Masquarade

Part 01 : The Beast

Today was the Prince Harringtons’ masquerade ball. Ellen would attend today’s ball at great risk to herself and it would be glorious. The Harrington ball being the event of the year in their Duchy, nay, the kingdom. An evening so revered, any false move or slip up could destroy any reputation. Ellen would be breaking some very stone-clad social rules by attending, which absolutely tickled.

Ellen herself was a commoner, but she considered herself far from common. She worked as a maid to Duchess Pennaught. In fact, she was born and raised in that Manor as her mother and father had worked there until the day they died. Unlike her mother and father who were hired, Ellen was unable to marry. Since she was technically owned by the Duchess. 

The late Duke, unlike the Duchess, had a soft spot for Ellen. Perhaps it was that she had been raised in the house and they had never had any children of their own. The Duchess herself was a rigid priss. Ellen held no special love for her as the woman was never satisfied. Unlike the Duchess, Duke Pennaught was a saintly man, almost irritatingly so. However he was the reason Ellen could read and write, as a missionary, he considered it his duty to educate and save the less fortunate. Ellen did hold a special place in her heart for him, after the sudden death of both her parents he took her under his wing at the tender age of 6 and treated her like his own blood. Although church service was dull and the other children were simple, Ellen looked back on those years with nothing but gratitude. Once Ellen came of age at 16, she was put to work in the house and the Duke was sent on his first mission to India. With the promise of a bright future and even the talk of marriage prospects once he returned. The Duke left with nothing but the word of his god, and the clothes on his back. 

Unfortunately, it seemed that being a missionary was not his calling. One may even say it offended his dear lord. The Duke Pennaught was struck with Cholera as soon as he arrived, dying within days. Horribly.

Despite the tragedy of the whole ordeal, Ellen was still left with an insatiable lust to become something more than a housemaid, to see adventure. Unfortunately, the Duchess saw otherwise. Which was the direct inspiration that brought her here to this very moment. outside the most famous tailor in the Duchy, with a dress that was not hers, but soon would be.

The Duchess, aside from being callous and uncouth at times, was also exceptionally wasteful. Her husband had left her no small fortune, so she made sure she was always the talk of the town at all times. At least, when it came to fashion. Ellen would watch while serving tea in the parlor as tailors would come from all over the country to dress the famously rich and perhaps mildly insane Duchess Pennaught. The Duchess very rarely wore everything she bought, however when she tired of something she had it destroyed. Saying things like ‘people would die to dress like me, I would have no one like me at all!’. Implying that people could even fit into her dresses, the woman was a mammoth.

This is where Ellen had found her opportunity. Although she lived in the Pennaught household, she was given an allowance of her own. Ellen had saved every penny since the death of the Duke. Her intention had been to run away to the city and start a new life there. However, one fateful eve; one of the dresses the Duchess cast aside glimmered in the candlelight. Thus igniting her imagination. A great and terrible idea came to her mind. Ellen stole the gown and used her allowance to hire a carriage and purchase a small, quaint cabin just outside the Duchy.

All was done with the utmost care and took months of planning. The last thing Ellen needed was a date with the gallows for stealing from her mistress.

Ellen let out a breath right before she entered the tailors, the place was filled with nobles and their handmaidens. She had worn the best dress she owned, looking at least middle class. Ellen walked straight to the counter, where a gentleman worked measuring a piece of fabric. Ellen cleared her throat and he didn’t budge.

“Good sir, if I may have a moment of your time,” she said and still nothing. Ellen’s heart pounded, were they always this rude? She had never dealt with anyone in this manner. Generally, it was just to fetch things that had been set aside for the Duchess. Always the same things from the same places. Ellen would not lose heart.

Taking a breath she tried again, only bolder this time. “Good sir! I have a dress here for Dutchess Pennaught that requires immediate attention.” The entire place quieted. The man finally looked up from his work, unimpressed with Ellen’s outburst. She knew that would pique their interest, as they had never seen the Duchess. She refused to have any ‘common tailor’ even darn a petticoat.

“My dear lady, as you can see everyone here is in need of my attention.” He trailed off returning to his work. Judging by the man's airs, she would assume he had been scorned by the Duchess before. However, Ellen knew there was one thing he could not resist. Ellen pulled the dress out of the cloth bag and placed it on the counter with a dramatic flourish.

“She needs this hemmed immediately it is a great deal too big, there was a miscommunication at the shop” Ellen began, he sighed irritated then moved to remove the dress hesitating. “This is eastern silk...all this fabric…” he eyed it lustfully. The dress was divine and the fabric. Look at all this fabric, the things he could do. If he hemmed this he would not only have fabric to use but the pattern as well. 

“Your Duchess, May I speak with—“

“You think she would come here? Sending me was already a desperate measure” Ellen scoffed as the tailor's chest ballooned. She thought he would pound his chest next, holding back her amusement she continued.

“ We are the same size and I will be her proxy”. The man sniggered “The same size?”

Her eyes flashed, and she let out an audible sigh. Everyone in the store now watched them. 

“You’re right, this simply won’t do. I suppose I will take it elsewhere. Perhaps they could use the remaining fabric—“

“No need! We will have the gown refitted within the hour…” he said, taking it and handing it off to another man. “Go through that door there and he will help.”

Ellen glowed curtseying as he scowled.

Altered dress in hand she bounced back to the manor and grabbed the rest of her things. She knew after charging the alterations to the house she would not be welcome back. Not that she had any intention of returning ever again. Ellen was certain that after the ball her appetite for the wonders of the world would only grow.

