Disclaimer: I do not own Kuroshitsuji and Harry Potter.
(Laughs sheepishly) Sorry for the wait?
Enjoy!
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A long, black, pointed nail touched lightly upon limp brown hair before the owner of the finger clicked his tongue lightly. Humming a haunting tune, he shuffled away to a small bleak room, rummaging around until a cackle of triumph sounded a few moments later. He pried the jar open, intending on fishing out whatever contents it held when there came a knock. The man turned, staying silent as the iron door swung open. All good humour faded as the lone figure stepped into the dark shop, white lab-coat the only visible feature.
"I doubt you are here for another coffin, unless you plan to have your measures taken and order a personal one."
"Oh my, you sure are observant. Not at all, the hospital is in no need for more resources. I am here with a proposition for you. Or rather, from my…superior." The man laughed as a yellowish-green eye peered suspiciously out from the curtain of whitish-grey hair. "It'll be nothing but beneficial for you, my friend. If you join us, I can guarantee your dream will become reality."
"My dreams are not something the living can comprehend. Now, if that was all, I have to attend my guest. Women so hate to be left unbeautified, especially if it was preparation for the great final ceremony…" With a swish of black satin robes, he turned away, only to be stopped by the next words.
"Is this really the way you want to continue existing? Hiding your experiments behind his back, not wanting to disappoint him once more but unable to stop trying. He may be your friend, lord and benefactor…but does he truly understand what you are going through?"
Abrupt giggles escaped the black clad man, "Ah, you mortals…to ask if he truly understands…No, no. The real question is…do we understand such a complex and unique mind…" A pale hand rose to dismiss the uninvited guest. "An amusing proposal, but not one that interests me."
There was a pregnant pause before the other huffed, "Very well. However, if you happen to have a change of mind, The Aurora Society welcomes you anytime."
The door clicked shut and Undertaker strolled over to the lone display coffin, plucking the light blue ticket and letter from where they laid, "The Campania…it seems a vacation is calling…"
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Snake fidgeted nervously as he waited for the non-human butler to call him in. Oscar was wrapped snuggly around his neck, switching between complaining about the wait and complimenting the silky material of the outfit he was given by the Winged Lord. He wriggled his fingers a little, still marvelling at the feel of them being covered by gloves. Snake had never worn anything close to this, even when he was working in the circus with his loud and noisy family.
No, not noisy. It was lively…and it was gone. Now here he was, with another bunch of people who might or might not accept him. Well, he could probably say the Winged Lord did, as well as the non-human butler. But the rest, he would have to wait and see.
Finally, the butler – Sebastian? – bid him entry and the first glance he had of the Phantomhive kitchens were three curious and welcoming faces. They smiled as he mumbled out his name and greeted him with enthusiasm, the childish curiosity of the maid and gardener were slightly overwhelming, but not discomforting. Even as he peeled away at the fresh vegetables with practised efficiency, a tiny smile curved his lips.
Maybe…just maybe, he could find a place to belong again.
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"'Karnstein Hospital makes miracle happen'…well, well. Doesn't this seem awfully familiar, little lord?" Harry smirked as Ciel jerked in surprise, nearly sloshing the tea onto himself.
An annoyed scowl was thrown his way before the young noble glanced at his butler, who was in the process of clearing the table. However, before any further comments could be made, Mey Rin's stammering could be heard down the hallway.
"Hello! How is my favourite earl doing?" The door banged open and Ciel sighed, resigned to having his morning ruined by the usual uninvited guest.
"Lau, what are you doing here?"
"I was aiming for your breakfast, but I see that you are done already," the Chinese man seated himself directly opposite the earl, eyes fixed on Sebastian as the butler served him. "Say, did you perform a miracle as well, earl? Or was it your tutor over there that did it?"
"I am flattered you think me capable of such feats Lau, but Seb performed that miracle all on his own…unlike some shady hospitals," the tutor remarked absently as he flipped a page of his notebook.
"Ah yes, the Karnstein Hospital. That is one of the causes of my visit, earl."
"Oh? The revival of the dead that made headline today?" The Phantomhive head snorted. "Unfortunately, I have no interest in occult."
"I can tell you it is not. That hospital have been doing lots of shopping in the back docks of the area you have left me in charge of, earl."
"Back docks? I assume it is illegal foreign goods."
"More specifically, slaves. The amount they are transporting is highly unusual. I doubt even a hospital would be able to fit that many individuals if bodies are not continuously disposed of," the mafia boss set down his cutleries and smiled.
"That only leaves the possibility of experiments on humans, or rather, on the purchased slaves," Harry closed the book with a snap. "I won't put it pass doctors not to utilise alternative pathways in attempting to prolong lifespans."
"Hmph, if that is true, then it is an underground power interfering with regular society and thus, under my jurisdiction. Very well, Sebastian, investigate immediately."
"Leave it to me, young master."
"Then I shall take my leave, earl, seeing as my purpose here is finished. Contact me if you find a lead, though. It has been terribly boring these few days. Have a good day," Lau waved and left as abruptly as he came.
With Sebastian gone on an investigating mission, the Phantomhive tutor supervised the cleaning up before leaving to do a few investigations himself. The emerald-eyed demon was not overly concerned about experiments to thwart death. Every human civilisation did it at some point before their ultimate destruction. Being in another world did not make any difference to their thirst for immortality, or as close to being immortal as they possibly could be. However, this one was suspicious. No doctor, no matter how talented they were, could succeed in reanimating a soul in such a short period of time and the technology they currently have. So the only explanation was supernatural interference. His first thought was a certain old friend, but was dismissed immediately. Harry was certain his friend would not be so foolish as to repeat his past mistake once more, especially given the consequences of his actions…consequences that encased him in a web of chains, binding him in the form of a duty and a promise.
Still, there was time and he had not checked up on the guy for a while. And let himself be rid of the thought nagging at the back of his mind. The Master of Death grasped at the shadows, letting it surge and swirl around him. In a motion similar but smoother than apparition, he was gone.
Flicking his wrist, he dismissed the dark tendrils and glanced around, taking in the empty shop. Harry frowned, running a finger along the black display coffin. The fine layer of dust indicated several days of absence. The demon made his way towards the small room tucked away behind heavy curtains and pieces of wood, a space one would have to know about in order to spot it. A click of his fingers had the way cleared, and another encased the lone closet in a faint red glow. The creaky doors opened, revealing the insides to be bear save a single ticket and a small golden phoenix badge.
