"And your ribbon? Isn't it a gorgeous idea? For the subbies who are being auctioned to wear black velvet ribbons so everyone knows they're up for sale ahead of time?" Rosa's hand went to her throat to touch her own velvet ribbon. The moment she had put it on, after slipping her bracelet onto her wrist, it had all become very real.
"I... um... I'm not sure. It might be in this one." Sylvia fumbled for the smaller envelope and opened it. "Yes, here it is."
"Excellent. Have you decided what you're going to wear? I'm going all out. Well, at least that's the plan, but I really haven't decided yet. Mistress Miranda is in charge of all the tours, but since you're my friend, she's allowing me to conduct yours." Rosa's excitement was infectious.
"Slow down, I've only had one coffee, and I don't think it's even noon yet," Sylvia said, half-laughing in protest. "You know I can't function until I've had at least three cups and it's mid-afternoon, at least. Which reminds me, is there a dustbin around here anywhere?"
"A dustbin?" Rosa was confused.
"Ugh, are we starting this already? A trash can! I mean, really, we do speak the same language. Apparently."
Rosa giggled, loving the different phrases she often heard from her Aussie friend, especially as they were said in that absolutely charming accent. "Sure, there are several inside. I'll show you once we get there. But first, have you got your bracelet? It should be in your welcome pack. Put it on now and do not take it off. Not even in the shower. Remember?"
Sylvia frowned as she drew the bracelet out of the manila envelope. "Black. How boring. Why don't I have a pretty pink one, like you?" She reached out and drew a finger across the pastel-colored bracelet on Rosa's wrist.
Rosa's eyes went soft, thinking of the Princess Program and all its delicious possibilities. "Because you're not into the ageplay dynamic. But really, the Dungeon? Don't you have any other fantasies?"
"Well, yeah, but I figured that would pretty much cover most of them. Otherwise I'd hardly be able to lift my arm for the riot of rainbow colors all the way up to my elbow." Sylvia winked.
"Can I take your comment to mean that you're no longer scared, and are instead looking forward to this adventure, as you should be?"
"I'm sure the nerves will come rushing back. But in the meantime, look at this place! It's just gorgeous! You're so lucky to work here."
"It's definitely not the worst place in the world," Rosa agreed, linking her arm through Sylvia's. "And everyone's incredibly friendly. You really won't find a safer place to play, anywhere." She grinned, knowing that she was repeating Bess' words from their conversation the evening before. Though she had almost backed out herself, now that she was standing there with Silver, she was so glad that Bess had kept her promise to make sure that didn't happen. Pushing thoughts of herself aside, she addressed her friend again.
"Now tell me, what are you going to wear tonight?"
"I really don't know. I brought a little black dress..." Sylvia looked around. "Oh, shit. I left my suitcase on the bus! Bugger. I got caught up with everyone else when they came off the bus and was just swept along by the crowd—"
"Don't stress." Rosa patted her arm soothingly. "The porters get your luggage from the bus and take it to your room for you. No doubt your suitcase is already waiting in your suite, all ready for you to unpack."
"Really?"
"Really. This place is a well-oiled machine. Master Marshall knows his stuff." Another soft giggle accompanied that statement, her bottom seeming to tingle with the delicious memory of the three swats he had administered the night before. If she were being honest, she couldn't wait to feel another few swats across her backside when whoever won her tonight felt that he needed to get her attention.
"Wow." Sylvia allowed her friend to lead her up the front steps and into the castle. Her face showed her amazement. "This is incredible. It's even more enormous than it appears from the outside."
Hearing the awe in her voice, Rosa grinned. It was the same response she often heard from new guests entering the Castle for the first time. The founding fathers had made certain that not a person stepping through the door would be able to consider the Castle as anything other than what it was—magnificent. Not a single detail had been forgotten. Grecian pillars and the marble floor gave the foyer an opulent, luxurious feel, and there was a hotel reception, gift shop, spa, candy shop, and even an art gallery. She adored watching Sylvia as the woman looked around in awe. Rosa had to admit it all would be a bit overwhelming when seen for the first time. As an employee, she had grown accustomed to seeing the hordes of people in every type of dress—and yet still occasionally found herself shocked. Today was no different; people wearing everything from latex to leather, from Victorian dresses to the head-to-toe costumes the furries wore, milled about the area.
