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Chapter Text

“Mom, if I only knew that I would disappear from this world, I would at least hug you goodbye.”

A girl was running down a narrow road with a sandwich in her mouth. Looks pretty strange, don't you think? But for someone who is late for a prestigious institution, it's normal.  

        Today is an ordinary day. I got myself ready and went to have breakfast. It's winter now, and I know it's cold, but I still put on tights with a skirt. I didn't really worry about shoes since I have only one pair for all seasons, but the asphalt was suspiciously wet and slippery today. I'll have to crawl if I twist my ankle.        

The journey to college took quite a lot of time. And I, being such an "organized person," that even the Lord Himself laughed at my attempts not to be late.        

Looking at the time, I realized there wasn't as much as I thought, so I shot out of the house like a bullet. My family lives in a private house—father, mother, sister, and our younger brothers—cramped but happy! Within the family, they call me Valeria.        

The bus ride took an hour. Waking up at six every morning has become a habit.        

I entered the classroom. You know, for all the time I've been studying here, I haven't made any friends. Well, the girls are acquaintances, but I wouldn't call them friends. And so it went until ninth grade—I didn't know what a real friend was.        

However, I made friends outside of school. We often spent time together, went for night walks, so I was happy.        

After classes, I was rushing home, looking forward to my mom's cooking. But no one was cooking anything at the moment.  

“I'm home!” Silence, but then a response came from the parents' room.  

“Yes, yes, I'm coming!” Mom came out into the hallway. 

 “Mom, haven't you cooked anything yet?”

“Hmm... No, why? You still have an hour to get ready and leave...”

 “Damn!” I swore, nervously rubbing my knuckles.  

“What's wrong?” Mom asked, heading to the kitchen.  

“I don’t have time right now; I have to run!”  

“What? But how...” Mom didn't have time to finish as I dashed into the living room to change.  

      I grabbed money, headphones, my necessary things, and my sheet music.        

So, let me explain. Soon, I have a piano exam, and then I'm going to a friend's place for a week to celebrate New Year and Christmas. I wanted to eat because food is everything to me, but if I miss the exam, I won't get the scholarship, which is important!        

So, resigning myself to my fate and saying goodbye to my dear mom, I ran to the bus stop.  

“Hello! Sorry for being late!” I burst into the hall. Several pairs of eyes immediately looked at me.  

“Do you have a valid reason?”

"Hmm... let's say yes. I didn't eat."  

“Very valid...” I muttered, sitting down at the piano.        

I've been drawn to music since childhood. I have my own songs, compositions, many teachers have praised them. Well, so far, by "many" I mean just a few. My vocal and solfeggio teachers.       

While my fingers played, I enjoyed the beautiful sounds coming from the instrument, closing my eyes at particularly emotional moments. No one knew the author of the song, but it was very old, so the English decided to make it a folk song, which is quite strange.       

It wasn't passed down orally; it was found in archives. Judging by the date, it was written in the nineteenth century.       

England, the nineteenth century. I wonder what it was like there? My curiosity about this era began when I watched the anime "Black Butler" at thirteen. Quite an intriguing start, don't you think?        

Now I no longer watch Japanese films and anime, but "Black Butler" will forever remain in my heart. No matter how long I live, my love for it never fades year after year. The melody was quite long, I learned it accordingly, but the efforts were worth it. When my hands lifted from the keys, the first teacher was already evaluating my performance, and the second began to praise me. Thanking them, I calmly left the room. 

The corridor was silent, and snowflakes sparkled outside in the dark. Most of the kids had already been picked up from classes. Yes, yes, classes ended early today. Gathering all my things, I left the school and headed to the bus stop. Finally, I could relax, two weeks at a friend's place, celebrating Christmas and New Year.        

I decided to go to the store, buy cookies and cappuccino. My friend had never tried this drink, so today I would surprise her.       

So... Very strange, but I stayed in the store for quite a while, and now I need to find Wi-Fi.  

    I don't know where my friend lives, so Google Maps to the rescue. I'll look it up in advance to avoid trouble later.  

***

       Whether it was long or short... the minibus finally arrived, and people started complaining to the driver, saying, "Why are you driving so slowly?"        

Well, I agree, standing at the stop in the cold and snow for almost an hour is not very pleasant. The driver turned out to be kind and friendly, which was surprising. From his story, I learned that there were traffic jams and a terrible accident somewhere, which is why the bus was delayed. 

       And so, I've been riding the minibus for about an hour now. Yes, the city isn't the capital, but it still takes a lot of time to get to the right place.       

Looking at my watch, I was horrified. I had promised to be at my friend's place by nine at the latest, and it was already half past ten! Damn, she's probably worried. I called her. The number was out of the coverage area. How strange, she usually always answers calls, and nothing has ever happened to her phone.  What should I do?  

“Final stop,” I heard. The conductor shouted it, which meant it was time for me to get off. In the end, I headed towards the shops, where at least there were some people. After asking for the address and wandering around for about five minutes, I realized I'd had enough. It was time for the holy navigator.  

***

       Who knows how much time has passed, but the black sky eloquently spoke of the deep night.    

    Navigator, schnavigator, more like a crappygator.         

To be blunt, I got lost.        

At night, it's much colder than during the day, and to make matters worse, it started snowing. So, here I am walking in a blizzard, can't feel my legs, and the windows in the village I stumbled upon are dark... Something seems strange, but I push the thought away. At least the streetlights are working. Every other one, but they're working.   

Not a day, but pure luck.        

I took out my phone again, hoping I could reach my friend, but no. Right before my eyes, the phone died.       

A minute passed... another... And I realized I was doomed. In a super strange way, I found a spot where there wasn't much snow. Sitting on the cold street for quite a while, I started to feel sleepy, and soon I slipped into darkness. Or maybe it wasn't sleep? How could I fall asleep in such weather?

Chapter Text

 It's still warm outside, which is quite strange. I decided to look around. What I saw surprised me. A forest. An autumn forest. Incredibly beautiful, and no snow. But how on earth?! It's winter now, and there are colorful leaves everywhere, which is very strange.        

After hesitating, I decided to walk a bit. Where did this forest near my city come from? No idea. The leaves rustled under my feet. There were no tracks around. No human, no animal. Just a bunch of leaves. I wonder, where am I? Could someone have found me on the street and decided to take me to the forest? And then... do away with me? Although, why?.. I only have food and clothes with me, nothing valuable.        

Walking a bit further, I noticed a roof, an alien object embedded in the landscape. When I got closer, I saw an incredibly beautiful building. No less incredible was the fact that there could be a mansion in the forest, in such a wilderness.        

It was well-maintained, and smoke was coming out of the chimneys.  

“Strange way to heat up, it's nice to know there's at least someone here...”         

I didn't hesitate to take out my phone from my bag, which had died yesterday. I tried to turn it on. It turned on. It must have died from the cold yesterday. The time was five in the morning. I decided to inspect the mansion from the outside. I started walking around when I heard strange sounds.         

“What's that?” I followed the sound. It led me to the back of the mansion. “Kittens!”  Yes, I just love cats.  “Whose are you? No collars, so you live on the street? Are you at least fed? Aren't you cold?” I picked one up in my arms. “God, how can you be born so cute?”       

I started petting one, and it purred in response. Cute. Eventually, I sat down. The kittens weren't afraid of me, on the contrary, they approached.  

“Maybe you do live here after all? Ha-ha! You're rich!” I would have continued to pet and cuddle the cats, but I clearly heard footsteps behind me. They were getting closer and closer. I froze, and the kitten jumped out of my hands.  

“Do you like cats?» the footsteps stopped.

 
"What? English? But I'm not in an English-speaking country. Without turning, I decided to answer in English too. It's not for nothing that I'm studying to be a translator."  

«Yes, I do,» I answered quietly without raising my head, but then this person sat down next to me and poured food for the cats into a dish. Finally, curiosity got the better of me. And I looked up at the man. My first impression — handsome. You'd have to look hard to find someone like him.         

But then he turned and looked at me in return. I saw something familiar in his gaze. It took me a minute to realize who was sitting in front of me. And now I was in shock. No, not the usual shock, I felt like I was dreaming. His hair was real, his face seemed real too. His eyes were brown, shimmering with red. Amazing. And I was shocked because this person reminded me of Sebastian. Yes, that very Sebastian Michaelis. But that's madness, nonsense! Is it possible that this is just a perfect cosplay?  

«Is something wrong?» he asked. And now I was convinced for the hundredth time. The voice was the same. I stood up abruptly and stepped back.        

He looked at me and... it seemed he caught me when I fainted. Apparently, I didn't even realize how cold I was. When I woke up, I realized I was lying in a bed, it was soft and very comfortable. Much more comfortable than my bed at home. I could compare this bed to a cloud and...        

«Oh, you're awake?»        

Out of surprise, I pulled the blanket and swung it to cover the potential killer and run. But I froze, because it wasn't a very wise choice.  

«Oh, take it easy. I'm not going to harm you.»

      I tried to find the right words. I had some problems with the language barrier. I needed to overcome it... The person I covered with the blanket turned out to be Sebastian. And I started to think about how he could so easily free himself from the blanket's captivity.  

«I... I...» I couldn't find the right words.

"How can I start a conversation properly? I need to think very carefully before I say anything."  

«My master has kindly allowed you to rest here.» The butler said, and in response, I just gripped the blanket tighter. 

«Let me know when you feel better» the butler was about to leave.         

«May I speak to the owner of... umm... this castle?»

 "Castle? Oh, God! Castle? I forgot how to say mansion... Alright, pull yourself together. If you want to explain the situation properly and stay here for at least another day, you need to speak normally. Prepare your sentences in advance."

Sebastian smiled.  

«Of course, but he is very busy right now.»

«Y-yes... O-okay, thank you.»

He had already left, but I stopped him again.

«What happened to me?» I asked.  

“It got colder outside, and as I understand it, you were outside for a very long time...”

“And I froze...“

“Correct, and now if you'll excuse me.”

Sebastian left the ro om. Silence fell.        

Oh, God, I asked to meet Ciel. What if it's not Ciel anymore, but his children? Maybe he's already old? Or grown up? And, what am I even thinking? Maybe I'm dreaming? Or I died and ended up in another world? No, it's probably a dream. After all, I don't believe in reincarnation. Okay, Lera , calm down! Everything will be fine. But if I'm not dreaming, and when I get better, they'll send me to Ciel, and I won't make a good first impression.        

My English accent is far from perfect. If I assume I'm in an anime, then my clothes are totally out of place for the time Ciel lives in. My anxious thoughts continued for about an hour. No longer, because I fell asleep again. Soon it was morning, eleven o'clock. Now this is what I call a proper waking time. I got out of bed, my head wasn't spinning, and it was warm. I turned my head toward the fireplace, apparently, the rooms had been heated while I slept. I slowly put my feet on the floor, still not feeling dizzy. Approaching the window, I touched the clean glass.  

“Cold...” the window was very cold, despite being a single-pane window. “The space between the two panes is quite modern.         Must have been invented recently, probably warmer than just one pane in a window. I walked toward the wardrobe, which stood opposite the bed. I opened it. Inside it was empty, except for a pair of shoes.  “Strange, although...” there is only one girl in this house, I mean the maid. 

Of course, if everything I'm seeing isn't staged. Turning around, I looked at the bed; it's impossible not to be amazed by such a beautiful interior. 

“Ah!” I ran and jumped onto the bed. It's already eleven, so if I fell asleep here, it's definitely not a dream? I know there are exceptions like "a dream within a dream," so, if I'm not dreaming? Then... when can I talk to Ciel and... what do I even say?        

Okay, I need to think. If I say that I know everything about him, he'll definitely kill me, since his contract with Sebastian is top secret... Maybe I should mention something about his identity? For example, that he's the Earl and the Queen's Watchdog. But that information isn't so secret, although not everyone knows who exactly the Watchdog is. If they did, they'd definitely want to kill him. If I talk about his brother, then... no, not an option, he'd definitely kill me for that.  

“Argh! Why is everything so complicated?! Why do I even think I need to prove something to him? What if he asks about me? What will I say to him?” I said all this out loud, no, really, what should I do?  

“Don't worry about that, I'm sure everything will be fine.“

“Huh? What?" 

I turned my head and saw Sebastian. 

“Have you been standing here the whole time?! And what did you hear?” I asked anxiously. 

“Hmm... at least all your worries...”  

“Don't do that again! What if I decided to change here?”

“I apologise, next time I'll definitely...” he looked at me... “knock..”

Chapter Text

“Please excuse me, next time I will definitely...” Sebastian looked at me,  “knock...”

I didn't understand his strange look, but I didn't pay any attention to these signs.

“Please, follow me...”

“Wait... dressed like this?” I was wearing an unacceptably short skirt for this era and a white shirt.

“Ah, yes... Unfortunately, we don't have any women's clothing in the estate, please forgive us.” Sebastian said with his wonderful British accent.

I got out of bed. Yeah... I understand the situation, of course, considering that they didn't even change me into a nightgown (thank God they didn't touch my body without my knowledge), so as not to dirty the bed with my street clothes, but in this case... alright.

We walked straight down the corridor, walked for a long time... and that's strange, Sebastian couldn't have gotten lost, could he? He should know the mansion like the back of his hand... or even better.

The option that he got "lost" is out of the question; most likely, the mansion is just that big. Alright, I'll have the chance to examine all the details of this masterpiece. And I'm not just talking about the mansion...

After five minutes, we reached a luxurious door. Perhaps for such a mansion, it's not that outstanding a door, but it definitely looked better than the door to my room... my room in Ukraine...

Sebastian stopped abruptly, and I almost ran into him. Though, why "almost"? I literally did. On impact, something inside me, which I hadn't been aware of, made a strange squeak, making me feel incredibly embarrassed.

The butler didn't pay attention to this; he knocked on the door, and someone immediately said in English, "Come in."

And now it was time to worry. I entered. The office was much more spacious than I had imagined from reading fanfics and, indeed, the manga. Not to mention the anime.

Carved cabinets, handmade wooden furniture, a carpet, patterned wallpaper, I won't even start on the desk because it's impossible to describe its beauty, and behind it, a window with a view of a vast garden... and Him.

Now I looked at him, the master of the mansion and the "Phantom" company, the person who was also the Queen's Watchdog. Ciel Phantomhive... even his name sends shivers down my spine. It's terrifying to...

Honestly, despite the cuteness of that being sitting at the desk and staring at me... My legs are numb, my knees don't want to bend, but I walk, and that's only because I roughly know what he can do to me and the power and authority concentrated in this boy's hands.

A boy with the face of a gothic prince, much colder than in the most detailed frame of the manga, his image looks so soft. Fragile. But that's far from the truth.

I feel an interrogation is about to begin. Who am I? How did I get here? Why to him? Actually, why to him specifically?

Ciel pointed to the um... sofa opposite the desk. Like, sit down, now the emotional torture will begin.

I sat down; I was super scared, what if I couldn't understand him? Couldn't formulate an answer? Couldn't defend myself?

My body turned to stone, moving stiffly and loosely, as if someone above was pulling my strings. It was terrifying to look into the icy eyes of an adult on a child's face. Butterflies started stirring in my solar plexus, crawling up and down my esophagus, and answering his questions seemed like an impossible task, and judging by how I ended up visiting him... There would be a lot of questions. I mustn't mess up.

"So..." the count was distracted from his papers, putting down the pen, and turned his gaze to me. I desperately wanted to run out the door. He looked at me with his... deep blue eye... sternly. "I would like to know a little about you, since you are in my mansion. What brought you here, Miss, and... why are you unaccompanied? Did something happen?"

"Well, here we go..."

Something clicked inside me, as if a simultaneous translator had turned on in my head... why do I... understand?.. No, I mean, I really understand everything as if I were a native English speaker.

Now is not the time for questions. Unless, of course, they are questions that could cost me my life.

“I... don't remember how I ended up here...” just because I understand doesn't mean I can speak English well, unfortunately.

“In what sense?”

"Damn, what should I say? If I tell the truth, they won't understand, because I don't know anything myself. And if I lie, they'll know it's a lie; Sebastian is like a lie detector."

“I mean... I woke up on the street... and before that, I was heading to a friend's place in the evening, but... I never arrived. That's all... I remember.”

Sebastian, who was already standing near Ciel, nodded to him. He probably meant that I was telling the truth.

“I would like to know your status so that we can find your relatives and ensure your safety.”

Ensure my safety? Haha, would an ordinary girl like me, knowing nothing, think that this mansion is already safe? Something about this feels off.

I frowned and kept looking at Ciel. Is he pretending to be an idiot? Isn't it obvious from my appearance what my status is?

“You...” my bangs covered my eyes “...are really like this? Or are you just pretending to be so short-sighted, huh?” I raised my head  “Earl Phantomhive?” a smirk appeared on my face. LIsn't it clear from my clothes what my status is? Or not... I'm not saying your behavior is funny; maybe you're testing my honesty? Haha... I have to admit, just having a conversation with you won't work... There will always be a catch,” I said this in Russian, there's no point in proving anything to him.

To my surprise, Sebastian started saying something in English, and when I understood a few words, it became clear he was translating everything.

Ciel frowned.

“During the time you have been here, has anyone told you my name? Sebastian?”

“No, sir.”

“Then... Excuse my rude behavior. As you said earlier, I am Earl Ciel Phantomhive. Pleased to meet you,” he smiled. “I am curious to know the name of the person who managed to enter...” he threw a fleeting, amused glance at the demon, “...the mansion grounds without difficulty.”

Sebastian ignored Phantomhive and stood as stiffly as before.

I tensed up. Why did he change the subject? What should I answer? Name. Name? Use a pseudonym? I can't say my name is Lera. It's not an English name; maybe... I should make one up?

“You've been quiet for a while,” Ciel whispered.

Watch out! You can't lie, as they will find out and definitely throw you out... so just say your real name...

“I... my name... Vale...ri... Valeri! Yes, that's my name! Valeri!”

From now on, that's my name, I won't be surprised if a lot changes.

“A beautiful name. Valeri, could you tell me a bit about yourself, as I already mentioned, I'm curious. What kind of person is in my domain,”  Ciel smiled. He's definitely pretending.

“I...” what should I say, I could say anything for the previous question, but here I have to weigh every word... what should I say?

And then the butler stepped in. The butler with my personal belongings.

“Sir, as I mentioned...“

***

The butler's morning turned out to be quite strange: first, he encountered a suspicious girl, and then a guest from China arrived, demonstrating his abilities. Of course, the devilishly good butler did not concede victory to a human, who was already in shock after his defeat.

“I am the butler of the Phantomhive household,” this was the demon's response to the question: "Who the hell are you?"

Afterward, the master went to his office, and the supernatural being was tasked with warming the rooms, as it was already quite cold in England during autumn.

Room by room, but... there was one left, the one where the guest was staying.

Sebastian entered the room silently so as not to wake the mysterious lady. Why was the girl so surprised at Sebastian's appearance in the morning? Maybe it was his appearance? Or did something else make her react that way?

"That was suspicious," — the human girl had no control over her emotions and body language. He pretended not to notice anything.

Adding coal and lighting the fireplace, the butler did everything step by step, without using magic, as per the master's orders.

Passing by the bed, the butler loomed over the girl. Something eluded him. Aside from the strange, inappropriate-for-decency clothing... her soul was different from those of girls her age. She couldn't have experienced grief — the bitterness of the soul was discernible by taste.

The soul wasn't particularly tasty, but it also didn't resemble modern tastes.

