Seeking Consequence

Deep in the darkest depths below the earth, far beneath the Phantomhive estate, even deeper than the oceans, a heavy sigh could be heard from a figure crouched in front of another, though neither’s features were able to be made out from the lack of light in the underground palace. A long, clawed hand spread across the man’s chest as an enchantingly smooth voice rang from thin lips.

“I will retrieve what I must, my lady…my queen, I won’t let you down like that traitor has…my…” Those thin lips curled evenly into a careful smile, near white eyes lifting to the figure in front of him. “Lilith.”

On the snowy grasses of England, the Phantomhive mansion appeared as splendid as ever before. To commoners, the walls were shining as if they were glistening with a hidden layer of gold. Inside, however, the vicious clattering and clanking of dishes and other types of fine furnishings were ringing about the room.

Meirin screamed in horror when one of the Phantomhive’s most expensive vases came crashing to the floor into tiny bits around her. The red head whimpered pathetically, fixing her glasses as the younger blonde male ran up to her with a broom.

Finnian hurriedly began to sweep the mess with a worried look. “Ah, Meirin, you need to be more careful! We have yet to see the young master, and we don’t want to upset him into firing us if he’d been stressed as Sebastian said he has!”

Bard walked into the room a cigarette in his mouth, looking at the woman shaking his head. “He is correct, Miss.” Sebastian said walking into the room, having heard the conversation as he was on the way to give his master tea. Sebastian watched the maid with eyes that didn’t show any emotion, he still did every once and a while, but not as much as when Ciel first returned to the mansion.
It was true his master hadn’t even talked to him but to give him an order for food or for tea. He just stayed to himself, the letters from business men and women, wondering how the Lord Phantomhive was doing and when new products would be shipped, were slowly starting to pile in the corner of the study. The dark demon slowly moved past the three that had been talking.

“I need you two.” He turned to the two males “to scrape that driveway of all the ice and snow, just in case Master Phantomhive wishes to leave.” A devious smile seemed to touch his lips as he felt something stirring deep below the Phantomhive mansion, but he kept with what he was doing. It was his job to serve his master no matter what was happening. Standing up straight he walked to the stairs and up them slowly, his eyes seemed to show curiosity and concern. His master wasn’t eating much and he was almost fearful for loosing him, and yet, he was an adult if he did die he would have to take his soul, or he would let him go to wherever he was meant to go.

Turning his eyes up he knocked lightly on the door only to walk into the room slowly, his boots were soft on the floor so if his master didn’t hear him knock there was no way to hear the butler come into the room. A steaming cup of tea was on the platter that Sebastian held in his hands. Walking forward slowly he watched his master with bright red eyes. Licking his lips lightly and unconsciously, Sebastian leaned down and put the tea down onto the table.

“My Lord, I would like to ask you if you are going to do anything today?” The male said softly, moving to kneel beside his master, tying the tie on his neck carefully. His touch was still as gentle and caring as ever. The red eyes seemed to look up at the young lord’s eyes carefully; their contract was still in motion so he did everything that his master wanted of him.

Ciel glanced up briefly to see the butler before looking back down to the paper in his hand, a serious expression on his face. Shaking his head a bit, he sighed, tossing the letter aside.

“Jonathan Edward Gradston Sheffield.” He spoke the name simply with an amused look on his face. “The CEO of the Gradston Grade Sweets Company is hoping to meet with me to discuss partnering with our company. For sixty percent profit.”

Sebastian nodded slowly walking over placing the tea cup in front of his master. Watching his master with curious and yet hidden emotion filled red eyes. “Is there anything promising in the partnership, or are they the same as the rest?” Sebastian asked as he slowly filled the tea cup with steaming tea. The demon had been as distant as he used to be, but he was told never to do anything like what they had done the day before.

“When are you going to get ready for the party that Lady Elizabeth is throwing you?” Sebastian asked in a stern and gentle voice.

“Just another company seeking to take over. I suppose we’ll have to set up an appointment.” Ciel took the cup, bringing it to his lips and inhaling the scent deeply, sighing contently. “Darjeeling? Could you prepare something sweet with this?” He set it down without taking a drink, stacking the nearby papers neatly in the corner of his desk, momentarily ignoring Sebastian’s question about the party as if he hadn’t heard it.

“As you wish, my lord.” The butler walked out of the room only to return five minutes later with a big slice of triple chocolate pie with whip cream on top of it. Setting it in front of his master, placing it beside the still steaming tea that was on the desk. Sebastian bowed smoothly to his master, before asking the question again. “When will you need help with getting ready for Elizabeth’s welcome back party?”

Ciel practically purred at the sight, eyeing the pie with satisfaction, though that damned question popped up once more before he could savor the delicious treat.

“Why do I need a welcome back party? I have many things I have to attend to, after all. I’ve been letting work pile up.”

“It is always polite to arrive at a party that is thrown by a lady that is so close to you, My Lord.” The demon said moving slowly behind his master standing behind him as a shadow. He was smirking at his masters’ grimace. “Is it so bad to go to a party thrown for you?” Sebastian asked in a teasing tone purposefully sounding like a smart ass knowing that his master didn’t like to dance.

“Yes.” He grumbled, not showing that he was embarrassed at all. It had been a long time since he had last danced with anyone, and quite frankly, he wasn’t decent to begin with. On top of that, he wasn’t sure if he still remembered how…

“It’s a waste of time.”

“So in other words you don’t remember how to dance, and you are afraid to try due to the fact that it has only been a few day’s since you have been fully awake and aren’t ready to deal with standing for that long especially going in circles around the dance floor.” The butler teased leaning down he grabbed his master’s hands and twirled him so that he was in the middle of the floor so that they were in the dancing position. The tad bit of height of the young master made it a tad easier to do so.

Ciel’s eyes narrowed, a pout present upon his soft lips. “That is not the reason.” A lie. “I just…” he paused, sighing heavily in defeat, fingers twitching slightly on Sebastian’s hand.

“Left foot first, and we will spin slowly from there, making small swirls of dream in the young girl’s hearts that you will be melting, my lord.” Sebastian said charmingly slowly moving around the room with his master in his arms, loving the feeling of him so close to his body. Sebastian smiled deviously his hand on his master’s shoulder while the other one was tight around his small frail pale fingers as they moved across the floor.

