Black Butler: Sands of Eternity

Chapter 1

As the fine November afternoon sun cast a soft golden hue across the grounds of Phantomhive Manor, the sound of carriage wheels echoed along the gravel path. Elizabeth Midford, dressed in a lavish gown of deep crimson, stepped out from the vehicle with an eager gleam in her eyes. She adjusted the lace trim on her sleeves as she approached the manor, her movements graceful as ever, though there was a certain urgency in her step.

The door to the manor swung open at her arrival, and she was quickly ushered inside by the servants. A few moments later, she was standing in front of Ciel, who was seated in the study, his usual composed expression present, though he raised an eyebrow at her sudden arrival.

"Elizabeth, what brings you here today?" Ciel asked, his tone slightly bemused as he leaned back in his chair.

Elizabeth's face lit up with excitement as she quickly made her way over to him, holding a stack of papers in her hand. "Ciel, I have something marvelous to share! There's going to be a special play next week in memory of a former ballet star who died tragically on stage! His name was Lysander Délacroix. I'm sure you've heard of him. It's going to be an extravagant performance, and I've already arranged for tickets. I thought it would be the perfect opportunity for us to enjoy the arts together."

Ciel's gaze flickered with curiosity at the mention of Lysander Délacroix. His mind briefly wandered to the fact that the anniversary of the star's death was fast approaching. A ballet dancer turned tragic legend, known for his precision and elegance. Yet, his name also brought back memories of whispers and rumors that spoke of more than just his artistry. A mysterious death, surrounded by much speculation.

"You've arranged tickets?" Ciel replied, a slight edge of surprise in his voice. "I wasn't aware that you had taken such an interest in ballet, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth giggled, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. "Well, I've always admired the beauty of ballet, but this play... it's different. Lysander was a brilliant performer. His death, though... well, it left quite a mark on the world of ballet. They say he died in a tragic accident during a performance. It's so sad, but his legacy lives on."

She placed the papers on the desk in front of Ciel, showing him the announcement of the event. It was an intricate program filled with elegant script, detailed with the names of those involved in the play, as well as a brief note about Lysander's final performance. There was even a mention of a special exhibition showcasing his costumes and personal effects.

"I thought it would be a great opportunity to pay our respects to a legend," she added with a small smile, clearly eager for Ciel to attend with her.

Ciel took a moment to scan the program, his expression unreadable, before his gaze returned to Elizabeth. "I suppose it's worth considering, though I'll admit I wasn't expecting a play to be centered around someone so... enigmatic. Perhaps it's a good way to honor him," he said, though his mind still lingered on the darker side of Lysander's death.

"I'll take that as a yes then!" Elizabeth said brightly, as though she had already decided for him. She was always one to make quick decisions when it came to these matters. "It will be a lovely evening! I'm sure you'll enjoy it as well."

Ciel didn't argue. He was well accustomed to Elizabeth's enthusiasm, and while he was somewhat skeptical about the play's true nature, he could hardly say no to her. Plus, with the added mysteries surrounding Lysander's death, there was a part of him that couldn't help but be intrigued.

"Very well," he replied, his tone neutral. "I'll accompany you to the performance, but don't expect me to join in your gushing over the choreography."

Elizabeth smiled widely, pleased with his response. "You won't regret it, Ciel! It will be a night to remember."