A Wager of Innocence

[cgraven]

A Wager of Innocence

This is a closed thread for Kaena, yeishia, and cgraven

Louis XIV, the SUN King, patronage centered on the palace of Versailles, the great palace that also played such an important part in the political life of 17th-century France. That political life, not only of France but of all of Europe, was set against a back drop of lavish Masks, afternoon picnics where the wine flowed freely, and the charms of young noble woman and their virtue and their honor were freely given if it could advance their families fortunes or position at court.

François Joseph Mari Batard the Comte de Lorraine yawned it was an old game, yet still played. He glanced over at his wife Isabelle Marie Batard. Ah yes Isabelle Marie Batard was a fine figure of a girl when she had come to their marriage bed and still was a stunning beauty. “Isabelle where is the joy of seduction when the young girls so easily give their virginity away.” François again yawned as life at court had become so boring. Then he saw a young girl modestly dressed, she stood there at the edge of the frolicking courtiers, a dower nun at her shoulder. It was obvious they were waiting to see the King.

“Now you see that pretty little thing with that withered nun now she would be worth the plucking.”

A wicked smile pursed his lips as he studied the would-be novice. Oh, there was not a doubt in François’ mind that this was some innocent young girl of the minor nobility seeking the King’s permission to enter the convent.

“I’ll wager that I can seduce that little dove before she is wedded to god.”

 

[Kaena]

Isabelle Mari Batard knew she was a beautiful. Her raven hair hung to her waist when let lose from the braided style she always kept it in. Her body, though could no longer be called young, was curvy in all the right places, her breasts still as firm and round as they were when she was a teen. All the men of King Louis' court had eyes for her, but, she only had eyes for one man, her husband Francois, the Comte de Lorraine. Though she loved and desired her husband and enjoyed the luxuries that came with being the Comtesse, she, like him, often grew bored of the trivial ongoing of the court.

“Isabelle where is the joy of seduction when the young girls so easily give their virginity away.” Isabelle smiled at Francois' yawn, fighting to hold back her own. What he said was the truth. The noblewomen were too quick to through away their virtue if they though a night in a nobleman's bed would be beneficial to them. Not that she had an argument with that. There had been many eager, young woman that Francois' had brought to their bed to share with her with diamonds in their eyes, hoping that it would advance their future, only to have their hopes dashed when Francois cast them aside after he was done with them. His name was very fitting of him, that was for sure. He was definitely a bastard to anyone other than her.

“Well, if you hadn't already bedded all the available women, there would be more available to choose from,” she teased, her eyes coolly scanning the crowd. She took notice of the young girl at the same time Francois did, a mischievous grin playing on her lips at the thought of what fun she could have with her if she got her alone.

“I’ll wager that I can seduce that little dove before she is wedded to god.” She laughed softly at his words, leaning in to kiss his neck softly.

“I will take that wager my dear husband. But, I wager that I will seduce her first,” she replied, returning her attention to where the young girl was approaching the king with her chaperone. “If I were you, I would make a request to the king to take the girl into our home. To teach her the ways of the world before she makes her final decision to join the church. “ She grinned at the innuendo in her words. “ Looking at men here, I am sure others have already had the same idea, so you better move fast.”

 

[cgraven]

François Joseph Mari Batard took his wife Isabelle warning to heart for this young beauty would have caught the attention of the more jaded members of the King’s court. His wife’s softly cooed words, “I will take that wager my dear husband. But I wager that I will seduce her first,” spurred François to action.

The young golden-haired beauty and her saintly chaperone where approaching the king when François Joseph Mari Batard leaned over and whispered in Louis ear. “Your majesty before this flower of French womanhood should at least see what the world has to offer before she is locked in a convent forever.” François was sure not to make the young beauty to appealing to the king for François knew well the King’s own appetites for pretty young girls. “Your majesty as you know Madame Batard is the patron of the orphans committee. We could see to her education at Chateau Le Plaisir before her entry into the convent.”

The Louis waved his hand dismissing Comte Batard. He signaled the young beauty and her chaperone to approach. Yet he had already made up his mind to send the girl to the Batards.

 

[yeishia]

Aimée De la Croix, stood in the long line and slightly in front of her chaperone as they waited for their audience with the king. Aimée stood tall, both her carriage and countenance bespoke nobility; it was there the resemblance ended. The gorgeous young woman wore a plain home spun dress of blue that had seen too many washes and around her neck hung a plain wooden cross. Her glorious golden locks had been pulled and tamed into a single bun at the base of her slender neck.

Aimée was a Fille du roi, one who up until that moment has been groomed and perhaps destined to become a true bride of Christ. Her parents has died when she was barely eight years old. She still had vague memories of a world filed with love, music, tea parties, hair ribbons, piano lessons and laughter. There has always been laughter. The bewildered child had barely remembered being shunted to an elderly aunt and after her death to an orphanage where her word had changed. Colour became black and white, rules became an absolute, mirrors became a non-entity. The order had eventually become her sole comfort. The love of her God, her whole world!

Aimée inched slowly forwards her eyes cast downwards resisting the urge to turn around and run. She hated the bustle and urgency of the court. She was unsettled by the glances sent her way; curiosity and distain by the females and well... she couldn’t put a word to the looks given her by the males. They made her feel dirty, they made her feel unclean.

Aimée shivered it felt as if something unholy had just crossed her grave; A memory came unbidden.