Stumbling against him a moment, the boy flushed, eyes lowering to watch their feet. He remembered the first time being held against the devil in this manner while learning to dance. That was nearly a year and a half ago now, but he still remembered it clearly as if it had been just days ago. The feeling of Sebastian’s hand in his was almost enough to make him melt. As they twirled about this very same room, he had stumbled into Sebastian’s chest, pulling away before he could possibly blush. This was almost exactly like that time, and it was comforting to think about how long the demon had been by his side, always helping and protecting him.

Ciel continued to watch their feet move, being sure he wouldn’t step on the other’s this time, hand unusually tight against Sebastian’s as he was still somewhat wobbly on his legs.

“When you are comfortable, look into the eyes of the partner that you are dancing with, that way it is more…personal.” The demon said swallowing what he had said knowing that he didn’t want his master to look to closely into his eyes, he knew that they might show something, but as he said it he instantly hid everything behind his dark red eyes. The demon continued to swirl his master around the study waiting for his master to become steady on his feet and feel being able to look away from his feet.

Swallowing nervously, Ciel’s eyes trailed slowly upward until they came into contact with Sebastian’s red ones, trying to remain steady in his step, though the moment he looked up, he stumbled forward some. This caused him to flush deeper and glance sideways quickly.

Sebastian smiled gently his fingers stayed with Ciel’s as he moved slowing down until he stood with Ciel completely against his chest. Looking down at his master his eyes were a tad more gentle then they were earlier. His body was soft against his masters’ no matter how he was tempted to lean down and capture his master’s lips.

Ciel allowed his eyes to trial back up to Sebastian’s, biting his lip softly before speaking up. “Are we going to just stand here?” he mumbled with a cute pout.

“No my lord, we are going to try again, this time take smaller steps so that you won’t stumble…” the butler said in a gentle voice, his eyes hardened both of his hands were sturdy against his master, slowly moving once again, taking shorter steps this time as he moved his master around the room, trying to keep his eyes on Ciel’s. “Don’t look away this time.” He said in soft smooth talk.

Nodding slightly, Ciel held his gaze to Sebastian’s, loosening his grip on his hand just a tad, taking deep breaths as they moved once more, heart pounding hard.

Sebastian was wearing a smirk that slowly turned into a warm charming smiling loving the ability of looking into his master’s eyes. There was a warmer feeling to his touch on his master’s shoulder, and on his hand. There was slowly a warmer look to the demon’s usually dark red eyes, he was glad to have his master’s touch so welcoming to his. Then again was it good or was it bad that they both were giving in, or was it that Sebastian was making him give in…?

With his every step, it was obvious that the young Phantomhive was gaining slow but steady confidence. A small and nearly cocky smirk of his own turned his lips now, taking the chance to spin, and managed gracefully. “How is this?”

“Beautiful…” the demon said gently watching his master’s lips curl into a smirk, Sebastian knew that his master was gaining confidence in his wobbly legs. Ciel looked so graceful as he was being spun around the room smiling so beautifully. The demon felt like something was going to snap within him, his spinning slowed down until they were completely halted. “My lord..” the butler was unsure of what he wanted to say until he looked at the tea still on the desk. “You still need to eat, my lord.” He said in a gentle confused voice, even his eyes shown confusion and slight distance to his master before he was looking at his master, leaning down as if he was going to kiss his lord and he tied the tie a tad bit better. “You should get ready soon…” the butler said before standing up slowly returning to his erect obedient self.

The boy seemed confused with the sudden change of subject, his smile slowly falling from his lips as the other moved away. Without allowing himself any further torment of pondering the matter more, he returned slowly to his desk, taking a sip of his tea. “Make an appointment with Mr. Sheffield for tomorrow afternoon. Prepare my outfit.”

“Yes, my lord.” The butler bowed his head lowly he had watched his master’s smile fall away from his lips, shaking his head gently at the fall of his lips. Though it didn’t look like he really cared much for his master for he hid behind a wall of defense.

“Which outfit do you wish me to prepare?” the butler asked in an obediently questionable voice. There was something tormenting the demon’s non-existing soul. His heart felt like it had a thousand needles in his hear, and he felt something stirring deep within the underworld. Something was wrong and he could feel it, and if he wasn’t careful he would be caught up into the stirring of demons. His eyes sparked curiosity and yet it was gone as soon as soon as it was visible in his eyes.


“The black and silver I found in the store the other day.” He said, shuffling through more letters, tossing some aside without even reading them, others he kept in a separate file to be handled later. Something in his voice sounded irritable now.

“Yes, my lord.” The demon’s red eyes sparkled at the sound in the boy’s voice, walking over to him he whispered into his ear. “You know you don’t have to hide from me, I know you better then anyone else in the world. Even better than your fiancée.” The butler’s breath was hot on his master’s ear before he walked to the door turning around bowing to his master. “Your outfit will be ready for you within the hour.” Sebastian said smirking at his master’s expression.

“Contact Sheffield.” He repeated, keeping his head low now, acting as though Sebastian’s action hadn’t affected him whatsoever. “Don’t waste time, Sebastian. It isn’t like you to diddle.”

“Yes, my lord.” The demon was out of his masters’ sight within the moment that his master had told him not to waste time. Sighing faintly outside the door he went to the kitchen to prepare some appetizers for the party, make dinner, call Sheffield, and make some delicious sweets for his masters’ appetite. Finishing the appetizers, and the deserts that he left in the oven, Sebastian walked up the stairs to his masters’ bedroom and got the outfit out that his master wanted to wear for the evening. Finishing pulling the pieces apart so that he could do one layer at time, Sebastian sighed gently sliding out of the room. The butler moved slowly to the study knocking on the door again.

“My lord, your guests are arriving, and Lady Elizabeth is wondering when you will be coming downstairs.” The butler was speaking through the door, slowly opening the door walking only barely into the threshold. “My lord…?”

There was no answer right away, as Ciel had been busy reading over another letter out loud.

‘To the Earl of the Phantomhive mansion…” he mumbled to himself, “Cordially invited to participate in a once in a lifetime event…yearly winter ball held at the infamous Victoria and Albert Museum of the arts…all of the highest nobles will be attending, it would be an honor if you would take part to represent the Funtom company…up to three guests…” Ciel sighed, reaching up a hand to rub his temples.

