The Lost Royal

A dance with the devil

Cautiously, almost hesitatingly, I pick up the mask that would complete my ensemble. It was a secret temptation that lured me into this impetuous decision. it was every girl's dream to be the belle of the ball at some point in her life. I wouldn't exactly call it "belle" as I close into the mirror for a closer inspection. I twirl around to pause and look at the back, pinching up the edge of my dress; it was enough to help me blend in but also elegant in the way the royals would look, a perfect fit-in dress. The blue was also a shade too bold, a midnight blue, to draw in the eyes, but if it was my only time to be anything but a palace maid tonight, I wouldn't want to miss the chance. This time I, proudly may I add, might be the one to catch a gentleman's interest. I cannot resist the smile that bombards my face. I feel a certain thrill of excitement to be rebelling. I felt like a spy. 

The ballroom was in full blossom. It was absurd to see the amount of guests that were filling in with the masses. The ball was in full swing gathering in the masquerade dancers and their partners. the orchestra had outdone itself even. I had served many young gentleman who showed slight interest in me, only smiling politely as they took their preferred appetizers, but that was about all. Wait, until they perceive my transformation! Not that they would notice it was that little palace maid. I had sneaked out of my usual time maid duty about an hour ago when I had someone else take in my shift when I complained of an upset stomach. Then I had quietly entered my chambers, received the gift of that mysterious lad laid out on my bed and then with my mask that I hid in my drawers, I went off to a more clandestine location to change. The next thing I knew I found myself in a room with a big mirror. 

the chandeliers hung high up in the ceiling burning on my periphery as I arrived inside with a couple in front of me. Today was supposed to be a big deal; it was the young prince's birthday, and it would be awfully nice to catch a glimpse of him. I know it's absolutely absurd that I didn't even a chance encounter with him since I'm working so close to his quarters. 

I wonder if that lad would recognize me? Duh, of course he would, afterall he picked out my outfit for me. So was he waiting for me to appear? I glance at the ballroom. It was crowded with fashionable ladies and dashing gentleman. This will be a night to remember. I smile and wave to each passerby pretending like I'm one of them, inside I'm screaming with glee because it feel so good to be noticed. 

"Milady, may I have this dance?" It's a young gentleman. Why heavens not? I'm a pretty girl and I shall dance this evening, curving my lips in the modest appreciation I can maintain as I manage to say, "why, thank you, i will be so grateful," perhaps I said a tad too much, but I'm reveling in his attention, even blinking my eyes for the effort. He looks kind of preturbed, possibly at my unreasonable advances? 

"It's me," he whispers, but I didn't hear him so I lean closer and say, "i'm sorry sir, but could please repeat that, the environment is too loud for me to listen to you speak." He spoke a little louder, "you don't have to try so hard," and that audacious man smirked. Oh, it was this man! Suddenly putting up with the charade seemed to be a big burden as I released some tension off my shoulder, my straightened figure lacking its earlier posture.

He grinned, "what happened to that confident posture? you seem so laid back with me." I shrugged, "like you said, I don't have to pretend with you." I gruffed, he did ruin the mood, i was at least expecting one young man to offer me a dance. "Now go away and let me join the evening. I'm waiting for a dance as you can see." He tilts his lips southward, "at this rate, I don't think so." Without my permission, he catches me off balance grabbing my waist and twirls me away to the floor with the other dancers. "how dare you," i mutter silently fuming at his boldness. I can't believe this guy. I thought he was doing me a little favor or giving me a break from work so I could enjoy free time, but only to succumb to his wishes. Why, how unfair of him, absolutely infuriating!