7. A Waltz To Remember

JO here...

Surprise characters make an appearance. They are crucial to the plot but mainly, I couldn't resist adding them in cause I'm such a fangirl, lol.

EDITED 6/27/23

Disclaimer: I do not own Kuroshitsuji

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7. A Waltz To Remember

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Inside the glittering ballroom there were crowds of aristocrats dressed to the nines in the latest of Victorian London fashion as they socialized with one another. Pleasant perfume scents mingled with that of food being served tonight. Instrumental music played softly, adding a lively touch to the last party of the season.

I looked all around me, taking in this new experience with wonder. It was pretty cool seeing how the uppercrust mingled in Victorian times. All the women had on lovely dresses with tight corsets while the men looked so dapper in their dark pressed suits and slicked back hair. I smiled, feeling as if I were in a romance novel.

"First thing is first," Sebastian interrupted, eyeing the crowd with a critical eye as he stood beside me. "We must locate the Viscount of Druitt."

Madame Red's eyes glittered with interest as she walked ahead of us. "I wonder if the Viscount of Druitt is a handsome fellow. If that's the case, I would be more than willing to play my part!"

To my left, Ciel's expression told me he'd rather play dead than carry on.

"I'm uncomfortable," he complained, panting a little, glaring exhausted daggers at the polished marble floor beneath our feet. "It's heavy, this dress. The shoes. They hurt my feet. I want to go home."

"Oh, toughen up and be a woman!" I told him with a cheerful smile. "Look on the bright side, at least Lizzy isn't here."

I blinked, suddenly remembering a long forgotten detail.

Oh wait…

"Yes, that would have been humiliating," Ciel agreed.

A familiar high-pitched squeal sounded from behind our backs. Ciel flinched as I placed a hand over my mouth. I should have known Lizzy would make herself known so soon.

"Oh my goodness! Your dress is so CUTE!"

Ciel didn't turn around. Instead he squinted his singular visible eye. "That's funny, I'm even imagining the sound of her voice."

"Erm, I don't think that's your imagination, buddy," I informed him, looking back carefully.

Yup, there she was. An adorable blonde doll dressed in pastel ruffles with three layers of petticoats and white over-the-elbow gloves. Her curled pig-tails were as bouncy and shiny as ever. She stood a few feet away from us, gazing at the women surrounding her with stars in her eyes.

"Ooh! That hat of yours is so lovely too!" She gushed, making a debutante blush.

Both Sebastian and Ciel whipped their heads behind them in shock.

"There are just so many ladies in the loveliest of dresses. I can't stand it!" Lizzy announced to them all. "You are all just so cute!"

"Se-Se-Se-Sebastian," Ciel stuttered in a panicked voice.

"Huh, I plum forgot she'd be here," I murmured, stroking my chin. "When she told me she was attending a ball this week, I didn't think it'd be this one."

"You forgot? How could you forget something so crucial?" Ciel hissed.

I shrugged. "Well, I had a lot on my mind."

"Young mas—erm, my lady," said Sebastian. "Please calm down. Let us walk go over there where she won't spot us."

Before our little group could take another step, Lizzy spotted us and squealed. "Oh! That girl over there is wearing an awfully cute pink dress!"

Ciel froze, his small frame shaking in shock and embarrassment. I suppressed my laughter and took his hand, tugging the little blunette forward.

"Come on, Ciel!"

Sebastian, Ciel and I managed to lose Lizzy when we hid behind a table with a giant three-tiered cake on top. I was pretty damn sure it was covered in buttercream too. I paused to admire the exquisite piping detail when Sebastian grabbed my shoulder and pulled me down. It was in that moment Lizzy approached our hiding spot. She stopped on the other side, however, looking all around her in confusion.

"Where did that girl go?" she wondered aloud.

"Why is Elizabeth here?" Ciel whispered next to me, his face clearly stressed out. "I must get to Madame Red and the rest!"

When we peeked from behind the cake, on the other side of the room, we saw Madame Red reclined on a chaise like a queen, surrounded by an entourage of fawning men with hearts over their eyes. The woman laughed, lifting a delicate hand over her lips.

"Oh hoh hoh! I do not not mind the press of this crowd in the least!" she admitted happily. Lau stood next to her, fanning her with a palm leaf, looking equally unbothered by his new role. I almost laughed aloud.

She's utterly engrossed in the party, we all thought I'm sure.

I shook my head. "Looks like we're on our own."

"This is not good. I did not think your fiancée would be here, young master," Sebastian added as an afterthought.

"Even though I'm disguised, if she were to catch a glimpse of my face…," Ciel began.

I eyed the still perplexed Lizzy who remained standing on the other side of the table. "She'd definitely know it's you, Ciel. Without a doubt."

He blanched. "If she finds out, it would spell the end of our investigation!"

Sebastian nodded in agreement, face serious. "And everyone here would discover that the young lady is in fact, the young master."

I almost busted out laughing when Ciel expression turned gaunt and pinched. To him, such a scenario was a fate worse than death.

"If it becomes known that the head of the Phantomhive family had the gall to dress like this, we will be shamed for eternity!" He gasped, eye looking haunted as he envisioned it. "I'd dare not show my face before Her Majesty ever again!"

"You're overreacting," Sebastian added.

I nodded. "Sebastian's right. If anything, Lizzy would probably agree with me and say you're the cutest thing in the room!"

"I would rather die than have that happen," Ciel spat. "She must never find out!"

We cautiously moved from our hiding spot, running as quick as we could away from Lizzy. Sebastian, at one point, stopped a server and told him to offer Lizzy some lemonade to distract her wandering eye.

On our way out, we were stopped only once when I bumped into another (rather cute, if I say so myself) gentleman. Curly dark hair, green eyes, defined jaw, svelte form, he was a dream boat! I smiled widely at him as he reddened. I waved his apologies away and was about to flirt with the man when Ciel grabbed my arm. He glared viciously at the confused gentleman before leading me away.

Out on the balcony, we exhaled in relief.

"That was something!" I said with a smile.

Ciel huffed. "Why do these miserable situations happen to me?"

"Look!" I hissed, pointing at our target through the entrance of the balcony. "It's the Viscount of Druitt!"

The boys turned and looked at the handsome blond man dressed in a white suit talking casually to another guest. He had a delicate look about him that gave off the air of "wouldn't hurt a fly" to all who gazed at him. If I wasn't already aware of what he was capable of, I would have labeled him a pansy and greatly underestimated him.

"Oh!" exclaimed a woman nearby. "Lord Druitt looks as gorgeous as ever tonight! His hair shines like the sun!"

I tilted my head as I continued to scrutinize. "You know, she's kind of right. He's actually pretty hot, much better looking than what the anime and manga led me to believe."

