodies. He shook his head. He entered Frances' Music Room. He made his way to where her violin case sat next to her chair. He grabbed the case gently. He made his way back to Frances' room. He knocked upon her door.
"Come in." She called.
He entered the room. Frances was now sitting beside Sebastian in a black robe. Frances smiled gently as she saw the Young Master holding her case. He walked forward, closing the door behind him. He approached her bed, placing the violin case on her lap.
"Thank you."
He nodded. They waited a moment for him to leave. He didn't.
"Young Master?" Sebastian asked.
"May I stay and listen?" He asked, his eye averted with a blush on his cheeks.
Frances smiled.
"Of course." She said.
He nodded. He went over to her chair that sat by her window. He sat down. Frances looked at her case. She opened the case to reveal her black violin that she hadn't picked up in what felt like a long time. She picked up the violin and the bow. She carefully moved the case off her legs. She stood up. She placed the violin against her shoulder. She took a deep breath, allowing the song* to fill her. She began to play the haunting, sad melody.
Memories of seeing the four that asked her to sing, smiling as she sang, then their dead bodies lying lifeless on the floor, hearing the screams and cries of women, men, and children, a man begging his wife to get on the boat, another man trying to reassure his children that he would be all right as his children cried, and so many more filled her mind as tears rolled down her cheeks as she finally mourned these losses.
All throughout the manor, they could hear her sad song.
Mey-rin and Finny were in the servants' quarters. They looked up from the card game they were playing. Mey-rin pushed up her glasses, big brown eyes filled with tears. Finny's eyes too were filled with tears.
"She feels better, physically, but…" Finny started.
"Not emotionally, no." Mey-rin whispered.
Baldroy, Tall Man Tanaka, and Snake were in the kitchen. They were all looking in the direction the music came from.
"That woman…" Baldroy trailed off, turning away as a tear slipped down his cheek.
"She is mourning the lives of all those lost." Snake whispered.
He understood how she felt. She did not have time to mourn when they were on that ship. All those lives gone… Just like his brothers and sisters. Yes. He knew they were gone. Frances had told him one night after they got back from one of their trips and they hadn't gone to look for his siblings… again. Though… deep inside he knew they were already gone.
Frances finished the song. A sigh escaped her lips. She opened her eyes and turned to see the Young Master fighting tears as well. Frances wiped the tear from her cheek. She readjusted the violin and placed the bow on the strings. She began to play her 'Wandering Child' song, allowing it to calm her. Once she finished the piece, she played hers and Sebastian's song allowing it to calm her further. The last note echoed through the room. She lowered the violin and bow. It was silent for a few minutes.
"Young Master." Sebastian said.
The Young Master nodded. He made his way over to her. He placed a hand on her shoulder. She looked at him.
"Good night, Frances." He said.
She smiled softly.
"Good night, Ciel."
He nodded. He turned and walked out her room, closing the door behind him. Frances carefully placed her violin and bow back into the case. As she did so, Sebastian stood. He made his way to her. He took the case from her. He placed it on the other side of her night stand. He returned to her. He gently placed his hands on her shoulders. His hand skimmed to the edges of her robe. He slowly pushed it off her. He lowered his head, gently placing a kiss to her neck. Her hand reached up to his hair, running her fingers through it as his arm slid around her waist. He began to transform. Her body shivered as she tilted her head back against his growing body.
"Malphas." She whimpered.
He warbled/purred loudly at her call. He lowered his changing body, his nose skimmed against her neck.
"Frances." He purred.
He licked her neck with his changing tongue. She shivered. Her hand gripped his chest as her hand tightened in his hair. He growled in pleasure at her reaction. He finished transforming. One of his tendrils placed her robe on the dresser. He turned her around so she faced him. He picked her up around the waist. He moved to the bed. He laid down with her on his chest. He turned to his right. She curled into his chest, her hands wrapped around his upper back, her face buried into his chest. One of his arms, his wings, and body wrapped around her protectively. They kissed one another.
Frances: I love~~~~~ you, Malphas.
Malphas: I love~~~~ you, Frances.
They both sang at the same time.
She was soon asleep in her dark being's arms.
*The song is 'Nearer my God, to Thee' belongs to Sarah Flower Adams.