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Let Us All Make Merry, Very Very Merry!- Xmas 1677


Caroline Despanay
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Buckingham

 

The Duke of Bucks took great joy in setting the girl forth upon this quest. By the end of the evening, their company would guarantee she was the next topic of the court wits. He could just hear the poetics now.

 

He was almost disappointed when they were called to a table for sustenance, for what bad behaviour could happen at a table unless Lady Kendishall planned to have them dine off a table of naked ladies.

 

The King

 

But all the ladies were determined to play coy with Rowley, teasing him. It almost flared the king's senses some to have to pursue a bit.

 

He chuckled as he noticed Lord Camberwell kiss another woman and then another man.

 

The Master of Bitches seemed to have the attention of his Mistress of Misrule.

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As Caroline reached the banquet table, there was Rowland Alston who greeted her with a softly spoken compliment as he drew a chair for her. She was glad to see he had indeed made the party, for she had not spotted his entrance earlier but then many people had shown up, much to her delight. Well, in fact, the mere fact His Royal Majesty was in attendance, already made her party a social success. Alston was a welcome addition though too. She beamed up at him.

 

"Why thank you, it is why I went to so much trouble to present myself like this," she brazenly answered.

 

He took a seat next to her. More party goers were now joining the feast and her expensive chef had indeed gone to great efforts to put a varied and delicious banquet. There was pheasant, goose, and squab plus shellfish, fish, and eels plus side dishes of all sorts. The servants made certain alcohol was kept well supplied at the table too.

 

"It is nice to see you here, Master Alston, I hope you are enjoying yourself?" she inquired even as she speared a squab.

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"Hospitality seems to be the Baronesses middle name..." The scent of lemon and spice lingered around Alston, tickling at her nose still as he moved apart enough to claim his seat (with a quick glance over his shoulder warding away any that might had hoped to take his place!)

 

The small woman before him then casually speared a roasted pigeon. The decisiveness of her moment typical of the forthright he'd witnessed in his visit earlier that very day - strangely arousing to view a woman who directly took what she wanted.

 

Meanwhile Rowland had hold of freshly filled goblet of wine, his fingers that held it littered with sparling rings.

 

She asked if he was having fun, with a cocky grin Rowland replied "That depends if I count an hour watching you flirting preamble to my own turn upon you - and fortunately for us both, I do." he laughed a little at that, then leaning in to add, "had you realised how your eyes flare just a little before you move to kiss?"

 

Evidently Rowland had been watching her very closely indeed, including her kissing of the King.

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Charles and Nicolette

 

Nicolette was provoked to a pleased-with-herself smirk at Charles deduction of her nature. "I am starting to think you know women far too well." was her responding tease.

 

For a man with only one eye, he was very appealing, he was definitely upon her secret list of men she'd like to experience in exquisitely intimate ways, and she felt a quiet confidence that she was also upon his list. It was only really a question of how long they would play the game of flirtation beforehand. Not dissimilar to the situation she currently had with the King.

 

Meanwhile she flirted wildly, and laughed gleefully as Charles gave her carte balance to discard clothing as and when! "Where were you when my maid was pulling with my laces!" the imagining of daring rogue in her bedroom brightened her eyes even more. He'd have lounged idly of course, being absolutely no help at all. "... why must already know that I would have liked an audience for my contortions." Yes she'd have loved that.

 

Settling to a chair, Charles then provided actually helpful advice. Briefly sobering Nicolette nodded, "That is an excellent idea - and I know the exact person I shall enrol. Have you met the Osborne girl?"

 

Before they might dine, there was a bottle, and drink to take. The need for glasses was however abandoned, Cheeky Chatham lifted the bottle directly to the French girls lips - and Nicolette was not one to shy off.

 

With a cry of assent she tipped back her head she parted her lips, gulping then spluttering, that fluid spluttered from her lips and splashed about her chin and down her neck. "La!" she laughed gayly, lifting her hands helplessly.

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Charles and Nicolette

 

Charles inclined his head in mock humility, the pose somewhat ruined by the toothy grin stretching his face.

 

"Oh, I lay no claim to understanding women, bewitchingly mysterious creatures that you are, but of people I know a little, and it is my reckoning that you are well worth watching Mademoiselle, and for reasons beyond the obvious." He laughed. "Though speaking of such, that smirk is an enchanting expression on you."

 

Charles felt his eye flare appreciatively as Nicolette grew bolder in her flirtations. Idly he trailed a thumb over the back of her hand, smiling with slow, lazy sensuality.

