Kuroshitsuji vol. XVI

The artwork in Black Butler XVI is so rich and atmospheric — I wonder if there was a specific process or inspiration behind the visual style.

The characters' motivations are so complex that I kept questioning who the 'hero' really is. Was that intentional or just how the story naturally evolved?

The blending of real historical settings with fantasy adds such depth, but I'm curious whether the author planned this from the beginning or developed it over time.