Chapter Text
Dearest Gentle Readers,
I know you must be shocked to hear from this writer during the off season, but I cannot sit idly by as I have the most horrific news. It seems for those traveling to their country side homes, beware. A large creature has been spotted. Yes, the monster is back, after being quiet for nearly thirty years. I know we've had whispers and those to have claimed to catch a glimpse, but just this morning I've witnessed it's own tracks left behind. The esteemed Bridgertons have already lost two cows this year so far. We can only hope that the beast keeps to livestock and not develop an appetite for the members of the ton. So those traveling, keep your wits about you and hope that the hunting parties are to soon put this disastrous creature to rest.
Bidding all safe travels,
Lady Whistledown
...
"Eloise!"
Violet knocks on the door for the third time, with a huff of indignation. Hyacinth giggles as Violet holds in an eye roll at Eloise lack of response.
"I fear mother that my dear sister must be dead if she has yet to rise. May I get her room, if we find her corpse laying beneath a pile of books?" Hyacinth asks.
Violet smiles as she gently shoos her youngest daughter away, "You will get no such thing. Now,off to lunch you go."
Hyacinth pouts for a moment, as she skips her way downstairs. The midday sunlight through the window catching beautifully on the sequence in her dress.
Violet looks back to the door and pauses. She knows her daughter is probably sleeping and not dead somewhere in the woods,but after the incident with her husband her heart clenches at the thought.
Of course, her second eldest daughter, the one with the most independence and awkward charm has the same infliction her husband did.
Violet knocks once more, "Eloise. I've let you sleep in long enough!" She pauses to hear nothing.
Violet takes a steadying breath before opening the door with a creak. She is unsure what she'll find. An intelligent young lady or a confused, sometimes violental creature.
The inside of the room as a word? Disaster. Books stacked ontop another, as papers cascade down the desk. The blinds tightly shut, as the heap of white comforters hide a body of a young girl, save for a pale foot sticking out.
Violet looks up, requesting help from her Lord, as she quickly opens the blinds. Light rips through the room and Violet cringes at the laundry decorating the floor. Scratches rake against the wood with mud and what Violet can only hope is not blood.
At least she did not bring any leftovers here this time. She still has not forgiven her when a poor deer leg fell from a rafter scaring Ginger, Eloise's maid, half to death.
Maids are forbidden to come in until the hours between lunch and dinner for Eloise's room. Its for their own safety. Eloise can be quite possessive and territoral when the mood fits. Violet makes a mental note to tell Anthony to give the staff a raise.
"Eloise dear, I'm afraid you've slept half the day away."
No response from the heap. Violet goes to shake her daughter, when she pauses, a faint smile tugs at her lips at the childish thought.
She rounds the bed where the lone foot hangs and drags a fingernail up it. The mass shrieks as a blob of brunette hair emerges from the sea of covers.
"What!? I'm up! I'm up!" Eloise all but yells. Violet has to simper her laughter at her mess of a daughter.
At least she's fond of this mess.
Violet clears her throat; Eloise narrows her eyes from the sunlight streaming in to find her mother. Her blue eyes roll, "Mother must you wake me up so early? I fear," with a yawn, "If you want me to find a suitor this upcoming year, I should get as much beauty sleep as possible."
Eloise goes to reclaim her spot amongst the throws.
Violet crosses her arms at the dramatically claimed daughter, "I fear if you sleep anymore today Anthony would have to start taking on callers in the off season due to them being so captivated by your beauty."
The lump ignores her.
Violet rips off the covers on the groaning girl, "Get out of bed."
Eloise tilts her head and looks at the wooden clock on the wall, "Huh. It does seem that I have slept in."
She stretches she stands, her night cloth coming up to her mid calf. Violet is greatful that she remembered to cover herself this time.
She sighs, "It seems we will have to get your clothing altered, again."
Eloise looks down, "Ugh, another growth spurt? If I keep going at this rate, I be taller and bigger than half of the males of ton."
Violet sighs as she looks down at her, " I think you'll be fine, as we're almost the same height." She looks as Eloise flexes and her sleeves do seem to strain, " We'll say you took up fencing this off-season, against my wishes."
Eloise rolls her eyes, "Why would anyone believe that? You forbid me from doing that years ago." She picks a dress off the floor and holds it up to her body seeing if it'll fit.
"Well, you are known to be problematic. You'll have to practice with your brothers starting today. I'll tell the maids to drop off some of Colin's clothes until we get yours or Daphne's old ones rectified."
Eloise turns to her mother to argue when Violet closes the door.
Violet sees two maids patiencely waiting to go inside. Luckily, they're older, more loyal ones. The new ones always scare so easily.
"Eloise will need to borrow some clothing from Colin today. Also, can you take some dresses from Daphne's closet and alter them to fit her for the off season," Violet instructs.
"Has Miss Eloise had another moon spurt my Lady?" Ginger asks. She's been around since her husband. The maid knows how to handle Eloise quite well.
Violet has a suspicion that she's more like Lady Danbury than she let's on.
Violet nods, "I'm afraid so."
....
Eloise comes down the steps wearing her riding boots, and Colin's navy blue pants and white collar shirt.
She's tucked the shirt into the waistline and has the cuffs rolled out to her elbows. The gold buttons, shining bright, making her pale skin seem darker.
The long dark oak table has been filled with a buffet of sandwiches,fruits and small cakes. Eloise practically drools at the sight. A shift always causes her hunger to be enlarged, especially moon changes.
"May I say sister, we are honored you've finally graced us with your presence, " Benedict exclaims as he takes a sip of his tea.
Anthony looks up from his newspaper as he looks at her attire, "Do you have anything else to wear today?"
Eloise growls as she takes her seat, reaching for the stack of sandwiches. Her stomach clenching, "Do you think I'd want to wear Colin's stench ridden riding clothes if I had too?"
Anthony turns to her appalled, as Benedict laughs, "They do not stink. Your brother isnt even here to use them."
Eloise argues around the sandwich, "I have a better nose than you do. Reeks of mares and....ladies."
Anthony's lips tick on one side as he tries to hide his amusement.
Violet walks in behind her daughter and hits the top of her braid lightly with her fan, "Don't speak when you're chewing."
