Sebastian X Reader

Chapter 8: Kanojo no Shitsuji, The Invite

"From the Queen?" You reiterated what he said, watching the long haired one walk into the room.

"Pardon us." The taller one said politely as they made their way to the small table where you usually ate. You mentally sighed at your guests, nodding to Sebastian to prepare tea and snacks for them.

"We apologize for disrupting your schedule for today, but this is an urgent message from Her Majesty." You heard the blonde say as you sat across from them.

"I am Charles Phipps and this is Charles Grey. We are the Queen's private secretarial officers and butlers." Phipps introduced the two of them and you wondered why the Queen would send her special butlers to you.

"Her Highness requests an audience with you this evening."

"This evening?" You frowned slightly.

"Yes, this evening. She wishes to speak with you personally." Grey blinked twice as he rests his cheek on his hand. "Will there be a problem?"

"No. Of course not. I was just surprised she would ask to see me on such short notice." You didn't want to offend Her Majesty, especially since you were the one who partly framed Randolf.

"Yes, she does apologize for the inconvenience, but she does not want to delay in meeting you." Phipps begins to give a brief overview of what to expect at the Queen's palace, the guests, and duration of the visit. You listen to his explanation, having heard only the first couple of sentences before your attention was directed somewhere else. You noticed that the other Charles still had his head supported by his hand, a small grin planted on his lips. You attempted to ignore his stare but your curiosity was distracting you.

'Why is he staring at me like that?' You tried to answer the question yourself but heard one of the Charles' chair being pushed back.

"Anyway, we will be providing you transportation at 5:30PM. Please be ready at that time." Grey also stood up, the two butlers bidding you good-bye as they left your inn's room.

"Oh damn! I didn't get everything that Charles Phipps was saying!" You went to chase after them, blaming Grey for lack of concentration.

"My Lady, I have already memorized it all." A hand on your shoulder gently set you back in your seat, looking up at your butler.

"A-ah, gomen." You gave a sheepish smile as Sebastian reassures it was no hassle.

"Now we have another problem." You blow out a sigh from your mouth before biting your lip as you have to rearrange your schedule. You were suppose to head to Nottingham in search of your brother, but seeing how far it was from where you were, time would be an obstacle. The other place Randolf mentioned was also quite a distance away, making it difficult to travel back and forth before your meeting with the Queen.

"There is another way that might help our search for the rest of the morning seeing how today's schedule has changed."

"What is it?"

"How about I tell you while you have breakfast? Skipping meals will not help with your recovery process." Sebastian noticed you haven't been getting proper rest for the past couple of days so in order to compensate, he would feed you food rich in vital nutrients for your body.

--

"Is this it?" You asked Sebastian, looking up at a small, black shop with a large sign that read 'Undertaker.'

"Yes, it is." Sebastian opens the door for you, allowing his lady to enter first.

"H-hello?" You became guarded at the dead silence that established itself throughout the room. Your skin was tingling at how creepy you felt, trying to figure out where the owner was. Maybe he was in the back room? But why weren't there any noises? Didn't you greet loudly enough for him to hear?

"Hello, deary, have you come to place an order for yourself?" The sound of someone's voice becomes clearer as you can hear something sliding against a surface. You looked down, catching a movement below you and you let out a loud scream.

"Kyaa!" You jumped back, Sebastian catching you before your body knocked down some of the coffins placed throughout the entire room.

"H-h-h-he's alive!" You pointed at the opened casket, a male with long, silver hair sitting up from where he was laying.

"Of course I am! I was just taking a nap, hehehehe." You try to distinguish his face, but his bangs reached below his eyes. What you noticed the most was a scar that came from the  upper left  side and ended past his right cheek. His outfit consisted of a black robe with a gray sash over his left shoulder and a black top hat perched on top of his head.

"So, how can I help you today? Are you ordering a grave for yourself? You know a white casket is becoming popular nowadays."

"My master is not here for a casket, Mr. Undertaker.  She is here to ask you a few questions." Sebastian replied before nodding to you so you could begin your interrogation.

"I see. Well, to get some information out of me, it will cost you." He grins.

"Cost what?"

"You know..." He lets out a small chuckle as he licks his lips to prevent saliva from dripping out his mouth.

"No, I'm sorry sir, I don't know what it is that you want..." You eye him suspiciously, thinking that he might be asking you of something inappropriate.

"A laugh!"

"A...laugh?" You looked confused then glanced up at Sebastian.

"Mr. Undertaker really values a good joke." Sebastian says.

"Ah, I see. Hmmm, well, I'm not so sure that I have any good ones..."