The first day at the convent the Mother Superior had told her that she had eyes bestowed by the devil, eyes designed to seduce, that they should never be presented to a man. The nun told her the church was her destiny and would be her salvation.

The child hadn’t understood the old woman at the time but somehow felt the advice pertinent in that moment. Aimée shivered again risking a brief glance around her.

When her turn came she gracefully approached the king and dropped into a simple curtsy where she studiously remained as he looked her over. Aimée had no wish to go anywhere but back to the convent, she had no wish to be sent to New France, no wish of a husband! She was promised to Christ that was her vocation, it has been so for most of her life. She would be Eighteen in a few weeks and that was when she would become the Bride Of Christ. He would be the only being she would ever love.

Louis’ authoritative voice pushed aside her errant thoughts with the imperative to rise or perhaps he bade her look at him, she wasn’t sure which. The young girl did neither she simply froze in place, her heart was beating almost out of her chest.

He must have left his dais and moved towards her; to her chagrin she felt a single long finger under her chin propelling her upwards as he upturned her exquisite and guileless face to his own. It felt almost like a brand!

Blue eyes met and entwined with the deep Violet pools of hers and for Aimée time stood still.

The devils eyes seduced...

 

[cgraven]

Louis bent forward as young mademoiselle De la Croix approach him. She was a graceful young beauty and the nun hovered behind her like a protective hen, over her innocent little chick. Aimée dropped into a simple curtsy where she studiously remained before the king. This adorable golden-haired beauty told his majesty she had no wish to go anywhere but back to the convent, she had no wish to be sent to New France, no wish of a husband! She was promised to Christ that was her vocation, it has been so for most of her life.

Louis smiled down on the young beauty. He lifted her chin with a single finger his eyes held her stunning young eyes captive in his gaze. This young creature was enchanting and for a moment Louis toyed with the idea of keeping the young mademoiselle De la Croix here at court. His azure blue eyes met and entwined with the deep violet pools of hers. “What is your name child and how old are you? Louis’ authoritative voice wound around the young beauty’s senses. Louis could see well why the Comte de Lorraine would desirer to have the young beauty alone on his estates.

The king listened intently to Aimée De la Croix interties to be allowed to return to the convent to become a novice of the Sisters of Charity. Louis appeared to consider her request. “ Mademoiselle your request touches me, but one so young and has been sheltered from the world for so long I feel must live for a while out side the sheltered walls of the convent to ensure that her vocation is a true vocation..”

The King saw the protest that rose in the young girl eyes and her holy chaperone. He raised his hand to silence any protests. “ Mademoiselle de Croix you will spend the next four months with the Comet and Cometess of Lorraine at their estate Chateau Le Plaisir. Madame Batard is the patron of the society for the orphan of the poor and she will be your chaperone.” The king motioned François and Isabelle Batard to approach and delivered the young innocent Aimée De la Croix into their hands.

 

[yeishia]

“What is your name child and how old are you? His authoritative voice brooked no refusal of his will.

“ I am Aimée De la Croix ,” may it please your Majesty and I will be 18 years old in two weeks. He drew her closer as if she were a confidant to gently explain why he could not honour her request . It was only then that she realized she must have spoken her thoughts out loud. Aimée tried to protest but he would have none of it.

As François and a Isabelle Batard made to approach her from across the room, once more she felt something unholy cross over her grave . So this was it, she thought repressing a shudder. The young girl believed in omens and she couldn’t conceive that his would be a favourable one.

Trembling she dropped a curtsy before crossing to join them both. She didn’t want to leave her home but knew she had no choice.

The Kings word was absolute.

The nun who accompanied her knew it to, she was crying as she ran to hug her handing over the girls single suitcase into her trembling hands.” God go with you ,” she whispered against her neck

“I am Aimée,” the young girl told Isabelle shyly keeping her eyes down cast as she moved closer to her side.

Not accustomed to addressing the male gender uninvited she said nothing to François Betard.

Besides, something about his demeanour frightened her.

 

[Kaena]

Isabelle couldn't help smirk at the girl's name. Aimee De la Croix. Her name in itself practically screamed of her innocence. It made the thought of seducing her and claiming her as their own even more exciting. She watched as the young woman curtsied before them, her slim legs trembling, threatening to collapse. She could see the fearful tears that were threatening to fall and for a moment she felt sorry for her. She was so young and innocent. She didn't really deserve the fate that was in store for her.

As she drew closer, her innocent beauty pushed any thoughts of feeling sorry for her out of Isabelle's mind. It would be a shame for such spectacular specimen to be squirreled away from everyone's eyes for the rest of her life. Buried under the ugly, misshapen clothing provided for her by the convent. No, she deserved to spread her wings and fly away from the chains of the church and become the woman she could be under their tutelage.

“It is a pleasure to meet you Aimee,” she said, placing her hand under her chin and raising her gaze to meet hers. “My name is Isabelle and this is my husband Francois. Please, do not be afraid, we wish you no harm.” She followed Aimee's frightened gaze to where Francois stood, allowing the girl to move closer to her as if to protect her. It was obvious to anyone who was paying attention that Aimee was not comfortable in Francois' presence. A fact that was in favor of her winning their bet. All she had to so was get the girl to trust her and the rest would come easy after that.