This is why the cabin was so important. Since Ellen had no family name she gave herself one, remembering the Latin lessons given to her by the late Duke. As of that day, she was Ellen of Nihil, Ellen of nothing. She laughed as she signed the deed, which in itself was a feat. Buying property as a lone woman required nearly all her cunning.

The cabin would require work, it rested on just under an acre of land heavily shrouded by woods. Which kept it out of sight from the road, which suited Ellen just fine. The last thing she needed were prying eyes or the Duchess. Ellen was certain that the Duchess would hunt her down, however, she had told no one in that house of her plans and she had covered her tracks rather well. 

Ellen had walked from town to her small Cabin, it was sparsely furnished, the previous owner having been a homebody. From what she heard a widowed hunter who went out one day and never returned. However, it had everything she required, a hearth with iron cookware, a bedroom with a large bed, a stone cellar and even a shed full of firewood. She had been given the previous owners belonging which she kept stored in a space beneath the steps. Fortune had smiled upon her with this cabin. She blessed the simple Duchy for their silly superstitions. The only reason she was basically given this house was they feared the woods to be haunted.

Ellen walked to her dusty windows and opened the curtains. She had everything she needed for tonight. Her carriage would arrive by 7 and she had only three hours to prepare. Ellen stoked the fire in the hearth preparing water for her bath.

Ellen stood and looked at herself in the tarnished silver, her old clothes folded on the chest by the bed. The dress was a pale rose, embroidered with gold and frothy white lace. The Bodice was stiff and the neckline was low. No wonder the Duchess never wore it, she would look positively greek. Her prudish nature would never allow it.  Ellen’s Auburn hair tumbled over her shoulders, half up as she simply did not have the time or the means to fully style it herself. However since this was a masquerade any scandal would be left at the door, especially for her. She wore the only piece of jewelry she owned. Once belonging to her mother, a single gold medallion on a thin golden chain. If her mother saw her now she would laugh. Ellen's heart ached slightly, she wished her mother were here to see it. That is where Ellen inherited her carefree spirit, her mother. Taking a deep breath to settle the sudden wave of melancholy, Ellen put the golden mask over her face. The mask fully covered half of her face hiding any telling features aside from her dark brown eyes, dark as coal just like her father. He was a kind and simple man, but stubborn and set in his ways. Ellen cleared her throat, the nostalgia unwelcome. She focused on the mask and smiled faintly. The Mask she had acquired from a costume shop, she may have stolen that as well, she had been living a rather puckish life the past couple weeks. The mask was exceptionally ornate sturdy fabric with embroidered gold flowers and lace, Ellen added a couple touched herself in hopes that it would remain unrecognized. Looking at herself once more in the silver she sighed, admiring her own reflection. Ellen couldn’t think of a time where she had considered herself beautiful. The sound of horses took her attention as she draped a thick cloak over her shoulders and walked out down her driveway and into the carriage. Ellen was giddy now as she sat in the carriage holding the invitation in her hands.

The last thing the Duchess had unwillingly given her was the invitation to the masquerade. Ellen did feel slight guilt, since now the Duchess had no way of entry, but not enough to change her mind. Years of toil and degradation under that sow urged her forward. 

The Harrington estate was on the opposite side of the Duchy, if she were to point on a map she could almost draw a perfect triangle between her cabin, Harrington, and Pennaught. Ellen peaked out of the velvet curtains from inside the carriage. They traversed through the downtown area of the duchy, men lighting the lanterns in the street. The sun was setting later now as spring began to thaw and the warm breeze of summer crept over the valleys.

Finally, Ellen arrived and she was a bundle of nerves. She looked up at the Harrington’s estate and held back a gasp. It was beautiful, the lanterns lit the courtyard as people arrived carriage after carriage. Music drifted dreamily from the grand entrance. “This is better than I had dreamed.” She whispered as the driver opened the carriage door helping her out. Ellen kept her hood up as she walked up the ivory steps, so many people were filing in. Every noble in the Duchy was here, possibly more. The man at the door stopped Ellen holding out his hand, she handed him the invitation.

“Duchess Pennaught?” he inquired. Ellen laughed nervously as her heart threatened to leap out her mouth.

“Oh heavens no! She’s gravely ill I’m afraid, we were supposed to go together. I am her cousin Ellen” Ellen lied, the thrill of it made her skin tingle. The man studied her then sighed.

“Very well, enjoy your evening Lady Ellen” she said handing back her invitation. Ellen hesitated then moved along, smiling unabashedly. She felt like the world was hers now, she had finally done it. She was now Ellen at the Masquerade! 

As she stepped through the entrance she did let out a small sigh. It looked like she had stepped into a magical realm, glittering lights reflected the gold decor as the polished white marble shone and the ceilings gleamed in the flickering light. They were covered in bright frescoes depicting a summer skies with the occasional star or cherub.  Women and men wandered the rooms in exceptional costumes. Ellen felt relief flood her chest as they all seemed to be wearing something different and non-conventional such as her. She saw some women dressed as Greek goddesses; she also saw some looking like they had walked out of a pyramid from the Nile. Ellen felt someone tap her shoulder, a footman inclined to her cloak. They proceeded to help her out of it, handing her a card which she tucked into her gown pocket. Adjusting her mask Ellen stepped into the main ballroom and smiled dreamily as she wandered aimlessly, the Lilt of the music being played by the orchestra floated through the air, reverberating off the impossibly high ceilings. 