Tucking both items into his coat pocket, Harry sighed, "You had better have a good reason to take all the sotoba and even your Scythe, you unpredictable idiot."
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The Quetzalcoatl came back to the frantic chaos of servants rushing back and forth, hauling boxes and suitcases exchanging hands. Spotting the raven demon supervising the organisation of supplies, Harry sauntered over.
"What's this, Seb? An overseas trip?"
"A three weeks cruise aboard the Campania. It's setting sail the day after."
"Does this have anything to do with the newly-formed Aurora Society? It is not like the little lord to make such sudden trips."
His friend shot him an unreadable look, "It does. Nobles all over England sponsor the director and doctors working in the hospital. The next meeting place is aboard the Campania, hence the young master's hasty decision."
"Oh? And these gifts are undoubtedly for the fiancée and her family."
"Yes, they are. All right, now that you are here, do you mind helping? We're not going to finish packing at this rate."
"Understood Sir," Harry saluted mockingly. "Is there anything else my humble self may be of use?"
Shaking his head, the raven demon turned and walked away, "I trust you to keep an eye on the others, Harry. And explain to that mutt of yours the reason he cannot come. I am tired of dodging those flames and claws. The distractions are hindering my work."
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The majestic cruiser stood proudly, anchored to the docks and outshining the other crafts in its glory. Sunlight glinted off the waxed and polished sides, its brilliance undiminished even with the thick smog churning out of its funnels.
"Wow, so this is the Campania," Finny breathed. "It certainly is something different, so huge…"
"Mr Snake's so lucky, he gets to go with the young master," Mey Rin sighed.
"It is part of the footman's duties to follow the young master on outings," Sebastian replied. "Now, please leave the luggage here with the clerk and it will be all."
The first horn blew and Harry turned to smile at the other three Phantomhive staff, "Well then, we'll be counting on you three to manage the manor while we are gone. And please keep Pluto occupied. I would have brought him with me, but they do not allow large pets."
"Leave it to us, Harry. We are quite capable, I'll have you know," Bard grinned as he lit another cigarette.
"I remember coming back to a half destroyed manor the last time," the tutor teased and turned to the cruiser as the last boarding horn sounded. "Take care of yourselves."
"Take care, young master, Sebastian, Harry, Snake!" All three hollered as the ship disengaged from the dock, leaving masses of people and confetti showering the area.
At last the cruiser pulled away to the distance, the crowded dock disappearing and the party strolled down the deck. The first class area was spacious, well-dressed individuals mingling around and gazing out at the vast ocean waters.
"Ciel! You came!" The familiar shriek rang out, and a moment later Elizabeth threw herself in a startled Phantomhive's arms.
"Elizabeth! Please do not display such indecent behaviour in public!" Lady Midford scolded, stern as ever.
Flanking her was her husband Alexis and eldest son, Edward, who was busy glaring at Earl Phantomhive.
"Mother's right, Lizzy. And you, I've not accepted you as my brother-in-law yet, so get your hands off her!"
As Marquis Midford proceeded to envelop Ciel in a bear hug, Harry gave the Marchioness a brief elegant bow, "A pleasure as always, Lady Midford. It's been a while since our last crossing."
"That it has, tutor. And I see you are still a bad influence on the Phantomhive household and its style," Francis sniffed, eyeing the long bangs adorning the Phantomhive party's forehead.
"That's debateable, Lady Midford. One cannot really call it influence if the right was won through fair means. Of course, I would welcome another match over it anytime," the tutor smirked.
"I'll hold you to that, Potter. Now, if you are done suffocating your future son-in-law, dear, I would like to continue our way to the lounge and have luncheon."
Falling into place behind the nobles, Harry glanced at the slightly relieved butler, "Well, aren't you glad that your hair would undergo no forced changes during these three weeks."
"Sometimes I regret taking the role of a butler," the raven muttered. "That woman is the mortal version of a demoness. Though I am surprised she tolerates such attitude from a tutor."
"You forget Seb, I am a tutor who is able to hold his own against one such as Lady Midford. But enough about that," the emerald-eyed demon lowered his voice. "The date of the meeting is the nineteenth, is it not? I will meet you there on the night. Before then, don't bother looking for me."
Dull red eyes narrowed at him, "I have refrained from prying so far, Harry, but what is it this time? There can't possibly be anything else of interest besides the meeting of this Aurora Society."
"Humour me, Sebastian. It's a hunch. I wouldn't be able to rest until I've satisfied my curiosity." His friend did not seem convinced, and he sighed. "Think about it, why would they schedule a meeting on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean? If there is going to be a demonstration of reviving the dead, there would be materials here. Since both you and Snake cannot leave the little lord's side, I'm going to do the scouting…and on that note, I've got a favour to ask of the Phantomhive's new footman."
The hybrid, who had been silent for the most part, looked up as the tutor laid a hand on his shoulder, "Can I help you, Sir?"
"As a matter of fact, I've got a favour to ask of you and your nest mates. I would like one of you to accompany me on a scouting trip although…it would be for an undeterminable amount of time and I'll be using volunteers as a messenger."
A brown head poked out from the right cuff of Snake's coat, "Oh, that sounds fun, Winged Lord. I wouldn't mind accompanying you on this trip. I relay messages to my human all the time." Harry held out his hand, and the brown tree snake slithered up his arms and wrapped itself around his neck. "The name is Dan, Winged Lord. It's an honour."
"My thanks to the both of you. Now, I will be gone for a period of time so listen closely. Always stay close to the little lord, especially on the nineteenth." The Quetzalcoatl stroked a finger across the serpent's head as he stepped closer to the new servant, "And one word of advice, Snake. Don't listen to what the others say about your appearance. They will talk, the narrow-minded nobles that they are, but never take it into heart. This will be a common occurrence, however, never let it get into your head."
With a last wink and parting salute, the tutor stepped around a group of gentlemen and disappeared from sight.
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Ronald grinned as he tipped his mug of beer in a toast and winked, causing the female humans who were watching him to blush and giggle. The noise in the third class dining hall was boisterous, but the Shinigami wouldn't have it any other way. He was enjoying himself, and he bet his entire month's pay that the humans were too. Parties were definitely his thing and are the motivational force behind his timely and organised work. Just the word 'overtime' is enough to make him grimace.