“Take her suitcase,” she ordered her husband , smiling at the girl. She was sure he cast a displeased look at her back, but, she didn't care. Taking the girl's arm she led her from the lavish throne room and out into the courtyard where their carriage awaited. The carriage was a testament to their place at court, built of solid oak and gilded with gold and silver accents. Inside the plush velvet cushions lined the benches and silk curtains hung to obscure the passengers from those on the street. To top it all off, it was pulled by two large horses, dressed beautifully and brushed until their coat shined.

“After you my dear,” Isabelle said, indicating the open door the coachman held open. As soon as the girl was inside and seated, Isabelle climbed in after her and took a seat at her side. Francois followed, taking a seat on the bench across from them.

The carriage ride back to their estate was so silent that Isabelle was sure she could hear the frightened beating of Aimee's heart. Every time Francois moved or made to say anything, Aimee seemed to press closer to Isabelle, which in turn made her flash a victorious grin at Francois.

Their carriage was almost trivial in comparison to their estate. It spanned several acres of meticulously groomed lawns and gardens, all surrounding a gorgeous piece of architecture, the house. The house was two stories high, covered in elaborate windows and trim. On the right side stood a tower , beneath which lay a pond filled with white swans and geese. The front door was half the size of the first floor, imposing in itself. It was through this door that Isabelle led Aimee, into her new home and new life.

The beauty of the home did not stop at the exterior. Inside the walls where elegantly adorned with tapestries and the floor laid with oriental rugs. The entrance way led to two giant staircases that stretched up to the walkway on the second floor.

“Welcome to your new home,” Isabelle said, ensuring her voice was soft and welcoming.

 

[cgraven]

François Joseph Mari Batard Comet de Lorrain watched as Isabelle took young Aimée De la Croix under her wing. For a young innocent brought up in the convent Aimée naturally gravitated to Madame Isabelle. Isabelle started her seduction from the moment she was introduced to the Batard’s. “My name is Isabelle, and this is my husband Francois. Please, do not be afraid, we wish you no harm.” Isabelle’s voice was soft and docile as that of a dove as she cooed reassurance to young Aimée De la Croix.

Taking the Aimée 's arm she led the young innocent beauty from the lavish throne room and out into the courtyard where their carriage awaited. The carriage was a testament to their place at court, built of solid oak and gilded with gold and silver accents, an elaborate statement of the Batard’s wealth and social status. The interior was no less impressive Inside, plush velvet cushions lined the benches and silk curtains hung to obscure the passengers from the baser elements of society of the street. The coach was pulled by a matched team of two large black horses, dressed beautifully and brushed until their coat shined like midnight on a moonless night.

The carriage ride back to Batard’s estate Chateau Le Plaisir was so silent that Isabelle was sure she could hear the frightened beating of Aimee's heart. Every time François moved or made to say anything, Aimee seemed to press closer to Isabelle, which in turn made Isabelle flash a victorious grin at François. For his part François’ face remained unreadable, he made no move to move closer to the young virgin but sat there with his eyes downcast and his hands devoutly fowled in his lap. Isabelle had the upper hand with the young virgin at the moment

When they arrived at Chateau Le Plaisir, the 17th century chateau beauty was enough to take young mademoiselle breath away. In its proportions and beauty, it reviled the King’s own palace Versailles. From the moment of their arrival François began his own unique seduction of young Aimée. He was seen walking in the gardens of Chateau Le Plaisir apparently reading the breviary, observing the hours of the day as the religious did in the convent. He could also be seen in the Chateau’s Chapel. It was risky but then he knew that young Aimée De la Croix Achilles heel was her youthful innocent and religious devotion.

 

[yeishia]

After her arrival at the beautiful chateau if you had asked Aimée De la Croix about her journey there or even her first impressions of her new home she would have raised her beautiful innocent eyes to yours and simply have drawn a blank. Aimée had been used to a quiet life , one filled with silence and the muted greys of the night sky on a winters eve. Her journey had been filled with a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds which had simply short circuited her tired mind.

She might of spoken of of Isabelle, her soft voice and reassuring demeanour and of how welcome and safe she had made her feel.

She might have spoken of how overwhelmed and intimidating her François had initially made her feel before she had discovered that he was a man conversant with religion; it had been that small knowledge had calmed her fears somewhat.

She could not of spoken of or even perhaps remember the details of the quick tour she had been given of the ground floor of the huge magnificent chateau.

She would most defiantly would have spoken of her new bedroom...

Isabelle had left her there instructing her that supper would be in two hours. She was to bathe, and when she had done to pull on the bell rope. Isabelle would then come back and help her to dress. On the ‘morrow she would be assigned a maid. ”Your bathroom is through that door child. Avail yourself of the toiletries you will find there. Everything here is now yours.” She had gently kissed Aimée’s soft cheek before departing.

After Isabelle left Aimée stood in the middle of her room simply stunned. The room was ....she had no words. It was the epitome of lavish elegance, to the untutored girl it spoke of forbidden things.

Her eyes shifted to the huge four poster bed draped with satins and silks which dominated the huge room ornate room, it would have easily fitted 3 people she thought her eyes widening. It was now all hers!

Isabelle had lain a dress out for her upon the bed, mesmerized she approached and ran her fingers over the rose coloured brocade silk. It felt so soft, so nice beneath her fingertips. Aimée pulled her hand away as if she had been burned, stepping hastily away.