Sebastian and Ciel eyed me briefly before turning their forming frowns at the oblivious viscount.

"Alright, let's go," Ciel commanded, standing straight.

When we stepped out into the open, the band's music began to play, encouraging couples to start dancing and effectively blocking our path to the Viscount of Druitt. Ciel grimaced.

"Damn. Now we'll never get close to him," he said.

"Then there's no other choice," declared Sebastian, eyes glinting. "We shall have to dance our way across."

I gasped. Could it be? Ciel and Sebastian were finally going to dance! Huzzah! I've been anticipating this scene like a Thanksgiving dinner. My eager smile melted, however, when Sebastian grabbed my wrist along with Ciel's, pulling all three of us forward toward the dancefloor. I blinked in confusion.

Wait, Sebastian was dragging me into this? We three can't possibly dance together!

"You really expect me to dance in public?" Ciel gawked. "And with you?"

We were at the edge of the waltzing crowd now and Sebastian brought us to stand before him. He smiled with such calm that his next words caught me off gaurd.

"Actually, you'll be dancing with my lord, Hero. After all, you two are betrothed."

My jaw dropped. Wait, what? "Um, Sebastian, I don't think our ten-minute tutorial at home has prepared me sufficiently enough for this type of dance. I mean, I know the waltz but I only how to follow, not lead."

"Fret not, my lord," Sebastian said, hands behind his back. "Just lead my lady across the floor as I've taught you. And my lady, just match your steps to the rhythm, okay? The rest should take care of itself."

HE WAS SERIOUS!

Sebastian gave us a little push, giving both Ciel and I little choice in the matter. Looks like we'll have to suck it up. I took Ciel's hand and thin waist and commenced the dancing like Sebastian had taught me back at Ciel's townhouse.

"I really hope I don't mess up," I tell him, my nerves catching up to the sticky situation. We passed by an overly eager dancing couple. "Doing the lead is not my thing. Is this even how we're supposed to dance this?"

"I don't know. I wasn't expecting to dance as the female in this situation," Ciel complained. "Take note that this scenario will never happen again!"

I chuckled, smiling. "Agreed. I think I'm better at being a girl then a boy, even if I suck at being a girl."

"You do tolerably well as a girl. After this night, I shall always lead in dances, understand? You shall be the female."

"No complaints from me, buddy. I'm not even sure if I'm doing this right. We probably look like idiots," I whisper, panicking once more.

Contraire to my thoughts, however, from everyone else's perspective, Ciel and I resembled an attractive fairytale couple as we glided across the polished floor with deft steps; like a prince who has found his princess and is expressing his ardent love by whisking her into a happily ever after dance.

On the sidelines, little Lizzy gazed at us in awe, her green eyes wide with wonder, most likely wishing in secret that her darling Ciel was here with her to lead her away in a similar dance. If only she knew he really was present at the ball.

I quickly maneuvered Ciel and I away from her rapt gaze, bringing us a little closer to the other side of the ballroom where our target still stood. Finally, when we had made it through the dancing crowd and the music number, Ciel collapsed in exhaustion when he let me go.

I laughed, amused at his lack of stamina.

"I'm amazed you can get tired so quickly over something like that," I said. "but I don't blame you. My legs are a little shaky too. Must be the nerves."

I held out a hand for him to take to right himself. Just as Ciel got to his feet, we both heard a slow series of claps. We looked to our right and found the infamous Viscount of Druitt approaching us, blond loose hair shining softly as it settled around his shoulders. He was certainly quite a sight for sore eyes. It was a damn shame his good looks were wasted on him though.

"Exquisite," he breathed, voice soft and melodious. "Your dance is as lovely as a robin, my sweet lady. And you my little lord, were exceptional as the lead as well."

I blinked in surprise. I got a compliment too? Sweet! I smiled, deciding to take my cue and leave Ciel to interrogate him. He didn't need me for this part.

"Thank you, Viscount. You have been a most generous host," I began. "If you would do me the honor of looking after my lady while I fetch her a refreshment, I would be very much obliged."

He gave me a charming smile. "Of course. I see that you know who I am, but may I ask, who are you?"

Ciel gave me a worried look since we hadn't established names yet. Thankfully I was a think-on-my-feet kind of girl and quickly gave Druitt a response.

"I am my lady's fiancé, Captain Sanders from America," I said as we shook hands.

Now I know what you're thinking: what kind of a first name is that? But can you blame me? I made it up on the fly and strange things tend to come out of my mouth when there's no plan or thorough backstory to follow. I could tell Ciel was mentally smacking his face at my stupid name.

Druitt appeared surprised. "Captain? Is that your rank?"

I laughed, amused.

"Oh no. It's just a simple name my parents chose. A little embarrassing I admit." Okay, time to wrap this up. I turn towards Ciel. "I shall be back momentarily, my lady."

With that I hurriedly left, head still reeling. I sincerely hoped Ciel can pull this off. I know he does—in the anime and manga at least—but real life makes heart-pounding situations more unstable.

I hadn't walked far when I bumped into another stranger by accident. Ugh! Why must it be so crowded in here? Did people have no lives outside of ballroom parties? To disguise my thoughts though, I immediately had on an apologetic face.

"Oh, so sorry! I didn't mean to bump into you!" I exclaimed.

The figure turned around and sneered in response.

"Well be careful next time," he said. "You almost ruined my suit. Bloody expensive, don't you know?"

I gaped. I couldn't help it.

This was guy was…wow. He had to be one of the most interesting looking men I've seen so far. Not only was he hot with boyish features but he was a head taller than me and wore a fancy white coat, a black waistcoat with white filigree, white pants that stopped to his knees, and long white Victorian Madison shoes that looked really kick ass. He also carried an expensive looking sheathed sword on his hip. With a shock of silver hair and glinting silver eyes—even his lashes and brows were silver—my dude looked like one seriously delicious official. I figured he was an official of some sort judging by the cameo hanging from his lapel.

As I took him in, I tilted my head. For some reason his face seemed familiar. Where have I seen him before?

"Why do you keep staring at me?" he asked bluntly, munching on a crème puff he had snagged off a passing waiter. "Is there something wrong with you?"

Oh, was I staring too much?

"My bad. It's just you look familiar but I can't quite place my finger on where I've seen you before," I admitted.

A sudden burning sensation on my back startled me for a second. It felt as if someone were drilling holes back there. I turned my head slightly and found Ciel staring at me from his position over with the Viscount. He was glaring vicious daggers at the gentleman next to me and I briefly wondered why he was so hostile toward the men in the ball. It wasn't like they all had suspicious motives or anything. My little dude needed to chill. I gave him a cheerful wave in response before returning my attention back to the stranger.

