The Wolf of Dorian Gray - A Werewolf Spawned by the Evil of Man

Chapter 7 - The Duke's Gala Part 1

The two were whisked away towards the wealthier side of town by a pair of swift, pure-black Friesian horses. They rode in a richly appointed four-wheel carriage with an enclosed cargo area and glass windows. While the carriage was in motion, Sibyl's reserve was once more tested as Dorian closed the curtains and began changing into a silk tuxedo with a tail coat. She couldn't quite bring herself to look away, as he teasingly removed his shirt and trousers and slowly put on the more elegant, white-silk shirt and midnight-black trousers. The two locked eyes briefly and an animal-like energy filled the space between them—ending only as Dorian completed his dress with a light, golden-silk vest and bow tie.

The homes they passed along the road grew more expansive and more elaborate until, finally, the carriage arrived at the steps of the grand house of the Duke of Berwick. A footman greeted the couple and assisted them as Dorian dashingly guided Sibyl from the conveyance. He kept his left hand firmly holding hers and his other upon the small of her back. They walked together and, after ascending the steps, the two were warmly received at the arching entryway. The iron double doors stood open and were lit with large, ornate lamps to greet the guests. As they walked through the halls, a series of cinnamon-colored mahogany doors opened instantly at their approach. Finally, they were swept inside to the main ballroom along with the other arriving couples.

The stately ballroom was lavishly adorned with various rare artwork and exotic statues. A spattering of works that showed the proud face of the Duke or his fabled ancestors were spread among them. The eye was immediately drawn to the center of the room. There a flowing stonework peacock fountain shot water from its tail feathers and mouth. It was placed in the center of a gilded dance floor that had been constructed specifically for the evening. Brightly colored gas lamps highlighted the couples as they moved gracefully across the floor to intricately choreographed movements. Looking down upon the dancers was a tall ceiling which displayed baroque paintings in bright colors. The cross sections were adorned with sophisticated wood carvings and floral stonework. Several colossal crystal chandeliers hung low and spread a warm glow throughout the room.

The full orchestra was set to playing a lively waltz. With a laugh, Sibyl took Dorian's hand and pulled him towards the center of the floor. He smiled brightly as they assumed their positions with a bow. Dorian placed his right hand firmly on the back of Sibyl's left shoulder and pulled her close to him. The two began to move in unison as Dorian led with a confidence and boldness that put Sibyl at ease. She gazed deeply into his eyes as the two flowed across the floor. The music quickly diverged into various Polkas, Schottische, Valse à Deux Temps, and a modified Varsouvienne. Dorian's mastery of the many forms quickly put the other gentleman in attendance to shame. But all eyes were on Sibyl as she gracefully twirled and spun in her dazzling dress.

Throughout the evening, the pair were inseparable and remained together for nearly every song. They laughed together over private jokes and exchanged witty banter with the other guests. They drank sweet Champagne as they teased and flirted with each other late into the night. Finally, at half past twelve, a look of fear reached Sibyl's eyes as she realized the time. Dorian understood her plight immediately and escorted her without protest from the Duke's home to the waiting carriage. He instructed the driver to return to the poorer section where Sibyl's home was located.

During the carriage ride, Dorian and Sibyl sat very close and nestled together for warmth. Dorian lifted Sibyl's hand to his lips and planted several soft kisses on her palm and fingertips. He breathed softly as his mouth moved up to her delicate wrists. He paused at the sensitive skin of her inner elbow and let his tongue play, swirling around lightly. Sibyl let out a giggle of delight as the sensation both tickled and caused a throbbing between her thighs. Dorian continued to move upward, nibbling at her neck and shoulders while savoring the moment. Then, his lips began to explore her smooth face. When his mouth finally found hers, she opened her lips as their tongues darted in and out to intertwine in small circles. They caressed and stroked one another as the passion and heat grew—only to be interrupted by arriving at their destination far too quickly.