 

"An audience?" he murmured. "Bitterly shall I rue the missed opportunity. Send for me when next you feel the need to... contort, I pray you. I promise to be most attentive."

 

He met Nicolette's eyes, letting his unfettered joy in their little game shine out, seeking to show her that he was willing to accept whatever she offered, and reciprocate, and seek no more than that which was freely given.

 

"The mouse Basildon brought to a gathering of cats?" he asked as he settled himself at the table. "No, I have not met her, and cannot say that I feel the lack." He resisted the temptation to look for the chit. "You intend to conscript her? That should be amusing." He lolled his head back and laughed. "An act of kindness, really. It would likely be the most interesting thing to ever happen to her."

 

Resuming their play with the bottle (Charles realised that he still had no idea what it contained), he laughed as Nicolette guzzled. His eye could not help but track the path of the stray drops down her neck.

 

"Oh dear," he whispered into her ear. "We seem to have made a mess. Shall I clean up?"

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Louis was in a merry mood watching various antics unfold. There was a certain swell of pride as the lamb that was Bridget retreated from the likes of Buckingham to follow him. Yet, it was not his plan to have her cling to him. No, he wished to deposit her in the company of some libertine gentleman that would be kind enough to alleviate the poor girl's maidenhood. It could not be him; but, he was hopeful that another person might do the honors. There was the Irish man that Nicci fancied. He seemed the type game enough. If only Roos or other Merry Gang fellows were in attendance. Noting Nicci in intimate conversation with Audley, Basildon thought the cyclops might do. Was it jealousy or protectiveness that made him bristle when his cousin was flirting intimately with another man?

 

"Here you are my lady," Louis cheerfully announced as he produced a plate of popular fare. "Delicacies for a delicacy." He placed the plate in Bridget's hand and let his touch linger an extra moment. "Do you see anyone worth your introduction? Perhaps a gentleman that you have caught sneaking glances at you?" he asked merrily.

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ooc: Moving this along, hope no one minds.

 

 

IC:

 

The guests descended upon the banquet table in a good mood (or so it seemed to Caroline's observations) but definitely blessed with a hearty appetite. That and the food was both varied and delicious, her expense on the famous French chef did not go unrewarded. Liquor flowed too as they all ate their fill. The party rang with laughter and a cacophony of voices male and female competed to be heard. Rowland had seated himself next to her and as they ate, the pair engaged in an exchange of suggestive wit. He was interested in her alright. Eventually though it appeared most guests had had their fill and were properly liquored up to now enjoy Caroline's little card game.

 

Actually the game had almost nothing to do with cards except to pair people up. It was with some difficulty she got everybody's attention then explained the so called rules of the game, what there were of them.

 

"Very well, lords and ladies, here is how this unfolds. Take your cards now and look at them. The purpose of the cards is to assign you another party goer to become better acquainted with. Interpret that as you will," she started, that last line drawing some chuckles and titters.

 

"If you have a club, you must now find someone who has a diamond. If you have a heart, then locate someone with a spade. The deck was handed out to keep the suit colors as evenly balanced as possible so everyone SHOULD find themselves a partner...."

 

"Now - once you do that simple action, you must....let me look," she turned to glance at the large clock near the fireplace, "You must spend time with that match of yours until the clock chimes a new hour. That is almost a full hour. Of course when the clock chimes, you can remain with that person should you both wish. But...give it this one hour please."

 

"Gentlemen, devote your full lavish attentions to your lady match. Ladies be cooperative and accepting of your partner. Now what you do is up to you two. This is a huge house and I only have one bedroom occupied...my personal bedroom. So that leaves other rooms or stay right here in this room or brave the basement or even more so the balcony...." she certainly hoped they all realized it was winter out but still, they could at least chat in the refreshing chilled night air. Frankly she didn't expected a lot of chatting out on the balcony.

 

"When this hour is over, you may well have made yourself a new friend or renewed an old relationship or just exchanged views on whatever topics you wish. Very well.....START! Begin comparing cards and match up, my lords and ladies. Enjoy! "

 

Caroline purposely didn't take questions. She realized too that the whole situation was rife for cheating as people could trade cards to manipulate the desired partnerships but frankly she did not care. These were libertines, they weren't much on rules regardless. But supposedly they did know how to have a good time. Well then, let them figure it all out.

 

OOC: Since we are supposed to begin bringing this party to a close soon, feel free to simply pair up and content yourself with a quick summary of what the pair did with their time. I realize we don't have time to play everything out in detail.