Humming under his breath, Ronald glanced at his watch. An hour and a half til midnight. Yellow-green eyes scanned the laughing and dancing mass. They are a lively bunch, he mused, a small pang of regret sweeping through him. Too bad none of them would live to see another sunrise.
Knox wasn't an emotionless collector. Or at least, that wasn't what he thought himself to be. He loved being around people, mortal or otherwise as long as they didn't interfere with his job. And it was his job to collect all these souls at the end of the day. Briefly he wondered how his reaper friends would feel if they were in his shoes and he snorted. Senior Sutcliff would flounce around tutting over dead women and commenting on their hideous choice of clothes. Senior Spears would push his glasses up, a scornful "Honestly" on his lips while he meticulously pulled records from the dead and dying bodies.
His Division leader was a true Death God, unfeeling and unflinching, bearing his lifelong punishment with acceptance and dignity. Maybe that was partially why Ronald admired him so.
His mind turned to Senior Alan and Eric, the famous pair in the whole Collector's Division. They were the complete opposite of each other, from personality down to their physical appearance. Humphries, with his no-nonsense attitude and compassionate heart and Slingby, with his laid-back approach to everything and a wall around his heart only those he deems friends are allowed in.
The noise around slowly subsided, and he glanced up, blinking as he and everyone else turned towards an authoritative figure striding purposefully towards his table. The crowd subconsciously parted before the man and Ronald grinned, "Yo, Boss! Here to help me out?"
The Shinigami Lord merely smirked as he sank elegantly into the seat opposite the collector. A light grey fog descended around the two, courtesy of Harry and his privacy wards. Knox grinned at his Lord's knowing look. Amongst his colleagues, the blonde Death God was one of the few who could see Harry's magic. Maybe it was due to the way they were 'born', but it hasn't been confirmed so far.
"Unfortunately not, Ronald. I am here on another different…errand," the emerald-eyed lord replied as soon as the ward settled, causing the humans to return to whatever they were doing before. Emerald eyes scanned the area and the man frowned. "Is Grell held back again?"
The Death God chuckled, gulping down a mouthful of ale, "You know how he is, Boss. But not this time, at least not intentionally. Senior Spears pulled him aside for a lecture on rule-breaking and associating with the enemy again."
The two shared a knowing look before his Lord's expression turned serious. Ronald had been around the other long enough to recognise it, and it made him a little uneasy. Harry peered intensely at him, seemingly tossing an idea around for a moment. Elegant fingers tapped upon the worn oak as the slight-build man came to a decision.
"I believe there's still time, about two hours or so?" At the blonde's nod, the Shinigami Lord stood, gesturing for him to follow. "Then I would ask you accompany me on this one…if you have no objections?"
Ronald perked up immediately, the initial pout at the thought of leaving the party early disappearing in an instant. The rare opportunity of helping Harry out in one of his missions was too good to pass, and maybe Harry might help him out with the reaping.
"Of course not. This sounds like fun, if that little snake poking its head out of your sleeve is anything to go by. So what do you want me to do, Boss?" The reaper's eyebrow shot up as a cold feeling washed over him. He glanced down, noting the light grey mist surrounding his entire body.
The Lord smirked, stroking a finger down the tree snake's head as it hissed softly, "Come Ronald, I'll tell you on our way there."
Grinning, the blonde Shinigami hulled his Death Scythe over his shoulder and followed the shorter male out the door, anticipation humming in his veins.
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… …
"…so I want you up on that balcony," Harry finished as the two halted outside the silver-lined doors.
"Sure thing Boss. Still, this is pretty cool. Now I know how you walk around unseen," Knox murmured as he wriggled his fingers in front of a gentleman who hurried pass. "And are you sure about this? He is technically a fallen and still on our 'hit list'. If he does anything that interferes with the job…"
"Relax Ronald, I said I'll handle him, didn't I? I think you've been spending too much time around Will. You're starting to sound suspiciously like my dear student," the Phantomhive tutor brought out the small phoenix badge, pinning it to his lapel. "By the way, be expecting some other interference tonight."
As the Junior reaper paused to decipher the meaning of his words, the demon dismissed the spell around his person, startling the young attendant standing by the door.
"Ah!...Uh…Wo – would you like some completely purified water, Sir?"
Shooting a bland smile at the stuttering human, the tutor drawled, "I was under the impression that only first timers were required to prove themselves, or am I uninformed about the sudden change in regulations?"
The youth's eyes darted to the golden pin he had overlooked and stuttered, "M – my apologies, Sir. Please go on through."
The pristine doors opened and the tutor strolled in, noting that Knox had departed his side, heading for the designated spot high above where he would be able to overlook the entire area. Bored emerald eyes passed over the excited mass, landing on the stage up front where the demonstration would be held. The tutor started forwards, intending on checking out the area behind the stage when he was side tracked by a very familiar voice. Black robes and long whitish-grey hair, not to mention his long black nails, made the Undertaker stand out amongst the brightly dressed rich men and ladies. The Quetzalcoatl leaned against the pillar behind the two, listening in as Ryan Stoker talked animatedly with the former Death God.
"…I am truly glad of your support, as are my superiors. Now if only you would be so inclined to share more of your experimental secrets…but I wouldn't force you," the doctor flashed a bright smile. "Well, I'll talk to you again after the demonstration. I cannot with good conscious ignore my other patrons. If you would excuse me…"
"I do sincerely hope you know what you are meddling with," Harry spoke as soon as Ryan was gone.
"Oh, do you still doubt me, my Lord? Is that why you have the little Junior Shinigami up there?"
"Ronald's hardly a Junior anymore, in fact, he's due for promotion in a bit. But that's beside the point. He is here on a reaping job, nothing more, however this is not about what is going on between the Aurora Society and yourself. That Death Scythe which has not been used for decades is now residing on your person. Tell me, where will tomorrow see you?"
"The same side I have always been on," the ex-Shinigami replied instantly, a slightly offended edge in his voice. "I know better than to add to your burden."
Harry couldn't help but laugh, "Very well, but I have a feeling I wouldn't be received too well by the Phantomhive after this stunt. It'll be a pity if they get in my way during the angel hunt. Any inconveniences would be on you, my friend."
"As long as you keep your reapers off my back, I've got no qualms, my Lord."
"Hmm…my students suspect, you know. Especially William. It will be stifling for them if I directly ordered them off your tail. But don't worry, they'll be spending most of their time on other more…important matters. Also, the rule for death to deserters has yet to be scrapped out of fear that a catastrophe might occur in the future. Maybe when more Shinigami are 'born' will I start to remove those opposing it."
