Unwinding Time (Black Butler Dreamfic)

Part 5: The Answer

I awoke early the next morning. My parents were still asleep on either side of me.

I stretched and sat up, sleepily rubbing my eyes. The early dawn light peaked through the curtains. Still half asleep, I decided to make my way down to the den. It seemed to be like a habit. I only wanted to inspect, to confirm it completely.

I almost scolded myself for acting so foolish as to even check. The den was there- as it always was. Not a lick of a flame had touched it. Still, I let my eyes slowly scan across the room.

Nothing.

I smiled, then decided to make my way to my bedroom and stay there until morning came. I softly shut the door behind me and heavily fell upon the soft, silky bed covers. I sighed, nearly drifting off to sleep, when a little glimmer of light caught in the corner of my eye. Curious, I sat up, turning my gaze to my dresser.

In the center was a little glass-like object, glowing in the dull light. I didn't even consider believing it until I was practically holding it in my hand once again.

It was the ocarina my butler had given me.

My heart leapt in fright. If it was real-- if all of this was-- why was there no fire? Why were my parents alive? Why did Sebastian leave me!?

It was then that I knew the answer. Behind the ocarina, a black feather rested in place. It appeared to be a feather off of a dark bird-- perhaps a raven-- but I knew in my heart that it wasn't. The aura it had about it gave its origins away. And the blood on the tip made it into reality.

I delicately picked up the large feather, cradling it in my hands. Had he... had he stopped it?

"Sebastian," I called softly, my voice nearly cracking. "If you're... here... please answer me." Nothing. "S- Sebastian?" Only still, cold, silence. "If you're alive, please, I summon you... let me know you're..."

It was clear that whatever he had done, it had cost him his existence in this world. The questions I begged to ask him in my heart were answered at that moment.

I fought back the tears that began to swell in my eyes. Everything that I should have wept for, I didn't. The things I've witnessed, the pain I still continue to feel, all of my losses, and now... I cry for him.

It was then clear what I truly wanted, despite everything that it came with. Time had to be repaired, despite what that meant.

I reached for the ocarina.

~~~