Every taste the demon remembers, but... why did this lady have a taste Sebastian had never experienced in his long life?

Then the butler remembered the belongings the guest had brought and checked them for weapons. The lady's luggage was a medium-sized bag, but the material was neither leather nor fabric. Perhaps a novelty that had not yet reached the West?

Inside were bags of unknown origin, long "threads," the material of which remained a mystery to the demon, but something did surprise him — sheets and books in Ukrainian, but the strangest part was the dates of publication, which, as the demon understood, were textbooks. They did not match reality. And then he came across a more interesting item — a rectangle with glass on top. Pressing a bump on the side, the item lit up... After studying it, the demon realized that the girl possessed technologies far ahead of the nineteenth century.

The butler bolted from the spot. It was easier to teleport to the earl's office, which he did.

Sebastian appeared before the young earl, who jumped in surprise.

“Sir.”

“Sebastian! Why didn't you come as you should? I warn you, let this be the last ti...”

“Sir, the lady is not from here.”

“What?”

“So, you're a time traveler?”

"What? How did he figure that out? Was it Sebastian? Haha... And what should I say? How should I react?"

“Y-yes, I'm not from here, you can consider me crazy, but shouldn't you, of all people, believe this, Watchdog? Your butler...” I glanced at Sebastian.

“Jesus Christ, I'm crazy”

“Sebastian,” in a blink, the demon was behind me.

“I just want to say that I know the future. About two years ahead...”

“What guarantees do I have that you're not lying? Why should I trust a girl who appeared out of nowhere with unknown motives?”

“I'm not lying!”

“Then prove your words. Your truth sounds like complete nonsense without proper evidence.”

“Many don't know who exactly the Watchdog is, but you don't hide it, do you?”

Let's take that fact; I don't want to dig deeper... Although there are already enough reasons to get rid of me forever.

“Exactly. But it can be assumed that you are a foreign spy who found out about me, and your technologies are merely products unknown to the British government,” Ciel smirked, thinking he had cornered me?

Since arriving here, after realizing this wasn't a dream, I've been curious — is this the anime or the manga?

“May I ask you a question?”

“You may, and you've already asked it,” oh, do you want another chair so you don't fall from laughter?

When he smirked and gave his "permission" for one question, I realized I would find out everything now. If Ciel is twelve, then this is possibly the beginning of the anime or manga, but to verify, I need to first ask about his age and then...

“How old are you?”

“What?” Ciel didn't understand my simple question, which gave me a reason to smile in his face. He looked puzzled, probably thinking the question would be complex or tricky.

“How old are you?” Ciel glanced at Sebastian. I think they were having a "negotiation" with their eyes. Ciel decided to answer.

“Twelve, that's my age, but I repeat, how does this question help prove your truth” now everything will depend on his emotions. If he takes any action, this is definitely the manga. Don't doubt me, I'm sure that if it were the anime, he would have reacted differently.

“You...” I looked into his eyes without emotion, certain that I would either be killed or thrown out with my tongue cut off. “...are the younger twin?”

Ciel's eyes widened, and in the next second, I felt something cold and metallic at my throat.

“You...” the earl's tone changed instantly, and judging by his emotions, everything happening now is complete nonsense and failure. Ciel wasn't angry, no, he was furious. First, he seemed to feel fear, then anger, and then, almost gritting his teeth, he looked at me. Yes, it was scary to look him in the eyes, but now I felt victorious.

“You could have just said "no," why did I surprise you so much?

“Sebastian!” Well, I guess this is the end for me.

The blade pressed against my neck, lifting my head.

“It's easy to get rid of me, right?” Ciel glared at me angrily. “You just exposed yourself.”

“I repeat... how does this information prove your truth?” Ciel was angry and irritated.

If I start talking now, I might cut myself; the blade is pressed too tightly against me, which is bad, but...

“In my world...” Uh, it hurts, “there are two versions of your life... in one, the end is bad for both you and your butler... Ahem, regarding his "meal." And in the other... it hasn't ended yet... You are in the "good" plotline.”

“Ch, I don't need charlatans in my house! Why should I believe you?”

“I'm not... Ah...” now I felt blood running down my neck, and my white shirt began to turn scarlet, “I want to say... Your next guest will be Sir Klaus, arriving at six. And this morning, you were visited by a martial arts master...”

Ciel listened attentively.

"Super Tiger Stuns the Dragon with Ten Thousand Petals," — everything started to become dark, as if clouded, it seemed that my strength was leaving me. The next thing I remember is darkness.

* * *

“Master,” Sebastian withdrew the knife, “Miss's room was on the other side of the manor, she couldn't have overheard the technique's name from the martial arts master

“Then... how did she guess?” the boy was on alert, he had no ideas about this, and certainly not that the girl turned out to be omniscient? Complete nonsense!

There was a knock on the door.

“Come in,”  the boy said. Sebastian stepped aside, hiding the guest behind his broad back.

“M-master, you have a letter!” the maid said, almost tripping over the threshold of the office. She was not at all embarrassed by Sebastian's strange stance or the awkward atmosphere in the room.

Ciel carefully sliced the wax with a special knife, the young earl carefully took the letter out of the envelope. His blue eyes widened, now exactly resembling a deep pool.

“Sir Klaus will arrive by six today...” it was a reminder. Ciel froze, Valerie's words flashed through his mind: "Your next guest will be Sir Klaus," the boy suddenly stood up from the desk. “Sebastian, Miss Valerie's words...”

“Yes, master, it can't be a coincidence, can it?” the situation was becoming more and more interesting for the butler.

“Tch, take her to her room and give her first aid, and then prepare for the arrival... Hm... The negotiations will take place at my house, you understand?” Ciel hinted strangely at Sebastian about hospitality in his manor.

“Yes, master. We will ensure Sir Klaus has a comfortable stay at Phantomhive Manor.”

Chapter Text

I opened my eyes... I slept for a long time. The darkness in the room indicated that night had fallen, with only a faint light seeping through the window. 

There wasn't even a candle. What time was it? I raised myself, feeling discomfort in my neck. I touched it, feeling fabric... Oh right, considering what happened... it must be a bandage. I probably lost consciousness. 

But what time was it? I got out of bed, taking small steps, as I wasn't familiar with the room's layout and it was dark. 

I slowly approached the window. I could see a forest, dense and incredibly beautiful, with the moon somewhere off to the side. Only the stars shone... 

Am I... alive? Did they really spare me? I couldn't contain my joy. I wanted to jump around the room, but my weakness prevented it. The room was warm. Sebastian must have stoked the fires again... how diligent. 

“By the way, Sebastian...”  I began to recall the human form of the demon, looking terrifyingly like a real person. The only way to tell he was otherworldly was through his perfection. Devilishly good. 

Everything was so real, I couldn't believe it... It seems I ended up in the manga. I touched my temples. This is horrifying, so that means... whether it's the manga or the anime, everything goes in a strange direction, but the manga fits the storyline more accurately for me. 

I looked around again. The objects around were not drawn but had volume, just like the characters themselves. No cosplayer could convey the naturalness and beauty. It was mesmerizing and terrifying at the same time. I wanted to check reality once again, but not with my eyes. 

“Ah... to touch them...” I turned my head towards the door, then back to the bed. My eyes had adjusted to the dark, so I could see more or less everything. 

I approached the bed, on the mantel stood a clock. I touched it. Running my finger along the surface, there was no dust, meaning the rooms were cleaned quite often. I've been here for about a day, but I still couldn't get enough of it. 

A vintage room like in old paintings, a large window across the room, and a carpet that fit the interior perfectly, emerald wallpaper with patterns... very beautiful. Near the clock was a small bell like the ones first-graders ring on the first of September, but much more miniature. 

“What is this for?” Without thinking, I rang it but heard no sound. “Stranger and stranger,” I said. 

My fatigue made itself known, so I decided to finally sleep. The day had been tough, and my head ached slightly, not to mention my throat... 

Was Sebastian really going to kill me? They may look harmless, but when you know too much... it's very scary to be here, where anyone (and not just anyone) could kill me without blinking. 

I pondered for a long time. But eventually, I noticed a strange light in the doorway, flickering... like a candle... 

My heart began to beat faster, my breaths became quieter, and I peeked at the door through a barely opened eye. Suddenly, the handle turned, and I closed my eyes. 

Step, step, step... all I heard and the light began to hit my eyes. My heartbeat quickened, and with every beat, the anticipation became unbearable and exciting. 

“Miss, I know you're not asleep.”

"Damn it, why?" 

“Pretending is useless,” I nervously opened my eyes. 

“Why are you here, and so late?” I couldn't hide the tremor throughout my body, and it wasn't from the cold. He almost killed me this morning, and now he's being courteous? Seriously? How quickly you change your tune. Although what scares me is that I won't be able to respond if anything... A human against a demon is not even funny. 

“I was curious...“

"Curious about what?!"

“What?“

"In what sense? Can he read minds? But even if so, I didn't summon you. Shoo-shoo!"

“You called me, Miss,” Sebastian stepped closer to me and leaned slightly.

"Uh... what's happening? Is he going to 'kill me softly,' or why is he hesitating?"

I frowned.

“Miss, I...” the demon leaned even closer, his bangs almost touching my face. This demon clearly doesn't know what personal space is! “...thought you were thirsty, isn't that why you rang the bell? I also took the liberty of bringing bandages and cream to change your dressings.” Sebastian smiled, showing complete lack of empathy along with the mentioned supplies.

He... smiled? Does he really not understand that I'm scared right now?

“Are you an idiot? Or are you playing with me?” my indignation knew no bounds. “Why would you change my bandages when you almost killed me earlier? Or maybe you decided to slip something into my drink? I'm not going to drink it!”

“Miss Valerie, I'm merely following the Master's orders,” Sebastian looked at me with an unreadable expression, as if nothing in this world affected him.

“And what are his orders? Poison me? Strangle me with the bandages or dismember me? Huh?”

“Miss” — "Is he smiling again?" — “your imagination is truly astonishing, but don't worry, the Master has decided to keep you at the estate for an indefinite period.”

“But what about the order?” I felt incredibly stupid.

 “That was the order, to take care of your health, and then you will be very useful to us,” he tilted his head, smiling his signature smile and stared. Stared like I look at buns in a bakery. That comparison chilled me to the bone. To be eaten, to be used... Another pawn.

      It's infuriating. Why can't they do without cruelty? The word "pawn" made my hands shake, my fingers turn blue with rage, so much that I didn't even think about chess pieces.

      Sebastian knelt down and moved my hair from my shoulders. I raised my head to make it easier to bandage. My gaze fixed on the ceiling. Stay calm and everything will be fine.

      Sebastian slowly removed the bandages, and the closer to the wound, the more it hurt.

     “Ow! And... damn it...” I trembled again.

      “Don't be afraid, at the moment I'm not trying to kill you, I need to help you instead.”

      “At the moment?” sounds doubtful.

      “I can't know what the Master will order in the future, so for now, you will live.”

      “Hah.”

      “Your wound is not deep, you should recover quickly, I know all the fatal points on the human body,” the butler smiled, “I couldn't make a mistake when putting the knife to your throat. Press harder and I would have slit your throat, but I didn't, I just cut the skin...” he speaks as if he's an expert in preparing a human for soup...

      “You... finally unwrapped it...”

      “If I had done it faster, I would have damaged the closed cut, causing bleeding. Now I'll apply the ointment, it will burn a little.”

      “Do it faster, I can't wait any longer,” I said nervously, to which Michaelis just chuckled to himself, but I definitely heard that laugh.

      “Impatient from the pain?” Sebastian raised an eyebrow.

      “Impatient for the end of this torment! Hurry up!”

      But this "faster" became my torture... rapid touches turned into tickling, my neck was covered in goosebumps, which did not escape the demon, whose destiny was to catch every person in a ticklish situation. He made me sweat to not let out a single giggle during the whole procedure and finally finished mocking me.

In my opinion, he responded with condescension as he was about to leave my room.  

      “And yet, Miss, don't worry about the cleanliness of the water. Good night.” 

      “Yes... and...” Sebastian had almost closed the door, “Michaelis... good night to you too,” Sebastian looked at me calmly, then chuckled and smiled.  

      The door clicked shut, and my heart annoyed me, why was it beating faster?  

      Ah! Of course! I'm afraid of him, he... almost killed me... Yes... and I wished him good night not out of naivety, but out of politeness! Yes! That's right!  

      My throat suddenly began to feel scratchy and rasped when I breathed in, I reached for the glass and immediately emptied it.  

      “Still... a sweet aftertaste...”  

      Soon sleep overcame me, but for some reason, I was happy, even though I didn't initially realize that the conversation was in Russian.

* * *

      In the morning, there was a knock on my door. I didn't have time to respond before the butler quickly entered the room, throwing open the thick curtains.  

      “D-did something happen?!” I jerked and sat up in fear. “Wait... where am I?” I began shaking my head in confusion.  

      “The Phantomhive estate...” Oh, right, my expression became sad. “Good morning, Miss, it's time for breakfast.”

      “Breakfast?” I got up without any desire to rise or go anywhere.  

      “Of course, or do you not do that in your country?” Sebastian made the bed with a single sweep, and the blanket lay perfectly.  

      “Pff, nonsense, but am I really going to stay like this all da...”

      “Last night, I personally sewed a dress for you, it may not be luxurious, but it will do for daily wear.” 

      “What?..” One question bothers me, how did he know my measurements?  

     “Please, put it on, I also sewed warm outerwear for going out, it is quite cold outside...” 

      “Ah... alright.”

      “I hope you can manage with the dress, I tried to make it as easy to put on as possible.”  

      “Of course! Or do you doubt my abilities?” I smirked. (But I definitely doubted them).

No, absolutely not, and you don't need to accompany him, he's already gone. I looked at the dress... burgundy, I love that color. Strange that he figured it out.

I quickly took the dress in my hands and began trying to put it on somehow, hmm... I remember, in those days, you first put on a corset over the chemise, then some kind of thing, after that another kind of thing, and only then the dress... And now the question is... How will I put on the corset?

Argh, so annoying, why couldn't he understand that I'm not cool enough to put on a corset by myself? I need to come up with something... maybe... aha!

I opened the wardrobe, and there was a mirror on the door. So, I placed the corset over my shirt instead of the chemise and, looking in the mirror, began to lace it up... It's hard to do this alone.

Okay, now tighten it until it squeezes all my insides, and tie it up...

When I finished this difficult task, all the air left my body and I made a sound like a quack.

"So... annoying..." I looked at the dress, hoping not to tear it, otherwise, not only will I feel awkward explaining myself to Sebastian, but I'll also get hit over the head with something."

I enter the dining room. The young earl was already seated and had, of course, started without me. Sebastian was standing nearby. The atmosphere was not very pleasant, I must say, somewhat tense.

I sat down but couldn't start my breakfast. I don't know the etiquette. The fear of embarrassing myself wouldn't go away.

"I'm not hungry," I said, placing my hands under the table.

"Miss, you don't know how to use..."

"No! That's not it, I'm really not hungry."

Ciel gave me a stern look.

"Today, I am going to London on business. I will take the servants with me and..."

"I will be alone?" Ciel looked at me with a heavy gaze. I realized it was better not to interrupt him.

"No, there will be no one to look after you," he doesn't trust me, "so I will take you with me. We leave in half an hour. And yes... come see me after breakfast, we need to discuss something."

"Of course..."

Damn, I really want to eat, but embarrassing myself by not knowing basic table manners is a horror and a disaster.

Now I am standing in front of the earl again, he indicated for me to sit on the sofa. Goosebumps ran down my skin from the memories of yesterday. Never mind, from this moment on I need to try not to make mistakes, I will take everything seriously. This world is serious, one mistake and you're in a coffin.

"I'll get straight to the point," I looked at him, "yesterday, when you lost consciousness, I received a letter."

"A reminder about the arrival?" Ciel looked at me strangely, as if thinking, "Did she really lose consciousness then? Or was she just pretending?"

"Exactly. It intrigued me, so I decided to keep you at the manor, Miss," he smirked. "You have nowhere else to go, right?"

"Scoundrel, will you constantly remind me of this now?"

"Yes, but... I know plenty of places where I can stay, so..."

"Lady, let's get to the point. To verify whether what happened yesterday was a coincidence, I want to take you with me. If you know something about the 'future,' could you tell me?"

"And in return? Why should I provide you with such significant help when I get nothing in return?"

"I don't think you're in a position to dictate terms to me," he continued working on his papers and added without looking up, "As I said... shelter and food in exchange for information," evidently he didn't hear me, I could go to the Undertaker, for example.

***

Now we are in the carriage, going somewhere. The earl is looking at me strangely, so is Sebastian. They are literally staring at me.

"I understand that I am an interesting person, but is my beauty so indescribable that you both can't take your eyes off me?" I said irritably, crossing my arms and raising an eyebrow.

The corners of their mouths lifted silently, as if saying "don't count on it," I ignored this gesture.

"By the way, I remembered something... we are going for the cane, right?"

Chapter Text

I wanted to survive meeting Lizzie, but my sixth sense was hinting at the First Law of the Universe: "If anything can go wrong, it will go wrong..." To avoid it, I locked myself in the room and stayed there all day. 

I didn't eat or drink, and I didn't even feel the need to go to the bathroom. 

Sitting in the room, I thought about a lot of things. I remember writing fanfics when I was about fifteen. I love good plots, but I didn't just write; reading was also an integral part of my life. 

Fanfiction about Black Butler had a wide variety of plots. Some made me want to laugh like a lunatic, while others, even if I didn't cry, tormented my heart with shards of glass. 

There were rare exceptions where the main heroine was not a Mary Sue, and she was specifically unlucky enough to encounter the harsh realities of the Victorian era. Her inner qualities did not allow her to overcome the challenge of time travel and its consequences, and thus, these heroines usually ended up dead, often at the hands of the main characters. 

Yes, I wanted to end up in Black Butler, but... I never thought about the main thing... How others would treat me. 

What I wanted so much came true. Even the dreams of a fifteen-year-old girl came true, but maybe the timing failed me, as my age is quite different... 

Yes, I love special treatment, I love being understood and cared for, being listened to and comforted. So why are they all so repulsive that they can't even smile at breakfast... Maybe I want too much? 

Oh right, it's Ciel and a demon, what to expect from them? A warm welcome and a smile? 

But on the other hand, I provoked them to treat me this way; I shouldn't have told them everything... But still...

It dawned on me that I only hinted that Sebastian is not from our world, but I didn't say he made a contract... so if I blurt that out too, I'm done for, right? 

No, I need to come up with a plan. So... right now, I play the role of a "Pawn" who follows the earl's will, but in essence, I haven't predicted anything significant for him yet. 

I need to follow the plot of the manga. If something goes wrong, I won't be able to know the future or, even worse, I will change it completely. What should I do? 

I... will just help them with the investigations! That's it, decided, who said I owe them anything? 

No one will ask me... They will make me tell. So, I need to ration the information. The correct information. Not telling everything doesn't mean lying, right? 

And now problem number two, if I mess up, they will send me to my ancestors. Simply gaining their trust won't work. These are not the right guys. So, I need to play the obedient, good, diligent girl. 

If I manage to earn respect and gain the support of the Phantomhive... What will happen next? What if I disappear just as I appeared here? And not return? Is it possible that if I go home, no one will remember me here? 

I would like to be remembered, not to be just another person on their path... 

God, if this is a nightmare... Wake me up! I beg... 

I didn't notice how I fell asleep.

