Book Of Return| Black Butler/Kuroshitsuji X Reader

Chapter 3: Discoveries

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Gracefully traversing the dense foliage, Sebastian's crimson eyes surveyed the surroundings, his lithe form blending seamlessly with the shadows. The forest's secrets whispered to him, but there was no imminent threat lurking in its depths. Satisfied with his inspection, he decided to return swiftly to the picnic and ensure the continuation of their delightful afternoon. Harnessing his supernatural abilities, Sebastian invoked his demonic agility. His steps became a blur, his figure a fleeting shadow as he danced through the forest with unmatched swiftness. Leaves rustled in his wake, unable to keep up with his ethereal grace. Branches bent obediently, clearing a path for his hasty return. As he emerged from the woodland's edge, Sebastian's sharp gaze discerned the distant picnic area, the sound of laughter reaching his ears like a gentle melody.

A subtle smile played upon his lips, the satisfaction of duty accomplished. But his presence must not disrupt the festivities; a butler's return was meant to be seamless and unnoticed. Choosing the most inconspicuous route, Sebastian glided towards the gathering, his footsteps soundless upon the grass. The attendees continued their lively conversations, unaware of his imminent arrival. With each step, his form grew more discernible, melding with the scenery until he became a part of the picnic itself. In a quiet moment, Sebastian materialized on the periphery of the picnic, his arrival a delicate whisper. His pristine appearance betrayed none of the haste with which he had traveled. A gust of wind brushed against the attendees, their attention momentarily drawn towards the breeze, but they couldn't comprehend the essence that had passed through.

A few curious eyes might have glimpsed the flash of a coattail, the glimmer of a devilish gaze. But just as quickly as they had noticed, they dismissed it as a figment of their imagination. Sebastian had mastered the art of discretion, and his return was no exception. With a subtle bow, Sebastian integrated himself seamlessly back into the picnic's tapestry. His presence radiated an air of refinement and reliability, rekindling the ambiance that had momentarily faltered in his absence. No questions were asked, no explanations given. Sebastian had performed his duty with unparalleled efficiency, and the picnic resumed its joyous course. And so, amidst the laughter and the chatter, the figure of Sebastian Michaelis reappeared like a phantom, his true nature known only to the shadows that danced in his wake.

"What news do you bring, Sebastian?" Ciel inquired, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity. Sebastian's crimson eyes met Ciel's blue gaze, his tone calm and composed. "My Lord, I have thoroughly surveyed the forest, and I am pleased to report that there were no immediate threats or dangers. However, I did come across a family of three during my inspection." Ciel's brows furrowed in confusion. "A family of three? What were they doing there?" Sebastian inclined his head slightly, his tone measured and precise. "They seemed to be enjoying a leisurely stroll in the forest, my lord. Nothing out of the ordinary."

"I see. Well, as long as they pose no threat, we need not concern ourselves with their presence." Sebastian nodded in agreement, his voice laced with unwavering loyalty. "Indeed, my Lord. Their presence did not disrupt our gathering in any way. Rest assured, I kept a watchful eye to ensure the safety of everyone present."

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"How much longer?" Betty whined trudging through the thicket.

You rolled your eyes, visibly getting irritated at her question. "Oh hush." Jack called from the front. "But I'm getting tired and my feet hurt!" she pouted, tears pricking her jade eyes. You sighed. "Take off your shoes then." you suggested pulling out your phone and checking the time. In bright numbers it read 3:47.

Betty slumped as she looked over your shoulder. "That long? God are we going to reach anything?" the noirette questioned with a sense of anger in her tone. "Calm down! That's not bad." you snapped as Betty scoffed. "Oh easy for you to say. Unlike you I didn't walk thirty blocks to school every morning. Of course this doesn't bother you!"

"Cut it out you two! You're giving me a headache." your uncle shouted. As he did both you and your cousin shut your mouths, silently glaring at each other. It was a silent argument of sorts. Yet once you peeled your eyes away from her, you let out a soft gasp. Ahead of you the rows of trees thinned, and you finally saw a shred of human life. Betty was confused about your sudden reaction, turning to where your gaze was focused on as her jaw gaped. Jack let out a relieved sigh. "Thank god."

As you emerged from the dense foliage of the forest, you blinked in the sudden onslaught of sunlight. Your eyes adjusted to the dimness of the woods and took a moment to adapt to the brightness of the outside world. With cautious steps you advanced toward the edge of the forest, where a street lined with houses revealed itself.

Upon arrival, you find yourself standing in front of a seemingly ordinary street, lined with houses of various styles. However, your intuition tells you that something special lies beyond the facade of one particular residence. Perhaps it's the overgrown garden, hinting at an untold story, or the subtle details that catch your eye, drawing you closer. As you approach the entrance, a sense of anticipation fills the air. The wrought iron gate, slightly rusted but still sturdy, creaks open, inviting you into a world frozen in time. The path leading to the front door is paved with uneven cobblestones, each one bearing the marks of countless footsteps that have traversed this journey before.

Your pace quickened as you drew near, examining every house on the quiet street. Eventually you found yourself being far ahead from your relatives, but you could care less.

With each step, the distinctive architecture of the house comes into focus. The house stands tall, proud, and steeped in history. Elaborate woodwork adorns the exterior, showcasing intricate carvings and ornamental details. The multi-pane windows, some featuring stained glass, allow fragments of light to spill onto the pathway, providing a glimpse into the mysteries held within. As you reach the front porch, you notice the unique craftsmanship of the intricate balustrades and the decorative trim that frames the entrance. The air is filled with a mixture of anticipation and reverence as you lift the heavy brass doorknocker and let it fall, producing a resonant echo that seems to awaken the spirits of the past. The door, solid and imposing, swings open, revealing the grandeur of the interior.

You stepped into a different era, where time has stood still. The foyer stretches before you, with a soaring ceiling adorned with exquisite moldings and an ornate chandelier suspended above, casting a warm glow on the surroundings. As you explored further, you discovered a succession of rooms, each with its own unique charm. High ceilings, delicate wallpaper, and original fireplaces transport you to a time of opulence and refinement. The rooms were filled with an aura of faded elegance, and the intricate details of the house are proudly displayed at every turn. You found yourself imagining the stories that unfolded within these walls-the laughter, the celebrations, and perhaps even the quiet moments of solitude. The rooms seemed to whisper their secrets, and the creak of the wooden floorboards adds to the ambiance, almost as if the house itself is telling its tale.

As Betty eventually caught up, a panting mess, and found you in a room. A gasp of awe escaping her lips as she looked around. Jack's footsteps could be heard walking around the place, equally as shocked as Betty.

A small smile curved on your lips as your fingers lightly grazed it, coming to a halt once you spotted a small table near the entrance, cluttered with various items. Among them lay a folded newspaper, its pages yellowed and brittle. Curiosity piqued, and you unfolded the paper, revealing a headline that sent a chill down your spine, your blood running cold.

The date read: April 12, 1888.

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