At the end of the bed stood a beautiful white and gold armoire topped by a huge filigree enclosed mirror. It was a young girls dream or would have been if Aimée had been a normal young girl, as it was she studiously ignored the mirror and eyes down hurriedly headed past for the bathroom. She would bathe.

The young girls expression was one of awe as she entered the lavish bathroom. It too was huge, as was the bath tube, it seemed almost big enough to swim in she thought giggling, supposing she could swim which she could not. She turned on the taps and looked over at the ornate glass bottles. Fascinated she unstoppered one and poured a little of the oil into the swirling water, it’s exotic smell began to fill and dominate the room. It could have been some unfamiliar flower, it was earthy and compelling. She removed her clothing folded it carefully and placed it upon a chair. Lastly, came her wooden cross it followed the clothing. Aimée then loosened her severe bun and rewound her hair on top of her head before stepping into the fragrant water.

Aimée closed her eyes and relaxed, the young girl hadn’t enjoyed a proper bath since childhood, she knew this was wicked of her but nevertheless she took a minute to enjoy the heady sensation of simply doing nothing. Minutes later her eyes flew open. The last thing she needed was to fall asleep and drowned! Hastily choosing a bar of soap began she began to quickly wash; cleaned and dried she was soon headed for her bedroom, stopping only for a moment to retrieve her cross which unloosened her long luxurious golden wavy hair as she hastily dragged it over her head. Aimée had continued to studiously avoided the many mirrors for she had been-indoctrinated they were the devils invention.

She glanced at the undergarments lying beside the beautiful dress, knowing that she couldn’t wear them, picking up her battered suitcase she laid it on the bed and opened it. The contents were dismal, they nor the suitcase belonged in the opulent room.

Well perhaps one item did. She searched in the bottom reverently pulling out her most treasured possession, her mothers lace negligée. It was wrapped in a huge silken scarf, she had kept this always hidden away since her young mother had died, it was the only concrete memory the young girl had of her. Fighting back tears she tucked it away carefully in the bottom drawer of the armoire, she would hide it properly later.

Resigned she firmly closed the suitcase and shoved it under the bed turning her attention to the many undergarments, silky and sinful they befuddled her. She would need Isabella’s assistance, she pulled on the bell.

When her benefactor entered the room she found the almost nude girl trying to pull up a pair of culottes while clutching at what might have been a corset to her naked bosom . She held it out looking very stressed “ I don’t know what...I cannot figure out...” The events of her day began to catch up to her, the poor girl began to cry. Huge droplets falling from her beautiful eyes as if in slow motion to caress the soft flawless skin beneath them.

Aimée had no idea the sight she presented to the stunned woman as she stood there semi nude clutching the Lacey confections surrounded by her dark wavy golden locks. She was breathtaking in her beauty. Her young nubile breasts were perfection, each was a round handful each framed by a dusky pink puffy aureole and topped by two dark prominent nipples as they perked out from beneath the garments she was offering Isabella. Huge innocently trusting eyes, tiny waist, long legs ending at an untouched V of tiny golden curls.

Aimée was totally unaware of her body, she was as innocent as a 6 year old in her nudity. Her body was simply something to be fed and clothed.

She was a Botticelli angel fallen to earth, she was a tempting morsel of contradictions...

 

[Kaena]

Isabelle gave Aimee a moment to take in her new home before sweeping her off to give her quick tour of the ground floor of the Chateau. First she brought her to the grand ballroom, explaining to the young girl that the room was used for grand parties, of which she would be expected to attend. Next she showed her the elaborate dining room which held a table that could easily seat twelve and made of expensive hard wood. The walls in the dining room were draped with tapestries that were similar to the ones that hung in the entrance hall, but heavy velvet drapes also covered the windows. Above the table hung a crystal chandelier, each candle within it lit and shining brightly; As Isabelle continued with the tour she casually observed Aimee. She could see with each room she showed the young girl she was becoming more and more overwhelmed. After showing her the kitchen and servant's quarters, Isabelle decided she had enough excitement for the day. She would wait for Aimee to be more settled in before giving her a tour of the rest of the house, including the library and gardens.

Taking the young woman by the arm, she led her to the bedroom she had decided the girl would be staying in. When the arrived at the chateau she had given orders to have the room prepared and a bath drawn. Isabelle was pleased to see everything was as ordered. She couldn't help smile to herself at the wide eyed wonder in Aimee's eyes as she looked around the room. After giving the girl orders to call her if needed, she left her alone to bath and dress as she went to see that dinner was being prepared.

It wasn't long before she heard the bell ringing from Aimee's chambers. Isabelle smiled to herself as she made her way back to Aimee's room, pleased that the girl and already taken so easily to her. As she entered the room, she had to hold back a laugh at the site of Aimee clumsily holding up the clothing she had given her to her semi naked body. Isabelle took a moment to appreciate Aimee's firm young breasts before her eyes traveled downwards to the tawny patch between her legs and then back up to meet Aimee's gaze.

“I had forgotten that you are not used to these types of clothing,” she said, making her way across the room to the young woman. “Please, do not be upset. I will help you. I know this must all be so overwhelming for you.” Taking the corset out of Aimee's hands, she set it on the bed, before grasping the waistband of the culottes Aimee had pulled up half way over her firm bottom. Isabelle tugged the undergarment in place before picking up the corset again.