***

In the morning, I lay in bed for a long time; I was too lazy to get up, too lazy to change... It felt like everyone had forgotten about me, that no one would come and open the curtains. 

It felt like something was wrong. 

I was about to get up and find out everything myself when the door opened. The butler approached the window and smiled with his ingratiating smile. 

"Good morning, Miss Valerie, today you are especially beautiful..."

"What? What do you mean? What the hell?"

"How did you open the door?" I propped myself up on my elbows.

"With a key," I peered at the features of this creature, who was openly mocking me. 

His fringe hung down. So black, like liquid darkness. I resisted the urge to touch everything beautiful and alluring, remembering recent events. 

A familiar shiver ran through my body. Okay, calm down. He's just some demon... Some hellish creature who can flatten me against the wall with a flick of his fingers without batting an eye, and then go make tea for his master. 

"Miss, do you still fear me?"

"You think about it, huh," smirk. "Yes, I do!"

"That is entirely unnecessary; I have no reason to kill you."

— But you'll do anything by order! Or have you forgotten?

— There was no such order. You have intrigued the young master enough to postpone your death indefinitely, — he said, with a teapot and a porcelain cup on the tray.

He brought me tea?

«Tea? Why? I'm a nobody here... Then why?»

«It is my duty as a butler to ensure guests' comfort. Wouldn't you enjoy waking up and starting a new day with a fragrant tea?» my eyes widened because he was right.

«Why... waste time on me? You could be doing something else...»

«You are our guest, and you don't have a personal servant. Therefore, this duty falls on my shoulders,» again with that grin, «It's the least I can do.»

Now I'm drinking tea, and I feel warmth in my heart... They could have locked me up without providing any amenities... But they took care of me. It's nice.

***

The day passes insignificantly, Ciel constantly looks at me and asks about the future "events," to which I reply that I don't know yet.

Now we are sitting and eating, again...

«Sebastian, could you take lunch to the room...»

«You're not hungry again? Or do you not want to dine in my presence?»

«Yes, I don't want to.»

«And why is that?»

“I don't know etiquette,» I said slowly. I was very embarrassed, and Ciel just smiled at this.

“I knew.”

“Knew?”

“Yes, it's possible that there's no etiquette in your world.”

"Could he have figured it out?"

“There is, but... it's not as widespread as it is here.”

“In what sense?”

“Sebastian, could you bring a sheet of paper? And something to write with? — Seba answered "of course" and disappeared.

A minute later, a sheet and... a quill... A quill! Damn it.

I was too lazy to explain and choose words in English, so I started speaking in Russian, expecting Sebastian to translate everything.

I drew two lines on the sheet.

“Imagine this is your world,” I pointed to one line. “And this is ours,” I pointed to the one above it.

“Why these lines exactly?”

“Time. Our worlds differ in time.”

“In what sense?” I placed my hand on the line representing "their" world.

“You are here” I pointed to the middle of the line “And we are here” on the sheet of our world, I marked "time" a little further ahead.

“You live in the future? Is that what you mean? But aren't our worlds different? This means your future is different from ours.”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Your world is based on ours,” Ciel frowned.

“Why do you think that?”

“I can't say..

"I can't tell him they are just characters and they have an author."

“Then why should I believe you?”

“Let's drop it,”Ciel scoffed. “At the moment, Queen Victoria rules your country, right?”

—Yes,” Seba replied, his look showing that he was interested.

“In our world, Queen Victoria ruled a century and a half ago, the country's size, the empire's prosperity, and the problems, everything was the same... back then.

“Was?”

“Yes, I mean that your world and ours are exactly the same, only the time and the mystical elements differ,” Ciel's eyes asked me what I meant by "mystical." “We have a spiritual world, just like you do, but it doesn't manifest as strongly.”

“More details, please...”

“Hmm... what example to use? Well...” I looked towards the butler. “For example, summoning demons. I don't understand it, as I've never practiced it.”

"Thank God! Am I really talking about this now, after I told myself not to mention the contract or Sebastian's nature, am I really doing it now? Putting my life at risk? I am a really stupid fool, a stupid person is something scary, but a stupid fool, that's just the epitome of stupidity."

“We can't summon a demon, no matter how hard we try, but in this world, I understand it happened... Oh yes, in our world, there are no reapers.”

“Reapers?”

“Ah, oh, I... shouldn't have mentioned them.”

“Why not?”

“Sebastian knows, but you will find out very soon,” I smiled sadly. “Very soon...”

“Milady, the topic started with etiquette and ended with such details about your world.”

“Yes! Ciel! Oh,” I covered my mouth with my hand. “I meant... Ahem...” "Damn, I called him by name." “Now you know why I don't know etiquette... we live in the future, and we have completely different rules of behavior. Yes, we have earls and various nobles, but... There are very few of them left, I'm not sure if there are even a hundred in our world.”

“Has the world become so impoverished?”

“No, it's just that almost everyone is equal. In reality, everything depends on education... the better you study, the more opportunities you have. Anyone can afford at least five mansions, but everyone is lazy and doesn't want to work or study.”

We had lunch, and overall, today was normal, but it annoyed me that Ciel didn't tell me about his guests for today.

Chapter Text

In my room, I observe the beautiful early evening landscape from the window. Autumn. I remember, during my school days, I hated this season, but when I entered another institution, I developed an aesthetic interest in the withered leaves, oak acorns, and fruits that autumn brings. Now, I no longer longed for the end of this season; I started strolling through autumn parks.

Why did I hate autumn? I think every schoolchild would answer this question the same way, and I was among them until I went to college. On one of those autumn days, during a stroll, I turned on the soundtrack from "Black Butler." I didn't understand how I found it or how it came into my head, but walking through the empty parts of the park, I realized that I loved this time; or rather, I fell in love with it at that moment.

Winter used to be my favorite season because of the holidays. And not just that, I loved the cold, the dull weather, the mood of people before celebrations, the New Year's broadcasts on the radio. I loved the lights on houses, in the windows... Why did I love it? I still do. Alright... I could describe what I like endlessly.

A strange noise distracted me; it was quiet, but among the silence and light breeze in my room, it was enough to break my concentration... Unpleasant. After a moment, the strange sounds in the lower hallway stopped, and finally, I could once again observe the beauty of nature through the window... And the window itself. The handiwork of the local craftsmen captured my attention. I focused again on the nature and silence, when suddenly, there it was again. What was that? As if something fell. I didn't pay much attention to it because I wanted silence...

Something fell in the hallway again, but this time I heard a voice.

"Damn it. Who's making that noise? The misanthrope's mansion should be quiet! Why can't they be a little less energetic?"

I decided to go out and see what kind of mess was happening outside my room. Getting up from the windowsill, I confidently headed towards the door. There was no one in the hallway, so I decided to move forward.

"There's the stairs, and here is..." I stepped on something strange... I had to look. How could I not?

When I lowered my head and lifted the hem of my dress, I was stunned. To say the least!

"A mouse trap?" And then I realized that I was in pain, the shoes that were bought for me recently were ruined. We went to a store for several dresses, unfortunately, not in the city center, but on the outskirts. Ciel had shown the courtesy to buy me something, so I wouldn't be walking around inappropriately...

That was a harsh thought... As if he owed me something. I am undoubtedly grateful for everything he has done for me while I've been here.

Very strange, the shoes are of good quality, the materials they are made of should be tough. So why does it hurt? Did the shoemaker not use genuine leather?

Now my foot will have to be amputated. An infection will start, the doctors won't be able to do anything, and they will come to a single solution. No infected part, no problem. The medicine of this century was depressing.

"What's going on here?!" Besides the whole corridor being filled with mouse traps, I noticed a bunch of cats and... I wrinkled my nose at the smell of something burning.

"Is that the Miss whom the Master has taken in?" I heard a female voice.

"Apparently, yes. Don't you think she resembles Lady Elizabeth?"

"They compared me to Lizzie?"

Does that mean they think highly of my appearance? Wait, is someone actually thinking about my attractiveness right now? I haven't even looked at myself properly in the mirror since I got here... Although something tells me I really should do that immediately.

When I was tightening the corset, there was no time for that. But from the feel of it, my hairstyle has changed. My hair keeps falling into my face!

I feel strange. Usually, that's one of the first things heroines in stories like this do...

Maybe I really do look different from how I did in my world? Maybe I've changed? Alright.

In any case, I am not the main character in this story.

"I wonder why the Master decided to keep her here?" This voice was rougher, male... If I think about it, although my ability to "think" might not be needed in this case, is that Bard?

I was so curious to see them all... That's why I came down.

"Maybe you shouldn't sit in the corner and show yourselves, Phantomhive servants?" I smiled, and just a sweet voice was enough to make them shine with admiration. I raised an eyebrow and crossed my arms, pretending to be a dignified lady. They really did shine, Mey-Rin even grabbed her cheeks, don't embarrass me!

"Truly charming!" Either it's flattery, or it's really true, I hope it's the latter. I feel so wonderful when I see the characters in reality. The realization of reality sends chills through my body. You should have seen the maid! It's not just any servant found in all anime and manga, it's the real Mey-Rin! Her hair isn't red, no, it's like raspberry, no! That's exactly what it is.

Bard stood scratching his head and... My God, what a man! If I were a bit older, and met him in real life, I would immediately decide to live with him.

Finny — a boy. Really! What are you saying, Valerie! He is so cute and handsome, I don't know, lately, more precisely for the past four years, I've liked cute boys with big eyes.

I lowered my gaze and saw him... Grandpa Tanaka! I would really like to talk to him sometime. He was in the mansion at the time of the family's great tragedy, and I think he's the only servant who survived. Each of them is interesting in their own way, but knowing the story, you can get even more attached to them.

"Mey-Rin, Bard, Finny and..." I looked down, "Grandpa Tanaka," I smiled again. "Nice to meet you, Valerie, unfortunately, I can't tell you my full name, sorry."

"N-no! What are you saying! We should be the ones to apologize and..." the maid looked down.

"Lady, you're so beautiful that even if you do something wrong, I wouldn't believe it!" the gardener looked at my foot. "Wow," Finny exclaimed, seeing the frightening sight. "Your foot! Doesn't it hurt?!"

"It hurts! Haha, I would prefer to take it off by any means," it really did hurt a lot, but the smile never left my face, no matter what happened, "smile! Stupid shoe." "I'm going to change my shoes right away, but first I would like to ask you something," I pressed down on the floor with the mousetrap and it broke apart... If I had known it was so easy to break, I wouldn't have stood in one place with it for ten minutes. So, back to the request.

"Yes!" the servants said in unison. My foot started to hurt a little less.

I placed a finger to my lips.

"Could you please be quieter, as we have guests," I nodded towards the door that was very close by.

The servants flinched, then whispered their apologies. They ran off somewhere, probably to fetch something to clean up all this mess...

I approached the door. Strangely, it was ajar. Yes, I understand it was at the end of the corridor, but wouldn't all this noise be too loud?

Maybe you didn't know, but in the room, I was remembering what was supposed to happen next, who would arrive, what events would occur... Soon the Earl would be kidnapped and beaten, and then there would be that shooting scene.

What I realized while sitting locked up there, as if punishing myself, was that I needed to be more confident and have good self-esteem... And behavior... Since I was miraculously allowed to stay at the mansion, I should either behave as quietly as possible or, the second option, be extremely cautious.

The Phantomhive mansion is a big needle, and if you prick yourself, you can either hurt yourself badly or, in the worst case, pierce your finger through.

So, is what I'm doing right now correct? Standing by the door and eavesdropping? I can't fall so low, especially not in front of Ciel! I need to "earn" his respect... So, why am I still here? Behind the door?

Don't lose heart! You can either leave right now or jot down upcoming events and interesting words in your notebook, so to speak, gain experience. Important people are sitting there right now; I'll see them for the first time, and they will see me, and do I look okay? Will I be able to present myself properly? Or should I wait? After all, it would be better if I remain an unknown girl to them, so I won't go in. Too risky, but I'll just eavesdrop a little.

I crept up to the door and pressed my ear against the patterned surface.

"It seems there are rats here too..." said a voice.

It feels like they are talking about me. Calm down, it's not about you at all, but about the bastard sitting in the room. I'm outside the door.

"And are you going to allow this parasite and spreader of filth to spoil all your food? He does whatever he pleases!"

"Yes, I think that's exactly what he's doing..."

Such strange words, nothing is visible from behind the door. It's a pity I can't see through walls!

"He always aims for the nine... passing again, Earl Phantomhive?"

"And Ciel is there too? Oh, right, how could I forget... What nonsense is in my head right now?"

"Don't hit the ball you want to pocket..."

"So, I need to think with my brain if I want even a drop of respect. In that room, everything they say has two meanings. Simple and hidden. Could it be that Ciel meant that to reach a goal, to achieve what you want, you need to do everything carefully, avoid direct actions, and participate in a game with a catch?"

"You're still ranting, when will the rat be destroyed?"

"We'll find its nest and break all its bones at once," said Ciel, and it dawned on me... "Nest, lair? The lair of those vile people who will steal it... But they are in this room right now, could it be that Ciel knew the kidnapping was guaranteed?"

"So, will I be rewarded for this act?"

"You vulture..." And it was at these words that I needed to step forward and accidentally push the door?!

Life, do you really not love me?

At the creak of the door, and, of course, me, everyone turned and stared... How awkward... Come on, get out of this situation somehow! Think of something, anything! I didn't plan to continue like this! I just wanted to eavesdrop on what they were talking about, nothing more!

Something clicked inside me. It was as if my empty brain filled with meaningful words, even if they were someone else's lines.

My confidence grew, and I smirked, giving a sly smile to the person who had called Ciel such a rude name. Do you think I recognized him? A picture flashed in my mind, and seeing this foul-mouthed person, I immediately knew it was him.

"Do you really have the right to insult the Count's crest? You, a bloodhound who can't catch a single miserable rat..." I smiled and looked at Ciel. "And the rat is so indecent..."

"The reward you so wanted to receive, Count, will be this evening, am I right?" I shifted my gaze to the guest.

"So... would you care to stay for dinner first? Then you can wait for the carriage," smile after smile, this time it wasn't a smirk, but a simple, kind, and hospitable smile.

"Who are you? What do you know about this matter?"

"Oh yes, excuse my rudeness, Valeriе. I am the one who will bring order to the pages of this story and uncover the entire mystery of this family crest," I said, looking at everyone with a cold gaze... At each one of them.

"I think we should wrap up with billiards. Seven and eight, right, Count?" I made a thoughtful expression. "Excuse me, but I must go, we will meet again."

I closed the door and exhaled, oh my, my heart, did I really withstand the entire atmosphere in that room? It was difficult to keep a composed look when people closely tied to the dark underbelly of England were staring at you, and most importantly—Phantomhive himself.

POV Ciel

A rat, haha. Did that girl really understand everything we were talking about? It was as if she had been present from the very beginning. So, she really does know the events of the future?

"We should wrap up with billiards, seven and eight? Am I right?" Valeria smiled sweetly, then left.

I looked at the billiard table; to pocket the nine, you need to hit the seven and eight, but how did she see that? From the door to the table is a long distance, and the numbers were turned towards me; from the entrance to the billiard room, she wouldn't have seen the numbers, I'm sure of it.

"Amazing... Who is this lovely lady, Count?" one of my guests asked.

I wish I knew.

POV Valerie

Now I'm heading upstairs to the room Ciel assigned to me. These wanderings around the mansion are so exhausting... Still, on my way back, I noticed a strange shadow, but paid no attention to it, probably Sebastian. It's a bit unsettling... A bit? Did I say a bit? It's very unsettling and exciting.

But still, my suspicions were correct. I ran after him; he was pushing a cart with a tray.

"Sebastian!" I ran quickly, I need to warn him, "Sebas..." my leg suddenly hurt sharply. Damn it! And I started to fall. Strong hands caught me, it was quite unexpected.

"Please don't run around the mansion. In addition to your clumsiness, you might break your hands."

"I know! Let go!" I was set on my feet. "Thank you," I puffed my cheeks.

"Do you need me urgently?"

"Yes, I... Oh, right! Ciel has been kidnapped! Oh, the Count has been kidnapped, yes... that's not the point, go save him!" I'm not one hundred percent sure he's been kidnapped, but judging by the manga's frame transitions, he's already been taken.

Sebastian smiled.

"Oh yes, you 'flew in' as a reminder that his lordship isn't in his office," and that was intimidating. "I was just about to go."

Sebastian smiled as if he knew. He opened the door and looked at the whole scene.

"Oh, no tea needed, and I tried so hard..." Sebastian said with feigned sadness.

Just give me the kettle, I'll drink if you tried, although... No, it's only because I love tea. You could give me tea bags for my birthday!

"Sebastian, could you brew me some?"

Finally, Mey-Rin came running.

"Sebastian! A letter!"

"A letter?"

"I think we should read it," I said, turning my head towards the maid.

Mey-Rin stepped on the laces of her army boots and started falling, pushing me in the process. It all happened so quickly that I didn't have time to react or do anything.

A funny chain reaction occurred: Mey-Rin fell on me, and I fell on Sebastian. In the next moment, something strange happened in my memories; all my thoughts came together, all events seemed to replay and, ultimately, led to a single conclusion.

Damn, this is the last thing I needed!

I remembered an important detail, and I got more scared than I would have if I had just fallen; an accident might happen now, but... God, please, not with me!

Mey-Rin started falling on me, and I grabbed the maid, covering her head. Just then, the window shattered, and something flew over my forehead at incredible speed, barely grazing me.

We collapsed on the floor together with Sebastian. It turned out that the girl was lying on me, and I, covering her head, was lying on Sebastian.

"Ah, it burns!" I touched my forehead; there was a trickle of blood, very little. So little that its color was pink.

"Hm..." I almost turned back when the butler's face appeared, "... just a scratch. Don't worry, there will be no scar."

Don't worry? Don't worry?! I was almost killed just now, again! And it was supposed to be you who got shot! This bullet came as a reminder that in this world, you can't lose vigilance.

"I have no right to make mistakes. Forget something, and you're done for."

"M-Mey-Rin, are you okay?" I asked the maid, who seemed embarrassed.

"Ah!... Y-yes... thank you, Lady!" The girl started to get up.

"Mey-Rin, the letter..." The maid blushed. I think it's either because of the situation or, no, most likely because of the position... I'm sure of it. I didn't feel too comfortable myself.

While Mey-Rin was looking for the letter among the shards and broken wall, I realized it had been soft to fall. And to lie on. Then it hit me: I was on the butler. I wanted to get up quickly, but the demon stood up first and ended up offering me a hand.

"Ah... um... here!" The maid handed the butler what was needed. 

And in Sebastian's hands was the very ransom note.

Chapter Text

Sebastian had almost disappeared down the corridor. For some reason, I wanted to go with him, to see everything with my own eyes, but I was scared, which is normal for an ordinary person.

The butler is going to deal with all the "rats," yes, that's quite interesting, but what if I can't handle everything that happens there? I mean the screams of people, for example, or the sight of blood, even though I don't have any phobias.

I even have a sort of obsession; I love blood, I constantly bite my lips, but it's probably a bad habit, it doesn't look very good from the outside. I want to get rid of this terrible habit, but it's hard to break it, especially when you've been practicing it for several years. So what was I talking about? Seeing blood isn't a problem for me, I won't be afraid of it, but seeing dead people isn't something I want, especially if my memory serves me right, there will be a horrible shootout. Becoming minced meat in a minute is guaranteed.

But despite this, I really want to go, but won't I be a hindrance to Sebastian? And also...