Despite their costumes, Ellen recognized some of the nobles, but she was certain none of them knew her. When she accompanied the Duchess anywhere she was invisible and she so rarely accompanied the Duchess. The Duchess tolerated Ellen while her husband was alive and less so after his death. Ellen took in a deep breath weaving through the chatting people, nodding her head in pleasant greeting as she did. She truly felt like Cinderella, to the point where she thought all this would vanish. Ellen watched the people dance to the music in partners, off to the side. She knew that many of them had learned to dance at a young age. Ellen never really had the pleasure of being formally taught, however, she watched enough to understand it. 

“Care to dance miss—?” Someone said to her right. Ellen hesitated and looked over slowly to see a gentleman with ebony hair and a black mask to match, he wore a dark navy jacket with black pants. He seemed to be dressed as a Raven, she saw dark feathers adorn his shoulders. Ellen glanced at the green glittering eyes from beneath the dark mask as he held out a dark gloved hand. She immediately became flustered, gripping her skirts.

He stepped towards Ellen and she smiled hesitantly as he waited patiently for her to respond.

“Oh erm, I can’t say I’m any good” she admitted laughing nervously. Ellen fought not to curse under her breath, where had her sense of adventure gone? Had she not done all this, come all this way for new experiences? The gentleman simply chuckled his hand remaining extended.

“I will guild you” 

Ellen let out a breath, almost relieved that she had been given another chance. Yet apprehensive, were all men this adamant?

“If you insist” she smiled tightly, placing her hand delicately in his. 

“I do” he chuckled.

The man took her out to the floor as couples slowly made their way around the room. A slow waltz began and he gently put an arm around her waist, then held her firmly as he stepped slowly to the music. Although her heartbeat at a mile a minute Ellen followed with little effort, he kept her so light on her feet she couldn’t make a false move. Practically carrying her through the dance. The Stranger studied her, amused. Her pale skin luminescent in the light, her perfect pink lips like rose petals, and those dark eyes.

“I don’t recall having ever seen you here before,” he said after he felt Ellen relax in his arms.

“If I’m quite honest I’ve never been before,” Ellen said, glancing around the room at the dancing couples. None of them paid her a single mind, laughing amongst themselves, drinking gayly.

“Why is that? If you do not mind me asking?” He said adjusting his hand on her lower back bringing her closer. Ellen let out a breath, this man was forward. However, she would entertain it, for now. She studied what little she could see of his face, The vibrancy of his green eyes allured her, although she could not see his face, Ellen felt confident in its attractiveness. He wasn’t as pale as the other noblemen, he spent some time in the sun, although he smelled of expensive oils and his hair had been recently cut and styled. Snapping ebony curls almost down to his chin. Ellen cleared her throat, looking away again as a flush crept into her cheeks.

“Honestly, I just never found the timing to be quite right,” she said dancing around the truth. The man flashed a smile regarding her carefully. “You are unlike most of the nobles here,” he said and Ellen chuckled.

“Is that meant to be a compliment?” her genuine smile made his heart flutter slightly. 

“The highest of compliments my Lady, there is nothing worse than being recognized as a noble. I’m certain if one of them ran off the coastal cliffs, they all would” He said watching as she laughed.

“You have a very impudent opinion of your fellow neighbors” She smiled and he spun her out slowly as he smirked. She was a whip, he noted, as he brought her back against him.

“I prefer to see it as honest,” he shrugged.

“And you? I would assume that you hold yourself in a different regard entirely” She said softly.

The man adjusted his grip once again, bringing her as close as he could.

“Me? Not quite like them, no I am something much worse” He breathed as he lowered Ellen into a dip, his breath tickling her neck. The song wound down and other couples slowed.

“What would your Lord or Lady say to your behavior now?” Ellen strained, trying to keep her nose from touching his. He hesitated, a dangerous look in his eyes.

“They think what I tell them to think. And currently, I think you should join me for a drink...after you tell me your name” he said pulling her upright so suddenly Ellen felt dizzy. Ellen hesitated, any man of standing would know Latin if he heard it. So perhaps it would be best if they remained in a way, nameless.

 “Ellen'' she said carefully and he maintained his smile. He saw she was being cautious. Most women can’t wait to brag about themselves or their standing, or some other equally useless thing at some point. She had said nothing about herself and in return asked nothing of him.

“Good to meet you, Lady Ellen, you may call me William. Shall we?” He said, guiding her off the dance floor as another more lively song began to play. Her heart fluttered as she put her arm in William’s and he rested his warm gloved hand over hers.

They moved to an adjoining room. A parlor that held fewer people as many were dancing or mingling in the main rooms. Ellen marveled at the exuberant decor. The Duchess had described it poorly, the estate was gorgeous and elegant. There was a meticulousness to it as if everything was thoughtfully given a place. William left her to wander the room watching her a moment before going to fetch the drinks. 

There were so many books on the shelves that Ellen’s mind reeled, she could be in there for years. She continued her slow tour around the room, then stopped at a painting of a woman on a swing in reckless abandon. It was beautiful, the painting looked like it was pulled directly from a dream. The Duchess only had paintings of herself and her animals, some of her late husband. Nothing quite as fantastical as this, what a sad secluded life Ellen had lived until now. She had assumed all nobles were as stuffy as the Duchess however why wouldn’t she? The lords and ladies in her company must be as dull as her, how else could they survive her company? Ellen smiled to herself faintly. 

“M’lady,” William said, offering her a flute of champagne, appearing next to her suddenly. Ellen jumped out of her cruel thoughts.

“Oh thank you” she smiled as he now joined her in admiring the painting. 

“This place is far more beautiful than previously described to me” Ellen sighed while sipping her drink, William smiled wistfully. “When it is full of people it is warm and can be beautiful” he trailed off holding out his arm, Ellen took it as he led her through the parlor.