"This place is bloody huge, and there are so many people! I'll never find my way around."
Rosa was quick to reassure her friend. "Trust me, you will. It's always overwhelming when you first arrive, especially since the foyer is usually so busy." She went on to explain that since she was taking part in the auction, she had the rest of the week off.
"So what do I do first? Is there a map in here?" Sylvia yanked the manila envelope from her bag.
"I'll take you to your room so you can make sure your suitcase has been brought in. Do you have the number of the suite you were assigned just now, and the key card for it?"
"I have no idea." Sylvia pulled yet another form out of the big envelope and gave it to Rosa. "Can you make sense of that?"
Rosa took the papers and found the room number. "I certainly can. Let me lead the way, although we should really go to Wardrobe first. If anyone catches you out of costume in here, you'll find out just how out of practice your butt is, sooner rather than later."
With a shared grin, both acknowledging that the threat did nothing but ratchet up Sylvia's desires, Rosa continued. "I'm up on the third floor where the employees have rooms. They are off limits to guests but I assure you, you're going to love your room. The showers are amazing." The two women, arms around each other's waists, continued with their quick tour. Rosa gave Sylvia, oh, remember, she is Silver now, a last hug before leaving her in front of the door leading to her suite, after she'd shown her the way to the Wardrobe, which was on the same floor. It was likely to blow her friend away when she got a chance to see exactly how extensive her choices were. Promising to get together at the Meet and Greet that evening, they split up, both feeling more relaxed now that they had actually gotten to see the other in person.
Hearing Silver speaking about coffee had Rosa heading back to the cafeteria. She had more than enough time to get another caffeine fix before she would need to start getting ready. She wound her way through the corridors, happily returning smiles with the few people she did pass, her face radiant as she hummed the popular song from the Wizard of Oz, and though the floors of the Castle were definitely not made of yellow bricks, she was indeed hoping that the great and powerful wizard would grant hers and Silver's dreams tonight. She was so caught up in her thoughts that she didn't see several people turn to look at her as she passed. Her happiness surrounded her like a light, the simple black ribbon around her throat already catching the eyes of potential bidders.
After thanking the barista for her Venti coffee, Rosa sat at the table, suddenly feeling a bit lost. Her days were usually so busy working with the clients that it was a bit disconcerting not having any responsibilities. Sipping slowly, she told herself that she needed to forget about anything to do with work, and get with the program. Tossing her empty cup into the nearest 'dustbin' had her smile returning, with thoughts of what Silver would be wearing that evening on her mind. Running up to her room, she took a quick shower before dressing in a simple shift that would make changing simple. It was time to find her own special outfit to wow anyone who decided to take a chance on her.
"I heard you were going to be auctioned," Janice, one of the young women who worked in Wardrobe said, as she saw Rosa
entering. "You are so brave. Are you excited?"
"Excited, terrified, nervous, nauseous, thrilled—you can take your pick." Rosa smiled. "I've brought many a guest down here, but this is the first time I'm the actual client."
"You are going to love it! I see from your bracelet that you've chosen the Princess Program, not that it's any huge surprise, seeing as how you love the Nursery. That narrows down the choices—well, at least a little." The two women laughed as they entered the room that housed clothing for that specific program.
Seeing it with new eyes, Rosa was stunned. It was like opening a giant Christmas present. She could choose whatever she wanted and could change outfits whenever she wanted—well, she supposed, whenever her purchaser wished to see her dressed in something new.
"Okay, let's get started. Since you go up on the block in just a bit, tell me, what look are you going for? Are you imagining an adorable Victorian outfit with those deliciously naughty split drawers, or perhaps a cute Alice in Wonderland type dress with some equally precious bloomers?" Janice laughed at the sight of Rosa turning in a circle, her arms wide as if attempting to embrace every garment hanging on the multiple racks. "The world is your oyster, Rosa… oh, sorry, what name have you chosen?"