"Sebastian!" The demon turned around. "Don't be late, the tea will get cold..."

"No need to worry, Miss. I will certainly return for dinner," he said and left.

Oh, what should I do? This demon won't have time to prepare dinner! And I'm already hungry now... What should I do?

Alright, alright, focus! I already told myself that I need to be vigilant, think ahead, and understand the situation. I need to broaden my horizons!

So, when Ciel returns, he won't be in a very good condition. He will be one hundred percent hungry... and I'm hungry... And that damn butler won't have time to cook anything, I don't have much time...

"Exactly!" I clapped my hands together.

I started looking for any of the servants but found no one, so I had to wander around the mansion. I went down to the lower floor. A few turns, and I was already in the main corridor of the basement. Could the kitchen really be here? It's unlikely, but I should continue searching.

The further I went, the more surprising the design of the area became. Brick walls, in some places there was wood near the ceiling, and dark wood at that. Damn, I'm lost! How could this happen? Panic and discomfort were growing inside me, I even wanted to go back to my room. What if an uninvited guest arrives at this very moment? What will I do? And what if I'm the first one he sees? He'll kill me! I need to calm down and not think about bad things, just find the kitchen and do a good deed! That's all that's required of you.

I calmed down and found a door. It was made of wooden planks, seemingly dense and heavy at first glance. Could it be the kitchen? Why such a door then? Maybe to keep the smell of food from spreading to other rooms—strange guesswork, don't you think? But the reason for such guesses is because my dad doesn't like it when the living room smells like food from the kitchen. We got used to closing the living room door in that world, but that's not the point. Maybe there are similar rules here? Okay, let's deal with the door first, then it's time to create masterpieces! I have a few ideas for dinner for the Count! By the way, I'm pretty good at cooking; my family and friends loved my food, so I hope to help the butler at least a little today.

I opened the door slightly; it was a bit difficult to open. Not even halfway open, the door creaked, and the creak could be compared to the sound of a drill—not very pleasant, though. Down below, yes, down below, I wasn't mistaken, there were steps leading deep down, which seemed strange to me. Could it really not be the kitchen? I need to check; after all, I don't know the mansion, and who knows what quirks the layout of a house from the 19th century might have. I don't know.

The lower the steps went, the darker the room became. Something tells me I've found the basement. Holding onto the wall, I went down three steps. A few more steps, and suddenly a voice echoed from above, reverberating through the space.

"Miss Valerie, I find it very suspicious to be wandering around the mansion at such a late hour," said a male voice from above. I turned around. Bard, the cook, was leaning against the wall with a cigarette in his mouth, the light falling on him only from behind, so the head chef was hard to see, but I still managed to make out his face, albeit with difficulty.

He looked like he was ready to pull out a machine gun and shoot me right there. I understand, of course, they are servants and all that, but ensuring the mansion's security is also their task. The privacy of their master's office needs to be preserved. Does he really think that while the lord and the head butler are away, I might do something suspicious? Although, right now I do look suspicious, but I don't mean any harm! I need the kitchen.

"What are you thinking?" I said calmly.

"Huh?" Bard didn't understand.

"What do you mean?" I said just as calmly, but with a hint of coldness. I don't like his hostile attitude. Literally an hour ago, he was friendly, and now he suspects me of something?

"Don't you understand what I mean? Don't pretend; I know your intentions right now..."

"What does he know? My intentions while I'm standing at the basement? Ha, funny. Is something valuable stored in the basement? Or are there other reasons why I can't go there? Do they have the queen held hostage there? Ridiculous."

"What are my intentions? What are you talking about? Do you think I'm a danger to the mansion and the young lord? Ha," I smirked. "Sorry, but sometimes some people lack brains... just a little bit."

"What?!" Bard shouted.

"I'm very upset because I got lost and then saw the dark side of the servants... You understand that you can change my opinion of all the staff in this house right now, don't you? Is that what you want?"

The cook paused and finally said:

"But does it matter if we finish you off today?"

"That's enough."

I ended up in an unknown place, almost got killed twice! The master of the house doesn't accept me... The butler behaves strangely towards me... The servants too! No support, nothing... Mutual understanding, I can't even hope for that... I-I... can't take this... Why can't I even just cook dinner here? Why?

My hands started to shake, and I grabbed my dress.

Don't show the tremble.

"What the... Why are you treating me like this? Think about it... after I was almost shot, everyone suddenly disappeared, ran away, didn't even ask how I was... It felt so uncomfortable there, and what if the sniper returned? How rude it was of you to leave me alone, defenseless, scared, and not knowing the mansion...," I raised my head. "Don't you understand such simple things? I got lost trying to find you, then I met you. And you thought so badly of me... What are you suspecting me of? I just wanted to cook dinner for the Count..." my eyes welled up with tears. "I... just wanted to eat," a salty drop ran down my face.

"Ah..." Bard was stunned, could it be such a big mistake? Was he so wrong? "Milady!" he ran to Valeria and began to calm her down, putting his hands on her shoulders. "I... I'm sorry, I feel so awkward... Because of my dumb head... I didn't understand the obvious. The task of the servants is not only individual duties but also the defense of the mansion! That's why I..."

"N-nothing, I'll get used to it, yes, everything is fine," Bard is very good. I looked him in the eyes: "Could you... guide me to the kitchen?"

Bard quietly replied, "Of course," and we walked awkwardly towards the place where culinary masterpieces are made.

* * *

Soon, I was standing in the middle of the kitchen, all the servants gathered around me, and I was pondering what to cook. 

What do you think? Am I cooking dinner to impress Ciel and Sebastian? Ha, no, I'm cooking it for myself and I won't let anyone touch it. I decided that when I entered the realm of food. I think Sebastian won't appreciate my effort, and I'm hungrier myself, and by the time Ciel arrives—I'll be starving.

"Ba-a-ard, I need an apron!"

"Are you going to cook?" asked Meyrin.

"Yes!"

"Milady, don't worry, I will fulfill all my duties, and you won't have to get your hands dirty with flour!"

"Um... I'd rather do it myself... So where are the books? The cookbooks!"

"Over there," Meyrin pointed to the cabinet.

I took a book, flipped through it, chose the right dish, and opening it to the needed page, began to read.

"Okay, we'll need apples... and..." while I was reading, the servants were discussing something fervently.

"I messed up so badly, I thought Lady Valeria was one of the hired ones," Bard began to scratch his head awkwardly.

"Wow, you really did it! Making a lady cry!" said Finny.

"Did you even ask for forgiveness?!" Meyrin scolded the cook.

"Yes, but I still feel awkward."

"Of course, I think you should have asked for forgiveness on your knees! Just saying 'sorry' isn't enough!"

"Hey!" everyone turned to me. "I can hear everything!" I smiled. "Bard, I really forgive you."

"Seriously?!"

"Yes, don't worry, but from now on, use your head..." "What an idiot..."

"Y-yes!"

"Hey, everyone else, please help me! I want to bake a pie!"

"Do you know how?"

"Yes! But this flour is kind of strange..."

I looked into the bag of flour; it was grayish. I didn't pay much attention to it—who knows what kind of flour it is.

Let me share a secret with you. I seem to be good at cooking, but I always followed my mom's instructions, never using a recipe book myself. So, I hope everything works out! I'm not sharing my pie! Well, maybe with the servants.

Actually, I had a sister who was good at making pastries, although she was only fourteen.

I often cooked savory dishes, which I was better at.

***

"Done! All that's left is to light the oven and let it bake!"

"Yes!" the servants helped me with the oven; it was very strange, and I didn't understand anything about it.

We put the pie in and left the kitchen, but then Finny exclaimed.

"Oh! Mr. Sebastian already baked a pie! How could we forget?"

"Could you have remembered later?" Bard asked irritably.

"But we don't know for sure if it can be eaten; it was made for the master..." Meyrin said.

"It's already cooled... Hmm... But it can be served cold..."

"You are right, Lady Valerie."

"Yes, but they are late," Sebastian hurried and wanted to arrive earlier so the tea wouldn't cool, but it's already been about half an hour... Could he be pretending to be dead for so long?

Or maybe... Ciel... died? What if Sebastian didn't save him? What if something worse happened...?

I heard a loud explosion from the kitchen...

"What the hell?!" Bard shouted.

We all ran towards the deafening sound and the cloud of smoke. The oven... had... exploded.

My efforts... Damn! How did this happen? Bard was supposed to be nearby... Unless, of course, he didn't put dynamite in the oven...

"How could... this happen?" I was almost out of breath... Well, I feel like I'm on the edge!

"Bard!"

"What about me?! I didn't do anything, just heated the oven!"

"Are you sure about that?"

"Yes!"

"Then what..." "But there was nothing suspicious in the oven, no dynamite, no explosives, no gunpowder..." "Bard, you're not hiding any explosive items or substances in the kitchen, are you?"

"No... I don't think so..." Bard thought for a moment, and I quickly closed the door to prevent the smoke from spreading through the mansion. "Although there was gunpowder... in a bag..."

"What?! Gunpowder? In a bag?!" I remembered the strangely colored flour. Could it be that there was gunpowder in the flour, and instead of making regular dough, I... created a Molotov cocktail? Wow, bon appétit, so to speak. Make sure you don't explode!

"Bard..." I slowly turned to the "cook." "Who told you that putting gunpowder in flour is normal?! What if the butler had been there instead of me? You'd be in serious trouble! They'd bury you in pieces! Or is that what you're aiming for? God, I can't imagine how hard it is for Sebastian with you guys... but he endures..." I scolded Bard and ranted. Now my head was filled with thoughts about how to deal with the mess in the kitchen.

"I think the lady is also scary when angry," I heard as I was about to leave.

"They should be here soon," I said.

"And indeed, it's been quite a while since the Master and Sebastian have been away," added someone from the staff.

"If we don't have that pie, maybe we should eat the one we have?" suggested Mey-Rin.

"But all the forks are... oh yes... There are no forks there..."

"In what sense, no forks?" someone asked.

"Why don't you look for them," I said. "Oh no! Don't open the door!"

"What should we do? Without forks, we can't deal with the pie," said Finny.

Is that really his only concern?

"Let's carve some sticks if we have no forks!" suggested Bard.

"Go ahead!" Mey-Rin threw in.

So poor Bard ended up whittling sticks. We all sat in the hall waiting for our stars to arrive. You know how long I've been here? Well, long enough, maybe three days, if not more, and I still can't get used to it.

I look at Mey-Rin, for example. She's so beautiful. If she were born into high society, she'd surely be popular.

Ciel is just the way he is, and Sebastian is a wonder. I need to set a goal for myself: to touch his hair. And those eyes, just wow. Pale face and black hair, he looks like the description of vampires in our era, but he's a demon.

I know I'm only here to help Ciel, but... why do I feel like Mey-Rin?

No, not in that sense... Being in my world, I loved Sebastian with all my heart and couldn't choose between Ciel and this demon, but... Why, after ending up in the manga in a strange way... Why didn't Sebastian kill me then? He had a million opportunities to do so... Why, despite all this, does my heart race? I frowned involuntarily.

And why do I ask myself this question if I know I like Sebby? Am I really so confused right now? No, I don't want to ruin my life here with a love that will give me nothing... I'll just fulfill my mission. And I've already set it for myself since it so happened that I'm in the manga. I can't calm down... Just don't think about it now, but still... Maybe I'm overthinking it? Maybe everything I feel and worry about is complete nonsense and rubbish? I'm sure, because I can't get out of my head those few times when I could have been killed. It's so scary to be killed by a demon. The thought is terribly frightening and unpleasant.

"Eh, Sebastian always returns for dinner, but where is he?" The next moment, the door to the hall opened, and Ciel and Sebastian stood on the threshold.

"We're home."

"Sebastian is back!" Everyone quickly ran to meet them. And I stayed in place, I'm not part of this story. I won't interfere with the relationships between the servants and the master, I'm the one who will never compare to them, not even to the ordinary staff... Never...

They are too wonderful. Oh, Yana, how did you come up with such personalities and add an interesting and intricate plot to them? I don't even know if I should thank God for letting me observe the plot in reality.

"He carried Master Ciel like a princess! That's so cute," Sebastian started making an airplane out of Ciel.

"Far, far, high, high," and still, it's cute.

Then the butler got down on one knee. Yes, right now he is a butler.

"Milord, I beg for your forgiveness... I didn't prepare you dinner..."

"What? Um... oh, you better not go into the kitchen."

Otherwise, my murder will soon become a justified threat.

I wanted to stop Sebastian, to tell him not to go in, but we also needed to clean up inside. What should I do? Let him in, or not? While I was thinking, the demon had already disappeared from my sight...

Chapter Text

For several days, we stayed at the main Phantomhive estate. The day before yesterday, Sebastian had to clean up the kitchen, scrubbing and polishing. Yesterday, he almost interrogated the servants, asking why the kitchen had turned from a decent place into a branch of hell. Words cannot express how happy I am that they didn't give me away. Otherwise, under Sebastian's questioning, my eyes would have betrayed me—I just can't lie.

Overall, I want to say that I have become friends with the servants. Right now, I'm having breakfast with Phantomhive, and I no longer care about not following their etiquette. After all, I have the right not to know it. From now on, I have breakfast with the Earl face to face... But unfortunately, the strange questions from the boy did not stop.

"I was curious..." I looked at Ciel, poking the meat with a salad fork. Sebastian later told me about it, or rather, he scolded me, but I wasn't planning to change anything.

"Curious about what?" Being in this world, or rather in England, I began to get used to their language. It became easier for me to understand what they were saying.

"If you know the future, can you easily solve the case from the Queen?" asked Phantomhive, looking at me with undisguised curiosity.

"As I said," I put down the fork, "I know everything in advance... Not every action, of course, but the main 'events'—yes."

"I see," such a dry response made my eye twitch involuntarily, but luckily, no one noticed my nervous reaction. Otherwise, they might have decided to pick on me.

The rest of our meal continued in silence. Afterwards, I went up to my room, looked at my bag, and took out my favorite score; it was the one I had to submit for my exam. Remembering the melody a little, I quietly hummed its motifs, and when I got bored of it, I wanted to get some fresh air, but within the estate—I had no desire to go outside.

I didn't walk for long before I heard a nearby door slam; someone must have entered somewhere. Following the sound, I ended up in front of another door. What's going on in there? I'm curious...

Suddenly, the door swung open, and there stood Sebastian. I realized that I almost reached his chin with my height of one meter seventy-one. Ugh, he's so tall.

"Oh, Miss, I was just about to come for you," said Sebastian.

"Do you need something from me?"

"Please, come in," Sebastian let me into Ciel's office. The door closed behind me, and I was 'invited' to the sofa opposite the desk. As usual.

"So... why did you need me?" Ciel looked at me intently.

"I just received a bunch of letters, and one of them turned out to be from the Queen. I want to make sure of your knowledge one last time. What's in the letter?" the boy demonstratively held up the envelope and looked at me expectantly. I had to pause for a minute, thinking about whether to speak or not. On one hand, the Earl is just testing me; it won't affect the plot.

Ciel waited, tension almost palpable in the air.

I can't recite the text exactly. Can I only guess? But... Let's try... I thoughtfully rubbed my chin with my finger.

"It's a case of murders, I think Mary Ann was mentioned in the letter... and she was killed, clearly by something sharp..." Ciel tensed up.

"So you really..." the young Earl pondered. "Since you know how the case ends, can't you tell me?"

"No, I don't want to," or rather, I'm not going to.

"And that's the only reason? You do understand that if you help me solve the case, or even if you tell me everything, my attitude towards you might change?" I do need him to have a good attitude towards me, but won't it be too much for him... if I tell him everything? Is this little one blackmailing me? No way, I'll do everything on my own.

"No, I can't tell you," I insisted, determined to keep the plot on track. "Do you think that if I tell you everything, you will try to change what cannot be changed?" I meant death, the death of Madame Red. "I know you would try to change everything, and if you do, your future will be destroyed. I just can't tell you," I replied, closing my eyes.

"I understand... Sebastian, prepare the carriage, we're leaving," the boy said, stepping away from the desk.

"I'm coming with you!" I rose from the sofa.

"And why is that?"

"I know we're going to a certain place... And perhaps this person might know how to send me home," I was, of course, referring to the Undertaker, as in fanfics, he usually knows something about dimensional travel. They often write that he might be behind it all.

I wondered if he would say something like, "Here is the mansion, my lady, here are the wallets we didn't manage to get from my clients, you are the chosen one, you will save this world!" I couldn't help but smirk. Being all-powerful in such a world is the only way to survive, but something tells me I'm just dreaming. All I need is to get back. Maybe the Undertaker will be the only being in this world capable of helping me. I hope...

"And didn't you want me to help you with investigations and such?"

"Fine, you're coming with us," he didn't have much choice.

"Great!" My eyes sparkled, and I raised my fist in the air in triumph.

***

We had just arrived at the London mansion and were now disembarking from the carriage with the Earl. Ah, if only I could see London. In my world, I dreamed of going to this city, or at least to the country. My father had already been there, so there was a chance we could go, but we never did. I cast a dreamy glance at the boy beside me, trying to get used to his beauty and his presence. The Earl was about to say something, but I interrupted him.

"Of all times to send a letter, it had to be now... I don't like crowded places."

Ciel looked at me with a surprised expression.

"You didn't say you could read minds."

"I just showed a little audacity and stole your 'line.' I knew you would say that."

"But we can't just stay in this mansion. For a change, maybe we should leave it."

"After all, it's quieter without the servants, but that's not certain," I said.

"What do you mean by 'but that's not certain'?" "Why do you think it's not certain? Because in the house across the street... Something worse awaits us."

"Ah... We better go in..."

Sebastian opened the door for us, and we saw the hall... and all that horror. How I hate disorder. I want everything to be in its place. I hate dirt; my eye twitched.

"Goodness, where did they put the tea?"

"I can't find it either," said Madame Red, as she and Lau wreaked havoc everywhere they went.

But all I cared about at that moment was how beautiful this place was. You know, living in the twenty-first century, I loved old things, like beautifully carved clocks, or maybe an old vintage sofa by the fireplace, wallpaper that smells a bit musty... and here, you have it all: the sofa, the fireplace, the wallpaper... even if they didn't smell musty.

I just lifted my head and started looking at the high ceiling, at least ten times higher than me. There was a glass chandelier above, adorned with beautiful patterns and decorations. The mansion outside London is much bigger than this one, but it's also very beautiful here. I will never stop admiring the beauty of the nineteenth century.

"What are you doing here?" Ciel asked, horrified by the scene before him.

"Oh! My boy! Since my beloved nephew is in London, how could I not visit him?" said Madame Red, who is Ciel's mother's sister, his aunt, working at the London Royal Hospital. All I want to say is that she is simply wonderful, how could anyone not accept themselves in their youth? Madame ran up to her nephew.

"Earl, I heard that indescribable things are happening in London," said Lau, the heartthrob, a cool guy with lovely ladies in his 'harem'. Once, I wanted to join them, but now the desire has disappeared. Oh yes, he represents the English branch of the Chinese Foreign Trade Company... In that sense, he is also an 'earl'.

"We didn't know you would honor us by visiting the young master, I apologize for the inconvenience, I will prepare tea for you right away," said the demon and disappeared, leaving us alone. I was worried... because next to us were not just criminals, but those who indirectly influence the plot...

Being nearby, could I ruin everything?

Just a little more, and I will hope for the support of the Undertaker, as he is called.

While Sebastian was gone, Madame Red looked at me and smiled slyly.

