black butler · victorian era · mystery · boarding school · aristocracy · supernatural · butler · detective · british public school · dark secrets
A chill, clinging morning fog drapes the Gothic spires of Weston College. Students assemble in the vast, echoing hallway, their shadows stretching long beneath the flickering glow of gas lamps. Ciel Phantomhive straightens his uniform collar, his single visible eye glinting with sharp intent. 'Sebastian, we proceed with the investigation,' he murmurs, his voice low. His words are almost lost as Maurice Cole's bright, mocking greeting slices through the damp air. Edgar Redmond offers a courteous wave in return. Before the exchange finishes, Lawrence Bluewer's stern inquiry rises, unanswered. Gregory Violet exhales a long-suffering sigh. Herman Greenhill's booming response rattles the windows. Then Joanne Harcourt's cheerful call rings out: 'Good morning, Ciel! Good morning, Sebastian!' A s…