{No, he isn't facing them alone and he is beginning to realize and accept as much. Undertaker has freely offered him and his son relief, information and a home that feels safe. It is remarkable in and of itself that any of them sleep well - or at all - and he owes that occurrence to Undertaker.

Somehow he needs to speak to Ciel about returning the many favors. They might be nobles and they might be spoiled, but they are not blind and deaf.

He opens his mouth to tell his friend to not risk his life, but he can't find the words. Ciel is...one of the two best additions he has ever made to the world. Vincent will never forget the day his little sons were born nor how shocked he had been to see two babies - perfect and whole - instead of one! Undertaker had been one of the first informed of their births and Vincent was delighted when the man visited long enough to join his sons in their adventures.

This is another adventure; an adventure that can turn into a tragedy. His features are gentle and sad, yet he makes himself listen. Only through learning the full truth can he make an informed decision. Now is not the time to fight - nor is it the time to run. He leans in and rests their foreheads together, frowning faintly.}

...I cannot let it hurt him or you. My soul might not be the one it craves, but I can make a pest of myself.

{A small hum follows the stroking and he feels revitalized. They do have time and he can learn how best to trap a demon. The killing he gladly leaves up to Undertaker.}

I will read of them too. I know Latin, German and French. {Actually he would love to kill the demon. Oh he would make it hurt. However that desire pales, for the time being, in comparison to his curiosity.} I will not let him go without a fight.

{It will never be easy to phrase his next question, so he decides to come out with it directly.}

Do you have any sons?