"Oh, isn't this the little Miss we met earlier?" I tensed up, remembering all that I had said the last time... "Since then, I have been curious to meet you again. My God," Angelina took my face in her hands and lifted my head. "You are so sweet, and... you remind me of someone," she lowered her eyes. "But let's not talk about the bad things," she clapped her hands. "I wouldn't mind calling you my girl!"

"Oh, Madame! It must have been unexpected for Miss, you jumped on her like that," said Lau. "So... you are indeed beautiful, I think you could join my 'harem', and I don't invite just any girl there."

"Er..." was all I could muster.

"Don't bother her, she already has a task," Ciel cut in.

***

"The police and other prostitutes call him Jack the Ripper," said Ciel, eating a piece of cake. "I wanted to find out everything as soon as possible, which is why I hurried to London."

"Oh, have the Queen's watchdogs been unleashed? But I don't care about that... However, are you not afraid to inspect the crime scene?"

"What are you talking about?" asked the young earl. I took a sip of the most delightful tea in my life.

"The killer is definitely a madman, and it's quite a spectacle. So, are you scared?" Lau grabbed Ciel by the cheek. No way, and I can't do that? Am I not worthy of it? I felt a desire awaken in me to at least once touch his cheek. That's it! Now it's my little goal.

"I came because I'm worried about my fiancée," I choked on my tea... "And I don't have to answer your meaningless questions." 

"Stop, stop, stop and stop again... You just said that a prostitute was killed, and they are killing others like her? So, why are you worried about your fiancée? Are you saying Lizzy is a prostitute? Is that why you're worried she might be killed? What a twist..."

"Phah," I couldn't help but laugh. Ciel looked at me strangely, as if I was an idiot for laughing for no reason.

"Then let's go!" Lau grabbed Ciel by the hand and dragged him to the exit.

"Stop right there!" shouted Madame Red loudly, "I rarely visit Ciel, so I will go with you to spend at least a little more time with him..."

 "Oh, how sweet." thought Valerie 

"So, where is this place?"

"Don't you know, Madame?" the Chinese man shrugged. "Then don't ask, I don't know either..."

"You talk like that and don't know where to go?!"

"Calm down..." Ciel said quietly, "I know who can help us."

Am I really going to meet him now? Will I meet the Undertaker? I'm so happy! Finally, I will be able to talk normally with a being who understands me and my feelings! I can rely on and trust someone. There will be no more strictness, stiff backs, or sideways glances at dinner, no more discomfort.

Chapter Text

I am certain that he knows me and my story, otherwise, how? It would be a wonderful option to stay and live with him. Yes, I loved luxury and rules, but following them turned out to be no easy task. At first, it might be uncomfortable to sleep in a coffin, but I think I will get used to it; it might be unpleasant to see corpses, but for the sake of normal communication, for support and help, for health and safety... For myself! I am ready to accept anything.

To be honest, in my childhood, the Undertaker didn't particularly attract me, but as I grew older, I realized that although he had his fifty-three-rib skeletons in his closet... he was at least fun! At least now I could accept his nature, whatever it was!

When you end up in a manga, rose-colored glasses immediately come on, everything around seems unreal and wonderful, and luxury instantly clouds your mind; but then comes the realization of reality, and you have to face difficulties that an ordinary person in our world would never encounter. Perhaps this is the only thing that completely kills the desire to become a transported person. When characters you loved can kill you, everything else takes a back seat. What's the point of existing in another universe if you're going to die anyway? Exactly, there is none.

"There were a lot of people gathered to see what happened, and dealing with the police is too troublesome."

"Then what do we do?" Angelina asked.

"Eh, it's an unpleasant business, but I know..."

"You know a specialist in this field... so..."

Ten minutes later, we were at the Undertaker's shop. Yes, imagine, it didn't take long to get there. I only glanced at London through the window with one eye, it's a pity we didn't pass by Big Ben, but I hope one day I will see those beautiful clocks. The city is beautiful. Well... it seems so to me, as we only passed places with strange houses, and eventually arrived at the street, that is, the alley where the Undertaker's shop is located.

Is this the moment? Will I finally be able to share my worries? Will I finally be supported? Even better, does he know how to get me home?! Yes, I love this manga, and even more than the anime, but... I miss home. Yes, it was my dream to come here, but... who do I matter to here? Exactly, no one, a pawn for Ciel that he will discard later, someone who is not needed. If I were loved here, I would gladly stay, I would continue to watch beautiful people with long eyelashes and silky hair. And though I set myself a goal, I would be happy to go back home...

We went inside. It smelled strange, not exactly pleasant, probably of dead things. Yes, and the smell of cookies doesn't mix well with the smell of the dead... but as I understand, Adrian doesn't care...

"Welcome, I knew you would come today, Earl... Ehee-hee," the Undertaker climbed out of a coffin... Honestly, the atmosphere reminded me of hated horror films. I wanted to react coolly, but it still turned out the opposite. "Have you decided to lie in my exclusive coffin?"

When Adrian, tall and dark, emerged from the shadows of the black coffin, the fear was washed away by a warm wave. I lit up! Finally, I saw you!

"No, I don't have..." the Earl was interrupted by the Undertaker.

"I know why you came... and words aren't needed. It's clear at first glance..." Adrian turned to me. "Oh, and who is this lovely lady? I haven't seen you before, are you with the Earl? Or separately? If so, you'll have to wait a bit."

"No, I'm with the Earl and..." I looked at him seriously, hinting that I needed him for a rather serious matter. "Can we talk later? You do know me." At these words, Adrian brought his hand to his face with his usual smile.

The Undertaker's smile grew wider and wider. I lifted my chin slightly and smiled, already feeling our unbreakable bond, as if we were old friends meeting after many years. I behaved confidently, expecting some strange comment and already running through a bunch of ideas on how to respond to his next mysterious words or joke. "Hello, guest from the future" — as if I heard his words in advance and smiled even more brightly, noticing how his smile became noticeably brighter. The legendary, mysterious, and all-knowing reaper, I sparkle and eagerly await telling him everything I experienced while withering away at the Phantomhive mansion. He is my last hope to not go crazy, at least with someone from this world I can talk and not die from stress on the spot.

Silence...

"Hee-hee, Miss," my joyful thoughts were interrupted, finally! I looked at him with puppy eyes. "I see you for the first time."

It seemed to me that everything around suddenly froze. Did I mishear?

"Sorry, what?" I asked, still smiling.

"I see you for the first time."

Like a thunderbolt out of the blue, no, it was worse.

"You don't know who I am?" It felt like everything around me collapsed, as if, being a step away from salvation, I fell. No! I was pushed off... My heart skipped a few beats, everyone looked at me strangely, waiting for me to finish the "pointless" dialogue. "Tell me you know, please," I almost pleaded with the reaper.

"Such a sweet face, I'd remember it, hee-hee... But I really do see you for the first time." — "No, no, no! Is no one going to listen to me now?" — "Well," the Undertaker turned his attention to Ciel, completely forgetting about me, "since the Earl has honored me with his visit, I'll do everything I can..."

Now, I am "invisible."

"What do you know?.."

I couldn't hear their conversation, and even when I tried, I couldn't make it out, looking at the Undertaker, the only one who could support me, calm me, share, give advice... My eyes filled with tears... Am I really alone in this world? Will no one understand me? Will I have to survive in the Earl's domain again? Why am I the only one in such a situation?! Why me?!

The room became unbearably hot, my head seemed to be burning, splitting from the pain due to the tension in my temples, my neck was tense, I tried to control my strange, ragged breathing. I felt something hot on my cheeks, trickling down to my chin, tears.

"No! Don't cry! You have to behave with dignity, so that the Earl..."

The Earl sat on the coffin, suggested by the Undertaker. There... he did it on purpose? Knowing what's in the coffin, or rather who, I shivered, and now I was shaking even more. Since he doesn't know me, since he doesn't know how to help me... I approached Ciel, what am I doing? Why? Why did the Undertaker seat him on this coffin? Why? I'm about to...

"Ciel... Earl Ciel... I advise you to stand up," I said in a trembling voice.

"Yes, I understand that it's quite uncomfortable to sit on a coffin, but there are several more in the back... Why do you want me to get up?" — and what should I answer to this question?

"Just get up..." — the Earl stood up without objection, and I sat on the coffin, still trembling, hoping it wouldn't break.

Ciel snorted something like: "You got me up to sit yourself?" and sat on another coffin, while I sat and trembled, not wanting Ciel to sit here, even though our relationship was not great, but I couldn't allow it... I couldn't allow myself to watch this nightmare.

I was terribly scared because under the lid of the coffin was someone who would cause problems in the future. Damn, knowing everything that will happen, I simply can't remain indifferent, but my heart is breaking from pain and sorrow. Unnoticeably, I stroked the coffin lid, thinking of how much they had gone through. Maybe I should just continue to stay under the Earl's little wing?

An hour passed, and recently the Undertaker had asked for payment, and now it was Sebastian's turn. We were asked to leave. After we went in and got the information, we all went out again... but I stayed behind.

"Undertaker, do you really not know me? Why, in all the fanfics, are you supposed to know the one who fell into the manga? Why is it different with me? Tell me? What's wrong with me? Am I not worthy of understanding? Do I not have the right to something good...?" I just vented to him about everything, but... he didn't understand what I was talking about.

"Mnu doesn't know what you're talking about, but I really do see you for the first time, hah," — this wasn't just a silly giggle, but a smirk, a serious smirk. — "Every person has the right to understanding, every person is unique, and that doesn't mean it has to be the same for you as for others... You have what others have, but you also don't have what those 'others' have.

I listened carefully, on one hand, he knew nothing, but on the other, he answered my questions quite clearly. It was surprising, and while I listened, I calmed down a bit. It would be foolish to hold a grudge against him for not knowing something. No one is to blame for this.

Sebastian entered the shop.

"My lady, we are waiting for you." 

"Yes, I'll be there, just saying goodbye..." — Sebastian returned to the carriage, while Adrian stood and looked at me, again with that cheerful smile, as if giving hope.

"Well, mysterious Miss, it's time to say goodbye," he said.

"Yes, you're right," I looked past the Undertaker. "See you soon, I waved towards the table, no, not soon, — at least another dozen volumes."

The Undertaker looked at me strangely.

"Hee-hee-hee, do you see ghosts?" he laughed.

"Of course, did you think I was an ordinary girl? No, boo!" — I raised my hands to head level and made a 'scary' pose. — "Thank you for calming me down, Adri. See you," I said with a sad smile as I rushed out the door, not wanting to keep my sometimes-irritating temporary guardian waiting.

***

When the door closed, the Undertaker stood again in his usual, pitch-black darkness. The farewell, benevolent smile slowly faded from his face, and his hand calmly lowered. It seemed like nothing unusual, but the reaper continued to stare at the door with an invisible gaze until sinister glimmers appeared in his green eyes...

"Adri?"

Turning to the table, the Undertaker looked at the small, neat coffin on which the girl had recently sat, almost crying and trembling.

Chapter Text

Now... she is alone... 

Valeri was left without emotional support; the Undertaker was the only one who could support her, but the course of events turned upside down. 

Adrian doesn't know her.

At the moment, in the room lit by the sun barely penetrating through the curtains, there were several people: Valeri, the Earl, and Madame... Not counting the supernatural beings, of course.

"The doctor, an excellent anatomist, without an alibi the day before the incident, and also connected with 'a secret society or black magic.' There is only one person who fits all the criteria. It's Viscount Druitt, Lord Aleister Chamber. He graduated from medical college but never worked in a hospital and generally stepped away from the profession. He often hosts social gatherings and..."

And a lot of unnecessary information for the girl's ears was being said by Sebastian. "Blah, blah, blah." She was not in the mood at all. She sat there with a bored look, examining the room. Valeri got lost in her thoughts, replaying the conversation with the Undertaker for the umpteenth time and still couldn't come to terms with it. She caught herself thinking she definitely needed a distraction.

"Viscount Druitt? By the way, his name is often mentioned in connection with black magic," said Madame.

"So, there's a suspicion that at these 'gatherings,' he holds some ceremonies and sacrifices fallen women?"

"Today he's hosting guests, around seven in the evening," Valeri said without enthusiasm, deep in thought. All thoughts led back to the conversation with the Undertaker. The girl sighed heavily and looked at her cold tea. "No way, I'm not giving up."

"Oh, so the lovely lady knows?"

"Yes, the season is coming to an end soon, and I think it would be terrible to miss such a chance," Valeri said, shrugging. She then turned to the butler. "Right?" she smirked, feeling no guilt for brazenly stealing Sebastian's words.

"You are right, but do not do that in the future," Valerie had no intention of stopping her fun, so she ignored the butler's words and said:

"We'll see," a small piece of cake was placed in front of Valeri, which she immediately tried to eat "elegantly." Madame Red looked at her strangely. "Madame?"

"My God, you really look a lot like her," she said, sighing. Ciel looked at Angelina, clearly agreeing with her.

"Ah... Madame Red, regarding this... Can you do something?"

"Do you underestimate me? Who is more popular than me? A word here, a word there, and everyone is charmed."

"Lady Valerie?" Ciel turned to the girl. Did he really ask her? Valeri looked around in confusion and pointed at herself. Before, he would have just ignored her presence. Is he asking if she wants to go with him now?

"Do you want to take me with you?"

"You see, lately, you have been helping me."

"How exactly am I helping you?" thought the girl.

"So, don't you want to help me now? Can we say we are on the right track?" Everyone turned their gaze to Valerie, and she immediately hesitated. Yes, they were on the right track, but a masquerade ball, in the case of the Earl, wouldn't give them anything.

"Of course, how could I not know? It's just that... it seems to me that you want to use me in some other way. I already promised to help you in investigations and in life, but..."

And then it dawned on the girl. Anyway, she ends up helping him. If she goes, it's also a kind of help, and she will be part of the story. He doesn't want to dress her up in that dress and send her to play the role of bait, does he? No way! She doesn't need to be kidnapped and sold at the market!

"Is something wrong?" he asked. "I have a proposal for you: you could go as 'bait'; it would change a lot." "No, it wouldn't change anything, not even the plot. If you remove the 'funny' part from the story, it will already be a super strict, boring manga plot." thought Valerie.

"No, you don't understand, if you don't do it, the future will go awry."

"What do you suggest?"

"As far as I know... You should go as the bait," I smiled, "so don't expect to drag me into this," the girl closed her eyes and shrugged.

"You want me to go like that? But..." Sebastian stopped him.

"My lord, the lady doesn't know etiquette and has no experience at such receptions. I'm sure she won't be able to handle all the theory and practice in one hour."

"Your daughter doesn't know etiquette?" Madame Red exclaimed, "But how?"

"Yes... for some reasons."

"You must be trained, how could that be? Sebastian, you will take care of this, won't you?" The girl widened her eyes; she didn't plan to go out into society at all. Valeri quickly turned her head towards the butler, and there he was too!

He is a demon; what torments await her in his lessons? How did Ciel survive Sebastian's lessons? Valeri wouldn't mind avoiding this; the man is, of course, attractive, but in addition, he is a demon, and with a demon, never and no way!

No, she doesn't want to.

*** 

"My God, what a luxury, truly the last day of the season."

"I feel like today will be fun."

"If he suspects anything, all efforts will go to waste, understood? We are not here to have fun, so stay on your guard, got it?" said the sweet mademoiselle—the earl in a dress.

"A-a-a-ah, how cute, cute, cute, cute! Really!" Madame Red attacked Ciel and started squeezing him.

"Why am I dressed like this?" asked the blushing earl.

"What? You don't like it? But it took a lot of French fabric, and it's very fashionable right now," said a puzzled but smiling Angelina.

"Why should I like it?!" the boy protested, almost blushing. Valeri picked up her skirts and carefully tried to get out of the carriage.

"Calm down, calm down, it's not appropriate for a lady to shout like that," the butler calmed the earl, offering his hand.

No matter how much Valerie didn't want to go, she couldn't avoid it; Madame Red literally pushed her out of the mansion in London. The nobles didn't hesitate; they came to the city and had dresses made for Valerie and Ciel. Nina, inspired by Madame and our girl, made a burgundy dress with a design similar to Angela's.

"We need to stick to the story..." the girl, examining everyone present, stopped her gaze on the demon and noted that Sebastian looked very good in glasses, making him even more attractive.

She shouldn't be thinking about this, and he's a demon, yes.

You'd better not know how many indecent thoughts Valerie came up with during her teenage years; now, looking at the living Sebastian, the girl was extremely embarrassed by her memories and thanked Yan that she didn't give the butler the ability to read thoughts... Otherwise, she would have to ask the earl to shoot her immediately or just disappear into the ground.

"So, Lau will be my admirer, Ciel the niece from the province, and Grell will be Grell..." Madame looked at the girl lost in her thoughts, "and you, my dear, will be my adopted daughter!" The creatures of different races in the modest circle created by Madame were surprised.

"Adopted daughter?" everyone asked.

"Yes, I've always wanted a daughter, a lovely daughter to dress her in lavish gowns! Valeri, do you mind?" she asked. The girl's eyes instantly lit up; of course, she didn't mind, what an honor to be called the daughter of such a wonderful woman as Madame.

For some reason, the girl was overwhelmed with strange feelings; she began to feel that she could rely on Madame. The girl almost gave in to her emotions; how much Valerie wanted to take Dalles aside and tell her all her problems, lean on her shoulder, and let a few tears roll down her cheeks. She didn't even care that this woman was "Jack." She longed for motherly love, for warmth.

"No, I don't mind," the girl smiled broadly, practically shining.

"So, what's the point of me?" Ciel began to complain.

"And you are just a bonus," Lau laughed. Ciel blushed and shook his fist at him...

"Haha, fine, but you don't want to be exposed, do you? It wouldn't be obvious that it's the Earl of Phantomhive himself? You can tell by one eye and the butler," Madame whispered.

"In short, the Viscount loves girls; otherwise, you can't get close to him, so it's perfect!"

"Then why me? We have her!" Ciel shouted, pointing at Valeri, who was still glowing from Madame's recent words. The demon immediately covered the earl's hand with his own, explaining that his gestures were inappropriate.

"Haha, at this rate, we will lead the earl down the criminal path, haha," said Lau.

"Didn't you say, your lordship... 'at any cost and all that'?" Ciel sighed and looked at Sebastian.

"Please, this way, milady," Sebastian gestured to the entrance, at that moment looking Ciel straight in the eye.

The group entered; the large luxurious hall was very noisy, and the echo made the voices of gentlemen and ladies even louder. The girl visibly tensed and began examining the high walls and various people around. Every guest was dressed in splendid attire; it seemed that no one spared a penny on dresses for tonight and paid the seamstresses the highest price, without regret. The girl admired every outfit, every person, and was delighted that she had the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful story.

Chapter Text

"So, first we search for the Viscount..."

"Viscount Druitt is such a man, I can't wait to meet him!" Madame took the confused girl by the hand. "Stay close to me today so you don't get lost," she said with a wink.

Sebastian and Ciel disappeared from the girl's view, and Lera kept an eye on Madame.

"So... what's happening now?" the girl asked, somewhat nervously smiling, now more than ever wanting instructions for each subsequent move.

Various men began to approach Madame Red, causing the girl to immediately feel flustered. They simply talked to her and flirted, to which Madame responded with equally languid words.

Soon, music began to play, beautiful and danceable, and the men started inviting the women to dance, who readily agreed. Not a single woman refused, everyone was having fun and enjoying the evening, while Valerie examined the hall, the tables laden with various snacks and drinks, and the beautiful lights outside the mansion windows.