"Wouldn't surprise me if you knew me. I'm quite popular amongst the London scene," Mr. Pale as the Moon bragged. He leaned forward a bit, examining my face closely. "I say, your face is rather girlish. I don't believe I've seen you around."

"I'm new. Just came from America to visit my adorable fiancée," I informed him.

"America." He said it with such derision. "Certainly explains your peculiar accent. And fiancée? You? With that face?"

I huffed. "There's nothing wrong with a girlish face."

He laughed. "Of course, there is. It's most embarrassing."

"Is not. You're simply jealous because you don't have an adorable fiancée like I do. So take that and put it in your pocket."

He arched a silver brow. "Fiancée? Why would I bother with something like that?"

Was he serious?

"Does the word love have no effect on you?" I asked, shocked. Not that I should be talking myself, but my love for Nick Jonas knew no bounds—sue me, I was a fan and still am.

Mr. Pale as the Moon laughed. "What a nonsensical thing to say. I simply have no time for such troublesome things."

I tsked audibly and gave him a sympathetic face. "With an answer like that I can safely assume that you've yet to experience such a common emotion. Or, it could just be that you've been rejected by a girl before."

He flushed in anger, the red in his cheeks the only color on him now. "You speak very freely towards me, I'd be careful if I were you."

Now I laughed, shaking my head. "Sweetie, in case the heat in the ballroom has gotten to your head, I'm American. We care very little for your social rules of convention that will spare you your delicate feelings. But if it makes you feel better, rejection happens to everyone. So, cheer up. There are plenty of other fishes in the sea."

"I'd cut you to ribbons if this crowd wasn't here."

Dude, I live for these kinds of threats. I grinned in response, taking a step forward. "Really? How noble, I'm quite touched. But honestly, you wouldn't even be able to land a single hit on me if you tried."

Mr. Pale as the Moon arched another brow as he took a step forward himself. "Is that a challenge?"

I smirked. We were barely two hands span apart now. "Well, if the shoe fits."

His eyes flashed. "Your American turn of phrase confuses me but I understand the gist."

"Glad it took you long enough—"

"My lord, I have been looking for you everywhere," interrupted a familiar rich voice. I turned around and found Sebastian approaching us. Damn, so much for the potential fight. "Really, you shouldn't wonder off like that. Your fiancée is most anxious for your return."

"Oh, oh, right," I laughed, feeling merry from the would-have been confrontation with Mr. Pale as the Moon. "My bad. I got a little distracted."

As the stranger in white eyed Sebastian curiously, I patted his back roughly, something he was not expecting. "Well, good luck stranger. The pathway to love is a tedious task, but rewarding in the end. That's if you don't get rejected again."

"Why you!"

Sebastian quickly grabbed my hand and whisked me away before the stranger could cause a scene. I giggled behind my white gloved hand.

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"That little girl face! How dare he insult me! Does he not know who I bloody hell am?" ranted an enraged Charles Grey, formally known as Earl Grey and secretly dubbed as Double Charles by Her Majesty the Queen. He was her personal butler and prided himself in the respect, fear, and awe he caused in everyone anywhere he went. But tonight…that girly boy…

"He stated quite clearly that he didn't know you, saying that your face was simply familiar," explained a calm and collected Charles Phipps, also secretly dubbed as Double Charles by Her Majesty the Queen. He was also her personal butler and Charles Grey's assigned partner. Tonight the Double Charles were at Viscount of Druitt on top secret business.

"But he challenged me. Me! He doubted my skills. Next time I see him, I shall bring him down from his arrogant American cloud. And who would agree to be his fiancée? He has such a girlish face! Utterly a disgrace."

Phipps was silent for a few minutes, enough that Grey turned towards him in question. "Well," Phipps began stoically. "I thought he was rather pretty. He'd make a pretty girl, no doubt."

Grey stared at him in horror.

"Have you gone mad? Clearly this ball is affecting you. Come on. Let's begin our mission and get this over with. I do not want to have to face that boy. If I do, he shall kiss the tip of my blade as he surrenders to me." Grey walked away in a huff.

Phipps shook his head but followed his irate partner regardless as they lost themselves in Druitt Manor.

=/=/=

"You really shouldn't provoke strangers," Sebastian chided as we left Mr. Pale as the Moon behind. "It is quite improper for a gentleman."

I smiled. "Sorry, I couldn't resist. He was just so cute and too easy to mess with."

Sebastian sighed. "Really now. These 'girlish' tendencies of yours can be quite bothersome."

"Oh yes," I agreed, humoring him. "They can be the very devil."

Sebastian gave me a slight smile. "My lord, you are quite a tease."

"I do try," I said with a wink. "Where's Ciel by the way? Is he with the Viscount?"

"Yes. At the moment, they're still talking—" I interrupted Sebastian by grabbing his sleeve and tugging at it, catching his attention as I pointed across the ballroom.

"Look! The music has stopped and Lizzy's crossing over! She'll be on Ciel any minute now!" I looked at Sebastian and found him missing from my side. In a matter of seconds, Sebastian landed in front of Lizzy with a portable cabinet beside him, a masquerade mask perched on his handsome face.

The crowd gaped at the spectacle. Sebastian stood up calmly with a smile. "Ladies and gentlemen, if you would all gather around, this evening's magic show will now begin."

I smiled as I walked closer to the scene. Dude, I freakin' loved this little part in both the anime and manga. I glanced over at Ciel. He looked like he really wanted to throttle the Viscount more than anything right now. I snickered, remembering how girly he had tried act. I'll never let him forget this wonderful night—especially since I took inconspicuous pictures on my camera before we left. I hoped we attended another one of these balls. The fun seemed endless!

I settled my attention back on Sebastian as he coerced Lau into being his assistant.

"A normal cabinet," he began. "Once I climb inside, bind it tightly with chains. Then simply run it through with the swords." He stepped inside. "I shall remain perfectly unharmed. This is no mere trick or illusion. Prepare for a performance of true magic."

The anticipation grew as Sebastian shut the cabinet doors. Lau obediently bound the structure in chains and sighed, holding one of the swords uncertainly. "Well, here goes nothing."

And like a sleeping tiger, he awakened with a scary intense and malicious gleam in his eyes as he jammed the sword into the roof of the cabinet with a ferocity that startled everyone. Lau's viciousness didn't diminish as he gathered each sword. Visibly, I was rather impressed by Lau's speed and accuracy. But inside, I wondered if Sebastian was okay. I mean, I knew he'd be fine, but who knows what surprises real life can bring?

When he was done, Lau smiled at the shell-shocked crowd. "Well, what do you think? Is he alive?"

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The cabinet doors opened to reveal an unharmed Sebastian. He smiled humbly to the clapping the stunned audience had roared with after their initial shock. Sebastian turned his head slightly to stare at Lau.

"Payback?" he murmured, arching an elegant brow.