Gregory and Hyacinth giggle at their sisters misfortune as she rubs the top of her head while angerly chewing on her meal.
Hyacinth jumps up in her chair, "Is it true that you ate two whole cows!?"
Eloise pauses and looks up bewildered, "Where did you hear that?!"
Gregory smirks as he waves the crumpled Whistledown, "Someones been digging in the trash again." He frowns as Hyacinth flicks him in the nose.
Eloise moves to snatch the paper, "Give me that." Her eyes scan the page. Francesca quickly sits beside her mother. Gregory and Hyacinth bicker.
Penelope. A pang in her heart is deep as she reads the first words of her friend in over a month.
"Children, enough. And no, Anthony. I will have the maids adjust few of Daphne's old dresses and cut off the sleeves. I'm sure it'll be passable until we get to London again," Violet says as she takes some tea.
"What's wrong with the sleeves?" Gregory asks as Eloise stuffs her face as fast as humanely possible. Glaring at the parchment.
It wasn't even her who killed the two cows, it was some wild coyotes. Those she killed. If you're going to publish something, might as well make sure it's factual first.
All members at the table show their attention to the girl. Who ignores their looks for the sole focus on the meal and internal dialog.
Violet sighs as her tea cup rattles against the dish, "It seems her physique has gained muscle, as well as height."
Benedict laughs, "It seems our dead sister will be sweeping her sutior off their feet, not the other way around."
Eloise snarls, "Great. Not only am I expected to be accommodating to my husband, but weaker in every way my sex is supposed to be."
Violet pinches her nose, "Eloise."
Francesca and Benedict share a look as her nails seem to grow longer.
Anthony sighs as he puts down his paper, wishing his wife's carriage would make its way faster to the estate. She's much better at being gentle with these things.
"Eloise you will not snarl or growl at this present company. I know you do not like this situation, but this is how things are."
Eloise puts down her sandwich, " I know you are head of the family, and you carry a burden I will never understand. I respect you for that, I however inherented a gift from father you will never understand the burden of."
Anthony sits up, "You are right, but as a member of this family you will do as I say. And what I say is, you will do as society expects, because its what expected of us. We must blend in, all of us. For all of our safeties."
Eloise looks up with bondi blue irises. The silver fork in her hand bending.
"You think I don't know? You don't think I know I must be in control all of the time? I've been practicing my shifting with Lady Danbury's supervision for years! I've even start to have memory from forced shifts from full moons. Shouldn't I be able to do something in my life the way I want to!?"
Benedict clears his throat, "Anthony, maybe we should let Eloise-."
Anthony holds his hand up and Benedict shuts his mouth.
Eloise looks around to the silent members of her family. She stands pushing the long table away from her. It scrapes along the floor, causing the members of the other side of the table to grab to their seat, lease be knocked over. "I'm going for a walk, alone."
She shuts the door. The windows and dishes rattle from the force.
Anthony starts to get up when Francesca grabs his sleeve, "I believe a moment of reconciliation for our dear sister alone, will be the best."
....
Eloise follows the small dirt path through the woods. The birds chirping and the breeze carries the scent of the garden.
"Stupid Anthony! Stupid society! These are your expectations. You MUST follow! Ugh!" She kicks a stone that shoots off into the trees.
"What about what I want!?"
Taking deep breaths she tries to allow herself to relax. Last nights run still fresh in her mind and heart. Her family will never understand. How's she's ment to be. It's not in her nature to submit. She was born to be wild and free. Her instincts are to run and delight in challenges.
Not a monster pretending to be human. Not a human pretending to give a shit about the roles of her gender.
London is great. It has her family, and many things to do. The off season however brings woods and let's a chance for herself to be free.
She unbuttons the top two to create more room around her neck. The material starting to feel suffocating. It might be an scandalous showing of skin but no ones here right now.
Eloise let's herself embrace the world. Her ears grow pointer, canines sharper and eyes brighter as she let's herself breathe.
The breeze brings many scents of life, the trout in the creek a few meters away, the sweet nectar of the flowers blooming, the birds and creatures of the forest talking of the best berries and fields ripe with the best grasses. The sunlight filling her very bones with warmth. Her eyes refelcting colors that only can express the hidden magic of nature. The trees swaying in a joyous dance.
If only for a moment, until a large white horse bolts through and takes her off her feet.
She groans as she sits up. The pain changing her back to normal. God forbid, anyone seeing her.
Eloise curses herself for focusing on her transformation so much, she forgot to listen for any danger.
"Oh my goodness, I apologize! I didn't think anyone would be...out." A sweet voice trails off from ontop of the beast.
"Tell that to my contusions," Eloise groans as she sit up onto her elbows. Her right ankle throbbing with her heart beat.
Great.
"Eloise, what on earth are you wearing?" Lavender and hint of whiskey circles her. Dread settles like a pit in her stomach, she knows the scent well.
Eloise looks up and squints at the imposing figure. Blonde hair halo'd by the sunlight and cold green eyes that could cut anyone in half with a glare. They widen as they look at her sprawled form.
"Miss Cowper, is hitting young ladies with horses you new method of taking out the other debutantes?" Eloise sneers as she gingerly stands. Her ankle did infact twist on the way down. Dirt sticks to the navy material, and stains the side of the shirt she landed on.
Mother is going to be so pissed.
Cressida scoffs, "My, what a splendid idea."
Eloise ignores her, as she starts to turn around. She bites her lip as she limps. The bone will be perfectly normal within the hour.
She hears a small inhale and the leather saddle creeking. Footsteps catch up. Eloise turns around.
Cressida's own brown riding boots and attire compliment her tack. The outfit surprisingly simple. None of those horrored puffed sleeves Eloise is used to seeing her in.
"Wait, Eloise. You're hurt." Eloise shrugs off the gloved hand that went to grasp her shoulder.
"Delightful observation Miss Cowper. Next, I suppose you'll say the grass is green or the sky is blue," Eloise snarks.
Cressida growls with irritation, "Don't be such a pain."
Eloise turns around to meet her glare, "I'd rather crawl out of these woods then have you assist me."
Cressida stops. Flicking her braid behind her shoulder, "I can arrange that if you'd like."