"Rosie."
"Perfect. Not too far from your given name—just a sweet version of it. So, what's your poison?"
"I-I'm not sure. This is all so overwhelming… I mean, I thought I'd just dash down and pick up an outfit, but everything you've said has my head spinning."
"Don't get dizzy, let's just try everything, okay?"
Rosa's nod had Janice moving through the racks, pulling out costume after costume until her arms were full. As she hung them on an empty rack, Rosa was suddenly very glad she had not left dressing to the last minute as she had considered. Slipping off her dress when told to, and eagerly lifting her arms, she was unaware that she had already begun slipping into her role; allowing another person to dress her.
The next hour passed quickly as Rosa tried on outfit after outfit, discarding each one after standing in front of the mirror. She was again overwhelmed, her smile appearing far less often as the reject pile grew. Groaning, she sank down onto a chair. "Maybe I should go into the teen program. I mean, then I'd just have to put on the school uniform and be done with it."
"Nonsense. You chose the Princess Program because that's where your heart led you. Don't give up now. Why don't you take a little break while I return these?" Hearing the woman's deep sigh, and seeing her head bob, Janice knelt down beside her. "Will you trust me? I think I know exactly what you need to have every potential mommy or daddy waving those auction paddles."
"Do you think so? I mean, there are going to be thirty incredibly gorgeous submissives up there tonight. I just don't know if there are going to be that many who are into ageplay."
"Rosie, you know better than that," Janice scolded, as she stood and began to gather up the clothing. "Honey, have you ever known the Nursery to be empty?" She was very glad to hear Rosie's soft giggle.
"Well, no, but I had no idea how hard this is. Go ahead; pick out whatever you want… before I begin to wish I could drink that poison you mentioned."
"Great! Stay right here."
Rosa nodded, allowing her head to drop back against the seat, her eyes closing. This was not only physically exhausting, it was emotionally tiring as well. It wasn't like she was dressing up for some royal ball… she groaned again, realizing that there actually was a ball the next evening. Oh well, by that time, the choice of attire would be out of her hands, as her new daddy would get to choose. Until then, all she had to worry about was one single outfit. Gosh, how hard could that be? Obviously very hard, as she felt it was the most important decision of her life. She didn't want to look like a total idiot up on that block standing next to Master Marshall. Sighing again, she rubbed her temples with her fingertips to ease the headache that was starting. No matter what outfit she put on next, she was going to keep it. If she didn't get out of this room, magical as it was, she was afraid she'd either go insane or throw a huge tantrum—just like the Little she had chosen to be.
Fortunately, she was spared either when she was finally allowed to stand in front of the mirror. She felt an outrageous desire to pinch herself to make sure she wasn't dreaming. Was that adorable Little girl in the mirror really her? She did a slow pirouette, before her face lit into the huge smile she had worn when she'd first walked into the room.
"I told you!" Janice smiled, and then snapped her fingers. "Wait, I forgot something." Rosa stood, turning from side to side, amazed at the transformation. Janice had brushed out her long blonde hair before pulling it into two pigtails. After taking a curling iron to it, ringlets that bounced and swayed with her every movement had her giggling. Soft pink ribbons had been tied into large bows, the ribbons cascading down to the ends of her hair. The gown she was wearing was incredible. It spoke of innocence—as well as promising the excitement of discovery. It was a delicate pink color, almost perfectly matching the bracelet around her wrist. Thin spaghetti straps held it up, leaving her shoulders practically bare. The bodice was smocked, and held together with silk ribbons tied into little bows. The empire waist not only accentuated her breasts, but the fullness of the gown also hid what she considered a myriad of imperfections. The hem didn't reach her knees, but was long enough that she wouldn't have to worry about bending over. Thinking of bending, she lifted the dress and turned around, looking over her shoulder into the mirror. The panties were adorable. Rows and rows of pink lace covered the entirety of her backside, and though she was positive her butt was not her best feature, she had to admit that the undies made it look very round and entirely spankable. Heat began to build between her thighs as she thought of the adorable underwear being lowered. Gasping, her face turning pink to match her gown, she let the skirt drop back into position. She laughed as she looked at her feet. She imagined that for that reason alone, she would stand out in a crowd. While other women would be towering over her, possibly cursing under their breath as their feet began to ache in the stilettos they'd most likely be wearing, she could stand for days in the adorable fuzzy bunny slippers. She did a little dance, giggling as the ears on the slippers flopped back and forth.