"Do not worry, My Lady. What kind of butler would I be if I could not provide a simple joke or two?" Sebastian takes a step forward as Undertaker becomes excited at what the butler has prepared for him.

"But I do ask one thing of you," the tall demon turns to you, "Under no circumstances will you peek or listen, understood?" He gives you a smile but you knew that he would be extremely upset if you broke his request.

"H-hai." Although you were his master, you didn't want to see him angry. You wait outside for a few moments, staring at the street and watch people pass by. Suddenly, Undertaker's laughter makes you jump, surprised by the loud volume of his voice.

"I am finished, My Lady. I am sorry to make you wait outside." Sebastian opens the door and you see Undertaker rolling on the floor, grabbing his sides. You were curious as to what Sebastian said, but that would forever remain a mystery.

"Your butler is good! I haven't laughed like that in a while! Anyway, let me prepare you some tea." Undertaker closes the coffin he used during his nap once he composes himself. "You can sit here while I get you the tea."
"Are you sure it's okay?" You said hesitantly but placed yourself on the edge of it. You felt as if you were disrespecting the spirits' resting box. Not only that but you were afraid that something might pop out from underneath you.
"Don't look so afraid, only dead things go inside there. They can't hurt you once they die." Undertaker chuckles as he boils water from behind his desk. The play on words does not go unnoticed by Sebastian as he scoffs quietly, knowing Undertaker's true nature. The silver haired man brings out a beaker filled with hot water and a tea bag. You thanked him for the beverage, wondering if it was all right to drink it from an experimental glassware. You didn't want to be rude so you took a sip, giving him a grateful smile.

"So, what is it that you wish to ask?" Undertaker returns to the back of his desk, leaning on the wooden furniture.

"Do you have any records of people from Japan with the last name, __(y/n), that you have buried?"

"Oh? That is a big request. I have taken care of lots of people for many years."

"If I give you a year where to look, will it help?"

"Hmmm, it may." Undertaker turns behind him to the large bookshelf that holds many documents of the deceased.

"Try looking from four years ago, beginning of Fall all the way to now." You placed your beaker down before standing up and offering your help.

"Me and my butler can try to look also."

"That would help." Undertaker points to one half of the bookcase.

"Everything on that is from four years ago. I'm going to look at the recent ones."

You, Sebastian, and Undertaker grab a few files from your designated shelves, working together to find if any of your relatives have been buried. You sat back at your coffin seat and Sebastian took one across from you. You opened the first file, studying the name, age, cause of death, and photos of before and after Undertaker embalmed them. The first few files weren't relevant to what you were looking for, mostly were elderly people who died of natural causes.

You grabbed your next file, opening it and your eyes were instantly drawn to the photos. You suddenly closed the folder, having seen a few, very detailed pictures of the person's dead body. You were not expecting the sudden gruesome image, having closed your eyes and exhaling slowly.

"Everything all right, My Lady?" Sebastian heard your breathing then watched you recompose yourself.

"Hai. I just saw a few pictures and I wasn't prepared for how...detailed they were."

"I see. Do you want me to look at it?"

"No, it's fine, thank you." You noticed how there was one large pile on his left and a small set to his right. "Ehh, you read all that? So fast!"

"Actually, I have finished. I was about to grab the second part of the shelf." Sebastian smiled as you sheepishly laughed, feeling embarrassed at how slow of a reader you were. Then again, Sebastian wasn't an ordinary human, well, he wasn't human at all.

"But, I do have some things that I want to show you. You may find this interesting." Sebastian took the pile on his right, taking a seat beside you as he opens the first file. You looked away slightly, closing your eyes for a brief moment before reading what Sebastian recommended to you.

"Is it too much for you, hime-sama?"

"No, I'm just not used to seeing things like that, but I can endure it." You had to. If this was a clue to finding your siblings, then you would need to gather all your strength. He let you look through the folders before grabbing another large pile and putting away the ones that he just read.

"All of these people are Japanese." You said when Sebastian returned to your small, research section. "And I recognize all of them. None are my siblings, but they were all from my village."

"It's strange how in all their profiles, every single one of them were found dead, but none of their murderers have been caught. I can guarantee that those who 'found' my people dead and reported it to the police, were the ones who killed them. Reporting the crime to the Yard would make them less suspicious. Also, there are no records of their names, ages, and addresses, which I believe made it difficult for the Yard to thoroughly investigate these cases." You and Sebastian decided to search through files together, your butler giving you files of the Japanese and you would look at them to see if any of the pictures were your siblings.

