Laughter is Born From Madness

Chapter 11

It had been a few days ever since the frozen fair and all Red ever did since then was stare at the ring on her dresser, questions swimming through her mind. Today, on the other hand, she was having tea with her father. Both were silent, waiting for the other to start a conversation.

"Uncle Adrian...when is Earl Phantomhive's birthday?"

Undertaker stopped adding sugar cubes to his tea, looked up at the girl and chuckled, "Is that what has you worrying so much, dear?"

"...In a way." Red answered cautiously.

"Well the little lord's birthday just so happens to be tomorrow, along with the anniversary of his parents' death."

"...I see..."

"If you don't mind me asking, dearie, you've looked as if you were shaken down to the bones since the fair. Has something happened?"

Red sat up straight as she stared at Undertaker in the eyes, "No, no! Nothing! It's merely just the investigation that concerns Earl Phantomhive."

"Hmm, I see. There is no need for you to push yourself anymore, these cases have become far too gruesome for you. As a matter of fact, these corpses, too, will become gruesome as well."

"What are you implying?"

"I'm implying that I would like for you to not assist Earl Phantomhive or continue your work."

"I understand that you are attempting to help, but I refuse."

"I'm afraid there is no further decision for you in this matter."

Red tried to calm her anger, but it showed through her voice, "Says who?"

"Says I, your guardian. You can return to this once you are well rested and have a clear mind."

"Then what help am I for this shop? You have mainly taught me how to examine bodies for what has happened to them, along with proper tools to stitch a wound together. I could use this knowledge to help the Yard and oth-"

"The Yard believes that London doesn't need a woman with higher knowledge than them to help assist on such cases. You need more training to help defend yourself-"

"Then ask William for someone to teach me! For now, I have learned a lot on self-defense."

Undertaker let out a sigh as he ran a hand down his scarred face. He then looked up at the girl that stood with determination, "Alright, I'll let you continue to help. But I will request William to ask someone to teach you how to use a few weapons to help you fight. Other than that, you will have to be extremely careful. Are we clear?"

"Yes. Thank you, uncle Adrian."

With that said, the girl headed back to her room. Sadly, all her attention was focused on the ring that sat on her dresser. She slowly walked towards it and narrowed her eyes when it began to glow.

'London bridge is falling down'

She picked up the ring as the song began to play in her mind.

'Falling down, falling down'

She then placed the item on her middle finger.

'London bridge is falling down'

Both her arms rested by her sides.

"My Fair Lady." A voice spoke as it finished her thoughts. The world around her then turned black.