"So as you say, Harry. And in my opinion, it's about time you let your secret out. Any later and I would be forced to do something unpleasant. One demon by his side is enough of a hindrance to my duty. Now I believe your little lord and his contract has arrived. This will be fun."
Coming out from the shadows of the room, both Death Gods snorted with laughter at the sight of the ever-dignified Lord and butler pair striking the phoenix pose. The little lord's head snapped up at the Undertaker's hoarse laughter.
"Undertaker! What are you doing here?" The sapphire eye narrowed as it moved to the shorter male. "And Harry, how did you get in here?"
"Connections, little lord. And I believe this sight would provide me with sufficient entertainment for the night."
"Indeed, saying "The Phoenix" with such a serious expression…hehehe…"
"You have yet to tell us what you are doing here Undertaker," Sebastian said.
"Me? I'm merely doing my job. The Hospital is a regular customer of mine."
"We are here to investigate the illegal human experimentation that is being performed by this association. Do you happen to know anything about it?" the Phantomhive earl asked, adjusting the bandages over his right eye.
"If you want information from me, I want to collect my payment immediately. Let's see…do that pose again and I'll tell you all I know."
"You bastard! Who in their right mind would willingly do that again – "
Harry jerked as thin fingers wrapped around his forearm and the light grey haired reaper tugged him away from the party and the oncoming viscount.
"Here's when I'll make myself scarce Harry. The next time we meet, it'll be at a turning point."
"Well then, the threats still stand regardless. Go, but no guarantees you'll get out unscathed tonight. And here's a way to contact me," the tutor smirked and walked away without a backward glance, not even peeking over his shoulder when the Undertaker let out a startled squeak upon discovering the reptile slithering up his arm.
Placing the very same disillusion charm upon himself as he did on Ronald, the Quetzalcoatl landed on the small balcony hanging right above the stage. The small male leaned against the rail, watching with interest as Ryan Stoker initiated the start of the meeting.
"He is rather…flamboyant, is he not?"
Harry snorted at the rather mild description of the young doctor, "He's an actor first and foremost, Ronald. I would think it's in his script to have such a personality."
Emerald eyes flickered over to the blonde as his companion moved forward, half leaning over the railing as he stared at the black coffin behind the doctor.
"A medicine? Do these humans really see death as a 'health problem'?" Ronald murmured, then his eyes brightened as the coffin lid was removed, revealing the corpse of a young lady laying within. "Oh look, I think I recognise that female. Maggie…or Margaret…or something like that. I was the one who collected her soul rather recently. Died from some carriage accident."
The Phantomhive tutor watched silently as wires were attached to the corpse, his curiosity sparking even as his posture oozed disinterest. The electricity was flicked on, and Harry could almost see the current and whatever substance was injected in swiftly rushing through the metal coils and directly into the corpse's heart. Slowly, a deathly pale hand lifted, followed by the torso rising to a sitting position. There were cries of elation and excitement, of relief and joy, but all that was dulled by the sense of pure wrongness of this miracle. The body was moving, void of a soul, defying the very laws of nature. And anything that goes against nature, nature itself would turn on the doer of this deed.
The Shinigami Lord looked on as the undead's mouth opened wide and tore into the neck of the old woman embracing it. Now the cries of happiness became that of fear. The pristine doors were all but destroyed as the humans trampled out, their screams trailing behind them.
"And so it begins," Knox announced cheerfully, his gloved fingers running along the handle of his Scythe. "I guess I should leave this to you, Boss, seeing as your companions are here."
Harry nodded, "Start collecting Ronald, I'll help you with those I can."
The tutor lifted the disillusion spell from Ronald as soon as the Shinigami disappeared through the back entrance. Sebastian and the little lord had gotten rid of their disguises, the butler standing protectively before his contractor as silver cutleries embedded themselves in the cold flesh. The undead went down without a sound. Mere seconds later, it released a strangled moan and the bloodied corpse rose once more. Mouth stretched open impossibly wide with guttural sounds emitting from it, the soulless creature turned its blindfolded eyes towards the pair. Pale hands outstretched, the being staggered forwards. Gunshots rang out, and the Quetzalcoatl sighed as the two human bodyguards inevitably turned the undead's attention on themselves.
Honestly, if knives to the heart don't kill that thing, what good would come out of shooting its torso?
Materialising his daggers, Harry leaped over the railing. His blades flashed out in a cross and he landed on his feet gracefully. Behind him, the now headless corpse crumpled in a heap as the decapitated head rolled to a stop before the butler's polished boots. Flicking blood off his daggers, the emerald-eyed demon glanced at the three dead bodies in the room, curling his lips in disgust.
"If you cannot kill a creature by destroying its heart, aim for the head instead," the silver daggers disappeared and the tutor arched an eyebrow at the raven demon. "I had thought you capable of more ways to end a beings' life, Sebastian."
The fuchsia eyes were still locked on the headless corpse, "It seems my constant dealings with mere humans has dulled my creativity. There are only so many ways to deal with them before they succumb, after all."
The Phantomhive Earl glanced around, cursing under his breath as more walking corpses began stumbling pass the half-destroyed door. He caught a flash of white as the doctor fled the scene.
"Deal with them, Sebastian, Harry. I'll go after Stoker."
"One demon should be enough to take care of these creatures, don't you think? So, I'll leave this to you Harry. The young master cannot be left unattended at times like this," the raven said and took off after the earl, smashing a few heads before disappearing around the corner.
Scrunching his face at the mess the butler left behind, Harry proceeded to lop heads off, neatly side stepping the sprays of blood. The tutor moved casually towards the stage, his right hand felling the undead who venture too close while his left reached for the small stack of notes left near the still-humming electronics. Emerald eyes scanned the papers swiftly, fingers discarding sheet after sheet until a blueprint and a file were left in his hands.
"Ah ha, now here's something interesting. Well, well, to think they've stored all their samples here…my dear English Soul Collectors are certainly going to be overworked again today," he murmured.
The file revealed the workings and step-by-step manufacturing of a complex piece of machinery, or from what the doctors have called it 'a prototype undead controller'. It was intriguing, but the tutor flipped through the file swiftly, taking note of the important details and promising to read it carefully in a more comfortable location. He shrunk the file and folded the blueprint, tucking both into his coat pocket. Locating Ronald in the third class passengers' dining hall, he gathered the shadows and apparited. To his credit, the blonde merely glanced up at his sudden appearance before scribbling in his black book again, grumbling under his breath.