After hours of rummaging through numerous papers, you wondered if there could be another way in making this search more efficient. Not that Sebastian's suggestion in seeing the Undertaker was inadequate, but it did require a lot of time and work. Then an idea struck you,

"Shinigami!" you suddenly said, looking at the raven haired male.

"What about them, My Lady?"

"Maybe if we can meet one, we can ask him/her if he/she knows if my brothers and sisters are still alive. I mean, from what I know, shinigami monitor souls and I'm sure they have information about whether people are living or deceased."

"Ah, yes. That is correct." Sebastian let out a strained smile, trying to hide how much he disliked the idea. Attempting to summon a shinigami meant that he might meet him.  He had thought that he would be able to hold this idea from you for a while, but his master was a very intelligent one. He needed to think ahead, especially since you made no order to find a death god yet.

"We should go find one!" You had a determined look after gathering the files to put away so you two could start your new search.

"Of course we will, but I do believe it would be best if it were done another time." He replied as you gave him a confused look.

"You have that meeting with the Queen later and we have many preparations for it."

"I'm sure preparing won't take too long."

"Maybe, if we had an entire day, but we still have to find an outfit for you. The clothes you have now aren't appropriate for tonight and when we do find a dress, we would need to adjust it to your size. I also assume that the Queen expects a few words from you, which I am certain you will not produce minutes before seeing her. Not only that, but you still have not eaten lunch. It is imperative that you do not skip a meal, especially since your body needs the energy to recover from your attack."

"Well, I guess you are right." You seemed to pout at him, slightly wishing that he wasn't right about finding the death gods later.

--

It was a good thing you listened to Sebastian because assembling for tonight required a lot of time. However, thanks to your butler, you both were able to be ready before the double Charles arrived.

"This is the place?" you asked, looking out from the carriage's window with amazement. The vehicle was slowly rolling up to the front of a beautiful palace with lights illuminating the entire perimeter, giving it a lovely glow. With its white and yellow shine, the building gave off a 'holy' aura through the eyes of an outsider. Other carriages and guards that were scattered everywhere displayed of some sort of event happening at the Queen's mansion.

"Yes, it is. This is Her Majesty's home." Grey answered, looking proud at the estate of where his master's sleeps.

"Kirei, ne, Sebastian-kun?" You were still staring at the palace, memorizing every detail as if the entire building would disappear in any minute.

"Indeed it is, My Lady."

The carriage made a stop, Sebastian exiting first so that he could assist you from your seat. You continued to gaze at the palace, trusting that Sebastian wouldn't let you fall on the way to the inside. As you entered through the front, you, Sebastian, Grey, and Phipps were greeted by the servants of the royal manor. The interior was beautifully decorated and every room you passed through continued to amaze you. You were led to a big social hall where the rest of the guests were waiting for their majesty to appear.

"I shall be informing Her Majesty of your arrival and Grey will show you where to sit." Phipps said before leaving to find Queen Victoria. Grey presented your chairs which were in the first row then gave a small bow before joining Phipps. Moments later, the room starts to quiet and you can see the rest of the people sitting in their proper places. You look ahead to see Queen Victoria being accompanied by her two loyal Charles.

"Grey, please bring our visitor to the front so that I may speak with her formally." The Queen requests of the white haired butler while Phipps assists her to her majestic seat.

"Her Majesty wishes that you stand before her." Grey smiled, relaying the message to you. You stood up, glancing at Sebastian and gave him a silent order to follow. You didn't want to be there alone.

"Good evening, Princess __(y/n). I am the current royal head of England, Queen Victoria. I want to begin by apologizing for not only what you have suffered, but for not detecting this tragedy much sooner. It pains me to know that people of my country would commit such evil sins, but please know that we are not all like that. I promise, that the man who you were forced to live with, will never come near you again. The same goes to those involved with the murder of your sister. They will receive severe punishment. We will also do our best to help locate the rest of your people and family. Do not fear being in England anymore, for you have not only my protection, but the protection of those who I trust." She nodded to the audience behind you and Sebastian, giving her reason why she invited a few guests. Among the guests, you see a familiar, little boy, giving him a small smile. The rest were unknown to you, but Queen Victoria wanted to show the support you now have.

Or was it to only give a show so that her reputation would not be ruined? Well, that didn't matter, she gave you her word that you would be protected here.

"I also have something that I wish for you to have. I am appointing everything that Randolf Bowen owns, including his company, property, mansion, fortune, and belongings to you, Princess __(y/n)." The elderly woman glances at Phipps who advances towards you with a tray containing a few set of papers. You take them from its place, quickly reading through them. "Those are documents proving your ownership. I understand that this will not revert everything to how it was before those men invaded your home, but I hope it will be of some use to you."