Then, the "show" began, and they started "cutting" Sebastian...

Though the balls were beautiful, they were very boring. The first impression of the scene was good, but the atmosphere felt off. The girl concluded that it was better to stay at home and drink tea, even if without Ciel, or even if with him. It seemed Valerie began to long for the mansion. She hadn't stayed there long, but long enough to get used to the warm blanket on the bed and the beautiful view outside the window. Long enough to get used to the high ceilings, luxurious walls, and the pleasant smell of tea that permeated almost everywhere.

Now she couldn't imagine her morning without: "Good morning, miss, the weather is lovely today, isn't it?" Or: "Good morning, Miss Valerie, I hope this tea lifts your spirits for the day, as the weather isn't particularly attractive today"—but the girl loved cloudy weather and rain. How did she manage to get used to this in just a few days? Sometimes, in such a luxurious place, she felt uncomfortable; she couldn't get used to the fact that to get to another room, it took not thirty seconds but at least five minutes, and sometimes she simply couldn't believe she was living in such a place. She couldn't believe it wasn't a dream.

She didn't know what to do here, and didn't know what girls did at balls when they were bored; she was afraid of making a mistake. Trying to find an answer to the question "What to do," Valerie looked at Madame again, this time with a sad look. To her surprise, her temporary mother noticed the dull look of her daughter, got up from the chair, and easily pushed the unfamiliar men aside, who stood there in confusion and disappointment.

"Dear, are you bored?" asked the queen of red.

"It's my first time at such events, and I have no idea how to truly enjoy the party," Valerie looked down in disappointment.

Madame didn't hesitate, she gently lifted the girl's chin and looked her straight in the eyes. A strange and distracting gesture, just what was needed.

"If that's the case, don't think I'll leave it at that, come with me and I'll tell you what to do," she took the confused girl by the hand and led her to a corner. "So, listen, the most interesting thing at balls are the conversations, especially if you know what to talk about. And how do you find out?" Madame brought a finger to her lips. "I'll tell you now. It's like catching a good fish."

The girl furrowed her brows at Madame's playful tone and looked at her seriously. What is she going to show me?

"What's the point of these places? Earn your place!"

"A place? What does that mean?"

"Become the queen of the ball! Be unique and mysterious! For starters," Madame produced a red lipstick from somewhere and applied it to the girl's lips, "that's the first step. Second, you need to know nothing here, go to the center of the hall and stand with a grand but disinterested look. At that moment, when you do, at least two people will approach you, and moreover... they will be men," the mentor winked.

"Men? But why do I need..." the girl was cut off and bombarded with information.

"Why? For girls, balls are a chance to show off their dresses and their best looks. Secondly, to attract the attention of men, the more men interested in you, the more popular you will become! And," Madame leaned closer to Valerie's ear, causing her to instinctively step back a pace, "you can find yourself a fiancé."

"But I don't need popularity! Nor fiancés! Why, I don't even know etiquette, how can anyone talk to me?"

"Don't be discouraged, be mysterious, that's the answer to your question. More people are drawn to the unknown, so be an unattainable peak, everyone will immediately pay attention to you."

"Do you think it will work?"

"For you? Absolutely, especially if you start trying right now! Make a confident look, lift your chin, hands here," Madame adjusted the girl's body into a lioness pose.

"Done! I'd already fall in love, now say: 'What time is it? I think it's time to powder my nose,' go on! It's the most popular phrase!"

"What time is it? I think it's time to powder my nose!" Valeri awkwardly tried to do everything correctly and repeat Madame's emotions, but she grimaced.

"More acting, add a smile," the girl repeated everything she said, and the result pleased her.

"Now, I think you're ready to conquer the heights, all the girls will envy you and ask others your name, and you will be a proud and lonely lioness!"

"What do I need to do now?"

"Now let's go conquer hearts!"

"What? But I'm not rea-" the poor girl was pulled to the very center of the hall and left to the curious lions. The girl immediately wanted to go back, but Madame had already disappeared from view.

"Oh God, what do I do, how awkward," the girl thought.

"Milady, are you really alone?" one of the strangers approached her.

"No, I'm not alone, it just seems that way, and I have an acquaintance with a servant who is ready to slit your throat at any time. So know your place and don't touch me with your dirty hands."

The man was a bit taken aback, and then with a strange look, melted into the crowd. The girl was already very agitated.

"At this rate, you'll become the queen of threats, be more friendly," said a voice from behind, it was Aunt Angelina again.

Angelina stood for a while, looked at the girl thoughtfully, and then smiled.

"I understand what you need, I have a better idea. Follow me!" Madame Red waved her hand, and the girl quickly followed her, faster, faster, just to escape from dozens of curious eyes. Wading through the huge crowd of the Viscount's guests, they returned to Madame's original place, where she had been having social conversations surrounded by strangers, who still didn't leave, apparently still waiting for her.

"Why bring me here?" Aunt Red cheerfully smiled, took the poor girl by the hand, and shouted:

"I think you'd like to know who this wonderful young lady is! My precious gem! My treasure! My daughter!" Valeri immediately froze, wanting to sink into the ground due to the excessive attention, but also feeling delighted by Madame's believable words. 

She smiled so brightly that the girl herself believed her words, feeling that she wasn't lying and truly considered Valerie her girl. The girl looked around; everyone turned even more attention to her, and it wasn't just one glance—dozens of eyes were watching and studying her. Many were smiling; some of the boys left with comments like, "I didn't think she already has kids," "A child? She's an adult, then how old is this woman?"—half of them stayed, and then new young men started approaching.

Madame Red threw them all onto the inexperienced girl, standing aside herself, sometimes shouting about how beautiful her darling was, it was awkward and simultaneously fun.

Hour after hour passed, Sirelia still wasn't there, and the girl was already worried, it became scary, what if things didn't work out for them? Soon the ball ended. Guests left the grand estate, settling into their carriages. A bit of tiredness and inner satisfaction covered the fear and anxiety, so now, wrapped in Valerie's warm cloak, she watched the happy people and the light emitted by the lamps behind them.

Madame then chatted on the street with Valerie's suitors for another half hour, and then finally these two allowed themselves to leave... Leave this place... While the tired Madame and Valerie shivered in the carriage, barely lit outside the almost small lanterns flickered, which were attached at the exit of the carriage. Why they needed them there, no one asked such a question, but it was so nice to look at them while the eyelids fell due to heaviness. The clatter of hooves and receding voices. The girl was very sleepy, but before finally sinking into darkness with her mind and body, she asked herself, "Is Ciel home?"

When the two beautiful ladies arrived at the estate, without thinking about anything, Valerie immediately headed towards the stairs to reach her room. It seemed impossible to get to her chambers, as it was necessary to overcome such a long staircase and a bunch of turns. Due to lack of strength, Valerie could barely move, but her heavy steps were still heard.

"Who," the girl turned her head back and immediately noticed the butler, "Sebastian? Are you following me?"

"No, not at all, I came to meet you, but when I came out, you were already climbing the stairs," Valerie wrinkled her brow a little and thoughtfully chuckled.

"You really think I'm that stupid?" — It may seem that the girl attacks out of nowhere, but she really thought something was wrong. Fortunately, it really only seemed to her.

"What, no, I just wanted to escort you to your room, and then you'll need to take a relaxing bath... It was a difficult day for both you and the master."

"I'm curious," the girl began, both already walking down the corridor towards the room.

"What exactly, miss?"

"Did you have fun?" — Sebastian looked at the girl with incomprehension, and then he got it and chuckled.

"I understand that you know what happened while I and the Lord were away?" — The demon continued to smile. He really liked the guessing game that the girl could arrange for him.

"Yes, I know, and do you really believe me?"

"How to say... I didn't manage to have fun, I just maimed everyone, and as for the second question... I believe."

"And why?"

"Lady, you have already shown yourself a thousand times, but the Lord did not see it or did not pay attention to it. He doesn't notice, but you really have an ability. Can a person really have such 'strength'? — the girl immediately thought, if you answer this question logically, then...

"No, he can't."

"Then who are you?"

"And do you really want to know so much?" — Valerie raised an eyebrow a little skeptically; everything that he needs to know — he already knows, no more secrets. She is an ordinary person and no more.

"You are an interesting miss."

"Thank you, glad you're having fun with me, but this flower didn't grow for you!" — Valerie waved her hands over the red dress, already imagining how she would take off all these heavy fabrics from herself.

"Maylin should have already warmed up the water for you, please take a bath, the maid will accompany you, and I need to leave," he bowed.

"Sebastian," the demon looked at the tired guest from the future. "Tell the count not to worry about his outfit today, I won't tell anyone. Let him think I'm a tomb."

"Of course. Thank you for your concern." — The butler disappeared from the girl's sight.

Madame and the count were now drinking tea, but the girl refused, preferring to enjoy it after a warm bath, so it would be much more convenient for her.

After a while, as Sebastian said, Maylin came to the girl. The maid took Valerie to the bathroom, offered help, but Valerie refused. It was too unusual when there was another person with you in the shower, let alone helping with washing. The maid explained how to use certain oils, and then disappeared behind the door.

Finally, Valerie approached the mirror and figured out the complex dress. She even had time to pity that she had expelled the maid, with what, but with a dress she would not interfere. Finally, the girl decided to look at herself and rejoice insanely when she saw her usual self. Nothing in this world pleased as much as her own slender body without any changes.

Valerie touched her face, smooth skin, except that her eyes became a little brighter, but not a fact that this is not due to lighting in the bathroom. The eyelashes are a little darker, but perhaps this is makeup. There was hardly anything in the former girl that changed, but the girl's skin now seemed to shine, how so? It became too pale compared to the time when she lived in her century.

Of all the changes that happened to Valerie, only her perfect vision stood out brightly. Before, the girl couldn't see anything within seven centimeters, and now she could easily examine the beautiful stars in the sky. In fact, this could be considered the best gift from the Lord, no other bodies and lush figures were needed, just to see the surrounding world a little better.

The girl slowly climbed into the hot water, which smelled like tender roses, by the way, the girl's favorite flowers, even if it is banal, but she loved them very much. The bath was insanely large, deep, behind its sides it was possible to hide and no one from the entrance side would notice! The size of the bath was one of the pluses of being under the wing of a nobleman, because such luxury the girl could never afford, it was possible to swim in the jacuzzi, but the sensations are completely different. Without losing the opportunity, getting used to the water temperature, the girl sank to the very bottom, relaxing her tired body. It seemed that I wanted to write a song about how pleasant it is to be behind high sides of a deep bath.

The girl enjoyed the water for about half an hour, then still decided to add hot water, yes, imagine, here is a tap. I wanted to stay another hour, which she actually planned to do.

Her eyes closed, and the light gradually went out...

***

I woke up abruptly, still lying in the bath, the water cold, sending shivers through my body... What time is it now? Did I fall asleep in the bath? What if I had drowned, in what state would they have found me! Horror!

I was already planning to get up when suddenly I heard strange voices. Not strange, actually, but familiar, belonging to Sebastian and Ciel, and they were getting louder and clearer.

"Sebastian, when are you going to fix the guest bath? A demon and you can't handle it..." irritably said the voice behind the door, which soon swung open.

"Of course, sir, the bath will be ready very soon, but right now you need to take this." 

"Not even steam... Did you not prepare the water for me?!"

Sebastian fell silent.

"I'm sorry! But can I..."

Silence hung in the air. Could Sebastian not feel my presence? I desperately wanted to leap out of the cold water and wrap myself in a towel, but there were two strangers here! I panicked at the terrible situation.

Yes, I'm here in this state! What if they see me? I can't just scream right now, but I'm incredibly cold... What should I do? Sebastian... idiot!

I started splashing in the bath, the foam all settled... disappeared, so my naked body was visible.

And I began to bubble so that they heard something, heard that there is someone here!

"Do you hear that?" Ciel asked and fell silent.

"I don't understand what you're talking about," Michaelis answered, listening carefully, and suddenly ran out of breath. "But you still haven't answered me, can I..."

"You, for the second and last time, will use it! Do you understand me? I allowed it only because I'm tired and I don't intend to wait for you to heat the water! Got it?"

"Of course, sir," there was a click in the room. I was scared... What if the water suddenly became very hot.

From this temperature change, it seemed to me that I was now in lava! Intolerably hot, unexpectedly for myself, a loud scream rang out. I jumped out of the bath quickly, wanting to jump out of this hellish cauldron as quickly as possible.

"Idiots!"

Ciel, out of fear, quickly hid behind the butler. The count was completely naked. Most likely he was already going to climb into the tub.

Sebastian was looking at me strangely.

"That was very unexpected! The water suddenly became hot! How is it possible, huh?" I started screaming, clenching my hands into fists and trying to shake off the non-existent but noticeable fire.

Ciel peeped out from behind Sebastian and blushed with scarlet.

"What are you doing here? I was going to take a bath! Why are you here?" The angry red count shouted, he did not want to look in my direction, but Sebastian looked directly at me. 

The butler rubbed his chin.

"Miss," that he raised his eyebrows at the house, I did not understand what the reaction was? I stood and just looked at the carcass, then behind the demon's back, then on him himself. Why is he looking at me like that? What is this? Can't you just help me get out?

The demon with the same "house" on his face looked at me from bottom to top, and then smiled, after all trying to hint to me about my unacceptable appearance.

A-a-a! Your mother! I'm naked!

I quickly covered myself with my hands. At this moment, Ciel looked out, as if, what's so quiet, I felt uncomfortable and I again squealed, so as not to scare away, swear, it doesn't look like me!

“Do not look, pervert! How can your conscience allow you to look in my direction at all?!” I began to splash and throw something incomprehensible that stood in the bath, the demon deftly caught everything.

"Who is the pervert here? What are you doing here?" 

"I was bathing, but why did you come in, I don't know!" 

"Passed about three hours after Meylin spent you here" 

"Can it be two nights?"

"So. What are you standing for? And why are you so calm?" 

"Sebastian! Do something alre..." The Count couldn't finish because he slipped on the water I splashed out and fell on the floor... probably on the cold floor... naked... on the cold floor.   
    What I saw made me blush, yeah! I know he's still a kid, but damn, that's not all! I'm here without clothes! There's Sebastian, who looks at me and says "not bad," and Ciel, also naked, lying on the floor.

"Sebastian! Do something now!" 

Sebastian at first covered Ciel, and I sat in the bath, it was warm by the way, Michaelis came up to me with a towel and stretched it out.

"Turn away," said I and quickly wiped, dressed. "And forget everything that happened here," left in English.

POV Author(?)

"How can you forget something like this?" it was still uncomfortable for the count, he was wrapped up and stood, looking at the door.

"Agreed," Sebastian smirked

Chapter Text

I woke up in the middle of the night and stared at the ceiling for a long time, trying to discern something. It didn't work out, but instead, my body began to feel light and tingly, as if drifting away. I rolled onto my side, but couldn't lie still for long due to the unpleasant sensation of soreness in my legs and a strange heat in my head. I hadn't been able to sleep for over an hour.

I propped myself up on my elbows and realized that the blissful state of sleep wasn't in the cards for me. My desire to sleep seemed to have been blown away like a breeze through a cracked window. To convey to my body my intention to visit the realm of Morpheus, I decided to tire myself out. To accomplish this, I began exercising. Regular stretches were supposed to make me tired, but instead, a wave of alertness washed over me.

Since the classic method didn't work, I decided to act boldly. 

I lay down on the bed and began to carefully examine the dark ceiling. In theory, my gaze should have become unfocused, the dark room should have been filled with cloudy, multi-colored patterns, my eyes should have felt the heaviness of my eyelids and would soon plunge into the world of my fantasies... Instead, the ceiling began to irritate me rather than induce a sleepy feeling. Out of hopelessness and with no hope of rest, I made a very cool decision, well, like a cool, rather risky one.

I felt drawn towards the door, both in mind and body. Rising abruptly, I grabbed the soft blanket near the pillow, slipped on slippers in one swift motion, and headed towards the exit. The room was unbearably dull and lonely, although solitude couldn't be dispelled, boredom could certainly be eliminated. Wandering through the mansion might not have been the most splendid idea, but it was certainly intriguing.

As I stepped beyond the room, the door clicked shut behind me, likely due to a draft. I glanced ahead. Doubts and fears started to haunt me as I remembered where I was. 

Darkness lay before me in all its splendor and threat. It seemed to challenge me, insisting that I wouldn't dare to move, that I would continue to stand and hesitate on whether to go further. Standing there, I waited for my eyes to adjust to the darkness, as there were no windows. With a mocking laugh into the dark void, I accepted the challenge.

Moving silently down the corridor amidst the darkness, rectangular frames adorned the walls displaying antique paintings and tapestries. By day, these weren't mere dark canvases with barely visible outlines of landscapes but genuine masterpieces. The farther I was lured into the unknown, the more unusual the paintings became. Finally, I stopped. Discomfort settled in; beside me was another piece of art that strained my eyes. Just one look at the portrait could induce horror; the person on the canvas seemed to peer straight into my soul, burning a hole and leaving only ashes of primal fear.

I wanted to look away and allow my leg muscles to demonstrate their strength; I wanted to flee. A cold sweat broke out around my waist, and a shiver ran down my spine. No, it wasn't because of the insane smile that appeared on the stern portrait. It was due to the slight chill at my feet, I'm sure of it. A cold draft swept across the floor as if an adjacent door to the street had been left open.

Although I had been a guest in this mansion for about a week, I hadn't managed to explore its labyrinthine corridors. On the contrary, each day seemed to add more, causing me to lose myself within the walls of this mysterious estate. The building was indeed mysterious; sometimes I inadvertently saw what seemed like two small children running through the corridor, laughing. Sometimes, I saw one of them gazing out of the window at the street. Sometimes, I saw... Death. But these were my fantasies, or perhaps hallucinations.

My ability to change subjects was simply wonderful! I could even demonstrate it! I gazed at the windows. They were all large, almost reaching the ceiling, which was no different in height from that of an average tree. Miraculously, I found myself on the third floor, facing a large door that seemed to announce its special position within the mansion.

If that was the case, why shouldn't I visit it?

Hesitating, I pulled the door handle towards me, expecting some creaky sound. After closing my eyes, I could see patterns of different colors after two seconds. There was no expected creak, but due to its height and grandeur, the door was very heavy.

The hall itself appeared to be a banquet hall given its size; there were tall windows concealed by blue curtains. The moonlight faintly lit the fabric, but in some places, moonbeams could be seen. As I savored the silence, the thought of wanting to enjoy the views from the window came to mind. After all, in my world, my vision - minus five - didn't allow me to see even one star, and now I could miraculously see everything perfectly. I even wanted to cry. It was extremely difficult for me to see the polar luminary, but now I could look at them as much as I wanted.

I walked towards the windows. Walking along the entire large hall and examining the beautiful floor, one could hear the slight echo of my steps. I stepped as quietly as possible, but despite this, the hall echoed due to its excellent acoustics. I looked up, and there hung a huge chandelier with millions of glass crystals, which seemed to emit a weak light even though the candles on the chandelier weren't burning.

The curtain itself in front of the window was smooth and dense to the touch, and everything in this room seemed to be made of precious materials. Even the wallpaper seemed to be adorned with expensive materials, creating beautiful patterns. With a single movement of my hand, I moved the curtain, but instead of a window, there was a glass door with a beautifully carved wooden handle. Behind the door was a balcony that I immediately wanted to see. Surprisingly, the key to the balcony door was in the lock, so I didn't have to exert much effort to go out; all I had to do was turn the key. My hand felt a slight chill as I approached the key; it was cold outside, so the glass had frosted. I turned the key to the right once.