"Hmm? Whatever do you mean?" Lau innocently asked. "I was simply doing as you instructed."

More like entertaining Hero by hoping to skewer me, Sebastian thought. He found said Hero in the crowd, looking as delighted as a child of five.

Really now, what was he supposed to think of his little demon mate when she was off meeting with dangerous strangers one minute and acting like a little child amazed at a simple trick the next? All while looking decidedly sweet and proper in her gentlemen clothes?

Sebastian smiled to himself. He wondered how he should properly test her to prove herself as his mate. After all, just because she was his didn't mean he wanted an easy conquest. Sebastian liked a challenge and testing Hero seemed like an interesting way to pass the time until he could consume the master's soul. The thought also prompted him to also wonder when he should break the news to Hero and his young master that she was his eternally?

Sebastian was well aware of his master's growing sentiments for the girl. He briefly worried if she might harbor some type of affection for the boy. He hoped not, for both their sakes. It would be easier for all involved if Hero didn't develop any feelings for the young master. For himself, he could care less. Hero would be his whether she loved him or not.

Still, why rush things? He was the only demon around for miles and the night was still young. He'd give Hero more time before he claimed her forever.

Sebastian's thoughts were interrupted when Madame Red appeared, dressed splendidly in a gown dipped in various shades of crimson, clapping like a pleased queen after a particularly entertaining session in court.

"Sebastian, that was absolutely incredible!" She gushed.

"Indeed, I thought I had killed you," Lau added.

Sebastian smiled, his ire building at Lau's words. "It actually hurt more than expected. I didn't think you'd aim straight for my head. Anyone else would have died."

A familiar giggle from behind had him turning towards Hero. She beamed unabashed.

"Great job Sebastian! That was fantastic! And Lau, I loved how you handled those swords," she complimented, elbowing him with a wink.

Lau smirked. "It pleases me that I was able to delight you, my lord." He then eyed Sebastian curiously. "By the by, how did you do the trick anyway?"

Madame Red blanched in horror as the realization hit her. "Wait, you stabbed him that many times without knowing? Idiot! He could have died!"

Hero giggled at the pair. Sebastian gave them a dazzling smile that secretly left her breathless.

"Like I told you," said the dark butler, "there were no tricks, simply magic."

=/=/=

By the time I realized I should probably be looking for Ciel, he was gone. I face palmed myself for being so forgetful. Just because the party was so much fun didn't mean I had to slack off. Honestly, how can I keep forgetting myself? I walked over to a blocked off hallway and pushed the heavy curtain aside, stepping inside to cool air that smelled of stale flowers. They must have gone in here.

"Ci—I mean, my lady?" I called loud enough to be heard. "Are you here?"

I was a little worried now. I had hoped to spare Ciel the twisted encounter with Druitt but it looked like that ship had sailed. I knew Sebastian would come to the rescue sooner or later and that Ciel would come to no real harm, but my "must protect Ciel" senses were tinging to an all-time high.

I opened every random door I saw and peered inside, hoping to find Ciel by some miracle.

"My lady?" I called again. "Where are you?"

It seemed like I was at this for an awfully long time. When I rounded another corner, I bumped into none other than the Druitt! What luck! He seemed equally shocked to see me here wandering around his house.

"My lord Captain Sanders, correct?" he asked.

Who? Oh me! I hastily recovered and offered him a smile. "Yes, that's right. I'm afraid my darling fiancée has disappeared, no doubt in search of other amusements. She tires easily of eating and dancing you know."

"Hmm, indeed. She told me as much. She also told me a lot about you too as well, my lord," said the Viscount, a weird gleam in his eye.

I mentally sweat dropped. Come on Hero, you have nothing to worry about, I told myself. Druitt was into women, not men, I think. Although, maybe he sensed I was really a girl? Or maybe he was secretly gay. Who knows?

"Do you happen to know where she is then?" Is he gonna spill or do I have to kick his ass the hard way?

"But of course!" the Viscount answered enthusiastically. "The poor dear is waiting for you. She was most upset that you had left her for so long."

I blushed. Ciel was? Oh wait, the Viscount was bluffing. Duh. It surprised me that he so readily acquiesced to my demand. Maybe he didn't want a commotion if too many people snooped around in search of the missing Ciel. Smart of him to decide on letting him go.

I followed Druitt as he led the way.

"I'm curious to know," the Viscount went on, "how did you two meet?"

Why would he want to know that? Was this supposed to be small talk?

"Oh, uh, well, um," Think woman think! "I, uh, have a twin sister named Hero who came to visit England. She befriended my lady and introduced us when I came to visit her. After Madame Red's insistence, our families approved of each other and decided on our arranged marriage."

"You have a twin sister?" That seemed like the only part the Viscount was interested in. I gave him a wary smile.

"Yes," I said. "We look exactly alike."

"How interesting," the Viscount murmured. At last he stopped in front of a closed door. "You must introduce us the next time."

"Sure, sure," I said absently, wanting to barge inside already. I didn't notice the Viscount's small smirk appear on his delicate features when he opened the door for me. When I stepped inside, I found Ciel sleeping on a couch, his face peaceful and positively adorable.

"Ci—I mean, my lady!" I called, walking over to him.

"It would appear she fell asleep waiting for you."

I touched Ciel's bare shoulder gingerly. I was about to wake him when I finally noted the odd smell in the room. Curses! How could I be so dumb to forget? I quickly got up but stumbled slightly as the sweet aroma began to drug my senses. I collapsed in front of Ciel's sleeping form, feeling my consciousness slipping away like rushing water

"What's the matter my lord?" The Viscount of Druitt's voice sounded so far away. "Why so lethargic? Very well, I shan't disturb you. But if it'll help you sleep comfortably I waited for you, knowing you'd come after this sweet robin. Soon you shall accompany her on her journey as well, my brave little raven."

Brave little raven? How is that cute at all? Still, I couldn't do jack as I felt darkness take over. Before I knew it, I was unconscious and as helpless as Ciel.

I seriously needed to pick up the slack.

=/=/=

.

A little earlier…

.

Ciel stared after Hero's retreating back with a mixture of despair and humiliation. At least she wasn't going to witness his appalling acting in an attempt to persuade the Viscount. Ciel reluctantly gave the man his undivided attention, curtseying and plastering on a smile.

"E-Evening my lord Druitt, I am most honored by your compliment," he said in a girly voice, lifting a hand.

The Viscount took the proffered gloved hand and kissed it gently. "I do hope you're enjoying the party," he said. "And I must say that little lord of yours was quite lovely."

Ciel mentally glared at him. Did he sense Hero underneath the lie? And really, what was Hero thinking coming up with such a stupid name, he thought. As if her name wasn't already abstract in justice enough. He gave the Viscount a fake smile.