As for the pairings, first come first served, whoever posts first you got the pair. (Though it might be nice to get the other player to agree. XD)

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Louis and Bridget

 

“Thank you, my lord.” Bridget blushed when she felt his hand linger upon hers for a moment. Those lovely feelings that she could not quite identify were stronger now, and her entire body trembled pleasantly. This made it a bit difficult to hold onto her plate, and she set it down on the table and took a seat, smiling winsomely at Lord Basildon and patting the place beside her.

 

When he asked to whom she would like to be introduced, she looked around the room between bites of a delicious pastry, and finally pointed discreetly at one gentlemen in particular. “Him. He is the one I want to kiss next.” The man Bridget had singled out was none other than the disguised King. Nothing in her demeanor indicated whether she knew who he was or not.

 

The brandy in the flask was gone and she plucked a glass of wine from a tray, taking a deep swig to wash down her food. “Will you introduce me to him?”

 

 

(OOC: I'll leave it here because I don't know if Louis plans to stay with Bridget during the meal and I'd rather not assume anything in case he has other intentions.)

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Francis rather enjoyed the brief sojourn for food. It would give him plenty of energy for later that evening. No matter what he ended up doing.

 

He was hoping that perhaps one of the ladies he was partial to on their betting list might be there, but he was not wishing or willing to just fuck anyone. He could just as happily traipse to Madame Hortense's if need be!

 

When the time came to finally find out what his card was for, it seemed that it would be used to pair them up.

 

"Well, it seems I have a diamond," Francis said, wagging his eyebrows. "Who likes diamonds, ladies?"

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As Francis announced he had a diamond and invited ladies to accost him, Louis quipped aloud "careful Kingston for the lady you seek will have a club, and she might make use of it." He offered a smile, hoping that others heard it.

 

As for himself, he had drawn a spade, meaning that he needed a heart. In fact, many people had said that about him in the past. "Bridget," he whispered "we shall spend an hour in the coach perhaps, so we should allow another gent to have the good fortune of your company for the next hour." The smart lass wanted to meet the King. So much the better.

 

If the King had a heart, he planned to give his spade to Bridget. "Master Rowley," Louis called out, showing no regal deference. The King seemed to favor such. Though true anonymity was fleeting, he supposed a powerful man wondered at times how others lived their lives.

 

Bringing his lamb to the King, Louis hoped to pair Danby's offspring with the King for an hour. Her company would be so tedious that he might just decide to plead with Nicolette to save him, and save him she would ... in her own special way. "May I present Lady Bridget Osbourne? She has never been to a merry party like this before. Having kissed Lord Kingston and Lord Buckingham this evening, no doubt she is in need of a ... seasoned veteran of court to give her advice about the merry ways of court. She has asked me specifically to introduce you. Lady Bridget, this is Master Rowley, a gentleman about court. He makes up in camaraderie what he lacks in portfolio. He is known for keeping the very best company when he graces us with his presence. As such, it is only fitting that you be seen in the company of such an august fellow. He is known for his jolly tales about courtiers past and present, but I urge you to disbelieve whatever he chooses to reveal about me," Louis offered with a laugh.

 

He left Bridget there challenging the King's patience for her vapid company, though he claimed that he would come fetch her if Old man Rowley made her blush overly with his tales. Taking cues from the King, he offered him the same. "And should the lady make you blush, we will send other company to rescue you from her tales." That offer, though made to sound in complete jest, was the more serious offer. It would not do to have the King become too bored.

 

It did not take long before he saw the signs of boredom, so Louis claimed to see her blush, so that he might save the King before seeking to foist her on other gentlemen. The Irishman Raneleigh had the eye of his cousin at one time, he might be just the fellow for Bridget. If only Roos were present, the man would show no scruples in servicing Danby's daughter.

 

Louis spent his time sampling food and watching others match. He observed his cousin's movements as well as Bridget's. He spent time with Caroline chit chatting about things and the party. She looked to be in need of a good shag but Louis did not feel that this was the evening to volunteer his services. No, she needed to be free to direct the flow of the evening from somewhere other than her boudoir. Yet, there seemed to be a paucity of female guests and an overweight of important lords. Did Caroline plan to swive them all this evening? He certainly put the question to her. Next time, he urged, she should be certain to invite a dozen other ladies.

 

Louis spent the night trying to interest one blackguard after another of being alone with Bridget. He continued to ply her with liquor to heighten the chance of a debauchment.

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Charles and Nicolette

 

Nicolette's peek towards the King revealed nothing - perhaps he'd hid a jealous look their way, or perhaps he’d forgotten her entirely?