“Do you visit the estate often?” She asked, running her fingers along the bookshelves. “You could say that,” he said coming to a halt in front of a shelf that was filled with medical texts. William watched her intensely, his flute resting on his lips and he planned his next steps. Ellen let out a long breath, so many books, so many things. She wanted to see them all.

“Would you like a tour? He said suddenly and Ellen hesitated. She glanced around the room, they were already alone. From what Ellen understood this was inappropriate, however, she wasn’t a true noble. So she didn’t really have an image to maintain. Ellen supposed it wouldn’t be any harm to tour the estate with a presumptively handsome man, who knows what will happen tomorrow. She may be living in her cabin, she may be killed for her insolence. 

“Why not, who knows when or if I’ll see it again,” she said softly and William hesitated regarding her carefully. With a kind smile and healthy curiosity, he escorted her down a dimmed hallway with ceiling-high windows. The moonlight shone in making the marble floors glow in a mystical way as dust in the air shimmered like small pixies. 

Ellen sipped her champagne slowly, the beverage already bringing a flush to her cheeks. She most certainly did not drink often. Living as a maid that catered to a needy woman and her many and frequent guests left little time for that.

“William, do you know the prince well?” Ellen asked suddenly as William opened a door to another parlor. However, this one was lit only by a large roaring fire. Two leather sofas on either side of it, bookshelves and paintings lined the walls. Ellen let go of William walking ahead and placing her glass on one of the end tables by a sofa as she walked to the ceiling-high window throwing open the curtain and letting the moonlight pour in.

William watched her, his breath catching as she glowed in the pale blue light like something ethereal.

He cleared his throat remaining by the fireplace, placing his drink on the mantle, clasping his hands behind his back.

“You could say that we are well acquainted, do you know him?” William inquired and Ellen glanced back at him smiling to the silliness of the question. William would never know just how silly it was.

“No, I don’t think I’ve ever met him. Nor have I ever seen him. What’s he like?” she said walking to large wooden double doors on the opposite side of the room and opening one a crack peering down a dark corridor. Curiosity buzzed in her head. She wanted to explore this place in its entirety. Why shouldn’t she, with a guide who was well acquainted with the prince? They were sure to keep out of trouble for the most part.

“He’s a bit of a beast really, stubborn and callous. He locks himself away for the better part of the year. Pines for his home... The Masquerade is the only thing he seems to enjoy properly, that and women” William said and Ellen laughed at the honesty in his review of the prince. Now that was something else, this man was positively rude. She wasn’t sure if it was ostentatiously done or simply his persona. So far Ellen enjoyed it, it made her comfortable when people were honest, regardless of the crassness.

“I’m sure he would appreciate you saying that” she chided her laughter stealing her breath. William shrugged, walking slowly towards her.

“Why wouldn’t he? it’s honest,” he replied and Ellen turned away from the open door to William, her hand still on the handle.

“Most Nobles aren’t quite so blunt about their companions' faults” she raised a brow.

“Were they insults?” William smirked his green eyes glinting in the light of the fire.

“You did call him a beast, stubborn, callous. I don’t know anyone who would consider those compliments” she was laughing again, this man was strange. Had she perhaps run into another commoner like her playing make-believe. This man was far too impertinent to be anything like the people out there.

“Ah, yes well” he trailed off turning towards the fire. Ellen furrowed her brow at the strange response and looked down the dark hall. She wanted to keep going. They remained in silence a moment. William turned to face her again, watching her stare intently down the dark hallway. A shiver ran down his spine.

“What’s down here?” Ellen asked, not looking away.

“This part is restricted, Princes orders,” William said now standing next to her making her jump. Ellen giggled nervously.

“His orders? Well he isn’t here is he? Come on, let us have a quick look” she said, not waiting for his permission. Ellen walked briskly into the dark hall, only lit by the moonlight. She could barely make out where she was going. She hadn’t really the slightest idea as to why she was doing this to begin with. It took her eyes a moment to adjust. She couldn’t hear anything of the party, Just the echo of her brisk steps and her giddy breath.

William hesitated in the doorway, he adjusted his mask as she disappeared in the shadow. This evening took a turn he wasn’t expecting. However he would let it play out, why not. It wasn’t often he met someone so candid, so adventurous. He quite liked it. He couldn’t recall the last time he had properly been entertained by, well, anything.

Ellen reached the end of the hall and her hands fell on the handles of another set of double doors. A single slim flickering beam of light came from underneath, signaling that there may be someone inside. Her heart hammering, Ellen opened the door silently a crack and looked inside. It was a bed-chamber, a huge one. It had its own small seating area with books and a mantle, with a large heroic-looking portrait hung above it. When Ellen saw that the room was empty she slipped inside. This room was as big as the Duchesses parlor! The decor was very apt, darker colors, animal furs, a strong for poster bed with ornate carvings in the pillars. Even without having seen the portrait, Ellen would have known this room belonged to a man.

William followed reluctantly, a couple steps behind her. He watched her walk directly to the portrait above the mantle, gazing at it intently.

“This is beautiful, imagining sleeping here every night” Ellen murmured staring at the painting of the heroic figure.

He stood there with dark hair, wearing traditional royal garb, his hand on his sword while his foot rested on the head of a dead lion. 

“The prince I would assume...a portrait of himself in his own bedroom.” She remarked smirking to herself slightly as she studied his face with those vivid green eyes. They were uncanny, Ellen froze. Surely, it was a coincidence that her mystery suitor had the same intense evergreen gaze. Ellen put to rest any speculation. William had been awfully quiet since they left the other room. She turned to him hesitantly now and he stood, rigid, by the door.