It was this sight that greeted the attendant when she returned. Janice smiled, seeing Rosie dancing in front of the mirror. Her enthusiasm spoke of the fact that Rosie was not pretending to like her outfit—it was quite obvious that she loved it. "Here you go, honey, this is the perfect touch." Handing a white stuffed teddy bear to her client, she continued. "You stand on that block, holding that bear, and give them a dazzling smile. One look at you in that nightie, and I guarantee paddles will be waving and lights flashing."
Taking the stuffed animal and hugging it to her chest, Rosie took a last glance in the mirror. For the first time, she felt the fear of going unsold disappear. She was certainly not the most beautiful woman to be auctioned, but even if she was naughty for feeling so, she had to admit she did look awfully darn adorable.
"Thank you, you were right. You certainly do know how to turn a pig's ear into a silk purse."
Laughing and shaking her head, the attendant gave her a hug. "You are precious, and so beautiful. Now, go out there and make me proud." Rosa nodded and giggled, moving to gather up her shift. "Oh, and Rosie, remember, have an absolutely incredible time. Promise?"
"I promise!" Wearing her auction outfit, loving the way the soft fabric swished around her thighs, giggling again at the silly slippers, Rosie left Wardrobe, her bear doing more than adding that last touch—she discovered all she needed was to give him a squeeze, and her pulse slowed even as her excitement grew. Yes, she would keep that promise. Tonight was going to be the beginning of her keeping her resolutions!
Again, she passed people without being aware of them. Her head was down, watching her feet, her pigtails bouncing. It was almost time for the Meet and Greet, and she couldn't wait to see Silver. She had left her hours ago, and aside f
rom a few opportunities, they probably wouldn't see each other until the event was over. It was almost time to discover what magical outfit Silver had found—no matter what it was, her friend was sure to look absolutely stunning.
Chapter Three
The castle had not one, but three ballrooms. Massive double doors could be opened to turn the three into one enormous room, which would happen the next evening for the Grand Ball. Tonight, however, the Meet and Greet was being held in one room before people would begin to move to the middle ballroom, where the actual auction would take place. Rosa had purchased another Venti coffee and carried it to her room to enjoy while she waited for the time until she could see Silver.
Feeling a bit silly, but having no desire to have to return to Wardrobe and explain any coffee spills to Janice, she pulled an oversized, button down shirt over her gown. Looking around her room, she decided that perhaps she should pick up the few things out of place. While it was unlikely that anyone would ever enter her private quarters, just the thought of a strict daddy seeing that her clothes hadn't been put into the hamper, or that a few empty cups were still sitting on her desk, made her decide to spend a few minutes tucking things away. It was her understanding that she would be spending her time either in whatever room her daddy had, or in the rooms that made up the Nursery.
Standing in her small bathroom, she brushed her teeth and added just a bit of makeup to her pale skin. She didn't want to totally disappear under the lights. Her complexion was so pale, with her blonde hair and porcelain skin tone, that she definitely needed a little color. Picking up her blusher, she giggled again. That was one cosmetic she could do without. Her cheeks seemed to be flushing every few minutes as the time approached. Now she hoped that her face didn't appear clown like—two bright spots of red on her cheeks. Tossing the compact into her drawer, she added a simple layer of mascara, and a smear of clear lip gloss.
When The Gavel Falls (Masters of the Castle) Page 39