"Heh, yes, he is. A most wonderful fiancé," Ciel emphasized, wiping his hand secretly from Druitt's touch. Even through the glove, his skin crawled.

"Fiancé…he has quite an exquisite face, I must add. Very exotic."

Ciel briefly wondered if Hero had her information wrong. Did the Viscount prefer men instead of women? Because that's the vibe he was receiving from the man. The thought made his blood run cold.

"Y-Yes. Americans are quite interesting that way," Ciel said, looking down, his nerves kicking in. "The Spanish blood runs strongly through his family."

"Spanish?"

Ciel briefly lifted his gaze until he spotted Hero not too far away, chatting with another gentleman.

That girl! Can't she go two minutes without flirting with everyone? Ciel burned holes into her back as his anger rose. How dare she be so at ease when he was here suffering the attentions of a possibly murderous, perverted idiot?

As if sensing his gaze, Hero turned around and met his stare. She simply smiled and waved at him, as if to say "good luck" and turned back to her conversation with the pale stranger. If looks could murder, the fellow in white would have been buried six feet under. The two seemed to be getting along as they grew closer, both smiling.

Ciel scowled. It had taken him quite some time to get used to the idea of Hero sleeping on his bed, how come this stranger was invading her personal space already? Oh why couldn't Hero understand what "DO NOT GAIN UNWANTED ATTENTIONS" meant? The thought of other men talking to her, so much as looking at her, made his blood boil. Could he not get through this night without blowing his top off by her brazen behavior?

"Miss Robin?"

Ciel snapped his attention back to the Viscount. Focus on the mission, he told himself. He forced a smile. "Ah, yes, my lord. I have been wanting to speak with you all evening."

"Oh?"

"I'm bored to death of dancing and eating," Ciel said. He didn't notice the slight curl of the Viscount's smile.

"What a spoiled princess you are, little robin," stated the Viscount. He came closer and placed his hand on Ciel's waist. "Looking for something more, entertaining?" His fingers crawled slowly down and Ciel felt goose bumps rise on his skin.

Endure it, he told himself desperately. Ciel you can do this!

How he wished he didn't have to do this, but better him then have Hero dress up and gain the Viscount's unwanted attentions. Honestly, what would have become of Hero had she not stumbled upon Sebastian and himself? He had no choice but to do this. After all those horrible, horrible lessons, he had to endure this.

He faced the Viscount. "You know of other amusements? I'd be most interested."

Viscount stepped even closer and chose that moment to grab Ciel's chin, tilting his face upwards so it faced his.

I say man! That face is too close, Ciel thought, utterly grossed out.

"Of course. I'd be very happy to show you my little robin, my sweet little thing." He blew a cool breath in Ciel's face.

When this is all over I swear I'm going to kill this bastard, Ciel silently raged, ready to strike the man down with all his strength as he backed away a bit. He moved his head to where he'd last seen Hero and became miffed to see her still talking to the stranger in white. He caught Sebastian's attention and commanded him with his single blue eye to break the two up. Sebastian nodded and proceeded to separate Hero from the stranger.

Ciel turned back to the Viscount and focused. "Oh really? Like what?" he said, smiling.

He just had to find out the man's secret before this dance was over. It was either that or risk Elizabeth—who was currently standing across the dance floor—discovering his identity as well as having some other stranger's eyes on Hero. Didn't she know what his pawn meant? And if they found out her identity his would most likely follow soon after. His eye shifted across the floor and he was startled to find Elizabeth staring at him.

What? Did she know it was really him?

"You want to know?"

Hurry up man!

"Yes, I'm simply dying to, my lord." If Elizabeth comes this way, I'm doomed, Ciel thought frantically.

"You might be young yet," the Viscount commented. "And what would your fiancé think?"

Hurry!

"Now don't tease me, my lord, I'm a lady not a little girl. And my fiancé always lets me have my way. He is most anxious for my happiness."

It was then that Ciel noticed the music end. The couples on the dance floor slowly dispersed and Elizabeth, much to his horror, was making her way towards him.

"My, my, you are indeed a spoiled little princess, my sweet robin. But what has you so distracted?"

"Uh," Ciel panicked. "It's nothing, my lord."

She was almost upon them!

This is it, he thought in a daze. My life is over. What would Hero and Her Majesty think of him when his cover became blown? He braced himself for the worse when Sebastian, quite literally out of nowhere, appeared in the center of the dance floor, blocking Elizabeth's way. Ciel let out a breath of relief.

Sebastian stood up gracefully and smiled at the crowd. "Ladies and gentlemen, if you would all gather around, this evening's magic show will now begin."

Elizabeth's eyes widened with wonder and curiosity.

Sebastian turned towards an unsuspecting Lau. "Pardon me, sir, but would mind assisting me?"

"Assist you? Certainly," said Lau, putting down the giant leaf he had been using to fan Madame Red.

The Viscount placed a hand on his chin in thought. "I don't recall scheduling any parlor tricks this evening," he said in confusion.

Ciel's face scrunched itself in determination. Now's my chance, he thought. He faced the Viscount and tried copying Hero's way of pleading for something. "My lord, I've seen more than enough tricks," he said in the most girly and sweet voice he could muster. "May we go now, please?"

The Viscount posed dramatically. "Yes, anything for you, my sweet."

Ciel felt like getting himself exorcised after this. He was absolutely appalled by his own actions.

"Alright Robin, right this way." The Viscount revealed a hidden hallway, holding back a velvet curtain so Ciel could slip through. The boy clenched his fist before stepping forward. He followed the Viscount, ignoring his chatter until Hero's fake name came up.

"Captain sure is an unusual name," said the Viscount.

"Y-Yes, I believe his parents were most enthused about justice and all that." Ugh, why was he making small talk? And why was he mentioning Hero? "Why do you ask my lord?"

"Curiosity. There's something I find interesting in the boy." Ciel blanched. Was Hero wrong? Was the Viscount interested in boys after all? "It's a pity that he's a boy. No doubt he'd have made a pretty girl."

Ciel didn't know whether to be relieved the Viscount was into women after all or angry that he was even picturing Hero in her natural form.

"A pity indeed," he contributed. "He is very pretty after all."

Ceil couldn't believe he had admitted that. His face turned red. Thank goodness Hero wasn't listening to this and instead was all safe and sound in the ballroom with Sebastian. He'd make sure no harm came to her.

Speaking of Sebastian, Ciel remembered that something was off about him these days. Lately he's been enjoying Hero's company. Looking all the more less demon-like, if that's a way to describe it. He briefly wondered if maybe Sebastian was getting attached to Hero as more than a butler.

He mentally cursed.