Although she could not see his face, she knew who she was looking at now. The crassness towards the prince, the discontentment with the nobility. It all fell into place.

“William. Take off your mask” she demanded feebly. He hesitated then smiled faintly.

“It’s a masquerade Ellen, why would I do that?” he said carefully. A chill ran down Ellen's spine at his tone, it was almost threatening. Although, she felt no fear, none. In fact, if she were to put it into words; Ellen felt a great, perhaps even overwhelming, desire.

“Ah, here I had thought we had left” she quipped

They both stood on opposite sides of the room in silence.

“I will remove my mask if you tell me who you are Ellen, who you really are,” he said dangerously, Ellen let out a long breath. William stepped slowly toward her.

“I’m nobody, no one,” she said, her voice sounding weak. Suddenly, William was very tall and the room was very small and warm.

“I find that very hard to believe,” he said, now a single step away.

“It’s true, I am Ellen, simply Ellen. I have no name. I am no one” she said as he took another step forward now a breath away from her. William took the mask from his face with his one hand as the other gently brushed Ellen's arm as he gripped it at the elbow. 

With his mask removed she saw that he was indeed the mysterious and elusive Prince Harrington.

William Harrington, she supposed. Although Ellen had never heard anyone say his first name and if she had, she would not have cared to listen.

Ellen also slid her mask from her face and William smiled, making her legs buckle. He was incredibly handsome when he did that. The corners of his eyes crinkled ever so slightly and she saw he had a dimple in his right cheek.

“Well simply Ellen, it is a pleasure to meet you. Finally” he said and Ellen blinked rapidly.

So she is alone in a bed-chamber with Prince Harrington. His bed-chamber. Prince. Harrington.

“L-likewise. Erm.” she stammered then shook her head trying to regain composure. However, Ellen found herself simply staring. Why did she feel an air of danger about him?

“You called yourself a beast. Why” she asked suddenly. Williams' gaze shifted from hers to her lips, his brow furrowed as he took a step away. Turning his back to her and looking into the fire.

“Because that is what I am, by nature” he murmured. Now Ellen furrowed her brow taking a step forward.

“William,” she said his name cautiously hesitating to touch his arm. It came out as more of a sigh, uncertainty causing her voice to fail. He was tense, perhaps she had angered him but being too forward? She had been exceptionally impertinent all evening.

“Do not say my name so wantonly” he breathed and Ellen pressed on still. She knew she had put herself in a dangerous position. Alas, had she not decided that she would take everything she could from this evening? Although she had to admit, she did not fully understand the danger.

“I-I did not, I simply-” she stuttered, her heart pounding against her chest as she finally took his arm turning him around. She was left breathless by the look in his eyes, beast indeed.

There was no man there, only carnal lust. Ellen let out a small gasp as he put a firm arm around her waist.

“You have put yourself in a dangerous position letting yourself alone with a beast like me” he said through clenched teeth, his other hand roughly caressing her face. Ellen's body flushed as the room grew hotter, or was it her?

“You are no beast, just a man hopelessly enthralled by a wily woman” Ellen replied, hoping it sounded as confident as she wanted it to. William seemed to relax and laughed.

“Ah then, have you tamed me?” he said, his eyes falling to her lips. Ellen smiled faintly as her gaze flickered from his eyes to the line of his jaw.

“Tamed you? No, I think not. I don’t think you’ve any desire to be tamed” She smirked and William chuckled.

“Do you normally give up so quickly?” He murmured now his hand sliding softly from her face to the back of her neck.

“I am here, am I not?” Ellen sighed shakily as goosebumps rose on her skin.

“What shall you have me do?” he practically whispered, his face inching closer.

“Kiss me William” she breathed, as his lips that were only a breath away, crushed hers hungrily.

Ellen was no expert on men or on the workings of them. However she was no novice, she pressed herself against him, her hands resting on his firm chest, gripping the lapels of his jacket.

“You surprise me again Lady Ellen” He breathed trailing his hand from her face to her bare shoulder. Ellen let out a shaky breath and said nothing as Williams fingers trailed to her bodice and began loosening the bindings.

Ellen didn’t flinch, in fact she unbuttoned his coat and slid it off his shoulders. Bodice undone, he made a face of surprise as the tips of his fingers slid down her bare back.

“No corset?”

Ellen smiled faintly.

Williams groaned his lips falling to her neck as he held her in place with one arm, the other pulling the dress from her body. Ellen chuckled then laughed as he lifted her up out of it effortlessly.

“You are something else entirely Ellen” he panted as she wrapped her legs around him. She wore only her petticoats, no undergarments. She had only so much time to dress herself, and with the tailors she made certain that the bodice was tight enough to not require a corset. As much as she enjoyed the gown, she was glad it was off. Ellen clicked her tongue.

“Then what am I? A celestial being? Perhaps a fairy?” she chided, her arms around his neck, kissing him again stealing the answer from him. William’s hands slid up her bare legs and over her bottom as he carried her to his bed.

“Something not of this world” he chuckled and she simply continued to kiss him.

She could feel him firm beneath his breeches as he kneaded her backside before putting her down. Ellen knelt on his bed facing him as he stood next to her removing his vest watching her.

“You never did answer me William” Ellen said watching him untie his blouse. He hesitated as he went to untuck it, Ellen took away his hands.