“Hold your arms out,” she ordered as she slid the corset around Aimee's slim waist. She allowed her hands to gently brush against Aimee's skin as she fit the corset up and under Aimee's breasts, the garment falling easily in place. Under the guise of adjusting the corset, Isabelle passed her thumb over Aimee's nipple, hiding her smile as it responded to her touch. The young woman was so innocent and unaware of her body that it almost made Isabelle feel bad about what her and Francois had planned for her. She was more beautiful than any of the other women that the couple had brought to their bed and it was this fact that kept Isabelle on track to wanting to seduce her, despite her innocence.

“It is good to know how to do this yourself,” Isabelle said, making small talk as she laced and tightened the corset. “But, once you have your own personal maid, they will help you dress each morning, so you really don't have to worry about.” Once the corset was in place, Isabelle picked up the dress she had laid out for Aimee. She quickly slipped it over her head and smoothed it in place, stepping back to admire the stunning figure before her.

She reached out and ran her fingers through the end of her long hair. Leading the girl over to the vanity she motioned for her to sit as she picked up the ivory handled hair brush that lay waiting. It took her a few minutes to work the brush through Aimee's hair but once she was done her long hair hung gleaming down past her shoulders. Using the brush, Isabelle pulled some of her hair back into an elaborate braid and pinned it in place. The rest of her hair she left loose to hang softly down her back.

“You really are beautiful Aimee,” she said, smiling softly at the girl. “Any young man would be proud to have you as their wife. Come along now, dinner should be ready by now and Francois will be waiting for us to join him in the dining room. We best not keep him waiting, he is not a patient man.” Isabelle reached out a hand to Aimee, smiling in amusement at her own words. She knew if she could make Aimee scared of Francois even more, it would be easy for her to win their bet and claim Aimee for herself.

 

[yeishia]

As Isabelle helped her dress Aimée was transported back to a time that had been almost forgotten; to a precious memory. Her mother always helped her dress each morning, this had never been relegated to a maid, this was their special time together. The memory was fuzzy but the imprint of being safe in loving arms was still strong. The feeling of been overwhelmed had been an understatement but as she listened to Isabelle’s soothing words, in that moment Aimee realized that she didn’t want a maid she wanted Isabelle to tend to her needs.

The young girl began to truly relax under Isabelle’s ministrations, her eyes peeking through her long eyelashes at the fascinating woman as she deftly worked the knots from her long hair. Aimee sighed in contentment thinking that this experience might not be so bad after all. It would only be for a few months and nothing would sway her from her intent to join the convent she was sure of that.

“You really are beautiful Aimee,” Isabelle said, smiling softly at her. “Any young man would be proud to have you as their wife. Wife? Never! she thought adamantly, shuddering.

Aimée raised her eyes to the vanity mirror as she stood thinking that even if she wanted to marry, who would want one such as her. Her errant thought stuttered to a complete halt as for the first time in over a decade she caught sight of her own reflection in the vanity mirror!

Her eyes widened in shock as she spied the exquisite creature Isabelle was speaking of. Could that really be her! “I’m beautiful,” Aimée spoke in a hushed voice blushing, as she quickly averted her gaze to take the hand that was been offered to her, it was a life line.

Not a patient man. Her now startled eyes caught those of Isabelle causing her to hold on to her hand even harder as she moved closer to her benefactor. “Thank you for your help, I...I don’t want to upset your husband, I’ve made us l..late...he won’t be upset with y..you will he?” she questioned softly.

Her beautiful face was lifted to Isabelle unshed tears sparking within their compassionate depths. She was concerned for the woman she was becoming drawn to rather than for herself. “I’m so sorry,” she implored dropping her hand to wrap her arms around the startled woman as she pressed her body closer into the safety of her arms.

 

[Kaena]

Isabelle could tell that Aimee was shocked at her own appearance. She knew that the girls raised in the convent were not given the luxury of a mirror, to gaze upon their own image was considered an act of vanity, a sin. To see her startled look delighted Isabelle. It was one step closer to urging her away from her devotion to God and towards the debauchary that was in her future. It almost made her feel bad for the girl, but, not because she knew that Aimee would end up corrupted by either her or Francois, but, because she had been denied the pleasures of life for so long while living at the convent. In her own twisted way Isabelle felt like they were saving the girl from a life of misery and boredom.

“Let me worry about Francois,” she replied, taking the young woman's hand. Her skin was soft against hers, despite the hard work she knew the nuns would have had her doing. She was startled as Aimee dropped her hand and threw her arms around her, her words of apology softening Isabelle even more towards her.

“I am not afraid of my husband. He won't risk inquiring my wrath and being denied access to my bed.” Isabelle replied, wrapping her arms around her small body. “You have nothing to be sorry for. You have done nothing wrong.” Pulling gently out of Aimee's arms, she brushed the tears from her cheek, smiling kindly at her. Deep inside she was congratulating herself on a sure victory. The girl seemed to be terrified of Francois, which would make it very easy for Isabelle to swoop in as her protector and win her over.

Taking her hand once again, she led the girl from the room and out into the long hallway. Isabelle was silent as they walked, glancing over at Aimee every so often to garner her reactions to everything. The dining room was just as lavish as the rest of the house, its walls hung with tapestries and expensive paintings. The table extended almost the full length of the room, large enough to seat twenty people comfortably. Above it hung a beautiful chandelier made of crystal. Francois was seated at the head of the table when the entered, his eyes watching them as they approached.