The butler walked over to his master as if a ghost, invisible as ever he slipped behind Ciel, rubbing his temple slowly. Sighing gently his fingers were gentle and long on his master’s temple. Shaking his head he had listened to his master talk out loud.

“My lord, why don’t you wait to read some more later, you don’t want to strain yourself too much, remember your body hasn’t been working fully for the past year. Don’t wear it out now that you are back into it.” The demon said in his usual tone.

Ciel pulled away from Sebastian’s touch slightly, folding the letter back neatly and setting it in the center of his desk. “I’ve been invited to London to the Queen’s museum for a ball on the twenty-seventh. That’s just a week from now, isn’t it?” He exhaled slowly. “It’s required for me to represent our company. You’re going to attend it with me as your duty.” In truth, he was just nervous to go alone. However excellent he seemed around other people, he only pulled his true strength and confidence with the knowledge that Sebastian was always beside him every step of the way.

He took the final bite of the pie that was set on his desk earlier before standing and walking to the center of the room, glancing back at Sebastian. “Are my clothes ready?”

Sebastian chuckled gently moving slowly away from his master having felt his master pull away from his touch. ‘Is my touch that bad? Is it that hideous to feel against his skin? I guess our relationship is as professional as ever. I will find a way to get through to Master Phantomhive.’ sighing faintly he watched the boy as he walked around the desk to stand in front of it.

“Of course I will go with you.” The demon bowed his arm against his chest bowing his upper body to his master. He had been told that he was going to be with his master keeping sure that the master didn’t get into trouble, yet even if he wasn’t being told to go he would have been within reach of his master, watching him. Smiling evilly, he slowly leaned up standing up straight.

“Your outfit is ready for you in your room. Are you ready for the party?” The demon was teasing his master with an obedient voice.

“I’m ready to get dressed.” He grumbled, heading for the door and to his room, wishing to god he didn’t have to go downstairs, but knowing if he didn’t Elizabeth would most likely hunt him down.

“Yes, my lord.” He spoke softly, walking into his master’s bedroom moving he took his masters’ fingers and slowly started to slide the coat of off his master’s shoulder. His fingers were as gentle as ever, almost as they were the morning that they went to town. Gently moving he made his master sit on the bed, sliding the boy’s boots off of his delicate feet.

“What shoes do you want to wear with the outfit?” Sebastian asked as he slowly slid the knee high socks from his masters’ longer legs.

Ciel waved his hand a bit, shaking his head. “It doesn’t matter. I trust you to make it match.” He sighed, closing his eyes as he was undressed, waiting for Sebastian to finish doing so and redress him.

Sebastian walked over and grabbed knee high boots that had a delicate heal to them. Looking over his master he walked over and slowly slid the shirt that he had on his chest, revealing pale skin, his finger brushed it accidentally as he slid the shirt from his shoulders. Moving his fingers down, he undid the boy’s pants sliding them from his masters’ hips. Moving away to grab the top to the outfit that his master had chosen, though he had admired his master’s body before he slid the shirt over his master’s shoulders, grabbing one hand then the other through the holes of the shirt for the arms. Buttoning it up he slowly slid over and grabbed the pants to his master’s outfit and he slowly slid them onto his body, lifting the boy off of the bed with one arm only to slide the shorts onto his master’s hips, buttoning them tucking in the shirt. Closing his eyes only briefly he slid socks onto his master’s legs, sliding on the boots.

“You are nearly ready my lord. Do you wish to hide what you are ashamed of still?” he brought out a black silk eye cover that he went out of his way to make for his master, the tie had a gentle white stripes down them. It was gorgeous but it was something that the demon actively didn’t like wanting to hide his contact, it had been so long since he had seen it and it was something that the demon liked to see, it made their bond deeper than ever.

Lifting a brow slightly, Ciel eventually shook his head, sighing to himself. “Of course I want it on. Don’t be ridiculous.” He whispered the last part, waiting for the demon to finish his chore.

Sebastian nodded gently sliding the eye patch over his master’s eye, tying it on the back of his head. Lifting his master up while he stayed on his knees, sliding the overcoat onto his master, leaving them unbuttoned. “You are all ready to break some hearts, my lord.” He said gently, leaning back to look up at his master looking into his only eye that was showing.

The flush returned immediately, looking away from Sebastian. “I have no interest to.” He mumbled, stepping past Sebastian. “I’m assuming Elizabeth is downstairs right now.” He stated, rather than asked, sounding less than interested.

“Yes my lord. Would you like me to just serve appetizers while you dance with perfect grace and balance as a swan on a lake?” Sebastian asked bowing slightly to his master as he stood up onto his feet, watching his master with dark vibrant red eyes. The demon was unsure on how he felt about the manner, for if it was up to him, he’d rather be the one spinning the young lord across the dance floors making each and every one of those women jealous. Though this was not the fact and he needed just to be the obedient monster he was. Unlike the flowers that were blossoming downstairs, the man who served one of the highest of flowers was grown into a weed slowly wilting with age and weariness slowly killing the highest blooming flower. Sighing gently he looked at his master’s back, the color seemed odd on him, he looked better in the green he had had on but this was his party and it didn’t matter to the servant who was supposed to not say is opinion in the matter.

Ciel snickered to himself, taking a deep breath as he wandered out of his room and down the hallway to the stairs, not bothering to wait for Sebastian, but expecting to hear the shrill voice of his cousin whom he was certain would practically tackle him as she always did. He halfway cringed at the thought, knowing he still wasn’t quite strong enough to keep himself up from something like that.

Sebastian was behind the boy making sure that he wasn’t going to fall over at all while he walked down the hallway as he had done the day before. He cringed nearly at the same time as his master when he saw a bounce blonde haired girl with long ringlets, and a deep pink dress that flowed down past her ankles. There was a high pitched squeal as she ran up the stairs, tackling the teen; Sebastian’s hand was already on his master’s lower back making sure that he stood flat on his feet. The girl was squealing loudly into the teen’s ear.

“I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU REALLY ARE HERE!!!!!! I MISSED YOU SO!!!!!” Elizabeth leaned back kissing his cheek lightly taking his hand and nearly drug him to the dance floor. Sebastian was chuckling gently then going back into in shell of nonexistent emotions, walking down the steps he moved to the kitchen getting a platter of appetizers he slipped onto the floor moving around asking people if they wanted anything to eat.