“Why do you call yourself a beast…” she said taking his shirt off him and running her hands down his surprisingly firm chest. She had imagined people of nobility to be soft and weak. Years of sitting idly by, drinking and eating their lives away. William had seen work, muscles rippled beneath the silk and the lace. Ellen ran her hand over the curly patch of thick hair that rested in the center of his chest. Ellen let her hands slide lower down his body, pulling the threads of his breeches. William suddenly grabbed her hand drawing her attention to his face.

“Aren’t you a curious one, perhaps I ought to just show you. Hmm” he almost growled, pulling Ellen roughly against him. She gasped as he tore the remaining fabric from her body pinning her to her bed, placing himself between her legs. He held her wrists above her head roughly taking her mouth with his, Ellen arched her back pressing herself against him. William groaned, grinding his hips against hers as his lips traveled down her neck. When Ellen tried to bring her hands down his body but he pinned them back up above her head with a fierce tug. A delicious shiver ran down her spine as his eyes locked onto hers ushering a silent command. William’s mouth slid over to her nipples and he took one into his mouth. Ellen bucked letting out a shaky gasp as his tongue worked circles around it. Smiling and watching her, he slid his mouth lower his tongue leaving tantalizing wet trails down her abdomen as his hands slid featherlight up her thighs to meet at her center. Ellen moaned as he caressed her, his fingers gently touching her very wet divide. She fought to keep her arms above her head gripping the sheets on the bed as his mouth explored her further, his fingers teasing her opening. Ellen cried out her body radiating with pleasure, she never could have foreseen the evening turning out like this. Giving herself over to a stranger and it feeling so-

Her thought was interrupted as his fingers slid into her. Ellen's arms fought to remain in their position as waves of heat lapped at her body in rhythm with his hand. 

William watched her writhe beneath him, he felt every shiver and every gasp as he played her like an instrument. He enjoyed the way her face flushed, the way she moaned when he touched her in the right places. He ached for her, however, he would take as much as he could from her before fully indulging himself. As that is what beasts do, they take and when you’ve nothing left to give, they take more.

“William” Ellen breathed as he brought her to the precipice, she felt like she was spiraling. Was this a dream? How was it possible to feel such intense pleasure, Ellen could not dwell on it. She was suddenly overcome by sensation. William hesitated, then stopped sitting up on his knees, his breath heavy. Ellen looked at him from underneath heavy lids, she gripped the sheets above her head. William refrained from smirking as he carefully moved off the bed, Ellen watched, saying nothing. He began to slowly and fully remove his breeches revealing his long and exceptionally hard manhood. Ellen was awed at the sight of it, it was a beautiful and terrifying thing to behold. Although it had not been her first time seeing a man clad, It was still nerve-wracking, only in the best of ways. Ellen bit her lips in mindlessly in anticipation, William raised a brow. When he did not move Ellen rose onto her elbows, her chest still heaving, when William still did not move she crawled onto her knees. Bringing herself to the edge of the bed in front of William. He let out a long breath as he watched Ellen cautiously run her fingers up his arms. William held back a shiver and her finger skimmed up his neck pulling his face closer to hers. When he did not stop her Ellen brought her lips to his, William slid his hands up her torso gripping her hips almost painfully as he pressed against her. Ellen moaned, tangling her fingers in his hair as he crawled back onto the bed with her, not letting her go.

William ran his lips down her jawline to her neck, however Ellen forced him onto his back so suddenly he made a sound of surprise.

Ellen smirked as he glowered at her, just as he was about to teach her a lesson she rubbed herself on him in a way that knocked the wind right out of him. William let out a hiss through his clenched teeth as Ellen moved against him, he continued the painful grip on her hips. Forcing her to abide by his rhythm and Ellen simply obeyed. She liked that he demanded control, she loved disobeying. It was her specialty, after all, it was how she managed to get this far.

Ellen very slowly placed him at her opening but did not allow anything past the tip. William groaned holding her in place as he moved beneath her, Ellen's lips moved wordlessly as her hands slid up his chest, gripping the hair.

William could wait no longer, he entered her suddenly tearing a cry from her throat. Ellen regarded him with a look of triumph and satisfaction. She gripped his chest viciously as she moved against him. William watched in awe as she tossed her head back. How did she know exactly what to do? Was this Ellen truly who she said she was, was this a meeting of serendipity or something more sinister. 

The thought fell by the wayside as Ellen picked up her pace, William watched in awe as she brought herself over with a shudder. He would not let this wave die as he threw Ellen onto her back. She was still too overcome to do anything as William brought her knees to her chest plunging deeper. Filling her completely. Ellen gripped his hips now, digging her nails into him as he now ravaged her. She was overtaken by ecstasy, Ellen was certain at this point she would die in euphoria. A bead of sweat trickled down William’s back as he forced Ellen’s legs by her head. He did not know if this bothered her, at this point he did not care. The beast was ravenous and it was needy. Ellen could barely breathe as another climax ripped through her. She saw humanity fade from William’s eyes and it only served to arouse her further. 

Without warning Willam let her go flipping her onto her stomach, he slapped her buttocks and entered her roughly from behind. Ellen shrieked and he chuckled as he kneaded her backside watching his manhood penetrate her again and again. William moved at a near-violent pace, he pulled Ellen upright, his hand around her neck.  She writhed helplessly against him as he nibbled her lobe, his other hand between her legs. Ellen gasped barely able to breathe, however she would not complain even if she could. Ellen was out of her mind as William brought both his hands now to her breasts, gnawing on her neck while he continued to ravage her. William could only feel her and taste her, it overwhelmed his senses. He could bear it no longer with a sound closer to a growl, he forced her back on all fours. Ellen was putty, she couldn’t do anything but feel. Her body limp and her mind clouded, she heard William groan as his movements became somewhat erratic. He pulled out emptying himself onto her backside. Ellen felt the hot wet on her lower back and slid onto the bed in glorious defeat.