Just great. First Lau's teasing—Ciel knows he's only being obnoxiously chummy with Hero because he wants to mess with him—and now Sebastian? Competition is quite bothersome. Especially when Hero only thought him adorable. It seemed to be the only word she thought when she looked at him.

The thought depressed Ciel a bit until he heard the ballroom cheer loudly. "The guests seem to be having fun in the hall," he commented out of curiosity. What were they doing?

The Viscount merely smiled. "You will have much more fun at the splendid place we're going," he said as he opened a door to his left and allowed Ciel to enter inside. The room was dark but that was not what warned Ciel that something was amiss. What was this with the odd scent he was smelling? It was awfully sweet yet suffocating to the nose.

"Splendid place—?" Ciel trailed off as his vision started to blur, his body weakening. He backed up against the door, teeth clenching as he slid down. Damn that bastard, he thought sleepily. Soon he was an unconscious heap at the foot of the door. The Viscount turned around and smiled.

"Yes, a splendid place indeed, my little robin."

=/=/=

Inside the Phantomhive Townhouse in London, Ciel stopped outside a pair of large double doors. He'd successfully managed to escape Madame Red's relentless onslaught of lady lessons for the moment and wanted to rest for a bit. He exhaled, looking at the doors before him in silence. He knew Hero had been taken here by Sebastian earlier. Apparently, she too had "lessons" of some sort.

"I don't think I'll be able to," he heard her say through the door.

"It's to be expected since you've only performed the submissive role. Now move your body like so…"

"Ah! Like this?"

"Yes, that's it. You're quite a natural."

She scoffed. "Right. Well, what's next?"

Ciel pressed his ear to the door.

"Here," Sebastian said. "Now grasp and keep it steady—"

"Argh! It got into my eye! It stings! I thought you said you wouldn't move it!"

"I didn't. You unintentionally moved it," Sebastian sighed. "Here let me see. It's not so bad."

"It stings!"

"Just open your eye." Nothing. Then, "There that should do it."

She sighed before her voice came out all shaky. "W-Wait, what are you doing?"

"I'm merely cleaning the mess."

"By licking it?" Ciel flushed and grabbed the knob, his fingers tense. What was Sebastian doing in there?

"I dislike waste and the taste is not that bad. Now once more."

"Again? Oh, but my legs are so tired. We already did it two times!"

"And it shall be thrice more, now from the top."

Ciel couldn't take it anymore. He burst into the room without knocking, face flushed. "Hero!" he called, stopping short, blinking in surprise.

Hero stood in front of Sebastian, her arms stretched before her as if holding onto an invisible person. Her hair was slightly damp, but that could be from the glass of what looked like lemonade perched on top of her head.

"W-What is going on?" Ciel asked, confused.

"Hello Ciel," she greeted. "Sebastian's trying to teach me how to properly dance. One of his 'strict lessons' includes placing a glass of water on my head so my footing can become even. Except we had lemonade so we used that instead. Sadly, I suck so bad the lemonade fell, and well, thank goodness Sebastian caught it in time."

"…?"

"Young master," Sebastian said, eyeing him. "Shouldn't you be with Madame Red? I believe your next important lesson is about to begin. Perhaps I should assist you?"

"And what lesson is that?" Hero asked curiously.

Sebastian chuckled darkly. Madame Red appeared behind Ciel then. "Ciel darling! It's time for the corset! No woman worth her salt should be without a wasp waist!"

Ciel blanched in horror. It all passed by in a blur until the only thing he could feel was pain. It hurt like the very devil, ironic because the devil was the one causing him such harm.

"Se-Sebastian," he gasped.

"Now please place your hands on the wall and relax your muscles a bit further," Sebastian instructed calmly.

"I…can't take it anymore…no it hurts!" he insisted, beads of sweat rolling down the side of his face as he panted.

"Do bear with it a little longer sir. You will find your body becoming accustomed to it soon."

Ciel panted and huffed. "Ah—coming—THEY'RE COMING OUT! MY GUTS ARE ON THE VERGE OF COMING OUT OF MY BODY, I SAY!"

Sebastian tightened the strings. "No lady has yet had her innards squeezed out by a corset."

The door to the room opened and Hero walked in. She stopped upon seeing them both and blushed. Blushed? Why was she blushing?

"Oops! So sorry to have interrupted. Please, continue." The innuendo was unmistakable. Ciel flushed in humiliation.

"Hero wai—!" The air was stolen from his lungs and Ciel chocked. He heard Sebastian chuckle as he tightened the strings to the corset even further. The boy panted heavily as he fisted his hands.

Hero blushed even further and smiled nervously. "Uh, when your done Sebastian, I was wondering if you could help me put on my clothes. I'm not sure how I'm supposed to wear them."

"—!" Before Ciel could protest about Sebastian having to dress Hero, said demon butler tightened the corset to a degree Ciel was sure was inhumanely impossible. He expected to see his guts soon. Sebastian, on the other hand, chuckled darkly as he gave Hero an innocent smile.

"Very well. I shall be over to assist you momentarily."

After Hero left, Ciel managed to find some air and shouted as loud as he could. "Sebastian, you bastard—!"

.

Ciel woke up with a sudden jolt. His eyes snapped open as his breath shook. He blinked for a few moments before sighing in relief. Just a dream. And what a horrible one at that. He'd have to remember to payback Sebastian for placing him in such an insinuating circumstance. Hero could have gotten the wrong message after all.

The little bluenette tried moving his arms but found that they had been tied tightly with some sort of restraint. Not only that, but he seemed to be blindfolded! He sighed in irritation. First the corset, now these new restraints; wonderful. Where was he anyhow? Ciel moved his head and heard faint murmuring of people conversing.

"Quiet please, everyone," Ciel's eyes widened beneath the blindfold. That's the Viscount's voice! The voices soon died down. "We have two featured items for today. First, I present to you a particularly rare and outlandish item that has just recently come in."

Item? What is he talking about?

"He'd make quite a lovely decoration as you showed him off to your guests. You can also choose to keep him as a pet. He has such a lovely face and such wonderful soft skin that I highly recommend you do as such, but if not, I'm sure his organs would sell at quite a pretty price."

Ciel gasped. An underground auction? That man! So this is what he does. He's been selling off the organs of the murdered prostitutes here. Ciel briefly wondered who the Viscount was showing off. He'd have to call for Sebastian immediately.

The Viscount continued. "He's quite a rare gift, recently imported from America and has quite the exotic look. Add to his feminine lovely face, a well-connected background and his value goes up."

Ciel pondered in thought. America…? "Here. I'll show you." He heard the rustle of fabric as the poor victim was revealed. People gasped, oohing and ah'ing, whispering amongst themselves as they viewed the victim. "Now then, the bidding starts at a 1000 pounds."

"Are you serious?" snapped a familiar voice. "You're auctioning me? In a legit human trafficking auction? Lame dude. Lame. Even the movie Taken with Liam Neeson was better then this."