Ciel was careful to make sure he didn’t stumble as he was pulled to the dance floor, an odd sort of expression on his face. “Elizabeth…” he sighed faintly, closing his eyes. “You know…I’ve never been fond of dancing.”

“You will do wonderful. Don’t worry so much you worry wart.” Elizabeth giggled lightly, pulling the young lord to the middle of the dance floor. Placing Ciel in front of her she curtsied to him slowly, dipping low she waited for him to take the next move.

Swallowing shakily, the boy bowed politely in turn, then standing tall once more. He’d grown several inches, surprised that she came only to his nose now. Placing a hand gently on her waist with the other hand in her’s, he pulled her carefully close with a gentleman like smile on his face. “Madam.” Ciel said sweetly before beginning to move, just as his butler had taught him.

Elizabeth giggled happily, keeping instep with Ciel, “Oh, Ciel, When did you get so good at dancing?” she asked him looking at his uncovered eye with curiosity. She was quite impressed with how he was doing compared to the way he used to dance. Sebastian was watching from the sidelines through the corner of his eyes. ‘So he smiles for her…It is sad that she will be out of the picture when the master realizes I’m the one he can’t stand without. Or eat, or drink, or change clothes without.’ The demon said a more evil grin had crossed over his lips moving slowly away from the crowd, once he put the tray down his smile had instantly faded, for he wasn’t really happy with the predicament that the girl was making him in.

“A gentleman must be able to dance for a precious flower, isn’t that true?” He smiled, spotting Sebastian briefly out of the corner of his eye, his smile wavering just barely. “You look lovely.” He twirled her expertly, keeping her close as he did so so as not to lose his balance.

Elizabeth blushed faintly feeling how close she was to Ciel, “Oh my, aren’t you so charming tonight, Ciely, where did you learn such things.” She said in her high pitched annoying voice that would drive a cat wild. She didn’t see what the lord was looking at and she didn’t really care. Sebastian moved slowly to grab glasses of juice and some of the finest wine, moving out of the room he walked with grace and balance as he danced through the crowd asking if anyone wanted something to drink along with their appetizers.

Ciel fought his gaze which continued to try and sneak over to get a peak or two at his butler, mentally kicking himself. Why was he getting so distracted by the elegant creature across the room, instead of the one in front of him…? That definitely could not happen.

“Ah, Lizzy…I have been invited to a formal dance a week from now being held at the Queen’s grand museum…I thought it appropriate that I should be accompanied by my fiancé…Won’t you be so kind to come as my date?” This time, he allowed his eyes to wander to the demon’s form, catching a brief look at his face. For some reason, he felt as though he had to make a point, though he himself wasn’t.

Sebastian caught what his master had said to the girl and he felt his eyes drop to the ground, instantly looking away from the boy making sure that his master was unable to see his look of emotion, Sebastian seemed to continue to move through the crowd. Once all the drinks were off of his platter he moved slowly to the kitchen only to stand there looking slightly dumbfounded, that the platter that he had started to set on the counter fell to the ground. Gasping faintly at the loud clatter, he was brought to his sanity, looking up he took a deep breath and hid everything under a hard exterior. ‘I am only a servant and that is all I will but until I can get rid of others.’ He thought deeply.

Elizabeth gasped at both the question, “Of course I will go with you, Ciely-bear!!!!!!” just as she spoke she saw that the boy looked off to where the black butler had been, her eyebrows furrowed unladylike, only to see the butler disappear. “OH!!!!! Ciel, I am soooooo glad that you have returned to the mansion.” Elizabeth said squealing with delight in his ear, holding him tight until there was a loud clatter from the kitchen and then nothing. “Hm, Sebastian-sama, must have dropped something.” The girl concluded.

The demon had dropped something but almost as soon as it was dropped he was out into the crowd of people almost looking angry at what he had just done to the platter and what his master had just asked of Elizabeth.

A shocked expression fell across Ciel’s face to Elizabeth’s words, then to Sebastian’s reappearance. He wasn’t used to that expression on the man’s face unless it involved a battle of somesort, and even then it was rare. ‘Sebastian…’ he thought silently, watching the man before pulling away from his cousin a bit, not even registering that he was doing so until he had completely let her go.

“Se…?” Frowning, he side glanced at the blonde girl before him then quickly headed for the stairs. “Excuse me.” he mumbled, making his way hurriedly up the stairs.

Why was his heart pounding so fast…? It felt as though it would burst.

Sebastian watched as his master flee up the stairs away from his pouting cousin moving he set the tray down, and slowly followed the young teen quietly up the stairs. The blonde girl down stairs was throwing a fit and making a scene. Sebastian saw that Meirin, Finnian, and Bard were trying to calm her down as well as many of the guests. Sighing faintly he walked after his master. He knew something was wrong if his master ran so quickly away from the party. Sebastian knew that he didn’t like the celebration, but he knew that he wouldn’t have left his fiancée on the dance floor alone if something wasn’t a tad wrong. Unless she said no…she wouldn’t have though…would she?

Ciel had found his way back to his study quickly, hand pressed over his chest and trying to take steady breaths, though they came out as strained and panicked. ‘Stop this nonsense…’ he told himself mentally as he began to feel lightheaded, closing his eyes tightly, hands on the front of his desk for support as he sank slowly to his knees, not trusting being on his feet any longer. Ever since he’d returned to the world of the living, everything had been different. Everything seemed new and strange, as if he was learning everything from a different perspective now.

Sebastian had followed the young master into the study slowly closing the door as quietly as he could, sliding into the light that was given off slightly into the room. He moved silently to where his master had collapsed to his knees. Leaning down he wrapped an arm around his masters’ waist pulling him slowly up so that he was sitting on the desk he worked so hard on lately. Sebastian looked down at the boy with slightly concerned red eyes.

“My lord, what is wrong?” The demon put his wrist onto his masters’ forehead checking his temperature. Watching him carefully as he did always’. ‘Something’s wrong, will he tell me?’ the demon questioned…

Ciel visibly tensed at the voice, forcing himself to stop shaking and gripped the desk a little tighter. He kept his eyes closed and held his breath so as to not show the other that he was having difficulty, merely shaking his head.