Eloise keeps her head up as shes stumbling her way down the path. Wishing she could shift just to fix her ankle faster.
Her ear gives a slight twitch as the twin footsteps continue to follow. The metal shoes of the horse tink on the stones on the path. Cressida's stepfalls are quite heavy and Eloise forces down a smile knowing that the elegant lady sounds much like an bull raging through a China shop.
So much for her quiet stroll. She wipes some sweat dripping from her brow with the back of her hand. From the heat or the pain is the question.
"Am I going to get an explanation of why you're wearing male clothing or shall I ask Miss Featherington next time I see her? You two have always been peculiar. " Cressida asks as her brow furrows as she follows a drop of sweat down Eloise neck before quickly returning to her face.
Eloise swallows a growl as her body shivers in rage. The betrayal still a fresh gapping wound. The silence is loud.
"Miss Featherington will fail to give you the answer you seek," Eloise states with a monotone voice.
Cressida pausing in leading her steed, "Has the insipid wallflower developed a taste for better company?"
Eloise cheeks burn. She stops and turns around, "Funny. How does a young lady like yourself trampse throughout the woods without an escort?"
Cressida narrows her eyes, "I did come out with an escourt unlike you. I just have seemed to misplace him." She looks through the trees as if they'll pop out any moment.
Eloise tries to increase the distance. Her shoulders growing tense as the aggravation in her leg starts to travel up the nerve.
Cressida's longer strides make it all too easy to catch up. She grabs the white sleeve of the girl, "Now are you going to let me help you or are you going to continue to pathetically limp to your estate."
Eloise purses her lips pretending to think, "I'll pathetically limp."
Cressida eye twitches. However, she continues to follow silently as Eloise slowly reaches the end of the forest. She pauses, rubbing her leg. Cressida follows the moverment with a frown.
The estate is just across the field. Her excellent vision can see a brooding Anthony glancing towards her direction, as Benedict teases the young Gregory for another bought of fencing.
"It seems you've gotten back in one piece," Cressida states as she goes to remount.
Eloise takes a deep breath. "Miss Cowper."
Cressida pauses as she turns, her pale green dress blends beautifully in the forest. She looks splended. Graceful, a way Eloise could only dream of being.
"I'd appreciate your discretion about my attire. My brother's thought it to be funny to throw all my clothing onto the stable roof for me to retrieve."
Cressida tilts her head, "What an odd thing, brothers are."
....
"I must say it's unnatural how much faster you are, sister. " Benedict states as he rubs his shoulder from where Eloise acquired a point.
Eloise lifts her mask, "Why must I wear this ridiculous thing?"
Gregory comments from the stone wall, "Because we can't have anyone see we are teaching a lady fencing."
Eloise groans looking up, "I thought the whole point of me doing this stupid sport was for me to get caught. "
Benedict laughs, "Yes, but we must seem like we don't want you to get caught. Besides it hides your face. "
Eloise snorts, "Are you calling me unpleasant looking?"
Benedict taps his chin with his finger, "Ungraceful, undignified, loud, opinionated, yes but never ugly."
Eloise has half the mind to smack him.
"Eloise!"
They turn to see Violet gesture them inside. Eloise sighs as she hands over her mask and sword as she jogs her way over.
Violet smiles, "It seems you have a visitor. Go change and see what they would like. "
Eloise sighs as she makes her way upstairs, her lady maid hurriedly helps put on a light purple gown and put her hair half up holding it out of her face with a braid.
The copper haired maid expertly twists her hair as she pins it to perfection. Eloise watches in the mirror as she sighs, "I hope that it's not suitors trying to get an early start of next season."
Ginger looks in the mirror, eyes wrinkling with humor, "I'm sure if you'd show your teeth and growl they'd run for the hills. "
"Ah, as pleasurable as that sounds. Mother would not be pleased," Eliose smiles with humor. The idea has crossed her mind to let her eyes glow and let her canines grow at balls, but she would not for fear of the ton burning her family.
Ginger grabs her shoulders, "All done, ma' lady." Her slight Scottish accent rolling the vocals.
Eloise makes her way down the steps to pause as a Cressida Cowper waits patiencely with her own maid. Cressida eyes the painting in the hallway.
"Miss Cowper, " Eloise stops, "What are you doing here?"
Cressida looks at her for a moment and clenches her fan tighter. Eloise is shocked she can smell nervousness coming from the usually confident lady.
Cressida clears her throat, "I was invited to a tea party and wanted to see if you'd like to join me?"
The few days before, Cressida did escape her boring escort in the woods. She needed a moment alone, away from men hired from her father. She was not expecting to run over the tiny girl in the mean time.
And seeing her limp kept hitting a nerve every stubborn step she took. Let alone the rumpled state to begin with.
Perhaps that is why Cressida took pity.
Eloise crosses her arms, "And what made you think of extending the invitation to me?"
Cressida eyes look to the maid who gives an encouraging smile, "From the last time I saw you, I saw you limping from the final debutante ball of the season. I thought it'd be polite to let you come with me to a more enjoyable event."
Cressida's eyes are wide with pleading. Eloise raises a brow.
Is this her way of apology? "I suppose if I go. Who else will I be expecting to be there?"
Cressida smiles, "Anyone, but a Featherington."
Eloise hackles raise at the rude remark on her friend....ex friend. She swallows the sneer approaching her face.
"When are we leaving?"
....
"And then! Lord Abe fell!"
A boisterous laugh echoes the room as a bought of young ladies cackle.
Cressida goes to whisper a remark when the smile fades off of her lips as she looks at Eloise.
Eloise has her face leaning in her hand staring out of the window. Cookies and tea remained untouched as she looks wistfully out onto the garden.
Her lip locked between her teeth as she pounders anything but here.
Cressida tries to swallow the irritation at her. A part of her wants to shake the girl, screaming 'I took a chance on my name to bring you here, look like you care.'
And a bigger part wants to ask what had her a thousand miles away.
"Eloise."
"Hm? " Eloise turns to the host, Lexie, as she looks to the other girls in amusement, "Any interesting tales from this pass season?"
Eloise sighs, "Not unless you count my second year of failing my mother on percluding a husband."
She starts to play with her spoon, pretending to stur something in her tea.