 

Either way the smile remined cheery upon her face, as far as consolation prizes went Chatham made it easy to forget any loss. "Moi, complex?" she batted lashes, "but sir, I thought my desire most obvious" They picked the game up again, she with thoughts of kissing him. In fact, wasn't it strange that they had not yet kissed? Rather negligent of them even. And she just knew he wanted to, he was just waiting till she relented. That dance of light in his eyes, was his amusement at the length of her, really quite unnecessary restraint.

 

"Oh dear..." splashes of wine down her chin and neck, droplets upon bosom. And his offer to tidy them away. The girl warmly leaned forwards offering her flesh and purred her reply, "If you would."

 

Throughout the meal and her Chatham flirtations, further glances were cast toward the King, and then to her patron and his man, then to towards her cousin and his drab thing.

 

Chatham’s opinion of Louis plaything was consistent with her own, and she'd have been happy to outpour her distain (jealousy) fully if not for the announcement of the game and what happened after. Nicolette's eyes flared as she witnessed her Cousin escort Bridget towards the King. Sacre bleu!

 

No. That would not do.

 

Nicolette leaned closer to Charles then and whispered, "My darling let us continue our game another day..." she gave small incline of head to the fellow, as she swept herself away.

 

 

Nicolette descends upon the King & Bridget

 

She heard Francis call out he had Diamonds, and met his eyes briefly as she passed. Might he understand her desire to get that Osborne chit away from her turf. They might be dressed up fancy lords and ladies, but when it came right down to it instincts were animal.

 

Nicci's card had been kept tucked into her neckline the length of the evening, it's corner peeking out, yet not betraying it's identity. Now that Caroline’s purpose for the cards was revealed, the young lady realised it was likely to require some leniency with the truth to result in the desired outcome (for herself.) Anything, she'd do just anything, except let Bridjet claim CR for all that time!

 

"Grand fortune, I have found you!" Nicolette linked her arm through Bridgets, "We are paired for a hour, what on earth shall we do with ourselves, hmm?" Her eyes slid to the King, did he realise her primal motivation, or was he like Chatham, and oblivious to the machinations of the female mind.

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Rowland & Caroline, a call to Francis, Louis and then all

 

Caroline was a tease indeed, for rather than reply to the gents advances she then stood and announced her game. (Which was perhaps reply enough to Rowland?)

 

"All ladies like diamonds!" Rowland call out with a saluted glass in reply to Francis - then laughing as Basildon made his own quip. It had not been half bad.

 

"It's good to have you back in the fold Basildon." Louis had touted himself as reformed for some years now, but he had far too sharp a mind and tongue to remained entertained by those dullards. Really, his return had only ever been a matter of time if you thought about it. "What would your own card be then?"

 

"Mine is a Heart." he announced, turning to look optimistically about the ladies.

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Charles and Nicolette

 

Charles, too, wondered how they had managed to go this long without kissing. But it was a game at this point, and he did not feel it overconfident to think that Nicolette would yield eventually.

 

And until then, playing is fun.

 

Very fun, he corrected himself, eyeing her decolletage, freshly anointed by the contents of their mysterious bottle. He grinned, and leaned in slowly. (Both to savour the moment and give Nicolette the opportunity to object if she chose.) A momentary pause, and Charles dipped his head to chase the droplets with his lips.

 

Huh. Wine.

 

He applied himself diligently to his task, making sure to leave no trace of the spill upon the Frenchwoman's person. Straightening, he grinned.

 

"Better?"

 

Seeking Barbara after Nicolette's departure.

 

Caroline's announcement of the purpose of the cards provoked a flurry of activity. Charles smiled and bowed as Nicolette took her leave.

 

"I look forward to it, Mademoiselle. Good hunting."

 

Stretching as he stood, and snatching an unattended glass of rum, Charles cast his gaze about the room for sign of Barbara. He still had her card, after all.

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Charles caught Barbara's eye, a smile was flashed - and murmuring something to the person next to her she diverted her course to intersect with him.

 

"A random match -" while he indeed had her playing card, she made no sort of gesture towards claiming it, "how very debutants-ball of our hostess."

 

Barbara, of somewhat shocking levels of experience, was not very taken with the announced game. It was a game for mixing, and she, possessing a level of arrogance, preferred company of Preference.

 

To that point she was pleased when Churchills surrogate returned to her at that moment, she had no intents of letting him leave. "What say we devise our own little game, hmm?"

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Charles and Barbara

 

Charles grinned as the Duchess joined him, raising his pilfered glass in salute.