“My lord…” The butler said in a gentle voice, he slowly rolled his fingers down his masters’ forehead lightly rolling his fingers to his master’s cheek. Moving closer waiting for his master to open his eyes wanting to see what was wrong. “Master Phantomhive…”

Hesitantly he opened his eyes, glaring back at Sebastian with a hint of something else in their depths. Fear?

He was refusing to answer such a question, for even he was uncertain what was going on with himself. Whenever he would feel the man so close, his heart would turn flips. It was a sensation he wasn’t used to feeling, and it was making him nervous and quite frankly, afraid. He figured it out a while ago. Over the years their bond had grown, but with everything that had happened between the two, he felt an intense need to be beside the demon now, and it wasn’t a healthy need, he concluded. He wasn’t queer. Ciel told himself that right up front. Even if he was, it was improper to feel and think such things.

He had a fiancé. He was a noble. He was male. All of what he was feeling was complex and improper.

Sebastian was his butler. Sebastian was male. Sebastian was only there so long as he could get his prize in the end…

Even with all of these things going through his mind. Ciel still found himself gazing longingly at the demon before him and thinking back to the way their lips touched so sweetly nights ago before his ego worked itself into a frenzy. He was letting his work pile up like mad while watching every graceful action Sebastian would make, and he figured it would be best to get away from those feelings as fast as possible.

Sebastian saw his master’s eye and saw something in it that he didn’t much appreciate. Through the years he only saw that look very seldomly, for the demon was always there to help out to save him before he was afraid of what might happen. They had grown together over the years, and the demon felt like he was able to know everything about his young master. Gently rubbing his master’s cheek with his thumb for a moment to look into the eyes of his master. Before wrapped his arms around his master, to rock him gently, slowly sliding so that his masters was on his lap and he was on the floor.

“What are you so afraid of that you ran up here, my lord?” He asked in a gentle voice, his fingers rubbed his lower back trying to sooth him fully, rocking him like a small child. His eyes were looking far beyond his masters’ head to look at nothing, he was thinking deeply. There were many things that he wanted to ask his master, but at the same time did he really want to know what his master was afraid of. Was it that he had finally realized he wanted to wed his fiancée…The demon didn’t want to think about it anymore, he leaned his chin lightly on his master’s head as he rocked him slowly, closing his eyes briefly he inhaled his masters’ intoxicating scent.

Ciel allowed the hold, not wanting to pull away. Hesitantly, he pressed his ear to Sebastian’s heart, staring out at the wall to the side, eyes threatening to spill over with something he didn’t want being shown.

‘Myself…’ he thought silently in answer to Sebastian’s question. The things he was feeling were wrong and frightening to him. It was a shame they weren’t directed toward his fiancé like they were supposed to be…but the truth is, that whether it was the proper pairing or not, he only ever saw the cheery blonde as a friend, from the time they were born to the time they were informed of their marriage, to just moments ago downstairs. He was disgusted with himself that, even if it was only for a few minutes, he pressed himself firmer against Sebastian’s chest, inhaling the scent deeply.

The demon felt his master move closer to his chest sighing, accidentally out loud, contently, he pulled his master harder against his chest; his usually calm heart seemed to speed up slightly. He didn’t know what his master was thinking but he did want his master to relax. Through troubled times and hard, never had the demon seen his master shake with fear. His red eye’s slowly slid open as the demon felt his heart do a small flip at a thought he just had. Maybe his master was slowly allowing himself to feel someone else who cares for him. Through the years the demon didn’t see any real compassion with human contact; even his aunt didn’t get much compassion when she died.

“My lord…Phantomhive….” His voice continued to get even more gentle as he spoke to the boy. “Ciel…” he finally said out loud the name that he never spoke. Continuing to rock the boy, his fingers entwined in his hair rubbing his scalp lightly.

Ciel swallowed shakily, a depressed look in his eyes that remained hidden beneath bangs, continuing to stare at the wall across from him. His shoulders relaxed to the touch, finally allowing himself to breathe, a bit quickly though as if he were trying to catch his breath. He’d felt this touch before…but where was it…? No, it wasn’t entirely like this…

He leaned back to gaze up at the demon with his one visible eye, expression almost lost, but still with a hint of calmness. For once, he partway wished that his other eye hadn’t been covered. Sebastian was the only one he ever allowed so close to it, taking the patch off if he pleased, yet Ciel still continued to tell himself it was only when business called…Even with that thought, his heart still quickened when that contracted eye was able to see the demon.

Sebastian felt his master move to look up at him, looking down his eyes were a calm and soothing red and yet worried at the same time. As the boy’s thoughts had been running through his mind the demon had already been reaching for the tie of the eye patch. His fingers worked as if they weren’t moving on his master’s head, untying the knot allowing the patch to fall to the ground. Sebastian nearly smiled at being able to undue it so easily without his master saying anything against it. Sebastian leaned back faintly to look over his young master.

Were these feelings unnatural, or were they just hidden in history, the books tell of demon’s working for humans but never did they mention falling for them. Was it in the blood of a demon to fall for a human, so innocent and pure? But then Ciel wasn’t all pure, he was just as impure as the demon that held him. Ciel was innocent in Sebastian’s eyes, just because people tried to steal it didn’t mean it wasn’t there. The young lord was still a child, and he was just made to grow up too fast for his own good.

The demon’s touch seemed to grow a tad bit more gentle as he looked at his master’s uncovered face one hand stayed on his back, his elbow on his lower back and the hand was holding all the way up his master’s back to hold his neck, so that he didn’t fall back for any reason. The other hand moved to caress the boys’ cheek, and with a gentle look the butler seemed to smile just as gently. He was watching his master curious thoughts seemed to roll into his mind.

Though the contracted eye shone brightly, the expression on Ciel’s face was still very much calm, eyes sparkling slightly with something unspoken, brows gently creasing every now and then in thought.

Everything felt so familiar…and now he recalled why. That touch that was so gentle…that touch that removed that patch covering his eye with such care…it was because he felt it before. The same creature was before him, gazing back at him in very much the same way he had that night. It was the final night, sitting there at the final restng spot before he was to lose everything…Those feelings finally came back to him as his features relaxed completely.