They lay a moment in silence, both breathless, both content. William stared at the velvet overhang on his large bed, debating on whether he was satisfied. He hazarded a glance at Ellen. Her pale skin flushed, he marveled at his handy work then decided he was satisfied for now. However, he decided he would not be able to let Ellen go so easily. William had been with many women before and all of them were the same. Prudish and proper, none of them delighted in carnal activity like he did. Very few indulged him and usually when they did it would be more out of favor than desire. Ellen was different, a little rough around the edges. If she decided to stay...William almost chuckled to himself. She would not have a choice, William decided.

Ellen felt herself drifting between sleep and wakefulness, the evening's activity having consumed most of her energy. Ellen felt something brush her lower back, she glanced lazily over her shoulder to see William wiping her down. He was a strange man, beastly in his mannerism and most certainly voracious in his lovemaking. Was that what they had done? Ellen wondered to herself, most certainly not, she decided. It had been enjoyable however, she would not call it lovemaking. Ellen regarded him with the same caution as before. She could see his mind working, he was planning something. He wore his desires so plain on his face, although she was certain that he was completely unaware. 

“What is it William?” She asked finally as he tossed aside his now filthy blouse. His gaze held hers a moment, his brow furrowed. He sat upright, his legs crossed and cleared his throat. 

“You will stay with me from now on” he stated and Ellen raised her brows.

“Was that a request or a demand?” She asked, now also sitting up. 

“Demand” William said simply and Ellen chuckled. She had no issue with the demand, in fact it would be a great comfort to stay here, perhaps he would be able to keep her from her previous lady’s wrath. However, what would she do here? Be his maid, his toy or worse, his pet?

“Am I your prisoner William?” Ellen asked cautiously and William hesitated, moving slightly closer.

“No, not my prisoner. My erm-“ he trailed off not quite sure to say next. He could not marry her, not after a single night, he would never be so foolish. If he made her his mistress that would draw far too much attention. He had no need for another maid, certainly their relationship would cause chaos amongst his other employees. 

“My guest” he said finally and Ellen scoffed. “Your guest? Guests may come and go William.” Ellen chastised and William felt the spark of his temper. She should be thanking him, not questioning him. 

“Speaking of, I should be going. Thank you for the lovely evening.” Ellen said quickly getting up off the bed. She saw him now. She saw the beast move in those evergreen eyes. William was a beast, an alpha that demanded obedience. As much as she had enjoyed it in his bed Ellen had no desire to have her freedoms revoked once more. 

Ellen found her petticoat and slipped it on walking back towards her dress, which had been strewn across the room. As she went to reach for it William grabbed her hand.

“Miss Ellen, see reason. Where will you go? What will you do?” William snapped, his words seemed caring but his eyes showed only anger. 

“What I do with my life is my business William. I am a woman with my own thoughts. I know that is difficult for a man such as yourself to understand” Ellen snapped back, trying to pull herself free. William simply scowled, gripping her wrist tighter. 

“You know nothing of what I understand.” He hissed and glared at her a moment. Then suddenly William let go and Ellen let out a sharp breath gripping her wrist. 

They both glared at each other a moment longer, then William sighed.

“Ellen please stay.” William murmured after some time. Ellen sighed, he was acting like a fool. What would she do here? 

“William…” she began, then let out an irritated sigh. For a time, she could stay, perhaps it would be best. At least until the Duchess’ anger fades, even at her cabin so would be in danger of it.

“Fine. But I have conditions” she snapped picking up her dress. William tried to hide the look of pure triumph but failed miserably. He stood clad with his hands on his hips. Ellen scowled now, although she was not upset. She knew well enough that this was a blessing. 

“Good, I would expect nothing less” William nodded, his face sobering, but amusement still glinted in his eyes.

“Come let us discuss them,”  he said, taking her hand and Ellen’s brow furrowed. 

“Will you not return to your party?” She asked and William shook his head pulling her back into the bed.

“Whatever for? I’ve no desire to speak to anyone else.” He said matter of factly. The statement brought color to Ellen’s face. 

Ellen lay in the bed her body rested against the headboard, as William sighed resting his head on her abdomen wrapping his arms around her waist like a child. 

“Now tell me Ellen what are your conditions?” He sighed, closing his eyes. Ellen hesitated then cleared her throat.

“To come and go as I please. If I am truly free then I should be able to do thusly” she said and William grunted. 

“Where would you go?”he demanded and Ellen let out a breath.

“Wherever I want William. To the river, to the market. Doesn’t matter” she snapped and he chuckled. “Fine, what else?” he said, his hand now drawing patterns in the low of her back, forcing a shiver down Ellen’s spine. 

“I would like my own room…” Ellen began.

“No you will share mine. That is non-negotiable” he said gruffly and Ellen sighed. 

“What if I require time away from you?” She said furrowing her brow. 

“You shan’t” he stated and Ellen rolled her eyes. 

“There will be times where a woman would like her own privacy, her own space... during my fluxes” Ellen watched him, his eyes were closed and he seemed to be asleep.

“No. You will be here at all times. I care not about your fluxes—“

“William—“

“No, you will stay by me...you may go out to the town or the neighboring city....” William sat up now and regarded Ellen with all seriousness. 