A moment later, the Death Ledger was snapped shut and Ronald groaned, "When's Senior Grell gonna arrive Boss? I'm already beat and the worst has yet to come. All these souls…and we have to investigate these moving corpses too…"
The Shinigami Lord snorted, laying a hand on the Junior Shinigami and transported them to the roof of the first class passengers' cabins, "You and Grell just focus on the collecting and leave the investigation to me. Now, have a small break and enjoy the scenery Ronald. We're even on time for a little show."
The blonde sighed and leaned on his lawnmower Scythe, tilting his head back to watch the starry night sky, "This investigation is tied to the reason you're here right, Boss? You never rest, do you? Between your Lord duties and that of the brat's tutor, your schedule is always full." A gloved finger lifted and wagged at the shorter man, "And that's the reason why those guys up in Management keep expecting the impossible out of us. How long has it been since you've visited any department besides the Soul Collectors?"
Harry grinned at his overtime-hating companion, "Don't worry, I foresee my schedule in the near future to be somewhat blank. Now cheer up, kid. Your backup has arrived."
From their position, the two could make out the red-clad figure standing at the tip of the fast approaching iceberg. The emerald-eyed demon watched dispassionately as the large cruise ship rammed sidelong into the gigantic obstacle. The entire vessel shuddered, tremors travelling down its length as it stubbornly pushed forward. A large chunk of ice crumbled and gave way, but not before leaving a gaping hole in the ship's right flank. On the deck below the two Death Gods, the soulless beings shuffled out in search for more victims. In a single leap, Sutcliff was in their midst, chainsaw painting a path of red in his wake.
"The pitch black sea, reflecting the countless twinkling stars is dyed red, just like my favourite roses! ~ This situation is perfect for me to play the heroine! ~ It seems that this night is going to be the best, especially after my long suspension… ~"
The Phantomhive tutor and Junior Death God landed on the deck as soon as it was cleared. Grell flounced over, giving Harry a quick hug and peck on the cheek.
"Ah ~ handsome as ever, my Lord. I haven't seen you in forever, not since Will began torturing me with that horrendous paperwork!" The red-haired Shinigami pouted. "But I'm finally out of suspension and my first mission is staged in such a gorgeous setting…tonight is definitely for me ~"
"Yes, yes, Senior Grell, we really don't have time for this now. There are still six hundred and thirty-four more souls to collect. I really want to go home and not spend time with Senior Spears breathing down my neck."
"Hmph, shut up Knox. Having to do overtime with Will is not that bad, as long as I don't get another suspension. Ah, wait for me Harry!"
Said man merely glanced over his shoulder at his two subordinates as they rushed after him into the first class suites. As soon as the trio stepped in, they were confronted by a hoard of undead. Three scythes ripped through the soft decaying body after body, but there seemed to be no end to the creatures. Gesturing for his companions to get behind him, Harry rotated his wrist in a clockwise motion. A giant gust of wind tore through the area, invisible blades severing heads from bodies and leaving gorges in the walls.
"Come, we cannot waste time on these abominations. This vessel will sink in a little more than an hour's time and you'll be in trouble with William if you fail your mission," the emerald-eyed demon said as he swept down the corridor.
So in this fashion the three cleared room after room, one decimating the corpses while the other two collected the souls. It was in the first class lounge when Grell started to lose patience. Harry noticed the tell-tale signs of Sutcliff's boredom winning out as a crimson heeled boot stopped its constant tapping. The next moment, they were falling, courtesy of a certain Death God cutting the floor under them. The Master of Death was content to allow his subordinates free reign and simply go along. It was unexpectedly thrilling to not know what might happen next.
But that does not mean revealing one's hand too soon in the game, the Quetzalcoatl corrected as he sensed some familiar life forms on the floor directly below. So as the other two continued their drop, Harry latched onto the destroyed ceiling (or floor, depending on your perspective) and sat next to the hole. Not ten minutes later, the two Shinigami landed next to him.
"Damn, we need to find this Ryan Stoker before he dies. That way we can do our job peacefully," Grell huffed.
"Both of you go on ahead. I'll need to show myself in front of the little lord and company least they think I've lost my way in this vessel."
… …
… …
"I take from your presence here that the others are safe?" Harry drawled as he leaned against the wall, eyes closed.
The demon butler halted in his tracks while the little lord riding on his shoulder blinked and snarled, "Where were you all this while?! Stoker got away and two nuisances are currently on this cruiser while you disappeared."
Emerald eyes slowly slid open and its owner stretched languidly, "Really, little lord. Is that the kind of tone you take with people who gathered a significant piece of information?"
Ciel narrowed his eye, "What kind of information?"
Harry pulled the file from his pocket, reverting it to its original size and handed it over to the child. The master-butler pair read as they walked, the tutor strolling silently by their side.
"Alright, our priority is to locate this device and catch the doctor again, then get him to activate it. This is – "
"Well, I think our search for the device has been done for us, little lord."
"Viscount Druitt?" Earl Phantomhive gasped as the beauty-obsessed noble stepped out from a corridor, the device carried behind by four men.
"Hmm? Who are you? How do you know my name?"
Harry smirked at face the little lord pulled as he struggled to form an answer. His eyes flickered to the dark robe of one of the carriers, then he stepped forward.
"My, my, to think that a fellow patron would so willingly stay behind at the risk of his life. Or is that contraption behind you more important than your life, Lord Aleister Chambers?"
The viscount tilted his head, the wineglass in his fingers swaying as lavender eyes were drawn to the gold phoenix badge still pinned to the tutor's suit.
"So you are fellow members after all. I knew I've seen you somewhere before…"
"Moving pass that…the device behind you, it's for controlling the corpses, isn't it?"
"And just where did you receive that information?" The viscount narrowed his eyes at the earl. "Well, now's not really the time to stand around and chat. Follow me gentlemen, and I shall show you…the birth of a new Aurora Society with the aid of medicine."
With an exaggerated swish of his hair, Viscount Druitt chuckled and continued down the hallway, the carriers of the device following behind. That was when Earl Phantomhive noticed the tell-tale hair and clothes of a certain Undertaker.
"And why are you here?"
"Me? I was escaping when he asked me to help carry this."