"Thank you, Your Majesty." you spoke, handing the papers to Sebastian to keep. "I appreciate you coming forth and speaking about the invasion. I assure you that I do not blame all English people for what had happened. However, there is one request that I would like to make."

"And that would be?"

"Is that the Yard look through records of my deceased people at Undertaker's shop. My butler and I have done our own research and found documents of some of my people. I wish for them to investigate their causes of death further. My butler can explain in better details if the Yard accepts my suggestion."

"Of course, Princess __(y/n), it will be done. Whether you had made this request, we would not have ceased to help. It is also my wish that you be reunited with your family and that the rest of your people be found safe. At any time you want to return home, please contact one of my butlers and I will arrange a boat ticket for you."

"And what about my siblings and people?"


"We will also provide for them."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I hope that my request is not too much to ask of."

"For what you have gone through, such a request is not a bother. I should be thanking you, Princess ___(y/n), for being so kind and understanding." The Queen was very grateful for your mature behavior and thinking, especially since she knew that you held the power to start a war. Should you return to Japan and persuade your grandfather to attack, he will not hesitate. Japan also has many allies so others who were loyal to him will join. There is also the possibility that England's allies might want to severe their unity with them in fear of a potential invasion. After a few more words have been exchanged, the Queen moved everyone to a different room where food and light entertainment would be held. As dinner was being brought out, you notice Ciel walking towards you.

"Good evening, Princess __(y/n)."

"Good evening, Ciel-kun."

"I want to apologize for my rude behavior when we first met. I did not mean to disrespect you in any way. I had no idea who you were at that time. And-"

"It's okay, Ciel-kun, I understand." You could see how much the boy was struggling to give you a formal apology. "But next time, try to treat others the way you wish to be treated, ne?"

"Yes, I'll try." Ciel let out a strained smile, feeling as if he was being scolded by an older sibling. He could see how much the Queen valued a relationship between the two of you and how important it was to make you feel comfortable. Ciel was not ignorant to the fact that England was in a delicate position at the moment.

"Cielll! You will sit beside me during dinner, yes?" A young girl tackles Ciel from behind, embracing him tightly. You giggle at the cute scene and Ciel's shocked expression.

"Elizabeth! It is improper for you to be displaying that unlady like behavior! How many times must I correct your mistake?"

"I-I'm sorry, mother!" Elizabeth quickly lets go of Ciel and you could see how they begin to slightly tremble before a tall, blonde woman.

"S-she's a bit intense, ne?" you whisper to Sebastian.

"It would be quite troublesome if we were to aggravate her."

"Ciel, get your hands off my little sister!" A young male glares dramatically at the little Phantomhive.

"My future son-in-law! It has been a while since I last saw you! You're as cute as ever!" This time a middle aged man brings Ciel to a tight hug,

"Dear! Will you stop that!"

The woman manages to have everyone within a normal distance of one another, her arms crossed to indicate how annoyed she was with her family's conduct.

"A-anyway, I believe you haven't been properly introduced with the Princess of Japan." Ciel breaks the slight tension, diverting the Midford family's attention to you and Sebastian. The four then introduce themselves and state their relationship with Ciel and the Queen.

"It is very nice to meet you all. I am __(full name), the third oldest and the 28th princess of my family. And this is my butler, Sebastian Michaelis."

"It is also a pleasure meeting important people such as yourselves." He gives the noble people a bow, but when he rises straight, he notices that the Marchioness is walking towards him. He feels her piercing look become stronger the closer she gets and she stops until she is a couple of feet from the demon. The Marchioness suddenly turns her gaze to you, making you freeze in your spot almost as if you were caught doing something wrong. She doesn't say a word, but glares again at your butler.

"Is everything all right, Marchioness?" Sebastian asks politely while trying not to be overwhelmed by her intensity.

"Such an indecent face you have! Look at yourself and then your master!" [1]

"E-eh?" You wondered the meaning behind her words.

"Your master has put hard effort into looking proper for tonight yet you have this sloppy appearance!" She suddenly grabs the front fringes of his hair, pulling it upward. Never in his life has Sebastian been handled this way, unsure of how to respond to this woman's scolding. "What is this? Your hair is too long! This kind of style irks me! Have some respect for your master! Do you wish to soil her family name?" She gives Sebastian no time to respond as she looks over at Ciel's butler, demanding a comb. He produces the item from his coat pocket immediately, the blonde mother roughly combing Sebastian's hair back.

"If you wish to become the best butler for your Princess, then you should learn from Tanaka!"

"A-a-ah, it's fine, really! H-he isn't soiling my family name so..." You interjected, attempting to save your butler from her lecturing.