“You can sit here,” Isabelle said, releasing Aimee's hand once again and pulling out the chair to the left of Francois. Moving to the other side, she pulled out her own chair and took her seat. As soon as she was seated a servant came bustling into the room and began laying out bowls and trays of decadent food. Food that Isabelle was sure Aimee had not eaten in a long time. There was pheasant roasted with potatoes and carrots. Fresh cheeses and bread, served with hand churned butter. Cured meats, pickles and olives covered another tray. Then there was the desserts. An assortment of cakes and cookies, each more decadent than the last.

“Don't be shy,” Isabelle said, sitting back to allow the servant to dole out some food onto her plate. “This is all as much yours as it it ours. Would you like some wine?”

Turning to Francois she flashed him a suggestive smile. "She is beautiful isn't she Francois?"

 

[cgraven]

François began his own unique seduction of young Aimée. He knew that his cunning wife Isabelle would be using her own subtle approach on the naive young virgin, seductively showing her the differences between her sheltered convent life and life in the real world and all it had to offer the young girl. For his part François was seen walking in the gardens of Chateau Le Plaisir apparently reading the breviary, observing the hours of the day as the religious did in the convent. A picture that would tell the sensual young beauty that one could be religious even in the world of privilege and wealth, he could also be seen in the Chateau’s Chapel. It was risky but then he knew that young Aimée De la Croix Achilles heel was her youthful innocent and religious devotion.

François smiled wickedly as he looked around the chapel visions of young Aimée stripped naked and laid on the alter as a sacrifice to his lust danced before his mind’s eye. François sighed awe that was the future first the prize must be won. He would let Isabelle have her moment with sweet young Aimée, let her try and seduce the young girl with the finery of wealth, and her own beauty, let Isabelle open the girl’s eyes to the wicked world. He would strike at Aimée’s Achilles heel the girl’s religious zeal. He would dress for dinner in simple but fine clothes. He would forsake the elaborate wigs that the young beauty had seen at court to his own ginger hair pulled back and tied with a simple black ribbon. It was in this attire that he appeared at dinner.

“You can sit here,” Isabelle cooed and then releasing Aimee's hand once again and pulling out the chair to the left of Francois. Moving with a sensual grace Isabelle moved to the other side, she pulled out her own chair and took her seat. As soon as she was seated a servant came bustling into the room and began laying out bowls and trays of decadent food. Food that he knew Isabelle was sure Aimee had not eaten in a long time. There was pheasant roasted with potatoes and carrots, fresh cheeses and bread, served with hand churned butter. Cured meats, pickles and olives covered another tray. Then there were the desserts. An assortment of cakes and cookies, each more decadent than. Isabelle was tempting Aimée with the delicacies of the world.

François reached a handout to his right to Isabelle, and to the left to Aimée. He took hold of both their hands as he bowed his head and said, “Lets pray and thank God for this meal. Dear Lord, we thank you for the bounty of the land and the work of human hands. As we partake of this bounty lets us remember those in need and to share the bounty of this house with those in need. Amen.”

He held Aimée’s hand in a casual manner and as he lifted his head his eyes met hers for the first time. There was no sign of deceit in them nor had his voice held any note of insincerity in his prayer. “Aimée those of us that have much and have been blessed by Bon Dieu owe much to our fellow man.” He turned to Isabelle, “Is that not right my love?” he still held Isabelle’s hand his head turned from Aimée. He brought Isabelle hand to his lips and kissed it.

Dinner was filled with small talk. It was clear that the young virgin was out of her element. As the last desert was being served François turned to Aimée, “Have you seen the chapel yet my dear? If not it would be my pleasure to show you.” A quick glace at Isabelle told the older beauty that it was his time to be alone with the young beauty.

 

[yeishia]

“I am not afraid of my husband. He won't risk inquiring my wrath and being denied access to my bed.” Aimée had blushed at the insinuation; yet reassured that she was safe the young girl had taken the hand offered her and followed as Isabelle lead her to supper. Her eyes had been filled once more with wonderment as her they took in the lavish surrounding in which she now found herself.

She tensed for a moment as they entered the cavernous dining room spying François seated at the head of the long dining table. He looked different some how less imposing than he had been at court, she relaxed slightly. "She is beautiful isn't she Francois?" Aimée blushed again as she sat, studiously avoiding his eyes, looking instead at the cornucopia of delights covering almost every inch of the lavish table.

Her first reaction was to smile in excitement that she would be tasting something more than the simple tasteless fare she was accustomed to. Her second was remorse, her smile faded, there were so many less fortunate than herself , those who were starving, she couldn’t possibly....she placed her hand to cover her plate. Her voice was low, “Just a little bread and cheese please,” she requested of the servant. Even the cheese was an indulgence.

Aimée almost jumped as François took her hand stilling the impulse as she realized it was to pray. Her heartbeat slowed as she heard the sincerity of his devout words. he remembered those in need, their bounty would be shared with those less fortunate.

“Amen”

He turned to Aimée, their eyes meeting for the first time as he spoke directly to her. His were mesmerizing pools of complete sincerity, her full of trust and hope.

“Aimée those of us that have much and have been blessed by Bon Dieu owe much to our fellow man.” He told her devoutly before turning to kiss Isabelle’s dainty hand. “Is that not right my love?