 

"Ostensibly random," he said lightly. "I think the real entertainment is observing everyone scrambling to subvert it."

 

Charles sipped at his rum. Not his favourite tipple, but it would do for now. He gave Barbara his full attention as she suggested seeking their own entertainment, absently licking a stray drop of liquor from the corner of his mouth.

 

"I did place myself entirely at your disposal," he said, grin widening. "I take it you have something in mind?"

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Caroline probably could not quite enjoy herself as much this evening as if she had simply been a guest at it, for it would fall upon her petite shoulders should the festivities fall short of what was expected by the attendees. So while she mingled, laughed, ate, and drank she also kept a close finger on the pulse of the celebration. Especially she watched the king like a hawk, hopeful he would pronounce this night a success upon it's conclusion at some point this coming morning.

 

Louis spent some time with her chatting with her and not shy with his opinions (she doubted he ever was) inquired whether she intended on swiving enough of the menfolk to make up for a certain lack of female guests, pointing out next time she needed to invite more ladies. Caroline pretended to take it all in stride but inwardly thought he should worry about his own parties instead of hers. Not that she knew of him throwing any.

 

"Ahh, good point, Lord Basildon however I must admit a few that I did invite and who stated they would be present never showed up. So it is hardly all my fault. I also urged people to bring partners along ...well, such as you did with Bridget but as you can well see many of the men came alone or in company of each other. But I shall endeavor to do better next time, I assure you."

 

She was glad when they parted company, she valued Nicci's friendship but had never really warmed to the fellow to be honest. On the positive side of his ledger though, it seemed Louis was not in favor of war with the French so she appreciated his politics.

 

As various guests began to pair up once they grasped the concept of the game, Caroline felt she too could indulge in the activity. Rowland may have thought she had unreceptive to his earlier interest in her but she had not. When he announced to the assemblage he was in possession of a heart she made her move. Tucked secretly away with her party gown were one card of each suit so she could twist this game to her personal advantage, one perk of having organized the game and knowing ahead of time how it worked. Caroline extracted the card she now wanted.

 

"Ahh, and I have a spade here. I believe we have a match then," she beamed as she sidled up to him, invading his personal space then kissing him with enthusiasm.

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Charles and Barbara

 

"The breaking of a games rules is practically a prerequisite for our... company."

 

She agreed casting her eyes towards Camberwell as Charles suggested that the interest would be in seeing who took up with who and who scurried out of reach. "Yes, now this could be interesting, quite interesting indeed." A smirk played briefly upon her lips, before she rounded her attention fully upon Chatham.

 

"Though paying heed to what others are up to is so very outward looking wouldn't you agree." her voice dropped softer as she spoke, "I rather favour an introversion of pleasure, if such a term even exists. Thrills that set the senses reeling, so that all else ceases to exist."

 

"Why my dear Master of the Bitches..." she murmured, touching his cheek, "how very insightful you are."

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Rowland and Caroline

 

Taken by (pleased) surprise, Rowland returned Caroline’s kiss warmly - she was far more enthused than he'd anticipated - he having thought he'd somehow underwhelmed her earlier on. Perhaps it was her duties as hostess that had distracted her from her true hedonistic delight? But now - now she seemed more than ready to embrace it!

 

"Now you are going to have to show me your card as proof!" he was grinning widely with his tease as they broke apart.

 

Meanwhile he was remembering what she'd said of bedrooms, and that one of which was out of bounds. Out of bounds because, well, he had imagined she was planning an intimate liaison. And now, after her kiss... well chances were improving that it might be he!

 

Leaning down to whisper in her ear, his hand stroked the small of her back, "It looks like everyone's getting into the swing, you party is proving a grand success." With such a fine proximity he was tempted by her delicate earlobe. Relenting was a sumptuous joy, kissing the soft fold of flesh in-between his lips softly Rowland inhaled her sent, savouring her closeness, before he drew back again. "I wonder if we should set an example for them, and retire to more...” his eyes slid down her cleavage, and tongue was wetted “privacy?"

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Charles and Barbara

 

"I've always thought of rules as something to make you think before you break them," Charles agreed, lips curving boyishly. "Not that I always manage even that much."

 

He listened, grin widening, as Barbara continued, very much aware that this was a schoolboy fantasy. He sipped at his rum again, buying a moment to anchor his thoughts before answering, voice dropping to mirror hers.

 

"I know what you mean. Observation engages but one or two of the senses, while action stimulates all of them, and the experience is commeasurately greater for it. And greater still if, as you say, one can shut out all the distractions."

