Ah, sinful pleasure.
There were no problems with indulging the human need for luxury, and he was glad to oblige. The kingdom was in a state where such pleasures were affordable, and some even criticized him on the lack of festivities held in his demesne. The aristocracy rejoiced when the masquerade was announced, a game as well as a gala, for the entertainment of the people.
He played the silent watcher, as per the norm set by his own timid nature, reclining on his throne and smiling at the merriment of his guests. Each woman wore black dresses of the finest silks and satins, and their male counterparts in fresh pressed suits. The slightest splashes of color lay only in the masks worn by each person. Each man twirled his partner round the ballroom, accompanying the music with the sound of ruffling cloth and soft murmurs.
Applause rang through the air when the orchestra finished their piece.
The conductor of the large orchestra, in his mask bearing swirling musical notes, bade him to request a song for his pleasure. There was only one he would ever pick. It was a shame he even had to ask. A shiver went down his spine when the delicious, dark waltz filled his ears.
Murmurs of approval rippled through the crowd and the dancing continued.
He lost himself in the music, from the hearty beats of the timpani to the elegant sway of the violins. His foot tapped along with the conductor’s hands. Waves of bliss washed over him in anticipation of the solo performed by the talented violinist.
When the first note was played, the double doors to the grand ballroom opened.
His smile widened. How appropriate that he had chosen this song; perfect for her entrance.
It was a piece they were both fond of.
She was so vibrant; the speck of brilliant crimson in an ocean of black. How odd, that she had chosen to stand out in her dress of blood red when it went against her nature. Her ebony locks were arranged into an elegant style and shimmered under the candle light. Her plain white mask was the only attempt to avoid extravagance.
Behind the mask, he could see the hungry fire in her dark eyes and the wicked smile of a predator on her red painted lips.
Her eyes offered him a challenge, daring him to rise from his perch. It was too tantalizing an offer to refuse.
There were gasps as he stepped away from his seat. The crowd parted like the sea as he answered her siren’s call. She stared up into his eyes, further tempting him. It was a game they had played before, many times, and he was often too weak willed to emerge the victor. He bowed and offered his hand, which she accepted by sliding her own in his.
They waltzed around the ballroom, eyes locked in a stalemate with neither overpowering the other. The guests had transformed to spectators, watching with intrigue since he had finally picked a partner worthy of a dance with him.
“You’re late,” he dared to speak.
“You neglected to send me an invitation,” she countered with an accusatory stare.
“It is an impossible challenge, finding you. I must admit, I was under the impression you disliked parties.”
“They are dreadful,” she agreed, “But your fine company makes it bearable.”
“I am flattered, but I am sure you did not come here to share a dance with me, my old friend.”
“Ah, but that was before I knew you were so skilled a dancer. And you chose my favorite song. If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were trying to woo me.”
This made him laugh. “You are the only woman to receive my attention in this setting. There are many who are envious of you.”
“And many men who bear the feeling towards you.”
She then pressed her lips close to his ear. The closeness allowed the intoxicating scent of roses to pass his nose. “And some will be more than others. You know why I’m here.”
“I do. And I will not be responsible for what happens to you as a consequence.” A favor for a favor. It was only fair he repay her.
So rare a thing, her rich, melodious laughter and the joy that follows; her smile never failed to melt his heart. “Dear one, consequences are for those who are seen.”
“Then, I should be fair and give another man the privilege of your company.”
He hated the reluctance of letting her leave his arms to cast her spell on someone else, but he knew she held him above all others. She gave him a sentimental look reserved only for him, before capturing the attention of a lone nobleman who would soon fall to her seductive ways. The scent of rose petals lingered in the air where she had been moments ago, clinging to his clothing. With a deep sigh, he returned to his seat before anyone else could carry him away.
Observing was so dull after sharing a dance with her.
He watched her new partner twirl her around, thoroughly enthralled by her beauty and enigmatic nature. This man knew not who she was or where she came from, but there was desire in the eyes behind his mask. A feeling of lust that weaker men could not fight the way he could. Soon they disappeared into the throng, with only the occasional flash of crimson fabric to tell him she was still here.
Once again, he let the music embrace him and carry him away.
Only when she emerged from the crowd did he return to reality. She was the only one with the audacity to approach his seat.
“I believe I failed to thank you for the dance,” she said with a gentle curtsy.
He takes her hand and places a single kiss upon it. “The pleasure was all mine.”
“I do hope we meet again.”
There was no doubting she would return to him someday. He watched her slip through the dancers and approach the double doors. She allowed him one last, mischievous glance, allowing him to glimpse her mask a final time.
Hers was simply unfinished. The mask was a reflection of the personality, and the crimson splatters on her white one suited her well.
The music ended when the doors closed behind her.
Ah, sinful pleasure.