An awkward silence settles as the girls look over each other. Cressida smiles awkwardly as Lexie shoots her a subtle glare.
Cressida notes to herself to strangle the little Bridgerton in the carriage.
Jessica clears her throat, "I bet your mother was not as disappointed as you'd think. You Bridgertons seem like the loyal type."
Abigail pipes up, "Oh yes, my family thought my sister was born a spinster until she found her husband traveling. Don't lose hope."
Eliose sighs," Honestly, I think it's the men that should have to dress up as peacocks and strut for us."
Jessica laughs, "Oh my goodness, no! Do you remember that fiasco at Lady Danbury's?"
Abigail nearly shoots out her tea, "The dreadful 'poem' contest?!"
The girls all start to make fun at the men and their "talents." Cressida looks to Eloise and leans forward.
Eloise smiles at their reflection of the young men. Abby and Jessica even get up to try to redo the Duke that tap dances. Both laughing and tripping over themselves as Lexie and the others applaud.
Cressida leans forward, "I know this is not your...preferred company, but I hope you are having a decent time."
Eloise picks up her cooling tea, "Yes, I suppose the company," she looks at Cressida, "Is decent."
Cressida and Eloise waved a friendly goodbye. As Lexie and her maids waved from the porch. Eloise got in the Cowper carriage and sat comfortably across from Cressida.
Eloise sighs and feels her shoulders relax as the small space fills with lavender. There's more of a heavy cigar than liquor stuck on Cressida's clothing this time.
"Was it as dreadful as you thought?" Cressida teases.
Eloise slouches, "Im afraid, even more so."
Cressida has half the mind to kick her leg, "Don't be troublesome. What did you and Miss Featherington talk about at your gatherings?"
Eloise bites her lip to keep herself from flinching. Honestly, she nearly forgot about it. Some days are easier than others when thinking about the betrayal.
Cressida gives Eloise a moment. She is sure whatever transcribed, they will be back holding hands at their first reunion. You cannot have a Bridgerton without a Featherington.
"Books, mostly."
Cressida scoffs, "Why, shouldnt I be surprised."
Eloise glared, "If you are going to ridicule everything I say, then this will be the last social junction I entertain with you."
Cressida's first instinct is to bare her teeth and fight back. After all that's what they do. Eloise makes a clever comeback to whatever, Cressida says. And it carries to the next meeting. But, Eloise brings her knees up and rests her chin on them.
Cressida's own mother would chastise her the whole ride home if she sat like that. Cressida sits back and maybe, she would prefer her as a friend then an adversary.
"What kinds?"
"Pardon?" Eloise asks. Sweeping her eyes from the land back to the blonde.
Cressida sighs, "What kinds of books do you discuss."
Eloise blinks at the olive branch. Is Cressida actually trying to be amicable?
"Well, I discussed books on people's movements. And Pen-...Miss Featherington would discuss romance." Eloise shivers at the idea of reading about marriage and people flaunting themselves. She already has to live through people trying to obtain their own romance, why would she want to spend her limited free time reading about it?
Cressida bites her lip, never thinking she'd agree with Penelope of all people, "What's wrong with romance?"
...
"No! Eloise, I swear to God!"
Eloise gives a wolfish smile before hitting Benedict's ball so hard it nearly goes into the center of the hay field.
Cressida swallows as Benedict lands on his knees, "Why?" He whines.
The rest of the family offers sympathetic stares as Eloise cackles towards herself.
Her light blue dress swishes as she jumps in excitement. Her toes occasionally peak out as she forgo any shoes today.
"Barbaric, aren't they?" Cressida nearly jumps out of her skin as Kate leans forward on her mallet.
Anthony steps up with his pink mallet and the family waits as he attempts to get his ball in the hoop. Some jest as he hits. Groans and applauds echo off the house.
Cressida sighs, "They’re certainly more....energetic than I'm used too."
Kate nearly snorts, "They bring the best and worse out of each other." She looks over, "You are quite lucky."
Cressida raises a brow, "How so? Because I'm not in last place?" Benedict is still looking in the tall grass for his ball.
Kate laughs, "No. Eloise is quite the young lady. I am still getting to know her and she seems to hold onto herself tightly."
Cressida pauses as her heart flutters at this newer sensation of acquaintanceship.
The young Vicountess steps closer and Eloise tilts her head. Kate looks over and hides a smile at the nosey girl, "Daphne has been very helpful in keeping me informed infamily affairs and favors."
Cressida swallows as Kate's eyes darken with warning, "I hope you do enjoy spending this time with us today. I believe it's your turn."
Cressida steps forward, as Eloise stares at Kate. Who simply shrugs in response.
Eloise might be the family's greatest protector but Kate will not stop protecting the family; as it's her duty and pleasure to keep all members that are dear to her safe.
Cressida knocks her ball through and Eloise whoops as the rest of the family claps politely. All members trade glances at the growing friendship.
"I finally found it!" Benedict yells from the field.
....
"I say we should take up a night hunt!" One of Father's pokermates states as he heaves his pint of beer down onto the table. Some sloushes out and Cressida flinches as it soaks through her dress.
She tightens her one hand on her gown. Trying to curl more into herself. It is far past what she would normally stay up, but her father's most esteemed guests are partaking in their dinner tonight.
He would not be happy if she requested to leave.
"Are you daft? It would take the Kings army to destroy that beast! I heard it's as big as a horse!" Lord Chapman argues around his cigar.
Cressida tries to count the number of lines in the wallpaper. Anything, to keep herself occupied.
"Ah yes, because you've seen it so." Barron Earl scoffs. Several men bark out in laughter. Cressida glances at her mother who is staring at her lap.
Her father at the head of the table ticks a smile. He lifts a brow dragging a long inhale with a cigar of his own as he returns her look.
Cressida sighs internally as she returns to ignore present company. Her cheeks are starting to hurt from the plastered smile. She's had years to practice nods and when to fidget interest in conversations. Especially with men.
Chapman slams his hand down, "Aye. As big as a horse, with teeth as long and sharp as a bayonet. Claws as big as a simple hunting knife. Hide so thick not even a gun shot can pierce it. Eyes that glow with hell fire." He grabs his own fork and moves them in a way to minic claws.