"So you decided to land a hand despite the risk to your life?" Sebastian asked mildly.
"Hehehe…Now, now, Mr Butler…are you in the same position as I am? The risking your life part anyway…"
"That aside, Undertaker, do you happen to know how to activate this thing?" Ciel whispered, his question earning a negative shrug.
"And here we are," Aleister announced as soon as they arrived at a fairly clean and untouched lounge area in the first-class deck. "Please set it down carefully. It is worth a lot more than your lives."
Harry leaned over the machine while the fourth bearers moved away, crouching slightly to inspect the curious-looking thing. He ignored the noise of concern and discontentment emitting from the pretty noble and slid a finger along the glass pillars containing clear blue fluid.
Hmm…this certainly is intriguing. Using the substance injected into those corpses as a puppet string while these satellite dishes on top allows control over a large number. It'll be interesting to see if it works. The Master of Death furrowed his brow as a thought occurred to him. These…undead, their attacks on humans had nothing to do with being controlled. It's as though they are attracted to anything living. Being able to move without the presence of souls…so it means –
"You bastard! Why did you take the device?"
The tutor's head snapped up to the balcony above, an irritated scowl directed at the harried-looking doctor who interrupted his thoughts. Emerald eyes shifted to the right, landing on the two lazing reapers observing the scene quietly.
"Welcome Ryan, now the cast is complete. You are all gathered here to witness the birth of a new realm. A great empire that will take the place of this collapsing one," Viscount Druitt flashed a large gloating grin, waving a hand at the contraption. "With the power of this device, I shall give rise to my new realm…the Aurora Empire!"
Two thumps signalled the arrival of the other Shinigami.
Grell snorted at the viscount's speech, hefting his chainsaw, "Oh shush, someone with no fashion sense should not be allowed to rule. I'll solve the problem by painting you red right away!"
The wineglass in Aleister's hand tilted, "Hmm…better watch what you say. The device might just malfunction, and where will we all be?" An arrogant smirk crossed the aristocrat's face. "Right now, the one with real power is me!"
The surrounding windows shattered in the next second, undead beginning to pour in from every direction. Harry clicked his tongue in irritation. He burned a path through the horde until he reached Viscount Druitt's side. The man had the gall to preen.
"Oh…oh…such magnificence! Risking your life to reach the side of your master. Blazing through the overwhelming enemy forces to ensure my safety! You, my precious gem, have already secured a permanent place as my personal guard!"
The emerald-eyed demon's patience snapped. Ignoring the chaos around him, he clamped his left hand around the viscount's neck, squeezing with just enough force to bruise. Aleister's face blanched of colour, fear radiating from his person.
"Now listen here, human," the Phantomhive tutor growled lowly. "I don't give a flipping damn about your illusions of grandeur. If you wish to live and see another sunrise, viscount, start the damn machine now. And if you do anything other than what I tell you, I will personally throw you to the undead. Are we clear?"
"Y – y – y – yes."
He tossed the noble to Undertaker, who had not moved an inch from his position beside the machine. Scrambling to his feet, Viscount Druitt took a deep breath and jabbed his finger down on the black button.
Everyone froze in anticipation.
The undead just kept moving forward.
"Wh – what?! Ryan! Your machine isn't working!"
The whitish-grey haired Shinigami roared with laughter. By this time, the amount of undead coming into the room lessened considerably, courtesy of four relentless killers.
"Che…what a waste of time." The redhead narrowed his eyes at the adult human. In a minute he had cleaved through the remaining corpses, chainsaw bearing down on Aleister, who screamed shrilly and fainted.
"GRELL SUTCLIFF!"
The next second was a blur. One moment Grell's Death Scythe was bearing down on the blonde and the next someone else was in his way.
His chainsaw collided with something – a flat wooden staff? – and he was thrown back.
"Undertaker?" Ciel breathed.
The usually slouched male was standing tall in front of the viscount, a sotoba resting on his shoulder. The black hat obscuring his eyes was discarded, his long bangs swept to the side. Yellowish-green eyes peered mockingly out at the group.
"Now, now. Don't be so hasty, young one. Such an amusing man should not be taken form the world so soon. Imagine how sorrowful the Earth will become should laughter disappear."
"Oh, what a surprise. You've hidden yourself well, Undertaker. I have never noticed this earlier since you always keep your eyes covered with that hat," Sebastian observed.
"Senior…those eyes…"
"Ah, there's not mistaking that particular poisonous sheen…only one species have those. A Shinigami."
The Phantomhive earl was still gapping, "Undertaker is a Shinigami?"
However, the doctor who had kept silent for the whole time decided to charge out and confront the newly-revealed Death God.
"What is the meaning of this? You told me that we could control the corpses as long as we had this device! Was this all a sham? What about spreading complete salvation to the world?"
This got the deserter Death God to chuckle again, "Oh my, you sure do know how to act."
He turned away from Ryan and locked eyes with his Lord. All eyes were on him as he sketched a deep, respectful bow towards Harry.
"My Lord, one of your main objectives is standing right here. Shall we take care of it now?"
The Shinigami Lord blinked, eyes travelling between the Undertaker and the doctor. Coming to a decision, he sighed and sauntered over to join his long-time friend.
"Don't plan on adding to my burden, eh? You certainly have an interesting way of approaching things." Seeing as the others were still taken back by this abrupt turn of events, he clicked his fingers to grab Sutcliff's and Knox's attention. They straightened immediately to attention. "Grell, Ronald, leave this place. You have a job to complete."
Both saluted without hesitation, although their gazes constantly reverted back to the tall figure beside him, "Yes, Sir!"
Harry crossed his arms, keeping Ryan in the corner of his eye as he waited for the butler-earl duo to come out of whatever daze they were in. He was more amused with the fact that the cowardly doctor had not taken the opportunity to run, but then, Undertaker's words implied this being was someone to look out for. A frown creased his brows. He could not pick out anything else beneath the overwhelming stench of human surrounding the doctor. His Shinigami friend was most probably right in being cautious. No one can be too careful in these times, even him – for an entirely different reason, of course, seeing as he can't actually die.
"Harry, what is the meaning of this?" the boy noble hissed, sapphire eye burning angrily.
The tutor – former tutor? – merely smiled, "Surely you're not that clueless, little lord? And what about you Sebastian? Came to any conclusion?"
Fuchsia eyes narrowed, "You are the Quetzalcoatl…the Shinigami Lord from that night."
