Black Butler: The Stellar Dove

Chapter 27: Into the Darkness

  They had only been gone for a few moments, and the struggle of my cowardice and my worry had turned into war. I was truly afraid of whatever was inside that shack, but then again, I was afraid of Sebastian being hurt—or worse.

"This is it," I finally said, not being able to stand it anymore. "I have to go inside."

There was much hesitation in my steps towards the old building, but every time I remembered my motivation, I continued, disregarding my fear. I remember running into the shack and climbing down the latter as if in a daze. My heart was pumping, my breath wracking my frame. I had to find them.

And with each step I took, another memory seemed to be recovered, tearing at my soul like a flock of savage birds. I was surrounded by them as they ate me alive, swirls of feathers flying everywhere. But I still ran, deeper into the fire of which they came, until they stopped coming, and the whole truth was awoken within me.

I saw a figure approaching me in the blackness of the tunnel. "Estella!" Ciel called. "What are you doing in here!? Where are the others? Never mind, we have to leave, now!"

I spoke calmly, looking into his indigo eyes. "Undertaker and Grell entered to help you. They must have went in the opposite direction, where the remaining prisoners are. Why isn't Sebastian with you?"

"We met danger. He's handling it himself, he'll be here shortly. As for you and I, we have to go. It's not safe here."

"I will not leave," I told him. "I'm sure you know the truth about me now, as do I." His eyes widened. "I have to help him. I'm sure you understand."

"Estella," Ciel whispered, his fear turning to sadness.

I kneeled down, cupping his cheek with my hand and placing a kiss on his forehead. "I must go now. Be safe, Ciel."

He nodded, saying nothing further, and continued on his way.

~~~~

"This place is absolutely disgusting!" Grell was complaining as they walked down a hallway. "It dark and dreary and cold and I've already chipped a nail and gotten my hands all nasty from that stupid rickety latter!"

"Yes, but luckily someone saved your life when you fell," Undertaker chuckled.

"Never speak of it again!" Grell shouted.

"Well I suppose that's the best thank you I'll get out of a woman like you..."

"What's that supposed to mean!?"

Their argument was interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps from behind. They turned to see Ciel running at them, his figure lit by a torch

"Whacha doing here, Earl?" Undertaker asked.

"You... you got to come... quickly... Estella..."

"Woe, catch your breath, there!" he said. "What is it you're blabbering on about?"

Ciel explained as much as time would allow him to about the poison and Estella. He was stopped when chilling scream came from farther down the tunnel.

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