"Ah yes, do you remember when it slaughtered a whole heard of deer? Carcasses twisted and ripped apart."
"Prehaps this is not talk for the young ladies present," Lord Jake states as he looks at the only two females. Cressida tenses as the attention goes on them.
She's lost count at the accidental grab or eyes that trace her figure. She just accepts the feeling of being gazed in an abhorrent way. When she tried to talk to her father about is she had a nice lip split she had to cover.
"Jacob, calm yourself. They are woman of strong mind. They won't lose their decorum ," Earl says as he eyes Cressida. Cressida swallows as his gaze seems to strip her.
It's fine, just act meek and they'll lose interest.
"Oh, yes. Miss Cowper what a fine wife you'll make!" One of the men state. As he shuffles his cards around.
Father snorts, "If she can obtain a husband."
Cressida steels herself. Pretending she doesnt feel the spit fly on her face after several of her fathers lectures of how it be so much better if she was born a man. Or not at all.
"Dearie, if you don't find a husband this season. I'll have to take you for myself!" The men laugh as Cressida's skin crawls with nausea.
Her father sighs at her mother's pleading look. "Cressida, go take a walk amongst the garden."
Cressida stands ignoring the sticky cloth as she tries to not sprint out. Food barely touched.
She exits the nearest door and makes herself go far way. Far away from the beer and smoke, far away from her father's friends, far away from the expectations, far away from being a Cowper.
She rounds the far edge of the garden, where the forest meets the large pond. The footman put out floating candles, illumating the water. Fireflies decorate the sky along the stars. Occasionally, a frog will churp.
If she was just Cressida maybe it be more enjoyable. She's sure another punishment is bound to happen.
She takes a seat on a small bench. The guards stayed at her father's request to protect the guests. Anytime she's sent away, at least she's alone. Maids mostly asleep. She rubs her arms, cursing for leaving her jacket inside.
She sighs. Wondering how long she'll be here until she's aloud to return inside.
A twig snaps. Cressida freezes as the frogs pause in their song. The creak pouring into the pond halts the silence from being completely taken over, but soon Cressida holds her breath as a large dark brown mass inches it's way out of the woods.
A long snout exits, nostrils flaring, a stream of steam exits with its exhales. Paws as big as a dinner plate step out, so quiet, it's like the beast isn't even there. It pauses half way out and the ears flicker, listening. Cressida heart triples and she is arguing with herself to not scream.
It stands on its twisted hind legs and Cressida feels her stomach clenching. It's front claws have four claws with a fifth higher up, almost like a thumb.
The beast bends down to take a drink. Cressida slowly stands, to run and the bench creaks. It's easily half the size of her great stallion. Lord Chapman's long tales were not so fictional.
The muscles in its body freezes and turns around. Cressida feels faint as water drips from its mouth. White teeth glittering in the moonlight.
Cressida begans to shake. The blue eyes, so blue they do glow with hellfire, widen.
Cressida swallows, knowing if she screams, if any help would come, they would be too late. Plus, if her mother would come with the men, she would not want to put her in danger. As the creature would not be filled on just her.
With trembling lips Cressida pleads against a beast with no mind, no heart, "please."
It lowers its head and slowly, painfully slow, walks to her. It's claws dig into the dirt. The shoulder and thorax huge, briming with muscle under a thick coat. The front limbs long, perfect for reaching and grabbing prey.
The creature inhales. The abdomen seems to be smaller with hind quarters just as strong with legs build much like a dog. The tail standing straight.
Cressida collapses back onto the bench and stares into the blue orbs, as the creature approaches her. She tilts her head up, refusing to submit to another beast.
The creature standing is taller than her by a foot when she's standing, at least. Towering over as she sits. Cressida ltoks up as the creature unceremoniously drops. Cressida let's out a squeak. The giant head rests on its own front limbs.
Cressida legs shake as she feels hot on this cooler night. The deep breaths brings warmth where it touches. Cressida sits and waits for the inevitable bite, the first snarl and act of aggression that would be the last thing she knows.
She is unsure how long she stares at the monster. Shes never seen anything like it in any books. Her heart starts to slow a down with time and soon she looks, really looks at the beast of London. She tries to move to a more comfortable place, causing the old wood to groan.
She feels her own muscles stiffen along side the creature's. There is a pause as it lifts it's head to look at her. Cressida waits as it's cool eyes gaze upon her face, the creature, she realizes, the fur around the eyes are black, making it seem like it has makeup on. The thought of the most feared beast in England has makeup makes her fear overcome with slight humor.
It heaves a huge sigh and repositions itself. It's head more tilted away from her. Looking at the pond.
She is unsure of how much time has past, but it must have been quite some, as the stars have changed its position from before. All, if not, most of the candles burned out.
"Miss Cowper!" Cressida sits up as the beast flips over, startled. It's lips curl and Cressida flinches as white daggers show.
She doesn't want the approaching man to die.
A whine slips from her lips and the beast stops as it looks at her. A light from a lantern shows and the beast glances at it, to her, before taking off into the woods.
"Miss Cowper, there you are," a footman states with relief, "Your father's friends have all returned home and you may return to the house."
Cressida shivers as she tucks her arms in to keep herself warm, "Okay, thank you for retrieving me."
Before she goes, she gazes back into the woods. Only for it to remain empty.
....
Cressida jumps as her arm is grabbed. She let's go of one of the newest creations in Modiste Dress Shop.
"There you are! I fear you were left in the country side this upcoming season," Eloise sighs as she turns to see if anyone followed her.
Eloise caught Cressida's scent down the street and she informed her mom she was going to say hello to a friend. She probably should have mentioned, where she was going, but better to ask for forgiveness than permission.
Cressida shakes her head, "And what? Leave no good competition this year?" She pulls Eloise around the store, ignoring the girl holding on like a child.
Eloise rolls her eyes, "Yes, how dare I think of this season's diamond as such."
Cressida pauses with surprise. She looks down to the shorter girl, "You know that new debutantes are only picked for that."
Eloise waves her hand, "Who knows? The queen does what she wants."
Cressida can feel her cheeks warm with pink as she looks back to the material.
Madame Genevieve Delacroix comes around the corner with a stack of colors, "Bonjour girls! How have you been?"