The time had come for me to step outside. I opened one of the glass doors. A cool breeze struck my face; outside, there was a strong frost despite it being autumn. It felt like this place was about to turn into Antarctica any moment now. Instinctively, I remembered the warm blanket in my hands and quickly wrapped it around myself. Just one glance, and a beautiful picture unfolded before me; the moon illuminated the forest, a magnificent forest with many tall trees, mostly conifers. In the distance, I intermittently heard the nighttime sounds of wild animals, as if they were humming along with the nocturne of the cold wind.

Despite the intense cold, the blanket kept me warm. I looked down, to the sides, at the night birds silently flying. Yes, it was truly beautiful.

A melody came to mind, a song that now played in my heart; it was calm and pleasant to the ear, with no big jumps or modulations, a consistent melody. 

Sometimes lost in thought, I couldn't believe I was standing on luxurious tiling, on the balcony, on the third floor of the estate of a real count. As if in a fairy tale... I couldn't just end up here; there's always a reason for every event.

I was struck by a certain discomfort, a feeling that I wasn't alone, maybe someone was watching me? Or did this strange feeling arise because of the wind? Or perhaps there's a bird nearby? Hence I feel its piercing gaze on me?

Just the thought of being watched makes me uneasy, but when you feel it with your whole body, understand it in your mind, and know for sure that someone is behind you — you experience a wild terror and fear for yourself.

Who is watching me? Who wanted to spoil this atmosphere I was in just five seconds ago? Could it be the butler with his signature smile? Or someone else? What could be worse...

I heard footsteps behind me, I was right, someone was definitely standing there. A stranger approached and stood behind me. I think even with a blanket over my shoulders, even if my whole body is covered, you can still see the tense shoulders, slightly clenched fists on the railings, and fear. Strange thoughts came to mind, as they always do; I always feel like I'm going to die.

Why does this happen to me? Someone came out onto the balcony but didn't intend to announce their presence; they stood behind and remained silent. Is it my fault? Why would someone do this to me?

«Recently I often come out here,» I heard a voice. Much to my surprise, the voice wasn't bass, it wasn't rough or sickly sweet. This voice was the calmest, most desired at the moment; I didn't want to die at that very second, but it wasn't him...

I felt a bit awkward, and then all the awkwardness was overwhelmed by a wave of emotion. Why even now, when I want to relax, do I have to think about giving the right answer to the next question that could determine my fate?

As I understood it, the owner of the estate was standing behind me. It was scary to look at him, and if I did, it would be even more awkward afterward. So, thinking about what to do, I stood straight, looking at the forest, until the Phantomhive himself approached me closer and leaned against the railing.

«Hm...» I uttered a pensive sound. Does he also have trouble sleeping?

The Count, though a boy, looks so small and fragile that it's hard to recognize beauty.

I glanced at him briefly, then quickly turned my gaze back to the forest; it was awkward to look at him. Damn it, I can't get used to the fact that they're real and that it was my honor to see them and have a chance to exchange a few words.

What are you doing to me, damn universe? Why me? Why did I have such an incredible chance to see them? Many manga fans would like to see Ciel himself, but now it's me? If someone found out about my appearance here, wouldn't they despair over the injustice?

The younger Phantomhive has incredibly long, thick eyelashes, beautiful silky jet-black hair, and a slim build. Sometimes envy strikes me in the heart, but remembering his fate, I want to destroy everything around him for him, how is that possible?

«Was it you who sang?» he asked, looking into the distance. I didn't rush to answer; I felt a strange feeling when he started talking, I hung a little before saying anything.

«Was it audible?» I felt awkward; fear and a certain shame pierced my chest, which struck the second time after the boy smiled.

«I have good hearing.»

«Really?» I raised my eyebrows, the former shame was removed by hand. «Didn't you hear me when you just approached the balcony?» Ciel involuntarily stiffened.

«It seems I was quickly unmasked...» he sighed. «It was so... beautiful, reminded me of something.»

«And what?» Ciel was silent. 

«Does he really not want to talk?» 

«Can't sleep?» the answer to my question didn't follow immediately, this conversation could be called moderate, no one rushed anywhere, so breaks between answers lasting half a minute were normal phenomena.

«Lately, yes.»

«Oh, your job is difficult, what happens will not leave you with good memories,» I looked at him, and as soon as I decided on it. The former alarm was replaced by peace.

«Everything I do... I leave no good memories; this is my choice.»

«I understand what you are talking about, even if you talk in riddles," Ciel turned to me face for the first time in a long time.

"Really?" he surprisingly asked, already understanding this fact for a long time.

"Ha ha, you don't even imagine how well I know your life..."

"It bothers me..." my interlocutor whispered, slightly wrinkling his nose.

"But you won't change anything; I know you. I think even better than myself, sometimes."

For ten minutes we looked into the distance, watching the beautiful picture of the night. Again, delving into my thoughts, I began to think about who was standing next to me. Whether I wanted it or not, I don't know, because I stood without thinking about whether I should turn around, but I turned my attention back. What I saw a little shocked and angered me. Just imagine! This child is standing in a nightshirt in the middle of a cold night! And without slippers! How can you be so careless about your health? I snorted and crossed my arms. As I was about to leave the cold balcony, I moved away a little.

"It's cold here; we need to leave..." the Count did not react in any way. "Is he ignoring me?" I raised my eyebrow and sighed spasmodically. "It's cold here, or do you want to catch a cold? How can you be so careless about yourself? Count?" I was stared at... No, I was looked at by one dissatisfied, sleepy eye.

"No... I am hardened."

"What did you say? Count, you have asthma! And no hardening in this case matters! A gust of wind will blow, and the next day you will be lying in bed with a fever! Or will you continue to stand here? Let's go inside," I nodded my head towards the door, indicating with my gaze that it's time to leave.

"I'll stay here a bit longer," he sighed hopelessly.

"In that case," I threw over him the warm blanket I had warmed up. The boy looked at me, and finally, I saw his calm gaze, which wasn't thinking about problems but simply enjoying the quiet and the moment. "This is for you; don't stay out here too long. I'll go to my room. Good night," I said softly, giving a faint smile.

I stepped out, and the little count was still standing on the balcony, wrapped in my blanket... How cute... What am I thinking about?

When I closed the door, it seemed like Ciel said something from the other side... Probably "Good night," but I think I just heard it.

And I was wrong, because I hear everything perfectly well.

* * *

Sebastian bursts into my room with a sweet smile, and I immediately wanted to strangle him... I didn't sleep much! 

"Y-you!"I growled angrily.

"Me?"

"Yes, you! Damn demon! Let me sleep! Why did you wake me up so early in the morning? What's so important? Can't I have a good, solid sleep?!" I started waving my hands and tried to hit him with a pillow.

"I think maybe you shouldn't have gone to bed at four in the morning..."

"So you were spying on me too?! That's it..."

"My task is to guard the estate at night..." Sebastian smiled...

So what happened yesterday?

First, in the evening, we went to visit Droite... Then we came back, and nothing noteworthy happened... Boring...

Something clicked inside me, and I blushed deeply.

"Miss, why are you all red?"

"Just... Argh... N-nothing," I remembered yesterday's situation in the bathroom... He really is a pervert, staring at me like I'm a statue!

"Ah" the demon uttered, "I understood,"and he smirked. "Don't worry about yesterday; I've seen a lot... It doesn't interest me, so don't worry."

"Are you deliberately doing this to unsettle me further? Do you really want me to think of you as a libertine?"

"Of course not."

* * *

After breakfast, we decided to sit together and discuss the case we recently 'failed' to solve. Right now, Ciel is sitting and reading the newspaper, but something seems off judging by his expression. He suddenly stood up and gave me a stern look.

"Valerie!" he shouted. "You said we were on the right track! So why did Jack commit another murder?! Did you lie to us?"Phantomhive was about to shout something else.

"Hold on! Stop shouting at me!" I replied just as sternly. "Viscount Druitt played a crucial role in other crimes; after all, we caught two birds with one stone!"

"And what role..."

"We need to determine the circle of suspects."

"Sebastian, take care of it."

"Always at your service."

Today we stayed home; it started raining... no, it was a storm, a very strong one.

***

"In one London, there are four and a half million people, and in the season even more, if you expand the search criteria, more people will be added to the list..." Ciel was saying to Sebastian as Madame and I walked in.

"Are you still working?" Madame asked. "Sometimes you need to rest. Maybe we should play?" She indicated a chessboard.

Ciel stood up, and soon the Earl and his aunt were playing chess.

"Brings back memories, doesn't it?" Madame asked.

"It does," I replied, and suddenly I realized what I had just said.

"You know how to play chess?"

"Huh? What? No, I don't, it's just... reminded me of something,l I smiled... It reminded me of what you compare your life to.

"Alright... Grell, prepare tea..."

In the end, we all decided to spit the tea... Tea with salt...

"That's disgusting!" Madame started to protest. "You're a butler, and you make it so horribly! Make a new one."

Tea with salt. That's the limit; I love tea very much, but your mother is salt?! My head is spinning heavily now...

"Grell, you know what?' I turned to the reaper under the guise.

"Yes, Miss Valerie."

"Don't put anything in it for me..."

"As you wish," he continued to pretend.

Well, let's see...

"Your butler is quite the workaholic," Madame Red said, leaning on the table. "Isn't he overloaded?"

"For him, it's trivial."

"Then let him investigate Viscount's case."

"He's just an extension of my hands, Sebastian is just one of my pawns!" "Oh my God, it's starting..."  "I give orders, and he executes them, without them he won't move from the spot. The point is, this pawn can take an unlimited number of the opponent's figures."

Horror, I didn't want to listen, it was tediously... But one thing knocked me off guard - Madame Red's words.

"You should start a normal life and stop investigating." So we wouldn't have revealed you. "My sister... Your mother," she looked at me, "also wanted to. Do you want to avenge my sister's death?" Ciel shuddered. "I never thought about revenge, never," "God, what are you talking about?" I do this on my own behalf, I want them to experience the same humiliation and pain that I.

"Hah, I think I'm extra here."

I stood up and was already going to leave, but Madame stopped me.

"Where are you going?"

"Although I know a lot, it seems to me that it's better to leave, after all, you are a family, and I am no one," I turned my head to them and smiled. "An ordinary girl who has nothing to do with everything that is happening." 

"Valerie... Miss, thank you for your presence," Ciel smiled, some sad, tired smile.

"Good night," I said.

Everyone left the room, only Madame remained in place.

* * *

I walked down the dark corridor, it had become a habit. There I noticed the light coming from the room and voices. I knocked.

"Yes?"

"Today..." I looked at Ciel, "...that is, tomorrow, everything will end... I just wanted to say," a sad smile flickered on my face.

Chapter Text

When the social season drew to a close, England was shaken by a series of murders. The victims were women of easy virtue, their bodies mutilated with some of their internal organs removed. For his heinous brutality, the killer earned the nickname — Jack the Ripper.

* * *

Is it really happening now... Are they leaving? Is Madam going to die soon? Is this... the end of the first arc in the manga? And will I be left without the person who treated me so well?

By the end of the case, I will lose someone who has become important to me. Will I hate Grell when I see him wearing Madam's coat, and what did Ciel feel throughout the entire manga?        

«Earl...» Ciel turned around. His heart clenched at the realization of what was about to happen. I sincerely felt sorry for the boy because of his fate, because he would have to lose another close person.        

Why is everything happening to him? And most importantly, why was I sent here? To watch and empathize, while feeling pain for him with all my heart?        

«Dress warmly,» I worried about him, at least he should dress warmly, it's raining outside and he will freeze.

* * *

In the middle of the night, in a dark alley, the earl and the butler were undercover, waiting for the real criminal to appear.        

«Cold...» said the boy, trembling, at that moment he remembered the words of his guest, unfortunately, he did not listen to her. He did not find it necessary to heed her advice.        

«Оf course, in these slums your usual suit will arouse suspicion, but you are too lightly dressed, aren't you? And it seems it's starting to rain,» the boy's butler began to take off his coat.        

«We can't attract attention, I don't need your coat,» Ciel refused the warm clothing. «Will the criminal definitely appear here?» he asked.        

«Probably, yes, there's only one door and no other way out.»

«So the next victim lives in this room?..» Ciel peeked out from behind the wall at an ordinary old wooden door.        

«I have told you many times that there can be no mistake, we two are already attracting a lot of attention.» 

«Besides the fact that all the victims had their wombs removed, they had something else in common, but where does the killer's bloodlust come from? Besides, I...» The earl fell silent, distracted by Sebastian, who was petting a cat.        

The count began to remember the entire conversation yesterday before going to bed, he remembered how a girl came to him, warning him about something, but before he had time to think of anything, a scream was heard on the street. Cry of pain.        

«What?! But no one came in! Forward» — they ran to the door, Ciel opened it...  

* * *

«The rain is coming..." I touched the window, it was cold.    

   "I wonder how they are doing?"        

Jack the Ripper's last victim was Mary Callie. Even in our world, she was the last... One day I was curious about this person, in my world I read that she was almost turned inside out. An abomination...

I... I chickened out and didn't go, I didn't want to see this picture, even if it hadn't seemed to me. I would be a hindrance to Ciel and Sebastian.        

The butler needs to be told, and Ciel needs to see the death of Madam... Madam... Sorry that I couldn't change anything, I had a chance, but I didn't use it.        

Conscience torments... And thirst... Water! My throat was very dry.   

"Oh," I expected heavily.        

And she got up from the chair where we had recently all been drinking tea with salt together, and headed to the kitchen. There I poured myself some water. How did I find this place, you ask? Yes, so... I wandered, this is my tactic, implemented on the fifth try! Try it!        

There is one thing in this estate that is not very pleasant. On the one hand, it's good that there is no detective count who will watch all your actions, on the other hand there is a demon butler, and a demon in the sense not like in Japanese anime... They say he devours people, walks around at night, but in the most literal sense ... Consider the messenger of Lucifer, the realization of this makes you shiver.        

But after they left, the same atmosphere is still not very good, I worry about them... I worry about madam, I was very touched by the way she treated me, at the moment when she called me her family, then there was no limit to happiness.  

* * *

       "This is too much, it's all covered in blood... Jack the Ripper... or...» the same killer announced from the shadows... «Grell Sutcliffe." 

Madame's butler has already begun to make excuses, but the truth cannot be hidden from Sebastian.        

«How convincingly you played your role... the role of a man and a bad butler...» 

«Convincingly? Hee hee... Really? That's right...» the slutty butler took off his mask, and his hair instantly turned scarlet. «That's right, I'm a first-class actress! The butler of the Barnett house is Grell Sutcliffe. Hello fellow butler!"

Grell wanted to give Sebastian all her "love", which Sebastian literally hated.        

"Ah, finally, I can appear before you in all my glory! Isn't it embarrassing to appear in front of a charming man without makeup? This was my first time seeing the demon butler, so I was very surprised at the time."

"Who would say, in my entire long life I have never met someone like you in the role of a butler. The one who is ordered to be equally impartial both to people and to the Almighty is a Shinigami."

"And how could such a creature become a butler?" Sebastian asked, still, everyone understands that he is not particularly interested in this, however... 

"Oh, why so rude? Well... I was captivated by the woman."      

  "Oh, and this woman..." there was no need to ask.       

 "Sebastian..." 

"Madame Red," Ciel moved his butler's hand away and saw his beloved aunt.  

LWho would have thought that you, Ciel, would reveal Grell's essence."

* * *

"Why does my conscience torment me so much? Where did I go wrong? What did you do wrong? Why am I so uneasy? Or maybe... I'll still have time? Maybe if I save Madame, she will keep me and we will live happily ever after? Maybe only after this the main characters will not touch me and expect something from me?"        

There are a lot of thoughts and experiences in my head that fill every moment of my thoughts, and the main one is that if I sit idly by, doing nothing, I will completely lose everything, now I didn't really care about the plot! Will something criminal happen? I change one event. Without putting on anything warm, I was just in my nightgown, I ran towards the main door, quickly diving into my demi-season shoes, grabbing my coat at the same time, I ran out of the London estate. 

There was a heavy downpour outside, it froze my nose and blew on my collarbones, it was cold. I don't even have a clue where I need to run, I don't know the exact address, but I remember Ciel mentioned that it's near the eastern part of the city, and that's where I'm heading. In difficult situations, I will ask passers-by if they are still walking the streets.        

Madam Red, please... Wait for me!  

* * *

Meanwhile, the dialogue at the crime scene continued: 

"You were under suspicion from the very beginning, but your alibi was impeccable."   

    "How cruel it is for Ciel to suspect her relatives..." Madame Red said sadly.        

"I consider all the possibilities, no matter whether it's a relative or a friend."

* * *

 I ran up to a passing man, he looked decently dressed, and was sober, which means he definitely wouldn't attack.        

"Sorry!" I shouted loudly, raising my hand, the man turned around. "May I ask where xxxx strid is?" the man looked at me strangely.        

"Oh, you still have a very long way to go if you are without a cab... Just go straight, turn right and also go straight, in about twenty minutes you will come out to the center."

 "Central London?!"

"Oh, no, it takes about thirty minutes to get to the center, but you won't get there on foot in an hour, don't worry, the street you're looking for is a slum... It can't possibly be in the center."

"Please tell me quickly."

"Of course, after the center you will have to go to the very bottom... there... Not very decent girls live, I hope you are not one of them..." 

"No, what are you talking about!"  I tried to object. "But I need to go there... Urgently!"

"Still... Be careful, women are killed there..."

* * *

 "None of the suspects could have committed the murder unless otherworldly forces were involved." In our case - shinigami. You could leave the ball for a few minutes to commit a crime, and you must also have a special ability to move from one place to another in a few minutes... With your butler this can be done easily... Therefore, Jack the Ripper is both of you...  

* * *

       Did he deceive me? Why? There's no one here! And nothing! Where am I anyway, how cold it is in a simple shirt and coat! I still need to run... 

But my feet are covered in mud... What should I do?        

Still, I decided to run forward, yes! I've already found one person! It was a man in strange clothes, overweight and apparently drunk. But no... Although, I don't have another chance.        

"I'm sorry!" I shouted to him. And she waved her hand to attract attention.        

Up close, one could understand that this was a man aged... close to sixty... He looked at me.        

"Could you tell me where xxxx strid is? Please, I need to hurry!"  He looked at me strangely. And then he did something like a smile.        

"Of course, this street is nearby, around that turn and straight ahead, can I take you?" 

 "You? No misters? Although you can guess that he is already an adult, much older than me, and I'm just a girl compared to him."        

"Is this the right road?"     

   "Don't doubt it," he swayed. "That's where I'm heading, do you work on that street?" 

"Working? What does he mean?"        

"Lately, prostitutes like you are being killed, I can take care of you and your desires!" he grinned and began to approach.        

"What do you! I'm not like that..." the man grabbed my hand and then pressed me to him.      

"Isn't that what you want?" he began to speak various dirty words in my ear, I felt uneasy, I trembled... 

"Let me go!" I couldn't escape, the second attempt... Everything was in vain... Then I bit him with all my strength, but it didn't work.        

"Ugh, you brat!" he grabbed me harder, there's nothing to be done, you need to hit this place. I hit him in the groin with all my might. It hurts, right?        

He hissed in pain.        

"Oh, you bitch! Come back!"  "You are the bastard here, not me! I started running away, what did he say? Nearby, right?"        