Said Lord tipped an imaginary hat at the butler mockingly.
"But that shouldn't be possible," The raven demon continued, voice void of emotion. "No respectable Shinigami will willingly obey a demon."
"Ah, well, the short version is that I am a technically a Shinigami turned demon, which means I still retain my authority over them even in this…form. The full version will take a very long time to explain. Time that we do not currently have." He glanced at his watch. "Now, little lord, Sebastian. I highly recommend that you get off this ship as I cannot guarantee your survival in half an hour. This mess does not concern you."
The demon butler set his master down carefully, "I am afraid we cannot do that, Harry."
Ciel removed his eye patch, keeping his right eye closed, "We have a duty to report the truth of this disaster to the Queen. Therefore, we have to take all of you into custody."
Undertaker threw his head back and laughed, "Awfully confident, aren't you, boy? Your demon may be able to handle me…but together with my Lord? Mr Butler wouldn't stand a chance."
The pair ignored him. Sebastian regarded the Quetzalcoatl seriously. He knew he could not take Harry on, not in this environment where serious restrictions forced him to keep his powers in check. A feeling of betrayal surged through him as he took in the emerald-eyed male next to the Undertaker. It was a strange and foreign concept. Demons were generally lying, deceitful creatures. He was used to it, until he met Harry. He was strange even for a demon. Most of his actions were genuine and sincere, the uncharacteristic warmth of his aura was always around. The raven viewed the smaller demon as a friend, one that he did not have to constantly be on guard around. But this revelation…
A Shinigami Lord in the body of a demon. Such irony.
A dozen questions followed the realisation. They were all rhetorical, of course. His friend did not do anything rash. Every action was calculated and precise. So Sebastian did not really bother to ask Harry aloud, knowing that there is solid reasoning behind this turn of events. He planned on prying an answer out of the other male, but that would have to wait. Duty comes first in a contract. The betrayal in his being quelled somewhat, but one thing just bugged him.
"Why reveal yourself now?"
"Truly speaking, this was not the way I envisioned my identity being revealed. Then again, I didn't count my subordinates interfering." Silver daggers materialised. "I would love to satisfy your curiosity, but time is against us."
As soon as he finished, Sebastian launched a hail of silver knives his way. Harry did not bother to move as a sotoba knocked every single projectile back with a single swipe.
"Orders, Harry?"
"Keep the demon away from me. I don't want any interference. Deal with him however you wish, but don't damage him too badly. He's a friend, after all. "
"As you command."
Black and silver clashed in a whirlwind of sparks and blades. Harry turned away from the duel, gleaming emerald eyes fixed on Ryan, who cowered at the back of the room. The doctor shied away under the intense stare, but the calm belied in those brown orbs told a different story. The Master of Death strolled leisurely towards the other male, tossing his dagger into the air…and hurled it straight at the man.
There was a brief pulse in the air, the human aura around Stoker vanished in that period. The dagger thudded harmlessly in the pillar behind. But his suspicions were confirmed.
"Impressive disguise, for a being who rarely mingle with humans. So I take you are Terrible Twin Number Two?"
"I am Ramiel. Sariel has warned me about you, contradictory one. I am ashamed to admit that I did not heed her advice. Your followers are most competent, contrary to what the rumours say. Had I known this previously, I would not have stayed to observe the proceedings."
"Well, seeing as you're willing to confess your shortcomings, please enlighten me on how you manage to disguise yourself so…impeccably."
Ramiel gave a small smile and shed his human skin. Pure white wings sprouted out behind him. Golden hair fell in short waves around his sharp face. The human skin fell to the floor with a wet squelch. The angel stepped out of them, dressed in black-stained robes. The white glow surrounding him was equally tainted.
"It was something I found in the Sanctuary. Unfortunately, it was incomplete, hence the need for authentic human skin and souls."
"What about the Scythes of my Angel Surveillance members? And these undead abominations?"
The fallen angel brought a pale finger up to his lips and smiled innocently, "I am really sorry, but I cannot tell you even if I wanted to." The finger drifted downwards until it pointed to his neck, where a floating grey halo flickered into view for a second. "As you can see, Sariel has placed a bind on me. I can only reveal what she permits me to."
Harry nodded and brushed pass the angelic being to retrieve his dagger, "Very well, it seems I have to do this the hard way. For the record Ramiel, I apologise in advance for any extreme discomfort you might experience."
A puzzled expression crossed the angel's face. Harry's smirk was feral as he thrust his hand out towards the floor at the fallen's feet. The entire room erupted in dark violet light.
… …
… …
Erebus – how long has it been since he has called himself something other than Undertaker? – lifted his disguised Scythe lazily, grinning at his Lord's demon friend. They had been fighting for less than ten minutes but already, their surroundings were reduced to rubble. Smashed pillars, torn furniture and cracked marble tiles. The retired Death God – because whatever the other reapers have labelled him as, only Harry's opinion mattered to him, hence retired, not deserter – pouted inwardly at his other sotobas laying about, chopped to pieces.
"That grave marker in your hands… I know it isn't like the others. So why don't you remove its disguise?"
He giggled, "Now where's the fun in that?"
The Phantomhive butler narrowed his eyes, "Now I have no doubt Harry's the Shinigami Lord. Most English reapers I've came across seem to have inherited his annoying sense of fun."
There was another minute of swiping and dodging between the two and Erebus was seriously growing bored.
"Is this really the best you can do, Sebastian?"
A shower of silverwares was his reply. He sighed. Despite the laughter this bunch can provide, the demon was currently unable to perform at peak condition, which took the thrill out of this duel. It was such a shame as well. The Shinigami had been looking forward to going all out. Too bad they were currently on a fragile ship with living souls aboard.
The demon shot forward once more and Undertaker mentally shrugged. It couldn't hurt to reveal his Death Scythe, right? Harry had said he could do anything as long as it wasn't something permanently damaging. And demons are a tough lot.
Closer…
Closer…
Then he swung.
The sotoba elongated and morphed even as he went through the motion. A bone white reaper scythe now lay in his hands. The large curved blade forced the butler to retreat, and it sliced on of the upper floor's main pillar in two. Chairs and tables fell on top of the raven, who began flinging them at Erebus.
"Breaking through human furniture is easier than smashing eggs, demon. You'll have more chance harming me with your fists."
"I just need to get within the range of your Scythe, Undertaker."