"I've been well. Thank you," Cressida states as she eyes the cloth greedily. Wanting to get first pick of the latest colors.
"You know hoping the beast would eat me. So, I won't have to brave my mother's match making. At last, it did not find me very tasty," Eloise whines.
Cressida pauses, as Madame laughs, "Oh chérie! I'm sure one of theses bachelor's will think you're tastey, indeed!"
Cressida furrows her eyes as Eloise scrunches her nose. Cressida did infact go sit outside for a week straight waiting for the beasts return,but it never showed.
She even tried to track it but the prints were nonexistent. How could something that huge just disappear?
Cressida has been harboring this secret. Not even Eloise knows.
Would she even believe her? That she saw, even got so close she could've touched the beast.
The bell rings and Madame welcomes the latest customers, "Ah! Ms. Bridgerton and Miss Bridgerton! I believe you've caught up to your daughter."
"Great," Eloise mumbles and she squeezes Cressida arm tighter, "Please, Miss Cowper. You got to help hide me."
Cressida smiles hugely, "Oh, Mrs. Bridgerton! I believe Eloise just informed me that she think that this fabric would attract the perfect sutior this year!"
Cressida hold up a pale lavender. Eloise swallows a growl as she bares her teeth, "I really dislike you sometimes."
Violet gentley takes the fabric with a smile, "Why Eloise! This is such a ladylike color! Madame Delacroix, I believe I would like my daughters to get fitted with this!"
Eloise looks with wide pleading eyes as both older ladies grab her arms and take her to the back. Francesca hiding a small smile following her distraught sibling.
Cressida gives a small wave as she disappears.
....
Cressida takes a breath as she look around the latest queen's party. Mother wanted her to go out to "scoop out potential sutiors".
Honestly? She's just happy to enjoy the warm day outdoors. She's wearing the latest dress her mother bought her. Its a bit ridiculous in her own opinion. Her fan an obnoxious lime green. With feathers. Cressida hasn't seen the point in having a fan that can't even cool one down, but mother insisted.
She swallows the crawling feeling of loneliness as last seasons pairings seem to mock her, as they enjoy a stroll of their own. Catching up with friends.
She has yet seen anyone worth her time.
"You know I'll have to get you back for that." Eloise states as she catches up to Cressida. Cressida hides her smile. Unsure if she's more greatful for the company or because getting under Eloise skin is so much fun.
A light blue gown swishes with her hurried steps as a cute bow center's over her chest. Arm sleeves are see through and Cressida eyes catch the lean muscle.
I thought she sniveled at books all day?
"I'm afraid, I haven't had the slightest idea what you're talking about, " Cressida pauses as she delights in the irritated look Eloise throws her.
Eloise sighs heavily, "I'm sure, when your hair is less tight, you'll remember."
Cressida scoffs, "At least mine has pretty bows and looks like I've runned a comb through it. Your appearance is quite wild."
Eloise pauses as she subconsciously grabs the end of her bangs. Her eyes flit around and her redden shoulders drop.
Cressida swallows as a pit of panic hits her, "I was merely jesting."
She didn't actually mean it. Eloise always looks splendid.
Eloise stops and tucks her hands in towards her body and nervously plays with her gloves. She swallows and quietly says, "Of course. I need to speak with Benedict, if you'll pardon me."
Cressida tightens her grip on her fan as she watches the girl make her escape. A heavy sigh escapes as she looks to the ground. Half a mind to kick some gravel in anger, but don't want to get yelled at for getting dirty.
To think she actually enjoys the company of someone who would rather die, then be in her presence. Maybe, there's a reason Cressida is so good at keeping people away.
Cressida looks up to try to find Eloise again. Maybe apologize, when a yellow monstrosity of a dress walks in through the shrubbery. All alone.
Eloise looks down, talking to Benedict when she stiffens, nostrils flare as she turns.
Cressida heart tightens as a look of pained longing passes between the too. So, Eloise was correct something did happen.
Perhaps, it was also not one sided? As Penelope stalls, not running to apologize.
Anger tightens her resolve as she walks forward, "Oh, look if it isn't Penelope Featherington," She walks around the girl. Her hair red and natural curls, that Cressida has always been jealous of, is nicely placed.
Cressida sneers, as she moves her fan to demonstrate to all of the Featherington girl, "Back in a dress worthy of the color of-"
Eloise steps between them, "Cressida." She warns. Cressida pauses as Eloise flexes a hand out almost protective of the girl behind her.
Cressida eyes narrow, she walks forward with a spring in her step, eyes flashing towards the concerning little red head in warning, "There you are. I've been looking for you."
Eloise swallows as she looks down, "And I for you." Cressida watches as Eloise promptly ignores Penelope and turns to smirk at the girl. Before she can make eye contact she feels a slight touch and turns her head back.
"Shall we go and get some lemonade?" Eloise asks with a polite smile. Cressida's own smile grows as she accepts, "What a splendid idea. I'm parched with thirst."
Eloise turns and she feels disgust with herself. Pretending to not acknowledge her oldest and who was, her most dear friend.
Eloise nealry turns around when a scent of sorrow and anger grip her.
Eloise has learned about herself and about many others these past years.
Lady Danbury has taught her, what she knew on her kind. Plus, Father's journals have helped. She's added more information along the way. Filled with notes of her own experience.
Learning how each person or creature has a unique scent and heartbeat. If she gets close enough personally or if the emotion is strong enough, she can identify how a person is feeling. Each feeling produces a different pheromone.
The better acquainted Eloise is with the person, the faster she can tell how they truly are, or if their lying, what they ate or if their about to be sick.
She's save her mother many doctor trips by learning what sickness needs what remedy.
It was not fun being around the Duke and Daphne or Anthony or Kate. Eloise has learned very quickly what lust smells like, and it's very hard to take sutiors seriously when you know they are just horny for you.
"I do admit, back to what you said earlier. Is it not congenial to be back from the country? All that draft and emptiness." Cressida says thinking mostly of the blank halls that would echo off her footsteps. Her own thoughts haunting her.
If not, they were filled with conversations of her own failures or mothers failure to help percluding a husband.