"Not yet he hasn't!"

"Princess __(y/n), the Queen wishes that you join her table for dinner." You hear Grey's voice as he is approaching the three of you. He then blinks, realizing that he has interrupted a conversation, "Shall I give you a few more minutes?"

"N-no! It's fine! We'll go with you. I don't want to keep the Queen waiting." you say quickly as Sebastian is mentally relieved that he will be away from that Marchioness.

"I am sorry if my appearance has caused you some trouble, hime-sama." Sebastian says as you look up at him.

"Of course it hasn't! She's just..strict? I'm sorry she did that to you and that I didn't do much to help."

"Your effort was more than enough. I believe that no amount of words would have moved her. Besides, it is my own fault."

"Well, she isn't here now so you can return your hair to its style from before."

"If my lady permits it, then I shall." He begins to bury his fingers in his hair, but pauses as he feels an acute burning sensation behind him. "Actually, I think I will keep my hair how it is for a little while longer." He knows that the source of the glare was due to the Marchioness' watchful eyes, keeping him in check. It would be a bother if she tugs on his hair again along with her strong criticism.

Grey leads you to a seat beside the Queen, sitting down after Sebastian pulls out the chair. There were a few close relatives of the Queen at the same table, the elderly woman introducing each one. Once dinner was over, the servants of the Buckingham Palace immediately clear the tables and a small, orchestra band settles near a corner of the room. An hour passes by and you have met more than half of these people in the room. You sat down at a chaise longue near the wall, feeling slightly exhausted from constantly being greeted by the noblemen and noblewomen. You didn't mind since you would rather be here than being stuck with Randolf.

"I am usually good with names, but there are so many of them."

"Do not worry, hime-sama, if you forget, I shall be here to remind you."

"Thank you." You felt less pressure in memorizing all the names, but that didn't mean you weren't going to try. "In an hour, let's leave? I have something that I want to do concerning our mansion."

"Understood. I'll inform you when that hour passes. Might I ask what you have in mind for your mansion?" You were given Randolf's mansion so now you two didn't have to stay at the inn for another night. What was it that his master wished to be done to your new home? Your answer was interrupted by a white butler, Grey standing in front of you in a small bow.

"Would my lady like to join me for a dance?"

"D-dance?" You blush slightly, unfamiliar with England's style of waltzing.

"Yes, a dance. Unless my lady would dislike being seen with me as her partner?" He seemed to frown as you shook your head quickly. You would have said yes if only you knew how to!

"Umm, I would like to, but you see..." Your face starts to glow a light pink color, feeling embarrassed at your lack of knowledge in this form of entertainment. You also knew that if Grey insisted that you try it, you would make a fool out of yourself.

"My Lady is still recovering from Randolf's attack. It is advised by her doctor that she refrain from any activity that could place her at risk of injury."

"That's all right! If she falls, I can catch her." Grey sends a wink at you as you blush at his comment. "I'm only joking, Princess. We wouldn't want to interrupt your healing process, right? Do you mind if I sit beside you and chat with you for a while?"

"I don't mind." You move towards the side, creating more space for Grey to occupy. Sebastian watches the two of you from where he is standing, interpreting Grey's true intentions. So far, none of them held any dangerous threat, just a simple desire to know more of his princess. As your conversation grows deeper with Grey, you forget that he is one of the Queen's butler and private secretarial officer. You feel as if you were talking with one of the commoners because of his carefree attitude. He was very different from Phipps, but that did not mean he deviated from his duties.

"Hime-sama." Sebastian calls your attention, leaning into your ear to alert you that an hour has gone by. You nod to Sebastian before giving Grey a small smile.

"It is time for us to leave. I want to take care of a few things before I retire for the night. It was very nice talking with you and I do hope we meet again."

"Yes, it was a pleasure." Grey gently grasps your hand while rising. "Next time we meet, after you recover, I expect a dance from you."

You felt him mark your hand with a kiss, his alluring, white eyes never leaving your __(e/c) ones. Mesmerized for a few moments, you shake your head once, seeing that he has finally let go of your hand. Sebastian raises an eyebrow at the Queen's butler, wondering why he has taken such an interest in his master. Grey leads you to the door where you exited, the same carriage ready to return you home.

--

"Ne, Sebastian-kun?" you say his name while you were gathering what little things you had. "I have a request."

"And what will that be, My Lady?"

"Find us a mansion. A place where it is close to London but far enough where we cannot be disturbed by the noise. Also, I would prefer if we had a good amount of land."

"Understood, but what about Randolf's mansion that the Queen assigned to you?"