Ciel sat speechless, blinking like a stupefied idiot, absolutely stunned.

Hero was here?

=/=/=

I kept hearing voices as I drifted in and out of sleep. When I finally opened my eyes, it was dark. I felt a little disoriented at first, but soon the fog in my head began clearing. When I attempted to move, I noticed that my arms were tied together. I shifted a little and smiled when I noted that the ropes were kind of on the weak side. It would be easy to get out of these—at least for me; the straps Vanel used were much stronger. Before I could tear them, however, I heard a familiar voice speak.

"He's quite a rare gift, recently imported from America and has quite the exotic look. Add to his feminine lovely face, a well-connected background and his value goes up." Oh! It was the Viscount of Druitt! But, was he talking about me? "Here. I'll show you."

I heard a heavy rustle of fabric as I felt the light hit me. Someone grabbed at the back of my head. I realized then that a blindfold had been placed over my eyes. It was swiftly removed and I blinked several times until I found myself staring at a large bird cage. A crowd of finely dressed people wearing masquerade masks stared at me as though I were some animal in a zoo.

My jaw dropped. That motherfucker!

"Now then, the bidding starts at a 1000 pounds."

I glared at the Viscount. "You're auctioning me? In a legit human trafficking auction? Lame dude. Lame. Even the movie Taken with Liam Neeson was better than this."

"Now hush, my brave little raven," he said as he continued getting bids. I gritted my teeth in anger. Ugh! I was so out of here. I was about to snap the ropes apart when I looked left and gasped again. There was another cage beside me covered by a heavy black cloth. Ciel? Oh my gosh Ciel!

"Ci—I mean, my lady!" I cried. "Are you in there?"

"Her—Captain? What are you doing here?" came Ciel's voice from inside.

"You see ladies and gentlemen," said the Viscount as he walked in between our cages. "I also forgot to mention that our lovely prince here is betrothed to the beautiful little female item next to him. Doesn't the heart-warming thought of him in love amp up the value? Maybe you could even get them in pairs, the prince and princess, if you so desired."

"8000!"

"9500!"

"10,000!"

The numbers sky-rocketed as everyone tried getting in on the action. I rolled my eyes.

"Don't worry, my lady. I'll get us out!"

Ciel sounded distressed. "Don't do anything stupid! I command you!"

"Chill. I got this."

The Viscount chuckled. "Now aren't they adorable?"

I ignored him as I concentrated like crazy and pulled my arms apart, snapping the ropes as if they were twigs. The Viscount gaped, looking alarmed. I grabbed the cage bars above me and lifted myself from the ground until I swung my foot forward. My boot collided against the caged door with such a force that it swung open violently and fell from its hinges. The crowd gasped in horror. I somersaulted my way out before getting up on shaky legs and striding confidently towards Ciel's cage.

"Somebody!" shouted the panicking Viscount. I ignored him and pulled the cloth away. I kicked open the cage door and got Ciel out.

"What do you think you're doing?" Ciel demanded in a worried tone.

"Saving us," I said simply as I took off his blindfold and started to untie him.

I didn't get far. I sensed several men approach us from behind, probably intending to grab us and stuff us back in our cages no doubt. I whirled around in the next second and punched the closest guy square in the solar plexus. I moved to his side as he fell forward and landed a high kick in the throat on the next attacker. The womenfolk shrieked as the occupants in the room scattered. I sensed someone from behind and ducked, swiping my leg in a 180 degree arc. The enemy fell and as I got up, I felt a hand on my shoulder. Reacting on instinct I grabbed the arm and flung the attacker over my shoulder and thrashed him onto the floor using his own momentum.

I turned my head and saw the Viscount looking at me with awe, his cheeks tinged red. If I'm not mistaken, he actually had hearts in his eyes. Oh my gosh, was he gay?

"What an enchanting brave little raven! Were you female, you'd be a hypnotic Boudicca. So strong, so fearless, so bewitching, so—!" Before he knew it, I punched him in the face. He landed out cold on the floor and I harrumphed, dusting my hands. That'll teach the mofo to kidnap Ciel and me.

I turned around and dutifully rejoined Ciel's side. He was staring at me with his mouth open. I snapped the ropes binding him and grabbed his hand as we ran towards the exit. "Didn't I tell you I could fight?"

"I—I wasn't expecting all that!"

I giggled as I threw the door open. We dashed into the hall and kept running. I huffed. "Do you think the Yard is on their way? I told Sebastian to call them when I went looking for you."

Ciel panted. "Then they should be here by now." We heard a commotion behind us which signaled the Yard discovering the occupants inside the room. Ciel started to slow down, but I grabbed his wrist and kept going.

"Come on! If Sir Randall sees you, won't he recognize you? I mean, what would the rest of the boys in the Yard say—!"

Before I could even finish that last sentence, Ciel ran ahead and started dragging me instead. I giggled.

"You're too cute," I blurted.

Ciel looked back and flushed as we rounded a corner. "Will you stop saying that? I'm not a doll."

"But how could I not? Lizzy was so right, by the way. You're too effin' cute for your own good," I added. I heard Ciel sigh in resignation and I couldn't help but grin. Finally, after a few hallways, Ciel stopped moving for real this time. He collapsed on the floor as he panted, sounding like he's going to cough up one of his lungs.

"What's wrong?" I asked, worried. Was it his asthma acting up? I panicked. What if he had an asthma attack? I didn't have an inhaler at all! "Ciel are you okay?"

"This dress, it's, really heavy and, my feet really hurt," Ciel said between breaths as he slowly regained his composure. Was that all? And here I thought it was something serious. I began laughing causing Ciel to redden in embarrassment. "What's so funny?"

My laughter subsided and I smiled. "Oh nothing. Why don't I give you a piggyback ride instead? It'll be much faster that way."

Ciel blinked in confusion. "A what?"

"A piggyback ride. I bend down so you can climb aboard my back, then I carry you," I explained. Ciel looked at me as if I had grown two heads. I turned around and crouched down. I looked over my shoulder at him and grinned slyly. "You're not scared, are you?"

This poor boy was turning cherry red tonight.

"B-But it sounds most inappropriate," he said, "and strange."

"You wanna keep walking in those heels?" Ciel was silent for a minute before he finally relented. I told him to hold onto my shoulders and wrap his legs around my waist. I secured my hands successfully under his legs despite the excessive amount of fabric of his dress—lol, his dress.

"You shall never speak of this to anyone!" he demanded, obviously feeling humiliated enough for one night. I smiled as I got up, using my legs to support his weight before I took off. Surprisingly, Ciel wasn't all that heavy. Most of the weight was from the dress. That realization caused me to feel kind of sorry for him now. Most boys would die of shame having to dress up as a girl but despite it all, he took it pretty well. Obviously, he would never be successful as a drag queen, but I had to give him props for his effort tonight.

