Episode 14 - The Freak Show
"Master," Sebastian said as he clipped my cloak over my neck, "are you sure about this?"
I tipped my chin up when he adjusted my collar, so the strings of the cloak didn't show. "I've never been more sure of something in my life."
"You were very uncertain not even a day ago," he said then, pulling away. "You had that nightmare last night and thought I was a monster. I am concerned, my lord."
I just made an impatient sound, a smile spreading across my face. "Are you doubting your master?"
He stood fully, lashes lowering.
"You shouldn't doubt me so much, Sebastian," I warned, eye glowing dangerously. "You know what happens when you underestimate me. I do admit, everyone has their down moments, including me." I gazed up. "But I am a member of the Phantomhive family. I do not allow weakness to deter me from my tasks. Do you understand?"
"My lord," Sebastian argued, "I'm still concerned that—"
"I asked if you understood," I cut in, lashes lowering.
He stared at me for a moment, looking a bit surprised and uncertain.
But after a moment, a smile spread across his face—more an amused one—and he closed his eyes. "Of course, my lord."
"Then let's get to it," I said, turning to the door. "Sebastian."
But a sudden voice came to my right:
"Master, wait!"
I stopped and turned, looking half-annoyed as Sebastian did so as well.
Scarlet and Maddox jogged up toward us, stopping a couple feet away before they panted.
"Master, take us with you!" Scarlet said then, bowing. "Please!"
"We won't be a nuisance, we promise!" Maddox argued.
"Didn't I ask you to clean the bathroom?" Sebastian countered.
Scarlet gazed up. "Yes, but... you're going up against a scary man! He's sure to have guards of some sort! We can be of good use!"
"Sebastian can take them out in one second," I said then, turning to the door.
"Master, please!" Maddox said, clasping his hands together as if praying to me. "Please, please, please! We can be of great assistance, please, master!"
I sighed then, pinching the bridge of my nose as the vein on my neck bulged.
"Please, please, please!" Scarlet continued.
I let go then, shaking my head. "Fine."
They both cheered, raising their hands in victory.
"BUT," I said, pointing an accusing finger at them, "you are not to speak, not to argue. Remain silent the whole time, understand?"
They both nodded at the same time.
I then turned to the door. "Alright, let's go, Sebastian."
He just smiled and opened the front door, and I stepped out with him.
"You argued once against them and then dropped it," I muttered as he walked beside me, and Scarlet closed the manor door behind us. "Thank you so much."
"You're very welcome," he responded.
I just glared forward, not particularly amused.
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