I’ll make it as painless as possible…

Ciel could hear Sebastian’s voice chime into his mind soothingly.

…No…make it as painful as you can. Carve the pain of my life into my soul…Sebastian…

That’s right. He had given that final order…and the last thing he could remember was that devilish smile and those gleaming eyes, that warm body moving closer to his, and even though he waited for pain, the initial closeness of the demon soothed his very soul…that soul that was about to be taken.

Ciel’s eyes tried to search Sebastian’s, knowing it would be virtually impossible through the barrier the butler often had over his emotions. Just short of a year ago, the boy had been ready to die. He sat on the cold stone, blood thick on his side and fear causing his heart to thunder hard in his chest. Looking back on it now, Ciel could feel everything he’d felt then. When he awaited Sebastian to take him, he was afraid…but he knew he had to…no, he wanted to give everything to the man before him. He was Sebastian’s forever…and he knew that.

Without anymore thoughts on the matter, a soft, almost broken sounding voice came from the teenager’s lips. “Why didn’t you take it…? Why did you disobey my order…?”

Sebastian looked slightly taken aback to the question. ‘Why didn’t I take it? Why did I disobey a direct order?’ the demon repeated into his mind over and over not finding a real answer to reply to his master’s question. His eyes were distant for a moment as he thought about the questions, closing them a moment he shook his head remembering the command that he distinctly disobeyed. Could it have been that his master felt like his life was nothing but pain, he wanted to show the young master that not everything had to be painful. He smiled faintly, leaning down so that he was only inches from his master’s face.

“For three reasons. You weren’t in a state to order me, you were already mine for the taking. You never fully understood what had happened to your life, it was incomplete.” The demon purposefully only gave the young master two reasons, keeping the third more to himself. His eye’s seemed to slowly melt showing that he was just as confused as his master. The devil’s eyes were as mischievous as ever, and yet they weren’t as bad as they usually were when he was teasing the young master.

Ciel frowned faintly, though not out of anger, but more confusion. “I was ready…I was at peace…” he paused, realizing something of himself. ‘I don’t want to be at peace when I die…peace was where I was…dark, quiet…peace isn’t what I am.’ A smile made its’ way to his lips then, shaking his head slightly.

“I don’t want peace when I die…I want everything to be as hectic as ever…do you understand that?” he smirked slightly.

“Yes, but that is not what I wanted you to realize…There were many thing that were very incomplete. They are things that are needed before you pass…” his voice trailed of before he could finish the thought because if he did he would say something that he wouldn’t mean to say to his master. Leaning close to his master, he again disobeyed an order, by capturing his master’s lips with a gentle caress that was as light as a feather. There were many things that were said into the kiss, and yet most were probably unheard.

The demon wanted what was best for his master, but this was the second time that he disobeyed orders and he was ready to be punished for everything he was doing wrong. The demon seemed to be out of place since they had returned to the mansion, something about being with someone caring for them for a year straight without them knowing and without anyone else to come to talk to or worry about made their bound even stronger than before.

Ciel shuddered at Sebastian’s lips, and before he knew it, he cautiously moved his lips back against his, being sure to keep his hands to himself as he fought the urge to touch Sebastian’s face. As quickly as he responded, he pulled away to look at him once more, preparing to speak until a sound from the shadows of the corner caught his attention.

“Whose there?” He asked as his normal demanding tone resurfaced. Sure enough , there in one of the crooks of the study was the faintest outline of a figure, and all that could be seen were the pearly fangs glinting in what little light was present.

Sebastian’s arms wrapped around Ciel’s waist pulling him close to his chest sliding back slowly away from the shadows of the room, where there was light present. Gently his breath was on the top of Ciel’s head. The male demon in front of him was obviously not for Ciel for if he was he would have captured him the moment he had left Sebastian’s kiss to look at him. Taking a second he moved the boy behind him, his gloved hands rubbed together.

Vibrant red eyes sparked in the dark room shining in the shadows brighter than before. Watching the demon closely he licked his lips as something in him sparkled still able to taste Ciel on his tongue…Sebastian shook his head gently trying to ignore the delicious taste that was on his lips, and that seemed to make him love the taste so much more. He had been smiling gently as his master had looked up at him, he had felt Ciel trying to move his lips against his. In a way he hadn’t disobeyed orders, he was told not to do that on his own and he didn’t, he was being reacted to. His lord needed to be safe and that was what he planned to do as long as his master so wished him to be, and even after that.

The butler cleared his throat gently of anything that might have been in it, his eyes shifted up meeting the one who was in the shadows.

“Do you not have the decencies to knock? Or to even show signs of being here?” His voice was calm and collected even after what had just happened with him and his master. His voice seemed as always like he didn’t care about anything or anyone, and yet the person behind him was more important than anyone else to him. Taking a step forward he made sure that the thing that was in the shadows stayed away from his master.

The toothy grin from the darkness came forth as a pair of silvery green eyes seemed to light up the area, soft clicking heals stepping forth until the figure was fully visible. Medium length tawny hair fell lightly down the intruding male’s back, white flesh covering fine bones.

“As I expected from a lowly demon like you.” A deep tone rang out from him, sending faint shivers down Ciel’s spine as he glanced between the newcomer and his loyal butler. “I get he feeling this isn’t simply because of the contract you’ve made…what is it you’re called here…Sebastian? Feel free to call me Lucaerus, as it is my name.” The man smirked charmingly, eying Sebastian.

Sebastian watched the demon step further into the light, he refused to move an inch. Other than to cross his arms behind his back slowly, standing in a stance that was as professional as all the other stances he stood in. His vibrant red eyes glowed and sparkled as he stood there looking at another demon in the mansion he was serving in.

“Not too lowly of a demon I am, who obeys his master’s every whim.” Sebastian said in a gentle yet very stern voice that would send chills down his own masters’ body, a coldness set in his voice. His fingers wrapped around his other hand as he watched the demon as closely as possible. Sebastian’s eyes were unblinking as he stood there trying to look confused on what the creature was asking, for he didn’t want it too obvious that he knew that the demon was after him instead of his master. His body and eyes didn’t sway from the demon, he was certainly worried for his masters’ wellbeing but he didn’t look back to make sure that his master was safe.