“But every night you will lay by me. That is final” he said and Ellen let out a breath staring into his eyes. It was a strange demand of someone he had just met. What was even stranger;  was that Ellen did not seem to mind

“That’ll do for now I suppose.” She murmured and William smiled faintly. 

“Good, I’m assuming this concludes our business for the evening” he smirked and Ellen’s brow furrowed. She still had questions but one that came before all the others. 

“Why are you doing this?” She asked suddenly. “You’re a prince for heaven's sakes, you could have anyone. Why me?” 

William’s smirk faded and he regarded her carefully. She was smart, perhaps too smart. He would have to keep a close eye on her, however, she was right to ask. He had no particular reason and his title was meaningless. He was a prince sure enough, but the seventh son banished to the countryside. Having everything at your fingertips makes the world seem small, choices so limited. William enjoyed sampling the rarer things, living almost dangerously. Ellen so far was a mystery to solve and he planned on puzzling her. She was an adventure to have, not to mention what he required to feed his needs. 

“You...so far are unlike anyone I have met and I would like to know you better,” he said finally.

Ellen snorted and his brow furrowed. “Then write me letters, visit me. There’s no need to keep me at your side at all times. What happens when you tire of me?” She asked and he sighed growing tired of the conversation.

“No more questions Ellen,” William sighed, putting his hand around the base of her neck. “You will have to answer them eventually William” she sighed as he kissed her.

“I’m sure, but for tonight I’ve answered enough.” 

William kissed her again, firmer this time. Ellen felt his hand slide up her leg, underneath her petticoats once more. Was the man ever satisfied? She still ached from their previous activity. Regardless, her body responded to his touch. William placed himself between her legs, teasing her opening with his swollen member. Ellen shivered at the sensation and he smirked as he felt her eagerness. This time he would work slow, he would draw her out for as long as he possibly could. Ellen moved her hips eagerly as he simply rubbed his tip against her. 

“Beg me Ellen” he murmured almost breathlessly. She hesitated, not quite sure she heard him correctly.

“Excuse me?” 

William smirked, he enjoyed her defiance. However, he could make her compliant. William pressed his tip against her opening firmer. 

“Beg me” he still smirked bringing his face closer to hers as he rhythmically pressed against her. 

Ellen shivered again, she regarded him carefully. 

“William…” she breathed on his lips as they hovered above hers. He pressed against her harder, his tip slipping in slightly more, drawing a gasp from her.

“Yes, Ellen?” He watched her flush the more he pushed her. 

“Please” she begged and he only shook his head. 

“Please what Ellen?” He asked slipping himself in further and pulling out, resuming his infernal teasing.

“Fuck me William” she panted and he kissed her, sliding himself in with ease. He lifted her knees to her chest once more, holding her up against the headboard. Ellen dug her nails into his back as he moved against her slowly, painfully slow. William buried his face in her neck, her hair now fully loose. Ellen moved against him and in retaliation he began moving in longer strokes, the sensation hitting her just right. Ellen moaned her hands sliding up his back into his hair. William groaned as she firmly gripped his hair, almost pulling. He slammed into her now picking up pace as he felt her quiver. Ellen came with a resounding cry, however, William did not abate. He only slowed dragging his teeth along her neck, nipping her nipple through her light petticoat. Ellen tried pushing off the wall, as the pleasure threatened to drive her into madness but William simply chuckled. Biting her nipple hard enough that she gripped him by the hair and pulled his head away. She was taken aback by the ferocity in his gaze. 

“Oh Ellen, you will come to regret that” he growled. Ellen panted not looking away. 

“Oh? How so?”

William smirked, taking both her hands in one of his and tying them with a ribbon attached to his headboard.

“You will beg me to stop and never stop all at once.” He said through clenched teeth as he tied her hands. Ellen felt a thrill run through her and in the same breath, slight fear.

William tore off her petticoat exposing her breasts as he suckled them while moving inside her slowly. He was right Ellen wanted him to stop and never stop, he was tearing her apart. It felt like an eternity as she cried out, another climax hitting her as hard as the first her legs shaking. Ellen was certain she would faint from it all. William shivered himself as he fought his own release. She was a resilient one. He pulled out, putting his mouth back between her legs. Ellen tried to gasp but was breathless. She wrapped her legs around his head as his tongue explored her, she would climax again and again. William smirked as she moaned and mewled helplessly. Sweat beaded on both their bodies, William himself was growing tired. He eased off Ellen for a moment watching her chest rise as a drop of sweat made its way down between her breasts. William smirked as her swollen lips parted, her dark gaze moving down his body.

“Untie me” she whispered, her voice hoarse. William hesitated and brought his lips to hers, untying the ribbons. Ellen forced William onto his back, smirking herself. 

Her hands held his shoulders as she straddled him on all fours. 

“Lady Ellen you have a dangerous look in your eye” William began, she had no desire for witty banter. She wanted to see him come, she wanted to make him squirm. Ellen said nothing and put her mouth on the tip of his shaft, then ran her tongue down the length of him. William fought himself not to buck as she enveloped him. Ellen watched his face soften as he fought a moan. She continued feeling him tense as she swallowed him whole. 

“Lady Ellen you are just full of surprises,” William said through clenched teeth. He was close, he stroked Ellen’s head as she continued. William would have her do this again but for now, he came with an intense force. They had been at it for hours. Ellen felt his seed spill down her throat as he came. She had only ever done this once before and it had been far less pleasant then. 

Ellen gasped as she lifted her head. William chuckled pulling her up next to him, they were both panting, both slick with sweat. 

“You are a beast” Ellen stated and William regarded her, then chuckled again his arm around her as she rested her head on his chest.

“Yes I know”