A leg kicked out at his ribs, forcing the Grim Reaper to flip out of the way.
"My, you do think of the most interesting strategies, Sebastian." Black heeled boots thudded down beside Vincent's child. Erebus grinned as he grabbed the earl, the perfect bait to lure the demon. "But so do I."
The ground rumbled beneath them and dark violet light exploded everywhere. Erebus froze for a second at the sheer power his Lord was exuding. What could have happened to prompt Harry to expand so much energy? Surely not a low-levelled angel like Ramiel? Well, low-levelled compared to the Shinigami Lord himself.
He abandoned his ploy of seeing Sebastian's record. Satisfying his duty to mortals can wait in favour of assisting his Lord. He dashed to the back, eyes widening. The dark violet light had lightened considerably, enabling Erebus to see the flashing runes circling around by Ramiel's feet. The angel himself was writhing, eyes squeezed shut and mouth open in a silent scream. Harry's face was blank as his magic-coated right hand was spewing forth a constant stream of runes that wrapped themselves around the captive. The symbols hung in the air, some sticking on wings and robes, others slithering around on the floor. The effect was gradual. Once vibrant gold hair lost its shine, majestic white wings crumbled to nothing, the angelic presence of the being before him simply vanished. Undertaker could not tear his gaze away, not even to glance at the demon by his side. He had seen this done to other angels a thousand years before – had assisted in the ritual – but never was it performed so easily. His Lord had to shift into his Quetzalcoatl form and hectares of land were reduced to ruin in order to subdue and strip the fallen of his power.
To be able to repeat the same feat with only a runic prison and a constant flow of magic was…mind-blowing. It was clear the angels were not the only ones to improve themselves over a millennium.
The runes disappeared abruptly as the flow of power cancelled. Ramiel slumped gracelessly to the ground, too weak to make a sound. With the angel's power removed, the undead that had not bitten humans ceased to move, reducing the horde numbers by a quarter at least. The Shinigami Lord's posture radiated calm, but one look in those emerald depths told the Undertaker how draining the action was.
"Take the little lord and get off this ship, Sebastian," Harry's tone was level, albeit slightly tense. "Make sure you are far enough before I obliterate the entire vessel. I cannot allow the Campania to merely sink to the bottom of the ocean. Absolutely nothing will be left as evidence of this mess."
His Lord and friend flicked his finger, banishing the former angel somewhere. Erebus followed Harry to the centre of the room. The world shifted suddenly as the front of the ship tilted upwards.
"Oh? I thought we'd have more time. But it looks like the Campania has started its descent to the bottom. Come, I don't want you to die just yet."
Without waiting for permission, the Shinigami Lord grabbed the earl, dropped him in the butler's arms and transported the four of them to the tip of the sinking vessel.
Harry gave the raven demon a small smile, "Take care of him, Seb. And for the record, please don't pry into my business. It is not something you are prepared to deal with."
Then he shoved the Phantomhive pair off of the ship.
The retired Shinigami guffawed, only to freeze as a small hand brushed his overcoat and fingers tangled in his chain of funeral lockets at his waist. Vincent's descendent had reached out in reflex to stop his fall, only to latch onto Erebus' most valued item. The universe had a funny way of working everything in its favour. Of all the people he could lose it to. But he found himself not minding one bit.
"Earl, I'll entrust that to you for a while. Take care of it, it's my treasure. This just means we'll meet again."
The pair fell out of sight.
"Are you really fine with leaving it with him? I can get it back for you, just ask."
"No, it's fine. In fact, I think I've been carrying that around for too long. It's rightfully his." He turned and strolled away. "Leave it Harry. We have more important things to take care of."
The Shinigami Lord peered intensely at him for a moment longer, but apparently seeing something in his body language, dropped the issue. In the next blink, Erebus found himself seated on the head of the Quetzalcoatl.
Grell, Ronald. Are you done with the collecting?
In response, the two Collectors appeared next to their boss, both out of breath but grinning.
"All done, Boss!"
"Let's make this sky burn a beautiful red ~"
The great serpent lowered his head once more, allowing them to clamber on. Erebus giggled as he wiggled his fingers in greeting, thoroughly enjoying the shocked expression of the two young ones.
"Wh – what are you doing here?"
"Shut it Ronald. If Harry allowed him to live, let alone sit on his head, he has a reason for it."
Quit squabbling, children, and hold on tight. I do not fancy fishing any of you out of the ocean.
The three grabbed hold of the feather before them and held on tight. The shadows below the Quetzalcoatl came alive, devouring the Campania from its tip down. The entire structure crumbled, slowly being erased from existence. Powerful beats from the Quetzalcoatl's wings kept them hovering over the Atlantic Ocean. Their job here was done, but there were still creatures in the waters. The Undertaker knew Harry was sorely tempted to eradicate every last corpse, but he whirled upwards and away instead.
Not going to lend a hand?
No. Sebastian will take care of the rest. Since you refrained from running him through with your Scythe, he would have no problems keeping the both of them alive. Every last one of those soulless creatures are now attracted to their lifeboat, well away from the other survivors. Our work here is complete.
A small smirk crossed the whitish-grey haired Death God's lips.
That was surprisingly easy. You're going to have to tell me about how you came up with and constructed that runic cage when we get back, now that you have more time to spare. It was…interesting.
Harry gave a mental scoff.
Is that why you decided to throw my secret out to the Phantomhive pair? Just so I can spend more time with you? Why, Erebus, if you were feeling lonely, you should have just said so.
Why would I be feeling lonely when I have this lovely pet right here? More specifically, a reptile you gifted me to act as a messenger between us?
A reptile? A thoughtful pause. Ah, damn. I forgot about Snake's…companion. And the demon dog. It seems like I need to visit the Phantomhive Manor earlier than expected. See how much trouble you've caused me? I take back my previous gratitude. You added to my burden, you impudent child.
The retired Shinigami didn't bother to hide his amusement. Oh, how he had missed his Lord's wonderful company.
… … … … … … … … … … … … … …
To tell the truth, I did not start out with this plot in mind, but it kind of mutated as I wrote.
Also, Erebus is going to be the Undertaker's name. Personally, I think it suited him and I wanted something else to call him by now that he's not officially an Undertaker. It might just be the name Harry gave him all those years back because he didn't want to keep his real name when he became a Shinigami. We'll see how it goes.
Complaints?
Later!
Kagetsuki-taicho