The creature before him bowed low, though not out of politeness, but rather a mocking type manner. “Ah, yes, you certainly are a loyal mutt, aren’t you? Though I’m afraid you’re serving the wrong person, child.” By child, he was speaking entirely to Sebastian. “I’ve come to retrieve you and bring you home for sentencing.”

Ciel unconsciously tensed his muscles, stepping beside Sebastian to speak in a low tone. “Oi, Sebastian. What is he talking about? Is he a demon?”

“Yes, my lord. He is a demon. And I brought you back from the world of death when you shouldn’t have been…and I kept your soul within your body instead of taking it like our contract says I am binding to have once it is your time to pass.” Sebastian said gently his eyes never leaving the demon’s before him. There was harshness in his eyes and his stature; Sebastian’s hand touched his masters’ stomach keeping him where he stood. Watching the demon before him, his breath seemed to stall in his chest. He made sure that not even his breath would be taken with the demon in front of him, an evil glint in his eyes.

“You have the wrong idea. I have no desire to go with you. I am still on a contract with this boy, you can’t break that contract so long as he is alive.” Sebastian knew what he said and he had the boy clung to his chest the moment the word ‘alive’ left his lips.

Ciel gasped softly when he was pulled to him, eyes trailing back to the opposing demon in front of the two of them. “Sebastian,” he spoke in a quiet voice, “Get rid of him. That’s an order.” The thought of having Sebastian snatched from him was terrifying to him.

“Yes, My Lord.” Sebastian moved forward his master still clung to his body for a moment before he set him in the chair of the study. Rushing towards the demon that was in front of him, he swung a mail opener knife at the demon’s body. His feet barely touched the ground as he was moving only fast enough to touch the ground only for a split second. He was a hell of a butler and he would do what he was ordered to do at all time.

A playful laugh left the other demon who swiftly moved away from Sebastian’s attempt, as smoothly as Sebastian’s glides. “Have you lost all of your former pride? It’s quite heartbreaking, boy.” The man purred between thin lips, glancing sideways at Ciel. “You more than most should be aware of the rules between contracting with a human.” With that said, his lips curled into a wicked grin, a long, snakelike tongue flickering teasingly at Sebastian as sharp claws suddenly swept at him.

Sebastian had been using his grace and balance as best he could against a demon who knew him so well. He was able to swiftly dodge the swipe of dagger sharp claws that were coming towards him. The demon that fought for Ciel was moving quickly.

“The human I serve has told me to get rid of you, and that is what I shall do.” He swung around the demon making a quick strike as if to kick him.

Dodging easily, the demon who called himself Lucaerus revealed razored fangs, threatening to use the venom-tipped tools on the contracted demon. “You know, it is because of your kind that I despise low level demons.” Snarling, he reached out with a swift, harsh grip, snagging hold of Sebastian’s arm, even if it would be brief, and tried pulling him close.

The cloth on Sebastian’s coat ripped, not really easily but as easily as the fine material would rip, as he moved away as quickly as he was caught. An evil smile was as wide and devious as ever. “My kind…my kind does their duty to the end.” Sebastian said in an almost joking, teasing tone. Making small quick movements around the room and around the demon. ‘At least I was correct, he wasn’t after Ciel, he was after me.’ The black butler was making sure that he was staying a safe distance away from his master, as he swung another sharp object at the demon before him. He was finding sharper more dangerous weapons to swing at the monster that had trespassed on the Phantomhive mansion. It was obvious that Sebastian was evenly matched, but the demon to serve Ciel would not quit what he was ordered to do.

“It would be easier if you just left. I will not lose, and I will not come with you.” Sebastian spoke stubbornly and this time there was venom on his words. His eyes seemed to grow more and more intense, than only moments ago when he was holding his master in a gentle caress.

“That child has tainted your very being. Disgraceful.” Smiling wickedly, the intrusive devil side-glanced at Ciel, purring in an almost seductive manner. “What sort of fun should we have with the boy? You wanted him all to yourself? I’ve been watching you since the moment you broke your deal. Will you come with me if I give you what you want?”

Sebastian saw the way the demon was looking at Ciel and growling lightly he was beside his master within a moment of the demon saying anything. The butler now stood very still as if waiting for the demon to make his next move. Sebastian understood the words that were coming from the demon’s fowl lips, his glare turned even more intense. His demonic body stayed ridged standing straight up he refused to make any glance to his master. He answered a demon with a venom dripping word.

“No.” it was simple but he knew that it would get through to the demon in front of him.

Lucaerus reared back, looking dumbfounded, shock written across every feature of his face. His eyes watched Sebastian closely as if taking in the man’s features, or perhaps looking for something deeper, then snickered, giving a low growl with all hint of humor erased from his face. “Despicable creature.” Stepping back, the windows began to shatter until all glass was gone from the framing. ‘I now know his weakness.’

The bright smile returned to his face in a matter of seconds before he leapt backwards from the room, chuckling to himself. “Ah, farewell young devil and human. I’ve to report to our lady…Till we meet again!” he giggled much in a way Grell would, smoke enveloping him before he even touched a toe to the ground and vanished without warning.

Sebastian brushed his pants off before turning around bending low he bowed to his master, looking not at him but at the floor. He was confused why the demon left and at the same time worried. Slowly he leaned up to look at his master with clouded red eyes, through the years of serving for his master never once had a demon been strictly after him. Sebastian looked a tad worried due to that he knew that the demon would return. ‘What did he see in my eyes that would make him leave? Ciel is in trouble now for a fact…’ Biting his lip, he shivered faintly his eyes instantly slid into sadness realizing he might need to leave the child for a little bit so that he could sort out what was going on.

“My lord, do you wish anything to sooth the excitement that just happened?” He acted as if nothing had happened in that room other than the comfort of a shaking child. An evil smile slid to his lips, as he licked them lightly now able to enjoy the evidence of his master’s taste. “Can I do anything more to sooth you at all?” His voice was smooth and lingering, like a blanket soothing over his masters body.

Ciel stared at him, not knowing what to think or to say. How, after something like that, could Sebastian act so…casual? Ciel stood, reaching out to take Sebastian’s chin and force him to look at him in the eyes. “Sebastian? Who was that?”