As we rounded corners and passed through more endless corridors, I started wondering if we were lost.

"Do you think we're lost?" I asked Ciel.

"I don't know. Most probably. I wasn't really paying attention when I was following the Viscount," he said before going silent. I wondered if something was wrong and was about to ask him when he spoke.

"Um, nice punch," he murmured under his breath, referring to me punching the lights out of the Viscount earlier.

I smiled. "Thank you. He deserved it."

Right about then, just as we were about to turn another corner, we collided into a wall of flesh. It caused us to tumble down on top of the poor unfortunate victim.

Ciel cursed under his breath. "Who on earth!"

I blinked and look at the face under me. The victim gasped but mostly out of shocked anger.

"You!" We said simultaneously, scrambling up and backing away. It was Mr. Pale as the Moon!

"Of all the people to run into," I said to the heavens. "I didn't expect you'd be here."

The stranger huffed angrily in indignation. "You're one to talk. How dare you run me over!"

"Me? How come you were in the way?" I asked, a little offended. I felt a hand grab hold of my sleeve and looked to find Ciel trying to hide his face.

"Let's go!" he hissed. I looked at the pissed off stranger and shrugged.

"Okay."

"Not so fast!" said the stranger as he took out his sword and so swift I didn't see it coming, pointed it at my nose. He smirked. "I told you I'd cut you to ribbons if we were out of sight."

I looked back at Ciel. "Do you, by any chance, know who this cute loon is?"

"Cute?" Ciel repeated, jealousy and anger whirling.

"Cute?" echoed the stranger, looking at me as I'd gone insane.

"Please excuse him, my lord," said someone from behind as he stepped forward. He was all decked in white and had silver grey-ish hair with grey eyes as well. Two noticeable facts about him were his tall height and the tiny mole on the left side of his face. He looked apathetic as he approached us. "I'm afraid he's been feeling irritable tonight. This is Earl Grey. Please pardon his rudeness."

"Phipps!"

My eyes widened and I almost swooned. I should have known that this was Charles Grey! Snap! What were the odds that I would meet him here?

Ciel tugged at my sleeve impatiently again. I got the cue. "S'okay. Be see'n you guys around." Charles didn't waste time in attacking me. I managed to dodge just in time. I arched a brow at him. "Dude!"

"I told you you'd pay," he said calmly.

"For hurting your pride? Now that's petty," I told him. "And there's a little lady present." Ciel gave me the "WTF ARE YOU DOING" look.

"Then make sure you don't get humiliated," he said, running forward.

Behind him, Phipps sighed. "If you insist upon this, I give you two minutes. No more."

"More than enough time," Charles boasted with a smirk.

Uh, hello, don't I get a say in this? I dodged his attack and ducked in time for the next one. This went on for the remainder of the time. All I did was avoid his hits. I rather got the impression that he was impressed that I was able to keep up for so long. Ciel, however, was becoming angry and impatient as the seconds ticked by. He held a hand over his contracted eye, looking like he'd love to push Charles into a lake.

"I want to end this now," Ciel demanded. "We need to get going. And don't get hurt. I'm only allowing this because you-know-who isn't here and I'm in a dress. "

I smiled at his demanding tone. "Well, if you insist...my lady."

As Charles feigned a step and flicked his wrist to send his sword in a sharp upright direction, I performed a split—he wasn't expecting that at all—and dodged his attack. I feigned going left and allowed him to follow suit. The momentum had his body's weight leaning to the left. I took the opportunity and made a quick right, twirling and landing a swift kick right where it hurt the most.

No, not there, but rather in his solar plexus. The impact was forceful, and for a moment I was afraid I had used my scary strength, but luckily, Charles just winced and went down on his knees, trying to regain the air that had gotten beaten out of his lungs.

I quickly grabbed Ciel's hand and ran. Yeah, it was a little cowardly, but I'd hate to face Charles after that little stunt. I remembered reading somewhere that this boy was rather scary when really pissed.

=/=/=

"Well, I'm glad that's over," Phipps said, checking his fob watch. "Now let's go."

"…!"

Phipps sighed. "Still can't breathe?"

Charles soon regained his breath and started coughing. He glared daggers in the direction girly boy went. "If I…find him…," he gasped as he got up, clutching his foil. "I won't…go easy on him!"

Phipps stared at the direction Grey's girly boy left. He tilted his head in thought. "I say, I know you'll think me crazy but, didn't this girly boy of yours seem a little too female?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, his voice sounded more feminine than before. I get the impression he is actually a she in disguise."

Grey turned around sharply. "What?"

"It's just an impression," Phipps explained calmly. "But that girl in pink that was with 'him' looked an awful lot like Phantomhive."

"Phantomhive? You mean, Earl Phantomhive? What the bloody hell would he be doing here?"

Phipps shrugged in response. "I haven't a clue but I heard rumors he had an American guest staying with him for some time. The Queen was most intrigued when she heard."

Grey stood silently staring at his partner with wide eyes. At last, he shook his head and started walking away.

"I suddenly feel like sitting down and drinking tea. Let's just finish our job. As soon as we get back, I'm investigating this! No one makes a fool out of Charles Grey and gets away with it!"

=/=/=

"It's official…we're lost," I said in despair as we stopped walking after escaping the Double Charles. OMFG! I still can't believe I just them! But wait, were they even supposed to be here? The anime/manga certainly hadn't said anything about them appearing this early. I crossed my arms over my chest and looked around.

"What is up with this Viscount's house! Why is it so huge?" I complained.

Ciel sighed, moving his fringes out of his eyes. "Bugger," he said remembering that his contracted eye was exposed and anyone passing could have a look. "My eye is uncovered."

I looked at him in thought before I snapped my fingers. "Got it." I undid his left pigtail and used a part of it as a curtain, letting it fall over Ciel's left eye while bringing the rest over to the remaining pigtail on the right and wrapping it around like a scrunchy. I secured a stray pin in so it would hold. Looks like I've been hanging around Amanda a little too much to be pretty handy with this. I grabbed a stray ribbon from my own outfit as I tied it around his hair to make it look much more presentable.

"There! I think this'll do for now. Wow don't you look even cuter!"

Ciel sighed again.

"It would appear my masculinity is non-existent tonight," he muttered quietly.

"What?"

"Nothing."

Because Ciel looked too cute—I know, I know, everyone's probably heard for like the thousandth time—I decided to give him a quick peck on the cheek instead of the usual hug.

But it was at that exact opportune moment that Ciel decided to turn his head and well, lo and behold, our lips met.

We both froze, not moving an inch, lips still connected as we stared into each other's wide shocked eyes.