Chapter Text
Ciel and Sebastian stood in the entrance hall as the grand doors opened slowly. The hinges creaked. The wind whistled through. Then, the clack of a heel echoed at the doorway.
In walked Estell, who carried herself with grace and elegance. Tailing behind her, like her shadow, was her far less remarkable servant, Dorion.
As he followed, he scanned his surroundings, taking in the unfamiliar environment and noting any possible ambush points.
Where would we be attacked from?
Where could we hide?
Fastest escape routes?
Thoughts like these raced through his mind.
Sebastian’s eyes darted between the two of them, taking in every detail. There was something peculiar about them, about Dorion.
Ah, he thought, a frail human whose soul smells relatively… normal. And yet, there is something beneath that feels… off.”
Ciel bowed to welcome his newly arrived guests.
“So,” he said. “I take it you’re the ‘special pair’ the Queen mentioned?"
Estell offered a polite curtsy.
“Yes. It is an honor to meet you, Earl Phantomhive. My name is Estell. Estell Videro.”
Dorion bowed awkwardly.
“H-hello. Thank you for having us… My name is Dorion. Dorion Albayani.”
“Hmph. It seems Her Majesty finds your situation… intriguing enough to burden my household with,” Ciel said to them coldly.
Ciel could still recall the peculiar letter Queen Victoria had sent him that morning. No explanation, no courtesy, not a request, a command:
“Earl Phantomhive,
Ms. Estell Videro and her servant have been targeted in a series of unusual attacks as of late.
Until the matter is settled, they are to remain under your supervision.
Ensure their protection.
—Victoria”
Abrupt and cryptic as always. As if my schedule wasn’t already full, Ciel muttered to himself.
Sebastian’s eyes lingered on Dorion trying to make sense of him. There was something dormant lying within him. Not malevolent, but whatever it may be, it seemed to be at the ready, just waiting to be called.