"I refuse to live there. I'll figure out what I want to do with it later. I want to live somewhere else." You didn't want to be constantly reminded of the places where you were hit, the floors where you were shoved to, and the walls which you would be slammed against. You wanted a home that made you feel safe and could hold only good memories. "Can you find us one?"

Sebastian kneels on one knee before you, his right hand behind his back and the other over his chest, "My Lady, I would shame the __(l/n) name if I could not provide my princess a secure home that she desires."

You giggled slightly at his answer, not used to being responded to like that, "All right, then I shall wait for you here."

Darkness envelopes around Sebastian as he ascends, dissipating before he is able to stand tall. You finish assembling your belongings and fixing the room to how you found it. Sebastian doesn't make you wait long, surprising you at how quickly he found your ideal home.
"It is a far walk from here and I'd rather us not take a carriage so I hope you do not mind if we travel this way." You felt him lift you up, one arm underneath your knees and his hand supporting your back. You instantly grab around his neck in fear of accidentally being dropped.

"There is no need to worry, hime-sama, my hold on you is very secure." Sebastian smiles then walks to the window. He manipulates the shadows to open it before exiting quickly. His pace is too fast for people to notice you and him, safely protecting your identity. Sebastian arrives at an empty and spacious lot, carefully setting you on your feet.

"Let me get your coat." Sebastian begins to help take off your jacket.

"Ummm....I'm not sure if I can see the mansion..." you say with confusion, squinting your eyes in case it was ahead of you.

"My Lady, we are already here." He chuckles as he finally gets your coat from your arms. He then intentionally passes the article of clothing in front of your face swiftly, blocking your vision for a brief moment. You had closed your eyes in reaction until you hear Sebastian say, [2]

"Welcome home, My Lady."

Your eyes enlarge and gasp at your new surroundings. Instead of a dark and open land, you were inside a beautiful mansion. Although you have lived in one before, this was different. This was your own home, not a cage where you were stripped of your freedom. You still stare at the lobby area, unconsciously taking off your shoes as you enter further into the manor. Sebastian mentally questions your gesture, but imitates his master before following. You walk up the majestic steps that led to the upstairs, amazed at how many rooms the manor had. The hallways stretched at a far distance and would split into more passageways at the end.

"Which one is my room?" you asked Sebastian, wanting to see where you would be sleeping.

"Any one that you like. I assume you would want to choose your own and decorate it to your liking."

"Hmmmmm, then I pick this one." You open a random room, walking around for a bit before sitting on the edge of your bed. Although it was bare and plain, you still appreciated what you had.

"I think I have an idea as to what I want to do with my room." You had images of potential decorations flashing through your mind. You glance at Sebastian, wondering if he had chosen a room.

"How about you? Where will you sleep?"

"Ah, let me show you." You follow him out into the hallway, walking up a few more floors until you reach the top. He opens a door a few feet away from the steps, allowing you to enter before him. You are surprised at the lack of space his compartment has and the size of his small furniture.

"Please change this to a storage room."

"My Lady?"

"You will sleep outside." You turn to give him a smile.

"I understand, hime-sama." He bows his head slightly.

"Eh? I'm only joking!" you say quickly as your hands grab his arms in case he did attempt to leave to slumber in the backyard. You guide Sebastian back to the hallway where your bedroom was, entering a room beside your quarters.

"This is where you'll be sleeping from now on. The other room was too small."

"A mere servant is undeserving of such treatment."
"Our contract states that you are more than just my butler. You are also a friend and I won't allow you to live in that tiny room. Master or servant, there is no way anyone can sleep there. Besides, if I ever need something, you can come to me much faster." You knew how strict Sebastian was with the boundaries between master and servant, but you would need to remind him that he was more than that. You couldn't blame him for being used to the role of a server.

"Yes, indeed. Ojou-sama has made a very good point." Sebastian has finally accepted the room given to him. "Shall I help prepare you for bed?"

"Hm. Yes, please."

Once in your room, you began to take off your evening dress, Sebastian standing not too far from you with your night clothes hanging on his arm. You glanced at him, noticing that he had his eyes closed to respect your privacy but at the same time ensuring that he could provide you quick service if needed. You replace the clothes he had in his possession to the dress from before then granting him permission to open his eyes again. You were seated on the edge of your bed, legs up as your hands covered your feet. Sebastian rests on his knee, gently taking your hands away and uses his own to shield your limbs.

"My Lady, you are cold. I apologize for not noticing earlier."

"It isn't your fault. The floors are cold, but they will warm up if I rub them."

"Maybe this will help." Sebastian slips his hands away from you and you look down to see a pair of socks and Japanese slippers protecting you from the chill.