 

Moving languidly, Charles turned his head to brush his lips on the inside of Barbara's wrist, drinking in the feel of her fingertips on his cheek, the scent of her, the sheer heady sensation of her closeness.

 

"Then speak your desire, and I shall see it performed."

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Charles and Barbara

 

"What a thill-less world it would be if there were no rules." Barbara returned playfully.

 

"Oh there are some rules that even the most reckless Duke would not dare to cross. Treason for instance, and... well no mostly just treason." having lost her own drink somewhere along the way, Barbara looked about for another full glass. "For fairly near everything else pardon can be purchased. Ah, but forgiveness, well that it another thing again."

 

His head turned, his lips brushed pulse point in a way that was almost innocent - but not. Her eyes flared appreciatively, subtlety of seduction in a male was not a given. "Are there sufficient distractions here to prove a good testing ground?" she extended her arm a little more, where her inner arm now ached for the warmth of kisses.

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Charles and Barbara

 

"An interesting point. Are our pleasures pleasurable purely because they are transgressions?" Charles mused airily. "We shall have to test it."

 

He listened to Barbara's musings on treason with interest. His first thought was that treason never prospered, for in prospering it ceased to be treason, but he had enough wit not to say that. Instead, he offered Barbara his glass of rum and considered his verbal reply.

 

"Well, that would be where thought comes in. Even I've sense enough for that." He snorted with amusement. "And considering some of the things I've found myself mixed up in, that speaks volumes as to what a monumentally bad idea it is."

 

That appreciative flare of her eyes was as intoxicating in its way as everything he had drank that night. Charles revelled in the sensation, eye shining with delight as Barbara offered more of her arm to his lips.

 

Well, who am I to deny a lady?

 

"Let's find out," he murmured, and bent to slowly trail his lips along the soft skin of her inner forearm.

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Charles and Barbara

 

"A well worded hypothesis." Charles solidified her thoughts into a theory, and Barbara was bemused that he wished test it.

 

"Well now you have me curious to what commandment you might invoke for the very sake of breaking it." Accepting his glass she took a generous sip of the flavoursome beverage. "But perhaps your pre-knowledge of intent would influence your choice of rule to break, thus negating the conclusion? Really, to be fair, it ought be an unbiased party to invoke a rule."

 

Glancing about, though to look for such a rule maker she then laughed, "Ha! where is a proper society sort when you need one."

 

"Thought?" She considered his reply upon finding forgives, and countered, "Yet you cannot underestimate wiles. I've met many a person of great intellect that might never sweeten a story enough to redeem themselves towards forgiveness. But show me a man or woman with sharp wit, an ability to think upon their feet..." I dare say you talked your way out many a tight spot.

 

Barbara's lids grew heavy as he kissed, and she drew in a luxuriously deep breath, her fingertips slid past Charles jaw and cupped his cheek. In a low and soft voice she purred, "You seem rather well qualified, yet what would your old school chum think of this?" she referenced his friend/her lover John.

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Charles and Barbara

 

Charles shrugged carelessly.

 

"I confess that the logistics of such an experiment escape me." He chuckled. "I shall have to consult Hooke and Newton. Perhaps even Doctor Sprat."

 

He grinned sharply as Barbara continued, nodding his agreement.

 

"Oh, undoubtedly true. It is astonishing how far a quick tongue can carry one. But in the specific case of treason, it seems better to me to think beforehand and avoid having to seek forgiveness at all. That is a spot too tight to dance out of comfortably, or indeed at all."

 

Charles was enjoying himself, savouring Barbara's reactions, when she asked that question.

 

Oh, you venomous bitch.

 

The thought was at least partially fond. This was exactly the sort of cruel little sally he himself might launch. Not that that made the unfamiliar experience of wrestling with his conscience any easier. (A distant part of him cackled with glee at the fine trap he had wrought for himself.)

 

But, in the end, Charles could be no other than himself, and that meant playing his own game, not anyone else's.

 

"Oh, you are a cruel creature, aren't you?" he whispered, his eye shining with mixed amusement, respect and desire. "John knows me better than anyone living, which should be answer enough. In any case, any consequence of my actions I'll own, but for now there is a beautiful woman in front of me and I must act as my nature bids me."

 

He bent to resume his task.

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Rowley, Nicolette, Bridget, & Louis

 

Rowley noted Louis moving in his direction with Danby's daughter.

 

Plausible deniability and a dislike of prudes and virgins made this a veritable nightmare. It could well be the worst hour of his life!

 

He did have a bit of drink in him.