The only brief moment of happiness was when Eloise was with her, or the moment when she was hunting for the monster.
Eloise sighs, "You do know others call that 'fresh air' "?"
Eloise has half the mind to grab Cressida's fan to get away of the smell of enraged bewilderment. Penelope stalks them as she would a wounded deer. Eloise nearly wants to run away.
She does the only thing she can think of to get rid of her ex-friends scent and overwhelming feeling pheromones. She steps closer, trying to focus on the Cressida's scent.
Cressida smile grows as her eyes flicker to their follower, "Of course. Befriending you there was a happy surprise. But ultimately, it is London where I am most at home."
There's more to do for herself, and keep her Father occupied.
She walks forward and is nearly beaming. Eloise pauses to look as she turns to walk backwards. Cressida doesn't want to miss seeing Penelope's face. "And the season will be all the better now, I have you by my side."
Elosie covers her nose, as distraught. Utter loneliness smacks her across the face.
Cressida pauses as Eloise turns green and she steps forward to take her arm. Least the girl fall over.
"Of course," Eloise mumbles. Cressida hurriedly pulls her to the stone retaining wall.
"Sit," she orders. Eloise is pale and sweating. Cressida tries to feel her temperature on Eloise's head through the gloves. Is it the heat?
Cressida sucks in a breath, Eloise is absolutely scorching.
Eloise tries to take deep breaths to calm herself. God, why? She absolutely cannot make a show here. Too may eyes.
"Don't move. I'll go fetch the queens physician," Cressida grabs her arm and makes sure Eloise looks at her.
Eloise grabs the wall as she leans down, "No, no doctor."
Cressida's stomach drops, "Are you daft? You're running a fever-"
Eloise grabs her arm. Cressida flinches at the grip. Eloise tries to smile, but it comes out more of a grimace, "C-could you get me a drink?"
Cressida opens her mouth to argue. Eloise pushes her bottom lip out as her cheeks grow more flushed, "please?"
Cressida pauses. She looks away, relenting with a sigh. "Fine," she grits, "But you absolutely do not move from this location."
Eloise nods. Cressida pauses before going to fetch her a drink. Eloise trys to calm her heartrate as near panic hits. "It's not you, it's Pen," She whispers to herself.
She shakes her head to separate herself from the strong emotions.
"Eloise, breathe. Remember to steady yourself," a voice whispers in the crowd. She looks up and scans. Lady Danbury has a drink near her lips as she glances over, "Nod if you're okay. If not, start to fan yourself with your hand and I'll send Benedict over."
Eloise closes her eyes and tries to find an anchor. It was Penelope,but after the betrayal it doesn't, no, it cannot be her anymore. She relied too much on her friend, and for far too long. Her emotions where hard and still are hard to separate from her own. Eloise needs to focus, she takes a deep breath.
The music pounds on her ears, the violin screeching on the sensitive ear drums. If she were changed, she'd flick them back. She rips off her gloves and digs them into the cool stone. It crumbles beneath her hand.
She tries to focus on Benedict, the paint he uses smells of clay, always stuck under his finger nails. The texture of a canvas basically coated to his skin.
But a lighter, more pleasant smell curls towards her. Lavender. The whiskey or cigar is a bit harder to smell on her, with so many others near. But Eloise ignores her other senses and inhales.
A gentle finger brushes the sweaty bangs out of her face, "Hey, Eloise. You're not going to faint or anything right? That's kind of my thing to get a suitor."
Eloise makes sure her eyes aren't, "Wolfed out" as Colin helpfully puts it.
She opens them to Cressida, nealry kneeling infront of her as she holds a drink in her other hand. Cressida offers and Eloise greedily drinks.
She catches Benedict's eye and waves her towards her face, "I apologize, I didn’t mean to cause a scene."
Cressida sits next to her and offers her fan, "Don't be ridiculous. I'm sure seeing Penelope Featherington wasn't easy." Cressida looks as Eloise's face almost twists up in pain.
She asks the question thats been on the tip of her tongue for months, "What exactly happened?"
Eloise tenses, "It's hard. To see her. To pretend," her lip wobbles.
Cressida bites her lower lip. She's never had a relationship worth losing.
She sits next to the flushed girl. Close enough to steady her if she would sway.
She doesn't really know what could've happened, but she does know this, "I'm hear now. Whatever happened. It's in the past. I-...I can't imagine torturing yourself of what already happened or what you could've done differently. It doesn't matter, it is what it is. The only think you can change is your future."
Eloise raises her eyes and Cressida flinches at the tears collecting in them. She didn't say anything wrong, right? Ugh. Why must relationships be so complicated?
"El. I think I'm going to make my leave. Colin is stealing all of the fun," Cressida nearly glares at the Bridgerton man. He offers a hand as Eloise tries to discreetly wipe her eyes, "Want to make haste with me and slip home before anyone would notice?"
Cressida nearly growls, that she would notice.
Eloise sets the drained cup down, "I'd be delighted to brother." She grabs his offered arm and turns to Cressida with a wobbly smile, "Happy husband hunting."
....
"Eloise! Time for the modiste." Violet yells. As if Eloise couldn't hear her on the other side of town. She has half the mind to tattle on her siblings to keep the attention off of her.
She looks over her room for her coin purse. Nothing. Perhaps, downstairs?
She grabs her shawl, and trends carefully down the steps, maybe she could miss it if she goes human pace.
"Eloise!"
Eloise enters the room and sneaks in through the side, just to run into a bemused Colin. "Eloise. Surely,you are not eager to hasten to the modiste?"
Eloise chuckles mockingly. They both know she would rather chew her own leg off.
She fines the leather pouch on the couch. "Ah, there you are!"
She turns to follow mother, before her temper starts to flare, when Colin steps infront of her. Offering a gift.
"A rare Bavarian text on the rights-,"
Eloise awkwardly smiles at the gesture. "I am reading something already. 'Emma.' "
Colin lifts a brow. Book still stretched outright, "A novel. You have never been one for silly romances."
Eloise's eyes flashes with irritation, "Perhaps, my tastes have changed." Maybe, since she could focus less on not killing anything, she could focus on what she wants. Friends.
Cressida likes romantic books, so they can't be that terrible.