"Arigato!" You stare at your new items. "I almost forgot about that rule. I won't allow shoes that have been outside into this mansion only because I don't want the dirt staining our floors. Of course, if we have visitors, I don't oblige them to follow it since they will most likely be on the first floor. However, if they are staying for a night or more, then they should be provided socks or sippers."

"I will be sure to remember that." Sebastian replies before switching the topic, "What time shall I wake you in the morning, My Lady?"

"Around 9:30. I want to go into town and buy a few more things for the mansion. I want it to look nice when I find the rest of my siblings." you say, trying to think positive on their safety. You didn't want to believe the possibility of them having been killed. Your heart wouldn't be able to handle any more pain. You had to believe in them that they were strong enough to survive whatever trial they were given.

But what about Kanako-nee? She couldn't survive so how could the rest be able to?

No. You couldn't think like that. They were waiting. Waiting to be saved and you would be the one to help. You couldn't give up on them.

Or maybe you were in denial? You shook your head slightly, ending your internal conflict as you went to enshroud your body underneath the blanket. Sebastian holds the sheet up so for better access before he places the blanket over you.

"Tomorrow, we will buy accessories for our home. Groceries for food. Some clothes and shoes. Carriage for traveling. Is there anything else I am forgetting?"

"We need to visit the Yard to discuss their contribution in helping find the murderers of your people."

"Right. And Randolf's mansion, too. I want to turn it into maybe a resort place? Something similar to a hotel? We would also need to fix it if we want to start that kind of business." You didn't want to destroy the place, instead, you planned on using it for your own benefit.

"Oh! And we still need to contact the shinigami! Hmmm or maybe going to my brothers' location first would be better since I know where they are. Then again, maybe the shinigami can tell me if they are safe or if they are at another place. Yeah, maybe we should find one first to-"

"Oya, oya. It seems as though My Lady needs her rest especially with tomorrow's schedule." Sebastian quickly interjected at the mention of a death god. He was going to do everything he could to delay meeting him.

"Yes, you're right." You nod as you bring the blanket closer to you, smiling up at your demon. "Oyasumi nasai, Sebastian-kun."

"Oyasumi nasai, oujo-sama." He says softly before exiting your room to let you slumber.

You felt sleep would conquer your mind and body soon, but your thoughts still remained active. You couldn't believe how you were prisoner at Randolf's manor just earlier this week and now you owned everything he had. From his company to his belongings, they were given to you. What seemed to satisfy you the most was how the roles have been switched. You obtained your freedom while Randolf was beginning his eternity in jail.

--

"Ojou-sama. Ojou-sama. It is time to wake up." A gentle shake of your shoulder alerted you to the new day. Sebastian receives a tiny murmur before he pulled the curtains to the side to allow the sun light to pour inside the room.

"Hmmm...ohayou." You sat up after stretching your extremities. You got yourself ready for the day before settling in the dining room for breakfast. Sebastian had done the same trick from last night, producing nothing into something. Before you was a long row of breakfast options confusing you as to which one you wanted to eat and if you could finish it all.

--

It was late in the afternoon and you both were still running your errands. However, you are down to your last few stores before heading home.

"Let's go to that shop." You nod to a small building with a simple sign that suggested the products they were selling. Sebastian nods, following behind you with one hand carrying a few purchased boxes of clothing.

"Get outta here! You're being annoying!" You jump slightly in reaction to the sudden shove of a man from out of a pub. The man who pushed him out crossed his arms, glaring angrily at him while a few men were behind him. He wore a button up shirt with his sleeves rolled up and an apron around his waist which signified his ownership to the bar.

"Please! I really need your help! Or if you know anyone that can help me, please tell me!" The man on the ground begged, clinging to the apron of the owner.

"Will you quit it?! You're driving away my customers! As if we'd help you! That old man is crazy anyway!"

"Yeah! Go bother a different bar!"

"We came here to relax and you're just adding to our stress!"

"Get out!"

You glared at the mens' vituperation, understanding the feeling of abandonment and being a target of harassment. You walked quickly to the fallen male, aiding him from the ground.

"Are you okay?" You asked while Sebastian used his free hand to further assist you.

"Y-yes, thank you."

"Hey, little lady, what are you doing? Don't mind him!" The owner said.

"How can I not? You are the ones bothering this poor man."

"Lady, he's the one annoying us! He's coming into the bars asking to babysit his crazy uncle!" A customer shouts from the doorway of the small building.

"We've been saying no and he keeps asking! Then he starts going around the whole room! We got some women in there, too, and he's making everything awkward!"

"But it's not like I won't compensate!" The man beside you frowned.