Aimée smiled shyly releasing the breath she had been inadvertently holding as he dropped her hand.The small talk flowed around her and dispute her reservations she found herself trying small tastes of this and that to the delight of her tastebuds. Aimée even took a few sips of the red wine she had been offered by Isabelle.

By the time the meal drew to a close Aimée was feeling sated and drowsy, she felt wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and contentment she hadn’t experienced since she had been a young child.

She let out a small sigh of delight as she tasted the decedent desert; a parfait of whipped cream and fresh fruit upon which were sprinkled small delectable pieces of freshly shaved chocolate...Aimée had never tasted such a heavenly desert.

It was sinful...

François’ melodic voice cut through her musings.

He was sinful...

“Have you seen the chapel yet my dear? If not it would be my pleasure to show you.”

Some inner voice told her she shouldn’t go with him. However, the young guileless girl had been lulled into a false sense of security and thinking a visit to a chapel safe she dismissed her small misgivings.

Smiling shyly across at him she put down the spoon she has just taken a bite from. Her small pink tongue appeared briefly to slowly lick off the cream that still clung greedily to her upper lip. Unbeknown to the young innocent the action was both evocative and inviting. She then used her napkin pressing it gently too her lips before laying it in her lap and softly replying.

A chapel? she would love to see it...she had a sin of gluttony to atone for.

“ I would love to visit your chapel, if you have the time to show me.”

Aimée turned from François to Isabelle smiling happily. She of course assumed that they all would be going on this new adventure.

 

[Kaena]

Isabelle wasn't surprised by Aimee's reaction to the spread of food before them. She was sure it was far more lavish than what she was used to back at the covenant. What she was surprised with was Francois reaching out his hands for her and Aimee to take before bowing his head to say grace. Isabelle couldn't help but roll her eyes at this, however she ensured that Aimee could not see her reaction. Isabelle had never been a godly person, and her husband was far from the devout religious man he was trying to play to win over Aimee. She had to give it to him though, he knew which buttons to push to attempt to win over Aimee.

“Aimée those of us that have much and have been blessed by Bon Dieu owe much to our fellow man. “Is that not right my love?” Isabelle smiled lovingly at her husband, playing the part just as much as he was.

“Of course darling,” she replied, shivering as his lips brushed lightly over her hand. As his eyes raised to meet hers, she was sure she saw a devlish sparkle there. “We have been graced with plenty and it is our duty to help out those less fortunate than us.”

Turning her attention back to Aimee she smiled softly, shaking her head as she looked down at scarse pickings on her plate. “I know this is not food you are used to eating Aimee, but you will get used to it. You don't want all the cook's hard work to go to waste would you?”

As Isabelle turned her attention to her own plate, she was pleased to see Aimee move to chose more food to place on her plate, a sly smile playing on her lips. Her husband may have used Aimee's religious devotion to ease her apprehension towards him, but, Isabelle had also seen Aimee's reaction to the beautiful clothing she had gifted. Aimee had lived a very simple life before coming to them. What Francois was offering her was what she was used. What Isabelle was offering her was something more. A chance to become a new person, to live a new life away from the dreadful confines of the convent. From the little time she had been with Aimee, Isabelle was confident she would easily win the bet against Francois if she kept plying the girl with the finer things of life.

The dinner passed quickly and by the end of it Isabelle could see that Aimee was becoming tired and and more at ease. She was just about to invite the young woman to come see the library and after join her in the parlour in from the fire when Francois chimed in with his invitation to the chapel. By the look he flashed Isabelle it was obvious that he did not intend for her to join them. She bit her lip to hide her annoyance at this and instead smiled at him brightly.

“What a great idea,” she said, getting up from her chair. “While you two visit the chapel, I will be in the library. I wanted to finish the book I was reading anyway. Perhaps you don't mind bringing Aimee to the library after my dear. I do believe that is the last room in the house she has yet to see.”

Leaning over she kissed Francois' cheek before brushing his ear with her lips. “You may think catering to her religious devotion is going to win her over my love, but, remember, her devotion requires her to remain chaste,” she whispered so that only he could hear. “Reminding her of her devotion to god is not going to help you seduce her.” Laughing softly to herself, she pulled away and turned towards Aimee with a smile.

“Enjoy your tour of the chapel my dear,” she said softly. With those words she quickly left the dining room and made her way to the library. Entering the room she made her way to her lounge and picked up the book she had left there. Settling in she started to read as she waited for them to join her.

 

[cgraven]

“ I would love to visit your chapel, if you have the time to show me.” Aimée turned from François to Isabelle smiling happily. “Of course, Aimée it would be my pleasure to show you the Chateau’s chapel.”

François merely smiled as Isabelle leaning over, she kissed his cheek before sensually brushing his ear with her lips. “You may think catering to her religious devotion is going to win her over my love, but remember, her devotion requires her to remain chaste,” she whispered so that only he could hear. “Reminding her of her devotion to god is not going to help you seduce her.” Isabelle then turned her sweet smile to Aimée, “Enjoy your tour of the chapel my dear. While you two visit the chapel, I will be in the library. I wanted to finish the book I was reading anyway. Perhaps you don't mind bringing Aimee to the library after my dear. I do believe that is the last room in the house she has yet to see.”

François rose as Isabelle took her leave, he had to admit that those she was not pleased at him being alone with this adorable young virgin he could tell that she was very content in her belief that the temptations of the worlds delights would win her young innocent Aimée. He believed that by perverting her very prim and proper religious zeal that he would win the young girl and claim her virginity.