 

And then they were upon him. "Such a beautiful lady, Basildon, and you would waste her on me?"

 

Then, like the perfect moment of a play, Mademoiselle Vauquelin strolled up and saved him! His brown eyes widened briefly and returned to normal size. It was not oft that he held his breath as king, but he found that Rowley did, and he let the breath out.

 

"Men like us cannot stand in the way of ladies' ardour," he grinned, watching the two retreat.

 

It was just then that Lord Camberwell strolled up to the two gents. "Ha! Well if we are not prevented from pairing so, I shall claim you, Master Rowley."* He gave the taller man a kiss flush on the lips and then took him by the hand saying, "Shall you beg me to sit on your lap or to put your head in mine like you used to?" Mischievous brows wagged over those bright blue eyes.

 

And so it was that their king in disguise spent the next hour without another man in his lip. Such was how rumours were started!

 

Over the course of the rest of the evening, Lord Camberwell proved the most well-loved foppish man there. He could have given Gentle George Etherege a run for the "Gentle" moniker. Camberwell next teased Buckingham, which ended in a raspberry to his cheek and a pert jab to his crotch. Then came Ranelagh, who seemed particularly delighted, but if one knew anything of Ranelagh and Camberwell's personal proclivities the 'why' would have been evident. Grand bouts of laughter came from them. The went Ashburnham who Camberwell pulled down into his lap.

 

It was sometime later before Camberwell called, "When is our Mistress going to give her spankings? For I have a list of those who I've seen drinkless!"

 

(*I was gonna snag Louis but since you posted his activities already and that he wants to watch, I shall let you )

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Rowland seemed pleased that she reverted to paying full attention to him as Caroline decided she had done all she could to get the crowd mixing and matching. Really the cards were nothing more than an excuse to allow people to mingle...well, considerably more than simply that. It was supposed to be a libertine party afterall.

 

The handsome fellow requested to see her card then for proof of their possible match. Now Caroline had produced the correct one of course but giving in like that would be too easy, surely he would appreciate her next tactic.

 

"Oh should I? Mayhaps you will have to find it for yourself?" she quite deliberately now tucked it down inside her cleavage as she batted her eyelashes at him striking a saucy pose.

 

He complimented her on the seeming success of her party, she wasn't sure he meant it but no matter as he was using it to cozy up to her.

 

"Thank you, I believe you to be quite observant. That makes you intelligent as well as handsome, impressive. I wonder if you are impressive in any other ways?" she asked a leading question while his lips played with her earlobe.

 

He had a question now too, wondering if they should be required to set an example for the others and retire to some privacy...he meant her room she was certain of it. She reached then for one of his hands with hers.

 

"I should have told you I suppose, I never set GOOD examples.....but yes, I know a perfect room. It is reserved entirely for me and the bed is very nice....oh but wait....I do have a rule about that bed. No one may lie in it with me unless we both are naked. Are you amenable?" she grinned up at him but already knowing what his answer would be, tugged at him and up the stairs they both went in a bit of less than dignified haste.

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Nicolette, Louis, Rowley, and Bridget

 

Bridget wasn't thrilled by the theme of Lady Kandishall's game. Even with her mind muddled by alcohol, she knew that her reputation might be ruined if any of these libertines let it slip that she had spent an hour alone with a gentleman. They would protect their own, but she was a stranger and the daughter of a gentleman who was out of favor with the King.

 

She reached into her pocket for her card as Lord Basildon explained that they would have a long ride back in the carriage and suggested that she spend the next hour with someone else Unfortunately, she could not locate it. Perhaps it had fallen out when the Duke of Buckingham swung her off her feet?

 

There was no time to ponder its loss, for her dashing escort led her over the gentleman she had requested to meet. His introduction complemented both Bridget and Master Rowley, and it seemed as if he wanted to pair her with him for the duration of the game. She greeted him politely, but did not curtsy, since she believed she was higher in status than he. Taking a sip of wine, she blushed when he said she was too beautiful to be wasted on him, wondering if he secretly wished to kiss her.

 

However, before Lord Basildon could insist that she was perfect for Master Rowley (which was what Bridget thought he planned to do), his cousin appeared seemingly out of nowhere and linked her arm through hers, claiming that they were destined to spend the next hour together. How does she know, when I lost my card? she wondered.

 

Still, being paired with a lady was better than being alone with a man, and so she didn't protest. Bridget smiled at Mademoiselle Vauquelin and as soon as they had moved away from the gentleman, she leaned over and whispered in her ear. “Do you know where the loo is?” Her bladder was protesting all of the drink she had consumed. “I need to pee.”