"We all know about your uncle! He's a lunatic! He needs to be put away!"

"H-he isn't crazy! He's just going through a lot and-"

"Admit it! He's insane! Just make him live in some asylum! It's where he belongs anyway!"

"That is enough!" You glared at the obnoxious group before turning to the stranger, "I can help you."

You could empathize his feelings of protecting and caring for his relatives. You would do anything to help your loved ones, even if you had to beg on the ground to someone.

"Little lady, don't bother with him! Like we've been saying, his uncle is not right in the head! There are a lot of stories going around about him and-" Sebastian catches the annoyed expression on your face before interfering.

"It seems that you are angering the Princess. If you wish to go unpunished, please refrain from opening that abhorrent mouth of yours." Sebastian smiles at the gang but behind that smile they were frozen with an ill intent. You nod to Sebastian when you find the men returning to the pub then brought back your attention to the pleading man.

"Y-you'd really help? Even after what they said?"

"Of course. I can understand your feelings. If my family needed help, I'd hope that there would be someone who could assist me."

"T-thank you. Anyway, my name is Robert Laine and my uncle is a little bit...unstable at the moment. It isn't because he is crazy. I know that for sure. It is only recently he has become different and I understand that it's his personal life that is causing him too much stress. I just fear that the pressure might be too great for him and he could do something terrible. For the past few months I have been living with my uncle to monitor him. The rest of my family doesn't want to help because they believe he's insane also. I think the key to bringing him back to his original self is support and being there for him. I am not asking you to stay with him for many months, only for three days. I have been called on an important business trip which will take more than a day and I don't feel comfortable leaving my uncle alone. The servants left the mansion so he has no one but me."

You could see how stressed this nephew was and couldn't leave after hearing his story. You glanced at Sebastian before speaking, "We'll help you. Tell us where to meet and what time."

"Thank you! Thank you so much...?" He realized that you haven't introduced yourself.

"Sorry! It's __(f/n) and this is my butler, Sebastian."

"It's great to meet such very nice people." He smiles gratefully before giving out directions and the meeting time to his uncle's home. You agreed to meet there once you have dropped your things at your mansion.

Your new carriage stops at the front of your manor, Sebastian rushing to the door to open it. As soon as your foot stepped on the ground, you heard a small sliding noise. The boxes from the shops were falling from the roof, having been tied to the top of the carriage for extra space where you would be sitting. Out of reaction, you covered your head, prepared for the impact of raining packages.

"Ojou-sama, are you all right?" You opened your eyes, slowly uncovering your cranium. You see Sebastian holding up a stack of the boxes with his right hand. He looks down at you with his red eyes, examining you closely for injuries.

"H-h-hai, arigato." You nodded, amazed at how the pile wasn't tilting from side to side. Your cheeks heat up slightly from his stare, finding yourself returning the gaze and noticing how handsome he was up close.

"You're welcome. Although I should apologize. I wasn't able to secure the boxes properly."

"It's not your fault. A-anyway, let's go inside." With everything that has been happening, you haven't discovered Sebastian's beauty until now. You shook your head, trying to focus on what needed to be done next

--

You had to resume embellishing the manor later, currently on the way to the address Robert gave. The mansion was a standard size, but it looked lonely for a single person to be living in it. You stare at the house after Sebastian closes the carriage door, a cold feeling slithering up and down your body.

"My Lady?" Sebastian catches you staring with concern at the house.

"Sorry, I just felt a little cold."

"Then we should quickly proceed inside. We wouldn't want you falling ill." He gently places a hand behind your back to lightly push you forward, encouraging you to start walking.

"Ne, Sebastian-kun? What do you think of this house?"

"What do I think? Hmmm..." His left hand is placed under his chin with a thinking mask on his face, "It looks a little unkempt and not very well maintained. However, the size is good and the color is neutral. Not too offensive to the eyes, but appealing enough to look at."

"Hm. Sokka.."

"Why do you ask, ojou-sama?"

"A-ah, nothing. Just curious." You gazed once more at the exterior, an anxious feeling beginning to erupt from your stomach to your chest.

Just what was it about this house that made you feel...unsafe?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

[1] It's so funny how the Marchioness does that Sebastian lol

http://www.mangahere.com/manga/kuroshitsuji/v03/c014/12.html

http://www.mangahere.com/manga/kuroshitsuji/v09/c052/6.html

http://www.mangahere.com/manga/kuroshitsuji/v13/c075/10.html

[2] He did something like this:

http://www.mangahere.com/manga/kuroshitsuji/v07/c037/28.html

http://www.mangahere.com/manga/kuroshitsuji/v13/c062/28.html