"To me human rights are the romantic books. To fight for what you want and believe in. Especially the one where woman make their way outside of societal constrains. This? This book as humor and truth....the pains of friendship. It's altogether more probable." Eloise gives a tight smile as she tries to exit.
Colin steps infront of her. Blocking her path, "And I take it your taste in friendship has changed as well?"
Eloise takes a breath,trying to clear his confused anger away from her justified irritation.
Eloise sighs. Her brother wasn't there. He doesn't know.
"Cressida surprised me this summer. She showed me kindness in the country when no one else would." In a way, maybe more than even her family could.
Yes. She was terrified, but she didn't run, she didn't scream, she didn't try to force chains or muzzles. She simply stayed. And for Eloise? That was the moment she knew that she misjudge Cressida. Wanted an actual companionship.
"And what of Penelope?" Colin retorts. Eloise sighs, heartbreak still there, but starting to scab, "We have simply grown apart."
Maybe, she could tell him, without telling him, "Lady Whistledown nearly ruined me last season. I lost the battle, and I have no appetite for the war. I've joined the winning side. Not unlike you, I've taken? Or is this the truly new you?"
Eloise sniffs as Colin begrudgingly responds, "A man cannot tell his all of his secrets."
Eloise nealry howled. Secrets from her? She hums, "Must be lonely."
....
Eloise follows her mother throughout town. Trying to focus on the more pleasant smells, young ladies soaps, rose water they bath their hair, the flowers blooming or cut, fresh fruit.
Occasionally, she suppress a gag at the unbathed personal, or vomit from patrons outside the bar. Or simply the chamber pots that the poorer district throw onto the street.
She's almost grateful, when they entered Madame Delacroix shop. Eliose looked out the window, taking a breath of the fresh linen.
When the bell rings, ink and rose.
Eloise tenses, as she turns to see her, Penelope.
She stares and Eliose cannot seem to look away. She turns to her maid, "Could you please meet me in the carriage, Rae?"
Oh? She's breaking the unspoken silence. Eloise crosses arms and sighs as her canines throb to grow. Eloise almosts want to smile. Penelope's startle expression would almost match the with of the consequences.
Penelope slowly approaches, twisting her fingers in nerves. A nervous habit they've picked up from one another, "I've been hoping we would meet."
Eloise shakes her head in disbelief, "Did not seem so, when you were hiding away in the countryside this summmer."
Eloise made attempts in both forms. When she was turned away in human form, and then her letter went unanswered for weeks. She'd assumed the worse, sniffing her out in the Featherington's humble cottage in the country.
The scent was fresh and so were the unopened letters in the trash.
"I avoided society, because I did not know if you'd want to see me," Penelope answers. Eloise tilts her head and focused on her heartbeat.
She normally would feel guilt on spying on a friend in such a matter, but there's no more trust.
Eloise blinks, not want to see her friend? Her only one at the time? "And because you were worried, I might reveal your secret?"
Penelope takes a half step back, eyes flashing around. Eloise already checked for prying ears. Not that she would tell her. Fine, let her squirm. She deserves it.
"I do appreciate you keeping it. Eloise, I am so sorry about everything," Penelope whispers. Her hands in front in a pleading way.
Eloise eyes narrow. It's the same gesture her family uses when they think she's about the lose control. To calm an uncaged animal.
"For what you did, or because I discovered it was you who wrote such damning things?" Eloise snarls. She'd never leave, Penelope out the same way she did.
"You may not understand,but I was trying to protect-" Penelope nearly rolls her eyes at Eloise's dramatics. She would never understand. Protected her from the Crown.
"No," Eloise growls, "I dont need your explanations. I have kept your secret exactly, because I do not wish to keep revisiting the past. Now, you have your life, and I have mine."
"With Cressida?" Penelope snarks. The same girl who bullied the both of them?
Eloise scoffs. How dare she. Cressida might be a pain, but she's never shown anything untrue yet.
"Are you really friends with her?" Penelope asks at Eloise's silence.
"I wish you very well, Penelope." Eloise states as she turns from her and goes deeper into the shop.
....
"How are you feeling Eloise?" Lady Danbury asks. She bends down to see if her potion is mixing properly.
Eloise grumbles as she lays on the wooden table staring at the stone ceiling.
Lady Danbury sighs, "Grumbling like a tavern drunkard is not a a good trait as a Lady."
Eloise sits up, "I'm fine! Everything's fine."
Lady Danbury raises a brow. She make her way over and grabs her wrist. Eloise fights against her nature to pull back.
"Since, youre so fine. You should be in control, should you not? Let's see it, pinky."
Eloise sighs as she focuses on just getting her claw to form on it.
"Good, eyes." Eloise blinks as they turn brighter. Vision increases and she starts to see the swirling magic off of the potions.
"Teeth."
She smile as her canines grow, "Easy."
Lady Danbury steps back, "Easy? Then go back to human." Eloise does as she says.
Lady Danbury looks at the girl, "Pick a hand."
Eloise puts down the right, just as Lady Danbury slams a knife through it and sticks to the table.
Eloise snarls as her skin tries to shift around the knife. She tries to rip it out with little success.
Lady Danbury floats herself some tea, as Eloise struggles in the back. She's grateful she magically bolted that table down.
"Do you want a hint? Or are you going to keep acting animalistic?" She huffs.
Eloise roars before closing her eyes. She takes a deep breath and concentrates on Lady Danbury's tea, Pear with a hint of whiskey.
"I'm fine," she grits.
Lady Danbury raises a brow, "I'd believe you if your eyes weren't promising murder." She looks away and with a flick of a wrist the knife dissappears.
Eloise holds her hand up and watches as the skin stitches itself back faster than usual. The full moon is rising tonight.
Eloise suppresses a shiver as her body craves to be let loose. She can feel her instincts beg to go run, hunt.
Lady Danbury sets her tea down, " Do you honestly think you'll be able to be fine for this evenings event? Not growl or snap anyone? Even if a poor boy steps on your foot?"
Eloise sighs, "Probably not."
Lady Danbury frowns as she opens a metal door. The noise making her flinch.
Eloise stares at the giant cage. She swallows, already feel claustrophobic.
"I'm sorry Eloise."
Eloise sighs, "Me too."