I ran far enough away from the place where I was almost... Khm... So what?.. Where am I?        

While Valerie was trying to keep up, the Count was in trouble.

Chapter Text

* * * 

"Jack the Ripper is both of you, Madame Red and Grell Sutcliffe."Ciel looked straight into Madame's eyes. All the victims of Jack the Ripper were engaged in prostitution, all had their uteruses cut out, but they were united by more than just that... All the victims were on the admission list, and Mary was the last, I expected to meet her here, but I could not save her.

"What a pity, dear nephew Ciel, my sister's son... However," it became quiet. "Now I won't let you go so easily!!!" Madame Red shouted. Ciel was surprised by this behavior, it was... too unexpected.        

But now there has been an attempt on Ciel's life. Grell wanted to cut the count into two parts, he was already very close to him, but Sebastian was right there.        

"What is this?!" Ciel turned his attention to Grell's chainsaw.        

Sebastian explained that this is an object that takes souls, but the old demon sees such a model for the first time.        

"I vouch for the quality..." 

"This weapon cuts through everything! But, to be completely honest, I've lost a little bit of my grip and would love to warm up with you... Ah, Sebastian, you know, I love red, red hair, eyes, lipstick, and ordinary girls... they're so ugly, and red is so... It complements... That's why I wanted to paint them this beautiful color," Sebastian even grimaced at these words... "Oh, it would be wonderful to paint you too!"  

* * *

       And Valerie kept wandering...

In the next alley I heard a noise, well... The noise of drunk people... Is it really not here?        

Crap. I walked along cold alleys, met beautiful women, they stood in the cold almost naked, showing their legs. At this time, showing yourself above the knee was considered the height of indecency, and this means only one thing... Prostitutes... They are on every corner, it feels like there is a pattern here. A man must find a "secret" place in a bar, where he will be told where to find the one for the night... Horror!   

    Here at least women are simply called prostitutes. So, the girls here are of different ages, with different hair colors and body types, so to speak, according to their tastes? Choose! A bunch of any!        

The girls looked at me strangely, like, what kind of unkempt woman? If she had come, she would have cleaned herself up.        

Yes, I can't judge them, but everyone earns as best they can... There are even girls younger than me... What a horror, they are apparently already experienced in "these" matters... Still... Where should I go? If I found this alley... Then where is Mary's murder site?        

"Excuse me, can you tell me where Mary Callie lives?" I approached one of the girls.       

"Are you asking me? Why do you need it?"

 "I... want to ask for advice," I smiled.     

"In that case, what you need is not Mary's, but over there, where they'll dress you beautifully and give you a special make-up, and most importantly... They'll teach you everything, you're new, aren't you?"        

"Oh, yes, just my Mary... An old friend, we were going to meet." 

"Oh, I didn't know that Mary did this kind of thing, was she really attracted to girls?" 

"Uh... does she think I'm like girls? Damn, just tell me where her room is and that's it!"      

  "I can't say, but this is definitely the place for you," she pointed puzzledly into the dark gateway... and grinned suspiciously.       

Should I... go into this wilderness? Yes, I'm cold, you know!        

Eh, I was not, I have to at least find something, no, stop, I'm not thinking correctly... I have to find them!  

* * *

 "When they say, "It's like life flashed before your eyes," it's the shinigami looking through the film, and then deciding whether this poor fellow should live or not."

"I find this a boring activity, and such interest in other people's secrets is disgusting."       

"I agree, the life of a good person is boring, but the life of a sinner..." the reaper swung at Sebastian, wanting to see his sinful life. "The Shinigami Scythe doesn't care where, when, who, even a demon will be torn to pieces!"  

* * *

 Dark alley... Cold... Really.        

"Hah, that mongrel didn't lie, she really came here," they started giggling behind me. "Wait, what?" I turned around, there was a group of men behind me, apparently not with the best intentions.        

What a fool I am, why did I even go? Why is all this happening to me? Did I really think that I could save Madame? It's late, very late...  

* * *

 "Why..."

"Why? And what answer do you expect from me?" 

"You and I are now like a prisoner and a guard dog... Well, if you were not a dog, but prey..." aunt attacked Ciel... with a knife.        

One could have expected anything, but Ciel partially dodged, exposing his hand to the blow.        

"Madam, you are a doctor, so why do you kill people?" 

"Even if I tell you, you won't understand! You will never understand this!"Ciel was slammed into the wall. "You... you... it would be better if you weren't born!!!" The madam swung at the boy with all her might.      

  "Is this really the end?        

"My lord!!!" and now Seba hurried, he was furious, what can I say... 

He was ready to kill Madame right here and now. Ready to "devour" her right on the spot... 

"Sebastian! Don't!" the little count shouted, and Madame's dagger fell to the ground with a ringing sound...  

* * *

"Are they really going to do this to me right now?"  

"No! Do not touch me! Dont touch!" I tried to move away, but there was a wall behind me... "What will they do to me? Although why ask, the answer is obvious... but... I don't want to be raped by a group of drunk people... I don't want to be raped at all!" 

It was scary, my hands began to shake anxiously, I looked around in an attempt to find at least something with which I could fight back or save myself, and I didn’t care how to save myself, as if I had been beaten off from them... anyway, now they shouldn’t worry me at all, I had enough problems besides this!    

  "What should I do?" On the wall, I noticed small bricks that protruded from the wall... It came in handy when I was already driven into a corner, I had to distract them and quickly climb the wall. When they turned around, they noticed that I was gone. I was already on the roof... "How did I even do it?"        

"Hey! Where is she?"

"You should have watched!"         

"We didn't agree like that!"

... 

Am I... going to lose consciousness in the alley? Hopeless...

* * *

       The death scythe pierced Madame right in the chest... Ciel saw all this, he was already in unimaginable pain, but now he feels even worse... "What a disappointment Madam Red, a woman like you... I'm no longer interested..."

* * *

       I stood at the threshold of the estate... Wandering, I found it! Would you say it's not plausible? And I will answer yes! But how did I manage to do this? I have no idea... Suddenly, the creaking of the gate was heard... It was Ciel and the bloodied Sebastian. The Count approaches me calmly. My eyes can't see well now, either from fatigue, or from raindrops on my eyelashes, maybe these are tears?        

"Why didn't you tell me?!"  I shuddered, my legs seemed to be glued to the ground, this was all because of the unexpected scream that I heard from Ciel. "If you knew, why didn't you tell about Madame's death? She could have been saved!" 

My heart started beating at a fast pace, which made me feel even worse. The count's last cry sounded especially bitter: "I wouldn't lose another relative!" I felt a pang in my heart, I didn't have time... I could have saved her, but I didn't do it, I didn't succeed.

Because of the overwhelming feelings, mostly negative, I didn't know what to answer. To remain silent would be to let Ciel know that I knew. Not to say it means to show yourself to be completely insensitive and callous, because you will only be able to answer with nonsense, which will hurt him even more, and not only him. For yourself too. The words seemed to burst out of me, and even though I didn't want to, and both options were bad, but for some reason my mind chose the "Say" option without even listening to my feelings.        

"Would it,"  "Stop! You don't need to do this, come to your senses!" I heard my inner voice  "would it have been better if Madame had survived? She would at least be in prison... and in the end she would commit suicide out of grief..." "Damn!"        

"What do you understand!!!" the count seemed to be covered by a wave of hatred; my words brought him to the brink. "You...Get lost! I don't want to see you, neither you nor your things! NOW!"

Chapter Text

   How foolish. Covered in scratches, drenched from the rain, I stand before the London estate of Earl Ciel Phantomhive. Just when I had started to catch his gaze, as if his attitude towards me was beginning to change, this situation arose.

   Madam, who used to look at me in such a peculiar way, her gaze always conveying that she was ready to listen at any moment… She’s dead, murdered, and I could have tried to save her.

   No, stop those thoughts. You didn’t know the address from the start, and you only made things worse for yourself by running aimlessly in such weather. The chances that I could have saved Madam were practically nonexistent. 

   I stood in complete darkness, under the icy rain, with only a faint light from the mansion’s windows dimly illuminating a few bushes near the entrance. The raindrops reflected in the windowpanes, shimmering like tiny stars, only to shatter against the wet tiles of the road leading to the mansion.

   The words of the young earl echoed in my mind, bouncing around my skull over and over again. They reminded me that I was failing in this world, that there was no meaning to my existence here and never would be. Those words reminded me of the most important thing—that I had been rejected by the most significant people in this world. They reminded me that I had nowhere to go, nowhere to hide. My depressive state had lingered since the moment I appeared here. How could I return? “I want to go home.”

   Here, I had no home, no acquaintances, no friends, no family—no one and nothing. I wanted to escape the harsh reality. Not knowing what to do while being near the mansion, I had only one, the simplest option. In despair, I squeezed my eyes shut. The pain in my chest lasted for quite a while, growing into unbearable agony with every beat of my heart. Tears began streaming down my face. This salty water made it hard even to breathe.

   I was too late. How could I have thought everything would work out? That I’d be able to find this place? Why were these thoughts even in my head? I had no idea how I would live the rest of my life. Where could I go?

   Ciel was at home, and Sebastian was with him. And I was standing outside their mansion in the rain, soaked, covered in mud… Maybe he didn’t even intend to return the things he bought for me? How pathetic do I look? Miserable.

   About ten minutes passed, and the door opened. Seeing a stronger light, I rushed to the doors, hoping for something. Sebastian peeked out. He couldn’t have opened the door just like that, could he?

“Here are your belongings, Miss,” Sebastian said, placing a small suitcase next to me. “Since it’s raining right now…” The butler handed me a black umbrella, as if I were about to spend the rest of my life in a cemetery.

   I took it in my hand with sadness, along with the suitcase. I had to leave, right? Of course, I’d been kicked out… like a dog.

“You’ve been through a lot…”

“Why is he looking at me so intently? Is he expecting some sort of response?”

“Do you…” I muttered, not even knowing what I was saying, wondering about the demon’s piercing gaze. But I couldn’t ask anything—it was as if my tongue had been cut out.

“I won’t be able to help you,” Sebastian replied, his gaze full of feigned regret.

“Haha, I know, you demon,” I said with a forced smile. “I guess it’s time, isn’t it…”

“Pity. I would’ve liked to observe you a bit longer, but the master doesn’t wish it,” Sebastian said, closing his eyes and touching his chin.

“Right,” I said, and then he shut the door right in front of my face.

So… painful.

“The burning sensation in my throat and the weakness in my arms wouldn’t leave me.”

   It’s the middle of the night, and I haven’t gone anywhere. I was still standing in front of the gates with my umbrella, not knowing where to go… Maybe to the Undertaker? But he wouldn’t take me in—he doesn’t know me and surely wouldn’t let a random passerby into his shop. Ah, right, he’s probably more interested in those enticing matters concerning the elder brother.

   The downpour from the sky doubled in strength, and now it felt like the umbrella wouldn’t help at all. The wind was incredibly strong; there was a real storm outside.

   I was sick of standing in one place—nothing would change anyway. Ciel wouldn’t want to take me back. I decided to leave. Taking one last glance at the mansion, I sighed. Was I really brought here just to be kicked out? Why is it that in fanfictions, every girl who ends up in an anime world is welcomed warmly? Even if not warmly, they always manage to melt the cold hearts of the characters and are allowed to stay—not just as a guest, but as something more. They’re never kicked out. Maybe I’ve finally hit reality? What if I stay here forever? And live an ordinary life, as an ordinary girl, but…

   They would remain as they are. Sebastian would still do what he must. Ciel… Why am I worried about him? Why so many questions and not a single answer?

   The mansion in London… So much will happen here… without me. Giving the place one last look, I turned around, but suddenly noticed a strange glow behind the mansion. Well, not behind it exactly—I couldn’t see that far—but off to the side… My curiosity was piqued.

   I headed toward the light, which grew brighter and brighter. But if someone had stepped out, why were they staying in one spot? What is this? My curiosity’s getting the better of me again. Stop! Where am I going?

   I approached very quietly and carefully peeked around the corner.

“Oh, hell no!” I muttered to myself. In that moment, my heart sank to my stomach, and my hands began to tremble. I was terrified—Sebastian was standing around the corner. Wasn’t he supposed to be asleep? Oh, wait… right, he doesn’t sleep. Sneaking away wasn’t an option anymore, so what was I supposed to do?

“There’s no need to stand there…” came the butler’s voice from around the corner. My anxiety grew. “And there’s no need to worry—I can sense everything.”

   This guy really is a demon! I had no desire to stay out in the cold rain, but there was an awning by the door… and the butler, who I was slightly afraid of, was standing under it. Slowly, but surely, I stepped out from behind the corner.

“I’ve felt your presence near the mansion for two hours. Do you truly have nowhere to go?”

“And you, I see, love to ask stupid questions. Of course I don’t—have you forgotten?”

“Come in,” Sebastian said, stepping slightly to the side and gesturing for me to enter.

“Am I allowed to?” I asked cautiously, peering into the mansion’s kitchen. “Aren’t you breaking an order?”

“What order?” the devil smiled. Overcoming the small obstacle of the step, I hopped inside.

“Then… aren’t you going against your master’s will?” I asked, removing my soaked coat.

“Perhaps. But the young master won’t find out.”

“Is this really Sebastian? Could he really act this way?”

“What? Is that really you, Sebastian?” 

 “Do you think I’m fake?”

“I think so, judging by the way you treat your contractor’s will,” I said, honestly sharing my opinion.

“I returned your belongings as a statement, but as of now, no one knows you’re staying,” the butler said, closing his eyes.

“What?! You want to leave me here?” I exclaimed, guilt and a sense of obedience beginning to nag at me. For a brief moment, I wondered, Why should I listen to Ciel?

“Do you wish to leave? I can arrange that for you. But as I see it, you wouldn’t be too fond of your future prospects on the streets,” Sebastian replied with a shrug.

   He was right. Who knows what might happen to me out there? I had to stay. But what does he want from me? Surely, he wouldn’t keep me here without a reason. And if he did, I’d have every reason to suspect there’s some condition attached to his offer.

“Do you need something from me?” I asked without hesitation.

 “There are plenty of people in the world, and I don’t need anything from them. They’re all dull. Frankly, you’re no different… except for one detail.”

“One detail?”

 “Yes, one thing sets you apart from the others. Nothing more. I assume you know what I’m referring to…”

Yes, I know. It’s my knowledge about this world.

 “And Ciel… I mean, the Earl?”

“My lord? That’s rather obvious…”

   A soul… isn’t it? He could find another soul if he wanted to. After all, this boy’s life is already a dark and twisted path. Sebastian must enjoy staying by his side, watching. Oh, how fitting for him—a mere observer.

 “Then why did you leave me here? Do you want me to be a maid? Or perhaps… your personal maid?” I scoffed, crossing my arms as I stared into those burgundy eyes.

“Your imagination is boundless,” he remarked. Did he make this tea just for me? — “That said, I’d rather not lose such an interesting individual. I suspect the young master will calm down soon and order me to find you. Who knows what thoughts might enter his head in the next five minutes? Or what he might come up with?”

 “Yeah… Grell is definitely something…” I muttered, watching the butler flinch slightly.

“If you know about that, I must ask you not to bring it up,” he replied curtly.

“By the way, biologically, you can’t have children with him.”

“You certainly know a lot,” Sebastian remarked, a faint smirk forming on his lips.

 “Yep…” A sudden thought struck me. “Sebastian!” I exclaimed.

 “Yes?”

 “You… speak Russian?” I asked, curious. His only response was a smile.

“How could I call myself a butler if I couldn’t understand my guest’s desires?” he replied smoothly, but I continued to stare at him, waiting for a proper answer. “Even if those desires are expressed in another language.”

 “Did you have a contract with a Russian, or did you simply learn it?” I started bombarding him with questions, unable to contain my curiosity. 

(The original text was in Russian, so if you didn't understand, the dialogue was in Russian throughout the entire meeting)

“I cannot disclose anything about my past or previous contracts,” he said calmly.  “But I do know the language, despite some peculiar words you use when speaking to me.”

 “A lot has changed… з’явилися нові речі… и концепциите са се променили… neue Begriffe wurden hinzugefügt…” and that's counting Spanish…

“I see you’re well-educated.”

“Moving around and attending different schools… nothing extraordinary,” I replied as Sebastian placed a cup of tea before me.

“Thank you…” I glanced at his hand. “Your hand… does it still hurt?”

   The demon seemed momentarily puzzled by my question and remained silent. I looked at the hand the reaper’s scythe had almost severed.

 “So you know about that too,” Sebastian remarked with an amused smirk.

 “I told you already,” I replied, taking a sip of tea and savoring its pleasant aroma.

 “It’s fine,” he said simply.

 “Are you sure? Even someone like you can be gravely injured by that scythe. And you’ve got a long life ahead of you… Don’t you ever care about your own well-being?”

 “I recover from everything naturally. You needn’t worry,” Sebastian assured me with a smile.

 “Still… this won’t be the last time you’ll feel pain.”

 “What do you mean?”

   I noticed that the demon was standing stiffly like a statue.

 “Why are you standing?”

 “I cannot sit in your presence… Please don’t change the subject,” he said.

 “Just… don’t think about it. Go on with your existence. That’s all I can say,” I muttered, feeling exhausted.

“Just a moment ago, you were concerned about an almost severed hand. And now you refuse to explain why the pain won’t end there. Don’t you find that odd?”

 “That’s just how I am,” I replied, utterly drained as the world around me began to blur and fill with a thick, dark fog.

 “You’re tired,” Sebastian noted.

   By then, I was already asleep, realizing only faintly through my dreams that someone was carrying me.

***

   Miss Valerie fell asleep right at the table, though at least she managed to finish her tea. I couldn’t help but wonder why she was so concerned about my arm. I felt a certain unease when she spoke about it. There had been girls and women I had contracted with, those who ‘worried’ about me. Many even confessed their love for me, but in the end, I consumed their souls without ever responding… Oh…

   But it would have been far more satisfying to reject them outright. After all, that ‘bitterness’ only enhances the flavor. Cruel, perhaps, but that’s what I was created for.

   Carefully, I picked Miss Valerie up and carried her to my room. There was no other choice; I’d have to change her clothes. Dirt on a nightgown is such a nuisance… Strangely, I noticed blood on her gown as well, though it didn’t particularly bother me.

   My room is large, though I don’t use the bed—it remains there, untouched, as I stand watch through the night. For demons, sleep is no luxury; I simply have no need or desire for it. Still, the bed had its use, at least this once…

   After finishing with the change of clothes, I tucked Miss Valerie in. If my master finds out she’s in the estate, there will be a major scandal. I can’t place her in the guest rooms; the fact that someone is staying there wouldn’t escape his notice.”

“For the first time in two years, I’m doing something on a whim. Oh, no, wait—this is the second time. The first was spent fulfilling the desires of a contract.

This person…

***

   I opened my eyes. It was so warm. I didn’t care where I was; what mattered was that it was nice and soft here. I looked around, trying to find a window. Instead of the large window I was used to, I noticed some pathetic little thing up high. It was tiny. Could it be a basement?

   Rain was falling, and I listened to the beautiful orchestra of raindrops against the partially open window. For some reason, it reminded me of the song ‘The Slightly Chipped Full Moon.’ It’s a song from the fan season of Black Butler. Even though it brings to mind Alois—thankfully, he isn’t here—it’s a truly beautiful piece… Too bad I can’t listen to it right now.

_________ November 11, 2020.