François had seen the delight with which the young girl had savored the decadent parfait, the innocently sensual way that her little pink tongue slowly licked off the cream that still clung greedily to her upper lip. The act so simple and yet was so evocative and inviting.

Standing François extended his hand to young Aimée De la Croix. It was a fatherly gesture one that had often been made to her by the convent's Chaplin Père Benedict. François took Aimée’s hand in his as he led the young beauty to the chapel, a chapel not dedicated to the Bon Dieu, but to lust. François opened the door to the Chapel.

Before Aimée was a simple room, at the far end was the alter, with a simple wooden cross above it. A small presence lamp burned to the side of the alter. It had none of the luxury of the rest of the Chateau and yet there was a simple sensuality to it. “What troubles you Aimée?” François knew that her life here was so different than her former life in the convent, the rich silks she now wore, the decadent food she had eagerly eaten. He knew this young beauty must believe that she had sin.

“Aimée do you believe that you have sin by partaking of the richness of the food tonight and the dress you wear.” François let his words hit at young Aimée’s fragile religious zeal. It was then that he took a great chance. “Bon Dieu can forgive us any sin as long as we come to him in true penitence. As long as we come to him like an innocent child devoid of our earthly trappings.” François’ voice was soft deep and so like Père Benedict. He spun his soft words like a spider spins his web to trap the unsuspecting fly. Aimée’s was drowsy the wine had gone to her head and dulled her moral compass. “You must rid your self of the trappings of the world, the silken dress and approach Bon Dieu naked as Bon Dieu created you Aimée.” François held his breath would this young innocent fall to his seductive suggestion and go to Bon Dieu naked as he had created her?

 

[yeishia]

“ Enjoy your tour of the chapel my dear.”

Aimée thanked Isabelle as she took the hand François offered her. If she were honest she didn’t want to go to the chapel or the library. She was feeling tired and had the beginnings of a stomach ache brought on by the rich and unaccustomed food she had just partaken of.

As they entered the chapel the young girl was struck by its simplicity when compared to the rest of the house; yet in contrast to the convent chapel this room seemed almost decedent. The room didn’t house God, it housed man; the man was François. Aimée had no idea where her errant thought came from.

His presence filled the room, the young girl felt as if she were suffocating, and once again she felt something unholy pass across her grave. She took an instinctive step backwards..

“What troubles you Aimée?” Her startled eyes met his, could he read her mind?

“N...nothing your chapel is beautiful it’s just...”

“Aimée do you believe that you have sin by partaking of the richness of the food tonight and the dress you wear.”

“ No...not really, it’s just I.”

François was cutting across her timid replies moving closer to her as she inched backwards towards the doorway they had both just entered moments before.

“Bon Dieu can forgive us any sin as long as we come to him in true penitence. As long as we come to him like an innocent child devoid of our earthly trappings.”

“ I haven’t s..sinned I...” Aimée began to feel ill at ease and even more queasy as his solomn words pressed insidiously against her mind.

His next words shocked her to her very core.

“You must rid your self of the trappings of the world, the silken dress and approach Bon Dieu naked as Bon Dieu created you Aimée.”

He wanted her to pray without her clothing! Aimée wasn’t sure that she had heard him correctly. She had never been asked to remove her clothing before a male, before anyone! Least of all her God!

Had she been bad?

Isabelle had told her it was fine to try the food, that it would be shared with those less fortunate, she’d only taken a little. Did God wish this of her...? Her head began to pound!

“ I ...I feel unwell François, my tummy aches, I need to go lay down p...please” she implored of him.

Aimée began to sway as she began to swoon, she would have fallen to the floor if François hadn’t caught her just in time.

 

[cgraven]

“What troubles you Aimée?” Her startled eyes met his, they seemed to wonder could he read her mind? “N...nothing your chapel is beautiful it’s just...” François knew from the way Aimée stunning soft eyes dropped their gaze as she avoided his eyes told him that she was a scared little rabbit.

“Aimée do you believe that you have sin by partaking of the richness of the food tonight and the dress you wear. Bon Dieu can forgive us any sin as long as we come to him in true penitence. As long as we come to him like an innocent child devoid of our earthly trappings.” The young innocent stammered, “ I haven’t s..sinned I...”yet François that this young innocent beauty did in fact pondered whether she had sinned or not.

Aimée turn pale and she panted, “ I ...I feel unwell François, my tummy aches, I need to go lay down p...please” she implored of him. Aimée began to sway as she began to swoon, “ I ...I feel unwell François, my tummy aches, I need to go lay down p...please” she implored of him.

Aimée began to sway as she began to swoon, she would have fallen to the floor if François hadn’t caught her just in time. caught her just in time. He smiled to himself as the girl lay in his arms. She had been cinched into the corset of the gown. François nimble fingers loosened the ties and strings of her corset. This had two immediately effects. The first was that Aimée could now breath more easily. The second was that her firm young breasts were no longer bound and supported and threaten to spill out of the top of her gown. As far as François was concerned was a delightful possibility.

Oh, how he longed to see the young girl in all her youthful naked glory, but he wanted the young innocent to come to him and surrendered, so he simply said, “Better Aimée?” His voice was laced with apparent concern for the young girl. “Do you wish me to help you to your room or to the Library?”