Sebastian looked a tad taken aback; maybe he did something different to his master when he tried to get him back. There was now something different to Ciel, a more commanding, a more touchy type of person in the body that Sebastian loved to tease. Watching his master’s reactions earlier made him want him to come undone and let him feel the joys that one can have in life. Even if people around you disappear, it isn’t like they are gone from you, not really. Sebastian cared for his master, more than he should, and he knew he should be keeping his distance, the way a servant should. He was drawn to his master, and because of it Master Phantomhive was in trouble for it. His eyes turned a deeper red as he watched Ciel carefully. He took a deep gentle breath looking dark as ever, leaning towards Ciel.

“Lilith’s right hand man. That is all that is needed to know.” Sebastian said in his cool voice his smile had left him for a more serious look. There were things that even his master didn’t need to know, or needed to understand. That demon was to take him back to the under realm to where he would be punished for breaking a contract. But then he didn’t break his contract with the human, he knew that Ciel wasn’t fully his and he was willing to bring him back until he was his. He was breathing slowly and his eyes were turning back to his normal vivid color for he was slowly hiding what he was feeling. Trying to pull himself up straight he realized he was still captured by his master’s fingers that were on his chin.

Ciel kept a serious hold of him, staring into the demon’s face with an almost warning look in his own blue depths. “You had better not be hiding anything from me, Sebastian.” His heart had calmed down from earlier, and he was able to think clearly once more. Perhaps the demon was stressed? Could they get stressed, he wondered. Either way, he wanted, no, needed to know what was going on inside of his butler’s head, and he was far too stubborn to let the subject completely go.

“My lord, I shall keep you safe with all my might.” Sebastian said, his red eyes shining brightly, “After all, I am your butler and I will do your will.” Sebastian slowly moved taking a hold of the wrist that was holding onto his chin that kept him in place from not moving away from his master. ‘He is a stubborn child.’ The demon thought before his thoughts returned to the demons that might come as soon as the demon who had arrived on Lilith’s behalf tells her what is going on. ‘I know I have a weakness, I just hope I keep him safe.’ His eyes were flickering slightly as his thoughts rolling through his mind. His gloved hand slowly rubbed Ciel’s wrist trying to sooth him to let go of his chin.

“My lord, you may let go.” The demon butler said in a gentle tone, still not saying anything about the demon that might return for him, or for Ciel. He was hiding something but he was yet to be ordered to tell Ciel everything. Sebastian didn’t obey or disobey his lord for he didn’t confirm or disaffirm that he was hiding something from his master. “Or I shall do something improper.” Sebastian teased his smile was returning to him quickly slowly leaning slightly closer, now only a few inches from his master’s face.

Ciel kept light hold of his demon, eyes trying their best to search for answers in the crimson depths of the devil’s soul. As usual, however, Sebastian had a way of hiding things, so the boy couldn’t be certain whether or not to place his full trust in him. He would just have to have faith in the man. Sighing, he was almost too stubborn to let go, seeming to have an inner debate with himself before he actually did let him go. Lowering his head, he fell back into his seat, crossing his legs. “I wish to take a bath. Tell the others downstairs I’m not feeling well and wish to not be disturbed.” He mumbled in defeat, glancing sideways at the newly shattered window. “I want that fixed by morning. It is partially your fault…”

“Yes, My Lord. I shall warm your water immediately.” Sebastian bowed lowly, looking at the window he would have one of the boy’s run into town for glass and he would fix it. Turning around he walked out of the room, slowly making his way to warm some water. It took him only ten minutes before his masters’ tub was full of sweetly and delicately rimmed aroma bath bubbles. Standing up straight again he walked to the young master’s study, looking at his master, he walked to him slowly.

“My lord, your bath is ready. And your guests, though disappointed, all understand.” He said in an obedient voice, making sure his eyes were as shady as ever. A low bow was made before he lifted his eyes to search his master’s. “Do you wish help to take off your clothes, my lord?” The demon was searching his master’s blue eyes for something, anything to go off of, but as usual there wasn’t so his eyes stayed as shady as ever.

Ciel didn’t look at him, sighing faintly and making his way into the bathroom, reaching up to slowly untie the ribbon around his neck, carelessly letting it fall to the floor in the hallway, not even bothering to close the door as he pushed off his coat, also allowing that to fall to the floor, unlike he normally would.

The butler was behind his master the entire way picking up the clothing that he as allowing to just fall to the ground. Sighing softly he watched Ciel carefully, leaning over he picked up the coat that his master shrugged to the floor. ‘What is going on with him? He never is like this. Is he not feeling well? Was I wrong to keep him out of the realm of demons?’ Sebastian’s gaze seemed to go blank as he watched his master; his eyes for the moment were giving things away, things that Sebastian didn’t want to show. Too many things were going on with the demon that he was unable to keep them all hidden at once.

“My lord, do you wish any help with your bath? Or shall I go make some tea?” the butler asked in a confused tone seeping off of the tip of tongue. He was only a few feet from his master if Ciel turned around to sharply he would hit straight into the black butlers’ chest. He was a demon but why he was so different than so many than the once that they went against on day to day routine. A devious smile seemed to cross the demons lips as he remembered how his master had melted into his touch. Leaning forward he whispered into his masters’ ear hotly, “My lord, your water will get cold before you get in it if you don’t hurry.”

The second he felt the hot breath against his ear, a shudder shot through the young Phantomhive, and he turned sharply to push Sebastian away, gasping startled when he bumped into him and panicked slightly at the shock, only to stumble back into the bathwater with the majority of his clothes on him. Shaking lightly, he was gritting his teeth as he gave soft curses of irritation and humiliation, legs hanging over the side of the tub, hair soaked and water dripping down his neck and into the water.

Sebastian chuckled softly, wrapping his arms around his master with one of his devilishly sly smiles on his lips. Lifting him up he slowly slid the rest of his masters’ clothes from his body, leaning back he slowly let his master slide back into the warm water. His red eyes sparked vivid red at the amusement of his masters’ curses and from the way his master had gotten into the bath.

“My lord, are you harmed at all?” ‘Other than your pride.’ His eyes sparked the thought visibly to his master. Leaning over the tub he grabbed the liquid soap that had an intoxicating aroma to it, it was Sebastian’s favorite scent on his master, for it was the one that was closest to his master’s natural scent. Looking at his master he tilted his head, not even trying to hide his amusement to his masters’ clumsy moment. As he progressed to clean his master.