That Butler, Isekaid (Modern!Reader Insert)

That Butler; Stag

________ pouts playfully, "Aw, come on, C! It'll be fuuunnn! All that swashbuckln' and rouge- or, whatever!"

"Not going to happen"

"Awwwee.."

Ciel takes a sip of his tea, shaking his head at the servant's insistence on the whole pirate thing. He's honestly surprised that ________ has been more than able. He had expected them to be more down and perhaps even low energy since the loss of their eye, the experience was as _________ said, rightfully terrifying. But it seems they're doing quite well. At least their spark still hasn't extinguished, so that's a good thing. It wouldn't be ________ without the energy they give to the place.

A good while soon- Ciel awakens, as if from a dream, floating lazily in a boat through the countryside. It's a bright and sunny day, and Ciel has turned out to commemorate the construction of flood-control locks on the river. While feigning interest in the task, the nobles and high society crowd belittles the young Ciel behind his back, while Ciel is equally adept at feigning interest but looking down at them in private. In short, everything is as normal in Victorian society. Ciel is both fully aware as well as resigned to the obligations his position in society holds, so plasters a cold look on his face and goes about his business.

His young betrothed, Elizabeth, learns about a "phantom" white deer and urgently wishes to search for it, "Look Ciel, look! Look look!!"

"Elizabeth I can't see with you shoving the paper in my face..!"

"Oh there's an ever so rare and elusive deer on a hill right near here! It's a white stag that brings happiness!"

"I've never heard of it..."

"Let's go look for it!!"

"No, I'm busy-"

"But... But Ciel..!"

Elizabeth begins to cry at the rejected offer to search for the mystical stag, and in order to save face Ciel relents to go along with her. Along with his butler Sebastian, they take a slow gondola ride down the river, with the other servants messing things up along the way. Meanwhile, the society chattel place bets on whether they will find the deer or not...and if the engagement will be called off.

Ciel sighs and rolls his eyes at Elizabeth's persistent pleading. He knows that giving in to her demands will only reinforce her behavior, but he also understands the importance of maintaining appearances in front of the nosy high society crowd. Reluctantly, he agrees to accompany her on the search for the elusive white stag.

"Fine, Elizabeth. We'll go and search for this white stag of yours. But make it quick. I have other matters to attend to."

Elizabeth's face lights up with excitement as she grabs Ciel's arm, practically dragging him towards the gondola. Sebastian follows close behind, his eyes betraying a hint of amusement. As they glide through the calm waters of the river, Ciel can't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over him. The gentle breeze rustles his hair, and he takes a moment to appreciate the serenity of the countryside. The scenery passes by in a blur, but Ciel's sharp eyes catch glimpses of the bettors, eagerly watching their every move.

Elizabeth chatters excitedly about the legends surrounding the white stag, oblivious to Ciel's lack of interest. Sebastian, ever the observant butler, keeps his silence, ensuring that their ride remains undisturbed. But the weather turns ugly in less than a minute, the desperate Elizabeth won't give up her search, and Ciel is forced to try and rescue her from the raging torrents. Sebastian breaks the river locks, flooding the valley and exposing the "white deer", a geoglyph on the hillside.

Sebastian helps to dry Ciel off while ________ attempts to do the same for the Lady Elizabeth. The twos relationship still on the rocky side of things as Elizabeth still feels threatened by the servant.

"L-Lady Elizabeth please. You'll catch a cold if you don't dry up..!"

"I don't need your help, thank you very much"

"At least accept the towel..???"

Elizabeth turns to the geoglyph instead, smiling at her victory of finding it. "Isn't it good Ciel? You found the white stag"

"You were the one looking for it..."

"Say Ciel, Are you having fun? I had fun, because I got to spend the day frivoling with you.."

Elizabeth holds her fiancé's hand, giving it a bit of a squeeze. Before continuing, "You see, you're always running off somewhere for 'work'. And each time you come back you look upset..."

"They say the people who see the white stag are filled with happiness their whole lives. I believe the lady Elizabeth is trying to tell you to be happy...?" ________ exclaims, hoping they're right. And for a split second, Elizabeth even smiles as she nods towards the servant...

"Remember this sight Ciel..." Elizabeth sighs, holding Ciel's hand a bit tighter as they gaze at the 'white stag' before them...

Ciel looks at Elizabeth, his expression softening slightly as he takes in her genuine concern and attempt to connect with him. He can't deny that her words hold a certain truth. He has been consumed by his duties and the darkness that surrounds him, often forgetting to find joy in the simpler things in life.

As the water drips from his clothes, Ciel finally takes the towel from _________ and begins to dry himself off. He glances at Sebastian, who wears a knowing smile, before turning his attention back to Elizabeth.

"Perhaps you're right, Elizabeth," Ciel admits, his voice carrying a hint of vulnerability. "I have been neglecting my own happiness in pursuit of my responsibilities. But I promise you, from this day forward, I will make an effort to find joy in the moments we share."

Elizabeth's eyes light up with delight, and she squeezes Ciel's hand even tighter. "Oh, Ciel, that makes me so happy! Let's cherish every moment together, just like this."

Ciel's lips curl into a small smile, a rare sight for those who know him well. "Indeed, Elizabeth. Let's treasure every moment, no matter how fleeting. And who knows, perhaps one day we'll actually find happiness..."