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Rowley, Nicolette 'sorting' Bridget / Camberwell w. tenders for forgiveness

 

The French belle threw old Rowley a wink as she claimed the 'lady', his lack of protest was a victory... though at such personal sacrifice! As Nicci led Bridget away she saw merry others descend upon the king. (Still, at least this girl she silently loathed did not make greater advances than herself with the King.)

 

"Why yes, I know just where the bathroom is." Nicolette eyes darkened as she led Bridget off deep into her friends house. To a door Danby's girl was led, ushered through into it's darkened space she was left.

 

An audible click of lock might have alerted Bridget to the deceit.

 

"Trei!*" Nicolette snickered to herself as she deposited the key down her bodice, to then return to the party sure in the belief that she had done everyone a favour!

 

~

 

Some time later it was Camberwell who remembered.

 

Nicolette was feeling very liberal by that time, having devoted herself to finishing the bottle of Orange Brandy (had the bottle been replaced without her noticing? for it never seemed to get empty!)

 

"I shall need a paddle, with a list so long my hand will grow weary!" Nicolette laughed, fully entertained that the threat from earlier on had been remembered - and she swept over to Camberwell laughing. "Who are our worst offenders? And.. shall we allow them a chance to purchase our forgiveness?"

 

 

 

* translation - sorted!

OOC: subject to Moderators judgment.

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Charles and Barbara

 

"Perhaps therein is the experiment?" Barbara purred as Charles went on to breech time honoured etiquette of friendship. Though not a biblical commandment, a chap was not meant to fool around with his friends mistress. And here, they were in full view of everyone, this was bound to get back to Churchill.

 

"Mmm..." his kisses tickled up her arm, sending shivers of delight, goosebumps trilling her skin. Her lips sought his, and time disappeared

 

~

 

Some time later a cheerful call [Camberwell] interrupted their reverie. Breaking apart from intoxicating embrace, attention to surroundings smazy, Barbara looked to see... "Sweetling I think your name is on that list." she purred, fingers slipping down to give his but a pinch, "shall you go fearless to your shaming?" the older woman asked, a carnal glint in her eyes.

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Charles and Barbara

 

Would he have been more reticent had John actually been seeking to rekindle his affair with Barbara? Charles would like to think so, though on sober reflection he would reluctantly admit that never had he faced a choice where both options were a betrayal of how he saw himself. Genuine moral conundrums were something he had no experience with, and so he could not say on which side he would have landed, had the dilemma been in earnest.

 

And so he gave himself over entirely to the moment, meeting Barbara's eagerness with inquisitive patience. Charles took his time, savouring the taste and feel of her, exploring and learning her responses. He felt no need to rush, content to let matters meander slowly towards their destination as he and Barbara built their passion.

 

He nipped gently at her lower lip as she drew back, resting his hands on sweetly rounded hips. At that moment Charles did not think he had ever seen anything half so lovely as Barbara's temporary state of warm awareness. He laughed deep in his chest, as much for the joy of the sight as for her words and the pinch.

 

"It seems likely," he breathed in agreement, "and I shall meet my fate and pay the price for my sin without shame or fear, though not without regret, for I'd much rather stay here with you."

 

His eye glinted back at her , as fingertips slid down to brush over the curve of her rump before returning to their resting place.

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The Hostess & I

 

"I am up for that task." Rowland grinned eyeing her neckline at the invitation. Others about where getting a little hands-on, it was indeed a most indulgent atmosphere that Caroline had inspired, and yes the saucy pout of her lips goaded him ever on.

 

Sliding arm deeper around her waist his free hand moved to cup her bosom, thumb slipping over edge of neckline there to softly rub. "I like to think you would be impressed." he smiled darkly nickering kisses at her neck. She was so very accommodating, it was arousing - Rowand moved with eager whisking her off to her room - discarding his own and then helping remove her clothes. Was she able to hid the other suits of cards from him at that stage? There was a measure of rumbled laughter mixed with ardour as he swooped her bared form into his arms...

 

~

 

... some time later, barely reassembled -- his cravat tucked into jacket pocket, shirt laces loose, shoes on but stockings gone -- Rowland escorted the Hostess back to the party. Yes with a measure of downplayed pride in claiming her this evening, with a smile of utter satisfaction.

 

Placing a fresh glass of wine into her hand he raised his own with which to clink, "Well done, my lady, well done." he complimented. Whatever she lacked in experience, she more than made up for in enthusiasm.

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